skynewsus--2020-02-10--Handbag snacks, surprise Eminem and Cats - 12 stand-out Oscar moments

It was supposed to be the most predictable Oscars in a long time , with the favourites in most of the big categories deemed almost dead-certs in the run-up to the ceremony .
As anticipated , acting front-runners Joaquin Phoenix , Renee Zellweger , Brad Pitt and Laura Dern did indeed triumph - but South Korean film Parasite was the surprise big winner of the night .
Starting with the best original screenplay award , it won the country 's first ever Oscar - and then went on to win its second , third and fourth , including the awards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It was the story of the night - but there were plenty of other big talking points from the star-studded event .
If you could n't stay up to watch it , do n't worry .
Here are our Oscars 2020 highlights .
All the acting categories seemed pretty certain ahead of the ceremony , with Phoenix , Zellweger , Pitt and Dern all taking home the trophies at the awards in the run-up to the Oscars , including the Golden Globes , the SAGs and the Critics ' Choice .
But with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and no acting Oscar up till now , this was a big one for Pitt .
The four-time nominee was named best supporting actor for his role as a stuntman in Quentin Tarantino 's Once Upon A Time ...
In Hollywood .
So far this awards season , the star has made headlines thanks to his speeches joking about everything from Brexit and Megxit to his single status , but he kept the tone a little more serious for the biggest night of the year .
`` This is incredible , really incredible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you for this honour of honours .
`` This is really about Quentin Tarantino , you are original , you are one of a kind , the film industry would be a much drier place without you . ''
Paying tribute to his co-star Leonardo DiCaprio , Pitt said : `` Leo , I 'll ride on your coattails any day man , the view 's fantastic .
`` This is for my kids , who colour everything I do .
Once Upon A Time In Hollywood , ai n't that the truth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ favourite for best picture and best director for Sam Mendes leading up to the awards .
On the night , it took home three - cinematography , sound mixing and visual effects - making it second only to Parasite .
However , after success at both the BAFTAs and Golden Globes it was widely thought that British filmmaker Mendes would win his second directing Oscar for the movie , which was filmed to appear as one long take .
It would have come exactly 20 years after his win for American Beauty , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ However , British cinematographer Roger Deakins did win in his category .
Asked backstage what attracted him to the film , he said Mendes was the main pull .
`` The subject and working with Sam again , frankly , '' he said after collecting his Oscar .
`` I 've done three films with Sam and they were all great experiences .
That and World War One . ''
Speaking to Sky News on the red carpet before the ceremony , Mendes described Parasite as a `` masterpiece '' , so we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Of all the names that could have appeared on stage , rapper Eminem is probably not a celebrity who would spring to mind .
However , this was his arrival on the Oscars stage almost 20 years after skipping the Academy Awards in 2003 , when Lose Yourself was named best original song .
Eminem , real name Marshall Bruce Mathers III , finally got to perform the song , from the soundtrack to 8 Mile , to a mostly appreciative audience .
`` If you had another shot , another opportunity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , referencing the opening lines from the track .
Backstage , producer Lynette Howell Taylor was especially excited - save for a momentary panic that he did n't have his mic .
Director Martin Scorsese ?
Let 's just say it does n't look like he 's a fan .
Billie Eilish also performs ... but we still have to wait for Bond In the past 12 months , Billie Eilish has become one of the most famous teenagers on the planet .
After topping charts around the world and conquering Glastonbury , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ youngest artist ever to be recording a James Bond theme .
So when it was then announced she would be performing at the Oscars , it was widely anticipated the 18-year-old might be debuting the song for No Time To Die , which was written with her elder brother , Finneas O'Connell .
But the world still has to wait for that .
Instead , Eilish performed The Beatles ' Yesterday during the In Memoriam segment .
Ahead of the show she posted a message on Instagram to say she was `` honoured @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I 've always loved '' .
Panned by critics and , well , pretty much anyone who watched it , the all-star film version of the hit musical Cats was never going to be an Oscar contender .
But in fact , it did get some recognition at this year 's awards , providing one of the most memorable moments of the night courtesy of two of its stars , Rebel Wilson and James Corden .
Donning their costumes from the film as they presented the award for visual effects , the pair @ @ @ @ @ @ @ film and its own visuals , which were widely mocked on social media .
`` Nobody more than us understands the importance of good visual effects , '' Corden quipped , before announcing 1917 as the winner .
Sadly , their fellow Cats stars Judi Dench , Idris Elba and Taylor Swift were n't there to join them on stage .
For the second year in a row , the ceremony was hostless , but there were memorable introductions given by some of the presenters .
Providing comedic elements were Bridesmaids co-stars and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kristen Wiig , who received some of the biggest laughs of the night as they used their platform in front of industry heavyweights to show off their acting talents .
Presenting the prize for best production design , their audition skit was one performance Scorsese did seem to enjoy .
`` We 're not mad , '' Wiig said , after they came out apparently furious .
`` That ... was an act . ''
Later , while presenting the award for best costume design , the pair performed a medley of songs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vogue and These Boots Are Made For Walking .
She 's a 10-year-old actress who turned out to be a scene-stealer opposite Oscars veteran Leonardo DiCaprio in Once Upon A Time ...
In Hollywood .
At the Oscars , Julia Butters made her fashion mark , wearing a beautiful pink gown as she appeared on the red carpet ahead of the ceremony .
What do you keep in your handbag when you 're a movie star at the biggest night in Hollywood ?
We 're guessing for most actresses it 's a phone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had the right idea , telling reporters she was sneaking in a turkey sandwich so she could snack during the show - because she was n't keen on the look of the mostly plant-based menu .
An emotional Sir Elton John planted a kiss on Bernie Taupin as the long-time songwriting partners won the best original song prize for ( I 'm Gon na ) Love Me Again , which featured in Rocketman , the musical biopic starring Taron Egerton .
When the result was announced , Sir Elton , dressed in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the sky and mouthed , `` oh my God '' before planting a kiss on Taupin 's head .
`` Thank you to Bernie , who 's been the constant thing in my life - when I was screwed up , when I was normal , he 's always been there for me , '' Sir Elton said on stage .
Speaking backstage , the singer , who was missing his annual Oscars viewing party to perform at the ceremony , dedicated the win to his musical partner .
`` This is for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 53 years , '' he said .
`` Without him , I would n't be here .
He started the process , he gave me the lyric , without lyrics I 'm nobody . ''
He also praised his husband David Furnish , who served as a producer on the film , as well as Golden Globe winner Egerton , who he said should have been nominated for best actor .
`` For me , he was the best performance this year , '' Sir Elton said .
He also paid tribute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Elijah , who he said he had called about his win .
`` They are so happy , '' he said .
`` I love them so much , they love their daddy . ''
Streaming service Netflix entered the Oscars race as the studio with the highest number of nominations - 24 - for The Irishman , Marriage Story and The Two Popes .
Martin Scorsese 's gangster epic The Irishman , starring Al Pacino , Joe Pesci and Robert De Niro , was left empty-handed , despite 10 nods , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Laura Dern did pick up the best supporting actress prize for her performance as a divorce lawyer in Marriage Story .
Her mother , the actress Diane Ladd - who was nominated three times but never won - wiped away tears as she collected the trophy .
Dern paid tribute to her famous parents , saying : `` Some say never meet your heroes but I say , if you 're really blessed , you get them as your parents .
`` I share this with my acting legends , Diane Ladd and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I love you . ''
Netflix also won the best documentary feature prize for American Factory .
Whether in speeches on stage or through their outfits , the stars were determined to highlight the disparity at Hollywood 's biggest awards night .
Despite the milestone wins for Parasite , the Academy had faced criticism in the run-up to the ceremony , with just one black person shortlisted in the acting categories and no women in the running for best director .
This year 's was the least diverse line-up since the # OscarsSoWhite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hosts , Chris Rock and Steve Martin , provided the opening monologue - `` an incredible demotion , '' as Martin called it , before reminding the audience that something was missing from this year 's directing nominees .
Janelle Monae , who gave the opening performance , also referred to the lack of women nominated in the directing category , saying : `` We are celebrating all the women who directed phenomenal films .
I 'm proud to be here as a black , queer woman . ''
Her performance was greeted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Portman used her embroidered cape to highlight the issue , with the names of the female directors who missed out on nominations stitched into the fabric .
Joker composer Hildur Guonadottir , who became only the third woman to ever win best original score , said on stage : `` To the girls , to the women , to the mothers , to the daughters who hear the music opening within , please speak up .
We need to hear your voices . ''
And best actor winner Phoenix also used his impassioned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I think at times we feel or are made to feel that we champion different causes , '' he said .
`` But for me , I see commonality .
`` I think , whether we 're talking about gender inequality or racism or queer rights or indigenous rights or animal rights , we 're talking about the fight against injustice . ''
While the Oscars red carpet is a huge fashion catwalk , with eyes all on the glamorous gowns , director Spike Lee used his outfit to send a message @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he wore a jacket in the purple shade of the Los Angeles Lakers , paying tribute to the late basketball star Kobe Bryant .
The jacket also featured the sportsman 's number , 24 , on its lapels .
Zack Gottsagen made history as the first presenter with Down 's syndrome Shia LaBeouf 's The Peanut Butter Falcon co-star Zach Gottsagen turned out on stage with him to make history as the first Oscar presenter with Down 's syndrome .
Announcing the award for the live-action short film category , the 35-year-old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` And the Oscar goes to ... '' The pair were greeted by huge cheers from the audience , and got lots of love on social media , too .

It was supposed to be the most predictable Oscars in a long time, with the favourites in most of the big categories deemed almost dead-certs in the run-up to the ceremony.
As anticipated, acting front-runners Joaquin Phoenix, Renee Zellweger, Brad Pitt and Laura Dern did indeed triumph - but South Korean film Parasite was the surprise big winner of the night.
Starting with the best original screenplay award, it won the country's first ever Oscar - and then went on to win its second, third and fourth, including the awards' biggest prize, best picture.
It was the story of the night - but there were plenty of other big talking points from the star-studded event.
:: Listen to Backstage on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
If you couldn't stay up to watch it, don't worry. Here are our Oscars 2020 highlights.
Image: Once Upon A Time... In Hollywood star Brad Pitt with his statuette
Brad Pitt finally wins his first acting Oscar
All the acting categories seemed pretty certain ahead of the ceremony, with Phoenix, Zellweger, Pitt and Dern all taking home the trophies at the awards in the run-up to the Oscars, including the Golden Globes, the SAGs and the Critics' Choice.
But with 30 years of films under his belt and no acting Oscar up till now, this was a big one for Pitt.
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The four-time nominee was named best supporting actor for his role as a stuntman in Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon A Time... In Hollywood.
So far this awards season, the star has made headlines thanks to his speeches joking about everything from Brexit and Megxit to his single status, but he kept the tone a little more serious for the biggest night of the year.
"This is incredible, really incredible," he said. "Thank you for this honour of honours.
"This is really about Quentin Tarantino, you are original, you are one of a kind, the film industry would be a much drier place without you."
Paying tribute to his co-star Leonardo DiCaprio, Pitt said: "Leo, I'll ride on your coattails any day man, the view's fantastic.
"This is for my kids, who colour everything I do. Once Upon A Time In Hollywood, ain't that the truth?"
Image: Cinematographer Roger Deakins won the Oscar for 1917, but the war film missed out on best picture and best director
1917 (sort of) misses out
War epic 1917 was the favourite for best picture and best director for Sam Mendes leading up to the awards.
On the night, it took home three - cinematography, sound mixing and visual effects - making it second only to Parasite.
However, after success at both the BAFTAs and Golden Globes it was widely thought that British filmmaker Mendes would win his second directing Oscar for the movie, which was filmed to appear as one long take.
It would have come exactly 20 years after his win for American Beauty, but it wasn't to be.
However, British cinematographer Roger Deakins did win in his category.
Asked backstage what attracted him to the film, he said Mendes was the main pull.
"The subject and working with Sam again, frankly," he said after collecting his Oscar. "I've done three films with Sam and they were all great experiences. That and World War One."
Speaking to Sky News on the red carpet before the ceremony, Mendes described Parasite as a "masterpiece", so we're guessing there are no hard feelings.
Image: Eminem was an unexpected performer
Eminem makes a surprise appearance
Of all the names that could have appeared on stage, rapper Eminem is probably not a celebrity who would spring to mind.
However, this was his arrival on the Oscars stage almost 20 years after skipping the Academy Awards in 2003, when Lose Yourself was named best original song.
Eminem, real name Marshall Bruce Mathers III, finally got to perform the song, from the soundtrack to 8 Mile, to a mostly appreciative audience.
"If you had another shot, another opportunity... " he tweeted following his performance, referencing the opening lines from the track.
Backstage, producer Lynette Howell Taylor was especially excited - save for a momentary panic that he didn't have his mic.
Director Martin Scorsese? Let's just say it doesn't look like he's a fan.
Image: Billie Eilish performed Yesterday, by The Beatles
Billie Eilish also performs... but we still have to wait for Bond
In the past 12 months, Billie Eilish has become one of the most famous teenagers on the planet.
After topping charts around the world and conquering Glastonbury, earlier this year she was named the youngest artist ever to be recording a James Bond theme.
So when it was then announced she would be performing at the Oscars, it was widely anticipated the 18-year-old might be debuting the song for No Time To Die, which was written with her elder brother, Finneas O'Connell.
But the world still has to wait for that. Instead, Eilish performed The Beatles' Yesterday during the In Memoriam segment.
Ahead of the show she posted a message on Instagram to say she was "honoured" to be "covering a song I've always loved".
Image: James Corden and Rebel Wilson mocked the widely panned Cats on stage
Cats finally gets some Oscars love
Panned by critics and, well, pretty much anyone who watched it, the all-star film version of the hit musical Cats was never going to be an Oscar contender.
But in fact, it did get some recognition at this year's awards, providing one of the most memorable moments of the night courtesy of two of its stars, Rebel Wilson and James Corden.
Donning their costumes from the film as they presented the award for visual effects, the pair were happy to poke fun at the film and its own visuals, which were widely mocked on social media.
"Nobody more than us understands the importance of good visual effects," Corden quipped, before announcing 1917 as the winner.
Sadly, their fellow Cats stars Judi Dench, Idris Elba and Taylor Swift weren't there to join them on stage.
Image: Maya Rudolph and Kristen Wiig provided some of the biggest laughs of the night
Maya Rudolph and Kristen Wiig tout for work
For the second year in a row, the ceremony was hostless, but there were memorable introductions given by some of the presenters.
Providing comedic elements were Bridesmaids co-stars and Saturday Night Live alumnae Maya Rudolph and Kristen Wiig, who received some of the biggest laughs of the night as they used their platform in front of industry heavyweights to show off their acting talents.
Presenting the prize for best production design, their audition skit was one performance Scorsese did seem to enjoy.
"We're not mad," Wiig said, after they came out apparently furious. "That... was an act."
Later, while presenting the award for best costume design, the pair performed a medley of songs about fashion, including Thong Song, Vogue and These Boots Are Made For Walking.
Image: Once Upon A Time... In Hollywood star Julia Butters was good for snacks
Julia Butters takes her own sarnies
She's a 10-year-old actress who turned out to be a scene-stealer opposite Oscars veteran Leonardo DiCaprio in Once Upon A Time... In Hollywood.
At the Oscars, Julia Butters made her fashion mark, wearing a beautiful pink gown as she appeared on the red carpet ahead of the ceremony.
What do you keep in your handbag when you're a movie star at the biggest night in Hollywood? We're guessing for most actresses it's a phone, maybe a lippy.
But Butters had the right idea, telling reporters she was sneaking in a turkey sandwich so she could snack during the show - because she wasn't keen on the look of the mostly plant-based menu.
Image: Elton John won the trophy for best song
Elton John gets emosh
An emotional Sir Elton John planted a kiss on Bernie Taupin as the long-time songwriting partners won the best original song prize for (I'm Gonna) Love Me Again, which featured in Rocketman, the musical biopic starring Taron Egerton.
When the result was announced, Sir Elton, dressed in a typically flamboyant purple outfit, looked to the sky and mouthed, "oh my God" before planting a kiss on Taupin's head.
"Thank you to Bernie, who's been the constant thing in my life - when I was screwed up, when I was normal, he's always been there for me," Sir Elton said on stage.
Speaking backstage, the singer, who was missing his annual Oscars viewing party to perform at the ceremony, dedicated the win to his musical partner.
"This is for him, this is for my partner of 53 years," he said. "Without him, I wouldn't be here. He started the process, he gave me the lyric, without lyrics I'm nobody."
He also praised his husband David Furnish, who served as a producer on the film, as well as Golden Globe winner Egerton, who he said should have been nominated for best actor.
"For me, he was the best performance this year," Sir Elton said.
He also paid tribute to his two sons, Zachary and Elijah, who he said he had called about his win.
"They are so happy," he said. "I love them so much, they love their daddy."
Image: Laura Dern won the trophy for best supporting actress for her role in Marriage Story
First acting Oscar for Netflix
Streaming service Netflix entered the Oscars race as the studio with the highest number of nominations - 24 - for The Irishman, Marriage Story and The Two Popes.
Martin Scorsese's gangster epic The Irishman, starring Al Pacino, Joe Pesci and Robert De Niro, was left empty-handed, despite 10 nods, as was The Two Popes.
However, Laura Dern did pick up the best supporting actress prize for her performance as a divorce lawyer in Marriage Story.
Her mother, the actress Diane Ladd - who was nominated three times but never won - wiped away tears as she collected the trophy.
Dern paid tribute to her famous parents, saying: "Some say never meet your heroes but I say, if you're really blessed, you get them as your parents.
"I share this with my acting legends, Diane Ladd and Bruce Dern. You got game, I love you."
Netflix also won the best documentary feature prize for American Factory.
Image: Natalie Portman made a statement about diversity through her cape
Calling out diversity
Whether in speeches on stage or through their outfits, the stars were determined to highlight the disparity at Hollywood's biggest awards night.
Despite the milestone wins for Parasite, the Academy had faced criticism in the run-up to the ceremony, with just one black person shortlisted in the acting categories and no women in the running for best director.
This year's was the least diverse line-up since the #OscarsSoWhite backlash in 2016.
Two former Oscar hosts, Chris Rock and Steve Martin, provided the opening monologue - "an incredible demotion," as Martin called it, before reminding the audience that something was missing from this year's directing nominees.
"Vaginas!" Rock replied.
Janelle Monae, who gave the opening performance, also referred to the lack of women nominated in the directing category, saying: "We are celebrating all the women who directed phenomenal films. I'm proud to be here as a black, queer woman."
Her performance was greeted by a standing ovation.
And Natalie Portman used her embroidered cape to highlight the issue, with the names of the female directors who missed out on nominations stitched into the fabric.
Joker composer Hildur Guonadottir, who became only the third woman to ever win best original score, said on stage: "To the girls, to the women, to the mothers, to the daughters who hear the music opening within, please speak up. We need to hear your voices."
And best actor winner Phoenix also used his impassioned speech to talk about equality rights.
"I think at times we feel or are made to feel that we champion different causes," he said. "But for me, I see commonality.
"I think, whether we're talking about gender inequality or racism or queer rights or indigenous rights or animal rights, we're talking about the fight against injustice."
Image: Spike Lee paid tribute to the late Kobe Bryant with his Oscars attire
Spike Lee pays tribute to Kobe
While the Oscars red carpet is a huge fashion catwalk, with eyes all on the glamorous gowns, director Spike Lee used his outfit to send a message.
In a sea of black tuxedos, he wore a jacket in the purple shade of the Los Angeles Lakers, paying tribute to the late basketball star Kobe Bryant.
The jacket also featured the sportsman's number, 24, on its lapels.
Image: Zack Gottsagen and Shia LaBoeuf presented an award together
Zack Gottsagen made history as the first presenter with Down's syndrome
Shia LaBeouf's The Peanut Butter Falcon co-star Zach Gottsagen turned out on stage with him to make history as the first Oscar presenter with Down's syndrome.
Announcing the award for the live-action short film category, the 35-year-old got to say the famous words: "And the Oscar goes to..."
The pair were greeted by huge cheers from the audience, and got lots of love on social media, too.


skynewsus--2020-02-10--Oscars fashion: The best of the red carpet looks

It 's the biggest catwalk in the world , a chance for the A-list to show off their best red carpet looks - from the ultra-glam to the ultra-outrageous .
Acting nominees Margot Robbie and Charlize Theron opted for navy and black , stars including Mindy Kaling , Florence Pugh and Kristen Wiig went for rainbow brights , while Sandra Oh and Rebel Wilson glittered in gold .
Billie Eilish was covered in Chanel , but not as you know it , while , as always , Billy Porter was a stand-out .
Here are some of the most striking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carpet .
Ruffles , bows , glitter - Sandra Oh has it all Once Upon A Time ... actress Julia Butters looked perfect in pink - and also took her own sandwiches to the show Janelle Monae 's jewel-encrusted silver hooded gown was one of the night 's stand-out looks Billie Eilish stood out in her Chanel suit and gloves Mindy Kaling was sunshine bright in one-shoulder yellow and diamond sparkle Spike Lee , with wife Tonya Lewis Lee , honoured the late Kobe Bryant with his purple Gucci '24 ' suit and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tux , while his wife , Julia Carey , drew attention in pale blue lace Margot Robbie went for navy with a pendant detail and some killer sleeves Timothee Chalamet kept it casual in navy British star Florence Pugh chose turquoise ruffles for her first Oscars Oscars queen Olivia Colman wore ( navy ) blue velvet - and debuted her new blonde 'do Supporting actress winner Laura Dern went for pale pink with black tassels Natalie Portman made a statement with a cape embroidered with the names of female directors snubbed this year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chosen a 'completely sustainable ' red Louis Vuitton gown Saoirse Ronan stood out in black , cream and lilac ruffles Mahershala Ali and Amatus Sami-Karim complemented each other on the red carpet

It's the biggest catwalk in the world, a chance for the A-list to show off their best red carpet looks - from the ultra-glam to the ultra-outrageous.
Acting nominees Margot Robbie and Charlize Theron opted for navy and black, stars including Mindy Kaling, Florence Pugh and Kristen Wiig went for rainbow brights, while Sandra Oh and Rebel Wilson glittered in gold.
Billie Eilish was covered in Chanel, but not as you know it, while, as always, Billy Porter was a stand-out.
Here are some of the most striking looks from this year's Oscars red carpet.
Fashion royalty Billy Porter wore a dress inspired by Kensington Palace Ruffles, bows, glitter - Sandra Oh has it all Once Upon A Time... actress Julia Butters looked perfect in pink - and also took her own sandwiches to the show Janelle Monae's jewel-encrusted silver hooded gown was one of the night's stand-out looks Billie Eilish stood out in her Chanel suit and gloves Mindy Kaling was sunshine bright in one-shoulder yellow and diamond sparkle Spike Lee, with wife Tonya Lewis Lee, honoured the late Kobe Bryant with his purple Gucci '24' suit and trainers Beanie Feldstein chose a floral black and white gown Rebel Wilson looked gorgeous in gold sparkles James Corden went for a traditional tux, while his wife, Julia Carey, drew attention in pale blue lace Judy star Renee Zellweger chose a simple white, one-shoulder gown Margot Robbie went for navy with a pendant detail and some killer sleeves British actress Cynthia Erivo dazzled in white and silver Charlize Theron's black gown featured a long train Timothee Chalamet kept it casual in navy Scarlett Johansson went for silky champagne sparkles British star Florence Pugh chose turquoise ruffles for her first Oscars Kristen Wiig's voluminous red dress divided opinion Oscars queen Olivia Colman wore (navy) blue velvet - and debuted her new blonde 'do Rooney Mara's beautiful black lace gown was a red carpet hit Supporting actress winner Laura Dern went for pale pink with black tassels Natalie Portman made a statement with a cape embroidered with the names of female directors snubbed this year Booksmart star Kaitlyn Dever said she had chosen a 'completely sustainable' red Louis Vuitton gown Costume designer Sandy Powell wore a signature suit Saoirse Ronan stood out in black, cream and lilac ruffles Mahershala Ali and Amatus Sami-Karim complemented each other on the red carpet And finally, Brie Larson stunned in a sparkling caped gown


skynewsus--2020-02-10--Joe Biden calls voter a 'lying dog-faced pony soldier' at rally

Democratic presidential hopeful Joe Biden has offered a bizarre response to a woman who asked about his poor Iowa caucus performance .
During an event in New Hampshire , where the first democratic primaries will take place on Tuesday , a woman voter in the audience asked the question : `` How do you explain the performance in Iowa , and why should voters believe that you can win the national election ? ''
Mr Biden , who served as US vice president during Barack Obama 's presidency , asked the woman if she had ever attended a caucus , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Democrat then hit back , saying : `` No , you have n't .
You 're a lying dog-faced pony soldier . ''
He later conceded that he had been asked an honest question .
Mr Biden came fourth in the Iowa caucus , way behind democratic rivals Pete Buttigieg , Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren , leading people to ask whether he could seriously beat his opponents in the race for the party 's nomination .
He had used the response before in 2018 , and adds that it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hondo .
A search of the script does show separate references to lying and pony soldiers - but none for `` dog-faced '' .
Madison Moore , the woman who asked the question , is a 21-year-old student at Mercer College in Georgia and said that she was surprised by the reaction .
Speaking to the Washington Post , she said : `` I 'm not one to just push on wounds .
I 'm not trying to humiliate anyone .
`` He was n't sitting in at the Senate trials for impeachment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
And then you 've been a politician for like decades - how are you not way above all the other candidates ? ''
Mr Biden 's exchange with the student drew criticism from President Donald Trump 's son , Donald Trump Jr , who said : `` If he ca n't handle a simple question from one of his own supporters , how can Joe Biden possibly take on Donald Trump one on one for six months ? ''
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in New Hampshire are the next in a long line of votes and meetings to determine who will be the Democratic candidate to take on Donald Trump in November 's election .
Joe Biden had been expected to perform well in the state , but recent surges of support for Bernie Sanders and centrist candidate Pete Buttigieg could put a stop to his progress .

Democratic presidential hopeful Joe Biden has offered a bizarre response to a woman who asked about his poor Iowa caucus performance.
During an event in New Hampshire, where the first democratic primaries will take place on Tuesday, a woman voter in the audience asked the question: "How do you explain the performance in Iowa, and why should voters believe that you can win the national election?"
Mr Biden, who served as US vice president during Barack Obama's presidency, asked the woman if she had ever attended a caucus, to which she signalled that she had.
Image: The former vice president has been criticised over his lack of progress in Iowa
The Democrat then hit back, saying: "No, you haven't. You're a lying dog-faced pony soldier."
He later conceded that he had been asked an honest question.
Mr Biden came fourth in the Iowa caucus, way behind democratic rivals Pete Buttigieg, Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren, leading people to ask whether he could seriously beat his opponents in the race for the party's nomination.
He had used the response before in 2018, and adds that it is a quote from the John Wayne film Hondo. A search of the script does show separate references to lying and pony soldiers - but none for "dog-faced".
Madison Moore, the woman who asked the question, is a 21-year-old student at Mercer College in Georgia and said that she was surprised by the reaction.
Speaking to the Washington Post, she said: "I'm not one to just push on wounds. I'm not trying to humiliate anyone.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:45 Iowa Caucus: Voting system 'falls apart'
"He wasn't sitting in at the Senate trials for impeachment, so he had Iowa to himself. And then you've been a politician for like decades - how are you not way above all the other candidates?"
Mr Biden's exchange with the student drew criticism from President Donald Trump's son, Donald Trump Jr, who said: "If he can't handle a simple question from one of his own supporters, how can Joe Biden possibly take on Donald Trump one on one for six months?"
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Tuesday's primaries in New Hampshire are the next in a long line of votes and meetings to determine who will be the Democratic candidate to take on Donald Trump in November's election.
Joe Biden had been expected to perform well in the state, but recent surges of support for Bernie Sanders and centrist candidate Pete Buttigieg could put a stop to his progress.


skynewsus--2020-02-10--Solar Orbiter blasts off to unlock mysteries of the Sun

The Solar Orbiter has blasted off from Florida on its way to unlock the mysteries of the Sun .
Nearly 1,000 scientists and engineers from Europe joined their US colleagues to watch the United Launch Alliance 's Atlas V rocket set off on its £1.3bn mission .
People also watched from nearby roads and beaches .
The spacecraft , designed and built in Stevenage , will help scientists learn more about the Sun and its influence on the solar system .
The Solar Orbiter will take two years to reach the Sun before circling it 22 times , sending back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scientists hope the mission will explain how the Sun 's magnetic field is generated and how flares and other eruptions make energetic particles that lead to extreme space storms .
These storms can disrupt electrical equipment on Earth , as well as putting satellites at risk , so learning how to predict them could help protect such important infrastructure .
Ian Walters , project manager for Airbus Defence and Space , which designed and built the spacecraft , said : `` We need to know how the sun affects the local environment here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the moon when we move there .
`` We 've been lucky so far the last 150 years '' since a colossal solar storm last hit .
`` We need to predict that .
We just ca n't wait for it to happen . ''
The Solar Orbiter will be 26 million miles away from the Sun at its closest approach every five months , closer than the planet Mercury .
Its heat shield has been tested to withstand 500C temperatures - hot enough to melt lead .
NASA 's Parker Solar Probe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been launched 1.5 years ago but , while Parker Solar Probe has come closer to the sun - 11.6 million miles - it is not flying near the poles , which is where the Solar Orbiter comes in .
Ahead of the launch , Dr Chris Lee , the UK Space Agency 's chief scientist , said : `` Understanding how our Sun works is a UK science strength , with teams investigating how solar storms build and grow .
`` The Solar Orbiter represents the most significant UK investment in a space @ @ @ @ @ @ @ At the end of the mission , which is expected to take 11 years , the Solar Orbiter will run out of fuel and power and communication with it will be lost .
After that , the spacecraft will become a piece of space junk and will continue to orbit the Sun somewhere between Mercury and Venus .

The Solar Orbiter has blasted off from Florida on its way to unlock the mysteries of the Sun.
Nearly 1,000 scientists and engineers from Europe joined their US colleagues to watch the United Launch Alliance's Atlas V rocket set off on its £1.3bn mission.
People also watched from nearby roads and beaches.
The spacecraft, designed and built in Stevenage, will help scientists learn more about the Sun and its influence on the solar system.
The Solar Orbiter will take two years to reach the Sun before circling it 22 times, sending back high-resolution photos and measuring solar wind.
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Scientists hope the mission will explain how the Sun's magnetic field is generated and how flares and other eruptions make energetic particles that lead to extreme space storms.
These storms can disrupt electrical equipment on Earth, as well as putting satellites at risk, so learning how to predict them could help protect such important infrastructure.
Ian Walters, project manager for Airbus Defence and Space, which designed and built the spacecraft, said: "We need to know how the sun affects the local environment here on Earth, and also Mars and the moon when we move there.
"We've been lucky so far the last 150 years" since a colossal solar storm last hit. "We need to predict that. We just can't wait for it to happen."
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The Solar Orbiter will be 26 million miles away from the Sun at its closest approach every five months, closer than the planet Mercury.
Its heat shield has been tested to withstand 500C temperatures - hot enough to melt lead.
NASA's Parker Solar Probe is already in the area, having been launched 1.5 years ago but, while Parker Solar Probe has come closer to the sun - 11.6 million miles - it is not flying near the poles, which is where the Solar Orbiter comes in.
Image: The Solar Orbiter begins its two-year journey to the Sun
Ahead of the launch, Dr Chris Lee, the UK Space Agency's chief scientist, said: "Understanding how our Sun works is a UK science strength, with teams investigating how solar storms build and grow.
"The Solar Orbiter represents the most significant UK investment in a space science mission for a generation."
At the end of the mission, which is expected to take 11 years, the Solar Orbiter will run out of fuel and power and communication with it will be lost.
After that, the spacecraft will become a piece of space junk and will continue to orbit the Sun somewhere between Mercury and Venus.


skynewsus--2020-02-10--Caribbean cruise ship turns back after 300 get vomiting bug

A Caribbean cruise has been cut short after more than 300 people on board the ship began vomiting and suffering from diarrhoea .
The Caribbean Princess was carrying more than 3,000 passengers and more than 1,100 crew members on a two-week trip that began on 2 February .
But it has had to turn back to its home port in Fort Lauderdale , Florida , after at least 299 passengers and 22 crew members became sick , according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .
The ship 's operator , California-based Princess Cruise Lines Ltd , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out of an abundance of caution due to guests reporting symptoms consistent with a mild case of gastrointestinal illness '' .
It said those affected were being treated by medics on the ship .
The company said : `` This is a highly unusual development and we share the disappointment of our guests .
`` However , the health and safety of our guests and crew is our top priority , and in working with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) , it was decided out of an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ instance , to discontinue the cruise . ''
Meanwhile , the Health Ministry of Trinidad & Tobago confirmed in a statement that it denied the ship entry as a precautionary measure .
The ship is expected to arrive in Florida on 13 February and will resume its schedule three days later .
Passengers will receive a 50 % refund on fares and a future cruise credit valued at 50 % of their cruise , the cruise company said .

A Caribbean cruise has been cut short after more than 300 people on board the ship began vomiting and suffering from diarrhoea.
The Caribbean Princess was carrying more than 3,000 passengers and more than 1,100 crew members on a two-week trip that began on 2 February.
But it has had to turn back to its home port in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, after at least 299 passengers and 22 crew members became sick, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The ship's operator, California-based Princess Cruise Lines Ltd, said the voyage had been cut short "out of an abundance of caution due to guests reporting symptoms consistent with a mild case of gastrointestinal illness".
It said those affected were being treated by medics on the ship.
The company said: "This is a highly unusual development and we share the disappointment of our guests.
"However, the health and safety of our guests and crew is our top priority, and in working with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it was decided out of an abundance of caution, in this specific instance, to discontinue the cruise."
Meanwhile, the Health Ministry of Trinidad & Tobago confirmed in a statement that it denied the ship entry as a precautionary measure.
The ship is expected to arrive in Florida on 13 February and will resume its schedule three days later.
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Passengers will receive a 50% refund on fares and a future cruise credit valued at 50% of their cruise, the cruise company said.


skynewsus--2020-02-10--US charges Chinese military hackers with Equifax breach

The US has charged four members of the Chinese military with hacking into the credit rating agency Equifax and stealing the personal data of Americans as well as the company 's trade secrets .
Equifax agreed to pay up to $ 700m ( £542m ) in a settlement with US regulators over the data breach , which occurred back in 2017 and affected more than 140 million consumers .
The attackers stole personal information including social security numbers , names , dates of birth , addresses , credit card numbers and driver 's licence numbers from Equifax customers and clients @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Monday , US prosecutors alleged that Wu Zhiyong , Wang Qian , Xu Ke and Liu Lei were members of the People 's Liberation Army 's ( PLA ) 54th Research Institute , a component of the Chinese military .
The four men are accused of conspiring with each other to hack into Equifax 's computer networks , maintain unauthorised access to those computers , and `` steal sensitive , personally identifiable information of approximately 145 million American victims '' .
US Attorney General William Barr said : `` This was a deliberate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the American people .
`` Today , we hold PLA hackers accountable for their criminal actions , and we remind the Chinese government that we have the capability to remove the internet 's cloak of anonymity and find the hackers that nation repeatedly deploys against us .
`` Unfortunately , the Equifax hack fits a disturbing and unacceptable pattern of state-sponsored computer intrusions and thefts by China and its citizens that have targeted personally identifiable information , trade secrets , and other confidential information . ''
The indictment revealed that the hackers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ routing traffic `` through approximately 34 servers located in nearly 20 countries to obfuscate their true location '' - and using encrypted channels within Equifax 's network to blend in with normal network activity .
Last year , the US charged two hackers allegedly affiliated with Beijing 's main intelligence service over a cyber espionage campaign targeting networks in the US and elsewhere .
Perhaps the most significant data breach in recent times suffered by the US has been blamed on the Chinese government .
The incident - a data breach at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) - has been cited as as one of the most notorious security breaches of recent years .
OPM held information on all federal workers in the US , including those working in intelligence .
Roughly 21.5 million public sector workers ' information was stolen in the breach .
Among the stolen documents held by OPM were copies of a document known as Standard Form 86 , a 127-page questionnaire filled out by staff seeking security clearance .
It listed all of the details which US officials would collect on intelligence personnel , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ material could plausibly be used to cross-reference - in order to see if they were at risk of being manipulated by hostile intelligence organisations .

The US has charged four members of the Chinese military with hacking into the credit rating agency Equifax and stealing the personal data of Americans as well as the company's trade secrets.
Equifax agreed to pay up to $700m (£542m) in a settlement with US regulators over the data breach, which occurred back in 2017 and affected more than 140 million consumers.
The attackers stole personal information including social security numbers, names, dates of birth, addresses, credit card numbers and driver's licence numbers from Equifax customers and clients.
In a nine-count indictment unsealed on Monday, US prosecutors alleged that Wu Zhiyong, Wang Qian, Xu Ke and Liu Lei were members of the People's Liberation Army's (PLA) 54th Research Institute, a component of the Chinese military.
The four men are accused of conspiring with each other to hack into Equifax's computer networks, maintain unauthorised access to those computers, and "steal sensitive, personally identifiable information of approximately 145 million American victims".
US Attorney General William Barr said: "This was a deliberate and sweeping intrusion into the private information of the American people.
"Today, we hold PLA hackers accountable for their criminal actions, and we remind the Chinese government that we have the capability to remove the internet's cloak of anonymity and find the hackers that nation repeatedly deploys against us.
"Unfortunately, the Equifax hack fits a disturbing and unacceptable pattern of state-sponsored computer intrusions and thefts by China and its citizens that have targeted personally identifiable information, trade secrets, and other confidential information."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:24 Charities hacked in campaign targeting China critics
The indictment revealed that the hackers attempted to conceal their cyber attack by routing traffic "through approximately 34 servers located in nearly 20 countries to obfuscate their true location" - and using encrypted channels within Equifax's network to blend in with normal network activity.
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Last year, the US charged two hackers allegedly affiliated with Beijing's main intelligence service over a cyber espionage campaign targeting networks in the US and elsewhere.
Perhaps the most significant data breach in recent times suffered by the US has been blamed on the Chinese government.
The incident - a data breach at the US Office of Personnel Management (OPM) - has been cited as as one of the most notorious security breaches of recent years.
OPM held information on all federal workers in the US, including those working in intelligence. Roughly 21.5 million public sector workers' information was stolen in the breach.
Among the stolen documents held by OPM were copies of a document known as Standard Form 86, a 127-page questionnaire filled out by staff seeking security clearance.
It listed all of the details which US officials would collect on intelligence personnel, such as debts - which the Equifax material could plausibly be used to cross-reference - in order to see if they were at risk of being manipulated by hostile intelligence organisations.


skynewsus--2020-02-11--Bus driver calmly helps students escape overturned bus

Video has been released showing the moment a school bus overturned in the US state of Ohio .
The school @ @ @ @ @ that had failed to stop at a red light at the intersection between State Route @ @ @ @ @ .
The footage , released by the Ohio State Highway Patrol , shows the 25 @ @ @ @ @ of the bus after the crash .
The bus driver 74-year-old Danny Hupp can be @ @ @ @ @ escape through windows and the emergency exit if they can .
One by one they @ @ @ @ @ the bus , before he follows them .
Eight students and Mr Hupp were taken @ @ @ @ @ crash .
But their injuries were not life-threatening .
The driver of the car , @ @ @ @ @ was taken to hospital with serious injuries and troopers said he had been driving on @ @ @ @ @ case has been referred to the Perry County Prosecutor for review .

Video has been released showing the moment a school bus overturned in the US state of Ohio.
The school bus collided with a car that had failed to stop at a red light at the intersection between State Route 13 and State Route 204.
The footage, released by the Ohio State Highway Patrol, shows the 25 students thrown onto the ceiling of the bus after the crash.
The bus driver 74-year-old Danny Hupp can be heard calmly telling them to escape through windows and the emergency exit if they can.
One by one they make their way out of the bus, before he follows them.
Eight students and Mr Hupp were taken to hospital after the December crash. But their injuries were not life-threatening.
The driver of the car, Joseph Thornton, 42, was taken to hospital with serious injuries and troopers said he had been driving on a suspended licence.
The case has been referred to the Perry County Prosecutor for review.


skynewsus--2020-02-11--'Risky' Biden says he's man to beat as Democrats head to New Hampshire

'Risky ' Biden says he 's still the man to beat as Democrats head to New Hampshire 'Risky ' Biden says he 's still the man to beat as Democrats head to New Hampshire Joe Biden says he 's 'just getting started ' but the polls do n't rate his chances in New Hampshire Iowa was a mess .
Now it 's up to voters in New Hampshire to give someone a clean win .
The polls suggest it will not be former presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden .
Once seen as the safe option for beating Trump - he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a church hall in Manchester , New Hampshire , the faithful , largely older Biden believers have come to pledge their support .
He 's also still relevant enough for some attention from a lone heckler - who in the absence of security was quickly dealt with by his wife , Jill .
Mr Biden is still smarting after a poor showing in Iowa .
You 'd think now is the time for some self reflection .
I ask him what he needs to do differently to stay in the race .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ anything differently , '' he barks .
`` It 's just getting started - you 'll notice I 'm still leading in all the national polls - get real ! ''
That new found aggression is being targeted specifically towards former South Bend , Indiana mayor , Pete Buttigieg .
The fresh , young , breakout star is leading the pack out of Iowa .
Voters - including Hollywood legend Kevin Costner who flew in to introduce the former mayor - like what they 're seeing .
But to stay in the race @ @ @ @ @ @ @ voters .
How is he going to keep his momentum going in more diverse states ?
`` We think we 'll have a lot of propulsion coming out of a good result here in New Hampshire - demonstrating that we have the kind of organisation that can challenge and defeat Donald Trump , '' he says .
Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker '' Then we 've got to take that message out to places like South Carolina and Nevada where voters of colour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we defeat this president because they more than anyone have been feeling the pain of living under the Trump presidency . ''
Overall , Democrats are still very anxious about who they are going to pick .
Their hearts might be drawn to a particular candidate 's style and policies but at the end of the day there 's really only one thing they want - and that 's to beat Donald Trump .
But they know that his support is a powerhouse .
His base 's unwavering loyalty is probably most closely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The polls have the Democratic socialist winning New Hampshire - but even then it wo n't be game over in what is so far a perplexing race .

The former deputy to Barack Obama is still confident of being chosen to take on Donald Trump in this year's election.
'Risky' Biden says he's still the man to beat as Democrats head to New Hampshire
New Hampshire primary: Who will come out on top?
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Iowa was a mess. Now it's up to voters in New Hampshire to give someone a clean win.
The polls suggest it will not be former presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden.
Once seen as the safe option for beating Trump - he's now viewed as risky.
But in a church hall in Manchester, New Hampshire, the faithful, largely older Biden believers have come to pledge their support.
He's also still relevant enough for some attention from a lone heckler - who in the absence of security was quickly dealt with by his wife, Jill.
Mr Biden is still smarting after a poor showing in Iowa. You'd think now is the time for some self reflection.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:18 Iowa caucus delegates decided by coin toss
I ask him what he needs to do differently to stay in the race.
"I don't have to do anything differently," he barks. "It's just getting started - you'll notice I'm still leading in all the national polls - get real!"
That new found aggression is being targeted specifically towards former South Bend, Indiana mayor, Pete Buttigieg.
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Image: Actor Kevin Costner introduced Pete Buttigieg
The fresh, young, breakout star is leading the pack out of Iowa. Voters - including Hollywood legend Kevin Costner who flew in to introduce the former mayor - like what they're seeing.
But to stay in the race Mr Buttigieg needs more support from black voters. How is he going to keep his momentum going in more diverse states?
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:50 December: Biden in tense exchange with voter
"We think we'll have a lot of propulsion coming out of a good result here in New Hampshire - demonstrating that we have the kind of organisation that can challenge and defeat Donald Trump," he says.
Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
"Then we've got to take that message out to places like South Carolina and Nevada where voters of colour are often laser focused on making sure we defeat this president because they more than anyone have been feeling the pain of living under the Trump presidency."
Overall, Democrats are still very anxious about who they are going to pick.
Their hearts might be drawn to a particular candidate's style and policies but at the end of the day there's really only one thing they want - and that's to beat Donald Trump.
Image: Bernie Sanders appeared alongside US Representative Alexandria Ocasio Cortez
But they know that his support is a powerhouse. His base's unwavering loyalty is probably most closely rivalled by the Bernie Sanders brigade.
The polls have the Democratic socialist winning New Hampshire - but even then it won't be game over in what is so far a perplexing race.


skynewsus--2020-02-11--Trump calls Bloomberg 'racist' over policy the president has supported

Democratic presidential hopeful Michael Bloomberg is under fire over comments he made in 2015 when he said 95 % of murderers and victims were minorities .
The US billionaire also said that in order to combat crime , authorities should `` put a lot of cops where the crime is , which means in minority neighbourhoods '' .
He made his unearthed comments at the Aspen Institute think-tank as he defended New York City police 's `` stop-and-frisk '' policy , which he employed when he was mayor .
The tactic which encouraged officers to stop and search people has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Latino communities .
But it is also a policy which Donald Trump has backed as president .
Mr Trump on Tuesday attacked his potential White House rival , calling him a `` total racist '' on Twitter and posting an audio clip of Mr Bloomberg 's remarks - a tweet which the president later deleted .
But the media mogul hit back , saying Mr Trump was the one who has divided the country `` with racist appeals and hateful rhetoric '' .
And the Democratic hopeful vowed : `` I will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between now and November . ''
For years after his 2002-2013 mayorship , Mr Bloomberg defended the `` stop-and-frisk '' tactic as an effective way to save lives .
However he then apologised for it a few days before announcing his presidential candidacy in November .
On Tuesday , he restated his apology , saying he had reduced the tactic 's use by 95 % by the time he left office .
He said : `` I should have done it faster and sooner .
I regret that and I have apologised .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ too long to understand the impact it had on black and Latino communities . ''
Tom Steyer , another Democratic presidential hopeful , said Mr Bloomberg 's 2015 comments were `` deeply disturbing '' and Symone Sanders , an adviser to Joe Biden 's campaign , claimed the remarks were `` sad and despicable '' .
In the five-year-old audio clip unearthed by Bernie Sanders supporter Benjamin Dixon , Mr Bloomberg was heard saying police need to be where the crime is , `` which means in minority neighbourhoods '' .
He said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ murders - murderers and murder victims - fit one MO [ modus operandi ] .
You can just take the description , Xerox it and pass it out to all the cops .
They are male ; minorities 16 to 25 .
`` The way you get the guns out of the kids ' hands is to throw them up against the walls and frisk them . ''
New York police data shows close to 95 % of victims and suspects in murder cases were minorities in 2015 .
In his presidential campaign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ votes in the African-American community , including a proposal to narrow the wealth gap between black and white Americans .

Democratic presidential hopeful Michael Bloomberg is under fire over comments he made in 2015 when he said 95% of murderers and victims were minorities.
The US billionaire also said that in order to combat crime, authorities should "put a lot of cops where the crime is, which means in minority neighbourhoods".
He made his unearthed comments at the Aspen Institute think-tank as he defended New York City police's "stop-and-frisk" policy, which he employed when he was mayor.
The tactic which encouraged officers to stop and search people has been found to disproportionately affect minority black and Latino communities.
But it is also a policy which Donald Trump has backed as president.
Mr Trump on Tuesday attacked his potential White House rival, calling him a "total racist" on Twitter and posting an audio clip of Mr Bloomberg's remarks - a tweet which the president later deleted.
But the media mogul hit back, saying Mr Trump was the one who has divided the country "with racist appeals and hateful rhetoric".
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
And the Democratic hopeful vowed: "I will do everything I can to defeat you between now and November."
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For years after his 2002-2013 mayorship, Mr Bloomberg defended the "stop-and-frisk" tactic as an effective way to save lives.
Image: Mr Bloomberg on the campaign trail in California
However he then apologised for it a few days before announcing his presidential candidacy in November.
On Tuesday, he restated his apology, saying he had reduced the tactic's use by 95% by the time he left office.
He said: "I should have done it faster and sooner. I regret that and I have apologised.
"I have taken responsibility for taking too long to understand the impact it had on black and Latino communities."
Tom Steyer, another Democratic presidential hopeful, said Mr Bloomberg's 2015 comments were "deeply disturbing" and Symone Sanders, an adviser to Joe Biden's campaign, claimed the remarks were "sad and despicable".
In the five-year-old audio clip unearthed by Bernie Sanders supporter Benjamin Dixon, Mr Bloomberg was heard saying police need to be where the crime is, "which means in minority neighbourhoods".
He said: "Ninety five percent of your murders - murderers and murder victims - fit one MO [modus operandi]. You can just take the description, Xerox it and pass it out to all the cops. They are male; minorities 16 to 25.
"The way you get the guns out of the kids' hands is to throw them up against the walls and frisk them."
New York police data shows close to 95% of victims and suspects in murder cases were minorities in 2015.
In his presidential campaign, Mr Bloomberg has tried to attract votes in the African-American community, including a proposal to narrow the wealth gap between black and white Americans.


skynewsus--2020-02-11--Weinstein does not enter witness box as defence case closes

Harvey Weinstein 's defence has concluded its case without the disgraced film producer giving evidence at his rape trial in New York .
The 67-year-old 's lawyers called only a few witnesses as they tried to undercut his accusers ' case .
One of those witnesses was a former agent of Jessica Mann , who has accused Weinstein of raping her in a Manhattan Hotel one morning in March 2013 .
Thomas Richards , who was subpoenaed by the defence , said he had breakfast with Mann and Weinstein the same day , and the dynamic between them appeared to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Weinstein 's lawyer Damon Cheronis whether he was testifying to help Weinstein , Richards said : `` Not at all . ''
But under cross examination by Assistant District Attorney Joan Illuzzi , Richards said he had been drinking the night before the breakfast and his memory of the following day was not clear .
A former friend of Mann 's , Talita Maia , said Mann did not show any distress after the alleged attack .
Mann , who was an aspiring actress , has said that Richards was with her in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ judge is expected to instruct jurors not to view Weinstein 's decision not to testify as a sign of guilt .
Prosecutors rested their case last Thursday after jurors heard testimony from six women accusing Weinstein of sexual assault .
Closing arguments are expected to begin later this week .
The former producer , who has denied any non-consensual sex , has pleaded not guilty to raping Mann , and to sexually assaulting former production assistant Mimi Haleyi in 2006 .
He faces life in prison if convicted of predatory sexual assault - @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Harvey Weinstein's defence has concluded its case without the disgraced film producer giving evidence at his rape trial in New York.
The 67-year-old's lawyers called only a few witnesses as they tried to undercut his accusers' case.
One of those witnesses was a former agent of Jessica Mann, who has accused Weinstein of raping her in a Manhattan Hotel one morning in March 2013.
Thomas Richards, who was subpoenaed by the defence, said he had breakfast with Mann and Weinstein the same day, and the dynamic between them appeared to be "friendly".
Asked by Weinstein's lawyer Damon Cheronis whether he was testifying to help Weinstein, Richards said: "Not at all."
But under cross examination by Assistant District Attorney Joan Illuzzi, Richards said he had been drinking the night before the breakfast and his memory of the following day was not clear.
A former friend of Mann's, Talita Maia, said Mann did not show any distress after the alleged attack.
Mann, who was an aspiring actress, has said that Richards was with her in New York at the time.
The judge is expected to instruct jurors not to view Weinstein's decision not to testify as a sign of guilt.
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Image: Jessica Mann has accused Harvey Weinstein of rape
Prosecutors rested their case last Thursday after jurors heard testimony from six women accusing Weinstein of sexual assault.
Closing arguments are expected to begin later this week.
The former producer, who has denied any non-consensual sex, has pleaded not guilty to raping Mann, and to sexually assaulting former production assistant Mimi Haleyi in 2006.
He faces life in prison if convicted of predatory sexual assault - the most serious charge against him.


skynewsus--2020-02-11--'My brain refuses to accept it': Kobe's wife on losing husband and daughter

Vanessa Bryant has posted a heartbreaking message about losing husband Kobe Bryant and their daughter Gigi , saying : `` God I wish they were here . ''
The basketball legend was killed along with eight other people , including 13-year-old Gianna ( Gigi ) , when the helicopter he was travelling in crashed in Calabasas , California , north of Los Angeles , last month .
Mrs Bryant , 37 , has posted pictures of her family but made few public appearances since the tragedy and explained her reticence in an Instagram post on Monday night , saying she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feelings into words '' .
She wrote : `` My brain refuses to accept that both Kobe and Gigi are gone .
I ca n't process both at the same time .
`` It 's like I 'm trying to process Kobe being gone but my body refuses to accept my Gigi will never come back to me . ''
Like many parents dealing with the loss of a child , she feels a sense of injustice .
She wrote : `` It feels wrong .
Why should I be able to wake @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is n't being able to have that opportunity ?
! ''
Vanessa , who married Kobe , one of basketball 's greatest-ever players , in 2001 , has three other daughters and said she understood the need to be strong to help them cope with grief .
`` I 'm so mad .
She had so much life to live .
Then I realise I need to be strong and be here for my three daughters , '' she said .
`` Mad I 'm not with Kobe and Gigi but thankful I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Capri .
I know what I 'm feeling is normal .
It 's part of the grieving process . ''
Acknowledging grief is apart of everyday life , she added : `` I just wanted to share in case there 's anyone out there that 's experienced a loss like this . ''
Her message finished with an emotional tribute : `` God I wish they were here and this nightmare would be over .
Praying for all of the victims of this horrible tragedy .
Please continue to pray for all .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` celebration of life '' will be held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles later this month to honour her late husband and Gianna .
Kobe Bryant , a five-time NBA title winner and 18-time All-Star , is also set to be honoured at the upcoming NBA All-Star Game this weekend in Chicago , with a number of initiatives planned .

Vanessa Bryant has posted a heartbreaking message about losing husband Kobe Bryant and their daughter Gigi, saying: "God I wish they were here."
The basketball legend was killed along with eight other people, including 13-year-old Gianna (Gigi), when the helicopter he was travelling in crashed in Calabasas, California, north of Los Angeles, last month.
Mrs Bryant, 37, has posted pictures of her family but made few public appearances since the tragedy and explained her reticence in an Instagram post on Monday night, saying she had been "reluctant to put my feelings into words".
Image: Kobe Bryant with his daughter Gianna Bryant at a Lakers game
She wrote: "My brain refuses to accept that both Kobe and Gigi are gone. I can't process both at the same time.
"It's like I'm trying to process Kobe being gone but my body refuses to accept my Gigi will never come back to me."
Like many parents dealing with the loss of a child, she feels a sense of injustice.
She wrote: "It feels wrong. Why should I be able to wake up another day when my baby girl isn't being able to have that opportunity?!"
Vanessa, who married Kobe, one of basketball's greatest-ever players, in 2001, has three other daughters and said she understood the need to be strong to help them cope with grief.
"I'm so mad. She had so much life to live. Then I realise I need to be strong and be here for my three daughters," she said.
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Image: The helicopter went down in cloud in Calabasas, California
"Mad I'm not with Kobe and Gigi but thankful I'm here with Natalia, Bianka and Capri. I know what I'm feeling is normal. It's part of the grieving process."
Acknowledging grief is apart of everyday life, she added: "I just wanted to share in case there's anyone out there that's experienced a loss like this."
Image: Kobe Brant was honoured by his former team, the Los Angeles Lakers
Her message finished with an emotional tribute: "God I wish they were here and this nightmare would be over. Praying for all of the victims of this horrible tragedy. Please continue to pray for all."
Last week, she announced a "celebration of life" will be held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles later this month to honour her late husband and Gianna.
Kobe Bryant, a five-time NBA title winner and 18-time All-Star, is also set to be honoured at the upcoming NBA All-Star Game this weekend in Chicago, with a number of initiatives planned.


skynewsus--2020-02-11--Number of US brain injuries from Iran missile attack rises again

More than 100 members of the US military are now known to have suffered traumatic brain injuries following an Iranian missile attack last month .
The latest figure released by the Pentagon represents a jump of over 50 % on the 64 who were reported as having TBI about a week ago .
Since it began releasing data on the injuries a few days after the 8 January attack on the Ain al-Asad air base in Iraq , the number has been rising steadily .
And Pentagon officials have warned the number would continue to change .
Of the 109 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to duty .
Some 26 others are in Germany or the US for treatment , and another seven are on their way from Iraq to Germany for evaluation and treatment .
Iran launched more than a dozen ballistic missiles targeting the al-Asad installation and another air base near Irbil in northern Iraq .
Both bases were `` hosting US military and coalition personnel '' , according to the Pentagon .
The attack was in retaliation for America 's killing of Iran 's top general Qassem Soleimani in a drone strike at Baghdad airport @ @ @ @ @ @ @ air base assault by Tehran , President Trump tweeted no US troops had been hurt .
Later in January he appeared to play down the brain injuries , saying he `` heard that they had headaches and a couple of other things '' , sparking criticism from politicians and a US veterans group .
Pentagon officials have repeatedly said there has been no attempt to minimise or delay information on concussive injuries .
But the disclosures following Tehran 's attack have led to renewed questions over the US military 's policy about how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And whether they are treated publicly with the same urgency as loss of limb or life .
US Republican Senator Joni Ernst has demanded more answers .
She tweeted : `` I 've called on the Pentagon to ensure the safety and care of our deployed forces who may be exposed to blast injuries in Iraq . ''
Defence Secretary Mark Esper has said the Pentagon was studying ways to prevent brain injuries on the battlefield and to improve diagnosis and treatment .
Army general Mark Milley , chairman of the Joint Chiefs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , in some cases , that symptoms of TBI from the Iranian missile attack will not become apparent for a year or two .
He said the army was in the early stages of diagnosis and therapy for the troops .

More than 100 members of the US military are now known to have suffered traumatic brain injuries following an Iranian missile attack last month.
The latest figure released by the Pentagon represents a jump of over 50% on the 64 who were reported as having TBI about a week ago.
Since it began releasing data on the injuries a few days after the 8 January attack on the Ain al-Asad air base in Iraq, the number has been rising steadily.
And Pentagon officials have warned the number would continue to change.
Of the 109 confirmed cases, 76 have now returned to duty.
Some 26 others are in Germany or the US for treatment, and another seven are on their way from Iraq to Germany for evaluation and treatment.
Iran launched more than a dozen ballistic missiles targeting the al-Asad installation and another air base near Irbil in northern Iraq.
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Both bases were "hosting US military and coalition personnel", according to the Pentagon.
The attack was in retaliation for America's killing of Iran's top general Qassem Soleimani in a drone strike at Baghdad airport on 3 January.
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Immediately after the air base assault by Tehran, President Trump tweeted no US troops had been hurt.
Later in January he appeared to play down the brain injuries, saying he "heard that they had headaches and a couple of other things", sparking criticism from politicians and a US veterans group.
Pentagon officials have repeatedly said there has been no attempt to minimise or delay information on concussive injuries.
But the disclosures following Tehran's attack have led to renewed questions over the US military's policy about how it internally reports suspected brain injuries.
And whether they are treated publicly with the same urgency as loss of limb or life.
Image: General Qassem Soleimani was killed in a drone strike at Baghdad airport
US Republican Senator Joni Ernst has demanded more answers.
She tweeted: "I've called on the Pentagon to ensure the safety and care of our deployed forces who may be exposed to blast injuries in Iraq."
Defence Secretary Mark Esper has said the Pentagon was studying ways to prevent brain injuries on the battlefield and to improve diagnosis and treatment.
Army general Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said it is possible, in some cases, that symptoms of TBI from the Iranian missile attack will not become apparent for a year or two.
He said the army was in the early stages of diagnosis and therapy for the troops.


skynewsus--2020-02-12--Sanders warns 'it is the beginning of the end for Trump' after primary win

Bernie Sanders has declared `` a great victory '' in the New Hampshire primary after edging out Democratic rival Pete Buttigieg .
Addressing his supporters , the 78-year-old vowed that the result means it is `` the beginning of the end for Donald Trump '' .
The Vermont senator said : `` With victories behind us , the popular vote in Iowa and victory here tonight , we 're going to Nevada , we 're going to South Carolina , we 're going to win those states as well . ''
He acknowledged his Democratic Party rivals , saying : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're going to unite together and defeat the most dangerous president in the modern history of our country . ''
: : Analysis - Democrats 'feel the Bern ' as Biden sinks into deep danger Pete Buttigieg , the former mayor of South Bend , Indiana , was in second place - while Senator Amy Klobuchar came from a strong showing in Friday 's debate to take third place .
Mr Buttigieg , 38 , told his supporters : `` Now our campaign moves on to Nevada and South Carolina and across the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allies to our movement at every step . ''
Two prominent White House hopefuls - Joe Biden and Elizabeth Warren - were fighting for fourth place and were not on track to receive any delegates .
Earlier , Andrew Yang - who had vowed to give every American adult a basic income of $ 1,000 ( £773 ) - suspended his presidential bid .
Mr Yang , a 45-year-old businessman who had no prior political experience , managed to remain in the race for longer than some party veterans .
Mr Yang 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as he warned of the impact that automation would have on US jobs .
The candidate had often noted he was the `` opposite '' of US President Donald Trump - describing himself as an `` Asian guy who likes math '' .
He often wore a MATH hat ( Make America Think Harder ) - a nod to the Make America Great Again hats that helped propel Mr Trump to power four years ago .
Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Conceding defeat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Mr Yang said : `` I am the math guy , and it is clear to me from the numbers that we are not going to win this race .
`` This is not an easy decision , or something I made lightly with the team .
Endings are hard .
`` I have been persuaded that the message of this campaign will not be strengthened by staying in the race any longer . ''
Senator Michael Bennet of Colorado also abandoned his campaign on Tuesday night - telling supporters that it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ presidential effort in the state where he had actively campaigned .

Bernie Sanders has declared "a great victory" in the New Hampshire primary after edging out Democratic rival Pete Buttigieg.
Addressing his supporters, the 78-year-old vowed that the result means it is "the beginning of the end for Donald Trump".
The Vermont senator said: "With victories behind us, the popular vote in Iowa and victory here tonight, we're going to Nevada, we're going to South Carolina, we're going to win those states as well."
He acknowledged his Democratic Party rivals, saying: "No matter who wins, we're going to unite together and defeat the most dangerous president in the modern history of our country."
:: Analysis - Democrats 'feel the Bern' as Biden sinks into deep danger
Image: Mr Sanders told his supporters they could defeat Donald Trump
Pete Buttigieg, the former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, was in second place - while Senator Amy Klobuchar came from a strong showing in Friday's debate to take third place.
Mr Buttigieg, 38, told his supporters: "Now our campaign moves on to Nevada and South Carolina and across the country, and we will welcome new allies to our movement at every step."
Two prominent White House hopefuls - Joe Biden and Elizabeth Warren - were fighting for fourth place and were not on track to receive any delegates.
Image: Andrew Yang described himself as the opposite of Donald Trump
Earlier, Andrew Yang - who had vowed to give every American adult a basic income of $1,000 (£773) - suspended his presidential bid.
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Mr Yang, a 45-year-old businessman who had no prior political experience, managed to remain in the race for longer than some party veterans.
Mr Yang's push for a universal basic income came as he warned of the impact that automation would have on US jobs.
The candidate had often noted he was the "opposite" of US President Donald Trump - describing himself as an "Asian guy who likes math".
He often wore a MATH hat (Make America Think Harder) - a nod to the Make America Great Again hats that helped propel Mr Trump to power four years ago.
Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Conceding defeat as votes were counted in New Hampshire, Mr Yang said: "I am the math guy, and it is clear to me from the numbers that we are not going to win this race.
"This is not an easy decision, or something I made lightly with the team. Endings are hard.
"I have been persuaded that the message of this campaign will not be strengthened by staying in the race any longer."
Senator Michael Bennet of Colorado also abandoned his campaign on Tuesday night - telling supporters that it was "fitting" to end his presidential effort in the state where he had actively campaigned.
Earlier, Mr Trump easily won the state's Republican primary with minimal opposition.


skynewsus--2020-02-12--Democrats 'feel the Bern' as Sanders and Buttigieg pull ahead

The crowded field of Democrats who want to beat Donald Trump is narrowing .
Iowa and New Hampshire 's contests may have played out very differently - one a chaotic mess - the other swift and decisive .
But they both produced the same two frontrunners - Bernie Sanders and Pete Buttigieg .
One old , one young .
One progressive , one moderate .
The early states are about momentum and right now - they have it .
New Hampshire felt the Bern - and ran with it .
Senator Bernie Sanders gave this Democratic primary contest its first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ self-proclaimed democratic socialist commands a dedicated , passionate following .
His fans were never in any doubt that he could win this first crucial primary .
Everyone I spoke to at his victory party used the words `` honest '' and `` consistent '' to describe him .
Their passion most closely rivals that of Donald Trump 's loyal fanbase .
But outside their diehard support , there 's a dawning sense that Sanders has a very credible chance of becoming the Democratic nominee .
His progressive message is unwavering and resonates with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concern that not everyone wants a revolution - especially in those crucial rust belt states .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker That 's something that moderate Pete Buttigieg is banking on .
He finished a strong second , a healthy follow-up to his surprise Iowa win .
But he could have some unexpected competition in the moderate field .
Senator Amy Klobuchar finished just a couple of points behind Mr Buttigieg , exceeding all expectations .
It also means Elizabeth Warren @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A disappointing night leaves her campaign with some urgent questions .
But Joe Biden 's campaign is surely in the deepest danger .
The former presumptive nominee came fifth , skipping his New Hampshire party in a desperate bid to start winning upcoming , more diverse states .
All of these early contests are largely about faith .
After months of uncertainty , nervous Democrats may be starting to feel more confident about who they can trust to bring down Donald Trump .

The crowded field of Democrats who want to beat Donald Trump is narrowing. Iowa and New Hampshire's contests may have played out very differently - one a chaotic mess - the other swift and decisive.
But they both produced the same two frontrunners - Bernie Sanders and Pete Buttigieg. One old, one young. One progressive, one moderate. The early states are about momentum and right now - they have it.
New Hampshire felt the Bern - and ran with it. Senator Bernie Sanders gave this Democratic primary contest its first and much needed clear winner.
Image: Bernie Sanders has declared victory following the New Hampshire primary
The self-proclaimed democratic socialist commands a dedicated, passionate following. His fans were never in any doubt that he could win this first crucial primary. Everyone I spoke to at his victory party used the words "honest" and "consistent" to describe him.
Their passion most closely rivals that of Donald Trump's loyal fanbase. But outside their diehard support, there's a dawning sense that Sanders has a very credible chance of becoming the Democratic nominee.
His progressive message is unwavering and resonates with millions of Americans but there's a concern that not everyone wants a revolution - especially in those crucial rust belt states.
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
That's something that moderate Pete Buttigieg is banking on. He finished a strong second, a healthy follow-up to his surprise Iowa win.
But he could have some unexpected competition in the moderate field. Senator Amy Klobuchar finished just a couple of points behind Mr Buttigieg, exceeding all expectations.
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It also means Elizabeth Warren is no longer the leading female candidate. A disappointing night leaves her campaign with some urgent questions.
Image: A Bernie Sanders supporter cheers and waves a poster in New Hampshire
But Joe Biden's campaign is surely in the deepest danger. The former presumptive nominee came fifth, skipping his New Hampshire party in a desperate bid to start winning upcoming, more diverse states.
All of these early contests are largely about faith. After months of uncertainty, nervous Democrats may be starting to feel more confident about who they can trust to bring down Donald Trump.


skynewsus--2020-02-12--Prosecutors quit case of convicted Trump ally in sentencing row

Four US prosecutors who secured the conviction of Donald Trump 's former adviser Roger Stone have quit .
Their resignations come after the justice department said it planned to overrule their sentencing recommendation of seven to nine years and reduce the amount of prison time it would seek for Mr Trump 's ally .
The president had made clear his disapproval in a tweet , saying the recommended jail term being proposed was `` horrible and very unfair '' .
Hours later in a new court filing on Tuesday afternoon , the justice department called the recommendation `` excessive and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the amount of prison time it would seek for Stone .
A long-time Republican operative and friend of Mr Trump 's , Stone was an adviser to the then-candidate during his 2016 presidential election campaign .
The self-proclaimed `` dirty trickster '' was found guilty of all seven counts of obstruction , witness tampering and lying to Congress by a jury in Washington in November last year .
He became the sixth Trump aide or adviser to be convicted of charges brought as part of special counsel Robert Mueller 's investigation into Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lawyers who successfully prosecuted Stone - Aaron Zelinsky , Adam Jed , Michael Marando and Jonathan Kravis - withdrew from the case .
Mr Kravis said in a court filing that he was also quitting his job as a federal prosecutor .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Legal experts described the department 's move as highly unusual , while Democrats accused Attorney General William Barr , who heads the DoJ , of working to protect Mr Trump 's political interests .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ entire justice department is just his personal lawsuit to prosecute his enemies and help his friends , '' said Chuck Schumer , the top Senate Democrat .
Another Democrat , Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen , said : `` AG Barr must stop being the president 's lapdog .
They are turning us into a banana republic . ''
The justice department claimed the decision to reduce Stone 's sentence was made before Mr Trump 's tweet .
A senior official at the department , speaking to reporters on condition of anonymity , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tweet an `` inconvenient coincidence '' .
They said it appeared the four lawyers had quit in protest , adding it was `` surprising that that would be the line in the sand '' .
Mr Trump told reporters he thought the initial recommendation was `` ridiculous '' but said he did not speak to the department about it .
`` I 'd be able to do it if I wanted .
I have the absolute right to do it .
I stay out of things , '' he said .
US District @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sentence Stone on 20 February .
In a tweet on Tuesday night , Mr Trump criticised the judge 's handling of another criminal case involving his former campaign chairman Paul Manafort , who was convicted in 2018 on tax fraud , bank fraud and other charges .
The president wrote : `` Is this the Judge that put Paul Manafort in SOLITARY CONFINEMENT , something that not even mobster Al Capone had to endure ? ''

Four US prosecutors who secured the conviction of Donald Trump's former adviser Roger Stone have quit.
Their resignations come after the justice department said it planned to overrule their sentencing recommendation of seven to nine years and reduce the amount of prison time it would seek for Mr Trump's ally.
The president had made clear his disapproval in a tweet, saying the recommended jail term being proposed was "horrible and very unfair".
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Hours later in a new court filing on Tuesday afternoon, the justice department called the recommendation "excessive and unwarranted" and said it would cut the amount of prison time it would seek for Stone.
A long-time Republican operative and friend of Mr Trump's, Stone was an adviser to the then-candidate during his 2016 presidential election campaign.
The self-proclaimed "dirty trickster" was found guilty of all seven counts of obstruction, witness tampering and lying to Congress by a jury in Washington in November last year.
He became the sixth Trump aide or adviser to be convicted of charges brought as part of special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian interference of the election.
The four lawyers who successfully prosecuted Stone - Aaron Zelinsky, Adam Jed, Michael Marando and Jonathan Kravis - withdrew from the case.
Mr Kravis said in a court filing that he was also quitting his job as a federal prosecutor.
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:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Legal experts described the department's move as highly unusual, while Democrats accused Attorney General William Barr, who heads the DoJ, of working to protect Mr Trump's political interests.
"The president seems to think the entire justice department is just his personal lawsuit to prosecute his enemies and help his friends," said Chuck Schumer, the top Senate Democrat.
Another Democrat, Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen, said: "AG Barr must stop being the president's lapdog. They are turning us into a banana republic."
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The justice department claimed the decision to reduce Stone's sentence was made before Mr Trump's tweet.
A senior official at the department, speaking to reporters on condition of anonymity, described the timing of Mr Trump's tweet an "inconvenient coincidence".
They said it appeared the four lawyers had quit in protest, adding it was "surprising that that would be the line in the sand".
Mr Trump told reporters he thought the initial recommendation was "ridiculous" but said he did not speak to the department about it.
"I'd be able to do it if I wanted. I have the absolute right to do it. I stay out of things," he said.
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US District Judge Amy Berman Jackson is due to sentence Stone on 20 February.
In a tweet on Tuesday night, Mr Trump criticised the judge's handling of another criminal case involving his former campaign chairman Paul Manafort, who was convicted in 2018 on tax fraud, bank fraud and other charges.
The president wrote: "Is this the Judge that put Paul Manafort in SOLITARY CONFINEMENT, something that not even mobster Al Capone had to endure?"


skynewsus--2020-02-11--Jussie Smollett facing new charges for 'staging racist attack on himself'

Jussie Smollett is facing new charges of lying to police about a racist , anti-gay attack he allegedly staged on himself in Chicago .
The actor had claimed he was walking home in January 2019 when masked men approached him , made racist and homophobic remarks , beat him and looped a noose around his neck before fleeing .
He had also claimed one of the assailants told him he was in `` MAGA country '' - a reference to Donald Trump 's campaign slogan `` Make America Great Again '' .
Smollett was initially charged with disorderly conduct in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and lying about it to investigators - but the charges were dropped the following month with little explanation .
Police claimed he had paid two black friends to help him stage the assault because he was unhappy with his pay for his role as gay character Jamal Lyon in Fox show Empire , and he wanted to promote his career .
Dan Webb , special prosecutor , was appointed to look into why the charges were dropped a few months later .
He said prosecuting Smollett was `` in the interest of justice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including the extensive details of Smollett 's false account as well as the police resources that the investigation required .
The new charges could reignite many of the tensions that surrounded the Smollett case a year ago .
While Democrats had initially described the alleged attack as a shocking incident of Trump-era racism and hate , Republicans depicted it as another example of liberals rushing to judgement .
Smollett 's attorney , Tina Glandian , has questioned the decision to file new charges - and challenged the integrity of the latest investigation .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ any notable roles in films or TV shows since he left Empire , is set to appear in court on 24 February .
It is n't clear what type of sentence he could face if convicted .
Police have sued Smollett to seek compensation for $ 130,000 ( £100,000 ) of overtime paid to officers who were involved in investigating his allegations .

Jussie Smollett is facing new charges of lying to police about a racist, anti-gay attack he allegedly staged on himself in Chicago.
The actor had claimed he was walking home in January 2019 when masked men approached him, made racist and homophobic remarks, beat him and looped a noose around his neck before fleeing.
He had also claimed one of the assailants told him he was in "MAGA country" - a reference to Donald Trump's campaign slogan "Make America Great Again".
Image: Last year, police staged protests when charges against Smollett were first dropped
Smollett was initially charged with disorderly conduct in February 2019 for allegedly staging the attack and lying about it to investigators - but the charges were dropped the following month with little explanation.
Police claimed he had paid two black friends to help him stage the assault because he was unhappy with his pay for his role as gay character Jamal Lyon in Fox show Empire, and he wanted to promote his career.
Dan Webb, special prosecutor, was appointed to look into why the charges were dropped a few months later.
He said prosecuting Smollett was "in the interest of justice" for a number of reasons - including the extensive details of Smollett's false account as well as the police resources that the investigation required.
The new charges could reignite many of the tensions that surrounded the Smollett case a year ago.
While Democrats had initially described the alleged attack as a shocking incident of Trump-era racism and hate, Republicans depicted it as another example of liberals rushing to judgement.
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Smollett's attorney, Tina Glandian, has questioned the decision to file new charges - and challenged the integrity of the latest investigation.
The actor, who has not had any notable roles in films or TV shows since he left Empire, is set to appear in court on 24 February.
It isn't clear what type of sentence he could face if convicted.
Police have sued Smollett to seek compensation for $130,000 (£100,000) of overtime paid to officers who were involved in investigating his allegations.