politicalwire--2020-12-22--Americans Numb to Staggering Virus Death Toll

Washington Post : “ Death is now everywhere and yet nowhere in America .
We track its progress in daily @ @ @ @ @ its latest victims among celebrities and acquaintances .
Yet , in many parts of America @ @ @ @ @ debating holiday plans , the necessity of mask mandates , how seriously to take the @ @ @ @ @ s all a hoax.
” “ In the face of one of the biggest mass @ @ @ @ @ , we are growing increasingly numb to death , experts say — numb to the @ @ @ @ @ and to the action it requires in response .
Something happens in the brain when @ @ @ @ @ , say psychologists who have studied genocides and mass disasters .
The casualties become like @ @ @ @ @ has grown so large it becomes difficult to focus on the individual bodies .
”

Washington Post: “Death is now everywhere and yet nowhere in America. We track its progress in daily bar graphs. We note its latest victims among celebrities and acquaintances. Yet, in many parts of America, we carry on — debating holiday plans, the necessity of mask mandates, how seriously to take the virus, whether it’s all a hoax.”
“In the face of one of the biggest mass casualty events in American history, we are growing increasingly numb to death, experts say — numb to the crisis and tragedy it represents and to the action it requires in response. Something happens in the brain when fatalities reach such high numbers, say psychologists who have studied genocides and mass disasters. The casualties become like a mountain of corpses that has grown so large it becomes difficult to focus on the individual bodies.”


politicalwire--2020-12-22--McConnell Pledges Votes on Biden Nominees

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell ( R-KY ) spoke to the Louisville Courier Journal about President-left Joe Biden ’ s @ @ @ @ @ , first of all , I am going to treat him a hell of a @ @ @ @ @ ever treated Donald Trump.
” He added : “ They aren ’ t all going @ @ @ @ @ vote , and they aren ’ t all going to make it , but I @ @ @ @ @ floor .
”

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) spoke to the Louisville Courier Journal about President-left Joe Biden’s cabinet nominations: “Well, first of all, I am going to treat him a hell of a lot better than Chuck Schumer ever treated Donald Trump.”
He added: “They aren’t all going to pass on a voice vote, and they aren’t all going to make it, but I will put them on the floor.”


politicalwire--2020-12-22--Biden Push for More Relief Sets Up Clash with GOP

Washington Post : “ The notion that more aid is necessary — Biden at times has said talks should start @ @ @ @ @ sets up perhaps the first major legislative test for the new president and his self-proclaimed @ @ @ @

Washington Post: “The notion that more aid is necessary — Biden at times has said talks should start as early as January — sets up perhaps the first major legislative test for the new president and his self-proclaimed negotiating skills.”


politicalwire--2020-12-22--The Squad Sends a Message

The Squad Sends a Message

Playbook notes a move that raised eyebrows on the House floor last night : Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez , Ilhan Omar @ @ @ @ @ Tlaib all voted against the rule to move the relief package — a procedural motion @ @ @ @ @ party lines .
“ In a world where Speaker Nancy Pelosi has a narrow majority @ @ @ @ @ together , they can influence the direction of the House Democratic Caucus .
This message @ @ @ @ @ last night .
”

Playbook notes a move that raised eyebrows on the House floor last night: Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ilhan Omar, Ayanna Presley and Rashida Tlaib all voted against the rule to move the relief package — a procedural motion that nearly always splits on party lines.
“In a world where Speaker Nancy Pelosi has a narrow majority, if this group sticks together, they can influence the direction of the House Democratic Caucus. This message was received by senior Democrats last night.”


politicalwire--2020-12-22--Thune Says Challenge to Electoral Vote Won’t Work

Sen. John Thune ( R-SD ) said that any attempt by a handful of House conservatives to challenge the Electoral @ @ @ @ @ Joe Biden the next president is “ going down like a shot dog , ” @ @ @ @ @ : “ And I just don ’ t think it makes a lot of sense @ @ @ @ @ when you know what the ultimate outcome is going to be .
”

Sen. John Thune (R-SD) said that any attempt by a handful of House conservatives to challenge the Electoral College’s results proclaiming Joe Biden the next president is “going down like a shot dog,” Bloomberg reports.
He added: “And I just don’t think it makes a lot of sense to put everybody through this when you know what the ultimate outcome is going to be.”


politicalwire--2020-12-22--Trump Lines Up the Losses

Trump Lines Up the Losses

Playbook : “ For a guy who likes to win , and puts so much stock in not looking like @ @ @ @ @ is throwing an awful lot of weight behind two efforts that , if you ’ @ @ @ @ @ say he is not certain to win , but if you ’ re realistic , @ @ @ @ @ is likely to lose in a publicly humiliating fashion.
” “ First , Trump says @ @ @ @ @ the National Defense Authorization Act — which has passed every year for 59 years .
@ @ @ @ @ made it clear to Trump that his veto is likely to be overridden , and @ @ @ @ @ to back off , but he does not at all appear moved by their pleas.
@ @ @ @ @ is spending his final days in the White House interested in a campaign to pressure @ @ @ @ @ a futile effort to overturn the 2020 election .
”

Playbook: “For a guy who likes to win, and puts so much stock in not looking like a loser, President Trump is throwing an awful lot of weight behind two efforts that, if you’re charitable, you can say he is not certain to win, but if you’re realistic, you can definitively declare he is likely to lose in a publicly humiliating fashion.”
“First, Trump says he is going to veto the National Defense Authorization Act — which has passed every year for 59 years. Aides and congressional allies have made it clear to Trump that his veto is likely to be overridden, and have tried to get him to back off, but he does not at all appear moved by their pleas.”
Second, the president is spending his final days in the White House interested in a campaign to pressure members of Congress to join a futile effort to overturn the 2020 election.”


politicalwire--2020-12-22--Senate to Return for Possible Trump Veto Override

“ Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell ( R-KY ) announced early Tuesday morning that the Senate will return to Washington @ @ @ @ @ to respond to a potential veto from President Trump of a mammoth defense bill , @ @ @ @ @ “ McConnell , speaking from the Senate floor , said that he had struck a @ @ @ @ @ Charles Schumer ( D-N.Y. ) for the chamber to return for a rare post-Christmas session @ @ @ @ @ ‘ process ’ a veto override , if it ’ s passed by the House @ @

“Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) announced early Tuesday morning that the Senate will return to Washington on Dec. 29 in order to respond to a potential veto from President Trump of a mammoth defense bill,” The Hill reports.
“McConnell, speaking from the Senate floor, said that he had struck a deal with Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) for the chamber to return for a rare post-Christmas session where he said they will ‘process’ a veto override, if it’s passed by the House.”


politicalwire--2020-12-22--How Much Damage Can Trump Do On His Way Out?

Stephen Collinson : “ Joe Biden will be president in 30 days .
Until then , the question is how @ @ @ @ @ by a vengeful , delusional soon-to-be ex-President swilling conspiracy theories , whose wild anti-democratic instincts @ @ @ @ @ political opportunists.
” “ Donald Trump will retain the awesome powers of the presidency until @ @ @ @ @ and there ’ s never been a time when he has been subject to as @ @ @ @ @ had a bigger incentive to cause disruption.
” CNN : Pentagon anxiety rises as officers @ @ @ @ @ next unpredictable move .
Max Boot : Trump saved the worst for last .

Stephen Collinson: “Joe Biden will be president in 30 days. Until then, the question is how much damage can be done by a vengeful, delusional soon-to-be ex-President swilling conspiracy theories, whose wild anti-democratic instincts are being encouraged by fringe political opportunists.”
“Donald Trump will retain the awesome powers of the presidency until noon on January 20, and there’s never been a time when he has been subject to as few restraining influences or has had a bigger incentive to cause disruption.”
CNN: Pentagon anxiety rises as officers wait for Trump’s next unpredictable move.
Max Boot: Trump saved the worst for last.


politicalwire--2020-12-22--Biden Mulls Measures to Boost Vaccine Production

“ President-elect Joe Biden ’ s coronavirus advisory team consulted scientists and supply chain experts about whether he should invoke @ @ @ @ @ help produce and administer more Covid-19 vaccines , ” NBC News reports .
“ President @ @ @ @ @ Defense Production Act , or DPA , to speed the production of medical supplies and @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus , and he has raised the possibility of using the law again for vaccines @ @ @ @ @ could be a shortage of components to make the vaccines .
”

“President-elect Joe Biden’s coronavirus advisory team consulted scientists and supply chain experts about whether he should invoke a wartime production law to help produce and administer more Covid-19 vaccines,” NBC News reports.
“President Trump has already invoked the Defense Production Act, or DPA, to speed the production of medical supplies and components to test for the coronavirus, and he has raised the possibility of using the law again for vaccines. Manufacturers have said there could be a shortage of components to make the vaccines.”


politicalwire--2020-12-22--Congress Overwhelmingly Passes Covid-19 Relief

“ Congress overwhelmingly approved $ 900 billion of relief for households and businesses battered by the coronavirus pandemic , passing @ @ @ @ @ buoying the country through a difficult winter and into a new year , ” the @ @ @ @ @ Associated Press : “ The $ 900 billion pandemic relief package that was rushed through @ @ @ @ @ year-end conundrum for lawmakers : It was a bill too big to fail , and @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“Congress overwhelmingly approved $900 billion of relief for households and businesses battered by the coronavirus pandemic, passing an emergency measure aimed at buoying the country through a difficult winter and into a new year,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
Associated Press: “The $900 billion pandemic relief package that was rushed through Congress Monday created a familiar year-end conundrum for lawmakers: It was a bill too big to fail, and also too big to read.”


politicalwire--2020-12-22--Top Trump Brass Launch Campaign Firm

Top Trump Brass Launch Campaign Firm

“ Three top officials on President Donald Trump ’ s reelection effort are going into business together to help Republicans @ @ @ @ @ ” Politico reports .
“ Bill Stepien , Justin Clark , and Nick Trainer are @ @ @ @ @ a political consulting shop that will aid the president as he decides which 2022 races @ @ @ @ @ well as bolster pro-Trump candidates and advise the party ’ s campaign committees .
”

“Three top officials on President Donald Trump’s reelection effort are going into business together to help Republicans navigate the post-Trump world,” Politico reports.
“Bill Stepien, Justin Clark, and Nick Trainer are relaunching National Public Affairs, a political consulting shop that will aid the president as he decides which 2022 races to engage in, as well as bolster pro-Trump candidates and advise the party’s campaign committees.”


politicalwire--2020-12-22--Trump Weighs Legal Immunity for MBS

Trump Weighs Legal Immunity for MBS

“ The U.S. government is weighing a request to declare Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman immune from a federal lawsuit @ @ @ @ @ assassination a former top intelligence officer who could disclose damaging secrets about the prince ’ @ @ @ @ @ ” the Washington Post reports .
“ A State Department recommendation could also lead to @ @ @ @ @ as a defendant in other cases recently filed in the United States , including ones @ @ @ @ @ death and dismemberment of dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018 ; and of targeting a @ @ @ @ @ discredit an Al Jazeera news anchor , Ghada Oueiss , in retaliation for her critical @ @ @ @ @ crown prince of the United Arab Emirates .
”

“The U.S. government is weighing a request to declare Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman immune from a federal lawsuit accusing him of targeting for assassination a former top intelligence officer who could disclose damaging secrets about the prince’s ascent to power,” the Washington Post reports.
“A State Department recommendation could also lead to the dismissal of the prince as a defendant in other cases recently filed in the United States, including ones accusing him of directing the death and dismemberment of dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018; and of targeting a hack and leak operation to discredit an Al Jazeera news anchor, Ghada Oueiss, in retaliation for her critical reports on Mohammed and the crown prince of the United Arab Emirates.”


politicalwire--2020-12-22--Trump Trashes McConnell to Fellow Republicans

“ President Trump lashed out at Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell on Monday night for acknowledging Joe Biden won the @ @ @ @ @ to Republican lawmakers taking credit for saving McConnell ’ s career with a tweet and @ @ @ @ @ .
“ It ’ s an extraordinary broadside against McConnell by the sitting president and @ @ @ @ @ party , ahead of a crucial runoff election in Georgia on Jan. 5 that will @ @ @ @ @ ” Said Trump : “ Sadly , Mitch forgot .
He was the first one @ @ @ @ @

“President Trump lashed out at Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell on Monday night for acknowledging Joe Biden won the election, sending a slide to Republican lawmakers taking credit for saving McConnell’s career with a tweet and robocall,” Axios reports.
“It’s an extraordinary broadside against McConnell by the sitting president and most popular Republican in the party, ahead of a crucial runoff election in Georgia on Jan. 5 that will determine control of the Senate.”
Said Trump: “Sadly, Mitch forgot. He was the first one off the ship.”


politicalwire--2020-12-22--McConnell Blocked Paid Leave For Workers With COVID

Washington Post : “ Death is now everywhere and yet nowhere in America .
We track its progress in daily @ @ @ @ @ its latest victims among celebrities and acquaintances .
Yet , in…

“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--2020-12-23--Trump Is Trying to Split the GOP

Trump Is Trying to Split the GOP

Axios : “ Trump wants the Republican Party to remain beholden to him , and is desperate to retain his @ @ @ @ @ .
Top Republicans are increasingly queasy about the two runoffs in Georgia on Jan. 5 @ @ @ @ @ controls the Senate .
Last night ’ s White House actions undermine the GOP Senate @ @ @ @ @ distraction , and robbing the senators of a clear win on the stimulus .
”

Axios: “Trump wants the Republican Party to remain beholden to him, and is desperate to retain his GOP power past Jan. 20. Top Republicans are increasingly queasy about the two runoffs in Georgia on Jan. 5 that will determine which party controls the Senate. Last night’s White House actions undermine the GOP Senate candidates by fomenting turmoil and distraction, and robbing the senators of a clear win on the stimulus.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--Brindisi-Tenney Race Narrows Even More

Brindisi-Tenney Race Narrows Even More

“ The incredibly close race for the 22nd Congressional District got even closer Tuesday , as about 90 new votes @ @ @ @ @ 2,500 affidavit ballots from Oneida County were counted , ” the Syracuse Post Standard reports @ @ @ @ @ ( D ) and Claudia Tenney ( R ) are separated by three to five @ @ @ @ @ have been locked in a courtroom battle for nearly two months to determine the winner @ @

“The incredibly close race for the 22nd Congressional District got even closer Tuesday, as about 90 new votes from a bundle of about 2,500 affidavit ballots from Oneida County were counted,” the Syracuse Post Standard reports.
“Incumbent Anthony Brindisi (D) and Claudia Tenney (R) are separated by three to five votes… The candidates’ attorneys have been locked in a courtroom battle for nearly two months to determine the winner.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--Hunter Biden’s Name Aided Deals With Foreign Tycoons

“ Hunter Biden ramped up business activities with European and Chinese tycoons as his father exited the vice presidency four @ @ @ @ @ it was a potential path to income ; for the tycoons , the Biden family @ @ @ @ @ reputations , ” the Wall Street Journal reports .
“ The dealings got the younger @ @ @ @ @ in a private-equity firm in China and consulting arrangements with a Romanian property magnate and @ @ @ @ @ a globe-trotting lifestyle , according to interviews , documents and communications reviewed by The Wall @ @ @ @ @ energy tycoon gave Mr. Biden a 2.8-carat diamond , and entities linked to him wired @ @ @ @ @ Mr. Biden ’ s law firm , according to an investigation by Senate Republicans .
@

“Hunter Biden ramped up business activities with European and Chinese tycoons as his father exited the vice presidency four years ago. For him it was a potential path to income; for the tycoons, the Biden family name promised to burnish their reputations,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
“The dealings got the younger Mr. Biden a discounted stake in a private-equity firm in China and consulting arrangements with a Romanian property magnate and overall allowed him to maintain a globe-trotting lifestyle, according to interviews, documents and communications reviewed by The Wall Street Journal. A Chinese energy tycoon gave Mr. Biden a 2.8-carat diamond, and entities linked to him wired nearly $5 million to Mr. Biden’s law firm, according to an investigation by Senate Republicans.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--How Will Pence Handle Certifying Biden as President?

Washington Post : “ Pence and his advisers have begun thinking about how to handle Jan. 6 and escape Trump @ @ @ @ @ no final decisions have been made.
” Said one administration official : “ The vice @ @ @ @ @ leave on bad terms with the president , I can assure you that .
”

Washington Post: “Pence and his advisers have begun thinking about how to handle Jan. 6 and escape Trump’s ire, but no final decisions have been made.”
Said one administration official: “The vice president does not want to leave on bad terms with the president, I can assure you that.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--Meadows Makes Surprise Visit to Georgia

Meadows Makes Surprise Visit to Georgia

“ White House chief of staff Mark Meadows made a surprise visit Tuesday to observe Georgia ’ s audit of @ @ @ @ @ ask questions about the process , ” the Atlanta Journal Constitution reports .
“ Meadows @ @ @ @ @ agents , showed up at the Cobb County Civic Center , where investigators from the @ @ @ @ @ secretary of state ’ s office were reviewing absentee ballot envelopes to check whether voter @ @ @ @ @ ” Meadows was overheard saying : “ I ’ m not making any allegations as @ @ @ @ @ to get to the truth .
”

“White House chief of staff Mark Meadows made a surprise visit Tuesday to observe Georgia’s audit of absentee ballot envelope signatures and ask questions about the process,” the Atlanta Journal Constitution reports.
“Meadows, accompanied by Secret Service agents, showed up at the Cobb County Civic Center, where investigators from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and secretary of state’s office were reviewing absentee ballot envelopes to check whether voter signatures match those on file.”
Meadows was overheard saying: “I’m not making any allegations as much as I am trying to get to the truth.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--What Is Trump Trying to Do with the Relief Bill?

Wall Street Journal : “ Aides said they view the tweet more as the president voicing his displeasure with the @ @ @ @ @ threat .
One aide said Mr. Trump ’ s announcement amounted to an effort to @ @ @ @ @ York Times : “ Current and former administration officials speculated on Tuesday evening that Mr. @ @ @ @ @ narrative that he had been sidelined from the negotiations and that calling for higher direct @ @ @ @ @ to please his base.
” Said one administration official to the Washington Post : “ @ @ @ @ @ so dumb .
”

Wall Street Journal: “Aides said they view the tweet more as the president voicing his displeasure with the bill than an actual veto threat. One aide said Mr. Trump’s announcement amounted to an effort to make Congress squirm.”
New York Times: “Current and former administration officials speculated on Tuesday evening that Mr. Trump did not like the narrative that he had been sidelined from the negotiations and that calling for higher direct payments was a political move to please his base.”
Said one administration official to the Washington Post: “So dumb. So, so dumb.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--How the Georgia Runoffs Could Delay Biden’s Cabinet

Politico : “ The next Congress will begin in a haze of uncertainty — and that has consequences for President-elect @ @ @ @ @ Senate majority unknown until the Jan. 5 Georgia runoffs , much of the chamber ’ @ @ @ @ @ the air — potentially for days or weeks after if the elections are tight and @ @ @ @ @ that could mean more delay for staffing Biden ’ s cabinet and implementing his agenda @ @

Politico: “The next Congress will begin in a haze of uncertainty — and that has consequences for President-elect Joe Biden. With the Senate majority unknown until the Jan. 5 Georgia runoffs, much of the chamber’s business remains up in the air — potentially for days or weeks after if the elections are tight and certification is postponed. And that could mean more delay for staffing Biden’s cabinet and implementing his agenda.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--Pfizer Nears Deal to Provide More Vaccine Doses

“ The Trump administration and Pfizer are close to a deal under which the pharmaceutical company would bolster supply of @ @ @ @ @ United States by at least tens of millions of doses next year in exchange for @ @ @ @ @ better access to manufacturing supplies , ” the New York Times reports .
“ An @ @ @ @ @ announced as early as Wednesday , would help the United States at least partly offset @ @ @ @ @ could leave as many as 110 million adult Americans uncovered in the first half of @ @ @

“The Trump administration and Pfizer are close to a deal under which the pharmaceutical company would bolster supply of its coronavirus vaccine for the United States by at least tens of millions of doses next year in exchange for a government directive giving it better access to manufacturing supplies,” the New York Times reports.
“An agreement, which could be announced as early as Wednesday, would help the United States at least partly offset a looming vaccine shortage that could leave as many as 110 million adult Americans uncovered in the first half of 2021.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ The Trump administration and Pfizer are close to a deal under which the pharmaceutical company would bolster supply of @ @ @ @ @ United States by at least tens…


politicalwire--2020-12-23--Trump Backs Primary Challenge Against John Thune


politicalwire--2020-12-23--Trump Orchestrates Final Loyalty Test

Trump Orchestrates Final Loyalty Test

“ President Trump is plotting a final stand in Congress on Jan. 6 , casting it as the ultimate loyalty @ @ @ @ @ remain in power and shutting out anyone who won ’ t get in line , @ @ @ @ @ Trump has been strategizing in recent days with a band of his fiercest congressional supporters @ @ @ @ @ will involve lodging objections during the typically pro forma congressional certification of President-elect Joe Biden @ @ @ @ @ It ’ s a gambit that even Republican leaders and those around Trump concede is @ @ @ @ @ ’ s not the only point… The objections will also force Republicans in Congress to @ @ @ @ @ affirm Biden ’ s victory — acknowledging the outcome and likely inflaming Trump ’ s @ @ @ @ @ GOP faction that has joined the president in denying the election results.
” Washington Post @ @ @ @ @ battle over attempts to overturn Trump ’ s loss to Biden .

“President Trump is plotting a final stand in Congress on Jan. 6, casting it as the ultimate loyalty test in his quest to remain in power and shutting out anyone who won’t get in line,” Politico reports.
“Trump has been strategizing in recent days with a band of his fiercest congressional supporters about the effort, which will involve lodging objections during the typically pro forma congressional certification of President-elect Joe Biden’s victory.”
“It’s a gambit that even Republican leaders and those around Trump concede is doomed to fail… But that’s not the only point… The objections will also force Republicans in Congress to go on record voting to affirm Biden’s victory — acknowledging the outcome and likely inflaming Trump’s diehard supporters, a crucial GOP faction that has joined the president in denying the election results.”
Washington Post: Republicans plunge into open battle over attempts to overturn Trump’s loss to Biden.


politicalwire--2020-12-23--White House Twitter Accounts Will Be Reset to Zero

“ Twitter has told President-elect Joe Biden ’ s team that President Trump ’ s followers will not carry over @ @ @ @ @ to the new president and White House in January , a reversal from the last @ @ @ @ @ .
“ The move would mean the Biden administration ’ s accounts will start with @ @ @ @ @ a way for Biden to instantly reach millions of people who currently follow the official @ @ @ @ @ The @ POTUS account has more than 33 million followers while @ WhiteHouse has 26 @ @ @

“Twitter has told President-elect Joe Biden’s team that President Trump’s followers will not carry over to the official accounts assigned to the new president and White House in January, a reversal from the last transition,” Bloomberg reports.
“The move would mean the Biden administration’s accounts will start with zero followers, cutting off a way for Biden to instantly reach millions of people who currently follow the official accounts used by Trump. The @POTUS account has more than 33 million followers while @WhiteHouse has 26 million.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--FBI Links Iran to Online Hit List

FBI Links Iran to Online Hit List

“ The FBI has concluded that Iran was behind online efforts earlier this month to incite violence against the bureau @ @ @ @ @ former top U.S. cyber expert and multiple state elections officials who ’ ve refuted claims @ @ @ @ @ by President Trump and his allies , federal and state officials said Tuesday , ” @ @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-12-23--Trump Calls Relief Bill a ‘Disgrace’

Trump Calls Relief Bill a ‘Disgrace’

President Trump , in a stunning Tuesday night tweet , called the $ 900 billion Covid relief bill passed by @ @ @ @ @ ” and urged lawmakers to make a number of changes to the measure , including @ @ @ @ @ and families , CNBC reports .
“ The president ’ s tweet , which included @ @ @ @ @ what he considers the bill ’ s many flaws , came less than 24 hours @ @ @ @ @ measure.
” Washington Post : “ Some aides were stunned that Trump weighed in the @ @ @ @ @ economic team had publicly praised the bill .
But administration officials had negotiated the bill @ @ @ @ @ days without explicitly securing Trump ’ s approval.
” Axios : “ The surprise announcement @ @ @ @ @ for millions of Americans if Trump decides not to sign the package as it stands @ @ @ @ @ government shutdown .
”

President Trump, in a stunning Tuesday night tweet, called the $900 billion Covid relief bill passed by Congress an unsuitable “disgrace” and urged lawmakers to make a number of changes to the measure, including bigger direct payments to individuals and families, CNBC reports.
“The president’s tweet, which included a video of him discussing what he considers the bill’s many flaws, came less than 24 hours after the Senate passed the measure.”
Washington Post: “Some aides were stunned that Trump weighed in the way he did after his economic team had publicly praised the bill. But administration officials had negotiated the bill with lawmakers in the final days without explicitly securing Trump’s approval.”
Axios: “The surprise announcement could delay desperately needed aid for millions of Americans if Trump decides not to sign the package as it stands. It also risks a government shutdown.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--Trump Begins His Pardon Spree

Trump Begins His Pardon Spree

“ President Trump granted clemency on Tuesday to 20 people , including three former Republican members of Congress and two @ @ @ @ @ as part of the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 president election , ” @ @ @ @ @ “ The pardons and commutations came as Trump has been exploring how to use his @ @ @ @ @ and allies in the waning days before leaving office next month.
” Trump ’ s @ @ @ @ @ to former Republican members of congress Steve Stockman , Duncan Hunter and Chris Collins .
@ @ @ @ @ came at the recommendation of Trump allies in Congress and , in some cases , @ @ @ @ @

“President Trump granted clemency on Tuesday to 20 people, including three former Republican members of Congress and two people were convicted of crime as part of the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 president election,” the Washington Post reports.
“The pardons and commutations came as Trump has been exploring how to use his clemency powers to reward friends and allies in the waning days before leaving office next month.”


politicalwire--2020-12-22--DNC Will Elect New Chair

DNC Will Elect New Chair

The Democratic National Committee will pick its new chair during its virtual Winter Meeting on Jan. 21 , NBC News @ @ @ @ @ after President-elect Joe Biden is inaugurated .
Current DNC Chairman Tom Perez has said he @ @ @ @ @ term .

The Democratic National Committee will pick its new chair during its virtual Winter Meeting on Jan. 21, NBC News has learned, one day after President-elect Joe Biden is inaugurated.
Current DNC Chairman Tom Perez has said he will not serve another four-year term.


politicalwire--2020-12-22--Trump Cools on Sidney Powell as Special Counsel

Donald Trump informed the conspiracy-theory-driven MAGA attorney Sidney Powell on Monday that he does not intend to appoint her “ @ @ @ @ @ “ election fraud , ” the Daily Beast reports .
Asked whether Trump told Powell @ @ @ @ @ be “ special counsel , ” Rudy Giuliani—who leads the president ’ s post-election legal @ @ @ @ @ ” adding , “ she is no longer part of our team .
She is @ @ @ @ @

Donald Trump informed the conspiracy-theory-driven MAGA attorney Sidney Powell on Monday that he does not intend to appoint her “special counsel” to investigate “election fraud,” the Daily Beast reports.
Asked whether Trump told Powell that she wouldn’t be “special counsel,” Rudy Giuliani—who leads the president’s post-election legal team—said: “Yes,” adding, “she is no longer part of our team. She is on her own.”


politicalwire--2020-12-22--Trump Nominates Allies to Government Posts


politicalwire--2020-12-22--Katie Hill Sues Ex-Husband and Media Outlets

Former Rep. Katie Hill ( D-CA ) filed suit against her ex-husband and the owners of Redstate.com and the Daily @ @ @ @ @ distributed what amounted to “ nonconsensual porn ” and arguing the outlets did not have @ @ @ @ @ ” under the First Amendment to “ sexually degrade and expose public officials , ” @ @ @ @

Former Rep. Katie Hill (D-CA) filed suit against her ex-husband and the owners of Redstate.com and the Daily Mail, saying they had distributed what amounted to “nonconsensual porn” and arguing the outlets did not have a “carte blanche right” under the First Amendment to “sexually degrade and expose public officials,” NBC News reports.


politicalwire--2020-12-22--Biden Leaves Attorney General for Last Pick

“ Less than a month before he is sworn in , President-elect Joe Biden has not yet selected his attorney @ @ @ @ @ given how politicized the department became under President Donald Trump and while federal officials are @ @ @ @ @ , ” Bloomberg reports .


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Trump Continues His Pardon Spree

Trump Continues His Pardon Spree

“ President Trump on Wednesday evening announced 26 new pardons , including ones for longtime ally Roger Stone , former @ @ @ @ @ White House senior adviser Jared Kushner ’ s father , Charles , ” CNN reports @ @ @ @ @ Manafort and Stone reward two of the most high-profile and widely condemned former advisers of @ @ @ @ @ whom were indicted by special counsel Robert Mueller , went to trial and were convicted @ @ @ @ @ ” New York Times : “ It was the second wave of pardons and commutations @ @ @ @ @ days , showing his willingness to use his power aggressively on behalf of loyalists.
” @ @ @ @ @ s a continuation of the president ’ s controversial pre-Christmas pardon spree , which began @ @ @ @ @ pardons for a trio of convicted former GOP congressmen and several military contractors involved in @ @ @ @ @ civilians .
”

“President Trump on Wednesday evening announced 26 new pardons, including ones for longtime ally Roger Stone, former campaign chairman Paul Manafort and White House senior adviser Jared Kushner’s father, Charles,” CNN reports.
“The pardons of Manafort and Stone reward two of the most high-profile and widely condemned former advisers of the President, both of whom were indicted by special counsel Robert Mueller, went to trial and were convicted by juries of multiple crimes.”
New York Times: “It was the second wave of pardons and commutations by the president in two days, showing his willingness to use his power aggressively on behalf of loyalists.”
Axios: “It’s a continuation of the president’s controversial pre-Christmas pardon spree, which began in earnest Tuesday night with pardons for a trio of convicted former GOP congressmen and several military contractors involved in the 2007 massacre of Iraqi civilians.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--Newly-Elected Congressman In Intensive Care

Playbook : “ No one knows .
Some say President Trump is in burn-it-down mode and is more than willing @ @ @ @ @ package , ending his presidency in a lengthy shutdown , …

“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--2020-12-23--Bill Barr Leaves the Justice Department

Bill Barr Leaves the Justice Department

Attorney General Bill Barr sent a parting note to his colleagues on Wednesday to mark the end of his time @ @ @ @ @ , stating that it ’ s been a “ great honor to serve once again @ @ @ @ @ NBC News reports .
Axios : “ Barr will be replaced in an acting capacity @ @ @ @ @ Rosen , who multiple administration officials privately say now has the worst job in Washington @ @

Attorney General Bill Barr sent a parting note to his colleagues on Wednesday to mark the end of his time leading the Department of Justice, stating that it’s been a “great honor to serve once again in this role,” NBC News reports.
Axios: “Barr will be replaced in an acting capacity by Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen, who multiple administration officials privately say now has the worst job in Washington.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--U.S. Mulls Closing Iraqi Embassy

U.S. Mulls Closing Iraqi Embassy

“ The United States is considering quickly closing its embassy in Baghdad after a series of rocket attacks on Iraq @ @ @ @ @ Iranian-backed militias , ” Axios reports .
“ The move , among several options being @ @ @ @ @ prelude to retaliation against Iran , which President Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo @ @ @ @ @ of terror .
The embassy has also played a pivotal role in supporting a shaky @ @ @ @

“The United States is considering quickly closing its embassy in Baghdad after a series of rocket attacks on Iraq’s Green Zone by Iranian-backed militias,” Axios reports.
“The move, among several options being considered, could be a prelude to retaliation against Iran, which President Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo have branded a state sponsor of terror. The embassy has also played a pivotal role in supporting a shaky Iraqi government.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--Yang Files to Run for New York City Mayor

Andrew Yang has filed paperwork to run for mayor of New York City , NBC New York reports .
“ @ @ @ @ @ the potential to immediately upend a race that was shaping up as a contest between @ @ @ @ @ comes just days after a new poll giving him a slight lead among his fellow @ @ @ @ @ ”

Andrew Yang has filed paperwork to run for mayor of New York City, NBC New York reports.
“Yang’s filing has the potential to immediately upend a race that was shaping up as a contest between long-entrenched city politicians. It comes just days after a new poll giving him a slight lead among his fellow Democrats running for mayor.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--Trump Vetoes Defense Bill

Trump Vetoes Defense Bill

“ President Trump on Wednesday made good on his promise to veto the annual military policy bill , setting up @ @ @ @ @ veto override of his presidency after both chambers overwhelmingly approved the legislation , ” the @ @ @ @ @ “ In refusing to sign the legislation , Mr. Trump cited a series of provisions @ @ @ @ @ allow the military to strip the names of Confederate leaders from military bases.
” Washington @ @ @ @ @ and Senate each passed the bill earlier this month with strong veto-proof majorities , rejecting @ @ @ @ @ it be changed to meet his oftentimes shifting demands .
Both chambers are expected to @ @ @ @ @ to override the president ’ s veto .
”

“President Trump on Wednesday made good on his promise to veto the annual military policy bill, setting up what could be the first veto override of his presidency after both chambers overwhelmingly approved the legislation,” the New York Times reports.
“In refusing to sign the legislation, Mr. Trump cited a series of provisions, including one that would allow the military to strip the names of Confederate leaders from military bases.”
Washington Post: “The House and Senate each passed the bill earlier this month with strong veto-proof majorities, rejecting Trump’s insistence that it be changed to meet his oftentimes shifting demands. Both chambers are expected to sustain the two-thirds majorities needed to override the president’s veto.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--Trump Leaves Washington In Limbo

Trump Leaves Washington In Limbo

Politico : “ On Tuesday night , Trump blindsided all of Washington — including his own staff — with a @ @ @ @ @ amend coronavirus relief and government funding legislation that his own administration had helped carefully craft @ @ @ @ @ into Wednesday , senior Republicans , Hill aides and even White House officials scrambled to @ @ @ @ @ wanted , just as lawmakers — and Trump — prepare to leave town for the @ @ @ @ @ s no clear answer , though .
No one on either side of Pennsylvania Avenue @ @ @ @ @ ’ s plan is — or even if there is one .
Hill offices had @ @ @ @ @ of Wednesday afternoon , while House Republicans scheduled a call at 3 p.m. to strategize.
@ @ @ @ @ Capitol Hill : “ A complete clusterfuck .
”

Politico: “On Tuesday night, Trump blindsided all of Washington — including his own staff — with a series of 11th-hour demands to amend coronavirus relief and government funding legislation that his own administration had helped carefully craft and supported. Overnight and into Wednesday, senior Republicans, Hill aides and even White House officials scrambled to figure out what Trump actually wanted, just as lawmakers — and Trump — prepare to leave town for the holidays.”
“There’s no clear answer, though. No one on either side of Pennsylvania Avenue appears to know what Trump’s plan is — or even if there is one. Hill offices had not received any guidance as of Wednesday afternoon, while House Republicans scheduled a call at 3 p.m. to strategize.”
Said one Republican on Capitol Hill: “A complete clusterfuck.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--Election Threat Leads to Charges Against Woman


Where’s Jared?

Jared Kushner has developed a reputation in Trumpland for being conspicuously absent when things turn rocky , the Daily Beast @ @ @ @ @ Trump aide : “ This is just what Jared does .
”

Jared Kushner has developed a reputation in Trumpland for being conspicuously absent when things turn rocky, the Daily Beast reports.
Said a senior Trump aide: “This is just what Jared does.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--Eric Trump Aide Helped Build Campaign Shell Company

“ The Trump campaign shell company that helped hide $ 617 million in 2020 presidential campaign spending was almost exclusively @ @ @ @ @ run in part by a top deputy to Eric Trump , ” Business Insider reports @ @ @ @ @ deputy , attorney Alex Cannon , worked closely to run American Made Media Consultants with @ @ @ @ @ Trump daughter-in-law Lara Trump , and former campaign manager Brad Parscale .
Together , they @ @ @ @ @ so powerful and opaque that key Trump campaign aides feared what they might uncover if @ @ @ @ @ its operations.
” “ In one instance , the Trump campaign paid an extra 2 @ @ @ @ @ aired from a firm tied to its chief strategist , Jason Miller , Trump advisors @ @ @ @

“The Trump campaign shell company that helped hide $617 million in 2020 presidential campaign spending was almost exclusively a Trump family production, run in part by a top deputy to Eric Trump,” Business Insider reports.
“That Eric Trump deputy, attorney Alex Cannon, worked closely to run American Made Media Consultants with Trump son-in-law Jared Kushner, Trump daughter-in-law Lara Trump, and former campaign manager Brad Parscale. Together, they built a campaign shell company so powerful and opaque that key Trump campaign aides feared what they might uncover if they learned too much about its operations.”
“In one instance, the Trump campaign paid an extra 2 percent fee on all ads aired from a firm tied to its chief strategist, Jason Miller, Trump advisors told Insider.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--Pressure for Diversity Weighs on Biden Labor Pick

“ President-elect Joe Biden is considering nominating Boston Mayor Marty Walsh… Biden has a long personal relationship with Walsh , @ @ @ @ @ union member and leader , most recently as head of Boston ’ s Building and @ @ @ @ @ has won support from a number of prominent union leaders — most notably AFL-CIO President @ @ @ @ @ reports .
“ But Walsh is a white man .
And although Biden has already @ @ @ @ @ in history , some groups are pushing for more representation among the five Cabinet posts @ @ @ @ @

“President-elect Joe Biden is considering nominating Boston Mayor Marty Walsh… Biden has a long personal relationship with Walsh, who spent decades as a union member and leader, most recently as head of Boston’s Building and Construction Trades Council. Walsh has won support from a number of prominent union leaders — most notably AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka,” Politico reports.
“But Walsh is a white man. And although Biden has already nominated the most diverse Cabinet in history, some groups are pushing for more representation among the five Cabinet posts that remain unfilled.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--How Trump Could ‘Pocket Veto’ the Relief Bill

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The coronavirus relief package passed with overwhelming majorities in the House and Senate. If President Trump were to veto the bill — as he hinted last night — Congress could override the veto.


politicalwire--2020-12-23--How Does This End?

How Does This End?

Playbook : “ No one knows .
Some say President Trump is in burn-it-down mode and is more than willing @ @ @ @ @ package , ending his presidency in a lengthy shutdown , with bluster and crisis .
@ @ @ @ @ not explicitly threatening a veto , and everyone should calm down.
” “ Who cares @ @ @ @ @ at this point .
We ’ re not convinced anyone has any idea what the @ @ @ @ @ goal he ’ s driving toward.
” “ He ’ s in the midst of @ @ @ @ @ White House said he ’ d sign over provisions the administration proposed… Maybe he comes @ @ @ @ @ Florida and says he was just kidding — but maybe not , and he ’ @ @ @ @ @ store , he ’ s running the world ’ s most important country in the @ @ @ @ @ so we can ’ t work with maybes .
”

Playbook: “No one knows. Some say President Trump is in burn-it-down mode and is more than willing to veto the Covid relief/funding package, ending his presidency in a lengthy shutdown, with bluster and crisis. Others say he’s not explicitly threatening a veto, and everyone should calm down.”
“Who cares what these people say, at this point. We’re not convinced anyone has any idea what the president is doing or what goal he’s driving toward.”
“He’s in the midst of blowing up a package his White House said he’d sign over provisions the administration proposed… Maybe he comes out today en route to Florida and says he was just kidding — but maybe not, and he’s not running a corner store, he’s running the world’s most important country in the middle of a pandemic, so we can’t work with maybes.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--Giuliani Told to Preserve All Records

Giuliani Told to Preserve All Records

A defamation law firm representing Dominion Voting Systems has sent letters to White House counsel Pat Cipollone and Rudy Giuliani @ @ @ @ @ records related to the company at the center of Trump ’ s conspiracy theories and @ @ @ @ @ is “ imminent , ” CNN reports .


politicalwire--2020-12-23--Kemp Not Worried About Trump-Backed Challenge

Georgia Gov .
Brian Kemp ( R ) told Fox & Friends he was unconcerned about the potential political fallout @ @ @ @ @ attacks on him for refusing to help overturn the results of the presidential election .
@ @ @ @ @ far as me getting primaried , I could care less about that right now .
@ @ @ @ @ need to do , regardless of what you think about what ’ s going on @ @ @ @ @ ve got to support David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler .
”

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp (R) told Fox & Friends he was unconcerned about the potential political fallout from President Trump’s attacks on him for refusing to help overturn the results of the presidential election.
Said Kemp: “As far as me getting primaried, I could care less about that right now. The biggest thing we all need to do, regardless of what you think about what’s going on in Georgia, we’ve got to support David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--Lawmaker Asks for Probe Into Kushner Shell Company

Rep. Mark Pocan ( D-WI ) is asking the Justice Department and Federal Election Commission to investigate the Trump campaign @ @ @ @ @ Business Insider reports .
From the letter : “ If Mr. Kushner ’ s American @ @ @ @ @ fact spend $ 617 million as reported , he and his associates – which include @ @ @ @ @ well as the Vice President ’ s nephew – could face penalties amounting to more @ @ @ @ @ ”

Rep. Mark Pocan (D-WI) is asking the Justice Department and Federal Election Commission to investigate the Trump campaign’s shell company, Business Insider reports.
From the letter: “If Mr. Kushner’s American Made Media Consultants did in fact spend $617 million as reported, he and his associates – which include additional Trump family members as well as the Vice President’s nephew – could face penalties amounting to more than one billion dollars.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--Pistol-Packing Freshmen Prompt Congress Gun Review

“ Several incoming House freshmen have inquired about carrying guns into the Capitol , leading a board overseeing congressional security @ @ @ @ @ members from packing heat under the dome , ” Axios reports .
“ Some Democratic @ @ @ @ @ on Capitol Hill would be a ‘ provocation ’ in light of the current political @ @ @ @ @ it an expression of a citizen ’ s Second Amendment rights .
”

“Several incoming House freshmen have inquired about carrying guns into the Capitol, leading a board overseeing congressional security to rethink a regulation banning members from packing heat under the dome,” Axios reports.
“Some Democratic members say expanded gun carrying on Capitol Hill would be a ‘provocation’ in light of the current political climate. Some Republicans consider it an expression of a citizen’s Second Amendment rights.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--A President Unhappy, Unleashed and Unpredictable

“ With four weeks left in President Trump ’ s term , he is at perhaps his most unleashed — @ @ @ @ @ the last few days have demonstrated , at the most unpredictable point in his presidency @ @ @ @ @ Times reports .
“ He remains the most powerful person in the world , yet @ @ @ @ @ one area in which he is powerless to get what he wants : a way @ @ @ @ @ a loser.
” “ He spends his days flailing for any hope , if not @ @ @ @ @ of the election then at least of building a coherent case that he was robbed @ @ @ @ @ ”

“With four weeks left in President Trump’s term, he is at perhaps his most unleashed — and, as events of the last few days have demonstrated, at the most unpredictable point in his presidency,” the New York Times reports.
“He remains the most powerful person in the world, yet he is focused on the one area in which he is powerless to get what he wants: a way to avoid leaving office as a loser.”
“He spends his days flailing for any hope, if not of actually reversing the outcome of the election then at least of building a coherent case that he was robbed of a second term.”


politicalwire--2020-12-23--GOP Puts Pressure on Pelosi Over Swalwell

“ House Republicans are seizing on Rep. Eric Swalwell ’ s ( D-CA ) connection to an alleged Chinese spy @ @ @ @ @ to drop him from the House Intelligence Committee in the next Congress , ” The @ @ @ @ @ lawmakers argue Swalwell is a national security threat given his former ties to Christine Fang @ @ @ @ @ report in Axios helped fundraise for Swalwell during his 2014 reelection campaign and helped place @ @ @ @ @ before leaving the country in 2015 amid a federal investigation into her actions .
”

“House Republicans are seizing on Rep. Eric Swalwell’s (D-CA) connection to an alleged Chinese spy to put pressure on Democrats to drop him from the House Intelligence Committee in the next Congress,” The Hill reports.
“GOP lawmakers argue Swalwell is a national security threat given his former ties to Christine Fang, who according to a report in Axios helped fundraise for Swalwell during his 2014 reelection campaign and helped place an intern inside his office before leaving the country in 2015 amid a federal investigation into her actions.”


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Most Think History Will Find Trump a Failed President

A new USA Today/Suffolk University Poll finds 50 % of Americans now predict history will judge Donald Trump as a @ @ @ @ @ The remaining are divided : 16 % predict he will be seen as a great @ @ @ @ @ a good president and 16 % as a fair president .
Nonetheless , most Republicans @ @ @ @ @ Trump again .
If he is the party ’ s nominee in 2024 , 71 @ @ @ @ @ would support him , and another 16 % say they would consider it .
Just @ @ @ @ @ ’ t .

A new USA Today/Suffolk University Poll finds 50% of Americans now predict history will judge Donald Trump as a “failed” president.
The remaining are divided: 16% predict he will be seen as a great president, 13% as a good president and 16% as a fair president.
Nonetheless, most Republicans are ready to vote for Trump again. If he is the party’s nominee in 2024, 71% of Republicans say they would support him, and another 16% say they would consider it. Just 10% say they wouldn’t.


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Roger Stone Says Trump Should Pardon Julian Assange

In his first radio interview since being pardoned , Roger spoke told WABC that he plans to sue Rep. Hakeem @ @ @ @ @ defamation .
He also made the case for President Trump to pardon Julian Assange .

In his first radio interview since being pardoned, Roger spoke told WABC that he plans to sue Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (N-NY) for defamation.
He also made the case for President Trump to pardon Julian Assange.


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

Kevin Liptak : “ No one expected him to fade quietly into retirement .
And no one , at this @ @ @ @ @ to pay attention — a fact Trump seems very aware…

“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--2020-12-24--U.S. Holiday Travel Surges Despite Outbreak

“ Millions of Americans are traveling ahead of Christmas and New Year ’ s , despite pleas from public health @ @ @ @ @ to avoid fueling the raging coronavirus pandemic that has killed more than 320,000 nationwide , @ @ @ @ @ “ Many people at airports this week thought long and hard about whether to go @ @ @ @ @ to rationalize it.
” The U.S. reported 228,000 new cases and 3,359 new deaths yesterday @ @ @ @ @ Street Journal .

“Millions of Americans are traveling ahead of Christmas and New Year’s, despite pleas from public health experts that they stay home to avoid fueling the raging coronavirus pandemic that has killed more than 320,000 nationwide,” the AP reports.
“Many people at airports this week thought long and hard about whether to go somewhere and found a way to rationalize it.”
The U.S. reported 228,000 new cases and 3,359 new deaths yesterday, according to the Wall Street Journal.


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Trump Is More Erratic Than Ever

Trump Is More Erratic Than Ever

Kevin Liptak : “ No one expected him to fade quietly into retirement .
And no one , at this @ @ @ @ @ to pay attention — a fact Trump seems very aware of as he desperately seeks @ @ @ @ @ spotlight for however long it will shine , even as his staff is provided instructions @ @ @ @ @ and cleaning out their microwaves.
” “ The effect is a president more erratic than @ @ @ @ @ all but disappeared from public view , Trump is wielding what executive powers he has @ @ @ @ @ ensuring his presence is felt even as he holes up in virtual isolation .
Instead @ @ @ @ @ underneath his helicopter , Trump is holding forth in pre-produced videos and , as always @ @ @ @

Kevin Liptak: “No one expected him to fade quietly into retirement. And no one, at this point, is particularly obliged to pay attention — a fact Trump seems very aware of as he desperately seeks to grasp hold of the spotlight for however long it will shine, even as his staff is provided instructions for boxing up their desks and cleaning out their microwaves.”
“The effect is a president more erratic than ever. Though he has all but disappeared from public view, Trump is wielding what executive powers he has left to rancorous effect, ensuring his presence is felt even as he holes up in virtual isolation. Instead of off-the-cuff rallies or shouting underneath his helicopter, Trump is holding forth in pre-produced videos and, as always, tweeting.”


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Brexit Trade Deal Looks Close

Brexit Trade Deal Looks Close

“ Negotiators from the European Union and Britain worked through the night and into Christmas Eve to put the finishing @ @ @ @ @ that should avert a chaotic economic break between the two sides next week , ” @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Trump Pushes Forward with Saudi Arms Sale

“ The Trump administration has formally notified Congress that it intends to sell nearly $ 500 million in precision bombs @ @ @ @ @ transaction that is likely to fuel criticism from lawmakers who object to arming the Persian @ @ @ @ @ of human rights abuses and stifling dissent and role in the war in Yemen , @ @ @ @ @ .

“The Trump administration has formally notified Congress that it intends to sell nearly $500 million in precision bombs to Saudi Arabia, a transaction that is likely to fuel criticism from lawmakers who object to arming the Persian Gulf nation over its record of human rights abuses and stifling dissent and role in the war in Yemen,” the Washington Post reports.


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Biden’s Pentagon Pick Runs Into Opposition

“ President-elect Joe Biden ’ s historic choice for secretary of defense is running into hurdles on Capitol Hill , @ @ @ @ @ publicly and privately about whether installing a retired four-star general at the helm of the @ @ @ @ @ of the military , ” Politico reports .
“ Rep .
Seth Moulton , an @ @ @ @ @ Armed Services Committee , on Wednesday became the most prominent House Democrat to say he @ @ @ @ @ retired Gen. Lloyd Austin a waiver to the law barring recently retired military officers from @ @ @ @ @ ”

“President-elect Joe Biden’s historic choice for secretary of defense is running into hurdles on Capitol Hill, as key Democrats express concerns publicly and privately about whether installing a retired four-star general at the helm of the Pentagon further erodes civilian oversight of the military,” Politico reports.
“Rep. Seth Moulton, an influential member of the House Armed Services Committee, on Wednesday became the most prominent House Democrat to say he will not vote to grant retired Gen. Lloyd Austin a waiver to the law barring recently retired military officers from serving as defense secretary.”


politicalwire--2020-12-24--One Million Got Vaccine Already

One Million Got Vaccine Already


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Trump Threatens GOP Senators

Trump Threatens GOP Senators

“ I saved at least 8 Republican Senators , including Mitch , from losing in the last Rigged ( for @ @ @ @ @ they ( almost all ) sit back and watch me fight against a crooked and @ @ @ @ @ Left Democrats .
I will NEVER FORGET !
”


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Trump Keeps an Eye on 2022 Primaries

Trump Keeps an Eye on 2022 Primaries

“ President Trump has instructed his top political advisers to begin monitoring potential 2022 GOP primary targets , as he @ @ @ @ @ whom he deems disloyal , ” Politico reports .
“ With less than a month @ @ @ @ @ his team has begun mapping out what his post-White House political infrastructure will look like @ @ @ @ @ planning has centered on deploying resources to defeat Democrats in midterm races .
But advisers @ @ @ @ @ on Republican incumbents.
” “ Trump in recent weeks has used his Twitter feed to @ @ @ @ @ get behind his unfounded claims the election was stolen with him .
But his team @ @ @ @ @ steps — such as tracking their public comments — with an eye toward possibly marshaling @ @ @ @ @ operation to replace them with more Trump-friendly figures .
”

“President Trump has instructed his top political advisers to begin monitoring potential 2022 GOP primary targets, as he lashes out at fellow Republicans whom he deems disloyal,” Politico reports.
“With less than a month until Trump leaves office, his team has begun mapping out what his post-White House political infrastructure will look like. Until now, the planning has centered on deploying resources to defeat Democrats in midterm races. But advisers are now also keeping tabs on Republican incumbents.”
“Trump in recent weeks has used his Twitter feed to attack Republicans for failing to get behind his unfounded claims the election was stolen with him. But his team is now taking more formal steps — such as tracking their public comments — with an eye toward possibly marshaling the president’s political operation to replace them with more Trump-friendly figures.”


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Frustrated Trump Met with Pence Before Break

“ Hours before President Trump retweeted a message for his vice president to ‘ act ’ in stopping the ratification @ @ @ @ @ he met for more than an hour in the Oval Office with Mike Pence , @ @ @ @ @ isn ’ t doing enough to support his bid to overturn the election , ” @ @ @

“Hours before President Trump retweeted a message for his vice president to ‘act’ in stopping the ratification of the Electoral College, he met for more than an hour in the Oval Office with Mike Pence, whom he has complained recently isn’t doing enough to support his bid to overturn the election,” CNN reports.


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Pompeo’s Wife Tested Positive

Pompeo’s Wife Tested Positive

“ Secretary of State Michael Pompeo ’ s wife tested positive for the coronavirus , after the couple came under @ @ @ @ @ the State Department despite a nationwide spike in Covid-19 cases , ” Bloomberg reports .
@ @ @ @ @ immediately clear how Susan Pompeo contracted the virus , though she tested positive just before @ @ @ @ @ that he was going into quarantine for exposure .
”

“Secretary of State Michael Pompeo’s wife tested positive for the coronavirus, after the couple came under criticism for holding parties at the State Department despite a nationwide spike in Covid-19 cases,” Bloomberg reports.
“It wasn’t immediately clear how Susan Pompeo contracted the virus, though she tested positive just before her husband announced Dec. 16 that he was going into quarantine for exposure.”


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Brexit Trade Deal Reached

Brexit Trade Deal Reached

“ A historic deal on the UK ’ s future trading and security relationship with the European Union has been @ @ @ @ @ a week before the end of the Brexit transition period , triggering a victory cry @ @ @ @ @ reflection in Brussels , ” The Guardian reports .
“ As the country leaves the @ @ @ @ @ on December 31 , new arrangements allowing for tariff-free trade in goods and close police @ @ @ @ @ into force .
”

“A historic deal on the UK’s future trading and security relationship with the European Union has been struck on Christmas Eve, a week before the end of the Brexit transition period, triggering a victory cry from Downing Street and sombre reflection in Brussels,” The Guardian reports.
“As the country leaves the single market and customs union on December 31, new arrangements allowing for tariff-free trade in goods and close police and judicial cooperation will come into force.”


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Fugitive Politician Found After 23 Years

“ Pardoning Manafort would be seen as a political disaster for the President .
There may come a day down @ @ @ @ @ politics have changed that you ’ d want to consider…


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Voting Technology Company Threatens Lawsuits

“ Dominion Voting Systems has sent letters to Fox News , as well as the right-wing media outlets Newsmax and @ @ @ @ @ may sue over the baseless conspiracy theory that the election technology company manipulated the results @ @ @ @ @ , ” Business Insider reports .
“ Dominion has also sent letters to individual hosts @ @ @ @ @ including Fox News ’ s Sean Hannity , Lou Dobbs , and Maria Bartiromo , @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“Dominion Voting Systems has sent letters to Fox News, as well as the right-wing media outlets Newsmax and One America News warning it may sue over the baseless conspiracy theory that the election technology company manipulated the results of the 2020 presidential election,” Business Insider reports.
“Dominion has also sent letters to individual hosts and right-wing media figures, including Fox News’s Sean Hannity, Lou Dobbs, and Maria Bartiromo, as well as Rush Limbaugh.”


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Millions of Families Hungry, On the Brink of Eviction

“ Millions of Americans who are hours away from losing unemployment aid or the small business they have spent years @ @ @ @ @ to President Trump and Congress : Please help us , ” the Washington Post reports @ @ @ @ @ been inundated with messages and phone calls from people on the verge of losing their @ @ @ @ @ hungry this holiday who are stunned that President Trump and Congress can not agree on @ @ @ @ @ Several broke down crying in phone interviews .
”

“Millions of Americans who are hours away from losing unemployment aid or the small business they have spent years building have a simple plea to President Trump and Congress: Please help us,” the Washington Post reports.
The newspaper “has been inundated with messages and phone calls from people on the verge of losing their homes and cars and going hungry this holiday who are stunned that President Trump and Congress cannot agree on another emergency aid package. Several broke down crying in phone interviews.”


politicalwire--2020-12-24--A Great Last Minute Gift

A Great Last Minute Gift


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Russian Cyberattack Started Last Year

Russian Cyberattack Started Last Year

President-elect Biden said that the Russia-tied cyberattack , which formerly was known to go back to as early as March @ @ @ @ @ last year , ” Axios reports .
“ An administration source verified the earlier breach @ @ @ @ @ and expense involved in rooting out the intruders , discovering what was lost and fixing @ @ @ @ @

President-elect Biden said that the Russia-tied cyberattack, which formerly was known to go back to as early as March, began “at least last year,” Axios reports.
“An administration source verified the earlier breach date — compounding the work and expense involved in rooting out the intruders, discovering what was lost and fixing for the future.”


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Warnock’s Ex-Wife Told Police He’s a ‘Great Actor’

Atlanta Journal Constitution : “ Democratic Senate candidate Raphael Warnock ’ s ex-wife told Atlanta police officers that her husband @ @ @ @ @ ’ after he denied her claims that he ran over her foot with his car @ @ @ @ @ footage of the March 2020 incident that aired late Tuesday on Fox News .
”


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Stacey Abrams Gets Out the Vote

Stacey Abrams Gets Out the Vote

Stacey Abrams tweets that 57,429 Georgians who already cast a ballot in the January 5th Senate runoffs did not vote @ @ @ @ @ election .
And “ half or more ” are people of color .

Stacey Abrams tweets that 57,429 Georgians who already cast a ballot in the January 5th Senate runoffs did not vote at all in the presidential election.
And “half or more” are people of color.


politicalwire--2020-12-24--House Republicans Block Boosting Stimulus Payments

“ House Republicans on Thursday blocked an effort by House Democrats to approve $ 2,000 stimulus payments for millions of @ @ @ @ @ to advance the measure after President Trump demanded it on Tuesday night , breaking with @ @ @ @ @ , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ House Democratic leadership attempted to advance the @ @ @ @ @ ‘ but the effort was blocked by Republican leadership .

“House Republicans on Thursday blocked an effort by House Democrats to approve $2,000 stimulus payments for millions of Americans. Democrats were seeking to advance the measure after President Trump demanded it on Tuesday night, breaking with many in the Republican party,” the Washington Post reports.
“House Democratic leadership attempted to advance the measure by ‘unanimous consent‘ but the effort was blocked by Republican leadership.


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Trump Completes His Russian Collusion Cover Up

Jonathan Chait : “ The official White House statement justifying the pardon of Paul Manafort explains that his prosecution ‘ @ @ @ @ @ collusion hoax.
’ But Trump ’ s pardon — a ploy so well signaled its @ @ @ @ @ he stepped into the Oval Office and that he has floated for years to keep @ @ @ @ @ final proof the Russia investigation was not a hoax but a scandal Trump used his @ @ @ @ @ Trump has already pardoned Michael Flynn and commuted the sentence of Roger Stone , both @ @ @ @ @ to protect him .
The Manafort pardon is the final piece of his Russiagate cover-up.
@ @ @ @ @ Every significant Mueller defendant who refused to cooperate ( or started but then stopped ) @ @ @ @ @ “ Only Rick Gates and Michael Cohen — both of whom testified publicly , in @ @ @ @ @ not been pardoned .
”

Jonathan Chait: “The official White House statement justifying the pardon of Paul Manafort explains that his prosecution ‘was premised on the Russian collusion hoax.’ But Trump’s pardon — a ploy so well signaled its inevitability was clear even before he stepped into the Oval Office and that he has floated for years to keep Manafort quiet — is the final proof the Russia investigation was not a hoax but a scandal Trump used his powers to thwart.”
“Trump has already pardoned Michael Flynn and commuted the sentence of Roger Stone, both of whom lied to investigators to protect him. The Manafort pardon is the final piece of his Russiagate cover-up.”
Elie Honig: “Every significant Mueller defendant who refused to cooperate (or started but then stopped) has now been pardoned.”
“Only Rick Gates and Michael Cohen — both of whom testified publicly, in court or Congress — have not been pardoned.”


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Flashback Quote of the Day

Flashback Quote of the Day

“ Pardoning Manafort would be seen as a political disaster for the President .
There may come a day down @ @ @ @ @ politics have changed that you ’ d want to consider an application of him like @ @ @ @ @ would be a disaster .
”

“Pardoning Manafort would be seen as a political disaster for the President. There may come a day down the road, after the politics have changed that you’d want to consider an application of him like everybody else, but now would be a disaster.”
— Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC), quoted by CNN in early 2019.


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Brad Parscale Plots His Comeback

Brad Parscale Plots His Comeback

New York Times : “ Mr .
Parscale , President Trump ’ s former campaign manager , said he was @ @ @ @ @ that bleak Sunday in late September when he made the national newscasts , after police @ @ @ @ @ in Fort Lauderdale , Fla. His wife told officers he was inside the house , @ @ @ @ @ with a loaded and cocked gun.
” “ Now he is turning to real estate @ @ @ @ @ and flip them , he said in an interview this month , something he said @ @ @ @ @ He is also restarting his political consulting firm , Parscale Strategy , and trying to @ @ @ @ @ Nucleus , to process and analyze data for conservative politicians .
”

New York Times: “Mr. Parscale, President Trump’s former campaign manager, said he was trying to move on from that bleak Sunday in late September when he made the national newscasts, after police were called to his home in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. His wife told officers he was inside the house, ranting, acting erratically, with a loaded and cocked gun.”
“Now he is turning to real estate and plans to buy houses and flip them, he said in an interview this month, something he said he was good at. He is also restarting his political consulting firm, Parscale Strategy, and trying to kick off a start-up called Nucleus, to process and analyze data for conservative politicians.”


politicalwire--2020-12-24--Breaking Down Trump’s Pardons

Breaking Down Trump’s Pardons

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politicalwire--2020-12-24--Jeffrey Rosen Takes Reins of Justice Department


politicalwire--2020-12-25--Democrats Shatter Fundraising Records In Georgia

“ Democrats Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock shattered fundraising records by hauling in more than $ 100 million each in @ @ @ @ @ significantly outraising GOP Sens .
David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler in the final stretch of @ @ @ @ @ that will decide control of the chamber next month , ” Politico reports .
“ @ @ @ @ @ two Democrats was driven largely by small-dollar donations , continuing the pattern this year of @ @ @ @ @ candidates tapping into online donors across the country to fund their challenger campaigns , although @ @ @ @ @ despite the fundraising edge .
”

“Democrats Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock shattered fundraising records by hauling in more than $100 million each in the past two months, significantly outraising GOP Sens. David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler in the final stretch of the two Georgia Senate races that will decide control of the chamber next month,” Politico reports.
“The massive fundraising for the two Democrats was driven largely by small-dollar donations, continuing the pattern this year of the party’s Senate candidates tapping into online donors across the country to fund their challenger campaigns, although Democrats underperformed expectations in November despite the fundraising edge.”


politicalwire--2020-12-25--Pence Under Pressure When He’ll Formalize Biden’s Win

Washington Post : “ A joint session of Congress on Jan. 6 will take the last step in formalizing President-elect @ @ @ @ @ , and Pence , in his role as president of the Senate , will preside @ @ @ @ @ years of ceaseless efforts to demonstrate his loyalty to Trump.
” “ Some die-hard Trump @ @ @ @ @ will be a traitor if he does not somehow derail the proceedings .
There is @ @ @ @ @ to do that even if he wanted to , but such demands ratchet up the @ @ @ @ @ is unlikely to escape their wrath — or Trump ’ s. ” “ Pence is @ @ @ @ @ 6 and is not planning any unnecessary drama , aides said , intending to stick @ @ @ @ @ He is eyeing a trip overseas soon after .
”

Washington Post: “A joint session of Congress on Jan. 6 will take the last step in formalizing President-elect Joe Biden’s victory, and Pence, in his role as president of the Senate, will preside over the session after four years of ceaseless efforts to demonstrate his loyalty to Trump.”
“Some die-hard Trump supporters are declaring that Pence will be a traitor if he does not somehow derail the proceedings. There is no evident way for him to do that even if he wanted to, but such demands ratchet up the pressure on Pence, who is unlikely to escape their wrath — or Trump’s.”
“Pence is hoping for a low-key Jan. 6 and is not planning any unnecessary drama, aides said, intending to stick to his perfunctory role. He is eyeing a trip overseas soon after.”


politicalwire--2020-12-25--Biden and Trump Issue Different Christmas Messages

Joe Biden and President Trump delivered starkly different Christmas messages Friday , with the president-elect emphasizing in a video the @ @ @ @ @ has wrought and reminding Americans of “ our common humanity , ” while Trump made @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus , NBC News reports .
“ He also emphasized that he and Jill @ @ @ @ @ seeing extended family this year , to honor the public health guidelines made necessary by @ @ @ @ @ , meanwhile , issued a formal White House statement that didn ’ t specifically mention @ @ @ @

Joe Biden and President Trump delivered starkly different Christmas messages Friday, with the president-elect emphasizing in a video the pain that the Covid-19 pandemic has wrought and reminding Americans of “our common humanity,” while Trump made only the faintest reference to the coronavirus, NBC News reports.
“He also emphasized that he and Jill Biden wouldn’t be seeing extended family this year, to honor the public health guidelines made necessary by the pandemic.”
“Trump, meanwhile, issued a formal White House statement that didn’t specifically mention the pandemic.”


politicalwire--2020-12-25--Biden Says He’ll Be Able to Work with Republicans

President-elect Joe Biden told the New York Times that he will be able to work with Republicans because of his @ @ @ @ @ despite a sharply divided Congress .
Said Biden : “ My leverage is , every @ @ @ @ @ ve never once , ever , misled them .
I ’ ll never publicly embarrass @ @ @

President-elect Joe Biden told the New York Times that he will be able to work with Republicans because of his years working alongside them, despite a sharply divided Congress.
Said Biden: “My leverage is, every senior Republican knows I’ve never once, ever, misled them. I’ll never publicly embarrass them.”


politicalwire--2020-12-25--Authorities Probe Possible Terrorist Attack In Nashville

Nashville authorities believe an explosion that occurred in downtown Nashville early Christmas morning was an “ intentional act ” and @ @ @ @ @ the Tennessean reports .
Said Mayor John Cooper : “ It looks like a bomb @ @ @ @

Nashville authorities believe an explosion that occurred in downtown Nashville early Christmas morning was an “intentional act” and sparked by a vehicle, the Tennessean reports.
Said Mayor John Cooper: “It looks like a bomb went off.”


Merry Christmas!

Playbook : “ The president is complaining to people he speaks to that the coronavirus/government funding package has too much @ @ @ @ @ he says , and the direct payments are too low .
The…


Where Things Stand

Playbook : “ The president is complaining to people he speaks to that the coronavirus/government funding package has too much @ @ @ @ @ he says , and the direct payments are too low .
The bill has been @ @ @ @ @ for his signature .
No one we can find knows if he ’ ll sign @ @ @ @ @ run out Saturday .
And the government shuts down Monday.
” “ Here ’ s @ @ @ @ @ House is in on Monday — the day the government runs out of spending authority @ @ @ @ @ ’ t come back until Tuesday , which is , of course , after the @ @ @ @

Playbook: “The president is complaining to people he speaks to that the coronavirus/government funding package has too much ‘pork,’ as he says, and the direct payments are too low. The bill has been flown to Florida from Washington for his signature. No one we can find knows if he’ll sign it.”
“Unemployment benefits run out Saturday. And the government shuts down Monday.”
“Here’s the scary thing: The House is in on Monday — the day the government runs out of spending authority — but the Senate doesn’t come back until Tuesday, which is, of course, after the funding deadline.”


politicalwire--2020-12-26--Trump Pushes Again for $2,000 Checks

Trump Pushes Again for $2,000 Checks

President Trump continued to push raising the amount of direct payments the massive Covid stimulus package should provide to Americans @ @ @ @ @ on whether he would sign or veto the existing bill , NBC News reports .
@ @ @ @ @ many calls and had meetings at Trump International in Palm Beach , Florida .
Why @ @ @ @ @ give people $ 2000 , rather than only $ 600 ?
It wasn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ China .
Give our people the money !
”

President Trump continued to push raising the amount of direct payments the massive Covid stimulus package should provide to Americans, but gave no indication on whether he would sign or veto the existing bill, NBC News reports.
Said Trump: “Made many calls and had meetings at Trump International in Palm Beach, Florida. Why would politicians not want to give people $2000, rather than only $600? It wasn’t their fault, it was China. Give our people the money!”


politicalwire--2020-12-26--Ossoff Is Best Funded Senate Candidate In History

Washington Post : “ Apartment tenants who have fallen behind on their rent face catastrophe at the end of the @ @ @ @ @ President Trump have yet to approve emergency aid…


politicalwire--2020-12-26--Trump Shreds Mnuchin’s Relief Deal

Trump Shreds Mnuchin’s Relief Deal

Washington Post : “ The president ’ s denunciation of the agreement represented a stunning public broadside against his own @ @ @ @ @ four years loyally shielded the president ’ s tax returns , endured repeated presidential tirades @ @ @ @ @ even Trump ’ s most incendiary and contradictory remarks .
Through it all , Mnuchin @ @ @ @ @ ability to walk a tightrope between Trump and congressional leaders , serving as an emissary @ @ @ @ @ all ended on Tuesday , when Trump posted a video on Twitter ridiculing the agreement.
@ @ @ @ @ a possible government shutdown on Tuesday , the entire emergency relief package is in jeopardy @ @ @ @ @ checks Mnuchin had promised would be sent later this week can not be sent if @ @ @ @ @ signed into law .
And a range of other emergency relief programs that were part @ @ @ @ @ rental protections to small-business aid , airline assistance and vaccine distribution money , are also @ @ @

Washington Post: “The president’s denunciation of the agreement represented a stunning public broadside against his own treasury secretary, who for four years loyally shielded the president’s tax returns, endured repeated presidential tirades in private, and defended even Trump’s most incendiary and contradictory remarks. Through it all, Mnuchin had emerged with the unique ability to walk a tightrope between Trump and congressional leaders, serving as an emissary in difficult negotiations. That all ended on Tuesday, when Trump posted a video on Twitter ridiculing the agreement.”
“In addition to a possible government shutdown on Tuesday, the entire emergency relief package is in jeopardy. The $600 stimulus checks Mnuchin had promised would be sent later this week cannot be sent if the bill isn’t signed into law. And a range of other emergency relief programs that were part of the package, from rental protections to small-business aid, airline assistance and vaccine distribution money, are also now frozen.


politicalwire--2020-12-26--Trump’s Pardons Must Not Obstruct Justice

Laurence Tribe : “ If , as Alexander Pope reflected in 1711 , ‘ to err is human , to @ @ @ @ @ then the US Constitution ’ s pardon power — the prerogative of forgiveness — should @ @ @ @ @ Instead , a godless US president who appears incapable of forgiveness has seemingly perverted this @ @ @ @ @ grave threat to the rule of law .
Donald Trump ’ s recent twisting of @ @ @ @ @ a damaging legacy : a blueprint for manipulating this vestige of royal prerogative to place @ @ @ @ @ the law .
But a remedy exists : investigation and potential prosecution .
We must @ @ @ @ @ we uncover as the crimes they are .
”

Laurence Tribe: “If, as Alexander Pope reflected in 1711, ‘to err is human, to forgive, divine,’ then the US Constitution’s pardon power — the prerogative of forgiveness — should be beyond reproach.”
“Instead, a godless US president who appears incapable of forgiveness has seemingly perverted this instrument of mercy into another grave threat to the rule of law. Donald Trump’s recent twisting of the pardon power risks leaving a damaging legacy: a blueprint for manipulating this vestige of royal prerogative to place presidents and their cronies above the law. But a remedy exists: investigation and potential prosecution. We must treat any obstructions of justice we uncover as the crimes they are.”


politicalwire--2020-12-26--More Election Drama Expected After Georgia Runoffs

Atlanta Journal-Constitution : “ Georgia ’ s extraordinarily thin partisan divide set the stage for rampant misinformation , lawsuits and @ @ @ @ @ the presidential election.
” “ With control of the Senate on the line Jan. 5 @ @ @ @ @ for a new round of drama — especially if the races are as close as @ @ @ @ @ campaigns suggest they will be .
”

Atlanta Journal-Constitution: “Georgia’s extraordinarily thin partisan divide set the stage for rampant misinformation, lawsuits and fights over election integrity after the presidential election.”
“With control of the Senate on the line Jan. 5, elections officials are bracing for a new round of drama — especially if the races are as close as polls, analysts and the campaigns suggest they will be.”


politicalwire--2020-12-26--Biden Pushes Trump to Sign Relief Bill

Biden Pushes Trump to Sign Relief Bill

President-elect Joe Biden pressed President Trump to immediately sign a COVID-19 relief bill that is stuck in limbo , blasting @ @ @ @ @ s “ abdication of responsibility , ” The Hill reports .
Said Biden : “ @ @ @ @ @ Christmas , and millions of families don ’ t know if they ’ ll be @ @ @ @ @ because of President Donald Trump ’ s refusal to sign an economic relief bill approved @ @ @ @ @ and bipartisan majority .
This abdication of responsibility has devastating consequences .
”

President-elect Joe Biden pressed President Trump to immediately sign a COVID-19 relief bill that is stuck in limbo, blasting what he deemed Trump’s “abdication of responsibility,” The Hill reports.
Said Biden: “It is the day after Christmas, and millions of families don’t know if they’ll be able to make ends meet because of President Donald Trump’s refusal to sign an economic relief bill approved by Congress with an overwhelming and bipartisan majority. This abdication of responsibility has devastating consequences.”


politicalwire--2020-12-26--The 10 Dumbest Things Donald Trump Did

The 10 Dumbest Things Donald Trump Did


politicalwire--2020-12-26--Trump Hits Magazines for Not Giving Melania Cover Shot

President Trump criticized glossy US magazines for not offering his wife Melania Trump a single cover shoot while he has @ @ @ @ @ Insider reports .
Trump retweeted a Breitbart post that said “ elitist snobs in the @ @ @ @ @ the “ most elegant First Lady in American history .
”

President Trump criticized glossy US magazines for not offering his wife Melania Trump a single cover shoot while he has been in office, Business Insider reports.
Trump retweeted a Breitbart post that said “elitist snobs in the fashion press” were snubbing the “most elegant First Lady in American history.”


politicalwire--2020-12-26--Trump Slams Justice Department, Supreme Court

In a tweetstorm beginning early Saturday morning , President Trump railed against the the Department of Justice and U.S. attorney @ @ @ @ @ produce a report that exposed wrongdoing in the FBI ’ s Russia probe , Politico @ @ @ @ @ “ Where the hell is the Durham Report ?
They spied on my campaign , @ @ @ @ @ others ) , and got caught.
” Trump also took aim at the Supreme Court @ @ @ @ @ incompetent and weak ” and again questioning why it wouldn ’ t hear a suit @ @ @ @ @ fraud , effectively ending legal challenges to the electoral process .

In a tweetstorm beginning early Saturday morning, President Trump railed against the the Department of Justice and U.S. attorney John Durham for failing to produce a report that exposed wrongdoing in the FBI’s Russia probe, Politico reports.
Said Trump: “Where the hell is the Durham Report? They spied on my campaign, colluded with Russia (and others), and got caught.”
Trump also took aim at the Supreme Court, calling it “totally incompetent and weak” and again questioning why it wouldn’t hear a suit filed by Texas claiming election fraud, effectively ending legal challenges to the electoral process.


politicalwire--2020-12-26--Stinging Setback In California Is Warning for Democrats

“ Two years ago , Democrats celebrated a sweep of seven Republican-held congressional seats in California as evidence of the @ @ @ @ @ to compete in swing districts here and across the nation .
ut this year , @ @ @ @ @ those seats even as Joe Biden swamped President Trump in California .
The losses stunned @ @ @ @ @ razor-thin margin the party will hold in the House of Representatives this January , ” @ @ @ @ @ .
“ The turnaround is testimony to how competitive the seats are , particularly in @ @ @ @ @ bastion of conservative Republicanism that has been moving steadily Democratic over the past 20 years @ @ @ @ @ , the results were a setback for Democrats in this state and nationally , signaling @ @ @ @ @ face in 2022 competing in the predominantly suburban swing districts that fueled their takeover of @ @ @ @ @

“Two years ago, Democrats celebrated a sweep of seven Republican-held congressional seats in California as evidence of the party’s growing ability to compete in swing districts here and across the nation. ut this year, Republicans snatched back four of those seats even as Joe Biden swamped President Trump in California. The losses stunned Democrats and contributed to the razor-thin margin the party will hold in the House of Representatives this January,” the New York Times reports.
“The turnaround is testimony to how competitive the seats are, particularly in Orange County, once a bastion of conservative Republicanism that has been moving steadily Democratic over the past 20 years. But by any measure, the results were a setback for Democrats in this state and nationally, signaling the steep obstacles they will face in 2022 competing in the predominantly suburban swing districts that fueled their takeover of the House in 2018.


politicalwire--2020-12-26--Struggling Renters Face Avalanche of Evictions

Washington Post : “ Apartment tenants who have fallen behind on their rent face catastrophe at the end of the @ @ @ @ @ President Trump have yet to approve emergency aid for renters or extend an eviction moratorium @ @ @ @ @ it is set to expire.
” “ An estimated 11.3 million households in the country @ @ @ @ @ won ’ t be able to pay next month according to the Census Bureau , @ @ @ @ @ rent estimated at $ 70 billion by Moody ’ s Analytics .
Landlords have responded @ @ @ @ @ of eviction notices at local courthouses around the country , cases that are ready to @ @ @ @ @ longer in place .
”

Washington Post: “Apartment tenants who have fallen behind on their rent face catastrophe at the end of the year, as Congress and President Trump have yet to approve emergency aid for renters or extend an eviction moratorium beyond Dec. 31, when it is set to expire.”
“An estimated 11.3 million households in the country are behind on rent or won’t be able to pay next month according to the Census Bureau, creating a backlog in unpaid rent estimated at $70 billion by Moody’s Analytics. Landlords have responded by filing hundreds of thousands of eviction notices at local courthouses around the country, cases that are ready to advance once moratoriums are no longer in place.”


politicalwire--2020-12-26--New House Will Start With Narrow Margins

“ The House will begin the new session of Congress with an important to-do list : swearing in new members @ @ @ @ @ the House , defining the rules of the new Congress and certifying the results of @ @ @ @ @ the Wall Street Journal reports .
“ Democrats will have little wiggle room , with @ @ @ @ @ few votes as Republicans push to stop the majority ’ s plans.
” “ Underscoring @ @ @ @ @ the House and Senate will start the session on a Sunday , for the first @ @ @ @ @ Constitution dictates that Congress starts on Jan. 3 , but in the past when the @ @ @ @ @ weekend , lawmakers have come to an agreement to move the date to start during @ @ @ @ @ year , Democrats wanted to start as early as possible , with the certification of @ @ @ @ @ win set for Jan. 6 and Democrats wanting to avoid any recess appointments by President @ @ @ @ @ if there is any gap between sessions .
”

“The House will begin the new session of Congress with an important to-do list: swearing in new members, electing a speaker in the House, defining the rules of the new Congress and certifying the results of the presidential election,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
“Democrats will have little wiggle room, with a margin of just a few votes as Republicans push to stop the majority’s plans.”
“Underscoring the sense of urgency, the House and Senate will start the session on a Sunday, for the first time on record. The Constitution dictates that Congress starts on Jan. 3, but in the past when the day has fallen on the weekend, lawmakers have come to an agreement to move the date to start during the workweek. But this year, Democrats wanted to start as early as possible, with the certification of Joe Biden’s election win set for Jan. 6 and Democrats wanting to avoid any recess appointments by President Trump, which could occur if there is any gap between sessions.”


politicalwire--2020-12-26--Facebook Will Face Greater Scrutiny Under Biden

“ Facebook endured a deluge of political scrutiny in Donald Trump ’ s Washington .
It ’ s poised to @ @ @ @ @ Joe Biden era , ” Politico reports .
“ From lawmakers on Capitol Hill to @ @ @ @ @ Trade Commission , Washington is training its sights on the world ’ s largest social @ @ @ @ @ Biden ’ s antitrust enforcers will take ownership of a lawsuit the FTC filed this @ @ @ @ @ sprawling company .
And his staff will negotiate legislative proposals with congressional leaders who have @ @ @ @ @ users ’ personal data and spreading hate speech and dangerous falsehoods .
”

“Facebook endured a deluge of political scrutiny in Donald Trump’s Washington. It’s poised to face even worse in the Joe Biden era,” Politico reports.
“From lawmakers on Capitol Hill to antitrust enforcers at the Federal Trade Commission, Washington is training its sights on the world’s largest social network like never before. Biden’s antitrust enforcers will take ownership of a lawsuit the FTC filed this month threatening to dismantle the sprawling company. And his staff will negotiate legislative proposals with congressional leaders who have hammered Facebook for mishandling its users’ personal data and spreading hate speech and dangerous falsehoods.”


politicalwire--2020-12-26--Expanded Unemployment Benefits Set to Lapse

“ Expanded unemployment benefits were set to lapse for millions of struggling Americans on Saturday , a day after President @ @ @ @ @ a $ 900 billion pandemic relief bill that was awaiting his signature and would extend @ @ @ @ @ York Times reports .
CBS News : COVID relief bill flown to Florida , as @ @ @ @ @ York Times : “ If Mr. Trump signs the bill on Saturday , states will @ @ @ @ @ their computer systems to account for the new law , according to Michele Evermore of @ @ @ @ @ , but unemployed workers would still be able to claim the benefits .
”

“Expanded unemployment benefits were set to lapse for millions of struggling Americans on Saturday, a day after President Trump expressed more criticism of a $900 billion pandemic relief bill that was awaiting his signature and would extend them,” the New York Times reports.
CBS News: COVID relief bill flown to Florida, as Trump went golfing.
New York Times: “If Mr. Trump signs the bill on Saturday, states will still need time to reprogram their computer systems to account for the new law, according to Michele Evermore of the National Employment Law Project, but unemployed workers would still be able to claim the benefits.”


politicalwire--2020-12-26--Los Angeles Hospitals Low on Oxygen

Los Angeles Hospitals Low on Oxygen

Los Angeles Times : “ Christmas arrived in Los Angeles County with hospitals in a full-blown coronavirus crisis .
There @ @ @ @ @ that some hospitals are running dangerously low on oxygen and other supplies critical to treating @ @ @ @ @

“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--2020-12-26--Graham Backs Trump’s Posturing on Bills

Graham Backs Trump’s Posturing on Bills

“ After spending some time with President Trump today , I am convinced he is more determined than ever to @ @ @ @ @ 2000 per person and challenge Section 230 big tech liability protection .
Both are reasonable @ @ @ @ @ Congress is listening .
The biggest winner would be the American people .
”

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) tweeted last night:
“After spending some time with President Trump today, I am convinced he is more determined than ever to increase stimulus payments to $2000 per person and challenge Section 230 big tech liability protection. Both are reasonable demands, and I hope Congress is listening. The biggest winner would be the American people.”


politicalwire--2020-12-26--Trump Slams Senate Republicans Again

Trump Slams Senate Republicans Again

President Trump ramped up his criticism of Senate Republicans over their unwillingness to aid his efforts to overturn the election @ @ @ @ @ If a Democrat Presidential Candidate had an Election Rigged & Stolen , with proof of @ @ @ @ @ never seen before , the Democrat Senators would consider it an act of war , @ @ @ @ @ .
Mitch & the Republicans do NOTHING , just want to let it pass .
@ @ @ @

President Trump ramped up his criticism of Senate Republicans over their unwillingness to aid his efforts to overturn the election.
Said Trump: “If a Democrat Presidential Candidate had an Election Rigged & Stolen, with proof of such acts at a level never seen before, the Democrat Senators would consider it an act of war, and fight to the death. Mitch & the Republicans do NOTHING, just want to let it pass. NO FIGHT!”


politicalwire--2020-12-26--DeSantis Aide Deletes Twitter Account

DeSantis Aide Deletes Twitter Account

The spokesman for Florida Gov .
Ron DeSantis ( R ) deactivated his Twitter account after he tweeted in the @ @ @ @ @ of each dead COVID-19 victim should be balanced with 99 photos of people who survive @ @ @ @ @ Sentinel reports .
Said Fred Piccolo : “ I ’ m wondering since 99 % @ @ @ @ @ ’ t you have 99 photos of survivors for every one fatality ?
Otherwise you @ @ @ @ @ create a narrative that is not reality .
”

The spokesman for Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) deactivated his Twitter account after he tweeted in the middle of night that photos of each dead COVID-19 victim should be balanced with 99 photos of people who survive the disease, the Orlando Sentinel reports.
Said Fred Piccolo: “I’m wondering since 99% of Covid patients survive shouldn’t you have 99 photos of survivors for every one fatality? Otherwise you’re just trying to create a narrative that is not reality.”


politicalwire--2020-12-26--Trump Made Lasting Impact on the Courts

Trump Made Lasting Impact on the Courts

“ On this , even President Donald Trump ’ s most fevered critics agree : He has left a deep @ @ @ @ @ that will outlast his one term in office for decades to come , ” the @ @ @ @ @ used the promise of conservative judicial appointments to win over Republican skeptics as a candidate @ @ @ @ @ he relied on outside conservative legal organizations and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to employ @ @ @ @ @ install more than 230 judges on the federal bench , including the three newest justices @ @ @ @ @ Trump never tired of boasting about it.
” HuffPost : Trump ’ s presidency is @ @ @ @ @ be here for decades .

“On this, even President Donald Trump’s most fevered critics agree: He has left a deep imprint on the federal courts that will outlast his one term in office for decades to come,” the AP reports.
“He used the promise of conservative judicial appointments to win over Republican skeptics as a candidate. Then as president, he relied on outside conservative legal organizations and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to employ an assembly line-like precision to install more than 230 judges on the federal bench, including the three newest justices of the Supreme Court. Trump never tired of boasting about it.”
HuffPost: Trump’s presidency is over. his judges will be here for decades.