politicalwire--2020-10-03--Trump Staffers Don’t Know What’s Going On

Multiple sources in the White House and on the Trump campaign have reached out to Jonathan Swan since White House @ @ @ @ @ ’ statement earlier today and told him they ’ re utterly perplexed about what ’ @ @ @ @ @ senior official told New York that “ not only is there no reliable information flow @ @ @ @ @ s condition , but there ’ s also no reliable information about anything else.
” @ @ @ @ @ staffers find themselves in the same predicament as those on the outside looking in .
@ @ @ @ @ protect the White House from negative press is backfiring .
”

Multiple sources in the White House and on the Trump campaign have reached out to Jonathan Swan since White House chief of staff Mark Meadows’ statement earlier today and told him they’re utterly perplexed about what’s going on.
A senior official told New York that “not only is there no reliable information flow internally regarding the president’s condition, but there’s also no reliable information about anything else.”
“Even his most senior staffers find themselves in the same predicament as those on the outside looking in. An opaque system designed to protect the White House from negative press is backfiring.”


politicalwire--2020-10-03--Trump Relaying Messages Through Rudy Giuliani

President Trump phoned Rudy Giuliani from his hospital bed Saturday afternoon to declare he feels so healthy , “ I @ @ @ @ @ right now , ” the New York Post reports .
“ You go tell people @ @ @ @ @ coverage .
I feel I could get out of here right now .
But they @ @ @ @ @ can always be a backstep with this disease .
But I feel I could go @ @ @ @ @ ” “ I am the president of the United States .
I can ’ t @ @ @ @ @ I had to confront the virus so the American people stopped being afraid of it @ @ @ @ @ it responsibly .
”

President Trump phoned Rudy Giuliani from his hospital bed Saturday afternoon to declare he feels so healthy, “I could get out of here right now,” the New York Post reports.
The president dictated a statement to Giuliani:
“You go tell people I’m watching this coverage. I feel I could get out of here right now. But they’re telling me there can always be a backstep with this disease. But I feel I could go out and do a rally.”
“I am the president of the United States. I can’t lock myself in a room… I had to confront the virus so the American people stopped being afraid of it so we could deal with it responsibly.”


politicalwire--2020-10-03--Grassley Refuses to Get Tested

Grassley Refuses to Get Tested

Two sources tell Gabriel Sherman that doctors gave President Trump an ultimatum on Friday : “ he could go to @ @ @ @ @ still walk , or doctors would be forced…

“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--2020-10-03--Trump’s Condition Was More Dire Than Reported

Gabriel Sherman reports that conversations with Republicans close to White House over the last 12 hours indicate President Trump ’ @ @ @ @ @ been far more dire than White House and doctors have said .
Before being taken @ @ @ @ @ , Trump kept asking aides : “ Am I going out like Stan Chera ?
@ @ @ @ @ was Trump ’ s New York City friend who died of Covid in April .

Gabriel Sherman reports that conversations with Republicans close to White House over the last 12 hours indicate President Trump’s medical condition has been been far more dire than White House and doctors have said.
Before being taken to Walter Reed Medical Center, Trump kept asking aides: “Am I going out like Stan Chera? Am I?”
Chera was Trump’s New York City friend who died of Covid in April.
Daily Beast: Trump doctor’s briefing turns into code-red debacle.


politicalwire--2020-10-03--The October of Doom for Republicans

The October of Doom for Republicans

Josh Kraushaar : “ Arrogance and ignorance are a toxic combination in politics .
This week ’ s case study : The Trump administration ’ s inability to showcase basic competence and prudence in the middle of a pandemic has crippled the president ’ s already hobbled campaign , as time for a miraculous turnaround is expiring.
” “ In a way , the immediate political implications will be inconsequential .
Already trailing Joe Biden badly in the polls , it ’ s downright implausible that Trump will win any persuadable voters after this week of recklessness .
Remember : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s tax avoidance , and nearly ended with controversy over his unwillingness to forthrightly condemn white supremacism .
Sandwiched in between was an embarrassing , self-destructive debate performance .
Then coronavirus came to the White House.
” “ Will the bottom fall out for Republicans , as it did in polling over the summer as he proved himself unable to control the pandemic ?
That ’ s a known unknown , complicated by the uncertainty of the president ’ s long-term prognosis .
It ’ s possible that Trump could benefit from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from his illness .
But for a campaign that isn ’ t planning to stop its negative attack ads during this national moment of crisis—even as the Biden campaign stood down , showcasing some much-needed empathy—it ’ s hard to see any groundswell of support boosting the incumbent .
”

Josh Kraushaar: “Arrogance and ignorance are a toxic combination in politics. This week’s case study: The Trump administration’s inability to showcase basic competence and prudence in the middle of a pandemic has crippled the president’s already hobbled campaign, as time for a miraculous turnaround is expiring.”
“In a way, the immediate political implications will be inconsequential. Already trailing Joe Biden badly in the polls, it’s downright implausible that Trump will win any persuadable voters after this week of recklessness. Remember: The week began with news of Trump’s tax avoidance, and nearly ended with controversy over his unwillingness to forthrightly condemn white supremacism. Sandwiched in between was an embarrassing, self-destructive debate performance. Then coronavirus came to the White House.”
“Will the bottom fall out for Republicans, as it did in polling over the summer as he proved himself unable to control the pandemic? That’s a known unknown, complicated by the uncertainty of the president’s long-term prognosis. It’s possible that Trump could benefit from some obligatory bipartisan sympathy as he recovers from his illness. But for a campaign that isn’t planning to stop its negative attack ads during this national moment of crisis—even as the Biden campaign stood down, showcasing some much-needed empathy—it’s hard to see any groundswell of support boosting the incumbent.”


politicalwire--2020-10-03--Virus Slams Into a Broken Washington

Virus Slams Into a Broken Washington

“ Let ’ s not mince words : Washington has been plunged into a crisis of historic proportions , frozen @ @ @ @ @ both unwilling and unable to control , ” Politico reports .
“ Washington crises typically @ @ @ @ @ : They simmer , boil and come to their expected conclusion .
The government shuts @ @ @ @ @ , but it always reopens .
A national security emergency demands an urgent response — @ @ @ @ @ But this time , America ’ s capital itself is crippled , leaving the country @ @ @ @ @ with bitter partisan fighting in the middle of a pandemic that has already claimed more @ @ @ @ @ nowhere near over .
”

“Let’s not mince words: Washington has been plunged into a crisis of historic proportions, frozen by a disease it is both unwilling and unable to control,” Politico reports.
“Washington crises typically conform to a predictable rhythm: They simmer, boil and come to their expected conclusion. The government shuts down for a few days, but it always reopens. A national security emergency demands an urgent response — and gets one.”
“But this time, America’s capital itself is crippled, leaving the country rudderless, leaderless and riven with bitter partisan fighting in the middle of a pandemic that has already claimed more than 200,000 lives and is nowhere near over.”


politicalwire--2020-10-03--McConnell Won’t Delay Confirmation Hearings

With three Republican senators in quarantine after testing positive for the novel coronavirus , Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell ( @ @ @ @ @ proceedings will be postponed until October 19th .
However , he said that Senate Judiciary @ @ @ @ @ Amy Coney Barrett ’ s nomination to the Supreme Court will convene on October 12th @ @ @ @

With three Republican senators in quarantine after testing positive for the novel coronavirus, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) announced that floor proceedings will be postponed until October 19th.
However, he said that Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearings for Judge Amy Coney Barrett’s nomination to the Supreme Court will convene on October 12th as previously scheduled.


politicalwire--2020-10-03--Meadows Led Clean Up of Doctor’s Briefing

The unnamed source who provided more dire information about President Trump ’ s medical condition after the official briefing appears @ @ @ @ @ of staff Mark Meadows , who spoke to reporters without cameras and was caught on @ @ @ @ @ off the record .
The Associated Press actually named Meadows as the official contradicting Trump @ @ @ @ @ More from Axios : White House enters clean up mode .

The unnamed source who provided more dire information about President Trump’s medical condition after the official briefing appears to be White House chief of staff Mark Meadows, who spoke to reporters without cameras and was caught on a feed asking to be off the record.
The Associated Press actually named Meadows as the official contradicting Trump’s own physician.
More from Axios: White House enters clean up mode.


politicalwire--2020-10-03--Why Trump Might Be Hiding His Medical Condition


politicalwire--2020-10-03--Trump Has Been Given Oxygen

Trump Has Been Given Oxygen

President Trump “ was administered oxygen at the White House on Friday before he was transported to the military hospital @ @ @ @ @ .
His doctor refused to answer questions on the topic from reporters earlier .
Two @ @ @ @ @ House told the New York Times “ that the president had trouble breathing on Friday @ @ @ @ @ dropped , prompting his doctors to give him supplemental oxygen while at the White House @ @ @ @ @ to Walter Reed where he could be monitored with better equipment and treated more rapidly @ @ @ @ @ ”

President Trump “was administered oxygen at the White House on Friday before he was transported to the military hospital,” the AP reports.
His doctor refused to answer questions on the topic from reporters earlier.
Two people close to the White House told the New York Times “that the president had trouble breathing on Friday and that his oxygen level dropped, prompting his doctors to give him supplemental oxygen while at the White House and decide to transfer him to Walter Reed where he could be monitored with better equipment and treated more rapidly in case of trouble.”


politicalwire--2020-10-04--Trump Aide Tests Positive

Trump Aide Tests Positive

One of Trump ’ s personal assistants has tested positive for coronavirus , Bloomberg reports .
Nick Luna , as @ @ @ @ @ close proximity to the president so it ’ s not surprising .
However , Luna @ @ @ @ @ who is an aide to Jared Kushner .


politicalwire--2020-10-04--Trump Faces Major Credibility Crisis

Trump Faces Major Credibility Crisis

“ One month from Election Day , President Trump is facing a credibility crisis as yawning as his health crisis @ @ @ @ @ he needs the public ’ s trust the most , ” the AP reports .
@ @ @ @ @ coronavirus infection , as well as the illnesses of several aides and allies , has @ @ @ @ @ the U.S. government .
The White House ’ s efforts Saturday to project calm backfired @ @ @ @ @ in a blizzard of confusing and contradictory information about the health and well-being of the @ @ @ @ @ It ’ s a moment months in the making , the collision of Trump ’ @ @ @ @ @ own administration ’ s guidelines for staying safe during the pandemic and his well-known disregard @ @ @ @ @ : deep uncertainty for Americans over who and what to believe about the health of @ @ @ @ @ at a perilous moment in U.S. history .
”

“One month from Election Day, President Trump is facing a credibility crisis as yawning as his health crisis, at a moment when he needs the public’s trust the most,” the AP reports.
“The president’s coronavirus infection, as well as the illnesses of several aides and allies, has imperiled the highest levels of the U.S. government. The White House’s efforts Saturday to project calm backfired in stunning fashion, resulting in a blizzard of confusing and contradictory information about the health and well-being of the commander in chief.”
“It’s a moment months in the making, the collision of Trump’s repeated defiance of his own administration’s guidelines for staying safe during the pandemic and his well-known disregard for facts. The result: deep uncertainty for Americans over who and what to believe about the health of the nation’s leader at a perilous moment in U.S. history.”
Bloomberg: Trump tempted fate long before Rose Garden coronavirus cluster.


politicalwire--2020-10-04--Biden Widens Lead Nationally

Biden Widens Lead Nationally

A new Reuters/Ipsos poll finds Joe Biden opened his widest lead in a month in the U.S. presidential race after @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus , 51 % to 41 % .
A majority of Americans — 65 @ @ @ @ @ have avoided infection if he had taken the virus more seriously .

A new Reuters/Ipsos poll finds Joe Biden opened his widest lead in a month in the U.S. presidential race after President Trump tested positive for the coronavirus, 51% to 41%.
A majority of Americans — 65% — think Trump could have avoided infection if he had taken the virus more seriously.


politicalwire--2020-10-04--Trump Faked Photos Showing Him ‘At Work’


politicalwire--2020-10-04--Trump ‘Not Yet Out of the Woods’

Trump ‘Not Yet Out of the Woods’


politicalwire--2020-10-05--White House Identifies 206 People Possibly Exposed

“ The White House has given New Jersey health officials a list of at least 206 people who may have @ @ @ @ @ at a fundraiser event attended by President Trump in Bedminster last week , ” Axios @ @


politicalwire--2020-10-05--Prospect of Trump’s Early Discharge Mystifies Experts

“ The assertion by President Trump ’ s doctors that he could be discharged from the hospital as early as @ @ @ @ @ , who said he remains in a dangerous period of vulnerability when some covid-19 patients @ @ @ @ @ intervention , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ Outside doctors said they were mystified @ @ @ @ @ an inconsistent portrayal of the president ’ s illness as relatively mild despite the aggressive @ @ @ @ @ getting.
” Margaret Brennan : “ I don ’ t see why the expectation has @ @ @ @ @ President to be discharged tomorrow .
If he is not discharged , that will now @ @ @ @ @ short term positive headline now becomes a benchmark .
”

“The assertion by President Trump’s doctors that he could be discharged from the hospital as early as Monday astonished outside infectious-disease experts, who said he remains in a dangerous period of vulnerability when some covid-19 patients decline precipitously and require urgent intervention,” the Washington Post reports.
“Outside doctors said they were mystified by what they said was an inconsistent portrayal of the president’s illness as relatively mild despite the aggressive mix of treatments he is getting.”
Margaret Brennan: “I don’t see why the expectation has now been set for the President to be discharged tomorrow. If he is not discharged, that will now raise further questions. A short term positive headline now becomes a benchmark.”


politicalwire--2020-10-05--Newspapers Update Trump’s Obituary

Newspapers Update Trump’s Obituary

Ben Smith : “ Among the people scrambling this weekend at American newspapers are obituary writers , as major outlets @ @ @ @ @ Mr. Trump ’ s obituary — Peter Baker at The New York Times , Marc @ @ @ @ @ and Mark Z. Barabak at The Los Angeles Times , people at each paper told @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-10-05--Biden Tests Negative Again

Biden Tests Negative Again

“ Joe Biden tested negative for the novel coronavirus on Sunday , his third negative test since he shared a @ @ @ @ @ 90 minutes with President Trump , who has been hospitalized with the infection , ” @ @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-10-05--Positive Tests for Senators Could Slow Barrett

“ From the start , Senate Republican leaders have known their ambitious timeline to get Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney @ @ @ @ @ offered little room for error , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ But that @ @ @ @ @ been thrown into uncertainty with the coronavirus diagnoses of at least two Republicans on the @ @ @ @ @ fear that other senators could test positive in the coming days.
” “ Sensing an @ @ @ @ @ are cranking up their push to postpone the Oct. 12 confirmation hearings , citing the @ @ @ @ @ and Barrett herself — waging a public pressure campaign because they have no powers on @ @ @ @ @ proceedings .
”

“From the start, Senate Republican leaders have known their ambitious timeline to get Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett confirmed before Election Day offered little room for error,” the Washington Post reports.
“But that tightly crafted schedule has now been thrown into uncertainty with the coronavirus diagnoses of at least two Republicans on the Senate Judiciary Committee and the fear that other senators could test positive in the coming days.”
“Sensing an opportunity to delay, Democrats are cranking up their push to postpone the Oct. 12 confirmation hearings, citing the safety of members, aides and Barrett herself — waging a public pressure campaign because they have no powers on their own to stop the proceedings.”


politicalwire--2020-10-05--Trump’s Treatment Suggests Severe Covid-19

“ President Trump ’ s doctors offered rosy assessments of his condition on Sunday , but the few medical details @ @ @ @ @ fluctuating oxygen levels and a decision to begin treatment with a steroid drug — suggested @ @ @ @ @ that he is suffering a more severe case of Covid-19 than the physicians acknowledged , @ @ @ @ @ .

“President Trump’s doctors offered rosy assessments of his condition on Sunday, but the few medical details they disclosed — including his fluctuating oxygen levels and a decision to begin treatment with a steroid drug — suggested to many infectious disease experts that he is suffering a more severe case of Covid-19 than the physicians acknowledged,” the Washington Post reports.


politicalwire--2020-10-05--Trump’s Illness Halts His Campaign

Trump’s Illness Halts His Campaign

“ For President Trump ’ s reelection campaign , October was supposed to be the turnaround month .
After trailing @ @ @ @ @ year , Trump thought this past week would be his slingshot to securing a second @ @ @ @ @ at their first debate together , expanding his coalition of voters , raising more money @ @ @ @ @ ” the Washington Post reports .
“ It has not worked out the way he @ @ @ @ @ seven days have dealt the incumbent one setback after another — the extraordinary revelation in @ @ @ @ @ he had paid little to no federal income taxes in recent years ; a belligerent @ @ @ @ @ off many voters ; the arrest of his recently demoted campaign manager in Florida ; @ @ @ @ @ s own hospitalization for the coronavirus because of an outbreak in a White House that @ @ @ @ @ public health guidelines and offered contradictory accounts of Trump ’ s health .
”

“For President Trump’s reelection campaign, October was supposed to be the turnaround month. After trailing Democratic nominee Joe Biden all year, Trump thought this past week would be his slingshot to securing a second term by disqualifying his opponent at their first debate together, expanding his coalition of voters, raising more money and staging bigger rallies,” the Washington Post reports.
“It has not worked out the way he envisioned.”
“The past seven days have dealt the incumbent one setback after another — the extraordinary revelation in the New York Times that he had paid little to no federal income taxes in recent years; a belligerent debate performance that risked turning off many voters; the arrest of his recently demoted campaign manager in Florida; and finally the president’s own hospitalization for the coronavirus because of an outbreak in a White House that has made a mockery of public health guidelines and offered contradictory accounts of Trump’s health.”


politicalwire--2020-10-04--Trump Leaves Hospital to Drive By Supporters

President Trump , wearing a mask , left Walter Reed Medical Center in the back of a suburban to ride @ @ @ @ @ .
NBC News reports pool reporters were not notified of a presidential movement , which @ @ @ @ @ James Phillips , a Walter Reed attending physician : “ That Presidential SUV is not @ @ @ @ @ sealed against chemical attack .
The risk of COVID19 transmission inside is as high as @ @ @ @ @ procedures .
The irresponsibility is astounding .
My thoughts are with the Secret Service forced @ @ @ @

President Trump, wearing a mask, left Walter Reed Medical Center in the back of a suburban to ride by supporters, CNN reports.
NBC News reports pool reporters were not notified of a presidential movement, which is incredibly rare.
Dr. James Phillips, a Walter Reed attending physician: “That Presidential SUV is not only bulletproof, but hermetically sealed against chemical attack. The risk of COVID19 transmission inside is as high as it gets outside of medical procedures. The irresponsibility is astounding. My thoughts are with the Secret Service forced to play.”
Trump announced his “surprise visit” on a video.


Barr In Quarantine

Attorney General Bill Barr is now self quarantining , according to MSNBC .
According to a DOJ spokesperson , Attorney @ @ @ @ @ test today which was negative .
He has taken 4 tests since Friday morning , @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-10-04--GOP Senator Caught Not Wearing Mask on Plane

Delta Airlines says it is investigating after a fellow passenger posted a photo on Twitter of Sen. Roger Wicker ( @ @ @ @ @ with his mask tucked under his chin while he looked at his cell phone , @ @ @ @ @ .


politicalwire--2020-10-04--Trump Didn’t Disclose First Positive Covid-19 Test

“ President Trump didn ’ t disclose a positive result from a rapid test for Covid-19 on Thursday while awaiting @ @ @ @ @ thorough coronavirus screening , ” the Wall Street Journal reports .
“ Mr .
Trump @ @ @ @ @ Thursday evening before making an appearance on Fox News in which he didn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ , he confirmed earlier reports that one of his top aides had tested positive for @ @ @ @ @ test he had taken that night for which he was awaiting results.
” As the @ @ @ @ @ closest to him , Mr. Trump also asked one adviser not to disclose results of @ @ @ @ @ “ Don ’ t tell anyone .
”

“President Trump didn’t disclose a positive result from a rapid test for Covid-19 on Thursday while awaiting the findings from a more thorough coronavirus screening,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
“Mr. Trump received a positive result on Thursday evening before making an appearance on Fox News in which he didn’t reveal those results. Instead, he confirmed earlier reports that one of his top aides had tested positive for coronavirus and mentioned the second test he had taken that night for which he was awaiting results.”
As the virus spread among the people closest to him, Mr. Trump also asked one adviser not to disclose results of their own positive test: “Don’t tell anyone.”


politicalwire--2020-10-04--Physician Withheld Specifics to Lift Trump’s Spirits

“ The assertion by President Trump ’ s doctors that he could be discharged from the hospital as early as @ @ @ @ @ , who said he remains in a dangerous period…


politicalwire--2020-10-04--Biden Expands His Lead In Another National Poll

A new Yahoo News/YouGov poll finds Joe Biden leads Donald Trump nationally by 8 percentage points , 48 % to @ @ @ @ @ poll had Biden ahead by 5 points .
Among registered voters who watched the first @ @ @ @ @ said Biden won ; only 28 % said the same of Trump .
The president @ @ @ @ @ 59 % of debate watchers rated it as “ poor , ” compared to only @ @ @ @ @ was followed by a collapse in his support among likely independent voters .

A new Yahoo News/YouGov poll finds Joe Biden leads Donald Trump nationally by 8 percentage points, 48% to 40%. The previous poll had Biden ahead by 5 points.
Among registered voters who watched the first presidential debate, 46% said Biden won; only 28% said the same of Trump.
The president’s hectoring performance — 59% of debate watchers rated it as “poor,” compared to only 32% for Biden — was followed by a collapse in his support among likely independent voters.


politicalwire--2020-10-04--Biden Urged to Resume Negative Ads

Biden Urged to Resume Negative Ads

“ An increasing number of Democrats are vocally urging Joe Biden ’ s campaign to resume running negative ads against @ @ @ @ @ their party ’ s nominee should not relent even as the president remains hospitalized after @ @ @ @ @ McClatchy reports .
“ With Election Day less than a month away and early voting @ @ @ @ @ battleground states , some Democratic operatives said Biden must push forward with the messaging that @ @ @ @ @ a stable lead in the presidential race , especially as the Trump campaign has continued @ @ @ @ @ ”

“An increasing number of Democrats are vocally urging Joe Biden’s campaign to resume running negative ads against Donald Trump, arguing that their party’s nominee should not relent even as the president remains hospitalized after contracting the coronavirus,” McClatchy reports.
“With Election Day less than a month away and early voting already in progress in key battleground states, some Democratic operatives said Biden must push forward with the messaging that has helped provide him with a stable lead in the presidential race, especially as the Trump campaign has continued to air attack ads.”


politicalwire--2020-10-04--It Turns Out No Ballots Were Found In Wisconsin Ditch

“ No Wisconsin absentee ballots were found in mail discovered in a ditch in the Fox Valley last week , @ @ @ @ @ reports .
“ Three trays of mail were found in a ditch in Greenville last @ @ @ @ @ County Sheriff ’ s Office said at the time it included several absentee ballots .
@

“No Wisconsin absentee ballots were found in mail discovered in a ditch in the Fox Valley last week,” the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports.
“Three trays of mail were found in a ditch in Greenville last week, and the Outagamie County Sheriff’s Office said at the time it included several absentee ballots.”


politicalwire--2020-10-04--Toomey Won’t Run Again

Toomey Won’t Run Again

Sen. Pat Toomey ( R-PA ) won ’ t run for reelection or for Pennsylvania governor , the Philadelphia Inquirer @ @ @ @ @ widely seen as the likely Republican favorite for governor in 2022 .
His decision not @ @ @ @ @ or for Senate could create two wide open contests on the Republican side .
”

Sen. Pat Toomey (R-PA) won’t run for reelection or for Pennsylvania governor, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports.
“Toomey was widely seen as the likely Republican favorite for governor in 2022. His decision not to run for that office or for Senate could create two wide open contests on the Republican side.”


politicalwire--2020-10-04--Trump Given Steroids Typically Used for Those Very Ill

Dr. Sean Conley said that President Trump had been given the steroid dexamethasone on Saturday , the New York Times @ @ @ @ @ has been shown to help patients who are severely ill with Covid-19 , but it @ @ @ @ @ mild or moderate cases of the disease , and in fact could be harmful early @ @ @ @ @ disease , when steroids could dampen the body ’ s own immune response.
” “ @ @ @ @ @ , Mr. Trump is doing better and they projected he could be discharged back to @ @ @ @ @ hospital as early as Monday.
” Stat : Trump getting a steroid usually for patients @ @ @ @

Dr. Sean Conley said that President Trump had been given the steroid dexamethasone on Saturday, the New York Times reports.
“The drug has been shown to help patients who are severely ill with Covid-19, but it is typically not used in mild or moderate cases of the disease, and in fact could be harmful early in the course of the disease, when steroids could dampen the body’s own immune response.”
“Nonetheless, the doctors said, Mr. Trump is doing better and they projected he could be discharged back to the White House from the hospital as early as Monday.”
Stat: Trump getting a steroid usually for patients with severe COVID-19.


politicalwire--2020-10-04--Trump ‘Furious’ with His Chief of Staff

Trump ‘Furious’ with His Chief of Staff

“ President Trump is furious with chief of staff Mark Meadows after the top West Wing official contradicted the White @ @ @ @ @ Saturday of the President ’ s health , ” CNN reports .
“ Meadows is @ @ @ @ @ White House to be the unnamed source who spoke to reporters following the medical briefing @ @ @ @ @ dire assessment than Navy Cmdr .
Dr. Sean Conley had given shortly before .
”

“President Trump is furious with chief of staff Mark Meadows after the top West Wing official contradicted the White House physician’s assessment Saturday of the President’s health,” CNN reports.
“Meadows is now widely known inside the White House to be the unnamed source who spoke to reporters following the medical briefing yesterday and offered a more dire assessment than Navy Cmdr. Dr. Sean Conley had given shortly before.”


politicalwire--2020-10-04--Trump’s Physician Continues to Mislead

Trump’s Physician Continues to Mislead

Dr. Sean Conley was asked at a press briefing this morning why he was so misleading on Saturday and replied @ @ @ @ @ the team ’ s “ upbeat attitude ” and didn ’ t want to “ @ @ @ @ @ in another direction , ” the Wall Street Journal reports .
He added : “ @ @ @ @ @ came off that we were trying to hide something , which wasn ’ t necessarily @ @ @ @ @ on CNN said doctors at Walter Reed are throwing “ the kitchen sink ” at @ @ @ @ @ different “ serious ” medications , one of which is experimental in nature .
He @ @ @ @ @ serious than what Conley is letting on .

Dr. Sean Conley was asked at a press briefing this morning why he was so misleading on Saturday and replied he was trying to reflect the team’s “upbeat attitude” and didn’t want to “steer the course of illness in another direction,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
He added: “In doing so, it came off that we were trying to hide something, which wasn’t necessarily true.”
Dr. Sanjay Gupta on CNN said doctors at Walter Reed are throwing “the kitchen sink” at Trump, feeding him three different “serious” medications, one of which is experimental in nature.
He suggests this is far more serious than what Conley is letting on.


politicalwire--2020-10-04--Trump Adviser Says Biden Uses Mask as a Prop

Jason Miller , a senior adviser to President Trump ’ s re-election campaign , argued to ABC News that Joe @ @ @ @ @ the mask as a prop ” and defended the campaign ’ s handling of the @ @ @ @ @ in the hospital .
Said Miller : “ You know , I would say that @ @ @ @ @ , I think too often he ’ s used the mask as a prop .
@ @ @ @ @ , but even if he ’ s — he could be 20 , 30 feet @ @ @ @ @ and still have the mask on.
” He added : “ That ’ s not @ @ @ @ @ ’ s out there .
But also we ’ ve seen with — with Joe @ @ @ @ @ we can ’ t all just stay in our basement for the rest of our @ @ @

Jason Miller, a senior adviser to President Trump’s re-election campaign, argued to ABC News that Joe Biden has often “used the mask as a prop” and defended the campaign’s handling of the coronavirus even as Trump remained in the hospital.
Said Miller: “You know, I would say that with regard to Joe Biden, I think too often he’s used the mask as a prop. A mask is very important, but even if he’s — he could be 20, 30 feet away from the nearest person and still have the mask on.”
He added: “That’s not going to change anything that’s out there. But also we’ve seen with — with Joe Biden, I mean, we can’t all just stay in our basement for the rest of our lives.”


politicalwire--2020-10-05--Doctor Recommends Psychiatric Exam on Trump

Dr. Leana Wen tweeted that she would perform a psychiatric evaluation on President Trump if he were her patient and @ @ @ @ @ infected with the novel coronavirus “ to go for a car ride.
” Said Wen @ @ @ @ @ call security to restrain him then perform a psychiatric evaluation to examine his decision-making capacity @ @

Dr. Leana Wen tweeted that she would perform a psychiatric evaluation on President Trump if he were her patient and left the hospital while still infected with the novel coronavirus “to go for a car ride.”
Said Wen: “I’d call security to restrain him then perform a psychiatric evaluation to examine his decision-making capacity.”


politicalwire--2020-10-05--Trump Told Woodward He Didn’t Have Time for Fauci

President Trump in March said he didn ’ t have “ a lot of time ” to meet with Dr. @ @ @ @ @ pandemic surged across the US , according to newly released audio from an interview with @ @ @ @ @ reports .
Trump hailed Fauci in the March 19 interview as a “ sharp guy @ @ @ @ @ it before , ” but when pressed if he had met with the nation ’ @ @ @ @ @ one-on-one for a better understanding of the virus , the President offered : “ Yes @ @ @ @ @ honestly there ’ s not a lot of time for that , Bob.
” Explained @ @ @ @ @ a busy White House .
We ’ ve got a lot of things happening .
@ @ @ @ @ .
”

President Trump in March said he didn’t have “a lot of time” to meet with Dr. Anthony Fauci as the coronavirus pandemic surged across the US, according to newly released audio from an interview with journalist Bob Woodward, CNN reports.
Trump hailed Fauci in the March 19 interview as a “sharp guy” who has “done it before,” but when pressed if he had met with the nation’s leading infectious disease expert one-on-one for a better understanding of the virus, the President offered: “Yes, I guess, but honestly there’s not a lot of time for that, Bob.”
Explained Trump: “This is a busy White House. We’ve got a lot of things happening. And then this came up.”


Giuliani Tests Negative

New York Times : “ Advisers were also troubled by the doctors ’ prediction that they might release him on @ @ @ @ @ not , it would signal that the president is…

“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--2020-10-05--Is Trump Really Going to Leave the Hospital?

New York Times : “ Advisers were also troubled by the doctors ’ prediction that they might release him on @ @ @ @ @ not , it would signal that the president is not doing as well as indicated @ @ @ @ @ a premature return could lead to a second trip to the hospital if his condition @ @ @ @ @ writing in the Washington Post : “ If the president was brought into the hospital @ @ @ @ @ sense does it make to discharge him just before the time period that ’ s @ @ @ @ @ ”

New York Times: “Advisers were also troubled by the doctors’ prediction that they might release him on Monday because if they do not, it would signal that the president is not doing as well as indicated. They also worried that a premature return could lead to a second trip to the hospital if his condition worsens.”
Dr. Leana Wen writing in the Washington Post: “If the president was brought into the hospital for closer monitoring, what sense does it make to discharge him just before the time period that’s potentially the most fraught?”


politicalwire--2020-10-05--How Trump Spends His Time at Walter Reed


politicalwire--2020-10-05--V.P. Debate Takes on Outsize Import

V.P. Debate Takes on Outsize Import

“ President Trump ’ s hospitalization with the coronavirus has catapulted this week ’ s vice-presidential debate into the spotlight @ @ @ @ @ putting pressure on Vice President Mike Pence and Senator Kamala Harris to use this forum @ @ @ @ @ they are prepared and qualified to step in as president , ” the New York @ @ @ @ @ is on Wednesday at 9 p.m .
ET .

“President Trump’s hospitalization with the coronavirus has catapulted this week’s vice-presidential debate into the spotlight to an extraordinary degree, putting pressure on Vice President Mike Pence and Senator Kamala Harris to use this forum to reassure an anxious public they are prepared and qualified to step in as president,” the New York Times reports.
The debate is on Wednesday at 9 p.m. ET.


politicalwire--2020-10-05--Experts See a Distracted and Vulnerable Country

“ The U.S. president is hospitalized with a virus he refused to treat as a grave threat , in the @ @ @ @ @ whose results he will not pledge to accept , as the nation confronts a struggling @ @ @ @ @ and racial unrest , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ The combination of these @ @ @ @ @ States into a vortex of potential vulnerability that national security experts said is probably without @ @ @

“The U.S. president is hospitalized with a virus he refused to treat as a grave threat, in the final weeks of an election whose results he will not pledge to accept, as the nation confronts a struggling economy, an unyielding pandemic and racial unrest,” the Washington Post reports.
“The combination of these crises has plunged the United States into a vortex of potential vulnerability that national security experts said is probably without precedent.”


politicalwire--2020-10-05--Secret Service Frustrated After Trump’s Joy Ride

CNN : “ Afterward , members of the Secret Service voiced escalating concern at what many of the agency ’ @ @ @ @ @ total disregard for their well-being amid a deadly and highly contagious pandemic .
Agents have @ @ @ @ @ while traveling for the President ’ s political rallies , which he insisted on maintaining @ @ @ @ @ .
As employees self-quarantine or isolate in place , others have been forced to work @ @ @ @ @ void.
” “ It ’ s a situation that has prompted growing and more vocal @ @ @ @ @ Secret Service agent : “ That should never have happened… I mean , I wouldn @ @ @ @ @ around them .
The frustration with how we ’ re treated when it comes to @ @ @ @ @ back before this though .
We ’ re not disposable .
”

CNN: “Afterward, members of the Secret Service voiced escalating concern at what many of the agency’s personnel have determined is total disregard for their well-being amid a deadly and highly contagious pandemic. Agents have tested positive for the virus while traveling for the President’s political rallies, which he insisted on maintaining even against federal health guidelines. As employees self-quarantine or isolate in place, others have been forced to work longer hours to fill the void.”
“It’s a situation that has prompted growing and more vocal concern.”
Said one current Secret Service agent: “That should never have happened… I mean, I wouldn’t want to be around them. The frustration with how we’re treated when it comes to decisions on this illness goes back before this though. We’re not disposable.”
Washington Post: Secret Service agents aghast at Trump’s drive outside hospital.


Trump’s Last Rally

Politico : “ In retrospect , it was an ominous scene — the vapor in Donald Trump ’ s breath visibly condensing as he spoke at the rally in Duluth , Minn. , a wisp of exhalant hanging in the frigid air .
In a region where coronavirus cases are surging , a mask-less Trump stood before several thousand supporters on Wednesday , most of them mask-free themselves , pumping his fists and tossing hats to the tightly packed crowd.
” “ The rally was a story of worst practices in a pandemic , with Duluth as the collateral damage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wall-to-wall coverage of his evolving condition , it was in Duluth that the recklessness of his campaign fell plainly into view — from his scoffing at mask-wearing to his insistence on assembling large crowds .
By the weekend , local public health officials were warning rally attendees about their risk of exposure , and prominent Republicans in the state were in quarantine .
Emily Larson , the city ’ s Democratic mayor , asked anyone who attended the rally to ‘ please get tested , self isolate.
’ ” Related from the Wall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last public event before disclosing he has coronavirus .

Politico: “In retrospect, it was an ominous scene — the vapor in Donald Trump’s breath visibly condensing as he spoke at the rally in Duluth, Minn., a wisp of exhalant hanging in the frigid air. In a region where coronavirus cases are surging, a mask-less Trump stood before several thousand supporters on Wednesday, most of them mask-free themselves, pumping his fists and tossing hats to the tightly packed crowd.”
“The rally was a story of worst practices in a pandemic, with Duluth as the collateral damage. Before Trump’s hospitalization and wall-to-wall coverage of his evolving condition, it was in Duluth that the recklessness of his campaign fell plainly into view — from his scoffing at mask-wearing to his insistence on assembling large crowds. By the weekend, local public health officials were warning rally attendees about their risk of exposure, and prominent Republicans in the state were in quarantine. Emily Larson, the city’s Democratic mayor, asked anyone who attended the rally to ‘please get tested, self isolate.’”
Related from the Wall Street Journal: Inside Trump’s last public event before disclosing he has coronavirus.


politicalwire--2020-10-05--The Untraveled Road of Humility

The Untraveled Road of Humility

“ Leaders in public life , and certainly in Washington , talk about ruling with iron fists and wielding levers @ @ @ @ @ the obvious : Fate will always be in charge , ” the New York Times @ @ @ @ @ most bullheaded authorities will occasionally acknowledge this .
‘ Going well , I think !
@ @ @ @ @ Friday .
Of all the confusing , confounding and contradictory words that have been spun @ @ @ @ @ in recent days , that two-word caveat — ‘ I think ’ — was instantly @ @ @ @ @ ’ s allies and adversaries alike.
” “ ‘ I think ’ was a slight @ @ @ @ @ much everything we ’ ve come to expect from an embattled president who does not @ @ @ @ @ whatsoever .
”

“Leaders in public life, and certainly in Washington, talk about ruling with iron fists and wielding levers of power while repeatedly ignoring the obvious: Fate will always be in charge,” the New York Times reports.
“Even the most bullheaded authorities will occasionally acknowledge this. ‘Going well, I think!’ President Trump tweeted late Friday. Of all the confusing, confounding and contradictory words that have been spun out of the White House in recent days, that two-word caveat — ‘I think’ — was instantly seized upon by the president’s allies and adversaries alike.”
“‘I think’ was a slight but notable departure from pretty much everything we’ve come to expect from an embattled president who does not like to betray any uncertainty whatsoever.”


politicalwire--2020-10-05--Building a Government Over Zoom

Building a Government Over Zoom

“ High-level meetings interrupted by crying children .
A presidential nominee taking diligent notes as he receives a virtual policy @ @ @ @ @ who have never met in person working to put together a federal government .
This @ @ @ @ @ looks like in the age of Zoom , ” Politico reports .
“ Scattered across @ @ @ @ @ home , Biden ’ s transition team has been quietly preparing for months for a @ @ @ @ @ hiring staff and advisers , mapping out policy priorities and implementation plans , and compiling @ @ @ @ @ of the more than 4,000 political positions they will get to fill in the federal @ @ @ @ @ has yet to set foot in the office space carved out for them in the @ @ @ @ @ they have no plans to do so with the coronavirus pandemic still rampant .

“High-level meetings interrupted by crying children. A presidential nominee taking diligent notes as he receives a virtual policy briefing at home. Advisers who have never met in person working to put together a federal government. This is what presidential transition planning looks like in the age of Zoom,” Politico reports.
“Scattered across the country and working from home, Biden’s transition team has been quietly preparing for months for a possible transfer of power — hiring staff and advisers, mapping out policy priorities and implementation plans, and compiling lists of names for some of the more than 4,000 political positions they will get to fill in the federal bureaucracy. But the team has yet to set foot in the office space carved out for them in the Commerce Department, and says they have no plans to do so with the coronavirus pandemic still rampant.


politicalwire--2020-10-05--Supreme Court Kicks Off New Term

Supreme Court Kicks Off New Term

“ On Monday a short-handed Supreme Court , still reeling from the death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg , will @ @ @ @ @ the shadow of a bitter confirmation fight that is set to take place weeks before @ @ @ @ @ CNN reports .
“ The justices are still working remotely because of Covid-19 and telephonic @ @ @ @ @ ”

“On Monday a short-handed Supreme Court, still reeling from the death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, will begin a new term in the shadow of a bitter confirmation fight that is set to take place weeks before the presidential election,” CNN reports.
“The justices are still working remotely because of Covid-19 and telephonic arguments will be livestreamed.”


politicalwire--2020-10-06--‘Gasping’ Trends on Twitter

‘Gasping’ Trends on Twitter

President Trump suggested in a new video back at the White House that “ maybe I ’ m immune ” @ @ @ @ @ though it made him sick enough to be taken to…


politicalwire--2020-10-06--Republicans Gripped by Dread as Multiple Crises Swirl

Politico : “ Trump ’ s Republican critics have long argued that he was a virus infecting their party that @ @ @ @ @ Trump skeptics-turned-supporters , which could describe most Washington Republicans , made a different calculation : @ @ @ @ @ Trump could be contained , then Republicans could keep a Democrat out of the White @ @ @ @ @ majority on the Supreme Court and protect their redoubt in the Senate .
Even before @ @ @ @ @ the cost of the deal with Trump was starting to look high .
But the @ @ @ @ @ and retaining the Senate and even White House was hardly insurmountable.
” “ That an @ @ @ @ @ Trump , his wife , his campaign manager , the head of the Republican National @ @ @ @ @ and three senators — many of them at a celebration of Barrett ’ s nomination @ @ @ @ @ of the GOP ’ s 2020 goals into chaos , is a plot twist that @ @ @ @ @ writer as just a little too on the nose .
”

Politico: “Trump’s Republican critics have long argued that he was a virus infecting their party that would eventually destroy it. Trump skeptics-turned-supporters, which could describe most Washington Republicans, made a different calculation: If the worst elements of Trump could be contained, then Republicans could keep a Democrat out of the White House, lock in a majority on the Supreme Court and protect their redoubt in the Senate. Even before Trump’s diagnosis, the cost of the deal with Trump was starting to look high. But the path to pushing through Barrett and retaining the Senate and even White House was hardly insurmountable.”
“That an actual virus has now infected Trump, his wife, his campaign manager, the head of the Republican National Committee, several advisers, and three senators — many of them at a celebration of Barrett’s nomination — thus throwing all three of the GOP’s 2020 goals into chaos, is a plot twist that would be rejected by any writer as just a little too on the nose.”


politicalwire--2020-10-06--Trump Suggests He’s Immune to Virus

Trump Suggests He’s Immune to Virus

President Trump suggested in a new video back at the White House that “ maybe I ’ m immune ” @ @ @ @ @ though it made him sick enough to be taken to the hospital and require supplemental @ @


politicalwire--2020-10-05--Trump Removes Mask as He Enters White House

“ President Trump , who is infected with a highly contagious virus , took off his mask upon arrival back @ @ @ @ @ as he posed for photos from the balcony above the South Lawn , ” The @ @ @ @ @ president was near an official photographer and other staffers could be seen behind him .
@ @ @ @ @ mask back as he turned to walk back into the White House .
”

“President Trump, who is infected with a highly contagious virus, took off his mask upon arrival back at the White House Monday as he posed for photos from the balcony above the South Lawn,” The Hill reports.
“The president was near an official photographer and other staffers could be seen behind him. He did not put his mask back as he turned to walk back into the White House.”


politicalwire--2020-10-05--White House Blocks New Coronavirus Vaccine Guidelines

“ Top White House officials are blocking strict new federal guidelines for the emergency release of a coronavirus vaccine , @ @ @ @ @ would almost certainly guarantee that no vaccine could be authorized before the election on Nov. @ @ @ @ @ York Times reports .

“Top White House officials are blocking strict new federal guidelines for the emergency release of a coronavirus vaccine, objecting to a provision that would almost certainly guarantee that no vaccine could be authorized before the election on Nov. 3,” the New York Times reports.


politicalwire--2020-10-05--New Battleground State Polls

New Battleground State Polls


politicalwire--2020-10-05--Third of Covid Patients Had Altered Mental State

“ Nearly a third of hospitalized Covid-19 patients experienced some type of altered mental function — ranging from confusion to @ @ @ @ @ the largest study to date of neurological symptoms among coronavirus patients in an American hospital @ @ @ @ @ York Times reports .


politicalwire--2020-10-05--White House Is Not Contact Tracing

White House Is Not Contact Tracing

“ Despite almost daily disclosures of new coronavirus infections among President Trump ’ s close associates , the White House @ @ @ @ @ investigate the scope and source of its outbreak , ” the New York Times reports @ @ @ @ @ has decided not to trace the contacts of guests and staff members at the Rose @ @ @ @ @ for Judge Amy Coney Barrett , where at least eight people , including the president @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“Despite almost daily disclosures of new coronavirus infections among President Trump’s close associates, the White House is making little effort to investigate the scope and source of its outbreak,” the New York Times reports.
“The White House has decided not to trace the contacts of guests and staff members at the Rose Garden celebration 10 days ago for Judge Amy Coney Barrett, where at least eight people, including the president, may have become infected.”


politicalwire--2020-10-05--Tuberville Holds Wide Lead In Alabama Senate Race


politicalwire--2020-10-05--Bonus Quote of the Day

Bonus Quote of the Day


politicalwire--2020-10-05--Plexiglass Will Separate Pence and Harris at Debate

“ The Commission on Presidential Debates has approved plans for plexiglass to be used in Wednesday ’ s vice presidential @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus transmission , ” Politico reports .
“ Plexiglass is expected to be used as @ @ @ @ @ Mike Pence and Sen. Kamala Harris , as well as between the two candidates and @ @ @ @ @

“The Commission on Presidential Debates has approved plans for plexiglass to be used in Wednesday’s vice presidential debate amid mounting concerns about coronavirus transmission,” Politico reports.
“Plexiglass is expected to be used as a barrier between Vice President Mike Pence and Sen. Kamala Harris, as well as between the two candidates and moderator Susan Page.”


politicalwire--2020-10-05--Biden Gets Small Bounce After Debate

Biden Gets Small Bounce After Debate

Nate Silver : “ The debate provides a clear enough line in the sand… that it ’ s worth doing @ @ @ @ @ polls .
One way to discern this is via our national polling average , where @ @ @ @ @ inched up to 8.1 points from 7.1 points before the debate.
” “ Another way @ @ @ @ @ comparing post-debate polls to the last , pre-debate version of both national polls and polls @ @ @ @ @ the same polling firms… And on average , Biden gained 1.5 percentage points from the @ @ @ @ @ of these polls.
” “ In some cases , the pre-debate poll was conducted months @ @ @ @ @ even if we only focus on the polls that released results at some point in @ @ @ @ @ is similar : Biden ’ s gain is 1.4 percentage points , on average .
@ @ @ @ @ s worth , a swing of 1 or 2 points toward Biden is consistent with @ @ @ @ @ have had for challengers in the past .
”

Nate Silver: “The debate provides a clear enough line in the sand… that it’s worth doing a before-and-after comparison of the polls. One way to discern this is via our national polling average, where Biden’s lead has inched up to 8.1 points from 7.1 points before the debate.”
“Another way to see this is by comparing post-debate polls to the last, pre-debate version of both national polls and polls of the same states by the same polling firms… And on average, Biden gained 1.5 percentage points from the pre-debate to the post-debate versions of these polls.”
“In some cases, the pre-debate poll was conducted months before the debate. But even if we only focus on the polls that released results at some point in September, the top line is similar: Biden’s gain is 1.4 percentage points, on average. And for what it’s worth, a swing of 1 or 2 points toward Biden is consistent with the effects that first debates have had for challengers in the past.”


politicalwire--2020-10-05--Most Say Trump Acted Irresponsibly

Most Say Trump Acted Irresponsibly

A new CNN poll finds 63 % of Americans say President Trump handled the risk of coronavirus infection to others @ @ @ @ @ Disapproval of the President ’ s handling of the coronavirus outbreak stands at a new @ @ @ @ @ with 60 % saying they disapprove .
Additionally , 63 % say his own infection @ @ @ @ @ about the way that he handles the pandemic .
”

A new CNN poll finds 63% of Americans say President Trump handled the risk of coronavirus infection to others around him irresponsibly.
“Disapproval of the President’s handling of the coronavirus outbreak stands at a new high in the survey, with 60% saying they disapprove. Additionally, 63% say his own infection is unlikely to change anything about the way that he handles the pandemic.”


politicalwire--2020-10-05--17 at White House Have Now Tested Positive


politicalwire--2020-10-05--GOP Senators See No Supreme Court Bounce Yet

Washington Post : “ In a tumultuous year marked by a pandemic that has killed nearly 210,000 Americans and civil @ @ @ @ @ fight over a Supreme Court vacancy as a chance to boost their political fortunes .
@ @ @ @ @ GOP base , and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell ( R-KY ) encouraged Trump to @ @ @ @ @ conservative nominee to galvanize voters.
” “ But the GOP ’ s predicted Supreme Court @ @ @ @ @ .
And the party is now facing down a new level of uncertainty as the @ @ @ @ @ in Washington , with Sens .
Thom Tillis ( NC ) , Mike Lee ( @ @ @ @ @ ( WI ) testing positive .
”

Washington Post: “In a tumultuous year marked by a pandemic that has killed nearly 210,000 Americans and civil unrest, Republicans saw the fight over a Supreme Court vacancy as a chance to boost their political fortunes. Court fights typically rally the GOP base, and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) encouraged Trump to move quickly to select a conservative nominee to galvanize voters.”
“But the GOP’s predicted Supreme Court bump has yet to materialize. And the party is now facing down a new level of uncertainty as the coronavirus spreads in GOP circles in Washington, with Sens. Thom Tillis (NC), Mike Lee (UT) and Ron Johnson (WI) testing positive.”


politicalwire--2020-10-05--Trump’s Doctor Says He’s Not ‘Out of the Woods’

Dr. Sean Conley confirmed that President Trump will be leaving Walter Reed Medical Center later today even though “ he @ @ @ @ @ of the woods yet.
” He added : “ If we can get through to @ @ @ @ @ that deep sigh of relief .
”

Dr. Sean Conley confirmed that President Trump will be leaving Walter Reed Medical Center later today even though “he may not be entirely out of the woods yet.”
He added: “If we can get through to Monday…then we will all take that deep sigh of relief.”


politicalwire--2020-10-05--IRS Investigating NRA Chief for Tax Fraud

“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--2020-10-05--CDC Updates Advice on Airborne Transmission of Virus

The CDC finally acknowledged that people “ can sometimes be infected with the coronavirus through airborne transmission , especially in @ @ @ @ @ , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ The long-awaited update to the agency Web @ @ @ @ @ spreads represents an official acknowledgment of growing evidence that under certain conditions , people farther @ @ @ @ @ become infected by tiny droplets and particles that float in the air for minutes and @ @ @ @ @ play a role in the pandemic .
”

The CDC finally acknowledged that people “can sometimes be infected with the coronavirus through airborne transmission, especially in enclosed spaces with inadequate ventilation,” the Washington Post reports.
“The long-awaited update to the agency Web page explaining how the virus spreads represents an official acknowledgment of growing evidence that under certain conditions, people farther than six feet apart can become infected by tiny droplets and particles that float in the air for minutes and hours, and that they play a role in the pandemic.”


politicalwire--2020-10-05--America Is Having a Moral Convulsion

America Is Having a Moral Convulsion

David Brooks : “ Levels of trust in this country—in our institutions , in our politics , and in one @ @ @ @ @ And when social trust collapses , nations fail .
Can we get it back before @ @ @ @ @ ?
”


politicalwire--2020-10-05--Trump Announces He’s Leaving Hospital

Trump Announces He’s Leaving Hospital

“ I will be leaving the great Walter Reed Medical Center today at 6:30 P.M .
Feeling really good !
@ @ @ @ @ of Covid .
Don ’ t let it dominate your life .
We have developed @ @ @ @ @ , some really great drugs & knowledge .
I feel better than I did 20 @ @ @ @ @ Reporter : “ 6:30 PM is timed to be live on the evening newscasts .
@ @ @ @ @ used to be , but they still had 20 million viewers combined last week.
“

President Trump tweets:
“I will be leaving the great Walter Reed Medical Center today at 6:30 P.M. Feeling really good! Don’t be afraid of Covid. Don’t let it dominate your life. We have developed, under the Trump Administration, some really great drugs & knowledge. I feel better than I did 20 years ago!”
Hollywood Reporter: “6:30 PM is timed to be live on the evening newscasts. Not as big as they used to be, but they still had 20 million viewers combined last week.“


politicalwire--2020-10-07--Michael Hayden Endorses Biden

Michael Hayden Endorses Biden

“ We have it in our hands , the ultimate power .
The power to vote .
It is the @ @ @ @ @ register our will in a peaceable and productive fashion……


politicalwire--2020-10-07--Trump’s Return Leaves White House in Disarray

“ The White House that President Trump woke up in on Tuesday morning was in full-blown chaos , even by @ @ @ @ @ of the Trump era , ” the New York Times reports .
“ Aides said @ @ @ @ @ was stronger after his return from the hospital Monday night , but at times he @ @ @ @ @ was trying to catch air .
The West Wing was mostly empty , cleared of @ @ @ @ @ with the coronavirus themselves or told to work from home rather than in the capital @ @ @ @ @ hot spot .
Staff members in the White House residence were in full personal protective @ @ @ @ @ , surgical masks and disposable protective eye covers.
” “ Four more White House officials @ @ @ @ @ Miller , a top adviser to Mr. Trump , bringing to 14 the number of @ @ @ @ @ the White House or in the president ’ s close circle .
”

“The White House that President Trump woke up in on Tuesday morning was in full-blown chaos, even by the standards of the havoc of the Trump era,” the New York Times reports.
“Aides said the president’s voice was stronger after his return from the hospital Monday night, but at times he still sounded as if he was trying to catch air. The West Wing was mostly empty, cleared of advisers who were out sick with the coronavirus themselves or told to work from home rather than in the capital’s most famous virus hot spot. Staff members in the White House residence were in full personal protective equipment, including yellow gowns, surgical masks and disposable protective eye covers.”
“Four more White House officials tested positive, including Stephen Miller, a top adviser to Mr. Trump, bringing to 14 the number of people carrying the virus at the White House or in the president’s close circle.”


politicalwire--2020-10-07--Biden Makes Up Ground In West Virginia

Biden Makes Up Ground In West Virginia


politicalwire--2020-10-06--Report Warned of ‘Lethal’ White Supremacy

“ The Department of Homeland Security warned on Tuesday that violent white supremacy was the ‘ most persistent and lethal @ @ @ @ @ in an annual assessment that a former intelligence chief had accused the agency of withholding @ @ @ @ @ , ” the New York Times reports .
“ The threat assessment highlighted white supremacists @ @ @ @ @ domestic terrorists in recent years and Russia as the primary threat to spreading disinformation .
@

“The Department of Homeland Security warned on Tuesday that violent white supremacy was the ‘most persistent and lethal threat in the homeland’ in an annual assessment that a former intelligence chief had accused the agency of withholding in deference to President Trump,” the New York Times reports.
“The threat assessment highlighted white supremacists as the most deadly among domestic terrorists in recent years and Russia as the primary threat to spreading disinformation.”


politicalwire--2020-10-06--Trump Rewrites Russia Probe from Hospital

“ Even as he recovers from a coronavirus case that left him hospitalized for days , President Trump has intensified @ @ @ @ @ widely accepted evidence about Russia ’ s election interference efforts in 2016 , ” Politico @ @ @ @ @ the declassification and release of documents this week based on intelligence that even his own @ @ @ @ @ disinformation , in what his allies have signaled is aimed at sowing doubt at the @ @ @ @ @ that the meddling in the 2016 campaign came at the Kremlin ’ s direction — @ @ @ @ @ his candidacy .
”

“Even as he recovers from a coronavirus case that left him hospitalized for days, President Trump has intensified a late-campaign effort to undermine widely accepted evidence about Russia’s election interference efforts in 2016,” Politico reports.
“Trump authorized the declassification and release of documents this week based on intelligence that even his own advisers warn could be Russian disinformation, in what his allies have signaled is aimed at sowing doubt at the intelligence community’s conclusion that the meddling in the 2016 campaign came at the Kremlin’s direction — and was intended to boost his candidacy.”


politicalwire--2020-10-06--‘We Need to Take Away Children’

‘We Need to Take Away Children’

“ The five U.S. attorneys along the border with Mexico , including three appointed by President Trump , recoiled in @ @ @ @ @ to prosecute all illegal immigrants even if it meant separating children from their parents .
@ @ @ @ @ officials they were ‘ deeply concerned ’ about the children ’ s welfare , ” @ @ @ @ @ .
“ But the attorney general at the time , Jeff Sessions , made it @ @ @ @ @ on a conference call later that afternoon.
” Said Sessions : “ We need to @ @ @ @ @ Rod Rosenstein , then the deputy attorney general , went even further in a second @ @ @ @ @ , telling the five prosecutors that it did not matter how young the children were @ @

“The five U.S. attorneys along the border with Mexico, including three appointed by President Trump, recoiled in May 2018 against an order to prosecute all illegal immigrants even if it meant separating children from their parents. They told top Justice Department officials they were ‘deeply concerned’ about the children’s welfare,” the New York Times reports.
“But the attorney general at the time, Jeff Sessions, made it clear what Mr. Trump wanted on a conference call later that afternoon.”
Said Sessions: “We need to take away children.”
“Rod Rosenstein, then the deputy attorney general, went even further in a second call about a week later, telling the five prosecutors that it did not matter how young the children were.”


politicalwire--2020-10-06--Stephen Miller Tests Positive

Stephen Miller Tests Positive


politicalwire--2020-10-06--Text Messages Roil North Carolina Senate Race

The Associated Press obtained new text messages between Arlene Guzman Todd and a friend , describing how she was intimate @ @ @ @ @ candidate Cal Cunningham ( D ) .
In the text messages to her friend , @ @ @ @ @ was intimate with Cunningham in his home , which she characterized as “ weird.
” @ @ @ @ @ Todd indicated that she was frustrated by the limited attention that he showed her : @ @ @ @ @ going to send to his opponent his naked photos .
That will teach him .
@

The Associated Press obtained new text messages between Arlene Guzman Todd and a friend, describing how she was intimate with married North Carolina Senate candidate Cal Cunningham (D).
In the text messages to her friend, Guzman Todd told her she was intimate with Cunningham in his home, which she characterized as “weird.”
In another exchange, Guzman Todd indicated that she was frustrated by the limited attention that he showed her: “I’m just going to send to his opponent his naked photos. That will teach him.”


politicalwire--2020-10-06--Facebook Bans QAnon Across All Its Platforms

“ Facebook said Tuesday that it is banning all QAnon accounts from its platforms , a significant escalation over its @ @ @ @ @ the broadest rules the social media giant has put in place in its history , @ @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-10-06--More White House Press Aides Test Positive

A source tells the New York Times that a third and fourth press aide in the White House has tested @ @ @ @ @ , making it a total of five people in the press office including press secretary @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-10-06--Cunningham Still Leads Despite Sexting Scandal

A new Reuters/Ipsos poll in North Carolina finds Cal Cunningham ( D ) leading Sen. Thom Tillis ( R ) @ @ @ @ @ , 47 % to 42 % .
Cunningham last week issued a public apology after @ @ @ @ @ to a woman who is not his wife .

A new Reuters/Ipsos poll in North Carolina finds Cal Cunningham (D) leading Sen. Thom Tillis (R) in the U.S. Senate race, 47% to 42%.
Cunningham last week issued a public apology after sending sexually themed text messages to a woman who is not his wife.


politicalwire--2020-10-06--Bonus Quote of the Day

Bonus Quote of the Day

“ We have it in our hands , the ultimate power .
The power to vote .
It is the @ @ @ @ @ register our will in a peaceable and productive fashion… No matter how many obstacles are @ @ @ @ @ Because once America votes , America will be heard .
”

“We have it in our hands, the ultimate power. The power to vote. It is the noblest instrument ever devised to register our will in a peaceable and productive fashion… No matter how many obstacles are thrown in our way. Because once America votes, America will be heard.”
— Joe Biden, in a speech at Gettysburg.


politicalwire--2020-10-06--Biden’s National Lead Grows

Biden’s National Lead Grows

A new Franklin Pierce University-Boston Herald poll finds Joe Biden leading Donald Trump in the presidential race nationally , 51 @ @ @ @ @ Key takeaway : “ In two days of polling before Trump got COVID , the @ @ @ @ @ a 46 % to 41 % margin .
In the three days of polling after @ @ @ @ @ held a 55 % to 34 % lead .
”

A new Franklin Pierce University-Boston Herald poll finds Joe Biden leading Donald Trump in the presidential race nationally, 51% to 37%.
Key takeaway: “In two days of polling before Trump got COVID, the president trailed Biden by just a 46% to 41% margin. In the three days of polling after the coronavirus diagnosis, Biden held a 55% to 34% lead.”


politicalwire--2020-10-06--Trump Gives Nancy Pelosi a Huge Gift

Trump Gives Nancy Pelosi a Huge Gift

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

This piece is only available to Political Wire members.
On the same day Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell warned of potentially tragic economic consequences if Congress and the White House don’t come to agreement on a new relief package, President Trump abruptly halted negotiations until after the November election.


politicalwire--2020-10-06--St. Louis Gun Couple Indicted

St. Louis Gun Couple Indicted

A St. Louis grand jury has indicted Mark and Patricia McCloskey on two counts each : exhibiting a weapon and @ @ @ @ @ reports .
The McCloskeys had waved guns at Black Lives Matters protesters last summer .

A St. Louis grand jury has indicted Mark and Patricia McCloskey on two counts each: exhibiting a weapon and tampering with evidence, KSDK reports.
The McCloskeys had waved guns at Black Lives Matters protesters last summer.


politicalwire--2020-10-06--More Battleground State Polls

More Battleground State Polls


politicalwire--2020-10-06--Miami Mayor Warns Trump Not to Come

Miami Mayor Warns Trump Not to Come

Miami Mayor Francis Suarez ( R ) told Politico that Donald Trump shouldn ’ t come to his city for @ @ @ @ @ Joe Biden if the president is still testing positive with Covid-19 .
Said Suarez : @ @ @ @ @ think it ’ s safe , not for him and anybody else , anywhere or @ @ @ @ @ ”

Miami Mayor Francis Suarez (R) told Politico that Donald Trump shouldn’t come to his city for the October 15 debate with Joe Biden if the president is still testing positive with Covid-19.
Said Suarez: “I don’t think it’s safe, not for him and anybody else, anywhere or anyone he interacts with.”


politicalwire--2020-10-06--Trump Halts Pandemic Relief Negotiations

President Trump , after a call with Sen. Mitch McConnell ( R ) and Rep. Kevin McCarthy ( R ) @ @ @ @ @ the stimulus negotiations between Speaker Nancy Pelosi ( D ) and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin @ @ @ @ @ , CNN reports .
Washington Post : “ Barring another unexpected development , Trump ’ @ @ @ @ @ of new aid for millions of Americans who remain out work and at risk of @ @ @ @ @ the same day Federal Reserve Chair Jerome H. Powell said in a speech that more @ @ @ @ @ ”

President Trump, after a call with Sen. Mitch McConnell (R) and Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R) has put an end to the stimulus negotiations between Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D) and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin until after the November election, CNN reports.
Washington Post: “Barring another unexpected development, Trump’s declaration kills any chance of new aid for millions of Americans who remain out work and at risk of eviction. It came on the same day Federal Reserve Chair Jerome H. Powell said in a speech that more economic stimulus was needed.”


politicalwire--2020-10-06--Stormy Daniels Fires Back at Melania Trump

Stormy Daniels fired back at Melania Trump in a remarkable exchange spurred by a secretly recorded tape in which the @ @ @ @ @ film star “ the porn hooker.
” Daniels tweeted that she “ wasn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ technically not a hooker ” and made other sexually explicit references about the First Lady @ @ @ @ @

Stormy Daniels fired back at Melania Trump in a remarkable exchange spurred by a secretly recorded tape in which the first lady called the adult film star “the porn hooker.”
Daniels tweeted that she “wasn’t paid for sex and therefore technically not a hooker” and made other sexually explicit references about the First Lady and her immigration status.


politicalwire--2020-10-06--Pence Objects to Plexiglass Dividers at Debate

“ Vice President Pence is requesting that no plexiglass dividers be placed on his side of the stage at Wednesday @ @ @ @ @ , after an announcement Monday by the Commission on Presidential Debates that dividers had been @ @ @ @ @ measure to prevent the spread of the coronavirus , ” the Washington Post reports .
@ @ @ @ @ Biden campaign both said Tuesday they understood that the Pence team was in agreement with @ @ @ @ @ .
But the Pence team suggested they did not want any such dividers around the @ @ @ @ @ what Harris does.
” Said Pence chief of staff Marc Short : “ If she @ @ @ @ @ s more than welcome to surround herself with plexiglass if that makes her feel more @ @ @ @ @ not needed .
”

“Vice President Pence is requesting that no plexiglass dividers be placed on his side of the stage at Wednesday night’s vice-presidential debate, after an announcement Monday by the Commission on Presidential Debates that dividers had been agreed to as a safety measure to prevent the spread of the coronavirus,” the Washington Post reports.
“The commission and the Biden campaign both said Tuesday they understood that the Pence team was in agreement with the notion of plexiglass barriers. But the Pence team suggested they did not want any such dividers around the vice president, regardless of what Harris does.”
Said Pence chief of staff Marc Short: “If she wants it, she’s more than welcome to surround herself with plexiglass if that makes her feel more comfortable. It’s not needed.”


politicalwire--2020-10-07--Supreme Court Nomination Was Super Spreader Event

Joe Biden said Tuesday that the second presidential debate should not be held if President Trump is still infected with @ @ @ @ @ would base his participation in the…

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


politicalwire--2020-10-07--Collins Slams Gideon for ‘Defaming My Reputation’

Sen. Susan Collins ( R-ME ) went after Sara Gideon ( D ) in a Politico interview and accused the @ @ @ @ @ defaming my reputation and attacking my integrity.
” Said Collins : “ She will say @ @ @ @ @ to win .
This race is built on a foundation of falsehoods .
And trying @ @ @ @ @ Maine that somehow I am no longer the same person .
”

Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) went after Sara Gideon (D) in a Politico interview and accused the State House speaker of “defaming my reputation and attacking my integrity.”
Said Collins: “She will say or do anything to try to win. This race is built on a foundation of falsehoods. And trying to convince the people of Maine that somehow I am no longer the same person.”


politicalwire--2020-10-07--Former Staff of Katie Hill Slam Film Adaptation of Story

A forthcoming film adaptation of former Rep. Katie Hill ’ s ( D-CA ) memoir was the target of online @ @ @ @ @ members of “ Katie ’ s former staff ” posting from her old congressional Twitter @ @ @ @ @ The posters wrote a 10-part Twitter thread that Hill ’ s story “ is also @ @ @ @ @ harassment.
” Hill “ can be both a victim and perpetrator , ” they wrote @ @ @ @ @ is not a hero for women .
”

A forthcoming film adaptation of former Rep. Katie Hill’s (D-CA) memoir was the target of online criticism Wednesday morning from anonymous members of “Katie’s former staff” posting from her old congressional Twitter account, Politico reports.
The posters wrote a 10-part Twitter thread that Hill’s story “is also one of workplace abuse and harassment.” Hill “can be both a victim and perpetrator,” they wrote, arguing that she “is not a hero for women.”


politicalwire--2020-10-07--Trump’s Tweeting Even More Erratic Than Usual

“ President Trump , quarantined with COVID-19 in the White House residence and reportedly badgering staff to let him return @ @ @ @ @ was unusually active on Twitter late into Tuesday night , tweeting and retweeting dozens of @ @ @ @ @ Russia , even moving markets by ending coronavirus stimulus negotiations — before apparently reversing himself @ @ @ @ @ Week reports .
Michelle Goldberg : “ The president ’ s Twitter feed is always @ @ @ @ @ really seems like he ’ s suffering some sort of psychological implosion .
”

“President Trump, quarantined with COVID-19 in the White House residence and reportedly badgering staff to let him return to the Oval Office, was unusually active on Twitter late into Tuesday night, tweeting and retweeting dozens of times about Hillary Clinton and Russia, even moving markets by ending coronavirus stimulus negotiations — before apparently reversing himself hours later,” The Week reports.
Michelle Goldberg: “The president’s Twitter feed is always nuts but right now it really seems like he’s suffering some sort of psychological implosion.”
Charlie Sykes: “Trump’s Twitter feed is extra-deranged tonight. Theories?”


politicalwire--2020-10-07--Barrett Served as ‘Handmaid’ In Christian Group

“ While Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett has faced questions about how her Catholic faith might influence her jurisprudence @ @ @ @ @ publicly about her involvement in People of Praise , a small Christian group founded in @ @ @ @ @ South Bend , Ind , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ Barrett , a @ @ @ @ @ disclosed serving on the board of a network of private Christian schools affiliated with the @ @ @ @ @ however , has declined to confirm that she is a member .
In recent years @ @ @ @ @ website editions of a People of Praise magazine — first those that included her name @ @ @ @ @ archives of the magazine itself.
” “ A 2010 People of Praise directory states that @ @ @ @ @ ‘ handmaid , ’ a leadership position for women in the community .
”

“While Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett has faced questions about how her Catholic faith might influence her jurisprudence, she has not spoken publicly about her involvement in People of Praise, a small Christian group founded in the 1970s and based in South Bend, Ind,” the Washington Post reports.
“Barrett, a federal appellate judge, has disclosed serving on the board of a network of private Christian schools affiliated with the group. The organization, however, has declined to confirm that she is a member. In recent years, it removed from its website editions of a People of Praise magazine — first those that included her name and photograph and then all archives of the magazine itself.”
“A 2010 People of Praise directory states that she held the title of ‘handmaid,’ a leadership position for women in the community.”


politicalwire--2020-10-07--Trump Sends Mixed Messages on Pandemic Relief

“ President Trump pulled the plug on ongoing bipartisan coronavirus relief talks in an abrupt move that jolted Wall Street @ @ @ @ @ parties , but hours later called on Congress to approve a bill providing another direct @ @ @ @ @ ” the Wall Street Journal reports .
Late last night , Trump urged both houses @ @ @ @ @ ” revive a lapsed loan program for small businesses and to approve funds for airlines @ @ @ @ @ checks .
New York Times : “ It remained unclear if his tweets reflected a @ @ @ @ @ Washington Post : “ First , he says he won ’ t pursue a package @ @ @ @ @ he demands Congress immediately pass bills .
”

“President Trump pulled the plug on ongoing bipartisan coronavirus relief talks in an abrupt move that jolted Wall Street and surprised lawmakers of both parties, but hours later called on Congress to approve a bill providing another direct check to many Americans,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
Late last night, Trump urged both houses of Congress to “IMMEDIATELY” revive a lapsed loan program for small businesses and to approve funds for airlines and another round of stimulus checks.
New York Times: “It remained unclear if his tweets reflected a willingness to restart negotiations.”
Washington Post: “First, he says he won’t pursue a package until after election. Then he demands Congress immediately pass bills.”


Trump’s Numbers Plunge

Washington Post : “ A GOP group working to elect Senate Republicans conducted polling over the weekend in four states @ @ @ @ @ Montana and North Carolina — as Trump was hospitalized .
The president ’ s numbers @ @ @ @ @ every state , falling by about five points in all four.
” Said one operative @ @ @ @ @ in real trouble .
”

Washington Post: “A GOP group working to elect Senate Republicans conducted polling over the weekend in four states — Colorado, Georgia, Montana and North Carolina — as Trump was hospitalized. The president’s numbers dropped ‘significantly’ in every state, falling by about five points in all four.”
Said one operative: “The president is in real trouble.”


politicalwire--2020-10-07--How Kamala Harris Has Stacked Up

How Kamala Harris Has Stacked Up

Politico : “ Joe Biden ’ s selection of Harris has excited Democrats .
She ’ s helped him raise @ @ @ @ @ .
She is Biden ’ s highest-profile surrogate to swing-state cities like Milwaukee , Detroit @ @ @ @ @ particular focus on courting voters of color , including African Americans and Latinos.
” “ @ @ @ @ @ Biden in TV ads , a rarity for a VP contender , and stars in @ @ @ @ @ the campaign .
She ’ s become the 77-year-old nominee ’ s emissary to pop @ @ @ @ @ musical icons , sitting for podcasts geared toward non-political audiences and drawing millions of views @ @ @ @ @ stepping off the plane in Converse Chuck Taylor sneakers .
The verdict : Harris , @ @ @ @ @ has hit her marks .
”

Politico: “Joe Biden’s selection of Harris has excited Democrats. She’s helped him raise money at a record clip. She is Biden’s highest-profile surrogate to swing-state cities like Milwaukee, Detroit and Philadelphia, with a particular focus on courting voters of color, including African Americans and Latinos.”
“Harris appears solo and alongside Biden in TV ads, a rarity for a VP contender, and stars in digital videos pumped out by the campaign. She’s become the 77-year-old nominee’s emissary to pop culture, making appearances with musical icons, sitting for podcasts geared toward non-political audiences and drawing millions of views for brief videos of her stepping off the plane in Converse Chuck Taylor sneakers. The verdict: Harris, with a few exceptions, has hit her marks.”


politicalwire--2020-10-07--Trump Was Not Tested Every Day

Trump Was Not Tested Every Day

New York Times : “ White House officials conceded on Tuesday that there had been an impression created that Mr. @ @ @ @ @ day , and a reliance on testing as if it were a curative measure as @ @ @ @ @ “ Yet the president himself was not tested every day , according to two people @ @ @ @ @ A senior administration official would only say on Tuesday that Mr. Trump was tested ‘ @ @ @ @

New York Times: “White House officials conceded on Tuesday that there had been an impression created that Mr. Trump was getting tested every day, and a reliance on testing as if it were a curative measure as opposed to a diagnostic.”
“Yet the president himself was not tested every day, according to two people familiar with the practices. A senior administration official would only say on Tuesday that Mr. Trump was tested ‘regularly.'”


politicalwire--2020-10-07--Eric Trump Says His Father Saved Christianity


politicalwire--2020-10-07--McConnell Throws Shade White House’s ‘Risky Behavior’

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell appeared to call out the Trump White House for being reckless with the coronavirus during @ @ @ @ @ Said McConnell : “ I do think there have been risky behaviors , but not @ @ @ @ @ how to handle this .
We ’ ve been dealing with this since May , @ @ @ @ @ it successfully .
”

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell appeared to call out the Trump White House for being reckless with the coronavirus during a Fox News interview.
Said McConnell: “I do think there have been risky behaviors, but not in the Senate… We know how to handle this. We’ve been dealing with this since May, and we’ll handle it successfully.”


politicalwire--2020-10-07--Fauci Says 400K Dead from Virus Possible

Dr. Anthony Fauci “ offered a grim image of the coronavirus pandemic , telling students Tuesday that between 300,000 and @ @ @ @ @ the disease in the United States , ” Politico reports .
Said Fauci : “ @ @ @ @ @ do what we need to in the fall and winter , we could have 300,000-400,000 @ @ @ @

Dr. Anthony Fauci “offered a grim image of the coronavirus pandemic, telling students Tuesday that between 300,000 and 400,000 people could die from the disease in the United States,” Politico reports.
Said Fauci: “If we don’t do what we need to in the fall and winter, we could have 300,000-400,000 Covid-19 deaths.”


politicalwire--2020-10-07--Biden Says No Debate If Trump Still Has COVID

Joe Biden said Tuesday that the second presidential debate should not be held if President Trump is still infected with @ @ @ @ @ would base his participation in the debate upon recommendations from medical experts , CNN reports @ @ @ @ @ Well , I think if he still has Covid , we shouldn ’ t have @ @ @ @ @ we ’ re gon na have to follow very strict guidelines .
Too many people @ @ @ @ @ ’ s a very serious problem.
” He continued : “ And so I ’ @ @ @ @ @ guidelines of the Cleveland Clinic , and what the docs say is the right thing @ @ @ @ @ when he shows up for debate .
”

Joe Biden said Tuesday that the second presidential debate should not be held if President Trump is still infected with coronavirus, but that he would base his participation in the debate upon recommendations from medical experts, CNN reports.
Said Biden: “Well, I think if he still has Covid, we shouldn’t have a debate. I think we’re gonna have to follow very strict guidelines. Too many people have been infected and it’s a very serious problem.”
He continued: “And so I’ll be guided by the guidelines of the Cleveland Clinic, and what the docs say is the right thing to do — if and when he shows up for debate.”


politicalwire--2020-10-07--Pence Accedes to Plexiglass at Debate

Pence Accedes to Plexiglass at Debate

“ Vice President Mike Pence has ceded to Sen. Kamala Harris ’ demands for plexiglass to be used at Wednesday @ @ @ @ @ ” Politico reports .
“ Pence ’ s team had objected to Harris ’ wishes @ @ @ @ @ the two candidates from each other and from moderator Susan Page .
But after a @ @ @ @ @ to the vice president decided to back down .
”

“Vice President Mike Pence has ceded to Sen. Kamala Harris’ demands for plexiglass to be used at Wednesday evening’s debate,” Politico reports.
“Pence’s team had objected to Harris’ wishes for a barrier to separate the two candidates from each other and from moderator Susan Page. But after a series of talks, aides to the vice president decided to back down.”


politicalwire--2020-10-08--The Vice Presidential Debate

The Vice Presidential Debate

Sen. Kamala Harris and Vice President Mike Pence are scheduled to face off tonight in the first and only general @ @ @ @ @ 2020 .
The moderator is Susan Page of USA Today .
It will be televised @ @ @ @ @ streamed live by ABC , CBS , NBC , Fox News and C-SPAN .
The @ @ @ @ @ p.m .
ET .
Leave your reactions in the comments .
Members can join us @ @ @ @

Sen. Kamala Harris and Vice President Mike Pence are scheduled to face off tonight in the first and only general election vice presidential debate of 2020.
The moderator is Susan Page of USA Today.
It will be televised on the major channels and streamed live by ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox News and C-SPAN.
The debate will begin at 9 p.m. ET.
Leave your reactions in the comments. Members can join us in The Cloakroom.


politicalwire--2020-10-08--Trump Planning Campaign Trip Next Week

Trump Planning Campaign Trip Next Week

The Trump campaign is exploring having the President hold an event — though not a rally — in Pittsburgh on @ @ @ @ @ Times reports .
They ’ re setting up possible travel plans for him all week @ @ @ @ @ week seeming more solid .

The Trump campaign is exploring having the President hold an event — though not a rally — in Pittsburgh on Monday, the New York Times reports.
They’re setting up possible travel plans for him all week, with later in the week seeming more solid.


politicalwire--2020-10-08--34 People Connected to White House Now Infected

The coronavirus outbreak has infected “ 34 White House staffers and other contacts ” in recent days , according to @ @ @ @ @ ABC News , an indication that the disease has spread among more people than previous @ @ @ @ @ American government .

The coronavirus outbreak has infected “34 White House staffers and other contacts” in recent days, according to an internal memo obtained by ABC News, an indication that the disease has spread among more people than previous known in the seat of American government.


politicalwire--2020-10-08--White House Security Official Gravely Ill

“ A top White House security official , Crede Bailey , is gravely ill with Covid-19 and has been hospitalized @ @ @ @ @ reports .
“ The White House has not publicly disclosed Bailey ’ s illness .
@ @ @ @ @ Sept. 26 Rose Garden event President Trump held to announce his Supreme Court nominee Amy @ @ @ @ @ connected to more than a dozen cases of the disease .
”

“A top White House security official, Crede Bailey, is gravely ill with Covid-19 and has been hospitalized since September,” Bloomberg reports.
“The White House has not publicly disclosed Bailey’s illness. He became sick before the Sept. 26 Rose Garden event President Trump held to announce his Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett that has been connected to more than a dozen cases of the disease.”


politicalwire--2020-10-07--GOP Plunged Into Crisis

GOP Plunged Into Crisis

“ Vulnerable Republicans are beginning to distance themselves from President Trump ’ s dismissive response to the coronavirus pandemic and @ @ @ @ @ with congressional Democrats over federal economic relief , with the latest cracks carrying enormous implications @ @ @ @ @ with just four weeks until Election Day , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ @ @ @ @ @ Trump ’ s support plummets and a possible blue tsunami looms , it is now @ @ @ @ @ are showing flashes of discomfort with the president , straining to stay in the good @ @ @ @ @ without being wholly defined by an erratic incumbent .
”

“Vulnerable Republicans are beginning to distance themselves from President Trump’s dismissive response to the coronavirus pandemic and his dramatic termination of negotiations with congressional Democrats over federal economic relief, with the latest cracks carrying enormous implications for Trump and the party with just four weeks until Election Day,” the Washington Post reports.
“Facing a political reckoning as Trump’s support plummets and a possible blue tsunami looms, it is now conservatives and Trump allies who are showing flashes of discomfort with the president, straining to stay in the good graces of his core voters without being wholly defined by an erratic incumbent.”


politicalwire--2020-10-07--Republicans Urge Trump to Restart Relief Talks

“ President Trump is taking a huge political gamble with his decision to end coronavirus relief talks weeks before the @ @ @ @ @ ’ t want him to call it quits just yet , ” Politico reports .
@ @ @ @ @ — who are facing major political headwinds as they fight to hang on to their @ @ @ @ @ Trump to come back to the negotiating table , as millions of Americans are out @ @ @ @ @ on the verge of massive layoffs and the Federal Reserve chairman recently warned of dire @ @ @ @ @ ’ t act.
” “ Some Republicans even fear that Trump ’ s Tuesday order @ @ @ @ @ not only mean months of delay for suffering families and businesses , but it will @ @ @ @ @ takes the political hit for it — even though a deal was unlikely to come @ @ @ @ @ and despite their belief that Speaker Nancy Pelosi is to blame .
”

“President Trump is taking a huge political gamble with his decision to end coronavirus relief talks weeks before the election. But Republicans don’t want him to call it quits just yet,” Politico reports.
“Several frustrated GOP lawmakers — who are facing major political headwinds as they fight to hang on to their Senate majority — are urging Trump to come back to the negotiating table, as millions of Americans are out of work, airlines are on the verge of massive layoffs and the Federal Reserve chairman recently warned of dire economic consequences if Congress doesn’t act.”
“Some Republicans even fear that Trump’s Tuesday order to halt the talks will not only mean months of delay for suffering families and businesses, but it will also ensure that the GOP takes the political hit for it — even though a deal was unlikely to come together before the election, and despite their belief that Speaker Nancy Pelosi is to blame.”
Earlier for members: Trump Gives Nancy Pelosi a Huge Gift


politicalwire--2020-10-07--Biden Expands Lead Over Trump

Biden Expands Lead Over Trump

President Trump asserts in a new video that its a “ blessing from God ” that he caught COVID-19 because @ @ @ @ @ of therapeutic medicines and claims he will…

“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--2020-10-07--Trump Says It’s a ‘Blessing’ He Got Virus

President Trump asserts in a new video that its a “ blessing from God ” that he caught COVID-19 because @ @ @ @ @ of therapeutic medicines and claims he will provide them “ free ” and says he @ @ @ @ @ ” — a statement which is not scientifically supported .

President Trump asserts in a new video that its a “blessing from God” that he caught COVID-19 because he now sees the benefit of therapeutic medicines and claims he will provide them “free” and says he considers them a “cure” — a statement which is not scientifically supported.


politicalwire--2020-10-07--CDC Chief’s Letter on Pence Draws Criticism

A letter sent by CDC director Robert Redfield attesting to Vice President Mike Pence ’ s health and proclaiming him @ @ @ @ @ is sparking outcry from public health experts , the Washington Post reports .
It is @ @ @ @ @ unprecedented , for the CDC director to release a letter vouching for the health of @ @ @ @ @

A letter sent by CDC director Robert Redfield attesting to Vice President Mike Pence’s health and proclaiming him safe to debate Wednesday night is sparking outcry from public health experts, the Washington Post reports.
It is highly unusual, and perhaps unprecedented, for the CDC director to release a letter vouching for the health of a top public official.


politicalwire--2020-10-07--Biden Resumes Negative Ads

Biden Resumes Negative Ads


politicalwire--2020-10-07--Trump Faces a Massive Gender Gap

Trump Faces a Massive Gender Gap

Tim Alberta : “ Last week , I heard from one of the smartest Republicans alive , a longtime party @ @ @ @ @ state Trump carried by double digits .
He told me the polling he was seeing @ @ @ @ @ a nightmare ; these were numbers he never expected to see in his lifetime .
@ @ @ @ @ than that ?
I had another conversation , with another dependable red-state Republican , the @ @ @ @ @ heard the very same thing.
” “ Both of these men were sounding the alarm @ @ @ @ @ could actually lose their states , and would at the very least drag down a @ @ @ @ @ because women have turned on the GOP at a historic clip.
” “ Trump lost @ @ @ @ @ Clinton , according to exit polls , and Republicans have long worried that the figure @ @ @ @ @ teens .
There is now genuine worry that the margin could explode north of 20 @ @ @ @ @ modern election history .
”

Tim Alberta: “Last week, I heard from one of the smartest Republicans alive, a longtime party operator who lives in a state Trump carried by double digits. He told me the polling he was seeing there was something out of a nightmare; these were numbers he never expected to see in his lifetime. The only thing more dizzying than that? I had another conversation, with another dependable red-state Republican, the very next day, and heard the very same thing.”
“Both of these men were sounding the alarm, alerting me that Trump could actually lose their states, and would at the very least drag down a number of down-ballot Republicans, because women have turned on the GOP at a historic clip.”
“Trump lost women by 13 points to Clinton, according to exit polls, and Republicans have long worried that the figure could climb into the high teens. There is now genuine worry that the margin could explode north of 20 points—the biggest gender gap in modern election history.”


politicalwire--2020-10-07--Political Sign Theft Leads to Bizarre Cover-Up Effort


politicalwire--2020-10-07--Prestigious Medical Journal Calls for Trump to Be Defeated

“ In an unprecedented move , the New England Journal of Medicine on Wednesday published an editorial written by its @ @ @ @ @ for its response to the Covid-19 pandemic — and calling for the current leadership in @ @ @ @ @ voted out of office , ” CNN reports .

“In an unprecedented move, the New England Journal of Medicine on Wednesday published an editorial written by its editors condemning the Trump administration for its response to the Covid-19 pandemic — and calling for the current leadership in the United States to be voted out of office,” CNN reports.


politicalwire--2020-10-07--Husband Calls for Investigation Into Cunningham’s Affair

“ The husband of the woman who confirmed an extramarital affair with Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Cal Cunningham said he @ @ @ @ @ North Carolina race , ” the Raleigh News & Observer reports .
Said Jeremy Todd @ @ @ @ @ chose to repeatedly engage in activities that would hurt his family and a fellow junior @ @ @ @ @ believe Mr. Cunningham should drop out of the Senate race and ask that his behavior @ @ @ @ @ the Uniform Code of Military Justice .
”

“The husband of the woman who confirmed an extramarital affair with Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Cal Cunningham said he should drop out of the North Carolina race,” the Raleigh News & Observer reports.
Said Jeremy Todd: “Mr. Cunningham chose to repeatedly engage in activities that would hurt his family and a fellow junior officer and veteran… I firmly believe Mr. Cunningham should drop out of the Senate race and ask that his behavior and actions be reviewed under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.”