politicalwire--2020-01-09--House Votes to Restrain Trump’s War Powers

“ The House voted on Thursday to force President Trump to go to Congress for authorization before taking further military @ @ @ @ @ a sharp rebuke of his decision to ratchet up hostilities with Tehran without the explicit @ @ @ @ @ , ” the New York Times reports .
“ The vote was 224 to 194 @ @ @ @ @ lines , to curtail Mr. Trump ’ s war-making power .
It followed a bitterly @ @ @ @ @ insisted that the president must involve Congress in any escalation against Iran , and Republicans @ @ @ @ @ s lead — accused Democrats of coddling the enemy by questioning the commander in chief @ @ @ @ @ Axios : “ Three Republicans and independent Rep. Justin Amash voted in favor of the @ @ @ @ @ , mostly moderates , voted against it .
”

“The House voted on Thursday to force President Trump to go to Congress for authorization before taking further military action against Iran, in a sharp rebuke of his decision to ratchet up hostilities with Tehran without the explicit approval of the legislative branch,” the New York Times reports.
“The vote was 224 to 194, almost entirely along party lines, to curtail Mr. Trump’s war-making power. It followed a bitterly partisan debate in which Democrats insisted that the president must involve Congress in any escalation against Iran, and Republicans — following Mr. Trump’s lead — accused Democrats of coddling the enemy by questioning the commander in chief at a dangerous moment.”
Axios: “Three Republicans and independent Rep. Justin Amash voted in favor of the House bill. Eight Democrats, mostly moderates, voted against it.”


politicalwire--2020-01-09--Iran Isn’t Done Retaliating

Iran Isn’t Done Retaliating

Andrew McCabe : “ Iran ’ s measured response to the general ’ s killing has many people believing the @ @ @ @ @ passed .
Should we be relieved ?
By limiting its response to U.S. military targets @ @ @ @ @ message to its own people that Soleimani ’ s killing would not go unavenged .
@ @ @ @ @ without escalating a military conflict with the United States.
” “ However , U.S. intelligence @ @ @ @ @ be well-advised to remember that Iran ’ s most provocative actions have often been asymmetric @ @ @ @ @ and terrorist elements .
It is those deniable , civilian-focused attacks we should be looking @ @ @ @ @ .
As a counterterrorism leader for the FBI , it was my job to figure @ @ @ @ @ impact us here .
And I am afraid the saga of Soleimani is far from @ @ @ @ @ : Are You Sure That Was an Off-Ramp ?

Andrew McCabe: “Iran’s measured response to the general’s killing has many people believing the worst of this crisis has passed. Should we be relieved? By limiting its response to U.S. military targets, Iran sent a powerful message to its own people that Soleimani’s killing would not go unavenged. Tehran managed to accomplish this without escalating a military conflict with the United States.”
“However, U.S. intelligence and law enforcement officials would be well-advised to remember that Iran’s most provocative actions have often been asymmetric attacks conducted through proxy forces and terrorist elements. It is those deniable, civilian-focused attacks we should be looking for as this situation unfolds. As a counterterrorism leader for the FBI, it was my job to figure out how events abroad would impact us here. And I am afraid the saga of Soleimani is far from over.”
Earlier for members: Are You Sure That Was an Off-Ramp?


politicalwire--2020-01-09--Super PAC Makes $2 Million Ad Buy for Deval Patrick

“ A new PAC created to support Deval Patrick ’ s presidential run announced a $ 2 million ad buy @ @ @ @ @ beginning with New Hampshire , ” Politico reports .

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


politicalwire--2020-01-09--Eric Garcetti Backs Biden

Eric Garcetti Backs Biden

“ Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti , who flirted with the idea of running for president but skipped the 2020 @ @ @ @ @ President Joe Biden for the Democratic nomination , ” the Los Angeles Times reports .
@ @ @ @ @ of Biden ’ s highest-profile supporters in California ’ s March 3 primary , but @ @ @ @ @ have any practical impact on the highly competitive race .
”

“Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, who flirted with the idea of running for president but skipped the 2020 campaign, endorsed former Vice President Joe Biden for the Democratic nomination,” the Los Angeles Times reports.
“Garcetti will be one of Biden’s highest-profile supporters in California’s March 3 primary, but the endorsement is unlikely to have any practical impact on the highly competitive race.”


politicalwire--2020-01-09--House Won’t Subpoena Bolton

House Won’t Subpoena Bolton

House Intelligence Chairman Adam Schiff told CNN that his committee has no plans to hear testimony from former national security @ @ @ @ @ Trump ’ s impeachment trial in the Senate , arguing there ’ s “ little @ @ @ @ @ going that route at this moment .


politicalwire--2020-01-09--Pompeo Convinced Trump to Kill Iranian General

“ Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was a driving force behind President Trump ’ s decision to kill a top @ @ @ @ @ move that demonstrates Pompeo ’ s status as the most influential national security official in @ @ @ @ @ CNN reports .
“ According to multiple sources close to Pompeo , the secretary of @ @ @ @ @ career that Iran is at the root of all the Middle East ’ s problems @ @ @ @ @ , Iran ’ s ‘ shadow commander , ’ as the mastermind behind the country @ @ @ @ @ throughout the region .
”

“Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was a driving force behind President Trump’s decision to kill a top Iranian general, a high-stakes move that demonstrates Pompeo’s status as the most influential national security official in the Trump administration,” CNN reports.
“According to multiple sources close to Pompeo, the secretary of state has believed throughout his career that Iran is at the root of all the Middle East’s problems and has focused on Soleimani, Iran’s ‘shadow commander,’ as the mastermind behind the country’s state sponsored terrorism throughout the region.”


politicalwire--2020-01-09--McConnell May Change Rules Over Impeachment Delay

“ Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has signed onto a resolution by Sen. Josh Hawley ( R-MO ) seeking to @ @ @ @ @ Senate to dismiss articles of impeachment if they are not transmitted within 25 days of @ @ @ @ @ case , January 12 , ” Axios reports .
“ The constitutionality of such a @ @ @ @ @ The Hill : “ Changing the rules would either require a two-thirds vote or for @ @ @ @ @ nuclear ’ option .
”

“Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has signed onto a resolution by Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) seeking to change the rules of the Senate to dismiss articles of impeachment if they are not transmitted within 25 days of their approval — in this case, January 12,” Axios reports.
“The constitutionality of such a move is not clear.”
The Hill: “Changing the rules would either require a two-thirds vote or for Republicans to deploy the ‘nuclear’ option.”


politicalwire--2020-01-09--McConnell Expects Impeachment Trial Next Week

“ Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell told Republican senators that he expects Speaker Nancy Pelosi to transmit to the articles @ @ @ @ @ as soon as Friday , setting up an impeachment trial that begins early next week @ @ @ @ @ “ While senators and aides cautioned that McConnell does not have inside intelligence , the @ @ @ @ @ advice for senators .
”

“Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell told Republican senators that he expects Speaker Nancy Pelosi to transmit to the articles of impeachment to the Senate as soon as Friday, setting up an impeachment trial that begins early next week,” Politico reports.
“While senators and aides cautioned that McConnell does not have inside intelligence, the remarks serve as key scheduling advice for senators.”


politicalwire--2020-01-09--Biden’s Campaign Manager Slams Facebook

Biden’s Campaign Manager Slams Facebook

Greg Schultz , campaign manager for Joe Biden , ripped Facebook after the social media giant said it would continue @ @ @ @ @ lie in advertisements on its platform .
Said Schultz : “ Purposefully allowing and profiting @ @ @ @ @ lies is a serious threat to the democratic process .
”

Greg Schultz, campaign manager for Joe Biden, ripped Facebook after the social media giant said it would continue to allow political candidates to lie in advertisements on its platform.
Said Schultz: “Purposefully allowing and profiting off of the spreading of lies is a serious threat to the democratic process.”


The Durability Advantage

Amy Walter : “ For a party that counts on women , people of color and young folks for votes @ @ @ @ @ ironic that the leading candidates in the national polls are two old white guys… ” @ @ @ @ @ two candidates is a testament to some important political truths .
First , even in @ @ @ @ @ ‘ viral celebrity , ’ it is tough to build an enduring political brand .
@ @ @ @ @ experience running for president is a bigger deal than many people appreciate.
” “ Biden @ @ @ @ @ the best-known candidates in the race , but they also have the most defined identities @ @ @ @ @ get with them .
And , that means they have a more stable base than @ @ @ @ @ .
”

Amy Walter: “For a party that counts on women, people of color and young folks for votes, it is a bit ironic that the leading candidates in the national polls are two old white guys…”
“The durability of these two candidates is a testament to some important political truths. First, even in this day and age of ‘viral celebrity,’ it is tough to build an enduring political brand. The second is that having experience running for president is a bigger deal than many people appreciate.”
“Biden and Sanders are not just the best-known candidates in the race, but they also have the most defined identities. You know what you get with them. And, that means they have a more stable base than anyone else in the field.”


politicalwire--2020-01-09--Biden Picks Up Key Fundraiser

Biden Picks Up Key Fundraiser

Joe Biden is on the verge of picking up a key fundraiser who was Sen. Kamala Harris ’ national finance @ @ @ @ @ for the White House , CNBC reports .
“ Jon Henes , a partner at @ @ @ @ @ Ellis , has indicated to friends and Biden ’ s close allies that he ’ @ @ @ @ @ with opening his extensive donor network to the former vice president .
”

Joe Biden is on the verge of picking up a key fundraiser who was Sen. Kamala Harris’ national finance chairman when she was running for the White House, CNBC reports.
“Jon Henes, a partner at the law firm Kirkland & Ellis, has indicated to friends and Biden’s close allies that he’s looking to move ahead with opening his extensive donor network to the former vice president.”


politicalwire--2020-01-09--Bloomberg Won’t Release Women from Hush Agreements

Mike Bloomberg told ABC News this week he will not take any steps to release women who have signed confidentiality @ @ @ @ @ speak publicly about past allegations that the former New York City mayor fostered a hostile @ @ @ @ @ employees .

Mike Bloomberg told ABC News this week he will not take any steps to release women who have signed confidentiality agreements with his company to speak publicly about past allegations that the former New York City mayor fostered a hostile work environment for some female employees.


Brexit Is Happening

The U.K. ’ s House of Commons voted 330-231 in favor of the European Union withdrawal agreement negotiated by Prime @ @ @ @ @ reports .
The bill must still be passed by the House of Lords , but @ @ @ @ @ ensures that Brexit will happen on January 31 .

The U.K.’s House of Commons voted 330-231 in favor of the European Union withdrawal agreement negotiated by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Axios reports.
The bill must still be passed by the House of Lords, but the Commons’ approval essentially ensures that Brexit will happen on January 31.


politicalwire--2020-01-09--Trump Claims Iran Was Seeking to Attack U.S. Embassy

President Trump made a new claim on the intelligence that prompted him to order the assassination of Iranian Gen. Soleimani @ @ @ @ @ because they were looking to blow up our embassy.
” He added : “ We @ @ @ @ @ reasons that were very obvious… We had a shot at him and I took it @ @

President Trump made a new claim on the intelligence that prompted him to order the assassination of Iranian Gen. Soleimani: “We did it because they were looking to blow up our embassy.”
He added: “We also did it for other reasons that were very obvious… We had a shot at him and I took it.”


politicalwire--2020-01-09--Deal Reached to Expand Medicaid In Kansas

Kansas Gov .
Laura Kelly ( D ) and state Senate Majority Leader Jim Denning ( R ) outlined a @ @ @ @ @ that was the product of 60 days of behind-the-scenes negotiation , the Topeka Capital Journal @ @


politicalwire--2020-01-09--Bonus Quote of the Day

Bonus Quote of the Day

“ You are not dealing with rationality here .
You are dealing with pure politics and Mitch plays it harder @ @ @ @ @ Joe Manchin ( D-WV ) , quoted by Spectrum News , after being asked if @ @ @ @ @ Collins ( R-ME ) wasn ’ t doing more to hear from additional witnesses on @ @

“You are not dealing with rationality here. You are dealing with pure politics and Mitch plays it harder than anybody.”
— Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV), quoted by Spectrum News, after being asked if he was concerned Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) wasn’t doing more to hear from additional witnesses on impeachment.


politicalwire--2020-01-09--New Iowa Poll Coming Tomorrow

New Iowa Poll Coming Tomorrow

A new Des Moines Register/CNN/Mediacom Iowa poll is coming tomorrow at 6 p.m .
ET .
This poll and will @ @ @ @ @ January Democratic debate and will probably be the last poll released before the deadline .


politicalwire--2020-01-10--Trump Team Made Fast Work of Iran Strike

Wall Street Journal : “ The new team was cohesive and less inclined than its predecessors to push back against @ @ @ @ @ , according to administration officials and others consulted by the White House .
They were @ @ @ @ @ in advance with other administration , Pentagon or State Department officials , congressional leaders or @ @ @ @ @ these officials said .
”

Wall Street Journal: “The new team was cohesive and less inclined than its predecessors to push back against the president’s wishes, according to administration officials and others consulted by the White House. They were also less likely to consult in advance with other administration, Pentagon or State Department officials, congressional leaders or foreign allies, some of these officials said.”


politicalwire--2020-01-10--Warren’s Surprising Closing Argument

Warren’s Surprising Closing Argument

“ Elizabeth Warren is often portrayed in media as a figure of the left-wing , locked in a battle with @ @ @ @ @ base of the party .
In fact , polling frequently shows she ’ s the @ @ @ @ @ Sanders voters , but of Joe Biden and Pete Buttigieg supporters , too , ” @ @ @ @ @ a spark heading into the Iowa caucuses , Warren and her allies are making a @ @ @ @ @ she ’ s best positioned to unite and excite the party — and is therefore @ @ @ @ @

“Elizabeth Warren is often portrayed in media as a figure of the left-wing, locked in a battle with Bernie Sanders for the progressive base of the party. In fact, polling frequently shows she’s the second choice not just of Sanders voters, but of Joe Biden and Pete Buttigieg supporters, too,” Politico reports.
“Seeking a spark heading into the Iowa caucuses, Warren and her allies are making a surprising closing argument: That she’s best positioned to unite and excite the party — and is therefore the most electable.”


politicalwire--2020-01-10--Amash Says Trump Abused Power in Iran Strike

Rep. Justin Amash ( I-MI ) told CNN he believes President Trump abused his power by ordering the drone strike @ @ @ @ @ Soleimani .
Said Amash : “ Based on the information I have from the classified @ @ @ @ @ do think so .
”


politicalwire--2020-01-10--Jared Kushner Shifts Focus to Re-Election Campaign

New York Times : “ Unlike the behind-the-scenes role he played in the 2016 campaign — where he was seen @ @ @ @ @ , campaign aides said , never took a title and avoided blame — Mr. Kushner @ @ @ @ @ the person officially overseeing the entire campaign from his office in the West Wing , @ @ @ @ @ decisions about staffing and spending .
His more prominent role comes after much of 2019 @ @ @ @ @ the Russia-related investigations that had dogged the president since he took office.
” “ The @ @ @ @ @ from Mr. Kushner ’ s focus in the early days of the administration , when @ @ @ @ @ central driver of administration Middle East policy , acting at times as a shadow secretary @ @ @ @ @ channels of power within the State Department .
”

New York Times: “Unlike the behind-the-scenes role he played in the 2016 campaign — where he was seen as a key figure but, campaign aides said, never took a title and avoided blame — Mr. Kushner is positioning himself now as the person officially overseeing the entire campaign from his office in the West Wing, organizing campaign meetings and making decisions about staffing and spending. His more prominent role comes after much of 2019 was spent bogged down by the Russia-related investigations that had dogged the president since he took office.”
“The portfolio marks a sharp departure from Mr. Kushner’s focus in the early days of the administration, when he sought to be a central driver of administration Middle East policy, acting at times as a shadow secretary of state who circumvented official channels of power within the State Department.”


politicalwire--2020-01-10--Behind Tom Steyer’s Polling Surge

Behind Tom Steyer’s Polling Surge

Nate Cohn : “ The explanation for Mr. Steyer ’ s surge is straightforward : uncontested dominance of the airwaves .
According to FiveThirtyEight ’ s ad spending tracker , he has spent more on television advertisements than all other candidates combined — not counting the other billionaire in the race , Michael Bloomberg.
” “ In contrast with Mr. Bloomberg , Mr. Steyer ’ s advertisements are concentrated in the four early states , though his spending in Iowa and New Hampshire has not yielded a similar breakthrough .
That ’ s probably because other candidates are spending there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Perhaps there ’ s more to the claim than many assume that Iowa and New Hampshire take their responsibilities at the top of the calendar more seriously than other states.
” “ The Fox polls suggest that Mr. Steyer has made broad gains among Democratic voters , spanning most age , educational , racial and ideological groups .
The breadth of his support is fairly impressive , given that the Democratic electorate has often split along factional lines so far this cycle .
The depth of his support is untested , though .
@

Nate Cohn: “The explanation for Mr. Steyer’s surge is straightforward: uncontested dominance of the airwaves. According to FiveThirtyEight’s ad spending tracker, he has spent more on television advertisements than all other candidates combined — not counting the other billionaire in the race, Michael Bloomberg.”
“In contrast with Mr. Bloomberg, Mr. Steyer’s advertisements are concentrated in the four early states, though his spending in Iowa and New Hampshire has not yielded a similar breakthrough. That’s probably because other candidates are spending there. There may be another reason: Perhaps there’s more to the claim than many assume that Iowa and New Hampshire take their responsibilities at the top of the calendar more seriously than other states.”
“The Fox polls suggest that Mr. Steyer has made broad gains among Democratic voters, spanning most age, educational, racial and ideological groups. The breadth of his support is fairly impressive, given that the Democratic electorate has often split along factional lines so far this cycle. The depth of his support is untested, though.”


politicalwire--2020-01-10--Justice Department Winds Down Clinton Inquiry

“ A Justice Department inquiry launched more than two years ago to mollify conservatives clamoring for more investigations of Hillary @ @ @ @ @ no tangible results , and current and former law enforcement officials said they never expected @ @ @ @ @ of anything , ” the Washington Post reports .

“A Justice Department inquiry launched more than two years ago to mollify conservatives clamoring for more investigations of Hillary Clinton has effectively ended with no tangible results, and current and former law enforcement officials said they never expected the effort to produce much of anything,” the Washington Post reports.


politicalwire--2020-01-10--Sanders Leads In Iowa

Sanders Leads In Iowa

A new Des Moines Register/CNN poll in Iowa finds Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic presidential race with 20 % , @ @ @ @ @ 17 % , Pete Buttigieg at 16 % , Joe Biden at 15 % , @ @ @ @ @ , Andrew Yang at 5 % , Cory Booker at 3 % , Tulsi Gabbard @ @ @ @ @ Steyer at 2 % .
Said pollster Ann Selzer : “ There ’ s no @ @ @ @ @ good poll for Bernie Sanders .
He leads , but it ’ s not an @ @ @ @ @ s got a firmer grip on his supporters than the rest of his compatriots.
” @ @ @ @ @ percentage of those who say their mind is made up about which candidate to support @ @ @ @ @ to 40 % — up 10 percentage points from November .
But that leaves 45 @ @ @ @ @ still be persuaded to support someone else and another 13 % who have not picked @ @ @ @ @ ”

A new Des Moines Register/CNN poll in Iowa finds Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic presidential race with 20%, followed by Elizabeth Warren at 17%, Pete Buttigieg at 16%, Joe Biden at 15%, Amy Klobuchar at 6%, Andrew Yang at 5%, Cory Booker at 3%, Tulsi Gabbard at 2% and Tom Steyer at 2%.
Said pollster Ann Selzer: “There’s no denying that this is a good poll for Bernie Sanders. He leads, but it’s not an uncontested lead. He’s got a firmer grip on his supporters than the rest of his compatriots.”
Key finding: “The percentage of those who say their mind is made up about which candidate to support on caucus night has risen to 40% — up 10 percentage points from November. But that leaves 45% who say they could still be persuaded to support someone else and another 13% who have not picked a favorite candidate yet.”


politicalwire--2020-01-10--Texas Will Reject New Refugees This Year

Texas Gov .
Greg Abbott ( R ) said the state will reject the resettlement of new refugees , becoming @ @ @ @ @ do so under a recent Trump administration order , the AP reports .

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


politicalwire--2020-01-10--Trump Is Starting to Fixate on Bernie Sanders

“ President Trump ’ s reelection campaign is beginning to aggressively attack a rising threat to his power : Bernie @ @ @ @ @ reports .
“ The Trump campaign put out two statements centered on Sanders this week @ @ @ @ @ at the top of the list of people the president attacked at his first rally @ @ @ @ @ , Ohio on Thursday night .
”

“President Trump’s reelection campaign is beginning to aggressively attack a rising threat to his power: Bernie Sanders,” BuzzFeed News reports.
“The Trump campaign put out two statements centered on Sanders this week and the Vermont senator was at the top of the list of people the president attacked at his first rally of the year in Toledo, Ohio on Thursday night.”


politicalwire--2020-01-10--White House Considers Expanding Travel Ban

“ The White House is considering expanding its much-litigated travel ban to additional countries amid a renewed election-year focus on @ @ @ @ @ , ” the AP reports .
“ A document outlining the plans has been circulating @ @ @ @ @ the countries that would be affected are blacked out .
”

“The White House is considering expanding its much-litigated travel ban to additional countries amid a renewed election-year focus on immigration issues by President Trump,” the AP reports.
“A document outlining the plans has been circulating the White House, but the countries that would be affected are blacked out.”


politicalwire--2020-01-10--Trump Says He’ll Block Bolton from Testifying

President Trump told Fox News that “ for the sake of the office ” he will invoke executive privilege to @ @ @ @ @ Security Adviser John Bolton from testifying during the Senate impeachment trial .


2020 Senate Overview

For members : The new edition of Inside Elections .
This issue has a fresh look at the 2020 U.S. @ @ @ @ @ hold the keys to the Republican majority .
There ’ s an updated analysis of @ @ @ @ @ with rating changes in Kansas and Michigan ) .
In addition , there ’ s @ @ @ @ @ upcoming House reapportionment and redistricting process .
If you ’ re not yet a member @ @ @ @ @ Annual or Monthly membership for instant access and many more benefits .
And don ’ @ @ @ @ @ are also available .

For members: The new edition of Inside Elections.
This issue has a fresh look at the 2020 U.S. Senate races, where women hold the keys to the Republican majority. There’s an updated analysis of every Senate race (along with rating changes in Kansas and Michigan).


politicalwire--2020-01-10--Trump Claims Iran Planned to Attack Four Embassies

President Trump told Fox News that Iran Gen. Suleimani was plotting to bomb “ four embassies ” probably including the @ @ @ @ @ Said Trump : “ I can reveal that I believe it probably would ’ ve @ @ @ @ @

President Trump told Fox News that Iran Gen. Suleimani was plotting to bomb “four embassies” probably including the U.S. embassy in Baghdad.
Said Trump: “I can reveal that I believe it probably would’ve been four embassies.”


politicalwire--2020-01-10--When Will the Senate Impeachment Trial Begin?

Playbook : “ Pelosi is saying she ’ ll talk about this at caucus Tuesday .
So , we can @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday vote.
” “ The Senate ’ s impeachment guidelines say this : ‘ Upon @ @ @ @ @ the Senate , the Senate shall , at 1 o ’ clock after noon of @ @ @ @ @ ) following such presentation , or sooner if ordered by the Senate , proceed to @ @ @ @ @ and shall continue in session from day to day ( Sundays excepted ) after the @ @ @ @ @ otherwise ordered by the Senate ) until final judgment shall be rendered , and so @ @ @ @ @ in its judgment , be needful.
’ “ Remember : Next weekend is the three-day @ @ @ @ @ elements of the trial will take a few days at the front end .
The @ @ @ @ @ begin until post-MLK weekend in all likelihood .
Senate GOP leadership has sent signals they @ @ @ @ @ going most weekends .
”

Playbook: “Pelosi is saying she’ll talk about this at caucus Tuesday. So, we can probably assume a Tuesday or Wednesday vote.”
“The Senate’s impeachment guidelines say this: ‘Upon such articles being presented to the Senate, the Senate shall, at 1 o’clock after noon of the day (Sunday excepted) following such presentation, or sooner if ordered by the Senate, proceed to the consideration of such articles and shall continue in session from day to day (Sundays excepted) after the trial shall commence (unless otherwise ordered by the Senate) until final judgment shall be rendered, and so much longer as may, in its judgment, be needful.’
“Remember: Next weekend is the three-day MLK weekend. The logistical elements of the trial will take a few days at the front end. The real trial won’t begin until post-MLK weekend in all likelihood. Senate GOP leadership has sent signals they intend to keep the trial going most weekends.”


politicalwire--2020-01-10--Many Democrats Paralyzed Over Picking Wrong Nominee

Washington Post : “ Iowa voters are famous for taking their time every four years to decide which candidate to @ @ @ @ @ a dutiful process of meeting several contenders in person before making up their minds .
@ @ @ @ @ — with many Democrats here so paralyzed by the fear of choosing the wrong candidate @ @ @ @ @ that they are finding it impossible to make up their minds.
” “ The uncertainty @ @ @ @ @ decision about which contender voters like more , and it is complicated not merely by @ @ @ @ @ field.
” “ Rather , for many here who remain uncommitted , the dilemma presents @ @ @ @ @ a search for an elusive set of qualities seen as necessary to defeat President Trump @ @ @ @ @ in modern history .
”

Washington Post: “Iowa voters are famous for taking their time every four years to decide which candidate to support, often insisting on a dutiful process of meeting several contenders in person before making up their minds. But this year is different — with many Democrats here so paralyzed by the fear of choosing the wrong candidate in the first-in-the-nation nominating contest that they are finding it impossible to make up their minds.”
“The uncertainty goes deeper than the already-vexing decision about which contender voters like more, and it is complicated not merely by this year’s crowded field.”
“Rather, for many here who remain uncommitted, the dilemma presents a whole new calculation — a search for an elusive set of qualities seen as necessary to defeat President Trump, the most unpredictable opponent in modern history.”


politicalwire--2020-01-10--Ocasio-Cortez Defends Not Paying DCCC Dues

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez ( D-NY ) defended her decision not to pay dues to the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee , @ @ @ @ @ to funnel money directly to Democrats in tough races , The Hill reports .


politicalwire--2020-01-10--Feds Probing Russian Efforts to Undermine Biden

“ U.S .
intelligence and law enforcement officials are assessing whether Russia is trying to undermine Joe Biden in its @ @ @ @ @ former vice president still the front-runner in the race to challenge President Trump , ” @ @ @ @ @ probe comes as senior U.S. officials are warning that Russia ’ s election interference in @ @ @ @ @ than in the 2016 presidential race or the 2018 midterm election .
”

“U.S. intelligence and law enforcement officials are assessing whether Russia is trying to undermine Joe Biden in its ongoing disinformation efforts with the former vice president still the front-runner in the race to challenge President Trump,” Bloomberg reports.
“The probe comes as senior U.S. officials are warning that Russia’s election interference in 2020 could be more brazen than in the 2016 presidential race or the 2018 midterm election.”


politicalwire--2020-01-10--U.S. Targeted but Missed Iranian Commander in Yemen

“ The U.S. military recently targeted but failed to kill Iran ’ s senior military commander in Yemen around the @ @ @ @ @ strike that killed an Iranian commander in Baghdad , ” the Wall Street Journal reports @ @ @ @ @ operation against Abdul Reza Shahlai in Yemen shows that the U.S. operation that killed Maj. @ @ @ @ @ last week was more ambitious and multifaceted than the Trump administration has disclosed .
”

“The U.S. military recently targeted but failed to kill Iran’s senior military commander in Yemen around the time it conducted the drone strike that killed an Iranian commander in Baghdad,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
“The highly classified operation against Abdul Reza Shahlai in Yemen shows that the U.S. operation that killed Maj. Gen. Qassem Soleimani in Baghdad last week was more ambitious and multifaceted than the Trump administration has disclosed.”


politicalwire--2020-01-10--Collins Says She’s Working to Allow Witnesses

Sen. Susan Collins ( R-ME ) told the Bangor Daily News that she is working with a “ fairly small @ @ @ @ @ ensure that an initial resolution on President Trump ’ s impeachment trial rules allows for @ @ @ @ @ “ I am hopeful that we can reach an agreement on how to proceed with @ @ @ @ @ the opportunity for both the House and the president ’ s counsel if they choose @ @ @ @ @

Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) told the Bangor Daily News that she is working with a “fairly small” group of senators to ensure that an initial resolution on President Trump’s impeachment trial rules allows for witnesses.
Said Collins: “I am hopeful that we can reach an agreement on how to proceed with the trial that will allow the opportunity for both the House and the president’s counsel if they choose to do so,”


politicalwire--2020-01-10--Will Impeachment Even Matter In November?

Playbook : “ We are 298 days until the election .
Are you at all convinced that impeachment will remain as poignant a political issue as it is now ?
Republicans feel confident they ’ ve put red-district Democrats in a bad spot for supporting impeachment — but they ’ re equally confident it will be very difficult to keep them in that bad spot for the next 10 months , and privately concede the issue might soften over time.
” “ Think about the last week in politics : The U.S. killed Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani , allies got @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would strike back , Iran did , President Trump said he wouldn ’ t escalate further , Speaker Nancy Pelosi was in the middle of holding the impeachment articles , now she ’ s at the end of holding them , and you have to wonder : What else will happen between now and November that will make impeachment seem like ancient history ?
” “ This is some back-of-the-napkin math , but bear with us : If impeachment starts next week , you should expect it to end in late January .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ end of impeachment and Election Day .
In this environment , that ’ s at least 270 news cycles .
”

Playbook: “We are 298 days until the election. Are you at all convinced that impeachment will remain as poignant a political issue as it is now? Republicans feel confident they’ve put red-district Democrats in a bad spot for supporting impeachment — but they’re equally confident it will be very difficult to keep them in that bad spot for the next 10 months, and privately concede the issue might soften over time.”
“Think about the last week in politics: The U.S. killed Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani, allies got nervous, the world wondered if Iran would strike back, Iran did, President Trump said he wouldn’t escalate further, Speaker Nancy Pelosi was in the middle of holding the impeachment articles, now she’s at the end of holding them, and you have to wonder: What else will happen between now and November that will make impeachment seem like ancient history?”
“This is some back-of-the-napkin math, but bear with us: If impeachment starts next week, you should expect it to end in late January. That leaves nine full months between the end of impeachment and Election Day. In this environment, that’s at least 270 news cycles.”


politicalwire--2020-01-10--Marianne Williamson Drops Bid

Marianne Williamson Drops Bid

Marianne Williamson , the self-help author and spiritual adviser whose long-shot presidential campaign called for reparations and a Department of @ @ @ @ @ that she would drop out of the race , the New York Times reports .
@ @ @ @ @ a race as tight as this one , she did not want to “ get @ @ @ @ @ progressive candidate winning ” any caucus or primary .

Marianne Williamson, the self-help author and spiritual adviser whose long-shot presidential campaign called for reparations and a Department of Peace, announced on Friday that she would drop out of the race, the New York Times reports.
She said that, in a race as tight as this one, she did not want to “get in the way of a progressive candidate winning” any caucus or primary.


politicalwire--2020-01-10--Trump Has Made Us All Stupid

Trump Has Made Us All Stupid

David Brooks : “ Donald Trump is impulse-driven , ignorant , narcissistic and intellectually dishonest .
So you ’ d @ @ @ @ @ in the anti-Trump camp would go out of our way to show we ’ re @ @ @ @ @ we are judicious , informed , mature and reasonable.
” “ But the events of @ @ @ @ @ that the anti-Trump echo chamber is becoming a mirror image of Trump himself — overwrought @ @ @ @ @ having an intelligent conversation about any complex policy problem .
”

David Brooks: “Donald Trump is impulse-driven, ignorant, narcissistic and intellectually dishonest. So you’d think that those of us in the anti-Trump camp would go out of our way to show we’re not like him — that we are judicious, informed, mature and reasonable.”
“But the events of the past week have shown that the anti-Trump echo chamber is becoming a mirror image of Trump himself — overwrought, uncalibrated and incapable of having an intelligent conversation about any complex policy problem.”


politicalwire--2020-01-10--Collins Apologizes for Saying Democrats Love Terrorists

Rep. Doug Collins ( R-GA ) apologized for accusing Democrats of being “ in love ” with terrorists .
Said @ @ @ @ @ be clear : I do not believe Democrats are in love with terrorists , and @ @ @ @ @ said earlier this week .
”


politicalwire--2020-01-10--Trump Surprised People Didn’t Rally Around Him

President Trump “ actually was surprised ” his decision to kill Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani wasn ’ t “ a @ @ @ @ @ , ” New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman told CNN .
Said Haberman : “ @ @ @ @ @ was not more of a unifying event for the country , which is what he @ @ @ @ @ be .
Something more along the lines of what you saw around the Iraq War @ @ @

President Trump “actually was surprised” his decision to kill Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani wasn’t “a unifying event for the country,” New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman told CNN.
Said Haberman: “He actually was surprised this was not more of a unifying event for the country, which is what he expected it was going to be. Something more along the lines of what you saw around the Iraq War lead-up.”


politicalwire--2020-01-10--Graham’s Plan for Extinction

Graham’s Plan for Extinction

When a protester asked Sen. Lindsey Graham ( R-SC ) , “ How will your children survive extinction with Donald @ @ @ @ @ the National Journal reports Graham responded : “ That ’ s easy : I don @ @ @ @ @ ”


politicalwire--2020-01-10--Pelosi to Send Articles of Impeachment Next Week

Speaker Nancy Pelosi wrote in a letter to Democrats that she expects to send the articles of impeachment against President @ @ @ @ @ next week to launch his long-awaited trial , the Washington Post reports .
Said Pelosi @ @ @ @ @ Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerry Nadler to be prepared to bring to the Floor next week @ @ @ @ @ and transmit articles of impeachment to the Senate… I will be consulting with you at @ @ @ @ @ meeting on how we proceed further .
”

Speaker Nancy Pelosi wrote in a letter to Democrats that she expects to send the articles of impeachment against President Trump over to the Senate next week to launch his long-awaited trial, the Washington Post reports.
Said Pelosi: “I have asked Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerry Nadler to be prepared to bring to the Floor next week a resolution to appoint managers and transmit articles of impeachment to the Senate… I will be consulting with you at our Tuesday House Democratic Caucus meeting on how we proceed further.”


Trump’s Middle Name

Inside the Hive : “ Vanity Fair special correspondent Gabriel Sherman , who was attending the Golden Globes for his @ @ @ @ @ , relayed a story that sums up the Trump presidency and the mess we ’ @ @ @ @ @ “ Standing near the bar , Sherman ran into Frank Luntz , the Republican pollster @ @ @ @ @ chatting .
Sherman asked Luntz when he last saw the President .
‘ Last week @ @ @ @ @ Christmas party , ’ Luntz said .
Sherman asked what the two men talked about @ @ @ @ @ that he had asked Trump what his middle initial ‘ J ’ stands for .
@ @ @ @ @ responded .
”

Inside the Hive: “Vanity Fair special correspondent Gabriel Sherman, who was attending the Golden Globes for his show, The Loudest Voice, relayed a story that sums up the Trump presidency and the mess we’re currently living in.”
“Standing near the bar, Sherman ran into Frank Luntz, the Republican pollster, and the two started chatting. Sherman asked Luntz when he last saw the President. ‘Last week, at the White House Christmas party,’ Luntz said. Sherman asked what the two men talked about, to which Luntz replied that he had asked Trump what his middle initial ‘J’ stands for. ‘Genius,’ Trump responded.”


politicalwire--2020-01-11--What If Pelosi Sent Just One Article of Impeachment?

George Conway and Neil Katyal : “ The first article of impeachment effectively charges the president with shaking down Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ for his unprecedented obstruction of Congress .
That gives the speaker room to maneuver .
@ @ @ @ @ her announcement and send only the second article , on obstruction , for trial .
@ @ @ @ @ both — along with a House-approved provision advising the Senate that if it fails to @ @ @ @ @ , the House will reopen the investigation into Article I and subpoena that material itself… @ @ @ @ @ article back and letting the second go forward would be a powerful and precise response @ @ @ @ @ attempts to avoid committing to a real trial .
It makes practical sense but also @ @ @ @ @ stake here .
Trump would be forced to undergo two impeachment trials instead of one @ @ @ @ @ a fair price for him to pay for his attempts to hide evidence from the @ @ @ @

George Conway and Neil Katyal: “The first article of impeachment effectively charges the president with shaking down Ukraine; the second impeaches him for his unprecedented obstruction of Congress. That gives the speaker room to maneuver. She could choose to tweak her announcement and send only the second article, on obstruction, for trial. Or she could transmit them both — along with a House-approved provision advising the Senate that if it fails to obtain adequate witnesses and documents, the House will reopen the investigation into Article I and subpoena that material itself…”
“Holding the first article back and letting the second go forward would be a powerful and precise response to McConnell’s unprecedented attempts to avoid committing to a real trial. It makes practical sense but also highlights what’s at stake here. Trump would be forced to undergo two impeachment trials instead of one — but that’s a fair price for him to pay for his attempts to hide evidence from the American people.”


politicalwire--2020-01-11--Gaetz Challenges Trump on War Powers

Gaetz Challenges Trump on War Powers

“ Rep .
Matt Gaetz , a Florida Republican and staunch ally of President Trump , pushed other Republicans to @ @ @ @ @ Trump ’ s authority in the military confrontation with Iran , drawing ire from the @ @ @ @ @ Congress , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ It was a risky move that @ @ @ @ @ rare fissures in a Republican Party that Trump has firmly controlled .
Trump fiercely complained @ @ @ @ @ Trump that his office had sent the email backing the resolution , which was pushed @ @ @ @ @ .
Trump ’ s team lobbied heavily against the nonbinding resolution .
”

“Rep. Matt Gaetz, a Florida Republican and staunch ally of President Trump, pushed other Republicans to vote in favor of limiting Trump’s authority in the military confrontation with Iran, drawing ire from the president and other Republicans in Congress,” the Washington Post reports.
“It was a risky move that surprised the president and showed rare fissures in a Republican Party that Trump has firmly controlled. Trump fiercely complained about Gaetz after aides informed Trump that his office had sent the email backing the resolution, which was pushed by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Trump’s team lobbied heavily against the nonbinding resolution.”


politicalwire--2020-01-11--Trump Allies Explore Buyout to Compete With Fox

“ Allies of President Trump are pursuing an effort to acquire right-leaning news channel One America News Network , in @ @ @ @ @ a conservative media market that has been dominated by Fox News , ” the Wall @ @ @ @ @ The investment firm Hicks Equity Partners is looking to acquire the channel and is pitching @ @ @ @ @ arrange a bid of roughly $ 250 million for the channel ’ s parent company @ @ @ @ @ The firm is owned by the family of Thomas Hicks Jr. , co-chairman of the @ @ @ @ @ close friend of Donald Trump Jr .
”

“Allies of President Trump are pursuing an effort to acquire right-leaning news channel One America News Network, in a bid to shake up a conservative media market that has been dominated by Fox News,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
“The investment firm Hicks Equity Partners is looking to acquire the channel and is pitching other wealthy GOP donors to arrange a bid of roughly $250 million for the channel’s parent company, the people said. The firm is owned by the family of Thomas Hicks Jr., co-chairman of the Republican National Committee and a close friend of Donald Trump Jr.”


politicalwire--2020-01-11--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ While I certainly would disagree with Bernie on an awful lot of things , if it ’ s Donald @ @ @ @ @ would support Bernie .
”

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


politicalwire--2020-01-11--GOP Lawmaker Seeks to Ban Sex Ed

GOP Lawmaker Seeks to Ban Sex Ed

“ A Republican senator wants to bar schools from teaching sex education before seventh grade , ” the Arizona Capitol @ @ @ @ @ bill from Sen. Sylvia Allen ( R ) also deletes ‘ homosexuality ’ from acts @ @ @ @ @ in a section of the statutes , a move that appears to ban any discussion @ @ @ @ @ courses .
”


politicalwire--2020-01-11--Bloomberg Is Open to Spending $1 Billion

“ Michael Bloomberg on Saturday did not rule out spending a billion dollars of his own money on the 2020 @ @ @ @ @ he does not win the Democratic nomination , and said he would mobilize his well-financed @ @ @ @ @ Sanders or Elizabeth Warren win in November if either is the party nominee , despite @ @ @ @ @ ” the New York Times reports .
“ Mr .
Bloomberg ’ s plans would @ @ @ @ @ operation for the general election , complete with hundreds of organizers in key battleground states @ @ @ @ @ , ready to be inherited by the party nominee — regardless of who that nominee @ @ @ @ @ , Mr. Bloomberg has spent more than $ 200 million on advertising , putting him @ @ @ @ @ early March about the same as what President Barack Obama ’ s campaign spent on @ @ @ @ @ the entire 2012 general election .
If Mr. Bloomberg fails to win the nomination , @ @ @ @ @ toward attacking Mr. Trump .
”

“Michael Bloomberg on Saturday did not rule out spending a billion dollars of his own money on the 2020 presidential race, even if he does not win the Democratic nomination, and said he would mobilize his well-financed political operation to help Bernie Sanders or Elizabeth Warren win in November if either is the party nominee, despite their sharp policy differences,” the New York Times reports.
“Mr. Bloomberg’s plans would effectively create a shadow campaign operation for the general election, complete with hundreds of organizers in key battleground states and a robust digital operation, ready to be inherited by the party nominee — regardless of who that nominee may be.”
“Already, Mr. Bloomberg has spent more than $200 million on advertising, putting him on pace to spend by early March about the same as what President Barack Obama’s campaign spent on advertising over the course of the entire 2012 general election. If Mr. Bloomberg fails to win the nomination, future spending would be redirected toward attacking Mr. Trump.”


politicalwire--2020-01-11--Of Course Bernie Can Win

Of Course Bernie Can Win

Bret Stephens : “ Trump won because he was willing to say loudly what his supporters believed deeply ; because , in his disdain for what politicians are supposed to be and do , he exuded authenticity ; because he was hated by the people his base found hateful ; because he had an opponent who , in the minds of his supporters , epitomized corruption and self-dealing ; and because he offered radical cures for a country he diagnosed as desperately ill .
Despite being the oldest man ever elected president , he seemed ( to his voters ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sorely needed.
” “ So it is , and would be , with Sanders .
Depth of conviction ?
Check .
Contempt for conventional norms ?
Check .
Opposed by all the right people ?
Check .
Running against a ‘ crooked ’ opponent ?
Check .
Commitment to drastic change ?
Check .
Like Trump , too , he isn ’ t so much campaigning for office as he is leading a movement .
People who join movements aren ’ t persuaded .
They ’ re converted .
Their depth of belief @ @ @ @ @ @

Bret Stephens: “Trump won because he was willing to say loudly what his supporters believed deeply; because, in his disdain for what politicians are supposed to be and do, he exuded authenticity; because he was hated by the people his base found hateful; because he had an opponent who, in the minds of his supporters, epitomized corruption and self-dealing; and because he offered radical cures for a country he diagnosed as desperately ill. Despite being the oldest man ever elected president, he seemed (to his voters) fresh, true, bold, and sorely needed.”
“So it is, and would be, with Sanders. Depth of conviction? Check. Contempt for conventional norms? Check. Opposed by all the right people? Check. Running against a ‘crooked’ opponent? Check. Commitment to drastic change? Check. Like Trump, too, he isn’t so much campaigning for office as he is leading a movement. People who join movements aren’t persuaded. They’re converted. Their depth of belief is motivating and infectious.”


politicalwire--2020-01-11--U.S. Troops Were Sheltered from Attack

U.S. Troops Were Sheltered from Attack

United States troops at the Al-Asad air base in Iraq were aware that an Iranian attack was imminent , allowing @ @ @ @ @ before missiles struck on Wednesday , CNN reports .


politicalwire--2020-01-11--The Toddler In Chief

The Toddler In Chief

Coming in March : The Toddler in Chief : What Donald Trump Teaches Us about the Modern Presidency by Daniel @ @ @ @ @ president faces criticism and caricature .
Donald Trump , however , is unique in that @ @ @ @ @ ways more suitable for a toddler .
What ’ s more , it is not @ @ @ @ @ or protestors who compare the president to a child ; Trump ’ s staffers , @ @ @ @ @ Capitol Hill also describe Trump like a small , badly behaved preschooler .
”

Coming in March: The Toddler in Chief: What Donald Trump Teaches Us about the Modern Presidency by Daniel W. Drezner.
“Every president faces criticism and caricature. Donald Trump, however, is unique in that he is routinely characterized in ways more suitable for a toddler. What’s more, it is not just Democrats, pundits, or protestors who compare the president to a child; Trump’s staffers, subordinates, and allies on Capitol Hill also describe Trump like a small, badly behaved preschooler.”


politicalwire--2020-01-11--Congress Seethes Over Boeing Emails

Congress Seethes Over Boeing Emails

Politico : “ Communications among Boeing employees involved with the 737 MAX , made public Thursday , have pushed the @ @ @ @ @ Capitol Hill to a new low , sparking bipartisan anger and bringing Congress closer to @ @ @ @ @ has been lax federal oversight of plane manufacturers.
” “ The emails and messages — @ @ @ @ @ bragging about duping airlines , criticizing the MAX ’ s design as done by ‘ @ @ @ @ @ about cost-cutting and schedule pressures — immediately prompted sharp bipartisan rebukes .
”

Politico: “Communications among Boeing employees involved with the 737 MAX, made public Thursday, have pushed the company’s reputation on Capitol Hill to a new low, sparking bipartisan anger and bringing Congress closer to reining in what some say has been lax federal oversight of plane manufacturers.”
“The emails and messages — which depict unnamed Boeing employees bragging about duping airlines, criticizing the MAX’s design as done by ‘clowns’ and raising concerns about cost-cutting and schedule pressures — immediately prompted sharp bipartisan rebukes.”


politicalwire--2020-01-11--Biden Holds Wide Lead Among Black Democrats

A Washington Post-Ipsos poll finds Joe Biden is far and away the favored Democratic presidential candidate for black Americans with @ @ @ @ @ his personal popularity , his service in the Obama administration and perceptions that he is @ @ @ @ @ Trump .
Bernie Sanders occupies second place at 20 percent , while Elizabeth Warren runs @ @ @ @ @ Pete Buttigieg is at just 2 percent among black Democratic voters nationally .

A Washington Post-Ipsos poll finds Joe Biden is far and away the favored Democratic presidential candidate for black Americans with 48%, boosted by his personal popularity, his service in the Obama administration and perceptions that he is best equipped to defeat President Trump.
Bernie Sanders occupies second place at 20 percent, while Elizabeth Warren runs third at 9 percent. Pete Buttigieg is at just 2 percent among black Democratic voters nationally.


The Fixers

Out next week : The Fixers : The Bottom-Feeders , Crooked Lawyers , Gossipmongers , and Porn Stars Who Created @ @ @ @ @ Palazzolo and Michael Rothfeld .
“ The shocking , definitive account of the lawyers and @ @ @ @ @ rise of Donald Trump .
”

Out next week: The Fixers: The Bottom-Feeders, Crooked Lawyers, Gossipmongers, and Porn Stars Who Created the 45th President by Joe Palazzolo and Michael Rothfeld.
“The shocking, definitive account of the lawyers and media tycoons who enabled the rise of Donald Trump.”


politicalwire--2020-01-11--Sanders and Biden Push for Dominance in Early States

Bernie Sanders and Joe Biden “ are mounting a late push to gain a decisive advantage in the early primary @ @ @ @ @ to avert a monthslong delegate battle against two insurgent rivals — and each other , @ @ @ @ @ reports .
But : “ In a sign of how extraordinarily fluid the race remains @ @ @ @ @ voting , all four of the top candidates are in a position to win both @ @ @ @ @ an outcome that could transform the race for any of them .
”

Bernie Sanders and Joe Biden “are mounting a late push to gain a decisive advantage in the early primary and caucus states, aiming to avert a monthslong delegate battle against two insurgent rivals — and each other,” the New York Times reports.
But: “In a sign of how extraordinarily fluid the race remains less than a month before voting, all four of the top candidates are in a position to win both Iowa and New Hampshire, an outcome that could transform the race for any of them.”


politicalwire--2020-01-11--‘Vague Intelligence’ Led to Strike Against Iran

A senior administration official and a senior defense official told the Washington Post “ they were only aware of vague @ @ @ @ @ the embassy in Baghdad and that the information did not suggest a fully formed plot @ @ @ @ @ were threats against multiple embassies.
” “ The senior defense official did not directly contradict @ @ @ @ @ concern that there might be an attempt to place a bomb at the Baghdad embassy @ @ @ @ @ in a secure area of the Iraqi capital .
The senior administration official said that @ @ @ @ @ not allowing an attack on a U.S. diplomatic facility , out of fear of being @ @ @ @ @ ” Said one official : “ Trump is totally obsessed with not letting something like @ @ @ @ @ ”

A senior administration official and a senior defense official told the Washington Post “they were only aware of vague intelligence about a plot against the embassy in Baghdad and that the information did not suggest a fully formed plot. Neither official said there were threats against multiple embassies.”
“The senior defense official did not directly contradict Trump but said there was concern that there might be an attempt to place a bomb at the Baghdad embassy, a heavily fortified structure in a secure area of the Iraqi capital. The senior administration official said that Trump has been fixated on not allowing an attack on a U.S. diplomatic facility, out of fear of being compared unfavorably to his predecessor.”
Said one official: “Trump is totally obsessed with not letting something like Benghazi happen to him.”


politicalwire--2020-01-11--U.S. Agrees to Restore Regular Dialogue with China

Wall Street Journal : “ The U.S. and China have agreed to semiannual talks to push for reform in both @ @ @ @ @ reviving a format from previous administrations that Trump trade officials had once derided .
”


politicalwire--2020-01-11--Endangered Democrats Sound Alarm on Bernie

“ A slate of endangered House Democrats is coalescing behind Joe Biden for president as the Iowa caucuses approach — @ @ @ @ @ by fears that Bernie Sanders or Elizabeth Warren at the top of the ticket would @ @ @ @ @ ” Politico reports .


politicalwire--2020-01-11--Trump Tells Justices Not to Rush Obamacare Ruling

“ The Trump administration and a coalition of conservative states that have been challenging the Affordable Care Act said Friday @ @ @ @ @ for the Supreme Court to rush a ruling on the issue this term , ” @ @ @ @ @ “ They said the court should not grant a motion by the House of Representatives @ @ @ @ @ review of a decision by a panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the @ @ @ @ @ The panel struck down the law ’ s mandate that individuals buy health insurance but @ @ @ @ @ court the question of whether the rest of the statute can stand without it .
@

“The Trump administration and a coalition of conservative states that have been challenging the Affordable Care Act said Friday that there is no reason for the Supreme Court to rush a ruling on the issue this term,” the Washington Post reports.
“They said the court should not grant a motion by the House of Representatives and Democratic-led states to expedite review of a decision by a panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit last month. The panel struck down the law’s mandate that individuals buy health insurance but sent back to a lower court the question of whether the rest of the statute can stand without it.”


politicalwire--2020-01-11--Wealth Tax Has Broad Public Support

Wealth Tax Has Broad Public Support

A new Reuters/Ipsos poll finds 64 % of Americans strongly or somewhat agreed that “ the very rich should contribute @ @ @ @ @ total wealth each year to support public programs ” – the essence of a wealth @ @ @ @ @ across gender , race and household income .
While support among Democrats was stronger , @ @ @ @ @ majority of Republicans , 53 % , also agreed with the idea .

A new Reuters/Ipsos poll finds 64% of Americans strongly or somewhat agreed that “the very rich should contribute an extra share of their total wealth each year to support public programs” – the essence of a wealth tax.
Results were similar across gender, race and household income. While support among Democrats was stronger, at 77%, a majority of Republicans, 53%, also agreed with the idea.


politicalwire--2020-01-11--Trump Refuses to Pull Troops from Iraq

Trump Refuses to Pull Troops from Iraq

“ The Trump administration refused again Friday to recognize Iraq ’ s call to withdraw all U.S. troops , saying @ @ @ @ @ would center on whatever force size the United States determines is sufficient to achieve its @ @ @ @ @ Washington Post reports .
Said the State Department : “ At this time , any @ @ @ @ @ be dedicated to discussing how best to recommit to our strategic partnership — not to @ @ @ @ @

“The Trump administration refused again Friday to recognize Iraq’s call to withdraw all U.S. troops, saying that any discussion with Baghdad would center on whatever force size the United States determines is sufficient to achieve its goals there,” the Washington Post reports.
Said the State Department: “At this time, any delegation sent to Iraq would be dedicated to discussing how best to recommit to our strategic partnership — not to discuss troop withdrawal.”


politicalwire--2020-01-11--Swiss Back Channel Helped Defuse U.S.-Iran Crisis

“ Hours after a U.S. strike killed Iranian Maj. Gen. Qassem Soleimani , the Trump administration sent an urgent back @ @ @ @ @ Don ’ t escalate , ” the Wall Street Journal reports .
“ The encrypted @ @ @ @ @ Swiss Embassy in Iran , one of the few means of direct , confidential communication @ @ @ @ @ “ In the days that followed , the White House and Iranian leaders exchanged further @ @ @ @ @ both countries described as far more measured than the fiery rhetoric traded publicly by politicians @ @

“Hours after a U.S. strike killed Iranian Maj. Gen. Qassem Soleimani, the Trump administration sent an urgent back channel message to Tehran: Don’t escalate,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
“The encrypted fax was sent via the Swiss Embassy in Iran, one of the few means of direct, confidential communication between the two sides.”
“In the days that followed, the White House and Iranian leaders exchanged further messages, which officials in both countries described as far more measured than the fiery rhetoric traded publicly by politicians.”


politicalwire--2020-01-11--Incumbent Has Early Edge In Taiwan

Incumbent Has Early Edge In Taiwan

Early figures put incumbent leader Tsai Ing-wen ahead of her main rival Han Kuo-yu in the Taiwan presidential race , @ @ @ @ @ reports .


politicalwire--2020-01-12--Biden Hints He Was Opposed to Obama Deportations

“ Joe Biden suggested Saturday that he opposed Barack Obama ’ s deportation policy , but didn ’ t speak @ @ @ @ @ President , ” Bloomberg reports .
Said Biden : “ You privately know where I @ @ @ @ @ ’ m not going to get into that because I was Vice President.
” “ @ @ @ @ @ that he disagreed with the then-president ’ s approach but didn ’ t want to @ @ @ @ @ ”

“Joe Biden suggested Saturday that he opposed Barack Obama’s deportation policy, but didn’t speak out because he was Vice President,” Bloomberg reports.
Said Biden: “You privately know where I was on that but I’m not going to get into that because I was Vice President.”
“Biden’s remark implied that he disagreed with the then-president’s approach but didn’t want to discuss his opposition publicly.”


politicalwire--2020-01-12--Bernie Campaign Slams Warren as Candidate of Elite

“ The non-aggression pact between Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren is seriously fraying , ” Politico reports .
“ Sanders @ @ @ @ @ attacking Warren as a candidate of the upper crust who could not expand the Democratic @ @ @ @ @ , according to talking points his campaign is using to persuade voters .
”

“The non-aggression pact between Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren is seriously fraying,” Politico reports.
“Sanders’ campaign has begun stealthily attacking Warren as a candidate of the upper crust who could not expand the Democratic base in a general election, according to talking points his campaign is using to persuade voters.”


politicalwire--2020-01-12--Warren Says Sanders Campaign Is ‘Trashing’ Her

“ A nearly yearlong run of good will between two of the leading progressives in the 2020 presidential race , @ @ @ @ @ Bernie Sanders , appears to be evaporating in the run-up to the Iowa caucuses , @ @ @ @ @ reports .
“ Ms .
Warren said on Sunday she was ‘ disappointed ’ that @ @ @ @ @ had been using a script for volunteers that suggested she was appealing mainly to highly @ @ @ @ @ be able to expand the Democratic Party coalition.
” Said Warren : “ I was @ @ @ @ @ is sending his volunteers out to trash me .
I hope Bernie reconsiders and turns @ @ @ @ @ direction .
”

“A nearly yearlong run of good will between two of the leading progressives in the 2020 presidential race, Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Sen. Bernie Sanders, appears to be evaporating in the run-up to the Iowa caucuses,” the New York Times reports.
“Ms. Warren said on Sunday she was ‘disappointed’ that Mr. Sanders’s campaign had been using a script for volunteers that suggested she was appealing mainly to highly educated voters and would not be able to expand the Democratic Party coalition.”
Said Warren: “I was disappointed to hear that Bernie is sending his volunteers out to trash me. I hope Bernie reconsiders and turns his campaign in a different direction.”


politicalwire--2020-01-12--If Trump Wins, Brace Yourself for Don Jr. In 2024

Rick Wilson : “ Get ready for Donald Trump Jr. , a man who speaks the fluent asshole dialogue of @ @ @ @ @ to rise to the top of the 2024 GOP primary ranks .
The dynastic talk @ @ @ @ @ a joke ( even by me ) is already growing around both Don Jr. and @ @ @ @ @ left out , but then again , he always has been.
” “ The Trump @ @ @ @ @ Kushner—will continue to view the American government not as a sacred trust but as an @ @ @ @ @ and nation-state-level grifting .
While Kushner ’ s ambitions don ’ t appear to be @ @ @ @ @ of his high office as Grand Vizier to Emir Donald has been spectacularly profitable for @ @ @ @ @ Trump personally , his hotels , golf courses , and clubs were miraculously both popular @ @ @ @ @ .
( Pardon me while I recover from that epic eye-roll . )
”

Rick Wilson: “Get ready for Donald Trump Jr., a man who speaks the fluent asshole dialogue of the own-the-libs Trump Party, to rise to the top of the 2024 GOP primary ranks. The dynastic talk that was once treated as a joke (even by me) is already growing around both Don Jr. and Ivanka. Poor Eric is left out, but then again, he always has been.”
“The Trump family—including the creepy automaton Jared Kushner—will continue to view the American government not as a sacred trust but as an ATM for their crapulous enterprises and nation-state-level grifting. While Kushner’s ambitions don’t appear to be especially political, his exploitation of his high office as Grand Vizier to Emir Donald has been spectacularly profitable for his companies. As for Trump personally, his hotels, golf courses, and clubs were miraculously both popular and profitable for unknown reasons. (Pardon me while I recover from that epic eye-roll.)”


politicalwire--2020-01-12--How Textbooks Differ In California and Texas

New York Times : “ The textbooks cover the same sweeping story , from the brutality of slavery to the @ @ @ @ @ The self-evident truths of the founding documents to the waves of immigration that reshaped the @ @ @ @ @ have the same publisher .
They credit the same authors .
But they are customized @ @ @ @ @ , and their contents sometimes diverge in ways that reflect the nation ’ s deepest @ @ @ @ @ of differences — some subtle , others extensive — emerged in a New York Times @ @ @ @ @ American history textbooks in California and Texas , two of the nation ’ s largest @ @ @

New York Times: “The textbooks cover the same sweeping story, from the brutality of slavery to the struggle for civil rights. The self-evident truths of the founding documents to the waves of immigration that reshaped the nation.”
“The books have the same publisher. They credit the same authors. But they are customized for students in different states, and their contents sometimes diverge in ways that reflect the nation’s deepest partisan divides.”
“Hundreds of differences — some subtle, others extensive — emerged in a New York Times analysis of eight commonly used American history textbooks in California and Texas, two of the nation’s largest markets.”


politicalwire--2020-01-12--Trump Wants to Run Against Bernie

Trump Wants to Run Against Bernie

Politico : “ Jim Messina predicted that Trump would exploit Sanders ’ stamp of socialism in battleground states needed to @ @ @ @ @ of the House and have a shot at winning the Senate.
” Said Messina : @ @ @ @ @ campaign manager for Donald Trump and I look at the field , I would very @ @ @ @ @ Bernie Sanders .
I think the contrast is the best .
He can say , @ @ @ @ @ business guy , the economy ’ s good and this guy ’ s a socialist.
@ @ @ @ @ for Trump is likely one that he ’ d be excited about in a way @ @ @ @ @ be as excited about Biden or potentially Mayor Pete or some of the more Midwestern @ @ @ @

Politico: “Jim Messina predicted that Trump would exploit Sanders’ stamp of socialism in battleground states needed to defeat Trump, keep control of the House and have a shot at winning the Senate.”
Said Messina: “If I were a campaign manager for Donald Trump and I look at the field, I would very much want to run against Bernie Sanders. I think the contrast is the best. He can say, ‘I’m a business guy, the economy’s good and this guy’s a socialist.’ I think that contrast for Trump is likely one that he’d be excited about in a way that he wouldn’t be as excited about Biden or potentially Mayor Pete or some of the more Midwestern moderate candidates.”


politicalwire--2020-01-12--Bonus Quote of the Day

Bonus Quote of the Day

“ I don ’ t like to spend too much time on his crazy tweets because everything he says is @ @ @ @ @ calls somebody crazy , he knows that he is.
” — Speaker Nancy Pelosi , @ @ @ @ @ News , responding to President Trump ’ s tweets calling her “ Crazy Nancy .
@

“I don’t like to spend too much time on his crazy tweets because everything he says is a projection. When he calls somebody crazy, he knows that he is.”
— Speaker Nancy Pelosi, in an interview with ABC News, responding to President Trump’s tweets calling her “Crazy Nancy.”


politicalwire--2020-01-12--Defense Secretary ‘Didn’t See’ Evidence for Attack

Secretary of Defense Mark Esper told CBS News he “ didn ’ t see ” specific evidence that top Iranian @ @ @ @ @ planning attacks on four U.S. embassies , but said he believed such attack would have @ @ @ @ @ “ The president didn ’ t cite a specific piece of evidence .
What he @ @ @ @ @ I didn ’ t see one , with regard to four embassies .
What I @ @ @ @ @ I shared the president ’ s view that probably — my expectation was they were @ @ @ @ @ embassies .
The embassy is the most prominent display of American presence in a country @ @

Secretary of Defense Mark Esper told CBS News he “didn’t see” specific evidence that top Iranian military commander Qassem Soleimani was planning attacks on four U.S. embassies, but said he believed such attack would have occurred.
Said Esper: “The president didn’t cite a specific piece of evidence. What he said was he believed. I didn’t see one, with regard to four embassies. What I’m saying is that I shared the president’s view that probably — my expectation was they were going to go after our embassies. The embassy is the most prominent display of American presence in a country.”


politicalwire--2020-01-12--Giuliani Crony Has ‘Essential’ Records for Impeachment

HuffPost : “ Lev Parnas , a Donald Trump contributor indicted on campaign finance charges , is seeking to release @ @ @ @ @ ‘ essential ’ to the president ’ s impeachment inquiry , Parnas ’ attorney argued @ @ @ @ @ a judge .
”

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


politicalwire--2020-01-12--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ Number one priority is to get rid of Donald Trump .
I ’ m spending all my money to @ @ @ @ @ — Michael Bloomberg , in an interview with Reuters .

“Number one priority is to get rid of Donald Trump. I’m spending all my money to get rid of Trump.”
— Michael Bloomberg, in an interview with Reuters.


politicalwire--2020-01-12--Most Disapprove of Trump’s Handling of Iran

A new ABC News/Ipsos poll finds a majority of Americans said they disapprove of President Trump ’ s handling of @ @ @ @ @ 56 % to 43 % .
Most also think the country is now less safe @ @ @ @ @ % .

A new ABC News/Ipsos poll finds a majority of Americans said they disapprove of President Trump’s handling of the situation with Iran, 56% to 43%.
Most also think the country is now less safe, 52% to 25%.


politicalwire--2020-01-13--How Schumer Will Get Last Laugh on Impeachment

Politico : “ Schumer will force a series of votes designed to squeeze vulnerable Republicans and harm them on the @ @ @ @ @ with Trump.
” “ Democrats argue the half-dozen at-risk GOP senators will need some daylight @ @ @ @ @ get reelected .
And if they vote against Schumer ’ s motions to hear new @ @ @ @ @ they ’ ll be seen as Trump sycophants — undermining their bids and boosting Schumer @ @ @ @ @ majority leader .
”

Politico: “Schumer will force a series of votes designed to squeeze vulnerable Republicans and harm them on the campaign trail if they side with Trump.”
“Democrats argue the half-dozen at-risk GOP senators will need some daylight between them and Trump to get reelected. And if they vote against Schumer’s motions to hear new evidence and witness testimony, they’ll be seen as Trump sycophants — undermining their bids and boosting Schumer’s odds of becoming majority leader.”


Woodward’s Next Book

In an interview with Fox News ’ Laura Ingraham , President Trump let slip he ’ s been talking to @ @ @ @ @ book .
Axios : “ Before Woodward published his 2018 book on the Trump administration @ @ @ @ @ expressed regret that he hadn ’ t sat down with the legendary Washington Post reporter @ @

In an interview with Fox News’ Laura Ingraham, President Trump let slip he’s been talking to Bob Woodward for an upcoming book.
Axios: “Before Woodward published his 2018 book on the Trump administration, titled Fear, Trump expressed regret that he hadn’t sat down with the legendary Washington Post reporter.”


politicalwire--2020-01-13--Extra Bonus Quote Of the Day

Extra Bonus Quote Of the Day

“ This president is impeached for life regardless of any gamesmanship on the part of Mitch McConnell .
There is @ @ @ @ @ to ever erase that .
”


politicalwire--2020-01-13--Bernie Sanders Goes on the Attack

Bernie Sanders Goes on the Attack

“ Sen .
Bernie Sanders ’ s presidential campaign has suddenly gone on the attack as he seeks to secure @ @ @ @ @ early February caucuses , engaging in a rare dispute with Sen. Elizabeth Warren , tussling @ @ @ @ @ Biden and drawing an insult from President Trump , ” the Washington Post reports .
@ @ @ @ @ resisted comparing himself with other candidates , over the weekend , his surrogates and aides @ @ @ @ @ , targeting his past positions on racial issues and his vote to sanction the Iraq @ @ @

“Sen. Bernie Sanders’s presidential campaign has suddenly gone on the attack as he seeks to secure an opening victory in the early February caucuses, engaging in a rare dispute with Sen. Elizabeth Warren, tussling with former vice president Joe Biden and drawing an insult from President Trump,” the Washington Post reports.
“Although Sanders mostly had resisted comparing himself with other candidates, over the weekend, his surrogates and aides intensified their attacks on Biden, targeting his past positions on racial issues and his vote to sanction the Iraq War.”


politicalwire--2020-01-13--House Democrats Make Plans to Unify Behind Nominee

“ Prominent House Democrats who have picked sides in the 2020 presidential primary plan to soon announce they will back @ @ @ @ @ what ’ s becoming an increasingly fractious race to challenge President Trump , ” the @ @ @ @ @ Rep .
Brendan Boyle ( D-PA ) , a backer of Vice President Biden , @ @ @ @ @ unify House Democrats , and has so far been in touch with two of his @ @ @ @ @ ( D-CA ) and Katie Porter ( D-CA ) .
Khanna has once again thrown @ @ @ @ @ Sanders ( I-VT ) , who has very few supporters in the House , and @ @ @ @ @ Warren ( D-MA ) .
”

“Prominent House Democrats who have picked sides in the 2020 presidential primary plan to soon announce they will back the eventual Democratic nominee after what’s becoming an increasingly fractious race to challenge President Trump,” the Washington Post reports.
“Rep. Brendan Boyle (D-PA), a backer of Vice President Biden, is leading the effort to unify House Democrats, and has so far been in touch with two of his colleagues — Reps. Ro Khanna (D-CA) and Katie Porter (D-CA). Khanna has once again thrown his support behind Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT), who has very few supporters in the House, and Porter is backing Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA).”


politicalwire--2020-01-13--Trump Seeks to Restart North Korea Talks

White House national security adviser Robert O ’ Brien tells Axios that the Trump administration has “ reached out to @ @ @ @ @ ask them to resume diplomacy that has been all but dead since October .
Said @ @ @ @ @ We ’ ve reached out to the North Koreans and let them know that we @ @ @ @ @ negotiations in Stockholm that were last undertaken in early October .
”

White House national security adviser Robert O’Brien tells Axios that the Trump administration has “reached out to the North Koreans” to ask them to resume diplomacy that has been all but dead since October.
Said O’Brien: “We’ve reached out to the North Koreans and let them know that we would like to continue the negotiations in Stockholm that were last undertaken in early October.”


politicalwire--2020-01-13--Trump Likely to Reduce Troops In Afghanistan

White House national security adviser Robert O ’ Brien told Axios in an exclusive interview that “ it is possible @ @ @ @ @ a deal with the Taliban this year but that even if a deal can ’ @ @ @ @ @ president is still poised to reduce troops in Afghanistan .


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Politics Is for Power

Politics Is for Power

This is an important book : Politics Is for Power : How to Move Beyond Political Hobbyism , Take Action @ @ @ @ @ by Eitan Hersh .
“ A brilliant condemnation of political hobbyism—treating politics like entertainment—and a @ @ @ @ @ , well-informed citizens who consume political news , but do not take political action .
@

This is an important book: Politics Is for Power: How to Move Beyond Political Hobbyism, Take Action, and Make Real Change by Eitan Hersh.
“A brilliant condemnation of political hobbyism—treating politics like entertainment—and a call to arms for well-meaning, well-informed citizens who consume political news, but do not take political action.”


politicalwire--2020-01-14--‘Joe Biden on His Mind’

‘Joe Biden on His Mind’

Joe Biden released an effective new ad that features clips of President Trump referencing the Democratic candidate by name .


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Giuliani Crony Shown in Photo With Ivanka and Jared

Lev Parnas met Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump , according to a previously unreleased photo obtained by the Daily Beast @ @ @ @ @ release comes as Parnas is seeking to testify to Congress about his involvement in Rudy @ @ @ @ @ secure political favors from the government of Ukraine in exchange for White House access .

Lev Parnas met Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump, according to a previously unreleased photo obtained by the Daily Beast.
The photo’s release comes as Parnas is seeking to testify to Congress about his involvement in Rudy Giuliani’s efforts to secure political favors from the government of Ukraine in exchange for White House access.


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Climate Crisis Will Transform Wall Street

In an annual letter to CEOs , BlackRock chief executive Larry Fink said : “ Climate change has become a @ @ @ @ @ long-term prospects , ” CNBC reports .
He added : “ But awareness is rapidly @ @ @ @ @ we are on the edge of a fundamental reshaping of finance .
”

In an annual letter to CEOs, BlackRock chief executive Larry Fink said: “Climate change has become a defining factor in companies’ long-term prospects,” CNBC reports.
He added: “But awareness is rapidly changing, and I believe we are on the edge of a fundamental reshaping of finance.”


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Warren Can Bypass Congress for Student Debt Plan

“ Sen .
Elizabeth Warren said that she would begin to eliminate student loan debt on the first day of @ @ @ @ @ tools that would allow her to bypass Congress , ” CNBC reports .
“ Warren @ @ @ @ @ Secretary of Education to begin to ‘ compromise and modify ’ federal student loans up @ @ @ @ @ % of those with outstanding student debt , or 42 million people .
”

“Sen. Elizabeth Warren said that she would begin to eliminate student loan debt on the first day of her administration, using legal tools that would allow her to bypass Congress,” CNBC reports.
“Warren said she will direct her Secretary of Education to begin to ‘compromise and modify’ federal student loans up to $50,000 for 95% of those with outstanding student debt, or 42 million people.”


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Teacher’s Union Endorses Sanders In Nevada

“ Sen .
Bernie Sanders won the endorsement of an influential teachers ’ union in Nevada on Tuesday morning , @ @ @ @ @ in the early voting state where unions have significant political power , ” BuzzFeed News @ @


politicalwire--2020-01-14--House Will Vote to Send Impeachment Articles

House Democrats plan to vote Wednesday to send the articles of impeachment to the Senate , The Hill reports .
@ @ @ @ @ not announce at Tuesday morning ’ s House Democratic caucus meeting which lawmakers will serve @ @ @ @ @ as impeachment managers — in the Senate trial.
” House Judiciary Committee chair Jerry Nadler @ @ @ @ @ that he “ would expect ” to be named as one of the impeachment managers @

House Democrats plan to vote Wednesday to send the articles of impeachment to the Senate, The Hill reports.
“Speaker Nancy Pelosi did not announce at Tuesday morning’s House Democratic caucus meeting which lawmakers will serve as prosecutors — also known as impeachment managers — in the Senate trial.”
House Judiciary Committee chair Jerry Nadler (D-NY) told CNN that he “would expect” to be named as one of the impeachment managers.


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Why Tonight’s Debate Could Be a Doozy

Why Tonight’s Debate Could Be a Doozy

Politico : “ It ’ s Bernie Sanders versus Joe Biden .
Or Biden versus Elizabeth Warren .
Or Sanders @ @ @ @ @ isn ’ t busy brutalizing Pete Buttigieg.
” “ Nearing the end of a presidential @ @ @ @ @ of acrimony , the four-candidate pile-up in Iowa is forcing campaigns to alter their terms @ @ @ @ @ even incremental advantages.
” “ The reluctance to brawl is now a vestige of the @ @ @ @ @ is spray of bullets in every direction .
”

Politico: “It’s Bernie Sanders versus Joe Biden. Or Biden versus Elizabeth Warren. Or Sanders versus Warren, when she isn’t busy brutalizing Pete Buttigieg.”
“Nearing the end of a presidential primary marked by its lack of acrimony, the four-candidate pile-up in Iowa is forcing campaigns to alter their terms of engagement in pursuit of even incremental advantages.”
“The reluctance to brawl is now a vestige of the past. In its place is spray of bullets in every direction.”
CNN: 9 things to watch in tonight’s debate.


politicalwire--2020-01-14--10 GOP Senators May Buck Trump on War Powers

“ As many as 10 Republican senators are considering bucking President Trump on a resolution that would limit his ability @ @ @ @ @ Iran , ” The Hill reports .
“ The increasing number is the latest sign @ @ @ @ @ the Trump administration ’ s justification for the drone strike that killed Iranian Gen. Qassem @ @ @

“As many as 10 Republican senators are considering bucking President Trump on a resolution that would limit his ability to take military action against Iran,” The Hill reports.
“The increasing number is the latest sign of growing GOP frustration over the Trump administration’s justification for the drone strike that killed Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani.”


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Bernie Sanders Would Double Size of Government

Ron Brownstein : “ Sanders ’ plan , though all of its costs can not be precisely quantified , would @ @ @ @ @ share of the economy far more than the New Deal under President Franklin Roosevelt , @ @ @ @ @ Johnson or the agenda proposed by any recent Democratic presidential nominee , including liberal George @ @ @ @ @ to a historical analysis shared with CNN by Larry Summers , the former chief White @ @ @ @ @ Obama and treasury secretary for Bill Clinton.
” “ Sanders ’ plan would also increase @ @ @ @ @ more than any modern Republican president , including Ronald Reagan , has sought to cut @ @ @ @ @ concluded .
”

Ron Brownstein: “Sanders’ plan, though all of its costs cannot be precisely quantified, would increase government spending as a share of the economy far more than the New Deal under President Franklin Roosevelt, the Great Society under Lyndon Johnson or the agenda proposed by any recent Democratic presidential nominee, including liberal George McGovern in 1972, according to a historical analysis shared with CNN by Larry Summers, the former chief White House economic adviser for Barack Obama and treasury secretary for Bill Clinton.”
“Sanders’ plan would also increase the size of government far more than any modern Republican president, including Ronald Reagan, has sought to cut it, Summers’ analysis concluded.”


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Trump Rallies Ahead of Impeachment Trial

“ President Trump is holding a campaign rally on Tuesday night in Milwaukee , Wisconsin , as the Democratic presidential @ @ @ @ @ debate , ” CBS News reports .
“ The rally also comes as the Senate @ @ @ @ @ ’ s impeachment trial , which is expected to begin on Tuesday , January 21 @ @

“President Trump is holding a campaign rally on Tuesday night in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, as the Democratic presidential candidates prepare for their seventh debate,” CBS News reports.
“The rally also comes as the Senate readies itself for Mr. Trump’s impeachment trial, which is expected to begin on Tuesday, January 21.”


Nevada Race Tightens

A new USA Today/Suffolk poll in Nevada shows Joe Biden leading the Democratic presidential race with 19 % , followed @ @ @ @ @ % , Elizabeth Warren at 11 % , Pete Buttigieg at 8 % , Tom @ @ @ @ @ Andrew Yang at 4 % and Amy Klobuchar at 4 % .

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


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Bloomberg Now Has More Than 1,000 Staffers

“ Mike Bloomberg ’ s presidential campaign has brought on more than 700 staffers spread out across 33 states , @ @ @ @ @ organizers joining his ranks in states that vote on Super Tuesday , ” Politico reports @ @ @ @ @ the former New York mayor ’ s operation totals more than 1,000 people , a @ @ @ @ @ staffers who work out of his Manhattan headquarters.
” “ The unprecedented scale and scope @ @ @ @ @ has also spent over $ 200 million on TV ads — gives Bloomberg a massive @ @ @ @ @ their primaries on March 3 or later .
Bloomberg is also working to provide a @ @ @ @ @ Trump in parts of the country that are vital to his party in November .
@

“Mike Bloomberg’s presidential campaign has brought on more than 700 staffers spread out across 33 states, with a growing number of organizers joining his ranks in states that vote on Super Tuesday,” Politico reports.
“All told, the former New York mayor’s operation totals more than 1,000 people, a figure that includes hundreds of staffers who work out of his Manhattan headquarters.”
“The unprecedented scale and scope of the campaign — he has also spent over $200 million on TV ads — gives Bloomberg a massive footprint in states that hold their primaries on March 3 or later. Bloomberg is also working to provide a Democratic counterbalance to President Donald Trump in parts of the country that are vital to his party in November.”


politicalwire--2020-01-14--GOP Faces Reckoning on Impeachment Witnesses

Politico : “ The GOP has tried to stay focused on its game plan to shut down Democratic hopes of @ @ @ @ @ outset of the trial , but it ’ s become increasingly clear the party will @ @ @ @ @ the trial as it defends its Senate majority and faces a president who demands complete @ @ @ @ @ The Senate GOP leadership line on witnesses has softened in recent days .
They clearly @ @ @ @ @ be boxed in , and want to see how the process goes and how members @ @ @ @ @ .
”

Politico: “The GOP has tried to stay focused on its game plan to shut down Democratic hopes of locking in witnesses at the outset of the trial, but it’s become increasingly clear the party will face an internal reckoning during the trial as it defends its Senate majority and faces a president who demands complete loyalty.”
Playbook: “The Senate GOP leadership line on witnesses has softened in recent days. They clearly don’t want to be boxed in, and want to see how the process goes and how members feel in a few weeks.”


politicalwire--2020-01-14--A Narrative Collapses as Trump Tweets

A Narrative Collapses as Trump Tweets

New York Times : “ In the 10 days since it carried out the drone strike that killed Maj. Gen. @ @ @ @ @ administration has been struggling to draft an after-the-fact narrative to justify it .
On Monday @ @ @ @ @ end to that hash of explanations.
” Tweeted Trump : “ It doesn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ his horrible past.
” “ Until that message on Twitter , the administration had insisted @ @ @ @ @ Suleimani , Iran ’ s most important military official , was planning myriad “ imminent @ @ @ @ @ of the explanations accelerated over the weekend after Mr. Trump said four embassies were under @ @ @ @ @ that his own administration could not back .
”

New York Times: “In the 10 days since it carried out the drone strike that killed Maj. Gen. Qassim Suleimani, the Trump administration has been struggling to draft an after-the-fact narrative to justify it. On Monday, President Trump put an end to that hash of explanations.”
Tweeted Trump: “It doesn’t really matter, because of his horrible past.”
“Until that message on Twitter, the administration had insisted in various ways that General Suleimani, Iran’s most important military official, was planning myriad “imminent” attacks. The unraveling of the explanations accelerated over the weekend after Mr. Trump said four embassies were under immediate threat, a charge that his own administration could not back.”


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Super PAC Plans $150 Million Anti-Trump Push

“ One of the leading Democratic super PACs , Priorities USA , will spend $ 50 million more than previously @ @ @ @ @ the Democratic National Convention , with plans to make nearly $ 30 million in TV @ @ @ @ @ days , ” the New York Times reports .


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Trump Has Huge Edge with Low Information Voters

Peter Hamby : “ Trump stumbled into understanding something crucial about the electorate , which is this : There are plenty of divisions in our conventional wisdom—insider versus outsider , progressive versus moderate , young versus old—but one of the biggest splits in American politics is simply between those who follow politics closely and those who do not.
” “ It ’ s a split that maps , if not perfectly , onto the gap that emerged between college and non-college educated voters in 2016 .
The latter set are often low-information voters who view politicians and media with contempt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump has exploited them to powerful effect .
The president has made politics about culture—not just policy .
He found a way to attract new voters , particularly rural and non-college educated whites who previously thumbed their nose at conventional politics .
Because he ’ s a pure attention merchant , he doesn ’ t care what screen he appears on , as long he is there .
Because he lacks an ounce of shame , it all works , with or without the blessing of the legacy press.
” “ None of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who care habitually about the good graces of the national press , and who don ’ t see politics as a subspecies of the entertainment business .
”

Peter Hamby: “Trump stumbled into understanding something crucial about the electorate, which is this: There are plenty of divisions in our conventional wisdom—insider versus outsider, progressive versus moderate, young versus old—but one of the biggest splits in American politics is simply between those who follow politics closely and those who do not.”
“It’s a split that maps, if not perfectly, onto the gap that emerged between college and non-college educated voters in 2016. The latter set are often low-information voters who view politicians and media with contempt, deciding to sit elections out. Trump has exploited them to powerful effect. The president has made politics about culture—not just policy. He found a way to attract new voters, particularly rural and non-college educated whites who previously thumbed their nose at conventional politics. Because he’s a pure attention merchant, he doesn’t care what screen he appears on, as long he is there. Because he lacks an ounce of shame, it all works, with or without the blessing of the legacy press.”
“None of the above can be said for Democrats, who care habitually about the good graces of the national press, and who don’t see politics as a subspecies of the entertainment business.”


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Barr Wants to Makes It Tougher to Investigate Campaigns

“ Attorney General William Barr said he and FBI Director Christopher Wray have agreed to implement stricter procedures for opening @ @ @ @ @ , requiring investigators to get approval from both the attorney general and FBI director before @ @ @ @ @ , ” CBS News reports .


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Top Republicans Reject Trump’s Call for Dismissal

“ Top Senate Republicans on Monday rejected President Trump ’ s call for outright dismissal of the impeachment charges against @ @ @ @ @ grapple with the shape of the Senate trial that could begin as soon as this @ @ @ @ @ Post reports .
“ Most Senate Republicans are eager to stage a trial that ends @ @ @ @ @ and vindication on charges that he abused the power of his office in his dealings @ @ @ @ @ subsequent investigation in the House .
But over the weekend , Trump urged the Senate @ @ @ @ @ against him — without hearing arguments from House prosecutors or his own legal team.
” @ @ @ @ @ Republicans said immediate dismissal could not win approval in the chamber , where Republicans hold @ @ @ @ @

“Top Senate Republicans on Monday rejected President Trump’s call for outright dismissal of the impeachment charges against him, but continued to grapple with the shape of the Senate trial that could begin as soon as this week,” the Washington Post reports.
“Most Senate Republicans are eager to stage a trial that ends with Trump’s acquittal and vindication on charges that he abused the power of his office in his dealings with Ukraine and obstructed a subsequent investigation in the House. But over the weekend, Trump urged the Senate simply to dismiss the charges against him — without hearing arguments from House prosecutors or his own legal team.”
“On Monday, senior Republicans said immediate dismissal could not win approval in the chamber, where Republicans hold a 53-seat majority.”


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Warren Confirms Sanders Said a Woman Could Not Win

Sen. Elizabeth Warren confirmed to the New York Times that Sen. Bernie Sanders told her in 2018 he did not @ @ @ @ @ the presidency .
“ Ms .
Warren ’ s description of the comment , from @ @ @ @ @ represents a remarkable salvo at her leading liberal rival in the 2020 race just three @ @ @ @ @ .
”

Sen. Elizabeth Warren confirmed to the New York Times that Sen. Bernie Sanders told her in 2018 he did not think a woman could win the presidency.
“Ms. Warren’s description of the comment, from a private one-on-one meeting, represents a remarkable salvo at her leading liberal rival in the 2020 race just three weeks before the Iowa caucuses.”


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Giuliani Crony’s Evidence to Be Used In Impeachment

“ The House Intelligence Committee released new evidence related to the impeachment inquiry of President Trump , including information turned @ @ @ @ @ an indicted former associate of Trump ’ s personal attorney Rudy Giuliani , ” Politico @ @ @ @ @ also includes a previously undisclosed May 2019 letter from Giuliani to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky @ @ @ @ @ Giuliani asked for a meeting with Zelensky as the former New York City mayor was @ @ @ @ @ President Joe Biden.
” “ The transmission , which reflects the unfinished nature of the @ @ @ @ @ , comes ahead of an expected House vote on Wednesday to formally send the impeachment @ @ @ @ @ a trial .
”

“The House Intelligence Committee released new evidence related to the impeachment inquiry of President Trump, including information turned over by Lev Parnas, an indicted former associate of Trump’s personal attorney Rudy Giuliani,” Politico reports.
“The material also includes a previously undisclosed May 2019 letter from Giuliani to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. In the letter, Giuliani asked for a meeting with Zelensky as the former New York City mayor was pursuing investigations targeting former Vice President Joe Biden.”
“The transmission, which reflects the unfinished nature of the House’s impeachment inquiry, comes ahead of an expected House vote on Wednesday to formally send the impeachment articles to the Senate for a trial.”


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Impeachment Security Crackdown Will Limit Press

Roll Call : “ The Senate sergeant-at-arms and Capitol Police are launching an unprecedented crackdown on the Capitol press corps @ @ @ @ @ President Donald Trump , following a standoff between the Capitol ’ s chief security officials @ @ @ @ @ Blunt and the standing committees of correspondents .
”


politicalwire--2020-01-14--Why Voters Are Nervous About Amy Klobuchar

Michael Kruse : “ What I heard from the voters I talked to was mounting angst and indecision .
That @ @ @ @ @ too far to the left .
That Biden is too old .
That Pete Buttigieg @ @ @ @ @ Tom Steyer has too much money .
I heard them yearn for a candidate who @ @ @ @ @ in the middle , in the middle of the age range , and of the @ @ @ @ @ the country itself.
” “ And I heard these voters , men and women , @ @ @ @ @ at least come to watch Klobuchar , 59 , praise her for her bipartisan bent @ @ @ @ @ way she ’ s run this race , and then often stop short of pledging @ @ @ @ @ every conversation I had eventually touched on her gender .
”

Michael Kruse: “What I heard from the voters I talked to was mounting angst and indecision. That Sanders and Elizabeth Warren are too far to the left. That Biden is too old. That Pete Buttigieg is too young. That Tom Steyer has too much money. I heard them yearn for a candidate who was just right, squarely in the middle, in the middle of the age range, and of the political spectrum, and of the country itself.”
“And I heard these voters, men and women, self-described moderates interested enough to at least come to watch Klobuchar, 59, praise her for her bipartisan bent and legislative success and the way she’s run this race, and then often stop short of pledging their full support. Almost every conversation I had eventually touched on her gender.”