politicalwire--2020-02-20--Loathing In Las Vegas

Loathing In Las Vegas

Politico : “ Amy Klobuchar made sure there would be no post-debate handshake with Pete Buttigieg .
After a series @ @ @ @ @ ’ s presidential debate , Klobuchar cut around Buttigieg without a glance in his direction @ @ @ @ @ their neighboring podiums following Wednesday ’ s Democratic showdown.
” “ The hostility building between @ @ @ @ @ dramatically into the open in Nevada , as they clashed repeatedly on the debate stage @ @ @ @ @ momentum out of each other ’ s campaigns .
Klobuchar and Buttigieg have fought before @ @ @ @ @ political records in past debates — but the feud took a deeply personal turn.
” @ @ @ @ @ Forgive us for wondering on Wednesday night if Ms. Klobuchar and Mr. Buttigieg wanted to @ @ @ @ @ at times .
”

Politico: “Amy Klobuchar made sure there would be no post-debate handshake with Pete Buttigieg. After a series of cutting exchanges during Wednesday’s presidential debate, Klobuchar cut around Buttigieg without a glance in his direction as they stepped away from their neighboring podiums following Wednesday’s Democratic showdown.”
“The hostility building between the two Midwestern Democrats burst dramatically into the open in Nevada, as they clashed repeatedly on the debate stage and tried to slash the momentum out of each other’s campaigns. Klobuchar and Buttigieg have fought before over their experience and their political records in past debates — but the feud took a deeply personal turn.”
New York Times: “Forgive us for wondering on Wednesday night if Ms. Klobuchar and Mr. Buttigieg wanted to physically harm each other onstage at times.”


politicalwire--2020-02-20--White House Takes Control of Pardon Process

Washington Post : “ The White House is moving to take more direct control over pardons and commutations , with @ @ @ @ @ the role of the Justice Department in the clemency process as he weighs a flurry @ @ @ @ @ “ The group , essentially an informal task force of at least a half-dozen presidential @ @ @ @ @ since late last year to discuss a revamped pardon system in the White House .
@ @ @ @ @ s son-in-law and senior adviser , is taking a leading role in the new clemency @ @ @ @ @ idea of putting the White House more directly in control of the process that in @ @ @ @ @ in the Justice Department , officials said .
”

Washington Post: “The White House is moving to take more direct control over pardons and commutations, with President Trump aiming to limit the role of the Justice Department in the clemency process as he weighs a flurry of additional pardon announcements.”
“The group, essentially an informal task force of at least a half-dozen presidential allies, has been meeting since late last year to discuss a revamped pardon system in the White House. Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law and senior adviser, is taking a leading role in the new clemency initiative and has supported the idea of putting the White House more directly in control of the process that in past administrations has been housed in the Justice Department, officials said.”


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ We ’ ve had brokered conventions before , and we ’ ve always come up with good candidates .
@ @ @ @ @ end of the world .
It just slows the process down.
” — Former Sen. @ @ @ @ @ the Associated Press .

“We’ve had brokered conventions before, and we’ve always come up with good candidates. It’s not the end of the world. It just slows the process down.”
— Former Sen. Harry Reid, quoted by the Associated Press.


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Mulvaney says Republicans Hypocritical on Deficits

“ Acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney said Wednesday night that the Republican Party is hypocritical when it @ @ @ @ @ according to audio of an overseas speech obtained by the Washington Post .
Sid Mulvaney @ @ @ @ @ very interested in deficits when there is a Democrat in the White House .
The @ @ @ @ @ world is deficits when Barack Obama was the president .
Then Donald Trump became president @ @ @ @ @ a lot less interested as a party , ”

“Acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney said Wednesday night that the Republican Party is hypocritical when it comes to deficits,” according to audio of an overseas speech obtained by the Washington Post.
Sid Mulvaney: “My party is very interested in deficits when there is a Democrat in the White House. The worst thing in the whole world is deficits when Barack Obama was the president. Then Donald Trump became president, and we’re a lot less interested as a party,”


politicalwire--2020-02-20--My Reaction to the 9th Democratic Debate

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politicalwire--2020-02-20--The 9th Democratic Debate

The 9th Democratic Debate

The Democratic presidential candidates will take the debate stage tonight in Nevada at 9 p.m .
ET .
The event @ @ @ @ @ NBC and MSNBC .
The candidates who made the cut : Bernie Sanders , Joe @ @ @ @ @ Pete Buttigieg , Elizabeth Warren , Amy Klobuchar .
Leave your reactions in the comments @

The Democratic presidential candidates will take the debate stage tonight in Nevada at 9 p.m. ET. The event will be televised nationally on NBC and MSNBC.
The candidates who made the cut: Bernie Sanders, Joe Biden, Mike Bloomberg, Pete Buttigieg, Elizabeth Warren, Amy Klobuchar.
Leave your reactions in the comments.


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Trump Rewards Senators Loyal During Impeachment

“ Republican senators facing tight re-election battles remained loyal to President Trump during the Senate impeachment trial .
Now , @ @ @ @ @ , ” the Wall Street Journal reports .
“ Mr .
Trump is set to @ @ @ @ @ with two of the most vulnerable GOP senators : Martha McSally of Arizona and Cory @ @ @ @ @ hail from states that will be competitive in the presidential election in November and hope @ @ @ @ @ will help them rally voters and raise money .
”

“Republican senators facing tight re-election battles remained loyal to President Trump during the Senate impeachment trial. Now, they are reaping the rewards,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
“Mr. Trump is set to hold campaign rallies this week with two of the most vulnerable GOP senators: Martha McSally of Arizona and Cory Gardner of Colorado. Both hail from states that will be competitive in the presidential election in November and hope Mr. Trump’s visit will help them rally voters and raise money.”


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Bloomberg Quietly Plots Brokered Convention Strategy

“ Mike Bloomberg is privately lobbying Democratic Party officials and donors allied with his moderate opponents to flip their allegiance @ @ @ @ @ Bernie Sanders — in the event of a brokered national convention , ” Politico reports @ @ @ @ @ largely executed by Bloomberg ’ s senior state-level advisers in recent weeks , attempts to @ @ @ @ @ contest at the Democratic National Convention in July by poaching supporters of Joe Biden and @ @ @ @ @ to two Democratic strategists familiar with the talks and unaffiliated with Bloomberg .
”

“Mike Bloomberg is privately lobbying Democratic Party officials and donors allied with his moderate opponents to flip their allegiance to him — and block Bernie Sanders — in the event of a brokered national convention,” Politico reports.
“The effort, largely executed by Bloomberg’s senior state-level advisers in recent weeks, attempts to prime Bloomberg for a second-ballot contest at the Democratic National Convention in July by poaching supporters of Joe Biden and other moderate Democrats, according to two Democratic strategists familiar with the talks and unaffiliated with Bloomberg.”


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Lawmakers Told Russia Is Helping Trump

Lawmakers Told Russia Is Helping Trump

“ Intelligence officials warned House lawmakers last week that Russia was interfering in the 2020 campaign to try to get @ @ @ @ @ the New York Times reports .
Trump complained “ that Democrats would use it against @ @ @ @ @ to “ berate Joseph Maguire , the outgoing acting director of national intelligence , for @ @ @ @ @ ” The Washington Post first reported the Oval Office confrontation between Trump and Maguire .

“Intelligence officials warned House lawmakers last week that Russia was interfering in the 2020 campaign to try to get President Trump re-elected,” the New York Times reports.
Trump complained “that Democrats would use it against him” and led him to “berate Joseph Maguire, the outgoing acting director of national intelligence, for allowing it to take place.”
The Washington Post first reported the Oval Office confrontation between Trump and Maguire.


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Biden Keeps Lead In South Carolina

Biden Keeps Lead In South Carolina

A new Winthrop poll in South Carolina finds Joe Biden leading the Democratic primary race with 24 % , followed @ @ @ @ @ % , Tom Steyer at 15 % , Pete Buttigieg at 7 % , Elizabeth @ @ @ @ @ Amy Klobuchar at 4 % .
Said pollster Scott Huffmon : “ Flames seem to @ @ @ @ @ in Biden ’ s firewall .
His support has dropped by double digits since the @ @ @ @ @ now second behind Biden , has more than doubled his support , both overall and @ @ @ @ @ With roughly one-fifth of voters remaining undecided , election day could hold some surprises .
@

A new Winthrop poll in South Carolina finds Joe Biden leading the Democratic primary race with 24%, followed by Bernie Sanders at 19%, Tom Steyer at 15%, Pete Buttigieg at 7%, Elizabeth Warren at 6% and Amy Klobuchar at 4%.
Said pollster Scott Huffmon: “Flames seem to be licking through the cracks in Biden’s firewall. His support has dropped by double digits since the late September… Bernie Sanders, now second behind Biden, has more than doubled his support, both overall and among African American voters. With roughly one-fifth of voters remaining undecided, election day could hold some surprises.”


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Warren Calls on Sanders to Release Medical Records

Sen. Elizabeth Warren said that Sen. Bernie Sanders has not done enough to disclose his medical history after his recent @ @ @ @ @ Street Journal reports .
Said Warren : “ He had made a promise to release @ @ @ @ @ and I thought that was what he was going to do.
” Asked if she @ @ @ @ @ done that , Ms. Warren said : “ He just hasn ’ t .
I @ @ @ @ @ ’ s a question of opinion .
Those aren ’ t medical records .
”

Sen. Elizabeth Warren said that Sen. Bernie Sanders has not done enough to disclose his medical history after his recent heart attack, the Wall Street Journal reports.
Said Warren: “He had made a promise to release all his medical records, and I thought that was what he was going to do.”
Asked if she felt like he had not done that, Ms. Warren said: “He just hasn’t. I don’t think that’s a question of opinion. Those aren’t medical records.”


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Warren’s Best Moment Was Improvised

Warren’s Best Moment Was Improvised

New York Times : “ While Ms. Warren ’ s opening lines had been carefully rehearsed , the most searing @ @ @ @ @ improvised , according to her aides .
Ms. Warren pressed Mr. Bloomberg about the nondisclosure @ @ @ @ @ at his companies had signed , so voters could know ‘ what ’ s lurking @ @ @ @ @ the former mayor into perhaps his worst moments onstage .
”

New York Times: “While Ms. Warren’s opening lines had been carefully rehearsed, the most searing exchange of the night was improvised, according to her aides. Ms. Warren pressed Mr. Bloomberg about the nondisclosure agreements that former female employees at his companies had signed, so voters could know ‘what’s lurking out there,’ flustering the former mayor into perhaps his worst moments onstage.”


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Trump Ousted Spy Chief After Election Briefing

“ President Trump erupted at his acting director of national intelligence , Joseph Maguire , in the Oval Office last @ @ @ @ @ as disloyalty by Maguire ’ s staff , ruining his chances of becoming the permanent @ @ @ @ @ Washington Post reports .
“ Maguire had been considered a leading candidate to be nominated @ @ @ @ @ White House aides had said .
But Trump ’ s opinion shifted last week , @ @ @ @ @ GOP ally that the intelligence official in charge of election security , who works for @ @ @ @ @ briefing last Thursday to the House Intelligence Committee on 2020 election security.
” “ It @ @ @ @ @ official , Shelby Pierson , specifically said at the briefing that angered Trump , But @ @ @ @ @ she had given information exclusively to Rep. Adam Schiff ( D-CA ) , the committee @ @ @ @ @ be helpful to Democrats if released publicly .
”

“President Trump erupted at his acting director of national intelligence, Joseph Maguire, in the Oval Office last week over what he perceived as disloyalty by Maguire’s staff, ruining his chances of becoming the permanent intelligence chief,” the Washington Post reports.
“Maguire had been considered a leading candidate to be nominated for the DNI post, White House aides had said. But Trump’s opinion shifted last week, after he heard from a GOP ally that the intelligence official in charge of election security, who works for Maguire, gave a classified briefing last Thursday to the House Intelligence Committee on 2020 election security.”
“It’s unclear what the official, Shelby Pierson, specifically said at the briefing that angered Trump, But the president erroneously believed that she had given information exclusively to Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA), the committee chairman, and it would be helpful to Democrats if released publicly.”


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Bloomberg Contributes $463.8 Million to His Campaign

“ Michael Bloomberg ’ s contribution to his presidential run neared the half-billion-dollar mark by the start of this month @ @ @ @ @ sums into advertising and hired hundreds of staffers , ” the Wall Street Journal reports @ @ @ @ @ who is self-funding his campaign , had contributed $ 463.8 million to his campaign as @ @ @ @ @ month , a new Federal Election Commission filing shows .
”

“Michael Bloomberg’s contribution to his presidential run neared the half-billion-dollar mark by the start of this month, as he plowed gargantuan sums into advertising and hired hundreds of staffers,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
“The billionaire, who is self-funding his campaign, had contributed $463.8 million to his campaign as of the end of last month, a new Federal Election Commission filing shows.”


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Mulvaney Says U.S. Economy ‘Desperate’ for Immigrants

“ Acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney told a crowd at a private gathering in England on Wednesday @ @ @ @ @ ‘ needs more immigrants ’ for the U.S. economy to continue growing , ” according @ @ @ @ @ Washington Post .
Said Mulvaney : “ We are desperate — desperate — for more @ @ @ @ @ out of people to fuel the economic growth that we ’ ve had in our @ @ @ @ @ years .
We need more immigrants .
”

“Acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney told a crowd at a private gathering in England on Wednesday night that the Trump administration ‘needs more immigrants’ for the U.S. economy to continue growing,” according to audio obtained by the Washington Post.
Said Mulvaney: “We are desperate — desperate — for more people. We are running out of people to fuel the economic growth that we’ve had in our nation over the last four years. We need more immigrants.”


politicalwire--2020-02-20--An Electoral College Tie Is More Likely Than You Think

If the 2020 presidential election comes down to Wisconsin , Michigan and Pennsylvania — and today ’ s Quinnipiac poll @ @ @ @ @ end in an Electoral College tie .
In that event , the House of Representatives @ @ @ @ @

If the 2020 presidential election comes down to Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsylvania — and today’s Quinnipiac poll results hold — it could end in an Electoral College tie.
In that event, the House of Representatives would break the tie.


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Democratic Debate Sets Ratings Record

Democratic Debate Sets Ratings Record

Hollywood Reporter : “ Nearly 20 million people watched the debate on NBC and MSNBC Wednesday night .
The 19.66 @ @ @ @ @ telecast breaks the previous Democratic primary record of 18.1 million by a sizable margin .
@


politicalwire--2020-02-20--H.R. McMaster Has a Book Coming

H.R. McMaster Has a Book Coming

“ A book by Lt. Gen. H.R .
McMaster , President Trump ’ s second national security adviser , will @ @ @ @ @ 28 .
First announced in the summer of 2018 , Battlegrounds will focus on national @ @ @ @ @ including his contentious time with Trump , ” the AP reports .


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Sanders Leads In California Primary

Sanders Leads In California Primary

A new Monmouth poll in California finds Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic primary race with 23 % , followed by @ @ @ @ @ , Mike Bloomberg at 13 % , Elizabeth Warren at 10 % , Pete Buttigieg @ @ @ @ @ Steyer at 5 % and Amy Klobuchar at 4 % .
Another 13 % of @ @ @ @ @ and do not lean toward any candidate at this time .
Said pollster Patrick Murray @ @ @ @ @ big prize on Super Tuesday .
As the poll currently stands , it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ three candidates reach viability in any given congressional district .
That would enable Sanders to @ @ @ @ @ or more while only earning one-quarter of the total vote .
”

A new Monmouth poll in California finds Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic primary race with 23%, followed by Joe Biden at 17%, Mike Bloomberg at 13%, Elizabeth Warren at 10%, Pete Buttigieg at 9%, Tom Steyer at 5% and Amy Klobuchar at 4%.
Another 13% of likely primary voters remain undecided and do not lean toward any candidate at this time.
Said pollster Patrick Murray: “California is the big prize on Super Tuesday. As the poll currently stands, it’s possible that only two or three candidates reach viability in any given congressional district. That would enable Sanders to rack up half the delegates or more while only earning one-quarter of the total vote.”


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Schiff Warns Pardoning Stone Would Be Corrupt

House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff said Roger Stone ’ s sentence was “ justified ” and warned that a @ @ @ @ @ would be a “ breathtaking act of corruption.
” Said Shiff : “ Roger Stone @ @ @ @ @ to Congress and threatening a witness .
He did it to cover up for Trump @ @ @ @ @ ” He added : “ It should go without saying , but to pardon Stone @ @ @ @ @ to protect Trump would be a breathtaking act of corruption .
”

House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff said Roger Stone’s sentence was “justified” and warned that a presidential pardon in the case would be a “breathtaking act of corruption.”
Said Shiff: “Roger Stone was found guilty of lying to Congress and threatening a witness. He did it to cover up for Trump. His sentence is justified.”
He added: “It should go without saying, but to pardon Stone when his crimes were committed to protect Trump would be a breathtaking act of corruption.”


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Roger Stone Sentenced to 40 Months

Roger Stone Sentenced to 40 Months

Judge Amy Berman Jackson sentenced Roger Stone , a longtime ally of President Trump , to 40 months in prison @ @ @ @ @ Congress and witness tampering in the Russia investigation , the New York Times reports .
@ @ @ @ @ , Judge Jackson said Stone ’ s behavior inspired “ dismay and disgust.
” She @ @ @ @ @ still exists .
The truth still matters .
Roger Stone ’ s insistence that it @ @ @ @ @ pride in his own lies are a threat to the very foundation of this democracy @ @

Judge Amy Berman Jackson sentenced Roger Stone, a longtime ally of President Trump, to 40 months in prison for lying to and obstructing Congress and witness tampering in the Russia investigation, the New York Times reports.
Handing down a 40-month sentence, Judge Jackson said Stone’s behavior inspired “dismay and disgust.”
She added: “The truth still exists. The truth still matters. Roger Stone’s insistence that it doesn’t, his pride in his own lies are a threat to the very foundation of this democracy.”


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Swing States Remain Tight

Swing States Remain Tight

In three critical Rust Belt states that delivered a victory to President Trump in 2016 by narrow margins , President @ @ @ @ @ head matchups against the top Democratic candidates in Wisconsin , but loses or trails within @ @ @ @ @ Pennsylvania matchups , and is locked in close races in Michigan , according to a @ @ @ @ @ Mary Snow : “ Three different states , three different scenarios , one constant — @ @ @ @ @ s a top issue for voters , and it ’ s giving President Trump a @ @ @ @ @ give him a job approval rating above 50 % , higher than what he receives @ @ @ @ @ Michigan .
These Wisconsin numbers are a red warning sign for Democrats that rebuilding the @ @ @ @ @ 2020 may not be so easy .
But it ’ s a long way to @ @ @

In three critical Rust Belt states that delivered a victory to President Trump in 2016 by narrow margins, President Trump leads in head to head matchups against the top Democratic candidates in Wisconsin, but loses or trails within the margin of error in Pennsylvania matchups, and is locked in close races in Michigan, according to a Quinnipiac Poll.
Said pollster Mary Snow: “Three different states, three different scenarios, one constant — the economy. It’s a top issue for voters, and it’s giving President Trump a strong tailwind. Wisconsin voters give him a job approval rating above 50%, higher than what he receives nationally and in Pennsylvania and Michigan. These Wisconsin numbers are a red warning sign for Democrats that rebuilding the ‘blue wall’ in 2020 may not be so easy. But it’s a long way to November.”


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Klobuchar Launches Ads In Super Tuesday States

“ Amy Klobuchar is launching three new ads and going up with a seven-figure TV ad buy covering half of @ @ @ @ @ Thursday , joining a small group of Democratic presidential candidates advertising in the delegate-rich primaries @ @ @ @ @ ” Politico reports .


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Florida Officials Rename Highways After Harriet Tubman

“ Miami-Dade commissioners unanimously approved renaming the county ’ s ‘ Dixie ’ highways after Harriet Tubman , replacing a @ @ @ @ @ racist legacy with the name of a legendary liberator of Americans subjected to slavery , @ @ @ @ @ .


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Trump’s High Approval Ratings May Be Misleading

The Economist : “ Even after correcting for demographic biases , pollsters ’ data can still be unrepresentative .
They may have the right shares of Latino voters and boomers , but nevertheless have too many Republicans or Democrats .
This concern is pronounced when an event causes especially good , or bad , news for a political party .
At such times surveys can suddenly be swamped with partisans who are eager to voice their love , or hate , for the president.
” “ In the wake of Mr Trump ’ s acquittal in the Senate , pollsters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ affecting polls .
Courtney Kennedy , the director for survey research at the Pew Research Center , says that there is a ‘ strong possibility ’ that the recent uptick in Mr Trump ’ s ratings has a wave of optimistic Republicans as its source .
She says that outlets can control this problem by adjusting their data to have the correct shares of Democratic- and Republican-leaning voters , but the idea is relatively new and few pollsters have data good enough to perform such corrections.
” “ The Economist ’ s analysis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s impeachment proceedings affirms Ms Kennedy ’ s suspicion .
In polls that weight their data to represent America ’ s partisan balance or the results of the 2016 election , the share of adults who approve of Mr Trump ’ s job as president has risen by half a percentage point since impeachment proceedings began in earnest last October .
But in polls that do not , Mr Trump ’ s ratings have increased by over three percentage points .
”

The Economist: “Even after correcting for demographic biases, pollsters’ data can still be unrepresentative. They may have the right shares of Latino voters and boomers, but nevertheless have too many Republicans or Democrats. This concern is pronounced when an event causes especially good, or bad, news for a political party. At such times surveys can suddenly be swamped with partisans who are eager to voice their love, or hate, for the president.”
“In the wake of Mr Trump’s acquittal in the Senate, pollsters suspect that such a bias could be affecting polls. Courtney Kennedy, the director for survey research at the Pew Research Center, says that there is a ‘strong possibility’ that the recent uptick in Mr Trump’s ratings has a wave of optimistic Republicans as its source. She says that outlets can control this problem by adjusting their data to have the correct shares of Democratic- and Republican-leaning voters, but the idea is relatively new and few pollsters have data good enough to perform such corrections.”
“The Economist’s analysis of polls taken during Mr Trump’s impeachment proceedings affirms Ms Kennedy’s suspicion. In polls that weight their data to represent America’s partisan balance or the results of the 2016 election, the share of adults who approve of Mr Trump’s job as president has risen by half a percentage point since impeachment proceedings began in earnest last October. But in polls that do not, Mr Trump’s ratings have increased by over three percentage points.”


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Bernie’s Rise Sparks Comparisons to 2016 GOP Race

“ The Democratic primary is following a similar trajectory to what Republicans experienced four years ago , when a long-shot @ @ @ @ @ gained momentum while his party ’ s establishment politicians squabbled over who was best suited @ @ @ @ @ ” the Wall Street Journal reports .
Said former Jeb Bush aide Matt Gorman : @ @ @ @ @ There ’ s a septuagenarian presidential candidate with a pretty indestructible level of support who @ @ @ @ @ states—who am I talking about ?
Much like Trump , the press and Beltway audiences @ @ @ @ @ his ability to win the nomination and keep waiting breathlessly for that inevitable collapse , @ @ @ @ @ time soon .
”

“The Democratic primary is following a similar trajectory to what Republicans experienced four years ago, when a long-shot candidate with a devoted base gained momentum while his party’s establishment politicians squabbled over who was best suited to take him on,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
Said former Jeb Bush aide Matt Gorman: “Close your eyes: There’s a septuagenarian presidential candidate with a pretty indestructible level of support who is leading in several early states—who am I talking about? Much like Trump, the press and Beltway audiences don’t take seriously his ability to win the nomination and keep waiting breathlessly for that inevitable collapse, and neither is happening any time soon.”


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Rohrabacher Says He Offered Assange a Trump Pardon

Former Rep. Dana Rohrabacher ( R-CA ) confirmed to Yahoo News that “ during a three-hour meeting at the Ecuadorian @ @ @ @ @ he told Julian Assange he would get President Trump to give him a pardon if @ @ @ @ @ the Russians had not been the source of internal Democratic National Committee emails published by @ @ @ @ @ that not only did talk of a Trump pardon take place during his meeting , @ @ @ @ @ by calling then White House chief of staff John Kelly to discuss the proposal .
@ @ @ @ @ , ever speak to Trump about it .
”

Former Rep. Dana Rohrabacher (R-CA) confirmed to Yahoo News that “during a three-hour meeting at the Ecuadorian Embassy in August 2017, he told Julian Assange he would get President Trump to give him a pardon if he turned over information proving the Russians had not been the source of internal Democratic National Committee emails published by WikiLeaks.”
“Rohrabacher said that not only did talk of a Trump pardon take place during his meeting, but he also followed up by calling then White House chief of staff John Kelly to discuss the proposal. He did not, however, ever speak to Trump about it.”


Bloomberg Floods Facebook

The Guardian : “ In the first six weeks of 2020 , more than 1.6bn of the 2.4bn presidential campaign @ @ @ @ @ users were from the Bloomberg campaign .
Since launching his campaign in mid-November , the @ @ @ @ @ City has spent nearly $ 45m on Facebook ads – more than all his opponents @ @ @ @ @ ’ s spending doesn ’ t just dwarf that of other Democrats ; Donald Trump @ @ @ @ @ on Facebook looks paltry in comparison .
”

The Guardian: “In the first six weeks of 2020, more than 1.6 billion of the 2.4 billion presidential campaign ads shown to US Facebook users were from the Bloomberg campaign. Since launching his campaign in mid-November, the former mayor of New York City has spent nearly $45m on Facebook ads – more than all his opponents combined.”
“And Bloomberg’s spending doesn’t just dwarf that of other Democrats; Donald Trump’s giant re-election effort on Facebook looks paltry in comparison.”


politicalwire--2020-02-21--Dems Race to Avoid Going Broke Before Super Tuesday

“ Joe Biden , Pete Buttigieg , Amy Klobuchar and Elizabeth Warren each started the month scraping perilously close to @ @ @ @ @ bank accounts , posing an existential threat to their candidacies as the Democratic primary goes @ @ @ @ @ .
“ They ’ re up against well-funded machines threatening to dominate the Democratic race @ @ @ @ @ recent rise in the polls has come during a major spending streak fueled by his @ @ @ @ @ Mike Bloomberg , whose personal fortune has vaulted him into the middle of the campaign @ @ @ @ @ ” “ While Sanders started February with nearly $ 17 million in the bank , @ @ @ @ @ filed Thursday night , his next closest rival ( non-billionaire class ) was Biden , @ @ @ @ @ Warren was closest to the red , with just $ 2.3 million left in her @ @ @ @ @ $ 6.6 million ) and Klobuchar ( $ 2.9 million ) were in between .
@

“Joe Biden, Pete Buttigieg, Amy Klobuchar and Elizabeth Warren each started the month scraping perilously close to the bottom of their campaign bank accounts, posing an existential threat to their candidacies as the Democratic primary goes national,” Politico reports.
“They’re up against well-funded machines threatening to dominate the Democratic race: Bernie Sanders, whose recent rise in the polls has come during a major spending streak fueled by his online donors, and billionaire Mike Bloomberg, whose personal fortune has vaulted him into the middle of the campaign to take on President Trump.”
“While Sanders started February with nearly $17 million in the bank, according to campaign finance disclosures filed Thursday night, his next closest rival (non-billionaire class) was Biden, at $7.1 million. Warren was closest to the red, with just $2.3 million left in her account, while Buttigieg ($6.6 million) and Klobuchar ($2.9 million) were in between.”


politicalwire--2020-02-21--Warren Offers Legal Advice to Bloomberg

Warren Offers Legal Advice to Bloomberg

Sen. Elizabeth Warren drafted a document that rival Michael Bloomberg can sign to release his former employees from their nondisclosure @ @ @ @ @ Said Warren at a CNN town hall : “ I used to teach contract law @ @ @ @ @ would make this easy .
I wrote up a release and covenant not to sue @ @ @ @ @ Bloomberg has to do is download it .
I ’ ll text it .
Sign @ @ @ @ @ women , or men , will be free to speak and tell their own stories @ @

Sen. Elizabeth Warren drafted a document that rival Michael Bloomberg can sign to release his former employees from their nondisclosure agreements, Politico reports.
Said Warren at a CNN town hall: “I used to teach contract law. And I thought I would make this easy. I wrote up a release and covenant not to sue. And all that Mayor Bloomberg has to do is download it. I’ll text it. Sign it. And then the women, or men, will be free to speak and tell their own stories.”


politicalwire--2020-02-21--Sanders Holds Comfortable Lead In Nevada

A new Emerson poll in Nevada finds Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic presidential race with 30 % , followed by @ @ @ @ @ , Joe Biden at 16 % , Elizabeth Warren at 12 % , Amy Klobuchar @ @ @ @ @ Steyer at 10 % .

“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--2020-02-21--Campaigns Prepare for Contested Convention

Washington Post : “ The dawning realization for many in the party is that what Democrats had envisioned as a @ @ @ @ @ , ground zero in a critical general-election battleground , has the potential to turn into @ @ @ @ @ candidates and their supporters , each representing dueling ideological wings of the party and convinced @ @ @ @ @ lose to Trump.
” “ Top campaigns have not only staffed up with delegate experts @ @ @ @ @ intricacies of the primaries , but they also have built legal teams preparing to challenge @ @ @ @ @ t go their way , according to interviews with 16 top party officials and strategists.
@ @ @ @ @ for a contested convention , some campaigns have started to reach out to superdelegates , @ @ @ @ @ support for a second ballot when they would come into play .
”

Washington Post: “The dawning realization for many in the party is that what Democrats had envisioned as a jubilant national convention in Milwaukee, ground zero in a critical general-election battleground, has the potential to turn into a pitched battle among multiple candidates and their supporters, each representing dueling ideological wings of the party and convinced that the other side would lose to Trump.”
“Top campaigns have not only staffed up with delegate experts to guide them through the intricacies of the primaries, but they also have built legal teams preparing to challenge any results that don’t go their way, according to interviews with 16 top party officials and strategists.”
“And in preparation for a contested convention, some campaigns have started to reach out to superdelegates, in an attempt to secure support for a second ballot when they would come into play.”


politicalwire--2020-02-21--Trump Stews Over McCabe But Is Wary of Barr

President Trump “ was surprised and angered by the Justice Department ’ s decision not to charge Andrew McCabe with @ @ @ @ @ is wary of acting against the former deputy FBI director out of concern he might @ @ @ @ @ to resign , ” Bloomberg reports .
“ The Justice Department gave the White House @ @ @ @ @ decision on McCabe , meaning Trump found out along with the public when it was @ @ @ @ @ of the people said .
That created fresh point of potential tension between Trump and @ @ @ @ @ criticized Trump ’ s tweets about criminal cases DOJ is pursuing and has privately told @ @ @ @ @ ”

President Trump “was surprised and angered by the Justice Department’s decision not to charge Andrew McCabe with crimes, but the president is wary of acting against the former deputy FBI director out of concern he might push Attorney General William Barr to resign,” Bloomberg reports.
“The Justice Department gave the White House no advance notice of its decision on McCabe, meaning Trump found out along with the public when it was announced on Tuesday, three of the people said. That created fresh point of potential tension between Trump and Barr, who has publicly criticized Trump’s tweets about criminal cases DOJ is pursuing and has privately told associates he may quit.”


politicalwire--2020-02-21--GOP Accused of Sending Misleading ‘Census’ Forms

The Republican National Committee is sending documents labeled “ 2020 Congressional District Census ” to people in California and across @ @ @ @ @ the start of the official nationwide count of the country ’ s population , the @ @ @ @ @ Critics say the misleading mailers — in envelopes labeled “ Do Not Destroy .
Official @ @ @ @ @ lengthy questionnaire on blue-tinted paper similar to the type used by the real census — @ @ @ @ @ and possibly lower the response rate when the count begins in mid-March .

The Republican National Committee is sending documents labeled “2020 Congressional District Census” to people in California and across the country just weeks before the start of the official nationwide count of the country’s population, the Los Angeles Times reports.
Critics say the misleading mailers — in envelopes labeled “Do Not Destroy. Official Document” and including a lengthy questionnaire on blue-tinted paper similar to the type used by the real census — are designed to confuse people and possibly lower the response rate when the count begins in mid-March.


politicalwire--2020-02-21--Reid Says Sanders Needs More Than Plurality

Former Sen. Harry Reid ( D-NV ) said that Sen. Bernie Sanders or any presidential candidate should not get the @ @ @ @ @ the primary process in first place but shy of the requisite majority of delegates , @ @ @ @ @ “ Reid dismissed suggestions from Sanders and his supporters that he should become the nominee @ @ @ @ @ plurality lead ahead of the still large pack of candidates , but short of the @ @ @ @ @ the nomination outright .
Reid even suggested that a group of moderate candidates , trailing @ @ @ @ @ a coalition ahead of the Democratic convention in July in Milwaukee to hand the nomination @ @ @ @ @

Former Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV) said that Sen. Bernie Sanders or any presidential candidate should not get the Democratic nomination if they end the primary process in first place but shy of the requisite majority of delegates, the Washington Post reports.
“Reid dismissed suggestions from Sanders and his supporters that he should become the nominee if he finishes with a plurality lead ahead of the still large pack of candidates, but short of the 1,991 delegates needed to secure the nomination outright. Reid even suggested that a group of moderate candidates, trailing Sanders overall, could assemble a coalition ahead of the Democratic convention in July in Milwaukee to hand the nomination to someone else.”


politicalwire--2020-02-21--Trump’s Spy Chief Worked for Corrupt Foreign Politician

“ President Trump ’ s new acting intelligence director , Richard Grenell , used to do consulting work on behalf @ @ @ @ @ who is now a fugitive and was recently barred from entering the U.S. under anti-corruption @ @ @ @ @ the State Department , ” ProPublica reports .
“ In 2016 , Grenell wrote several @ @ @ @ @ a Moldovan politician named Vladimir Plahotniuc , but did not disclose that he was being @ @ @ @ @ did not register under the Foreign Agents Registration Act , which generally requires people to @ @ @ @ @ on behalf of foreign politicians .
”

“President Trump’s new acting intelligence director, Richard Grenell, used to do consulting work on behalf of an Eastern European oligarch who is now a fugitive and was recently barred from entering the U.S. under anti-corruption sanctions imposed last month by the State Department,” ProPublica reports.
“In 2016, Grenell wrote several articles defending the oligarch, a Moldovan politician named Vladimir Plahotniuc, but did not disclose that he was being paid.”
“Grenell also did not register under the Foreign Agents Registration Act, which generally requires people to disclose work in the U.S. on behalf of foreign politicians.”


politicalwire--2020-02-21--Grenell Begins Overhauling Intelligence Office

“ Richard Grenell ’ s tenure as the nation ’ s top intelligence official may be short-lived , but he @ @ @ @ @ starting to shape his team of advisers , ousting his office ’ s No .
@ @ @ @ @ intelligence officer — and bringing in an expert on Trump conspiracy theories to help lead @ @ @ @ @ New York Times reports .
“ Mr .
Grenell has also requested the intelligence behind @ @ @ @ @ before the House Intelligence Committee where officials told lawmakers that Russia was interfering in November @ @ @ @ @ that President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia favored President Trump ’ s re-election .
The @ @ @ @ @ ’ s anger as he complained that Democrats would use it against him .
”

“Richard Grenell’s tenure as the nation’s top intelligence official may be short-lived, but he wasted no time this week starting to shape his team of advisers, ousting his office’s No. 2 official — a longtime intelligence officer — and bringing in an expert on Trump conspiracy theories to help lead the agency,” the New York Times reports.
“Mr. Grenell has also requested the intelligence behind the classified briefing last week before the House Intelligence Committee where officials told lawmakers that Russia was interfering in November’s presidential election and that President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia favored President Trump’s re-election. The briefing later prompted Mr. Trump’s anger as he complained that Democrats would use it against him.”


politicalwire--2020-02-21--Sanders Told Russia Trying to Help His Campaign

“ U.S .
officials have told Sen. Bernie Sanders that Russia is attempting to help his presidential campaign as part @ @ @ @ @ with the Democratic contest , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ It is not @ @ @ @ @ assistance has taken .
”

“U.S. officials have told Sen. Bernie Sanders that Russia is attempting to help his presidential campaign as part of an effort to interfere with the Democratic contest,” the Washington Post reports.
“It is not clear what form that Russian assistance has taken.”


politicalwire--2020-02-21--Biden Now Claims He Was Arrested In South Africa

“ In at least three campaign appearances over the past two weeks , Joe Biden has told a similar story @ @ @ @ @ his campaign in states with more diverse voters .
On a trip to South Africa @ @ @ @ @ said , he was arrested as he sought to visit Nelson Mandela in prison , @ @ @ @ @ reports .
“ But if Mr. Biden , then a United States senator from Delaware @ @ @ @ @ while trying to visit Mr. Mandela , he did not mention it in his 2007 @ @ @ @ @ 1970s trip to South Africa , and he has not spoken of it prominently on @ @ @ @ @ A check of available news accounts by The New York Times turned up no references @ @ @ @ @

“In at least three campaign appearances over the past two weeks, Joe Biden has told a similar story as he tries to revive his campaign in states with more diverse voters. On a trip to South Africa years ago, he has said, he was arrested as he sought to visit Nelson Mandela in prison,” the New York Times reports.
“But if Mr. Biden, then a United States senator from Delaware, was in fact arrested while trying to visit Mr. Mandela, he did not mention it in his 2007 memoir when writing about a 1970s trip to South Africa, and he has not spoken of it prominently on the 2020 campaign trail. A check of available news accounts by The New York Times turned up no references to an arrest.”


politicalwire--2020-02-21--Bloomberg Agrees to Release Women from NDAs

Mike Bloomberg : “ I ’ ve had the company go back over its record and they ’ ve identified @ @ @ @ @ over the past 30-plus years with women to address complaints about comments they said I @ @ @ @ @ of them want to be released from their NDA so that they can talk about @ @ @ @ @ contact the company and they ’ ll be given a release.
” Of course , @ @ @ @ @ and this release to NDAs specifically about “ comments they said I had made .
@

Mike Bloomberg: “I’ve had the company go back over its record and they’ve identified 3 NDAs that we signed over the past 30-plus years with women to address complaints about comments they said I had made. If any of them want to be released from their NDA so that they can talk about those allegations, they should contact the company and they’ll be given a release.”
Of course, Bloomberg is limiting this number and this release to NDAs specifically about “comments they said I had made.”


politicalwire--2020-02-21--FBI Arrests Hacker Tied to Katie Hill’s Campaign

The FBI arrested a man connected to former Rep. Katie Hill ’ s ( D-CA ) congressional campaign , BuzzFeed @ @ @ @ @ , who flipped a Republican-held seat in California two years ago , resigned from Congress @ @ @ @ @ of her were released without her consent .
While she was a candidate in 2018 @ @ @ @ @ of her Democratic rivals — Bryan Caforio — was hacked.
” The Intercept : “ @ @ @ @ @ websites of Hill ’ s opponents , Democrats Jess Phoenix and Bryan Caforio , who @ @ @ @ @ , were both attacked , though Hill ’ s never was , raising suspicions at @ @ @ @ @ s campaign was behind them .
”

The FBI arrested a man connected to former Rep. Katie Hill’s (D-CA) congressional campaign, BuzzFeed News reports.
“Hill, who flipped a Republican-held seat in California two years ago, resigned from Congress last year after nude photos of her were released without her consent. While she was a candidate in 2018, the website of one of her Democratic rivals — Bryan Caforio — was hacked.”
The Intercept: “During the campaign, the websites of Hill’s opponents, Democrats Jess Phoenix and Bryan Caforio, who was supported by Justice Democrats, were both attacked, though Hill’s never was, raising suspicions at the time that Hill’s campaign was behind them.”


politicalwire--2020-02-21--Nevada Democrats Want Volunteers to Sign NDAs

The Nevada State Democratic Party is asking site leaders to sign non-disclosure agreements , according to one volunteer who had @ @ @ @ @ ’ s caucuses but quit because he didn ’ t want to sign the document @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-02-21--Bernie Opens Up Massive Lead Among College Students

A new College Reaction/Axios poll finds that Sen. Bernie Sanders has surged 20 points among college students to become the @ @ @ @ @ favorite .
In the last two months , Sanders has risen from 15.5 % in @ @ @ @ @ December and is now at 42.3 % .

A new College Reaction/Axios poll finds that Sen. Bernie Sanders has surged 20 points among college students to become the group’s clear 2020 favorite.
In the last two months, Sanders has risen from 15.5% in September to 22.5% in December and is now at 42.3%.


politicalwire--2020-02-21--Bloomberg Loses Ground Following Debate Debut

A new Morning Consult poll finds Mike Bloomberg has fallen to third place nationally , behind Bernie Sanders and Joe @ @ @ @ @ favorability fell 20 points after this week ’ s debate , the only significant movement @ @ @

A new Morning Consult poll finds Mike Bloomberg has fallen to third place nationally, behind Bernie Sanders and Joe Biden.
But his net favorability fell 20 points after this week’s debate, the only significant movement among candidates.


politicalwire--2020-02-21--Marie Yovanovitch Has a Book Deal

Marie Yovanovitch Has a Book Deal

“ Former Ukraine ambassador Marie Yovanovitch , the career diplomat who during the impeachment hearings of President Trump offered a @ @ @ @ @ from Trump and his allies , has a book deal , ” the AP reports @ @ @ @ @ not disclosed , but two people familiar with the deal told the AP that the @ @ @ @ @ , even though the book is not expected until Spring 2021 , months after this @ @ @ @ @ ”

“Former Ukraine ambassador Marie Yovanovitch, the career diplomat who during the impeachment hearings of President Trump offered a chilling account of alleged threats from Trump and his allies, has a book deal,” the AP reports.
“Financial terms were not disclosed, but two people familiar with the deal told the AP that the agreement was worth seven figures, even though the book is not expected until Spring 2021, months after this fall’s election.”


politicalwire--2020-02-21--How Trump Hollowed Out U.S. National Security

Garrett Graff : “ While vacancies and acting officials have become commonplace in this administration , the moves by President @ @ @ @ @ troubling and potentially profound new danger to the country .
There will soon be no @ @ @ @ @ Counterterrorism Center , director of national intelligence , principal deputy director of national intelligence , @ @ @ @ @ homeland security secretary , nor leaders of any of the three main border security and @ @ @ @ @ the government , nearly 100,000 federal law enforcement agents , officers , and personnel are @ @ @ @ @ leaders , from Customs and Border Protection to Immigrations and Customs Enforcement to the Drug @ @ @ @ @ of Alcohol , Tobacco , Firearms , and Explosives.
” “ All the posts , @ @ @ @ @ jobs , are unfilled or staffed with leaders who have not been confirmed by the @ @ @ @ @ an end-around , installing loyalists without subjecting them to legally mandated vetting and approval by @ @ @

Garrett Graff: “While vacancies and acting officials have become commonplace in this administration, the moves by President Trump this week represent a troubling and potentially profound new danger to the country. There will soon be no Senate-confirmed director of the National Counterterrorism Center, director of national intelligence, principal deputy director of national intelligence, homeland security secretary, deputy homeland security secretary, nor leaders of any of the three main border security and immigration agencies.”
“Across the government, nearly 100,000 federal law enforcement agents, officers, and personnel are working today without permanent agency leaders, from Customs and Border Protection to Immigrations and Customs Enforcement to the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.”
“All the posts, and many more top security jobs, are unfilled or staffed with leaders who have not been confirmed by the Senate. Trump has done an end-around, installing loyalists without subjecting them to legally mandated vetting and approval by Congress.”


politicalwire--2020-02-21--Senate Primary In Massachusetts a Toss Up

A new University of Massachusetts Lowell survey in Massachusetts shows Rep. Joe Kennedy ( D ) just ahead of Sen. @ @ @ @ @ in the Democratic primary , 35 % to 34 % , with another 23 % @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-02-21--Bernie and the Battle for the House

Bernie and the Battle for the House

Just for members : A packed new edition of Inside Elections .
This issue includes a quarterly House Overview including @ @ @ @ @ 75 races around the country and rating changes in 15 seats .
The edition also @ @ @ @ @ the fight for House control if Bernie Sanders wins the Democratic nomination for president .
@ @ @ @ @ a recap of the most recent polling in the Maine Senate race .
If you @ @ @ @ @ member , sign up for an Annual or Monthly membership for instant access and many @ @ @ @ @ ’ t forget : Gift Memberships are also available for those political junkies in your @ @


politicalwire--2020-02-21--There Could Still Be a Surprise In Nevada

The FiveThirtyEight forecast gives Bernie Sanders a 73 % chance to win the Nevada caucuses tomorrow .
Harry Enten : @ @ @ @ @ better shot than anyone else to win , but a seven in 10 shot is @ @ @ @ @ It means that there ’ s a decent chance Sanders won ’ t win.
” @ @ @ @ @ we should have in the Nevada outcome is partially because of the lack of polling @ @ @ @ @ the polling data has not been particularly predictive in the past .
”

The FiveThirtyEight forecast gives Bernie Sanders a 73% chance to win the Nevada caucuses tomorrow.
Harry Enten: “Sanders clearly has a better shot than anyone else to win, but a seven in 10 shot is not an overwhelming favorite. It means that there’s a decent chance Sanders won’t win.”
“The lack of confidence we should have in the Nevada outcome is partially because of the lack of polling data, but also because the polling data has not been particularly predictive in the past.”


politicalwire--2020-02-21--DNC Chairman In the Hot Seat

DNC Chairman In the Hot Seat

CNN : “ Last week on Capitol Hill , Perez even conducted an apology tour of sorts , meeting privately @ @ @ @ @ Democratic constituencies to calm concerns about the integrity of the primary process , according to @ @ @ @ @ those meetings .
He also called several House Democrats directly to head off a rumor @ @ @ @ @ calling for his ouster.
” “ Now , with the Nevada caucuses one day away @ @ @ @ @ scrutiny .
… This time , Perez will be on the ground in Nevada , @ @ @ @ @ .
The intended message is that the Democratic nominating process is in good hands .
@ @ @ @ @ also means he and the national party will assume more responsibility for what happens — @ @ @ @ @

CNN: “Last week on Capitol Hill, Perez even conducted an apology tour of sorts, meeting privately with select members of various Democratic constituencies to calm concerns about the integrity of the primary process, according to three people with knowledge of those meetings. He also called several House Democrats directly to head off a rumor that a petition was circulating calling for his ouster.”
“Now, with the Nevada caucuses one day away, Perez remains under close scrutiny. … This time, Perez will be on the ground in Nevada, according to a DNC official. The intended message is that the Democratic nominating process is in good hands. But Perez’s presence also means he and the national party will assume more responsibility for what happens — good or bad.”


politicalwire--2020-02-21--Video Kills Lawmaker’s Appointment as Spy Chief

President Trump was close to nominating Rep. Chris Stewart ( R-UT ) as director of national intelligence , Bloomberg reports @ @ @ @ @ was scrapped when Trump learned of a 2016 video clip in which Stewart said ‘ @ @ @ @ @ Republican ideals , he is our Mussolini . '
”

“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--2020-02-21--RNC Obscures What It Pays Top Officials

RNC Obscures What It Pays Top Officials

ProPublica : “ Last year , Richard Walters earned a salary of $ 207,558 , but the party paid him @ @ @ @ @ a shell company he established in December 2018 called Red Wave Strategies .
Federal Election @ @ @ @ @ ’ s payments to Red Wave as ‘ political strategy services , ’ as if @ @ @ @ @ an independent contractor and not Walters himself .
Red Wave does not have other employees @ @ @ @ @ than the RNC.
” “ Amid the flows of cash to the GOP , a @ @ @ @ @ has leveraged Trump campaign ties for lucrative consulting work… A half-dozen former RNC employees and @ @ @ @ @ various deals , typically veiled behind opaque limited liability corporations , create an unseemly overall @ @ @ @ @ morale and could eventually harm the party ’ s credibility with donors .
”

ProPublica: “Last year, Richard Walters earned a salary of $207,558, but the party paid him an additional $135,000 through a shell company he established in December 2018 called Red Wave Strategies. Federal Election Commission reports described the RNC’s payments to Red Wave as ‘political strategy services,’ as if the money had flowed to an independent contractor and not Walters himself. Red Wave does not have other employees and has no clients other than the RNC.”
“Amid the flows of cash to the GOP, a select group of political operatives has leveraged Trump campaign ties for lucrative consulting work… A half-dozen former RNC employees and Republican operatives said that the various deals, typically veiled behind opaque limited liability corporations, create an unseemly overall impression that is bad for morale and could eventually harm the party’s credibility with donors.”


politicalwire--2020-02-21--Blagojevich Looking for a Job

Blagojevich Looking for a Job

“ Fresh out of prison thanks to a commutation this week from President Trump , former Illinois Gov .
Rod @ @ @ @ @ for a post-prison career , ” the Chicago Sun Times reports .
Said Blagojevich : @ @ @ @ @ working and providing for my family .
”

“Fresh out of prison thanks to a commutation this week from President Trump, former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich is in the hunt for a post-prison career,” the Chicago Sun Times reports.
Said Blagojevich: “I need to start working and providing for my family.”


politicalwire--2020-02-21--Trump Pledges to Continue Subsidies to Farmers

President Trump said that his administration would continue offering subsidies to farmers until various trade deals “ fully kick in.
@ @ @ @ @ aid would be “ paid for out of the massive tariff money coming into the @ @ @ @ @ are actually paid by U.S. consumers , not foreign countries .

President Trump said that his administration would continue offering subsidies to farmers until various trade deals “fully kick in.”
He falsely claimed the aid would be “paid for out of the massive tariff money coming into the USA!”
Those tariffs are actually paid by U.S. consumers, not foreign countries.


politicalwire--2020-02-21--Warren Campaign Took Out $3 Million Line of Credit

Sen. Elizabeth Warren took out a $ 3 million line of credit in January ahead of the first Democratic presidential @ @ @ @ @ $ 400,000 of it , The Hill reports .
At the same time , CNBC @ @ @ @ @ on rejecting super PAC support .

Sen. Elizabeth Warren took out a $3 million line of credit in January ahead of the first Democratic presidential nominating processes but only accessed $400,000 of it, The Hill reports.
At the same time, CNBC reports Warren reversed her position on rejecting super PAC support.


politicalwire--2020-02-22--Twitter Suspends 70 Accounts Linked to Bloomberg

Twitter announced that it is suspending 70 accounts that posted content supporting Mike Bloomberg ’ s presidential campaign , saying @ @ @ @ @ rules , the Los Angeles Times reports .


politicalwire--2020-02-22--Trump Will Try to Block Bolton’s Book

Trump Will Try to Block Bolton’s Book

President Trump has told his staff that he will look to block the release of John Bolton ’ s upcoming @ @ @ @ @ discussions were classified , adding that his former national security adviser is a “ traitor @ @ @ @ @ reports .
Trump has specifically insisted to aides that Bolton ’ s book , The @ @ @ @ @ shouldn ’ t be published before the November election .

President Trump has told his staff that he will look to block the release of John Bolton’s upcoming book over claims that their discussions were classified, adding that his former national security adviser is a “traitor,” the Washington Post reports.
Trump has specifically insisted to aides that Bolton’s book, The Room Where It Happened, shouldn’t be published before the November election.


politicalwire--2020-02-22--Reid Predicts End of the Filibuster

Reid Predicts End of the Filibuster

Former Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid told MSNBC that the filibuster in the Senate will be gone soon .
Said @ @ @ @ @ ve said and I believe this , with what the Republicans have done and my @ @ @ @ @ Senate , it ’ s not a question anymore if the filibuster is going to @ @ @ @ @ s when it ’ s going to be gone .
You can not have a @ @ @ @ @ on everything , and that ’ s not the end of the world .
We @ @ @ @ @ have six year terms so having the House like the senate isn ’ t going @ @ @ @ @ .
”

Former Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid told MSNBC that the filibuster in the Senate will be gone soon.
Said Reid: “I’ve said and I believe this, with what the Republicans have done and my friend Mitch McConnell with the Senate, it’s not a question anymore if the filibuster is going to be gone, it’s when it’s going to be gone. You cannot have a democracy and take 60 votes on everything, and that’s not the end of the world. We have bicameral election, we have six year terms so having the House like the senate isn’t going to be all that bad.”


politicalwire--2020-02-22--Bernie Sanders Looks Strong In Nevada

Bernie Sanders Looks Strong In Nevada

Washington Post : “ Early vote returns suggest Sanders is gaining the most during the important viability stage of Nevada @ @ @ @ @ only candidates with a certain threshold of support in the initial vote tally are eligible @ @ @ @ @ ” It ’ s not exactly clear when final results will be complete .
The @ @ @ @ @ and Politico has a good results page .
Leave your reactions in the comments .

Fox News, MSNBC and ABC News projected Sanders would win the Nevada caucuses.
It’s still unclear who will finish in second, third and fourth place.
The Washington Post has live updates and Politico has a good results page.
Leave your reactions in the comments.


Russian Among Us

Just published : Russians Among Us : Sleeper Cells , Ghost Stories , and the Hunt for Putin ’ s @ @ @ @ @ Julie Mason has a great interview with the author .

Just published: Russians Among Us: Sleeper Cells, Ghost Stories, and the Hunt for Putin’s Spies by Gordon Corera.
Julie Mason has a great interview with the author.


politicalwire--2020-02-22--Judge Dismisses Nunes Lawsuit Against Fusion GPS

“ A federal judge on Friday dismissed a racketeering lawsuit brought by Rep. Devin Nunes ( R-CA ) against the @ @ @ @ @ a former British spy to look into Donald Trump ’ s ties to Russia during @ @ @ @ @ ” the AP reports .
“ Nunes , the former chairman of the House Intelligence @ @ @ @ @ of Trump , had accused Fusion GPS in a lawsuit last year of harassing him @ @ @ @ @ panel ’ s investigation into Russian election interference .
”

“A federal judge on Friday dismissed a racketeering lawsuit brought by Rep. Devin Nunes (R-CA) against the political research firm that enlisted a former British spy to look into Donald Trump’s ties to Russia during the 2016 presidential campaign,” the AP reports.
“Nunes, the former chairman of the House Intelligence Committee and a vocal ally of Trump, had accused Fusion GPS in a lawsuit last year of harassing him and trying to impede his panel’s investigation into Russian election interference.”


politicalwire--2020-02-22--Americans Should Be ‘Deeply Afraid’

Americans Should Be ‘Deeply Afraid’

Retired Navy Admiral William McRaven — U.S. special forces commander from 2011 to 2014 , including the 2011 SEAL raid @ @ @ @ @ — writes in the Washington Post : “ As Americans , we should be frightened @ @ @ @ @ future of the nation .
When good men and women can ’ t speak the @ @ @ @ @ inconvenient , when integrity and character no longer matter , when presidential ego and self-preservation @ @ @ @ @ security — then there is nothing left to stop the triumph of evil .
”

Retired Navy Admiral William McRaven — U.S. special forces commander from 2011 to 2014, including the 2011 SEAL raid that killed Osama bin Laden — writes in the Washington Post:
“As Americans, we should be frightened — deeply afraid for the future of the nation. When good men and women can’t speak the truth, when facts are inconvenient, when integrity and character no longer matter, when presidential ego and self-preservation are more important than national security — then there is nothing left to stop the triumph of evil.”


politicalwire--2020-02-22--Trump to Raise Money for Lindsey Graham

Trump to Raise Money for Lindsey Graham

“ President Trump will raise money in South Carolina before his North Charleston rally next week — for himself , @ @ @ @ @ campaign of U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham , ” the Columbia State reports .
“ The @ @ @ @ @ time that Trump has held a Palmetto State fundraiser designed in part to benefit Graham @ @ @ @ @ win reelection later this year but is still in a competitive race against a well-funded @ @ @ @ @ ”

“President Trump will raise money in South Carolina before his North Charleston rally next week — for himself, the Republican Party and the campaign of U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham,” the Columbia State reports.
“The event will mark the first time that Trump has held a Palmetto State fundraiser designed in part to benefit Graham, who is expected to win reelection later this year but is still in a competitive race against a well-funded, establishment-backed Democratic challenger.”


politicalwire--2020-02-22--National Security Adviser No Longer Advises

“ When President Trump ’ s national security adviser , Robert C. O ’ Brien , convenes meetings with top @ @ @ @ @ the White House , he sometimes opens by distributing printouts of Mr. Trump ’ s @ @ @ @ @ at hand , ” the New York Times reports .
“ The gesture amounts to @ @ @ @ @ present .
Their job is to find ways of justifying , enacting or explaining Mr. @ @ @ @ @ not to advise the president on what it should be.
” “ That is the @ @ @ @ @ Security Council was created to do at the Cold War ’ s dawn — to @ @ @ @ @ on national security decisions .
But under Mr. O ’ Brien , the White House @ @ @ @ @ Mr. Trump chose him to succeed John Bolton in September , that dynamic has often @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“When President Trump’s national security adviser, Robert C. O’Brien, convenes meetings with top National Security Council officials at the White House, he sometimes opens by distributing printouts of Mr. Trump’s latest tweets on the subject at hand,” the New York Times reports.
“The gesture amounts to an implicit challenge for those present. Their job is to find ways of justifying, enacting or explaining Mr. Trump’s policy, not to advise the president on what it should be.”
“That is the reverse of what the National Security Council was created to do at the Cold War’s dawn — to inform and advise the president on national security decisions. But under Mr. O’Brien, the White House’s hostage negotiator when Mr. Trump chose him to succeed John Bolton in September, that dynamic has often been turned on its head.”


politicalwire--2020-02-22--Bernie Heads to Texas

Bernie Heads to Texas

“ Bernie Sanders is sharpening his focus on the Texas primary with early voting underway , planning four rallies in @ @ @ @ @ naming more staff here , ” the Texas Tribune reports .
“ Sanders has scheduled @ @ @ @ @ and San Antonio and Sunday in Houston and Austin .
The Saturday rallies come the @ @ @ @ @ its caucus , in which Sanders is expected to do well .
”

“Bernie Sanders is sharpening his focus on the Texas primary with early voting underway, planning four rallies in the state this weekend and naming more staff here,” the Texas Tribune reports.
“Sanders has scheduled rallies Saturday in El Paso and San Antonio and Sunday in Houston and Austin. The Saturday rallies come the same day that Nevada holds its caucus, in which Sanders is expected to do well.”


politicalwire--2020-02-22--Bernie Unleashes Volunteer Army on Nevada

“ Nevada is a notoriously tough place for presidential candidates to attract volunteers .
But Bernie Sanders has somehow amassed @ @ @ @ @ reports .
“ Thousands of the Vermont senator ’ s volunteers in the state have @ @ @ @ @ two-thirds of which took place in February , according to his campaign .
Those mega-fans @ @ @ @ @ performances in Iowa and New Hampshire — and are now poised to help him turn @ @ @ @ @ a victory in Nevada .
”

“Nevada is a notoriously tough place for presidential candidates to attract volunteers. But Bernie Sanders has somehow amassed an army,” Politico reports.
“Thousands of the Vermont senator’s volunteers in the state have knocked on 500,000 doors, two-thirds of which took place in February, according to his campaign. Those mega-fans helped propel his strong grassroots performances in Iowa and New Hampshire — and are now poised to help him turn out the vote and cinch a victory in Nevada.”


politicalwire--2020-02-22--White House Fears Coronavirus Impact on Election

“ The Trump administration is bracing for a possible coronavirus outbreak in the United States that could sicken thousands — @ @ @ @ @ public health response and threatening an economic slowdown in the heat of President Trump ’ @ @ @ @ @ Politico reports .
“ That stark realization has taken hold in high-level White House meetings @ @ @ @ @ officials have voiced concerns the coronavirus is already spreading undetected within U.S. borders .
”

“The Trump administration is bracing for a possible coronavirus outbreak in the United States that could sicken thousands — straining the government’s public health response and threatening an economic slowdown in the heat of President Trump’s reelection campaign,” Politico reports.
“That stark realization has taken hold in high-level White House meetings, during which some administration officials have voiced concerns the coronavirus is already spreading undetected within U.S. borders.”


politicalwire--2020-02-23--New Jersey Governor Has Kidney Tumor

New Jersey Governor Has Kidney Tumor

New Jersey Gov .
Phil Murphy ( D ) has a likely-cancerous tumor on his left kidney that will be @ @ @ @ @ Politico reports .


politicalwire--2020-02-23--O’Brien Says ‘No Intelligence Behind’ Meddling Claims

National Security Adviser Robert O ’ Brien told CBS News he disputed reports of what was presented during a House @ @ @ @ @ interfering to help President Trump in the presidential election .
Said O ’ Brien : @ @ @ @ @ seen any intelligence to support the reports that were leaked out of the House .
@ @ @ @ @ hard to comment on that because , again , I wasn ’ t there .
@ @ @ @ @ were coming from a House Intel Committee hearing .
I haven ’ t seen any @ @ @ @ @ what I ’ m reading in the papers .
”

National Security Adviser Robert O’Brien told CBS News he disputed reports of what was presented during a House Intelligence Committee that Russian are interfering to help President Trump in the presidential election.
Said O’Brien: “I haven’t seen any intelligence to support the reports that were leaked out of the House. But it’s just hard to comment on that because, again, I wasn’t there. And these are leaks that were coming from a House Intel Committee hearing. I haven’t seen any intelligence that would back up what I’m reading in the papers.”


politicalwire--2020-02-23--Trump Weighs In on Nevada

Trump Weighs In on Nevada

President Trump is following the Nevada caucus returns : Tweets Trump : “ Looks like Crazy Bernie is doing well @ @ @ @ @ Nevada .
Biden & the rest look weak , & no way Mini Mike can @ @ @ @ @ worst debate performance in the history of Presidential Debates .
Congratulations Bernie , & don @ @ @ @ @ it away from you !
”

President Trump is following the Nevada caucus returns:
Tweets Trump: “Looks like Crazy Bernie is doing well in the Great State of Nevada. Biden & the rest look weak, & no way Mini Mike can restart his campaign after the worst debate performance in the history of Presidential Debates. Congratulations Bernie, & don’t let them take it away from you!”


politicalwire--2020-02-22--Bernie Sanders Wins In Nevada

Bernie Sanders Wins In Nevada

Fox News , MSNBC and ABC News projected Sanders would win the Nevada caucuses .
It ’ s still unclear @ @ @ @ @ , third and fourth place .
The Washington Post has live updates and Politico has @ @ @ @ @ Leave your reactions in the comments .


politicalwire--2020-02-23--It’s Way Too Early to Say Sanders Can’t Win

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This piece is only available to Political Wire members.
For much of the last year, Joe Biden’s supporters pointed to polls showing him beating President Trump in head-to-head match ups nationally and in key Rust Belt states. These polls suggested he was more “electable” than his Democratic rivals.


politicalwire--2020-02-23--Sanders Holds Big Lead Nationally

Sanders Holds Big Lead Nationally

A new CBS News/YouGov poll finds Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic presidential field with 28 % , followed by Elizabeth @ @ @ @ @ Joe Biden at 17 % , Michael Bloomberg at 13 % , Pete Buttigieg at @ @ @ @ @ at 5 % .

“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--2020-02-23--Latinos Could Reshape Democratic Race

Latinos Could Reshape Democratic Race

“ Sen .
Bernie Sanders ’ big win among Latinos in Saturday ’ s Nevada caucuses underscores the potential for @ @ @ @ @ minority group to reshape the next stage of the Democratic presidential race , ” CNN @ @ @ @ @ of the states with a large Latino population will vote in just the next four @ @ @ @ @ way Saturday , followed by Texas , California and Colorado on March 3 , or @ @ @ @ @ , Florida and Illinois on March 17.
” “ Cumulatively , the seven states with @ @ @ @ @ the calendar will elect nearly half the Democratic delegates at stake in February and March @ @

“Sen. Bernie Sanders’ big win among Latinos in Saturday’s Nevada caucuses underscores the potential for the nation’s largest minority group to reshape the next stage of the Democratic presidential race,” CNN reports.
“Almost all of the states with a large Latino population will vote in just the next four weeks: Nevada led the way Saturday, followed by Texas, California and Colorado on March 3, or Super Tuesday, and Arizona, Florida and Illinois on March 17.”
“Cumulatively, the seven states with large Latino populations looming on the calendar will elect nearly half the Democratic delegates at stake in February and March.”


politicalwire--2020-02-23--Trump Threatens Schiff Over ‘Leaking’ Info

President Trump made a veiled threat toward House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff , claiming without evidence that the California @ @ @ @ @ a classified briefing in which a senior U.S. intelligence official told lawmakers that Russia wants @ @ @ @ @ the Washington Post reports .
Tweeted Trump : “ Somebody please tell incompetent ( thanks @ @ @ @ @ ) and corrupt politician Adam ‘ Shifty ’ Schiff to stop leaking Classified information or @ @ @ @ @ up information , to the Fake News Media .
Someday he will be caught , @ @ @ @ @ very unpleasant experience !
”

President Trump made a veiled threat toward House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff, claiming without evidence that the California Democrat had leaked information from a classified briefing in which a senior U.S. intelligence official told lawmakers that Russia wants to see Trump reelected, the Washington Post reports.
Tweeted Trump: “Somebody please tell incompetent (thanks for my high poll numbers) and corrupt politician Adam ‘Shifty’ Schiff to stop leaking Classified information or, even worse, made up information, to the Fake News Media. Someday he will be caught, and that will be a very unpleasant experience!”


politicalwire--2020-02-23--Bernie Sanders Is the Front-Runner

Bernie Sanders Is the Front-Runner

FiveThirtyEight : “ Our model had already anticipated a pretty good showing for Sanders in Nevada ; we expected him @ @ @ @ @ of the final vote , on average — exactly what he won .
So there @ @ @ @ @ change in how the model sees the race .
But Sanders ’ s outlook still @ @ @ @ @ of winning a majority of pledged delegates are up 6 points , to 46 % @ @ @ @ @ did see a small uptick in our overall forecast thanks to a good CBS/YouGov South @ @ @ @ @ that put him at 28 % , and 5 points ahead of the rest of @ @ @ @ @ perhaps the biggest wildcard after Nevada is that former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg took @ @ @ @ @ candidate , dropping more than 4 points in our forecast , even though he wasn @ @ @ @ @ in Nevada .
That ’ s because we ’ re starting to get some post-debate @ @ @ @ @ not have good numbers for Bloomberg .
”

FiveThirtyEight: “Our model had already anticipated a pretty good showing for Sanders in Nevada; we expected him to win, 39 percent of the final vote, on average — exactly what he won. So there isn’t a huge change in how the model sees the race. But Sanders’s outlook still meaningfully improved: His chances of winning a majority of pledged delegates are up 6 points, to 46%.”
“Joe Biden did see a small uptick in our overall forecast thanks to a good CBS/YouGov South Carolina poll released on Sunday that put him at 28%, and 5 points ahead of the rest of the field.”
“But perhaps the biggest wildcard after Nevada is that former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg took the biggest hit of any candidate, dropping more than 4 points in our forecast, even though he wasn’t on the ballot in Nevada. That’s because we’re starting to get some post-debate polls, and they do not have good numbers for Bloomberg.”


politicalwire--2020-02-23--Rod Blagojevich Adopts the Trump Playbook

Chicago Tribune : “ In his winding ‘ homecoming ’ speech and various media interviews since having his sentence commuted @ @ @ @ @ , Blagojevich has woven a web of half-truths and , to critics , hypocrisies around @ @ @ @ @ He has promoted unfounded conspiracy theories , attacked his former prosecutors and downplayed his own @ @ @ @ @ as he has been since the moment of his arrest , Blagojevich remains unrepentant .
@ @ @ @ @ incarceration has only strengthened his belief that he is the victim of political corruption and @ @ @ @ @ He also seems emboldened by Trump ’ s bombastic style , which drastically changed the @ @ @ @ @ Blagojevich was behind bars .
That new reality allows for hurling allegations regardless of their @ @ @ @ @ in the media and often shouting down the truth .
”

Chicago Tribune: “In his winding ‘homecoming’ speech and various media interviews since having his sentence commuted Tuesday by President Donald Trump, Blagojevich has woven a web of half-truths and, to critics, hypocrisies around his newly found freedom. He has promoted unfounded conspiracy theories, attacked his former prosecutors and downplayed his own criminal behavior.”
“And as he has been since the moment of his arrest, Blagojevich remains unrepentant. If anything, a lengthy incarceration has only strengthened his belief that he is the victim of political corruption and not the perpetrator.”
“He also seems emboldened by Trump’s bombastic style, which drastically changed the political and cultural landscape while Blagojevich was behind bars. That new reality allows for hurling allegations regardless of their veracity, excoriating perceived opponents in the media and often shouting down the truth.”


politicalwire--2020-02-23--Pence Aide Denies Russia Is Interfering In Election

Marc Short , chief of staff to Vice President Mike Pence , claimed on Fox News that the White House @ @ @ @ @ Russia is seeking to help President Trump win re-election , calling it “ false information @ @ @ @ @ leaked by Democrats on the House Intelligence Committee .


politicalwire--2020-02-23--Biden Blames Steyer for Dwindling South Carolina Lead

Joe Biden blamed his drop in African American support ahead of the South Carolina primary to billionaire Tom Steyer ’ @ @ @ @ @ , The Hill reports .
Said Biden : “ What ’ s happening is you @ @ @ @ @ dollars out campaigning there , so I think a lot ’ s happening in terms @ @ @ @ @ being spent by billionaires to try to cut into the African American vote .
”

Joe Biden blamed his drop in African American support ahead of the South Carolina primary to billionaire Tom Steyer’s spending in the state, The Hill reports.
Said Biden: “What’s happening is you have Steyer spending millions of dollars out campaigning there, so I think a lot’s happening in terms of the amount of money being spent by billionaires to try to cut into the African American vote.”


politicalwire--2020-02-23--Internal Polls Suggest Big Super Tuesday Win for Sanders

Washington Post : “ Internal polling and analytics completed last week by former New York mayor Mike Bloomberg ’ s @ @ @ @ @ be the only presidential candidate to win delegates in every state and district on March @ @ @ @ @ lead of 350 to 400 out of 1,357 delegates set to be awarded unless race @ @ @ @ @ of Democratic rules that give no delegates to candidates who scores less than 15 percent @ @ @ @ @ state or congressional district , Sanders could build a delegate lead far greater than his @ @ @ @ @ ” Meanwhile , Bloomberg campaign manager Kevin Sheekey tells Mike Allen that according to his @ @ @ @ @ field remains on Super Tuesday , Sanders would win about 30 % of the vote @ @ @ @ @ the delegates .
Said Sheekey : “ The next candidate would have less than half @ @ @ @ @ or no ability to catch up before the convention ”

Washington Post: “Internal polling and analytics completed last week by former New York mayor Mike Bloomberg’s campaign projected that Sanders may be the only presidential candidate to win delegates in every state and district on March 3, delivering him a lead of 350 to 400 out of 1,357 delegates set to be awarded unless race dynamics change.”
“Because of Democratic rules that give no delegates to candidates who scores less than 15 percent of the vote in a state or congressional district, Sanders could build a delegate lead far greater than his advantage in the popular vote.”
Meanwhile, Bloomberg campaign manager Kevin Sheekey tells Mike Allen that according to his models, if the current field remains on Super Tuesday, Sanders would win about 30% of the vote — and 45% of the delegates.
Said Sheekey: “The next candidate would have less than half that number — and little or no ability to catch up before the convention”


politicalwire--2020-02-23--Most Think Trump Will Win Re-Election

Most Think Trump Will Win Re-Election

Whether or not they ’ re voting for him , a new CBS News poll finds 65 % of registered @ @ @ @ @ will definitely or probably be reelected , including more than a third of Democrats who @ @ @ @ @ especially optimistic : more than nine in 10 expect him to win .

Whether or not they’re voting for him, a new CBS News poll finds 65% of registered voters nationwide think President Trump will definitely or probably be reelected, including more than a third of Democrats who think so.
Republicans are especially optimistic: more than nine in 10 expect him to win.


politicalwire--2020-02-23--Biden’s Lead Narrows In South Carolina

Biden’s Lead Narrows In South Carolina

A new CBS News poll in South Carolina finds Joe Biden leading the Democratic primary race with 28 % , @ @ @ @ @ 23 % , Tom Steyer at 18 % , Elizabeth Warren at 13 % , @ @ @ @ @ and Amy Klobuchar at 4 % .
Politico notes this poll allows Steyer to return @ @ @ @ @ week .

A new CBS News poll in South Carolina finds Joe Biden leading the Democratic primary race with 28%, followed by Bernie Sanders at 23%, Tom Steyer at 18%, Elizabeth Warren at 13%, Pete Buttigieg at 10% and Amy Klobuchar at 4%.
Politico notes this poll allows Steyer to return to the debate stage this week.


politicalwire--2020-02-23--Buttigieg Alleges Errors In Nevada Caucus Tallies

“ Pete Buttigieg ’ s campaign , in a letter sent to the Nevada State Democratic Party just before midnight @ @ @ @ @ in how early vote totals were folded into the Caucus Day process , ” the @ @ @ @ @ The campaign is asking the party to provide early vote and in-person vote totals by @ @ @ @ @ vote and second alignment errors identified by campaigns and explain other anomalies in the data @ @ @ @ @ results .
”

“Pete Buttigieg’s campaign, in a letter sent to the Nevada State Democratic Party just before midnight, is alleging numerous errors in how early vote totals were folded into the Caucus Day process,” the Nevada Independent reports.
“The campaign is asking the party to provide early vote and in-person vote totals by precinct, correct any early vote and second alignment errors identified by campaigns and explain other anomalies in the data before releasing any final caucus results.”


politicalwire--2020-02-23--Trump Trails All Democrats In Michigan

Trump Trails All Democrats In Michigan

A new University of Wisconsin poll in Michigan shows every Democrat beating President Trump in a general election match up @ @ @ @ @ included in the general election match ups .
In the Democratic primary race , Sanders @ @ @ @ @ followed by Biden at 16 % , Bloomberg at 13 % , Warren at 13 @ @ @ @ @ % and Klobuchar at 8 % .

A new University of Wisconsin poll in Michigan shows every Democrat beating President Trump in a general election match up:
Bernie Sanders 48%, Trump 41%
Joe Biden 47%, Trump 43%
Pete, Buttigieg 47%, Trump 41%
Elizabeth Warren 46%, Trump 43%
Amy Klobuchar 44%, Trump 41%
Mike Bloomberg was not included in the general election match ups.
In the Democratic primary race, Sanders leads with 25%, followed by Biden at 16%, Bloomberg at 13%, Warren at 13%, Buttigieg at 11% and Klobuchar at 8%.


politicalwire--2020-02-23--The Democratic Party Has Been Hijacked

The Democratic Party Has Been Hijacked


politicalwire--2020-02-23--Sanders Causes Down-Ballot Jitters

Sanders Causes Down-Ballot Jitters

Washington Post : “ As Sanders builds what could eventually be an insurmountable delegate lead , many Democratic House and @ @ @ @ @ dramatic shift in their campaigns , as they recalibrate to include praise of capitalism and @ @ @ @ @ party .
Top campaign strategists from both parties view Sanders ’ s success as a @ @ @ @ @ could narrow the party ’ s already slim hopes of retaking the Senate majority and @ @ @ @ @ the House , which it lost amid a Democratic romp in 2018 .
”

Washington Post: “As Sanders builds what could eventually be an insurmountable delegate lead, many Democratic House and Senate candidates are approaching a dramatic shift in their campaigns, as they recalibrate to include praise of capitalism and distance themselves from the national party. Top campaign strategists from both parties view Sanders’s success as a potentially tectonic event, which could narrow the party’s already slim hopes of retaking the Senate majority and fuel GOP dreams of reclaiming the House, which it lost amid a Democratic romp in 2018.”


politicalwire--2020-02-23--It’s Still Not Clear Who Could Stop Sanders

New York Times : “ Mr .
Sanders ’ s success , and the continued uncertainty over who his strongest @ @ @ @ @ it less clear than ever how centrist forces in the party can organize themselves for @ @ @ @ @ .
The moderate wing is still grappling with an unusually crowded field for this late @ @ @ @ @ lack of an obvious single alternative to Mr. Sanders and no sign that any of @ @ @ @ @ will soon drop out to hasten a coalescence .
”

New York Times: “Mr. Sanders’s success, and the continued uncertainty over who his strongest would-be rival is, makes it less clear than ever how centrist forces in the party can organize themselves for a potentially monthslong nomination fight. The moderate wing is still grappling with an unusually crowded field for this late in the race, the lack of an obvious single alternative to Mr. Sanders and no sign that any of those vying for that role will soon drop out to hasten a coalescence.”


politicalwire--2020-02-23--Sanders Crushed Rivals In Nearly Every Demographic

Washington Post : “ Sanders ’ s advantage in Nevada was overwhelming , with substantial leads in nearly every demographic @ @ @ @ @ set down a marker in the first state with a significant share of nonwhite voters @ @ @ @ @ by attracting relatively large numbers of first-time caucus-goers , providing momentum as the race shifts @ @ @ @ @ the next 10 days.
” “ He prevailed among those with college degrees and those @ @ @ @ @ union and nonunion households ; and in every age group except those over 65 .
@ @ @ @ @ of Hispanic caucus-goers — almost four times as much support as his nearest rival , @ @ @ @ @ — and even narrowly prevailed among those who identified as moderate or conservative .
Despite @ @ @ @ @ by the powerful Culinary Union , he won in caucus sites filled with union members.
@ @ @ @ @ conventional wisdom about why he can ’ t win .

Washington Post: “Sanders’s advantage in Nevada was overwhelming, with substantial leads in nearly every demographic group, allowing him to set down a marker in the first state with a significant share of nonwhite voters. Sanders expanded the electorate by attracting relatively large numbers of first-time caucus-goers, providing momentum as the race shifts into a critical stretch over the next 10 days.”
“He prevailed among those with college degrees and those without; those living in union and nonunion households; and in every age group except those over 65. He won more than half of Hispanic caucus-goers — almost four times as much support as his nearest rival, former vice president Joe Biden — and even narrowly prevailed among those who identified as moderate or conservative. Despite attacks on his health proposal by the powerful Culinary Union, he won in caucus sites filled with union members.”
Politico: Sanders eviscerates conventional wisdom about why he can’t win.


politicalwire--2020-02-24--Indians Give Trump the Spectacle He Loves

“ There were women in glitzy Indian garb dancing , Bollywood stars singing and an eclectic mix of music blaring @ @ @ @ @ .
And when President Donald Trump finally appeared on stage at the world ’ s @ @ @ @ @ sun-soaked crowd burst into a deafening , rapturous applause .
It was exactly the scene @ @ @ @ @ , ” Politico reports .
“ Standing alongside Modi , Trump on Monday inaugurated the @ @ @ @ @ with 110,000 orange , yellow and blue seats — all filled .
Trump is ostensibly @ @ @ @ @ a long-standing trade dispute while tightening U.S.-Indian relations , but Monday ’ s mega-rally was @ @ @ @ @ Indian-American voters as Trump heads into his reelection campaign.
” “ It was a political-style @ @ @ @ @ Even Trump ’ s popular MAGA rallies couldn ’ t compare to the size and @ @ @ @ @ Trump ’ rally .
”

“There were women in glitzy Indian garb dancing, Bollywood stars singing and an eclectic mix of music blaring in time to flashing lights. And when President Donald Trump finally appeared on stage at the world’s largest cricket stadium, the sun-soaked crowd burst into a deafening, rapturous applause. It was exactly the scene the TV star-turned president loves,” Politico reports.
“Standing alongside Modi, Trump on Monday inaugurated the brand-new Motera Stadium, lined with 110,000 orange, yellow and blue seats — all filled. Trump is ostensibly in India to help mitigate a long-standing trade dispute while tightening U.S.-Indian relations, but Monday’s mega-rally was also designed to appeal to Indian-American voters as Trump heads into his reelection campaign.”
“It was a political-style rally like no other. Even Trump’s popular MAGA rallies couldn’t compare to the size and scope of the ‘Namaste Trump’ rally.”


politicalwire--2020-02-24--Sanders Sends Democratic Establishment Into Panic

“ Moderate Democrats watched in horror as Bernie Sanders soared to a landslide victory in Nevada , ” Politico reports @ @ @ @ @ t the win that was surprising — it was the walloping Sanders gave his opponents @ @ @ @ @ among Latino voters , and the momentum he gained moving into South Carolina and Super @ @ @ @ @ already worried Democrats into a full-blown panic .
”

“Moderate Democrats watched in horror as Bernie Sanders soared to a landslide victory in Nevada,” Politico reports.
“It wasn’t the win that was surprising — it was the walloping Sanders gave his opponents, his ability to dominate among Latino voters, and the momentum he gained moving into South Carolina and Super Tuesday. The performance sent already worried Democrats into a full-blown panic.”


politicalwire--2020-02-24--Biden Finishes Second In Nevada

Biden Finishes Second In Nevada

Joe Biden will finish second in the Nevada Democratic presidential caucuses , NBC News projected Sunday night , and will @ @ @ @ @ delegates .
Biden had polled 20.9 % of the votes in Nevada… well behind Sen. @ @ @ @ @ 47.1 % .
Pete Buttigieg was third , with 13.6 % .

Joe Biden will finish second in the Nevada Democratic presidential caucuses, NBC News projected Sunday night, and will likely earn seven national convention delegates.
Biden had polled 20.9% of the votes in Nevada… well behind Sen. Bernie Sanders, who had 47.1%. Pete Buttigieg was third, with 13.6%.


politicalwire--2020-02-24--Mulvaney Doesn’t Fly to India with Trump

“ President Trump ’ s acting chief of staff Mick Mulvaney did not travel with him to India as scheduled @ @ @ @ @ according to four people who say he has a cold and was advised not to @ @ @ @ @ .
“ A senior administration official who briefed reporters Friday originally listed Mulvaney along with @ @ @ @ @ to travel with the President for his two-day visit to the world ’ s most @ @ @ @ @ did not board Air Force One with the others Sunday .
”

“President Trump’s acting chief of staff Mick Mulvaney did not travel with him to India as scheduled at the last minute, according to four people who say he has a cold and was advised not to go,” CNN reports.
“A senior administration official who briefed reporters Friday originally listed Mulvaney along with 11 others who were expected to travel with the President for his two-day visit to the world’s most populous democracy, but Mulvaney did not board Air Force One with the others Sunday.”


politicalwire--2020-02-24--Marianne Williamson Endorses Sanders

Marianne Williamson Endorses Sanders

Marianne Williamson made a surprise appearance at Sen. Bernie Sanders ’ rally Sunday in Austin , Texas , to announce @ @ @ @ @ front-runner , CNN reports .

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


politicalwire--2020-02-24--Anti-Sanders Campaign Targets Black Voters

“ The Big Tent Project , a Democratic political group focused on promoting moderate presidential candidates , has sent hundreds @ @ @ @ @ Bernie Sanders to black voters in South Carolina who voted in the state ’ s @ @ @ @ @ reports .


politicalwire--2020-02-24--Trump’s Deep State Hit List

Trump’s Deep State Hit List

Jonathan Swan : “ The Trump White House and its allies , over the past 18 months , assembled detailed @ @ @ @ @ to oust — and trusted pro-Trump people to replace them.
” “ By the time @ @ @ @ @ former body man and new head of presidential personnel to rid his government of anti-Trump @ @ @ @ @ gathered reams of material to support his suspicions .
”

Jonathan Swan: “The Trump White House and its allies, over the past 18 months, assembled detailed lists of disloyal government officials to oust — and trusted pro-Trump people to replace them.”
“By the time President Trump instructed his 29-year-old former body man and new head of presidential personnel to rid his government of anti-Trump officials, he’d gathered reams of material to support his suspicions.”


politicalwire--2020-02-24--Clyburn to Endorse Biden

Clyburn to Endorse Biden

House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn , who wields enormous influence in his home state of South Carolina , is planning @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday , Politico reports .


politicalwire--2020-02-24--Klobuchar Shifts Focus to Smaller States

NBC News : “ While other candidates are working to shore up support ahead of Super Tuesday on March 3 @ @ @ @ @ states like California and Texas with large delegate hauls , Klobuchar ’ s campaign has @ @ @ @ @ try to stay viable — go small.
” “ In the past 36 hours , @ @ @ @ @ her home state of Minnesota , where she ’ s leading in polls , North @ @ @ @ @ t caucus until March 10 ) and in the additional Super Tuesday states of Arkansas @ @ @ @ @ : Klobuchar ’ s uncompelling argument to stay in the race .

NBC News: “While other candidates are working to shore up support ahead of Super Tuesday on March 3 by making stops in bigger states like California and Texas with large delegate hauls, Klobuchar’s campaign has made a different calculation to try to stay viable — go small.”
“In the past 36 hours, Klobuchar held public events in her home state of Minnesota, where she’s leading in polls, North Dakota (which doesn’t caucus until March 10) and in the additional Super Tuesday states of Arkansas and Oklahoma.”
Jennifer Rubin: Klobuchar’s uncompelling argument to stay in the race.


politicalwire--2020-02-24--Biden Says Sanders Threatened to Undermine Obama

Joe Biden ’ s campaign is airing a new digital ad in South Carolina accusing Bernie Sanders of trying to @ @ @ @ @ 2012 reelection by threatening to primary him , Politico reports .


politicalwire--2020-02-24--Bloomberg Said He Would ‘Defend the Banks’

Mike Bloomberg said at a private event in 2016 that his presidential campaign platform would have been to “ defend @ @ @ @ @ labeled Sen. Elizabeth Warren as “ scary , ” CNN reports .
Bloomberg also criticized @ @ @ @ @ that his 2012 endorsement of Obama was “ backhanded ” and that he thought Mitt @ @ @ @ @ better job if he ’ d been elected .
Audio of his comments were anonymously @ @ @ @ @ email address called “ CancelGoldman , ” with the author claiming he worked at Goldman @ @ @ @ @

Mike Bloomberg said at a private event in 2016 that his presidential campaign platform would have been to “defend the banks” and also labeled Sen. Elizabeth Warren as “scary,” CNN reports.
Bloomberg also criticized President Barack Obama, saying that his 2012 endorsement of Obama was “backhanded” and that he thought Mitt Romney could have done a better job if he’d been elected.
Audio of his comments were anonymously sent to CNN by an email address called “CancelGoldman,” with the author claiming he worked at Goldman Sachs for 14 years.


politicalwire--2020-02-24--Poll Gives Biden Small Lead In South Carolina

A new NBC News/Marist poll in South Carolina find Joe Biden leading the Democratic primary field with 27 % , @ @ @ @ @ 23 % , Tom Steyer at 15 % , Pete Buttigieg at 9 % , @ @ @ @ @ and Amy Klobuchar at 5 % .


politicalwire--2020-02-24--One Heart Measure Sanders Should Disclose But Isn’t

Richard Kovacs , the president of the American College of Cardiology , told NBC News that by releasing one simple @ @ @ @ @ , Sen. Bernie Sanders could address some lingering questions .
“ That indicator , called @ @ @ @ @ , is provided to any patient after a heart attack… It ’ s a measure @ @ @ @ @ the heart pushes out with an individual heartbeat and it correlates with the risk for @ @ @ @ @ rate.
” Said Kovacs : “ Normally the heart will push out 60 percent .
@ @ @ @ @ 40 or 50 percent , we regard that as mild impairment of the left ventricle @ @ @ @ @ would be moderate .
If you get to 30 percent , that would be severe @ @

Richard Kovacs, the president of the American College of Cardiology, told NBC News that by releasing one simple indicator of his heart health, Sen. Bernie Sanders could address some lingering questions.
“That indicator, called the left ventricular ejection fraction, is provided to any patient after a heart attack… It’s a measure of how much blood volume the heart pushes out with an individual heartbeat and it correlates with the risk for future cardiac events and mortality rate.”
Said Kovacs: “Normally the heart will push out 60 percent. If you go down to 40 or 50 percent, we regard that as mild impairment of the left ventricle. Thirty to 40 percent would be moderate. If you get to 30 percent, that would be severe.”