politicalwire--2020-02-11--A Field So Flawed That Even Biden Still Has a Chance

Ryan Lizza : “ Just as Biden ’ s stock was over-inflated before Iowa , it could be undervalued after @ @ @ @ @ The same dynamic that led to his underwhelming showing is starting to define the race @ @ @ @ @ have an obvious candidate who they can rally around .
Indecision is the most common @ @ @ @ @ at more than a dozen events in New Hampshire since Friday .
( Perhaps this @ @ @ @ @ when even The New York Times editorial board couldn ’ t pick a single candidate @ @ @ @ @ no reason to think the choice will get easier after Tuesday.
” “ What ’ @ @ @ @ @ not a plethora of great choices , but the fact that there are seven candidates @ @ @ @ @ of whom has at least one very serious flaw .
”

Ryan Lizza: “Just as Biden’s stock was over-inflated before Iowa, it could be undervalued after a New Hampshire drubbing. The same dynamic that led to his underwhelming showing is starting to define the race: Democrats don’t have an obvious candidate who they can rally around. Indecision is the most common theme I encountered among voters at more than a dozen events in New Hampshire since Friday. (Perhaps this should have been more obvious when even The New York Times editorial board couldn’t pick a single candidate.) There’s no reason to think the choice will get easier after Tuesday.”
“What’s driving the indecision is not a plethora of great choices, but the fact that there are seven candidates in the mix, each of whom has at least one very serious flaw.”


politicalwire--2020-02-11--Biden Super PAC Warns of Doomsday Scenario

“ A memo from the Unite the Country super PAC to donors , obtained by Politico , asserts that the @ @ @ @ @ price if Bernie Sanders , Pete Buttigieg or Amy Klobuchar is chosen as the nominee @ @ @ @ @ raises the specter of Sanders and billionaire Mike Bloomberg squaring off at a split convention.
@ @ @ @ @ by Biden through the early stretch of the primary calendar to avoid that fate , @ @ @ @ @ Donors hedging their bets on Biden because of Bloomberg could be creating a doomsday scenario @ @ @ @ @ the group ’ s treasurer , Larry Rasky , wrote .
‘ The Sanders-Warren wing @ @ @ @ @ for the Bloomberg fight .
Democrats can not afford a split Convention .
’ ”

“A memo from the Unite the Country super PAC to donors, obtained by Politico, asserts that the party could pay a steep price if Bernie Sanders, Pete Buttigieg or Amy Klobuchar is chosen as the nominee. Most ominously, it raises the specter of Sanders and billionaire Mike Bloomberg squaring off at a split convention.”
“Democrats must stand by Biden through the early stretch of the primary calendar to avoid that fate, the group implores. ‘Donors hedging their bets on Biden because of Bloomberg could be creating a doomsday scenario for Democrats everywhere,’ the group’s treasurer, Larry Rasky, wrote. ‘The Sanders-Warren wing of the Party is ready for the Bloomberg fight. Democrats cannot afford a split Convention.’”


politicalwire--2020-02-11--Bloomberg Seeks Tech Talent

Bloomberg Seeks Tech Talent

“ Mike Bloomberg is not asking Silicon Valley leaders for their money as he ramps up his presidential campaign , @ @ @ @ @ for a different kind of precious possession — their employees , ” Recode reports .
@ @ @ @ @ ’ s campaign gathered hundreds of tech leaders on a conference call and asked them @ @ @ @ @ technical colleagues and friends to Bloomberg ’ s gargantuan election operation in New York .
@

“Mike Bloomberg is not asking Silicon Valley leaders for their money as he ramps up his presidential campaign, but he is asking them for a different kind of precious possession — their employees,” Recode reports.
“On Monday, Bloomberg’s campaign gathered hundreds of tech leaders on a conference call and asked them to refer their most talented technical colleagues and friends to Bloomberg’s gargantuan election operation in New York.”


politicalwire--2020-02-11--Democrats Refocus Attacks on Trump

Democrats Refocus Attacks on Trump

“ Democratic presidential candidates made last-ditch appeals to voters throughout this state , largely shedding their most intense attacks on @ @ @ @ @ to be the chief antagonist to President Trump , who arrived in New Hampshire on @ @ @ @ @ that showcased the Republican incumbent ’ s strength , ” the Washington Post reports .

“Democratic presidential candidates made last-ditch appeals to voters throughout this state, largely shedding their most intense attacks on one another and instead auditioning to be the chief antagonist to President Trump, who arrived in New Hampshire on Monday night for a rally that showcased the Republican incumbent’s strength,” the Washington Post reports.


politicalwire--2020-02-11--Germ-Phobic Trump Confronts a Growing Epidemic

“ When an outbreak of the Ebola virus touched the United States ’ shores in mid-2014 , Donald Trump was still a private citizen .
But he had strong opinions about how America should act , ” the New York Times reports .
“ Mr .
Trump , who has spoken openly about his phobia of germs , closely followed the epidemic , and offered angry commentary about what he said was the Obama administration ’ s dangerous response .
He demanded draconian measures like canceling flights , forcing quarantines and even denying the return of American medical workers who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Now Mr. Trump confronts another epidemic in the form of the coronavirus , this time at the head of the country ’ s health care and national security agencies .
The illness has infected few people in the United States , but health officials fear it could soon spread more widely .
And while Mr. Trump has so far kept his distance from the issue , public health experts worry that his extreme fear of germs , disdain for scientific and bureaucratic expertise and suspicion of foreigners could be a dangerous mix @ @ @ @ @ @ @ severe outbreak at home .
”

“When an outbreak of the Ebola virus touched the United States’ shores in mid-2014, Donald Trump was still a private citizen. But he had strong opinions about how America should act,” the New York Times reports.
“Mr. Trump, who has spoken openly about his phobia of germs, closely followed the epidemic, and offered angry commentary about what he said was the Obama administration’s dangerous response. He demanded draconian measures like canceling flights, forcing quarantines and even denying the return of American medical workers who had contracted the disease in Africa…”
“Now Mr. Trump confronts another epidemic in the form of the coronavirus, this time at the head of the country’s health care and national security agencies. The illness has infected few people in the United States, but health officials fear it could soon spread more widely. And while Mr. Trump has so far kept his distance from the issue, public health experts worry that his extreme fear of germs, disdain for scientific and bureaucratic expertise and suspicion of foreigners could be a dangerous mix, should he wind up overseeing a severe outbreak at home.”


politicalwire--2020-02-11--Rally Crowd Chants ‘46’ for Trump’s Son

Rally Crowd Chants ‘46’ for Trump’s Son

Attendees at President Trump ’ s rally in New Hampshire on Monday chanted “ 46 ” when the president introduced @ @ @ @ @ the president ’ s eldest son follow his father as president .

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


politicalwire--2020-02-11--Job Creation Slowed Under Trump

Job Creation Slowed Under Trump

Newly revised figures from Trump ’ s own Department of Labor show that 6.6 million new jobs were created in @ @ @ @ @ Trump ’ s tenure , compared with 8.1 million in the final 36 months of @ @ @ @ @ decline of 19 % under Trump , according to a HuffPost analysis .


politicalwire--2020-02-11--Louisiana GOP Censures Mitt Romney

Louisiana GOP Censures Mitt Romney

The same Louisiana Republican Party that 30 years ago refused to censure former Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke decided @ @ @ @ @ Mitt Romney ( R-UT ) for his vote to convict President Trump on abuse of @ @ @ @ @ Washington Examiner reports .


politicalwire--2020-02-11--Feds Seek 7 to 9 Years In Prison for Roger Stone

“ Prosecutors have asked a federal judge to sentence Roger Stone , a former informal adviser to President Trump , @ @ @ @ @ in prison for lying to Congress and witness tampering during the Russia investigation , ” @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-02-12--New Hampshire Primary Results

New Hampshire Primary Results

Most close at 7 p.m. or 8 p.m .
ET , depending on the location .
The Associated Press could @ @ @ @ @ 8 p.m. , or it could take longer if the race is close .
The @ @ @ @ @ things to watch : • Voting process .
Any signs of problems at the polls @ @ @ @ @ , and the Democrats will suffer another black eye .
Party officials are promising no @ @ @ @ @ out the field .
Another strong showing from Buttigieg and Sanders could pay off in @ @ @ @ @ the Nevada and South Carolina races later this month , and Super Tuesday at the @ @ @ @ @ Showing strength .
Klobuchar has shown momentum in recent weeks , and she would celebrate @ @ @ @ @ Warren and Biden , who came into the 2020 race with much greater name recognition @ @ @ @ @ her out .
The New York Times is tracking results with their “ live needle.
@ @ @ @ @ the comments .

Most close at 7 p.m. or 8 p.m. ET, depending on the location. The Associated Press could project a winner soon after 8 p.m., or it could take longer if the race is close.
The Wall Street Journal has three things to watch:
Voting process. Any signs of problems at the polls, or issues tabulating results, and the Democrats will suffer another black eye. Party officials are promising no Iowa-like surprises. Sorting out the field. Another strong showing from Buttigieg and Sanders could pay off in fundraising and momentum ahead of the Nevada and South Carolina races later this month, and Super Tuesday at the start of March. Showing strength. Klobuchar has shown momentum in recent weeks, and she would celebrate a third-place finish. But Warren and Biden, who came into the 2020 race with much greater name recognition, will want to elbow her out.
The New York Times is tracking results with their “live needle.”
Leave your reactions in the comments.


politicalwire--2020-02-11--Romney Suggests Senate GOP Has Moved On

Romney Suggests Senate GOP Has Moved On

Sen. Mitt Romney ( R-UT ) told the Washington Post that he “ has received a fine reception from his @ @ @ @ @ GOP leaders , following his lone Republican vote to convict President Trump in the impeachment @ @ @ @ @ wants to be a team player , Romney flew home to Salt Lake City for @ @ @ @ @ day after the Senate vote — and then to Palm Beach , Fla. , for @ @ @ @ @ gathering .
”

Sen. Mitt Romney (R-UT) told the Washington Post that he “has received a fine reception from his Senate Republican colleagues and Utah GOP leaders, following his lone Republican vote to convict President Trump in the impeachment trial.”
“Signaling he wants to be a team player, Romney flew home to Salt Lake City for meetings last Thursday — a day after the Senate vote — and then to Palm Beach, Fla., for a National Republican Senatorial Committee gathering.”


politicalwire--2020-02-11--Virginia Lt. Governor Sues CBS for $400 Million

Virginia Lt. Gov .
Justin Fairfax ( D ) filed a $ 400 million lawsuit against CBS , alleging the @ @ @ @ @ broadcast interviews with two women he says have falsely accused him of sexual assault , @ @ @ @


Trumpocalypse

“ A huge swath of Americans see the rest of the country building a future that doesn ’ t have @ @ @ @ @ It ’ s no wonder they ’ d rather burn it all down .
But @ @ @ @ @ by Americans who act now to protect their country and its democracy .
”

Coming soon: Trumpocalypse: Restoring American Democracy by David Frum.
“A huge swath of Americans see the rest of the country building a future that doesn’t have a place for them. It’s no wonder they’d rather burn it all down. But the fire can be stopped by Americans who act now to protect their country and its democracy.”


politicalwire--2020-02-11--Four Prosecutors Resign Over Roger Stone Case

In a sign of fallout over the Justice Department ’ s decision to downgrade a sentencing memo for Roger Stone @ @ @ @ @ Zelinsky filed a notice withdrawing from the case this afternoon .
Meanwhile , MSNBC reports @ @ @ @ @ Jonathan Kravis — “ has resigned as an Assistant United States Attorney and therefore no @ @ @ @ @ this case.
” And Vox reports that Adam Jed becomes the third Stone prosecutor to @ @ @ @ @ that Michael Marando is the fourth prosecutor to resign .
Washington Post : “ The @ @ @ @ @ overrule frontline prosecutors and the prosecutors ’ subsequent moves laid bare the tension — between @ @ @ @ @ — that has roiled the Stone case in recent days , and it raises fresh @ @ @ @ @ Trump ’ s Justice Department .
”

In a sign of fallout over the Justice Department’s decision to downgrade a sentencing memo for Roger Stone, top Mueller prosecutor Aaron Zelinsky filed a notice withdrawing from the case this afternoon.
Meanwhile, MSNBC reports another Roger Stone prosecutor — Jonathan Kravis — “has resigned as an Assistant United States Attorney and therefore no longer represents the government in this case.”
And Vox reports that Adam Jed becomes the third Stone prosecutor to withdraw.
NBC News reports that Michael Marando is the fourth prosecutor to resign.
Washington Post: “The department’s decision to overrule frontline prosecutors and the prosecutors’ subsequent moves laid bare the tension — between career prosecutors and department leadership — that has roiled the Stone case in recent days, and it raises fresh concerns about the politicization of Trump’s Justice Department.”


politicalwire--2020-02-11--Trump Adviser Says U.K. Slips Behind in Trade Priorities

After months of promises that the U.K. would be next in line for trade negotiations with the Trump administration , @ @ @ @ @ Bloomberg that the European Union might still be the easier target for a quick outcome @ @ @ @ @ tariff battle .
He said trade talks with the EU and U.K. are on separate @ @ @ @ @ some structure ” on the EU side , “ reigniting that will be easier ” @ @ @ @ @ the U.K. Former President Barack Obama warned back in 2016 that the U.K. would be @ @ @ @ @ the queue ” in any trade deal with the U.S. if the country chose to @ @ @ @

After months of promises that the U.K. would be next in line for trade negotiations with the Trump administration, White House economic adviser told Bloomberg that the European Union might still be the easier target for a quick outcome aimed at avoiding a transatlantic tariff battle.
He said trade talks with the EU and U.K. are on separate tracks but because of “some structure” on the EU side, “reigniting that will be easier” than starting from scratch with the U.K.
Former President Barack Obama warned back in 2016 that the U.K. would be at the “back of the queue” in any trade deal with the U.S. if the country chose to leave the EU.


politicalwire--2020-02-11--Warren Downplays Expectations In New Hampshire

Sen. Elizabeth Warren ’ s campaign released a memo downplaying expectations in New Hampshire and laying out a delegate path @ @ @ @ @ New York Times reports .
“ The memo provides , by far , the most @ @ @ @ @ campaign of delegate viability heading into Super Tuesday , predicting a ‘ three-way race ’ @ @ @ @ @ and Mr. Sanders , the Vermont senator .
She omits Mr. Buttigieg , the former @ @ @ @ @ Ind.
, even though he received more support than her in Iowa and could do @ @ @ @ @ .
Candidates need to reach 15 percent support in each congressional district to win delegates @ @ @ @ @ for statewide delegates.
” For members : The New Hampshire Expectations Game

Sen. Elizabeth Warren’s campaign released a memo downplaying expectations in New Hampshire and laying out a delegate path in granular detail, the New York Times reports.
“The memo provides, by far, the most detailed projections released by any campaign of delegate viability heading into Super Tuesday, predicting a ‘three-way race’ between herself, Mr. Biden and Mr. Sanders, the Vermont senator. She omits Mr. Buttigieg, the former mayor of South Bend, Ind., even though he received more support than her in Iowa and could do so again in New Hampshire. Candidates need to reach 15 percent support in each congressional district to win delegates, as well as statewide for statewide delegates.”
For members: The New Hampshire Expectations Game


politicalwire--2020-02-11--Giuliani Working on Hunter Biden Documentary

Rudy Giuliani is working on a new documentary about Hunter Biden , Yahoo News reports .
“ Giuliani and his @ @ @ @ @ veteran California Republican fixer Tim Yale , have been conducting interviews for the documentary… They @ @ @ @ @ in the film , showing them trailers with footage of former Vice President Joe Biden @ @ @ @ @ and Ukrainian officials .
”

Rudy Giuliani is working on a new documentary about Hunter Biden, Yahoo News reports.
“Giuliani and his production team, led by veteran California Republican fixer Tim Yale, have been conducting interviews for the documentary… They have also approached potential investors in the film, showing them trailers with footage of former Vice President Joe Biden and actors portraying Hunter Biden and Ukrainian officials.”


politicalwire--2020-02-11--More Utah Voters Approved of Romney’s Vote

A new Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics poll in Utah shows voters mostly approving of Sen. Mitt Romney ’ s @ @ @ @ @ on abuse of power charges , 49 % to 40 % with 11 % unsure @ @ @ @ @ only , 60 % had a negative reaction to Romney ’ s vote , while @ @ @ @ @

A new Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics poll in Utah shows voters mostly approving of Sen. Mitt Romney’s vote to convict President Trump on abuse of power charges, 49% to 40% with 11% unsure.
However, among Republicans only, 60% had a negative reaction to Romney’s vote, while 31% were positive.


politicalwire--2020-02-11--The New Hampshire Expectations Game

The New Hampshire Expectations Game

This piece is only available to Political Wire members .
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This piece is only available to Political Wire members.
Only one candidate can win the New Hampshire primary, but whether each will be able to wage a successful campaign in Nevada, South Carolina and beyond depends in large part in meeting certain expectations set by the media and donors.


politicalwire--2020-02-11--Trump Expected to Pull Pentagon Nomination

“ The White House is expected to pull the nomination of Elaine McCusker to be the Pentagon ’ s comptroller @ @ @ @ @ the latest staffing fallout from President Trump ’ s impeachment , ” the New York @ @ @ @ @ resisted the president ’ s directive to stall about $ 250 million in military aid @ @ @ @ @ protesting the delay were leaked in January to the blog Just Security ahead of Trump @ @ @ @ @ ”

“The White House is expected to pull the nomination of Elaine McCusker to be the Pentagon’s comptroller and chief financial officer in the latest staffing fallout from President Trump’s impeachment,” the New York Post reports.
“McCusker resisted the president’s directive to stall about $250 million in military aid to Ukraine and her emails protesting the delay were leaked in January to the blog Just Security ahead of Trump’s Senate trial.”


politicalwire--2020-02-11--DOJ Nears Decision on Whether to Charge Erik Prince

“ The Justice Department is in the late stages of deciding whether to charge businessman and Trump ally Erik Prince @ @ @ @ @ he lied to Congress in its Russia probe and violated U.S. export laws in his @ @ @ @ @ the Wall Street Journal reports .

“The Justice Department is in the late stages of deciding whether to charge businessman and Trump ally Erik Prince in an investigation into whether he lied to Congress in its Russia probe and violated U.S. export laws in his business dealings overseas,” the Wall Street Journal reports.


politicalwire--2020-02-11--Inside Bernie’s Powerful Political Machine

Daily Beast : “ Consider just the data .
There are more than 150 Sanders campaign staffers in New Hampshire @ @ @ @ @ .
On Saturday alone , the campaign had about 1,000 out-of-state volunteers helping with get-out-the-vote @ @ @ @ @ 14,000 regular , active volunteers in the state .
The number of households that the @ @ @ @ @ was 150,000 .
The state only has about 640,000 household units , according to Census @ @ @

Daily Beast: “Consider just the data. There are more than 150 Sanders campaign staffers in New Hampshire along with 17 state offices. On Saturday alone, the campaign had about 1,000 out-of-state volunteers helping with get-out-the-vote operations on top of the 14,000 regular, active volunteers in the state. The number of households that the campaign visited just that day was 150,000. The state only has about 640,000 household units, according to Census data.”


politicalwire--2020-02-11--Feds Back Away from Roger Stone’s Sentencing Memo

“ The Justice Department plans to reduce its sentencing recommendation for longtime President Trump confidant Roger Stone , after top @ @ @ @ @ the seven-to-nine year penalty prosecutors urged a judge to impose , ” the Washington Post @ @ @ @ @ stunning rebuke of career prosecutors that will surely raise questions about political meddling in the @ @ @ @ @ Department official said the department ‘ was shocked to see the sentencing recommendation in the @ @ @ @ @ . '
” Associated Press : “ It was not immediately clear what prompted the @ @ @ @ @ exceedingly rare , particularly in a high-profile case like Stone ’ s , for the @ @ @ @ @ own prosecutors on a sentencing recommendation .
”

“The Justice Department plans to reduce its sentencing recommendation for longtime President Trump confidant Roger Stone, after top officials were apparently blindsided by the seven-to-nine year penalty prosecutors urged a judge to impose,” the Washington Post reports.
“In a stunning rebuke of career prosecutors that will surely raise questions about political meddling in the case, a senior Justice Department official said the department ‘was shocked to see the sentencing recommendation in the Roger Stone case last night.'”
Associated Press: “It was not immediately clear what prompted the reversal. But it is exceedingly rare, particularly in a high-profile case like Stone’s, for the Justice Department to reverse its own prosecutors on a sentencing recommendation.”


politicalwire--2020-02-11--Top One Percent Keep Getting Richer

Top One Percent Keep Getting Richer

The wealthiest one percent of Americans now account for 56 % the value of equities owned by U.S. households , @ @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-02-11--How the New Hampshire Primary Works

How the New Hampshire Primary Works

First Read : “ Unlike the Iowa caucuses , the New Hampshire primary is a typical kind of election contest @ @ @ @ @ votes , and ‘ the winner ’ is the candidate who gets the most votes.
@ @ @ @ @ independent — voters may vote in either the Democratic or Republican primary , and they @ @ @ @ @ GOP ballot .
Afterwards , the voter becomes a registered member of that political party @ @ @ @ @ a form confirming they wish to return to “ undeclared ” status.
” “ Forty-two @ @ @ @ @ s voter are undeclared , more than any other voting bloc in the state.
” @ @ @ @ @ all polling places must open no later than 11:00 am ET and close no earlier @ @ @ @ @ .
The earliest that NBC ’ s Decision Desk may be able to make a @ @ @ @ @ 8:00 pm ET .
”

First Read: “Unlike the Iowa caucuses, the New Hampshire primary is a typical kind of election contest — with participants casting secret-ballot votes, and ‘the winner’ is the candidate who gets the most votes.”
“Undeclared — or independent — voters may vote in either the Democratic or Republican primary, and they simply choose a Dem or GOP ballot. Afterwards, the voter becomes a registered member of that political party unless they specifically fill out a form confirming they wish to return to “undeclared” status.”
“Forty-two percent of the state’s voter are undeclared, more than any other voting bloc in the state.”
“Under state law, all polling places must open no later than 11:00 am ET and close no earlier than 7:00 p.m. ET. The earliest that NBC’s Decision Desk may be able to make a projection of the winner at 8:00 pm ET.”


politicalwire--2020-02-11--Most Expect Trump to Be Re-Elected

Most Expect Trump to Be Re-Elected

A new Monmouth poll finds just 42 % of registered voters feel that President Trump should be reelected , while @ @ @ @ @ time to have someone new in the Oval Office .
However , about two-thirds of @ @ @ @ @ will definitely ( 27 % ) or probably ( 39 % ) get reelected in @ @

A new Monmouth poll finds just 42% of registered voters feel that President Trump should be reelected, while 55% say it is time to have someone new in the Oval Office.
However, about two-thirds of American voters believe that Trump will definitely (27%) or probably (39%) get reelected in November.


politicalwire--2020-02-11--Sanders Overtakes Biden In Another National Poll

A new Monmouth poll finds Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic presidential race nationwide with 26 % , followed by Joe @ @ @ @ @ Elizabeth Warren at 13 % , Pete Buttigieg at 13 % , Mike Bloomberg at @ @ @ @ @ at 6 % .
Said pollster Patrick Murray : “ Iowa has had a significant @ @ @ @ @ especially for Biden , whose support was always soft and based largely on the perception @ @ @ @ @ : “ Democratic voters in states that hold nominating contests this month through Super Tuesday @ @ @ @ @ number of candidates – 21 % Sanders , 16 % Warren , 14 % Biden @ @ @ @ @ 11 % Buttigieg , 7 % Klobuchar , and 6 % Yang .
In states @ @ @ @ @ , 30 % back Sanders , 18 % Biden , 14 % Buttigieg , 11 @ @ @ @ @ Bloomberg , 5 % Klobuchar , and 3 % Yang .
”

A new Monmouth poll finds Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic presidential race nationwide with 26%, followed by Joe Biden at 16%, Elizabeth Warren at 13%, Pete Buttigieg at 13%, Mike Bloomberg at 11% and Amy Klobuchar at 6%.
Said pollster Patrick Murray: “Iowa has had a significant impact on the race, especially for Biden, whose support was always soft and based largely on the perception of electability.”
Also interesting: “Democratic voters in states that hold nominating contests this month through Super Tuesday spread their support across a number of candidates – 21% Sanders, 16% Warren, 14% Biden, 13% Bloomberg, 11% Buttigieg, 7% Klobuchar, and 6% Yang. In states that vote after Super Tuesday, 30% back Sanders, 18% Biden, 14% Buttigieg, 11% Warren, 9% Bloomberg, 5% Klobuchar, and 3% Yang.”


politicalwire--2020-02-11--Klobmentum Could Be Happening in New Hampshire

Vox : “ A string of strong polls over the weekend have shown the Minnesota senator overtaking Sen. Elizabeth Warren @ @ @ @ @ Biden to reach third place in New Hampshire , which votes Tuesday .
Over the @ @ @ @ @ $ 2.5 million in post-debate fundraising — an impressive two-day number in the context of @ @ @ @ @ raised in the last three months of 2019 .
”

Vox: “A string of strong polls over the weekend have shown the Minnesota senator overtaking Sen. Elizabeth Warren and former Vice President Joe Biden to reach third place in New Hampshire, which votes Tuesday. Over the weekend, her campaign reported $2.5 million in post-debate fundraising — an impressive two-day number in the context of the $11.4 million she raised in the last three months of 2019.”


politicalwire--2020-02-11--Biden Leaves New Hampshire Early

Biden Leaves New Hampshire Early

Joe Biden , staring down the possibility of a fourth- or even fifth-place finish here in New Hampshire , is @ @ @ @ @ what he hopes are friendlier climes , the New York Times 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--2020-02-12--Trump’s War Against the ‘Deep State’ Enters New Phase

New York Times : “ This is an unsettled time in Mr. Trump ’ s Washington .
In the days since he was acquitted in a Senate trial , an aggrieved and unbound president has sought to even the scales as he sees it .
Colonel Vindman was abruptly marched by security out of the White House , an ambassador who also testified in the House hearings was summarily dismissed , and senior Justice Department officials on Tuesday intervened on behalf of Mr. Trump ’ s convicted friend , Roger J .
Stone Jr. , leading four career prosecutors to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are sure to fall .
A senior Pentagon official appears in danger of losing her nomination to a top Defense Department post after questioning the president ’ s suspension of aid to Ukraine .
Likewise , a prosecutor involved in Mr. Stone ’ s case has lost a nomination to a senior Treasury Department position .
A key National Security Council official is said by colleagues to face dismissal .
And the last of dozens of career officials being transferred out of the White House may be gone by the end of the @ @ @

New York Times: “This is an unsettled time in Mr. Trump’s Washington. In the days since he was acquitted in a Senate trial, an aggrieved and unbound president has sought to even the scales as he sees it. Colonel Vindman was abruptly marched by security out of the White House, an ambassador who also testified in the House hearings was summarily dismissed, and senior Justice Department officials on Tuesday intervened on behalf of Mr. Trump’s convicted friend, Roger J. Stone Jr., leading four career prosecutors to quit the case.”
“More axes are sure to fall. A senior Pentagon official appears in danger of losing her nomination to a top Defense Department post after questioning the president’s suspension of aid to Ukraine. Likewise, a prosecutor involved in Mr. Stone’s case has lost a nomination to a senior Treasury Department position. A key National Security Council official is said by colleagues to face dismissal. And the last of dozens of career officials being transferred out of the White House may be gone by the end of the week.”
Washington Post: Trump escalates retribution as Republican senators shrug.


politicalwire--2020-02-12--Lucy McBath Endorses Bloomberg

Lucy McBath Endorses Bloomberg

Rep. Lucy McBath ( D-GA ) , a gun regulation activist whose son was shot and killed , endorsed Mike @ @ @ @ @ campaign Wednesday , joining a growing coterie of House members to support the former New @ @ @ @ @ he helped elect them to Congress , the Washington Post reports .


politicalwire--2020-02-12--Bernie Sanders Wins New Hampshire Primary

Bernie Sanders won the New Hampshire Democratic presidential primary , NBC News projects , followed closely behind by Pete Buttigieg @ @ @ @ @ with a strong third place finish .
But Elizabeth Warren and Joe Biden had dismal @ @ @ @ @ fifth respectively , and neither won a single delegate .

Bernie Sanders won the New Hampshire Democratic presidential primary, NBC News projects, followed closely behind by Pete Buttigieg. Amy Klobuchar surprised many with a strong third place finish.
But Elizabeth Warren and Joe Biden had dismal nights, finishing fourth and fifth respectively, and neither won a single delegate.


Paging Michael Bloomberg

Thomas Friedman : “ Yes , Sanders is also polling well against Trump , but the Trump machine has not @ @ @ @ @ yet — it hasn ’ t begun bombing Facebook with ads about how Sanders honeymooned @ @ @ @ @ “ Sitting here today , Bloomberg — paired with a progressive vice-presidential candidate who can @ @ @ @ @ voters — has the best chance to carry the day.
” “ In an age @ @ @ @ @ the way , and moderates tend to just go away , Bloomberg has the right @ @ @ @ @ with a heart of gold but the toughness of a rattlesnake — for what is @ @ @ @ @ big , brutal task : making Donald Trump a one-term president .
”

Thomas Friedman: “Yes, Sanders is also polling well against Trump, but the Trump machine has not begun to focus on him yet — it hasn’t begun bombing Facebook with ads about how Sanders honeymooned in the Soviet Union.”
“Sitting here today, Bloomberg — paired with a progressive vice-presidential candidate who can appeal to Sanders’s voters — has the best chance to carry the day.”
“In an age when political extremists go all the way, and moderates tend to just go away, Bloomberg has the right stuff — a moderate progressive with a heart of gold but the toughness of a rattlesnake — for what is going to be an incredibly big, brutal task: making Donald Trump a one-term president.”


politicalwire--2020-02-12--Deval Patrick Looks Like He’s Next to Drop Out

Former Gov .
Deval Patrick told the Boston Globe that he and his wife are going to go home tonight @ @ @ @ @ ” tomorrow morning about future of his presidential campaign .
He said he needed the @ @ @ @ @ Hampshire to carry us on .
”

Former Gov. Deval Patrick told the Boston Globe that he and his wife are going to go home tonight and “make some decisions” tomorrow morning about future of his presidential campaign.
He said he needed the “winds of from New Hampshire to carry us on.”


politicalwire--2020-02-12--Barr Takes Control of Legal Matters of Interest to Trump

NBC News : “ The U.S. attorney who had presided over an inconclusive criminal investigation into former acting FBI director Andrew McCabe was abruptly removed from that job last month in one of several recent moves by Attorney General William Barr to take control of legal matters of personal interest to President Trump.
” “ On Tuesday , all four line prosecutors withdrew from the case against Trump associate Roger Stone — and one quit the Justice Department altogether — after Barr and his top aides intervened to reverse a stiff sentencing recommendation of up to nine years in prison @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the court Monday.
” “ But that wasn ’ t the first time senior political appointees reached into a case involving a former Trump aide… Senior officials at the Justice Department also intervened last month to help change the government ’ s sentencing recommendation for Trump ’ s former national security adviser , Michael Flynn , who pled guilty to lying to the FBI .
While once the prosecutors in the case had recommended up to six months in jail for Flynn , their latest filing now says they believe probation would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ll Lose Our Democracy

NBC News: “The U.S. attorney who had presided over an inconclusive criminal investigation into former acting FBI director Andrew McCabe was abruptly removed from that job last month in one of several recent moves by Attorney General William Barr to take control of legal matters of personal interest to President Trump.”
“On Tuesday, all four line prosecutors withdrew from the case against Trump associate Roger Stone — and one quit the Justice Department altogether — after Barr and his top aides intervened to reverse a stiff sentencing recommendation of up to nine years in prison that the line prosecutors had filed with the court Monday.”
“But that wasn’t the first time senior political appointees reached into a case involving a former Trump aide… Senior officials at the Justice Department also intervened last month to help change the government’s sentencing recommendation for Trump’s former national security adviser, Michael Flynn, who pled guilty to lying to the FBI. While once the prosecutors in the case had recommended up to six months in jail for Flynn, their latest filing now says they believe probation would be appropriate.”
For members: How We’ll Lose Our Democracy


politicalwire--2020-02-12--Michael Bennet Ends Presidential Bid

Michael Bennet Ends Presidential Bid

Sen. Michael Bennet ( D-CO ) told the Washington Post he is ending his campaign for the presidency .


politicalwire--2020-02-12--Andrew Yang Ends Presidential Campaign

Andrew Yang Ends Presidential Campaign

“ Andrew Yang , a Democratic businessman who campaigned on giving every adult American a monthly check for $ 1,000 @ @ @ @ @ for president after a disappointing showing in the New Hampshire primary , ” the Washington @ @ @ @ @ : “ I am a numbers guy .
In most of these upcoming states , @ @ @ @ @ to be at a threshold where I get delegates , which makes sticking around not @ @ @ @ @ terms of furthering the goals of this campaign.
” Nate Silver : “ He ran @ @ @ @ @ new types of voters into the Democratic fold , and he probably has an interesting @ @ @ @ @ wants one .
”

“Andrew Yang, a Democratic businessman who campaigned on giving every adult American a monthly check for $1,000, will end his campaign for president after a disappointing showing in the New Hampshire primary,” the Washington Post reports.
Saif Yang: “I am a numbers guy. In most of these upcoming states, I’m not going to be at a threshold where I get delegates, which makes sticking around not necessarily helpful or productive in terms of furthering the goals of this campaign.”
Nate Silver: “He ran an overachieving campaign that brought new types of voters into the Democratic fold, and he probably has an interesting future in politics if he wants one.”


politicalwire--2020-02-12--How We’ll Lose Our Democracy

How We’ll Lose Our Democracy

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politicalwire--2020-02-11--Trump Pulls Nomination of Former U.S. Attorney

President Trump is withdrawing his nomination for former U.S. attorney for D.C. Jessie Liu to serve as the Treasury Department @ @ @ @ @ and financial crimes , Axios reports .
“ Liu was expected to stay in her @ @ @ @ @ her confirmation — with a hearing before the Senate Banking Committee scheduled for this Thursday @ @ @ @ @ last month that Attorney General Bill Barr was replacing her with his close adviser Timothy @ @ @ @ @ informed that Trump was pulling her nomination Tuesday afternoon .
”

President Trump is withdrawing his nomination for former U.S. attorney for D.C. Jessie Liu to serve as the Treasury Department’s undersecretary for terrorism and financial crimes, Axios reports.
“Liu was expected to stay in her position as U.S. attorney through her confirmation — with a hearing before the Senate Banking Committee scheduled for this Thursday — but was unexpectedly informed last month that Attorney General Bill Barr was replacing her with his close adviser Timothy Shea.”
“She was informed that Trump was pulling her nomination Tuesday afternoon.”


politicalwire--2020-02-12--Iowa Democratic Party Chairman Resigns

Iowa Democratic Party Chairman Resigns

“ Troy Price resigned his position as chairman of the Iowa Democratic Party Wednesday as the organization grapples with the @ @ @ @ @ process that has left the party and the state reeling , ” the Des Moines @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-02-12--The Day Democracy Died

The Day Democracy Died

Taegan Goddard is the founder of Political Wire , one of the earliest and most influential political web sites .
@ @ @ @ @ Hunt , Electoral Vote Map and the Political Dictionary .
Goddard spent more than a @ @ @ @ @ chief operating officer of a prominent investment firm in New York City .
Previously , @ @ @ @ @ to a U.S .
Senator and Governor .
Goddard is also co-author of You Won @ @ @ @ @ Scribner , 1998 ) , a political management book hailed by prominent journalists and politicians @ @ @ @ @ addition , Goddard 's essays on politics and public policy have appeared in dozens of @ @ @ @ @ Goddard earned degrees from Vassar College and Harvard University .
He lives in New York @ @ @ @ @ sons .


politicalwire--2020-02-12--Bernie’s Win Was a Bigger Deal Than Most Think


politicalwire--2020-02-12--South Carolina Democrat Blasts Sanders

South Carolina Democrat Blasts Sanders

Rep. Joe Cunningham ( D-SC ) , one of only two Democratic congressmen from South Carolina , forcefully rebuked Sen. @ @ @ @ @ state ’ s “ First in the South ” presidential primary race just hours after @ @ @ @ @ New Hampshire , the Charleston Post & Courier reports .
Said Cunningham : “ South @ @ @ @ @ socialism .
We want to know how you are going to get things done and @ @ @ @ @ pay for them .
Bernie ’ s proposals to raise taxes on almost everyone is @ @ @ @ @ and not something I ’ d ever support.
” Kyle Kondik : “ Impossible not @ @ @ @ @ Republicans dealt with Trump four years ago .
”

Rep. Joe Cunningham (D-SC), one of only two Democratic congressmen from South Carolina, forcefully rebuked Sen. Bernie Sanders, jolting the state’s “First in the South” presidential primary race just hours after the Vermont senator won in New Hampshire, the Charleston Post & Courier reports.
Said Cunningham: “South Carolinians don’t want socialism. We want to know how you are going to get things done and how you are going to pay for them. Bernie’s proposals to raise taxes on almost everyone is not something the Lowcountry wants and not something I’d ever support.”
Kyle Kondik: “Impossible not to think about how some Republicans dealt with Trump four years ago.”


politicalwire--2020-02-12--Steyer Spent $1,900 Per Vote

Steyer Spent $1,900 Per Vote

Tom Steyer spent $ 19.2 million in New Hampshire on television and radio advertisements and received about 10,272 votes , @ @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-02-12--Extra Bonus Quote of the Day

Extra Bonus Quote of the Day

“ That the Democrats are crooked… that they shouldn ’ t have brought impeachment and my poll numbers are 10 @ @ @ @ @ Trump , when asked if he learned any lessons from being impeached .

“That the Democrats are crooked… that they shouldn’t have brought impeachment and my poll numbers are 10 points higher.”
— President Trump, when asked if he learned any lessons from being impeached.


politicalwire--2020-02-12--Barr Agrees to Testify Before House Judiciary

Attorney General Bill Barr has accepted an invitation to testify before the House Judiciary Committee on March 31 , the @ @ @ @ @ Politico notes the appearance will end a year-long standoff that began when the panel first @ @ @ @ @ aftermath of special counsel Robert Mueller ’ s investigation .

Attorney General Bill Barr has accepted an invitation to testify before the House Judiciary Committee on March 31, the New York Times reports.
Politico notes the appearance will end a year-long standoff that began when the panel first demanded his testimony in the aftermath of special counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation.


politicalwire--2020-02-12--New Hampshire Turnout Set New Record for Democrats

“ The turnout in Tuesday night ’ s Democratic New Hampshire primary was the party ’ s highest ever and @ @ @ @ @ Democrats disappointed by low enthusiasm demonstrated in Iowa last week , ” CNN reports .


politicalwire--2020-02-12--Bloomberg Spends $1 Million a Day on Facebook Ads

“ Mike Bloomberg is spending so much money on Facebook ads that he has surpassed President Trump , the reigning @ @ @ @ @ realm , ” NBC News reports .
“ Bloomberg spent more than $ 1 million @ @ @ @ @ the past two weeks on Facebook .
That ’ s five times more than Trump @ @ @ @ @ — and more than three times what Trump spent per day during his victorious fall @ @ @ @

“Mike Bloomberg is spending so much money on Facebook ads that he has surpassed President Trump, the reigning king of the social media realm,” NBC News reports.
“Bloomberg spent more than $1 million a day on average over the past two weeks on Facebook. That’s five times more than Trump spent during the same period — and more than three times what Trump spent per day during his victorious fall 2016 campaign.”


politicalwire--2020-02-12--Bonus Quote of the Day

Bonus Quote of the Day

“ He has a plan , that ’ s for sure .
You have to recognize , the man — @ @ @ @ @ mayor of a huge , huge , city , the largest city in America .
@ @ @ @ @ ’ ve always liked him .
Nobody ’ s done more on guns and climate @ @ @ @ @ one.
” — Former Sen. Harry Reid ( D-NV ) , talking to Vice about @ @ @

“He has a plan, that’s for sure. You have to recognize, the man — he really was a good mayor of a huge, huge, city, the largest city in America. I like him, I’ve always liked him. Nobody’s done more on guns and climate than he has. No one.”
— Former Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV), talking to Vice about Michael Bloomberg.


politicalwire--2020-02-12--Prepare for a Long Slog

Prepare for a Long Slog

Ron Bownstein : “ These results raise pointed questions about whether Sanders can truly build a coalition broad enough to @ @ @ @ @ .
Given the modest size of Sanders ’ s New Hampshire victory , Greenberg said @ @ @ @ @ t see it producing a surge in the states following it . '
” “ @ @ @ @ @ else in the race has given any indication they can assemble a broader coalition of @ @ @ @ @ .
The limits constraining all of the top-tier contenders—and the prospect of Bloomberg further splintering @ @ @ @ @ spending—is why more Democrats are beginning to contemplate what seemed unimaginable not long ago : @ @ @ @ @ since 1952 they will arrive at their party convention in Milwaukee this July without anyone @ @ @ @ @ of delegates.
” Of course , who will broker a convention when there are no @ @ @ @

Ron Bownstein: “These results raise pointed questions about whether Sanders can truly build a coalition broad enough to pull away from his rivals. Given the modest size of Sanders’s New Hampshire victory, Greenberg said, ‘I don’t see it producing a surge in the states following it.'”
“Of course, no one else in the race has given any indication they can assemble a broader coalition of voters than Sanders has done. The limits constraining all of the top-tier contenders—and the prospect of Bloomberg further splintering the electorate with his unprecedented spending—is why more Democrats are beginning to contemplate what seemed unimaginable not long ago: that for the first time since 1952 they will arrive at their party convention in Milwaukee this July without anyone laying claim to a majority of delegates.”
Trending on the political dictionary: brokered convention.
Of course, who will broker a convention when there are no power brokers left?


politicalwire--2020-02-12--House Republicans Boycott Intelligence Committee Hearing

House Republicans boycotted an Intelligence Committee hearing Wednesday as a hangover of bitter feelings over President Trump ’ s impeachment @ @ @ @ @ Bloomberg reports .
Rep. Devin Nunes ( R-CA ) , the panel ’ s ranking @ @ @ @ @ letter to Intelligence Chairman Adam Schiff that under his leadership the committee “ has strayed @ @ @ @ @ overseeing the intelligence community .
”


politicalwire--2020-02-12--Rivals Worry Bloomberg Will Splinter Moderate Vote

Washington Post : “ Rival campaigns have also begun to raise concerns about whether Bloomberg ’ s strength could help @ @ @ @ @ to the nomination by further splitting the moderate vote in the party .
Under Democratic @ @ @ @ @ accrue delegates if they clear 15 percent support thresholds , which are measured on both @ @ @ @ @ ” “ Bloomberg ’ s aides , who privately share the same concern about the @ @ @ @ @ way that helps Sanders , said the burden is on other candidates ‘ to get @ @ @ @ @ failed to perform in the early contests.
” “ Behind the scenes , Bloomberg , @ @ @ @ @ $ 50 billion , has stepped up his debate preparations , which began last year @ @ @ @ @ is likely to be the next major test of his campaign .
”

Washington Post: “Rival campaigns have also begun to raise concerns about whether Bloomberg’s strength could help speed Sanders’s path to the nomination by further splitting the moderate vote in the party. Under Democratic rules, candidates can only accrue delegates if they clear 15 percent support thresholds, which are measured on both statewide and congressional district levels.”
“Bloomberg’s aides, who privately share the same concern about the moderate vote splitting in a way that helps Sanders, said the burden is on other candidates ‘to get out’ if they have failed to perform in the early contests.”
“Behind the scenes, Bloomberg, who is worth more than $50 billion, has stepped up his debate preparations, which began last year, as he faces what is likely to be the next major test of his campaign.”


politicalwire--2020-02-12--Harry Reid Says Iowa Should No Longer Go First

Former Sen. Harry Reid ( D-NV ) told Vice the Iowa caucuses should no longer be first in the presidential @ @ @ @ @ : “ Iowa has forfeited its chance to be number one .
I don ’ @ @ @ @ @ happen anymore.
” He added : “ Since the debacle in Iowa , many have @ @ @ @ @ be the first state .
Why ?
Because we ’ re a state that ’ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s really a state that represents what the country is all about .
So @ @ @ @ @ was an embarrassment to everybody .
”

Former Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV) told Vice the Iowa caucuses should no longer be first in the presidential nomination process.
Said Reid: “Iowa has forfeited its chance to be number one. I don’t think that’ll happen anymore.”
He added: “Since the debacle in Iowa, many have been talking about Nevada should be the first state. Why? Because we’re a state that’s heavily diverse. It’s really a state that represents what the country is all about. So I think that Iowa really was an embarrassment to everybody.”


politicalwire--2020-02-12--The Revolution Has Not Yet Arrived

The Revolution Has Not Yet Arrived

Ryan Lizza : “ Sanders overpromised and underdelivered .
He has premised his campaign on nothing less than sparking a @ @ @ @ @ and first-time voters — especially young ones — pour into American politics to carry him @ @ @ @ @ It didn ’ t happen in Iowa , and it didn ’ t happen in @ @ @ @ @ dominated the state in 2016 , winning every county .
Buttigieg and Klobuchar ripped holes @ @ @ @ @ turning color-coded maps from 2016 that showed a Sanders rout into a patchwork of colors @ @

Ryan Lizza: “Sanders overpromised and underdelivered. He has premised his campaign on nothing less than sparking a political revolution in which disaffected and first-time voters — especially young ones — pour into American politics to carry him to the White House. It didn’t happen in Iowa, and it didn’t happen in New Hampshire.”
“Sanders dominated the state in 2016, winning every county. Buttigieg and Klobuchar ripped holes through that map everywhere, turning color-coded maps from 2016 that showed a Sanders rout into a patchwork of colors.”


politicalwire--2020-02-12--Sean Spicer Selling Valentine’s Day Videos

Former White House press secretary Sean Spicer will record you a Valentine ’ s Day message for your loved one @ @ @ @ @

“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--2020-02-12--Inside Bloomberg’s Play for Black Voters

Associated Press : “ While Mike Bloomberg ’ s rivals battled it out in majority-white Iowa and New Hampshire , @ @ @ @ @ courted the black voters critical to any Democrat ’ s chance of winning of the @ @ @ @ @ backed by millions of dollars in ads , has taken him across Southern states that @ @ @ @ @ from Montgomery , Alabama , and this week Raleigh , North Carolina , and Chattanooga @ @ @ @ @ African American voters can decide a Democratic primary.
” “ His pitch is one of @ @ @ @ @ to capitalize on black Democrats ’ hunger to oust President Donald Trump .
But as @ @ @ @ @ ’ ll also have to reconcile his own record as mayor of New York and @ @ @ @ @ .
”

Associated Press: “While Mike Bloomberg’s rivals battled it out in majority-white Iowa and New Hampshire, the billionaire presidential candidate aggressively courted the black voters critical to any Democrat’s chance of winning of the nomination. The effort, backed by millions of dollars in ads, has taken him across Southern states that vote on March 3, from Montgomery, Alabama, and this week Raleigh, North Carolina, and Chattanooga, Tennessee, states where African American voters can decide a Democratic primary.”
“His pitch is one of electability and competence — hoping to capitalize on black Democrats’ hunger to oust President Donald Trump. But as he courts black voters he’ll also have to reconcile his own record as mayor of New York and past remarks on criminal justice.”


politicalwire--2020-02-12--We’re Witnessing the Corruption of Justice

Lawfare : “ Corruption of the justice system has two major elements .
The first—at issue in the Ukraine scandal—is @ @ @ @ @ to go after one ’ s enemies .
The other is the ability to restrain @ @ @ @ @ ’ s friends and allies.
” “ A dramatic display of this latter power took @ @ @ @ @ , when the U.S. Department of Justice , having articulated in court its view of @ @ @ @ @ Trump ’ s associate Roger Stone—convicted recently on multiple felony counts—confronted an angry presidential tweet @ @ @ @ @ in a second filing.
” Kim Wehle : “ Of course , this president ’ @ @ @ @ @ powers of his office will continue because he knows that there is no one within @ @ @ @ @ able or willing to stop him.
” For members : How we ’ ll lose @ @ @

Lawfare: “Corruption of the justice system has two major elements. The first—at issue in the Ukraine scandal—is the use of state power to go after one’s enemies. The other is the ability to restrain government power to reward one’s friends and allies.”
“A dramatic display of this latter power took place today, Feb. 11, when the U.S. Department of Justice, having articulated in court its view of an appropriate sentence for President Trump’s associate Roger Stone—convicted recently on multiple felony counts—confronted an angry presidential tweet and then meekly reversed course in a second filing.”
Kim Wehle: “Of course, this president’s abuse of the massive powers of his office will continue because he knows that there is no one within the federal government who is able or willing to stop him.”
For members: How we’ll lose our democracy.


politicalwire--2020-02-12--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ There haven ’ t been very strong indicators this week that he has.
” — Sen. Lisa Murkowski ( @ @ @ @ @ the New York Times , when asked by reporters if President Trump had learned a @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-02-12--Political Wire Straw Poll

Political Wire Straw Poll

This poll is only open 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 .


politicalwire--2020-02-13--John Kelly Finally Lets Loose on Trump

John Kelly Finally Lets Loose on Trump

The Atlantic : “ Over a 75-minute speech and question-and-answer session , Kelly laid out , in the clearest terms @ @ @ @ @ Trump ’ s words and actions regarding North Korea , illegal immigration , military discipline @ @ @ @ @ news media.
” “ Kelly , a retired Marine Corps general , said that Vindman @ @ @ @ @ the training he ’ d received as a soldier , migrants are ‘ overwhelmingly good @ @ @ @ @ all rapists , ’ and Trump ’ s decision to condition military aid to Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ political rival Joe Biden upended longstanding U.S. policy .
”

The Atlantic: “Over a 75-minute speech and question-and-answer session, Kelly laid out, in the clearest terms yet, his misgivings with Trump’s words and actions regarding North Korea, illegal immigration, military discipline, Ukraine, and the news media.”
“Kelly, a retired Marine Corps general, said that Vindman is blameless and simply followed the training he’d received as a soldier, migrants are ‘overwhelmingly good people’ and ‘not all rapists,’ and Trump’s decision to condition military aid to Ukraine on an investigation into his political rival Joe Biden upended longstanding U.S. policy.”


politicalwire--2020-02-13--Prosecutors Fear Trump Interference

Prosecutors Fear Trump Interference

New York Times : “ Prosecutors across the United States , who spoke on the condition of anonymity to avoid @ @ @ @ @ that they had already been wary of working on any case that might catch Mr. @ @ @ @ @ that the Stone episode only deepened their concern .
They also said that they were @ @ @ @ @ Bill ] Barr might not support them in politically charged cases .
”

New York Times: “Prosecutors across the United States, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to avoid reprisals, said this week that they had already been wary of working on any case that might catch Mr. Trump’s attention and that the Stone episode only deepened their concern. They also said that they were worried that [Attorney General Bill] Barr might not support them in politically charged cases.”


politicalwire--2020-02-13--The Early Contests Didn’t Shrink the Field Much

Washington Post : “ Typically , after the first two nominating contests , primaries narrow to a handful of front-runners @ @ @ @ @ competing factions .
This year , the race looks like no other Democratic primary in @ @ @ @ @ muddled mix of ideologies , backgrounds and theories on what has unfolded.
” “ Three @ @ @ @ @ s vote here with added strength , with the top vote-getter a self-described democratic socialist @ @ @ @ @ two , both Democrats , vying to represent moderates .
Two more candidates , including @ @ @ @ @ national polling leader , leave the Granite State significantly weakened but vowing to fight on @ @ @ @ @ are self-financing billionaires — one rising in South Carolina , which votes later this month @ @ @ @ @ ground nationally and across Super Tuesday states .
”

Washington Post: “Typically, after the first two nominating contests, primaries narrow to a handful of front-runners as a campaign crystallizes between competing factions. This year, the race looks like no other Democratic primary in modern history, an increasingly muddled mix of ideologies, backgrounds and theories on what has unfolded.”
“Three contenders emerged from Tuesday’s vote here with added strength, with the top vote-getter a self-described democratic socialist and independent and the other two, both Democrats, vying to represent moderates. Two more candidates, including the party’s longtime national polling leader, leave the Granite State significantly weakened but vowing to fight on. And yet two more are self-financing billionaires — one rising in South Carolina, which votes later this month, and the other gaining ground nationally and across Super Tuesday states.”


politicalwire--2020-02-13--Trump Uses His Power as Part of Vendetta

“ President Trump is testing the rule of law one week after his acquittal in his Senate impeachment trial , @ @ @ @ @ branch into an instrument for his personal and political vendetta against perceived enemies , ” @ @ @ @ @ “ And Trump — simmering with rage , fixated on exacting revenge against those he @ @ @ @ @ by a compliant Republican Party — is increasingly comfortable doing so to the point of @ @ @ @ @ the span of 48 hours this week , the president has sought to protect his @ @ @ @ @ , even at the risk of compromising the Justice Department ’ s independence and integrity @ @ @ @ @ defenders see as entirely justified.
” Associated Press : With impeachment over , critics see @ @ @ @ @ ”

“President Trump is testing the rule of law one week after his acquittal in his Senate impeachment trial, seeking to bend the executive branch into an instrument for his personal and political vendetta against perceived enemies,” the Washington Post reports.
“And Trump — simmering with rage, fixated on exacting revenge against those he feels betrayed him and insulated by a compliant Republican Party — is increasingly comfortable doing so to the point of feeling untouchable.”
“In the span of 48 hours this week, the president has sought to protect his friends and punish his foes, even at the risk of compromising the Justice Department’s independence and integrity — a stance that his defenders see as entirely justified.”
Associated Press: With impeachment over, critics see Trump “retribution tour.”


politicalwire--2020-02-13--Bloomberg Blamed End of ‘Redlining’ for 2008 Crisis

“ At the height of the 2008 economic collapse , then-New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg said the elimination of a @ @ @ @ @ ‘ redlining ’ was responsible for instigating the meltdown , ” the AP reports .
@ @ @ @ @ all started back when there was a lot of pressure on banks to make loans @ @ @ @ @ if you remember , was the term where banks took whole neighborhoods and said , @ @ @ @ @ are poor , they ’ re not going to be able to pay off their @ @ @ @ @ don ’ t go into those areas.
’ ” He continued : “ And then @ @ @ @ @ elected officials , as well — and said , ‘ Oh that ’ s not @ @ @ @ @ be able to get credit.
’ And once you started pushing in that direction , @ @ @ @ @ more loans where the credit of the person buying the house wasn ’ t as @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“At the height of the 2008 economic collapse, then-New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg said the elimination of a discriminatory housing practice known as ‘redlining’ was responsible for instigating the meltdown,” the AP reports.
Said Bloomberg: “It all started back when there was a lot of pressure on banks to make loans to everyone. Redlining, if you remember, was the term where banks took whole neighborhoods and said, ‘People in these neighborhoods are poor, they’re not going to be able to pay off their mortgages, tell your salesmen don’t go into those areas.’”
He continued: “And then Congress got involved — local elected officials, as well — and said, ‘Oh that’s not fair, these people should be able to get credit.’ And once you started pushing in that direction, banks started making more and more loans where the credit of the person buying the house wasn’t as good as you would like.”


politicalwire--2020-02-13--Biden Goes on the Attack

Biden Goes on the Attack

“ Shellshocked by two big losses , Joe Biden ’ s presidential campaign tried to reassure donors , surrogates and @ @ @ @ @ forward Wednesday while counterattacking nearly every one of his rivals , ” Politico reports .
@ @ @ @ @ a marked shift for a once-highflying Biden , who has tumbled from frontrunner to being @ @ @ @ @ also-ran .
”

“Shellshocked by two big losses, Joe Biden’s presidential campaign tried to reassure donors, surrogates and the press about his path forward Wednesday while counterattacking nearly every one of his rivals,” Politico reports.
“The attack-everyone strategy is a marked shift for a once-highflying Biden, who has tumbled from frontrunner to being in danger of becoming an also-ran.”


politicalwire--2020-02-13--Houston Mayor Endorses Bloomberg

Houston Mayor Endorses Bloomberg

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner endorsed Michael Bloomberg for president , the Texas Tribune reports .
“ The backing of the @ @ @ @ @ in America is Bloomberg ’ s most high-profile Texas endorsement yet .
It also gives @ @ @ @ @ prominent black elected official as the billionaire grapples with pushback over his use of ‘ @ @ @ @ @ while he was mayor of New York City .
”

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner endorsed Michael Bloomberg for president, the Texas Tribune reports.
“The backing of the mayor of the fourth-largest city in America is Bloomberg’s most high-profile Texas endorsement yet. It also gives Bloomberg another nod from a prominent black elected official as the billionaire grapples with pushback over his use of ‘stop and frisk’ policies while he was mayor of New York City.”


politicalwire--2020-02-13--Who Stole Your Vote?

Who Stole Your Vote?

Just published : The Hidden History of the War on Voting : Who Stole Your Vote and How to Get @ @ @ @ @ .
“ In today ’ s America , only a slim majority of people register @ @ @ @ @ large percentage of registered voters don ’ t bother to show up : Donald Trump @ @ @ @ @ percent of eligible voters .
Unfortunately , this is not a bug in our system @ @ @ @ @ feature .
”

Just published: The Hidden History of the War on Voting: Who Stole Your Vote and How to Get It Back by Thom Hartmann.
“In today’s America, only a slim majority of people register to vote, and a large percentage of registered voters don’t bother to show up: Donald Trump was elected by only 26 percent of eligible voters. Unfortunately, this is not a bug in our system, it’s a feature.”


politicalwire--2020-02-13--DNC Was Involved In Developing Iowa Caucus App

While the Democratic National Committee over the past 10 days has tried to distance itself from the troubled app that @ @ @ @ @ Iowa caucuses into disarray , a copy of the contract and internal correspondence provided to @ @ @ @ @ party officials had extensive oversight over the development of the technology .

While the Democratic National Committee over the past 10 days has tried to distance itself from the troubled app that threw the results of the Iowa caucuses into disarray, a copy of the contract and internal correspondence provided to Yahoo News demonstrates that national party officials had extensive oversight over the development of the technology.


politicalwire--2020-02-13--Biden Sends Staffers to Nevada and South Carolina

A Joe Biden campaign official tells CNN the campaign will redeploy nearly 50 additional staffers to Nevada and South Carolina @ @ @ @ @ some of those staffers being sent from their operations in Super Tuesday states .
The @ @ @ @ @ number of staff on the ground in Nevada to more than 130 and more than @ @ @ @ @

A Joe Biden campaign official tells CNN the campaign will redeploy nearly 50 additional staffers to Nevada and South Carolina by this weekend, with some of those staffers being sent from their operations in Super Tuesday states.
The redeployment will bring the total number of staff on the ground in Nevada to more than 130 and more than 60 in South Carolina.


politicalwire--2020-02-13--Odds of Contested Convention Rise

Odds of Contested Convention Rise

The latest FiveThirtyEight forecast shows the odds of Bernie Sanders winning the Democratic nomination ( 37 % ) are now @ @ @ @ @ winning a majority of delegates ( 37 % . )


politicalwire--2020-02-13--Trump’s Story About Vet’s Comeback Not True

“ Tony Rankins , a formerly homeless , drug-addicted Army veteran , got a standing ovation at the State of @ @ @ @ @ described how he turned his life around thanks to a construction job at a company @ @ @ @ @ ‘ Opportunity Zone ’ tax breaks targeting poor neighborhoods , ” the AP reports .
@ @ @ @ @ moved out of his car and into an apartment since landing a job refurbishing a @ @ @ @ @ , doesn ’ t work at a site taking advantage of the breaks and never @ @ @ @ @

“Tony Rankins, a formerly homeless, drug-addicted Army veteran, got a standing ovation at the State of the Union after President Trump described how he turned his life around thanks to a construction job at a company using the administration’s ‘Opportunity Zone’ tax breaks targeting poor neighborhoods,” the AP reports.
“But that’s not completely true.”
“Rankins, who indeed moved out of his car and into an apartment since landing a job refurbishing a Nashville hotel two years ago, doesn’t work at a site taking advantage of the breaks and never has done so.”


politicalwire--2020-02-13--Powerful Union Declines to Endorse In Nevada

Nevada ’ s powerful Culinary Workers Union will not endorse in the presidential primary , while criticizing Bernie Sanders ’ @ @ @ @ @ , Politico reports .


politicalwire--2020-02-13--Barr Says Trump Tweets Complicate His Job

Attorney General William Barr pushed back hard Thursday against President Trump ’ s criticism of the Justice Department , telling @ @ @ @ @ ’ m not going to be bullied or influenced by anybody.
” Barr added that @ @ @ @ @ critical tweets aimed at the department “ make it impossible for me to do my @ @ @ @ @ “ Don ’ t be fooled by this one , people .
Barr is telling @ @ @ @ @ is making it politically harder for him to deliver the results he wants.
” Asha @ @ @ @ @ makes it harder to crime for the President when the President keeps making it obvious @ @ @ @ @ him “

Attorney General William Barr pushed back hard Thursday against President Trump’s criticism of the Justice Department, telling ABC News, “I’m not going to be bullied or influenced by anybody.”
Barr added that the president’s highly critical tweets aimed at the department “make it impossible for me to do my job.”
Matthew Miller: “Don’t be fooled by this one, people. Barr is telling the president that his impulsiveness is making it politically harder for him to deliver the results he wants.”
Asha Rangappa: “It definitely makes it harder to crime for the President when the President keeps making it obvious that you are criming for him“


politicalwire--2020-02-13--Trump Threatens to Make Calls with World Leaders Private

President Trump said he may end the practice of having national security and foreign service staff listen in on his @ @ @ @ @ The Hill reports .
Said Trump : “ Well , that ’ s what they @ @ @ @ @ years .
When you call a foreign leader , people listen .
I may end @ @ @ @ @ may end it entirely .
”

President Trump said he may end the practice of having national security and foreign service staff listen in on his calls with foreign leaders, The Hill reports.
Said Trump: “Well, that’s what they’ve done over the years. When you call a foreign leader, people listen. I may end the practice entirely. I may end it entirely.”


politicalwire--2020-02-13--Trump Accused of Quid Pro Quo with New York

President Trump appeared to link his administration ’ s policies toward New York to a demand that the state drop @ @ @ @ @ his administration as well as his personal business and finances , Politico reports .
“ @ @ @ @ @ .
Andrew Cuomo was set to meet the president at the White House , Trump @ @ @ @ @ understand that National Security far exceeds politics , ’ a reference to his administration ’ @ @ @ @ @ New York ’ s access to the Global Entry and other ‘ trusted traveler ’ @ @ @ @ @ faster border crossings and shorter airport lines.
” Trump continued : “ New York must @ @ @ @ @ lawsuits & harrassment , start cleaning itself up , and lowering taxes.
” Trump ’ @ @ @ @ @ & harrassment ” was a reference to the state ’ s numerous lawsuits against his @ @ @ @ @ ’ s business .

President Trump appeared to link his administration’s policies toward New York to a demand that the state drop investigations and lawsuits related to his administration as well as his personal business and finances, Politico reports.
“Hours before New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo was set to meet the president at the White House, Trump tweeted that Cuomo ‘must understand that National Security far exceeds politics,’ a reference to his administration’s recent decision to halt New York’s access to the Global Entry and other ‘trusted traveler’ programs that allow New Yorkers faster border crossings and shorter airport lines.”
Trump continued: “New York must stop all of its unnecessary lawsuits & harrassment, start cleaning itself up, and lowering taxes.”
Trump’s invocation of “lawsuits & harrassment” was a reference to the state’s numerous lawsuits against his administration and also against Trump’s business.


politicalwire--2020-02-13--Pentagon to Shift $3.8 Billion More for Border Wall

Politico : “ The surprise reprogramming of another $ 3.8 billion… means the Pentagon will have forked over nearly $ @ @ @ @ @ to help pay for President Trump ’ s border wall.
” “ But this shift @ @ @ @ @ phase for the administration , which until now had used money set for military construction @ @ @ @ @ combat equipment .
The fiscal 2020 money will be moved into drug interdiction accounts that @ @ @ @ @ to fund border barrier projects .
”

Politico: “The surprise reprogramming of another $3.8 billion… means the Pentagon will have forked over nearly $10 billion since last year to help pay for President Trump’s border wall.”
“But this shift in funding marks a new phase for the administration, which until now had used money set for military construction and counterdrug operations, not combat equipment. The fiscal 2020 money will be moved into drug interdiction accounts that the Pentagon tapped last year to fund border barrier projects.”


politicalwire--2020-02-13--Extra Bonus Quote of the Day

Extra Bonus Quote of the Day

“ Last night on CNN , Bernie Sanders called me a political hack .
That ’ s exactly who the @ @ @ @ @ am a political hack !
I am not an ideologue .
I am not a @ @ @ @ @ ’ s a pejorative .
I kinda like it !
At least I ’ m @ @ @ @ @ James Carville , in an interview with Vanity Fair .

“Last night on CNN, Bernie Sanders called me a political hack. That’s exactly who the fuck I am! I am a political hack! I am not an ideologue. I am not a purist. He thinks it’s a pejorative. I kinda like it! At least I’m not a communist.”
— James Carville, in an interview with Vanity Fair.


politicalwire--2020-02-13--New Hampshire Turnout Wasn’t Driven By Bernie’s Base

David Wasserman looks at Democratic turnout in New Hampshire towns won by the top Democratic candidates : His takeaway : @ @ @ @ @ turnout was attributable to John Kasich/Marco Rubio types crossing over from 2016 Republican primary , @ @ @ @ @ progressive/Bernie Sanders base .

David Wasserman looks at Democratic turnout in New Hampshire towns won by the top Democratic candidates:
Pete Buttigieg: +26.5%
Amy Klobuchar: +25.2%
Bernie Sanders: +12.0%
His takeaway: Most of the increase in turnout was attributable to John Kasich/Marco Rubio types crossing over from 2016 Republican primary, not heightened enthusiasm of the progressive/Bernie Sanders base.


politicalwire--2020-02-13--Senate Votes to Restrain Trump Against Iran

“ A bipartisan Senate majority voted to pass a resolution Thursday limiting President Trump from ordering future strikes against Iran @ @ @ @ @ explicit permission , in a pointed rebuke of his administration ’ s resistance to involving @ @ @ @ @ policy decisions many fear could lead to all-out war , ” the Washington Post reports @ @ @ @ @ all Democrats in voting 55 to 45 for the measure from Sen. Tim Kaine ( @ @ @ @ @ the War Powers Act to block Trump from engaging in hostilities without consulting Congress except @ @ @ @ @ required against a clear , imminent attack.
” Trump is expected to veto the measure @ @ @ @ @ “ show weakness ” and “ sends a very bad signal .
”

“A bipartisan Senate majority voted to pass a resolution Thursday limiting President Trump from ordering future strikes against Iran without first seeking Congress’ explicit permission, in a pointed rebuke of his administration’s resistance to involving the legislative branch in foreign policy decisions many fear could lead to all-out war,” the Washington Post reports.
“Eight Republicans joined all Democrats in voting 55 to 45 for the measure from Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.), which invokes the War Powers Act to block Trump from engaging in hostilities without consulting Congress except in cases where self-defense is required against a clear, imminent attack.”
Trump is expected to veto the measure, which he warned would “show weakness” and “sends a very bad signal.”


politicalwire--2020-02-13--Bloomberg Disrupts Local Campaigns with Hiring Spree

The Intercept : “ Much of the focus on Bloomberg ’ s historic spending spree has been on the TV @ @ @ @ @ in at least 29 states , helping boost him into the top tier in polls @ @ @ @ @ of air time for other candidates.
” “ Beyond pushing out his competitors , though @ @ @ @ @ is having a shockingly disruptive effect on Democratic politics throughout the country : He is @ @ @ @ @ canvassers in nearly every state in the country at eye-popping salaries , poaching talent from @ @ @ @ @ that are now struggling to fill jobs .
In just three months , the Bloomberg @ @ @ @ @ people to staff more than 125 offices around the country .
”

The Intercept: “Much of the focus on Bloomberg’s historic spending spree has been on the TV ads he’s running in at least 29 states, helping boost him into the top tier in polls and driving up the price of air time for other candidates.”
“Beyond pushing out his competitors, though, Bloomberg’s spending is having a shockingly disruptive effect on Democratic politics throughout the country: He is hiring armies of staffers and canvassers in nearly every state in the country at eye-popping salaries, poaching talent from other campaigns and progressive organizations that are now struggling to fill jobs. In just three months, the Bloomberg campaign has hired thousands of people to staff more than 125 offices around the country.”


politicalwire--2020-02-13--Sanders Opens Up Wide National Lead

Sanders Opens Up Wide National Lead

A new Morning Consult poll finds Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic presidential race nationally with 29 % , followed by @ @ @ @ @ , Mike Bloomberg at 18 % , Pete Buttigieg at 11 % , Elizabeth Warren @ @ @ @ @ Klobuchar at 5 % .

“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--2020-02-13--Nadler’s Solution to ‘Drain the Swamp’

Nadler’s Solution to ‘Drain the Swamp’

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerry Nadler responded to President Trump ’ s demand to get “ bad people out of @ @ @ @ @ Nadler : “ You know , Nixon actually resigned .
”

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerry Nadler responded to President Trump’s demand to get “bad people out of our government!”
Said Nadler: “You know, Nixon actually resigned.”


politicalwire--2020-02-13--John Bolton Subpoena Likely Soon

John Bolton Subpoena Likely Soon

Daniel Goldman , the veteran prosecutor who questioned witnesses in the House Intelligence Committee ’ s public impeachment hearings in @ @ @ @ @ his podcast that the committee is likely to subpoena former national security adviser John Bolton @ @ @ @ @ I suspect that there will be some resolution to that over the next couple of @ @ @

Daniel Goldman, the veteran prosecutor who questioned witnesses in the House Intelligence Committee’s public impeachment hearings in November told Preet Bharara on his podcast that the committee is likely to subpoena former national security adviser John Bolton.
Said Goldman: “I suspect that there will be some resolution to that over the next couple of weeks.”


politicalwire--2020-02-13--Pro-Trump Effort Raised Over $60 Million In January

Associated Press : “ Pro-Trump groups raised more than $ 60 million in January and have more than $ 200 @ @ @ @ @ year ’ s general election , shattering fundraising records on the path toward a goal @ @ @ @ @ this cycle .
The Republican National Committee and President Donald Trump ’ s campaign have @ @ @ @ @ million since the start of 2019 together with two joint-fundraising committees.
” “ The pro-Trump @ @ @ @ @ more than 1 million new digital and direct mail donors since Democrats launched their push @ @ @ @ @ 2019 .
… The Trump team ’ s haul and cash on hand were twice @ @ @ @ @ Obama ’ s campaign and the Democratic National Committee at the same point ahead of @ @ @ @ @

Associated Press: “Pro-Trump groups raised more than $60 million in January and have more than $200 million on hand for this year’s general election, shattering fundraising records on the path toward a goal of raising $1 billion this cycle. The Republican National Committee and President Donald Trump’s campaign have raised more than $525 million since the start of 2019 together with two joint-fundraising committees.”
“The pro-Trump effort said it has gained more than 1 million new digital and direct mail donors since Democrats launched their push to impeach Trump in September 2019. … The Trump team’s haul and cash on hand were twice that of former President Barack Obama’s campaign and the Democratic National Committee at the same point ahead of his 2012 reelection.”


politicalwire--2020-02-13--Trump Rehires Aide Fired Over Security Clearance Issues

Johnny McEntee , the aide fired by White House chief of staff John Kelly over security clearance issues , is @ @ @ @ @ office that oversees presidential personnel appointments , the New York Times reports .
Administration officials @ @ @ @ @ feels he ’ s surrounded by snakes and wants to clear out all the disloyal @ @ @

Johnny McEntee, the aide fired by White House chief of staff John Kelly over security clearance issues, is expected to take over the office that oversees presidential personnel appointments, the New York Times reports.
Administration officials tell Axios that Trump “feels he’s surrounded by snakes and wants to clear out all the disloyal people.”


politicalwire--2020-02-14--Candidate for Paris Mayor Withdraws Over Sex Video

“ Emmanuel Macron ’ s candidate for Paris mayor pulled out of the race Friday after the publication of a @ @ @ @ @ media sites , further complicating the French president ’ s attempt to gain a foothold @ @ @ @ @ , ” Bloomberg reports .


politicalwire--2020-02-14--Barr’s Comments Likely Aimed at Quelling Internal Furor

New York Times : “ “ The attorney general had been contemplating how to respond since he became aware of @ @ @ @ @ on the department… Speaking up could have put Mr. Barr at risk of losing the @ @ @ @ @ but remaining silent would have permitted Mr. Trump to continue attacking law enforcement and all @ @ @ @ @ the some 115,000 employees of the Justice Department .
Ultimately , Mr. Barr concluded that @ @ @ @ @ to preserve his ability to do his job effectively.
” Politico : “ The benign @ @ @ @ @ prompted speculation from some quarters that Barr ‘ s message was aimed more at calming @ @ @ @ @ Department over the episode than actually scolding Trump .
”

New York Times: ““The attorney general had been contemplating how to respond since he became aware of Mr. Trump’s attacks on the department… Speaking up could have put Mr. Barr at risk of losing the backing of the president, but remaining silent would have permitted Mr. Trump to continue attacking law enforcement and all but invited open revolt among the some 115,000 employees of the Justice Department. Ultimately, Mr. Barr concluded that he had to speak out to preserve his ability to do his job effectively.”
Politico: “The benign response from the White House prompted speculation from some quarters that Barr‘s message was aimed more at calming the furor at the Justice Department over the episode than actually scolding Trump.”


politicalwire--2020-02-14--Republicans Snooped on Democrats’ House Polls

Playbook : “ The DCCC was holding a polling meeting with the blinds wide open , all their information on @ @ @ @ @ .
The meeting was billed as part of their Red to Blue program — the @ @ @ @ @ to flip .
The NRCC aides snapped photos , and you can see their photo @ @ @ @ @ say they gleaned a wealth of valuable intel on the state of key House contests @ @ @ @ @ NRCC learned that Democrats ’ internal polling shows the special election in California ’ s @ @ @ @ @ ’ s former seat — as just a 4-point race , with Republican former Rep. @ @ @ @ @ 30-26 .
They also had slides that appeared to show the DCCC ’ s favorites @ @ @ @ @ The NRCC and DCCC have disagreed on where to draw the line when it comes @ @ @ @ @ Republican committee , for example , has declined to sign an agreement to not use @ @ @ @ @ .
”

Playbook: “The DCCC was holding a polling meeting with the blinds wide open, all their information on display for passersby to see. The meeting was billed as part of their Red to Blue program — the GOP seats Democrats are trying to flip. The NRCC aides snapped photos, and you can see their photo document here.”
“Republicans say they gleaned a wealth of valuable intel on the state of key House contests. For example, the NRCC learned that Democrats’ internal polling shows the special election in California’s 25th District — Katie Hill’s former seat — as just a 4-point race, with Republican former Rep. Steve Knight trailing Chrissy Smith 30-26. They also had slides that appeared to show the DCCC’s favorites in contested Democratic primaries.”
The NRCC and DCCC have disagreed on where to draw the line when it comes to opposition research. The Republican committee, for example, has declined to sign an agreement to not use hacked information in its campaigns.”


politicalwire--2020-02-14--Sanders Leads In Texas

Sanders Leads In Texas

A new University of Texas/Texas Tribune Poll in Texas finds Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic presidential field with 24 % @ @ @ @ @ at 22 % , Elizabeth Warren at 15 % : Mike Bloomberg at 10 % @ @ @ @ @ % and Amy Klobuchar at 3 % .
In general election match ups , President @ @ @ @ @ 47 % to 45 % , within the poll ’ s margin of error .
@ @ @ @ @ 47 % to 43 % , Warren 47 % to 44 % , Bloomberg 46 @ @ @ @ @ Buttigieg 47 % to 42 % and Klobuchar 46 % to 41 % .

A new University of Texas/Texas Tribune Poll in Texas finds Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic presidential field with 24%, followed by Joe Biden at 22%, Elizabeth Warren at 15%: Mike Bloomberg at 10%, Pete Buttigieg at 7% and Amy Klobuchar at 3%.
In general election match ups, President Trump would beat Sanders by 47% to 45%, within the poll’s margin of error. He’d beat Biden 47% to 43%, Warren 47% to 44%, Bloomberg 46% to 41%, Buttigieg 47% to 42% and Klobuchar 46% to 41%.


politicalwire--2020-02-14--Trump Now Admits He Sent Giuliani to Ukraine

“ Emboldened after his impeachment acquittal , President Trump now openly admits to sending his attorney Rudy Giuliani to Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ his political opponents , even though he strongly denied it during the impeachment inquiry , @ @ @ @ @ The reversal came Thursday in a podcast interview Trump did with journalist Geraldo Rivera .
@

“Emboldened after his impeachment acquittal, President Trump now openly admits to sending his attorney Rudy Giuliani to Ukraine to find damaging information about his political opponents, even though he strongly denied it during the impeachment inquiry,” CNN reports.
“The reversal came Thursday in a podcast interview Trump did with journalist Geraldo Rivera.”


politicalwire--2020-02-14--Democrats Take Aim at Bloomberg

Democrats Take Aim at Bloomberg

“ Democratic presidential candidates hoping to revive their flagging campaigns increasingly took aim at Mike Bloomberg on Thursday , blasting @ @ @ @ @ to buy his way into the White House and raising questions about his commitment to @ @ @ @ @ AP reports .
“ The sniping reflects the remarkably fluid state of the Democratic race @ @ @ @ @ typically winnow presidential fields have already voted .
The White House hopefuls are trying to @ @ @ @ @ attention by flooding the national airwaves with hundreds of millions of dollars in advertisements and @ @ @ @ @ being admitted into next week ’ s presidential debate .
And the lagging candidates are @ @ @ @ @ still have the mettle to stay in the race , even if their path is @ @ @ @ @

“Democratic presidential candidates hoping to revive their flagging campaigns increasingly took aim at Mike Bloomberg on Thursday, blasting their billionaire rival for trying to buy his way into the White House and raising questions about his commitment to racial equality,” the AP reports.
“The sniping reflects the remarkably fluid state of the Democratic race even after two states that typically winnow presidential fields have already voted. The White House hopefuls are trying to blunt Bloomberg, who gained attention by flooding the national airwaves with hundreds of millions of dollars in advertisements and is on the verge of being admitted into next week’s presidential debate. And the lagging candidates are trying to prove that they still have the mettle to stay in the race, even if their path is becoming increasingly difficult.”


politicalwire--2020-02-14--Biden Leads Field In Georgia

Biden Leads Field In Georgia

A new Landmark Communications poll in Georgia finds Joe Biden leads the Democratic pack with 31 % , followed by @ @ @ @ @ and Michael Bloomberg with 14 % .
All other candidates have less than 5 % @

A new Landmark Communications poll in Georgia finds Joe Biden leads the Democratic pack with 31%, followed by Bernie Sanders at 14% and Michael Bloomberg with 14%.
All other candidates have less than 5%.


politicalwire--2020-02-14--Trump to Attend $580K per Couple Fundraiser

“ President Trump will be the guest of honor at a Saturday fundraiser at the palatial Palm Beach estate of @ @ @ @ @ the Washington Post reports .
“ Trump ’ s fellow guests : donors who gave @ @ @ @ @ support the president ’ s reelection , making it the most expensive such fundraising event @ @ @ @ @ ”

“President Trump will be the guest of honor at a Saturday fundraiser at the palatial Palm Beach estate of billionaire Nelson Peltz,” the Washington Post reports.
“Trump’s fellow guests: donors who gave $580,600 per couple to support the president’s reelection, making it the most expensive such fundraising event since Trump took office.”


politicalwire--2020-02-14--Bonus Quote of the Day

Bonus Quote of the Day

“ It was really touching .
I got phone calls , text messages from people who I ’ ve become @ @ @ @ @ number of months , including Cory , Kamala , Beto and people that have reached @ @ @ @ @ .
They ’ re not trying to get anything out of it .
It ’ @ @ @ @ @ your human experience.
” — Andrew Yang , quoted by the New York Times , @ @ @ @ @ .

“It was really touching. I got phone calls, text messages from people who I’ve become friends with over the last number of months, including Cory, Kamala, Beto and people that have reached out on a personal level. They’re not trying to get anything out of it. It’s just sort of sharing your human experience.”
— Andrew Yang, quoted by the New York Times, on ending his presidential campaign.


politicalwire--2020-02-14--The Benefits of Being Joe Biden’s Brother

ProPublica : “ The Biden brothers … have pursued overlapping careers — one a presidential aspirant with an expansive network @ @ @ @ @ the other an entrepreneur who helped his brother raise political money and cultivated the same @ @ @ @ @ own business deals.
” “ Jim Biden , 70 , has cycled over the years @ @ @ @ @ broker to political consultant and fundraiser to startup investor and construction company executive .
But @ @ @ @ @ resume was his bond with his brother , a Democratic Party stalwart in a position @ @ @ @ @ government contracts happen .
”

ProPublica: “The Biden brothers … have pursued overlapping careers — one a presidential aspirant with an expansive network of well-heeled Democratic donors; the other an entrepreneur who helped his brother raise political money and cultivated the same network to help finance his own business deals.”
“Jim Biden, 70, has cycled over the years from nightclub owner to insurance broker to political consultant and fundraiser to startup investor and construction company executive. But the through line of his resume was his bond with his brother, a Democratic Party stalwart in a position to push legislation or make government contracts happen.”


politicalwire--2020-02-14--DNC Schedules March Debate

DNC Schedules March Debate

The Democratic National Committee will host another presidential primary debate on March 15 in Phoenix , just two days before @ @ @ @ @ reports .
The debate will be the 11th of the party ’ s nominating process @

The Democratic National Committee will host another presidential primary debate on March 15 in Phoenix, just two days before the Arizona primary, Politico reports.
The debate will be the 11th of the party’s nominating process.


politicalwire--2020-02-14--U.S. Readied Sanctions Then Mysteriously Backed Off

Daily Beast : “ Late last year , the U.S. government signaled that it was about to level a new round of sanctions targeting people and entities linked to Deripaska… Back in April 2018 , the U.S. sanctioned the oligarch , who once lent millions of dollars to convicted Trump campaign chief Paul Manafort as part of a decades-long relationship between the two men .
Over the following months , Deripaska ’ s allies made a deal with Treasury to limit Deripaska ’ s control over the companies in exchange for sanctions relief .
Then Treasury lifted the sanctions on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ himself are still in place .
In the year since then , it ’ s been all quiet on the Deripaska sanctions front.
” “ Until December , that is .
What ’ s strange is that despite the signal , Treasury didn ’ t follow through and the sanctions—which would have targeted the unnamed people and entities because of their proximity to Deripaska—didn ’ t materialize .
It ’ s been two months since the U.S. indicated that the new sanctions were about to come out , and there ’ s been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The two months of inaction has stirred suspicions of political interference in the sanctions process .
”

Daily Beast: “Late last year, the U.S. government signaled that it was about to level a new round of sanctions targeting people and entities linked to Deripaska… Back in April 2018, the U.S. sanctioned the oligarch, who once lent millions of dollars to convicted Trump campaign chief Paul Manafort as part of a decades-long relationship between the two men. Over the following months, Deripaska’s allies made a deal with Treasury to limit Deripaska’s control over the companies in exchange for sanctions relief. Then Treasury lifted the sanctions on the companies—though the sanctions on the oligarch himself are still in place. In the year since then, it’s been all quiet on the Deripaska sanctions front.”
“Until December, that is. What’s strange is that despite the signal, Treasury didn’t follow through and the sanctions—which would have targeted the unnamed people and entities because of their proximity to Deripaska—didn’t materialize. It’s been two months since the U.S. indicated that the new sanctions were about to come out, and there’s been no movement from Treasury on the oligarch. The two months of inaction has stirred suspicions of political interference in the sanctions process.”


politicalwire--2020-02-14--Sanders Would Defeat All Rivals If Head-to-Head

A new Yahoo News/YouGov poll shows that Sen. Bernie Sanders would defeat each of the other Democratic presidential candidates in @ @ @ @ @ many instances by double-digit margins .


politicalwire--2020-02-14--Barr Reviewing Case Against Michael Flynn

“ Attorney General William Barr has assigned an outside prosecutor to scrutinize the criminal case against President Trump ’ s @ @ @ @ @ Flynn , ” the New York Times reports .
“ The review is highly unusual @ @ @ @ @ of political interference by top Justice Department officials into the work of career prosecutors.
” @ @ @ @ @ is simply insane .
Barr is basically trying to systematically ‘ undo ’ the entire @ @ @ @ @ ’ s so Trump can have reelection fodder .
”

“Attorney General William Barr has assigned an outside prosecutor to scrutinize the criminal case against President Trump’s former national security adviser Michael Flynn,” the New York Times reports.
“The review is highly unusual and could trigger more accusations of political interference by top Justice Department officials into the work of career prosecutors.”
Asha Rangappa: “This is simply insane. Barr is basically trying to systematically ‘undo’ the entire Mueller investigation. And it’s so Trump can have reelection fodder.”


politicalwire--2020-02-14--Iowa Democrats Retain Attorneys for Caucus Review

“ The Iowa Democratic Party will ask a former Iowa attorney general and a former U.S. attorney for the Southern @ @ @ @ @ the events leading to problems on caucus night and the party ’ s response to @ @ @ @ @ Moines Register 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--2020-02-14--Sessions Has Edge In Alabama Primary

Sessions Has Edge In Alabama Primary

A new WPA Intelligence poll in Alabama of likely Republican primary voters found Jeff Sessions leading the U.S. Senate race @ @ @ @ @ by Tommy Tuberville at 29 % , Bradley Byrne at 17 % and Roy Moore @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-02-14--Trump Is Key Factor for Voters In ‘Blue Wall’ States

A new report by the Kaiser Family Foundation and the Cook Political Report finds that 41 % of voters in @ @ @ @ @ states — Pennsylvania , Michigan and Wisconsin — have not decided who they will support @ @ @ @ @ The report also found that President Trump is an key factor in motivating voters to @ @ @ @ @ of voters said that their primary motivation to vote in 2020 is to defeat Trump @ @ @ @ @ % who said they were motivated by a desire to reelect Trump or to oppose @ @ @ @ @ : Trump ’ s disapproval in these states is 59 % .

A new report by the Kaiser Family Foundation and the Cook Political Report finds that 41% of voters in the “blue wall” states — Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin — have not decided who they will support for president in 2020.
The report also found that President Trump is an key factor in motivating voters to turn out. Twenty-one percent of voters said that their primary motivation to vote in 2020 is to defeat Trump, compared to the 8% who said they were motivated by a desire to reelect Trump or to oppose a Democrat.
Key takeaway: Trump’s disapproval in these states is 59%.


politicalwire--2020-02-14--The Winning Democrat Has a Narrow Path

The Winning Democrat Has a Narrow Path

The Washington Post has a nice Democratic nomination simulator which allows you to make various assumptions about the candidates .
@ @ @ @ @ that , in most scenarios , it takes a while for a candidate to get @ @ @ @ @ therefore , the nomination .
In some scenarios , no one may , meaning that @ @ @ @ @ convention without a clear nominee — the dreaded ‘ contested convention ’ scenario.
” “ @ @ @ @ @ is how hard it is to overtake a front-runner .
Once someone jumps out into @ @ @ @ @ s tough to catch them , since unless the challenger earns 85 percent of the @ @ @ @ @ the front-runner gets delegates too .
”

The Washington Post has a nice Democratic nomination simulator which allows you to make various assumptions about the candidates.
“You should also notice that, in most scenarios, it takes a while for a candidate to get a delegate majority and, therefore, the nomination. In some scenarios, no one may, meaning that the party gets to its convention without a clear nominee — the dreaded ‘contested convention’ scenario.”
“What may be more subtle is how hard it is to overtake a front-runner. Once someone jumps out into the lead, it’s tough to catch them, since unless the challenger earns 85 percent of the vote in a contest, the front-runner gets delegates too.”