politicalwire--2020-08-09--U.S. Response to Virus Met with Incredulity Abroad

“ The United States ’ failure to contain the spread of the coronavirus has been met with astonishment and alarm @ @ @ @ @ world ’ s most powerful country edges closer to a global record of 5 million @ @ @ @ @ AP reports .
“ Perhaps nowhere outside the U.S. is America ’ s bungled virus @ @ @ @ @ than in Italy , which was ground zero of Europe ’ s epidemic .
Italians @ @ @ @ @ exploded in February and the country still has one of the world ’ s highest @ @ @ @ @ ” “ But after a strict nationwide 10-week lockdown , vigilant tracing of new clusters @ @ @ @ @ mandates and social distancing , Italy has become a model of virus containment.
” Washington @ @ @ @ @ short in containing the virus .

“The United States’ failure to contain the spread of the coronavirus has been met with astonishment and alarm in Europe, as the world’s most powerful country edges closer to a global record of 5 million confirmed infections,” the AP reports.
“Perhaps nowhere outside the U.S. is America’s bungled virus response viewed with more consternation than in Italy, which was ground zero of Europe’s epidemic. Italians were unprepared when the outbreak exploded in February and the country still has one of the world’s highest official death tolls at 35,000.”
“But after a strict nationwide 10-week lockdown, vigilant tracing of new clusters and general acceptance of mask mandates and social distancing, Italy has become a model of virus containment.”
Washington Post: How Trump fell short in containing the virus.


politicalwire--2020-08-09--New Zealand Marks 100 Days of No Community Spread

“ New Zealand has now gone 100 days with no detected community spread of COVID-19 , ” Axios reports .
@ @ @ @ @ to the polls on Sept. 19 .
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has been widely praised @ @ @ @ @ NZ lock down hard for several weeks before all domestic restrictions were lifted in June @ @ @ @ @ ’ s response to and recovery from the coronavirus outbreak as key to her Labour @ @ @ @ @

“New Zealand has now gone 100 days with no detected community spread of COVID-19,” Axios reports.
“New Zealanders are going to the polls on Sept. 19. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has been widely praised for her leadership that saw NZ lock down hard for several weeks before all domestic restrictions were lifted in June. She sees her government’s response to and recovery from the coronavirus outbreak as key to her Labour Party being re-elected.”


politicalwire--2020-08-09--White House Has Given Up on Pandemic

White House Has Given Up on Pandemic

Washington Post : “ As the White House chief of staff , Mark Meadows is responsible for coordinating the vast @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus response .
But in closed-door meetings , he has revealed his skepticism of the @ @ @ @ @ effort , Deborah Birx and Anthony Fauci , routinely questioning their expertise.
” “ Meadows @ @ @ @ @ 8 a.m. meeting that includes health professionals to discuss the raging pandemic .
Instead , @ @ @ @ @ in the mornings with a half-dozen politically oriented aides — and when the virus comes @ @ @ @ @ more on how to convince the public that President Trump has the crisis under control @ @ @ @ @ planning ways to contain it .
”

Washington Post: “As the White House chief of staff, Mark Meadows is responsible for coordinating the vast executive branch, including its coronavirus response. But in closed-door meetings, he has revealed his skepticism of the two physicians guiding the anti-pandemic effort, Deborah Birx and Anthony Fauci, routinely questioning their expertise.”
“Meadows no longer holds a daily 8 a.m. meeting that includes health professionals to discuss the raging pandemic. Instead, aides said, he huddles in the mornings with a half-dozen politically oriented aides — and when the virus comes up, their focus is more on how to convince the public that President Trump has the crisis under control, rather than on methodically planning ways to contain it.”


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Officials Talking About No College Football

“ Commissioners of the Power 5 conferences held an emergency meeting on Sunday , as there is growing concern among @ @ @ @ @ upcoming football season and other fall sports can ’ t be played because of the @ @ @ @ @ told ESPN .
Said one source to Sports Illustrated : “ In the next 72 @ @ @ @ @ to come to a complete stop .
”

“Commissioners of the Power 5 conferences held an emergency meeting on Sunday, as there is growing concern among college athletics officials that the upcoming football season and other fall sports can’t be played because of the coronavirus pandemic,” sources told ESPN.
Said one source to Sports Illustrated: “In the next 72 hours college football is going to come to a complete stop.”


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Trump’s Aides Keep Him in ‘Positive Feedback Loop’

President Trump ’ s aides selectively present him with flattering comments about him and charts that make him look good @ @ @ @ @ “ positive feedback loop ” on the coronavirus pandemic , the Washington Post reports .
@ @ @ @ @ Everyone is busy trying to create a Potemkin village for him every day .
You @ @ @ @ @ see this behavior in liberal democracies that are founded on principles of rule of law @ @ @ @ @ to create this Potemkin village for him and for his inner circle .
”

President Trump’s aides selectively present him with flattering comments about him and charts that make him look good to keep him in a “positive feedback loop” on the coronavirus pandemic, the Washington Post reports.
Said one official: “Everyone is busy trying to create a Potemkin village for him every day. You’re not supposed to see this behavior in liberal democracies that are founded on principles of rule of law. Everyone bends over backwards to create this Potemkin village for him and for his inner circle.”


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Meadows Wants Trump Speech Away from White House

White House chief of staff Mark Meadows said he would prefer President Trump give his Republican National Convention speech “ @ @ @ @ @ from the White House after the President floated the idea of delivering it on White @ @ @ @ @ .
Said Meadows : “ Those decisions are still in flux , but I can @ @ @ @ @ m advocating for is miles and miles away from here .
”

White House chief of staff Mark Meadows said he would prefer President Trump give his Republican National Convention speech “miles and miles away” from the White House after the President floated the idea of delivering it on White House grounds, CNN reports.
Said Meadows: “Those decisions are still in flux, but I can tell you what I’m advocating for is miles and miles away from here.”


politicalwire--2020-08-09--Trump Relief Plan Faces Hurdles

Trump Relief Plan Faces Hurdles

“ President Trump ’ s executive actions to address the fallout from the coronavirus pandemic are aimed at extending economic @ @ @ @ @ , but the measures face possible legal challenges and implementation hurdles , ” the Wall @ @ @ @ @ Democrats charged that the president ’ s actions Saturday were an unconstitutional breach of Congressional @ @ @ @ @ Democrats plan to discuss a response on a conference call on Monday afternoon , an @ @ @ @ @ House is in recess for the rest of August , making quick legislative action against @ @ @ @ @ With the Nov. 3 election looming , however , any move to block the payments @ @ @ @ @ Secretary Steven Mnuchin suggested in a televised interview Sunday .
”

“President Trump’s executive actions to address the fallout from the coronavirus pandemic are aimed at extending economic relief for millions of Americans, but the measures face possible legal challenges and implementation hurdles,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
“Democrats charged that the president’s actions Saturday were an unconstitutional breach of Congressional spending authority, and House Democrats plan to discuss a response on a conference call on Monday afternoon, an aide said. But the House is in recess for the rest of August, making quick legislative action against the orders unlikely.”
“With the Nov. 3 election looming, however, any move to block the payments could backfire, as Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin suggested in a televised interview Sunday.”
Axios: Republicans and Democrats react to Trump’s coronavirus aid action.


politicalwire--2020-08-09--Trump Begins Debate Prep

Trump Begins Debate Prep

Jonathan Swan : “ In the room with Trump were his son-in-law Jared Kushner , campaign manager Bill Stepien , @ @ @ @ @ and former New Jersey Gov .
Chris Christie , who role-played Hillary Clinton in Trump @ @ @ @ @ sessions.
” ” The team agreed to meet at least every 10 days or so @ @ @ @ @ debate… They resolved to keep the group very small .
They may bring in different @ @ @ @ @ expertise , but the group would remain five to six people to limit the potential @ @ @ @ @ group did not specifically discuss whether Christie will play Biden in debate rehearsals .
But @ @ @ @ @ indicating Christie is likely to role-play Biden as he did Clinton .
”

Jonathan Swan: “In the room with Trump were his son-in-law Jared Kushner, campaign manager Bill Stepien, senior adviser Jason Miller, and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who role-played Hillary Clinton in Trump’s 2016 debate prep sessions.”
” The team agreed to meet at least every 10 days or so between now and the first debate… They resolved to keep the group very small. They may bring in different people based on subject matter expertise, but the group would remain five to six people to limit the potential for leaks.”
“The group did not specifically discuss whether Christie will play Biden in debate rehearsals. But Trump has made private comments indicating Christie is likely to role-play Biden as he did Clinton.”


politicalwire--2020-08-09--How Stable Is Biden’s Lead?

How Stable Is Biden’s Lead?

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“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--2020-08-09--Time to Sound the Alarm

Time to Sound the Alarm

Dan Pfeiffer : “ The torrential tempo of news in the Trump era makes it difficult to separate the serious @ @ @ @ @ few weeks ago , Trump proposed delaying the election — something he has no ability @ @ @ @ @ with a long running progressive fear about Trump canceling the election and ruling for his @ @ @ @ @ proposition dominated the political conversation for days.
” “ Delaying the election can not and @ @ @ @ @ the mail IS happening and it can help Trump steal the election .
In many @ @ @ @ @ the election that arrive after it , do not count .
If you believe — @ @ @ @ @ that Democrats will rely on mail balloting more than Republicans , delaying the mail is @ @ @ @ @ steal an election.
” “ This is a five alarm fire and we need to @ @ @ @ @ democracy is on the line .
”

Dan Pfeiffer: “The torrential tempo of news in the Trump era makes it difficult to separate the serious from the silly. A few weeks ago, Trump proposed delaying the election — something he has no ability to do, but fits with a long running progressive fear about Trump canceling the election and ruling for his remaining days. This absurd proposition dominated the political conversation for days.”
“Delaying the election cannot and will not happen. Delaying the mail IS happening and it can help Trump steal the election. In many states, ballots mailed before the election that arrive after it, do not count. If you believe — as Trump clearly does — that Democrats will rely on mail balloting more than Republicans, delaying the mail is a very simple way to steal an election.”
“This is a five alarm fire and we need to respond like the fate our democracy is on the line.”


politicalwire--2020-08-09--Postal Service Emerges as Flash Point Ahead of Election

Associated Press : “ The success of the 2020 presidential election could hinge on a most unlikely government agency : @ @ @ @ @ .
Current signs are not promising.
” “ The Postal Service already was facing questions @ @ @ @ @ the expected spike of mail-in ballots due to the coronavirus pandemic , but several operational @ @ @ @ @ leader have led to mail backlogs across the United States as rumors of additional cutbacks @ @ @ @ @ the November vote .
”

Associated Press: “The success of the 2020 presidential election could hinge on a most unlikely government agency: the U.S. Postal Service. Current signs are not promising.”
“The Postal Service already was facing questions over how it would handle the expected spike of mail-in ballots due to the coronavirus pandemic, but several operational changes imposed by its new leader have led to mail backlogs across the United States as rumors of additional cutbacks swirl, fueling worries about the November vote.”


politicalwire--2020-08-09--How Kristi Noem Fueled Speculation About Pence’s Job

New York Times : “ Word had circulated through the Trump administration that she was ingratiating herself with the president @ @ @ @ @ might have been a discussion about her serving as his running mate in November .
@ @ @ @ @ that she wanted to help the ticket however she could , according to an official @ @ @ @ @ it directly , but the vice president found her message clear : She was not @ @ @ @ @ There is no indication Mr. Trump wants to replace Mr. Pence .
Mr. Trump last @ @ @ @ @ he ’ s sticking with Mr. Pence , whom he called a ‘ friend.
’ @ @ @ @ @ president trailing Joseph R. Biden Jr. , the presumptive Democratic nominee , and Republicans at @ @ @ @ @ of power in Congress , a host of party leaders have begun eyeing the future @ @ @ @ @ president .
”

New York Times: “Word had circulated through the Trump administration that she was ingratiating herself with the president, fueling suspicions that there might have been a discussion about her serving as his running mate in November. Ms. Noem assured Mr. Pence that she wanted to help the ticket however she could, according to an official present. She never stated it directly, but the vice president found her message clear: She was not after his job.”
“There is no indication Mr. Trump wants to replace Mr. Pence. Mr. Trump last month told Fox News that he’s sticking with Mr. Pence, whom he called a ‘friend.’ Yet with polls showing the president trailing Joseph R. Biden Jr., the presumptive Democratic nominee, and Republicans at risk of being shut out of power in Congress, a host of party leaders have begun eyeing the future, maneuvering around a mercurial president.”


politicalwire--2020-08-09--Biden Leads In Battlegrounds

Biden Leads In Battlegrounds

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


politicalwire--2020-08-09--Trump’s Go-It-Alone Stimulus Won’t Do Much

New York Times : “ If the actions signal the death of a congressional deal to provide that aid , @ @ @ @ @ will limp toward November without the fiscal support that hastened its recovery after its quick @ @ @ @ @ .
”


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Biden Doesn’t Fall for Trump Tax Trap

Biden Doesn’t Fall for Trump Tax Trap

Axios : “ President Trump is trying to lure Joe Biden into a Walter Mondale trap — attempting to force @ @ @ @ @ middle-class tax increases as part of his election strategy.
” “ With his Saturday evening @ @ @ @ @ the tax code , Trump again is demonstrating the lengths to which he ’ ll @ @ @ @ @ — and try to make the election a choice between him and Biden , and @ @ @ @ @ ” “ In Biden ’ s response , he didn ’ t take the bait @ @ @ @ @ the White House effort to suspend payroll taxes as a way to double down on @ @ @ @ @ cast himself as the defender of Social Security .
”

Axios: “President Trump is trying to lure Joe Biden into a Walter Mondale trap — attempting to force the Democratic nominee to embrace middle-class tax increases as part of his election strategy.”
“With his Saturday evening executive action to unilaterally rewrite the tax code, Trump again is demonstrating the lengths to which he’ll go to change the conversation — and try to make the election a choice between him and Biden, and not a referendum on him.”
“In Biden’s response, he didn’t take the bait. Instead, he used the White House effort to suspend payroll taxes as a way to double down on his appeal to seniors and cast himself as the defender of Social Security.”


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Nicolle Wallace Floated as Replacement for Chuck Todd

Nicolle Wallace was proposed as a replacement for her colleague Chuck Todd as moderator of the Sunday morning news show @ @ @ @ @ New York Times reports .
An NBC executive said in a statement that Todd “ @ @ @ @ @ and ratings battles for five years at the helm of Meet the Press and will @ @ @ @ @ ”

Nicolle Wallace was proposed as a replacement for her colleague Chuck Todd as moderator of the Sunday morning news show Meet the Press, the New York Times reports.
An NBC executive said in a statement that Todd “has led the Sunday news-making and ratings battles for five years at the helm of Meet the Press and will continue to do so.”


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Trump Says Adding Him to Mount Rushmore a ‘Good Idea’

“ President Trump on Sunday denied reports that the White House contacted the governor of South Dakota about carving his @ @ @ @ @ ” the New York Post reports .
Said Trump : “ This is Fake News @ @ @ @ @ Times & bad ratings CNN .
Never suggested it although , based on all of @ @ @ @ @ the first 3 1/2 years , perhaps more than any other Presidency , sounds like @ @ @ @ @ !
”

“President Trump on Sunday denied reports that the White House contacted the governor of South Dakota about carving his face into Mount Rushmore,” the New York Post reports.
Said Trump: “This is Fake News by the failing New York Times & bad ratings CNN. Never suggested it although, based on all of the many things accomplished during the first 3 1/2 years, perhaps more than any other Presidency, sounds like a good idea to me!”


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Window to Beat Back the Virus Is Closing

Stat : “ The good news : The United States has a window of opportunity to beat back Covid-19 before @ @ @ @ @ worse.
” “ The bad news : That window is rapidly closing .
And the @ @ @ @ @ to seize the moment.
” “ Winter is coming .
Winter means cold and flu @ @ @ @ @ but sure to complicate the task of figuring out who is sick with Covid-19 and @ @ @ @ @ less threatening respiratory tract infection .
It also means that cherished outdoor freedoms that link @ @ @ @ @ pop-up restaurant patios , picnics in parks , trips to the beach — will soon @ @ @ @ @ at least in northern parts of the country .
”

Stat: “The good news: The United States has a window of opportunity to beat back Covid-19 before things get much, much worse.”
“The bad news: That window is rapidly closing. And the country seems unwilling or unable to seize the moment.”
“Winter is coming. Winter means cold and flu season, which is all but sure to complicate the task of figuring out who is sick with Covid-19 and who is suffering from a less threatening respiratory tract infection. It also means that cherished outdoor freedoms that link us to pre-Covid life — pop-up restaurant patios, picnics in parks, trips to the beach — will soon be out of reach, at least in northern parts of the country.”


politicalwire--2020-08-10--VP Hopefuls Rake In Big Money for Biden

VP Hopefuls Rake In Big Money for Biden

Politico : “ The Democrats vying to be Joe Biden ’ s running mate have made the rounds of the @ @ @ @ @ ve enlisted surrogates to talk them up to the vetting committee and have been preparing @ @ @ @ @ Biden himself .
But as the vetting process enters its final stage , there ’ @ @ @ @ @ the veepstakes : how much cash the contenders have raised for him , and their @ @ @ @ @ they ’ re chosen.
” “ Of Biden ’ s prospective running mates , Sen. @ @ @ @ @ the most money for him , totaling more than $ 7.7 million combined from a @ @ @ @ @ vocally swore off during her own campaign — and a grass-roots event that drew 50,000 @ @ @ @ @ also sent multiple emails to her own small-dollar list , as well as his .
@

Politico: “The Democrats vying to be Joe Biden’s running mate have made the rounds of the Sunday shows. They’ve enlisted surrogates to talk them up to the vetting committee and have been preparing for their one-on-one interviews with Biden himself. But as the vetting process enters its final stage, there’s another lesser-noticed facet to the veepstakes: how much cash the contenders have raised for him, and their ability to juice donations if they’re chosen.”
“Of Biden’s prospective running mates, Sen. Elizabeth Warren has brought in the most money for him, totaling more than $7.7 million combined from a high-dollar event — which she vocally swore off during her own campaign — and a grass-roots event that drew 50,000 participants. She’s also sent multiple emails to her own small-dollar list, as well as his.”


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Republicans Look to Stoke BLM Backlash

Republicans Look to Stoke BLM Backlash

“ For a brief moment after George Floyd was killed by a Minneapolis policeman in late May , some members @ @ @ @ @ for change as protests exploded onto streets across the country .
That moment is over @ @ @ @ @ “ Facing possible electoral calamity , Republicans are now turning to a familiar playbook : @ @ @ @ @ redefine the Black Lives Matter movement as a radical leftist mob looking to sabotage the @ @ @ @ @ “ Republicans are using two lines of attack : the Trump administration , candidates in @ @ @ @ @ social media channels seek to label the entire movement ‘ Marxist ’ and anti-family as @ @ @ @ @ conservative base .
Republicans running in swing districts and states , meanwhile , are tying @ @ @ @ @ ’ demands to defund police departments , while avoiding explicitly mentioning Black Lives Matter .
@ @ @ @ @ competitive general election races have focused recent ads on more abstract targets like ‘ left-wing @ @ @ @ @ liberal mob .
’ ”

“For a brief moment after George Floyd was killed by a Minneapolis policeman in late May, some members of the GOP joined calls for change as protests exploded onto streets across the country. That moment is over,” Politico reports.
“Facing possible electoral calamity, Republicans are now turning to a familiar playbook: stoking fear by trying to redefine the Black Lives Matter movement as a radical leftist mob looking to sabotage the white, suburban lifestyle.”
“Republicans are using two lines of attack: the Trump administration, candidates in safe red seats and right-wing social media channels seek to label the entire movement ‘Marxist’ and anti-family as they try to energize their conservative base. Republicans running in swing districts and states, meanwhile, are tying their Democratic opponents to activists’ demands to defund police departments, while avoiding explicitly mentioning Black Lives Matter. Instead, Republicans running in competitive general election races have focused recent ads on more abstract targets like ‘left-wing radicals’ and the ‘liberal mob.’”


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Pandemic Wrecks Job Market for New Grads

Associated Press : “ Around the world , young people armed with new degrees , diplomas and professional qualifications are @ @ @ @ @ as the pandemic pushes the global economy into recession .
COVID-19 has thwarted hopes of @ @ @ @ @ for jumpstarting careers – as employers cut back graduate recruiting plans or even revoke job @ @ @

Associated Press: “Around the world, young people armed with new degrees, diplomas and professional qualifications are struggling to enter the workforce as the pandemic pushes the global economy into recession. COVID-19 has thwarted hopes of landing first jobs – important for jumpstarting careers – as employers cut back graduate recruiting plans or even revoke job offers.”


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Millennials Slammed by Second Financial Crisis

Wall Street Journal : “ The economic hit of the coronavirus pandemic is emerging as particularly bad for millennials , @ @ @ @ @ , who as a group hadn ’ t recovered from the experience of entering the @ @ @ @ @ crisis .
For this cohort , already indebted and a step behind on the career @ @ @ @ @ could keep them from accruing the wealth of older generations .
”

Wall Street Journal: “The economic hit of the coronavirus pandemic is emerging as particularly bad for millennials, born between 1981 and 1996, who as a group hadn’t recovered from the experience of entering the workforce during the previous financial crisis. For this cohort, already indebted and a step behind on the career ladder, this second pummeling could keep them from accruing the wealth of older generations.”


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Wall Street Lines Up Behind Biden

Wall Street Lines Up Behind Biden

New York Times : “ Wall Street has fared extraordinarily well under Mr. Trump : deep cuts to taxes , @ @ @ @ @ the pandemic hit , record stock prices .
But in recent months , dozens of @ @ @ @ @ said in interviews , a sense of outrage and exhaustion over Mr. Trump ’ s @ @ @ @ @ accelerated by his poor coronavirus response — had markedly shifted the economic and political calculus @ @ @ @ @ More and more finance professionals , they say , appear to be sidelining their concerns @ @ @ @ @ age — 77 — and his style .
They are surprisingly unperturbed at the likelihood @ @ @ @ @ and stiffening oversight of their industry .
In return , they welcome the more seasoned @ @ @ @ @ he could bring .
”

New York Times: “Wall Street has fared extraordinarily well under Mr. Trump: deep cuts to taxes, slashed regulations and, until the pandemic hit, record stock prices. But in recent months, dozens of bankers, traders and investors said in interviews, a sense of outrage and exhaustion over Mr. Trump’s chaotic style of governance — accelerated by his poor coronavirus response — had markedly shifted the economic and political calculus in their industry.”
“More and more finance professionals, they say, appear to be sidelining their concerns about Mr. Biden’s age — 77 — and his style. They are surprisingly unperturbed at the likelihood of his raising their taxes and stiffening oversight of their industry. In return, they welcome the more seasoned and methodical presidency they believe he could bring.”


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Trump Hasn’t Spoken to Pelosi In 10 Months

Speaker Nancy Pelosi and President Trump have not spoken in nearly 10 months , even as negotiations between the White @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus pandemic have stalled , CNN reports .
“ Trump called the negotiators three @ @ @ @ @ they were in Pelosi ’ s office .
But he only spoke with White House @ @ @ @ @ and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin.
” “ The calls underscored the rock-bottom relationship between the @ @ @ @ @ and Democratic parties who are tasked with solving the health and economic crises .
”

Speaker Nancy Pelosi and President Trump have not spoken in nearly 10 months, even as negotiations between the White House and Congress to address the coronavirus pandemic have stalled, CNN reports.
“Trump called the negotiators three times on Thursday night while they were in Pelosi’s office. But he only spoke with White House chief of staff Mark Meadows and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin.”
“The calls underscored the rock-bottom relationship between the top leaders of the Republican and Democratic parties who are tasked with solving the health and economic crises.”


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Trump Admits Health Care Order Just a ‘Signal’

President Trump acknowledged a prospective executive order he ’ s considering to make insurers cover pre-existing conditions amounted to political @ @ @ @ @ already offered such protections , Politico reports .
Said Trump : “ It ’ s @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s a second platform .
Pre-existing conditions will be taken care of 100 @ @ @ @ @ Republican party .
I actually think it ’ s a very important statement .
”

President Trump acknowledged a prospective executive order he’s considering to make insurers cover pre-existing conditions amounted to political messaging — and that Obamacare already offered such protections, Politico reports.
Said Trump: “It’s a signal to people … it’s a second platform. Pre-existing conditions will be taken care of 100 percent by Republicans and the Republican party. I actually think it’s a very important statement.”


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Bill O’Reilly May Be Back on Radio

Bill O’Reilly May Be Back on Radio

Former Fox News host Bill O ’ Reilly is on the brink of landing his own radio show at a @ @ @ @ @ ally John Catsimatidis , CNBC reports .


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Trump Says He Wouldn’t Have Called on Obama to Resign

President Trump claimed at a press briefing that he would not have called for President Obama to resign if 160,000 @ @ @ @ @ watch , despite tweeting in 2014 that Obama should resign for allowing a doctor who @ @ @ @ @ enter the U.S. , Axios reports .
Said Trump : “ No , I wouldn @ @ @ @ @ .
I think it ’ s been amazing what we ’ ve been able to @ @ @ @ @ ’ t close up our country , we would have had 1.5 or 2 million @ @ @ @ @ ’ ve called it right , now we don ’ t have to close it @ @

President Trump claimed at a press briefing that he would not have called for President Obama to resign if 160,000 Americans had died on his watch, despite tweeting in 2014 that Obama should resign for allowing a doctor who tested positive for Ebola to enter the U.S., Axios reports.
Said Trump: “No, I wouldn’t have done that. I think it’s been amazing what we’ve been able to do. If we didn’t close up our country, we would have had 1.5 or 2 million people already dead. We’ve called it right, now we don’t have to close it.”


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Biden’s Running Mate Pick Is Imminent

Biden’s Running Mate Pick Is Imminent

Joe Biden has told allies that he has interviewed every finalist in his vice-presidential search , and his advisers are @ @ @ @ @ middle of the week , the New York Times reports .
“ In a sign @ @ @ @ @ in Mr. Biden ’ s hands alone , the four-member committee that screened his potential @ @ @ @ @ have effectively disbanded — its work is complete , and there is little left to @ @ @ @ @ to make up his mind .
”

Joe Biden has told allies that he has interviewed every finalist in his vice-presidential search, and his advisers are planning an announcement for the middle of the week, the New York Times reports.
“In a sign that the choice is now in Mr. Biden’s hands alone, the four-member committee that screened his potential running mates is said to have effectively disbanded — its work is complete, and there is little left to do except for Mr. Biden to make up his mind.”


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Trump Abruptly Pulled from Press Conference

President Trump was abruptly pulled from a press briefing after a shooting outside the White House .
He returned to @ @ @ @ @ later .
Washington Post : Biden mulls his VP pick from his beach house .

“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--2020-08-10--Trump May Block Americans from Returning to U.S.

“ President Trump is considering new immigration regulations that would allow border officials to temporarily block American citizens and legal @ @ @ @ @ the United States from abroad if authorities believe they may be infected with the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ Times reports .
“ In recent months , Mr. Trump has imposed sweeping rules that @ @ @ @ @ the United States , citing the risk of allowing the virus to spread from hot @ @ @ @ @ rules have exempted two categories of people attempting to return : American citizens and non-citizens @ @ @ @ @ residence.
” “ Now , a draft regulation would expand the government ’ s power @ @ @ @ @ and legal residents in individual , limited circumstances .
”

“President Trump is considering new immigration regulations that would allow border officials to temporarily block American citizens and legal permanent residents from returning to the United States from abroad if authorities believe they may be infected with the coronavirus,” the New York Times reports.
“In recent months, Mr. Trump has imposed sweeping rules that ban entry by foreigners into the United States, citing the risk of allowing the virus to spread from hot spots abroad. But those rules have exempted two categories of people attempting to return: American citizens and non-citizens who have already established legal residence.”
“Now, a draft regulation would expand the government’s power to prevent entry by citizens and legal residents in individual, limited circumstances.”


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Bonus Quote of the Day

Bonus Quote of the Day

“ From my standpoint , the breakdown in the talks is very good news .
It ’ s very good @ @ @ @ @ I hope the talks remain broken down.
” — Sen. Ron Johnson ( R-WI ) @ @ @ @ @ Journal Sentinel , on the stalled coronavirus relief negotiations .

“From my standpoint, the breakdown in the talks is very good news. It’s very good news for future generations. I hope the talks remain broken down.”
— Sen. Ron Johnson (R-WI), quoted by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, on the stalled coronavirus relief negotiations.


politicalwire--2020-08-10--QAnon Groups Have Millions of Members on Facebook

“ An internal investigation by Facebook has uncovered thousands of groups and pages , with millions of members and followers @ @ @ @ @ conspiracy theory , ” NBC News reports .


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Do Running Mates Matter?

Do Running Mates Matter?

A very timely book : Do Running Mates Matter ?
by Christopher Devine and Kyle Kopko .
From the authors @ @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-08-10--GOP Official Warns of Mail Ballots Despite Voting by Mail

San Diego County Republican Party Chairman Tony Krvaric sent a press release with a warning that mail ballot voting is @ @ @ @ @ ” Voice of San Diego reports .
However , he has voted by mail in @ @ @ @ @ to 2004 .

San Diego County Republican Party Chairman Tony Krvaric sent a press release with a warning that mail ballot voting is “fraught with danger,” Voice of San Diego reports.
However, he has voted by mail in 22 consecutive elections dating back to 2004.


politicalwire--2020-08-10--House Will Not Hold Votes Until September 14

House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer ( D-MD ) announced that the House will not hold any floor votes until September @ @ @ @ @ remain on 24-hour notice to return to Washington in case a deal on coronavirus stimulus @ @ @ @ @ .


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Inside President Trump’s Debate Prep Team

The team helping President Trump prepare for the presidential debates includes four men : former Gov .
Chris Christie , @ @ @ @ @ and Jason Miller , according to Axios .
Tim Miller : “ The first put @ @ @ @ @ dad in jail and made the third guy the fall man for their joint corruption @ @ @ @ @ kept out of the White House over a hooker scandal .
”

The team helping President Trump prepare for the presidential debates includes four men: former Gov. Chris Christie, Jared Kushner, Bill Stepian and Jason Miller, according to Axios.
Tim Miller: “The first put the second guy’s dad in jail and made the third guy the fall man for their joint corruption. The fourth guy was kept out of the White House over a hooker scandal.”


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Georgia Governor Rules Out Mask Mandate for Schools

Georgia Gov .
Brian Kemp ( R ) “ ruled out ordering public school systems to impose mask mandates for @ @ @ @ @ echoing his opposition to statewide requirements to wear face coverings to contain the spread of @ @ @ @ @ Atlanta Journal Constitution reports .
Said Kemp : “ We ’ ve given the responsibility @ @ @ @ @ the local superintendents .
Like most things in education , I ’ m a firm @ @ @ @ @ know their schools better than the state government does .
”

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp (R) “ruled out ordering public school systems to impose mask mandates for returning students and teachers, echoing his opposition to statewide requirements to wear face coverings to contain the spread of the coronavirus,” the Atlanta Journal Constitution reports.
Said Kemp: “We’ve given the responsibility to the schools, to the local superintendents. Like most things in education, I’m a firm believer that the local governments know their schools better than the state government does.”


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Trump Nominee for German Ambassador ‘Dead on Arrival’

“ The Trump administration ’ s nominee to assume a critical ambassadorship in Germany is ‘ dead on arrival , @ @ @ @ @ Republican congressional aides who pointed to Douglas Macgregor ’ s insinuation that a cadre of @ @ @ @ @ foreign policy , ” the Washington Free Beacon reports .


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Private Donors Funding Staff for Colorado Governor

Coloardo Gov .
Jared Polis ( D ) “ is accepting more than $ 1 million from donors , nonprofits @ @ @ @ @ and costs associated with six top policy positions , ” the Colorado Sun reports .


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Trump Promises Iran Deal If He Wins Re-election

In a leaked video from a campaign fundraiser over the weekend , President Trump promised supporters that he would reach @ @ @ @ @ if reelected .
Said Trump : “ When we win , we will have a @ @ @ @ @ ”

In a leaked video from a campaign fundraiser over the weekend, President Trump promised supporters that he would reach a quick deal with Iran if reelected.
Said Trump: “When we win, we will have a deal within four weeks.”


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Black Men Urge Biden to Pick a Black Woman

More than 100 Black male leaders have signed an open letter calling on Joe Biden to pick a Black woman @ @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Trump Has Two Locations In Mind for Convention Speech

President Trump tweeted that he has narrowed the choice of locations for his Republican convention speech to two locations : @ @ @ @ @ and the White House .


politicalwire--2020-08-10--Hardest Working President In History?

Hardest Working President In History?

Philip Bump itemizes the time President Trump spends doing things that are obviously not part of his job .


politicalwire--2020-08-11--How to Foil Trump’s Election Night Strategy

Jamelle Bouie : “ If Trump is leading on election night , in other words , there ’ s a good chance he ’ ll try to disrupt and delegitimize the counting process .
That way , if Joe Biden pulls ahead in the days ( or weeks ) after voting ends — if we experience a ‘ blue shift ’ like the one in 2018 , in which the Democratic majority in the House grew as votes came in — the president will have given himself grounds to reject the outcome as ‘ fake news . '
” “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or at least , rob it of the oxygen it needs to burn , is to deliver an election night lead to Biden .
This means voting in person .
No , not everyone will be able to do that .
But if you plan to vote against Trump and can take appropriate precautions , then some kind of hand delivery — going to the polls or bringing your mail-in ballot to a “ drop box ” — will be the best way to protect your vote from the president ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his benefit .
”

Jamelle Bouie: “If Trump is leading on election night, in other words, there’s a good chance he’ll try to disrupt and delegitimize the counting process. That way, if Joe Biden pulls ahead in the days (or weeks) after voting ends — if we experience a ‘blue shift’ like the one in 2018, in which the Democratic majority in the House grew as votes came in — the president will have given himself grounds to reject the outcome as ‘fake news.'”
“The only way to prevent this scenario, or at least, rob it of the oxygen it needs to burn, is to deliver an election night lead to Biden. This means voting in person. No, not everyone will be able to do that. But if you plan to vote against Trump and can take appropriate precautions, then some kind of hand delivery — going to the polls or bringing your mail-in ballot to a “drop box” — will be the best way to protect your vote from the president’s concerted attempt to undermine the election for his benefit.”


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Trump Obviously Did Not Read This Book

Trump Obviously Did Not Read This Book

President Trump urged his Twitter followers to buy former aide Madeleine Westerhout ’ s new book , Off the Record @ @ @ @ @ at all of the Fake Books and garbage written about me , it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ very smart and already wise young woman write an honest depiction of what went on @ @ @ @ @ some extremely interesting and important times .
So many good stories by someone who , @ @ @ @ @ writers , was actually there , and a part of the action — of which @ @ @ @ @ buy this book , a job well done !
” However , Ryan Lizza points @ @ @ @ @ she couldn ’ t bring herself to vote for Trump , “ a man whose @ @ @ @ @ to align with my own , ” but never said so because she “ didn @ @ @ @ @ upsetting ” him or his inner circle who “ see everything as black and white @ @ @ @ @ can be dangerous .
”

President Trump urged his Twitter followers to buy former aide Madeleine Westerhout’s new book, Off the Record:
“When I look at all of the Fake Books and garbage written about me, it’s really nice to see a very smart and already wise young woman write an honest depiction of what went on at the White House during some extremely interesting and important times. So many good stories by someone who, unlike most other so called writers, was actually there, and a part of the action — of which there was plenty. Go buy this book, a job well done!”
However, Ryan Lizza points out that Westerhout writes that she couldn’t bring herself to vote for Trump, “a man whose values didn’t seem to align with my own,” but never said so because she “didn’t want to risk upsetting” him or his inner circle who “see everything as black and white, which… is misguided and can be dangerous.”


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Some Michigan Ballots Received Late, Won’t Be Counted

Crain ’ s Detroit Business reports Michigan ’ s Sterling Heights had 165 absentee voter ballots for the August 4 @ @ @ @ @ mail six days late , underscoring delivery problems with the U.S .
Postal Service that @ @ @ @ @ .
The late ballots , which now can ’ t be legally counted despite being @ @ @ @ @ primary , could have been enough to change the outcome of one Democratic primary for @ @ @ @ @ was narrowly decided by 87 votes .

Crain’s Detroit Business reports Michigan’s Sterling Heights had 165 absentee voter ballots for the August 4 primary election arrive in the mail six days late, underscoring delivery problems with the U.S. Postal Service that could impact the November election.
The late ballots, which now can’t be legally counted despite being postmarked five days before the primary, could have been enough to change the outcome of one Democratic primary for the Macomb County Commission that was narrowly decided by 87 votes.


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ In many ways , the pandemic has proven to the country that politics really matters and who gets elected @ @ @ @ @ few other events of our lifetimes have done .
”


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Right Track/Wrong Track Numbers Show Huge Disparity

A new Georgetown University Battleground poll finds 72 % of Americans feel things in the country are on the wrong @ @ @ @ @ % think they ’ re on the right track .


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Employers Cast Wary Eye on Trump Payroll-Tax Deferral

Wall Street Journal : “ The president wants employers to stop collecting the 6.2 % levy that is the employee @ @ @ @ @ for many workers , starting Sept. 1 and going through the end of the year @ @ @ @ @ announced in a memo Saturday , doesn ’ t change how much tax employees and @ @ @ @ @ Congress can do that.
” “ Employers ’ biggest worry : If they stop withholding @ @ @ @ @ Congress will actually forgive any deferred payments , they could find themselves on the hook @ @ @ @ @ risk in cases where employees change jobs and employers can ’ t withhold more taxes @ @ @ @ @ up on missed payments .
”

Wall Street Journal: “The president wants employers to stop collecting the 6.2% levy that is the employee share of Social Security taxes for many workers, starting Sept. 1 and going through the end of the year. But his move, announced in a memo Saturday, doesn’t change how much tax employees and employers actually owe. Only Congress can do that.”
“Employers’ biggest worry: If they stop withholding taxes without any guarantee that Congress will actually forgive any deferred payments, they could find themselves on the hook. That is a particular risk in cases where employees change jobs and employers can’t withhold more taxes from later paychecks to catch up on missed payments.”


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Belarus Shuts Down Internet After Election

Wired : “ Internet connectivity and cellular service in Belarus have been down since Sunday evening , after sporadic outages @ @ @ @ @ the day .
The connectivity blackout , which also includes landline phones , appears to @ @ @ @ @ comes amid widespread protests and increasing social unrest over Belarus ’ presidential election Sunday .
@

Wired: “Internet connectivity and cellular service in Belarus have been down since Sunday evening, after sporadic outages early that morning and throughout the day. The connectivity blackout, which also includes landline phones, appears to be a government-imposed outage that comes amid widespread protests and increasing social unrest over Belarus’ presidential election Sunday.”
Radio Free Europe: Second night of protests rock Balarus.


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Russia Unveils Coronavirus Vaccine

Russia Unveils Coronavirus Vaccine

“ Russian government officials have pledged to vaccinate millions of people , including teachers and front line health-care workers , @ @ @ @ @ beginning this month , raising global alarm that the country is jumping dangerously ahead of @ @ @ @ @ that is essential to determine if it is safe and effective , ” the Washington @ @ @ @ @ Putin said that one of his daughters has already been inoculated , the AP reports @

“Russian government officials have pledged to vaccinate millions of people, including teachers and front line health-care workers, with an experimental coronavirus vaccine beginning this month, raising global alarm that the country is jumping dangerously ahead of critical, large scale testing that is essential to determine if it is safe and effective,” the Washington Post reports.
President Vladimir Putin said that one of his daughters has already been inoculated, the AP reports.


She Will Rise

Out today : She Will Rise : Becoming a Warrior in the Battle for True Equality by Katie Hill .
@ @ @ @ @ shares her experience with misogyny and double standards in politics to help women topple the @ @ @ @ @ them from achieving equality .
”

Out today: She Will Rise: Becoming a Warrior in the Battle for True Equality by Katie Hill.
“Former Congresswoman Katie Hill shares her experience with misogyny and double standards in politics to help women topple the longstanding power structures that prevent them from achieving equality.”


Biden VP Watch

Playbook : “ Kamala Harris world is feeling good : There ’ s a lot of guessing games out there @ @ @ @ @ intensified around Harris .
… Several top Harris donors and close allies have been sending @ @ @ @ @ and some creative emojis — that they believe she ’ ll be Biden ’ s @ @ @ @ @ still buzz around Susan Rice , too , with whom Biden has a long working @ @ @ @ @ experience in the White House — including having a hand in handling a pandemic .
@

Playbook: “Kamala Harris world is feeling good: There’s a lot of guessing games out there, but the buzz has intensified around Harris. … Several top Harris donors and close allies have been sending strong signals to reporters — and some creative emojis — that they believe she’ll be Biden’s pick.”
“There was still buzz around Susan Rice, too, with whom Biden has a long working relationship and who has vast experience in the White House — including having a hand in handling a pandemic.”


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Trump Sees More Trump as the Solution

Trump Sees More Trump as the Solution

“ President Trump has a ready solution for almost any crisis : more Donald Trump .
In a template forged @ @ @ @ @ when he declared that ‘ I alone can fix it , ’ the president has @ @ @ @ @ the answer , injecting himself into controversies and refusing to cede the spotlight .
And @ @ @ @ @ he barrels toward Election Day , ” the AP reports .
“ He resumed the @ @ @ @ @ , against the advice of some aides , sidelined the public health officials in favor @ @ @ @ @ .
He has bet heavily that his one-on-one debates with Joe Biden will be his @ @ @ @ @ deficit in the polls .
”

“President Trump has a ready solution for almost any crisis: more Donald Trump. In a template forged in his 2016 convention speech when he declared that ‘I alone can fix it,’ the president has repeatedly put himself forth as the answer, injecting himself into controversies and refusing to cede the spotlight. And that has only accelerated as he barrels toward Election Day,” the AP reports.
“He resumed the coronavirus task force briefings and, against the advice of some aides, sidelined the public health officials in favor of standing solo on stage. He has bet heavily that his one-on-one debates with Joe Biden will be his best chance to overcome his deficit in the polls.”


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Ilhan Omar Faces Tough Primary

Ilhan Omar Faces Tough Primary

“ Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez survived her primary .
Rashida Tlaib did , too .
Now it ’ s Ilhan Omar ’ @ @ @ @ @ and the Minnesota congresswoman faces the stiffest challenge of any member of the Squad , @ @ @ @ @ Omar ( D-MN ) , one of the group ’ s four liberal women of @ @ @ @ @ in 2018 , has drawn national attention with her repeated clashes with President Trump — @ @ @ @ @ using anti-Semitic tropes in articulating her position on Israel .
Now , her opponent is @ @ @ @ @ into a liability , saying it ’ s come at the expense of the needs @ @ @ @ @ “ Bankrolled by pro-Israel donors , Antone Melton-Meaux has spent more than twice as much @ @ @ @ @ , and outside groups have kicked in to increase his advantage .
”

“Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez survived her primary. Rashida Tlaib did, too. Now it’s Ilhan Omar’s turn on Tuesday — and the Minnesota congresswoman faces the stiffest challenge of any member of the Squad,” Politico reports.
“Omar (D-MN), one of the group’s four liberal women of color who were first elected in 2018, has drawn national attention with her repeated clashes with President Trump — as well as accusations of using anti-Semitic tropes in articulating her position on Israel. Now, her opponent is trying to turn that notoriety into a liability, saying it’s come at the expense of the needs of her Minneapolis district.”
“Bankrolled by pro-Israel donors, Antone Melton-Meaux has spent more than twice as much as Omar on television ads, and outside groups have kicked in to increase his advantage.”


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Governors Say Trump’s Relief Order Unworkable

“ Governors across the United States struggled on Monday with how to make good on President Trump ’ s order @ @ @ @ @ deliver billions more in unemployment benefits to jobless residents , ” the New York Times @ @ @ @ @ harshly critical of Mr. Trump ’ s order , which he signed on Saturday night @ @ @ @ @ a broad new pandemic aid package collapsed .
But even Republican governors said the order @ @ @ @ @ on their budgets and worried it would take weeks for tens of millions of unemployed @ @ @ @ @ benefit .
”

“Governors across the United States struggled on Monday with how to make good on President Trump’s order that their economically battered states deliver billions more in unemployment benefits to jobless residents,” the New York Times reports.
“Democrats were harshly critical of Mr. Trump’s order, which he signed on Saturday night after talks with Congress on a broad new pandemic aid package collapsed. But even Republican governors said the order could put a serious strain on their budgets and worried it would take weeks for tens of millions of unemployed Americans to begin seeing the benefit.”


politicalwire--2020-08-11--AOC Will Speak at Democratic Convention

AOC Will Speak at Democratic Convention

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez will speak at the Democratic convention next week ahead of Sen. Bernie Sanders ’ appearance on the @ @ @ @ @ .

“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--2020-08-12--Another QAnon Supporter Wins House Primary

Conspiracy theorists won a major victory on Tuesday as Marjorie Taylor Greene ( R ) , a supporter of the @ @ @ @ @ triumphed in her House primary runoff election in Georgia , all but ensuring that she @ @ @ @ @ in Congress , the New York Times reports .
More than a dozen candidates who @ @ @ @ @ support for QAnon are running for Congress as Republicans , their path cleared by President @ @ @ @ @ of conspiracy theories .

Conspiracy theorists won a major victory on Tuesday as Marjorie Taylor Greene (R), a supporter of the convoluted pro-Trump movement QAnon, triumphed in her House primary runoff election in Georgia, all but ensuring that she will represent a deep-red district in Congress, the New York Times reports.
More than a dozen candidates who have expressed some degree of support for QAnon are running for Congress as Republicans, their path cleared by President Trump’s own espousal of conspiracy theories.
Washington Post: “The elevation of Greene to federal office would mark a watershed for adherents of QAnon.”


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Trump Won’t Hold More Rallies

Trump Won’t Hold More Rallies

Washington Post : “ The Trump rally may be a thing of the past .
At the least , the @ @ @ @ @ , showmanship , insults , outrage , humor and hero worship that propelled Donald Trump @ @ @ @ @ years ago and that has punctuated his presidency with the trappings of a perpetual campaign @ @ @ @ @ ” “ Trump appeared to declare the end of the rally era Tuesday .
He @ @ @ @ @ success of which he has always measured by the size of the crowd and the @ @ @ @ @ a casualty of the coronavirus pandemic .
Or more exactly , of the dispiriting optics @ @ @ @ @ mandate .
”

Washington Post: “The Trump rally may be a thing of the past. At the least, the signature stew of tribal politics, showmanship, insults, outrage, humor and hero worship that propelled Donald Trump’s improbable victory four years ago and that has punctuated his presidency with the trappings of a perpetual campaign, is on a break.”
“Trump appeared to declare the end of the rally era Tuesday. He said the events — the success of which he has always measured by the size of the crowd and the ‘ratings’ — are a casualty of the coronavirus pandemic. Or more exactly, of the dispiriting optics that proper social distancing would mandate.”
Said Trump: “You can’t have empty seats.”


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Viral Video of Burning Bibles Was Russian Propaganda

A video of anti-racism protesters in Portland appearing to intentionally burn a stack of bibles quickly went viral among conservatives @ @ @ @ @ Times reports that it was a misleading video deliberately spread by Russia as part of @ @ @ @ @ to interfere in the upcoming U.S. election .

A video of anti-racism protesters in Portland appearing to intentionally burn a stack of bibles quickly went viral among conservatives.
But the New York Times reports that it was a misleading video deliberately spread by Russia as part of the country’s campaign to interfere in the upcoming U.S. election.


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Sarah Palin Offers Advice to Kamala Harris

Politico notes Sarah Palin offered some warmhearted and uncharacteristically nonpartisan advice for Kamala Harris as she joined Palin in the @ @ @ @ @ for vice president : “ Trust no one new ” and “ Don ’ t @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Harris Is a Tough Target for the Trump Campaign

NBC News : “ Harris was difficult to pin down ideologically in the Democratic presidential primary , which left many @ @ @ @ @ for and hurt her candidacy and ultimately forced an early exit last December before the @ @ @ @ @ “ But it also now makes her a more complicated target of attacks by Trump @ @ @ @ @ to land a punch on Biden : During the Democratic primary , Harris was a @ @ @ @ @ the front of the pack but never earned a derisive nickname from the president .
@

NBC News: “Harris was difficult to pin down ideologically in the Democratic presidential primary, which left many voters wondering what she stood for and hurt her candidacy and ultimately forced an early exit last December before the first votes were cast.”
“But it also now makes her a more complicated target of attacks by Trump, who has also struggled to land a punch on Biden: During the Democratic primary, Harris was a rare candidate who polled near the front of the pack but never earned a derisive nickname from the president.”
Politico: The reasons why Joe Biden picked Kamala Harris.
The Week: 4 ways Kamala Harris just made history.


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Donald Trump vs. The United States

Donald Trump vs. The United States

“ The dramatic , high-stakes story of those who felt compelled to confront and try to contain the most powerful @ @ @ @ @ he shredded norms and sought to expand his power .
”


A Historic Photo

The Biden campaign released a photo of Joe Biden asking Sen. Kamala Harris to join the Democratic ticket from his @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Another Bonus Quote of the Day

Another Bonus Quote of the Day

— Barack Obama , quoted by CNN , on Biden picking Kamala Harris as his running mate .


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Biden Picks Kamala Harris

Biden Picks Kamala Harris

Sen. Kamala Harris ( D-CA ) , the daughter of Jamaican and Indian immigrants , is Joe Biden ’ s @ @ @ @ @ mate .
From an email : “ I ’ ve decided that Kamala Harris is @ @ @ @ @ me take this fight to Donald Trump and Mike Pence and then to lead this @ @ @ @ @ .
”

Sen. Kamala Harris (D-CA), the daughter of Jamaican and Indian immigrants, is Joe Biden’s pick to be his running mate.
From an email: “I’ve decided that Kamala Harris is the best person to help me take this fight to Donald Trump and Mike Pence and then to lead this nation starting in January 2021.”
David Axelrod: Kamalat!


politicalwire--2020-08-11--The Election Day Scenario Trump May Be Counting On

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politicalwire--2020-08-11--Biden Won’t Pick Karen Bass

Biden Won’t Pick Karen Bass

Rep. Karen Bass ( D-CA ) was told by Joe Biden earlier today that she was not his pick to @ @ @ @ @ CNN reports .


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Biden Has Made His Choice

Biden Has Made His Choice

Joe Biden told his top advisers this morning who he wants as his running mate , CNN reports .
Gabriel @ @ @ @ @ m told by multiple Democrats close to the process that the contenders have now been @ @ @ @ @ ’ ve been chosen as Biden ’ s running mate.
” For members : It @ @ @ @ @ Woman .

Joe Biden told his top advisers this morning who he wants as his running mate, CNN reports.
Gabriel Debenedetti: “I’m told by multiple Democrats close to the process that the contenders have now been informed whether or not they’ve been chosen as Biden’s running mate.”
For members: It Has to Be a Black Woman.


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Biden Has to Pick a Black Woman

Biden Has to Pick a Black Woman


politicalwire--2020-08-11--GOP Candidate Was Rejected from Naval Academy

North Carolina congressional candidate Madison Cawthorn ( R ) has suggested that an accident upended his plans to join the @ @ @ @ @ actually rejected from the Naval Academy before the accident , Jezebel reports .
Also relevant @ @ @ @ @ Cawthorn deleting photos from Hitler ’ s retreat : His real estate firm uses the @ @ @ @ @ two Betsy Ross flags displayed in his house — both have been associated with white @ @

North Carolina congressional candidate Madison Cawthorn (R) has suggested that an accident upended his plans to join the Navy — but he was actually rejected from the Naval Academy before the accident, Jezebel reports.
Also relevant to an earlier story about Cawthorn deleting photos from Hitler’s retreat: His real estate firm uses the acronym SPQR and he has two Betsy Ross flags displayed in his house — both have been associated with white nationalists.


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Susan Collins Trailing In Maine

Susan Collins Trailing In Maine

A new Critical Insights poll in Maine finds Sarah Gideon ( D ) leading Sen. Susan Collins ( R ) @ @ @ @ @ , 43 % to 35 % .
In the presidential race , Joe Biden leads @ @ @ @ @ % to 36 % , and just edges him in the swing second congressional district @ @ @ @ @ % .

A new Critical Insights poll in Maine finds Sarah Gideon (D) leading Sen. Susan Collins (R) in the U.S. Senate race, 43% to 35%.
In the presidential race, Joe Biden leads Donald Trump statewide, 44% to 36%, and just edges him in the swing second congressional district, 39% to 38%.


politicalwire--2020-08-11--GOP Candidate Drops Out Day of Primary

GOP Candidate Drops Out Day of Primary

Thomas Gilmer ( R ) , the Republican party ’ s endorsed candidate in Connecticut ’ s congressional 2nd congressional @ @ @ @ @ the race early this morning — just hours before polls opened for the state ’ @ @ @ @ @ was arrested over a violent encounter with an a former girlfriend , the Hartford Courant @ @

Thomas Gilmer (R), the Republican party’s endorsed candidate in Connecticut’s congressional 2nd congressional district, dropped out of the race early this morning — just hours before polls opened for the state’s primary — after he was arrested over a violent encounter with an a former girlfriend, the Hartford Courant reports.


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Biden Leads In Wisconsin

Biden Leads In Wisconsin

A new Marquette Law School Poll of likely voters in Wisconsin finds Joe Biden leading Donald Trump in the presidential @ @ @ @ @ 44 % .


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Yang Didn’t Make the Cut

Yang Didn’t Make the Cut

Andrew Yang was disappointed at the roster of speakers for the Democratic convention : “ I ’ ve got to @ @ @ @ @ expected to speak.
” Other Democratic presidential candidates not making the cut : Tom Steyer @ @ @ @

Andrew Yang was disappointed at the roster of speakers for the Democratic convention: “I’ve got to be honest I kind of expected to speak.”
Other Democratic presidential candidates not making the cut: Tom Steyer and Michael Bloomberg.


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Biden Campaign Prepping for Event In Delaware

The New York Times found a ballroom in Wilmington , Delaware at the Hotel du Pont being prepped for a @ @ @ @ @ Joe Biden ’ s announcement of his running mate .
“ It is worth noting @ @ @ @ @ was where he announced his 1972 Senate candidacy .
It is also where he has @ @ @ @ @ the decades since — including , in March , the last in-person event he held @ @ @ @ @ campaign trail for months .
”

The New York Times found a ballroom in Wilmington, Delaware at the Hotel du Pont being prepped for a big event — presumably for Joe Biden’s announcement of his running mate.
“It is worth noting that the Hotel du Pont was where he announced his 1972 Senate candidacy. It is also where he has made major political appearances in the decades since — including, in March, the last in-person event he held before the coronavirus shuttered the campaign trail for months.”


politicalwire--2020-08-11--Tyranny of the Minority

Tyranny of the Minority

Ron Brownstein : “ Though Republican nominees have won the popular vote only once in the five presidential elections since @ @ @ @ @ controlled the White House for 12 of the 20 years since then .
Similarly , @ @ @ @ @ more than half the time since 2000 even though GOP senators , when attributing half @ @ @ @ @ population to each senator , have never represented more people than their Democratic colleagues.
” @ @ @ @ @ has long contained features designed to constrain the ability of majorities to impose their will @ @ @ @ @ among other founders , called ‘ the tyranny of the majority.
’ But the current @ @ @ @ @ it has consistently empowered a minority to drive the nation ’ s agenda .
”

Ron Brownstein: “Though Republican nominees have won the popular vote only once in the five presidential elections since 2000, the GOP has controlled the White House for 12 of the 20 years since then. Similarly, Republicans have controlled the Senate more than half the time since 2000 even though GOP senators, when attributing half of each state’s population to each senator, have never represented more people than their Democratic colleagues.”
“The American political system has long contained features designed to constrain the ability of majorities to impose their will — what John Adams, among other founders, called ‘the tyranny of the majority.’ But the current situation is unusual in that it has consistently empowered a minority to drive the nation’s agenda.”


politicalwire--2020-08-12--U.K. Economy Shrinks More Than Any Other Rich Nation

“ The U.K. recorded a steeper second-quarter contraction than its peers , a performance that means it suffered the worst @ @ @ @ @ in Europe as well as reporting the highest death toll , ” the Wall Street @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-08-12--How Kamala Harris Helps Biden

How Kamala Harris Helps Biden

New York Times : “ By selecting the junior senator from California , a state that Democrats have captured in @ @ @ @ @ , Mr. Biden embraced the modern imperatives of Democratic coalition building that have made the @ @ @ @ @ who could deliver their home states a relic of the past.
” “ Ms .
@ @ @ @ @ Black and half Indian-American , is not expected to scramble the electoral map , nor @ @ @ @ @ to do so .
The former vice president leads in polls of most of the @ @ @ @ @ , ever since Black voters resurrected his primary candidacy in South Carolina , Mr. Biden @ @ @ @ @ made the pursuit of Black voters in November a centerpiece of his bid for the @ @ @ @ @ had said from the start of the process that he would chose a woman as @ @ @ @ @

New York Times: “By selecting the junior senator from California, a state that Democrats have captured in every presidential election since 1992, Mr. Biden embraced the modern imperatives of Democratic coalition building that have made the days of choosing running mates who could deliver their home states a relic of the past.”
“Ms. Harris, who is half Black and half Indian-American, is not expected to scramble the electoral map, nor was the Biden campaign looking to do so. The former vice president leads in polls of most of the crucial battlegrounds.”
“Instead, ever since Black voters resurrected his primary candidacy in South Carolina, Mr. Biden and his campaign team have made the pursuit of Black voters in November a centerpiece of his bid for the White House. And he had said from the start of the process that he would chose a woman as his running mate.”


politicalwire--2020-08-12--White House Admits Less Jobless Aid Than Trump Said

“ President Trump ’ s senior aides acknowledged on Tuesday that they are providing less financial assistance for the unemployed @ @ @ @ @ amid mounting blowback from state officials of both parties , ” the Washington Post reports @ @ @ @ @ Funding for $ 300-a-week unemployment benefits could run out in six weeks .

“President Trump’s senior aides acknowledged on Tuesday that they are providing less financial assistance for the unemployed than the president initially advertised amid mounting blowback from state officials of both parties,” the Washington Post reports.
Wall Street Journal: Funding for $300-a-week unemployment benefits could run out in six weeks.


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Growing Number Oppose Fully Reopening Schools

A new Politico/Morning Consult poll finds 59 % of Americans said they oppose fully reopening K-12 schools for the beginning @ @ @ @ @ up from 53 % last month .


politicalwire--2020-08-12--State Budgets Create a Drag on U.S. Recovery

“ Spending cuts by state and local governments grappling with the coronavirus pandemic pose a headwind to the U.S. economic @ @ @ @ @ much federal aid to provide , ” the Wall Street Journal reports .
“ State @ @ @ @ @ at a 5.6 % annual rate in the second quarter as they laid off workers @ @ @ @ @ to offset plunging tax revenues .
More cuts are on the way .
”

“Spending cuts by state and local governments grappling with the coronavirus pandemic pose a headwind to the U.S. economic recovery as lawmakers consider how much federal aid to provide,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
“State and local governments reduced spending at a 5.6% annual rate in the second quarter as they laid off workers and pulled back on services to offset plunging tax revenues. More cuts are on the way.”


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Stimulus Impasse Risks Dragging to September

“ With no talks scheduled on a virus-relief package seen as vital by Federal Reserve officials and market participants alike @ @ @ @ @ and Democrats risks dragging on for weeks , ” Bloomberg reports .
“ The four @ @ @ @ @ Steven Mnuchin , White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows , Speaker Nancy Pelosi and @ @ @ @ @ — haven ’ t talked since Friday .
And Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and @ @ @ @ @ broadsides on the Senate floor Tuesday , without new ideas for a compromise .
”

“With no talks scheduled on a virus-relief package seen as vital by Federal Reserve officials and market participants alike, the stalemate between Republicans and Democrats risks dragging on for weeks,” Bloomberg reports.
“The four main principals — Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer — haven’t talked since Friday. And Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Schumer continued to exchange rhetorical broadsides on the Senate floor Tuesday, without new ideas for a compromise.”


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Biden Favored In New Forecast

Biden Favored In New Forecast

The new FiveThirtyEight forecast — just launched this morning — gives Joe Biden a 71 % chance to defeat Donald @ @ @ @ @ .
Nate Silver : “ If these numbers give you a sense of deja vu @ @ @ @ @ they ’ re very similar to our final forecast in 2016 … when Trump also @ @ @ @ @ of winning !
( And Hillary Clinton had a 71 percent chance . )
So @ @ @ @ @ taking a 29 percent chance as a serious possibility , I ’ m not sure @ @ @ @ @ can say at this point , although there ’ s a Zoom poker game that @ @ @ @ @ to invite you to.
” “ One last parallel to 2016 — when some models @ @ @ @ @ a 99 percent chance of winning — is that FiveThirtyEight ’ s forecast tends to @ @ @ @ @ .
”

The new FiveThirtyEight forecast — just launched this morning — gives Joe Biden a 71% chance to defeat Donald Trump in the presidential election.
Nate Silver: “If these numbers give you a sense of deja vu, it may be because they’re very similar to our final forecast in 2016 … when Trump also had a 29 percent chance of winning! (And Hillary Clinton had a 71 percent chance.) So if you’re not taking a 29 percent chance as a serious possibility, I’m not sure there’s much we can say at this point, although there’s a Zoom poker game that I’d be happy to invite you to.”
“One last parallel to 2016 — when some models gave Clinton as high as a 99 percent chance of winning — is that FiveThirtyEight’s forecast tends to be more conservative than others.”


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ She ’ s a hypocrite .
She ’ s anti-American .
And we ’ re going to kick that @ @ @ @ @ — Marjorie Taylor Greene ( R ) , quoted by the Atlanta Journal Constitution , @ @ @ @ @ in her GOP primary victory speech last night .

“She’s a hypocrite. She’s anti-American. And we’re going to kick that bitch out of Congress.”
— Marjorie Taylor Greene (R), quoted by the Atlanta Journal Constitution, taking on Speaker Nancy Pelosi in her GOP primary victory speech last night.


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Kennedy Allies Sweat as Primary Tightens

“ Joe Kennedy was once thought to be such a lock to defeat Sen. Ed Markey that there was widespread @ @ @ @ @ might just retire to avoid a humbling end , ” Politico reports .
“ But @ @ @ @ @ and closing in on the young congressman in the polls by running a policy-heavy campaign @ @ @ @ @ moment .
There ’ s growing sentiment that Kennedy underestimated the backlash he ’ d @ @ @ @ @ incumbent , who has become beloved among progressives for his work on the Green New @ @ @

“Joe Kennedy was once thought to be such a lock to defeat Sen. Ed Markey that there was widespread speculation in Massachusetts that Markey might just retire to avoid a humbling end,” Politico reports.
“But Markey is piling up endorsements and closing in on the young congressman in the polls by running a policy-heavy campaign that seems tailored for the moment. There’s growing sentiment that Kennedy underestimated the backlash he’d face for challenging the veteran incumbent, who has become beloved among progressives for his work on the Green New Deal.”


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Obama Saw Kamala Harris as the Favorite

Obama Saw Kamala Harris as the Favorite

Associated Press : “ Biden , too , regularly discussed his potential pick with his sprawling network of friends and @ @ @ @ @ in particular as a sounding board , though confidants to both men say the former @ @ @ @ @ tip his hand in those conversations as to whom he preferred .
But in private @ @ @ @ @ that he believed Harris was the favorite .
”

Associated Press: “Biden, too, regularly discussed his potential pick with his sprawling network of friends and advisers. He used Obama in particular as a sounding board, though confidants to both men say the former president was careful not to tip his hand in those conversations as to whom he preferred. But in private, Obama suggested to others that he believed Harris was the favorite.”


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Ilhan Omar Survives Primary Challenge

Ilhan Omar Survives Primary Challenge

Rep. Ilhan Omar ( D-MN ) beat back a well-funded primary challenger on Tuesday in Minneapolis , virtually guaranteeing a @ @ @ @ @ Axios reports .

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


politicalwire--2020-08-12--The Unlikely Bond Between Biden and Harris

Walter Shapiro : “ Many volumes will be written about why Biden chose Harris .
But the truest bond between @ @ @ @ @ are both politicians in the best sense of the word .
They understand elections , @ @ @ @ @ to be tough without losing your sense of humor .
”

Walter Shapiro: “Many volumes will be written about why Biden chose Harris. But the truest bond between them may be the simplest—they are both politicians in the best sense of the word. They understand elections, Capitol Hill, and how to be tough without losing your sense of humor.”


politicalwire--2020-08-13--Loss of College Football May Cost Trump

Loss of College Football May Cost Trump

New York Times : “ In a hotly contested election year , the loss of college football seems almost certain @ @ @ @ @ well .
No conference covers as many presidential battleground states as does the Big Ten @ @ @ @ @ schools in seven states that are being fought for by both Joe Biden and Mr. @ @ @ @ @ battleground states like Ohio , Michigan and Pennsylvania , where college football serves as an @ @ @ @ @ campus but in the rural areas where Mr. Trump ’ s support runs deepest , @ @ @ @ @ political stain that the president is unable to blame on his enemies in the Democratic @ @ @ @ @ .
”

New York Times: “In a hotly contested election year, the loss of college football seems almost certain to seep into politics as well. No conference covers as many presidential battleground states as does the Big Ten, the Midwestern behemoth with schools in seven states that are being fought for by both Joe Biden and Mr. Trump.”
“In crucial battleground states like Ohio, Michigan and Pennsylvania, where college football serves as an autumn religion not just on campus but in the rural areas where Mr. Trump’s support runs deepest, losing football may be a political stain that the president is unable to blame on his enemies in the Democratic Party or on the media.”


politicalwire--2020-08-13--U.S. Reports Highest Number of Virus Deaths Since May

Washington Post : “ On Wednesday , the country reported its highest number of deaths in a single day since @ @ @ @ @ .
The country has now seen its seven-day average of newly reported deaths remain above @ @ @ @ @ .
”


politicalwire--2020-08-13--College Democrats Plotted to Sink Primary Candidate

The Intercept : “ The leadership of the University of Massachusetts Amherst College Democrats began discussing an operation they believed @ @ @ @ @ Alex Morse for Congress as far back as last October , a plan they then @ @ @ @ @ to fruition on Friday , after the College Democrats sent a letter regarding Morse to @ @ @ @ @ school ’ s student newspaper.
” “ The letter , sent three weeks before his @ @ @ @ @ Neal , informed Morse that he was no longer welcome at College Democratic events , @ @ @ @ @ to socialize with students and later connect with them on social media in ways that @ @ @ @ @ “ Leaders of the College Democrats group went beyond merely plans to leak .
They @ @ @ @ @ could find Morse ’ s dating profiles and then lead him into saying something incriminating @ @ @ @ @ campaign .
”

The Intercept: “The leadership of the University of Massachusetts Amherst College Democrats began discussing an operation they believed could sink the campaign of Alex Morse for Congress as far back as last October, a plan they then helped engineer and which came to fruition on Friday, after the College Democrats sent a letter regarding Morse to the Daily Collegian, the school’s student newspaper.”
“The letter, sent three weeks before his primary challenge to Rep. Richard Neal, informed Morse that he was no longer welcome at College Democratic events, alleging he used such opportunities to socialize with students and later connect with them on social media in ways that made them feel uncomfortable.”
“Leaders of the College Democrats group went beyond merely plans to leak. They also explicitly discussed how they could find Morse’s dating profiles and then lead him into saying something incriminating that would then damage his campaign.”


politicalwire--2020-08-12--How Biden Pulled Off Both a Groundbreaking and Safe Pick

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This piece is only available to Political Wire members.
Much has been made about Sen. Kamala Harris being both a groundbreaking pick as well as a relatively safe one for Joe Biden. That’s a hard combination to pull off, but it wasn’t an accident.


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Markey Opens Wide Lead In Senate Primary

A new UMass Amherst poll in Massachusetts finds Sen. Ed Markey ( D ) leading Rep. Joe Kennedy ( D @ @ @ @ @ Senate primary , 51 % to 36 % .


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Trump to Relax Rules for Showers

Trump to Relax Rules for Showers

“ The U.S. Energy Department proposed easing water efficiency requirements for shower heads Wednesday following multiple complaints from President Trump @ @ @ @ @ is impeding his ability to properly wash his hair , ” Bloomberg reports .


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Republicans Fret Over Trump’s Reaction to Harris Pick

NBC News : “ Despite having months to prepare for the probable outcome that Harris would be chosen , the @ @ @ @ @ a series of contradictory and at times confusing messaging on the California senator , on @ @ @ @ @ a California prosecutor to her positioning in the party.
” “ Some allies of the @ @ @ @ @ rejoinder appeared to be so flat-footed and incongruous , reiterating that Trump and his campaign @ @ @ @ @ punch on presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden and this does not bode well for their @ @ @ @ @ ”

NBC News: “Despite having months to prepare for the probable outcome that Harris would be chosen, the Trump re-elect effort countered with a series of contradictory and at times confusing messaging on the California senator, on everything from her record as a California prosecutor to her positioning in the party.”
“Some allies of the president were stunned that the rejoinder appeared to be so flat-footed and incongruous, reiterating that Trump and his campaign have had trouble landing a punch on presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden and this does not bode well for their same attempts with Harris.”


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Fox News Insists Biden Didn’t Actually Pick Harris

Daily Beast : “ It took Fox News no more than an hour after Joe Biden selected Sen. Kamala Harris @ @ @ @ @ start dabbling in wild speculation and conspiracy theories about the hidden , nefarious reasons behind @ @ @ @ @ the day after the ex-veep and presumptive Democratic nominee announced his running mate , Fox @ @ @ @ @ of unsupported theories largely centered around two themes : Harris forced her way onto the @ @ @ @ @ or overtaken Biden ; and/or Biden is not mentally capable of selecting his own running @ @ @ @ @ was installed by a shadowy , unseen puppeteer .
”

Daily Beast: “It took Fox News no more than an hour after Joe Biden selected Sen. Kamala Harris as his running mate to start dabbling in wild speculation and conspiracy theories about the hidden, nefarious reasons behind the pick.”
“In the day after the ex-veep and presumptive Democratic nominee announced his running mate, Fox News hosts pushed a number of unsupported theories largely centered around two themes: Harris forced her way onto the ticket and intends to usurp or overtaken Biden; and/or Biden is not mentally capable of selecting his own running mate, and so Harris was installed by a shadowy, unseen puppeteer.”


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Trump Wants to Replace Esper After Election

“ President Trump has privately said that he intends to replace Secretary of Defense Mark Esper after the November election @ @ @ @ @ Meanwhile , Esper has told people close to him “ that he intends to leave @ @ @ @ @ s outcome , meaning he could exit the administration about two months before Trump does @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“President Trump has privately said that he intends to replace Secretary of Defense Mark Esper after the November election,” Bloomberg reports.
Meanwhile, Esper has told people close to him “that he intends to leave regardless of the election’s outcome, meaning he could exit the administration about two months before Trump does, if the president loses.”


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Is This a Successful School Reopening?

Is This a Successful School Reopening?

New York Times : “ In Georgia , Tennessee , Mississippi , Indiana and elsewhere , some schools , mainly @ @ @ @ @ , have been open for almost two weeks .
Their experience reveals the perils of @ @ @ @ @ where the coronavirus has hardly been tamed.
” “ Students and teachers have immediately tested @ @ @ @ @ two-week quarantines and creating whiplash for schools that were eager to open , only to @ @ @ @ @ .
All of this has only further divided communities where parents and teachers have passionately @ @ @ @ @ reopening .
”

New York Times: “In Georgia, Tennessee, Mississippi, Indiana and elsewhere, some schools, mainly in suburban and rural areas, have been open for almost two weeks. Their experience reveals the perils of returning to classrooms in places where the coronavirus has hardly been tamed.”
“Students and teachers have immediately tested positive, sending others into two-week quarantines and creating whiplash for schools that were eager to open, only to consider closing again right away. All of this has only further divided communities where parents and teachers have passionately disagreed over the safety of reopening.”


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Most Republicans Silent on Likely QAnon House Member

Playbook on President Trump congratulating Marjorie Taylor Greene ( R ) , a QAnon conspiracy theorist , on her GOP @ @ @ @ @ almost certain victory in the general election : “ Privately , Republicans have said they @ @ @ @ @ but don ’ t believe there ’ s anything they can do about it .
@ @ @ @ @ re wrong — they can spend money to defeat people who espouse beliefs contrary to @ @ @ @ @ decided not to .
”

Playbook on President Trump congratulating Marjorie Taylor Greene (R), a QAnon conspiracy theorist, on her GOP primary victory last night and almost certain victory in the general election:
“Privately, Republicans have said they’re ashamed of this but don’t believe there’s anything they can do about it. Of course, they’re wrong — they can spend money to defeat people who espouse beliefs contrary to theirs, but they have decided not to.”


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Fiorina Praises Biden’s Pick of Kamala Harris

Carly Fiorina said she disagrees with Sen. Kamala Harris “ on many things , ” but added “ setting aside @ @ @ @ @ , I think it is high time that we see a ferociously self-determined , highly @ @ @ @ @ of color at the top of the national ticket , ” The Hill reports .
@ @ @ @ @ I think regardless of people ’ s political persuasions , I think honestly it just @ @ @ @ @ possibility are the core of what makes this nation great .
”

Carly Fiorina said she disagrees with Sen. Kamala Harris “on many things,” but added “setting aside those disagreements as a woman, I think it is high time that we see a ferociously self-determined, highly accomplished, thoroughly prepared woman of color at the top of the national ticket,” The Hill reports.
She added: “And I think regardless of people’s political persuasions, I think honestly it just reminds us that diversity and possibility are the core of what makes this nation great.”


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Kansas Senate Race Is Close

Kansas Senate Race Is Close

A new SurveyUSA poll in Kansas finds Roger Marshall ( R ) leading Barbara Bollier ( D ) in the @ @ @ @ @ % to 44 % .


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Sarah Cooper Gets Netflix Special

Sarah Cooper Gets Netflix Special

Comedian Sarah Cooper , who has found fame on social media by lip-syncing President Trump ’ s unhinged coronavirus tangents @ @ @ @ @ comedy special , Variety reports .


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Trump Vows to Save ‘Suburban Housewives’

President Trump vowed to save “ suburban housewives ” saying he ’ ll protect them from an “ invasion ” @ @ @ @ @ by Sen. Cory Booker ( D-NJ ) , the Black senator from New Jersey .
@ @ @ @ @ ‘ suburban housewife ’ will be voting for me .
They want safety & are @ @ @ @ @ long running program where low income housing would invade their neighborhood .
Biden would reinstall @ @ @ @ @ form , with Corey Booker in charge !
”

President Trump vowed to save “suburban housewives” saying he’ll protect them from an “invasion” of poor people supposedly led by Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ), the Black senator from New Jersey.
Said Trump: “The ‘suburban housewife’ will be voting for me. They want safety & are thrilled that I ended the long running program where low income housing would invade their neighborhood. Biden would reinstall it, in a bigger form, with Corey Booker in charge!”


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Trump Adds Adviser Who Mimics His Unscientific Claims

President Trump added a new adviser on the coronavirus pandemic , CNN reports .
Dr. Scott Atlas “ frequently appears @ @ @ @ @ advised Republicans in the past .
And crucially , unlike the government ’ s medical @ @ @ @ @ until now , has adopted a public stance on the virus much closer to Trump @ @ @ @ @ the idea that schools can not reopen this fall as ‘ hysteria ’ and pushing @ @ @ @ @ sports.
” Said Trump : “ He ’ s working with us and will be @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus .
And he has many great ideas .
And he thinks what we ’ @ @ @ @ @ , and now we ’ ll take it to a new level .
”

President Trump added a new adviser on the coronavirus pandemic, CNN reports.
Dr. Scott Atlas “frequently appears on Fox News and has advised Republicans in the past. And crucially, unlike the government’s medical experts who have advised Trump until now, has adopted a public stance on the virus much closer to Trump’s — including decrying the idea that schools cannot reopen this fall as ‘hysteria’ and pushing for the resumption of college sports.”
Said Trump: “He’s working with us and will be working with us on the coronavirus. And he has many great ideas. And he thinks what we’ve done is really good, and now we’ll take it to a new level.”


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Pelosi Says There’s a ‘Chasm’ In Economic Relief Talks

Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Democrats and the Trump administration remain “ miles apart ” on negotiations over a coronavirus stimulus @ @ @ @ @ Said Pelosi : “ It ’ s a chasm .
Because they do not share @ @ @ @ @ ’ t believe in science , they don ’ t believe in governance.
” For @ @ @ @ @ Set a Trap for Democrats

Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Democrats and the Trump administration remain “miles apart” on negotiations over a coronavirus stimulus deal, Axios reports.
Said Pelosi: “It’s a chasm. Because they do not share our values, they don’t believe in science, they don’t believe in governance.”
For members: Trump Thinks He Set a Trap for Democrats


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Jared Kushner Met with Kanye West

Jared Kushner Met with Kanye West

Jared Kushner met privately last weekend with Kanye West , the rapper who has filed petitions to get on the @ @ @ @ @ several states , the New York Times reports .


politicalwire--2020-08-12--Inside Biden’s Search for a Running Mate

NBC News has a very good deep dive into the process that led Joe Biden to pick Sen. Kamala Harris @


politicalwire--2020-08-13--Kushner Talks to Kanye West Nearly Every Day

Jared Kushner has been speaking with Kanye West “ amost daily ” since the rapper announced he was running for @ @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-08-13--First-Time Jobless Claims Slow

First-Time Jobless Claims Slow

“ First-time claims for unemployment insurance last fell below 1 million for the first time since March 21 in a @ @ @ @ @ is continuing its recovery from the coronavirus pandemic , ” CNBC reports .


politicalwire--2020-08-13--Trump Warns GOP Senate Candidates

Trump Warns GOP Senate Candidates

President Trump “ warned that GOP Senate candidates who don ’ t fully embrace him will lose their elections , @ @ @ @ @ moderates who have kept their distance from the president , ” The Hill reports .
@ @ @ @ @ ’ re fighting very hard in the Senate .
I ’ ll be honest , @ @ @ @ @ We have a couple of people that aren ’ t as supportive of Trump as @ @ @ @ @ people are going to lose their elections .
”

President Trump “warned that GOP Senate candidates who don’t fully embrace him will lose their elections, a warning shot to some moderates who have kept their distance from the president,” The Hill reports.
Said Trump: “We’re fighting very hard in the Senate. I’ll be honest, the Senate is tough. We have a couple of people that aren’t as supportive of Trump as they should be and those people are going to lose their elections.”


politicalwire--2020-08-13--Trump’s Payroll-Tax Deferral Plans Spur Confusion

“ President Trump ’ s gambit to defer Social Security payroll taxes for the rest of the year and pressure @ @ @ @ @ turning into a logistical challenge , with its rollout complicated by his own unclear statements @ @ @ @ @ the Wall Street Journal reports .
Said Trump : “ We ’ ll be terminating @ @ @ @ @ hopefully get elected.
” “ He then said the government could use general taxes and @ @ @ @ @ any shortfall in the Social Security trust fund , which is largely funded by the @ @ @ @ @ the AP reports that the U.S. Chamber of Commerce thinks Trump ’ s plan is @ @

“President Trump’s gambit to defer Social Security payroll taxes for the rest of the year and pressure Congress into forgiving them is turning into a logistical challenge, with its rollout complicated by his own unclear statements about the plan,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
Said Trump: “We’ll be terminating the payroll tax after I hopefully get elected.”
“He then said the government could use general taxes and strong economic growth to cover any shortfall in the Social Security trust fund, which is largely funded by the payroll tax.”
Meanwhile, the AP reports that the U.S. Chamber of Commerce thinks Trump’s plan is unworkable.


politicalwire--2020-08-13--Biden Raised $26 Million in 24 Hours

Biden Raised $26 Million in 24 Hours

“ Joe Biden raised $ 26 million in the 24 hours after he named Kamala Harris as his running mate @ @ @ @ @ record and signaling enthusiasm among Democrats following the selection of the first Black woman on @ @ @ @ @ presidential ticket , ” the AP reports .


politicalwire--2020-08-13--Woodward Has Letters Between Trump and Kim

Bob Woodward has obtained “ 25 personal letters exchanged ” between President Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un for @ @ @ @ @ .


politicalwire--2020-08-13--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ I asked Kamala to be the last voice in the room .
To always tell me the truth , @ @ @ @ @ my assumptions if she disagrees .
Ask the hard questions .
Because that ’ s @ @ @ @ @ best decisions for the American people.
” — Joe Biden , quoted by McClatchy , @ @ @ @ @ Harris ’ s role as vice president .

“I asked Kamala to be the last voice in the room. To always tell me the truth, which she will. Challenge my assumptions if she disagrees. Ask the hard questions. Because that’s the way we make the best decisions for the American people.”
— Joe Biden, quoted by McClatchy, on how he views Kamala Harris’s role as vice president.


politicalwire--2020-08-13--Trump Says There Won’t Be New Relief Deal

A new attempt to restart economic relief negotiations between the White House and Democrats ended just minutes after it began @ @ @ @ @ Trump appearing to cast doubt on the whole process by announcing a deal is “ @ @ @ @ @ ” the Washington Post reports .
Said Trump : “ The bill ’ s not @ @ @ @ @ don ’ t even want to talk about it , because we can ’ t @ @ @ @ @ ridiculous things that they want that have nothing to do with the China virus.
” @ @ @ @ @ He Set a Trap for Democrats

A new attempt to restart economic relief negotiations between the White House and Democrats ended just minutes after it began on Wednesday, with President Trump appearing to cast doubt on the whole process by announcing a deal is “not going to happen,” the Washington Post reports.
Said Trump: “The bill’s not going to happen because they don’t even want to talk about it, because we can’t give them the kind of ridiculous things that they want that have nothing to do with the China virus.”
For members: Trump Thinks He Set a Trap for Democrats


politicalwire--2020-08-13--When and How to Vote In All 50 States

When and How to Vote In All 50 States

Axios has rounded up information on early voting and mail-in ballots for every state .

“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--2020-08-13--Herman Cain’s Twitter Account Attacks Biden

Herman Cain ’ s Twitter account shared an attack on Joe Biden and his running mate Kamala Harris despite the @ @ @ @ @ died a few weeks ago , Newsweek reports .


politicalwire--2020-08-13--CDC Issues Dire Warning for the Fall

CDC Issues Dire Warning for the Fall

CDC Director Robert Redfield said that if the American public does not follow recommended coronavirus mitigation measures , the country @ @ @ @ @ for public health in U.S. history , CNN reports .
Said Redfield : “ For @ @ @ @ @ for the war that we ’ re in against Covid , I ’ m asking @ @ @ @ @ things : wear a mask , social distance , wash your hands and be smart @ @ @ @ @ : “ I ’ m not asking some of America to do it .
We @ @ @ @ @ .
”

CDC Director Robert Redfield said that if the American public does not follow recommended coronavirus mitigation measures, the country could have the worst fall for public health in U.S. history, CNN reports.
Said Redfield: “For your country right now and for the war that we’re in against Covid, I’m asking you to do four simple things: wear a mask, social distance, wash your hands and be smart about crowds.”
He added: “I’m not asking some of America to do it. We all gotta do it.”


politicalwire--2020-08-13--Study Finds 6% of England Infected

Study Finds 6% of England Infected

Researchers at Imperial College estimate that 6 % of England ’ s population — or 3.4 million people — have @ @ @ @ @ , a figure far higher than previous findings , the AP reports .


politicalwire--2020-08-13--U.S. Cutting Back on Testing

U.S. Cutting Back on Testing

“ The U.S. is cutting back on coronavirus testing .
Nationally , the number of tests performed each day is @ @ @ @ @ it was at the end of July , and testing is also declining in hard-hit @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Even as states with particularly bad outbreaks pull back on their testing , @ @ @ @ @ back positive is still high — which would normally be an indication that they need @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“The U.S. is cutting back on coronavirus testing. Nationally, the number of tests performed each day is about 17% lower than it was at the end of July, and testing is also declining in hard-hit states,” Axios reports.
“Even as states with particularly bad outbreaks pull back on their testing, the proportion of tests coming back positive is still high — which would normally be an indication that they need to be doing more tests.”