politicalwire--2020-05-29--GOP Convention Fight Escalates in North Carolina

“ Republicans planning their party ’ s convention on Thursday gave North Carolina ’ s governor a deadline of June @ @ @ @ @ to prevent the spread of the coronavirus during the event , planned for Charlotte in @ @ @ @ @ York Times reports .
“ The move came as President Trump pressures Democratic leaders in @ @ @ @ @ to hold the kind of convention he wants , and as they cite public health @ @ @ @ @ too soon to make a determination.
” Washington Post : “ Trump has been determined @ @ @ @ @ him say , to hold a large-scale convention without an audience filled with masked people @ @

“Republicans planning their party’s convention on Thursday gave North Carolina’s governor a deadline of June 3 to approve safety measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus during the event, planned for Charlotte in August,” the New York Times reports.
“The move came as President Trump pressures Democratic leaders in the state to allow him to hold the kind of convention he wants, and as they cite public health concerns and say it is too soon to make a determination.”
Washington Post: “Trump has been determined, Republicans in contact with him say, to hold a large-scale convention without an audience filled with masked people.”


politicalwire--2020-05-29--The Most Mendacious President in U.S. History

Susan Glasser : “ So many of the things that Trump does and says are inconceivable for an American President , and yet he does and says them anyway .
The Trump era has been a seemingly endless series of such moments .
From the start of his Administration , his tweets have been an open-source intelligence boon , a window directly into the President ’ s needy id , and a real-time guide to his obsessions and intentions .
Misinformation , disinformation , and outright lies were always central to his politics.
” “ In recent months , however @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an even darker , more manic , and more mendacious turn , as Trump struggles to manage the convergence of a massive public-health crisis and a simultaneous economic collapse while running for reelection .
He is tweeting more frequently , and more frantically , as events have closed in on him .
Trailing in the polls and desperate to change the subject from the coronavirus , mid-pandemic Trump has a Twitter feed that is meaner , angrier , and more partisan than ever before , as he amplifies conspiracy theories about the ‘ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as Scarborough while seeking to exacerbate divisions in an already divided country.
” “ Strikingly , this dark turn with the President ’ s tweets comes as he is using his Twitter feed as an even more potent vehicle for telling his Republican followers what to do—and they are listening .
”

Susan Glasser: “So many of the things that Trump does and says are inconceivable for an American President, and yet he does and says them anyway. The Trump era has been a seemingly endless series of such moments. From the start of his Administration, his tweets have been an open-source intelligence boon, a window directly into the President’s needy id, and a real-time guide to his obsessions and intentions. Misinformation, disinformation, and outright lies were always central to his politics.”
“In recent months, however, his tweeting appears to have taken an even darker, more manic, and more mendacious turn, as Trump struggles to manage the convergence of a massive public-health crisis and a simultaneous economic collapse while running for reelection. He is tweeting more frequently, and more frantically, as events have closed in on him. Trailing in the polls and desperate to change the subject from the coronavirus, mid-pandemic Trump has a Twitter feed that is meaner, angrier, and more partisan than ever before, as he amplifies conspiracy theories about the ‘deep state’ and media enemies such as Scarborough while seeking to exacerbate divisions in an already divided country.”
“Strikingly, this dark turn with the President’s tweets comes as he is using his Twitter feed as an even more potent vehicle for telling his Republican followers what to do—and they are listening.”


politicalwire--2020-05-29--Trump Approval Hits 28-Month Low

Trump Approval Hits 28-Month Low

President Trump ’ s job approval doesn ’ t fluctuate much , but it just hit 42 % — its @ @ @ @ @ — in the Civiqs tracking poll .

“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--2020-05-29--White House Removes Virus Warnings About Choirs

“ The Trump administration with no advance notice removed warnings contained in guidance for the reopening of houses of worship @ @ @ @ @ spread the coronavirus , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ The altered guidance also @ @ @ @ @ shared cups ’ among items , including hymnals and worship rugs , that should not @ @ @ @

“The Trump administration with no advance notice removed warnings contained in guidance for the reopening of houses of worship that singing in choirs can spread the coronavirus,” the Washington Post reports.
“The altered guidance also deleted a reference to ‘shared cups’ among items, including hymnals and worship rugs, that should not be shared.”


The No-Mask Caucus

CNN : “ A contingent of House Republicans continues to defy the recommendations of public health experts and Congress ’ @ @ @ @ @ coverings to limit the spread of Covid-19 , refusing to wear them on the floor @ @ @ @ @ the hallways of the Capitol or when chatting with aides and colleagues — even when @ @ @ @ @ maintain a social distance.
” “ Some members say they will wear masks in more @ @ @ @ @ airports , on airplanes and in grocery stores .
And others flatly refuse to wear @ @ @ @ @

CNN: “A contingent of House Republicans continues to defy the recommendations of public health experts and Congress’ top physician to wear face coverings to limit the spread of Covid-19, refusing to wear them on the floor of the chamber, in the hallways of the Capitol or when chatting with aides and colleagues — even when they’re unable to maintain a social distance.”
“Some members say they will wear masks in more crowded locations, like in airports, on airplanes and in grocery stores. And others flatly refuse to wear them at all.”


politicalwire--2020-05-30--Merkel Rebuffs Trump Invite to G7 Summit

“ Angela Merkel has rebuffed Donald Trump ’ s invitation to attend a G7 summit , which the U.S. president @ @ @ @ @ a symbol of a return to normality from the upheaval of the coronavirus crisis , @ @ @ @ @ a German government spokesman : “ The federal chancellor thanks President Trump for his invitation @ @ @ @ @ the end of June in Washington .
As of today , considering the overall pandemic @ @ @ @ @ agree to her personal participation , to a journey to Washington .
”

“Angela Merkel has rebuffed Donald Trump’s invitation to attend a G7 summit, which the U.S. president is keen to portray as a symbol of a return to normality from the upheaval of the coronavirus crisis,” Politico reports.
Said a German government spokesman: “The federal chancellor thanks President Trump for his invitation to the G7 summit at the end of June in Washington. As of today, considering the overall pandemic situation, she cannot agree to her personal participation, to a journey to Washington.”


politicalwire--2020-05-29--Clyburn Says Time Not Right for Klobuchar

House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn ( D-SC ) said Friday that he believes it ’ s not the right time @ @ @ @ @ ( D-MN ) as apparent Democratic nominee Joe Biden ’ s running mate in light @ @ @ @ @ Minnesota following the death of George Floyd , NBC News reports .
Said Clyburn : @ @ @ @ @ victims sometimes of timing and some of us benefit tremendously from timing .
This is @ @ @ @ @ Klobuchar , who I respect so much .
”

House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn (D-SC) said Friday that he believes it’s not the right time to choose Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) as apparent Democratic nominee Joe Biden’s running mate in light of the developing events in Minnesota following the death of George Floyd, NBC News reports.
Said Clyburn: “We’re all victims sometimes of timing and some of us benefit tremendously from timing. This is very tough timing for Amy Klobuchar, who I respect so much.”


politicalwire--2020-05-29--‘History Will Not Judge Us Kindly’

‘History Will Not Judge Us Kindly’

The Verge : “ Facebook ’ s decision not to take action against recent posts about mail-in ballots and the @ @ @ @ @ is roiling employees , some of whom are calling on executives to reconsider their stance.
@ @ @ @ @ an internal post : “ I have to say I am finding the contortions we @ @ @ @ @ hard to stomach .
All this points to a very high risk of a violent @ @ @ @ @ November and if we fail the test case here , history will not judge us @ @ @

The Verge: “Facebook’s decision not to take action against recent posts about mail-in ballots and the Minnesota protests by President Trump is roiling employees, some of whom are calling on executives to reconsider their stance.”
Said one employee in an internal post: “I have to say I am finding the contortions we have to go through incredibly hard to stomach. All this points to a very high risk of a violent escalation and civil unrest in November and if we fail the test case here, history will not judge us kindly.”


Flynn Transcripts Released

“ Transcripts of calls between former national security advisor Michael Flynn and Russia ’ s then-ambassador to the United States @ @ @ @ @ s inauguration were publicly released Friday , ” CNBC reports .
“ The transcript of @ @ @ @ @ , call shows Flynn advising Kislyak that Russia should only respond in a ‘ reciprocal @ @ @ @ @ the Obama administration takes against the country before Trump is inaugurated .
”

“Transcripts of calls between former national security advisor Michael Flynn and Russia’s then-ambassador to the United States weeks before President Trump’s inauguration were publicly released Friday,” CNBC reports.
“The transcript of a Dec. 22, 2016, call shows Flynn advising Kislyak that Russia should only respond in a ‘reciprocal’ manner to any actions the Obama administration takes against the country before Trump is inaugurated.”


politicalwire--2020-05-29--Chicago Mayor Responds to Trump’s Tweet

Chicago Mayor Responds to Trump’s Tweet

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot ( D ) accused President Trump of trying to “ foment violence ” and offered a @ @ @ @ @ — after he threatened Minneapolis rioters protesting the death of George Floyd at the hands @ @ @ @ @ Sun Times reports .
Said Lightfoot : “ We see the game he ’ s @ @ @ @ @ so transparent and he ’ s not very good at it .
He wants to @ @ @ @ @ of Democratic local leaders to throw red meat to his base .
His goal is @ @ @ @ @ local government and inflame racist urges .
And we can absolutely not let him prevail.
@ @ @ @ @ I will code what I really want to say to Donald Trump .
It ’ @ @ @ @ @ begins with F and ends with YOU .
”

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot (D) accused President Trump of trying to “foment violence” and offered a vulgar response — in code — after he threatened Minneapolis rioters protesting the death of George Floyd at the hands of police, the Chicago Sun Times reports.
Said Lightfoot: “We see the game he’s playing because it’s so transparent and he’s not very good at it. He wants to show failures on the part of Democratic local leaders to throw red meat to his base. His goal is to polarize, to destabilize local government and inflame racist urges. And we can absolutely not let him prevail.”
She added: “I will code what I really want to say to Donald Trump. It’s two words: It begins with F and ends with YOU.”


politicalwire--2020-05-29--Probe Shows Kemp Misrepresented Election Security

Atlanta Journal Constitution : “ It was a stunning accusation : Two days before the 2018 election for Georgia governor @ @ @ @ @ his power as secretary of state to open an investigation into what he called a @ @ @ @ @ of voter registration systems involving the Democratic Party.
” “ But newly released case files @ @ @ @ @ Investigation reveal that there was no such hacking attempt .
”

Atlanta Journal Constitution: “It was a stunning accusation: Two days before the 2018 election for Georgia governor, Republican Brian Kemp used his power as secretary of state to open an investigation into what he called a “failed hacking attempt” of voter registration systems involving the Democratic Party.”
“But newly released case files from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation reveal that there was no such hacking attempt.”


politicalwire--2020-05-29--Trump Announces Unprecedented Action Against China

“ President Trump launched a blistering attack on China , naming misdeeds that range from espionage to the violation of @ @ @ @ @ , and announced a slew of retaliatory measures that will plunge US-China relations deeper into @ @ @ @ @ .
Said Trump : “ They ’ ve ripped off the United States like no @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“President Trump launched a blistering attack on China, naming misdeeds that range from espionage to the violation of Hong Kong’s freedoms, and announced a slew of retaliatory measures that will plunge US-China relations deeper into crisis,” CNN reports.
Said Trump: “They’ve ripped off the United States like no one has ever done before.”


politicalwire--2020-05-29--South Carolina GOP Holds In-Person Event

At a South Carolina event , attended by Sens .
Lindsey Graham ( R-SC ) and Tim Scott ( R-SC @ @ @ @ @ few masks and no social distancing — and that was the point , ” the @ @ @ @ @ “ Speakers shared the same microphone .
Local and state political candidates greeted voters with @ @ @ @ @ pictures .
Of all the people gathered outside the county Republican office — many of @ @ @ @ @ than a dozen wore masks.
” “ The event was an active rejection of behavior @ @ @ @ @ come to associate with liberal enemies in recent months — wearing masks and gloves , @ @ @ @ @ other people , avoiding physical touch .
”

At a South Carolina event, attended by Sens. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Tim Scott (R-SC), “there were few masks and no social distancing — and that was the point,” the New York Times reports.
“Speakers shared the same microphone. Local and state political candidates greeted voters with handshakes and squeezed tight for pictures. Of all the people gathered outside the county Republican office — many of them senior citizens — fewer than a dozen wore masks.”
“The event was an active rejection of behavior that the hyper-conservative crowd has come to associate with liberal enemies in recent months — wearing masks and gloves, staying six feet away from other people, avoiding physical touch.”


politicalwire--2020-05-29--Trump Refused to Address Death of George Floyd

President Trump held what was billed as a news conference by the White House and briefly spoke about U.S. policy @ @ @ @ @ terminating ” the U.S. relationship with the WHO but did not address the death of @ @ @ @ @ breaking out across the country .
He left the podium without taking any questions .
@ @ @ @ @ attempted to clean up a statement about shooting looters , which many felt was inciting @ @ @ @ @

President Trump held what was billed as a news conference by the White House and briefly spoke about U.S. policy towards Hong Kong and “terminating” the U.S. relationship with the WHO but did not address the death of George Floyd or the protests breaking out across the country.
He left the podium without taking any questions.
Earlier on Twitter, Trump attempted to clean up a statement about shooting looters, which many felt was inciting further violence in Minneapolis.


politicalwire--2020-05-29--Klobuchar Says She ‘Did Not Blow Off’ Police Shootings

Sen. Amy Klobuchar ( D-MN ) explained on MSNBC why she did not go after numerous police officers who shot @ @ @ @ @ Hennepin County attorney in Minnesota .
Said Klobuchar : “ When I was county attorney @ @ @ @ @ officer-involved shootings went to a grand jury .
I think that was wrong now .
@ @ @ @ @ better if I took responsibility and looked at cases and made a decision myself.
” @ @ @ @ @ did not blow off these cases .
We brought them to a grand jury , @ @ @ @ @ potential criminal prosecution , and the grand jury would come back with the decision .
@

Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) explained on MSNBC why she did not go after numerous police officers who shot civilians when she served as Hennepin County attorney in Minnesota.
Said Klobuchar: “When I was county attorney, cases we had involving officer-involved shootings went to a grand jury. I think that was wrong now. It would have been much better if I took responsibility and looked at cases and made a decision myself.”
She added: “We did not blow off these cases. We brought them to a grand jury, presented the evidence for a potential criminal prosecution, and the grand jury would come back with the decision.”


politicalwire--2020-05-29--Biden Addresses Nation on Murder of George Floyd

Joe Biden addressed the nation after speaking with George Floyd ’ s family .
Said Biden : “ The original @ @ @ @ @ stains our nation today and sometimes we managed to overlook it .
But it ’ @ @ @ @ @ in weeks like this , we see it plainly that we are a country with @ @ @ @ @ added : “ None of us can be silent .
None of us can … @ @ @ @ @ can ’ t breathe ’ and do nothing .
”

Joe Biden addressed the nation after speaking with George Floyd’s family.
Said Biden: “The original sin of this country still stains our nation today and sometimes we managed to overlook it. But it’s always there. And in weeks like this, we see it plainly that we are a country with an open wound.”
He added: “None of us can be silent. None of us can … hear the words ‘I can’t breathe’ and do nothing.”


politicalwire--2020-05-29--Pennsylvania Republicans Don’t Want to Vote by Mail

“ As of Thursday morning , about 1.3 million registered Democrats had requested and been approved for mail ballots for @ @ @ @ @ , compared with about 524,000 Republicans .
Republicans made just 29 % of the requests @ @ @ @ @ 38 % of registered voters in the state and 45 % of those registered with @ @ @ @ @ the Philadelphia Inquirer reports .
Said GOP county chairwoman Lee Snover : “ We ’ @ @ @ @ @ Trump on this .
He ’ s spoken about it .
He ’ s tweeted @ @ @ @ @ ’ t want us to do it .
”

“As of Thursday morning, about 1.3 million registered Democrats had requested and been approved for mail ballots for the June 2 primary election, compared with about 524,000 Republicans. Republicans made just 29% of the requests, even though they represent 38% of registered voters in the state and 45% of those registered with either major party,” the Philadelphia Inquirer reports.
Said GOP county chairwoman Lee Snover: “We’re kind of listening to Trump on this. He’s spoken about it. He’s tweeted about it. He doesn’t want us to do it.”


politicalwire--2020-05-29--Bonus Quote of the Day

Bonus Quote of the Day

“ This has been just a remarkable day in the news , and I don ’ t mean that in @ @ @ @ @ almost never do .
”


politicalwire--2020-05-29--Ex-Minneapolis Police Officer Arrested

Ex-Minneapolis Police Officer Arrested

Fired Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin , who was captured on video pressing his knee into George Floyd ’ s @ @ @ @ @ has been taken into custody , the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports .
Chavin was charged @ @ @ @ @ There may be additional charges later .

Fired Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin, who was captured on video pressing his knee into George Floyd’s neck before he died, has been taken into custody, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
Chavin was charged with murder and manslaughter. There may be additional charges later.


politicalwire--2020-05-29--Trump Interior Official Used Office for Personal Gain

A senior Trump administration official misused his office for private gain by capitalizing on his government connections to help get @ @ @ @ @ the Environmental Protection Agency , investigators said in a report obtained by the Associated Press @


Biden’s Split-Screen Opportunity

Playbook : “ Campaigns , it is said , are about contrasts .
And rarely is a candidate afforded the @ @ @ @ @ : the ability to sift through the wreckage and unrest piling up on his opponent @ @ @ @ @ time.
” “ If ever there were an opportunity in this frenzied , crowded , @ @ @ @ @ for Biden to sear a split-screen image into the minds of Americans , it is @ @ @ @ @ 2020 — 158 days before Election Day .
Biden will speak about the unrest in @ @ @ @ @ Delaware sometime early this afternoon , and President Trump will hold a news conference in @ @ @ @ @ at 2 p.m .
”

Playbook: “Campaigns, it is said, are about contrasts. And rarely is a candidate afforded the opportunity Joe Biden has today: the ability to sift through the wreckage and unrest piling up on his opponent’s watch in real time.”
“If ever there were an opportunity in this frenzied, crowded, loud and confused media climate for Biden to sear a split-screen image into the minds of Americans, it is today, May 29, 2020 — 158 days before Election Day. Biden will speak about the unrest in Minneapolis from his home in Delaware sometime early this afternoon, and President Trump will hold a news conference in the White House Rose Garden at 2 p.m.”


politicalwire--2020-05-29--Police Officer and Man Killed Once Worked Together

George Floyd and now-former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin both worked security at the El Nuevo Rodeo club , KSTP @ @ @ @ @ owner Maya Santamaria : “ Chauvin was our off-duty police for almost the entirety of @ @ @ @ @ were open .
They were working together at the same time , it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ and the security guards were inside .
”

George Floyd and now-former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin both worked security at the El Nuevo Rodeo club, KSTP reports.
Said former club owner Maya Santamaria: “Chauvin was our off-duty police for almost the entirety of the 17 years that we were open. They were working together at the same time, it’s just that Chauvin worked outside and the security guards were inside.”


politicalwire--2020-05-29--Trump Is Losing Pennsylvania’s Suburbs

Trump Is Losing Pennsylvania’s Suburbs

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


politicalwire--2020-05-29--Officer’s Wife Once Charged with Writing Bad Check

The wife of fired Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was once charged with writing a bad check for $ 42 @ @ @ @ @ .
Chauvin was one of the officers who arrested George Floyd on suspicion that he @ @ @ @ @ 20 bill at a convenience store .

The wife of fired Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was once charged with writing a bad check for $42, the Daily Mail reports.
Chauvin was one of the officers who arrested George Floyd on suspicion that he had used a forged $20 bill at a convenience store.


politicalwire--2020-05-29--New Video Shows Three Officers Pinning Down Floyd

A newly-surfaced video of the arrest of George Floyd shows three Minneapolis police pinning the unarmed , handcuffed man on @ @ @ @ @ stands nearby , NBC News reports .
The angle of the video has not been @ @ @

A newly-surfaced video of the arrest of George Floyd shows three Minneapolis police pinning the unarmed, handcuffed man on the ground while another officer stands nearby, NBC News reports.
The angle of the video has not been seen previously.


politicalwire--2020-05-30--Absolute Chaos In Minneapolis

Absolute Chaos In Minneapolis

“ Heaping furious , violent contempt on an 8 p.m. curfew declaration and widespread passionate pleas for forbearance and peace , defiant rioters rampaged across Minneapolis for a fourth night Friday and into early Saturday , creating unprecedented havoc as they set towering fires , looted and vandalized businesses and shot at police officers , all in response to the death of an unarmed black man under a white police officer ’ s knee on Monday , ” the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports .
“ By all accounts , law enforcement presence was almost undetectable as the violence rapidly accelerated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Saturday , when hundreds of police officers , state troopers and National Guard troops , some in armored vehicles , fanned out into troubled areas , confronting rioters with mass force , tear gas and orders to disperse issued via bullhorn.
” “ And yet , those efforts had visibly little impact for much of the night , and questions swirled among citizens and politicians about how such a dire situation could have developed in a long peaceable , progressive city.
” Washington Post : “ Nobody forced the crisis in Minneapolis upon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the tinderbox himself when he issued an ultimatum to people protesting the death of a black man there under the custody of a white police officer .
”

“Heaping furious, violent contempt on an 8 p.m. curfew declaration and widespread passionate pleas for forbearance and peace, defiant rioters rampaged across Minneapolis for a fourth night Friday and into early Saturday, creating unprecedented havoc as they set towering fires, looted and vandalized businesses and shot at police officers, all in response to the death of an unarmed black man under a white police officer’s knee on Monday,” the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
“By all accounts, law enforcement presence was almost undetectable as the violence rapidly accelerated until just before midnight and into early Saturday, when hundreds of police officers, state troopers and National Guard troops, some in armored vehicles, fanned out into troubled areas, confronting rioters with mass force, tear gas and orders to disperse issued via bullhorn.”
“And yet, those efforts had visibly little impact for much of the night, and questions swirled among citizens and politicians about how such a dire situation could have developed in a long peaceable, progressive city.”
Washington Post: “Nobody forced the crisis in Minneapolis upon President Trump. He chose to inflame the tinderbox himself when he issued an ultimatum to people protesting the death of a black man there under the custody of a white police officer.”


politicalwire--2020-05-30--National Guard Summoned to Aid Cities

National Guard Summoned to Aid Cities

“ Georgia ’ s governor declared a state of emergency early Saturday to activate the state National Guard as violence @ @ @ @ @ nationwide following the death in Minnesota of George Floyd after a white officer pressed a @ @ @ @ @ taking him into custody , ” the AP reports .
“ Another 500 Guard soldiers @ @ @ @ @ Minneapolis , where Floyd died and an officer faced charges Friday in his death .
@ @ @ @ @ watching fires burn and businesses ransacked , Minnesota Gov .
Tim Walz said early Saturday @ @ @ @ @ activate more than 1,000 more and was considering federal help.
” “ The Guard was @ @ @ @ @ District of Columbia , where a crowd grew outside the White House and chanted curses @ @ @ @ @ York Times : Protests flare in Brooklyn over Floyd death .

“Georgia’s governor declared a state of emergency early Saturday to activate the state National Guard as violence flared in Atlanta and cities nationwide following the death in Minnesota of George Floyd after a white officer pressed a knee into his neck while taking him into custody,” the AP reports.
“Another 500 Guard soldiers were mobilized in and around Minneapolis, where Floyd died and an officer faced charges Friday in his death. But after another night of watching fires burn and businesses ransacked, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz said early Saturday that he was moving to activate more than 1,000 more and was considering federal help.”
“The Guard was also on standby in the District of Columbia, where a crowd grew outside the White House and chanted curses at President Trump.”
New York Times: Protests flare in Brooklyn over Floyd death.


politicalwire--2020-05-30--An Emboldened Xi Jinping Pushes the Boundaries

“ Less than four months ago , Xi Jinping faced the biggest crisis of his leadership , as it was @ @ @ @ @ initial , bungled response to the coronavirus , ” the Wall Street Journal reports .
@ @ @ @ @ off an extraordinary turnaround , buoyed by Beijing ’ s reported success in curbing the @ @ @ @ @ many other democracies wrestle with it .
Mr. Xi has seized the moment to gain @ @ @ @ @ his ‘ China Dream ’ of a strong unified nation , on par with—if not @ @ @ @ @ aside government shortcomings.
” “ With Washington and its allies distracted by the pandemic and @ @ @ @ @ Xi is taking bold steps on issues where he ’ s often faced international pushback @ @ @ @ @ Taiwan , the South China Sea and a disputed border with India.
” South China @ @ @ @ @ says Beijing will “ resolutely smash ” any separatist moves by Taiwan .

“Less than four months ago, Xi Jinping faced the biggest crisis of his leadership, as it was bruised by China’s initial, bungled response to the coronavirus,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
“He has since pulled off an extraordinary turnaround, buoyed by Beijing’s reported success in curbing the virus while the U.S. and many other democracies wrestle with it. Mr. Xi has seized the moment to gain ground in areas central to his ‘China Dream’ of a strong unified nation, on par with—if not surpassing—the U.S., while brushing aside government shortcomings.”
“With Washington and its allies distracted by the pandemic and its economic fallout, Mr. Xi is taking bold steps on issues where he’s often faced international pushback, including Hong Kong, Taiwan, the South China Sea and a disputed border with India.”
South China Morning Post: Chinese general says Beijing will “resolutely smash” any separatist moves by Taiwan.


politicalwire--2020-05-30--Trump Insists on Full Convention with No Masks

President Trump called North Carolina Gov .
Roy Cooper ( D ) on Friday and insisted on a full Republican @ @ @ @ @ face masks or social distancing , CNN reports .


politicalwire--2020-05-30--Extra Bonus Quote of the Day

Extra Bonus Quote of the Day

“ We ’ ve never had a person leading the Federation who is as bombastic , who is as overtly @ @ @ @ @ likely to provide comfort to someone when they do something wrong , who is as @ @ @ @ @ as Bob Kroll .
And it is time to name names .
Bob Kroll is @ @ @ @ @ department , on this city.
” — Former Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak ( D ) @ @ @ @ @ on Minneapolis Police Federation President Bob Kroll .

“We’ve never had a person leading the Federation who is as bombastic, who is as overtly racist, who is as likely to provide comfort to someone when they do something wrong, who is as central to that toxic culture as Bob Kroll. And it is time to name names. Bob Kroll is a cancer on this police department, on this city.”
— Former Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak (D), quote by WCCO, on Minneapolis Police Federation President Bob Kroll.


politicalwire--2020-05-30--U.S. Gripped by Disease, Unemployment and Outrage

“ A global pandemic has now killed more than 100,000 Americans and left 40 million unemployed in its wake .
@ @ @ @ @ violent — have once again erupted in spots across the country over police killings of @ @ @ @ @ Washington Post reports .
“ President Trump , meanwhile , is waging a war against @ @ @ @ @ rivals , criticizing a voting practice he himself uses and suggesting that looters could be @ @ @ @ @ s persistent political dysfunction and racial inequality were laid bare this week , as the @ @ @ @ @ tragic new milestone and as the country was served yet another reminder of how black @ @ @ @ @ enforcement in disproportionately high numbers .
Together , the events present a grim tableau of @ @ @ @ @ one seared by violence against its citizens , plagued by a deadly disease that remains @ @ @ @ @ devastating blow to its economy .
”

“A global pandemic has now killed more than 100,000 Americans and left 40 million unemployed in its wake. Protests — some of them violent — have once again erupted in spots across the country over police killings of black Americans,” the Washington Post reports.
“President Trump, meanwhile, is waging a war against Twitter, attacking his political rivals, criticizing a voting practice he himself uses and suggesting that looters could be shot.”
“America’s persistent political dysfunction and racial inequality were laid bare this week, as the coronavirus death toll hit a tragic new milestone and as the country was served yet another reminder of how black people are killed by law enforcement in disproportionately high numbers. Together, the events present a grim tableau of a nation in crisis — one seared by violence against its citizens, plagued by a deadly disease that remains uncontained and rattled by a devastating blow to its economy.”


politicalwire--2020-05-31--Trump Postpones G-7 Summit

Trump Postpones G-7 Summit

“ President Trump said Saturday that he will postpone until September the annual Group of Seven meeting of world leaders @ @ @ @ @ to hold in-person by the end of June at the White House as the administration @ @ @ @ @ to normalcy amid the coronavirus pandemic , ” the Washington Post reports.. “ But German @ @ @ @ @ Trump ’ s invitation to come to Washington for the meeting , citing concerns about @ @ @ @ @ also said he plans to invite Russia , South Korea , Australia and India.
” @ @ @ @ @ don ’ t feel that as a G-7 it properly represents what ’ s going @ @ @ @ @ It ’ s a very outdated group of countries .
”

“President Trump said Saturday that he will postpone until September the annual Group of Seven meeting of world leaders, which he had wanted to hold in-person by the end of June at the White House as the administration tries to project a return to normalcy amid the coronavirus pandemic,” the Washington Post reports..
“But German Chancellor Angela Merkel had declined Trump’s invitation to come to Washington for the meeting, citing concerns about the pandemic.”
“Trump also said he plans to invite Russia, South Korea, Australia and India.”
Said Trump: “I don’t feel that as a G-7 it properly represents what’s going on in the world. It’s a very outdated group of countries.”


politicalwire--2020-05-30--Space X Launches Two Astronauts Into Space

The United States opened a new era of human space travel on Saturday as a private company for the first @ @ @ @ @ , nearly a decade after the government retired the storied space shuttle program in the @ @ @ @ @ the New York Times reports .


politicalwire--2020-05-30--Trump Has Spent Decades Spreading Misinformation

CNN : “ Long before advising Americans to ingest disinfectant to treat the coronavirus as President , Trump demonstrated a @ @ @ @ @ claims that preyed on the public ’ s fears of getting sick.
” “ In @ @ @ @ @ widely-debunked claims that AIDS could be spread by kissing and that AIDS patients intentionally spread @ @ @ @ @ swine flu pandemic began in 2009 , he warned Americans against taking flu vaccines .
@ @ @ @ @ devastated West Africa in 2014 , he disputed guidance by the Centers for Disease Control @ @ @ @ @ spreads.
” “ Today as the nation ’ s chief executive overseeing his own public @ @ @ @ @ to comprehensively misinform the public about the coronavirus , offering remarks riddled with false , @ @ @ @ @ .
”

CNN: “Long before advising Americans to ingest disinfectant to treat the coronavirus as President, Trump demonstrated a pattern of spreading unsupported medical claims that preyed on the public’s fears of getting sick.”
“In 1993, Trump promoted the widely-debunked claims that AIDS could be spread by kissing and that AIDS patients intentionally spread the virus. As the swine flu pandemic began in 2009, he warned Americans against taking flu vaccines. When the Ebola virus outbreak devastated West Africa in 2014, he disputed guidance by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on how it spreads.”
“Today as the nation’s chief executive overseeing his own public health crisis, Trump continues to comprehensively misinform the public about the coronavirus, offering remarks riddled with false, misleading or scientifically questionable claims.”


politicalwire--2020-05-30--Trump Watched Protesters at White House

Trump Watched Protesters at White House

President Trump thanked the “ very cool ” Secret Service agents for protecting the White House on Friday night against @ @ @ @ @ George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police .
Said Trump : “ I was @ @ @ @ @ , and couldn ’ t have felt more safe.
” He added that had protesters @ @ @ @ @ with the most vicious dogs , and most ominous weapons.
” He also bragged that @ @ @ @ @ with fresh agents , like magic ” quoting one officer telling him , “ We @ @ @ @ @ the front line , sir , they love it , and… good practice .
”

President Trump thanked the “very cool” Secret Service agents for protecting the White House on Friday night against demonstrators protesting the death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police.
Said Trump: “I was inside, watched every move, and couldn’t have felt more safe.”
He added that had protesters would “have been greeted with the most vicious dogs, and most ominous weapons.”
He also bragged that officers were quickly replaced “with fresh agents, like magic” quoting one officer telling him, “We put the young ones on the front line, sir, they love it, and… good practice.”


politicalwire--2020-05-30--Minnesota Fully Mobilizes National Guard

“ Shaken by another night of chaos that overwhelmed law enforcement , Gov .
Tim Walz ( D ) said @ @ @ @ @ the National Guard to combat what he called a ‘ tightly controlled ’ group of @ @ @ @ @ them from out of state , who have turned city streets into scenes of looting @ @ @ @ @ Minneapolis Star Tribune reports .
Said Walz : “ Our cities of Minneapolis and St. @ @ @ @ @ organized attempt to destabilize civil society.
” “ Walz said as many as 80 % @ @ @ @ @ and fire in the cities could be from elsewhere .
”

“Shaken by another night of chaos that overwhelmed law enforcement, Gov. Tim Walz (D) said Saturday he will fully mobilize the National Guard to combat what he called a ‘tightly controlled’ group of outside agitators, some of them from out of state, who have turned city streets into scenes of looting and arson,” the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
Said Walz: “Our cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul are under assault… an organized attempt to destabilize civil society.”
“Walz said as many as 80% of the people causing destruction and fire in the cities could be from elsewhere.”


politicalwire--2020-05-30--Fox News Crew Chased by Angry Mob

Fox News Crew Chased by Angry Mob

Fox News : “ An angry mob of rioters stoked by the death of a black man at the apparent @ @ @ @ @ turned its rage on a Fox News crew early Saturday , chasing and pummeling the @ @ @ @ @ in a harrowing scene captured on video .
”


politicalwire--2020-05-30--Kansas Senate Seat May Be Up for Grabs

Kansas Senate Seat May Be Up for Grabs

“ It has been 88 years since Kansas last sent a Democrat to the United States Senate — one of @ @ @ @ @ represent the state in the upper chamber .
But this year , in a challenging @ @ @ @ @ Republicans , party leaders are growing fearful that this reliably Republican stronghold will instead become @ @ @ @ @ that could determine the balance of power in Washington , ” the New York Times @ @ @ @ @ the August primary , Democrats have largely rallied around Barbara Bollier , a retired anesthesiologist @ @ @ @ @ Republican .
Republicans , meanwhile , are locked in an intraparty competition that has all @ @ @ @ @ full-out brawl : attack ads , bitter recriminations between the candidates and a party chair @ @ @ @ @ sparked backlash .
At the center of the fireworks is Kris W. Kobach , a @ @ @ @ @ been an incendiary presence in Kansas politics for years .
”

“It has been 88 years since Kansas last sent a Democrat to the United States Senate — one of only three Democrats ever to represent the state in the upper chamber. But this year, in a challenging and unstable political environment for Republicans, party leaders are growing fearful that this reliably Republican stronghold will instead become an expensive, high-stakes battleground that could determine the balance of power in Washington,” the New York Times reports.
“Ahead of the August primary, Democrats have largely rallied around Barbara Bollier, a retired anesthesiologist who was until recently a Republican. Republicans, meanwhile, are locked in an intraparty competition that has all of the trappings of a full-out brawl: attack ads, bitter recriminations between the candidates and a party chair who tried to intervene and sparked backlash. At the center of the fireworks is Kris W. Kobach, a hard-line Trump supporter who has been an incendiary presence in Kansas politics for years.”


politicalwire--2020-05-30--Trump to Resume In-Person Fundraising

Trump to Resume In-Person Fundraising

“ President Trump is set to resume in-person fundraising events as he tries to jumpstart efforts to boost his White @ @ @ @ @ pause on many election activities due to the coronavirus outbreak , ” The Hill reports @


The Uninformed Voter

Just published : The Uninformed Voter by Robert Levine .
“ Voters often lack knowledge of government structure , political @ @ @ @ @ and frequently elect incompetent or venal politicians to office .
Partisanship , corruption and inefficiency @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-05-30--GOP Lawmaker Says ‘Looters Deserve to Be Shot’

Missouri state Rep. Tony Lovasco ( R ) is facing backlash after he tweeted that “ Looters deserve to be @ @ @ @ @ by the government , ” The Hill reports .
“ The tweet came amid massive @ @ @ @ @ following the police-involved death of George Floyd , an unarmed black man , in Minneapolis @ @

Missouri state Rep. Tony Lovasco (R) is facing backlash after he tweeted that “Looters deserve to be shot. … But not by the government,” The Hill reports.
“The tweet came amid massive protests raging across the country following the police-involved death of George Floyd, an unarmed black man, in Minneapolis.”


politicalwire--2020-05-31--Kamala Harris Joins Protest at White House

Sen. Kamala Harris ( D-CA ) was one of those protesters who gathered at Lafayette Park across from the White @ @ @ @ @ Matter ” and ” I can ’ t breathe , ” the AP reports .
@ @ @ @ @ People are in pain .
We must listen .
”

Sen. Kamala Harris (D-CA) was one of those protesters who gathered at Lafayette Park across from the White House shouted “Black Lives Matter” and ”I can’t breathe,” the AP reports.
She later tweeted: “People are in pain. We must listen.”


politicalwire--2020-05-31--Biden Opens Up Double-Digit Lead Nationally

A new Washington Post-ABC News poll finds Joe Biden leading Donald Trump in the presidential race , 53 % to @ @ @ @ @ 10 percentage-point margin compares with what was a virtual dead heat between the two candidates @ @ @ @ @ Biden was at 49 % and Trump 47 % .
” “ Among Trump backers @ @ @ @ @ are enthusiastic about supporting him and 64 % are ‘ very enthusiastic.
’ Among Biden @ @ @ @ @ they are enthusiastic about backing him , with 31 % saying they are ‘ very @ @ @ @

A new Washington Post-ABC News poll finds Joe Biden leading Donald Trump in the presidential race, 53% to 43%.
“That 10 percentage-point margin compares with what was a virtual dead heat between the two candidates two months ago, when Biden was at 49% and Trump 47%.”
“Among Trump backers, 87% say they are enthusiastic about supporting him and 64% are ‘very enthusiastic.’ Among Biden supporters, 74% say they are enthusiastic about backing him, with 31% saying they are ‘very enthusiastic.'”


politicalwire--2020-05-31--Many Cities Under Curfew as Protests Sweep U.S.

“ Standoffs intensified across the country on Saturday .
In Minneapolis , officials were anticipating a fifth night of unrest @ @ @ @ @ Times reports .
“ As protests escalated , mayors ordered people off the streets in @ @ @ @ @ largest cities , including Los Angeles , Chicago , Atlanta , Miami and Philadelphia.
” @ @ @ @ @ cars were set aflame , freeways were blocked , windows were shattered and authorities deployed @ @ @ @ @ bullets .
Multiple governors activated the National Guard and curfews were enacted in several major @ @ @ @ @ Louisville , Denver and Milwaukee .
”

“Standoffs intensified across the country on Saturday. In Minneapolis, officials were anticipating a fifth night of unrest,” the New York Times reports.
“As protests escalated, mayors ordered people off the streets in some of America’s largest cities, including Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta, Miami and Philadelphia.”
Washington Post: “Police cars were set aflame, freeways were blocked, windows were shattered and authorities deployed tear gas and even rubber bullets. Multiple governors activated the National Guard and curfews were enacted in several major cities, including Atlanta, Louisville, Denver and Milwaukee.”


politicalwire--2020-05-31--The FBI’s Top Lawyer Quits

The FBI’s Top Lawyer Quits

“ The FBI ’ s top lawyer is resigning amid renewed pressure from President Trump and Republican allies for the @ @ @ @ @ officials associated with the Russia investigation , ” 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--2020-05-31--John Lewis Calls for Peaceful Protests

John Lewis Calls for Peaceful Protests

Rep. John Lewis ( D-GA ) called for “ love , peace and nonviolence ” from all Americans as the @ @ @ @ @ of George Floyd in Minneapolis , NBC News reports .
Said Lewis : “ Never @ @ @ @ @ any of our brothers and sisters .
We ’ re one people , we ’ @ @ @ @ @ all live in the same house , not just the American house , but the @ @ @ @

Rep. John Lewis (D-GA) called for “love, peace and nonviolence” from all Americans as the nation reacts to the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis, NBC News reports.
Said Lewis: “Never, ever give up on any of our brothers and sisters. We’re one people, we’re one family. We all live in the same house, not just the American house, but the world house.”


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Keith Ellison to Lead Prosecutions In Floyd Case

“ Minnesota Gov .
Tim Walz ( D ) said that the state ’ s attorney general will take the @ @ @ @ @ to the death of George Floyd , a black man who was in handcuffs when @ @ @ @ @ his knee into his neck as he pleaded that he couldn ’ t breathe , @ @ @ @ @ reports .
“ Walz ’ s decision to have Attorney General Keith Ellison ( D @ @ @ @ @ after requests from activists , some City Council members and a civil rights group , @ @ @ @ @ the case would send a strong message that justice will be vigorously pursued .
Walz @ @ @ @ @ needed to lead the prosecution .
”

“Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) said that the state’s attorney general will take the lead in any prosecutions related to the death of George Floyd, a black man who was in handcuffs when a Minneapolis police officer pressed his knee into his neck as he pleaded that he couldn’t breathe,” the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
“Walz’s decision to have Attorney General Keith Ellison (D) take the lead comes after requests from activists, some City Council members and a civil rights group, who said putting Ellison on the case would send a strong message that justice will be vigorously pursued. Walz said Ellison has the experience needed to lead the prosecution.”


politicalwire--2020-06-01--People Pushed to the Edge

People Pushed to the Edge

“ Yes , protests often are used as an excuse for some to take advantage , just as when fans @ @ @ @ @ championship burn cars and destroy storefronts .
I don ’ t want to see stores @ @ @ @ @ .
But African Americans have been living in a burning building for many years , @ @ @ @ @ the flames burn closer and closer .
Racism in America is like dust in the @ @ @ @ @ — even if you ’ re choking on it — until you let the sun @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s everywhere .
As long as we keep shining that light , we @ @ @ @ @ it wherever it lands .
But we have to stay vigilant , because it ’ @ @ @ @ @ air .
”

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, writing at the Los Angeles Times:
“Yes, protests often are used as an excuse for some to take advantage, just as when fans celebrating a hometown sports team championship burn cars and destroy storefronts. I don’t want to see stores looted or even buildings burn. But African Americans have been living in a burning building for many years, choking on the smoke as the flames burn closer and closer. Racism in America is like dust in the air. It seems invisible — even if you’re choking on it — until you let the sun in. Then you see it’s everywhere. As long as we keep shining that light, we have a chance of cleaning it wherever it lands. But we have to stay vigilant, because it’s always still in the air.”


politicalwire--2020-05-31--Trump Warned by Allies Over His Rhetoric

Jonathan Swan : “ People close to the president , including several senior White House officials , have privately expressed @ @ @ @ @ to the Minneapolis riots will hurt him with two groups that could remove him from @ @ @ @ @ and suburban women .
These are groups who already tell pollsters they don ’ t @ @ @ @ @ , even if they like some of his policies.
” “ One adviser said they @ @ @ @ @ ’ s worst moment since Charlottesville.
” “ A senior White House official , who @ @ @ @ @ takes tough law-and-order positions , described the tweet as ‘ stupid . '
”

Jonathan Swan: “People close to the president, including several senior White House officials, have privately expressed concerns that his incendiary response to the Minneapolis riots will hurt him with two groups that could remove him from office in November: independents and suburban women. These are groups who already tell pollsters they don’t like Trump’s tone, even if they like some of his policies.”
“One adviser said they saw it as the president’s worst moment since Charlottesville.”
“A senior White House official, who typically likes it when Trump takes tough law-and-order positions, described the tweet as ‘stupid.'”


politicalwire--2020-05-31--Trump Stayed Silent as Cities Burned

Trump Stayed Silent as Cities Burned

Washington Post : “ Never in the 1,227 days of Trump ’ s presidency has the nation seemed to cry @ @ @ @ @ did Sunday , yet Trump made no attempt to provide it.
” “ That was @ @ @ @ @ some of his advisers calculated that he should not speak to the nation because he @ @ @ @ @ had no tangible policy or action to announce , nor did he feel an urgent @ @ @ @ @ people together .
So he stayed silent.
” New York Times : As protests and @ @ @ @ @ shrinks back .

Washington Post: “Never in the 1,227 days of Trump’s presidency has the nation seemed to cry out for leadership as it did Sunday, yet Trump made no attempt to provide it.”
“That was by design. Trump and some of his advisers calculated that he should not speak to the nation because he had nothing to say… He had no tangible policy or action to announce, nor did he feel an urgent motivation to try to bring people together. So he stayed silent.”
New York Times: As protests and violence spill over, Trump shrinks back.


politicalwire--2020-05-31--Jeff Zucker Mulls Run for New York City Mayor

Ben Smith : “ Four years ago , he told me he was considering a future in politics .
On @ @ @ @ @ whether he was interested in the most obvious role , which will be open next @ @ @ @ @ for leadership : mayor of New York.
” “ He paused , and said he @ @ @ @ @ answer to cause a storm of news.
” Then , he said : “ New @ @ @ @ @ need a very strong mayor in the aftermath of this , and I always like @ @ @ @

Ben Smith: “Four years ago, he told me he was considering a future in politics. On Thursday, I asked him whether he was interested in the most obvious role, which will be open next year in a city aching for leadership: mayor of New York.”
“He paused, and said he didn’t want his answer to cause a storm of news.”
Then, he said: “New York City is going to need a very strong mayor in the aftermath of this, and I always like a challenge.”


politicalwire--2020-05-31--Inside Trump’s Antifa Tweet

Inside Trump’s Antifa Tweet

Jonathan Swan : “ As recently as Saturday night , senior administration officials told me that the designation of a @ @ @ @ @ , antifa , as a terrorist organization was not being seriously discussed at the White @ @ @ @ @ Saturday.
” “ The situation changed dramatically a few hours later , after prominent conservative @ @ @ @ @ such as his friend media commentator Dan Bongino , publicly urged a tough response against @ @ @ @ @ ”

Jonathan Swan: “As recently as Saturday night, senior administration officials told me that the designation of a violent cohort of far-left activists, antifa, as a terrorist organization was not being seriously discussed at the White House. But that was Saturday.”
“The situation changed dramatically a few hours later, after prominent conservative allies of the president, such as his friend media commentator Dan Bongino, publicly urged a tough response against people associated with antifa.”


politicalwire--2020-05-31--Biden In One of the Best Positions for Any Challenger

Harry Enten : “ It ’ s important to put individual polls into context , and that context continues to @ @ @ @ @ one of the best positions for any challenger since scientific polling began in the 1930s.
@ @ @ @ @ than 40 national public polls taken at least partially in the month of May that @ @ @ @ @ .
Biden led in every single one of them .
He ’ s the first @ @ @ @ @ the incumbent in every May poll since Jimmy Carter did so in 1976 .
Carter @ @ @ @ @ the 1976 election .
Biden ’ s the only challenger to have the advantage in @ @ @ @ @ elected incumbent in the polling era.
” “ Biden remains the lone challenger to be @ @ @ @ @ polls in every single month of the election year .
His average lead in a @ @ @ @ @ never dipped below 4 points and has usually been above it .
”

Harry Enten: “It’s important to put individual polls into context, and that context continues to show Biden’s in one of the best positions for any challenger since scientific polling began in the 1930s.”
“There were more than 40 national public polls taken at least partially in the month of May that asked about the Biden-Trump matchup. Biden led in every single one of them. He’s the first challenger to be ahead of the incumbent in every May poll since Jimmy Carter did so in 1976. Carter, of course, won the 1976 election. Biden’s the only challenger to have the advantage in every May poll over an elected incumbent in the polling era.”
“Biden remains the lone challenger to be up in the average of polls in every single month of the election year. His average lead in a monthly average of polls has never dipped below 4 points and has usually been above it.”


politicalwire--2020-05-31--Trump Will Designate Antifa a Terrorist Organization

President Trump tweeted that the U.S. government would be “ designating ANTIFA as a Terrorist Organization , ” Politico reports @ @ @ @ @ two problems with that .
First , he doesn ’ t appear to have the @ @ @ @ @ .
And second , it ’ s by no means clear the loosely defined group @ @ @ @ @ organization at all.
” CNN : “ Current and former government officials say it would @ @ @ @ @ government to proscribe First Amendment-protected activity inside the US based on simple ideology .
”

President Trump tweeted that the U.S. government would be “designating ANTIFA as a Terrorist Organization,” Politico reports.
“There were just two problems with that. First, he doesn’t appear to have the legal authority to do so. And second, it’s by no means clear the loosely defined group of radical activists is an organization at all.”
CNN: “Current and former government officials say it would be unconstitutional for the US government to proscribe First Amendment-protected activity inside the US based on simple ideology.”


politicalwire--2020-05-31--Trump Is His Own Worst Enemy In Michigan

New York Times : “ Michigan amounts to a one-state case study on how Mr. Trump ’ s impulsiveness , @ @ @ @ @ for personal insults have eroded his political standing and diminished his chances to win re-election.
@ @ @ @ @ his ultimatum over federal funding , Mr. Trump has ridiculed a half-dozen of the state @ @ @ @ @ proposed cutting support for the Great Lakes and suggested a beloved former lawmaker from Michigan @ @ @ @ @ for members : Is Trump trying to lose Michigan ?

New York Times: “Michigan amounts to a one-state case study on how Mr. Trump’s impulsiveness, inattention to detail and penchant for personal insults have eroded his political standing and diminished his chances to win re-election.”
“In addition to his ultimatum over federal funding, Mr. Trump has ridiculed a half-dozen of the state’s female leaders, proposed cutting support for the Great Lakes and suggested a beloved former lawmaker from Michigan is in hell.”
Earlier for members: Is Trump trying to lose Michigan?


politicalwire--2020-05-31--America Is at a Low Ebb

America Is at a Low Ebb

Dan Balz : “ Pain and destruction strangle hopes and dreams of people across the country .
People are dying — alone from a terrible virus or from a knee on the neck in full public view .
Cities burn , destroying businesses and inflaming divisions .
Tens of millions are out of work .
The president makes it all worse.
” “ This is the state of the union as the nation reels from multiple blows , each one arriving with swift and overwhelming force .
Long-standing , untreated inequalities have been exposed anew , and they , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s real vulnerabilities .
What has been just below the surface , known but barely acknowledged and rarely addressed seriously , is now impossible to ignore.
” “ America experienced a wave of burning cities in the aftermath of a racial killing in 1968 .
America was hit by a pandemic in 1918 that killed even more people than the 102,000 who have died of the coronavirus .
America was battered by a Great Depression in the 1930s and laid low by a Great Recession just a decade ago .
America has never @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the same moment .
It is more than the system can bear , and people grieve for the country .
”

Dan Balz: “Pain and destruction strangle hopes and dreams of people across the country. People are dying — alone from a terrible virus or from a knee on the neck in full public view. Cities burn, destroying businesses and inflaming divisions. Tens of millions are out of work. The president makes it all worse.”
“This is the state of the union as the nation reels from multiple blows, each one arriving with swift and overwhelming force. Long-standing, untreated inequalities have been exposed anew, and they, in turn, have highlighted the country’s real vulnerabilities. What has been just below the surface, known but barely acknowledged and rarely addressed seriously, is now impossible to ignore.”
“America experienced a wave of burning cities in the aftermath of a racial killing in 1968. America was hit by a pandemic in 1918 that killed even more people than the 102,000 who have died of the coronavirus. America was battered by a Great Depression in the 1930s and laid low by a Great Recession just a decade ago. America has never experienced all of this kind of tumult in the same moment. It is more than the system can bear, and people grieve for the country.”


politicalwire--2020-05-31--Sheriff Joins Protesters on Their March

Sheriff Joins Protesters on Their March

A video of a sheriff from Flint , Michigan , taking off his helmet and laying his baton on the @ @ @ @ @ protesters on their march has gone viral .


politicalwire--2020-05-31--George Floyd Death Reshapes Biden’s VP Search

“ Law enforcement credentials once offered an appealing and protective sheen to a handful of the top prospects in contention @ @ @ @ @ s potential running mate , ” Politico reports .
“ But three of those candidates @ @ @ @ @ Rep. Val Demings and , most notably , Sen. Amy Klobuchar — now find their @ @ @ @ @ a presidential race transformed in the wake of national outrage surrounding Monday ‘ s death @ @ @ @ @ knee of a white Minneapolis police officer .
”

“Law enforcement credentials once offered an appealing and protective sheen to a handful of the top prospects in contention to be Joe Biden’s potential running mate,” Politico reports.
“But three of those candidates — Sen. Kamala Harris, Rep. Val Demings and, most notably, Sen. Amy Klobuchar — now find their records under new scrutiny in a presidential race transformed in the wake of national outrage surrounding Monday‘s death of George Floyd under the knee of a white Minneapolis police officer.”


politicalwire--2020-05-31--Bonus Quote of the Day

Bonus Quote of the Day

“ We are a nation in pain , but we must not allow this pain to destroy us .
We @ @ @ @ @ but we can not allow our rage to consume us .
Please stay safe .
@ @ @ @ @ other .
”

“We are a nation in pain, but we must not allow this pain to destroy us. We are a nation enraged, but we cannot allow our rage to consume us. Please stay safe. Please take care of each other.”
— Joe Biden, writing on Medium.


politicalwire--2020-05-31--The Cracks In Trump’s GOP Shield

The Cracks In Trump’s GOP Shield

“ President Trump ’ s mockery of coronavirus masks , his false claims about the dangers of voting by mail @ @ @ @ @ cable TV nemesis was involved in a murder are testing more high-profile Republicans ’ willingness @ @ @ @ @ , ” Axios reports .
“ Republicans learned a long time ago how dangerous it @ @ @ @ @ s base — which is why any hint of disagreement , even a whisper , @ @ @ @ @ happens .
”

“President Trump’s mockery of coronavirus masks, his false claims about the dangers of voting by mail and his insinuations that a cable TV nemesis was involved in a murder are testing more high-profile Republicans’ willingness to look the other way,” Axios reports.
“Republicans learned a long time ago how dangerous it is to alienate Trump’s base — which is why any hint of disagreement, even a whisper, is so remarkable when it happens.”


Our Founders’ Warning

Coming soon : Our Founders ’ Warning : The Age of Reason Meets the Age of Trump by Strobe Talbott @ @ @ @ @ on their successors to protect and perfect their prodigy with its fundamental ideals , laws @ @ @ @ @ also aspired to a code of personal morals and character .
Paramount were honesty , @ @ @ @ @ responsibility to the citizenry.
” “ These liberal , revolutionary criteria for public service and @ @ @ @ @ Enlightenment .
The spirit of that movement and its American version is alien to Trump @ @ @ @ @ predecessors would find him abhorrent and dangerous .
”

Coming soon: Our Founders’ Warning: The Age of Reason Meets the Age of Trump by Strobe Talbott.
“The Founders counted on their successors to protect and perfect their prodigy with its fundamental ideals, laws, and procedures. They also aspired to a code of personal morals and character. Paramount were honesty, rationality, empathy, and responsibility to the citizenry.”
“These liberal, revolutionary criteria for public service and leadership derived from the European Enlightenment. The spirit of that movement and its American version is alien to Trump, and many of his predecessors would find him abhorrent and dangerous.”


politicalwire--2020-05-31--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ This is like Charlottesville all over again .
He speaks and he makes it worse .
There are times @ @ @ @ @ quiet .
And I wish that he would just be quiet .
”

“This is like Charlottesville all over again. He speaks and he makes it worse. There are times when you should just be quiet. And I wish that he would just be quiet.”
— Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms (D), quoted by Axios, on President Trump.


politicalwire--2020-05-31--Trump ‘Not At All Concerned’ Tweets Will Provoke Violence

Despite sending out some inflammatory tweets Saturday morning , President Trump maintains he is “ not at all ” concerned @ @ @ @ @ violence in the wake of protests over George Floyd ’ s death while in police @ @ @ @ @ claiming that his supporters “ love African Americans , ” The Week 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--2020-06-01--Minneapolis Police Rendered 44 People  Unconscious

Since the beginning of 2015 , officers from the Minneapolis Police Department have rendered people unconscious with neck restraints 44 @ @ @ @ @ .


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Trump Refuses Advice to Address Nation

Trump Refuses Advice to Address Nation

“ President Trump has dismissed advice from his allies urging him to tone down his rhetoric and held back so @ @ @ @ @ to the nation as cities across the country faced another night of fiery protests , @ @ @ @ @ “ Senior adviser and presidential son-in-law Jared Kushner is not in favor of a high-profile @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“President Trump has dismissed advice from his allies urging him to tone down his rhetoric and held back so far on a formal address to the nation as cities across the country faced another night of fiery protests,” NBC News reports.
“Senior adviser and presidential son-in-law Jared Kushner is not in favor of a high-profile presidential speech at this time.”


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Americans Hesitant to Resume Activities

Americans Hesitant to Resume Activities

ABC News/Washington Post Poll : “ Impacts of the pandemic are vast .
Seventy-nine percent in this national survey say @ @ @ @ @ .
Fifty-nine percent report severe economic impacts in their community — up from 43 % @ @ @ @ @ those employed before the pandemic began , 24 % have been laid off or furloughed.
@ @ @ @ @ , 57 % say it ’ s more important to try to control the spread @ @ @ @ @ try to restart the economy .
And as states move to reopen , most people @ @ @ @ @ they ’ re willing at this time to go to stores , restaurants and other @ @ @ @ @ did before the pandemic , 58 % say it ’ s too early for that @ @

ABC News/Washington Post Poll: “Impacts of the pandemic are vast. Seventy-nine percent in this national survey say their lives have been disrupted. Fifty-nine percent report severe economic impacts in their community — up from 43% two months ago. Among those employed before the pandemic began, 24% have been laid off or furloughed.”
“For all that, 57% say it’s more important to try to control the spread of the virus than to try to restart the economy. And as states move to reopen, most people are hesitant. Asked if they’re willing at this time to go to stores, restaurants and other public places the way they did before the pandemic, 58% say it’s too early for that.”


politicalwire--2020-06-01--A Month of Distractions and Grievances for Trump

Washington Post : “ When Trump journeyed to the Capitol for the first time during the pandemic , he again allowed his personal concerns to eclipse the crisis engulfing the nation .
Over lunch with Republican senators , Trump complained about ‘ criminal ’ Democrats who had ‘ unmasked my children.
’ He accused his political opponents of ‘ treason.
’ He implored his party to ‘ stick together ’ and ‘ be tough.
’ And he turned the floor over to his new White House press secretary , Kayleigh McEnany , to deliver a campaign polling presentation aimed at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more popular than public surveys had indicated.
” “ To some of the senators , Trump seemed obsessed not with saving lives but with appearing politically strong .
Several privately concluded he was incapable of meeting the moment .
But resigned to their belief that his conduct could not be changed , they did not share their unease with Trump or with the public .
The following week , the number of dead passed 100,000 and the number of Americans filing for jobless claims went past 40 million.
” “ Those two days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fifth month of the coronavirus crisis : increasingly shaken by a pandemic he could not control ; offering no more than fleeting expressions of grief or empathy ; quick to assign blame to others ; enraged by grievances and feuds ; dismissive of health guidelines ; and concerned , above all , about his diminished reelection prospects .
”

Washington Post: “When Trump journeyed to the Capitol for the first time during the pandemic, he again allowed his personal concerns to eclipse the crisis engulfing the nation. Over lunch with Republican senators, Trump complained about ‘criminal’ Democrats who had ‘unmasked my children.’ He accused his political opponents of ‘treason.’ He implored his party to ‘stick together’ and ‘be tough.’ And he turned the floor over to his new White House press secretary, Kayleigh McEnany, to deliver a campaign polling presentation aimed at persuading the lawmakers that the president was more popular than public surveys had indicated.”
“To some of the senators, Trump seemed obsessed not with saving lives but with appearing politically strong. Several privately concluded he was incapable of meeting the moment. But resigned to their belief that his conduct could not be changed, they did not share their unease with Trump or with the public. The following week, the number of dead passed 100,000 and the number of Americans filing for jobless claims went past 40 million.”
“Those two days in May encapsulate how Trump spent the fifth month of the coronavirus crisis: increasingly shaken by a pandemic he could not control; offering no more than fleeting expressions of grief or empathy; quick to assign blame to others; enraged by grievances and feuds; dismissive of health guidelines; and concerned, above all, about his diminished reelection prospects.”


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Recruitment and Money Woes Undermine GOP Chances

Washington Post : “ Vulnerable Democratic incumbents have massively outraised their Republican challengers , national GOP groups have yet to @ @ @ @ @ up the fundraising gap , and in several key districts , some of the party @ @ @ @ @ have opted not to run .
Public opinion polls , meanwhile , indicate a Democratic @ @ @ @ @ in line with what the party enjoyed in 2018 , ahead of their sweeping national @ @ @

Washington Post: “Vulnerable Democratic incumbents have massively outraised their Republican challengers, national GOP groups have yet to show the ability to make up the fundraising gap, and in several key districts, some of the party’s most coveted recruits have opted not to run. Public opinion polls, meanwhile, indicate a Democratic advantage on the congressional ballot in line with what the party enjoyed in 2018, ahead of their sweeping national gains.”


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Biden’s Veep Search Plays Out In Real Time

“ Joe Biden ’ s choice of a running mate is getting more treacherous with each news cycle .
Real-life events — from the outcry over the killing of black men in Minnesota and Georgia , to a mundane request for boating privileges in Michigan — are crashing into his already fraught decision over his No .
2 , ” Politico reports .
“ The vice-presidential vetting process , typically a closely guarded internal affair , is playing out in plain sight , often live and online as Biden remains sheltered at home during a pandemic that ’ s stalled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has given himself — his VP decision isn ’ t expected for another two months — is bound to further alter the landscape before he ultimately settles on his pick.
” “ Biden , along with campaign aides and outside allies , including elected officials and donors , acknowledge that this year ’ s search — given his advancing age , his own hints that he may serve only a single term , and his No .
2 ’ s ability to shape the direction of the party—has taken on added significance .
@

“Joe Biden’s choice of a running mate is getting more treacherous with each news cycle. Real-life events — from the outcry over the killing of black men in Minnesota and Georgia, to a mundane request for boating privileges in Michigan — are crashing into his already fraught decision over his No. 2,” Politico reports.
“The vice-presidential vetting process, typically a closely guarded internal affair, is playing out in plain sight, often live and online as Biden remains sheltered at home during a pandemic that’s stalled in-person campaigning. The lead time Biden has given himself — his VP decision isn’t expected for another two months — is bound to further alter the landscape before he ultimately settles on his pick.”
“Biden, along with campaign aides and outside allies, including elected officials and donors, acknowledge that this year’s search — given his advancing age, his own hints that he may serve only a single term, and his No. 2’s ability to shape the direction of the party—has taken on added significance.”


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Pandemic Collides with Hurricane Season

Pandemic Collides with Hurricane Season

Politico : “ Officials from Florida to Missouri are hurriedly rewriting their disaster plans , worried that crowding large groups @ @ @ @ @ spread coronavirus during what ’ s expected to be a busy hurricane and tornado season.
@ @ @ @ @ sees the summer as a time of economic revival , emergency management officials fear a @ @ @ @ @ could lead to a fresh spread of the coronavirus — and that the pandemic could @ @ @ @ @ back their work .
”

Politico: “Officials from Florida to Missouri are hurriedly rewriting their disaster plans, worried that crowding large groups of evacuees in shelters could spread coronavirus during what’s expected to be a busy hurricane and tornado season.”
“Though President Trump sees the summer as a time of economic revival, emergency management officials fear a terrible combination of natural disasters could lead to a fresh spread of the coronavirus — and that the pandemic could, in turn, set back their work.”


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Retailers and Restaurants Hit In Protests

Wall Street Journal : “ Many retailers and restaurants , already crippled by the coronavirus pandemic , are grappling with @ @ @ @ @ new closures following protests sparked by the death of George Floyd that have sometimes turned @ @ @ @ @ , Walmart Inc. , Nike Inc. and small family businesses have collectively closed hundreds of @ @ @ @ @ looting and physical damage related to protests .
”

Wall Street Journal: “Many retailers and restaurants, already crippled by the coronavirus pandemic, are grappling with damage to their properties and new closures following protests sparked by the death of George Floyd that have sometimes turned violent…”
“Target Corp., Walmart Inc., Nike Inc. and small family businesses have collectively closed hundreds of locations or are recovering from looting and physical damage related to protests.”


Flag of Treason

The Lincoln Project is running a new attack ad blasting President Trump ’ s record on race relations .


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Trump Taken to Underground Bunker During Protests

“ Inside the White House , the mood was bristling with tension .
Hundreds of protesters were gathering outside the @ @ @ @ @ President Trump and in some cases throwing bricks and bottles .
Nervous for his safety @ @ @ @ @ rushed the president to the underground bunker used in the past during terrorist attacks , @ @ @ @ @ reports .
Associated Press : “ The abrupt decision by the agents underscored the rattled @ @ @ @ @ , where the chants from protesters in Lafayette Park could be heard all weekend and @ @ @ @ @ enforcement officers struggled to contain the crowds .
”

“Inside the White House, the mood was bristling with tension. Hundreds of protesters were gathering outside the gates, shouting curses at President Trump and in some cases throwing bricks and bottles. Nervous for his safety, Secret Service agents abruptly rushed the president to the underground bunker used in the past during terrorist attacks,” the New York Times reports.
Associated Press: “The abrupt decision by the agents underscored the rattled mood inside the White House, where the chants from protesters in Lafayette Park could be heard all weekend and Secret Service agents and law enforcement officers struggled to contain the crowds.”


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Trump Advisers Split in Response to Protests

CNN : “ Now , a serious divide has emerged among the President ’ s top allies and advisers over @ @ @ @ @ several nights of protests and riots.
” “ Trump is being urged by some advisers @ @ @ @ @ and call for calm , while others have said he should condemn the rioting and @ @ @ @ @ losing middle-of-the-road voters in November.
” New York Times : “ Some in the president @ @ @ @ @ escalations as a political boon , much in the way Richard M. Nixon won the @ @ @ @ @ after the 1968 riots .
”

CNN: “Now, a serious divide has emerged among the President’s top allies and advisers over how the President should address several nights of protests and riots.”
“Trump is being urged by some advisers to formally address the nation and call for calm, while others have said he should condemn the rioting and looting more forcefully or risk losing middle-of-the-road voters in November.”
New York Times: “Some in the president’s circle see the escalations as a political boon, much in the way Richard M. Nixon won the presidency on a law-and-order platform after the 1968 riots.”


politicalwire--2020-06-02--Episcopal Bishop Denounces Trump

Episcopal Bishop Denounces Trump

Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde , of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington , condemned President Trump for clearing out peaceful protesters @ @ @ @ @ gas in order to stage a photo op in front of her church in a @ @ @ @ @ : “ I am outraged… The President did not pray nor did he acknowledge the @ @ @ @ @ doing through now… I just want the world to know that we , in the @ @ @ @ @ Jesus and his way of love , distance ourselves from the incendiary language of this @ @ @ @ @ who lived a life of nonviolence and sacrificial love.
” She added : “ I @ @ @ @ @ what my eyes have seen tonight .
”

Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, condemned President Trump for clearing out peaceful protesters with rubber bullets and tear gas in order to stage a photo op in front of her church in a CNN interview.
Said Budde: “I am outraged… Everything he has said and done is to inflame violence. I am beyond. We need moral leadership, and he’s done everything to divide us, and has just used one of the most sacred symbols of the Judeo-Christian tradition.”
She added: “I just can’t believe what my eyes have seen tonight.”
The Washington Post described Budde as “seething.”


politicalwire--2020-06-02--Why Trump Broke Up a Peaceful Protest

Why Trump Broke Up a Peaceful Protest

President Trump cleared out peaceful protesters for his photo op because he was upset about media coverage of him being @ @ @ @ @ at the White House on Friday night as protesters gathered , CNN reports .
Trump @ @ @ @ @ to see him outside of the White House gates .

President Trump cleared out peaceful protesters for his photo op because he was upset about media coverage of him being taken to an underground bunker at the White House on Friday night as protesters gathered, CNN reports.
Trump told aides he wanted people to see him outside of the White House gates.


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Extra Bonus Quote of the Day

Extra Bonus Quote of the Day

“ I think we may have to account for the distinct possibility that the people who sounded the most apocalyptic @ @ @ @ @ hysterical — they were right .
”


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Biden Leads In Michigan

Biden Leads In Michigan

A new Public Policy Polling survey in Michigan finds Joe Biden leading Donald Trump in the presidential race , 50 @ @ @ @ @ In the U.S. Senate race , Sen. Gary Peters ( D ) leads John James @ @ @ @ @ % to 39 % .


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Trump Breaks Up Peaceful Protest for Photo Op

Police and members of the U.S. military were deployed to clear out a peaceful protest outside the White House so @ @ @ @ @ a church and hold up a Bible for photographers , CNN reports .
The Washington @ @ @ @ @ bullets , flash bangs and tear gas to clear out the protesters .
Axios : @ @ @ @ @ traveled with him — including chief of staff Mark Meadows , press secretary Kayleigh McEnany @ @ @ @ @ , Defense Secretary Mark Esper , Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner , among several others @ @ @ @ @ Conway : “ Has there ever been a lower moment in the history of the @ @ @ @

Police and members of the U.S. military were deployed to clear out a peaceful protest outside the White House so President Trump could walk to a church and hold up a Bible for photographers, CNN reports.
The Washington Post reports authorities used rubber bullets, flash bangs and tear gas to clear out the protesters.
Axios: “Every single aide who traveled with him — including chief of staff Mark Meadows, press secretary Kayleigh McEnany, Attorney General Bill Barr, Defense Secretary Mark Esper, Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner, among several others — was white.”
George Conway: “Has there ever been a lower moment in the history of the American presidency?“


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Trump Threatens to Invoke Insurrection Act

“ As the sound of sirens wailed and flash bangs popped across the street , President Trump announced from the @ @ @ @ @ use the U.S. military to stop the riots across the county that have been sparked @ @ @ @ @ Floyd , ” NBC News reports .
“ To activate the military to operate in @ @ @ @ @ have to invoke the 213-year-old Insurrection Act , which four people familiar with the decision @ @ @ @ @ planned to do.
” Scott Anderson : “ Important note : it ’ s not @ @ @ @ @ Rose Garden remarks that he ’ s yet invoking the Insurrection Act .
Doing so @ @ @ @ @ specifically worded proclamation — and he didn ’ t do that tonight , though he @ @ @ @ @ ) .
”

“As the sound of sirens wailed and flash bangs popped across the street, President Trump announced from the Rose Garden that he would use the U.S. military to stop the riots across the county that have been sparked by the death of George Floyd,” NBC News reports.
“To activate the military to operate in the U.S., Trump would have to invoke the 213-year-old Insurrection Act, which four people familiar with the decision had told NBC News he planned to do.”
Scott Anderson: “Important note: it’s not clear from Trump’s Rose Garden remarks that he’s yet invoking the Insurrection Act. Doing so requires him to issue a specifically worded proclamation — and he didn’t do that tonight, though he could later (in writing).”


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Fauci Hasn’t Spoken to Trump In Two Weeks

Dr. Anthony Fauci , one of the most prominent members of the White House coronavirus task force , said on @ @ @ @ @ spoken to or met with President Trump in two weeks , CNN reports .


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Official Autopsy Says George Floyd’s Death Was Homicide

An updated official autopsy released by the Hennepin County medical examiner also determined that the manner of George Floyd ’ @ @ @ @ @ , ” ruling it was caused by “ cardiopulmonary arrest complicating law enforcement subdued , @ @ @ @ @ .
”


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Nearly 30K In Nursing Homes Have Died from Virus

“ At least 26,000 residents died and more than 60,000 were sickened as the novel coronavirus continued its unrelenting assault @ @ @ @ @ homes , sweeping through facilities in every corner of the country , ” the Washington @ @ @ @ @ tally , however , is incomplete .
About 20 percent of the nation ’ s @ @ @ @ @ data to the federal government .
”

“At least 26,000 residents died and more than 60,000 were sickened as the novel coronavirus continued its unrelenting assault on America’s nursing homes, sweeping through facilities in every corner of the country,” the Washington Post reports.
“The tally, however, is incomplete. About 20 percent of the nation’s nursing homes did not report data to the federal government.”


politicalwire--2020-06-01--No One Should Want Four More Years of This

George Will : “ The nation ’ s downward spiral into acrimony and sporadic anarchy has had many causes much larger than the small man who is the great exacerbator of them .
Most of the causes predate his presidency , and most will survive its January terminus .
The measures necessary for restoration of national equilibrium are many and will be protracted far beyond his removal .
One such measure must be the removal of those in Congress who , unlike the sycophantic mediocrities who cosset him in the White House , will not disappear ‘ magically , ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Voters must dispatch his congressional enablers , especially the senators who still gambol around his ankles with a canine hunger for petting.
” “ In life ’ s unforgiving arithmetic , we are the sum of our choices .
Congressional Republicans have made theirs for more than 1,200 days .
We can not know all the measures necessary to restore the nation ’ s domestic health and international standing , but we know the first step : Senate Republicans must be routed , as condign punishment for their Vichyite collaboration .
”

George Will: “The nation’s downward spiral into acrimony and sporadic anarchy has had many causes much larger than the small man who is the great exacerbator of them. Most of the causes predate his presidency, and most will survive its January terminus. The measures necessary for restoration of national equilibrium are many and will be protracted far beyond his removal. One such measure must be the removal of those in Congress who, unlike the sycophantic mediocrities who cosset him in the White House, will not disappear ‘magically,’ as Eric Trump said the coronavirus would. Voters must dispatch his congressional enablers, especially the senators who still gambol around his ankles with a canine hunger for petting.”
“In life’s unforgiving arithmetic, we are the sum of our choices. Congressional Republicans have made theirs for more than 1,200 days. We cannot know all the measures necessary to restore the nation’s domestic health and international standing, but we know the first step: Senate Republicans must be routed, as condign punishment for their Vichyite collaboration.”


politicalwire--2020-06-01--GOP Builds Strategy Around Making It Harder to Vote

“ President Trump ’ s persistent attacks on mail-in voting have fueled an unprecedented effort by conservatives to limit expansion @ @ @ @ @ November election , with tens of millions of dollars planned for lawsuits and advertising aimed @ @ @ @ @ and who remains on the voter rolls , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ @ @ @ @ @ Trump ’ s reelection campaign , the RNC and an array of independent conservative groups @ @ @ @ @ both parties that voting rules could decide the outcome of the 2020 White House race @ @ @ @ @ by the coronavirus pandemic.
” Wall Street Journal : “ Voting by mail will face @ @ @ @ @ onset of the coronavirus pandemic when seven states and Washington , D.C. , hold primaries @ @ @

“President Trump’s persistent attacks on mail-in voting have fueled an unprecedented effort by conservatives to limit expansion of the practice before the November election, with tens of millions of dollars planned for lawsuits and advertising aimed at restricting who receives ballots and who remains on the voter rolls,” the Washington Post reports.
“The strategy, embraced by Trump’s reelection campaign, the RNC and an array of independent conservative groups, reflects the recognition by both parties that voting rules could decide the outcome of the 2020 White House race amid the electoral challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic.”
Wall Street Journal: “Voting by mail will face its biggest test since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic when seven states and Washington, D.C., hold primaries Tuesday.”


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Using Trump’s Own Words

Using Trump’s Own Words

A reader sends this devastating video along with a note : “ The best attack ad is the one your @ @ @ @ @ ”

“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--2020-06-01--Autopsy Finds George Floyd Died of Asphyxia

An independent autopsy ordered by George Floyd ’ s family found his death was a “ homicide caused by asphyxia @ @ @ @ @ compression that led to a lack of blood flow to the brain , ” ABC @ @ @ @ @ examiner ’ s initial findings revealed no physical findings that support a diagnosis of traumatic @ @ @ @

An independent autopsy ordered by George Floyd’s family found his death was a “homicide caused by asphyxia due to neck and back compression that led to a lack of blood flow to the brain,” ABC News reports.
The medical examiner’s initial findings revealed no physical findings that support a diagnosis of traumatic asphyxia or strangulation.


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Canada and U.K. Would Veto Russia Joining G7

“ Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday that Russia will not be included in the Group of 7 nations @ @ @ @ @ , who said he plans to invite Russia , ” the AP reports .
Politico @ @ @ @ @ Donald Trump to readmit Russia to the G7 gathering of economically advanced nations would be @ @ @ @ @ ”

“Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday that Russia will not be included in the Group of 7 nations, disagreeing with President Trump, who said he plans to invite Russia,” the AP reports.
Politico: “Any push by Donald Trump to readmit Russia to the G7 gathering of economically advanced nations would be vetoed by the U.K.”


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Listen to Trump Call the Governors ‘Weak’

The Washington Post posts the audio of a 38-minute call in which President Trump berated the nation ’ s governors @ @ @ @ @ weak ” in the face of growing racial unrest and urging them to try to @ @ @ @ @ .


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Sarah Cooper Credits ‘the Writing’ for Her Success

Comedian Sarah Cooper , who lip-syncs President Trump on social media , told the Los Angeles Times she gives much @ @ @ @ @ newfound success to “ the writing , which is so good.
” Said Cooper : @ @ @ @ @ comedy writer without realizing it .
There were so many moments I was able to @ @ @ @ @ video out within a few hours of him saying those words .
A lot of @ @ @ @ @ parody before they saw the real thing , which made it not only good content @ @ @ @

Comedian Sarah Cooper, who lip-syncs President Trump on social media, told the Los Angeles Times she gives much of the credit for her newfound success to “the writing, which is so good.”
Said Cooper: “Trump is an amazing comedy writer without realizing it. There were so many moments I was able to use. I put the video out within a few hours of him saying those words. A lot of people said they saw the parody before they saw the real thing, which made it not only good content but newsworthy.”


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Wisconsin Court to Decide Fate of 150K Voters on Rolls

The Wisconsin Supreme Court “ agreed to take a second swing at resolving a lawsuit over who should be on @ @ @ @ @ Monday , six months after deadlocking on the case , ” the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel @ @ @ @ @ will determine whether about 150,000 voters whose addresses are in doubt can stay on the @ @ @ @ @ are kicked off the rolls , they will be able to re-register online , by @ @ @ @ @ ’ offices or at the polls on election day.
” “ While registration is easy @ @ @ @ @ states , voting rights advocates contend it will be more difficult this year because the @ @ @ @ @ people in their homes .
”

The Wisconsin Supreme Court “agreed to take a second swing at resolving a lawsuit over who should be on Wisconsin’s voter rolls Monday, six months after deadlocking on the case,” the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports.
“The case will determine whether about 150,000 voters whose addresses are in doubt can stay on the voter rolls. If voters are kicked off the rolls, they will be able to re-register online, by mail, in their clerks’ offices or at the polls on election day.”
“While registration is easy in Wisconsin compared to some states, voting rights advocates contend it will be more difficult this year because the coronvairus pandemic is keeping many people in their homes.”


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Trump Plans Maine Visit Despite Security Warning

“ President Trump plans to visit Maine on Friday to tour a nasal swab manufacturing plant , even as the @ @ @ @ @ warned that his trip prompted security concerns amid protests that have gripped the nation , @ @ @ @ @ Gov .
Janet Mills ( D ) : “ I ’ m very concerned that @ @ @ @ @ problems for our state.
” Trump responded that he would look into her concerns but @ @ @ @ @ tremendous crowd of people showing up ” and believed “ most of them are very @ @ @ @ @ president .
”

“President Trump plans to visit Maine on Friday to tour a nasal swab manufacturing plant, even as the state’s governor directly warned that his trip prompted security concerns amid protests that have gripped the nation,” Bloomberg reports.
Said Gov. Janet Mills (D): “I’m very concerned that your presence may cause security problems for our state.”
Trump responded that he would look into her concerns but that he anticipated “a tremendous crowd of people showing up” and believed “most of them are very favorable, they like their president.”


politicalwire--2020-06-01--Bonus Quote of the Day

Bonus Quote of the Day

“ Donald Trump is scum for fueling racist hate and violence in our country .
”


politicalwire--2020-06-02--The World Waits Out Trump

The World Waits Out Trump

Walter Mead : “ As a beleaguered Trump administration struggles with an unprecedented surge of domestic challenges , foreign leaders @ @ @ @ @ their strategies for coping with an unconventional administration embroiled in turbulence.
” “ It now @ @ @ @ @ Russia and Germany have decided how to handle President Trump through November .
Berlin will @ @ @ @ @ Beijing will take advantage of U.S. distraction .
”

Walter Mead: “As a beleaguered Trump administration struggles with an unprecedented surge of domestic challenges, foreign leaders friendly and otherwise are recalibrating their strategies for coping with an unconventional administration embroiled in turbulence.”
“It now looks as if China, Russia and Germany have decided how to handle President Trump through November. Berlin will ignore him; Moscow and Beijing will take advantage of U.S. distraction.”


The Lost Decade

“ The U.S. economy could take the better part of a decade to fully recover from the coronavirus pandemic and @ @ @ @ @ budget agency said , as a series of surveys pointed to continuing weakness in global @ @ @ @ @ Street Journal reports .
“ The Congressional Budget Office , a nonpartisan legislative agency , @ @ @ @ @ by the coronavirus caused it to mark down its 2020-30 forecast for U.S. economic output @ @ @ @ @ trillion , or 3 % of gross domestic product , relative to its January projections @ @ @ @ @ expected to catch up to the previously forecast level until the fourth quarter of 2029 @ @

“The U.S. economy could take the better part of a decade to fully recover from the coronavirus pandemic and related shutdowns, a U.S. budget agency said, as a series of surveys pointed to continuing weakness in global manufacturing,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
“The Congressional Budget Office, a nonpartisan legislative agency, said the sharp contraction triggered by the coronavirus caused it to mark down its 2020-30 forecast for U.S. economic output by a cumulative $7.9 trillion, or 3% of gross domestic product, relative to its January projections. GDP isn’t expected to catch up to the previously forecast level until the fourth quarter of 2029.”


politicalwire--2020-06-02--Official Running Bailout Benefits from Family Firm

Deputy Treasury Secretary Justin Muzinich has an increasingly prominent role in running the $ 3 trillion coronavirus bailout , but @ @ @ @ @ ties to his family ’ s investment firm , which is a major beneficiary of @ @ @ @ @ actions .


politicalwire--2020-06-02--Not Everyone Liked Trump’s Photo Op

Not Everyone Liked Trump’s Photo Op

A senior White House official told Axios that when they saw the tear gas clearing the crowd for President Trump @ @ @ @ @ with his entourage : “ I ’ ve never been more ashamed .
I ’ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ m sick to my stomach .
And they ’ re all celebrating it @ @ @ @ @ very proud of themselves .
”

A senior White House official told Axios that when they saw the tear gas clearing the crowd for President Trump to walk to the church with his entourage:
“I’ve never been more ashamed. I’m really honestly disgusted. I’m sick to my stomach. And they’re all celebrating it. They’re very very proud of themselves.”


politicalwire--2020-06-02--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ We long ago lost sight of normal , but this was a singularly immoral act .
The president used @ @ @ @ @ not to protect property , but to soothe his own insecurities .
We will all @ @ @ @ @ outrage , but this was a true abuse of power and should not be forgotten.
@ @ @ @ @ former top aide to Speaker Paul Ryan ( R ) , quoted by Politico .

“We long ago lost sight of normal, but this was a singularly immoral act. The president used force against American citizens, not to protect property, but to soothe his own insecurities. We will all move on to the next outrage, but this was a true abuse of power and should not be forgotten.”
— Brendan Buck, former top aide to Speaker Paul Ryan (R), quoted by Politico.


politicalwire--2020-06-02--GOP Fears Trump Criticism of Mail Voting Will Hurt Them

“ Republican officials and strategists warned that if a wide partisan gap over mail voting continues in November , Republicans @ @ @ @ @ , an unintended repercussion of the president ’ s fear-mongering about mail ballots that could @ @ @ @ @ chances , including his own , ” the New York Times reports .
“ In @ @ @ @ @ and New Mexico , all states voting on Tuesday that broadly extended the option to @ @ @ @ @ , a higher share of Democrats than Republicans have embraced mail-in ballots .
”

“Republican officials and strategists warned that if a wide partisan gap over mail voting continues in November, Republicans could be at a disadvantage, an unintended repercussion of the president’s fear-mongering about mail ballots that could hurt his party’s chances, including his own,” the New York Times reports.
“In Pennsylvania, Iowa, Indiana and New Mexico, all states voting on Tuesday that broadly extended the option to vote by mail this year, a higher share of Democrats than Republicans have embraced mail-in ballots.”