politicalwire--2020-01-14--Trump Looks to Reward Catholics

Trump Looks to Reward Catholics

Politico : “ Until Trump carried 52 percent of their votes in 2016 , American Catholics supported the Democratic nominee @ @ @ @ @ cycles since 1952 .
But after betting it all on the thrice-married Manhattan businessman — @ @ @ @ @ a 23-point margin , compared to Mitt Romney ’ s 19-point victory in 2012 — @ @ @ @ @ as a ‘ thank you ’ from the 45th president.
” “ If the 2020 @ @ @ @ @ lost in the Rust Belt… the president can ’ t afford to have Catholics feeling @ @ @ @ @ campaign , preparations are underway for a “ Catholics for Trump ” coalition and a @ @ @ @ @ get the president and his surrogates in front of friendly Catholic audiences .
”

Politico: “Until Trump carried 52 percent of their votes in 2016, American Catholics supported the Democratic nominee in all but four presidential cycles since 1952. But after betting it all on the thrice-married Manhattan businessman — Trump won white Catholics by a 23-point margin, compared to Mitt Romney’s 19-point victory in 2012 — they never received so much as a ‘thank you’ from the 45th president.”
“If the 2020 election will be won or lost in the Rust Belt… the president can’t afford to have Catholics feeling left out… Inside the Trump campaign, preparations are underway for a “Catholics for Trump” coalition and a series of events that will get the president and his surrogates in front of friendly Catholic audiences.”


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Wisconsin Lawmakers Want Campaigns to Pay In Advance

Wisconsin state Sen. Jeff Smith ( D ) and state Rep. Amanda Stuck ( D ) “ introduced a bill @ @ @ @ @ to pay local governments in advance for costs related to rallies and events , ” @ @ @ @ @ visits the battleground state , the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports .

“At least two brands have said they will suspend advertising on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, after their ads and those of other companies were run on an…


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ I presume I ’ ll be voting in favor of hearing from John Bolton.
” — Sen. Mitt Romney @ @ @ @ @ by The Hill , on calling witnesses for the Senate impeachment trial .


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Appeals Court Blocks Wisconsin Voter Purge

Associated Press : “ A Wisconsin appeals court on Tuesday put on hold an order to immediately remove up to @ @ @ @ @ ’ s voter registration rolls , handing Democrats who had fought the move a victory @ @ @ @ @ ”


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Resolution to Limit Trump’s Authority Has the Votes

“ Four Republicans have agreed to vote with Democrats in support of the measure , according to Sen. Tim Kaine @ @ @ @ @ wrote the legislation that seeks to prevent President Trump from further escalating hostilities with Iran @ @ @ @ @ reports .
Bloomberg : “ Worth noting amid recent developments that the administration is giving @ @ @ @ @ about the Soleimani strike .
Kaine and others — Paul , Lee — have cited @ @ @ @ @ the briefing as a catalyst for action on war powers .
”

“Four Republicans have agreed to vote with Democrats in support of the measure, according to Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA), who wrote the legislation that seeks to prevent President Trump from further escalating hostilities with Iran,” the Washington Post reports.
Bloomberg: “Worth noting amid recent developments that the administration is giving *another* briefing to senators tomorrow about the Soleimani strike. Kaine and others — Paul, Lee — have cited the treatment of senators at the briefing as a catalyst for action on war powers.”


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Steyer Surges In the Early States

Steyer Surges In the Early States

Tom Steyer surged to third place in the Morning Consult tracker of the four early primary and caucus states , @ @ @ @ @ poll since he launched his presidential campaign .
Joe Biden leads with 27 % , @ @ @ @ @ 19 % , Steyer at 15 % , Elizabeth Warren at 12 % and Pete @ @ @ @ @

Tom Steyer surged to third place in the Morning Consult tracker of the four early primary and caucus states, his best showing in the poll since he launched his presidential campaign.
Joe Biden leads with 27%, followed by Bernie Sanders at 19%, Steyer at 15%, Elizabeth Warren at 12% and Pete Buttigieg at 9%.


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Trump Tries to Script Impeachment for TV

Politico : “ The biggest gamble now is the White House ’ s decision to put Pat Cipollone , the @ @ @ @ @ front as the face of the president ’ s defense .
While Cipollone is known @ @ @ @ @ conservative circles and a close ally of the president , his chops on TV remain @ @ @ @ @ a former administration official : “ I do think we will see a lot of @ @ @ @ @ time , and that is something everyone is anticipating .
I don ’ t know @ @ @ @ @ done .
”

Politico: “The biggest gamble now is the White House’s decision to put Pat Cipollone, the top attorney, out in front as the face of the president’s defense. While Cipollone is known as a well-respected litigator within conservative circles and a close ally of the president, his chops on TV remain unproven at best.”
Said a former administration official: “I do think we will see a lot of Pat Cipollone for the first time, and that is something everyone is anticipating. I don’t know how much TV Pat has done.”


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Warren Asked SEC to Investigate Trump’s Comments

Sens .
Elizabeth Warren ( D-MA ) sent a letter to federal regulatory agencies asking them to investigate whether President @ @ @ @ @ telling guests at his Mar-a-Lago club to expect a “ big ” response to Iran @ @ @ @ @ American contractor in Iraq , Axios reports .


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Senate Will Begin Impeachment Trial Next Week

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said the Senate is likely to start the impeachment trial next Tuesday , the Wall @ @ @ @ @ rules will include a vote on witnesses and documents .
Sen. John Thune ( R-SD @ @ @ @ @ s majority whip , told Politico that the chamber will try to move USMCA and @ @ @ @ @ the chamber this week — before the impeachment trial .

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said the Senate is likely to start the impeachment trial next Tuesday, the Wall Street Journal reports.
The rules will include a vote on witnesses and documents.
Sen. John Thune (R-SD), the Senate’s majority whip, told Politico that the chamber will try to move USMCA and the War Powers resolution through the chamber this week — before the impeachment trial.


politicalwire--2020-01-14--McCarthy Says Pelosi Trying to Hurt Bernie Sanders

House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy suggested that Speaker Nancy Pelosi has been withholding the articles of impeachment to prevent Sen. @ @ @ @ @ House hopefuls in the Senate from campaigning during the upcoming trial , The Hill reports @ @ @ @ @ If there ’ s anyone who gained from this , it would be anybody who @ @ @ @ @ that ’ s not in the U.S. Senate.
” McCarthy went on to say that @ @ @ @ @ a chance to win but not now that Nancy Pelosi has held these documents .
@

House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy suggested that Speaker Nancy Pelosi has been withholding the articles of impeachment to prevent Sen. Bernie Sanders and other White House hopefuls in the Senate from campaigning during the upcoming trial, The Hill reports.
Said McCarthy: “If there’s anyone who gained from this, it would be anybody who’s running for president that’s not in the U.S. Senate.”
McCarthy went on to say that Bernie Sanders “actually has a chance to win but not now that Nancy Pelosi has held these documents.”


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Warren Tells Supporters to De-Escalate Attacks

“ Sen .
Elizabeth Warren ’ s campaign is telling key online supporters that their ‘ goal is de-escalation ’ @ @ @ @ @ accuse Bernie Sanders of sexism , signaling a desire to move on from a story @ @ @ @ @ between two longtime allies , and within the progressive community , over questions of gender @ @ @ @ @ News reports .

“Sen. Elizabeth Warren’s campaign is telling key online supporters that their ‘goal is de-escalation’ and warning backers not to accuse Bernie Sanders of sexism, signaling a desire to move on from a story that has driven a rift between two longtime allies, and within the progressive community, over questions of gender and electability,” BuzzFeed News reports.


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Which Candidate Do You Agree with Most?

Which Candidate Do You Agree with Most?

The Washington Post has a 20-question quiz that measures which of the Democratic candidates agrees with you the most on @ @ @ @ @ of the cycle .


politicalwire--2020-01-14--What Did the Russians Get from Burisma?

What Did the Russians Get from Burisma?

Washington Post : “ Area 1 Security , a California cybersecurity company , said it discovered on New Year ’ @ @ @ @ @ had launched a successful cyber ‘ phishing ’ campaign against Burisma Holdings , as well @ @ @ @ @ , so that hackers could gain access to internal email accounts.
” “ The GRU @ @ @ @ @ the servers of the Democratic National Committee and Hillary Clinton ’ s campaign chairman John @ @ @ @ @ their emails that summer and fall at strategically inopportune times for the victims .
If @ @ @ @ @ materials from Burisma , how will the media cover it and how would politicians react @ @ @ @ @ ?
What if the Russians put out fabricated emails that look like they ’ re @ @ @ @ @ to sow disinformation about the son of a leading Democratic presidential candidate ?
”

Washington Post: “Area 1 Security, a California cybersecurity company, said it discovered on New Year’s Eve that the GRU had launched a successful cyber ‘phishing’ campaign against Burisma Holdings, as well as several subsidiaries and partners, so that hackers could gain access to internal email accounts.”
“The GRU is the entity that hacked the servers of the Democratic National Committee and Hillary Clinton’s campaign chairman John Podesta in 2016, releasing their emails that summer and fall at strategically inopportune times for the victims. If the Russian government releases hacked materials from Burisma, how will the media cover it and how would politicians react compared to four years ago? What if the Russians put out fabricated emails that look like they’re authentic but are intended only to sow disinformation about the son of a leading Democratic presidential candidate?”


politicalwire--2020-01-15--McConnell Courts Senators Over Witnesses

Politico : “ On Tuesday , the GOP leader quietly invited Republican Sens .
Ted Cruz of Texas , Lindsey @ @ @ @ @ John Cornyn of Texas and Mike Lee of Utah to his office to discuss strategy @ @ @ @ @ with the meeting.
” “ During the 30-minute session , Cruz pitched McConnell on the @ @ @ @ @ if Democrats want to hear from former Trump national security adviser John Bolton on the @ @ @ @ @ get to hear from Hunter Biden .
McConnell was open to that message , said @ @ @ @ @ discussion .
Cruz and Sen. Rand Paul ( R-KY ) later raised the strategy to @ @ @ @ @ .
”

Politico: “On Tuesday, the GOP leader quietly invited Republican Sens. Ted Cruz of Texas, Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, John Cornyn of Texas and Mike Lee of Utah to his office to discuss strategy, according to people familiar with the meeting.”
“During the 30-minute session, Cruz pitched McConnell on the idea of witness reciprocity — if Democrats want to hear from former Trump national security adviser John Bolton on the Ukraine scandal, then Republicans get to hear from Hunter Biden. McConnell was open to that message, said a source familiar with the discussion. Cruz and Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) later raised the strategy to the broader Senate Republican Conference.”


politicalwire--2020-01-15--My Reaction to the Seventh Democratic Debate

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Despite the sharp attacks on each other in the media this week, neither Elizabeth Warren or Bernie Sanders seemed inclined to lean into their differences during tonight’s debate. The reality is that they’re friends and ideological soul mates and there’s little to be gained electorally by attacking each other.


politicalwire--2020-01-15--Michael Avenatti Arrested by Feds at California Hearing

Michael Avenatti was led out of the State Bar Court in Los Angeles by federal agents on Tuesday evening , @ @ @ @ @ “ The arrest occurred outside the disciplinary hearing in which the State Bar of California @ @ @ @ @ tough-talking attorney of using a doctored document to scam a client out of nearly $ @ @ @ @ @ a lawsuit settlement fund to his own personal use .
”

Michael Avenatti was led out of the State Bar Court in Los Angeles by federal agents on Tuesday evening, the Daily Beast reports.
“The arrest occurred outside the disciplinary hearing in which the State Bar of California has accused the hard-charging, tough-talking attorney of using a doctored document to scam a client out of nearly $840,000, funneling money from a lawsuit settlement fund to his own personal use.”


politicalwire--2020-01-15--Ukraine Official Offered Info on Biden to Oust Ambassador

Washington Post : “ New materials released by House Democrats appear to show Ukraine ’ s top prosecutor offering an @ @ @ @ @ s personal attorney , Rudolph Giuliani , damaging information related to former vice president Joe @ @ @ @ @ recalled the U.S. ambassador to Ukraine .
”


politicalwire--2020-01-15--Michael Flynn Moves to Withdraw Guilty Plea

Michael Flynn moves to withdraw his guilty plea for lying to investigators about his contacts with Russia ’ s ambassador @ @ @ @ @ Trump ’ s former national security adviser , the Washington Post reports .


politicalwire--2020-01-15--The Seventh Democratic Debate

The Seventh Democratic Debate

The seventh Democratic presidential debate begins tonight at 9 p.m .
ET and will be televised on CNN .
Leave @ @ @ @ @ .

The seventh Democratic presidential debate begins tonight at 9 p.m. ET and will be televised on CNN.
Leave your reactions in the comments.


politicalwire--2020-01-15--Trump and His Aides Focused for Now on Two Democrats

“ President Trump ’ s advisers see Sen. Bernie Sanders as their ideal Democratic opponent in November and have been @ @ @ @ @ elevate his profile and bolster his chances of winning the Iowa caucuses , according to @ @ @ @ @ , ” the New York Times reports .
“ But their new focus on Mr. @ @ @ @ @ , comes at a time the president himself has been closely watching Michael Bloomberg , @ @ @ @ @ Democratic primary race , unnerved by his campaign spending and his suggestion he might spend @ @ @ @ @ own fortune on opposing Mr. Trump , even if he does not emerge as the @ @ @ @ @ left the president and his campaign focused on two different candidates in the weeks before @ @ @ @ @ in Iowa — one , a populist running with a grass-roots movement behind him , @ @ @ @ @ liberal billionaire who could refashion the general election because of his bottomless bank account .
@

“President Trump’s advisers see Sen. Bernie Sanders as their ideal Democratic opponent in November and have been doing what they can to elevate his profile and bolster his chances of winning the Iowa caucuses, according to Republicans familiar with the plans,” the New York Times reports.
“But their new focus on Mr. Sanders, independent of Vermont, comes at a time the president himself has been closely watching Michael Bloomberg, a late arrival to the Democratic primary race, unnerved by his campaign spending and his suggestion he might spend $1 billion of his own fortune on opposing Mr. Trump, even if he does not emerge as the nominee.”
“It has left the president and his campaign focused on two different candidates in the weeks before Democrats cast their first votes in Iowa — one, a populist running with a grass-roots movement behind him, and the other, a liberal billionaire who could refashion the general election because of his bottomless bank account.”


politicalwire--2020-01-15--Ukrainian Ambassador Was Under Surveillance

“ New documents released by House Democrats on Tuesday offered fresh detail on the shadow diplomacy campaign at the center @ @ @ @ @ impeachment , including text messages suggesting that the former United States ambassador to Ukraine was @ @ @ @ @ , ” the New York Times reports .
“ In a series of cryptic text @ @ @ @ @ an associate of Rudolph W. Giuliani , the president ’ s personal lawyer , communicated @ @ @ @ @ to be monitoring the movements of the ambassador , Marie L. Yovanovitch .
”

“New documents released by House Democrats on Tuesday offered fresh detail on the shadow diplomacy campaign at the center of President Trump’s impeachment, including text messages suggesting that the former United States ambassador to Ukraine was under surveillance while in Kyiv,” the New York Times reports.
“In a series of cryptic text messages, Lev Parnas, an associate of Rudolph W. Giuliani, the president’s personal lawyer, communicated with another man who appeared to be monitoring the movements of the ambassador, Marie L. Yovanovitch.”


politicalwire--2020-01-15--Rick Wilson on Running Against the Devil

Rick Wilson — the sharp-witted , wise-cracking Republican political strategist – joins Chris for a conversation about the 2020 election @ @ @ @ @ new book , Running Against the Devil : A Plot to Save America from Trump @ @ @ @ @ .
You can watch the conversation here beginning at 7:15 p.m .
ET .

Special for Political Wire readers: A live edition of Chris Riback’s Conversations.
Rick Wilson — the sharp-witted, wise-cracking Republican political strategist – joins Chris for a conversation about the 2020 election, impeachment, and his new book, Running Against the Devil: A Plot to Save America from Trump – and Democrats from Themselves.
The livestream is now over. We will have video of the event later.


politicalwire--2020-01-15--House Democrats Release More Parnas Evidence

House impeachment investigators released a new set of evidence that were obtained from Lev Parnas , an indicted former associate @ @ @ @ @ voicemails , photos , and text messages between Parnas and high-level figures within Trump ’ @ @ @ @ @ .


politicalwire--2020-01-15--Florida Republicans File Anti-Gay Bills

Florida Republicans File Anti-Gay Bills

“ Seven Republican lawmakers in Florida filed anti-LGBTQ bills late Monday , just hours before the deadline to file new @ @ @ @ @ session , ” NBC News reports .
“ If passed , the bills would ban @ @ @ @ @ children , repeal municipal and county ordinances protecting LGBTQ workers , and legalize so-called gay @ @ @ @ @ had banned the medically debunked practice .
”

“Seven Republican lawmakers in Florida filed anti-LGBTQ bills late Monday, just hours before the deadline to file new bills for the coming legislative session,” NBC News reports.
“If passed, the bills would ban gender-affirming health care for transgender children, repeal municipal and county ordinances protecting LGBTQ workers, and legalize so-called gay conversion therapy in places that had banned the medically debunked practice.”


politicalwire--2020-01-15--Avenatti Jailed Without Bond

Avenatti Jailed Without Bond

“ U.S .
District Court Judge James Selna ordered today that Stormy Daniels ’ ex-attorney Michael Avenatti remain in federal @ @ @ @ @ his conditions of pretrial release and be transported ‘ forthwith ’ to New York , @ @ @ @ @ next week , ” the Daily Beast reports .


politicalwire--2020-01-15--GOP Senator Says Restricting Press Is ‘Huge Mistake’

Sen. John Kennedy ( R-LA ) distanced himself from proposed restrictions on reporters covering the upcoming Senate impeachment trial , @ @ @ @ @ mistake , ” The Hill reports .
Said Kennedy : “ There is an effort @ @ @ @ @ ’ m going to vote against that , if I ’ m allowed to vote @ @ @ @ @ women and grown men .
If they don ’ t want to make a comment @ @ @ @ @ say ‘ no comment .
”

Sen. John Kennedy (R-LA) distanced himself from proposed restrictions on reporters covering the upcoming Senate impeachment trial, calling it a “huge mistake,” The Hill reports.
Said Kennedy: “There is an effort to limit the press… I’m going to vote against that, if I’m allowed to vote. U.S. senators are grown women and grown men. If they don’t want to make a comment, they know how to say ‘no comment.”


politicalwire--2020-01-15--Lawmaker Tells Reporter Boys Could ‘Have Fun with Her’

Michigan state Sen. Peter Lucido ( R ) apologized after a reporter said the state senator told her a group @ @ @ @ @ have “ a lot of fun ” with her , the AP reports .
The @ @ @ @ @ wrote about the experience for the Michigan Advance .

Michigan state Sen. Peter Lucido (R) apologized after a reporter said the state senator told her a group of high school boys could have “a lot of fun” with her, the AP reports.
The reporter, Allison Donahue, wrote about the experience for the Michigan Advance.


politicalwire--2020-01-15--Maddow to Interview Lev Parnas

Maddow to Interview Lev Parnas

Lev Parnas , the indicted former colleague of Rudy Giuliani , will be interviewed by Rachel Maddow on MSNBC tonight @ @ @ @ @ .

“At least two brands have said they will suspend advertising on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, after their ads and those of other companies were run on an…


politicalwire--2020-01-15--Arizona Lawmaker Seeks Treatment for Alcoholism

Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick ( D-AZ ) announced that she would take a leave of absence from the House to seek @ @ @ @ @ reports .
“ Kirkpatrick did not say how much time she is expected to be @ @ @ @ @ made clear she intended to keep her seat .
”

Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (D-AZ) announced that she would take a leave of absence from the House to seek treatment for alcoholism, Politico reports.
“Kirkpatrick did not say how much time she is expected to be away from Washington, but made clear she intended to keep her seat.”


politicalwire--2020-01-15--Virginia Ratifies Equal Rights Amendment

“ Virginia moved to the brink of becoming the crucial 38th state to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment on Wednesday @ @ @ @ @ many women ’ s rights advocates even though it is far from certain the measure @ @ @ @ @ the U.S. Constitution , ” the AP reports .
“ ERA advocates say hitting the @ @ @ @ @ will have surpassed the three-quarters of states the amendment needs to be added to the @ @ @ @ @ .
Court battles are expected to unfold over a long-passed 1982 ratification deadline set by @ @ @ @ @ by five states that ratified it in the 1970s to rescind their support .
”

“Virginia moved to the brink of becoming the crucial 38th state to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment on Wednesday, a momentous victory for many women’s rights advocates even though it is far from certain the measure will ever be added to the U.S. Constitution,” the AP reports.
“ERA advocates say hitting the 38 mark means the amendment will have surpassed the three-quarters of states the amendment needs to be added to the Constitution.”
“Opponents disagree. Court battles are expected to unfold over a long-passed 1982 ratification deadline set by Congress as well as moves by five states that ratified it in the 1970s to rescind their support.”


politicalwire--2020-01-15--What Warren and Sanders Said to Each Other

New York Times : “ People familiar with the exchange said Ms. Warren walked over and told Mr. Sanders that @ @ @ @ @ during the debate , he had mischaracterized a conversation they had in 2018 about whether @ @ @ @ @ presidency .
She has accused him of saying that a woman could not ; he @ @ @ @ @ “ Appearing frustrated , Mr. Sanders asked to discuss the matter at a different time @ @ @ @ @ who insisted on anonymity to discuss a sensitive , private conversation .
He pointed his @ @ @ @ @ back at himself , before turning and walking away .
”

New York Times: “People familiar with the exchange said Ms. Warren walked over and told Mr. Sanders that she was concerned that, during the debate, he had mischaracterized a conversation they had in 2018 about whether a woman could win the presidency. She has accused him of saying that a woman could not; he has denied that remark.”
“Appearing frustrated, Mr. Sanders asked to discuss the matter at a different time, said the people, who insisted on anonymity to discuss a sensitive, private conversation. He pointed his finger toward her, then back at himself, before turning and walking away.”


politicalwire--2020-01-15--House Votes to Send Impeachment Articles to Senate

“ The House of Representatives voted on Tuesday to send the Senate two articles of impeachment against President Trump , @ @ @ @ @ the case and initiating only the third presidential impeachment trial in American history , ” @ @ @ @ @ .
Washington Post : “ Pelosi plans to hold an engrossment ceremony at 5 p.m. @ @ @ @ @ are scheduled to begin a procession across the Capitol Rotunda to present the articles of @ @ @ @ @ the Senate .
”

“The House of Representatives voted on Tuesday to send the Senate two articles of impeachment against President Trump, appointing seven Democrats to prosecute the case and initiating only the third presidential impeachment trial in American history,” the New York Times reports.
Washington Post: “Pelosi plans to hold an engrossment ceremony at 5 p.m., and then the managers are scheduled to begin a procession across the Capitol Rotunda to present the articles of impeachment to the secretary of the Senate.”


politicalwire--2020-01-15--Lawsuit Claims Epstein Trafficked Girls Until 2018

New York Times : “ New evidence shows Jeffrey Epstein sexually abused and trafficked hundreds of young women and girls @ @ @ @ @ , some as recently as 2018 , significantly expanding the scope of his alleged conduct @ @


politicalwire--2020-01-15--Trump Threatened Europeans with Tariffs Over Iran

“ A week before Germany , France and Britain accused Iran of breaching the 2015 nuclear deal , the Trump @ @ @ @ @ a 25 percent tariff on European automobiles if they didn ’ t , according to @ @ @ @ @ ” the Washington Post reports .
“ The U.S. effort to coerce European foreign policy @ @ @ @ @ level of hardball tactics with America ’ s oldest allies and could result in the @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“A week before Germany, France and Britain accused Iran of breaching the 2015 nuclear deal, the Trump administration privately threatened to impose a 25 percent tariff on European automobiles if they didn’t, according to U.S. and European officials,” the Washington Post reports.
“The U.S. effort to coerce European foreign policy through tariffs represents a new level of hardball tactics with America’s oldest allies and could result in the reimposition of sanctions against Iran.”


politicalwire--2020-01-15--Trump Signs Trade Pact with China

Trump Signs Trade Pact with China

“ The U.S. and China signed a landmark deal to sharply increase sales of U.S. goods and services to China @ @ @ @ @ China by better protecting their intellectual property and opening further Chinese markets , especially in @ @ @ @ @ Wall Street Journal reports .
“ The eight-part agreement acts as a cease-fire in a @ @ @ @ @ roiled markets globally and cut into global growth .
As a condition of Beijing signing @ @ @ @ @ agreed to cut tariffs on $ 120 billion in Chinese goods by half to 7.5 @ @ @ @ @ planned tariffs .
A host of difficult issues , which have been the heart of @ @ @ @ @ Chinese subsidies to domestic companies and the behavior of Chinese state-owned firms were pushed off @ @ @ @ @ ” CNBC : “ The Trump administration aims to start negotiating the next piece of @ @ @ @ @ November 2020 election .
”

“The U.S. and China signed a landmark deal to sharply increase sales of U.S. goods and services to China and help companies operating in China by better protecting their intellectual property and opening further Chinese markets, especially in financial services,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
“The eight-part agreement acts as a cease-fire in a two-year trade war that has roiled markets globally and cut into global growth. As a condition of Beijing signing the deal, the U.S. agreed to cut tariffs on $120 billion in Chinese goods by half to 7.5% and to forgo other planned tariffs. A host of difficult issues, which have been the heart of the trade battle, including Chinese subsidies to domestic companies and the behavior of Chinese state-owned firms were pushed off to later rounds of talks.”
CNBC: “The Trump administration aims to start negotiating the next piece of the trade agreement before the November 2020 election.”


politicalwire--2020-01-15--Timing Is Everything In Politics

Timing Is Everything In Politics

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Watching Elizabeth Warren struggle over the last couple of months reminds me of how she passed on running for president in 2016 because she thought challenging Hillary Clinton in the Democratic primary might be too tough.


politicalwire--2020-01-15--Buttigieg’s Cybersecurity Chief Suddenly Quits

“ The cybersecurity chief for Democratic candidate for president Pete Buttigieg ’ s campaign has resigned , as concerns mount @ @ @ @ @ and hackers to interfere in the 2020 election , ” the Wall Street Journal reports @ @ @ @ @ his job as chief information security officer for Mr. Buttigieg ’ s campaign earlier this @ @ @ @ @ campaign leadership over how to manage information security .
”

“The cybersecurity chief for Democratic candidate for president Pete Buttigieg’s campaign has resigned, as concerns mount about attempts by foreign governments and hackers to interfere in the 2020 election,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
“Mick Baccio left his job as chief information security officer for Mr. Buttigieg’s campaign earlier this month due to differences with campaign leadership over how to manage information security.”


politicalwire--2020-01-15--Bolton’s Book Nearly Complete

Bolton’s Book Nearly Complete

Former National Security adviser John Bolton ’ s book “ is almost finished , according to people familiar with his @ @ @ @ @ to be on sale well ahead of the Republican and Democratic National Conventions this summer @ @ @ @ @ Times reports .


politicalwire--2020-01-15--Trump Portrayed as ‘Erratic’ and ‘Dangerously Uninformed’

A new book says President Trump is “ woefully uninformed about the basics of geography ” and “ does not @ @ @ @ @ , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ Many of the key moments reported in @ @ @ @ @ foreign policy implications , portraying a novice commander in chief plowing through normal protocols and @ @ @ @ @ administration and in other governments .
”

A new book says President Trump is “woefully uninformed about the basics of geography” and “does not seem to grasp fundamental history,” the Washington Post reports.
“Many of the key moments reported in the book are rife with foreign policy implications, portraying a novice commander in chief plowing through normal protocols and alarming many both inside the administration and in other governments.”


politicalwire--2020-01-15--Senators Restricted During Impeachment Trial

“ The top Republican and Democratic senators on Wednesday jointly announced new restrictions on movement and behavior by lawmakers , @ @ @ @ @ public inside the Capitol during President Trump ’ s impeachment trial , ” the New @ @ @ @ @ those : “ During the impeachment proceedings , standing will not be permitted on the @ @ @ @ @ be strictly enforced .
Accordingly , all senators are requested to remain in their seats @ @ @ @ @ on the Senate floor during the impeachment proceedings.
” “ Senators who have become addicted @ @ @ @ @ on their iPhones will have to temporarily kick that habit — they will not be @ @ @ @ @ into the chamber during the trial .
But perhaps the biggest change for senators ?
@ @ @ @ @ talk .
”

“The top Republican and Democratic senators on Wednesday jointly announced new restrictions on movement and behavior by lawmakers, staff and members of the public inside the Capitol during President Trump’s impeachment trial,” the New York Times reports.
Among those: “During the impeachment proceedings, standing will not be permitted on the floor and this requirement will be strictly enforced. Accordingly, all senators are requested to remain in their seats at all times they are on the Senate floor during the impeachment proceedings.”
“Senators who have become addicted to checking their Twitter feeds on their iPhones will have to temporarily kick that habit — they will not be allowed to take electronic devices into the chamber during the trial. But perhaps the biggest change for senators? They are not supposed to talk.”


politicalwire--2020-01-15--Judge Blocks Trump’s Refugee Policy

Judge Blocks Trump’s Refugee Policy

A federal judge ruled that state and local officials can not block refugee admissions in their jurisdictions , finding the @ @ @ @ @ refugee policy is likely “ unlawful , ” the Washington Post reports .
Wrote Judge @ @ @ @ @ Giving states and local governments the power to consent to the resettlement of refugees — @ @ @ @ @ power to determine whether refugees will be received in their midst — flies in the @ @ @ @ @ .
”

A federal judge ruled that state and local officials cannot block refugee admissions in their jurisdictions, finding the Trump administration’s new refugee policy is likely “unlawful,” the Washington Post reports.
Wrote Judge Peter J. Messitte: “Giving states and local governments the power to consent to the resettlement of refugees — which is to say veto power to determine whether refugees will be received in their midst — flies in the face of clear Congressional intent.”


politicalwire--2020-01-16--Rand Paul Threatens Explosive Witness Votes

Politico : “ Paul says if four or more of his GOP colleagues join with Democrats to entertain new witness @ @ @ @ @ the Senate vote on subpoenaing the president ’ s preferred witnesses , including Hunter Biden @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine scandal — polarizing picks who moderate Republicans aren ’ t eager to debate .
@ @ @ @ @ message for his party : End the trial before witnesses are called.
” Said Paul @ @ @ @ @ against Hunter Biden , you ’ re voting to lose your election , basically .
@ @ @ @ @ what it is .
If you don ’ t want to vote and you think @ @ @ @ @ have to vote against Hunter Biden , you should just vote against witnesses , period @ @

Politico: “Paul says if four or more of his GOP colleagues join with Democrats to entertain new witness testimony, he will make the Senate vote on subpoenaing the president’s preferred witnesses, including Hunter Biden and the whistleblower behind the Ukraine scandal — polarizing picks who moderate Republicans aren’t eager to debate. So he has a simple message for his party: End the trial before witnesses are called.”
Said Paul: “If you vote against Hunter Biden, you’re voting to lose your election, basically. Seriously. That’s what it is. If you don’t want to vote and you think you’re going to have to vote against Hunter Biden, you should just vote against witnesses, period.”


politicalwire--2020-01-16--Lev Parnas Wants to Help In Probe of Giuliani

Lev Parnas expressed regret in a New York Times interview for having trusted President Trump and Rudy Giuliani , the @ @ @ @ @ and the architect of the Ukraine pressure campaign .
His lawyer said he was eager @ @ @ @ @ investigating Mr. Giuliani .
The Hill has five takeaways from Parnas ’ s earlier interview @ @ @ @

Lev Parnas expressed regret in a New York Times interview for having trusted President Trump and Rudy Giuliani, the president’s personal lawyer and the architect of the Ukraine pressure campaign.
His lawyer said he was eager to cooperate with federal prosecutors investigating Mr. Giuliani.
The Hill has five takeaways from Parnas’s earlier interview with Rachel Maddow.


politicalwire--2020-01-16--Trump Pushing Hard for Quick Trial

Trump Pushing Hard for Quick Trial

“ White House lawyers are trying to engineer the fastest impeachment trial in American history , aiming to have President @ @ @ @ @ without witnesses and after just a few days of proceedings , ” the Washington Post @ @ @ @ @ s desire for a short trial has solidified over the past few weeks , as @ @ @ @ @ transmitting two articles of impeachment to the Senate because of concerns about how the trial @ @ @ @ @ White House , which previously supported a more expansive trial in the GOP-led Senate , @ @ @ @ @ that senators should make quick work of acquitting Trump.
” Said one administration official : @ @ @ @ @ s extraordinarily unlikely that we ’ d be going beyond two weeks .
”

“White House lawyers are trying to engineer the fastest impeachment trial in American history, aiming to have President Trump acquitted by the Senate without witnesses and after just a few days of proceedings,” the Washington Post reports.
“Trump’s desire for a short trial has solidified over the past few weeks, as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi delayed transmitting two articles of impeachment to the Senate because of concerns about how the trial would be structured. The White House, which previously supported a more expansive trial in the GOP-led Senate, has now accepted the idea that senators should make quick work of acquitting Trump.”
Said one administration official: “I think it’s extraordinarily unlikely that we’d be going beyond two weeks.”


politicalwire--2020-01-16--Warren Accused Sanders of Calling Her a Liar

After last night ’ s debate , Sen. Elizabeth Warren walked over to Sen. Bernie Sanders and declined to shake @ @ @ @ @ Post reports .
Said Warren : “ I think you called me a liar on @ @ @ @ @ : “ You know , let ’ s not do it right now.
” He @ @ @ @ @ me a liar.
” “ The conversation was captured on the candidates ’ debate microphones @ @ @ @ @ CNN on Wednesday night .
”

After last night’s debate, Sen. Elizabeth Warren walked over to Sen. Bernie Sanders and declined to shake his hand, the Washington Post reports.
Said Warren: “I think you called me a liar on national TV.”
Sanders replied: “You know, let’s not do it right now.” He added: “You called me a liar.”
“The conversation was captured on the candidates’ debate microphones and released by debate sponsor CNN on Wednesday night.”


politicalwire--2020-01-16--Trump Tried to Kill Anti-Bribery Rule

Trump Tried to Kill Anti-Bribery Rule

“ President Trump wanted to strike down a law that prohibits companies from bribing foreign officials , calling the ban @ @ @ @ @ American companies , two Washington Post reporters recount in a new book , ” the @ @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-01-16--Bloomberg Plans Secret Pitch to Big Tech

“ Mike Bloomberg will ask tech billionaires to support his presidential campaign in a private reception with some of Silicon @ @ @ @ @ brokers on Thursday evening , ” Recode reports .
“ The briefing behind closed doors @ @ @ @ @ shy about seeking the backing of Big Tech — a group whose favor with the @ @ @ @ @ that candidates like Elizabeth Warren have said they ’ ll reject taking their money entirely @ @

“Mike Bloomberg will ask tech billionaires to support his presidential campaign in a private reception with some of Silicon Valley’s biggest power brokers on Thursday evening,” Recode reports.
“The briefing behind closed doors shows how Bloomberg is not shy about seeking the backing of Big Tech — a group whose favor with the public has fallen so low that candidates like Elizabeth Warren have said they’ll reject taking their money entirely.”


politicalwire--2020-01-16--Lev Parnas Says Trump Knew Everything

Lev Parnas Says Trump Knew Everything

Lev Parnas broke his silence in an interview with Rachel Maddow on MSNBC .
Said Parnas : “ President Trump @ @ @ @ @ on .
He was aware of all my movements .
I wouldn ’ t do @ @ @ @ @ Rudy Giuliani , or the President .
I have no intent , I have no @ @ @ @ @ of these officials .
”

Lev Parnas broke his silence in an interview with Rachel Maddow on MSNBC.
Said Parnas: “President Trump knew exactly what was going on. He was aware of all my movements. I wouldn’t do anything without the consent of Rudy Giuliani, or the President. I have no intent, I have no reason to speak to any of these officials.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Monica Lewinsky Reacts to Trump’s Legal Team

Monica Lewinsky reacts to news that Ken Starr is on President Trump ’ s impeachment defense team : “ This @ @ @ @ @ you fucking kidding me ?
’ kinda day .
”

“At least two brands have said they will suspend advertising on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, after their ads and those of other companies were run on an…


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Rivals No Longer Betting on Biden Implosion

Politico : “ Democratic Party officials and operatives working with several of Biden ’ s opponents now say they no @ @ @ @ @ support is as fragile as they once believed it was .
Instead , they now @ @ @ @ @ support for him at least in the first caucus state.
” “ His opponents are @ @ @ @ @ on caucus night from supporters of more moderate candidates who have dropped out already , @ @ @ @ @ the 15 percent threshold necessary to win delegates .
Rival campaigns are urgently working to @ @ @ @ @ in Iowa to shift their support elsewhere .
”

Politico: “Democratic Party officials and operatives working with several of Biden’s opponents now say they no longer believe Biden’s support is as fragile as they once believed it was. Instead, they now see a durable floor of support for him at least in the first caucus state.”
“His opponents are preparing for defections to Biden on caucus night from supporters of more moderate candidates who have dropped out already, or who fail to meet the 15 percent threshold necessary to win delegates. Rival campaigns are urgently working to persuade caucus-goers and potential endorsers in Iowa to shift their support elsewhere.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Barr Is Going After Trump’s Enemies One by One

Jonathan Chait : “ In May of 2016 , shortly after Donald Trump had wrapped up his party ’ s @ @ @ @ @ notion he might win the presidency seemed remote at best , Benjamin Wittes wrote one @ @ @ @ @ attempting to analyze how an obviously authoritarian president might abuse his powers .
‘ The @ @ @ @ @ tyrant-proof part of the government , is the U.S. Department of Justice , ’ he @ @ @ @ @ prosecutorial discretion could allow a president to harass his domestic enemies.
” “ Yesterday ’ @ @ @ @ @ of Justice is exploring yet another probe of James Comey , the former FBI director @ @ @ @ @ seem to confirm those fears have been borne out .
”

Jonathan Chait: “In May of 2016, shortly after Donald Trump had wrapped up his party’s nomination, but when the notion he might win the presidency seemed remote at best, Benjamin Wittes wrote one of the very early essays attempting to analyze how an obviously authoritarian president might abuse his powers. ‘The soft spot, the least tyrant-proof part of the government, is the U.S. Department of Justice,’ he argued, laying out how prosecutorial discretion could allow a president to harass his domestic enemies.”
“Yesterday’s news that the Department of Justice is exploring yet another probe of James Comey, the former FBI director turned Trump antagonist, would seem to confirm those fears have been borne out.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Trump Adds Dershowitz and Starr to Legal Team

President Trump ’ s impeachment defense team for his upcoming Senate trial will include Alan Dershowitz and Ken Starr , @ @ @ @ @ .
The Washington Post says Trump ’ s team will also include Robert Ray , @ @ @ @ @ investigated President Bill Clinton .

President Trump’s impeachment defense team for his upcoming Senate trial will include Alan Dershowitz and Ken Starr, sources confirmed to The Hill.
The Washington Post says Trump’s team will also include Robert Ray, who along with Starr, investigated President Bill Clinton.


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Trump Called Generals ‘a Bunch of Dopes and Babies’

The Washington Post excerpts a section of A Very Stable Genius where President Trump is meeting with the Joint Chiefs of Staff .
“ I want to win , ” he said .
“ We don ’ t win any wars anymore .
.
.
We spend $ 7 trillion , everybody else got the oil and we ’ re not winning anymore.
” Trump by now was in one of his rages .
He was so angry that he wasn ’ t taking many breaths .
All morning , he had been coarse and cavalier , but the next @ @ @ @ @ @ @ description .
They stunned nearly everyone in the room , and some vowed that they would never repeat them .
Indeed , they have not been reported until now .
“ I wouldn ’ t go to war with you people , ” Trump told the assembled brass .
Addressing the room , the commander in chief barked , “ You ’ re a bunch of dopes and babies.
” For a president known for verbiage he euphemistically called “ locker room talk , ” this was the gravest insult he could have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sacred space .
The flag officers in the room were shocked .
Some staff began looking down at their papers , rearranging folders , almost wishing themselves out of the room .
A few considered walking out .
They tried not to reveal their revulsion on their faces , but questions raced through their minds .
“ How does the commander in chief say that ?
” one thought .
“ What would our worst adversaries think if they knew he said this ?
”

The Washington Post excerpts a section of A Very Stable Genius where President Trump is meeting with the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
“I want to win,” he said. “We don’t win any wars anymore . . . We spend $7 trillion, everybody else got the oil and we’re not winning anymore.”
Trump by now was in one of his rages. He was so angry that he wasn’t taking many breaths. All morning, he had been coarse and cavalier, but the next several things he bellowed went beyond that description. They stunned nearly everyone in the room, and some vowed that they would never repeat them. Indeed, they have not been reported until now.
“I wouldn’t go to war with you people,” Trump told the assembled brass.
Addressing the room, the commander in chief barked, “You’re a bunch of dopes and babies.”
For a president known for verbiage he euphemistically called “locker room talk,” this was the gravest insult he could have delivered to these people, in this sacred space. The flag officers in the room were shocked. Some staff began looking down at their papers, rearranging folders, almost wishing themselves out of the room. A few considered walking out. They tried not to reveal their revulsion on their faces, but questions raced through their minds. “How does the commander in chief say that?” one thought. “What would our worst adversaries think if they knew he said this?”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Biden Says Zuckerberg May Have Broken the Law

Joe Biden told the New York Times that he sees Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg as a “ real problem ” @ @ @ @ @ possible that his role in “ propagating falsehoods ” against Biden and other public figures @ @ @ @ @ .
Said Biden : “ I ’ ve never been a fan of Facebook , @ @ @ @ @ I ’ ve never been a big Zuckerberg fan .
I think he ’ s @ @ @ @ @

Joe Biden told the New York Times that he sees Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg as a “real problem” and said it’s possible that his role in “propagating falsehoods” against Biden and other public figures may have broken the law.
Said Biden: “I’ve never been a fan of Facebook, as you probably know. I’ve never been a big Zuckerberg fan. I think he’s a real problem.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Ivanka’s Sister-In-Law Won’t Vote for Trump

Supermodel Karlie Kloss , Ivanka Trump ’ s sister-in-law , told Time that she has absolutely no intention of voting @ @ @ @ @ .
Said Kloss : “ I voted as a Democrat in 2016 , and I @ @ @ @ @ thing in 2020 .
”

Supermodel Karlie Kloss, Ivanka Trump’s sister-in-law, told Time that she has absolutely no intention of voting for President Trump this year.
Said Kloss: “I voted as a Democrat in 2016, and I plan to do the same thing in 2020.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--McSally Raises Money from ‘Liberal Hack’ Comment

Sen. Martha McSally ’ s ( R-AZ ) is raising money by selling a t-shirt based on her attack on @ @ @ @ @ Read : “ Why so quickly try to raise money from the interaction – so @ @ @ @ @ that it seemed planned ?
Maybe because McSally – who was appointed to the Senate @ @ @ @ @ – is being seriously outraised by likely Dem opponent Mark Kelly.
” Tim Miller : @ @ @ @ @ small thing , but this fleeting moment reveals something interesting about the GOP ’ s @ @ @ @ @ begins .
”

Sen. Martha McSally’s (R-AZ) is raising money by selling a t-shirt based on her attack on a CNN journalist.
First Read: “Why so quickly try to raise money from the interaction – so quickly, in fact, that it seemed planned? Maybe because McSally – who was appointed to the Senate after John McCain passed away – is being seriously outraised by likely Dem opponent Mark Kelly.”
Tim Miller: “It’s a small thing, but this fleeting moment reveals something interesting about the GOP’s posture as the Senate trial begins.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Wisconsin Is Ground Zero for 2020

Wisconsin Is Ground Zero for 2020

Amy Walter : “ The other important reality of this era is the degree to which national polls have become less helpful in assessing Trump ’ s electoral college strength .
A president sitting at 42 % approval , with ‘ strong disapproval ’ outweighing ‘ strong approval ’ by 10-12 points is not going to win the national popular vote .
But , that doesn ’ t mean he can ’ t win the Electoral College.
” “ And , in assessing the Electoral College reality , there ’ s no better place to check into than Wisconsin .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ And , for a good reason .
Trump won the state by a little over 22,000 votes .
In 2018 , Democrat Tony Evers defeated GOP Governor Scott Walker by just 29,000 votes .
And , while President Obama had little trouble winning the state in 2008 ( 12 points ) or 2012 ( 7 points ) , then-Senator John Kerry carried the state in 2004 by just 11,000 votes.
” “ Even if the Democratic nominee manages to hold all the states Hillary Clinton won , and win back Pennsylvania and Michigan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 270 without adding Wisconsin ( or picking up Arizona , a state Clinton lost by almost four points ) .
Trump can ’ t afford to lose Wisconsin either — unless he ’ s able to pick up neighboring Minnesota — a state where he came within 44,000 votes back in 2016.
” Play with these scenarios on the interactive Electoral Vote Map .

Amy Walter: “The other important reality of this era is the degree to which national polls have become less helpful in assessing Trump’s electoral college strength. A president sitting at 42% approval, with ‘strong disapproval’ outweighing ‘strong approval’ by 10-12 points is not going to win the national popular vote. But, that doesn’t mean he can’t win the Electoral College.”
“And, in assessing the Electoral College reality, there’s no better place to check into than Wisconsin. It is ground zero for 2020. And, for a good reason. Trump won the state by a little over 22,000 votes. In 2018, Democrat Tony Evers defeated GOP Governor Scott Walker by just 29,000 votes. And, while President Obama had little trouble winning the state in 2008 (12 points) or 2012 (7 points), then-Senator John Kerry carried the state in 2004 by just 11,000 votes.”
“Even if the Democratic nominee manages to hold all the states Hillary Clinton won, and win back Pennsylvania and Michigan, they can’t get to 270 without adding Wisconsin (or picking up Arizona, a state Clinton lost by almost four points). Trump can’t afford to lose Wisconsin either — unless he’s able to pick up neighboring Minnesota — a state where he came within 44,000 votes back in 2016.”
Play with these scenarios on the interactive Electoral Vote Map.


An Incomplete Story

New York Times : “ By the time the Senate opened impeachment trials for Andrew Johnson and Bill Clinton , @ @ @ @ @ the facts of the accusations against the presidents .
None of them needed to turn @ @ @ @ @ to learn things they did not already know.
” “ But as senators formally convened @ @ @ @ @ of impeachment in the case of Donald John Trump , new revelations were still emerging @ @ @ @ @ .
The latest interviews by Lev Parnas , the Soviet-born associate of Rudolph W. Giuliani @ @ @ @ @ personal lawyer , as well as documents released by House investigators , only reinforced the @ @ @ @ @ still to be learned .
”

New York Times: “By the time the Senate opened impeachment trials for Andrew Johnson and Bill Clinton, its members pretty well knew the facts of the accusations against the presidents. None of them needed to turn on The Rachel Maddow Show to learn things they did not already know.”
“But as senators formally convened on Thursday as a court of impeachment in the case of Donald John Trump, new revelations were still emerging and important questions remained unanswered. The latest interviews by Lev Parnas, the Soviet-born associate of Rudolph W. Giuliani, the president’s personal lawyer, as well as documents released by House investigators, only reinforced the reality that there is more still to be learned.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ She ’ s going to get us .
Total assassin .
She ’ s an assassin.
” — Stephen @ @ @ @ @ Very Stable Genius , about Speaker Nancy Pelosi .
Axios excerpts the full passage .


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Trump May Be More Unpopular Than His Approval Shows

Peter Enns and Jonathon Schuldt : “ Does the standard presidential approval question actually capture what voters think of Trump @ @ @ @ @ There are several reasons it might not tell the full story .
For one , @ @ @ @ @ presidential approval numbers have become increasingly polarized and don ’ t move around all that @ @ @ @ @ now say more about which “ side ” people are on ( pro-Trump or anti-Trump @ @ @ @ @ than voters ’ actual evaluation of how the president is doing.
” “ So we @ @ @ @ @ hopefully more nuanced approach to measuring presidential approval , where we ask respondents how favorably @ @ @ @ @ to other notable Republicans .
”

Peter Enns and Jonathon Schuldt: “Does the standard presidential approval question actually capture what voters think of Trump’s job performance? There are several reasons it might not tell the full story. For one, in this hyper-partisan era, presidential approval numbers have become increasingly polarized and don’t move around all that much, so they may now say more about which “side” people are on (pro-Trump or anti-Trump, Republican or Democrat) than voters’ actual evaluation of how the president is doing.”
“So we have worked to develop a hopefully more nuanced approach to measuring presidential approval, where we ask respondents how favorably they feel toward Trump relative to other notable Republicans.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Warren and Sanders Try to Move on from Conflict

Politico : “ Warren and Sanders ’ presidential campaigns are publicly taking steps to move on from the feuding of @ @ @ @ @ trading accusations of calling the other a ‘ liar ’ in a tense hot-mic conversation @ @ @ @ @ ” “ But it ’ s proving more difficult than either would like , thanks @ @ @ @ @ tensions that suddenly boiled over this week .
Even as Sanders and Warren mostly laid @ @ @ @ @ year , many in Warren ’ s orbit privately seethed over escalating , thinly veiled @ @ @ @ @ and surrogates , while some Sanders supporters have viewed Warren with disdain since she declined @ @ @ @ @ 2016 .
”

Politico: “Warren and Sanders’ presidential campaigns are publicly taking steps to move on from the feuding of the past week, after trading accusations of calling the other a ‘liar’ in a tense hot-mic conversation following Tuesday’s debate.”
“But it’s proving more difficult than either would like, thanks to months of quietly escalating tensions that suddenly boiled over this week. Even as Sanders and Warren mostly laid off each other earlier this year, many in Warren’s orbit privately seethed over escalating, thinly veiled criticism from Sanders top aides and surrogates, while some Sanders supporters have viewed Warren with disdain since she declined to join their cause in 2016.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Trump’s Legal Team Is Impeachment Wildcard

Washington Post : “ McConnell , knowing that he currently has the votes to acquit Trump , does not want @ @ @ @ @ off looking anything like the partisan brawl in the House or a typical Trumpian event @ @ @ @ @ GOP incumbents facing difficult reelections in November , McConnell wants a quick , clean , @ @ @ @ @ political fortunes as well as his own .
That ’ s why some Democrats believe @ @ @ @ @ could provide the most dramatic moment of the trial .
”

Washington Post: “McConnell, knowing that he currently has the votes to acquit Trump, does not want the Senate trial to come off looking anything like the partisan brawl in the House or a typical Trumpian event. With a handful of GOP incumbents facing difficult reelections in November, McConnell wants a quick, clean, dignified trial to protect their political fortunes as well as his own. That’s why some Democrats believe Trump’s defense team could provide the most dramatic moment of the trial.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Following Impeachment on Twitter

Following Impeachment on Twitter

Sen. Chris Murphy ( D-CT ) will give his daily take on the Senate impeachment trial on Twitter “ in @ @ @ @ @ trial is as transparent as possible.
” From his first dispatch : “ I noticed @ @ @ @ @ between R and D Senators .
I think that ’ s natural , on the @ @ @ @ @ hope that doesn ’ t become a habit during the trial .
We need 4 @ @ @ @ @ trial , and that can only happen if we ’ re talking to each other @ @

Sen. Chris Murphy (D-CT) will give his daily take on the Senate impeachment trial on Twitter “in order to make sure the trial is as transparent as possible.”
From his first dispatch: “I noticed there was less conversation today between R and D Senators. I think that’s natural, on the first day. But I hope that doesn’t become a habit during the trial. We need 4 votes to assure a fair trial, and that can only happen if we’re talking to each other.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Iran’s Top Leader Calls Trump a ‘Clown’

Iran’s Top Leader Calls Trump a ‘Clown’

Iran ’ s supreme leader said President Trump is a ‘ clown ’ who only pretends to support the Iranian @ @ @ @ @ a poisonous dagger ” into their backs , as he struck a defiant tone in @ @ @ @ @ Tehran in eight years , the AP reports .

Iran’s supreme leader said President Trump is a ‘clown’ who only pretends to support the Iranian people but will “push a poisonous dagger” into their backs, as he struck a defiant tone in his first Friday sermon in Tehran in eight years, the AP reports.


politicalwire--2020-01-17--How Trump Is Viewing Impeachment

How Trump Is Viewing Impeachment

New York Times : “ The president capped his day with a meeting with several campaign aides , where he @ @ @ @ @ were receiving impeachment.
” “ In his conversations with advisers on Thursday , Mr. Trump @ @ @ @ @ could not believe he was facing such a predicament as impeachment .
He said he @ @ @ @ @ for a motion to dismiss and has hoped for one , even though Senator Mitch @ @ @ @ @ majority leader , has said the Senate will have to take up the matter .
@

New York Times: “The president capped his day with a meeting with several campaign aides, where he grilled them on how voters were receiving impeachment.”
“In his conversations with advisers on Thursday, Mr. Trump repeated once again that he could not believe he was facing such a predicament as impeachment. He said he wanted people to be prepared for a motion to dismiss and has hoped for one, even though Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the majority leader, has said the Senate will have to take up the matter.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Georgia Election Systems Were Hacked Before 2016

“ A Georgia election server contains evidence that it was possibly hacked before the 2016 presidential election and the 2018 @ @ @ @ @ .
Brian Kemp a narrow victory over Democratic opponent Stacey Abrams , ” Politico reports @ @ @ @ @ which occurred in late 2014 , long before either of those elections , not only @ @ @ @ @ of Georgia ’ s voting machines during critical elections , but raises new questions about @ @ @ @ @ manipulate election data and voter information through the compromised server .
”

“A Georgia election server contains evidence that it was possibly hacked before the 2016 presidential election and the 2018 vote that gave Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp a narrow victory over Democratic opponent Stacey Abrams,” Politico reports.
“The incident, which occurred in late 2014, long before either of those elections, not only calls into question the integrity of Georgia’s voting machines during critical elections, but raises new questions about whether attackers were able to manipulate election data and voter information through the compromised server.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Parnas Says Ex-Trump Lawyer Visited Him In Jail

Lev Parnas claimed on MSNBC that he was visited in jail by John Dowd , a former attorney for President @ @ @ @ @ to cooperate and sacrifice himself for the president .
Said Parnas : “ They tried @ @ @ @ @ ”

Lev Parnas claimed on MSNBC that he was visited in jail by John Dowd, a former attorney for President Trump, who told him to cooperate and sacrifice himself for the president.
Said Parnas: “They tried to keep me quiet.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Impeachment Trial Could Unfold Out of Public View

New York Times : “ Americans tuning in to witness electrifying exchanges in the Senate impeachment trial of President Trump @ @ @ @ @ shock themselves : Lawmakers could pull the C-Span plug and go into closed session at @ @ @ @ @ the conduct of the trial and the fate of the president.
” “ While it @ @ @ @ @ expectation of wall-to-wall news coverage and an emphasis on government transparency , impeachment rules and @ @ @ @ @ clear the chamber of journalists and spectators and bar the doors so senators can talk @ @ @ @ @ on end .
”

New York Times: “Americans tuning in to witness electrifying exchanges in the Senate impeachment trial of President Trump might be in for a shock themselves: Lawmakers could pull the C-Span plug and go into closed session at critical moments of debate over the conduct of the trial and the fate of the president.”
“While it seems anachronistic today given the expectation of wall-to-wall news coverage and an emphasis on government transparency, impeachment rules and precedent allow the Senate to clear the chamber of journalists and spectators and bar the doors so senators can talk privately among themselves for hours on end.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Ron Reagan Says Father Would Be Embarrassed by Trump

Ron Reagan , the son of former President Ronald Reagan , told the Daily Beast that his father would have @ @ @ @ @ ” of the current Republican president .

“At least two brands have said they will suspend advertising on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, after their ads and those of other companies were run on an…


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Trump Called Kobach While Meeting with Marshall

President Trump initially tried to call Kansas Republican Kris Kobach while he was meeting in the Oval Office with Kobach @ @ @ @ @ GOP Senate nomination , Roger Marshall , the Kansas City Star reports .
“ Two @ @ @ @ @ s Monday meeting with president say that Trump tried to call Kobach to urge him @ @ @ @ @ race while the congressman and the president ’ s political team were present , but @ @ @ @ @ .
”

President Trump initially tried to call Kansas Republican Kris Kobach while he was meeting in the Oval Office with Kobach’s rival for the GOP Senate nomination, Roger Marshall, the Kansas City Star reports.
“Two sources familiar with Marshall’s Monday meeting with president say that Trump tried to call Kobach to urge him to drop out of the race while the congressman and the president’s political team were present, but the call went to voicemail.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Trump Blames Health Secretary for Bad Polling

President Trump lashed out at HHS Secretary Alex Azar after senior aides presented him with polling data showing that voters @ @ @ @ @ , Politico reports .
“ Trump ’ s outburst sent White House staff scrambling to @ @ @ @ @ pricing this morning with potentially more to come .
Some predicted Trump could look to @ @ @ @ @ pricing proposals , including one opposed by many in his party .
”

President Trump lashed out at HHS Secretary Alex Azar after senior aides presented him with polling data showing that voters prefer Democrats on health care, Politico reports.
“Trump’s outburst sent White House staff scrambling to convene a meeting on drug pricing this morning with potentially more to come. Some predicted Trump could look to push harder on stalled drug pricing proposals, including one opposed by many in his party.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Chris Collins Sentenced to More Than Two Years

A federal judge sentenced former Rep. Chris Collins ( R-NY ) to 26 months in prison Friday on charges of @ @ @ @ @ and lying to the FBI , the Washington Post reports .
“ Collins sobbed in @ @ @ @ @ emotional statement to Broderick about the impact of his criminal conviction on himself and his @ @ @ @ @ “ I have no excuse .
I tarnished my reputation .
”

A federal judge sentenced former Rep. Chris Collins (R-NY) to 26 months in prison Friday on charges of conspiracy to commit securities fraud and lying to the FBI, the Washington Post reports.
“Collins sobbed in the courtroom while making an emotional statement to Broderick about the impact of his criminal conviction on himself and his family.”
Said Collins: “I have no excuse. I tarnished my reputation.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Trump Regrets Making Promises on Vaping

Trump Regrets Making Promises on Vaping

President Trump told his health secretary yesterday that he regrets getting involved in the administration ’ s policy on vaping @ @ @ @ @ Trump : “ I should never have done that fucking vaping thing.
” “ The @ @ @ @ @ flavored vapes is one of its most prominent health policy decisions , but trying to @ @ @ @ @ health groups and the pro-vaping community caused massive political headaches .
”

President Trump told his health secretary yesterday that he regrets getting involved in the administration’s policy on vaping, Axios reports.
Said Trump: “I should never have done that fucking vaping thing.”
“The administration’s ban on flavored vapes is one of its most prominent health policy decisions, but trying to find a compromise between public health groups and the pro-vaping community caused massive political headaches.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--DNC Modifies Qualifying Rules for Next Debate

The DNC announced the qualifying rules for the next Democratic debate on February 7 , ABC News reports .
“ @ @ @ @ @ the debate , which is sandwiched evenly between the Iowa caucuses on Feb. 3 and @ @ @ @ @ Feb. 11 , includes the previous criteria of qualifying through the polling and grassroots thresholds @ @ @ @ @ new , second pathway to qualify .
Any candidate who is awarded at least one @ @ @ @ @ National Convention based on the results of the Iowa caucuses , as reported and calculated @ @ @ @ @ , will be able to participate .
”

The DNC announced the qualifying rules for the next Democratic debate on February 7, ABC News reports.
“The slightly modified criteria for the debate, which is sandwiched evenly between the Iowa caucuses on Feb. 3 and the New Hampshire primary on Feb. 11, includes the previous criteria of qualifying through the polling and grassroots thresholds but it also includes a new, second pathway to qualify. Any candidate who is awarded at least one pledged delegate to the Democratic National Convention based on the results of the Iowa caucuses, as reported and calculated by the Iowa Democratic Party, will be able to participate.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Justices Will Hear Trump Appeal In Birth Control Case

“ The Supreme Court on Friday agreed to hear the Trump administration ’ s appeal in a legal fight over @ @ @ @ @ s requirement that employer-based health plans cover birth control , ” The Hill reports .


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Bloomberg Picks Up Two Congressional Endorsements

In a span of 24 hours , Democratic presidential candidate Michael Bloomberg has picked up an additional pair of endorsements @ @ @ @ @ Stephanie Murphy ( D-FL ) and Rep. Harley Rouda ( D-CA ) , The Hill @ @


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Justices Will Hear Case on ‘Faithless Electors’

“ The Supreme Court on Friday said it will consider whether states may punish or replace ‘ faithless ’ presidential @ @ @ @ @ the winner of their state ’ s popular vote , or whether the Constitution forbids @ @ @ @ @ their ballots , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ Lower courts have split on @ @ @ @ @ red and blue states urged the justices to settle the matter in advance of the @ @ @ @ @ of the 2020 election .
They say they fear a handful of independent-minded members of @ @ @ @ @ next president.
” CNBC : “ A decision in the matter is expected by the @ @ @ @ @

“The Supreme Court on Friday said it will consider whether states may punish or replace ‘faithless’ presidential electors who refuse to support the winner of their state’s popular vote, or whether the Constitution forbids dictating how such officials cast their ballots,” the Washington Post reports.
“Lower courts have split on the question, and both red and blue states urged the justices to settle the matter in advance of the ‘white hot’ glare of the 2020 election. They say they fear a handful of independent-minded members of the electoral college deciding the next president.”
CNBC: “A decision in the matter is expected by the end of June.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Trump Rolls Back Healthier School Menus

Trump Rolls Back Healthier School Menus

“ The U.S. Department of Agriculture has taken another whack at former first lady Michelle Obama ’ s signature achievement @ @ @ @ @ for school breakfasts and lunches .
And on her birthday , ” the Washington Post @ @ @ @ @ Under Secretary Brandon Lipps announced new proposed rules for the Food and Nutrition Service that @ @ @ @ @ the amount of vegetables and fruits required at lunch and breakfasts while giving them the @ @ @ @ @ , burgers and fries to students.
” New York Times : “ The rule was @ @ @ @ @ condemned by nutritionists who predicted a comeback for starchy foods like potatoes and the return @ @ @ @ @

“The U.S. Department of Agriculture has taken another whack at former first lady Michelle Obama’s signature achievement: Establishing stricter nutritional standards for school breakfasts and lunches. And on her birthday,” the Washington Post reports.
“USDA Deputy Under Secretary Brandon Lipps announced new proposed rules for the Food and Nutrition Service that would allow schools to cut the amount of vegetables and fruits required at lunch and breakfasts while giving them the ability to sell more pizza, burgers and fries to students.”
New York Times: “The rule was applauded by food companies but condemned by nutritionists who predicted a comeback for starchy foods like potatoes and the return of daily hamburgers.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--What It Will Take for Democrats to Beat Trump

In case you missed the exclusive live stream on Political Wire earlier this week , the excellent conversation between GOP @ @ @ @ @ Riback is now posted on Chris Riback ’ s Conversations .


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Lara Trump Mocks Biden’s Stutter

Lara Trump Mocks Biden’s Stutter

Lara Trump , who ’ s married to President Trump ’ s son Eric , mocked Joe Biden ’ s @ @ @ @ @ kind of sad for Joe Biden .
I ’ m supposed to want him to @ @ @ @ @ but every time he comes on stage or they turn to him , I ’ @ @ @ @ @ you get it out ?
Let ’ s get the words out Joe . '
@ @ @ @ @ The problem is that ’ s their front runner.
” The Week : “ Trump @ @ @ @ @ by now that Biden worked to overcome the ‘ debilitating stutter ’ he had as @ @ @ @ @ former Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders learned when she mocked him for the same thing @ @ @ @ @ .
”

Lara Trump, who’s married to President Trump’s son Eric, mocked Joe Biden’s stutter: “I feel kind of sad for Joe Biden. I’m supposed to want him to fail at every turn, but every time he comes on stage or they turn to him, I’m like ‘Joe can you get it out? Let’s get the words out Joe.'”
She added: “The problem is that’s their front runner.”
The Week: “Trump probably should’ve heard by now that Biden worked to overcome the ‘debilitating stutter’ he had as a child — a lesson former Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders learned when she mocked him for the same thing less than a month ago.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Business Owners Are Wary of Warren and Sanders

New York Times : “ Wall Street ’ s disdain for the bottom-up populist campaigns of Senators Elizabeth Warren of @ @ @ @ @ Vermont has gotten a lot of attention… ” “ Wariness extends far beyond an elite @ @ @ @ @ to many small and medium-size businesses whose executives are not reflexively Republican but worry that @ @ @ @ @ Democrat would create an anti-business climate .
”

New York Times: “Wall Street’s disdain for the bottom-up populist campaigns of Senators Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and Bernie Sanders of Vermont has gotten a lot of attention…”
“Wariness extends far beyond an elite financial fellowship, though, to many small and medium-size businesses whose executives are not reflexively Republican but worry that the ascendancy of a left-wing Democrat would create an anti-business climate.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Trump Gets Boost from Anti-Abortion Group

Politico : “ This week , the Susan B. Anthony List and its affiliated super PAC , Women Speak Out @ @ @ @ @ 52 million effort to support Trump ’ s reelection and protect Republicans ’ slim majority @ @ @ @ @ ’ s the largest election-year spend so far for the GOP women ’ s group @ @ @ @ @ million on voter contact and advertising in 2016 and $ 32 million in the 2018 @ @ @ @ @ it comes after Planned Parenthood , a leading foe of the Trump administration , committed @ @ @ @ @ 45 million on its 2020 effort .
”

Politico: “This week, the Susan B. Anthony List and its affiliated super PAC, Women Speak Out, will launch a $52 million effort to support Trump’s reelection and protect Republicans’ slim majority in the Senate. It’s the largest election-year spend so far for the GOP women’s group, which dropped $18 million on voter contact and advertising in 2016 and $32 million in the 2018 midterm cycle.”
“And it comes after Planned Parenthood, a leading foe of the Trump administration, committed on Thursday to spending $45 million on its 2020 effort.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Extra Bonus Quote of the Day

Extra Bonus Quote of the Day

“ This is an election that will have such profound impact so take your vote seriously .
And for the @ @ @ @ @ vote for the person you think is most likely to win because at the end @ @ @ @ @ what will matter .
And not just the popular vote , but the electoral college @ @ @

“This is an election that will have such profound impact so take your vote seriously. And for the Democratic voters, try to vote for the person you think is most likely to win because at the end of the day that is what will matter. And not just the popular vote, but the electoral college too.”
— Hillary Clinton, quoted by Variety.


Trump’s Final Defense

Former White House chief of staff Reince Priebus previewed on Fox News what might be President Trump ’ s final @ @ @ @ @ : Sometimes the best defense is the ‘ so what ’ defense .
If everything @ @ @ @ @ , it ’ s still not impeachable .
If everything Lev Parnas said is true @ @ @ @ @ not impeachable .
That ’ s what this is about .
Greg Sargent : “ @ @ @ @ @ fog machine of disinformation and incoherence .
But the whole thing is must-watch TV .
@ @ @ @ @ up the claim that there ’ s nothing wrong with anything Trump did .
Those @ @ @ @ @ defense — and to justifying making the trial as much of a coverup as possible @ @

Former White House chief of staff Reince Priebus previewed on Fox News what might be President Trump’s final defense in his impeachment trial:
Sometimes the best defense is the ‘so what’ defense. If everything the Democrats said is true, it’s still not impeachable. If everything Lev Parnas said is true, it’s still not impeachable. That’s what this is about.
Greg Sargent: “The Hannity segment is a fog machine of disinformation and incoherence. But the whole thing is must-watch TV. It features arguments that set up the claim that there’s nothing wrong with anything Trump did. Those will be key to his defense — and to justifying making the trial as much of a coverup as possible.”


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Bonus Quote of the Day

Bonus Quote of the Day

“ You ’ ve got a good one now , even though they ’ re trying to impeach the son @ @ @ @ @ you believe that ?
” — President Trump , speaking about the presidency while honoring @ @ @ @ @

“You’ve got a good one now, even though they’re trying to impeach the son of a bitch. Can you believe that?”
— President Trump, speaking about the presidency while honoring the LSU football team.


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Tulsi Gabbard Wins Push-Up Contest

Tulsi Gabbard Wins Push-Up Contest

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard ( D-HI ) was challenged to a push-up contest by a man at a presidential primary town @ @ @ @ @ .


politicalwire--2020-01-17--Trump Says Pelosi Is Rigging Primaries Against Bernie

President Trump claims Speaker Nancy Pelosi is rigging the Democratic presidential primary against Bernie Sanders by forcing an impeachment trial @ @ @ @ @ They are rigging the election again against Bernie Sanders , just like last time , @ @ @ @ @ They are bringing him out of so important Iowa in order that , as a @ @ @ @ @ the Impeachment Hoax Trial .
Crazy Nancy thereby gives the strong edge to Sleepy Joe @ @ @ @ @ shut out again.
” He added : “ Very unfair , but that ’ s @ @ @ @ @ the game .
Anyway , it ’ s a lot of fun to watch !
@

President Trump claims Speaker Nancy Pelosi is rigging the Democratic presidential primary against Bernie Sanders by forcing an impeachment trial.
Tweeted Trump: “They are rigging the election again against Bernie Sanders, just like last time, only even more obviously. They are bringing him out of so important Iowa in order that, as a Senator, he sit through the Impeachment Hoax Trial. Crazy Nancy thereby gives the strong edge to Sleepy Joe Biden, and Bernie is shut out again.”
He added: “Very unfair, but that’s the way the Democrats play the game. Anyway, it’s a lot of fun to watch!”


politicalwire--2020-01-18--Sanders Mulls Warren as Both Veep and Treasury Secretary

“ The presidential campaign of Sen. Bernie Sanders has researched the question of whether the same person can serve as @ @ @ @ @ secretary , ” The Intercept reports .
“ The person the Sanders campaign had in @ @ @ @ @ Sen. Elizabeth Warren , his rival for the nomination and the bane of Wall Street @ @ @ @ @ “ The answer the lawyers came back with was yes : There is nothing in @ @ @ @ @ vice president from also serving as treasury secretary .
”

“The presidential campaign of Sen. Bernie Sanders has researched the question of whether the same person can serve as both vice president and treasury secretary,” The Intercept reports.
“The person the Sanders campaign had in mind with the inquiry was Sen. Elizabeth Warren, his rival for the nomination and the bane of Wall Street over the last decade.”
“The answer the lawyers came back with was yes: There is nothing in the Constitution that bars the vice president from also serving as treasury secretary.”


politicalwire--2020-01-18--Kansas City Radio to Broadcast Russian Propaganda

A Kansas City area radio station can broadcast Russian state-owned media programming , the type that U.S. intelligence called a @ @ @ @ @ for six hours a day through a lease agreement struck by a local radio operator @ @ @ @ @ reports .


politicalwire--2020-01-18--Senate GOP Mulls Speeding Up Impeachment Trial

“ Senate Republicans are discussing speeding up the pace of President Trump ’ s impeachment trial by using the trial @ @ @ @ @ of days each side has to make opening arguments , ” The Hill reports .
@ @ @ @ @ senators , are discussing giving both Trump ’ s legal team and House managers 24 @ @ @ @ @ , similar to the 1999 proceeding .
But unlike the Clinton trial , each side @ @ @ @ @ time within two days .
”

“Senate Republicans are discussing speeding up the pace of President Trump’s impeachment trial by using the trial rules to limit the number of days each side has to make opening arguments,” The Hill reports.
“Republicans, according to senators, are discussing giving both Trump’s legal team and House managers 24 hours to present their case, similar to the 1999 proceeding. But unlike the Clinton trial, each side would have to use their time within two days.”


politicalwire--2020-01-18--Bloomberg Will Keep Finances Secret Past Super Tuesday

“ Michael Bloomberg won ’ t have to publicly disclose his finances until late March , well after voters in @ @ @ @ @ take to the polls on Super Tuesday , ” the HuffPost reports .
“ Presidential @ @ @ @ @ their investments , businesses and streams of income .
Bloomberg is the only Democrat seeking @ @ @ @ @ yet to file paperwork to publicly disclose his.
” “ And under an extension granted @ @ @ @ @ Federal Election Commission — the second such one Bloomberg has received — he can postpone @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“Michael Bloomberg won’t have to publicly disclose his finances until late March, well after voters in more than a dozen states take to the polls on Super Tuesday,” the HuffPost reports.
“Presidential candidates are required to reveal their investments, businesses and streams of income. Bloomberg is the only Democrat seeking the White House who has yet to file paperwork to publicly disclose his.”
“And under an extension granted to him Friday by the Federal Election Commission — the second such one Bloomberg has received — he can postpone their release until March 20.”


politicalwire--2020-01-18--House Releases More Documents from Lev Parnas

The House Intelligence Committee released materials Friday provided by Lev Parnas , who investigators say acted as a “ direct @ @ @ @ @ and individuals close to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky , Axios reports .
“ The new @ @ @ @ @ and one of House Intelligence Ranking Member Devin Nunes ’ aides , highlighting surveillance efforts @ @ @ @ @ U.S. ambassador to Ukraine.
” Washington Post : “ The text messages corroborate Parnas ’ @ @ @ @ @ arranged conversations with the Ukrainian prosecutors for the Nunes aide .
And they deepen questions @ @ @ @ @ about the pressure campaign — even as he served as one of Trump ’ s @ @ @ @ @ House impeachment hearings .
”

The House Intelligence Committee released materials Friday provided by Lev Parnas, who investigators say acted as a “direct channel” between Rudy Giuliani and individuals close to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Axios reports.
“The new materials detail conversations between Parnas and one of House Intelligence Ranking Member Devin Nunes’ aides, highlighting surveillance efforts against Marie Yovanovitch, former U.S. ambassador to Ukraine.”
Washington Post: “The text messages corroborate Parnas’s previous claims that he arranged conversations with the Ukrainian prosecutors for the Nunes aide. And they deepen questions about how much Nunes knew about the pressure campaign — even as he served as one of Trump’s most vociferous defenders during the House impeachment hearings.”


politicalwire--2020-01-19--National Security Official Put on Leave

National Security Official Put on Leave

Andrew Peek , the senior director for European and Russian affairs at the National Security Council , has been placed @ @ @ @ @ security-related investigation , Axios reports .

“At least two brands have said they will suspend advertising on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, after their ads and those of other companies were run on an…


politicalwire--2020-01-18--Democrats Argue Trump Is a National Security Threat

“ The House Democratic managers argue the Senate must ‘ eliminate the threat that the President poses to America ’ @ @ @ @ @ the 111-page legal brief they filed Saturday , ” the Washington Post reports .
The @ @ @ @ @ s conduct as “ the Framers ’ worst nightmare ” “ With opening arguments in @ @ @ @ @ Tuesday afternoon , the seven House managers had until 5 p.m. Saturday to file their @ @ @ @ @ be convicted and removed from office .
The White House defense team has until noon @ @ @ @ @ why he should be acquited .
”

“The House Democratic managers argue the Senate must ‘eliminate the threat that the President poses to America’s national security’ in the 111-page legal brief they filed Saturday,” the Washington Post reports.
The brief also describes Trump’s conduct as “the Framers’ worst nightmare”
“With opening arguments in the Senate trial to begin Tuesday afternoon, the seven House managers had until 5 p.m. Saturday to file their brief describing why Trump should be convicted and removed from office. The White House defense team has until noon Monday to file its argument why he should be acquited.”


politicalwire--2020-01-18--Trump Team Attacks Impeachment as ‘Invalid’

“ President Trump launched his first formal attack on the House ’ s effort to remove him from office on @ @ @ @ @ ’ impeachment case against him fatally flawed and ‘ constitutionally invalid ’ while blasting the @ @ @ @ @ job by his adversaries , ” Politico reports .
Said the lawyers : “ This @ @ @ @ @ attempt to overturn the results of the 2016 election and interfere with the 2020 election.
@ @ @ @ @ “ The president ’ s lawyers did not deny any of the core facts underlying @ @ @ @ @ what ample evidence has shown , that he withheld $ 391 million in aid from @ @ @ @ @ ’ s president to investigate former Vice President Joseph Biden and his son , Hunter @ @ @ @ @ Trump broke no laws and was acting entirely appropriately and within his powers when he @ @ @ @

“President Trump launched his first formal attack on the House’s effort to remove him from office on Saturday, calling the Democrats’ impeachment case against him fatally flawed and ‘constitutionally invalid’ while blasting the effort as a political hit job by his adversaries,” Politico reports.
Said the lawyers: “This is a brazen and unlawful attempt to overturn the results of the 2016 election and interfere with the 2020 election.”
New York Times: “The president’s lawyers did not deny any of the core facts underlying Democrats’ charges, conceding what ample evidence has shown, that he withheld $391 million in aid from Ukraine and asked the country’s president to investigate former Vice President Joseph Biden and his son, Hunter. But they said Mr. Trump broke no laws and was acting entirely appropriately and within his powers when he did so.”


politicalwire--2020-01-18--Warren Picks Up Key Iowa Endorsement

Warren Picks Up Key Iowa Endorsement

Des Moines Register : “ Iowa Senate Democratic Leader Janet Petersen is endorsing Elizabeth Warren for president , moving off @ @ @ @ @ weeks of the caucus cycle after previously saying she did not plan to endorse anyone @ @


politicalwire--2020-01-18--Who Benefits from a Turnout Tsunami?

Who Benefits from a Turnout Tsunami?

This piece is only available to Political Wire members .
Your support makes this site possible .
Join today for @ @ @ @ @ and get exclusive analysis , new features and no advertising .
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politicalwire--2020-01-18--Trump ‘Distracted’ by Impeachment

Trump ‘Distracted’ by Impeachment

A source close to the White House who speaks to Donald Trump regularly told CNN the President has appeared “ @ @ @ @ @ trial that begins on Tuesday , telling people around him Friday night at Mar-a-Lago that @ @ @ @ @ understand why he is impeached .
”


politicalwire--2020-01-18--Democrats Will Use Untested Apps for Early Caucuses

“ Two of the first three states to vote in the Democratic presidential race will use new mobile apps to @ @ @ @ @ caucus sites — technology intended to make counting easier but that raises concerns of hacking @ @ @ @ @ AP reports .
“ Democratic Party activists in Iowa and Nevada will use programs downloaded @ @ @ @ @ report the results of caucus gatherings to the state headquarters .
That data will then @ @ @ @ @ unofficial winners .
Paper records will later be used to certify the results .
”

“Two of the first three states to vote in the Democratic presidential race will use new mobile apps to gather results from thousands of caucus sites — technology intended to make counting easier but that raises concerns of hacking or glitches,” the AP reports.
“Democratic Party activists in Iowa and Nevada will use programs downloaded to their personal phones to report the results of caucus gatherings to the state headquarters. That data will then be used to announce the unofficial winners. Paper records will later be used to certify the results.”


politicalwire--2020-01-18--Strategies to Win a Close Presidential Election

This piece is only available to Political Wire members.
Nearly every national poll suggests the 2020 presidential election will be close. And with only a handful of battleground states, the Electoral College could obviously go either way and even opposite the popular vote.


politicalwire--2020-01-18--Trump Privately Detailed Iran Airstrike to Donors

“ President Trump delivered a dramatic account of the airstrike that killed Iranian Gen. Qasem Soleimani , joked that he @ @ @ @ @ construction projects kill all the rattlesnakes and noted his indifference to the budget during a @ @ @ @ @ Friday night at Mar-a-Lago , ” according to audio files obtained by the Washington Post @ @ @ @ @ tone subdued and conversational , explained his motivation for attacking Soleimani and recounted listening to @ @ @ @ @ to the Jan. 3 strike.
” “ The president said nothing about an ‘ imminent @ @ @ @ @ or threats to four U.S. embassies as he previously has to justify the unilateral military @ @ @ @ @ the region and opened debate on presidential war powers .
”

“President Trump delivered a dramatic account of the airstrike that killed Iranian Gen. Qasem Soleimani, joked that he doesn’t care if construction projects kill all the rattlesnakes and noted his indifference to the budget during a private dinner with deep-pocketed donors Friday night at Mar-a-Lago,” according to audio files obtained by the Washington Post.
“Trump, his tone subdued and conversational, explained his motivation for attacking Soleimani and recounted listening to an anonymous military official countdown to the Jan. 3 strike.”
“The president said nothing about an ‘imminent attack’ on U.S. interests or threats to four U.S. embassies as he previously has to justify the unilateral military strike that escalated tensions in the region and opened debate on presidential war powers.”


politicalwire--2020-01-18--Never Trumpers Flame Out

Never Trumpers Flame Out

Politico : “ The ‘ Never Trump ’ movement had once hoped to embarrass President Donald Trump in 2020 with @ @ @ @ @ expose the president ’ s weaknesses within his own party .
But Trump ’ s @ @ @ @ @ even get on the ballot in many states , let alone gain traction with Republican @ @ @ @ @ start of primary season just weeks away , Trump rivals Joe Walsh and Bill Weld @ @ @ @ @ key battlegrounds .
Walsh won ’ t be competing in more than half of the @ @ @ @ @ filing deadlines have already passed , while Weld won ’ t be contending 12 of @ @ @ @ @ came Wednesday , when the two missed the deadline to make the Virginia ballot , @ @ @ @ @ .
”

Politico: “The ‘Never Trump’ movement had once hoped to embarrass President Donald Trump in 2020 with a primary challenge that would expose the president’s weaknesses within his own party. But Trump’s GOP opponents are failing to even get on the ballot in many states, let alone gain traction with Republican voters.”
“With the start of primary season just weeks away, Trump rivals Joe Walsh and Bill Weld are ceding an array of key battlegrounds. Walsh won’t be competing in more than half of the 30 states and territories whose filing deadlines have already passed, while Weld won’t be contending 12 of them. The latest blow came Wednesday, when the two missed the deadline to make the Virginia ballot, making Trump the sole contender.”


politicalwire--2020-01-18--Electing a Woman Not a Priority for Democrats

“ In the final weeks before the Iowa caucuses , the two leading female candidates remaining in the Democratic primary @ @ @ @ @ an asset , decisively pushing back against concerns that a woman can ’ t be @ @ @ @ @ New York Times reports .
“ Yet , the sisterhood may stop before the White @ @ @ @ @ nearly two dozen female voters in Iowa this week , the symbolism of breaking what @ @ @ @ @ highest , hardest glass ceiling ’ in politics seemed to be less resonant than ever @ @ @ @ @ voters , who were subsumed by anxiety about defeating Mr. Trump .
”

“In the final weeks before the Iowa caucuses, the two leading female candidates remaining in the Democratic primary are embracing their gender as an asset, decisively pushing back against concerns that a woman can’t be elected president,” the New York Times reports.
“Yet, the sisterhood may stop before the White House. In interviews with nearly two dozen female voters in Iowa this week, the symbolism of breaking what Hillary Clinton called ‘that highest, hardest glass ceiling’ in politics seemed to be less resonant than ever before, particularly for older voters, who were subsumed by anxiety about defeating Mr. Trump.”


politicalwire--2020-01-18--Buttigieg Hopes to Recapture Iowa Magic

Buttigieg Hopes to Recapture Iowa Magic

“ Pete Buttigieg is not touching the he-said-she-said between two of his chief primary rivals .
In fact , he @ @ @ @ @ lengths not to talk about any opponents at all , after spending the fall drawing @ @ @ @ @ Politico reports .
“ Instead , Buttigieg , who has dropped 5 to 7 points @ @ @ @ @ in a few months , is trying to regain the first-place position he once held @ @ @ @ @ on a message of party unity .
He ’ s staying outside of the conversation @ @ @ @ @ miles away from the impeachment proceedings that called his opponents in the Senate away to @ @ @ @

“Pete Buttigieg is not touching the he-said-she-said between two of his chief primary rivals. In fact, he’s going to great lengths not to talk about any opponents at all, after spending the fall drawing contrasts with them,” Politico reports.
“Instead, Buttigieg, who has dropped 5 to 7 points in the polling averages here in a few months, is trying to regain the first-place position he once held in Iowa, closing out on a message of party unity. He’s staying outside of the conversation dominating cable news, campaigning miles away from the impeachment proceedings that called his opponents in the Senate away to jury duty.”


Camo In Space?

The first U.S. Space Force uniforms were unveiled in a tweet from the Pentagon leading many to ask , “ @ @ @ @ @ A later tweet explained it was “ saving costs of designing ” a new one @ @ @ @ @ look like their joint counterparts they ’ ll be working with on the ground .
@

The first U.S. Space Force uniforms were unveiled in a tweet from the Pentagon leading many to ask, “Why the camouflage?”
A later tweet explained it was “saving costs of designing” a new one and so members “will look like their joint counterparts they’ll be working with on the ground.”


politicalwire--2020-01-18--Ex-Obama Photographer Mocks Trump

Ex-Obama Photographer Mocks Trump

Former White House photographer Pete Souza posts an old photo of Barack Obama in a grocery store with the caption @ @ @ @ @ peach as opposed to an impeached POTUS .
”


politicalwire--2020-01-18--Parnas Pressure Grows on Senate GOP

Parnas Pressure Grows on Senate GOP

The Hill : “ Pressure is growing on Senate Republicans to call Lev Parnas , an associate of President Trump @ @ @ @ @ Giuliani , to testify in the impeachment trial.
” “ Democrats are opening the door @ @ @ @ @ a witness at the impeachment trial after an explosive round of media interviews and new @ @ @ @ @ , which details Parnas ’ s role in trying to convince the Ukrainian government to @ @ @ @ @ Biden .
”

The Hill: “Pressure is growing on Senate Republicans to call Lev Parnas, an associate of President Trump’s personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani, to testify in the impeachment trial.”
“Democrats are opening the door to hearing from Parnas as a witness at the impeachment trial after an explosive round of media interviews and new evidence released by House Democrats, which details Parnas’s role in trying to convince the Ukrainian government to investigate former Vice President Joe Biden.”


politicalwire--2020-01-19--Senators Must Keep Quiet During Trial

Senators Must Keep Quiet During Trial

Associated Press : “ No cellphones .
No talking .
No escape .
That ’ s the reality during the @ @ @ @ @ of President Donald Trump , which will begin each day with a proclamation : ‘ @ @ @ @ @ keep silence , on pain of imprisonment.
’ After that , 100 senators will sit @ @ @ @ @ on end to hear from House prosecutors , Trump ’ s defense team and possibly @ @ @ @ @ ”

Associated Press: “No cellphones. No talking. No escape. That’s the reality during the Senate’s impeachment trial of President Donald Trump, which will begin each day with a proclamation: ‘All persons are commanded to keep silence, on pain of imprisonment.’ After that, 100 senators will sit at their desks for hours on end to hear from House prosecutors, Trump’s defense team and possibly a series of witnesses.”


politicalwire--2020-01-19--Dershowitz Says Abuse of Power Not Impeachable

Alan Dershowitz , a member of President Trump ’ s legal defense team for the impeachment trial , told CNN @ @ @ @ @ in the Senate that abuse of power and obstruction of Congress do not amount to @ @ @ @ @ proven .


politicalwire--2020-01-19--Trump Wants Trial Done by State of the Union

Sen. Lindsey Graham ( R-SC ) said President Trump hopes to have the Senate impeachment trial “ behind him ” @ @ @ @ @ of the Union address next month , CNN reports .


politicalwire--2020-01-19--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ As someone who has been very lucky in life , I often say my story would only have been @ @ @ @ @ that ’ s true .
But I also know that my story might have turned @ @ @ @ @ had been black , and that more black Americans of my generation would have ended @ @ @ @ @ , had they been white .
”

“As someone who has been very lucky in life, I often say my story would only have been possible in America, and that’s true. But I also know that my story might have turned out very differently if I had been black, and that more black Americans of my generation would have ended up with far more wealth, had they been white.”
— Michael Bloomberg, quoted by The Hill.