politicalwire--2020-04-27--Kushner Disappears from Pandemic Team

Kushner Disappears from Pandemic Team

Over the past two weeks , Jared Kushner “ has been notably removed from coronavirus-related operations , ” the Daily @ @ @ @ @ official working in the White House said it was ‘ unclear ’ exactly what he @ @ @ @ @ done over the last two weeks .
Another individual familiar with Kushner ’ s work @ @ @ @ @ received updates from his team in ‘ about a week . '
”

Over the past two weeks, Jared Kushner “has been notably removed from coronavirus-related operations,” the Daily Beast reports.
“One official working in the White House said it was ‘unclear’ exactly what he and his team had actually done over the last two weeks. Another individual familiar with Kushner’s work said they hadn’t received updates from his team in ‘about a week.'”


politicalwire--2020-04-28--Nearly Everyone Is Worried About the Economy

A new Axios-Ipsos poll finds 89 % of Americans now worry about the U.S. economy collapsing , a view that @ @ @ @

“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--2020-04-28--From the Smoke-Filled Zoom

From the Smoke-Filled Zoom

Tim Alberta assembled four veteran GOP campaign mangers to discuss the presidential race virtually .
“ There were still drinks @ @ @ @ @ were enjoying them in five different states and multiple time zones .
Think of it @ @ @ @ @ “ Over the course of 90 minutes , the panel zeroed in on some big-picture @ @ @ @ @ , including why Covid-19 threatens to tank turnout this November , fears about Trump ’ @ @ @ @ @ results are uncertain , and the one thing everyone agrees on : Whom the Democrats @ @ @ @ @ .
”

Tim Alberta assembled four veteran GOP campaign mangers to discuss the presidential race virtually.
“There were still drinks and cigars, but we were enjoying them in five different states and multiple time zones. Think of it as a smoke-filled Zoom.”
“Over the course of 90 minutes, the panel zeroed in on some big-picture worries and some tactical details, including why Covid-19 threatens to tank turnout this November, fears about Trump’s behavior if the election results are uncertain, and the one thing everyone agrees on: Whom the Democrats should nominate for vice president.”


politicalwire--2020-04-28--Kim May Be Trying to Avoid Coronavirus

Kim May Be Trying to Avoid Coronavirus

A South Korean minister says fear of catching the coronavirus could have kept North Korean leader Kim Jong Un away @ @ @ @ @ key holiday in mid-April , Reuters reports .


politicalwire--2020-04-28--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ I wish someone stood up and blew the bugle .
And if no one was going to blow the @ @ @ @ @ much better if I was a bugle blower last December and January .
… I @ @ @ @ @ today saying , ‘ I blew the bugle about Wuhan province in January.
’ I @ @ @ @ @ ” — Gov .
Andrew Cuomo , in an interview with Axios .

“I wish someone stood up and blew the bugle. And if no one was going to blow the bugle, I would feel much better if I was a bugle blower last December and January. … I would feel better sitting here today saying, ‘I blew the bugle about Wuhan province in January.’ I can’t say that.”
— Gov. Andrew Cuomo, in an interview with Axios.


politicalwire--2020-04-28--Americans Overwhelmingly Back Stay-at-Home Orders

A new Washington Post-University of Maryland poll finds 66 % of Americans say the restrictions on restaurants , stores and @ @ @ @ @ are appropriate , with another 16 % saying they are not tight enough .
Just @ @ @ @ @ on business activity too restrictive .
The public continues to have a somewhat negative view @ @ @ @ @ handling of the crisis , with 52 % saying that the way he ’ s @ @ @ @ @ “ not so good ” or “ poor , ” and 47 % saying that @ @ @ @ @ is “ excellent ” or “ good .
”

A new Washington Post-University of Maryland poll finds 66% of Americans say the restrictions on restaurants, stores and other businesses in their states are appropriate, with another 16% saying they are not tight enough.
Just 17% call the limits on business activity too restrictive.
The public continues to have a somewhat negative view of President Trump’s handling of the crisis, with 52% saying that the way he’s dealt with it is either “not so good” or “poor,” and 47% saying that the job he has done is “excellent” or “good.”


politicalwire--2020-04-28--Trump Campaign Lashes Out at ‘Don’t Defend Trump’  Memo

Politico : “ Earlier this month , the Senate Republican campaign arm circulated a memo with shocking advice to GOP @ @ @ @ @ : ‘ Don ’ t defend Trump , other than the China Travel Ban — @ @ @ @ @ campaign was furious… ” “ The episode illustrates how the Trump political apparatus demands — @ @ @ @ @ fellow Republicans and moves aggressively to tamp down on any perceived dissent within the GOP @ @ @ @ @ iron grip on his party , even as his poll numbers sag and he confronts @ @ @ @ @ his response to the coronavirus pandemic .
”

Politico: “Earlier this month, the Senate Republican campaign arm circulated a memo with shocking advice to GOP candidates on responding to coronavirus: ‘Don’t defend Trump, other than the China Travel Ban — attack China.’ The Trump campaign was furious…”
“The episode illustrates how the Trump political apparatus demands — and receives — fealty from fellow Republicans and moves aggressively to tamp down on any perceived dissent within the GOP. The president maintains an iron grip on his party, even as his poll numbers sag and he confronts fierce criticism from Democrats over his response to the coronavirus pandemic.”


politicalwire--2020-04-28--Biden’s Running Mate Search Heats Up

Biden’s Running Mate Search Heats Up

Politico : “ Joe Biden ’ s advisers and allies have become torn over whether it is more important to @ @ @ @ @ progressive running mate .
While the two aren ’ t necessarily mutually exclusive , there @ @ @ @ @ whether Biden ‘ has the black vote locked up ’ or ‘ whether the bigger @ @ @ @ @ put someone left-leaning ’ on the ticket.
” “ The strategist was one of multiple @ @ @ @ @ in and around the periphery of Biden ’ s campaign about the significance of race @ @ @ @ @ presidential selection .
They are also debating how wary Biden should be of selecting someone @ @ @ @ @ by the rigors of a presidential campaign.
” “ The need to generate enthusiasm within @ @ @ @ @ driving force in every scenario — and potential running mates and their supporters are well @ @ @ @ @ an effort to frame Biden ’ s thinking , a number of them are now @ @ @ @ @ some cases aggressive , lobbying and counter-lobbying campaigns .
”

Politico: “Joe Biden’s advisers and allies have become torn over whether it is more important to choose an African-American or a progressive running mate. While the two aren’t necessarily mutually exclusive, there is an ongoing debate about whether Biden ‘has the black vote locked up’ or ‘whether the bigger need we have is to put someone left-leaning’ on the ticket.”
“The strategist was one of multiple Democrats who described a debate in and around the periphery of Biden’s campaign about the significance of race and ideology in the vice presidential selection. They are also debating how wary Biden should be of selecting someone who has not been tested by the rigors of a presidential campaign.”
“The need to generate enthusiasm within the Democratic base is a driving force in every scenario — and potential running mates and their supporters are well aware of it. In an effort to frame Biden’s thinking, a number of them are now mounting early and, in some cases aggressive, lobbying and counter-lobbying campaigns.”


Oil Continues Slide

Wall Street Journal : “ Oil prices slid further on Tuesday , signaling a bleak outlook for energy demand even @ @ @ @ @ restart their economies during the coronavirus pandemic .
U.S. crude futures for delivery in June @ @ @ @ @ 10.65 a barrel , a day after the U.S. oil price benchmark tumbled 25 % @ @


politicalwire--2020-04-28--‘Normal’ Is Still a Ways Off

‘Normal’ Is Still a Ways Off

Associated Press : “ As some governors across the United States begin to ease restrictions imposed to stop the spread @ @ @ @ @ are soaring that life as Americans knew it might be returning .
But plans emerging @ @ @ @ @ ‘ normal ’ is still a long way off.
” “ White House adviser Dr. @ @ @ @ @ will be with Americans through the summer .
Louisiana Gov .
John Bel Edwards warns @ @ @ @ @ of life ’ until there is a widely available vaccine — maybe not until next @ @ @ @ @ .
Andrew Cuomo says : ‘ There is no return to yesterday in life.
’ @ @ @ @ @ , the pandemic forced impossible choices : physical health or mental health ?
Economic well-being @ @ @ @ @ states joined the world and turned the dial down hard , closing shops and restaurants @ @ @ @ @ Asking people to largely keep to their homes .
Now , the dial is beginning @ @ @ @ @ direction .
”

Associated Press: “As some governors across the United States begin to ease restrictions imposed to stop the spread of the coronavirus, hopes are soaring that life as Americans knew it might be returning. But plans emerging in many states indicate that ‘normal’ is still a long way off.”
“White House adviser Dr. Deborah Birx says social distancing will be with Americans through the summer. Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards warns of a ‘different way of life’ until there is a widely available vaccine — maybe not until next year. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo says: ‘There is no return to yesterday in life.’”
“From the beginning, the pandemic forced impossible choices: physical health or mental health? Economic well-being or medical safety? Most states joined the world and turned the dial down hard, closing shops and restaurants, factories and schools. Asking people to largely keep to their homes. Now, the dial is beginning to inch in the opposite direction.”


politicalwire--2020-04-28--The GOP’s High-Wire Act on Reopening

The GOP’s High-Wire Act on Reopening

Politico : “ Republicans are trying to pull off a high-wire act over the next three months : Reopen the @ @ @ @ @ jobless Americans back to work and off the public dole , while resisting another giant @ @ @ @ @ they fail , they ’ ll face a coronavirus cliff — an even deeper collapse @ @ @ @ @ in the months before Election Day .
That could both damage President Trump ’ s @ @ @ @ @ party ’ s Senate majority at serious risk.
” “ Republicans are currently betting that @ @ @ @ @ be successful and the nearly $ 3 trillion already allocated by lawmakers — the largest @ @ @ @ @ — will be at least close to enough to start bringing the unemployment rate down @ @ @ @ @ up .
”

Politico: “Republicans are trying to pull off a high-wire act over the next three months: Reopen the economy enough to get most jobless Americans back to work and off the public dole, while resisting another giant stimulus package.”
“If they fail, they’ll face a coronavirus cliff — an even deeper collapse in spending and sky-high unemployment in the months before Election Day. That could both damage President Trump’s reelection prospects and put the party’s Senate majority at serious risk.”
“Republicans are currently betting that efforts to reopen states will be successful and the nearly $3 trillion already allocated by lawmakers — the largest federal rescue in American history — will be at least close to enough to start bringing the unemployment rate down and sending economic growth back up.”


politicalwire--2020-04-28--Coronavirus Debt to Exceed World War II Record

“ The Congressional Budget Office now expects that the coronavirus will push the federal debt to the highest level in @ @ @ @ @ record set during World War II , ” the Washington Examiner reports .
“ Taking @ @ @ @ @ dollars in new spending and the economic downturn caused by the coronavirus and related shutdowns @ @ @ @ @ to add $ 5.8 trillion to the debt in the next two years , bringing @ @ @ @ @ of GDP by the end of 2021 .
”

“The Congressional Budget Office now expects that the coronavirus will push the federal debt to the highest level in history, exceeding the previous record set during World War II,” the Washington Examiner reports.
“Taking into account the trillions of dollars in new spending and the economic downturn caused by the coronavirus and related shutdowns, CBO expects the U.S. to add $5.8 trillion to the debt in the next two years, bringing the debt to 108% of GDP by the end of 2021.”


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Kweisi Mfume Will Return to Congress

Kweisi Mfume Will Return to Congress

Kweisi Mfume , a former Democratic congressman and president of the NAACP , won a special election to represent Baltimore @ @ @ @ @ seat he held nearly 25 years ago to finish the term of his successor , @ @ @ @ @ died in October , the New York Times reports .


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Justin Amash Explores Bid for President

Justin Amash Explores Bid for President

Rep. Justin Amash ( I-MI ) announced an exploratory committee to run for president on the Libertarian Party ticket .
@ @ @ @ @ ’ re ready for a presidency that will restore respect for our Constitution and bring @ @ @ @ @ m excited and honored to be taking these first steps toward serving Americans of every @ @ @ @ @ : “ Amash gained notoriety last year when he came out as the lone House @ @ @ @ @ of President Trump following the publication of the Mueller report .
He later switched his @ @ @ @ @ ”

Rep. Justin Amash (I-MI) announced an exploratory committee to run for president on the Libertarian Party ticket.
Said Amash: “We’re ready for a presidency that will restore respect for our Constitution and bring people together. I’m excited and honored to be taking these first steps toward serving Americans of every background as president.”
Axios: “Amash gained notoriety last year when he came out as the lone House Republican to support the impeachment of President Trump following the publication of the Mueller report. He later switched his party affiliation to independent.”


politicalwire--2020-04-28--Yang Sues Over Shutdown of New York Primary

“ Andrew Yang , the former presidential candidate , is suing the New York State Board of Elections in federal @ @ @ @ @ commission effectively canceled the Democratic presidential primary there , ” the Politico reports .
“ @ @ @ @ @ New Yorkers who filed to serve as Yang delegates to the Democratic National Convention , @ @ @ @ @ should not be removed because they had otherwise met the requirements to be on the @ @ @

“Andrew Yang, the former presidential candidate, is suing the New York State Board of Elections in federal court after the state election commission effectively canceled the Democratic presidential primary there,” the Politico reports.
“Yang, along with seven New Yorkers who filed to serve as Yang delegates to the Democratic National Convention, filed suit on Monday arguing that they should not be removed because they had otherwise met the requirements to be on the ballot.”


politicalwire--2020-04-28--Trump Would Tie Aid to Action on Sanctuary Cities

President Trump indicated he wouldn ’ t allow federal aid for states facing budget deficits from the coronavirus outbreak unless @ @ @ @ @ sanctuary cities ” — municipalities that prevent their police from cooperating with immigration authorities , @ @ @ @ @ : “ We would want certain things including sanctuary city adjustments , because we have @ @ @ @ @ cities .
What ’ s happening is people are being protected that shouldn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ of bad things are happening with sanctuary cities .
”

President Trump indicated he wouldn’t allow federal aid for states facing budget deficits from the coronavirus outbreak unless they take action against “sanctuary cities” — municipalities that prevent their police from cooperating with immigration authorities, Bloomberg reports.
Said Trump: “We would want certain things including sanctuary city adjustments, because we have so many people in sanctuary cities. What’s happening is people are being protected that shouldn’t be protected and a lot of bad things are happening with sanctuary cities.”


politicalwire--2020-04-28--China’s Factories Are Back, But Not Consumers

New York Times : “ As the coronavirus outbreak ebbs in China , the country ’ s companies and officials @ @ @ @ @ restarting its economy .
Its factories , brought to a standstill when the coronavirus outbreak @ @ @ @ @ January , are humming again , and even the air pollution is coming back.
” @ @ @ @ @ the tougher task .
Many lost their jobs or had their pay slashed .
Still @ @ @ @ @ of idleness and home confinement , a time when many had to depend on their @ @ @ @ @ a generation of young Chinese people known for their American-style shopping sprees , saving and @ @ @ @ @ appeal .
”

New York Times: “As the coronavirus outbreak ebbs in China, the country’s companies and officials have made big strides in restarting its economy. Its factories, brought to a standstill when the coronavirus outbreak swept through the country in January, are humming again, and even the air pollution is coming back.”
“Empowering consumers could be the tougher task. Many lost their jobs or had their pay slashed. Still others were shaken by weeks of idleness and home confinement, a time when many had to depend on their savings to eat. For a generation of young Chinese people known for their American-style shopping sprees, saving and thrift hold a sudden new appeal.”


politicalwire--2020-04-28--The Most Anti-Science President In U.S. History

New York Times : “ As the nation confronts one of its worst public health disasters in generations , a @ @ @ @ @ willing to marshal the full might of the American scientific establishment , the White House @ @ @ @ @ whose administration , critics say , has diminished the conclusions of scientists in formulating policy @ @ @ @ @ suspicion of expert knowledge , and who often puts his political instincts ahead of the @ @ @ @ @ Douglas Brinkley : “ Donald Trump is the most anti-science and anti-environment president we ’ @ @ @ @ @ Well before winning the presidency , Mr. Trump had publicly questioned science by expressing skepticism @ @ @ @ @ change was a hoax fabricated by China .
Once in office , Mr. Trump ’ @ @ @ @ @ on one of its most far-reaching policies — the systematic downplaying or ignoring of science @ @ @ @ @ health and global warming regulations .
”

New York Times: “As the nation confronts one of its worst public health disasters in generations, a moment that demands a leader willing to marshal the full might of the American scientific establishment, the White House is occupied by a president whose administration, critics say, has diminished the conclusions of scientists in formulating policy, who personally harbors a suspicion of expert knowledge, and who often puts his political instincts ahead of the facts.”
Said presidential historian Douglas Brinkley: “Donald Trump is the most anti-science and anti-environment president we’ve ever had.”
“Well before winning the presidency, Mr. Trump had publicly questioned science by expressing skepticism about vaccines and suggesting climate change was a hoax fabricated by China. Once in office, Mr. Trump’s administration quickly began work on one of its most far-reaching policies — the systematic downplaying or ignoring of science in order to weaken environmental health and global warming regulations.”


politicalwire--2020-04-28--Pence Wouldn’t Wear Mask at Mayo Clinic

Pence Wouldn’t Wear Mask at Mayo Clinic

Vice President Mike Pence ignored face mask guidelines when visiting the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota today .
The Mayo Clinic @ @ @ @ @ now deleted : “ Mayo Clinic had informed Vice President Pence of the masking policy @ @ @ @ @ .
”


politicalwire--2020-04-28--McConnell Will Block Infrastructure Funds

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell ( R-KY ) “ panned the idea of using a coronavirus stimulus bill to fund @ @ @ @ @ conference call today with Republican senators , ” Axios reports .
“ President Trump has @ @ @ @ @ and McConnell is moving early to crush it and more generally , encouraging Republican senators @ @ @ @ @ s freewheeling spending ideas.
” Said McConnell : “ We need to keep the White @ @ @ @ @ The Democrats and the White House both need to get the message .
”

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) “panned the idea of using a coronavirus stimulus bill to fund major infrastructure investment in a conference call today with Republican senators,” Axios reports.
“President Trump has been floating the idea — and McConnell is moving early to crush it and more generally, encouraging Republican senators to buck the president’s freewheeling spending ideas.”
Said McConnell: “We need to keep the White House in the box. The Democrats and the White House both need to get the message.”


politicalwire--2020-04-28--Trump Banking on Cheap Facebook Ads to Win Again

New York Times : “ The campaign ’ s digital strategy has the advantages of far more time , money and data than it did the previous cycle .
But its chief asset remains the same as in 2016 : a compulsively performative , pugilistic and norm-shredding candidate who demonstrably will stop at nothing to win — so prolific a generator of outrageous ad content that one 2016 R.N.C .
operative likens working for him to ‘ fishing with dynamite . '
” “ The dynamite , as in 2016 , takes the form of Facebook ads with thousands of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ groups in specific locales with specific issue interests and demographic profiles .
Turning passive viewers of these ads into small donors is among Parscale ’ s key objectives , and not only for the money : Every online donor provides personal data for the campaign to use and the investment in Trump makes it almost certain that someone will show up to the polls and vote for him.
” “ The Facebook ads themselves have always been cheap , but as The Atlantic recently reported , they now can cost 40 percent less @ @ @ @ @ @ @

New York Times: “The campaign’s digital strategy has the advantages of far more time, money and data than it did the previous cycle. But its chief asset remains the same as in 2016: a compulsively performative, pugilistic and norm-shredding candidate who demonstrably will stop at nothing to win — so prolific a generator of outrageous ad content that one 2016 R.N.C. operative likens working for him to ‘fishing with dynamite.'”
“The dynamite, as in 2016, takes the form of Facebook ads with thousands of barely detectable variants, each targeting voting groups in specific locales with specific issue interests and demographic profiles. Turning passive viewers of these ads into small donors is among Parscale’s key objectives, and not only for the money: Every online donor provides personal data for the campaign to use and the investment in Trump makes it almost certain that someone will show up to the polls and vote for him.”
“The Facebook ads themselves have always been cheap, but as The Atlantic recently reported, they now can cost 40 percent less because of coronavirus-induced market tremors.”


politicalwire--2020-04-28--U.S. Has Had 1 Million Coronavirus Cases

The U.S. has reached the milestone of one million confirmed coronavirus cases , according to Johns Hopkins University .
The @ @ @ @ @ over 57,000 .

The U.S. has reached the milestone of one million confirmed coronavirus cases, according to Johns Hopkins University.
The U.S. death toll is now over 57,000.


politicalwire--2020-04-28--Kentucky Governor Thought He Was Being Pranked

“ Kentucky Gov .
Andy Beshear ( D ) went full Dad-mode during his Monday night news conference , calling @ @ @ @ @ ’ who filed for unemployment under fake names during the coronavirus pandemic , ” the @ @ @ @ @ Said Beshear : “ We had somebody apply for unemployment for Tupac Shakur here in @ @ @ @ @ may have thought they were being funny , they probably did .
Except for the @ @ @ @ @ , we had to go through so many other claims.
” “ One problem : @ @ @ @ @ Kentucky .
And he ’ s waiting on his unemployment benefits .
”

“Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear (D) went full Dad-mode during his Monday night news conference, calling out the ‘bad apples’ who filed for unemployment under fake names during the coronavirus pandemic,” the Lexington Herald Leader reports.
Said Beshear: “We had somebody apply for unemployment for Tupac Shakur here in Kentucky. And that person may have thought they were being funny, they probably did. Except for the fact that because of them, we had to go through so many other claims.”
“One problem: Tupac Shakur does live in Kentucky. And he’s waiting on his unemployment benefits.”


politicalwire--2020-04-28--Top Democrats Stand Behind Biden After Allegation

“ Prominent Democrats , including some women thought to be on Joe Biden ’ s running-mate shortlist , have lined @ @ @ @ @ president in the month since Tara Reade , a former Senate staffer , made public @ @ @ @ @ her once in the 1990s , ” the Wall Street Journal reports .
“ Sens @ @ @ @ @ and Kamala Harris of California and former Georgia House Minority Leader Stacey Abrams all have @ @ @ @ @ women making such allegations and take them seriously .
But they haven ’ t wavered @ @ @ @ @ Biden .
”

“Prominent Democrats, including some women thought to be on Joe Biden’s running-mate shortlist, have lined up behind the former vice president in the month since Tara Reade, a former Senate staffer, made public an allegation he sexually assaulted her once in the 1990s,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
“Sens. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota and Kamala Harris of California and former Georgia House Minority Leader Stacey Abrams all have said publicly that they respect women making such allegations and take them seriously. But they haven’t wavered in their support for Mr. Biden.”


politicalwire--2020-04-28--Trump Orders Meat Plants to Stay Open

Trump Orders Meat Plants to Stay Open

“ President Trump plans to order meat-processing plants to remain open , declaring them critical infrastructure as the nation confronts @ @ @ @ @ supply , ” Bloomberg reports .
“ Trump plans to use the Defense Production Act @ @ @ @ @ stay open , and the government will provide additional protective gear for employees as well @ @ @ @

“President Trump plans to order meat-processing plants to remain open, declaring them critical infrastructure as the nation confronts growing disruptions to the food supply,” Bloomberg reports.
“Trump plans to use the Defense Production Act to order the companies to stay open, and the government will provide additional protective gear for employees as well as guidance.”


politicalwire--2020-04-28--Hillary Clinton to Endorse Biden

Hillary Clinton to Endorse Biden

Hillary Clinton is expected to endorse Joe Biden later today in an online conversation about the impact of the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ York Times reports .
“ Both beloved and blamed for her narrow loss to Mr. @ @ @ @ @ possesses a loyal and powerful constituency of female supporters who argue that the election was @ @ @ @ @ hackers .
”

Hillary Clinton is expected to endorse Joe Biden later today in an online conversation about the impact of the coronavirus on women, the New York Times reports.
“Both beloved and blamed for her narrow loss to Mr. Trump in 2016, she possesses a loyal and powerful constituency of female supporters who argue that the election was stolen from her by Russian hackers.”


politicalwire--2020-04-28--Kansas Democrats Triple Turnout After Switch to Mail Vote

“ Kansas Democrats have already more than tripled their turnout from the 2016 presidential caucus after switching to an all-mail @ @ @ @ @ year , ” the Kansas City Star 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--2020-04-28--Ex-Sanders Aides Create Super PAC to Support Biden

“ Former top advisers to Sen. Bernie Sanders are teaming up on a surprising new venture to try to rally @ @ @ @ @ ’ s 2020 campaign : a super PAC , ” the New York Times reports @ @ @ @ @ who served as Mr. Sanders ’ s campaign manager in 2016 and as a top @ @ @ @ @ Mark Longabaugh , who worked for Mr. Sanders in 2016 but left the 2020 campaign @ @ @ @ @ leading figures behind the effort.
” “ Mr .
Sanders has railed for years against @ @ @ @ @ accepted unlimited donations , emphasizing his reliance on millions of small contributions from supporters online @ @ @ @ @ bids .
Mr. Sanders , through a spokesman , did not immediately respond to a @ @ @ @ @ new group .
”

“Former top advisers to Sen. Bernie Sanders are teaming up on a surprising new venture to try to rally progressive support for Joe Biden’s 2020 campaign: a super PAC,” the New York Times reports.
“Jeff Weaver, who served as Mr. Sanders’s campaign manager in 2016 and as a top adviser in 2020, and Mark Longabaugh, who worked for Mr. Sanders in 2016 but left the 2020 campaign early on, are the leading figures behind the effort.”
“Mr. Sanders has railed for years against super PACs, which can accepted unlimited donations, emphasizing his reliance on millions of small contributions from supporters online to fuel his two presidential bids. Mr. Sanders, through a spokesman, did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the new group.”


Note to Readers

From the Democratic primaries to the Trump impeachment to the global pandemic , Political Wire has updated you with the @ @ @ @ @ the day .
You ’ ve received valuable information , insight — and sometimes solace @ @ @ @ @ times .
The only way this site survives is with the support of readers like @ @ @ @ @

From the presidential primaries to the Trump impeachment to the global pandemic, Political Wire has kept you updated on the most important political news. You’ve received valuable information, insight — and sometimes solace — during these very difficult times.
This site is possible because of readers like you. Subscribe today.


politicalwire--2020-04-28--Most Think Pandemic Will Disrupt Election

A new Pew Research poll finds that 67 % — including 80 % of Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents and 50 @ @ @ @ @ leaners — say it is very or somewhat likely that the coronavirus outbreak will significantly @ @ @ @ @ to vote in the presidential election .

A new Pew Research poll finds that 67% — including 80% of Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents and 50% of Republicans and Republican leaners — say it is very or somewhat likely that the coronavirus outbreak will significantly disrupt people’s ability to vote in the presidential election.


politicalwire--2020-04-28--Senate Will Take Action on Embattled Fed Pick

“ The Senate Banking Committee is expected to mark up Judy Shelton ’ s nomination to the Federal Reserve next @ @ @ @ @ is expected to pass the panel along with Christopher Waller , another Fed nominee , @ @ @ @ @ “ Shelton has since backed off her advocacy for returning to the gold standard .
@

“The Senate Banking Committee is expected to mark up Judy Shelton’s nomination to the Federal Reserve next Tuesday, a signal she is expected to pass the panel along with Christopher Waller, another Fed nominee,” The Hill reports.
“Shelton has since backed off her advocacy for returning to the gold standard.”


politicalwire--2020-04-28--Trump Wants to Test International Arrivals

President Trump said he ’ s considering requiring people arriving in the U.S. aboard international flights to be tested for @ @ @ @ @ .


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Race for Coronavirus Vaccine Accelerates

Wall Street Journal : “ The race for a vaccine to combat the new coronavirus is moving faster than researchers @ @ @ @ @ Pfizer joining several other groups saying that they had accelerated the timetable for testing and @ @ @ @ @ ready for emergency use in the fall .
”

Wall Street Journal: “The race for a vaccine to combat the new coronavirus is moving faster than researchers and drugmakers expected, with Pfizer joining several other groups saying that they had accelerated the timetable for testing and that a vaccine could be ready for emergency use in the fall.”


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Senate Republicans to Push Ahead on Judges

“ Senate Republicans plan to push ahead next week with a confirmation hearing for a contested nominee to the U.S. @ @ @ @ @ District of Columbia Circuit , moving on a rapid timetable that signals they intend to @ @ @ @ @ putting conservative judges on the bench , even amid a pandemic , ” the New @ @ @ @

“Senate Republicans plan to push ahead next week with a confirmation hearing for a contested nominee to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, moving on a rapid timetable that signals they intend to remain aggressive this year in putting conservative judges on the bench, even amid a pandemic,” the New York Times reports.


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Governors-Turned-Senators Make Case for Aid

“ Governors insisting they need federal relief to combat massive budget shortfalls inflicted by the coronavirus crisis are finding some @ @ @ @ @ especially understand their plight : Senators who used to be governors , ” the Washington @ @ @ @ @ governors-turned-senators are making the case that the additional funding for states is not just necessary @ @ @ @ @ ’ s overall economic recovery , as the National Governors Association calls for $ 500 @ @ @ @ @ .
They ’ re fighting back against arguments from President Trump , who has sought @ @ @ @ @ as fiscally irresponsible blue states , and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell , who said @ @ @ @ @ seek bankruptcy protections instead of a bailout .
”

“Governors insisting they need federal relief to combat massive budget shortfalls inflicted by the coronavirus crisis are finding some allies on Capitol Hill who especially understand their plight: Senators who used to be governors,” the Washington Post reports.
“These governors-turned-senators are making the case that the additional funding for states is not just necessary but essential to the country’s overall economic recovery, as the National Governors Association calls for $500 billion in direct federal aid. They’re fighting back against arguments from President Trump, who has sought to depict states requesting aid as fiscally irresponsible blue states, and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, who said last week that states should seek bankruptcy protections instead of a bailout.”


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Half of Americans Financially Affected By Coronavirus

A new NPR/PBS NewsHour/Marist poll finds 50 % of Americans said they or someone in their household has either lost @ @ @ @ @ of coronavirus , up from 18 % a month ago .
And the pandemic is @ @ @ @ @ on people of color , those without a college degree , younger people and those @ @ @ @ @ Of non-whites , 60 % said they or someone in their household has lost hours @ @ @ @ @ to 43 % of whites ; 55 % percent of those without a degree , @ @ @ @ @ making less than $ 50,000 a year also said so .

A new NPR/PBS NewsHour/Marist poll finds 50% of Americans said they or someone in their household has either lost hours or a job because of coronavirus, up from 18% a month ago.
And the pandemic is having a harsher economic effect on people of color, those without a college degree, younger people and those who make less money. Of non-whites, 60% said they or someone in their household has lost hours or a job, compared to 43% of whites; 55% percent of those without a degree, those under 45 and those making less than $50,000 a year also said so.


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Roger Stone Search Warrants Reveal New Mysteries

“ Nearly three-dozen search warrants unsealed late Tuesday reveal a web of contacts between longtime Donald Trump confidant Roger Stone @ @ @ @ @ and other key figures in the long-running probe of Russian interference in the 2016 election @ @ @ @ @ “ Stone , who was convicted last year of lying to House investigators during their @ @ @ @ @ never charged with aiding efforts by Russia .
But his contacts with Assange add new @ @ @ @ @ he long denied existed.
” “ In a set of 2017 messages revealed in one @ @ @ @ @ Assange — who spent years in asylum in the Ecuadorian embassy in London before being @ @ @ @ @ year — that he would ‘ bring down the entire house of cards ’ if @ @ @ @ @ ”

“Nearly three-dozen search warrants unsealed late Tuesday reveal a web of contacts between longtime Donald Trump confidant Roger Stone, WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange and other key figures in the long-running probe of Russian interference in the 2016 election,” Politico reports.
“Stone, who was convicted last year of lying to House investigators during their own Russia probe, was never charged with aiding efforts by Russia. But his contacts with Assange add new details to a relationship that he long denied existed.”
“In a set of 2017 messages revealed in one search warrant, Stone assured Assange — who spent years in asylum in the Ecuadorian embassy in London before being arrested by British authorities last year — that he would ‘bring down the entire house of cards’ if U.S. prosecutors pursued him.”


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Trump Seek Proof China Hid Pandemic

Trump Seek Proof China Hid Pandemic

“ The White House has ordered intelligence agencies to comb through communications intercepts , human source reporting , satellite imagery @ @ @ @ @ whether China and the World Health Organization initially hid what they knew about the emerging @ @ @ @ @ News reports .


politicalwire--2020-04-29--GDP Report to Show Severely Damaged Economy

Associated Press : “ On Wednesday , the government will offer a glimpse of how dark the picture has grown @ @ @ @ @ could get as the coronavirus pandemic inflicts ruinous damage .
The Commerce Department is expected @ @ @ @ @ domestic product , the broadest gauge of the economy , shrank at an annual rate @ @ @ @ @ in the January-March quarter.
” “ That would be the sharpest quarterly drop in GDP @ @ @ @ @ which ended in 2009 .
And it would be the first quarterly contraction in six @ @ @ @ @ forecasters say that will be only a precursor of a far grimmer GDP report to @ @ @ @ @ quarter , when business shutdowns and layoffs have struck with devastating force .
The Congressional @ @ @ @ @ GDP will plunge in the current quarter by a 40 % annual rate .
That @ @ @ @ @ breathtaking margin , the bleakest quarter since such records were first compiled in 1947 .
@

Associated Press: “On Wednesday, the government will offer a glimpse of how dark the picture has grown and how much worse it could get as the coronavirus pandemic inflicts ruinous damage. The Commerce Department is expected to estimate that the gross domestic product, the broadest gauge of the economy, shrank at an annual rate of 5% or more in the January-March quarter.”
“That would be the sharpest quarterly drop in GDP since the Great Recession, which ended in 2009. And it would be the first quarterly contraction in six years.”
“And yet forecasters say that will be only a precursor of a far grimmer GDP report to come for the current April-June quarter, when business shutdowns and layoffs have struck with devastating force. The Congressional Budget Office has estimated that GDP will plunge in the current quarter by a 40% annual rate. That would be, by a breathtaking margin, the bleakest quarter since such records were first compiled in 1947.”


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Pandemic Death Toll Now Exceeds Vietnam War

Reuters reports 58,611 Americans have now died in the coronavirus pandemic .
The U.S. death toll has now exceeded that @ @ @ @ @ The New York Times reports the current death figures are almost certainly underestimating the actual @ @ @

Reuters reports 58,611 Americans have now died in the coronavirus pandemic.
The U.S. death toll has now exceeded that of the Vietnam War.
The New York Times reports the current death figures are almost certainly underestimating the actual death toll.


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Most Think Trump Doing a Poor Job

Most Think Trump Doing a Poor Job

PBS Newshour/NPR/Marist Poll : “ When asked about how the president has handled the coronavirus pandemic , 55 % of @ @ @ @ @ think he is doing a good job , up slightly from 49 % in March @ @


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Big Majority Expect Second Wave of Coronavirus

A new Politico/Morning Consult poll finds 73 % of those surveyed think Americans should continue social distancing , even if @ @ @ @ @ the U.S. economy .
Just 15 % say social distancing should end to boost the @ @ @ @ @ virus spreads .
Meanwhile , the poll also shows voters are girding for a second @ @ @ @ @ % say that second wave is very or somewhat likely .
Only 9 % say @ @ @ @ @

A new Politico/Morning Consult poll finds 73% of those surveyed think Americans should continue social distancing, even if it means continued damage to the U.S. economy. Just 15% say social distancing should end to boost the economy, even if the virus spreads.
Meanwhile, the poll also shows voters are girding for a second wave of cases: 79% say that second wave is very or somewhat likely. Only 9% say it’s unlikely.


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Biden Leads In North Carolina

Biden Leads In North Carolina

A new SurveyUSA poll in North Carolina finds Joe Biden leading President Trump in the presidential race , 50 % @ @ @ @ @ Among voters who say Trump ’ s handling of coronavirus is a major factor , @ @ @ @ @ 34 % , but Trump is ahead among voters who call the pandemic a minor @ @ @ @ @ those who say it plays no role in how they will vote .
”

A new SurveyUSA poll in North Carolina finds Joe Biden leading President Trump in the presidential race, 50% to 45%.
“Among voters who say Trump’s handling of coronavirus is a major factor, Biden leads 61% to 34%, but Trump is ahead among voters who call the pandemic a minor factor in the race and those who say it plays no role in how they will vote.”


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Trump Loses Another Top Staffer

Trump Loses Another Top Staffer

“ Top White House policy adviser Joe Grogan is leaving his post , the latest sign of turnover as the @ @ @ @ @ pandemic , ” the Wall Street Journal reports .
“ Mr .
Grogan has been @ @ @ @ @ ’ s response to the coronavirus pandemic .
”

“Top White House policy adviser Joe Grogan is leaving his post, the latest sign of turnover as the administration grapples with a coronavirus pandemic,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
“Mr. Grogan has been deeply involved in the administration’s response to the coronavirus pandemic.”


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Trump Underperforming His Approval Rating

New York Times : “ In most Republican polling , the president ’ s approval rating is higher than either @ @ @ @ @ his share of the vote.
” Said pollster Geoff Garin : “ What we ’ @ @ @ @ @ that Trump ’ s personal ratings have gone down even more than his job approval @ @ @ @ @ tells me is that all of Trump ’ s antics are taking a toll on @ @ @ @ @ than ever people see his lack of judgment and lack of temperament as being consequential @ @

New York Times: “In most Republican polling, the president’s approval rating is higher than either his personal favorability percentage or his share of the vote.”
Said pollster Geoff Garin: “What we’re seeing in polls is that Trump’s personal ratings have gone down even more than his job approval ratings. And what that tells me is that all of Trump’s antics are taking a toll on his vote because now more than ever people see his lack of judgment and lack of temperament as being consequential.”


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Biden Called Upon to Address Allegations

A Washington Post editorial called on Joe Biden to address allegations of a 1993 sexual assault from former aide Tara @ @ @ @ @ to his Senate career .
New York Times : Democratic frustration mounts as Biden remains @ @ @ @ @ .

A Washington Post editorial called on Joe Biden to address allegations of a 1993 sexual assault from former aide Tara Reade and release documents relating to his Senate career.
New York Times: Democratic frustration mounts as Biden remains silent on sexual assault allegation.


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Trump Says He’ll Hold ‘Massive’ Rallies Before Election

President Trump said he ’ s hoping to hold more of his “ massive ” “ 25,000-person rallies ” in @ @ @ @ @ News reports .
“ The president didn ’ t offer a target date but said @ @ @ @ @ before the November presidential election , which is likely to take place before a widespread @ @ @ @ @ Trump : “ I can ’ t imagine a rally where you have every fourth @ @ @ @ @ seats are empty for every one that you have full , that wouldn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ , I hope that we ’ re going to be able to do some good @ @ @ @ @ everyone ’ s going wild because they love our country .
”

President Trump said he’s hoping to hold more of his “massive” “25,000-person rallies” in the not-so-distant future, CBS News reports.
“The president didn’t offer a target date but said he hopes that this happens before the November presidential election, which is likely to take place before a widespread vaccine is available.”
Said Trump: “I can’t imagine a rally where you have every fourth seat full, every six seats are empty for every one that you have full, that wouldn’t look too good. No, I hope that we’re going to be able to do some good old fashioned 25,000-person rallies where everyone’s going wild because they love our country.”


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Bolton Book Release Pushed Back Again

Bolton Book Release Pushed Back Again

The publication of former Trump national security adviser John Bolton ’ s tell-all book has been pushed back again to @ @ @ @ @ amid an extensive prepublication review by the National Security Council , Politico 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--2020-04-29--Trump May Travel to Arizona

Trump May Travel to Arizona

“ The White House is weighing a possible trip by President Trump next week to Arizona , as the administration @ @ @ @ @ to urge states to re-open their economies , ” Bloomberg reports .
“ Trump has @ @ @ @ @ House for more than a month because of the coronavius pandemic .
”

“The White House is weighing a possible trip by President Trump next week to Arizona, as the administration forges ahead with its effort to urge states to re-open their economies,” Bloomberg reports.
“Trump has been confined to the White House for more than a month because of the coronavius pandemic.”


politicalwire--2020-04-29--GOP Senator Says Georgia Is In Play

GOP Senator Says Georgia Is In Play

“ Sen .
David Perdue , a Georgia Republican up for reelection and a close Trump confidant , issued a @ @ @ @ @ during an off-the-record conference call this week : Democrats are in position to turn his @ @ @ @ @ Senate , ” CNN reports Said Perdue : “ Here ’ s the reality : @ @ @ @ @ in play.
” “ The stark warning from a GOP senator — who is not @ @ @ @ @ Republicans this election cycle — illustrates the fear among Republicans that Democrats ’ chances of @ @ @ @ @ to grow .
”

“Sen. David Perdue, a Georgia Republican up for reelection and a close Trump confidant, issued a blunt warning to GOP activists during an off-the-record conference call this week: Democrats are in position to turn his state blue and take the Senate,” CNN reports
Said Perdue: “Here’s the reality: The state of Georgia is in play.”
“The stark warning from a GOP senator — who is not considered among the most vulnerable Republicans this election cycle — illustrates the fear among Republicans that Democrats’ chances of taking back the Senate continue to grow.”


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Trump’s Internal Polls Show Him Losing

Trump’s Internal Polls Show Him Losing

“ President Trump ’ s advisers presented him with the results of internal polling last week that showed him falling @ @ @ @ @ Biden in key swing states in the presidential race , part of an effort by @ @ @ @ @ s freewheeling daily briefings on the coronavirus pandemic , ” the Washington Post reports .
@ @ @ @ @ to Trump — one from the Republican National Committee and another from the Trump campaign @ @ @ @ @ Biden in swing states .
”

“President Trump’s advisers presented him with the results of internal polling last week that showed him falling behind former vice president Joe Biden in key swing states in the presidential race, part of an effort by aides to curtail Trump’s freewheeling daily briefings on the coronavirus pandemic,” the Washington Post reports.
“The two polls given to Trump — one from the Republican National Committee and another from the Trump campaign — both showed Trump trailing Biden in swing states.”


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Trump Threatened to Sue His Own Campaign Manager

“ As he huddled with advisers on Friday evening , President Trump was still fuming over his sliding poll numbers @ @ @ @ @ he was facing for suggesting a day earlier that ingesting disinfectant might prove effective against @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Within moments , the President was shouting — not at the aides in @ @ @ @ @ the phone — at his campaign manager Brad Parscale… Shifting the blame away from himself @ @ @ @ @ a recent spate of damaging poll numbers , even at one point threatening to sue @ @ @ @ @ close to the White House : “ He ’ s pissed because he knows he @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“As he huddled with advisers on Friday evening, President Trump was still fuming over his sliding poll numbers and the onslaught of criticism he was facing for suggesting a day earlier that ingesting disinfectant might prove effective against coronavirus,” CNN reports.
“Within moments, the President was shouting — not at the aides in the room, but into the phone — at his campaign manager Brad Parscale… Shifting the blame away from himself, Trump berated Parscale for a recent spate of damaging poll numbers, even at one point threatening to sue Parscale.”
Said one Republican close to the White House: “He’s pissed because he knows he messed up in those briefings.”


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Ex-Staffer Says Trump Appointees Manipulated Research

“ Last summer , on his final day of work at the nation ’ s consumer finance watchdog agency , @ @ @ @ @ a blunt memo , ” the New York Times reports .
“ He claimed that @ @ @ @ @ at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau had manipulated the agency ’ s research process to @ @ @ @ @ that would have sharply curtailed high-interest payday loans.
” “ The departing staff member , @ @ @ @ @ maneuvers by his agency ’ s political overseers that he considered legally risky and scientifically @ @ @ @ @ economists to water down their findings on payday loans and use statistical gimmicks to downplay @ @ @ @ @ if the payday restrictions were repealed .
”

“Last summer, on his final day of work at the nation’s consumer finance watchdog agency, a career economist sent colleagues a blunt memo,” the New York Times reports.
“He claimed that President Trump’s appointees at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau had manipulated the agency’s research process to justify altering a 2017 rule that would have sharply curtailed high-interest payday loans.”
“The departing staff member, Jonathan Lanning, detailed several maneuvers by his agency’s political overseers that he considered legally risky and scientifically indefensible, including pressuring staff economists to water down their findings on payday loans and use statistical gimmicks to downplay the harm consumers would suffer if the payday restrictions were repealed.”


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Biden Wouldn’t Move U.S. Embassy From Jerusalem

Joe Biden said he would keep the U.S. embassy to Israel in Jerusalem , Bloomberg reports .
Said Biden : @ @ @ @ @ t have happened in the context as it did , it should happen in the @ @ @ @ @ to help us achieve important concessions for peace in the process .
But now that @ @ @ @ @ not move the embassy back to Tel Aviv .
”

Joe Biden said he would keep the U.S. embassy to Israel in Jerusalem, Bloomberg reports.
Said Biden: “The move shouldn’t have happened in the context as it did, it should happen in the context of a larger deal to help us achieve important concessions for peace in the process. But now that is done, I would not move the embassy back to Tel Aviv.”


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Trump Says Social Distancing Will Be ‘Fading Out’

President Trump said the federal government will not be extending its social distancing guidelines when they expire Thursday at the @ @ @ @ @ CBS News reports .
Trump added that the guidelines will be “ fading out ” @ @ @ @ @ are doing in their states .

President Trump said the federal government will not be extending its social distancing guidelines when they expire Thursday at the end of the month, CBS News reports.
Trump added that the guidelines will be “fading out” because of work that governors are doing in their states.


politicalwire--2020-04-29--The Odds of Biden Picking Klobuchar Just Went Up

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 .
Sign in to your @ @ @ @ @ If you ’ re already signed in and still seeing this message , your subscription @ @ @ @ @ your membership , navigate to your account , adjust your credit card information and click @ @ @ @ @ just $ 5 a month or $ 50 a year .

This piece is only available to Political Wire members.
Although Rep. Jim Clyburn (D-SC) had previously said Joe Biden’s pick for his running mate “needs to be a black woman,” he’s now backed off. Clyburn now tells NBC News “having a woman on the ticket is a must” but that a woman of color “is not a must.”


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Clyburn Says ‘Not a Must’ for Biden to Pick Black Woman

Rep. Jim Clyburn ( D-SC ) , one of Joe Biden ’ s biggest backers , told NBC News that @ @ @ @ @ a must ” for the former vice president to pick a black woman as his @ @ @ @ @ : “ I think having a woman on the ticket is a must .
I @ @ @ @ @ feel that it would be great for him to select a woman of color .
@ @ @ @ @ must.
” Clyburn had previously said Biden ’ s pick “ needs to be a @ @ @ @

Rep. Jim Clyburn (D-SC), one of Joe Biden’s biggest backers, told NBC News that it’s “not a must” for the former vice president to pick a black woman as his running mate.
Said Clyburn: “I think having a woman on the ticket is a must. I’m among those who feel that it would be great for him to select a woman of color. But that is not a must.”
Clyburn had previously said Biden’s pick “needs to be a black woman.”


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Biden Inches Ahead In Texas

Biden Inches Ahead In Texas

A new Public Policy Polling survey in Texas finds Joe Biden just ahead of Donald Trump in the presidential race @ @ @ @ @ % with 7 % still undecided .


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Georgia’s Experiment in Human Sacrifice

Georgia’s Experiment in Human Sacrifice

“ Public-health officials broadly agree that reopening businesses—especially those that require close physical contact—in places where the virus has already spread will kill people .
Even so , many other states are quietly considering similar moves to Georgia ’ s .
Most are taking a more measured approach—waiting a bit longer to reopen , setting testing or infection benchmarks that must first be met—but some , such as Oklahoma and Colorado , have already put similar plans in motion .
By acting with particular haste in what he calls a crucial move to restore economic stability , Kemp has positioned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fight over whether to stay the course with social distancing or try to return to some semblance of normalcy .
But it ’ s easy to misunderstand which Americans stand on each side .
Many Georgians have no delusions about the risks of reopening , even if they need to return to work for financial reasons .
Among the dozen local leaders , business owners , and workers I spoke with for this article , all said they know some people who disagreed with the lockdown but were complying nonetheless .
No one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Instead , their stories depict a struggle between a state government and ordinary people .
Georgia ’ s brash reopening puts much of the state ’ s working class in an impossible bind : risk death at work , or risk ruining yourself financially at home .
In the grips of a pandemic , the approach is a morbid experiment in just how far states can push their people .
Georgians are now the largely unwilling canaries in an invisible coal mine , sent to find out just how many individuals need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a state to work through a plague.
” Washington Post : Study finds more than 80 % of hospitalized Covid-19 patients were African-American .

Amanda Mull, writing at The Atlantic:
“Public-health officials broadly agree that reopening businesses—especially those that require close physical contact—in places where the virus has already spread will kill people. Even so, many other states are quietly considering similar moves to Georgia’s. Most are taking a more measured approach—waiting a bit longer to reopen, setting testing or infection benchmarks that must first be met—but some, such as Oklahoma and Colorado, have already put similar plans in motion. By acting with particular haste in what he calls a crucial move to restore economic stability, Kemp has positioned Georgia at the center of a national fight over whether to stay the course with social distancing or try to return to some semblance of normalcy. But it’s easy to misunderstand which Americans stand on each side. Many Georgians have no delusions about the risks of reopening, even if they need to return to work for financial reasons. Among the dozen local leaders, business owners, and workers I spoke with for this article, all said they know some people who disagreed with the lockdown but were complying nonetheless. No one reported serious acrimony in their communities.”
“Instead, their stories depict a struggle between a state government and ordinary people. Georgia’s brash reopening puts much of the state’s working class in an impossible bind: risk death at work, or risk ruining yourself financially at home. In the grips of a pandemic, the approach is a morbid experiment in just how far states can push their people. Georgians are now the largely unwilling canaries in an invisible coal mine, sent to find out just how many individuals need to lose their job or their life for a state to work through a plague.”
Washington Post: Study finds more than 80% of hospitalized Covid-19 patients were African-American.


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Senate Moves to Hold Hearings on Trump’s Spy Chief

“ The Senate Intelligence Committee is taking steps to hold a confirmation hearing next week for President Donald Trump ’ @ @ @ @ @ National Intelligence , Rep. John Ratcliffe , when lawmakers return to Washington , ” CNN @ @ @ @ @ of the confirmation hearing are still fluid , as the committee has to work through @ @ @ @ @ hearing amid the coronavirus pandemic that has shut down the Capitol and the rest of @ @ @ @

“The Senate Intelligence Committee is taking steps to hold a confirmation hearing next week for President Donald Trump’s nominee for Director of National Intelligence, Rep. John Ratcliffe, when lawmakers return to Washington,” CNN reports.
“The details of the confirmation hearing are still fluid, as the committee has to work through the logistics of holding a hearing amid the coronavirus pandemic that has shut down the Capitol and the rest of the country.”


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Amash Says He’s ‘Confident’ He Can Win

Amash Says He’s ‘Confident’ He Can Win

Rep. Justin Amash ( I-MI ) told the Detroit News that he ’ s ‘ confident ’ he could win @ @ @ @ @ .
Said Amash : “ There ’ s an urgency .
There is a need @ @ @ @ @ ever , for someone with common sense to stand up to these two parties and @ @ @ @ @ .
”

Rep. Justin Amash (I-MI) told the Detroit News that he’s ‘confident’ he could win the presidency as a Libertarian.
Said Amash: “There’s an urgency. There is a need right now, more than ever, for someone with common sense to stand up to these two parties and to present a strong alternative.”


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Flashback Quote of the Day

Flashback Quote of the Day

“ The impact on the American economy will be very , very , very small , if any… We really @ @ @ @ @ economic impact .
There may be some out there .
Our own internal numbers say @ @ @ @ @ in the first quarter , but that ’ s not going to end this growth @ @ @ @ @ Bloomberg : “ The record-long U.S. economic expansion is over after almost 11 years , @ @ @ @ @ to be the deepest recession in at least eight decades now under way .
”

“The impact on the American economy will be very, very, very small, if any… We really haven’t seen any economic impact. There may be some out there. Our own internal numbers say maybe two-tenths of a percent in the first quarter, but that’s not going to end this growth cycle.”
— White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow, on Fox News, February 7, 2020.
Reality check by Bloomberg: “The record-long U.S. economic expansion is over after almost 11 years, with what’s likely to be the deepest recession in at least eight decades now under way.”


politicalwire--2020-04-29--Meat Plant Employees Say They Won’t Go Back to Work

“ Meat-processing plant workers are concerned about President Trump ’ s executive order that compels plants to remain open during @ @ @ @ @ plant employees are among America ’ s most vulnerable workers , and some say they @ @ @ @ @ come to work , ” CNN reports .
Said one worker : “ All I @ @ @ @ @ crazy to me , because I can ’ t see all these people going back @ @ @ @ @ ’ t think people are going to go back in there .
”

“Meat-processing plant workers are concerned about President Trump’s executive order that compels plants to remain open during the coronavirus pandemic. Meat plant employees are among America’s most vulnerable workers, and some say they expect staff will refuse to come to work,” CNN reports.
Said one worker: “All I know is, this is crazy to me, because I can’t see all these people going back into work. I don’t think people are going to go back in there.”


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Pandemic Pushes Millions Back Into Poverty

New York Times : “ The World Bank says that for the first time since 1998 , global poverty rates @ @ @ @ @ end of the year eight percent of the world ’ s population — a half @ @ @ @ @ be pushed into destitution , largely because of the wave of unemployment brought by virus @ @ @

New York Times: “The World Bank says that for the first time since 1998, global poverty rates will rise. By the end of the year eight percent of the world’s population — a half a billion people — could be pushed into destitution, largely because of the wave of unemployment brought by virus lockdowns.”


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Trump Promises Swift Return to Normalcy

Trump Promises Swift Return to Normalcy

Washington Post : “ Before the coronavirus pandemic ravaged the country , President Trump ’ s campaign had a simple @ @ @ @ @ ‘ Keep America Great . '
” “ Now , with the economy in free-fall @ @ @ @ @ voters cast their ballots and daily life disrupted , Trump is trying a new tact @ @ @ @ @ about a swift economic rebound that experts and even members of his own party say @ @ @ @ @ president and his allies have embraced optimism as a central part of his new reelection @ @ @ @ @ message about a swift return to normal life despite the rising death toll and jobless @ @ @ @ @ .
”

Washington Post: “Before the coronavirus pandemic ravaged the country, President Trump’s campaign had a simple, economy-focused reelection pitch: ‘Keep America Great.'”
“Now, with the economy in free-fall less than six months before voters cast their ballots and daily life disrupted, Trump is trying a new tact: making bold new promises about a swift economic rebound that experts and even members of his own party say are unrealistic.”
“The president and his allies have embraced optimism as a central part of his new reelection push, offering a rosy message about a swift return to normal life despite the rising death toll and jobless claims resulting from the outbreak.”


Trump’s Coronavirus Slump

“ President Trump ’ s handling of the coronavirus crisis has produced a political emergency for the White House , @ @ @ @ @ suddenly pointing to possible big trouble when he faces re-election six months from now , @ @ @ @

“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--2020-04-30--Democrats Expanding Senate Map

Democrats Expanding Senate Map

Larry Sabato ’ s Crystal Ball : “ The focus on the evenly-matched battle for the Senate has in some @ @ @ @ @ seats : Arizona , Colorado , Maine , and North Carolina.
” “ Practically speaking @ @ @ @ @ win all four , and the White House , to win the Senate.
” “ @ @ @ @ @ be expanding .
Democrats ’ best bet among the other targets probably is Montana , @ @ @ @ @ small Republican edge there .
”

Larry Sabato’s Crystal Ball: “The focus on the evenly-matched battle for the Senate has in some ways narrowed to four GOP-held seats: Arizona, Colorado, Maine, and North Carolina.”
“Practically speaking, Democrats probably have to win all four, and the White House, to win the Senate.”
“However, the map may be expanding. Democrats’ best bet among the other targets probably is Montana, but we still see a small Republican edge there.”


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Mitch McConnell’s Public Health Gamble

Mitch McConnell’s Public Health Gamble

“ Coronavirus cases are still rising in the District of Columbia , where more than 200 people have died of @ @ @ @ @ decided it was too dangerous to return to the Capitol .
But Mitch McConnell ’ @ @ @ @ @ anyway , ” Politico reports .
“ The Senate majority leader is gambling that 100 @ @ @ @ @ the Senate floor and throughout the Capitol complex .
Many of them will travel across @ @ @ @ @ ’ s reopening , risking exposure on airplanes and in airports .
And 49 senators @ @ @ @ @ and at greater risk of the deadly disease , according to the Centers for Disease @ @ @ @ @ , the senators ’ return will bring back hundreds of staffers and Capitol employees .
@

“Coronavirus cases are still rising in the District of Columbia, where more than 200 people have died of the disease. The House decided it was too dangerous to return to the Capitol. But Mitch McConnell’s Senate is coming back anyway,” Politico reports.
“The Senate majority leader is gambling that 100 senators can safely meet on the Senate floor and throughout the Capitol complex. Many of them will travel across the country for the Senate’s reopening, risking exposure on airplanes and in airports. And 49 senators are aged 65 or older and at greater risk of the deadly disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Plus, the senators’ return will bring back hundreds of staffers and Capitol employees.”


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Lindsey Graham’s Seat Moves to ‘Likely Republican’

Cook Political Report : “ When we look at this race , it ’ s clear it ’ s no @ @ @ @ @ ignored by either party .
And our definition of a race that is “ Likely @ @ @ @ @ race that is ‘ not considered competitive at this point , but [ has ] @ @ @ @ @ ’ This race fits that criteria , though there is still needs to be a @ @ @ @ @ — and political winds that need to shift — for Harrison to have a real @ @ @ @ @ and that may never happen .
Still , it is a race that merits more @ @ @ @ @ landscape , so we are moving South Carolina from Solid to Likely Republican .
”

Cook Political Report: “When we look at this race, it’s clear it’s no longer one that is being ignored by either party. And our definition of a race that is “Likely Republican” is simply a race that is ‘not considered competitive at this point, but [has] the potential to become engaged.’ This race fits that criteria, though there is still needs to be a lot more to be done — and political winds that need to shift — for Harrison to have a real chance to flip it, and that may never happen. Still, it is a race that merits more attention in the larger Senate landscape, so we are moving South Carolina from Solid to Likely Republican.”
Larry Sabato’s Crystal Ball makes the same rating change.


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Trump Readies First Major Ad Blitz

Trump Readies First Major Ad Blitz

“ Donald Trump ’ s reelection campaign is about to launch its first major TV ad offensive of the general @ @ @ @ @ comes as the president attempts to reverse a dangerous slide six months out from the @ @ @ @ @ .
“ The campaign is expected to spend seven figures on a nationwide advertising blitz @ @ @ @ @ managing the coronavirus crisis , according to two people familiar with the plans .
The @ @ @ @ @ air for a week.
” “ The campaign expected to follow with a second wave @ @ @ @ @ Biden .
”

“Donald Trump’s reelection campaign is about to launch its first major TV ad offensive of the general election — a move that comes as the president attempts to reverse a dangerous slide six months out from the election,” Politico reports.
“The campaign is expected to spend seven figures on a nationwide advertising blitz touting Trump’s performance managing the coronavirus crisis, according to two people familiar with the plans. The spots will begin Sunday and air for a week.”
“The campaign expected to follow with a second wave of ads unloading on Joe Biden.”


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Trump Can’t Postpone the Election

Trump Can’t Postpone the Election

Wall Street Journal : “ ‘ Mark my words , I think he is going to try to kick back @ @ @ @ @ Joe Biden recently said of President Trump during an online fundraiser .
To ‘ try @ @ @ @ @ But there are constitutional and legal reasons why a president can ’ t delay a @ @ @ @ @ term of office , which should dispel any worries.
” “ Start with the text @ @ @ @ @ 20th Amendment is exceedingly clear : ‘ The terms of the President and Vice President @ @ @ @ @ the 20th day of January.
’ There ’ s no clause that allows presidents to @ @ @ @ @ 20 or to invoke some emergency power to extend a term of office .
”

Wall Street Journal: “‘Mark my words, I think he is going to try to kick back the election somehow,’ Joe Biden recently said of President Trump during an online fundraiser. To ‘try’ is one thing. But there are constitutional and legal reasons why a president can’t delay a federal election or extend his term of office, which should dispel any worries.”
“Start with the text of the Constitution. The 20th Amendment is exceedingly clear: ‘The terms of the President and Vice President shall end at noon on the 20th day of January.’ There’s no clause that allows presidents to remain in office beyond Jan. 20 or to invoke some emergency power to extend a term of office.”


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Trump Says He Doesn’t Believe the Polls

Trump Says He Doesn’t Believe the Polls

President Trump told Reuters he does not believe opinion polls that show his likely Democratic presidential opponent , Joe Biden @ @ @ @ @ race for the White House .
Said Trump : “ I don ’ t believe @ @ @ @ @ the people of this country are smart .
And I don ’ t think that @ @ @ @ @ in who ’ s incompetent .
”

President Trump told Reuters he does not believe opinion polls that show his likely Democratic presidential opponent, Joe Biden, leading in the 2020 race for the White House.
Said Trump: “I don’t believe the polls. I believe the people of this country are smart. And I don’t think that they will put a man in who’s incompetent.”


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Biden Leads In New Hampshire

Biden Leads In New Hampshire

A new Saint Anselm College poll in New Hampshire finds Joe Biden leading Donald Trump in the presidential race , @ @ @ @ @ .


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Trump Says China Wants Him to Lose Election

President Trump told a Reuters he believes China ’ s handling of the coronavirus is proof that Beijing “ will @ @ @ @ @ to make him lose his re-election bid in November .
Said a Trump : “ @ @ @ @ @ can to have me lose this race.
” He also said he was looking at @ @ @ @ @ consequences for China over the virus : “ I can do a lot .
”

President Trump told a Reuters he believes China’s handling of the coronavirus is proof that Beijing “will do anything they can” to make him lose his re-election bid in November.
Said a Trump: “China will do anything they can to have me lose this race.”
He also said he was looking at different options in terms of consequences for China over the virus: “I can do a lot.”


politicalwire--2020-05-01--Trump Claims Evidence Virus Began In Chinese Lab

President Trump contradicted a rare on-the-record statement from his own intelligence community by claiming that he has seen evidence that @ @ @ @ @ degree of confidence ” the novel coronavirus originated in a laboratory in Wuhan , China @ @ @ @ @ comments undercut a public statement from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence issued @ @ @ @ @ no such assessment has been made

President Trump contradicted a rare on-the-record statement from his own intelligence community by claiming that he has seen evidence that gives him a “high degree of confidence” the novel coronavirus originated in a laboratory in Wuhan, China, CNN reports.
The comments undercut a public statement from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence issued just hours earlier which stated no such assessment has been made.


politicalwire--2020-04-30--It Turns Out Red States Are Screwed Too

It Turns Out Red States Are Screwed Too

Slate : “ What ’ s a bit odd about all of this is that GOP leaders are acting as @ @ @ @ @ hand on this issue , because only Democratic strongholds like New York and Illinois are @ @ @ @ @ , nothing could be further from the truth .
Red states are also fiscally screwed @ @ @ @ @ and in many cases may be in worse shape than supposedly irresponsible blue states.
” @ @ @ @ @ why , exactly , some Republicans appear convinced that only political entities that happen to @ @ @ @ @ about to experience a financial rout .
”

Slate: “What’s a bit odd about all of this is that GOP leaders are acting as if they have an upper hand on this issue, because only Democratic strongholds like New York and Illinois are in trouble. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth. Red states are also fiscally screwed thanks to the coronavirus, and in many cases may be in worse shape than supposedly irresponsible blue states.”
“It’s unclear why, exactly, some Republicans appear convinced that only political entities that happen to be run by Democrats are about to experience a financial rout.”


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Biden to Address Sex-Assault Allegations in TV Interview

Joe Biden will address Tara Reade ’ s sexual-assault allegations for the first time Friday in an interview on MSNBC @ @ @ @ @ Bloomberg reports .


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Trump Would Consider Bringing Flynn Back

President Trump said he would “ certainly consider ” bringing former national security adviser Michael Flynn , now a convicted @ @ @ @ @ administration , CBS News reports .
Flynn was fired after only days on the job @ @ @ @ @ Vice President Mike Pence about his contact with the Russian envoy to the U.S. ahead @ @ @ @ @ .
Said a Trump : “ I think he ’ s a fine man .
@ @ @ @ @ terrible what they did to him .
”

President Trump said he would “certainly consider” bringing former national security adviser Michael Flynn, now a convicted felon, back into his administration, CBS News reports.
Flynn was fired after only days on the job in 2017 for lying to Vice President Mike Pence about his contact with the Russian envoy to the U.S. ahead of Trump’s inauguration.
Said a Trump: “I think he’s a fine man. I think it’s terrible what they did to him.”


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Senate Lacks Capacity to Test All Senators

“ The Capitol ’ s attending physician said Thursday that coronavirus tests will be available for staffers and senators who @ @ @ @ @ enough to proactively test all 100 senators as the chamber comes back in session , @ @ @ @ @ In a conference call with top GOP officials , Dr. Brian Monahan said there is @ @ @ @ @ test senators for coronavirus — a contrast with the White House , where any people @ @ @ @ @ Vice President Mike Pence are tested for the disease .
Monahan said test results in @ @ @ @ @ or more days , while the White House has rapid testing .
”

“The Capitol’s attending physician said Thursday that coronavirus tests will be available for staffers and senators who are ill, but not enough to proactively test all 100 senators as the chamber comes back in session,” Politico reports.
“In a conference call with top GOP officials, Dr. Brian Monahan said there is not sufficient capacity to quickly test senators for coronavirus — a contrast with the White House, where any people meeting with President Trump and Vice President Mike Pence are tested for the disease. Monahan said test results in the Senate will take two or more days, while the White House has rapid testing.”
Washington Post: Democrats question McConnell’s decision to return Senate to business.


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Secret Service Paid $33K to Trump Hotel to Guard Mnuchin

“ The Secret Service rented a room at President Trump ’ s Washington hotel for 137 consecutive nights in 2017 @ @ @ @ @ company more than $ 33,000 — so it could guard Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin while @ @ @ @ @ the hotel ’ s luxury suites , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ Mnuchin @ @ @ @ @ York , lived in the Trump International Hotel for several months before moving to a @ @ @ @ @

“The Secret Service rented a room at President Trump’s Washington hotel for 137 consecutive nights in 2017 — paying Trump’s company more than $33,000 — so it could guard Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin while he lived in one of the hotel’s luxury suites,” the Washington Post reports.
“Mnuchin, a financier from New York, lived in the Trump International Hotel for several months before moving to a home in Washington.”


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Georgia Governor Lifts Stay-at-Home Order

Georgia Gov .
Brian Kemp ( R ) will lift a statewide shelter-in-place order for most of Georgia ’ s @ @ @ @ @ as he continues to roll back coronavirus restrictions , though he urges Georgians to stay @ @ @ @ @ contain the pandemic , the Atlanta Journal Constitution reports .
The order requires elderly and @ @ @ @ @ to shelter in place until June 12 , and calls for businesses to follow a @ @ @ @ @ May 13 in order to remain open .

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp (R) will lift a statewide shelter-in-place order for most of Georgia’s 10.6 million residents starting Friday as he continues to roll back coronavirus restrictions, though he urges Georgians to stay at home when possible to contain the pandemic, the Atlanta Journal Constitution reports.
The order requires elderly and “medically fragile” residents to shelter in place until June 12, and calls for businesses to follow a host of existing restrictions through May 13 in order to remain open.


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Lawmakers Vote by Mail to Roll Back Vote by Mail

“ An emergency plan for Louisiana ’ s delayed spring elections was approved by the state Legislature after Republican lawmakers @ @ @ @ @ mail-in ballots for people concerned about the coronavirus , ” the Baton Rouge Advocate reports @ @ @ @ @ mail on the emergency plan .
”

“An emergency plan for Louisiana’s delayed spring elections was approved by the state Legislature after Republican lawmakers rolled back an expansion of mail-in ballots for people concerned about the coronavirus,” the Baton Rouge Advocate reports.
“Lawmakers voted by mail on the emergency plan.”


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Every Governor Gets Better Marks Than Trump

A new survey finds that voters in all 50 states say their governor is doing a better job than President @ @ @ @ @ pandemic .


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Big Donors Warn Against Picking Warren

Big Donors Warn Against Picking Warren

“ Big money donors are pressuring Joe Biden to not choose Sen. Elizabeth Warren as his running mate , even @ @ @ @ @ president tries to appeal to progressive voters , ” CNBC reports .
“ Biden and @ @ @ @ @ many donors in the business community about who they think would be best to be @ @ @ @ @ nominee.
” Said one Biden fundraiser : “ I think a lot of the donor @ @ @ @ @ coming , would prefer almost anyone but Elizabeth .
I don ’ t see him @ @ @ @ @ ”

“Big money donors are pressuring Joe Biden to not choose Sen. Elizabeth Warren as his running mate, even while the centrist former vice president tries to appeal to progressive voters,” CNBC reports.
“Biden and his team have heard from many donors in the business community about who they think would be best to be chosen as his vice presidential nominee.”
Said one Biden fundraiser: “I think a lot of the donor base, on board and coming, would prefer almost anyone but Elizabeth. I don’t see him choosing her for veep.”


politicalwire--2020-04-30--House Republicans Face a Major Cash Deficit

David Wasserman : “ The latest campaign finance reports covering the first quarter of 2020 are in , and they @ @ @ @ @ much more brutal for Republicans .
Freshman Democrats , continuing to ride a wave of @ @ @ @ @ dominating GOP challengers in dollars — and the coronavirus ’ s chilling effect on fundraising @ @ @ @ @ to catch up and put the majority all but out of reach for Republicans .
@

David Wasserman: “The latest campaign finance reports covering the first quarter of 2020 are in, and they couldn’t have been much more brutal for Republicans. Freshman Democrats, continuing to ride a wave of anti-Trump donor enthusiasm, are dominating GOP challengers in dollars — and the coronavirus’s chilling effect on fundraising could make it even tougher to catch up and put the majority all but out of reach for Republicans.”


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Alaska School District Bans ‘The Great Gatsby’

“ An Alaska school board voted last week to remove five books , including classic American works like I Know @ @ @ @ @ and The Great Gatsby , from its curriculum for high school English electives because of @ @ @ @ @ and other concerns , ” the New York Times reports .
“ The other books @ @ @ @ @ Man by Ralph Ellison , Catch-22 by Joseph Heller and The Things They Carried by @ @ @ @ @ were judged to be inappropriate because they contained mentions of rape , incest , racial @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“An Alaska school board voted last week to remove five books, including classic American works like I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings and The Great Gatsby, from its curriculum for high school English electives because of sexual references, graphic language and other concerns,” the New York Times reports.
“The other books on the list — Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison, Catch-22 by Joseph Heller and The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien — were judged to be inappropriate because they contained mentions of rape, incest, racial slurs, profanity and misogyny.”


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Pelosi Wants $1 Trillion for State and Local Aid

Speaker Nancy Pelosi said she wants the next coronavirus rescue package to provide $ 1 trillion just for aid to @ @ @ @ @ 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--2020-04-30--GOP Convention Planners Consider Changes

NBC News : “ While Americans across the country are canceling weddings , sporting events and music festivals , Trump @ @ @ @ @ the Republican National Convention — specifically his nationally televised prime-time address — go forward in @ @ @ @ @ president ’ s political advisers are actively discussing ways to scale down the four-day event @ @ @ @ @ proceed amid concerns about the coronavirus.
” Said one : “ There will be a @ @ @ @ @ on that.
” “ But the people involved in the planning said the GOP convention @ @ @ @ @ , will likely look drastically different from past political conventions .
One plan under consideration @ @ @ @ @ and alternate delegates attend , and to space them out on the convention floor .
@

NBC News: “While Americans across the country are canceling weddings, sporting events and music festivals, Trump has insisted to aides that the Republican National Convention — specifically his nationally televised prime-time address — go forward in August.”
“So the president’s political advisers are actively discussing ways to scale down the four-day event in hopes it can safely proceed amid concerns about the coronavirus.”
Said one: “There will be a convention. You can bank on that.”
“But the people involved in the planning said the GOP convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, will likely look drastically different from past political conventions. One plan under consideration is to have only delegates and alternate delegates attend, and to space them out on the convention floor.”


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Liberal Groups Launch Letter-Writing Campaign

McClatchy : “ Beset by deep restrictions on how they can campaign during the outbreak , an alliance of more @ @ @ @ @ said Thursday that they would begin a massive letter-writing campaign to urge low-frequency voters to @ @ @ @ @ elections.
” “ And unlike most messages in modern campaigns , these partially handwritten letters @ @ @ @ @ email but by the U.S .
Postal Service — packaged in an envelope with a @ @ @ @ @ were communicating in a pre-internet age .
”

McClatchy: “Beset by deep restrictions on how they can campaign during the outbreak, an alliance of more than a half-dozen left-leaning organizations said Thursday that they would begin a massive letter-writing campaign to urge low-frequency voters to turn out for the November elections.”
“And unlike most messages in modern campaigns, these partially handwritten letters will be sent not over email but by the U.S. Postal Service — packaged in an envelope with a stamp attached as if people were communicating in a pre-internet age.”


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Exchange of the Day

Exchange of the Day

ACOSTA : You say you had inherited “ broken tests ” from Obama — the coronavirus is a new virus @ @ @ @ @ tests be broken ?
TRUMP : We have broken tests .
We had tests that @ @ @ @ @ tests that didn ’ t take care of people .

President Trump took a question from CNN’s Jim Acosta:
ACOSTA: You say you had inherited “broken tests” from Obama — the coronavirus is a new virus, so how could the tests be broken?
TRUMP: We have broken tests. We had tests that were obsolete. We had tests that didn’t take care of people.


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Running for President During a Pandemic

Running for President During a Pandemic

Jason Zengerle : “ Biden ’ s campaign advisers scouted his house for a suitable location where he could film campaign ( and proof-of-life ) appearances .
They quickly settled on an out-of-the-way spot in his basement in front of a bookshelf adorned with family photos and personal artifacts , including the American flag that flew over the United States Capitol in honor of his late son Beau .
Over the course of two hectic days , a video-production crew installed the wiring , lighting and camera necessary for a full-fledged TV studio .
On March 23 , standing behind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Biden prepared to address the nation via livestream for the first time.
” “ In the subsequent weeks , the lectern has been replaced with a chair , and Biden , who as vice president became accustomed to having interviewers come to him , has tried to acclimate himself to the remote setup .
Now rarely a day goes by that the candidate — sometimes in a suit , sometimes in a sweater , always in front of that bookshelf — doesn ’ t pop up on Morning Joe or Jimmy Kimmel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ news in Detroit or his own Facebook page , to let Americans know he ’ s still out there .
”

Jason Zengerle: “Biden’s campaign advisers scouted his house for a suitable location where he could film campaign (and proof-of-life) appearances. They quickly settled on an out-of-the-way spot in his basement in front of a bookshelf adorned with family photos and personal artifacts, including the American flag that flew over the United States Capitol in honor of his late son Beau. Over the course of two hectic days, a video-production crew installed the wiring, lighting and camera necessary for a full-fledged TV studio. On March 23, standing behind a lectern affixed with his campaign logo, Biden prepared to address the nation via livestream for the first time.”
“In the subsequent weeks, the lectern has been replaced with a chair, and Biden, who as vice president became accustomed to having interviewers come to him, has tried to acclimate himself to the remote setup. Now rarely a day goes by that the candidate — sometimes in a suit, sometimes in a sweater, always in front of that bookshelf — doesn’t pop up on Morning Joe or Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show, the local news in Detroit or his own Facebook page, to let Americans know he’s still out there.”


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Trump Crafting Retaliatory Actions Against China

“ Senior U.S. officials are beginning to explore proposals for punishing or demanding financial compensation from China for its handling @ @ @ @ @ ” the Washington Post reports .
“ The move could splinter already strained relations between @ @ @ @ @ perilous moment for the global economy.
” “ President Trump has fumed to aides and @ @ @ @ @ China , blaming that country for withholding information about the virus , and has discussed @ @ @ @ @ likely lead to retaliation by Beijing .
”

“Senior U.S. officials are beginning to explore proposals for punishing or demanding financial compensation from China for its handling of the coronavirus pandemic,” the Washington Post reports.
“The move could splinter already strained relations between the two superpowers at a perilous moment for the global economy.”
“President Trump has fumed to aides and others in recent days about China, blaming that country for withholding information about the virus, and has discussed enacting dramatic measures that would likely lead to retaliation by Beijing.”


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Biden Won’t Open Up Senate Records

Biden Won’t Open Up Senate Records

Joe Biden ’ s campaign wants journalists to “ rigorously vet ” Tara Reade ’ s sexual assault claims , @ @ @ @ @ won ’ t allow access to papers from his U.S. Senate archives , even though @ @ @ @ @ records documenting some of her claims .
Biden has , however , sent campaign operatives @ @ @ @ @ Michael Stern : Why I ’ m skeptical about Reade ’ s sexual assault claim @ @ @

Joe Biden’s campaign wants journalists to “rigorously vet” Tara Reade’s sexual assault claims, but Business Insider reports Biden won’t allow access to papers from his U.S. Senate archives, even though Reade says they may contain records documenting some of her claims.
Biden has, however, sent campaign operatives to examine the papers.
Michael Stern: Why I’m skeptical about Reade’s sexual assault claim against Biden.


politicalwire--2020-04-30--Biden Cuts Deal to Allow Sanders to Keep Delegates

“ Joe Biden has agreed to let former primary rival Bernie Sanders keep hundreds of delegates he would otherwise forfeit @ @ @ @ @ presidential race in a deal designed to avoid the bitter feelings that marred the party @ @ @ @ @ to Hillary Clinton ’ s defeat , ” the AP reports .

“Joe Biden has agreed to let former primary rival Bernie Sanders keep hundreds of delegates he would otherwise forfeit by dropping out of the presidential race in a deal designed to avoid the bitter feelings that marred the party in 2016 and helped lead to Hillary Clinton’s defeat,” the AP reports.


politicalwire--2020-05-01--Biden Denies Allegations Made by Former Aide

“ Joe Biden on Friday denied that he sexually assaulted a former Senate aide , addressing the allegation publicly for @ @ @ @ @ pressure from his party to speak about it , ” the Washington Post reports .
@ @ @ @ @ want to address allegations by a former staffer that I engaged in misconduct 27 years @ @ @ @ @ t true .
This never happened.
” The statement was released shortly before Biden was @ @ @ @ @ s “ Morning Joe .
”

“Joe Biden on Friday denied that he sexually assaulted a former Senate aide, addressing the allegation publicly for the first time under increasing pressure from his party to speak about it,” the Washington Post reports.
Said Biden in a statement: “I want to address allegations by a former staffer that I engaged in misconduct 27 years ago. They aren’t true. This never happened.”
The statement was released shortly before Biden was to appear on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe.”


politicalwire--2020-05-01--Trump Alumni Benefit from Lobbying Rush

Trump Alumni Benefit from Lobbying Rush

Washington Post : “ As lobbyists blitz Washington for a piece of the massive federal response to the global pandemic @ @ @ @ @ Trump administration officials and campaign alumni are in the center of the action , helping @ @ @ @ @ financial and regulatory relief programs .
”


politicalwire--2020-05-01--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ Our death totals , our numbers , per million people , are really very , very strong .
We @ @ @ @ @ the job we ’ ve done .
”


politicalwire--2020-05-01--Trump Leaves Grieving the 60,000 Dead to Others

New York Times : “ As the death toll from the coronavirus over eight weeks surpasses the total American military @ @ @ @ @ major combat in Vietnam , Mr. Trump has led no national mourning .
In his @ @ @ @ @ makes only perfunctory references to those who have died as he stiffly reads opening remarks @ @ @ @ @ grieving his lost economic record than his lost constituents.
” “ Empathy has never been @ @ @ @ @ ’ s political assets .
He views public displays of sadness as weakness and has @ @ @ @ @ resolve , even at the risk of overlooking the deep pain afflicting so much of @ @ @ @ @ words in his televised appearances of recent weeks are ‘ powerful ’ and ‘ strong.
@ @ @ @ @ incredible ’ days ahead without dwelling on the miserable days of now .
He plans @ @ @ @ @ .
”

New York Times: “As the death toll from the coronavirus over eight weeks surpasses the total American military casualties in eight years of major combat in Vietnam, Mr. Trump has led no national mourning. In his daily news conferences, he makes only perfunctory references to those who have died as he stiffly reads opening remarks, exhibiting more emotion when grieving his lost economic record than his lost constituents.”
“Empathy has never been considered one of Mr. Trump’s political assets. He views public displays of sadness as weakness and has made a point of stressing resolve, even at the risk of overlooking the deep pain afflicting so much of the country. His favorite words in his televised appearances of recent weeks are ‘powerful’ and ‘strong.’ He talks of ‘incredible’ days ahead without dwelling on the miserable days of now. He plans fireworks while Americans plan funerals.”


politicalwire--2020-05-01--Pandemic Likely to Last Two Years

Pandemic Likely to Last Two Years

The coronavirus pandemic is likely to last as long as two years and won ’ t be controlled until about @ @ @ @ @ s population is immune , Bloomberg reports .
From a University of Minnesota report : @ @ @ @ @ to spread from people who don ’ t appear to be ill , the virus @ @ @ @ @ than influenza , the cause of most pandemics in recent history… People may actually be @ @ @ @ @ symptoms appear , according to the report .
”

The coronavirus pandemic is likely to last as long as two years and won’t be controlled until about two-thirds of the world’s population is immune, Bloomberg reports.
From a University of Minnesota report: “Because of its ability to spread from people who don’t appear to be ill, the virus may be harder to control than influenza, the cause of most pandemics in recent history… People may actually be at their most infectious before symptoms appear, according to the report.”


politicalwire--2020-05-01--Republicans Dig In On Liability Protections

Playbook : “ Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy are now saying they will not @ @ @ @ @ bill that does not include protections for employers from lawsuits in the post-coronavirus world — @ @ @ @ @ A leadership told us Thursday night that liability protections are a ‘ red line ’ @ @ @ @ @ ”

Playbook: “Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy are now saying they will not agree to any coronavirus stimulus bill that does not include protections for employers from lawsuits in the post-coronavirus world — called liability protections.”
“A leadership told us Thursday night that liability protections are a ‘red line’ in the upcoming negotiations.”


politicalwire--2020-05-01--Trump and Biden Deadlocked in Georgia

Trump and Biden Deadlocked in Georgia

An internal poll in Georgia conducted for the House GOP Caucus finds Donald Trump barely leads Joe Biden , 45 @ @ @ @ @ Only about 5 % of Georgians are undecided , and another 6 % back a @ @ @ @ @ : A majority of voters disapprove of the way Trump ( 51 % ) and @ @ @ @ @ 54 % ) are handling the pandemic .

An internal poll in Georgia conducted for the House GOP Caucus finds Donald Trump barely leads Joe Biden, 45% to 44%.
Only about 5% of Georgians are undecided, and another 6% back a third-party candidate.
Also interesting: A majority of voters disapprove of the way Trump (51%) and Gov. Brian Kemp (54%) are handling the pandemic.


politicalwire--2020-05-01--Americans Uneasy About Returning to Normal

A new ABC News/Ipsos poll finds a minority of Americans said that if the emergency orders put in place to @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus were lifted the next day , they would be likely to go out in @ @ @ @ @ restaurant ( 44 % ) , go to a bar ( 21 % ) , @ @ @ @ @ a large stadium ( 20 % ) , go to a gym or health club @ @ @ @ @ stay in a hotel ( 30 % ) , go to a movie theatre ( @ @ @ @ @ church ( 46 % ) , go bowling ( 22 % ) , fly on @ @ @ @ @ ) , or send their child to school ( 45 % ) .

A new ABC News/Ipsos poll finds a minority of Americans said that if the emergency orders put in place to curb the spread of the coronavirus were lifted the next day, they would be likely to go out in public to eat at a restaurant (44%), go to a bar (21%), attend a sporting event in a large stadium (20%), go to a gym or health club (29%), stay in a hotel (30%), go to a movie theatre (24%), attend church (46%), go bowling (22%), fly on an airplane (29%), or send their child to school (45%).


politicalwire--2020-05-01--Biden’s Senate Papers Will Not Be Released

The University of Delaware told CNN in a statement that the school is still “ curating the collection ” and @ @ @ @ @ to end until well into 2021 .
And even after the curation is finished , @ @ @ @ @ the papers until two years after Biden retires from public life .

The University of Delaware told CNN in a statement that the school is still “curating the collection” and the process is not expected to end until well into 2021.
And even after the curation is finished, the school would not release the papers until two years after Biden retires from public life.