usatoday--2020-08-05--Dems, White House inch closer on coronavirus relief deal, hoping for agreement by end of week

WASHINGTON – Congressional Democrats and the White House again met Wednesday , hoping to hash out their differences on another coronavirus relief package and come to an agreement by the end of the week to quickly rush funds to millions of unemployed Americans stuck in financial limbo after a $ 600 weekly enhanced unemployment benefit expired Friday .
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi , D-Calif. , and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer , D-N.Y. , met with Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and White House chief of staff Mark Meadows to find a compromise between Democrats ' $ 3 trillion proposal and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The four have met nearly every day for more than a week , but movement toward a deal has been sluggish as both sides dug in their heels on some of the biggest sticking points , including the unemployment benefits and additional funds for state and local governments that have had their revenue gutted during the COVID-19 pandemic .
Wednesday , negotiations opened a new chapter as the group met with Postmaster General Louis DeJoy to discuss emergency funding needs and issues hampering the performance of the U.S. Post Office , which has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to fears about mail-in ballots for the election in November .
'Insulin or groceries ' : How reduced unemployment affects struggling Americans from California to Mississippi Here 's how far apart both sides are : $ 1,200 checks ?
Money for schools ?
Breaking down what Republicans and Democrats want in the coronavirus stimulus plan After the meeting concluded , Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer told reporters the negotiators had a `` heated discussion '' with the Postmaster General , adding he and Pelosi did not find his responses to questions about ensuring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be satisfactory .
Both sides signaled on Wednesday that although they remained far apart on core issues , the hope was to come to a deal by the end of the week , so a bill could pass next week .
Democrats and White House negotiators made a number of concessions , hoping to break the logjam and make progress on a compromise .
Mnuchin and Meadows told Republicans at a closed-door lunch Wednesday that they may halt talks if an agreement is not made by Friday , Sen. Roy Blunt , R-Mo.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , you have to set a deadline or just continue this Kabuki dance every day , and nobody wants to do that , '' he said .
Meadows , as he arrived at Pelosi 's office , said he 'd `` become extremely doubtful that we ’ ll be able to make a deal if it goes well beyond Friday '' but later clarified that the end of the week was not a `` drop dead date '' for an agreement though `` my optimism continues to diminish the closer we get to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ... exponentially after Friday . ''
`` I think at this point , we ’ re either going to get serious about negotiating and get an agreement in principle , '' he said .
`` We ’ ve been spending so much time together that if you ’ re not making progress , there ’ s no sense to continue . ''
The GOP stimulus proposal : Mitch McConnell unveils $ 1 trillion pandemic aid package to criticisms from Republicans and Democrats Mnuchin told reporters following Wednesday 's meeting there needed to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before a deal was struck .
`` If we can reach a compromise on these big issues , I think everything else will fall into place , '' he said .
Meadows indicated both sides were not close to striking a deal , telling reporters they had not agreed to topline numbers on a bill and that both sides were `` trillions of dollars apart . ''
Democrats were not as encouraged as they had been in previous days .
Pelosi noted she was `` confident that we will have an agreement '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coming to fruition by Friday , telling MSNBC , `` The timing of it , I ca n't say because I don ’ t know . ''
Following Wednesday 's meeting , Pelosi told reporters she was `` optimistic '' about a deal but still unsure about the timing .
`` I feel optimistic that there is a light at the end of the tunnel , but how long that tunnel is remains to be seen , '' she said .
Schumer said on the Senate floor Wednesday morning there are real-life ramifications @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` While we have started to generate some forward momentum , we need our partners in the White House to go much further on a number of issues , '' he said .
In a speech on the Senate floor , Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell , R-Ky. , accused Democrats of dragging out the negotiations .
`` While Americans are struggling , the Democratic leaders have moved about 1 inch in eight days , '' he said .
The White House made a number of offers to Democrats on some of their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including extending protections for renters facing evictions and enhanced unemployment benefits .
INTERACTIVE:24 million Americans fear missing next rent payment as benefits dry up Republicans and Democrats remain far apart on many issues at the heart of the next package , one of the biggest being the $ 600 boost to unemployment , which Democrats want to extend until at least January and Republicans argued is too high and disincentivizes Americans from going back to work .
Republicans offered to slash the benefit to $ 200 .
The bonus bolsters state benefits that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The benefits have been a financial lifeline for millions , and the sudden halt left families across the nation fearful over making ends meet as many workplaces struggle to reopen .
A survey by the Census Bureau in July found 24 million Americans said they had no or little confidence in their ability to pay their rent in August .
More than a quarter , or 26.5 % , of Americans missed rent or their mortgage payment for July .
Black and Hispanic Americans have faced even steeper losses .
About 46 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they would probably not be able to pay rent in August .
Republicans and Democrats also have differences on funds for state and local governments and the post office , areas important to Democrats , and liability insurance for businesses , which Republicans said is a requirement in the next bill .
More : Trump weighs executive action as negotiations progress on next coronavirus stimulus package Lawmakers face pressure from their states ' governors to pass funding for state and local governments .
At a meeting of the National Governors Association on Wednesday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the incoming chairman of the bipartisan group , said a “ top priority ” of the group was for $ 500 billion of unrestricted state and local funding to be included in the next COVID-19 relief bill .
“ All major economists agree that without providing financial assistance for state and local governments , the economy will not rebound as quickly as it would otherwise , ” he said .
President Donald Trump on Wednesday reiterated his threat to use executive action to address some of the economic hardship caused by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reached , but also continued to gloss over questions about his authority to act unilaterally .
Trump said he is considering a short-term suspension of the payroll tax , an idea he has floated for months but that has met with bipartisan resistance , as well as an order to block evictions .
“ My administration is exploring executive actions to provide protections against eviction — eviction is a big problem , very unfair to a lot of people , ” Trump told reporters at the White House on Wednesday .
Pelosi acknowledged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ might have the power to extend the eviction moratorium for some homes , but without the support of Congress to appropriate money , `` it 's helpful , but it 's not the whole thing . ''

Christal Hayes and Nicholas Wu, USA TODAY

Dems, White House inch closer on coronavirus relief deal, hoping for agreement by end of week
Show Caption Hide Caption COVID-19: Details on the new stimulus plan The new GOP plan includes another check for Americans and continued help for the unemployed. USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – Congressional Democrats and the White House again met Wednesday, hoping to hash out their differences on another coronavirus relief package and come to an agreement by the end of the week to quickly rush funds to millions of unemployed Americans stuck in financial limbo after a $600 weekly enhanced unemployment benefit expired Friday.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., met with Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and White House chief of staff Mark Meadows to find a compromise between Democrats' $3 trillion proposal and a $1 trillion Republican package.
The four have met nearly every day for more than a week, but movement toward a deal has been sluggish as both sides dug in their heels on some of the biggest sticking points, including the unemployment benefits and additional funds for state and local governments that have had their revenue gutted during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Wednesday, negotiations opened a new chapter as the group met with Postmaster General Louis DeJoy to discuss emergency funding needs and issues hampering the performance of the U.S. Post Office, which has seen mail delivery delays that have led to fears about mail-in ballots for the election in November.
'Insulin or groceries': How reduced unemployment affects struggling Americans from California to Mississippi
Here's how far apart both sides are: $1,200 checks? Money for schools? Breaking down what Republicans and Democrats want in the coronavirus stimulus plan
After the meeting concluded, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer told reporters the negotiators had a "heated discussion" with the Postmaster General, adding he and Pelosi did not find his responses to questions about ensuring the integrity of voting by mail to be satisfactory.
Both sides signaled on Wednesday that although they remained far apart on core issues, the hope was to come to a deal by the end of the week, so a bill could pass next week. Democrats and White House negotiators made a number of concessions, hoping to break the logjam and make progress on a compromise.
Mnuchin and Meadows told Republicans at a closed-door lunch Wednesday that they may halt talks if an agreement is not made by Friday, Sen. Roy Blunt, R-Mo., said. "At some point, you have to set a deadline or just continue this Kabuki dance every day, and nobody wants to do that," he said.
Meadows, as he arrived at Pelosi's office, said he'd "become extremely doubtful that we’ll be able to make a deal if it goes well beyond Friday" but later clarified that the end of the week was not a "drop dead date" for an agreement though "my optimism continues to diminish the closer we get to Friday and certainly falls off a cliff...exponentially after Friday."
"I think at this point, we’re either going to get serious about negotiating and get an agreement in principle," he said. "We’ve been spending so much time together that if you’re not making progress, there’s no sense to continue."
Talks in Capitol to continue over US virus benefit Talks on a huge coronavirus relief measure resumed on Saturday in Washington. Negotiators on both sides said that the talks were "productive" and would continue on Monday. (Aug. 1) AP
The Democratic stimulus plan: House passes $3 trillion coronavirus stimulus plan, faces pushback in Republican-led Senate
The GOP stimulus proposal: Mitch McConnell unveils $1 trillion pandemic aid package to criticisms from Republicans and Democrats
Mnuchin told reporters following Wednesday's meeting there needed to be "real compromise" in the negotiations before a deal was struck.
"If we can reach a compromise on these big issues, I think everything else will fall into place," he said. Meadows indicated both sides were not close to striking a deal, telling reporters they had not agreed to topline numbers on a bill and that both sides were "trillions of dollars apart."
Democrats were not as encouraged as they had been in previous days. Pelosi noted she was "confident that we will have an agreement" but appeared less optimistic on a deal coming to fruition by Friday, telling MSNBC, "The timing of it, I can't say because I don’t know."
Following Wednesday's meeting, Pelosi told reporters she was "optimistic" about a deal but still unsure about the timing.
"I feel optimistic that there is a light at the end of the tunnel, but how long that tunnel is remains to be seen," she said.
Schumer said on the Senate floor Wednesday morning there are real-life ramifications for millions as the stalemate continues.
"While we have started to generate some forward momentum, we need our partners in the White House to go much further on a number of issues," he said.
In a speech on the Senate floor, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., accused Democrats of dragging out the negotiations.
"While Americans are struggling, the Democratic leaders have moved about 1 inch in eight days," he said.
The White House made a number of offers to Democrats on some of their core priorities in the next package, including extending protections for renters facing evictions and enhanced unemployment benefits.
INTERACTIVE: 24 million Americans fear missing next rent payment as benefits dry up
Republicans and Democrats remain far apart on many issues at the heart of the next package, one of the biggest being the $600 boost to unemployment, which Democrats want to extend until at least January and Republicans argued is too high and disincentivizes Americans from going back to work. Republicans offered to slash the benefit to $200. The bonus bolsters state benefits that average nationally about $370 a week.
The benefits have been a financial lifeline for millions, and the sudden halt left families across the nation fearful over making ends meet as many workplaces struggle to reopen.
A survey by the Census Bureau in July found 24 million Americans said they had no or little confidence in their ability to pay their rent in August. More than a quarter, or 26.5%, of Americans missed rent or their mortgage payment for July.
Black and Hispanic Americans have faced even steeper losses. About 46% of Black and Hispanic renters said they would probably not be able to pay rent in August.
Republicans and Democrats also have differences on funds for state and local governments and the post office, areas important to Democrats, and liability insurance for businesses, which Republicans said is a requirement in the next bill.
Federal Reserve: How creating money could save US economy Where does the U.S. stimulus money come from? Here's how the Federal Reserve is saving the economy from the COVID-19 crisis. Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
More: Trump weighs executive action as negotiations progress on next coronavirus stimulus package
Lawmakers face pressure from their states' governors to pass funding for state and local governments.
At a meeting of the National Governors Association on Wednesday, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, the incoming chairman of the bipartisan group, said a “top priority” of the group was for $500 billion of unrestricted state and local funding to be included in the next COVID-19 relief bill.
“All major economists agree that without providing financial assistance for state and local governments, the economy will not rebound as quickly as it would otherwise,” he said.
President Donald Trump on Wednesday reiterated his threat to use executive action to address some of the economic hardship caused by the virus if a deal isn’t reached, but also continued to gloss over questions about his authority to act unilaterally. Trump said he is considering a short-term suspension of the payroll tax, an idea he has floated for months but that has met with bipartisan resistance, as well as an order to block evictions.
“My administration is exploring executive actions to provide protections against eviction — eviction is a big problem, very unfair to a lot of people,” Trump told reporters at the White House on Wednesday.
Pelosi acknowledged in an MSNBC interview Wednesday that Trump might have the power to extend the eviction moratorium for some homes, but without the support of Congress to appropriate money, "it's helpful, but it's not the whole thing."
Contributing: John Fritze


usatoday--2020-08-05--Defense Secretary Esper says Beirut blast probably an accident, breaking with Trump

An accident was the likely cause of the explosion in Beirut , Defense Secretary Mark Esper said Wednesday , contradicting a statement made by President Donald Trump on Tuesday that the blast that killed at least 135 people , wounded 5,000 and leveled a large portion of the city was an apparent attack .
“ Most believe it was an accident , as reported , ” Esper said at the Aspen Security Conference in Colorado .
At a White House briefing hours after the explosion , Trump said he was briefed by “ generals , ” and “ they seem @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Pentagon referred questions about that briefing to the National Security Council .
The NSC did not offer a response on Esper 's comments .
Wednesday evening , Trump attempted to take back his assertion that an attack caused the explosion .
“ Whatever happened , it ’ s terrible , ” Trump told reporters of the explosion .
“ They don ’ t really know what it is ...
I don ’ t think anybody can say right now.
” Esper said information was being collected to determine the cause of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government aid , he said .
“ It ’ s really , really bad , ” Esper said .
“ It could have been much worse.
” Esper and Trump have been at odds on several issues over the summer .
Last week , Esper defended the decision to move 11,000 troops out of Germany as a strategic move to counter Russia .
Later that day , Trump called it retribution for Germany 's failure to pay more to NATO .
Trump 's No .
3 at Pentagon : Anthony Tata , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is eligible to become acting Defense Secretary They have differed over banishing Confederate names and emblems from military bases .
Trump favors the names as historic .
Esper resisted invoking the Insurrection Act to allow federal troops to quell protests this summer .
Trump argued for a more forceful approach .
Asked June 3 whether Trump had lost confidence in Esper over that issue , White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany offered a tepid endorsement .
`` As of right now , Secretary Esper is still Secretary Esper , '' she said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ TV station in Beirut that the disaster was apparently caused by the detonation of tons of ammonium nitrate that had been stored in a port warehouse since it was confiscated from a cargo ship impounded in 2013 .
Wednesday , the Lebanese government ordered port officials put under house arrest , pending an investigation into why the ammonium nitrate was left at the port for years .
Investigators searched for clues in the wreckage left by the explosion .
Ammonium nitrate was used in the domestic terrorist bombing in Oklahoma City in 1995 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tons of fertilizer and fuel oil killed 168 people in a federal building .
A senior U.S. Defense Department official and member of the U.S. intelligence community told The Associated Press there were no indications the Beirut explosion was the result of an attack by either a nation state or proxy forces .
Both individuals spoke to the AP under condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss intelligence briefings publicly .

Defense Secretary Esper says Beirut blast probably an accident, breaking with Trump
Show Caption Hide Caption Trump: explosion in Beirut was likely an 'attack' President Donald Trump says U.S. military generals have told him that they think the massive explosion that rocked Beirut on Tuesday, killing more than 70 people, was likely a bomb. (Aug. 4) AP
An accident was the likely cause of the explosion in Beirut, Defense Secretary Mark Esper said Wednesday, contradicting a statement made by President Donald Trump on Tuesday that the blast that killed at least 135 people, wounded 5,000 and leveled a large portion of the city was an apparent attack.
“Most believe it was an accident, as reported,” Esper said at the Aspen Security Conference in Colorado.
At a White House briefing hours after the explosion, Trump said he was briefed by “generals,” and “they seem to think it was an attack.” The Pentagon referred questions about that briefing to the National Security Council. The NSC did not offer a response on Esper's comments.
Wednesday evening, Trump attempted to take back his assertion that an attack caused the explosion.
“Whatever happened, it’s terrible,” Trump told reporters of the explosion. “They don’t really know what it is ... I don’t think anybody can say right now.”
Esper said information was being collected to determine the cause of the blast. The Pentagon offered the Lebanese government aid, he said.
“It’s really, really bad,” Esper said. “It could have been much worse.”
Esper and Trump have been at odds on several issues over the summer. Last week, Esper defended the decision to move 11,000 troops out of Germany as a strategic move to counter Russia. Later that day, Trump called it retribution for Germany's failure to pay more to NATO.
Trump's No. 3 at Pentagon: Anthony Tata, who once called Obama a 'terrorist,' is eligible to become acting Defense Secretary
They have differed over banishing Confederate names and emblems from military bases. Trump favors the names as historic.
Esper resisted invoking the Insurrection Act to allow federal troops to quell protests this summer. Trump argued for a more forceful approach.
Asked June 3 whether Trump had lost confidence in Esper over that issue, White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany offered a tepid endorsement.
"As of right now, Secretary Esper is still Secretary Esper," she said.
Lebanese Interior Minister Mohammed Fahmi told a TV station in Beirut that the disaster was apparently caused by the detonation of tons of ammonium nitrate that had been stored in a port warehouse since it was confiscated from a cargo ship impounded in 2013.
Wednesday, the Lebanese government ordered port officials put under house arrest, pending an investigation into why the ammonium nitrate was left at the port for years. Investigators searched for clues in the wreckage left by the explosion.
Ammonium nitrate was used in the domestic terrorist bombing in Oklahoma City in 1995, when a truck bomb containing 2.4 tons of fertilizer and fuel oil killed 168 people in a federal building.
A senior U.S. Defense Department official and member of the U.S. intelligence community told The Associated Press there were no indications the Beirut explosion was the result of an attack by either a nation state or proxy forces. Both individuals spoke to the AP under condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss intelligence briefings publicly.
Huge explosion rocks downtown Beirut, Lebanon injuring many A huge explosion shook downtown Beirut, Lebanon injuring a number people and causing widespread damage. USA TODAY, Storyful
Contributing: The Associated Press


usatoday--2020-08-05--Why Trump's Republican Senate enablers must be ousted this fall: Former NH GOP chair

The Lincoln Project generated strong criticism within Republican circles last week for “ going after ” a member of the Republican majority in the Senate .
We had released an ad comparing Sen. Susan Collins unfavorably to past senators from her state of Maine , including Margaret Chase Smith — best known for being one of the few Republicans to stand up to Joe McCarthy and McCarthyism .
Chase Smith was fearless and will be forever remembered for her “ Declaration of Conscience ” speech in which she called out national leadership and declared the rights to protest , criticize @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of “ Americanism.
” It is hard for any serious student of history to deny the common themes of McCarthyism and Trumpism .
Both are constructed on a foundation of “ us vs. them , ” suspicion of those who were not born in America , attempts to silence protest and dissent , and demonizing those who hold independent or unpopular beliefs .
Margaret Chase Smith was a heroine of freedom .
Susan Collins is not .
And neither is any other Republican currently serving in the Senate , with the exception of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fear of a mean Trump tweet The Republican majority in the Senate has become nothing more than protection racket for a president who has repeatedly declared he would accept foreign assistance in his campaigns and was impeached for trying to get a foreign leader to help him win .
And the Republican Party is angry that some of us refuse to go along for the ride .
That includes the Lincoln Project , which is dedicated to the electoral defeat of Trump and Trumpism .
Donald Trump ’ s three-and-a-half years in office @ @ @ @ @ @ @ foundational principles of American democracy .
He has driven the divides within our communities , undermined our ability to stand as an example to other nations , and battered our Constitution to within an inch of its life .
The president has sought to isolate our nation from our allies , cozied up to tyrants and dictators and defended white nationalists .
He has attacked the free press and our right to protest and fired a military colonel for telling the truth about Trump ’ s corruption .
Last year , in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , corrupt attempts by America ’ s enemies to influence the outcome of our presidential elections , Sen. Marsha Blackburn , a Tennessee Republican , blocked a requirement that political campaigns report offers of assistance from foreign nations to the FBI .
Trump thanked her publicly .
Now he is so mismanaging our response to a global pandemic that we have lost over 155,000 American lives .
Rather than strengthening their resolve to preserve the great ideal of America , Republican senators have become progressively more anemic in their response to this wannabe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ become puny and faint-hearted , spineless and weak-willed .
They have proven they are not worthy of the constitutional responsibilities bestowed upon them by their election to the esteemed United States Senate .
GOP strategist : Trump 's Republican Party is defined by racism and those who tolerate it Worst of all , for over a year , Trump has ignored U.S. intelligence assessments that Russian President Vladimir Putin may be paying bounties to the Taliban for killing our soldierson the battlefield .
Every day , hundreds of thousands of America ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give their lives in defense of our nation , in defense of you and me and our families , and Republican senators remain feeble and limp before this president , living in fear of a mean tweet .
Throughout our history , our leaders have been the most eloquent and persuasive voices for freedom in the world .
From Thomas Jefferson ’ s Declaration of Independence to Abraham Lincoln ’ s Emancipation Proclamation to Martin Luther King ’ s “ content of character ” speech , they have woven together the story of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rise up together , to fight and sacrifice for together , in defense of what makes our nation unique among all others .
When freedom and Americanism fall under attack by our own president , it is incumbent upon our leaders , regardless of party , to become defenders of liberty and voices for freedom .
Margaret Chase Smith was one such American leader , responding to the attacks on liberty from within our own country ; her voice will be heard throughout history as a guardian of freedom and democracy .
Resolution @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commutation , do n't let Donald Trump break us There are no such heroic voices among the Republican senators up for reelection today .
They have been cowed by this president .
They have been silent when the country needs them to speak , weak when our nation needs their strength .
And every one of them should expect to be held accountable one way or another .
The Susan Collins ad will not be The Lincoln Project 's last one reminding voters of these Republican senators ' fealty and weakness .
Voting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anyway , opposing a procedural motion and dismissing the president ’ s threatening tweets as “ jokes ” does not excuse their feebleness in face of the grave danger Trump poses .
Elections are about leadership and accountability .
Republicans will pay a price for lacking both .
Jennifer Horn , former chair of the New Hampshire Republican Party , is a co-founder of The Lincoln Project .
Follow her on Twitter : @ NHJennifer

Why Trump's Republican Senate enablers must be ousted this fall: Former NH GOP chair The Lincoln Project is dedicated to the electoral defeat of Trump and Trumpism. Susan Collins won't be the only Senate Republican we criticize in our ads.
The Lincoln Project generated strong criticism within Republican circles last week for “going after” a member of the Republican majority in the Senate. We had released an ad comparing Sen. Susan Collins unfavorably to past senators from her state of Maine, including Margaret Chase Smith — best known for being one of the few Republicans to stand up to Joe McCarthy and McCarthyism.
Chase Smith was fearless and will be forever remembered for her “Declaration of Conscience” speech in which she called out national leadership and declared the rights to protest, criticize and hold independent thoughts as basic principles of “Americanism.”
It is hard for any serious student of history to deny the common themes of McCarthyism and Trumpism. Both are constructed on a foundation of “us vs. them,” suspicion of those who were not born in America, attempts to silence protest and dissent, and demonizing those who hold independent or unpopular beliefs.
Margaret Chase Smith was a heroine of freedom. Susan Collins is not. And neither is any other Republican currently serving in the Senate, with the exception of Utah's Mitt Romney.
Living in fear of a mean Trump tweet
The Republican majority in the Senate has become nothing more than protection racket for a president who has repeatedly declared he would accept foreign assistance in his campaigns and was impeached for trying to get a foreign leader to help him win.
And the Republican Party is angry that some of us refuse to go along for the ride. That includes the Lincoln Project, which is dedicated to the electoral defeat of Trump and Trumpism.
Donald Trump’s three-and-a-half years in office have been a relentless assault on the foundational principles of American democracy. He has driven the divides within our communities, undermined our ability to stand as an example to other nations, and battered our Constitution to within an inch of its life.
The president has sought to isolate our nation from our allies, cozied up to tyrants and dictators and defended white nationalists. He has attacked the free press and our right to protest and fired a military colonel for telling the truth about Trump’s corruption.
Last year, in a shocking action during these times of confirmed, corrupt attempts by America’s enemies to influence the outcome of our presidential elections, Sen. Marsha Blackburn, a Tennessee Republican, blocked a requirement that political campaigns report offers of assistance from foreign nations to the FBI. Trump thanked her publicly.
Now he is so mismanaging our response to a global pandemic that we have lost over 155,000 American lives.
Rather than strengthening their resolve to preserve the great ideal of America, Republican senators have become progressively more anemic in their response to this wannabe strongman of a president. They have become puny and faint-hearted, spineless and weak-willed. They have proven they are not worthy of the constitutional responsibilities bestowed upon them by their election to the esteemed United States Senate.
GOP strategist: Trump's Republican Party is defined by racism and those who tolerate it
Worst of all, for over a year, Trump has ignored U.S. intelligence assessments that Russian President Vladimir Putin may be paying bounties to the Taliban for killing our soldiers on the battlefield. Every day, hundreds of thousands of America’s sons and daughters wake up prepared to give their lives in defense of our nation, in defense of you and me and our families, and Republican senators remain feeble and limp before this president, living in fear of a mean tweet.
No heroic senators running this year
Throughout our history, our leaders have been the most eloquent and persuasive voices for freedom in the world. From Thomas Jefferson’s Declaration of Independence to Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation to Martin Luther King’s “content of character” speech, they have woven together the story of independence and freedom, inspiring Americans to rise up together, to fight and sacrifice for together, in defense of what makes our nation unique among all others.
When freedom and Americanism fall under attack by our own president, it is incumbent upon our leaders, regardless of party, to become defenders of liberty and voices for freedom. Margaret Chase Smith was one such American leader, responding to the attacks on liberty from within our own country; her voice will be heard throughout history as a guardian of freedom and democracy.
Resolution for America: After appalling Roger Stone commutation, don't let Donald Trump break us
There are no such heroic voices among the Republican senators up for reelection today.
They have been cowed by this president. They have been silent when the country needs them to speak, weak when our nation needs their strength. And every one of them should expect to be held accountable one way or another. The Susan Collins ad will not be The Lincoln Project's last one reminding voters of these Republican senators' fealty and weakness.
Voting against a bill that would have failed anyway, opposing a procedural motion and dismissing the president’s threatening tweets as “jokes” does not excuse their feebleness in face of the grave danger Trump poses.
Elections are about leadership and accountability. Republicans will pay a price for lacking both.
Jennifer Horn, former chair of the New Hampshire Republican Party, is a co-founder of The Lincoln Project. Follow her on Twitter: @NHJennifer


usatoday--2020-08-05--Trump campaign requests presidential debate in early September to address early voting

WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump 's campaign on Wednesday submitted a formal request to move the last presidential debate to the first week in September in an effort to address an expected increase in early voting amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic .
Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani , the president 's personal attorney who is leading the campaign 's debate negotiations with the commission , submitted the request in a letter dated Wednesday .
Giuliani proposed moving up Trump 's first match-up with the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden if the campaign 's request to add a fourth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ argues the debates , scheduled between Sept. 29 and Oct. 22 , leave voters in several states without a chance to see Trump and Biden go head-to-head before casting the first ballots .
`` By the time of the first presidential debate on September 29 , 2020 , at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland , Ohio , as many as eight million Americans in 16 states will have already started voting , '' Giuliani wrote in the letter .
If the commission dismisses the campaign 's request for an additional debate , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Oct. 22 be rescheduled for the first week in September .
Not sure if you ’ re registered to vote ?
: Check your status .
Early voting kicks off in North Carolina on Sept. 4 , followed by Georgia on Sept. 15 .
Florida begins early voting on Sept. 24 and Arizona voters can cast their ballots the first week of October .
`` For a nation already deprived of a traditional campaign schedule because of the COVID-19 global pandemic , it makes no sense to also deprive so many Americans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the two competing visions for our country ’ s future before millions of votes have been cast , ” Giuliani wrote .
Symone Sanders , senior adviser to Biden 's campaign , told reporters that Biden has committed to the three dates selected by the commission and suggested the Trump campaign had yet to agree on the terms .
`` Vice President Biden has already committed to all three of those debates .
We did not hesitate .
It is the Trump campaign that has yet to fully commit to the debate , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can tell you that Joe Biden is going to be ready so we 're looking very much forward to the debate . ''
Tim Murtaugh , communications director for the Trump campaign , pointed to a line in the campaign letter , which said : `` The Trump and Joe Biden campaigns have already agreed to three scheduled debates . ''
More : Trump backtracks on his condemnation of mail-in voting , says Florida is an exception Trump raised the issue during a `` Fox & Friends '' interview earlier Wednesday , pointing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take place until after several states begin early voting .
`` The one problem I have , the debate 's very late .
It 's at the end of September and a lot of ballots will already be cast by that time .
They want to make the debates as late as possible , '' Trump told Fox 's Ainsley Earhardt .
Trump also said he `` would n't mind '' adding more debates , but insisted moving up his first debate with Biden is his top priority .
`` What 's more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be moved up , so that when people are putting in their first ballot they 're going to know , '' he continued .
`` I mean , there 's a vast difference .
There 's never been two candidates or two philosophies , let 's say , that are more different than what we have . ''
The request came after Biden announced he will no longer travel to Milwaukee to accept the Democratic party 's presidential nomination and will instead deliver remarks from his home state of Delaware .
The campaign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plans for debate locations in case COVID-19 concerns emerge in any of the scheduled locations , suggesting a `` simple studio format with no audience '' as a back-up .
`` Now that Biden says he ’ s not even going to Milwaukee , we are convinced he ’ ll try to weasel out of debates , '' Murtaugh said .
`` Backup locations are necessary to lock him in.
” The letter also details a list of suggested moderators , including Fox News ' Bret Baier and Maria Bartiromo , conservative radio @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an op-ed in support of Trump , as well as CBS News ' Norah O'Donnell and ABC News ' David Muir .

Trump campaign requests presidential debate in early September to address early voting
Show Caption Hide Caption Attack ads are already filling the airwaves. Expect it to get worse. Attack ads usually fill the airwaves in the last few weeks of the presidential campaign, but this year they have gotten an early start. USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump's campaign on Wednesday submitted a formal request to move the last presidential debate to the first week in September in an effort to address an expected increase in early voting amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani, the president's personal attorney who is leading the campaign's debate negotiations with the commission, submitted the request in a letter dated Wednesday. Giuliani proposed moving up Trump's first match-up with the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden if the campaign's request to add a fourth debate is denied.
The Trump campaign argues the debates, scheduled between Sept. 29 and Oct. 22, leave voters in several states without a chance to see Trump and Biden go head-to-head before casting the first ballots.
"By the time of the first presidential debate on September 29, 2020, at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, as many as eight million Americans in 16 states will have already started voting," Giuliani wrote in the letter.
If the commission dismisses the campaign's request for an additional debate, the campaign is asking the debate planned for Oct. 22 be rescheduled for the first week in September.
Not sure if you’re registered to vote?:Check your status.
Early voting kicks off in North Carolina on Sept. 4, followed by Georgia on Sept. 15. Florida begins early voting on Sept. 24 and Arizona voters can cast their ballots the first week of October.
"For a nation already deprived of a traditional campaign schedule because of the COVID-19 global pandemic, it makes no sense to also deprive so many Americans of the opportunity to see and hear the two competing visions for our country’s future before millions of votes have been cast,” Giuliani wrote.
Symone Sanders, senior adviser to Biden's campaign, told reporters that Biden has committed to the three dates selected by the commission and suggested the Trump campaign had yet to agree on the terms.
"Vice President Biden has already committed to all three of those debates. We did not hesitate. It is the Trump campaign that has yet to fully commit to the debate," she said.
"But I can tell you that Joe Biden is going to be ready so we're looking very much forward to the debate."
Tim Murtaugh, communications director for the Trump campaign, pointed to a line in the campaign letter, which said: "The Trump and Joe Biden campaigns have already agreed to three scheduled debates."
More: Trump backtracks on his condemnation of mail-in voting, says Florida is an exception
Joe Biden won't travel to Milwaukee for Democratic National Convention Joe Biden won't be heading to Milwaukee to accept the Democratic nomination, citing worsening coronavirus conditions in Wisconsin. Newsy, Newsy
Trump raised the issue during a "Fox & Friends" interview earlier Wednesday, pointing out the first presidential match-up does not take place until after several states begin early voting.
"The one problem I have, the debate's very late. It's at the end of September and a lot of ballots will already be cast by that time. They want to make the debates as late as possible," Trump told Fox's Ainsley Earhardt.
Trump also said he "wouldn't mind" adding more debates, but insisted moving up his first debate with Biden is his top priority.
"What's more important to me is the first debate be moved up, so that when people are putting in their first ballot they're going to know," he continued. "I mean, there's a vast difference. There's never been two candidates or two philosophies, let's say, that are more different than what we have."
The request came after Biden announced he will no longer travel to Milwaukee to accept the Democratic party's presidential nomination and will instead deliver remarks from his home state of Delaware.
The campaign also asked the commission to solidify alternative plans for debate locations in case COVID-19 concerns emerge in any of the scheduled locations, suggesting a "simple studio format with no audience" as a back-up.
"Now that Biden says he’s not even going to Milwaukee, we are convinced he’ll try to weasel out of debates," Murtaugh said. "Backup locations are necessary to lock him in.”
The letter also details a list of suggested moderators, including Fox News' Bret Baier and Maria Bartiromo, conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt, who recently penned an op-ed in support of Trump, as well as CBS News' Norah O'Donnell and ABC News' David Muir.


usatoday--2020-08-06--Activist Daisy Coleman, subject of Netflix's 'Audrie & Daisy' documentary, dies at 23

Daisy Coleman , the activist and sexual assault survivor who was the subject of the 2016 Netflix documentary `` Audrie & Daisy , '' has died at age 23 .
Daisy 's mother , Melinda Coleman , revealed her daughter 's death Tuesday on Facebook , where she also shared tributes from friends .
SafeBAE , an organization for sexual assault survivors co-founded by Daisy Coleman , a tattoo artist and model , confirmed the news in a statement sent to USA TODAY by Shael Norris , the group 's executive director .
`` As all of our supporters know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to both heal from her assault and prevent future sexual violence among teens , '' a statement says .
`` She was our sister in this work and much of the driving force behind it .
`` We are shattered and shocked by her passing from suicide .
... She had many coping demons and had been facing and overcoming them all , but as many of you know , healing is not a straight path or any easy one . ''
Melinda Coleman wrote on Facebook that she called police to check @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dead in Denver .
`` She was my best friend and amazing daughter .
I think she had to make it seem like I could live without her .
I can ’ t , '' she wrote .
`` I wish I could have taken the pain from her !
She never recovered from what those boys did to her and it ’ s just not fair .
My baby girl is gone . ''
In `` Audrie & Daisy , '' Coleman spoke of being a survivor after experiencing sexual assault at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ movie , Audrie Pott , committed suicide after nude photos taken of her after an assault went viral when she was 15 .
When local law enforcement emphasized to filmmakers the safety of the small town where Coleman was allegedly assaulted , `` I really had to sit back and laugh , '' she told USA TODAY in a 2016 interview .
She said she enjoyed tattooing images with dark themes on her clients .
`` It almost forces my audience to look for the light and the good in the darkness , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TODAY that Coleman appeared to be doing well until about two years ago , when she lost her brother in a car accident .
After that , Coleman started EMDR ( Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ) therapy , a treatment used on PTSD patients , to help deal with her trauma .
Over time , says Norris , the therapy appeared to be so effective that it was going to be featured in another documentary in post-production about Coleman called `` Saving Daisy . ''
SafeBAE 's statement says Coleman `` fought @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know , '' and emphasizes that Coleman worked to help young survivors .
`` Please know that above ALL ELSE , she did this work for you .
She loved talking to young people about changing the culture and taking care of one another .
Much of her healing came from each of you . ''
`` Her work was truly inspirational , '' Norris added .
If you or someone you know may be struggling with suicidal thoughts , you can call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK ( 8255 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or chat online .
Crisis Text Line also provides free , 24/7 , confidential support via text message to people in crisis when they dial 741741 .

Memorial service held for Daisy Coleman, subject of Netflix's 'Audrie & Daisy' documentary
Daisy Coleman, the activist and sexual assault survivor who was the subject of the 2016 Netflix documentary "Audrie & Daisy," has died at age 23.
Daisy's mother, Melinda Coleman, revealed her daughter's death Tuesday on Facebook, where she also shared tributes from friends.
SafeBAE, an organization for sexual assault survivors co-founded by Daisy Coleman, a tattoo artist and model, confirmed the news in a statement sent to USA TODAY by Shael Norris, the group's executive director.
"Daisy has fought for many years to both heal from her assault and prevent future sexual violence among teens," a statement says. "She was our sister in this work and much of the driving force behind it.
"We are shattered and shocked by her passing from suicide. ... She had many coping demons and had been facing and overcoming them all, but as many of you know, healing is not a straight path or any easy one."
On Thursday, close friends and coworkers held a memorial service for Coleman – who also went by the name "Cat" – at the Phoenix Tattoo Shop where she worked, according to Jayden Davidson, Coleman's friend and manager of her modeling work at @Elvtd.entertainment.
"(I) broke down at the end of it," Davidson told USA TODAY in an email. "Cat is an amazing person, and she had so much incredible talent and more to offer this world."
He says he had just worked with Coleman on Saturday, when she was dancing in a music video.
"She was also a musician herself and was working on creating an upcoming EP that she was really excited about," he says. "I had hoped to make music with her one day as well."
Melinda Coleman wrote on Facebook that she called police to check on her daughter, before she was found dead in Denver.
"She was my best friend and amazing daughter. I think she had to make it seem like I could live without her. I can’t," she wrote. "I wish I could have taken the pain from her! She never recovered from what those boys did to her and it’s just not fair. My baby girl is gone."
In "Audrie & Daisy," Coleman spoke of being a survivor after experiencing sexual assault at 14. The other subject of the movie, Audrie Pott, committed suicide after nude photos taken of her after an assault went viral when she was 15.
When local law enforcement emphasized to filmmakers the safety of the small town where Coleman was allegedly assaulted, "I really had to sit back and laugh," she told USA TODAY in a 2016 interview.
She said she enjoyed tattooing images with dark themes on her clients. "It almost forces my audience to look for the light and the good in the darkness," Coleman said.
Norris told USA TODAY that Coleman appeared to be doing well until about two years ago, when she lost her brother in a car accident.
After that, Coleman started EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy, a treatment used on PTSD patients, to help deal with her trauma. Over time, says Norris, the therapy appeared to be so effective that it was going to be featured in another documentary in post-production about Coleman called "Saving Daisy."
Netflix said it was "deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Daisy Coleman," in a statement provided Thursday to USA TODAY by spokesperson Jackie Berkowitz. "Daisy’s courage in sharing her story in 'Audrie and Daisy' was an inspiration to viewers around the world, and our thoughts are with her family and friends.”
Bonni Cohen and Jon Shenk, the documentary's directors, called it "brutal news and such a difficult moment for us who knew and loved Daisy personally or were impacted by her story."
"We understand that even as Daisy helped those who suffer, she also suffered herself," their statement said. "The Daisy who we knew also would have wanted her work to continue. Now, more than ever, we find it important to recognize and draw attention to all survivors and continue to fight on their behalf."
"Please know that above ALL ELSE, she did this work for you," SafeBAE's statement added. "She loved talking to young people about changing the culture and taking care of one another. Much of her healing came from each of you."
If you or someone you know may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) any time day or night, or chat online.
Crisis Text Line also provides free, 24/7, confidential support via text message to people in crisis when they dial 741741.


usatoday--2020-08-05--Used car prices spiking as COVID-19 pandemic shakes up the market for new cars

If you were hoping to find some savings during the COVID-19 pandemic , you wo n't find them in the used-car market , unfortunately .
Then again , you might be able to make a few bucks if you 're willing to part with a vehicle because used-car prices are spiking due to an unusual confluence of factors during the pandemic .
The reasons ?
Among them are that buyers are flooding the used-car market , looking for deals amid high prices for new vehicles , low interest rates and a shortage of new-vehicle inventory , according to car-research site @ @ @ @ @ @ @ used vehicles was $ 21,558 in July , up $ 708 from June .
`` This is an unprecedented historical shift in the used vehicle market , where listing prices typically decrease during this time period due to depreciation , '' Edmunds said Wednesday .
First free seeds from China : Now free Amazon packages -- what you need to know about 'brushing ' scams Need Clorox wipes ?
: Disinfecting wipes shortage could last into 2021 amid coronavirus pandemic Any hope the rental-car company Hertz 's Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing this year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prices has diminished due to the overwhelming influence of COVID-19 on the market .
Ivan Drury , Edmunds ’ senior manager of insights , said in a statement that there 's `` significantly increased demand '' for used vehicles , in part due to rock-bottom interest rates .
Also , automakers were forced to shut down plants for about two months in the spring due to work restrictions because of COVID-19 .
That led to a decline in new-vehicle inventory and a delay in 2021 models .
“ It ’ s a seller @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Drury said .
`` Although used vehicles continue to offer significant discounts compared to new , used-car shoppers will find themselves in the unusual position where they might not have as much negotiation power because demand is so high and dealers will be less inclined to be flexible . ''
He advised buyers to be prepared to act quickly if they see a used car they want .
The price increases are especially sharp for larger vehicles , which are in high demand .
Used large pickups , for example , saw a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in July , hitting $ 33,264 , according to Edmunds .
Midsize trucks recorded a $ 1,812 increase to $ 29,457 .
`` Used-car prices are still at record-breaking levels , and in some segments , there are models coming close to new-car prices , including sports cars , '' car-valuation service Kelley Blue Book reported Monday .
That said , new-car prices still carry a premium for the most part .
The average price of a new vehicle sold in July was $ 38,378 , up 2 % from a year earlier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ according to Kelley Blue Book .
Average July used car list prices , by vehicle segment , ranked by price change ( with the increase from June in parentheses ) :

Used car prices spiking as COVID-19 pandemic shakes up the market for new cars
Show Caption Hide Caption Use these simple car-buying tips to get a good deal There is a good time to buy a car so that you save the most money, according to car experts. Sean Dowling (@seandowlingtv) has more. Buzz60
If you were hoping to find some savings during the COVID-19 pandemic, you won't find them in the used-car market, unfortunately.
Then again, you might be able to make a few bucks if you're willing to part with a vehicle because used-car prices are spiking due to an unusual confluence of factors during the pandemic.
The reasons? Among them are that buyers are flooding the used-car market, looking for deals amid high prices for new vehicles, low interest rates and a shortage of new-vehicle inventory, according to car-research site Edmunds.
The average listing price of used vehicles was $21,558 in July, up $708 from June.
"This is an unprecedented historical shift in the used vehicle market, where listing prices typically decrease during this time period due to depreciation," Edmunds said Wednesday.
First free seeds from China: Now free Amazon packages -- what you need to know about 'brushing' scams
Need Clorox wipes?: Disinfecting wipes shortage could last into 2021 amid coronavirus pandemic
Any hope the rental-car company Hertz's Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing this year would cause in a drop in used-car prices has diminished due to the overwhelming influence of COVID-19 on the market.
Ivan Drury, Edmunds’ senior manager of insights, said in a statement that there's "significantly increased demand" for used vehicles, in part due to rock-bottom interest rates.
Also, automakers were forced to shut down plants for about two months in the spring due to work restrictions because of COVID-19. That led to a decline in new-vehicle inventory and a delay in 2021 models.
“It’s a seller’s market right now," Drury said. "Although used vehicles continue to offer significant discounts compared to new, used-car shoppers will find themselves in the unusual position where they might not have as much negotiation power because demand is so high and dealers will be less inclined to be flexible."
He advised buyers to be prepared to act quickly if they see a used car they want.
The price increases are especially sharp for larger vehicles, which are in high demand. Used large pickups, for example, saw a $2,301 increase in average list price in July, hitting $33,264, according to Edmunds. Midsize trucks recorded a $1,812 increase to $29,457.
"Used-car prices are still at record-breaking levels, and in some segments, there are models coming close to new-car prices, including sports cars," car-valuation service Kelley Blue Book reported Monday.
That said, new-car prices still carry a premium for the most part.
The average price of a new vehicle sold in July was $38,378, up 2% from a year earlier but down 1.2% from June, according to Kelley Blue Book.
Average July used car list prices, by vehicle segment, ranked by price change (with the increase from June in parentheses):
Large pickup : $33,264 (up $2,301)
: $33,264 (up $2,301) Midsize truck : $29,457 (up $1,812)
: $29,457 (up $1,812) Sports car : $24,867 (up $1,369)
: $24,867 (up $1,369) Large SUV : $37,942 (up $1,094)
: $37,942 (up $1,094) Large car : $22,446 (up $1,060)
: $22,446 (up $1,060) Subcompact car : $13,214 (up $841)
: $13,214 (up $841) Midsize SUV : $24,766 (up $803)
: $24,766 (up $803) Midsize car : $16,709 (up $520)
: $16,709 (up $520) Subcompact SUV : $17,169 (up $516)
: $17,169 (up $516) Compact SUV : $18,949 (up $512)
: $18,949 (up $512) Heavy-duty pickup : $43,044 (up $491)
: $43,044 (up $491) Compact car : $14,859 (up $427)
: $14,859 (up $427) Minivan: $21,727 (up $415)
Follow USA TODAY reporter Nathan Bomey on Twitter @NathanBomey.


usatoday--2020-08-05--Complicating coronavirus stimulus is the last thing struggling unemployment offices need

You ’ re reading the Our View , one of two perspectives in Today ’ s Debate .
For the Opposing View , read “ Unemployment $ 200 bonus is still generous without discouraging people to go back to work.
” As the White House and Congress haggle over a new coronavirus relief measure , a key sticking point is what to do about the $ 600-a-week federal payments to tens of millions of unemployed workers .
The supplemental payments , approved earlier this year , expired last week .
House Democrats want to extend them through January , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
And congressional Republicans ?
Well , they 've found a way to combine the GOP 's reputation for callousness with the Democrats ' proclivity for convoluted Washington-knows-best solutions .
Under the GOP proposal , the supplemental federal payments would be cut to $ 200 per week initially .
This reduction would come despite the fact that COVID-19 is running wild in places , and the economy is weakening .
After two months , the $ 200 per week would shift to a figure that would vary from person to person and would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to replace 70 % of a worker ’ s lost income .
That would require state employment offices to calculate the exact income of each person who applies for relief .
State employment offices are already overwhelmed and are struggling to keep up .
When the shutdowns first went into effect , virtually every state was hit with a wall of applicants and some , like Florida , reported horror stories of people waiting months for their checks .
Things have gotten somewhat better but are far from perfect .
Just this week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its way through its initial backlogs but is still taking multiple weeks with the many applications coming in since mid-June .
The pandemic has exposed the need for states to upgrade their computer systems and hire more people to process jobless claims .
Even so , the last thing deluged state agencies need in the throes of a crisis is a mandate to create new databases and calculate every applicant 's income and benefit .
The calculations would be especially difficult for the self-employed and so-called gig workers , who collect revenue from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be lacking documentation .
Because of the peculiarities of how states are to do the calculations , workers in some states would get less than their peers in similar conditions in other states .
Republicans say $ 600 a week is simply too much and discourages some people from returning to work .
There is truth to that .
When $ 600 is added to state unemployment checks , many Americans are collecting more to stay home than they would if they returned to work , which could indicate that they were not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Democrats have a point saying that the coronavirus pandemic is still terrorizing the United States — thanks in no small measure to the Trump administration 's incompetent response — and so pushing people back to work might not be such an ethical idea .
One solution might be weekly payments that start at $ 600 but uniformly decline across the board over time on the presumption that the economy will improve .
Alternatively , payments could start at the full amount but be pegged to the unemployment rate .
Instead , Republicans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They give states two months to update their systems and figure out how to do the computations .
In the likely event that states can ’ t meet that deadline , they could get another two months .
By that time , the supplemental benefits would be about to expire .
This approach is way too complicated .
When you are relying on rickety state unemployment insurance systems to distribute jobless benefits in the midst of a pandemic , the best approach is KISS : Keep It Simple , Stupid .
If you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ please refresh your page .
HOTLINE : Share your coronavirus story .
We may publish your comments .

Complicating coronavirus stimulus is the last thing struggling unemployment offices need Our View: Extending $600 a week might be too much, but Republican proposal of cutting benefits then calculating 70% of lost income for every applicant would overwhelm states.
Federal Reserve: How creating money could save US economy Where does the U.S. stimulus money come from? Here's how the Federal Reserve is saving the economy from the COVID-19 crisis. Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
As the White House and Congress haggle over a new coronavirus relief measure, a key sticking point is what to do about the $600-a-week federal payments to tens of millions of unemployed workers.
The supplemental payments, approved earlier this year, expired last week. House Democrats want to extend them through January, which might be too much for too long. And congressional Republicans? Well, they've found a way to combine the GOP's reputation for callousness with the Democrats' proclivity for convoluted Washington-knows-best solutions.
Under the GOP proposal, the supplemental federal payments would be cut to $200 per week initially. This reduction would come despite the fact that COVID-19 is running wild in places, and the economy is weakening. After two months, the $200 per week would shift to a figure that would vary from person to person and would be based on what it would take to replace 70% of a worker’s lost income. That would require state employment offices to calculate the exact income of each person who applies for relief.
What COVID-19 exposes
State employment offices are already overwhelmed and are struggling to keep up. When the shutdowns first went into effect, virtually every state was hit with a wall of applicants and some, like Florida, reported horror stories of people waiting months for their checks.
Things have gotten somewhat better but are far from perfect. Just this week, Washington state announced it had worked its way through its initial backlogs but is still taking multiple weeks with the many applications coming in since mid-June.
The pandemic has exposed the need for states to upgrade their computer systems and hire more people to process jobless claims. Even so, the last thing deluged state agencies need in the throes of a crisis is a mandate to create new databases and calculate every applicant's income and benefit.
The calculations would be especially difficult for the self-employed and so-called gig workers, who collect revenue from multiple sources, much of which may be lacking documentation. Because of the peculiarities of how states are to do the calculations, workers in some states would get less than their peers in similar conditions in other states.
Unemployment vs. living wages
Republicans say $600 a week is simply too much and discourages some people from returning to work. There is truth to that. When $600 is added to state unemployment checks, many Americans are collecting more to stay home than they would if they returned to work, which could indicate that they were not being paid living wages to begin with.
Democrats have a point saying that the coronavirus pandemic is still terrorizing the United States — thanks in no small measure to the Trump administration's incompetent response — and so pushing people back to work might not be such an ethical idea.
One solution might be weekly payments that start at $600 but uniformly decline across the board over time on the presumption that the economy will improve. Alternatively, payments could start at the full amount but be pegged to the unemployment rate.
Instead, Republicans have proposed a perpetual motion machine. They give states two months to update their systems and figure out how to do the computations. In the likely event that states can’t meet that deadline, they could get another two months. By that time, the supplemental benefits would be about to expire.
This approach is way too complicated. When you are relying on rickety state unemployment insurance systems to distribute jobless benefits in the midst of a pandemic, the best approach is KISS: Keep It Simple, Stupid.
USA TODAY's editorial opinions are decided by its Editorial Board, separate from the news staff and the USA TODAY Network. Most editorials are coupled with an Opposing View, a unique USA TODAY feature. To read more editorials, go to the Opinion front page or sign up for the daily Opinion email newsletter. To respond to this editorial, submit a comment to letters@usatoday.com.
If you can't see this reader poll, please refresh your page.
HOTLINE: Share your coronavirus story. We may publish your comments.


usatoday--2020-08-05--Unemployment $200 bonus is still generous without discouraging people to go back to work

Congressional negotiators debating whether to extend federal unemployment benefits should support the Senate Republicans ’ plan because it helps more Americans return to work while providing the unemployed with significant support .
In March , legislators argued that $ 600 bonuses were needed while “ the consumer economy is shuttered.
” Since then , lockdowns generally have ended and weekly bonuses have expired .
If the $ 600 bonuses were to extend into 2021 , as the Democratic-led House proposes , the unemployed would continue being discouraged from work by getting more in unemployment benefits than they earned while working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did just that , and another study estimates it would be 5 in 6 in the future .
The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office projects that continuing such benefits “ would reduce employment in calendar year 2021.
” Even Democrats like Connecticut Gov .
Ned Lamont admit on $ 600 bonuses that “ sometimes it discourage work.
” Americans agree .
According to a recent Harris poll , “ Most American adults ( 58 % ) say the $ 600 a week in enhanced unemployment benefits should expire by the end of August.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 62 % ) also think the enhanced jobless benefits discourage people from going back to work .
Even among unemployed Americans , nearly half ( 46 % ) say they would avoid returning to work if the benefits are continued past July 31.
” That ’ s why Senate Republicans propose reducing bonuses to generally $ 200 per week in the months ahead ( some states might provide more , but benefits would still be less than earnings ) .
The $ 200 bonus is still generous ; it is eight times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2009 Obama stimulus plan .
Paid in addition to state unemployment benefits averaging $ 342 per week , the resulting $ 542 per week average offers unemployed workers more than they have ever received previous to the pandemic ( and they are expected to get another round of $ 1,200 stimulus checks soon ) .
This would maintain significant federal assistance while reducing disincentives holding back workers and the economy .
Matt Weidinger is the Rowe Fellow in poverty studies at the American Enterprise Institute .
He is a former deputy staff director @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
If you ca n't see this reader poll , please refresh your page .

Unemployment $200 bonus is still generous without discouraging people to go back to work Opposing View: Republican plan would reduce disincentives holding back workers and the economy.
Federal Reserve: How creating money could save US economy Where does the U.S. stimulus money come from? Here's how the Federal Reserve is saving the economy from the COVID-19 crisis. Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
Congressional negotiators debating whether to extend federal unemployment benefits should support the Senate Republicans’ plan because it helps more Americans return to work while providing the unemployed with significant support.
In March, legislators argued that $600 bonuses were needed while “the consumer economy is shuttered.” Since then, lockdowns generally have ended and weekly bonuses have expired. If the $600 bonuses were to extend into 2021, as the Democratic-led House proposes, the unemployed would continue being discouraged from work by getting more in unemployment benefits than they earned while working.
One study found 2 in 3 did just that, and another study estimates it would be 5 in 6 in the future. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office projects that continuing such benefits “would reduce employment in calendar year 2021.” Even Democrats like Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont admit on $600 bonuses that “sometimes it discourage work.”
Americans agree. According to a recent Harris poll, “Most American adults (58%) say the $600 a week in enhanced unemployment benefits should expire by the end of August.” The reason? “Two-thirds of Americans (62%) also think the enhanced jobless benefits discourage people from going back to work. Even among unemployed Americans, nearly half (46%) say they would avoid returning to work if the benefits are continued past July 31.”
That’s why Senate Republicans propose reducing bonuses to generally $200 per week in the months ahead (some states might provide more, but benefits would still be less than earnings). The $200 bonus is still generous; it is eight times the $25 bonus included in the 2009 Obama stimulus plan.
Paid in addition to state unemployment benefits averaging $342 per week, the resulting $542 per week average offers unemployed workers more than they have ever received previous to the pandemic (and they are expected to get another round of $1,200 stimulus checks soon).
This would maintain significant federal assistance while reducing disincentives holding back workers and the economy.
Matt Weidinger is the Rowe Fellow in poverty studies at the American Enterprise Institute. He is a former deputy staff director of the House Ways and Means Committee.
If you can't see this reader poll, please refresh your page.


usatoday--2020-08-05--Joe Biden won't travel to Milwaukee for 2020 DNC because of coronavirus concerns

Whatever was left of an in-person 2020 Democratic National Convention evaporated Wednesday as organizers announced Joe Biden wo n't travel to Milwaukee to give his presidential acceptance speech .
Neither will any of the other speakers who will address the convention Aug. 17-20 .
As the coronavirus pandemic paralyzes politics , Democrats will hold a virtual convention .
Biden will accept the party 's presidential nomination from his home in Delaware .
In a statement , organizers said , `` After ongoing consultation with public health officials and experts – who underscored the worsening coronavirus pandemic – the Democratic National @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no longer travel to Milwaukee , Wisconsin , in order to prevent risking the health of our host community as well as the convention ’ s production teams , security officials , community partners , media and others necessary to orchestrate the event . ''
Democratic National Committee Chair Tom Perez said , `` From the very beginning of this pandemic , we put the health and safety of the American people first .
We followed the science , listened to doctors and public health experts , and we continued making adjustments to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
That ’ s the kind of steady and responsible leadership America deserves .
And that ’ s the leadership Joe Biden will bring to the White House . ''
Not sure if you ’ re registered to vote ?
: Check your status .
Biden 's decision is one more blow to the idea that the convention could provide an electoral boost to Wisconsin .
Biden has n't campaigned in Wisconsin at all this year , although he made appearances on behalf of Democratic candidates in Wisconsin in 2018 .
In 2016 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ primaries but did not make an appearance during the general election .
The Milwaukee convention is just a shell of what was originally envisioned .
When the city landed the convention more than a year ago , it was hoped that 50,000 people would travel to Milwaukee for four nonstop days and nights of politics .
The coronavirus pandemic upended plans .
The original convention dates were moved back a month .
Delegates were told to stay away .
Now , there wo n't even be any speakers .
“ While we wish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world to beautiful Milwaukee in two weeks , we recognize protecting the health of our host community and everyone involved with this convention must be paramount , ” Joe Solmonese , the convention 's chief executive , said in a statement .
Solmonese said , “ This convention will look different than any previous convention in history .
It will reach more people than ever before , and truly be a convention across America for all Americans , regardless of which party you belong to or who you ’ ve voted for in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will launch Joe Biden to victory in November . ''
“ Wow , ” was the reaction of political scientist Byron Shafer , a retired University of Wisconsin-Madison professor and a scholar of conventions .
“ That was really all that was left ” of a traditional convention , Shafer said of Biden ’ s plans to accept the nomination in Milwaukee .
The question looming for both parties is whether they can command anything approximating a normal audience as they remotely nominate their presidential candidates this month .
“ The president himself @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He ’ s not going to Jacksonville .
Now the Democratic nominee is not coming ” to Wisconsin , Shafer said .
“ If you were an audience member with a mild interest in politics , that might signal to you this isn ’ t worth it all , ( that ) you ’ re not going to spend five hours the week of the convention watching the ( video ) feed .
”

Bill Glauber, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Joe Biden won't travel to Milwaukee for 2020 DNC because of coronavirus concerns
Show Caption Hide Caption Joe Biden will not travel for 2020 DNC due to coronavirus concerns Joe Biden will not be traveling to Milwaukee for the Democratic National Convention due to coronavirus concerns. USA TODAY
Whatever was left of an in-person 2020 Democratic National Convention evaporated Wednesday as organizers announced Joe Biden won't travel to Milwaukee to give his presidential acceptance speech.
Neither will any of the other speakers who will address the convention Aug. 17-20.
As the coronavirus pandemic paralyzes politics, Democrats will hold a virtual convention. Biden will accept the party's presidential nomination from his home in Delaware.
In a statement, organizers said, "After ongoing consultation with public health officials and experts – who underscored the worsening coronavirus pandemic – the Democratic National Convention Committee announced today speakers … will no longer travel to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in order to prevent risking the health of our host community as well as the convention’s production teams, security officials, community partners, media and others necessary to orchestrate the event."
DNC affirms virtual convention amid pandemic Democrats will hold an almost entirely virtual presidential nominating convention by using live broadcasts, online streaming, and other means for the 4,500 plus delegates to cast their votes remotely. (June 25) AP
Democratic National Committee Chair Tom Perez said, "From the very beginning of this pandemic, we put the health and safety of the American people first. We followed the science, listened to doctors and public health experts, and we continued making adjustments to our plans in order to protect lives. That’s the kind of steady and responsible leadership America deserves. And that’s the leadership Joe Biden will bring to the White House."
Not sure if you’re registered to vote?: Check your status.
Biden's decision is one more blow to the idea that the convention could provide an electoral boost to Wisconsin.
Biden hasn't campaigned in Wisconsin at all this year, although he made appearances on behalf of Democratic candidates in Wisconsin in 2018.
In 2016, Hillary Clinton campaigned there during the primaries but did not make an appearance during the general election.
The Milwaukee convention is just a shell of what was originally envisioned.
When the city landed the convention more than a year ago, it was hoped that 50,000 people would travel to Milwaukee for four nonstop days and nights of politics.
The coronavirus pandemic upended plans. The original convention dates were moved back a month. Delegates were told to stay away.
Now, there won't even be any speakers.
“While we wish we could move forward with welcoming the world to beautiful Milwaukee in two weeks, we recognize protecting the health of our host community and everyone involved with this convention must be paramount,” Joe Solmonese, the convention's chief executive, said in a statement.
Solmonese said, “This convention will look different than any previous convention in history. It will reach more people than ever before, and truly be a convention across America for all Americans, regardless of which party you belong to or who you’ve voted for in previous elections. This 'unconventional convention' will launch Joe Biden to victory in November."
“Wow,” was the reaction of political scientist Byron Shafer, a retired University of Wisconsin-Madison professor and a scholar of conventions.
“That was really all that was left” of a traditional convention, Shafer said of Biden’s plans to accept the nomination in Milwaukee.
The question looming for both parties is whether they can command anything approximating a normal audience as they remotely nominate their presidential candidates this month.
“The president himself isn’t going to Charlotte. He’s not going to Jacksonville. Now the Democratic nominee is not coming” to Wisconsin, Shafer said. “If you were an audience member with a mild interest in politics, that might signal to you this isn’t worth it all, (that) you’re not going to spend five hours the week of the convention watching the (video) feed.”
Contributing: Craig Gilbert


usatoday--2020-08-05--Missouri voters OK Medicaid expansion to cover more low-income adults, defying GOP leaders

SPRINGFIELD , Mo .
– Medicaid expansion is coming to the Show-Me State .
Missouri voters on Tuesday backed a plan to offer public health insurance to hundreds of thousands more low-income adults 53 % -47 % , defying Republicans who blocked it at the statehouse for years and implored voters to reject it on the ballot .
The result , driven by strong showings in the major metro areas , means any lawful adult resident earning up to 138 % of the federal poverty line – around $ 17,600 a year for individuals and $ 36,150 for a family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coverage starting July 2021 .
The change to a program that currently cuts most parents off at 21 % of the poverty line and completely excludes most childless adults is expected to make a substantial impact on the newly eligible .
Research suggests they ’ ll have better access to care , see their financial health improve , and in some cases , add years to their lifespans .
More : Who is Cori Bush , the nurse , pastor and activist who ended a 52-year political dynasty ?
More : Joe Biden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he looks to announce pick next week They ’ re also expected to bring tens of thousands of children onto the rolls with them , which experts say could counter a troubling rise in the number of uninsured kids in the state .
Victoria Altic , a Springfield mother of two who has struggled with medical debt , could scarcely contain her excitement as the final votes came in .
`` I ca n't even articulate how amazing and happy I feel that we 're finally doing this after so many years , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I 'm so proud of how Missourians came together , gathered all the signatures and did this ourselves , because we could n't rely on our legislators . ''
The expansion is also expected to have a significant impact on the state ’ s health care industry , which poured millions of dollars into the campaign .
Research suggests the change will lead to declines in uncompensated care at hospitals , especially those in rural areas , and potentially support thousands of new jobs .
Herb Kuhn , who leads the Missouri @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the change could also help streamline the Medicaid system itself .
`` Our commitment moving forward is to work with all partners to build a better program for this newly covered population , as well as for all Missourians enrolled in Medicaid , and for taxpayers , '' he said .
More : Supreme Court allows religious , moral exemptions for employers opposed to contraceptives The exact effect on the state ’ s budget remains to be seen , however .
The federal government covers 90 % of expansion costs , but the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Department of Social Services has predicted a budget hit of more than $ 200 million per year .
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis projected expansion would actually save Missouri money , as it has in other states .
But both of those estimates came before the pandemic put tens of thousands more Missourians out of work who may qualify for aid , and the debate over paying the tab seems certain to continue when the Republican-dominated legislature reconvenes in January .
And while the expansion was proposed as a constitutional amendment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ put work requirements or other restrictions on the ballot in the future .
With that prospect looming , many statements from backers couched Tuesday 's results as one step in a longer process .
In an official statement Tuesday night , A.J .
Bockelman , who managed the `` Yes '' campaign , said voters ' approval meant the work of providing health care for more people could now `` begin in earnest . ''
Top Democrats were eager to make a point of continuing the fight , too .
State Auditor Nicole @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nomination for governor earlier in the evening , said in a statement that her Republican opponent , Gov .
Mike Parson , ca n't be trusted with the new program given his opposition to it .
`` The future of Medicaid expansion in Missouri depends on who is in the governor ’ s office next year when it comes time to implement it , '' she said .
House Minority Leader Crystal Quade said the issue should also play into races for seats in the legislature .
`` Now more than ever we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Missourians by flipping seats in the November elections , '' Quade wrote in a tweet .
Opponents were a little less talkative .
Parson , who once called expansion a “ massive tax increase that Missourians can not afford , ” made no mention of the issue in a speech to supporters or in numerous social media posts afterward .
But a lower-profile “ No ” campaign , which enlisted a slew of GOP officials from Lt. Gov .
Mike Kehoe to freshman House members to make videos condemning the idea as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a statement Wednesday morning with a bitter warning .
`` With the passage of Obamacare expansion , Missourians will be footing the bill for a program whose only guarantee is one of rising costs that remain uncapped , '' it said .
`` When the dust settles , the costs will be clear , reminding Missourians to be careful what you wish for . ''
Regardless of what happens next , the vote virtually assures Missouri will be the 38th state to expand Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act and the sixth to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effort to get around hostile Republican leaders .
Neighboring Oklahoma became the fifth in June .
Tuesday ’ s result also marked the latest in a string of victories for Missouri progressives at the ballot box , following votes to increase the statewide minimum wage , crack down on lobbyist gifts and strike down an anti-union “ right-to-work ” law championed by former Gov .
Eric Greitens in 2018 .

Austin Huguelet, Springfield News-Leader

Missouri voters OK Medicaid expansion to cover more low-income adults, defying GOP leaders
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Medicaid expansion is coming to the Show-Me State.
Missouri voters on Tuesday backed a plan to offer public health insurance to hundreds of thousands more low-income adults 53%-47%, defying Republicans who blocked it at the statehouse for years and implored voters to reject it on the ballot.
The result, driven by strong showings in the major metro areas, means any lawful adult resident earning up to 138% of the federal poverty line – around $17,600 a year for individuals and $36,150 for a family of four – will be eligible for coverage starting July 2021.
The change to a program that currently cuts most parents off at 21% of the poverty line and completely excludes most childless adults is expected to make a substantial impact on the newly eligible.
Research suggests they’ll have better access to care, see their financial health improve, and in some cases, add years to their lifespans.
More: Who is Cori Bush, the nurse, pastor and activist who ended a 52-year political dynasty?
More: Joe Biden holds final interviews with VP candidates as he looks to announce pick next week
They’re also expected to bring tens of thousands of children onto the rolls with them, which experts say could counter a troubling rise in the number of uninsured kids in the state.
Victoria Altic, a Springfield mother of two who has struggled with medical debt, could scarcely contain her excitement as the final votes came in.
"I can't even articulate how amazing and happy I feel that we're finally doing this after so many years," she said in an interview. "I'm so proud of how Missourians came together, gathered all the signatures and did this ourselves, because we couldn't rely on our legislators."
The expansion is also expected to have a significant impact on the state’s health care industry, which poured millions of dollars into the campaign.
Research suggests the change will lead to declines in uncompensated care at hospitals, especially those in rural areas, and potentially support thousands of new jobs.
Herb Kuhn, who leads the Missouri Hospital Association, said in a statement the change could also help streamline the Medicaid system itself.
"Our commitment moving forward is to work with all partners to build a better program for this newly covered population, as well as for all Missourians enrolled in Medicaid, and for taxpayers," he said.
More: Trump administration urges Supreme Court to end Affordable Care Act amid coronavirus pandemic
More: Supreme Court allows religious, moral exemptions for employers opposed to contraceptives
The exact effect on the state’s budget remains to be seen, however.
The federal government covers 90% of expansion costs, but the state covers the rest, and the Department of Social Services has predicted a budget hit of more than $200 million per year.
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis projected expansion would actually save Missouri money, as it has in other states.
But both of those estimates came before the pandemic put tens of thousands more Missourians out of work who may qualify for aid, and the debate over paying the tab seems certain to continue when the Republican-dominated legislature reconvenes in January.
And while the expansion was proposed as a constitutional amendment to guard against changes, lawmakers could put work requirements or other restrictions on the ballot in the future.
With that prospect looming, many statements from backers couched Tuesday's results as one step in a longer process.
In an official statement Tuesday night, A.J. Bockelman, who managed the "Yes" campaign, said voters' approval meant the work of providing health care for more people could now "begin in earnest."
Primaries: Cori Bush defeats Rep. William Lacy Clay, plus more takeaways
Top Democrats were eager to make a point of continuing the fight, too.
State Auditor Nicole Galloway, who won her party's nomination for governor earlier in the evening, said in a statement that her Republican opponent, Gov. Mike Parson, can't be trusted with the new program given his opposition to it.
"The future of Medicaid expansion in Missouri depends on who is in the governor’s office next year when it comes time to implement it," she said.
House Minority Leader Crystal Quade said the issue should also play into races for seats in the legislature.
"Now more than ever we will have to fight to defend healthcare for Missourians by flipping seats in the November elections," Quade wrote in a tweet.
Opponents were a little less talkative.
Parson, who once called expansion a “massive tax increase that Missourians cannot afford,” made no mention of the issue in a speech to supporters or in numerous social media posts afterward.
But a lower-profile “No” campaign, which enlisted a slew of GOP officials from Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe to freshman House members to make videos condemning the idea as a Bernie Sanders-style boondoggle, eventually released a statement Wednesday morning with a bitter warning.
"With the passage of Obamacare expansion, Missourians will be footing the bill for a program whose only guarantee is one of rising costs that remain uncapped," it said. "When the dust settles, the costs will be clear, reminding Missourians to be careful what you wish for."
Regardless of what happens next, the vote virtually assures Missouri will be the 38th state to expand Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act and the sixth to expand Medicaid via the ballot in an effort to get around hostile Republican leaders.
Neighboring Oklahoma became the fifth in June.
Tuesday’s result also marked the latest in a string of victories for Missouri progressives at the ballot box, following votes to increase the statewide minimum wage, crack down on lobbyist gifts and strike down an anti-union “right-to-work” law championed by former Gov. Eric Greitens in 2018.


usatoday--2020-08-06--'He's daddy's hero': 9-year-old saves injured dad from drowning after diving accident in Florida

PENSACOLA , Fla. – Asaih Williams did n't stop to think when his dad dove into the Santa Rosa Sound and failed to emerge for several seconds .
`` All I remember was that he said he broke his neck and he said he was scared , '' Asaih recalled Wednesday , several days after the accident .
`` I had a little time limit in my head .
If I jump in and the person I 'm jumping with in that certain amount of time ( does n't come up ) , I go after them . ''
Asaih @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – he just knew something went terribly wrong at that moment and he was the only person in a position to help .
The crucial moment came at the end of a relaxing day at Quietwater Beach for the Pensacola family of five on Saturday .
The Williams family had just spent all day swimming and relaxing when , shortly after sunset , Asaih convinced his dad , Josh , to take one last dip before calling it a night .
`` I was up on the shore with these two younger ones @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mother of Asaih and the couple 's two other young children .
`` They were kind of playing around where the ferry docks in , so it 's about 15 feet deep right there .
Then they went down a little bit further , to the right , at the end , where it was a lot more shallow .
They could n't see that well . ''
As Audrey stayed 50 feet away on the beach , occupied with her two little ones , Asaih jumped legs first into the water followed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first .
But the water was much shallower than the family – who only recently moved to Pensacola from Georgia – had expected .
`` Asaih saw that daddy was n't coming up as quickly as he should have and he knew something was wrong , '' Audrey said .
`` He flipped him over , because Josh was on his stomach .
Asaih flipped him over because he could n't move . ''
Despite a 100-pound weight difference between the father and son , Asaih channeled a bit of superhuman strength to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was n't at risk of drowning , since he had very obviously just suffered a debilitating neck injury .
Video:3 men rescued after making giant 'SOS ' sign in sand on tiny island '' Josh told me from the hospital , ' I knew when I impacted , my neck was gone , ' '' Audrey recalled .
Asaih kept his dad flipped around on his back and slowly tugged him to shore for what seemed like an eternity until bystanders were able to take some of the burden from the boy .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ on land , while a woman called for an ambulance .
Josh Williams was transported Saturday night to Baptist Hospital as a trauma alert .
Soon after that he was transported to Sacred Heart for C1-C3 fusion surgery Monday .
`` He 's working on trying to get his feeling back in his arms and legs .
His left side is worse than his right , '' said Audrey , who added that the early prognosis is that Josh 's injury wo n't be life-altering , and he wo n't require a wheelchair @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he should have a full recovery .
He 's progressing pretty fast .
He lifted his head and sat up in a chair ( Tuesday ) . ''
Asaih visited with a doctor this week after the boy had experienced some pain in his right leg stemming from the jump .
His mom said Asaih is just dealing with a little bit of inflammation and should be back to 100 % by the weekend , if not sooner .
`` I 'm so grateful that ( Asaih ) was there for him because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ husband probably would n't be here today , '' Asaih said .
`` The fact that a 9-year-old thought so fast in thinking , 'Oh , I got ta help , I 'm the only one here to help him . '
He brought him all the way back to shore all by himself .
He 's daddy 's hero , that 's for sure . ''

'He's daddy's hero': 9-year-old saves injured dad from drowning after diving accident in Florida
PENSACOLA, Fla. – Asaih Williams didn't stop to think when his dad dove into the Santa Rosa Sound and failed to emerge for several seconds.
The Pensacola 9-year-old just acted.
"All I remember was that he said he broke his neck and he said he was scared," Asaih recalled Wednesday, several days after the accident. "I had a little time limit in my head. If I jump in and the person I'm jumping with in that certain amount of time (doesn't come up), I go after them."
Asaih never took any true technical swim training – he just knew something went terribly wrong at that moment and he was the only person in a position to help.
The crucial moment came at the end of a relaxing day at Quietwater Beach for the Pensacola family of five on Saturday. The Williams family had just spent all day swimming and relaxing when, shortly after sunset, Asaih convinced his dad, Josh, to take one last dip before calling it a night.
"I was up on the shore with these two younger ones," said Audrey Williams, the mother of Asaih and the couple's two other young children. "They were kind of playing around where the ferry docks in, so it's about 15 feet deep right there. Then they went down a little bit further, to the right, at the end, where it was a lot more shallow. They couldn't see that well."
As Audrey stayed 50 feet away on the beach, occupied with her two little ones, Asaih jumped legs first into the water followed by Josh, who dove in head first. But the water was much shallower than the family – who only recently moved to Pensacola from Georgia – had expected.
"Asaih saw that daddy wasn't coming up as quickly as he should have and he knew something was wrong," Audrey said. "He flipped him over, because Josh was on his stomach. Asaih flipped him over because he couldn't move."
Despite a 100-pound weight difference between the father and son, Asaih channeled a bit of superhuman strength to turn his dad over and ensure he wasn't at risk of drowning, since he had very obviously just suffered a debilitating neck injury.
Watch: Rescuer saves kangaroo from death...twice
Video: 3 men rescued after making giant 'SOS' sign in sand on tiny island
"Josh told me from the hospital, 'I knew when I impacted, my neck was gone,'" Audrey recalled.
Asaih kept his dad flipped around on his back and slowly tugged him to shore for what seemed like an eternity until bystanders were able to take some of the burden from the boy.
A man helped Asaih set his dad on land, while a woman called for an ambulance.
Josh Williams was transported Saturday night to Baptist Hospital as a trauma alert. Soon after that he was transported to Sacred Heart for C1-C3 fusion surgery Monday.
"He's working on trying to get his feeling back in his arms and legs. His left side is worse than his right," said Audrey, who added that the early prognosis is that Josh's injury won't be life-altering, and he won't require a wheelchair long term. "Doctors are saying he should have a full recovery. He's progressing pretty fast. He lifted his head and sat up in a chair (Tuesday)."
Asaih visited with a doctor this week after the boy had experienced some pain in his right leg stemming from the jump. His mom said Asaih is just dealing with a little bit of inflammation and should be back to 100% by the weekend, if not sooner.
"I'm so grateful that (Asaih) was there for him because if he wasn't there, my husband probably wouldn't be here today," Asaih said. "The fact that a 9-year-old thought so fast in thinking, 'Oh, I gotta help, I'm the only one here to help him.' He brought him all the way back to shore all by himself. He's daddy's hero, that's for sure."