politicalwire--2020-08-17--Ex-GOP Lawmaker to Endorse Biden

Ex-GOP Lawmaker to Endorse Biden

Former Ohio Gov .
John Kasich told CNN there ’ s a prominent former Republican congressman that is going to @ @ @ @ @ He declined to say who it was .

Former Ohio Gov. John Kasich told CNN there’s a prominent former Republican congressman that is going to endorse Joe Biden tomorrow.
He declined to say who it was.


politicalwire--2020-08-17--Traders Brace for Haywire Markets Around Election

“ The presidential election is three months away , but some traders are preparing for the possibility that prolonged political @ @ @ @ @ , ” the Wall Street Journal reports .
“ The investors are going beyond the @ @ @ @ @ potential change in power in Washington .
Instead they are betting on volatility and a @ @ @ @ @ the year .
Among the concerns expressed by some : speculation that President Trump could @ @ @ @ @ or disrupt mail-in voting , as well as the chance that a result remains unclear @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“The presidential election is three months away, but some traders are preparing for the possibility that prolonged political uncertainty will stoke stock-market mayhem,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
“The investors are going beyond the normal hedging ahead of a potential change in power in Washington. Instead they are betting on volatility and a possible market tumble later in the year. Among the concerns expressed by some: speculation that President Trump could try to delay the election or disrupt mail-in voting, as well as the chance that a result remains unclear for weeks after polls close.”


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Democratic Convention: Night One

Democratic Convention: Night One

The first night of the Democratic convention will be televised and livestreamed from 9 p.m to 11 p.m .
ET @ @ @ @ @ Obama , Sen. Bernie Sanders , Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto , Gov .
Andrew Cuomo @ @ @ @ @ , Rep. Jim Clyburn , Convention Chairman Rep. Bennie Thompson , Rep. Gwen Moore , @ @ @ @ @ Kasich , Sen. Doug Jones and Sen. Amy Klobuchar .
Actress Eva Longoria will emcee @ @ @ @ @ NBC and Fox News will carry the convention from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m. C-SPAN @ @ @ @ @ PBS will cover the full two hours each night .
Leave your reactions in the @ @ @ @ @ the discussion in The Cloakroom .

The first night of the Democratic convention will be televised and livestreamed from 9 p.m to 11 p.m. ET.
Speakers include: Michelle Obama, Sen. Bernie Sanders, Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, Gov. Andrew Cuomo, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Rep. Jim Clyburn, Convention Chairman Rep. Bennie Thompson, Rep. Gwen Moore, former Ohio Gov. John Kasich, Sen. Doug Jones and Sen. Amy Klobuchar. Actress Eva Longoria will emcee.
ABC, CBS, NBC and Fox News will carry the convention from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m. C-SPAN, CNN, MSNBC and PBS will cover the full two hours each night.
Leave your reactions in the comments.
Members can join the discussion in The Cloakroom.


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Trump Slams Kasich as a ‘Major Loser’

Trump Slams Kasich as a ‘Major Loser’

President Trump bashed former Ohio Gov .
John Kasich ahead of the Republican ’ s address to the Democratic National @ @ @ @ @ a “ major loser , ” The Hill reports .
Said Trump : “ He @ @ @ @ @ Republican and he ’ ll be a loser as a Democrat .
Major loser as @ @ @ @ @ you can quote me on that .
John was a loser as a Republican .
@ @ @ @ @ And as a Democrat he ’ ll be an even greater loser.
” He added @ @ @ @ @ t like him , people don ’ t trust him , his healthcare in Ohio @ @ @ @ @ hasn ’ t done too well with Trump .
He ’ s been easy pickings @ @

President Trump bashed former Ohio Gov. John Kasich ahead of the Republican’s address to the Democratic National Convention, dismissing him as a “major loser,” The Hill reports.
Said Trump: “He was a loser as a Republican and he’ll be a loser as a Democrat. Major loser as a Republican. I guess you can quote me on that. John was a loser as a Republican. Never even came close. And as a Democrat he’ll be an even greater loser.”
He added: “People don’t like him, people don’t trust him, his healthcare in Ohio was a disaster. He hasn’t done too well with Trump. He’s been easy pickings.”


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Extra Bonus Quote of the Day

Extra Bonus Quote of the Day

“ The only way we ’ re going to lose this election is if this election is rigged .
”

“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--2020-08-18--Massachusetts Senate Primary Is Tight

Massachusetts Senate Primary Is Tight

A new SurveyUSA poll in Massachusetts finds Sen. Ed Markey ( D ) leading Democratic primary challenger Rep. Joe Kennedy @ @ @ @ @ 44 % to 42 % .


politicalwire--2020-08-17--Birx Wishes U.S. Had Lockdown Like Italy

Dr. Deborah Birx told CNN that she wishes the United States had more stringent lockdown measures in place at the @ @ @ @ @ like they had in Italy .


politicalwire--2020-08-17--Trump Shares Russian Propaganda on Biden

President Trump retweeted Russian propaganda about Joe Biden that the US intelligence community recently announced was part of Moscow ’ @ @ @ @ @ denigrate ” the Democrat ahead of November ’ s election , CNN reports .
By @ @ @ @ @ government has already labeled as propaganda , Trump demonstrated once again that he is willing @ @ @ @ @ meddling for his own political gain .

President Trump retweeted Russian propaganda about Joe Biden that the US intelligence community recently announced was part of Moscow’s ongoing effort to “denigrate” the Democrat ahead of November’s election, CNN reports.
By retweeting material that the US government has already labeled as propaganda, Trump demonstrated once again that he is willing to capitalize on foreign election meddling for his own political gain.


politicalwire--2020-08-17--Biden Leads In Wisconsin

Biden Leads In Wisconsin

A new Morning Consult poll in Wisconsin finds Joe Biden leading Donald Trump in the presidential race , 49 % @ @ @ @ @ finding : “ Trump has a 12-point advantage in the Badger State among white voters @ @ @ @ @ while Biden leads with the state ’ s college-educated voters by 23 points .
”


politicalwire--2020-08-17--Bloomberg to Spend $60 Million for House Democrats

“ Mike Bloomberg plans to spend $ 60 million to strengthen the Democratic House majority in November , roughly matching @ @ @ @ @ flipping control of the House in 2018 , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ @ @ @ @ @ and television ads to defend some of the 20 freshman Democrats he helped win in @ @ @ @ @ aimed at defeating additional Republican incumbents .
”

“Mike Bloomberg plans to spend $60 million to strengthen the Democratic House majority in November, roughly matching the money he invested in flipping control of the House in 2018,” the Washington Post reports.
“The spending will include digital and television ads to defend some of the 20 freshman Democrats he helped win in 2018, along with spending aimed at defeating additional Republican incumbents.”


politicalwire--2020-08-17--Bernie Sanders Sets Aside Firebrand Role

“ Bernie Sanders takes on a somewhat new role in his address to the Democratic National Convention on Monday night @ @ @ @ @ , ” Bloomberg reports .
“ Four years ago , delegates who supported him and @ @ @ @ @ booed at the Democratic National Convention , protesting a party and nominee they believed had @ @ @ @ @ their candidate .
”

“Bernie Sanders takes on a somewhat new role in his address to the Democratic National Convention on Monday night — that of party unifier,” Bloomberg reports.
“Four years ago, delegates who supported him and his progressive movement picketed and booed at the Democratic National Convention, protesting a party and nominee they believed had rigged the presidential primary against their candidate.”


politicalwire--2020-08-17--DNC Chair Wants to End Caucuses

DNC Chair Wants to End Caucuses

DNC Chair Tom Perez said that the handful of 2020 presidential caucuses should be the last the party ever holds @ @ @ @ @ “ He didn ’ t specifically name Iowa , which for decades has led off @ @ @ @ @ his position would represent a seismic shift in the party ’ s traditions .
”

DNC Chair Tom Perez said that the handful of 2020 presidential caucuses should be the last the party ever holds, the AP reports.
“He didn’t specifically name Iowa, which for decades has led off the nominating calendar, but his position would represent a seismic shift in the party’s traditions.”


politicalwire--2020-08-17--Biden Widens His Lead Over Trump

Biden Widens His Lead Over Trump

A new Yahoo News/YouGov poll finds Joe Biden now outpaces Donald Trump nationally in the presidential race , 49 % @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-08-17--‘Anonymous’ Urges Vote for Biden

‘Anonymous’ Urges Vote for Biden

The self-described “ senior Trump administration official , ” who anonymously trashed the president ’ s leadership in a 2018 @ @ @ @ @ book , is calling for voters to throw the president out of office this November @ @ @ @ @ the paperback “ 2020 election edition ” of the book , Politico reports .
“ @ @ @ @ @ that they would reveal their identity to Trump before the election , but the person @ @ @ @ @ edition , only saying they plan to unveil themselves in “ due course .
”

The self-described “senior Trump administration official,” who anonymously trashed the president’s leadership in a 2018 op-ed and a 2019 best-selling book, is calling for voters to throw the president out of office this November in a new preface for the paperback “2020 election edition” of the book, Politico reports.
“Anonymous” said last year that they would reveal their identity to Trump before the election, but the person stays nameless in the latest edition, only saying they plan to unveil themselves in “due course.”


politicalwire--2020-08-17--Bonus Quote of the Day

Bonus Quote of the Day

“ We built the greatest economy in the history of the world , and now I have to do it @ @ @ @ @ is ?
That ’ s right .
That ’ s God testing me .
”


politicalwire--2020-08-17--Ex-Trump Official Endorses Biden

Ex-Trump Official Endorses Biden

Miles Taylor , former chief of staff to Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen , writes in the Washington Post that @ @ @ @ @ for America .
Writes Taylor : “ I can attest that the country is less @ @ @ @ @ of the president ’ s actions.
” CNN notes Taylor also officially endorsed Joe Biden @ @ @ @ @ new video .

Miles Taylor, former chief of staff to Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen, writes in the Washington Post that President Trump “dangerous” for America.
Writes Taylor: “I can attest that the country is less secure as a direct result of the president’s actions.”
CNN notes Taylor also officially endorsed Joe Biden for president in a devastating new video.


politicalwire--2020-08-17--The ‘Lost Colony’ of Roanoke Was Never Lost

“ The English colonists who settled the so-called Lost Colony before disappearing from history simply went to live with their @ @ @ @ @ of Hatteras , according to a new book , ” the Virginian-Pilot reports .
Said @ @ @ @ @ researched records and dug up artifacts where the colonists lived with the Indians in the @ @ @ @ @ were never lost .
It was made up .
The mystery is over.
” “ @ @ @ @ @ artifacts 4-6 feet below the surface that show a mix of English and Indian life @ @ @ @ @ guns are in the same layer of soil as Indian pottery and arrowheads .
”

“The English colonists who settled the so-called Lost Colony before disappearing from history simply went to live with their native friends — the Croatoans of Hatteras, according to a new book,” the Virginian-Pilot reports.
Said author Scott Dawson, who researched records and dug up artifacts where the colonists lived with the Indians in the 16th century: “They were never lost. It was made up. The mystery is over.”
“Teams have found thousands of artifacts 4-6 feet below the surface that show a mix of English and Indian life. Parts of swords and guns are in the same layer of soil as Indian pottery and arrowheads.”


politicalwire--2020-08-17--Boehner Won’t Get Involved In Election

Boehner Won’t Get Involved In Election

A spokesperson for former House Speaker John Boehner ( R-OH ) shot down rumors his boss might endorse Joe Biden @ @ @ @ @ no .
I think he ’ d rather set himself on fire than get involved @ @ @ @ @ to see here .
”


politicalwire--2020-08-17--Trump Mocks Democrats for Pre-Recording Some Speeches

“ At an event at the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport on Monday afternoon , Trump gave a preview of the @ @ @ @ @ Democrats during their convention this week .
He ridiculed the convention organizers for pre-recording some @ @ @ @ @ airing the entire event live , ” the Washington Post reports .
Said Trump : @ @ @ @ @ speech is taped , it ’ s like there ’ s nothing very exciting about @ @ @ @ @

“At an event at the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport on Monday afternoon, Trump gave a preview of the attacks he will make against Democrats during their convention this week. He ridiculed the convention organizers for pre-recording some of their programming rather than airing the entire event live,” the Washington Post reports.
Said Trump: “When you hear a speech is taped, it’s like there’s nothing very exciting about it, right?”


politicalwire--2020-08-17--Trump Insider Led Effort to Remove Him from Ballot

“ A powerful Republican central to the president ’ s 2020 reelection bid was part of a more concerted effort @ @ @ @ @ him from the ballot in 2016 , ” Business Insider reports .
“ The maneuvers @ @ @ @ @ to a lesser degree , her husband , Mike Shields , have been discussed quietly @ @ @ @ @ ’ s closest advisers for years .
They have both served in powerful posts , @ @ @ @ @ and the Republican National Committee .
Some of those advisers have debated whether the two @ @ @ @ @ president or whether they simply want to cash in on their access to Trump .
@

“A powerful Republican central to the president’s 2020 reelection bid was part of a more concerted effort than previously known to remove him from the ballot in 2016,” Business Insider reports.
“The maneuvers of Katie Walsh and, to a lesser degree, her husband, Mike Shields, have been discussed quietly among some of President Trump’s closest advisers for years. They have both served in powerful posts, including in the White House and the Republican National Committee. Some of those advisers have debated whether the two actually want to help the president or whether they simply want to cash in on their access to Trump.”


politicalwire--2020-08-17--Postmaster General Agrees to Testify

Postmaster General Agrees to Testify

“ Postmaster General Louis DeJoy has agreed to House Democrats ’ request for him to testify next week about his @ @ @ @ @ have raised hackles around the nation , ” Politico reports .


politicalwire--2020-08-17--Biden Supporters Much More Likely to Vote by Mail

A new Wall Street Journal/NBC News poll finds 47 % of voters who back Joe Biden plan to vote by @ @ @ @ @ , compared with 11 % of Donald Trump supporters .
By contrast , 66 % @ @ @ @ @ plan to cast ballots in person on Election Day , compared with 26 % of @ @ @ @ @ : How to make sure your vote is counted .

A new Wall Street Journal/NBC News poll finds 47% of voters who back Joe Biden plan to vote by mail rather than in person, compared with 11% of Donald Trump supporters.
By contrast, 66% of Trump voters say they plan to cast ballots in person on Election Day, compared with 26% of Biden supporters.
Amber Phillips: How to make sure your vote is counted.


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Trump Attacks Biden’s Mental Faculties

Trump Attacks Biden’s Mental Faculties

President Trump ’ s campaign launched its most brutal ad of the 2020 election , suggesting Joe Biden has experienced @ @ @ @ @ past four years .
Jonathan Swan : “ The new ad splices footage of Biden @ @ @ @ @ 2015 and 2016 alongside clips of him stumbling over his words and appearing to lose @ @ @ @ @ the 2020 campaign.
” “ It ’ s the harshest president campaign attack in what @ @ @ @ @ an even uglier messaging year than 2016 .
”

President Trump’s campaign launched its most brutal ad of the 2020 election, suggesting Joe Biden has experienced severe mental decline over the past four years.
Jonathan Swan: “The new ad splices footage of Biden speaking energetically and articulately in 2015 and 2016 alongside clips of him stumbling over his words and appearing to lose his train of thought during the 2020 campaign.”
“It’s the harshest president campaign attack in what is shaping up to be an even uglier messaging year than 2016.”


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Cuomo Book Coming Just Before Election

Cuomo Book Coming Just Before Election

New York Gov .
Andrew Cuomo , who has gained a national following through his management of the coronavirus pandemic @ @ @ @ @ that looks back on his experiences , and includes leadership advice and a close look @ @ @ @ @ administration of President Trump , the AP reports .
Cuomo said that he wanted to @ @ @ @ @ , because if we don ’ t learn from this then it will really compound @ @ @ @ @ ’ ve gone through .
”

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who has gained a national following through his management of the coronavirus pandemic, is writing a book that looks back on his experiences, and includes leadership advice and a close look at his relationship with the administration of President Trump, the AP reports.
Cuomo said that he wanted to document the “entire experience, because if we don’t learn from this then it will really compound the whole crisis that we’ve gone through.”


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Most Fear Reopening of Schools

Most Fear Reopening of Schools

Nearly two-thirds of Americans fear it will be unsafe to send children back to school this year , according to @ @ @ @ @ Financial Times that showed deepening pessimism about the course of the coronavirus pandemic in the @ @

Nearly two-thirds of Americans fear it will be unsafe to send children back to school this year, according to a new poll for the Financial Times that showed deepening pessimism about the course of the coronavirus pandemic in the US.


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ So if you take one thing from my words tonight , it is this : If you think things @ @ @ @ @ , trust me , they can ; and they will if we don ’ t @ @ @ @ @ election .
If we have any hope of ending this chaos , we have got @ @ @ @ @ like our lives depend on it .
”

“So if you take one thing from my words tonight, it is this: If you think things cannot possibly get worse, trust me, they can; and they will if we don’t make a change in this election. If we have any hope of ending this chaos, we have got to vote for Joe Biden like our lives depend on it.”
— Michelle Obama, speaking at the Democratic Convention,


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Barr Disdains Election Deadline for FBI Probe

“ Attorney General William Barr is promising more revelations from a probe of the government ’ s investigation into Russian @ @ @ @ @ he may be running out of time , ” Bloomberg reports .
“ Barr said @ @ @ @ @ charge against a former FBI lawyer is just the first of several ‘ significant ’ @ @ @ @ @ out before the Nov. 3 presidential election.
” “ Department of Justice guidelines warn about @ @ @ @ @ vote .
”

“Attorney General William Barr is promising more revelations from a probe of the government’s investigation into Russian meddling in 2016, but he may be running out of time,” Bloomberg reports.
“Barr said last week’s formal charge against a former FBI lawyer is just the first of several ‘significant’ developments he expects to come out before the Nov. 3 presidential election.”
“Department of Justice guidelines warn about public comments 60 days before vote.”


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Roger Stone Drops Appeals of Felony Convictions

Politico : “ Longtime Trump confidant Roger Stone has unexpectedly dropped the appeal of his seven federal felony convictions for @ @ @ @ @ investigation into ties between the Trump campaign and Russia .
Stone ’ s lawyers submitted @ @ @ @ @ .
Circuit Court of Appeals withdrawing the appeal Monday night , about a month after @ @ @ @ @ prison term and a $ 20,000 fine by commuting his sentence .
”

Politico: “Longtime Trump confidant Roger Stone has unexpectedly dropped the appeal of his seven federal felony convictions for seeking to thwart a House investigation into ties between the Trump campaign and Russia. Stone’s lawyers submitted a notice to the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals withdrawing the appeal Monday night, about a month after Trump spared Stone a 40-month prison term and a $20,000 fine by commuting his sentence.”


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Trump’s Unemployment Order Will Last Just 3 Weeks

“ Out-of-work Americans may see only a three-week boost to their unemployment benefits , as state and federal officials scramble @ @ @ @ @ pot of money and implement President Trump ’ s recent policy order , ” the @ @ @ @ @ The Trump administration offered the new details about its directive Monday , pledging additional aid @ @ @ @ @ matter of weeks — even as its guidance quickly rekindled criticism that the White House @ @ @ @ @ insufficient to help people weather the economic crisis wrought by the pandemic .
”

“Out-of-work Americans may see only a three-week boost to their unemployment benefits, as state and federal officials scramble to stretch out a limited pot of money and implement President Trump’s recent policy order,” the Washington Post reports.
“The Trump administration offered the new details about its directive Monday, pledging additional aid would reach workers in a matter of weeks — even as its guidance quickly rekindled criticism that the White House’s actions alone are insufficient to help people weather the economic crisis wrought by the pandemic.”


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Gun Wielding Couple to Appear at GOP Convention

Washington Post : “ The St. Louis couple who became famous after wielding guns at protesters on their private street @ @ @ @ @ largely digital Republican National Convention next week , Trump advisers said this week .
The @ @ @ @ @ McCloskey — will appear on behalf of the president during the virtual weeklong event and @ @ @ @ @ , the officials said .
”

Washington Post: “The St. Louis couple who became famous after wielding guns at protesters on their private street will be part of the largely digital Republican National Convention next week, Trump advisers said this week. The couple — Patricia and Mark McCloskey — will appear on behalf of the president during the virtual weeklong event and express their support for him, the officials said.”


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Trump Plans to Issue Pardon Today

Trump Plans to Issue Pardon Today

President Trump said he would pardon a “ very , very important ” person on Tuesday , but added it @ @ @ @ @ Snowden or former national security adviser Michael Flynn , Reuters reports .
Said Trump : @ @ @ @ @ on someone who is very , very important .
”

President Trump said he would pardon a “very, very important” person on Tuesday, but added it would not be leaker Edward Snowden or former national security adviser Michael Flynn, Reuters reports.
Said Trump: “Doing a pardon tomorrow on someone who is very, very important.”


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Bernie Wanted Biden to Pick Kamala Harris Too

Bloomberg : “ And though Kamala Harris was not the most progressive woman under consideration to be Biden ’ s @ @ @ @ @ Bernie Sanders ’ s preferred choice , a person familiar with his thinking said .
@ @ @ @ @ saw the California senator as the best boost for the ticket ’ s chances against @ @ @

Bloomberg: “And though Kamala Harris was not the most progressive woman under consideration to be Biden’s running mate, she was Bernie Sanders’s preferred choice, a person familiar with his thinking said. He, like Biden, saw the California senator as the best boost for the ticket’s chances against Trump.”


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Bonus Convention Quote of the Day

Bonus Convention Quote of the Day

“ Donald Trump is the wrong president for our country .
He has had more than enough time to prove @ @ @ @ @ job , but he is clearly in over his head .
He can not meet @ @ @ @ @ can not be who we need him to be for us .
It is what @ @ @ @ @ Obama , quoted by the Associated Press .

“Donald Trump is the wrong president for our country. He has had more than enough time to prove that he can do the job, but he is clearly in over his head. He cannot meet this moment. He simply cannot be who we need him to be for us. It is what it is.”
— Michelle Obama, quoted by the Associated Press.


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Convention Quote of the Day

Convention Quote of the Day

“ My dad was a healthy 65-year-old .
His only preexisting condition was trusting Donald Trump , and for that @ @ @ @ @ life.
” — Kristen Urquiza , who lost her father to COVID-19 , quoted by @ @ @

“My dad was a healthy 65-year-old. His only preexisting condition was trusting Donald Trump, and for that, he paid with his life.”
— Kristen Urquiza, who lost her father to COVID-19, quoted by ABC News.


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Senate Probe Went Further Than Mueller

Senate Probe Went Further Than Mueller

“ Andrew Weissmann , one of the lead prosecutors on special counsel Robert Mueller ’ s team and the architect @ @ @ @ @ campaign chairman Paul Manafort , said there is ‘ definitely new information ’ in the @ @ @ @ @ Intelligence Committee ’ s report on 2016 Russian interference released Tuesday , ” Axios reports @ @ @ @ @ degree to which the 996-page report goes further than the Mueller investigation in some of @ @ @ @ @ as the explosive nature of some of the revelations about Manafort and other top Trump @ @ @ @

“Andrew Weissmann, one of the lead prosecutors on special counsel Robert Mueller’s team and the architect of the case against Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort, said there is ‘definitely new information’ in the final volume of the Senate Intelligence Committee’s report on 2016 Russian interference released Tuesday,” Axios reports.
“It underscores the degree to which the 996-page report goes further than the Mueller investigation in some of its findings, as well as the explosive nature of some of the revelations about Manafort and other top Trump campaign officials.”


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Democratic Convention: Night Two

Democratic Convention: Night Two

The second night of the Democratic convention will be televised and livestreamed from 9 p.m to 11 p.m .
ET @ @ @ @ @ acting Attorney General Sally Yates , Sen. Chuck Schumer , former Secretary of State John @ @ @ @ @ , Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester , Bill Clinton and Jill Biden .
Actress Tracee Ellis @ @ @ @ @ your reactions in the comments .
Members can join the discussion in The Cloakroom .

The second night of the Democratic convention will be televised and livestreamed from 9 p.m to 11 p.m. ET.
Speakers include: Former acting Attorney General Sally Yates, Sen. Chuck Schumer, former Secretary of State John Kerry, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester, Bill Clinton and Jill Biden. Actress Tracee Ellis Ross will emcee.
Leave your reactions in the comments.
Members can join the discussion in The Cloakroom.


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Colin Powell Backs Biden

Colin Powell Backs Biden

Former Secretary of State Colin Powell endorsed Joe Biden for president and will appear at the Democratic Convention Tuesday evening @ @ @ @ @

“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--2020-08-19--A Warning From the Author of ‘The Great Influenza’

John Barry , author of The Great Influenza , writes in the New York Times : “ In April , @ @ @ @ @ not bring relief from the virus , and that we would experience not a second @ @ @ @ @ depending on how well we complied with public health measures .
Unfortunately too many states @ @ @ @ @ did little or nothing to control the virus .
On the day that prediction was @ @ @ @ @ the seven-day average of new cases was 28,943 .
On Aug. 16 , the seven-day @ @ @ @ @ I also warned of not simply swells but a viral hurricane-like storm surge if the @ @ @ @ @ and the public fails to comply .
I stand by that prediction .
Tens of @ @ @ @ @ top of the more than 170,000 already lost in the U.S. , and millions will @ @ @ @ @ And , in reality , all of it will be unnecessary .
God help us @ @

John Barry, author of The Great Influenza, writes in the New York Times:
“In April, I predicted that summer would not bring relief from the virus, and that we would experience not a second wave but continuous swells, depending on how well we complied with public health measures. Unfortunately too many states eased up too early or did little or nothing to control the virus. On the day that prediction was published, April 30, the seven-day average of new cases was 28,943. On Aug. 16, the seven-day average was 51,523.”
“I also warned of not simply swells but a viral hurricane-like storm surge if the country does not act aggressively and the public fails to comply. I stand by that prediction. Tens of thousands more will die on top of the more than 170,000 already lost in the U.S., and millions will suffer economic devastation.”
“And, in reality, all of it will be unnecessary. God help us.”


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Cindy McCain Will Speak for Biden

Cindy McCain Will Speak for Biden

“ Cindy McCain is going to bat for Joe Biden , lending her voice to a video set to air @ @ @ @ @ Democratic National Convention programming focused on Biden ’ s close friendship with her late husband @ @ @ @ @ of Arizona , ” the AP reports .
“ She ’ s just the latest @ @ @ @ @ convention , after a number of notable GOP former elected officials — including former Ohio @ @ @ @ @ endorsed the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee on Monday night .
”

“Cindy McCain is going to bat for Joe Biden, lending her voice to a video set to air during Tuesday night’s Democratic National Convention programming focused on Biden’s close friendship with her late husband, Republican Sen. John McCain of Arizona,” the AP reports.
“She’s just the latest Republican to join in the convention, after a number of notable GOP former elected officials — including former Ohio Gov. John Kasich — endorsed the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee on Monday night.”


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Senate Made Criminal Referral of Trump Jr., Kushner

The Republican and Democratic chairmen of the Senate Intelligence Committee made criminal referrals of Donald Trump Jr. , Jared Kushner @ @ @ @ @ Prince and Sam Clovis to federal prosecutors in 2019 , passing along their suspicions that @ @ @ @ @ the committee during their testimony , NBC News reports .


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Why TV Networks Are Showing Just One Hour

Multiple sources told the Daily Beast “ that when Democratic officials met with various broadcast network executives about their convention @ @ @ @ @ stressed that they could not broadcast two hours each night in part because they then @ @ @ @ @ same airtime to Trump , and all the wild unpredictability that might entail from an @ @ @ @ @ the Democrats decided months ago that their national convention would be a virtual event , @ @ @ @ @ July 23… that the GOP followed suit .
The result was that the Democrats provided @ @ @ @ @ schedule of speakers and videos while the Republicans ’ convention schedule is still a moving @ @ @ @ @ multiple networks told The Daily Beast privately that they were still almost completely in the @ @ @ @ @ next week ’ s RNC , including its format and its roster of speakers .
@

Multiple sources told the Daily Beast “that when Democratic officials met with various broadcast network executives about their convention coverage plans, the executives stressed that they could not broadcast two hours each night in part because they then would have to give the same airtime to Trump, and all the wild unpredictability that might entail from an editorial perspective.”
“While the Democrats decided months ago that their national convention would be a virtual event, it wasn’t until July 23… that the GOP followed suit. The result was that the Democrats provided the networks with a detailed schedule of speakers and videos while the Republicans’ convention schedule is still a moving target.”
“Executives at multiple networks told The Daily Beast privately that they were still almost completely in the dark about basic details of next week’s RNC, including its format and its roster of speakers.”


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Businesses Won’t Take Part In Trump Payroll Tax Plan

“ A raft of big-name business groups is warning many employers won ’ t participate in President Trump ’ s @ @ @ @ @ ” Politico reports .
“ Calling it ‘ unworkable , ; they said in a @ @ @ @ @ Steven Mnuchin that it risks saddling their workers with large postponed tax bills they could @ @ @ @ @ ”


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Georgia Voters Made ‘Inactive’ After Ballots Not Delivered

“ Tens of thousands of Georgia voter registrations are on track to be changed to inactive status because absentee ballot @ @ @ @ @ the spring were undeliverable , ” the Atlanta Journal Constitution reports .


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Greene Tried to Get Lawmakers to Retake Oaths

A new video shows Marjorie Taylor Greene ( R ) , who recently won a Republican congressional primary in Georgia @ @ @ @ @ Reps. Ilhan Omar ( D-MN ) and Rashida Tlaib ( D-MI ) .
She falsely @ @ @ @ @ illegitimate members of Congress because they took their congressional oaths of office on the Quran @ @ @ @ @ make them retake their oath on the Bible .

A new video shows Marjorie Taylor Greene (R), who recently won a Republican congressional primary in Georgia, unsuccessfully trying to interrogate Reps. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) and Rashida Tlaib (D-MI).
She falsely claimed that they’re illegitimate members of Congress because they took their congressional oaths of office on the Quran and said she wanted to make them retake their oath on the Bible.


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Democratic Convention Audience Down Sharply

Los Angeles Times : “ Nielsen data showed an average of around 18.7 million viewers watched the speakers featured from @ @ @ @ @ ET on the major ad-supported channels .
The speakers included former First Lady Michelle Obama @ @ @ @ @ but scathing indictment of the Trump presidency.
” “ The total fell nearly 28 % @ @ @ @ @ watched night one of the 2016 convention on the major ad-supported channels when Obama was @ @ @ @

Los Angeles Times: “Nielsen data showed an average of around 18.7 million viewers watched the speakers featured from 10 to 11:15 p.m. ET on the major ad-supported channels. The speakers included former First Lady Michelle Obama, who delivered a solemn but scathing indictment of the Trump presidency.”
“The total fell nearly 28% below the 25.9 million who watched night one of the 2016 convention on the major ad-supported channels when Obama was also featured.”


Fan Mail

Included in the Senate Intelligence Committee report was a 2007 letter from Donald Trump to Russian president Vladimir Putin .


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Republicans Already Angling for 2024

Republicans Already Angling for 2024

Politico : “ Nikki Haley has long been suspected of angling for a future White House run .
So it @ @ @ @ @ the former UN ambassador reached out to President Donald Trump recently to ask to speak @ @ @ @ @ Republican National Convention.
” “ The president agreed — and in recent weeks , he @ @ @ @ @ throng of potential 2024 aspirants who ’ ve made requests for coveted speaking slots .
@ @ @ @ @ up in the air , but Republicans with national aspirations are already maneuvering to be @ @ @ @ @ bearer in four years — an under-the-radar campaign that will burst into the open at @ @ @ @

Politico: “Nikki Haley has long been suspected of angling for a future White House run. So it wasn’t surprising when the former UN ambassador reached out to President Donald Trump recently to ask to speak during next week’s Republican National Convention.”
“The president agreed — and in recent weeks, he has remarked privately about the throng of potential 2024 aspirants who’ve made requests for coveted speaking slots. Trump’s reelection is up in the air, but Republicans with national aspirations are already maneuvering to be the GOP’s standard bearer in four years — an under-the-radar campaign that will burst into the open at the convention.”


politicalwire--2020-08-18--What Trump Is Asking You to Believe

What Trump Is Asking You to Believe

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politicalwire--2020-08-18--Postmaster Will Suspend Operational Changes

“ Postmaster General Louis DeJoy said the U.S .
Postal Service is suspending operational changes , like removing mail processing @ @ @ @ @ until after the November election , ” the Wall Street Journal reports .
“ Mr @ @ @ @ @ agency won ’ t change retail hours at post offices across the country or close @ @ @ @ @ said overtime hours will continue to be approved as needed to process mail.
” From @ @ @ @ @ avoid even the appearance of any impact on election mail , I am suspending these @ @ @ @ @ is concluded .
”

“Postmaster General Louis DeJoy said the U.S. Postal Service is suspending operational changes, like removing mail processing equipment and collection boxes, until after the November election,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
“Mr. DeJoy also said the agency won’t change retail hours at post offices across the country or close any mail-sorting facilities. He said overtime hours will continue to be approved as needed to process mail.”
From a statement: “To avoid even the appearance of any impact on election mail, I am suspending these initiatives until after the election is concluded.”


politicalwire--2020-08-18--At Least 20 States Will Sue Postal Service

“ At least 20 states plan to file lawsuits this week against the U.S .
Postal Service and its new @ @ @ @ @ seeking to reverse service changes that have prompted widespread reports of delays and accusations of @ @ @ @ @ voters from mailing their ballots this fall , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ @ @ @ @ @ be filed in federal court imminently , will argue that the Postal Service broke the @ @ @ @ @ without first seeking approval from the Postal Regulatory Commission .
They will also argue that @ @ @ @ @ ’ ability to run free and fair elections.
” CNBC : GOP and Trump ties @ @ @ @ @ .
Postal Service ’ s board of governors .

“At least 20 states plan to file lawsuits this week against the U.S. Postal Service and its new postmaster, Louis DeJoy, seeking to reverse service changes that have prompted widespread reports of delays and accusations of an intentional effort to thwart voters from mailing their ballots this fall,” the Washington Post reports.
“The suits, expected to be filed in federal court imminently, will argue that the Postal Service broke the law by making operational changes without first seeking approval from the Postal Regulatory Commission. They will also argue that the changes will impede states’ ability to run free and fair elections.”
CNBC: GOP and Trump ties run deep on the U.S. Postal Service’s board of governors.


politicalwire--2020-08-18--More Trump Officials Expected to Endorse Biden

Miles Taylor , the former Trump Homeland Security appointee , told ABC News his endorsement of Joe Biden was just @ @ @ @ @ Said Taylor : “ I ’ m not going to mention any other names yet @ @ @ @ @ expect that in the coming weeks and months he is going to hear from more @ @ @ @ @ administration .
”

Miles Taylor, the former Trump Homeland Security appointee, told ABC News his endorsement of Joe Biden was just the “opening salvo.”
Said Taylor: “I’m not going to mention any other names yet, but the president can expect that in the coming weeks and months he is going to hear from more people that served in his administration.”


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Bill Clinton Getting Sidelined at Convention

“ Former President Bill Clinton is getting a chance to speak during the Democratic National Convention on Tuesday , although @ @ @ @ @ will last less than five minutes and will come well-before the 10 p.m. primetime hour @ @ @ @ @ .
New York Times : “ Mr .
Clinton ’ s blink-and-you ’ ll-miss-him moment @ @ @ @ @ revered him is testimony to how his influence has faded , a reflection of time @ @ @ @ @ sure — he is turning 74 on Wednesday — but also of the baggage he @ @ @ @ @ allegations of sexual assault and harassment over his years in public life in the wake @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“Former President Bill Clinton is getting a chance to speak during the Democratic National Convention on Tuesday, although the virtual, pre-recorded address will last less than five minutes and will come well-before the 10 p.m. primetime hour,” The Week reports.
New York Times: “Mr. Clinton’s blink-and-you’ll-miss-him moment before a party that once revered him is testimony to how his influence has faded, a reflection of time and age, to be sure — he is turning 74 on Wednesday — but also of the baggage he carries with the re-examination of allegations of sexual assault and harassment over his years in public life in the wake of the #MeToo movement.”


politicalwire--2020-08-18--Manafort Used Many Encrypted Messaging Apps

The final Senate Intelligence Committee report finds Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort used ten different encrypted messaging apps , including @ @ @ @ @ , Threema , Skype , Snapchat , Fiber , Hushmail , WeChat and Voxer .


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ The world has changed , and with that the Democratic Party .
It is no longer the same party @ @ @ @ @ its nominee almost 30 years ago , nor the one that made President Obama its @ @ @ @ @ President Biden said as much , calling himself ‘ a transition candidate ’ as the @ @ @ @ @ era in American politics.
” — Former Clinton political Director Doug Sosnik , quoted by @ @ @ @ @

“The world has changed, and with that the Democratic Party. It is no longer the same party that selected Bill Clinton as its nominee almost 30 years ago, nor the one that made President Obama its standard-bearer in 2008. Vice President Biden said as much, calling himself ‘a transition candidate’ as the party shifts into this new era in American politics.”
— Former Clinton political Director Doug Sosnik, quoted by the New York Times.


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Scottish Independence Back In Play

Scottish Independence Back In Play

Just six years after Scotland voted No to independence , opinion polls suggest that if a second referendum on the @ @ @ @ @ majority would now back leaving the UK , the Financial Times reports .


politicalwire--2020-08-19--China’s National Security Law Reaches Classrooms

“ The effect of the new national-security law that China imposed on Hong Kong is extending far beyond the territory @ @ @ @ @ ” the Wall Street Journal reports .
“ Classes at some elite universities will carry @ @ @ @ @ : This course may cover material considered politically sensitive by China .
And schools are @ @ @ @ @ shield students and faculty from prosecution by Chinese authorities .
”

“The effect of the new national-security law that China imposed on Hong Kong is extending far beyond the territory to American college campuses,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
“Classes at some elite universities will carry a warning label this fall: This course may cover material considered politically sensitive by China. And schools are weighing measures to try to shield students and faculty from prosecution by Chinese authorities.”


politicalwire--2020-08-19--China’s Xi Jinping Tightens Grip in First Broad Purge

“ A senior ally of Chinese leader Xi Jinping called for a Mao-style purge of China ’ s domestic-security apparatus @ @ @ @ @ was time to ‘ turn the blade inwards and scrape the poison off the bone @ @ @ @ @ Street Journal reports .
“ Within the first week after the call to action , @ @ @ @ @ investigations into at least 21 police and judicial officials .
”

“A senior ally of Chinese leader Xi Jinping called for a Mao-style purge of China’s domestic-security apparatus last month, saying it was time to ‘turn the blade inwards and scrape the poison off the bone,'” the Wall Street Journal reports.
“The cleansing commenced swiftly.”
“Within the first week after the call to action, Communist Party enforcers had launched investigations into at least 21 police and judicial officials.”


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Hillary Clinton’s Bittersweet Return

Hillary Clinton’s Bittersweet Return

“ Hillary Clinton , whose presidential candidacy in 2016 sent Joe Biden to the sidelines , spent much of the @ @ @ @ @ her longtime ally and onetime rival was the only contender who could defeat President Trump @ @ @ @ @ Times reports .
“ But she also saw Kamala Harris as a possible successor of @ @ @ @ @ with the toughness to build on Mrs. Clinton ’ s legacy.
” “ So Mrs. @ @ @ @ @ accounts , reassured by the Biden-Harris ticket .
But her return to center stage at @ @ @ @ @ , four years after becoming the first woman to win the nomination of a major @ @ @ @ @ ”

“Hillary Clinton, whose presidential candidacy in 2016 sent Joe Biden to the sidelines, spent much of the 2020 primaries telling friends that her longtime ally and onetime rival was the only contender who could defeat President Trump,” the New York Times reports.
“But she also saw Kamala Harris as a possible successor of sorts, a next-generation leader with the toughness to build on Mrs. Clinton’s legacy.”
“So Mrs. Clinton is, by all accounts, reassured by the Biden-Harris ticket. But her return to center stage at the convention on Wednesday night, four years after becoming the first woman to win the nomination of a major party, is bittersweet.”


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Trump Praises Laura Loomer After GOP Primary Win

Laura Loomer ( R ) , a right-wing activist known for headline-grabbing stunts after getting kicked off social media platforms @ @ @ @ @ primary on Tuesday — and then was quickly congratulated by President Trump , the Washington @ @ @ @ @ s public support for a candidate who once called herself a # ProudIslamophobe , has @ @ @ @ @ ” and has contributed to conspiracy site Infowars drew quick backlash from some critics .

Laura Loomer (R), a right-wing activist known for headline-grabbing stunts after getting kicked off social media platforms, won a Florida GOP primary on Tuesday — and then was quickly congratulated by President Trump, the Washington Post reports.
Trump’s public support for a candidate who once called herself a #ProudIslamophobe, has called Muslims “savages,” and has contributed to conspiracy site Infowars drew quick backlash from some critics.


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Convention Message: Biden Is a Good Guy

Convention Message: Biden Is a Good Guy

Washington Post : “ Party conventions are often about humanizing the candidate , but the effort has taken on a @ @ @ @ @ as President Trump ’ s reelection may depend on persuading voters to dislike Biden even @ @ @ @ @ unpopular incumbent.
” “ Republicans four years ago successfully made Hillary Clinton a hated figure @ @ @ @ @ this year ’ s Democratic convention represents an intensive effort by the party to avoid @ @ @ @ @ as a compassionate , caring figure , even if not the most exciting .
”

Washington Post: “Party conventions are often about humanizing the candidate, but the effort has taken on a special resonance this year, as President Trump’s reelection may depend on persuading voters to dislike Biden even more than they dislike the unpopular incumbent.”
“Republicans four years ago successfully made Hillary Clinton a hated figure to many voters, and this year’s Democratic convention represents an intensive effort by the party to avoid a repeat by portraying Biden as a compassionate, caring figure, even if not the most exciting.”


Who He Is

Joe Biden ’ s campaign will air a one-minute ad tonight featuring Barack Obama heaping praise on his former Vice @ @

“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--2020-08-19--Postal Employees Forbidden to Witness Absentee Ballots

“ In a nationwide rule change that went unnoticed this summer , the U.S .
Postal Service has forbidden employees @ @ @ @ @ witnesses while on duty , ” the Anchorage Daily News reports .
“ The change @ @ @ @ @ for Alaskans , particularly rural residents , to vote by mail.
” “ In Alaska @ @ @ @ @ absentee ballots must be signed by a witness who can verify that a ballot was @ @ @ @ @ particular voter .
Without a signature , the ballot will not be counted .
”

“In a nationwide rule change that went unnoticed this summer, the U.S. Postal Service has forbidden employees from signing absentee ballots as witnesses while on duty,” the Anchorage Daily News reports.
“The change could make it more difficult for Alaskans, particularly rural residents, to vote by mail.”
“In Alaska and several other states, absentee ballots must be signed by a witness who can verify that a ballot was legitimately filled out by a particular voter. Without a signature, the ballot will not be counted.”


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Ross Spano Loses GOP Primary Amid Probe

Ross Spano Loses GOP Primary Amid Probe

“ Freshman Rep. Ross Spano ( R-FL ) , who is facing a Justice Department investigation over alleged 2018 campaign @ @ @ @ @ in the GOP primary Tuesday by a candidate who secured the endorsement of one of @ @ @ @ @ colleagues , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ Scott Franklin was projected to win @ @ @ @ @ 15th Congressional District encompassing Lakeland and the Tampa suburbs… Rep. Matt Gaetz ( R-FL ) @ @ @ @ @ Trump , had endorsed Franklin , warning that an incumbent dogged by ethics woes could @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“Freshman Rep. Ross Spano (R-FL), who is facing a Justice Department investigation over alleged 2018 campaign finance violations, was ousted in the GOP primary Tuesday by a candidate who secured the endorsement of one of Spano’s well-known congressional colleagues,” the Washington Post reports.
“Scott Franklin was projected to win the GOP nomination in the 15th Congressional District encompassing Lakeland and the Tampa suburbs… Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL), an ally of President Trump, had endorsed Franklin, warning that an incumbent dogged by ethics woes could cost the GOP the seat.”


politicalwire--2020-08-20--Democratic Convention: Night Three

Democratic Convention: Night Three

The third night of the Democratic convention will be televised and livestreamed from 9 p.m to 11 p.m .
ET @ @ @ @ @ vice presidential nominee and Sen. Kamala Harris , House Speaker Nancy Pelosi , Hillary Clinton @ @ @ @ @ Gov .
Tony Evers , Gov .
Michelle Lujan Grisham , former Rep. Gabrielle Giffords @ @ @ @ @ Kerry Washington will emcee .
Leave your reactions in the comments .
Members can join @ @ @ @ @ .

The third night of the Democratic convention will be televised and livestreamed from 9 p.m to 11 p.m. ET.
Speakers include: Democratic vice presidential nominee and Sen. Kamala Harris, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Hillary Clinton, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Gov. Tony Evers, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, former Rep. Gabrielle Giffords and Barack Obama. Actress Kerry Washington will emcee.
Leave your reactions in the comments.
Members can join the discussion in The Cloakroom.


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Trump May Replace Goodyear Tires on His Limousine

President Trump doubled down on his attacks against tiremaker Goodyear over its policies on political attire , saying he ’ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s tires on the presidential car with a different brand , The Hill reports @ @ @ @ @ I ’ m not happy with Goodyear because what they ’ re doing is playing @ @ @ @ @ thing is that the people who work for Goodyear , I can guarantee you I @ @ @ @ @ those great workers in Goodyear .
”

President Trump doubled down on his attacks against tiremaker Goodyear over its policies on political attire, saying he’s considering replacing the company’s tires on the presidential car with a different brand, The Hill reports.
Said Trump: “I’m not happy with Goodyear because what they’re doing is playing politics. And the funny thing is that the people who work for Goodyear, I can guarantee you I poll very well with all those great workers in Goodyear.”


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Exchange of the Day

Exchange of the Day

From President Trump ’ s briefing today at the White House : REPORTER : QAnon believes you are secretly saving @ @ @ @ @ of pedophiles and cannibals .
Are you behind that ?
TRUMP : Is that supposed @ @ @ @ @ ?
We are actually .
We are saving the world .

From President Trump’s briefing today at the White House:
REPORTER: QAnon believes you are secretly saving the world from this cult of pedophiles and cannibals. Are you behind that?
TRUMP: Is that supposed to be a bad thing? We are actually. We are saving the world.


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Biden Suggests Trump Isn’t Mentally Competent

Joe Biden raised questions about President Trump ’ s mental capacity , saying he did not have the intellectual know-how @ @ @ @ @ , the Washington Post reports .
Said Biden : “ After months of failure , @ @ @ @ @ You know , I used to think it was because of his personality , but @ @ @ @ @ think he can intellectually handle it .
I don ’ t think he ’ s @ @ @ @ @ to do .
He just waved the white flag .
”

Joe Biden raised questions about President Trump’s mental capacity, saying he did not have the intellectual know-how to combat the coronavirus pandemic, the Washington Post reports.
Said Biden: “After months of failure, he just gave up. You know, I used to think it was because of his personality, but I just don’t think he can intellectually handle it. I don’t think he’s competent enough to know what to do. He just waved the white flag.”


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Trump Forces Crisis at United Nations Over Iran

“ The United States will demand Thursday that all United Nations sanctions be reimposed against Iran , President Donald Trump @ @ @ @ @ that follows America ’ s embarrassing defeat to extend an arms embargo against Tehran , @ @ @ @ @ “ The administration ’ s insistence on snapping back international sanctions against Iran sets the @ @ @ @ @ .
It ’ s possible that the U.S. call will be ignored by other U.N. @ @ @ @ @ could call into question the U.N. Security Council ’ s ability to enforce its own @ @ @ @ @

“The United States will demand Thursday that all United Nations sanctions be reimposed against Iran, President Donald Trump said Wednesday, a move that follows America’s embarrassing defeat to extend an arms embargo against Tehran,” the AP reports.
“The administration’s insistence on snapping back international sanctions against Iran sets the stage for a contentious dispute. It’s possible that the U.S. call will be ignored by other U.N. members — an outcome that could call into question the U.N. Security Council’s ability to enforce its own legally binding decisions.”


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Excerpts from Obama’s Speech

Excerpts from Obama’s Speech

Excerpts from former President Barack Obama ’ s speech tonight were released : “ I never expected that my successor @ @ @ @ @ continue my policies .
I did hope , for the sake of our country , @ @ @ @ @ some interest in taking the job seriously ; that he might come to feel the @ @ @ @ @ discover some reverence for the democracy that had been placed in his care .
But @ @ @ @ @

Excerpts from former President Barack Obama’s speech tonight were released:
“I never expected that my successor would embrace my vision or continue my policies. I did hope, for the sake of our country, that Donald Trump might show some interest in taking the job seriously; that he might come to feel the weight of the office and discover some reverence for the democracy that had been placed in his care. But he never did.”


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Charlie Dent Endorses Biden

Charlie Dent Endorses Biden

Former Rep. Charlie Dent ( R-PA ) crossed party lines and endorsed Joe Biden for president .
Said Dent in @ @ @ @ @ : “ Biden is fundamentally a decent and honorable man who respects the American tradition @ @ @ @ @ law , embraces America ’ s friends and allies , and will restore some semblance @ @ @ @ @ of government .
That ’ s all I want — and not too much to @ @ @ @ @ Biden will perform these duties respectfully and with dignity .
”

Former Rep. Charlie Dent (R-PA) crossed party lines and endorsed Joe Biden for president.
Said Dent in a piece written for CNN: “Biden is fundamentally a decent and honorable man who respects the American tradition, supports the rule of law, embraces America’s friends and allies, and will restore some semblance of normalcy to the functioning of government. That’s all I want — and not too much to ask of a President. Biden will perform these duties respectfully and with dignity.”


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Facebook Removes 790 QAnon Groups

Facebook Removes 790 QAnon Groups

“ Facebook said on Wednesday that it had removed 790 QAnon groups from its site and was restricting another 1,950 @ @ @ @ @ more than 10,000 Instagram accounts related to the right-wing conspiracy theory , in the social @ @ @ @ @ action against the fast-growing movement , ” the New York Times reports .
“ Facebook @ @ @ @ @ growth of QAnon groups on the site , much of it since the coronavirus pandemic @ @ @ @ @

“Facebook said on Wednesday that it had removed 790 QAnon groups from its site and was restricting another 1,950 groups, 440 pages and more than 10,000 Instagram accounts related to the right-wing conspiracy theory, in the social network’s most sweeping action against the fast-growing movement,” the New York Times reports.
“Facebook’s takedown followed record growth of QAnon groups on the site, much of it since the coronavirus pandemic began in March.”


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Pelosi Says Postmaster Won’t Reverse Changes

Speaker Nancy Pelosi called out Postmaster General Louis DeJoy , saying his alleged suspension of operational changes and cost-cutting “ @ @ @ @ @ not reverse damage already wreaked , ” Axios reports .
Said Pelosi : “ The @ @ @ @ @ he had no intention of replacing the sorting machines , blue mailboxes and other key @ @ @ @ @ removed and that plans for adequate overtime , which is critical for the timely delivery @ @ @ @ @ in the works.
” She added : “ All of these changes directly jeopardize the @ @ @ @ @ disenfranchise voters in communities of color .
”

Speaker Nancy Pelosi called out Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, saying his alleged suspension of operational changes and cost-cutting “is wholly insufficient and does not reverse damage already wreaked,” Axios reports.
Said Pelosi: “The Postmaster General frankly admitted that he had no intention of replacing the sorting machines, blue mailboxes and other key mail infrastructure that have been removed and that plans for adequate overtime, which is critical for the timely delivery of mail, are not in the works.”
She added: “All of these changes directly jeopardize the election and disproportionately threaten to disenfranchise voters in communities of color.”


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Ratings for Democratic Convention See Big Drop

The Democratic National Convention drew 6.13 million viewers on broadcast television networks , marking a 48 % drop from the @ @ @ @ @ in 2016 , The Hill reports .


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Obama Will Say ‘Our Democracy Is at Stake’

Former president Barack Obama will deliver his Democratic convention speech tonight from the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia @ @ @ @ @ underscore “ our very democracy is at stake ” in this election , CNN reports @


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Blue America Is Only Growing

Blue America Is Only Growing

Ron Brownstein : “ Trump has committed the GOP to a strategy of squeezing bigger margins from a shrinking share @ @ @ @ @ systematically alienating the growing groups that Democrats are highlighting this week .
He may still @ @ @ @ @ another Electoral College victory even if he almost certainly loses the popular vote .
But @ @ @ @ @ realistic , strategists on both sides acknowledge , unless he can significantly cut his current @ @ @ @ @ pollster Whit Ayres : “ Donald Trump basically drew an inside straight in 2016 .
@ @ @ @ @ can draw an inside straight two hands in a row .
”

Ron Brownstein: “Trump has committed the GOP to a strategy of squeezing bigger margins from a shrinking share of the electorate, while systematically alienating the growing groups that Democrats are highlighting this week. He may still be able to squeeze out another Electoral College victory even if he almost certainly loses the popular vote. But even that pathway is not realistic, strategists on both sides acknowledge, unless he can significantly cut his current popular-vote deficit.”
Said GOP pollster Whit Ayres: “Donald Trump basically drew an inside straight in 2016. The question is whether he can draw an inside straight two hands in a row.”


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Biden Maintains Double-Digit Lead

Biden Maintains Double-Digit Lead

A new Economist/YouGov poll finds Joe Biden leading Donald Trump by ten points nationally in the presidential race , 50 @ @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-08-19--White House Can’t Say Trump Will Accept Election Results

From the White House press briefing with press secretary Kayleigh McEnany : REPORTER : Is the President saying if he @ @ @ @ @ election that he will not accept the results unless he wins ?
MCENANY : The @ @ @ @ @ ’ ll see what happens and make a determination in the aftermath .

From the White House press briefing with press secretary Kayleigh McEnany:
REPORTER: Is the President saying if he doesn’t win this election that he will not accept the results unless he wins?
MCENANY: The President has always said he’ll see what happens and make a determination in the aftermath.


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Trump Wanted to Swap Puerto Rico for Greenland

Former Homeland Security chief of staff Miles Taylor confirmed to MSNBC that President Trump inquired about “ selling ” Puerto @ @ @ @ @ “ One time before we went down he told us , not only did he @ @ @ @ @ he actually said he wanted to see if we could sell Puerto Rico , could @ @ @ @ @ Greenland , because , in his words , Puerto Rico was dirty and the people @ @ @ @

Former Homeland Security chief of staff Miles Taylor confirmed to MSNBC that President Trump inquired about “selling” Puerto Rico.
Said Taylor: “One time before we went down he told us, not only did he want to purchase Greenland, he actually said he wanted to see if we could sell Puerto Rico, could we swap Puerto Rico for Greenland, because, in his words, Puerto Rico was dirty and the people were poor.”


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Trump Calls for Boycott of Goodyear Tires

President Trump called for a boycott of Goodyear after they announced a ban on employees wearing clothing with political slogans @ @ @ @ @ America Great Again ” hats .
Said Trump : “ Get better tires for far @ @ @ @ @ Brown ( D-OH ) fired back : “ It is despicable when a President of @ @ @ @ @ is appropriate to , to call for a boycott of a US company where there @ @ @ @ @ American workers employed.
” The company employs more than 60,000 people in Ohio , a @ @ @

President Trump called for a boycott of Goodyear after they announced a ban on employees wearing clothing with political slogans, such as “Make America Great Again” hats.
Said Trump: “Get better tires for far less!”
Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) fired back: “It is despicable when a President of the United States thinks it is appropriate to, to call for a boycott of a US company where there are thousands and thousands of American workers employed.”
The company employs more than 60,000 people in Ohio, a battleground state.


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Bonus Quote of the Day

Bonus Quote of the Day

“ I ’ m certainly not looking at , or thinking of running for any office right now.
” — @ @ @ @ @ interview with Indianapolis Monthly , when asked about running for Senate in 2022 or governor @ @ @

“I’m certainly not looking at, or thinking of running for any office right now.”
— Pete Buttigieg, in an interview with Indianapolis Monthly, when asked about running for Senate in 2022 or governor in 2024.


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Justices Push Obamacare Arguments to After Election

The U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments on overturning the Affordable Care Act on November 10 , a week after @ @ @ @ @ .

“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--2020-08-19--‘They’re Not Getting This One’

‘They’re Not Getting This One’

Rep. Peter DeFazio ( D-OR ) filmed a video of himself chained to a mailbox .
Said DeFazio : “ @ @ @ @ @ this one .
”


politicalwire--2020-08-19--Trump Says GOP Mishandling Postal Service Hearings

President Trump is angry with how Republicans are handling upcoming House and Senate hearings featuring Postmaster General Louis DeJoy : @ @ @ @ @ the Democrats to have ridiculous Post Office hearings on Saturday & Monday , just before @ @ @ @ @ Let them hold them NOW ( during their Convention ) or after our Convention is @ @ @ @ @ into their hands !
”

President Trump is angry with how Republicans are handling upcoming House and Senate hearings featuring Postmaster General Louis DeJoy:
“Why are Republicans allowing the Democrats to have ridiculous Post Office hearings on Saturday & Monday, just before and during our Convention. Let them hold them NOW (during their Convention) or after our Convention is over. Always playing right into their hands!”


politicalwire--2020-08-20--Democrats Show They Have a Deeper Bench

Democrats Show They Have a Deeper Bench

Jonathan Bernstein : “ It wasn ’ t just President Barack Obama , who gave a stirring speech .
The @ @ @ @ @ in the Senate who ran for president in this cycle , and two of them @ @ @ @ @ vice presidential nominee Kamala Harris — both gave fine performances on Wednesday .
So did @ @ @ @ @ House Speaker Nancy Pelosi .
And then there was former Representative Gabby Giffords , her @ @ @ @ @ gave perhaps the most gripping and courageous speech of the night .
There simply aren @ @ @ @ @ similar stature.
” “ As for male luminaries , the Democrats have the benefit of @ @ @ @ @ have only one — and that one appears to be neither interested in attending nor @ @ @ @ @ s convention .
The same goes for the 2012 Republican nominee .
Their 2008 nominee @ @ @ @ @ his widow at the Democrats ’ event because his memory wouldn ’ t be honored @ @ @ @ @ ”

Jonathan Bernstein: “It wasn’t just President Barack Obama, who gave a stirring speech. The party also has four women in the Senate who ran for president in this cycle, and two of them — Senator Elizabeth Warren and vice presidential nominee Kamala Harris — both gave fine performances on Wednesday. So did former nominee Hillary Clinton and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. And then there was former Representative Gabby Giffords, her career tragically disrupted, who gave perhaps the most gripping and courageous speech of the night. There simply aren’t Republican women of similar stature.”
“As for male luminaries, the Democrats have the benefit of three former presidents while Republicans have only one — and that one appears to be neither interested in attending nor welcome at his party’s convention. The same goes for the 2012 Republican nominee. Their 2008 nominee received a tribute narrated by his widow at the Democrats’ event because his memory wouldn’t be honored by his own party.”


politicalwire--2020-08-20--Historian Jon Meacham to Endorse Biden

Historian Jon Meacham to Endorse Biden

Historian Jon Meacham will endorse Joe Biden on the final night of the Democratic convention , Axios reports .
Said @ @ @ @ @ poses such a clear and present danger to the things we should value most that @ @ @ @ @ incumbent on all of us who believe that to say something .
”

Historian Jon Meacham will endorse Joe Biden on the final night of the Democratic convention, Axios reports.
Said Meacham: “This president poses such a clear and present danger to the things we should value most that I think it’s incumbent on all of us who believe that to say something.”


politicalwire--2020-08-20--China’s Stealthy Conclave a Mystery

China’s Stealthy Conclave a Mystery

Nikkei Asian Review : “ Has China ’ s annual summer ritual , the unofficial meetings between incumbent leaders and @ @ @ @ @ resort of Beidaihe , taken place this year ?
” “ The extended absence of @ @ @ @ @ media — the whereabouts of President Xi Jinping was unknown for more than half a @ @ @ @ @ was happening .
Yet there were none of the usual hints that the government drops @ @ @ @ @ leaders were gathered in the Hebei Province beach town .
”

Nikkei Asian Review: “Has China’s annual summer ritual, the unofficial meetings between incumbent leaders and party elders at the seaside resort of Beidaihe, taken place this year?”
“The extended absence of the top leadership from state media — the whereabouts of President Xi Jinping was unknown for more than half a month — suggested that something was happening. Yet there were none of the usual hints that the government drops to informally announce that the leaders were gathered in the Hebei Province beach town.”


politicalwire--2020-08-20--Senate GOP Mulls ‘Skinny’ Relief Bill

Senate GOP Mulls ‘Skinny’ Relief Bill

Wall Street Journal : “ In the Senate , some Republicans are hoping to vote on a cheaper , pared-down @ @ @ @ @ they unveiled last month , although some GOP aides said they saw early signs that @ @ @ @ @ able to muster a Senate majority .
The new proposal , referred to as the @ @ @ @ @ to cost about half of the earlier $ 1 trillion legislation , in an effort @ @ @ @ @ about the price tag of the federal government ’ s efforts in response to the @ @ @ @ @ Republican leaders are first assessing whether there will be enough GOP support to vote on @ @ @ @ @ intended to demonstrate more GOP unity than the previous proposal and strengthen their hand in @ @ @ @ @

Wall Street Journal: “In the Senate, some Republicans are hoping to vote on a cheaper, pared-down version of the aid bill they unveiled last month, although some GOP aides said they saw early signs that it wouldn’t be able to muster a Senate majority. The new proposal, referred to as the skinny bill, is expected to cost about half of the earlier $1 trillion legislation, in an effort to appease GOP senators worried about the price tag of the federal government’s efforts in response to the coronavirus pandemic.”
“But Republican leaders are first assessing whether there will be enough GOP support to vote on the legislation, which is intended to demonstrate more GOP unity than the previous proposal and strengthen their hand in any coming negotiations.”


politicalwire--2020-08-20--Trump Makes Obama’s Point In Real Time

Trump Makes Obama’s Point In Real Time

Stephen Collinson : “ The latest installment of the long duel between Barack Obama and Donald Trump perfectly exemplified the @ @ @ @ @ political temperaments of the two defining White House residents of this age .
And it @ @ @ @ @ level unprecedented in the modern history of the presidency.
” “ Obama — serious and @ @ @ @ @ constitutional lecture on primetime television during the virtual Democratic National Convention .
He summoned historic @ @ @ @ @ , the Civil Rights Movement , America ’ s immigrant heritage and young Americans he @ @ @ @ @ save their freedoms just as their ancestors had done every time the country ’ s @ @ @ @ @ Trump meanwhile , back at the White House , was rage-tweeting in real time in @ @ @ @ @ and lies that , if anything , provided contemporaneous evidence of his predecessor ’ s @ @ @ @ @ “ It was an extraordinary moment in American history — an ex-president saying the sitting @ @ @ @ @ democracy to hold power .
”

Stephen Collinson: “The latest installment of the long duel between Barack Obama and Donald Trump perfectly exemplified the jarring contrasts in personal and political temperaments of the two defining White House residents of this age. And it took their rivalry to a level unprecedented in the modern history of the presidency.”
“Obama — serious and intellectual — delivered a complex constitutional lecture on primetime television during the virtual Democratic National Convention. He summoned historic sweep, encompassing the Founders, the Civil Rights Movement, America’s immigrant heritage and young Americans he called to action today to save their freedoms just as their ancestors had done every time the country’s promise was imperiled.”
“Trump meanwhile, back at the White House, was rage-tweeting in real time in all-caps, flinging wild accusations and lies that, if anything, provided contemporaneous evidence of his predecessor’s somber warnings.”
Axios: “It was an extraordinary moment in American history — an ex-president saying the sitting president would tear down our democracy to hold power.”


politicalwire--2020-08-20--Trump Ready to Troll Biden In Scranton

Trump Ready to Troll Biden In Scranton

Associated Press : “ Trump , in what can only be described as piece of campaign trolling , on Thursday @ @ @ @ @ just outside the former vice president ’ s birthplace in Scranton , Pennsylvania , mere @ @ @ @ @ the Democratic nomination for president.
” “ The political tradition of a presidential candidate lying @ @ @ @ @ ’ s convention has eroded over the decades but — to the private delight of @ @ @ @ @ the president ’ s trip looked to be a particularly in-your-face piece of counter-programming designed @ @ @ @ @ ”

Associated Press: “Trump, in what can only be described as piece of campaign trolling, on Thursday afternoon was staging an event just outside the former vice president’s birthplace in Scranton, Pennsylvania, mere hours before Biden formally accepts the Democratic nomination for president.”
“The political tradition of a presidential candidate lying low during the other party’s convention has eroded over the decades but — to the private delight of Trump’s advisers — the president’s trip looked to be a particularly in-your-face piece of counter-programming designed to rattle an opponent.”


politicalwire--2020-08-20--Harris Sets Up Democratic Donor Stampede

“ Kamala Harris is tapping into a new tranche of campaign cash for Joe Biden : money from both big @ @ @ @ @ reluctant to give to the white , male and over-70 nominee-in-waiting before she arrived , @ @ @ @ @ Biden has turned things around since struggling to raise money in 2019 , but Harris @ @ @ @ @ anew .
She has a deep familiarity with Democratic mega-donors from Silicon Valley to New @ @ @ @ @ candidacy is now drawing interest from more casual givers as well as big donors who @ @ @ @ @ from Harris ’ elevation .
”

“Kamala Harris is tapping into a new tranche of campaign cash for Joe Biden: money from both big and small donors who were reluctant to give to the white, male and over-70 nominee-in-waiting before she arrived,” Politico reports.
“Biden has turned things around since struggling to raise money in 2019, but Harris’ addition is exciting contributors anew. She has a deep familiarity with Democratic mega-donors from Silicon Valley to New York, and her history-making candidacy is now drawing interest from more casual givers as well as big donors who got a shot of excitement from Harris’ elevation.”


politicalwire--2020-08-20--Russian Opposition Leader In a Coma

Russian Opposition Leader In a Coma

“ Russian opposition politician Alexei Navalny is in a coma and on a ventilator in a hospital intensive care unit @ @ @ @ @ from suspected poisoning during a flight , ” the AP reports .
“ The 44-year-old @ @ @ @ @ President Vladimir Putin felt unwell on a flight back to Moscow from Tomsk , a @ @ @ @ @ was taken to a hospital after the plane made an emergency landing in Omsk , @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“Russian opposition politician Alexei Navalny is in a coma and on a ventilator in a hospital intensive care unit in Siberia after falling ill from suspected poisoning during a flight,” the AP reports.
“The 44-year-old foe of Russia’s President Vladimir Putin felt unwell on a flight back to Moscow from Tomsk, a city in Siberia, and was taken to a hospital after the plane made an emergency landing in Omsk, Kira Yarmysh said on Twitter.”


Obama Torches Trump

Ryan Lizza : “ The former president delivered a memorable speech that balanced torching the sitting president with assuring voters @ @ @ @ @ better .
All the while , he pulled back the historical view to 30,000 feet @ @ @ @ @ show voters the sweep of American history and remind them that the country , despite @ @ @ @ @ dark times , ’ has faced bigger challenges than Trump.
” “ Obama accused Trump @ @ @ @ @ some reverence for the democracy that had been placed in his care.
’ He essentially @ @ @ @ @ abuse of power , saying Trump had ‘ no interest in using the awesome power @ @ @ @ @ anyone but himself and his friends.
’ And he accused his successor of a dangerous @ @ @ @ @ said that Trump had ‘ no interest in treating the presidency as anything but one @ @ @ @ @ can use to get the attention he craves .
’ ”

Ryan Lizza: “The former president delivered a memorable speech that balanced torching the sitting president with assuring voters of the possibility of something better. All the while, he pulled back the historical view to 30,000 feet where it was possible to show voters the sweep of American history and remind them that the country, despite what he called ‘these dark times,’ has faced bigger challenges than Trump.”
“Obama accused Trump of failing to ‘discover some reverence for the democracy that had been placed in his care.’ He essentially accused him of corruption and abuse of power, saying Trump had ‘no interest in using the awesome power of his office to help anyone but himself and his friends.’ And he accused his successor of a dangerous form of narcissism when he said that Trump had ‘no interest in treating the presidency as anything but one more reality show that he can use to get the attention he craves.’”


politicalwire--2020-08-20--Pompeo Housing Request Set Off Legal Alarms

“ In his early months on the job , Mike Pompeo sought an unusual perk for a secretary of State @ @ @ @ @ Washington , D.C.-area house that was controlled by the U.S. military .
Pompeo and his @ @ @ @ @ for the chief U.S. diplomat and his family to live close to the State Department @ @ @ @ @ , where the Navy maintained some homes , ” Politico reports .
“ But ultimately @ @ @ @ @ Army housing at the Fort Myer base in Virginia , according to people familiar with @ @ @ @ @ way , the request set off legal and logistical alarms , raising questions about whether @ @ @ @ @ sort of military housing .
”

“In his early months on the job, Mike Pompeo sought an unusual perk for a secretary of State: permission to rent a Washington, D.C.-area house that was controlled by the U.S. military. Pompeo and his aides initially tried to arrange for the chief U.S. diplomat and his family to live close to the State Department in the Potomac Hill campus, where the Navy maintained some homes,” Politico reports.
“But ultimately the Pompeos moved into U.S. Army housing at the Fort Myer base in Virginia, according to people familiar with the issue. Along the way, the request set off legal and logistical alarms, raising questions about whether Pompeo is eligible for any sort of military housing.”


politicalwire--2020-08-20--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ I know a predator when I see one.
” — Sen. Kamala Harris , accepting the Democratic nomination for @ @ @ @ @ States .


politicalwire--2020-08-21--The Blue Wave T-Shirt

The Blue Wave T-Shirt

Just in time for the election : The Blue Wave T-Shirt in a variety of styles .
It ’ s @ @ @ @ @ and hoodie .

Just in time for the election: The Blue Wave T-Shirt in a variety of styles.
It’s also available as a sweatshirt and hoodie.


politicalwire--2020-08-21--Democratic Convention: Night Four

Democratic Convention: Night Four

The fourth night of the Democratic convention will be televised and livestreamed from 9 p.m to 11 p.m .
ET @ @ @ @ @ Biden , Sen. Cory Booker , Gov .
Gavin Newsom , Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms @ @ @ @ @ Sen. Tammy Baldwin , Sen. Tammy Duckworth , Sen. Chris Coons and the Biden family @ @ @ @ @ emcee .
Leave your reactions in the comments .
Members can join the discussion in @ @ @

The fourth night of the Democratic convention will be televised and livestreamed from 9 p.m to 11 p.m. ET.
Speakers include: Joe Biden, Sen. Cory Booker, Gov. Gavin Newsom, Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, Mayor Pete Buttigieg, Sen. Tammy Baldwin, Sen. Tammy Duckworth, Sen. Chris Coons and the Biden family. Actress Julia Louis-Dreyfuss will emcee.
Leave your reactions in the comments.
Members can join the discussion in The Cloakroom.


politicalwire--2020-08-21--Trump Campaign Floods Washington Post with Ads

President Trump ’ s campaign plastered The Washington Post with digital ads linking to claims debunked by the paper ’ @ @ @ @ @ Wire has also been flooded with Trump campaign ads in recent days .
If you @ @ @ @ @ logged in , you ’ ll see no ads — and you ’ ll also @ @ @ @ @ love .
Join today .

President Trump’s campaign plastered The Washington Post with digital ads linking to claims debunked by the paper’s fact checkers.
Political Wire has also been flooded with Trump campaign ads in recent days.
If you’re a member and logged in, you’ll see no ads — and you’ll also help support a site you love. Join today.


politicalwire--2020-08-21--Bannon Says Arrest Is Part of Plot to ‘Stop the Wall’

Steve Bannon claimed his arrest over a scheme to defraud donors to a campaign supposedly raising funds for a border @ @ @ @ @ CNN reports .
Said Bannon : “ This entire fiasco is to stop people who @ @ @ @ @ .
”

Steve Bannon claimed his arrest over a scheme to defraud donors to a campaign supposedly raising funds for a border wall was politically motivated, CNN reports.
Said Bannon: “This entire fiasco is to stop people who want to build the wall.”


politicalwire--2020-08-21--Trump Confirms Stormy Daniels’ Claim He Hates Sharks

President Trump went on a tangent about sharks during a speech on foreign policy Thursday—seeming to confirm a story from @ @ @ @ @ affair , the Daily Beast reports .
After swatting a mosquito away from his podium @ @ @ @ @ doesn ’ t like sharks , either , ” then explained that he would not @ @ @ @ @ supported sharks .
Adult-film star Stormy Daniels once told a magazine that Trump is terrified @ @ @ @ @ he was enthralled by Discovery Channel ’ s Shark Week and told her in his @ @ @ @ @ Hotel that he “ would never donate to any charity that helps sharks .
”

President Trump went on a tangent about sharks during a speech on foreign policy Thursday—seeming to confirm a story from Stormy Daniels about their alleged affair, the Daily Beast reports.
After swatting a mosquito away from his podium, Trump said he “doesn’t like sharks, either,” then explained that he would not donate to a charity that supported sharks.
Adult-film star Stormy Daniels once told a magazine that Trump is terrified by sharks. She said he was enthralled by Discovery Channel’s Shark Week and told her in his bungalow at the Beverly Hills Hotel that he “would never donate to any charity that helps sharks.”


politicalwire--2020-08-21--Disinformation Campaign Stokes Fears of Mail Voting

“ A prominent Washington-based conservative advocacy organization is promoting a deceptive digital ad campaign that is stoking fears about mail-in @ @ @ @ @ with high concentrations of minority voters , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ The @ @ @ @ @ Vote , warns baselessly that mail balloting results in ‘ lost votes and lost rights @ @ @

“A prominent Washington-based conservative advocacy organization is promoting a deceptive digital ad campaign that is stoking fears about mail-in voting and targeting battleground states with high concentrations of minority voters,” the Washington Post reports.
“The website, called Protect My Vote, warns baselessly that mail balloting results in ‘lost votes and lost rights.'”


politicalwire--2020-08-20--Biden Leads In New Hampshire

Biden Leads In New Hampshire

A new Saint Anselm College poll in New Hampshire shows Joe Biden leading Donald Trump , 51 % to 43 @ @

“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--2020-08-20--GOP Embrace of QAnon Goes Far Beyond Trump

New York Times : “ Late last month , as the Texas Republican Party was shifting into campaign mode , @ @ @ @ @ , lifting a rallying cry straight from a once-unthinkable source : the internet-driven conspiracy theory @ @ @ @ @ The new catchphrase , ‘ We Are the Storm , ’ is an unsubtle cue @ @ @ @ @ F.B.I .
has labeled a potential domestic terrorist threat .
It is instantly recognizable among @ @ @ @ @ they claim is a coming conflagration between President Trump and what they allege , falsely @ @ @ @ @ Satan-worshiping pedophile Democrats who seek to dominate America and the world.
” “ The slogan @ @ @ @ @ social media posts by QAnon followers , and now , too , in emails from @ @ @ @ @ on the T-shirts , hats and sweatshirts that it sells .
”

New York Times: “Late last month, as the Texas Republican Party was shifting into campaign mode, it unveiled a new slogan, lifting a rallying cry straight from a once-unthinkable source: the internet-driven conspiracy theory known as QAnon.”
“The new catchphrase, ‘We Are the Storm,’ is an unsubtle cue to a group that the F.B.I. has labeled a potential domestic terrorist threat. It is instantly recognizable among QAnon adherents, signaling what they claim is a coming conflagration between President Trump and what they allege, falsely, is a cabal of Satan-worshiping pedophile Democrats who seek to dominate America and the world.”
“The slogan can be found all over social media posts by QAnon followers, and now, too, in emails from the Texas Republican Party and on the T-shirts, hats and sweatshirts that it sells.”


politicalwire--2020-08-20--Trump Says You Can’t Fairly Poll Registered Voters

President Trump claimed it ’ s not possible to do fair polls of registered voters — only likely voters — @ @ @ @ @ died , CNN reports .
He did not explain how dead voters answer polls .

President Trump claimed it’s not possible to do fair polls of registered voters — only likely voters — because many registered voters have died, CNN reports.
He did not explain how dead voters answer polls.


politicalwire--2020-08-20--McAuliffe Files to Run for Virginia Governor Again

Former Virginia Gov .
Terry McAuliffe ( D ) has filed the paperwork to run for his old office , @ @ @ @ @ But a spokesman said he won ’ t make an official decision to run until @ @ @ @ @ November .

Former Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe (D) has filed the paperwork to run for his old office, the Washington Post reports.
But a spokesman said he won’t make an official decision to run until after the general election in November.


politicalwire--2020-08-20--Top GOP National Security Officials Back Biden

“ Over 70 former Republican national security officials including ex-CIA and FBI chiefs will endorse Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden @ @ @ @ @ scathing indictment of President Donald Trump , calling him corrupt and unfit to serve , @ @ @ @ @ York Times : “ The new letter , released just hours before Mr. Biden formally @ @ @ @ @ out a 10-point indictment of Mr. Trump ’ s actions , accusing him of undermining @ @ @ @ @ aligning himself with dictators and engaging ‘ in corrupt behavior that renders him unfit to @ @ @ @ @ ”

“Over 70 former Republican national security officials including ex-CIA and FBI chiefs will endorse Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden on Friday while launching a scathing indictment of President Donald Trump, calling him corrupt and unfit to serve,” Reuters reports.
New York Times: “The new letter, released just hours before Mr. Biden formally accepts the nomination, lays out a 10-point indictment of Mr. Trump’s actions, accusing him of undermining the rule of law, aligning himself with dictators and engaging ‘in corrupt behavior that renders him unfit to serve as president.'”


politicalwire--2020-08-20--Trump Asks Justices to Let Him to Block People on Twitter

“ The White House asked the Supreme Court on Thursday to reverse a lower court ruling that said President Trump @ @ @ @ @ critics on Twitter ran afoul of the Constitution ’ s First Amendment , ” CNBC @ @


politicalwire--2020-08-20--Top Trump Officials Voted to Separate Migrant Children

“ In early May 2018 , after weeks of phone calls and private meetings , 11 of the president ’ @ @ @ @ @ called to the White House Situation Room where they were asked , by a show @ @ @ @ @ decide the fate of thousands of migrant parents and their children , ” NBC News @ @ @ @ @ s senior adviser Stephen Miller led the meeting and he was angry at what he @ @ @ @ @ of Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen… ” “ Frustrated , Miller accused Nielsen of stalling @ @ @ @ @ of hands .
Who was in favor of moving forward , he asked ?
A @ @ @ @ @ .
Nielsen kept hers down .
It was clear she had been outvoted .
”

“In early May 2018, after weeks of phone calls and private meetings, 11 of the president’s most senior advisers were called to the White House Situation Room where they were asked, by a show of hands vote, to decide the fate of thousands of migrant parents and their children,” NBC News reports.
“Trump’s senior adviser Stephen Miller led the meeting and he was angry at what he saw as defiance by Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen…”
“Frustrated, Miller accused Nielsen of stalling and then demanded a show of hands. Who was in favor of moving forward, he asked? A sea of hands went up. Nielsen kept hers down. It was clear she had been outvoted.”


politicalwire--2020-08-20--Coalitions Are Always Messy

Coalitions Are Always Messy

This piece is only available to Political Wire members .
Your support makes this site possible .
Join today for @ @ @ @ @ and get exclusive analysis , new features and no advertising .
Sign in to your @ @ @ @ @ If you ’ re already signed in and still seeing this message , your subscription @ @ @ @ @ your membership , navigate to your account , adjust your credit card information and click @ @ @ @ @ just $ 6 a month or $ 60 a year .

This piece for members is by David T.S. Jonas.
It’s a time-honored tradition during convention season to have members of the opposing party come speak in favor of your candidate, but it’s easy to see why the practice may rankle many otherwise sympathetic political actors.


politicalwire--2020-08-20--Bonus Flashback of the Day

Bonus Flashback of the Day

“ The Clintons have sold out their own people for cold cash .
They are grifters.
” — Steve Bannon @ @ @ @ @ on Breitbart News Radio , while adding the Clintons were running “ a money laundering @ @ @ @ @ charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering and defrauding hundreds of thousands of donors .

“The Clintons have sold out their own people for cold cash. They are grifters.”
— Steve Bannon, in a 2016 interview on Breitbart News Radio, while adding the Clintons were running “a money laundering operation.”
Bannon today was charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering and defrauding hundreds of thousands of donors.


politicalwire--2020-08-20--Democratic Convention Ratings Rise on Third Night

Deadline : “ According to early numbers from Nielsen , 21.4 million watched during the 10 PM ET hour across @ @ @ @ @ CBS , NBC , Fox News , MSNBC and CNN .
That is a boost @ @ @ @ @ watched on Tuesday and the 18.7 million who watched on Monday.
” “ The TV @ @ @ @ @ 11 % from the third night of the Democratic Convention in 2016 .
”

Deadline: “According to early numbers from Nielsen, 21.4 million watched during the 10 PM ET hour across six networks, ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox News, MSNBC and CNN. That is a boost from the 18.6 million who watched on Tuesday and the 18.7 million who watched on Monday.”
“The TV viewership is off by about 11% from the third night of the Democratic Convention in 2016.”


politicalwire--2020-08-20--Bill Cassidy Tests Positive

Bill Cassidy Tests Positive

Sen. Bill Cassidy ( R-LA ) , who is also a doctor , has tested positive for the coronavirus , @ @ @ @ @ a video yesterday of his visit to a medical center and is seen wearing a @ @ @ @ @ does slip past his nose at the end of the video .

Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA), who is also a doctor, has tested positive for the coronavirus, CNN reports.
Cassidy posted a video yesterday of his visit to a medical center and is seen wearing a face mask, although it does slip past his nose at the end of the video.


politicalwire--2020-08-20--Trump Jr. Distances Himself from Bannon’s Group

President Trump ’ s son , Donald Trump Jr. , is seeking to distance himself from the “ We Build @ @ @ @ @ after former White House chief strategist Stephen Bannon and three others were arrested and charged @ @ @ @ @ Hill reports .
Said a spokesman : “ Don gave one speech at a single @ @ @ @ @ over a year ago with a group of angel moms and besides that , has @ @ @ @ @ .
”

President Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr., is seeking to distance himself from the “We Build the Wall” crowdfunding campaign after former White House chief strategist Stephen Bannon and three others were arrested and charged with defrauding donors, The Hill reports.
Said a spokesman: “Don gave one speech at a single We Build the Wall event over a year ago with a group of angel moms and besides that, has no involvement with their organization.”


politicalwire--2020-08-20--Biden Holds Small Lead In Pennsylvania

Biden Holds Small Lead In Pennsylvania

A new Morning Call/Muhlenberg College poll in Pennsylvania shows Joe Biden with a narrow lead over Donald Trump , 49 @ @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-08-21--It Was Never About Steve Bannon’s Ideas

It Was Never About Steve Bannon’s Ideas

Joshua Green : “ Bannon was a potent enough figure on the right that he traveled to Europe to spread Trump-style nationalist populism .
At the same time , as I reported in 2018 , Bannon began scheming to start a new U.S. political party that he planned to call the ‘ National Union Party ’ —the temporary name Abraham Lincoln and the Republican Party had adopted in 1964 to attract War Democrats and Unionists—imagining that he could unite disaffected populists on both ends of the political spectrum and make his own run at the White House.
” “ Bannon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Instead , as often happened , his indiscretion became his undoing .
After the author Michael Wolff quoted Bannon disparaging members of Trump ’ s family , Trump angrily ostracized him from the Republican Party .
This included pressuring Rebekah Mercer , a major Trump donor and backer of Breitbart News , to oust Bannon from his position atop the conservative publication.
” “ Once robbed of his influence in the White House and at Breitbart News , Bannon came to understand that it was Trump , not Bannon or his ideas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it became obvious that any hope Bannon had of exerting influence on national politics was contingent on his worming himself back into Trump ’ s good graces .
”

Joshua Green: “Bannon was a potent enough figure on the right that he traveled to Europe to spread Trump-style nationalist populism. At the same time, as I reported in 2018, Bannon began scheming to start a new U.S. political party that he planned to call the ‘National Union Party’—the temporary name Abraham Lincoln and the Republican Party had adopted in 1864 to attract War Democrats and Unionists—imagining that he could unite disaffected populists on both ends of the political spectrum and make his own run at the White House.”
“Bannon’s fantasy never came to fruition. Instead, as often happened, his indiscretion became his undoing. After the author Michael Wolff quoted Bannon disparaging members of Trump’s family, Trump angrily ostracized him from the Republican Party. This included pressuring Rebekah Mercer, a major Trump donor and backer of Breitbart News, to oust Bannon from his position atop the conservative publication.”
“Once robbed of his influence in the White House and at Breitbart News, Bannon came to understand that it was Trump, not Bannon or his ideas, that excited Republican voters. Furthermore, it became obvious that any hope Bannon had of exerting influence on national politics was contingent on his worming himself back into Trump’s good graces.”


politicalwire--2020-08-21--Trump Has Already Spent $1 Billion on His Re-Election

“ President Trump ’ s campaign , the Republican Party and two affiliated committees , have spent more than $ @ @ @ @ @ a record-breaking sum spent toward a reelection effort at this point in the presidential campaign @ @ @ @ @ reports .
“ Trump has raised and spent money for his reelection since 2017 , @ @ @ @ @ previous presidents .
At this point in 2012 , former president Barack Obama ’ s @ @ @ @ @ Democratic National Committee , had spent about $ 643 million , federal records show .
@

“President Trump’s campaign, the Republican Party and two affiliated committees, have spent more than $1 billion since 2017, a record-breaking sum spent toward a reelection effort at this point in the presidential campaign,” the Washington Post reports.
“Trump has raised and spent money for his reelection since 2017, earlier in his term than previous presidents. At this point in 2012, former president Barack Obama’s reelection effort, including the Democratic National Committee, had spent about $643 million, federal records show.”


politicalwire--2020-08-21--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ Speaking is hard for me too , Brayden .
But as you know , practice and purpose help .
@ @ @ @ @ and for the great speech !
” — Former Rep. Gabrielle Giffords ( D-AZ ) @ @ @ @ @ Brayden Harrington who said Joe Biden helped him with his stutter .

“Speaking is hard for me too, Brayden. But as you know, practice and purpose help. Thank you for your courage and for the great speech!”
— Former Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-AZ), responding to 13-year old Brayden Harrington who said Joe Biden helped him with his stutter.