politicalwire--2020-03-10--White House Mulls Aid to Shale Companies

“ The White House is strongly considering pushing federal assistance for oil and natural gas producers hit by plummeting oil @ @ @ @ @ , as industry officials close to the administration clamor for help , ” the Washington @ @ @ @ @ House officials are alarmed at the prospect that numerous shale companies , many of them @ @ @ @ @ be driven out of business if the downturn in oil prices turns into a prolonged @ @ @ @ @ ”

“The White House is strongly considering pushing federal assistance for oil and natural gas producers hit by plummeting oil prices amid the coronavirus outbreak, as industry officials close to the administration clamor for help,” the Washington Post reports.
“White House officials are alarmed at the prospect that numerous shale companies, many of them deep in debt, could be driven out of business if the downturn in oil prices turns into a prolonged crisis for the industry.”


politicalwire--2020-03-10--Dutch PM Shakes Hands After Warning Against It

“ The Dutch prime minister undermined his own public health advice in record time this week by shaking hands with @ @ @ @ @ warning people against doing so , ” The Independent reports .
“ Mark Rutte , @ @ @ @ @ had just gone on live TV to tell his country ’ s 17 million residents @ @ @ @ @ order to prevent the spread of coronavirus when he made the mistake .
”

“The Dutch prime minister undermined his own public health advice in record time this week by shaking hands with a medical expert immediately after warning people against doing so,” The Independent reports.
“Mark Rutte, the Netherlands’ PM, had just gone on live TV to tell his country’s 17 million residents to stop shaking hands in order to prevent the spread of coronavirus when he made the mistake.”


politicalwire--2020-03-10--New York Sets Up ‘Containment Zone’ In New Rochelle

“ New York Gov .
Andrew Cuomo ( D ) on Tuesday announced schools and places of worship within a @ @ @ @ @ of New Rochelle will close their doors for 14 days , and National Guard troops @ @ @ @ @ disinfect common areas inside the zone , ” the Washington Post 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--2020-03-10--Acting Spy Chief Declines to Meet with Congress

“ Acting Director of National Intelligence Richard Grenell has declined to appear before Congress on Tuesday to speak about foreign @ @ @ @ @ about his preparedness to address sensitive subjects that tend to upset the president , ” @ @ @ @ @ “ The top intelligence community official asked President Trump to be excused from the briefings @ @ @ @ @ from Democrats about politically volatile subjects — such as intelligence assessments that Russia is once @ @ @ @ @ , two of the people said , speaking on the condition of anonymity to describe @ @ @ @

“Acting Director of National Intelligence Richard Grenell has declined to appear before Congress on Tuesday to speak about foreign election threats, citing apprehension about his preparedness to address sensitive subjects that tend to upset the president,” the Washington Post reports.
“The top intelligence community official asked President Trump to be excused from the briefings because he anticipated pointed questions from Democrats about politically volatile subjects — such as intelligence assessments that Russia is once more interfering in American politics, two of the people said, speaking on the condition of anonymity to describe private discussions.”


politicalwire--2020-03-10--Court Rules Mueller Evidence Must Be Given to Congress

A federal appeals court ruled the Justice Department must release to congressional Democrats secret grand jury evidence lawmakers are seeking @ @ @ @ @ Trump , the Washington Post reports .
“ The divided ruling , which can be @ @ @ @ @ for Democratic lawmakers in one of a set of separation-of-powers lawsuits filed before the House @ @ @ @ @ and his acquittal in the Senate in February .
”

A federal appeals court ruled the Justice Department must release to congressional Democrats secret grand jury evidence lawmakers are seeking in ongoing investigations into President Trump, the Washington Post reports.
“The divided ruling, which can be appealed, is a victory for Democratic lawmakers in one of a set of separation-of-powers lawsuits filed before the House vote to impeach President Trump and his acquittal in the Senate in February.”


politicalwire--2020-03-10--Kansas City Mayor Turned Away at Polls

Kansas City Mayor Turned Away at Polls

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas ( D ) tweeted that he was turned away from the polling station because he @ @ @ @ @ voter rolls .
Said Lucas : “ Even though I ’ ve voted there for @ @ @ @ @ four times !
” He added : “ If the mayor can get turned away @ @ @ @ @ We got ta do better !
”

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas (D) tweeted that he was turned away from the polling station because he wasn’t on the voter rolls.
Said Lucas: “Even though I’ve voted there for 11 years including for myself four times!”
He added: “If the mayor can get turned away, think about everyone else… We gotta do better!”


politicalwire--2020-03-10--Trump’s Friends Convince Him He’s Not at Risk

Washington Post : “ Some friends have told Trump that the coronavirus does not seem like a major threat , @ @ @ @ @ t know anyone in their communities who has been infected .
Some also have sought @ @ @ @ @ that unlike the two septuagenarians running for the Democratic nomination — Joe Biden and Sen. @ @ @ @ @ 73 , is so healthy that he is not personally at particular risk , according @ @ @ @ @ ” Jonathan Chait : “ Right , the president who doesn ’ t exercise , @ @ @ @ @ eating vegetables like a toddler , and had to use a golf cart rather than @ @ @ @ @ a short walk is just so monumentally healthy he has nothing to worry about .
@

Washington Post: “Some friends have told Trump that the coronavirus does not seem like a major threat, noting that they don’t know anyone in their communities who has been infected. Some also have sought to flatter Trump by saying that unlike the two septuagenarians running for the Democratic nomination — Joe Biden and Sen. Bernie Sanders — Trump, 73, is so healthy that he is not personally at particular risk, according to a senior administration official.”
Jonathan Chait: “Right, the president who doesn’t exercise, has to be tricked into eating vegetables like a toddler, and had to use a golf cart rather than accompany fellow world leaders on a short walk is just so monumentally healthy he has nothing to worry about.”


politicalwire--2020-03-12--Air Strikes Launched Against Iranian-Backed Militia

“ US-led coalition airstrikes are underway against multiple Iranian-backed militia sites in Iraq , ” CNN reports .
“ The @ @ @ @ @ the US assessed an Iranian-backed group was responsible for a rocket attack on a base @ @ @ @ @ , killing two American service members and one British service member .
”


politicalwire--2020-03-12--Biden Requests Secret Service Protection

Joe Biden ’ s presidential campaign has made an official request for U.S. Secret Service protection , CBS News reports @


politicalwire--2020-03-12--Trump Is Concerned About Contracting Coronavirus

A source close to Donald Trump said the President is telling people close to him that he is indeed concerned @ @ @ @ @ people who have contracted the coronavirus , including the Brazilian official who tested positive after @ @ @ @ @ Mar-a-Lago , CNN reports .
Vox notes that Trump is breaking his own agency ’ @ @ @ @ @ self-quarantining .

A source close to Donald Trump said the President is telling people close to him that he is indeed concerned about coming into contact with people who have contracted the coronavirus, including the Brazilian official who tested positive after coming face-to-face with Trump at Mar-a-Lago, CNN reports.
Vox notes that Trump is breaking his own agency’s coronavirus guidelines by not self-quarantining.


politicalwire--2020-03-12--Bonus Quote of the Day

Bonus Quote of the Day

“ The crisis we face from the coronavirus is on a scale of a major war , and we must @ @ @ @ @ of casualties may actually be even higher than what the armed forces experienced in World @ @ @ @ @ words , we have a major , major crisis and we must act accordingly .
@

“The crisis we face from the coronavirus is on a scale of a major war, and we must act accordingly. The number of casualties may actually be even higher than what the armed forces experienced in World War II. In other words, we have a major, major crisis and we must act accordingly.”
— Sen. Bernie Sanders, quoted by Politico.


politicalwire--2020-03-12--Georgia Governor Cancels an Election

Georgia Governor Cancels an Election

“ It ’ s a startlingly bold move , the legality of which is now being challenged in court : @ @ @ @ @ R ) , already an enemy of voting rights groups nationwide , has canceled an @ @ @ @ @ ll fill a seat on the Georgia Supreme Court all by himself , ” The @ @ @

“It’s a startlingly bold move, the legality of which is now being challenged in court: Gov. Brian Kemp (R), already an enemy of voting rights groups nationwide, has canceled an election and says he’ll fill a seat on the Georgia Supreme Court all by himself,” The Fulcrum reports.


politicalwire--2020-03-12--Russian Trolls Are Back

Russian Trolls Are Back

CNN : “ In 2016 , much of the trolling aimed at the US election operated from an office block @ @ @ @ @ .
A months-long CNN investigation has discovered that , in this election cycle , at @ @ @ @ @ has been outsourced — to trolls in the west African nations of Ghana and Nigeria.
@ @ @ @ @ almost exclusively on racial issues in the US , promoting black empowerment and often displaying @ @ @ @ @ The goal , according to experts who follow Russian disinformation campaigns , is to inflame @ @ @ @ @ social unrest .
”

CNN: “In 2016, much of the trolling aimed at the US election operated from an office block in St. Petersburg, Russia. A months-long CNN investigation has discovered that, in this election cycle, at least part of the campaign has been outsourced — to trolls in the west African nations of Ghana and Nigeria.”
“They have focused almost exclusively on racial issues in the US, promoting black empowerment and often displaying anger towards white Americans. The goal, according to experts who follow Russian disinformation campaigns, is to inflame divisions among Americans and provoke social unrest.”


politicalwire--2020-03-12--Stocks Plunge 10% in Dow’s Worst Day Since 1987

“ The selloff in U.S. stocks gathered pace Thursday with the Dow Jones Industrial Average falling nearly 10 % in @ @ @ @ @ 1987 crash , while the S & P 500 and Nasdaq joined it in bear-market @ @ @ @ @ Street Journal reports .
“ The furious falls in share prices on rising fears of @ @ @ @ @ the rapid spread of coronavirus occurred despite a $ 1.5 trillion intervention in short-term funding @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“The selloff in U.S. stocks gathered pace Thursday with the Dow Jones Industrial Average falling nearly 10% in its worst day since the 1987 crash, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq joined it in bear-market territory,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
“The furious falls in share prices on rising fears of a global slowdown due to the rapid spread of coronavirus occurred despite a $1.5 trillion intervention in short-term funding markets by the Federal Reserve.”


politicalwire--2020-03-12--Meadows Enters West Wing After Self-Quarantine

“ Incoming White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows was in the West Wing on Thursday , emerging from self-quarantine @ @ @ @ @ with coronavirus at a political event last month , ” Bloomberg reports .
This is @ @ @ @ @ held an emergency Oval Office meeting Wednesday to discuss options for dealing with the virus @ @ @ @ @ senior aides attended , but Meadows wasn ’ t there and wasn ’ t asked @ @ @ @ @ ”

“Incoming White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows was in the West Wing on Thursday, emerging from self-quarantine after encountering a person infected with coronavirus at a political event last month,” Bloomberg reports.
This is curious: “The president held an emergency Oval Office meeting Wednesday to discuss options for dealing with the virus. More than a dozen senior aides attended, but Meadows wasn’t there and wasn’t asked to join by phone.”


politicalwire--2020-03-12--White House Says Trump Won’t Be Tested for Coronavirus

“ President Trump will not be tested for the coronavirus after coming into contact with a Brazilian official who tested @ @ @ @ @ days after participating in meetings with him in Florida , ” the New York Times @ @

“President Trump will not be tested for the coronavirus after coming into contact with a Brazilian official who tested positive for the virus just days after participating in meetings with him in Florida,” the New York Times reports.


politicalwire--2020-03-12--Trump’s Speech Did Nothing to Calm Anyone

Dan Balz : “ In times of national crisis , people look to the president for direction , reassurance and @ @ @ @ @ s Oval Office speech on Wednesday night provided precisely the opposite.
” “ From the @ @ @ @ @ his labored demeanor , the president sent a message that shook financial markets , disrupted @ @ @ @ @ confused his many viewers and undermined the most precious commodity of any president , his @ @ @ @ @ stock markets plunging into bear territory , the health-care system struggling to keep pace with @ @ @ @ @ wondering what ’ s next , Trump is dealing unsteadily with the greatest crisis of @ @ @ @ @ is a physical and fiscal threat to the well-being of millions of Americans .
It @ @ @ @ @ threat to the president ’ s hopes for a second term .
”

Dan Balz: “In times of national crisis, people look to the president for direction, reassurance and confidence. President Trump’s Oval Office speech on Wednesday night provided precisely the opposite.”
“From the misstatements to the omissions to his labored demeanor, the president sent a message that shook financial markets, disrupted relations with European allies, confused his many viewers and undermined the most precious commodity of any president, his credibility.”
“With the stock markets plunging into bear territory, the health-care system struggling to keep pace with the spreading virus and Americans wondering what’s next, Trump is dealing unsteadily with the greatest crisis of his presidency. The pandemic is a physical and fiscal threat to the well-being of millions of Americans. It also has become a political threat to the president’s hopes for a second term.”


politicalwire--2020-03-12--Lindsey Graham Being Tested for Coronavirus

Sen. Lindsey Graham ( R-SC ) is being tested for coronavirus after being at Mar-a-Lago with Brazilian president last weekend @ @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-03-12--Netanyahu Calls for Emergency Government

“ Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday called for the formation of an emergency government to confront a growing @ @ @ @ @ offering a potential way out of the deadlock that has paralyzed the political system for @ @ @ @ @ the AP reports .


politicalwire--2020-03-12--New York Bans All Gatherings of 500 or More

“ New York will ban most gatherings of more than 500 people , including at Broadway shows , and restrict @ @ @ @ @ step to fight the growing outbreak of the coronavirus in the state , ” the @ @ @ @ @ “ The restrictions were New York ’ s most forceful move yet to try to @ @ @ @ @ virus .
They are expected to have a profound impact on the city ’ s @ @ @ @ @ , a multibillion dollar industry at the heart of New York ’ s tourist trade @ @

“New York will ban most gatherings of more than 500 people, including at Broadway shows, and restrict smaller gatherings in an extraordinary step to fight the growing outbreak of the coronavirus in the state,” the New York Times reports.
“The restrictions were New York’s most forceful move yet to try to mitigate the spread of the virus. They are expected to have a profound impact on the city’s cultural institutions, including Broadway, a multibillion dollar industry at the heart of New York’s tourist trade.”


politicalwire--2020-03-12--Biden Has Edge In Wisconsin

Biden Has Edge In Wisconsin

A new Public Policy Polling survey in Wisconsin finds Joe Biden leading President Trump in the presidential race , 48 @ @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-03-12--Trump Holds Big Lead in Iowa

Trump Holds Big Lead in Iowa

A new Des Moines Register Iowa poll finds President Trump leads Joe Biden among likely voters in the presidential race @ @ @ @ @ % , with 8 % still undecided .


politicalwire--2020-03-12--Officials Try to Explain Coronavirus Numbers to Trump

Washington Post : “ Trump ’ s obsession with numbers — both publicly and privately — has dominated and shaped @ @ @ @ @ to the coronavirus , as advisers and public health experts try to placate a leader @ @ @ @ @ pandemic through the political lens of how the statistics reflect on his presidency and hopes @ @ @ @ @ , administration officials are trying to get Trump more comfortable with the idea of an @ @ @ @ @ of coronavirus cases — in part by explaining to him that a higher number of @ @ @ @ @ in a lower mortality rate .
Sharing the growing number of cases might also demonstrate @ @ @ @ @ test positive are asymptomatic or only have mild symptoms…Trump is increasingly coming to accept that @ @ @ @ @ have tested positive for the virus is going to rise , even though he ’ @ @ @ @ @ , the official added .
”

Washington Post: “Trump’s obsession with numbers — both publicly and privately — has dominated and shaped the administration’s response to the coronavirus, as advisers and public health experts try to placate a leader who largely views the global pandemic through the political lens of how the statistics reflect on his presidency and hopes for reelection.”
“Privately, administration officials are trying to get Trump more comfortable with the idea of an inevitable rise in the number of coronavirus cases — in part by explaining to him that a higher number of cases overall could potentially result in a lower mortality rate. Sharing the growing number of cases might also demonstrate that many of those who test positive are asymptomatic or only have mild symptoms…Trump is increasingly coming to accept that the number of individuals who have tested positive for the virus is going to rise, even though he’s not happy about it, the official added.”


politicalwire--2020-03-12--McConnell Cancels Senate Recess

McConnell Cancels Senate Recess

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell ( R-KY ) said on Thursday that Senate will cancel next week ’ s recess @ @ @ @ @ craft coronavirus legislation , The Hill reports .


politicalwire--2020-03-12--Justin Trudeau In Self-Quarantine with His Wife

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is self-isolating over coronavirus fears after his wife , Sophie Gregoire-Trudeau , began to show @ @ @ @ @ on Wednesday after a speaking engagement in the UK , the BBC reports .


politicalwire--2020-03-12--Democratic Debate Moved to Washington, DC

Sunday ’ s Democratic presidential debate is being moved from Arizona to Washington , D.C. “ out of an abundance @ @ @ @ @ spread of coronavirus , Politico reports .
“ The debate , the first one-on-one clash @ @ @ @ @ Sanders , was originally scheduled to be held in Phoenix , Ariz .
The DNC @ @ @ @ @ hosting the debate alongside Univision , announced earlier in the week that there would be @ @ @ @ @ room or media filing center as campaigns , media organizations and other groups take steps @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus .
”

Sunday’s Democratic presidential debate is being moved from Arizona to Washington, D.C. “out of an abundance of caution” over the spread of coronavirus, Politico reports.
“The debate, the first one-on-one clash between Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders, was originally scheduled to be held in Phoenix, Ariz. The DNC and CNN, which is hosting the debate alongside Univision, announced earlier in the week that there would be no live audience, spin room or media filing center as campaigns, media organizations and other groups take steps to curb the spread of coronavirus.”


politicalwire--2020-03-12--Fed Announces New Funding Actions

Fed Announces New Funding Actions

“ U.S .
stocks recovered some of their steep losses on Thursday after the Federal Reserve announced extraordinary funding actions @ @ @ @ @ in the wake of the coronavirus sell-off , ” CNBC reports .


politicalwire--2020-03-13--The Washing Hands Divide

The Washing Hands Divide

USA Today : “ Women were more likely to report washing their hands more often than men were , 58 @ @ @ @ @ .
The gap was much larger between Democrats and Republicans : 63 % of Democrats @ @ @ @ @ often , but just 48 % of Republicans were doing so .
”

USA Today: “Women were more likely to report washing their hands more often than men were, 58% compared with 50%. The gap was much larger between Democrats and Republicans: 63% of Democrats were washing their hands more often, but just 48% of Republicans were doing so.”


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Trump Struggles to Unify a Nation on Edge

New York Times : “ After feeling besieged by enemies for three years , Mr. Trump and some of his @ @ @ @ @ through the lens of political warfare — assuming that criticism is all about point scoring @ @ @ @ @ hard to see what is real and what is not , according to people around @ @ @ @ @ others with Mr. Trump ’ s best interests at heart disagree , they find it @ @ @ @ @ see as the bubble around him.
” “ Among the advisers who share the president @ @ @ @ @ is his son-in-law , Jared Kushner , who considers the problem more about public psychology @ @ @ @ @ according to people who have spoken with him .
Mr. Kushner has gotten more involved @ @ @ @ @ days , according to three White House advisers .
A person close to Mr. Kushner @ @ @ @ @ misinterpreted , and that he was focused on trying to find answers to the most @ @ @ @ @ virus ’ s spread .
”

New York Times: “After feeling besieged by enemies for three years, Mr. Trump and some of his advisers view so many issues through the lens of political warfare — assuming that criticism is all about point scoring — that it has become hard to see what is real and what is not, according to people around the president. Even when others with Mr. Trump’s best interests at heart disagree, they find it hard to penetrate what they see as the bubble around him.”
“Among the advisers who share the president’s more jaundiced view is his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, who considers the problem more about public psychology than a health reality, according to people who have spoken with him. Mr. Kushner has gotten more involved in the response in recent days, according to three White House advisers. A person close to Mr. Kushner said his views were being misinterpreted, and that he was focused on trying to find answers to the most immediate measures to mitigate the virus’s spread.”


politicalwire--2020-03-13--It’s Like 2008 Revisited

It’s Like 2008 Revisited

This piece is only available to Political Wire members .
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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--2020-03-13--Task Force Kept Out of Trump’s Oval Office Address

Wall Street Journal : “ It was written largely by Stephen Miller , the president ’ s senior policy adviser @ @ @ @ @ the president ’ s son-in-law and senior adviser , and overseen by staff secretary Derek @ @ @ @ @ , all White House staffers since Mr. Trump took office , haven ’ t been @ @ @ @ @ response.
” “ Mr .
Kushner hasn ’ t attended a single task force meeting @ @ @ @ @ who has attended each meeting .
Many of the officials who have been working on @ @ @ @ @ they were cut out or ignored during the speech writing.
” “ The result was @ @ @ @ @ officials said hit the correct themes , but was riddled with errors .
”

Wall Street Journal: “It was written largely by Stephen Miller, the president’s senior policy adviser, and Jared Kushner, the president’s son-in-law and senior adviser, and overseen by staff secretary Derek Lyons. The three men, all White House staffers since Mr. Trump took office, haven’t been deeply involved in the coronavirus response.”
“Mr. Kushner hasn’t attended a single task force meeting, according to one official who has attended each meeting. Many of the officials who have been working on the issue for weeks said they were cut out or ignored during the speech writing.”
“The result was a speech that White House officials said hit the correct themes, but was riddled with errors.”


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Justin Trudeau’s Wife Tests Positive for Coronavirus

“ Prime Minister Justin Trudeau ’ s wife Sophie Grégoire Trudeau has tested positive for the coronavirus , the Prime @ @ @ @ @ late Thursday , saying she will remain in isolation , ” the CBC reports .
@ @ @ @ @ in isolation for 14 days , but on the advice of his doctors , will @ @ @ @ @ has no symptoms .
He plans to address Canadians on Friday .
”

“Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s wife Sophie Grégoire Trudeau has tested positive for the coronavirus, the Prime Minister’s Office said late Thursday, saying she will remain in isolation,” the CBC reports.
“Trudeau will also stay in isolation for 14 days, but on the advice of his doctors, will not be tested because he has no symptoms. He plans to address Canadians on Friday.”


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Trump Voters Got Exactly What They Voted For

Julia Ioffe : “ Some 63 million Americans voted for a man who wanted to smash the system to smithereens , either because they felt it wasn ’ t doing enough for them or because breaking glass just feels so primitively satisfying .
Or maybe it ’ s because the Republican Party has been peddling a dystopian anarchistic anti-government pipe dream to them for the last four decades .
Now , it turns out , a functioning government is a good thing to have when a global pandemic arrives on your shores .
It turns out that maybe reforming an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a sledgehammer to it , better to trust people who have dedicated their lives to being public servants than trashing them in favor of a one-man , megalomaniacal savior , better to have a functioning system than dancing on its rubble while crowing about the death of the ‘ deep state ’ —or ‘ the political establishment . '
” “ To those 63 million Americans , I say this : you wanted to smash the system and you got what you wanted—in spades .
Now we will all have to pay the @ @ @

Julia Ioffe: “Some 63 million Americans voted for a man who wanted to smash the system to smithereens, either because they felt it wasn’t doing enough for them or because breaking glass just feels so primitively satisfying. Or maybe it’s because the Republican Party has been peddling a dystopian anarchistic anti-government pipe dream to them for the last four decades. Now, it turns out, a functioning government is a good thing to have when a global pandemic arrives on your shores. It turns out that maybe reforming an imperfect system is wiser than just taking a sledgehammer to it, better to trust people who have dedicated their lives to being public servants than trashing them in favor of a one-man, megalomaniacal savior, better to have a functioning system than dancing on its rubble while crowing about the death of the ‘deep state’—or ‘the political establishment.'”
“To those 63 million Americans, I say this: you wanted to smash the system and you got what you wanted—in spades. Now we will all have to pay the price.”


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Will Coronavirus Shake Up the Political Stasis?

Amy Walter : “ The one constant in these last three and a half years has been chaos .
Almost @ @ @ @ @ an event , issue or moment that looks as if it may upend our current @ @ @ @ @ economy .
But so far , nothing , not a government shutdown , nor impeachment @ @ @ @ @ , has been enough to spook the markets or alter opinions of this president .
@ @ @ @ @ and attention spans have gotten shorter and shorter , which only serves to lessen their @ @ @ @ @ , however , may be our first truly disruptive event in this so-called disruptive era.
@ @ @ @ @ “ Coronavirus has challenged Mr. Trump ’ s unusual leadership style—blunt , improvisational and shoot-from-the-hip—like @ @ @ @ @ his administration .
”

Amy Walter: “The one constant in these last three and a half years has been chaos. Almost every week, there is an event, issue or moment that looks as if it may upend our current political stasis or rattle the economy. But so far, nothing, not a government shutdown, nor impeachment, nor a tempestuous tweet, has been enough to spook the markets or alter opinions of this president. Meanwhile, our media cycle and attention spans have gotten shorter and shorter, which only serves to lessen their long-term repercussions.”
“Coronavirus, however, may be our first truly disruptive event in this so-called disruptive era.”
Wall Street Journal: “Coronavirus has challenged Mr. Trump’s unusual leadership style—blunt, improvisational and shoot-from-the-hip—like no other issue to confront his administration.”


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Trump’s Go-It Alone Approach Tested by Pandemic

“ As a viral pandemic has spread across continents with a severity and deadliness that world leaders say demands a @ @ @ @ @ has increasingly turned inward , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ He has imposed @ @ @ @ @ the world ’ s population while criticizing other nation ’ s response efforts , refused @ @ @ @ @ Nancy Pelosi , attacked his handpicked Fed chairman and defied the warnings of his own @ @ @ @ @ His handling of the crisis , including a surprise decision to restrict travel from Europe @ @ @ @ @ at home and abroad as leaders warn that Trump ’ s go-it-alone approach is doing @ @ @ @ @ situation .
”

“As a viral pandemic has spread across continents with a severity and deadliness that world leaders say demands a global response, President Trump has increasingly turned inward,” the Washington Post reports.
“He has imposed travel restrictions on one-fourth of the world’s population while criticizing other nation’s response efforts, refused to meet with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, attacked his handpicked Fed chairman and defied the warnings of his own public health experts.”
“His handling of the crisis, including a surprise decision to restrict travel from Europe, is drawing criticism both at home and abroad as leaders warn that Trump’s go-it-alone approach is doing harm to an already fraught situation.”


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Ilhan Omar Marries Political Consultant

Ilhan Omar Marries Political Consultant

Rep. Ilhan Omar ( D-MN ) announced that she has married Tim Mynett , a political consultant she has worked @ @ @ @ @ to , the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports .
“ Omar announced their marriage in an @ @ @ @ @ name Mynett .
The Minneapolis Democrat finalized her divorce from husband Ahmed Hirsi in November @ @ @ @ @ ’ s wife , a Washington , D.C. , physician , alleged in court filings @ @ @ @ @ becoming romantically involved with Omar.
” “ Both Omar and Mynett had denied having an @ @ @

Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) announced that she has married Tim Mynett, a political consultant she has worked with and been romantically linked to, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
“Omar announced their marriage in an Instagram post that did not name Mynett. The Minneapolis Democrat finalized her divorce from husband Ahmed Hirsi in November, several months after Mynett’s wife, a Washington, D.C., physician, alleged in court filings that he left her after becoming romantically involved with Omar.”
“Both Omar and Mynett had denied having an affair.”


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Trump Ad-Libbed In Oval Office Address

Trump Ad-Libbed In Oval Office Address

“ In the most scripted of presidential settings , a prime-time televised address to the nation , President Trump decided @ @ @ @ @ errors triggered a market meltdown , panicked travelers overseas and crystallized for his critics just @ @ @ @ @ his management of the coronavirus , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ Even Trump @ @ @ @ @ to admitting mistakes — knew he ’ d screwed up by declaring Wednesday night that @ @ @ @ @ Europe would include cargo and trade , and acknowledged as much to aides in the @ @ @ @ @ he ’ d finished speaking.
” “ Futures for the Dow Jones industrial average fell @ @ @ @ @ each word Trump uttered.
” “ Trump — who believed that by giving the speech @ @ @ @ @ and that his remarks would reassure financial markets and the country — was in ‘ @ @ @ @ @ and sounded at times ‘ apoplectic ’ on Thursday as he watched stocks tumble and @ @ @ @ @ speech .
”

“In the most scripted of presidential settings, a prime-time televised address to the nation, President Trump decided to ad-lib — and his errors triggered a market meltdown, panicked travelers overseas and crystallized for his critics just how dangerously he has fumbled his management of the coronavirus,” the Washington Post reports.
“Even Trump — a man practically allergic to admitting mistakes — knew he’d screwed up by declaring Wednesday night that his ban on travel from Europe would include cargo and trade, and acknowledged as much to aides in the Oval Office as soon as he’d finished speaking.”
“Futures for the Dow Jones industrial average fell in real time with virtually each word Trump uttered.”
“Trump — who believed that by giving the speech he would appear in command and that his remarks would reassure financial markets and the country — was in ‘an unusually foul mood’ and sounded at times ‘apoplectic’ on Thursday as he watched stocks tumble and digested widespread criticism of his speech.”


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Pelosi Reaches Deal on Coronavirus Response

Speaker Nancy Pelosi told Democratic lawmakers she had reached an agreement with the Trump administration on a coronavirus relief package @ @ @ @ @ pass it tonight .

Speaker Nancy Pelosi told Democratic lawmakers she had reached an agreement with the Trump administration on a coronavirus relief package.
The House plans to pass it tonight.


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Falwell Says Coronavirus Is a North Korean Weapon

Jerry Falwell Jr. suggested on Fox News that the coronavirus outbreak was orchestrated by North Korea and China to sabotage @ @ @ @ @ : “ You remember the North Korean leader promised us a Christmas present for America @ @ @ @ @ Could it be they got together with China and this is that present ?
I @ @ @ @ @ But it really is something strange going on .
”

Jerry Falwell Jr. suggested on Fox News that the coronavirus outbreak was orchestrated by North Korea and China to sabotage President Trump.
Said Falwell: “You remember the North Korean leader promised us a Christmas present for America? Back in December. Could it be they got together with China and this is that present? I don’t know. But it really is something strange going on.”


politicalwire--2020-03-13--New York Orders Restaurants to Slash Capacity

Eater : “ Starting Friday at 5 p.m. , all venues in the state seating 500 people or less will @ @ @ @ @ 50 percent — including restaurants and bars , Governor Andrew Cuomo and Mayor Bill de @ @ @ @ @ ”


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Trump Says He’ll Likely Get Tested

Trump Says He’ll Likely Get Tested

President Trump said at a Friday press conference that he ’ d “ most likely ” get tested for coronavirus @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Trump Declares National Emergency

Trump Declares National Emergency

“ President Trump declared a national emergency over the coronavirus pandemic Friday as public life in America continued to grind @ @ @ @ @ ’ s announcement sent the Dow soaring nearly 2,000 points , ” the Washington Post @ @ @ @ @ : “ He also gave broad new authority to the health secretary , Alex Azar @ @ @ @ @ now be able to waive provisions to give doctors and hospitals more flexibility to respond @ @ @ @ @ making it easier to treat people remotely.
” But when asked if he took responsibility @ @ @ @ @ testing , Trump said : “ I don ’ t take responsibility at all .
@

“President Trump declared a national emergency over the coronavirus pandemic Friday as public life in America continued to grind to a halt. Trump’s announcement sent the Dow soaring nearly 2,000 points,” the Washington Post reports.
New York Times: “He also gave broad new authority to the health secretary, Alex Azar, who he said would now be able to waive provisions to give doctors and hospitals more flexibility to respond to the virus, including making it easier to treat people remotely.”
But when asked if he took responsibility for the U.S. lag in testing, Trump said: “I don’t take responsibility at all.”


politicalwire--2020-03-13--The Trump Presidency Is Over

The Trump Presidency Is Over

Peter Wehner : “ The coronavirus is quite likely to be the Trump presidency ’ s inflection point , when @ @ @ @ @ bluster and ignorance and shallowness of America ’ s 45th president became undeniable , an @ @ @ @ @ as the laws of science or a mathematical equation.
” “ It has taken a @ @ @ @ @ should have , but Americans have now seen the con man behind the curtain .
@ @ @ @ @ having been unmasked , will become more desperate , more embittered , more unhinged .
@ @ @ @ @ the same .
His administration may stagger on , but it will be only a @ @ @ @ @ presidency is over .
”

Peter Wehner: “The coronavirus is quite likely to be the Trump presidency’s inflection point, when everything changed, when the bluster and ignorance and shallowness of America’s 45th president became undeniable, an empirical reality, as indisputable as the laws of science or a mathematical equation.”
“It has taken a good deal longer than it should have, but Americans have now seen the con man behind the curtain. The president, enraged for having been unmasked, will become more desperate, more embittered, more unhinged. He knows nothing will be the same. His administration may stagger on, but it will be only a hollow shell. The Trump presidency is over.”


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Canada to Suspend Parliament

Canada to Suspend Parliament

“ Canada ’ s federal political parties have reached a deal to suspend Parliament until at least April 20 in @ @ @ @ @ pandemic , ” Politico reports .


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Louisiana Postpones Democratic Primary

Louisiana Postpones Democratic Primary

“ Louisiana has postponed its presidential primaries set for next month , becoming the first state to take the step @ @ @ @ @ outbreak spread , ” CNBC reports .
“ The state will push back its nominating @ @ @ @ @ July 25 .
”

“Louisiana has postponed its presidential primaries set for next month, becoming the first state to take the step as fears about the coronavirus outbreak spread,” CNBC reports.
“The state will push back its nominating contests to June 20 and July 25.”


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Biggest U.S. Bank Forecasts Deep Recession

JPMorgan expects the coronavirus pandemic to sink the U.S. economy into a deep recession as soon as this summer , @ @ @ @ @ ’ s views of the virus “ have evolved dramatically in recent weeks ” as @ @ @ @ @ the world and fuels the worst stock market sell-offs in decades .
The US economy @ @ @ @ @ in the first quarter and 3 % in the second .

JPMorgan expects the coronavirus pandemic to sink the U.S. economy into a deep recession as soon as this summer, Business Insider reports.
JPMorgan’s views of the virus “have evolved dramatically in recent weeks” as the outbreak spreads further around the world and fuels the worst stock market sell-offs in decades. The US economy will shrink by 2% in the first quarter and 3% in the second.


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Miami Mayor Tests Positive for Coronavirus

“ Miami Mayor Francis Suarez has tested positive for COVID-19 , the disease caused by the novel coronavirus , four @ @ @ @ @ a Miami event with a Brazilian government official who later tested positive for the virus @ @ @ @ @ reports .


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Biden Leading Trump In Arizona

Biden Leading Trump In Arizona

A new Arizona State University poll in Arizona finds Joe Biden leading President Trump in a presidential match up , @ @ @ @ @ .
In the U.S. Senate race , Mark Kelly ( D ) leads Sen. Martha @ @ @ @ @ 48 % to 36 % .
A new OH Predictive Insights poll shows Biden leading @ @ @ @ @ 43 % .


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Andrew Gillum Involved In Crystal Meth Incident

Former Florida gubernatorial candidate Andrew Gillum ( D ) was allegedly involved in an incident involving crystal meth at a @ @ @ @ @ morning , according to an incident report obtained by the Miami New Times .
Gillum @ @ @ @ @ “ While I had too much to drink , I want to be clear that @ @ @ @ @ ” He says he was in Miami last night for a wedding celebration when EMTs @ @ @ @ @ of his friends .

Former Florida gubernatorial candidate Andrew Gillum (D) was allegedly involved in an incident involving crystal meth at a Miami Beach hotel early this morning, according to an incident report obtained by the Miami New Times.
Gillum to the Washington Post: “While I had too much to drink, I want to be clear that I have never used methamphetamines.”
He says he was in Miami last night for a wedding celebration when EMTs were called to assist one of his friends.


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Trump Campaign Calls Biden a ‘Rotting Corpse’

Here ’ s an actual tweet from President Trump ’ s campaign : “ Joe Biden is the same rotting @ @ @ @ @ was three weeks ago .
It ’ s just that Democrats have decided that they @ @ @ @ @ the dead guy than with Crazy Bernie .
”

Here’s an actual tweet from President Trump’s campaign:
“Joe Biden is the same rotting corpse of a candidate he was three weeks ago. It’s just that Democrats have decided that they would be better off with the dead guy than with Crazy Bernie.”


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Mnuchin Calls Pandemic an ‘Investment Opportunity’

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin told CNBC that the coronavirus pandemic presents “ a great investment opportunity , ” insisting that @ @ @ @ @ public health crisis will rebound eventually .
Said Mnuchin : “ This is a short-term @ @ @ @ @ a couple of months , but we ’ re going to get through this , @ @ @ @ @ stronger than ever.
” H added : “ You know , I look back at @ @ @ @ @ the crash in 1987 , people who bought stocks after the financial crisis .
For @ @ @ @ @ be a great investment opportunity .
”

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin told CNBC that the coronavirus pandemic presents “a great investment opportunity,” insisting that global markets spooked by the public health crisis will rebound eventually.
Said Mnuchin: “This is a short-term issue. It may be a couple of months, but we’re going to get through this, and the economy will be stronger than ever.”
H added: “You know, I look back at people who bought stocks after the crash in 1987, people who bought stocks after the financial crisis. For long-term investors, this will be a great investment opportunity.”


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Trump Will Declare a National Emergency

Trump Will Declare a National Emergency

President Trump plans to declare a national emergency over the coronavirus outbreak at a news conference later today , invoking @ @ @ @ @ the door to more federal aid for states and municipalities , Bloomberg 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--2020-03-13--Trump to Hold News Conference

Trump to Hold News Conference

President Trump will have a news conference today at 3:00 p.m .
ET , he announced .


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Bolsonaro Tests Negative for Coronavirus

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro , who met and dined with President Donald Trump at his Florida resort over the weekend @ @ @ @ @ new coronavirus , his official Facebook page announced , CNBC reports .


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Why Trump’s Oval Office Address Was Doomed to Fail

Ben Rhodes : “ By constantly trying to get himself through the news cycle , Trump has done irreparable damage to the long-term objective of ensuring that he ’ s a credible voice on the COVID-19 crisis .
Time and again , he ’ s minimized the danger while talking up his own response , perhaps most notably when he said—speaking about cases within the United States two weeks ago— ’ You have 15 people , and the 15 within a couple of days is going to be down to close to zero , that ’ s a pretty good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like this no doubt end up creating hours of more work for his staff to explain or justify what is plainly false .
More insidiously , this sort of talk could have contributed to the slowness to test and discover new cases which would plainly contradict the president ’ s own predictions.
” “ Even the president ’ s signature announcement—a travel ban on Europe ( which later turned out to be a travel ban on non-Americans who had recently been in the European Union ’ s Schengen Area ) had the feel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rather than long-term planning .
In addition to causing confusion and exacerbating market disruptions , it was a step taken too late to contain a virus that is already very much here .
The travel ban was also far less relevant than other steps that could have been announced , like surging resources for testing and other badly needed health infrastructure and supplies .
Finally , it was clearly made without consultation with European leaders , who—in a normal presidency—would be in near-daily contact with a U.S. president to manage a challenge that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way , President Trump ’ s address to the nation was doomed to fail .
It was delivered by a president who ignores inconvenient truths , disdains expertise , views events solely through the lens of his political interests , and fails to look beyond the news cycle .
This dynamic has been exacerbated by an information flow into and out of the White House that reflects Trump ’ s worst instincts—his desire to be flattered and his deafness to any form of criticism .
”

Ben Rhodes: “By constantly trying to get himself through the news cycle, Trump has done irreparable damage to the long-term objective of ensuring that he’s a credible voice on the COVID-19 crisis. Time and again, he’s minimized the danger while talking up his own response, perhaps most notably when he said—speaking about cases within the United States two weeks ago—’You have 15 people, and the 15 within a couple of days is going to be down to close to zero, that’s a pretty good job we’ve done.’ Statements like this no doubt end up creating hours of more work for his staff to explain or justify what is plainly false. More insidiously, this sort of talk could have contributed to the slowness to test and discover new cases which would plainly contradict the president’s own predictions.”
“Even the president’s signature announcement—a travel ban on Europe (which later turned out to be a travel ban on non-Americans who had recently been in the European Union’s Schengen Area) had the feel of something designed for short-term news value rather than long-term planning. In addition to causing confusion and exacerbating market disruptions, it was a step taken too late to contain a virus that is already very much here. The travel ban was also far less relevant than other steps that could have been announced, like surging resources for testing and other badly needed health infrastructure and supplies. Finally, it was clearly made without consultation with European leaders, who—in a normal presidency—would be in near-daily contact with a U.S. president to manage a challenge that recognizes no borders.”
“In this way, President Trump’s address to the nation was doomed to fail. It was delivered by a president who ignores inconvenient truths, disdains expertise, views events solely through the lens of his political interests, and fails to look beyond the news cycle. This dynamic has been exacerbated by an information flow into and out of the White House that reflects Trump’s worst instincts—his desire to be flattered and his deafness to any form of criticism.”


politicalwire--2020-03-13--What Happens When Coronavirus Hits Congress?

Garret Graff : “ As congressional leaders sniped their way through the coronavirus crisis this week—wrestling with how to act @ @ @ @ @ economic shock amid a quickly evolving tsunami of national closures , collapsing stock prices and @ @ @ @ @ ominous thought hung in the background of Capitol Hill : A pandemic , particularly one @ @ @ @ @ 60 , presents the long-feared , worst-case scenario for Congress ’ existence itself.
” “ @ @ @ @ @ War II , efforts to force the House and Senate to confront how it would @ @ @ @ @ stalled , and even the lackluster efforts after 9/11 to improve congressional continuity planning fell @ @ @ @ @ impact of a pandemic : While the outright death of senators and representatives poses its @ @ @ @ @ for the body and democracy , an illness like COVID-19 that threatens to sicken a @ @ @ @ @ to paralyze or destabilize the entire legislative branch of government when its quick action is @ @ @ @

Garret Graff: “As congressional leaders sniped their way through the coronavirus crisis this week—wrestling with how to act and help avert a massive economic shock amid a quickly evolving tsunami of national closures, collapsing stock prices and a worsening pandemic—an even more ominous thought hung in the background of Capitol Hill: A pandemic, particularly one whose primary victims are over 60, presents the long-feared, worst-case scenario for Congress’ existence itself.”
“Since the end of World War II, efforts to force the House and Senate to confront how it would function in an emergency have stalled, and even the lackluster efforts after 9/11 to improve congressional continuity planning fell short of addressing the potential impact of a pandemic: While the outright death of senators and representatives poses its own unique set of problems for the body and democracy, an illness like COVID-19 that threatens to sicken a wide swath of members threatens to paralyze or destabilize the entire legislative branch of government when its quick action is most needed.”


politicalwire--2020-03-13--Ocasio-Cortez Refused to Campaign More for Sanders

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez ( D-NY ) turned down repeated requests from Bernie Sanders ’ presidential campaign to appear at events @ @ @ @ @ s candidacy in recent weeks , the HuffPost reports .


politicalwire--2020-03-14--Brazil Ambassador Tests Positive

Brazil Ambassador Tests Positive

“ Acting Brazil ambassador Nestor Forster , who sat at President Trump ’ s table Saturday night during a dinner @ @ @ @ @ positive for the novel coronavirus , the embassy said late Friday , ” the Washington @ @ @ @ @ is the third person who visited the president ’ s South Florida resort last weekend @ @ @ @ @ virus .
”

“Acting Brazil ambassador Nestor Forster, who sat at President Trump’s table Saturday night during a dinner at Mar-a-Lago, has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, the embassy said late Friday,” the Washington Post reports.
“Forster is the third person who visited the president’s South Florida resort last weekend to test positive for the virus.”


politicalwire--2020-03-14--Boris Johnson Spurns Mass Closures

Boris Johnson Spurns Mass Closures

“ Prime Minister Boris Johnson of Britain once said his political hero was the mayor in the film Jaws , @ @ @ @ @ hysteria to keep the beaches open after a constituent is eaten by a shark , @ @ @ @ @ reports .
“ As the coronavirus now stampedes across Britain and much of the world @ @ @ @ @ the same principle , spurning the mass closures that have become commonplace across Europe and @ @ @ @ @ a more restrained approach.
” “ That strategy has startled some epidemiologists , drawn criticism @ @ @ @ @ and political ally , and prompted angry demands that Mr. Johnson ’ s government reveal @ @ @ @ @ ”

“Prime Minister Boris Johnson of Britain once said his political hero was the mayor in the film Jaws, praising him for defying mass hysteria to keep the beaches open after a constituent is eaten by a shark,” the New York Times reports.
“As the coronavirus now stampedes across Britain and much of the world, Mr. Johnson is heeding the same principle, spurning the mass closures that have become commonplace across Europe and gambling his political future on a more restrained approach.”
“That strategy has startled some epidemiologists, drawn criticism from a former health secretary and political ally, and prompted angry demands that Mr. Johnson’s government reveal more of its reasoning.”


politicalwire--2020-03-14--Gillum’s Overdosing Companion Was a Gay Escort

The Daily Mail has more on Andrew Gillum ’ s strange encounter last night : The married father-of-three , who @ @ @ @ @ Florida ’ s first black governor , was with a “ hunky gay escort found @ @ @ @ @ meth in a hotel room .
”


politicalwire--2020-03-14--Trump Caught Google Off Guard With a Bogus Site

“ President Trump announced Friday that the US government ’ s coronavirus testing apparatus , which has lagged badly behind @ @ @ @ @ soon get an assist from Google .
The search and advertising giant will create a @ @ @ @ @ that would help Americans figure out if they need a test for the virus , @ @ @ @ @ can find one , ” Wired reports .
“ The only problem : There is @ @ @ @ @ one Trump described .
And Google had no idea the president was going to mention @ @ @ @ @ at Google tells Wired that company leadership was surprised that Trump announced anything about the @ @ @ @ @ .
What he did say was also almost entirely wrong .
”

“President Trump announced Friday that the US government’s coronavirus testing apparatus, which has lagged badly behind other developed nations, would soon get an assist from Google. The search and advertising giant will create a website, Trump said, that would help Americans figure out if they need a test for the virus, and if so where they can find one,” Wired reports.
“The only problem: There is no nationwide site like the one Trump described. And Google had no idea the president was going to mention one.”
“A source at Google tells Wired that company leadership was surprised that Trump announced anything about the initiative at the press conference. What he did say was also almost entirely wrong.”


politicalwire--2020-03-14--Trump Keeps Bucking Coronavirus Guidelines

Washington Post : “ In one televised event , Trump seemed to defy two basic practices that the rest of @ @ @ @ @ Americans to follow to prevent the spread of the virus .
People who were exposed @ @ @ @ @ urged to quarantine themselves and seek testing .
And everyone — exposed or not — @ @ @ @ @ “ But at a Friday news conference on efforts to combat the coronavirus , Trump @ @ @ @ @ other speakers , many of whom are members of the White House task force charged @ @ @ @ @ disease .
Trump and many of the speakers took part in backslapping and adjusting the @ @ @ @ @ also said he will not self-quarantine , as members of Congress and Canadian Prime Minister @ @ @ @ @ do after known exposures .
”

Washington Post: “In one televised event, Trump seemed to defy two basic practices that the rest of his government has been urging Americans to follow to prevent the spread of the virus. People who were exposed to an infected person are urged to quarantine themselves and seek testing. And everyone — exposed or not — should stop shaking hands.”
“But at a Friday news conference on efforts to combat the coronavirus, Trump continued to shake hands with other speakers, many of whom are members of the White House task force charged with trying to stem the disease. Trump and many of the speakers took part in backslapping and adjusting the shared microphone.”
“Trump also said he will not self-quarantine, as members of Congress and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau have chosen to do after known exposures.”


politicalwire--2020-03-14--Pence Tells White House Staff to Avoid Contact

“ Vice President Mike Pence sent White House staff an email Saturday afternoon recommending ‘ social distancing ’ and to @ @ @ @ @ to keep themselves and their colleagues safe from the novel coronavirus , ” Axios reports @ @ @ @ @ first staff-wide email Pence has sent across the complex during his time as vice president @ @ @ @ @ sign the White House is shifting its posture against the pandemic .
”

“Vice President Mike Pence sent White House staff an email Saturday afternoon recommending ‘social distancing’ and to ‘avoid physical contact’ to keep themselves and their colleagues safe from the novel coronavirus,” Axios reports.
“This is the first staff-wide email Pence has sent across the complex during his time as vice president — and is the latest sign the White House is shifting its posture against the pandemic.”


politicalwire--2020-03-14--France and Spain In Lock Down

France and Spain In Lock Down

Time : “ France ordered the closing of just about everything the rest of the world loves about it — @ @ @ @ @ Louvre , the cafes , restaurants and cinema — and Spain drew up plans Saturday @ @ @ @ @ million citizens as governments took increasingly desperate measures to put more space between people and @ @ @ @ @

Time: “France ordered the closing of just about everything the rest of the world loves about it — the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the cafes, restaurants and cinema — and Spain drew up plans Saturday to lock down its 46 million citizens as governments took increasingly desperate measures to put more space between people and contain the coronavirus.”


politicalwire--2020-03-14--Supermarkets Brace for Labor Shortages

Supermarkets Brace for Labor Shortages

Washington Post : “ The companies that feed America and provide basic staples are bracing for labor shortages as the @ @ @ @ @ which could leave them without enough workers to manufacture , deliver and unpack groceries in @ @ @ @ @ ” “ As the virus spreads , supermarkets and distribution facilities face a difficult choice @ @ @ @ @ stocked with essentials while keeping their workers safe .
”

Washington Post: “The companies that feed America and provide basic staples are bracing for labor shortages as the novel coronavirus pandemic intensifies, which could leave them without enough workers to manufacture, deliver and unpack groceries in stores in the coming months.”
“As the virus spreads, supermarkets and distribution facilities face a difficult choice: how to keep shelves stocked with essentials while keeping their workers safe.”


politicalwire--2020-03-14--Trump Is Breaking Every Rule In CDC Playbook

Washington Post : “ Amid an outbreak where vaccines , drug treatments and even sufficient testing don ’ t yet @ @ @ @ @ delivered early , accurately and credibly is the strongest medicine in the government ’ s @ @ @ @ @ Trump administration ’ s zigzagging , defensive , inconsistent messages about the novel coronavirus continued @ @ @ @ @ rule in the book and eroding the most powerful weapon officials possess : Public trust @ @

Washington Post: “Amid an outbreak where vaccines, drug treatments and even sufficient testing don’t yet exist, communication that is delivered early, accurately and credibly is the strongest medicine in the government’s arsenal.”
“But the Trump administration’s zigzagging, defensive, inconsistent messages about the novel coronavirus continued Friday, breaking almost every rule in the book and eroding the most powerful weapon officials possess: Public trust.”


politicalwire--2020-03-14--How Trump Bungled the Coronavirus Response

NBC News : “ An examination of how the Trump administration responded to the coronavirus outbreak that was first documented @ @ @ @ @ of missed opportunities , mismanagement and a president who resisted the advice of experts urging @ @ @ @ @ All the while , Trump made a series of upbeat claims , some of which @ @ @ @ @ that the number of cases was declining in the U.S. and that ‘ anybody who @ @ @ @ @ test . '
” “ Trump ’ s own advisers acknowledged that the failure to @ @ @ @ @ their biggest misstep.
” Also interesting : “ The Trump White House continued to balk @ @ @ @ @ to issue stark advice… One example : The CDC wanted to recommend that anyone over @ @ @ @ @ whenever possible , but was told not to say that by Trump administration officials .
@

NBC News: “An examination of how the Trump administration responded to the coronavirus outbreak that was first documented in December reveals a story of missed opportunities, mismanagement and a president who resisted the advice of experts urging a more aggressive response. All the while, Trump made a series of upbeat claims, some of which were flatly false, including that the number of cases was declining in the U.S. and that ‘anybody who needs a test gets a test.'”
“Trump’s own advisers acknowledged that the failure to focus on widespread testing was their biggest misstep.”
Also interesting: “The Trump White House continued to balk at health professionals who wanted to issue stark advice… One example: The CDC wanted to recommend that anyone over 60 remain inside their homes whenever possible, but was told not to say that by Trump administration officials.”


politicalwire--2020-03-14--Yesterday’s Stock Market Rally In Perspective

Bloomberg : “ Here ’ s something to ponder as you consider Friday ’ s roaring rebound in equities .
@ @ @ @ @ market crash since 1987 , it took the biggest rally since October 2008.
” “ @ @ @ @ @ The last time shares surged this much , it came smack in the middle of @ @ @ @ @ years , one the S & P 500 finished down 17 % .
So while @ @ @ @ @ to finish its most volatile stretch since the financial crisis on an up note , @ @ @ @ @ the bottom.
” “ Another thought , to leaven the ecstasy .
Last time stocks @ @ @ @ @ session then fell 9 % in the next , it was 1931 .
Also a @ @ @ @

Bloomberg: “Here’s something to ponder as you consider Friday’s roaring rebound in equities. To undo the worst stock market crash since 1987, it took the biggest rally since October 2008.”
“That’s right: The last time shares surged this much, it came smack in the middle of the worst month in 33 years, one the S&P 500 finished down 17%. So while Wall Street was naturally thrilled to finish its most volatile stretch since the financial crisis on an up note, nobody was ready to call the bottom.”
“Another thought, to leaven the ecstasy. Last time stocks rose 9% in one session then fell 9% in the next, it was 1931. Also a less-than-auspicious year.”


politicalwire--2020-03-14--Travel Ban Expanded to U.K. and Ireland

Travel Ban Expanded to U.K. and Ireland

Axios : “ Vice President Mike Pence announced Saturday that all travel to Ireland and the United Kingdom will be @ @ @ @ @ on Monday .
He said that Americans abroad in those countries can return home.
” @ @ @ @ @ the two off its restricted travel list , but that case has been weakened due @ @ @ @ @ in the UK .
”

Axios: “Vice President Mike Pence announced Saturday that all travel to Ireland and the United Kingdom will be suspended, effective midnight EST on Monday. He said that Americans abroad in those countries can return home.”
“The administration initially left the two off its restricted travel list, but that case has been weakened due to an uptick in cases in the UK.”


politicalwire--2020-03-14--White House Now Conducting Temperature Checks

“ The White House announced Saturday that it is now conducting temperature checks on anyone who is in close contact @ @ @ @ @ President Mike Pence , ” the AP reports .


politicalwire--2020-03-14--The Mar-a-Lago Petri Dish

The Mar-a-Lago Petri Dish

New York Times : “ It was a lavish , festive , carefree evening at Mar-a-Lago a week ago Saturday @ @ @ @ @ seems like a last hurrah for the end of one era and the beginning of @ @ @ @ @ since then , the presidential estate in Florida has become something of a coronavirus hot @ @ @ @ @ Mar-a-Lago guests from last weekend have said they are infected and others have put themselves @ @ @ @ @ far , neither the president nor his family has reported feeling sick or is known @ @ @ @ @ “ But the Mar-a-Lago petri dish has become a kind of metaphor for the perils @ @ @ @ @ age of coronavirus , demonstrating how quickly and silently the virus can spread .
No @ @ @ @ @ encountering it , not senators or diplomats or even the most powerful person on the @ @ @ @ @ veritable fortress surrounded by Secret Service agents .
”

New York Times: “It was a lavish, festive, carefree evening at Mar-a-Lago a week ago Saturday in what in hindsight now seems like a last hurrah for the end of one era and the beginning of another. In the days since then, the presidential estate in Florida has become something of a coronavirus hot zone. At least four Mar-a-Lago guests from last weekend have said they are infected and others have put themselves into quarantine.”
“So far, neither the president nor his family has reported feeling sick or is known to have isolated themselves.”
“But the Mar-a-Lago petri dish has become a kind of metaphor for the perils of group gatherings in the age of coronavirus, demonstrating how quickly and silently the virus can spread. No one is necessarily safe from encountering it, not senators or diplomats or even the most powerful person on the planet seemingly secure in a veritable fortress surrounded by Secret Service agents.”


politicalwire--2020-03-14--Could the General Election Be Postponed?

“ The date of the general election is set by federal law and has been fixed since 1845 .
It @ @ @ @ @ federal law to move that date .
That would mean legislation enacted by Congress , @ @ @ @ @ subject to challenge in the courts.
” “ To call that unlikely would be an @ @ @ @ @ if all of that happened , there would not be much flexibility in choosing an @ @ @ @ @ Constitution mandates that the new Congress must be sworn in on Jan. 3 , and @ @ @ @ @ s term must begin on Jan. 20 .
Those dates can not be changed just @ @ @ @ @ legislation .
”

New York Times: “Only with enormous difficulty.”
“The date of the general election is set by federal law and has been fixed since 1845. It would take a change in federal law to move that date. That would mean legislation enacted by Congress, signed by the president and subject to challenge in the courts.”
“To call that unlikely would be an understatement.”
“And even if all of that happened, there would not be much flexibility in choosing an alternate election date: The Constitution mandates that the new Congress must be sworn in on Jan. 3, and that the new president’s term must begin on Jan. 20. Those dates cannot be changed just by the passage of normal legislation.”


politicalwire--2020-03-14--Trump Says He Was Tested

Trump Says He Was Tested

President Trump told reporters on Saturday that he took a test for COVID-19 on Friday night and his test is @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-03-14--U.S. Economic Outlook Hinges on Layoff Decisions

Wall Street Journal : “ The U.S. economic outlook hangs in large part on whether business leaders respond to the @ @ @ @ @ have with many past shocks : by laying off masses of American workers.
” “ @ @ @ @ @ avoided the tactic .
But the pressure on companies to squeeze costs is building as @ @ @ @ @ pull back on activity .
Purges of workers could become unavoidable in some industries such @ @ @ @ @ , retailing and dining as demand slows .
”

Wall Street Journal: “The U.S. economic outlook hangs in large part on whether business leaders respond to the new coronavirus crisis as they have with many past shocks: by laying off masses of American workers.”
“So far they have largely avoided the tactic. But the pressure on companies to squeeze costs is building as consumers, governments and others pull back on activity. Purges of workers could become unavoidable in some industries such as shipping, air travel, retailing and dining as demand slows.”


politicalwire--2020-03-14--Biden Readies Plan to Finish Off Bernie

Biden Readies Plan to Finish Off Bernie

Politico : “ Joe Biden has long complained about the crowded debate stage and a restrictive format that doesn ’ @ @ @ @ @ candidates to speak .
Now , in his one-on-one debate Sunday with Bernie Sanders , @ @ @ @ @ terms he wanted — and an opportunity to convince Democrats the race is effectively over.
@ @ @ @ @ t high for the former vice president after a series of mediocre debate performances during @ @ @ @ @ campaign , among other Biden detractors , views the debate as a chance for him @ @ @ @ @ face , reviving questions about the durability of his candidacy just as Biden is poised @ @ @ @ @ open with a four-state sweep in the March 17 primaries.
” “ But in years @ @ @ @ @ in the one-on-one format during vice presidential debates .
His plan Sunday is to focus @ @ @ @ @ he ’ s in sync with the Democratic electorate after winning 15 states , according @ @ @ @

Politico: “Joe Biden has long complained about the crowded debate stage and a restrictive format that doesn’t allow enough time for candidates to speak. Now, in his one-on-one debate Sunday with Bernie Sanders, he finally gets the debate terms he wanted — and an opportunity to convince Democrats the race is effectively over.”
“Expectations aren’t high for the former vice president after a series of mediocre debate performances during primary season. The Sanders campaign, among other Biden detractors, views the debate as a chance for him to fall flat on his face, reviving questions about the durability of his candidacy just as Biden is poised to break the race wide open with a four-state sweep in the March 17 primaries.”
“But in years past, Biden has thrived in the one-on-one format during vice presidential debates. His plan Sunday is to focus on his electability and how he’s in sync with the Democratic electorate after winning 15 states, according to aides.”


politicalwire--2020-03-14--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ This should go without saying .
The President should be tested , especially if he is going to continue @ @ @ @ @ are running the national response , and be near the Vice President .
”

“This should go without saying. The President should be tested, especially if he is going to continue to meet with people who are running the national response, and be near the Vice President.”
— Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-IL), on Twitter.


politicalwire--2020-03-14--Pelosi and Mnuchin Prove Again They Can Work Together

Playbook : “ Speaker Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin have now cut their third major bipartisan deal — setting @ @ @ @ @ center of action for legislating in this governing configuration .
It ’ s a most @ @ @ @ @ whose presence was not appreciated — being nice here !
— during tax reform.
” @ @ @ @ @ a groove with Pelosi , and last night , they were able to work out @ @ @ @ @ with paid leave under extreme pressure .
Pelosi also secured a commitment from Mnuchin that @ @ @ @ @ of the bill — that happened before noon Friday — but that commitment was contingent @ @ @ @ @ that House Republicans had raised .
Dems were skeptical of the issues Republicans raised , @ @ @ @ @ dragging.
” “ Pelosi and Mnuchin spoke 20 times Friday by phone , the speaker @ @ @ @ @ .
”

Playbook: “Speaker Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin have now cut their third major bipartisan deal — setting the duo up as the center of action for legislating in this governing configuration. It’s a most unlikely role for Mnuchin, whose presence was not appreciated — being nice here! — during tax reform.”
“But Mcuchin has found a groove with Pelosi, and last night, they were able to work out a massively difficult technical issue with paid leave under extreme pressure. Pelosi also secured a commitment from Mnuchin that Trump would tweet in favor of the bill — that happened before noon Friday — but that commitment was contingent on solving problems on language that House Republicans had raised. Dems were skeptical of the issues Republicans raised, and saw it as foot dragging.”
“Pelosi and Mnuchin spoke 20 times Friday by phone, the speaker’s office told us.”


politicalwire--2020-03-14--Coronavirus Is Unlike Anything in Our Lifetime

Charles Ornstein : “ As a longtime health care reporter , the unfolding coronavirus pandemic represents everything I ’ ve @ @ @ @ @ early days of epidemiology to the staggering toll of the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic — @ @ @ @ @ my lifetime.
” “ And still , I have been caught off guard by the @ @ @ @ @ and even some friends and acquaintances who keep comparing it to the flu.
” “ @ @ @ @ @ I trust — not one — has said this flu comparison is valid or that @ @ @ @ @ .
Every single one , from former FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb to Harvard professor Ashish @ @ @ @ @ ’ re not doing enough , that this is far more serious than it is @ @ @ @

Charles Ornstein: “As a longtime health care reporter, the unfolding coronavirus pandemic represents everything I’ve read about — from the early days of epidemiology to the staggering toll of the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic — but had not covered in my lifetime.”
“And still, I have been caught off guard by the pushback from top elected officials and even some friends and acquaintances who keep comparing it to the flu.”
“Not one public health expert I trust — not one — has said this flu comparison is valid or that we’re overdoing it. Every single one, from former FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb to Harvard professor Ashish Jha, has said we’re not doing enough, that this is far more serious than it is being taken.”


politicalwire--2020-03-14--Trump on the Coronavirus Crisis

Trump on the Coronavirus Crisis

As President Trump attempts to blame President Barack Obama for his own handling of the coronavirus outbreak , it ’ s important to document Trump ’ s comments during this public health crisis .
These are not utterances from some of his more rambling news conferences or from his advisers .
These are Trump ’ s most direct statements as a global pandemic took hold .
January 22 : “ We have it totally under control .
It ’ s one person coming in from China .
It ’ s going to be just fine.
” ( CNBC ) February @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it down coming in from China.
” ( Fox News ) February 10 : “ A lot of people think that goes away in April with the heat—as the heat comes in.
” ( Bloomberg ) February 24 : “ The Coronavirus is very much under control in the USA… Stock market starting to look very good to me.
” ( Twitter ) February 26 : “ It ’ s going very substantially down , not up… The 15 within a couple of days , is going to be down to zero.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It ’ s going to disappear one day , it ’ s like a miracle.
” ( Twitter ) March 6 : “ I like this stuff .
I really get it .
People are surprised that I understand it… Every one of these doctors said , ‘ How do you know so much about this ?
’ Maybe I have a natural ability .
Maybe I should have done that instead of running for president.
” ( Wired ) March 6 : “ I didn ’ t know people died from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ I like the numbers being where they are.
” ( Washington Post ) March 10 : “ It will go away .
Just stay calm .
It will go away.
” ( Twitter ) March 13 : “ I don ’ t take responsibility at all because we were given a set of circumstances and we were given rules , regulations , and specifications from a different time.
” ( New York Times )

As President Trump attempts to blame President Barack Obama for his own handling of the coronavirus outbreak, it’s important to document Trump’s comments during this public health crisis.
These are not utterances from some of his more rambling news conferences or from his advisers. These are Trump’s most direct statements as a global pandemic took hold.
January 22: “We have it totally under control. It’s one person coming in from China. It’s going to be just fine.” (CNBC)
February 2: “We pretty much shut it down coming in from China.” (Fox News)
February 10: “A lot of people think that goes away in April with the heat—as the heat comes in.” (Bloomberg)
February 24: “The Coronavirus is very much under control in the USA… Stock market starting to look very good to me.” (Twitter)
February 26: “It’s going very substantially down, not up… The 15 within a couple of days, is going to be down to zero.” (CNN)
February 27: “It’s going to disappear one day, it’s like a miracle.” (Twitter)
March 6: “I like this stuff. I really get it. People are surprised that I understand it… Every one of these doctors said, ‘How do you know so much about this?’ Maybe I have a natural ability. Maybe I should have done that instead of running for president.” (Wired)
March 6: “I didn’t know people died from the flu.” (CNN)
March 6: “I like the numbers being where they are.” (Washington Post)
March 10: “It will go away. Just stay calm. It will go away.” (Twitter)
March 13: “I don’t take responsibility at all because we were given a set of circumstances and we were given rules, regulations, and specifications from a different time.” (New York Times)


politicalwire--2020-03-14--Boris Johnson Makes U-Turn and Bans Gatherings

“ Sporting events , concerts and other ‘ mass gatherings ’ will be cancelled from next week after Boris Johnson @ @ @ @ @ Government ’ s handling of coronavirus , ” the Telegraph reports .
“ The Prime @ @ @ @ @ events just 24 hours after insisting he would not be following Scotland ’ s lead @ @ @ @ @ than 500 people .
”

“Sporting events, concerts and other ‘mass gatherings’ will be cancelled from next week after Boris Johnson performed an about-turn over the Government’s handling of coronavirus,” the Telegraph reports.
“The Prime Minister decided to ban major events just 24 hours after insisting he would not be following Scotland’s lead in outlawing crowds of more than 500 people.”


politicalwire--2020-03-14--Financial Turmoil Could Turn Seriously Dangerous

Ambrose Evans-Pritchard : “ Global asset markets are priced for a light recession .
They are not priced for a @ @ @ @ @ a series of seismic aftershocks that expose the fragility of an international system with record @ @ @ @ @ of GDP ( $ 257 trillion ) .
The United Nations ’ economics arm said @ @ @ @ @ price deflation and debt distress could now set off a ‘ vicious downward spiral ’ @ @ @ @ @ stem the contagion .
”

Ambrose Evans-Pritchard: “Global asset markets are priced for a light recession. They are not priced for a deep downturn, let alone a series of seismic aftershocks that expose the fragility of an international system with record debt ratios near 322 percent of GDP ($257 trillion). The United Nations’ economics arm said a toxic mix of asset price deflation and debt distress could now set off a ‘vicious downward spiral’ if world leaders fail to stem the contagion.”


politicalwire--2020-03-14--The World Shuts Down

The World Shuts Down

Washington Post : “ Much of life in America , and across the globe , has ground to a near @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus spreads , closing schools , thwarting travel , forcing employees to telework and @ @ @ @ @ now believe the outbreak could fundamentally upend society for months.
” “ The sweeping , @ @ @ @ @ the United States accelerated in seemingly no time , with the week starting out like @ @ @ @ @ in a way few can comprehend .
”

Washington Post: “Much of life in America, and across the globe, has ground to a near halt in recent days as the coronavirus spreads, closing schools, thwarting travel, forcing employees to telework and shuttering beloved institutions. Authorities now believe the outbreak could fundamentally upend society for months.”
“The sweeping, unprecedented shutdown of activity in the United States accelerated in seemingly no time, with the week starting out like almost any other and ending in a way few can comprehend.”


politicalwire--2020-03-15--Massive Economic Disruption Is Coming

Massive Economic Disruption Is Coming

Mohamed El￼-Erian : “ Think of what is happening as a huge paradigm shift for economies , institutions and social @ @ @ @ @ critically , are not wired for such a phenomenon .
It requires us to understand @ @ @ @ @ to navigate them well but also to avoid behaviors that make the situation a lot @ @ @ @ @ line is that the economic disruptions immediately ahead will be more severe and widespread than @ @ @ @ @ bulk of the population in advanced countries.
” “ We live in a global economy @ @ @ @ @ ; and we are living through a period in which the current phase of health @ @ @ @ @ , separation and isolation — runs counter to what drives economic growth , prosperity and @ @ @ @ @ of these two basic factors will be amplified by the economics of fear and uncertainty @ @ @ @ @ to clear out supermarket shelves but sadly also reignite terrible conscious and unconscious biases .
@

Mohamed El￼-Erian: “Think of what is happening as a huge paradigm shift for economies, institutions and social norms and practices that, critically, are not wired for such a phenomenon. It requires us to understand the dynamics, not only to navigate them well but also to avoid behaviors that make the situation a lot worse.”
“The bottom line is that the economic disruptions immediately ahead will be more severe and widespread than the ones experienced by the bulk of the population in advanced countries.”
“We live in a global economy wired for ever deepening interconnectivity; and we are living through a period in which the current phase of health policy — emphasizing social distancing, separation and isolation — runs counter to what drives economic growth, prosperity and financial stability. The effects of these two basic factors will be amplified by the economics of fear and uncertainty that tempt everyone not just to clear out supermarket shelves but sadly also reignite terrible conscious and unconscious biases.”


politicalwire--2020-03-15--RNC Chair Shows Symptoms of Coronavirus

RNC Chair Shows Symptoms of Coronavirus

The Republican National Committee announced chairwoman Ronna McDaniel has self-quarantined and is awaiting the results of a coronavirus test after @ @ @ @ @ symptoms .

“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--2020-03-15--Surge in Patients Threatens to Swamp Hospitals

“ Hospitals across the United States are erecting triage tents outside emergency rooms , squeezing extra beds into break rooms @ @ @ @ @ and recommending delays in elective surgery to free up capacity as they brace for an @ @ @ @ @ , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ No one can say if the preparations @ @ @ @ @ pandemic accelerates in the coming days and weeks .
If the virus were to spread @ @ @ @ @ States as it has in China , Italy and Iran , hospital executives say the @ @ @ @ @ could be crippling , with demand for beds and some specialized equipment needed to treat @ @ @ @ @ exceeding supply .
”

“Hospitals across the United States are erecting triage tents outside emergency rooms, squeezing extra beds into break rooms and physical therapy gyms, and recommending delays in elective surgery to free up capacity as they brace for an anticipated surge in coronavirus patients,” the Washington Post reports.
“No one can say if the preparations will be enough as the pandemic accelerates in the coming days and weeks. If the virus were to spread as rapidly in the United States as it has in China, Italy and Iran, hospital executives say the burden on the health-care system could be crippling, with demand for beds and some specialized equipment needed to treat patients and protect staff far exceeding supply.”


politicalwire--2020-03-15--Trump Threatens to Remove Fed Chair

Trump Threatens to Remove Fed Chair

“ President Trump said on Saturday that he had the power to remove or demote Jerome H. Powell , the @ @ @ @ @ a long-running threat against the central bank ’ s leader at a time when it @ @ @ @ @ , ” the New York Times reports .
“ While it was a familiar threat @ @ @ @ @ continually beaten up on Mr. Powell , it was made in the midst of growing @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus could tip the United States into a recession.
” “ The mere hint @ @ @ @ @ Mr. Powell , or demote him to a Fed governor , risks further destabilizing markets @ @ @ @ @ are already fretting over the economic fallout from shut-down businesses , quarantined workers and curtailed @ @ @

“President Trump said on Saturday that he had the power to remove or demote Jerome H. Powell, the Federal Reserve chair, renewing a long-running threat against the central bank’s leader at a time when it could further roil volatile markets,” the New York Times reports.
“While it was a familiar threat from a president who has continually beaten up on Mr. Powell, it was made in the midst of growing concern that the spread of the coronavirus could tip the United States into a recession.”
“The mere hint that Mr. Trump could fire Mr. Powell, or demote him to a Fed governor, risks further destabilizing markets by worrying investors, who are already fretting over the economic fallout from shut-down businesses, quarantined workers and curtailed activity.”


politicalwire--2020-03-15--Georgia Postpones Presidential Primary

Georgia Postpones Presidential Primary

“ Georgia elections officials postponed the presidential primary scheduled for next week because of the coronavirus pandemic , becoming the @ @ @ @ @ back a vote in the race for the White House due to the outbreak , @ @ @ @ @ reports .
“ The state rescheduled the presidential vote previously scheduled for March 24 until @ @ @ @ @ date as the regular primary for a U.S. Senate seat and many other offices .
@

“Georgia elections officials postponed the presidential primary scheduled for next week because of the coronavirus pandemic, becoming the second state forced to push back a vote in the race for the White House due to the outbreak,” the Atlanta Journal Constitution reports.
“The state rescheduled the presidential vote previously scheduled for March 24 until May 19, the same date as the regular primary for a U.S. Senate seat and many other offices.”


politicalwire--2020-03-14--Trump Tested Negative for Coronavirus

Trump Tested Negative for Coronavirus

The White House physician said in a letter that President Trump ’ s test for coronavirus came back negative .
@ @ @ @ @ with several people who later tested positive .

The White House physician said in a letter that President Trump’s test for coronavirus came back negative.
He’d had contact with several people who later tested positive.


politicalwire--2020-03-15--Fed Not Likely to Consider Negative Interest Rates

Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell said Sunday that it ’ s unlikely that the central bank will entertain negative interest @ @ @ @ @ to help the economy during the coronavirus scare , CNBC reports .
After announcing a @ @ @ @ @ rates to near zero , stock market futures did not react well and were halted @ @ @ @ @ .

Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell said Sunday that it’s unlikely that the central bank will entertain negative interest rates as the next step to help the economy during the coronavirus scare, CNBC reports.
After announcing a cut of short term interest rates to near zero, stock market futures did not react well and were halted after falling nearly 5%.


politicalwire--2020-03-15--Biden Adopts Plans from Sanders and Warren

Joe Biden ’ s campaign announced he adopted two new policies from his progressive colleagues into his own progressive platform @ @ @ @ @ now supports Sen. Elizabeth Warren ’ s plan on bankruptcy and Sen. Sanders ’ education @ @ @ @ @ all public colleges and universities tuition-free for students whose families make less than $ 125,000 @

Joe Biden’s campaign announced he adopted two new policies from his progressive colleagues into his own progressive platform, Axios reports.
He now supports Sen. Elizabeth Warren’s plan on bankruptcy and Sen. Sanders’ education proposal, which would make all public colleges and universities tuition-free for students whose families make less than $125,000.


politicalwire--2020-03-15--‘I Don’t Know What Faith They Are Worshiping’

DNC chair Tom Perez told Axios he “ doesn ’ t know what faith ” supporters of President Trump are @ @ @ @ @ church after going to Trump rallies .
Said Perez : “ I think the challenge @ @ @ @ @ lot of people that go to Donald Trump rallies , and then they will go @ @ @ @ @ don ’ t know what faith they are worshipping… Donald Trump has done more to @ @ @ @ @ among us than just about any president I can think of .
”

DNC chair Tom Perez told Axios he “doesn’t know what faith” supporters of President Trump are worshipping when they go to church after going to Trump rallies.
Said Perez: “I think the challenge that I see among a lot of people that go to Donald Trump rallies, and then they will go to church on Sunday… I don’t know what faith they are worshipping… Donald Trump has done more to hurt the least of us among us than just about any president I can think of.”


politicalwire--2020-03-15--Fed Slashes Interest Rates

Fed Slashes Interest Rates

“ The Federal Reserve slashed its benchmark interest rate to near zero on Sunday and said it would buy $ @ @ @ @ @ mortgage-backed securities in an aggressive bid to prevent market disruptions from aggravating what is likely @ @ @ @ @ from the coronavirus pandemic , ” the Wall Street Journal reports .
New York Times @ @ @ @ @ key interest rate by a full percentage point , returning it to a range of @ @ @ @ @ the Fed said that it would increase its holdings of Treasury securities by at least @ @ @ @ @ holdings of government mortgage-backed securities by at least $ 200 billion ‘ over coming months @ @ @

“The Federal Reserve slashed its benchmark interest rate to near zero on Sunday and said it would buy $700 billion in Treasury and mortgage-backed securities in an aggressive bid to prevent market disruptions from aggravating what is likely to be a severe slowdown from the coronavirus pandemic,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
New York Times: “Besides cutting its key interest rate by a full percentage point, returning it to a range of 0 to 0.25 percent, the Fed said that it would increase its holdings of Treasury securities by at least $500 billion and its holdings of government mortgage-backed securities by at least $200 billion ‘over coming months.'”


politicalwire--2020-03-15--Thousands Leave Cruise Ship Without Screenings

“ Despite a positive COVID-19 test from a passenger who had disembarked days earlier , thousands of people were allowed @ @ @ @ @ in Miami Sunday without undergoing medical screening , ” the Miami Herald reports .


politicalwire--2020-03-15--Italy Records 368 Coronavirus Deaths In a Day

“ Italy has recorded 368 new coronavirus deaths – its largest number of fatalities in a day since the start @ @ @ @ @ Sky News reports .
“ A total of 1,809 people with COVID-19 have now died @ @ @ @ @ is the hardest-hit by the virus in Europe , as the number of cases rose @ @ @ @ @ ”

“Italy has recorded 368 new coronavirus deaths – its largest number of fatalities in a day since the start of the outbreak,” Sky News reports.
“A total of 1,809 people with COVID-19 have now died in the country, which is the hardest-hit by the virus in Europe, as the number of cases rose to more than 24,700.”


politicalwire--2020-03-15--Movie Ticket Sales Plunge

Movie Ticket Sales Plunge

“ Ticket sales plunged to their lowest levels in at least 20 years at North American movie theaters as the @ @ @ @ @ of Hollywood ’ s worst weekends at the box office , ” the AP reports @


politicalwire--2020-03-15--Trump Relaxing Oversight of Nursing Homes

“ The Trump administration has been working to relax regulations governing America ’ s nursing homes , including rules meant @ @ @ @ @ elderly residents , ” the New York Times reports .
“ The main federal regulator @ @ @ @ @ rule changes last summer , before the coronavirus pandemic highlighted the vulnerability of nursing homes @ @ @ @ @ push followed a spate of lobbying and campaign contributions by people in the nursing-home industry @ @

“The Trump administration has been working to relax regulations governing America’s nursing homes, including rules meant to curb deadly infections among elderly residents,” the New York Times reports.
“The main federal regulator overseeing nursing homes proposed the rule changes last summer, before the coronavirus pandemic highlighted the vulnerability of nursing homes to fast-spreading diseases. The push followed a spate of lobbying and campaign contributions by people in the nursing-home industry.”


politicalwire--2020-03-15--Trump Says He Might Pardon Michael Flynn

“ President Trump said Sunday that he is considering pardoning former national security adviser Michael Flynn , who pleaded guilty @ @ @ @ @ during its investigation of Russian interference in the 2016 election , ” the Washington Post @ @


politicalwire--2020-03-15--We Are Not Running Out of Food

We Are Not Running Out of Food

“ The aisles and aisles of empty store shelves give the appearance that the United States , improbably and alarmingly @ @ @ @ @ food , ” the New York Times reports .
“ But the nation ’ s @ @ @ @ @ and meat producers say that isn ’ t so .
The food supply chain , @ @ @ @ @ and has been ramping up to meet the unprecedented stockpiling brought on by the coronavirus @ @ @

“The aisles and aisles of empty store shelves give the appearance that the United States, improbably and alarmingly, is running out of food,” the New York Times reports.
“But the nation’s biggest retailers, dairy farmers and meat producers say that isn’t so. The food supply chain, they say, remains intact and has been ramping up to meet the unprecedented stockpiling brought on by the coronavirus pandemic.”


politicalwire--2020-03-15--A No-Handshake Presidential Debate

A No-Handshake Presidential Debate

Vanity Fair : “ As Covid-19 sweeps the country , the theater of politics is being completely reimagined .
When @ @ @ @ @ watch the debate at 8 pm , the contrast to the last debate—seven candidates , @ @ @ @ @ audience and no coronavirus—could not be more stark .
Against the backdrop of a worldwide @ @ @ @ @ originally slated for a live audience in Phoenix , will be shot from a CNN @ @ @ @ @ that ’ s been scrupulously sanitized .
Only 10 other people will be in the @ @ @ @ @ be relegated to green rooms in the back.
” “ In a way , this @ @ @ @ @ ’ s roots .
This will be the first presidential debate set in a TV @ @ @ @ @ the Kennedy-Nixon debates of 1960 .
And both candidates have stopped holding public rallies , @ @ @ @ @ even more importance .
”

Vanity Fair: “As Covid-19 sweeps the country, the theater of politics is being completely reimagined. When viewers flip on CNN to watch the debate at 8 pm, the contrast to the last debate—seven candidates, four moderators, a raucous audience and no coronavirus—could not be more stark. Against the backdrop of a worldwide pandemic, the debate, originally slated for a live audience in Phoenix, will be shot from a CNN studio in Washington, D.C. that’s been scrupulously sanitized. Only 10 other people will be in the room. Campaign staffers will be relegated to green rooms in the back.”
“In a way, this is a return to television’s roots. This will be the first presidential debate set in a TV studio with no audience since the Kennedy-Nixon debates of 1960. And both candidates have stopped holding public rallies, giving tonight’s event even more importance.”


politicalwire--2020-03-15--Ireland Orders All Pubs Closed

Ireland Orders All Pubs Closed

All pubs in Ireland , including hotel bars , have been asked to close from tonight until at least March @ @ @ @ @ the spread of the coronavirus , RTE reports .
The Government has also strongly advised @ @ @ @ @ pubs are closed .

All pubs in Ireland, including hotel bars, have been asked to close from tonight until at least March 29in a bid to curb the spread of the coronavirus, RTE reports.
The Government has also strongly advised against house parties while the pubs are closed.


politicalwire--2020-03-15--Bonus Quote of the Day

Bonus Quote of the Day

“ If you ’ re healthy , you and your family , it ’ s a great time to go @ @ @ @ @ local restaurant , likely you can get in easy .
Let ’ s not hurt @ @ @ @ @ country…go to your local pub.
” — Rep. Devin Nunes ( R-CA ) , on @ @ @ @ @ to ignore the advice of public health experts .

“If you’re healthy, you and your family, it’s a great time to go out and go to a local restaurant, likely you can get in easy. Let’s not hurt the working people in this country…go to your local pub.”
— Rep. Devin Nunes (R-CA), on Fox News, telling people to ignore the advice of public health experts.


politicalwire--2020-03-15--Sanders Bets on Biden Debate Implosion

Sanders Bets on Biden Debate Implosion

“ Virtually the entire Democratic presidential primary has been predicated on one underlying assumption : the eventual collapse of Joe @ @ @ @ @ .
“ More than a dozen of his erstwhile opponents bet their campaigns on it @ @ @ @ @ proven them all wrong .
But his last serious opponent standing , Bernie Sanders , @ @ @ @ @ same belief — and that it will finally happen on Sunday night , under the @ @ @ @ @ debate.
” “ To revive his campaign , Sanders needs to prove he ’ s @ @ @ @ @ on President Donald Trump and lead the country at a time of duress , his @ @ @ @ @ But they also acknowledge privately it ’ s going to take more than that — @ @ @ @ @ Biden to stumble.
” New York Times : For Biden and Sanders , the fight @ @ @ @

“Virtually the entire Democratic presidential primary has been predicated on one underlying assumption: the eventual collapse of Joe Biden,” Politico reports.
“More than a dozen of his erstwhile opponents bet their campaigns on it, and he’s proven them all wrong. But his last serious opponent standing, Bernie Sanders, is still clinging to the same belief — and that it will finally happen on Sunday night, under the bright lights of their one-on-one debate.”
“To revive his campaign, Sanders needs to prove he’s the best candidate to take on President Donald Trump and lead the country at a time of duress, his aides and allies say. But they also acknowledge privately it’s going to take more than that — namely, for the gaffe-prone Biden to stumble.”
New York Times: For Biden and Sanders, the fight is not personal.


politicalwire--2020-03-15--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ Our country is in a war-time scenario but we ’ re getting a Mar-a-Lago attitude from the federal government @ @ @ @ @ ventilators , surgical masks and we needed them weeks ago , when Trump was still @ @ @ @ @ ”