politicalwire--2020-01-23--Fox Business: Obama Thinks Sanders Is Unfit

“ Former President Barack Obama has remained mostly silent through the early stages of the Democratic race to unseat Donald @ @ @ @ @ election but that may soon change , friends and associates tell Fox Business , as @ @ @ @ @ in national polls and seems poised to obtain front-runner status.
” Sam Stein : “ @ @ @ @ @ worth reporting : actual sources in Obama world are giving a collective LOL to the @ @ @ @ @ putting out a statement warning against Bernie.
“

“Former President Barack Obama has remained mostly silent through the early stages of the Democratic race to unseat Donald Trump in the 2020 presidential election but that may soon change, friends and associates tell Fox Business, as avowed socialist Bernie Sanders gains in national polls and seems poised to obtain front-runner status.”
Sam Stein: “Not surprising but I guess worth reporting: actual sources in Obama world are giving a collective LOL to the idea that he is considering putting out a statement warning against Bernie.“


politicalwire--2020-01-23--Gaetz Says Trump Defense Like ‘8th Grade Book Report’

Rep. Matt Gaetz ( R-FL ) , one of President Trump ’ s most vocal allies , praised House Democrats @ @ @ @ @ the case against Trump in his impeachment trial , Business Insider reports .
Gaetz said @ @ @ @ @ the public as if it were “ cable news , ” and he praised their @ @ @ @ @ , he noted the president ’ s defense looked like “ an eighth-grade book report @ @ @ @ @ I take that back , ” he said , adding that an eighth-grader would know @ @ @ @ @ iPads .

Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL), one of President Trump’s most vocal allies, praised House Democrats for the way they presented the case against Trump in his impeachment trial, Business Insider reports.
Gaetz said they presented their case to the public as if it were “cable news,” and he praised their use of multimedia.
However, he noted the president’s defense looked like “an eighth-grade book report. Actually, no, I take that back,” he said, adding that an eighth-grader would know how to use PowerPoint and iPads.


politicalwire--2020-01-23--Trump Walks Back Comment on Entitlement Cuts

After suggesting to CNBC that he would consider cuts to entitlement programs later this year , President Trump tweeted that @ @ @ @ @ threat to Social Security and Medicare .
Said Trump : “ Democrats are going to @ @ @ @ @ I have totally left it alone , as promised , and will save it !
@

After suggesting to CNBC that he would consider cuts to entitlement programs later this year, President Trump tweeted that Democrats were actually a bigger threat to Social Security and Medicare.
Said Trump: “Democrats are going to destroy your Social Security. I have totally left it alone, as promised, and will save it!”


politicalwire--2020-01-23--‘Doomsday Clock’ Moves Closer to Midnight

The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists moved the “ Doomsday Clock ” to 100 seconds before midnight , the closest it @ @ @ @ @ the metaphorical point of the Earth ’ s destruction .
From the statement : “ @ @ @ @ @ simultaneous existential dangers—nuclear war and climate change—that are compounded by a threat multiplier , cyber-enabled @ @ @ @ @ society ’ s ability to respond .
The international security situation is dire , not @ @ @ @ @ , but because world leaders have allowed the international political infrastructure for managing them to @ @ @

The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists moved the “Doomsday Clock” to 100 seconds before midnight, the closest it’s ever been to the metaphorical point of the Earth’s destruction.
From the statement: “Humanity continues to face two simultaneous existential dangers—nuclear war and climate change—that are compounded by a threat multiplier, cyber-enabled information warfare, that undercuts society’s ability to respond. The international security situation is dire, not just because these threats exist, but because world leaders have allowed the international political infrastructure for managing them to erode.”


politicalwire--2020-01-23--Sanders Hits Back at Bank CEO Over Socialism Comments

Sen. Bernie Sanders hit back at Jamie Dimon after the JPMorgan Chase CEO derided socialism as something that leads to @ @ @ @ @ The Hill reports .
Said Sanders : “ That ’ s funny .
Jamie Dimon @ @ @ @ @ when his bank got a $ 416 billion bailout from American taxpayers .
”

Sen. Bernie Sanders hit back at Jamie Dimon after the JPMorgan Chase CEO derided socialism as something that leads to “eroding society,” The Hill reports.
Said Sanders: “That’s funny. Jamie Dimon seemed fine with corporate socialism when his bank got a $416 billion bailout from American taxpayers.”


politicalwire--2020-01-23--CNN Cancels Town Halls Because of Impeachment Trial

CNN has canceled the Democratic presidential town halls scheduled to take place next week ahead of the Iowa caucuses because @ @ @ @ @ , CNN reports .
“ The cancellation shows how the impeachment trial is upending the @ @ @ @ @ before the Iowa caucuses .
Amy Klobuchar , Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren are absent @ @ @ @ @ serve as the jurors in the trial .
”

CNN has canceled the Democratic presidential town halls scheduled to take place next week ahead of the Iowa caucuses because of the ongoing impeachment trial, CNN reports.
“The cancellation shows how the impeachment trial is upending the 2020 campaign schedule just days before the Iowa caucuses. Amy Klobuchar, Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren are absent from the trail as they serve as the jurors in the trial.”


Final Iowa Poll

The Des Moines Register and CNN will release an Iowa Poll on the Democratic presidential candidates on February 1 at @ @ @ @ @ two days before the Iowa caucuses .

“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--2020-01-23--Jim Lehrer Has Passed Away

Jim Lehrer Has Passed Away

Jim Lehrer , the co-founder and longtime anchor of PBS Newshour , passed away today .
He was 85 .
@ @ @ @ @ stands on its own — from moderating presidential debates to interviewing world leaders to writing @ @ @ @ @ .
I was lucky to know him personally and particularly enjoyed our spirited talks about @ @ @ @ @ in peace Jim .

Jim Lehrer, the co-founder and longtime anchor of PBS Newshour, passed away today. He was 85.
Lehrer’s journalism career stands on its own — from moderating presidential debates to interviewing world leaders to writing more than two dozen books.
I was lucky to know him personally and particularly enjoyed our spirited talks about politics and baseball. Rest in peace Jim.


politicalwire--2020-01-23--Trump Preparing to Release His Middle East Peace Plan

Washington Post : “ The Israeli-Palestinian plan could be unveiled before Israeli elections in March , without input from Palestinians @ @


politicalwire--2020-01-23--Bloomberg Hits Trump on His Favorite Show

Mike Bloomberg premiered his newest ad attacking President Trump during Fox & Friends , the president ’ s favorite television @ @ @ @ @ hour later , Trump exploded in a Twitter rant aimed at “ Mini Mike Bloomberg.
@ @ @ @ @ ’ s the latest example of how a plank of Bloomberg ’ s campaign revolves @ @ @ @ @ ”


politicalwire--2020-01-23--Trumps Don’t Acknowledge Their Anniversary

Yesterday was Donald and Melania Trump ’ s 15th wedding anniversary , but Kate Bennett noticed that neither has ever @ @ @ @ @ publicly since Trump took office .


politicalwire--2020-01-23--Bezos’ Phone Hack Touches Highest Levels of Power

“ If it weren ’ t for impeachment , the country ’ s biggest story would be allegations that Saudi @ @ @ @ @ hacked Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos ’ phone , ” Axios reports .
“ This would @ @ @ @ @ an American ally spying on the head of one of America ’ s largest companies @ @ @ @ @ owner of one of America ’ s most influential media outlets .
”

“If it weren’t for impeachment, the country’s biggest story would be allegations that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman hacked Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos’ phone,” Axios reports.
“This would be the nominal leader of an American ally spying on the head of one of America’s largest companies, who doubles as the owner of one of America’s most influential media outlets.”


politicalwire--2020-01-23--Cranky Uncle vs. Climate Change

Cranky Uncle vs. Climate Change

Out next month : Cranky Uncle vs .
Climate Change : How to Understand and Respond to Climate Science Deniers @ @ @ @ @ When it comes to climate change , this truly is a golden age—of fake news @ @ @ @ @ , conspiracy theories , a willfully ignorant administration , and the Cranky Uncle .
You @ @ @ @ @ have one .
That exasperating Thanksgiving blusterer digs in his heels even as the foundation @ @ @ @ @ than the Arctic ice caps .
”

Out next month: Cranky Uncle vs. Climate Change: How to Understand and Respond to Climate Science Deniers by John Cook.
“When it comes to climate change, this truly is a golden age—of fake news, post-truths, pluralistic ignorance, conspiracy theories, a willfully ignorant administration, and the Cranky Uncle. You know him. We all have one. That exasperating Thanksgiving blusterer digs in his heels even as the foundation of his denial thaws faster than the Arctic ice caps.”


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Quote of the Week

Quote of the Week

“ If you find him guilty , you must find that he be removed .
Because right matters .
And @ @ @ @ @ we are lost.
” — House manager Adam Schiff , quoted by CNN , ending @ @ @ @ @ day of President Trump ’ s impeachment trial .

“If you find him guilty, you must find that he be removed. Because right matters. And the truth matters. Otherwise we are lost.”
— House manager Adam Schiff, quoted by CNN, ending his arguments on the second day of President Trump’s impeachment trial.


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Big Majority Wants Impeachment Witnesses

A new Reuters/Ipsos poll finds 72 % of Americans agreed that the Senate impeachment trial “ should allow witnesses with @ @ @ @ @ charges to testify , ” including 84 % of Democrats and 69 % of Republicans @ @ @ @ @ About 44 % of adults in the United States say Trump should be removed from @ @ @ @ @ say he should be reprimanded formally with a congressional censure , and 31 % said @ @ @ @ @ .
”

A new Reuters/Ipsos poll finds 72% of Americans agreed that the Senate impeachment trial “should allow witnesses with firsthand knowledge of the impeachment charges to testify,” including 84% of Democrats and 69% of Republicans.
Also interesting: “About 44% of adults in the United States say Trump should be removed from office, another 15% say he should be reprimanded formally with a congressional censure, and 31% said the charges should be dismissed.”


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Regime Critic Says Saudis Tried to Kidnap Him in U.S.

Daily Beast : “ A suspected agent of the Saudi government attempted to kidnap a regime critic on American soil… @ @ @ @ @ the FBI saved him from becoming the next Jamal Khashoggi .
”


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Trump, Democrats Keep Distance from GOP Moderates

Washington Post : “ They are the most closely watched senators of President Trump ’ s impeachment trial — the @ @ @ @ @ with Democrats to call new witnesses and subpoena unseen documents .
But , a week @ @ @ @ @ are also oddly isolated.
” “ Trump has kept his distance after White House advisers @ @ @ @ @ not help his cause .
Democrats say there is no serious effort to privately lobby @ @ @ @ @ party relying instead on public opinion and the House prosecutors to squeeze them into breaking @ @ @

Washington Post: “They are the most closely watched senators of President Trump’s impeachment trial — the moderate Republicans who might vote with Democrats to call new witnesses and subpoena unseen documents. But, a week into the trial, they are also oddly isolated.”
“Trump has kept his distance after White House advisers warned him that outreach would not help his cause. Democrats say there is no serious effort to privately lobby the Republicans, with the party relying instead on public opinion and the House prosecutors to squeeze them into breaking ranks.”


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Graham Will Resist Calls for Bidens to Testify

Sen. Lindsey Graham told reporters he would resist calls from conservatives next week to try to call the whistle-blower and @ @ @ @ @ the trial , the New York Times reports .
Said Graham : “ There ’ @ @ @ @ @ pressure on me to call the whistle-blower , to call Schiff , to call Hunter @ @ @ @ @ I ’ m not going to give in to that pressure , because I don @ @ @ @ @ serve the Senate and the country well , there ’ s ways to do this @ @ @ @ @ ”

Sen. Lindsey Graham told reporters he would resist calls from conservatives next week to try to call the whistle-blower and the Bidens to testify at the trial, the New York Times reports.
Said Graham: “There’ll be a lot of pressure on me to call the whistle-blower, to call Schiff, to call Hunter Biden and Joe Biden. I’m not going to give in to that pressure, because I don’t think it will serve the Senate and the country well, there’s ways to do this outside of this trial.”


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Impeachment Trial May Hinge on Lamar Alexander

“ If you want to know how President Donald Trump ’ s impeachment trial could play out , keep your @ @ @ @ @ ” Politico reports .
“ On the most important question of the trial — whether @ @ @ @ @ — the 79-year-old Tennessee Republican is a wild-card .
Privately , senior Senate Republicans expect @ @ @ @ @ testimony to fail , but they are watching Alexander and several other Republicans closely .
@ @ @ @ @ is almost sure to be the majority position in the Senate .
”

“If you want to know how President Donald Trump’s impeachment trial could play out, keep your eye on Lamar Alexander,” Politico reports.
“On the most important question of the trial — whether or not to subpoena witnesses — the 79-year-old Tennessee Republican is a wild-card. Privately, senior Senate Republicans expect the vote to seek witness testimony to fail, but they are watching Alexander and several other Republicans closely. And wherever Alexander comes down is almost sure to be the majority position in the Senate.”


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Kamala Harris Mulls Endorsement of Biden

Sen. Kamala Harris is weighing an endorsement of Joe Biden , ” the New York Times reports .
“ Such @ @ @ @ @ Biden ’ s campaign and perhaps do even more to enhance Ms. Harris ’ s @ @ @ @ @ , but it could also anger her liberal base in California.
” “ An endorsement @ @ @ @ @ she wades into the primary race at all , would be unlikely to happen until @ @ @ @ @ .
”

Sen. Kamala Harris is weighing an endorsement of Joe Biden,” the New York Times reports.
“Such a move could lift Mr. Biden’s campaign and perhaps do even more to enhance Ms. Harris’s chances of becoming vice president, but it could also anger her liberal base in California.”
“An endorsement by Ms. Harris, if she wades into the primary race at all, would be unlikely to happen until after the Senate impeachment trial.”


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Ex-Congressman’s Son Avoids Prison

Ex-Congressman’s Son Avoids Prison

“ The son of the disgraced former Rep. Chris Collins ( R-NY ) avoided his father ’ s fate , @ @ @ @ @ years ’ probation , including six months of home confinement , instead of federal prison @ @ @ @ @ insider trading scheme , ” the Buffalo News reports .


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Extra Bonus Quote of the Day

Extra Bonus Quote of the Day

— Michael Bloomberg , quoted by the AP , when asked if the country wanted a race between two New @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Trump and Bloomberg Collide In Pricey Knife Fight

“ They are circling each other like wary boxers , with taunts on Twitter , snarky asides and belittling descriptions @ @ @ @ @ in Manhattan on parallel tracks , amassed wealth real and perceived and displayed a penchant @ @ @ @ @ things , ” the AP reports .
“ That ’ s where the similarities end @ @ @ @ @ Bloomberg could hardly be more different as people , but now they both want the @ @ @ @ @ s .
”

“They are circling each other like wary boxers, with taunts on Twitter, snarky asides and belittling descriptions. They rose to prominence in Manhattan on parallel tracks, amassed wealth real and perceived and displayed a penchant for putting their names on things,” the AP reports.
“That’s where the similarities end. President Trump and Michael Bloomberg could hardly be more different as people, but now they both want the same job: Trump’s.”


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Trump’s Privilege Threat Rallies GOP Senators

“ A growing number of Republicans are pointing to President Trump ’ s threat to invoke executive privilege in order @ @ @ @ @ subpoenas sought by Democrats for key witnesses and documents , a development that could bolster @ @ @ @ @ ’ s goal of a swift end to the impeachment trial , ” CNN reports @ @ @ @ @ privately and publicly raising concerns that issuing subpoenas — to top officials like acting White @ @ @ @ @ Mulvaney and former national security adviser John Bolton and for documents blocked by the White @ @ @ @ @ to drag out the proceedings .
Plus , many say there ’ s little appetite @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“A growing number of Republicans are pointing to President Trump’s threat to invoke executive privilege in order to make their case against subpoenas sought by Democrats for key witnesses and documents, a development that could bolster Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s goal of a swift end to the impeachment trial,” CNN reports.
“GOP senators are privately and publicly raising concerns that issuing subpoenas — to top officials like acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney and former national security adviser John Bolton and for documents blocked by the White House — will only serve to drag out the proceedings. Plus, many say there’s little appetite for such a time-consuming fight.”


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Nadler Says Trump Is a Dictator

Nadler Says Trump Is a Dictator

House manager Jerry Nadler closed out his remarks at the impeachment trial with some of the most fiery language that @ @ @ @ @ far directed at President Trump , calling him “ a dictator , ” CNN reports @ @ @ @ @ the “ first and only president ever to declare himself unaccountable and to ignore subpoenas @ @ @ @ @ s impeachment power.
” He continued : “ If he is not removed from office @ @ @ @ @ to defy the Congress entirely , categorically , to say the subpoenas from Congress in @ @ @ @ @ , then we will have lost , the House will have lost , the Senate @ @ @ @ @ all power to hold any president accountable .
”

House manager Jerry Nadler closed out his remarks at the impeachment trial with some of the most fiery language that’s been heard so far directed at President Trump, calling him “a dictator,” CNN reports.
Nadler said Trump is the “first and only president ever to declare himself unaccountable and to ignore subpoenas backed by the Constitution’s impeachment power.”
He continued: “If he is not removed from office, if he is permitted to defy the Congress entirely, categorically, to say the subpoenas from Congress in the impeachment inquiry are nonsense, then we will have lost, the House will have lost, the Senate certainly will have lost, all power to hold any president accountable.”


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Bonus Quote of the Day

Bonus Quote of the Day

— Sen. Mitt Romney ( R-UT ) , quoted CNN , when told there would be six more hours of @ @ @ @ @ Trump ’ s impeachment trial .


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Trump’s Space Force Logo Looks Like Star Trek

President Trump revealed the logo for the new Space Force branch of the military .
CNBC notes it looks a @ @ @ @ @ logo for the fictional Starfleet from the iconic science fiction television and film franchise .

President Trump revealed the logo for the new Space Force branch of the military.
CNBC notes it looks a lot like the Star Trek logo for the fictional Starfleet from the iconic science fiction television and film franchise.


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Pompeo Cuts Interview Short

Pompeo Cuts Interview Short

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo abruptly ended an NPR interview when he refused to answer questions from Mary Louise Kelly @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine ambassador Marie Yovanovitch an apology .
“ Immediately after the questions on Ukraine , @ @ @ @ @ stood , leaned in and silently glared at Kelly for a period of several seconds @ @ @ @ @ “ A few moments later , an aide asked Kelly to follow her into Pompeo @ @ @ @ @ at the State Department without a recorder .
The aide did not say the ensuing @ @ @ @ @ record.
” “ Inside the room , Pompeo shouted his displeasure at being questioned about @ @ @ @ @ expletives , according to Kelly , and asked , ‘ Do you think Americans care @ @ @ @ @ then said , ‘ People will hear about this . '
”

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo abruptly ended an NPR interview when he refused to answer questions from Mary Louise Kelly about whether he owed former Ukraine ambassador Marie Yovanovitch an apology.
“Immediately after the questions on Ukraine, the interview concluded. Pompeo stood, leaned in and silently glared at Kelly for a period of several seconds before leaving the room.”
“A few moments later, an aide asked Kelly to follow her into Pompeo’s private living room at the State Department without a recorder. The aide did not say the ensuing exchange would be off the record.”
“Inside the room, Pompeo shouted his displeasure at being questioned about Ukraine. He used repeated expletives, according to Kelly, and asked, ‘Do you think Americans care about Ukraine?’ He then said, ‘People will hear about this.'”


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Iowa Caucus App Sparks Election Security Concerns

NBC News : “ The app will be used in Iowa and Nevada by caucus managers — local registered Democrats @ @ @ @ @ and run the caucus process in each location — to expedite the process , calculate @ @ @ @ @ results back quickly .
The app will also be used in satellite voting locations across @ @ @ @ @ But questions about the app remain unanswered , including who developed it and whether it @ @ @ @ @ security testing .
”

NBC News: “The app will be used in Iowa and Nevada by caucus managers — local registered Democrats who sign up to organize and run the caucus process in each location — to expedite the process, calculate and assign delegates and report results back quickly. The app will also be used in satellite voting locations across the country and overseas. But questions about the app remain unanswered, including who developed it and whether it has been subjected to independent security testing.”


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Democrats Still May Not Have Votes for Witnesses

“ House Democrats will rest their case on Friday and , despite bipartisan praise for their presentation , it does @ @ @ @ @ its chief objective of persuading enough Republicans that they need to hear from live witnesses @ @ @ @ @ ” the New York Times reports .
Said Sen. Dick Durbin ( D-IL ) : @ @ @ @ @ phenomenal , but I ’ m skeptical he moved any votes .
”

“House Democrats will rest their case on Friday and, despite bipartisan praise for their presentation, it does not appear to have accomplished its chief objective of persuading enough Republicans that they need to hear from live witnesses and see withheld documents,” the New York Times reports.
Said Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL): “Mr. Schiff was phenomenal, but I’m skeptical he moved any votes.”
Politico: “A small minority of GOP senators may ultimately end up mildly criticizing the president’s behavior in requesting investigations into Joe Biden and delaying military aid to Ukraine. But any expressions of disapproval are muted, or explained away as an honest mistake by a frustrated president who just wanted to fight corruption in Ukraine.”


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Hannity Will Interview Trump Before Super Bowl

Fox News host Sean Hannity is set to interview President Trump during the Super Bowl pregame show , Mediaite 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--2020-01-24--Chicago Mayor Leaning Towards Bloomberg Endorsement

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot ( D ) told The Hill that she is considering throwing her support behind Michael Bloomberg @ @ @ @ @ the Chicago Sun-Times that she wasn ’ t leaning towards endorsing Joe Biden , Bernie @ @ @ @ @

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot (D) told The Hill that she is considering throwing her support behind Michael Bloomberg for president.
Lightfoot told the Chicago Sun-Times that she wasn’t leaning towards endorsing Joe Biden, Bernie Sanders or Elizabeth Warren.


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Trump Lavishes Attention on Regional Radio Hosts

Washington Post : “ Pouring attention on regional talk-radio hosts is a classic Trumpworld move : giving relatively unknown characters @ @ @ @ @ has paid off with a disproportionate amount of attention and praise lavished on the president @ @ @ @ @ The strategy has been particularly powerful as Trump and his team have engaged in what @ @ @ @ @ warfare ’ over the impeachment fight… ”

Washington Post: “Pouring attention on regional talk-radio hosts is a classic Trumpworld move: giving relatively unknown characters proximity to the White House has paid off with a disproportionate amount of attention and praise lavished on the president and his agenda.”
“The strategy has been particularly powerful as Trump and his team have engaged in what Steve Bannon calls ‘information warfare’ over the impeachment fight…”


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Trump Campaign Threatens to Not Take Part In Debates

“ Senior Trump campaign officials lobbied the nonpartisan presidential debate commission last month over the makeup of its board of @ @ @ @ @ , pushing for a process they deemed as ‘ fair ’ and warning that the @ @ @ @ @ he is not satisfied , ” the Washington Post reports .

“Senior Trump campaign officials lobbied the nonpartisan presidential debate commission last month over the makeup of its board of directors and its moderator choices, pushing for a process they deemed as ‘fair’ and warning that the president may not participate if he is not satisfied,” the Washington Post reports.


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Police Officers Fired Over Arrest of Stormy Daniels

Two Columbus Police Department vice officers have been fired and two others have been suspended for their actions in the @ @ @ @ @ a strip club in July 2018 , WSYX reports .


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Ranks of Scientists Grow Thin In Trump Administration

Washington Post : “ In the first two years of the Trump administration , more than 1,600 federal scientists left @ @ @ @ @ percent drop , compared with the 8 percent increase during the same period in the @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Van Drew Vowed In Voicemail Not to Vote for Trump

Three weeks before Rep. Jeff Van Drew ( R-NJ ) cemented his defection to the Republican Party with a pledge @ @ @ @ @ for President Trump , he sent a constituent a very different message , the Philadelphia @ @ @ @ @ voicemail : “ I haven ’ t voted for him , I didn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ not vote for him.
” “ The emergence of the voicemail comes just days before @ @ @ @ @ fly with Trump on Air Force One to a rally… which Van Drew hopes will @ @ @ @ @ him in the Republican primary .
”

Three weeks before Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ) cemented his defection to the Republican Party with a pledge of “undying support” for President Trump, he sent a constituent a very different message, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports.
From the voicemail: “I haven’t voted for him, I didn’t support him, I will not vote for him.”
“The emergence of the voicemail comes just days before Van Drew is set to fly with Trump on Air Force One to a rally… which Van Drew hopes will help gin up support for him in the Republican primary.”


politicalwire--2020-01-24--What If the Losers of the Election Don’t Concede?

Rick Hasen : “ The combination of these four factors — Republican voter suppression , pockets of incompetence , dirty @ @ @ @ @ about stolen elections — creates a volatile mix in our hyperpolarized era .
”


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Trump Approval Hits New High

Trump Approval Hits New High

A new Washington Post-ABC News poll finds President Trump ’ s approval rating has climbed to match the highest of @ @ @ @ @ to 51 % .
Key takeaway : A 56 % majority approves of Trump ’ @ @ @ @ @ , up 10 percentage points from September and his strongest rating on his marquee issue @ @ @ @ @ The findings suggest the country ’ s strong economy and heightened support from men and @ @ @ @ @ an impeachment trial in which Democrats have argued Trump abused his presidential powers and obstructed @ @ @ @ @ actions .
”

A new Washington Post-ABC News poll finds President Trump’s approval rating has climbed to match the highest of his presidency, 44% to 51%.
Key takeaway: A 56% majority approves of Trump’s handling of the economy, up 10 percentage points from September and his strongest rating on his marquee issue since entering office.
“The findings suggest the country’s strong economy and heightened support from men and independents are helping Trump weather an impeachment trial in which Democrats have argued Trump abused his presidential powers and obstructed a congressional investigation of his actions.”


politicalwire--2020-01-24--What Makes Michigan a Presidential Battleground

For members : The new edition of Inside Elections .
This edition takes a look at Michigan , one of @ @ @ @ @ election battlegrounds .
There ’ s also a deep dive into Virginia ’ s 7th @ @ @ @ @ of Democrats ’ strongest new incumbents is running for re-election in a decidedly GOP-leaning district @ @ @ @ @ a rating change in California ’ s 50th congressional district after Duncan Hunter ’ s @ @ @ @ @ running in Wyoming , Illinois , Wisconsin , North Carolina , California , and Minnesota @ @ @ @ @ not yet a member , sign up for an Annual or Monthly membership for instant @ @ @ @ @ .
And don ’ t forget : Gift Memberships are also available .

For members: The new edition of Inside Elections.
This edition takes a look at Michigan, one of the most important 2020 presidential election battlegrounds. There’s also a deep dive into Virginia’s 7th congressional district, where one of Democrats’ strongest new incumbents is running for re-election in a decidedly GOP-leaning district.


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Giuliani Promises Evidence of ‘Shocking Crimes’

Rudy Giuliani attacked the House impeachment managers on Fox & Friends this morning .
Said Giuliani : “ It ’ @ @ @ @ @ the part of the Democrats , and they should be sued for conspiracy to defraud @ @ @ @ @ they should pay for that hearing.
” He added : “ I ’ m going @ @ @ @ @ two to three weeks shocking crimes at the highest levels of both governments while the @ @ @ @ @ totally phony group of stories about non-impeachable offenses .
”

Rudy Giuliani attacked the House impeachment managers on Fox & Friends this morning.
Said Giuliani: “It’s a complete show on the part of the Democrats, and they should be sued for conspiracy to defraud the United States, and they should pay for that hearing.”
He added: “I’m going to present over the next two to three weeks shocking crimes at the highest levels of both governments while the Senate is listening to a totally phony group of stories about non-impeachable offenses.”


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Graham Explains His Absence from Senate Chamber

Sen. Lindsey Graham ( R-SC ) explained to NBC News why he stepped out of the Senate chamber before House @ @ @ @ @ him during the Clinton impeachment trial in 1999 .
Said Graham : “ I have @ @ @ @ @ , have spent more time in the bathroom than I normally do .
If I @ @ @ @ @ t get too close to me… if I would have known I was coming up @ @ @ @ @ watch .
Nobody likes watching me more than me .
”

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) explained to NBC News why he stepped out of the Senate chamber before House managers played a video of him during the Clinton impeachment trial in 1999.
Said Graham: “I have been sick as a dog, have spent more time in the bathroom than I normally do. If I were you I wouldn’t get too close to me… if I would have known I was coming up I would have stayed to watch. Nobody likes watching me more than me.”


politicalwire--2020-01-24--RNC Sends Staffers to Battleground States

“ The RNC approved plans to dispatch an additional 300 field staffers to 18 target states in this fall ’ @ @ @ @ @ move that comes as the Trump political machine ramps up its presence in battlegrounds across @ @ @ @ @ reports .


politicalwire--2020-01-24--Trump’s Defense Team Will Use Two Hours on Saturday

President Trump ’ s impeachment defense team plans to present arguments for about two hours on Saturday , an official @ @ @ @ @ to The Hill .
Their presentation is expected to start around 10 a.m .
ET @

President Trump’s impeachment defense team plans to present arguments for about two hours on Saturday, an official familiar with the strategy confirmed to The Hill.
Their presentation is expected to start around 10 a.m. ET.


politicalwire--2020-01-25--Bernie Sanders Leads In Iowa

Bernie Sanders Leads In Iowa

A new New York Times/Siena poll in Iowa finds Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic field with 25 % , followed @ @ @ @ @ % , Joe Biden at 17 % , Elizabeth Warren at 15 % and Amy @ @ @ @ @ “ Should he prevail in Iowa and face a similarly fractured field of mainstream rivals @ @ @ @ @ he also currently leads in the polls , Mr. Sanders could be difficult to slow.
@ @ @ @ @ a key takeaway : “ Ms .
Klobuchar ’ s supporters could play the most @ @ @ @ @ should she fail to achieve 15 % in most precincts .
When voters were asked @ @ @ @ @ they were left with only four choices — Mr. Sanders , Mr. Buttigieg , Mr. @ @ @ @ @ Mr. Biden was the overwhelming favorite of Ms. Klobuchar ’ s backers .
”

A new New York Times/Siena poll in Iowa finds Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic field with 25%, followed by Pete Buttigieg at 18%, Joe Biden at 17%, Elizabeth Warren at 15% and Amy Klobuchar at 8%.
“Should he prevail in Iowa and face a similarly fractured field of mainstream rivals in New Hampshire, where he also currently leads in the polls, Mr. Sanders could be difficult to slow.”
However, this is a key takeaway: “Ms. Klobuchar’s supporters could play the most crucial role, though, should she fail to achieve 15% in most precincts. When voters were asked whom they would support if they were left with only four choices — Mr. Sanders, Mr. Buttigieg, Mr. Biden and Ms. Warren — Mr. Biden was the overwhelming favorite of Ms. Klobuchar’s backers.”


politicalwire--2020-01-25--Democrats Have Tape of Trump Ordering Diplomat’s Firing

Lev Parnas told the New York Times that he had turned over to congressional Democrats a recording from 2018 of @ @ @ @ @ of Marie Yovanovitch , the United States ambassador to Ukraine at the time .
The @ @ @ @ @ pressing the Senate to call more witnesses and seek additional evidence for the trial , @ @ @ @ @ be learned about the pressure campaign against Ukraine .
Parnas located the recording after its @ @ @ @ @ ABC News .

Lev Parnas told the New York Times that he had turned over to congressional Democrats a recording from 2018 of President Trump ordering the dismissal of Marie Yovanovitch, the United States ambassador to Ukraine at the time.
The recording emerged as Democrats are pressing the Senate to call more witnesses and seek additional evidence for the trial, saying there is more to be learned about the pressure campaign against Ukraine.
Parnas located the recording after its existence was first reported by ABC News.


politicalwire--2020-01-25--Mnuchin’s Wife Deletes Post Backing Greta Thunberg

Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin ’ s wife appeared to publicly break with her husband over support for Greta Thunberg ’ @ @ @ @ @ Politico reports .
Said actress Louise Linton , in a now-deleted Instagram post : “ @ @ @ @ @ this issue .
( I don ’ t have a degree in economics either ) @ @


politicalwire--2020-01-25--Video Shows Trump Calling for Firing Ambassador

A full , 80-minute video of President Trump calling for the ambassador of Ukraine to be booted out of her @ @ @ @ @ News .
In the footage , Trump also spoke at length about beating Hilary Clinton @ @ @ @ @ , then said he would have had an even easier time beating President Barack Obama @ @ @

A full, 80-minute video of President Trump calling for the ambassador of Ukraine to be fired was released by PBS News.
New York Times: “The conversation, captured on a recording, contradicted Mr. Trump’s repeated statements that he does not know the two men, Lev Parnas and Igor Fruman, who went on to work with the president’s personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani to carry out a pressure campaign on Ukraine.”
In the footage, Trump also spoke at length about beating Hilary Clinton in the 2016 presidential race, then said he would have had an even easier time beating President Barack Obama in 2012.


politicalwire--2020-01-25--Romney ‘Very Likely’ to Vote for Witnesses

Sen. Mitt Romney told CNN that it ’ s “ very likely ” that he ’ ll be in favor @ @ @ @ @ impeachment trial of President Trump , but won ’ t decide until after opening arguments @ @ @ @ @ Lamar Alexander is GOP wildcard on witnesses .

Sen. Mitt Romney told CNN that it’s “very likely” that he’ll be in favor of calling witnesses in the impeachment trial of President Trump, but won’t decide until after opening arguments.
New York Times: Lamar Alexander is GOP wildcard on witnesses.


politicalwire--2020-01-25--Biden Draws Tiny Crowds In Iowa

Biden Draws Tiny Crowds In Iowa

Walter Shapiro : “ Biden is drawing significantly smaller Iowa crowds than Pete Buttigieg , Bernie Sanders , or Elizabeth @ @ @ @ @ Biden may have played to more packed rooms in the run-up to the 2008 caucuses @ @ @ @ @ with an embarrassingly weak fifth-place finish.
” “ Crowd size is often over-hyped in politics @ @ @ @ @ ) , but turnout at candidate events matters in Iowa and New Hampshire .
A @ @ @ @ @ go out of their way to see candidates in person.
” “ Biden supporters would @ @ @ @ @ meetings represents a flawed gauge since Iowa voters know him so well .
But Sanders @ @ @ @ @ figure—he is even recycling many of the same lines he used on the campaign trail @ @ @ @ @ draws huge crowds .
His familiarity hasn ’ t dampened the enthusiasm for his candidacy @ @

Walter Shapiro: “Biden is drawing significantly smaller Iowa crowds than Pete Buttigieg, Bernie Sanders, or Elizabeth Warren. In fact, Biden may have played to more packed rooms in the run-up to the 2008 caucuses in which he limped home with an embarrassingly weak fifth-place finish.”
“Crowd size is often over-hyped in politics (see Trump, Donald), but turnout at candidate events matters in Iowa and New Hampshire. A significant fraction of early-state voters go out of their way to see candidates in person.”
“Biden supporters would argue that turnout at town meetings represents a flawed gauge since Iowa voters know him so well. But Sanders is also a familiar political figure—he is even recycling many of the same lines he used on the campaign trail in 2016—and yet he still draws huge crowds. His familiarity hasn’t dampened the enthusiasm for his candidacy.”


politicalwire--2020-01-25--Trump Looks for Democrat to Vote for Acquittal

“ President Trump and White House officials are looking for at least one Senate Democrat to vote against removing the @ @ @ @ @ end of his impeachment trial and they see Joe Manchin as the most likely candidate @ @ @ @ @ reports .
“ Trump took particular pride that three House Democrats voted against his impeachment @ @ @ @ @ , and he would like to be able to get at least one Senate Democrat @ @ @ @ @ so he can claim the decision was bipartisan .
”

“President Trump and White House officials are looking for at least one Senate Democrat to vote against removing the president from office at the end of his impeachment trial and they see Joe Manchin as the most likely candidate,” the Washington Post reports.
“Trump took particular pride that three House Democrats voted against his impeachment, White House officials said, and he would like to be able to get at least one Senate Democrat to vote for his acquittal so he can claim the decision was bipartisan.”


politicalwire--2020-01-25--Democratic Candidates Pour Into Iowa

Democratic Candidates Pour Into Iowa

“ Freed momentarily from the Senate ’ s impeachment trial , several presidential candidates high-tailed it to Iowa on Saturday @ @ @ @ @ campaigning before the state ’ s caucuses kick off the battle for the Democratic nomination @ @ @ @ @ .
“ The burst of campaigning comes as the contest for the Democratic nomination enters @ @ @ @ @ — phase .
”

“Freed momentarily from the Senate’s impeachment trial, several presidential candidates high-tailed it to Iowa on Saturday for a last-minute blitz of campaigning before the state’s caucuses kick off the battle for the Democratic nomination,” the AP reports.
“The burst of campaigning comes as the contest for the Democratic nomination enters a critical — and volatile — phase.”


politicalwire--2020-01-25--Pompeo Slams NPR Reporter

Pompeo Slams NPR Reporter

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo released a scathing statement against NPR ’ s Mary Louise Kelly following an interview , @ @ @ @ @ is another example of how unhinged the media has become in its quest to hurt @ @ @ @ @ , ” but not denying her account , Axios reports .

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo released a scathing statement against NPR’s Mary Louise Kelly following an interview, claiming, their talk “is another example of how unhinged the media has become in its quest to hurt President Trump and this Administration,” but not denying her account, Axios reports.


politicalwire--2020-01-25--Sinking in the Swamp

Sinking in the Swamp

Coming soon : Sinking in the Swamp : How Trump ’ s Minions and Misfits Poisoned Washington by Lachlan Markay @ @ @ @ @ An eyewitness account of Donald Trump ’ s clown car of lieutenants and lackeys who @ @ @ @ @ power with their unprecedented awfulness .
”

Coming soon: Sinking in the Swamp: How Trump’s Minions and Misfits Poisoned Washington by Lachlan Markay and Asawin Suebsaeng.
“An eyewitness account of Donald Trump’s clown car of lieutenants and lackeys who have polluted the corridors of power with their unprecedented awfulness.”


The Impeachment Timeline

Playbook : “ We anticipate the Trump defense will last today and Monday .
Then Senate questions are Tuesday and @ @ @ @ @ to use this time , in part , to rebut the Trump defense .
The @ @ @ @ @ be Thursday — probably a vote on witnesses , as well .
If there are @ @ @ @ @ d guess they ’ ll close Friday , and deliberate into Saturday .
Vote could @ @ @ @ @ ” “ If there are witnesses , this whole timeline is blown up , and @ @ @ @ @ weeks .
”

Playbook: “We anticipate the Trump defense will last today and Monday. Then Senate questions are Tuesday and Wednesday — Dems are expected to use this time, in part, to rebut the Trump defense. The debate on witnesses will probably be Thursday — probably a vote on witnesses, as well. If there are no witnesses, we’d guess they’ll close Friday, and deliberate into Saturday. Vote could come next Saturday or Monday.”
“If there are witnesses, this whole timeline is blown up, and the process will continue for weeks.”


politicalwire--2020-01-25--Trump’s Idea of Executive Power Is His Defense

Associated Press : “ Donald Trump has always been a man of absolutes .
Something is the best or the @ @ @ @ @ a winner or a total loser , an event has never happened before , even @ @ @ @ @ Absolutism was the unwritten credo of his career in business and is the guiding light @ @ @ @ @ makes an assertion rarely heard from an American president : that he can do as @ @ @ @ @ that approach faces its ultimate test as a foundation of Trump ’ s defense in @ @ @ @ @ that he is cloaked with unrestrained authority .
How that question is answered , both @ @ @ @ @ impeachment trial and by voters in November , will define how Americans view the concept @ @ @ @ @

Associated Press: “Donald Trump has always been a man of absolutes. Something is the best or the worst, a person is a winner or a total loser, an event has never happened before, even when it has.”
“Absolutism was the unwritten credo of his career in business and is the guiding light of his presidency as he makes an assertion rarely heard from an American president: that he can do as he pleases.”
“Now that approach faces its ultimate test as a foundation of Trump’s defense in his impeachment trial, namely that he is cloaked with unrestrained authority. How that question is answered, both by the Senate in the impeachment trial and by voters in November, will define how Americans view the concept of presidential power.”


politicalwire--2020-01-25--Democrats Look Ahead to Super Tuesday Contests

Wall Street Journal : “ Several of the leading Democratic candidates are girding for a long fight for the presidential @ @ @ @ @ of bets on states that will be part of a slate of Super Tuesday contests @ @ @ @ @ March , when nearly two-thirds of the delegates to the party ’ s July convention @ @ @ @ @ Even as the candidates are seeking a boost in Iowa , which holds its caucuses @ @ @ @ @ New Hampshire , which will have the nation ’ s first primary Feb. 11 , @ @ @ @ @ 2020 primary map is forcing campaigns to make decisions early about which states to target @ @ @ @ @ Democratic voting wraps up in Nevada and South Carolina by late February .
”

Wall Street Journal: “Several of the leading Democratic candidates are girding for a long fight for the presidential nomination by making a series of bets on states that will be part of a slate of Super Tuesday contests and other primaries scheduled for March, when nearly two-thirds of the delegates to the party’s July convention will be awarded.”
“Even as the candidates are seeking a boost in Iowa, which holds its caucuses Feb. 3, and in New Hampshire, which will have the nation’s first primary Feb. 11, the front-loaded nature of the 2020 primary map is forcing campaigns to make decisions early about which states to target after the first round of Democratic voting wraps up in Nevada and South Carolina by late February.”


politicalwire--2020-01-25--Biden Picks Up Another Iowa Endorsement

Biden Picks Up Another Iowa Endorsement

Rep. Cindy Axne ( D-IA ) has decided to back Joe Biden for president , the Des Moines Register reports @ @ @ @ @ is the latest in a string of high-profile endorsements for the former vice president among @ @ @ @ @ former elected Democratic leaders .
Two former governors — Chet Culver and Tom Vilsack — @ @ @ @ @ has U.S. Rep. Abby Finkenauer .
”

Rep. Cindy Axne (D-IA) has decided to back Joe Biden for president, the Des Moines Register reports.
“Axne’s is the latest in a string of high-profile endorsements for the former vice president among Iowa’s current and former elected Democratic leaders. Two former governors — Chet Culver and Tom Vilsack — have endorsed Biden, as has U.S. Rep. Abby Finkenauer.”


politicalwire--2020-01-25--Bloomberg’s Window May Soon Open

Bloomberg’s Window May Soon Open

This piece is only available to Political Wire members .
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Michael Bloomberg, who has spent the last few months and hundreds of millions of dollars campaigning for president, may soon find out if his strategy of skipping the first four contests for the Democratic presidential nomination was wise.


politicalwire--2020-01-25--Trump’s Defense Strategy Will Target Bidens

“ White House lawyers are gearing up for a scorched-earth defense of President Trump in the impeachment trial , mounting @ @ @ @ @ more at swaying American voters than GOP senators — and damaging Trump ’ s possible @ @ @ @ @ , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ Pat Cipollone , the White House counsel @ @ @ @ @ Trump ’ s personal attorney , plan to use their time in the trial to @ @ @ @ @ and his son , Hunter… Trump ’ s allies believe that if they can argue @ @ @ @ @ plausible reason for requesting the Biden investigation in Ukraine , they can both defend him @ @ @ @ @ gain the bonus of undercutting a political adversary.
” Politico : “ After sitting silently @ @ @ @ @ three full days , White House and personal lawyers to the president plan to turn @ @ @ @ @ uninterrupted attack on the former vice president — a frontrunner to be the Democrats ’ @ @ @ @

“White House lawyers are gearing up for a scorched-earth defense of President Trump in the impeachment trial, mounting a politically charged case aimed more at swaying American voters than GOP senators — and damaging Trump’s possible 2020 opponent, Joe Biden,” the Washington Post reports.
“Pat Cipollone, the White House counsel, and Jay Sekulow, Trump’s personal attorney, plan to use their time in the trial to target the former vice president and his son, Hunter… Trump’s allies believe that if they can argue that the president had a plausible reason for requesting the Biden investigation in Ukraine, they can both defend him against the impeachment charges and gain the bonus of undercutting a political adversary.”
Politico: “After sitting silently on the Senate floor for three full days, White House and personal lawyers to the president plan to turn his impeachment trial into an uninterrupted attack on the former vice president — a frontrunner to be the Democrats’ 2020 nominee.”


politicalwire--2020-01-26--Top New Hampshire Newspaper Backs Klobuchar

The New Hampshire Union Leader endorsed Sen. Amy Klobuchar in the Democratic presidential primary .
“ If there is to @ @ @ @ @ Trump in November , the Democratic nominee needs to have a proven and substantial record @ @ @ @ @ , an ability to unite rather than divide , and the strength and stamina to @ @ @ @ @ ” “ That would be U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota .
She is sharp @ @ @ @ @ commanding understanding of both history and the inner workings of Capitol Hill .
”

The New Hampshire Union Leader endorsed Sen. Amy Klobuchar in the Democratic presidential primary.
“If there is to be any realistic challenge to Trump in November, the Democratic nominee needs to have a proven and substantial record of accomplishment across party lines, an ability to unite rather than divide, and the strength and stamina to go toe-to-toe with the Tweeter-in-Chief.”
“That would be U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota. She is sharp and witty, with a commanding understanding of both history and the inner workings of Capitol Hill.”


politicalwire--2020-01-26--Clinton Calls Zuckerberg ‘Authoritarian’ and ‘Trumpian’

Hillary Clinton told The Atlantic that she ’ s horrified and alarmed by what she views as Mark Zuckerberg ’ @ @ @ @ @ spread of disinformation and propaganda on Facebook .

“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--2020-01-26--Obama Called Trump a Fascist In Call with Senator

President Barack Obama called Donald Trump a “ fascist ” in a phone conversation with Sen. Tim Kaine during the @ @ @ @ @ says in a video clip featured in an upcoming documentary about Hillary Clinton , NBC @ @ @ @ @ : “ President Obama called me last night and said : ‘ Tim , remember @ @ @ @ @ to be a purist .
You ’ ve got to keep a fascist out of @ @ @ @ @ ”

President Barack Obama called Donald Trump a “fascist” in a phone conversation with Sen. Tim Kaine during the 2016 presidential election, Kaine says in a video clip featured in an upcoming documentary about Hillary Clinton, NBC News reports.
Said Kaine: “President Obama called me last night and said: ‘Tim, remember, this is no time to be a purist. You’ve got to keep a fascist out of the White House.'”


politicalwire--2020-01-26--Largest Iowa Newspaper Backs Warren

Largest Iowa Newspaper Backs Warren

The Des Moines Register endorsed Sen. Elizabeth Warren in the Iowa caucuses , calling her “ the best leader for @ @ @ @ @ : “ And while I don ’ t want to over-hype newspapers in 2020 , @ @ @ @ @ get the most mileage out of the Register ’ s nod .
This is a @ @ @ @ @ her .
”

The Des Moines Register endorsed Sen. Elizabeth Warren in the Iowa caucuses, calling her “the best leader for these times.”
Walter Shapiro: “And while I don’t want to over-hype newspapers in 2020, Warren has the organization to get the most mileage out of the Register’s nod. This is a bit of a boost for her.”


politicalwire--2020-01-25--Video Made Public of Trump Discussing Ukraine

A full , 80-minute video of President Trump calling for the ambassador of Ukraine to be fired was released by @ @ @ @ @ Times : “ The conversation , captured on a recording , contradicted Mr. Trump ’ @ @ @ @ @ does not know the two men , Lev Parnas and Igor Fruman , who went @ @ @ @ @ president ’ s personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani to carry out a pressure campaign on Ukraine.
@ @ @ @ @ Trump also spoke at length about beating Hilary Clinton in the 2016 presidential race , @ @ @ @ @ had an even easier time beating President Barack Obama in 2012 .

A full, 80-minute video of President Trump calling for the ambassador of Ukraine to be fired was released by PBS News.
New York Times: “The conversation, captured on a recording, contradicted Mr. Trump’s repeated statements that he does not know the two men, Lev Parnas and Igor Fruman, who went on to work with the president’s personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani to carry out a pressure campaign on Ukraine.”
In the footage, Trump also spoke at length about beating Hilary Clinton in the 2016 presidential race, then said he would have had an even easier time beating President Barack Obama in 2012.


politicalwire--2020-01-26--Sanders Leads In New Hampshire

Sanders Leads In New Hampshire

A new NBC News/Marist poll in New Hampshire shows Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic presidential race with 22 % , @ @ @ @ @ 17 % , Joe Biden at 15 % , Elizabeth Warren at 13 % , @ @ @ @ @ % .


politicalwire--2020-01-26--Biden and Sanders Lead Democrats Nationally

A new Fox News poll finds Joe Biden leading nationally with 26 % support among Democratic primary voters and Bernie @ @ @ @ @ are followed by Elizabeth Warren at 14 % , Mike Bloomberg at 10 % , @ @ @ @ @ , Andrew Yang at 5 % , and Amy Klobuchar and Tom Steyer are at @ @ @ @ @ interesting : Each Democrat tested beats Trump in head–to-head matchups .

A new Fox News poll finds Joe Biden leading nationally with 26% support among Democratic primary voters and Bernie Sanders 23%.
They are followed by Elizabeth Warren at 14%, Mike Bloomberg at 10%, Pete Buttigieg at 7%, Andrew Yang at 5%, and Amy Klobuchar and Tom Steyer are at 3% apiece.
Also interesting: Each Democrat tested beats Trump in head–to-head matchups.


politicalwire--2020-01-26--Warren May Get Endorsement Boost In Iowa

FiveThirtyEight : “ Warren ’ s odds of winning Iowa are a bit lower than other candidates in our forecast @ @ @ @ @ got about a 1 in 9 shot compared to Biden and Sanders ’ s 1 @ @ @ @ @ she ’ s also not that far behind ( Buttigieg has a 1 in 4 @ @ @ @ @ news for Warren is that the Des Moines Register ’ s endorsement has historically given @ @ @ @ @ the polls — though we should be careful not to overstate its importance.
” “ @ @ @ @ @ 1988 , when the paper first began endorsing candidates before the caucuses , candidates have @ @ @ @ @ from where their polling average in Iowa was before the endorsement to how they ultimately @ @ @ @ @ their vote share ) , according to historical polling average data from FiveThirtyEight ’ s @ @ @ @ @ shows Warren learning she won the endorsement of Iowa ’ s biggest newspaper .

FiveThirtyEight: “Warren’s odds of winning Iowa are a bit lower than other candidates in our forecast — she’s only got about a 1 in 9 shot compared to Biden and Sanders’s 1 in 3 shot, but she’s also not that far behind (Buttigieg has a 1 in 4 chance). The good news for Warren is that the Des Moines Register’s endorsement has historically given its recipient a boost in the polls — though we should be careful not to overstate its importance.”
“But on average, since 1988, when the paper first began endorsing candidates before the caucuses, candidates have gotten about a 4-point boost from where their polling average in Iowa was before the endorsement to how they ultimately fared in the caucuses (their vote share), according to historical polling average data from FiveThirtyEight’s forecast model.”
A video shows Warren learning she won the endorsement of Iowa’s biggest newspaper.


politicalwire--2020-01-26--Half Think Trump Should Be Convicted by Senate

A new Fox News poll found that 50 % of Americans think that the Senate should vote to convict and @ @ @ @ @ % say the upper chamber should not vote to remove the president .
However , @ @ @ @ @ hit a new high of 91 % among Republicans in the survey .

A new Fox News poll found that 50% of Americans think that the Senate should vote to convict and remove Trump, while 44% say the upper chamber should not vote to remove the president.
However, Trump’s approval rating hit a new high of 91% among Republicans in the survey.


politicalwire--2020-01-26--Tight Race In Iowa

Tight Race In Iowa

A new CBS News poll in Iowa shows Bernie Sanders is leading the Democratic presidential race with 26 % , @ @ @ @ @ 25 % , Pete Buttigieg at 22 % , Elizabeth Warren at 15 % and @ @ @ @ @ .
Key takeaway : “ Party rules make 15 % the typical cutoff for awarding @ @ @ @ @ shift to other candidates if they don ’ t reach this threshold .
So , @ @ @ @ @ look at voters ’ second choices and who else they ’ re considering , too.
@ @ @ @ @ get a boost from his status as the second choice of those backing Amy Klobuchar @ @ @ @ @ those polling lower… Meanwhile , Warren is right on the line , and her backers @ @ @ @ @ , more so than Biden or Buttigieg .
That would mean Sanders could stand to @ @ @ @ @ if Warren backers don ’ t make the cut in some places .
If Warren @ @ @ @ @ or gains , this race will remain tight .
”

A new CBS News poll in Iowa shows Bernie Sanders is leading the Democratic presidential race with 26%, followed by Joe Biden at 25%, Pete Buttigieg at 22%, Elizabeth Warren at 15% and Amy Klobuchar at 7%.
Key takeaway: “Party rules make 15% the typical cutoff for awarding delegates, and supporters can shift to other candidates if they don’t reach this threshold. So, it’s critical to look at voters’ second choices and who else they’re considering, too.”
“Joe Biden could get a boost from his status as the second choice of those backing Amy Klobuchar, as well as from those polling lower… Meanwhile, Warren is right on the line, and her backers’ second choice is Sanders, more so than Biden or Buttigieg. That would mean Sanders could stand to pick up even more delegates if Warren backers don’t make the cut in some places. If Warren holds at her current level or gains, this race will remain tight.”


politicalwire--2020-01-26--Schiff Says Exoneration Not Possible Without Witnesses

Rep. Adam Schiff told NBC News the White House defense is “ deathly afraid of what witnesses will have to @ @ @ @ @ they ’ re successful in depriving the country of a fair trial , there is @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-01-26--McConnell Looks to Finish Impeachment Trial

Politico : “ The Republican strategy — which is still fluid — could mean senators have limited time between key @ @ @ @ @ vote on whether to convict the president of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress @ @ @ @ @ growing against additional witnesses being called , Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell ( R-KY ) @ @ @ @ @ how fast he can bring the proceedings to an end.
” “ Sen .
John @ @ @ @ @ vote could take place as soon as Friday — if senators don ’ t agree @ @ @ @ @ documentary evidence .
Under the organizing resolution that controls the proceedings , Democrats could offer @ @ @ @ @ votes down deposing additional witnesses — including former national security adviser John Bolton — but @ @ @ @ @ shut down debate and call for an up-or-down vote on acquittal .
”

Politico: “The Republican strategy — which is still fluid — could mean senators have limited time between key procedural votes and the final vote on whether to convict the president of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. And with the odds growing against additional witnesses being called, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) will face critical decisions on how fast he can bring the proceedings to an end.”
“Sen. John Barrasso suggested that an acquittal vote could take place as soon as Friday — if senators don’t agree to subpoena additional witnesses or documentary evidence. Under the organizing resolution that controls the proceedings, Democrats could offer additional motions if the Senate votes down deposing additional witnesses — including former national security adviser John Bolton — but Republicans could then move to shut down debate and call for an up-or-down vote on acquittal.”


10% Less Democracy

Just published : 10 % Less Democracy : Why You Should Trust Elites a Little More and the Masses a @ @ @ @ @ .
“ The richest , most democratic nations would be better off if they slightly @ @ @ @ @ public , turning up the dial on elite influence .
”

Just published: 10% Less Democracy: Why You Should Trust Elites a Little More and the Masses a Little Less by Garett Jones.
“The richest, most democratic nations would be better off if they slightly reduced accountability to the voting public, turning up the dial on elite influence.”


politicalwire--2020-01-26--Trump Threatens Schiff In Tweets

Trump Threatens Schiff In Tweets

President Trump slammed House manager Adam Schiff as a “ CORRUPT POLITICIAN ” who is “ now exposed for illegally @ @ @ @ @ , & more !
” He added that “ Shifty ” has “ not paid @ @ @ @ @ for what he has done to our Country !
”

President Trump slammed House manager Adam Schiff as a “CORRUPT POLITICIAN” who is “now exposed for illegally making up my phone call, & more!”
He added that “Shifty” has “not paid the price, yet, for what he has done to our Country!”


politicalwire--2020-01-26--Dershowitz Called Trump ‘Destabilizing’ In 2016

“ As part of President Trump ’ s impeachment defense team , Alan Dershowitz is expected to argue on behalf @ @ @ @ @ Senate trial early next week .
But in a 2016 book he authored , the @ @ @ @ @ a ‘ destabilizing and unpredictable candidate , ’ warning that the then-presidential candidate ‘ openly @ @ @ @ @ by extremists , ' ” NBC News reports .
Dershowitz explained his comments : “ @ @ @ @ @ Clinton at the time .
I hadn ’ t really ever met President Trump and @ @ @ @ @ rhetoric .
I would not repeat that characterization today having met him .
”

“As part of President Trump’s impeachment defense team, Alan Dershowitz is expected to argue on behalf of the president at the Senate trial early next week. But in a 2016 book he authored, the famed defense attorney called Trump a ‘destabilizing and unpredictable candidate,’ warning that the then-presidential candidate ‘openly embraces fringe conspiracy theories peddled by extremists,'” NBC News reports.
Dershowitz explained his comments: “I was campaigning for Hillary Clinton at the time. I hadn’t really ever met President Trump and it was just typical campaign rhetoric. I would not repeat that characterization today having met him.”


politicalwire--2020-01-26--Yang Will Be Back on Debate Stage

Yang Will Be Back on Debate Stage

After failing to qualify for a debate in Iowa earlier this month , Andrew Yang has earned a spot at @ @ @ @ @ , in New Hampshire on February 7 , Politico reports .
Yang will be joined @ @ @ @ @ Buttigieg , Amy Klobuchar , Bernie Sanders , Tom Steyer and Elizabeth Warren .

After failing to qualify for a debate in Iowa earlier this month, Andrew Yang has earned a spot at the next Democratic primary debate, in New Hampshire on February 7, Politico reports.
Yang will be joined by Joe Biden, Pete Buttigieg, Amy Klobuchar, Bernie Sanders, Tom Steyer and Elizabeth Warren.


politicalwire--2020-01-26--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ I feel terrible about the fact that Monica Lewinsky ’ s life was defined by it , unfairly I @ @ @ @ @ I watched her trying to get a normal life back again .
But you got @ @ @ @ @ normal.
” — Bill Clinton , discussing the scandal that caused him to be impeached @ @ @ @ @ .

“I feel terrible about the fact that Monica Lewinsky’s life was defined by it, unfairly I think. Over the years I watched her trying to get a normal life back again. But you gotta decide how to define normal.”
— Bill Clinton, discussing the scandal that caused him to be impeached in the forthcoming documentary Hillary.


politicalwire--2020-01-26--Sanders Pulls Away In New Hampshire

Sanders Pulls Away In New Hampshire

A new CNN poll in New Hampshire finds Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic presidential race with 25 % , followed @ @ @ @ @ % , Pete Buttigieg at 15 % and Elizabeth Warren at 12 % % .
@ @ @ @ @ Klobuchar at 6 % , Tulsi Gabbard at 5 % and Andrew Yang at 5 @ @

A new CNN poll in New Hampshire finds Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic presidential race with 25%, followed by Joe Biden at 16%, Pete Buttigieg at 15% and Elizabeth Warren at 12%%.
They are followed by Amy Klobuchar at 6%, Tulsi Gabbard at 5% and Andrew Yang at 5%.


politicalwire--2020-01-26--Biden and Sanders Break Away from the Pack

A Washington Post-ABC News national poll finds former vice president Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders , whose candidacies embody competing @ @ @ @ @ , at 32 % and 23 % among Democratic-leaning voters .
Elizabeth Warren , the @ @ @ @ @ in double digits nationally , is at 12 % , down significantly from 23 % @ @ @

A Washington Post-ABC News national poll finds former vice president Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders, whose candidacies embody competing wings of the Democratic Party, at 32% and 23% among Democratic-leaning voters.
Elizabeth Warren, the only other Democratic presidential candidate in double digits nationally, is at 12%, down significantly from 23% in October.


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Senate Republicans Shaken by Bolton Revelations

Playbook : “ Republicans have done a good job during this process projecting confidence in their mastery of the situation , and their ability to deliver for the president.
” “ But as of late Sunday , our GOP sources said they could not predict what was going to happen now with witnesses , and the Republican Conference lunch today will be key in determining the state of play .
In other words , these top-level sources were allowing that things may have changed .
We have yet to see if Republicans will brush off this new development , or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to vote for witnesses.
” “ Bolton is not Lev Parnas or one of these other characters who has sprouted up in the Trump era .
He ’ s a through-and-through conservative who was so far to the right that George W. Bush had to wait for recess to make him his U.N. envoy .
He ’ s known to members of the Senate.
” “ Here ’ s the dilemma for Republicans now : If you ’ re one of the Republicans who were already uncomfortable with this president , how do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seeing this ?
Remember : Bolton is publishing an entire book , and so far we know only what he ’ s said on Ukraine — not everything else he ’ s seen .
”

Playbook: “Republicans have done a good job during this process projecting confidence in their mastery of the situation, and their ability to deliver for the president.”
“But as of late Sunday, our GOP sources said they could not predict what was going to happen now with witnesses, and the Republican Conference lunch today will be key in determining the state of play. In other words, these top-level sources were allowing that things may have changed. We have yet to see if Republicans will brush off this new development, or whether it will push enough of them to vote for witnesses.”
“Bolton is not Lev Parnas or one of these other characters who has sprouted up in the Trump era. He’s a through-and-through conservative who was so far to the right that George W. Bush had to wait for recess to make him his U.N. envoy. He’s known to members of the Senate.”
“Here’s the dilemma for Republicans now: If you’re one of the Republicans who were already uncomfortable with this president, how do you vote to not call Bolton after seeing this? Remember: Bolton is publishing an entire book, and so far we know only what he’s said on Ukraine — not everything else he’s seen.”


politicalwire--2020-01-27--The Room Where It Happened

The Room Where It Happened

John Bolton ’ s bombshell book that leaked last night now has a title : The Room Where It Happened @ @ @ @ @ .
It is scheduled for release on March 17 .

John Bolton’s bombshell book that leaked last night now has a title: The Room Where It Happened: A White House Memoir.
It is scheduled for release on March 17.


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Trump Begins Election Year In Competitive Position

Washington Post-ABC News poll : “ With just over nine months until Election Day , Americans see Trump as a @ @ @ @ @ with 49 % expecting him to win and 43 % predicting that his Democratic challenger @ @ @ @

“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--2020-01-27--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ The Senate needs to hear from Bolton .
The American people deserve to hear from Bolton .
If we @ @ @ @ @ let ’ s get a subpoena for the book !
”


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Sanders and Biden Each Get a Good Poll In Iowa

A new Emerson College/7 News Poll in Iowa finds Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic presidential race with 30 % , @ @ @ @ @ 21 % , Amy Klobuchar 13 % , Elizabeth Warren at 11 % and Pete @ @ @ @ @ They are followed by Tom Steyer and Tulsi Gabbard both at 5 % .
A @ @ @ @ @ leading with 25 % , followed by Sanders at 19 % , Buttigieg at 18 @ @ @ @ @ % and Klobucahr at 6 % .

A new Emerson College/7 News Poll in Iowa finds Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic presidential race with 30%, followed by Joe Biden at 21%, Amy Klobuchar 13%, Elizabeth Warren at 11% and Pete Buttigieg at 10%.
They are followed by Tom Steyer and Tulsi Gabbard both at 5%.
A USA Today/Suffolk poll finds Biden leading with 25%, followed by Sanders at 19%, Buttigieg at 18%, Warren at 13% and Klobucahr at 6%.


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Ex-U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Responds to Pompeo

Former U.S .
Ambassador to Ukraine William Taylor responds in the New York Times to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo @ @ @ @ @ private to an NPR reporter : “ Do you think Americans care about Ukraine ?
@ @ @ @ @ is to support a rules-based international order that avoided war among major powers in Europe @ @ @ @ @ is to support democracy over autocracy .
It is to support freedom over unfreedom .
@ @ @ @ @

Former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine William Taylor responds in the New York Times to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s sarcastic question in private to an NPR reporter: “Do you think Americans care about Ukraine?”
“To support Ukraine is to support a rules-based international order that avoided war among major powers in Europe for seven decades. It is to support democracy over autocracy. It is to support freedom over unfreedom. Most Americans do.”


Bloomberg Watch

After the most recent set of polls this weekend , Michael Bloomberg has now surpassed Pete Buttigieg in the RealClearPolitics @ @ @ @ @ now running fourth behind Joe Biden , Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren .
Earlier for @ @ @ @ @ Window May Soon Open

After the most recent set of polls this weekend, Michael Bloomberg has now surpassed Pete Buttigieg in the RealClearPolitics national polling average and is now running fourth behind Joe Biden, Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren.
Earlier for members: Bloomberg’s Window May Soon Open


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Four Bombshells from John Bolton’s Draft Manuscript

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politicalwire--2020-01-27--Bernie Sanders Braces for Backlash

Bernie Sanders Braces for Backlash

BuzzFeed News : “ With the series of polls showing Sanders at the top of the field in the first @ @ @ @ @ out on Sunday alone , along with a national poll that has Sanders and Biden @ @ @ @ @ a feeling of palpable anticipation inside and around the campaign over what backlash , if @ @ @ @ @ ” “ Some rivals are already trying to capitalize on establishment anxiety .
Pete Buttigieg @ @ @ @ @ to fend off Sanders by contributing to the mayor ’ s campaign.
” Said Sanders @ @ @ @ @ We are taking on the Democratic establishment , and all across the country , let @ @ @ @ @ big money interests are getting very nervous .
They ’ re looking at recent polls @ @ @ @ @ Iowa and they ’ re saying ‘ Oh my god , Sanders can win !
@ @ @ @ @ Sanders faces barrage of attacks from rivals as polls show him surging in early states @

BuzzFeed News: “With the series of polls showing Sanders at the top of the field in the first states — two more came out on Sunday alone, along with a national poll that has Sanders and Biden nearly tied — there is a feeling of palpable anticipation inside and around the campaign over what backlash, if any, might be coming.”
“Some rivals are already trying to capitalize on establishment anxiety. Pete Buttigieg asked supporters twice on Saturday to fend off Sanders by contributing to the mayor’s campaign.”
Said Sanders at a rally: “We are taking on the Democratic establishment, and all across the country, let me tell you that the big money interests are getting very nervous. They’re looking at recent polls in New Hampshire and in Iowa and they’re saying ‘Oh my god, Sanders can win!'”
Washington Post: Sanders faces barrage of attacks from rivals as polls show him surging in early states.


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Emails Show Pompeo Lied About NPR Interview

“ Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says an NPR host lied in setting up an interview with him on Friday @ @ @ @ @ the journalist ’ s account of how the contentious exchange came to be , ” @ @ @ @ @ “ The emails indicate that Pompeo ’ s staff was aware that NPR ’ s @ @ @ @ @ Pompeo about several topics in the interview and raised no objections , contrary to Pompeo @ @ @ @ @

“Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says an NPR host lied in setting up an interview with him on Friday, but email records support the journalist’s account of how the contentious exchange came to be,” the Washington Post reports.
“The emails indicate that Pompeo’s staff was aware that NPR’s Mary Louise Kelly would ask Pompeo about several topics in the interview and raised no objections, contrary to Pompeo’s characterization.”


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Bolton Confirms Trump Tied Ukraine Aid to Biden Probe

“ President Trump told his national security adviser in August that he wanted to continue freezing $ 391 million in @ @ @ @ @ officials there helped with investigations into Democrats including the Bidens , according to an unpublished @ @ @ @ @ , John Bolton , ” the New York Times reports .
“ The president ’ @ @ @ @ @ Mr. Bolton could undercut a key element of his impeachment defense : that the holdup @ @ @ @ @ Mr. Trump ’ s requests that Ukraine announce investigations into his perceived enemies , including @ @ @ @ @ and his son Hunter Biden , who had worked for a Ukrainian energy firm while @ @ @ @ @ ” Jonathan Swan : “ The revelations present a dramatic 11th hour turn in Trump @ @ @ @ @ .
They directly contradict Trump ’ s claim that he never tied the hold-up of @ @ @ @ @ for investigations into his political opponent Joe Biden .
”

“President Trump told his national security adviser in August that he wanted to continue freezing $391 million in security assistance to Ukraine until officials there helped with investigations into Democrats including the Bidens, according to an unpublished manuscript by the former adviser, John Bolton,” the New York Times reports.
“The president’s statement as described by Mr. Bolton could undercut a key element of his impeachment defense: that the holdup in aid was separate from Mr. Trump’s requests that Ukraine announce investigations into his perceived enemies, including former Vice President Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden, who had worked for a Ukrainian energy firm while his father was in office.”
Jonathan Swan: “The revelations present a dramatic 11th hour turn in Trump’s Senate impeachment trial. They directly contradict Trump’s claim that he never tied the hold-up of Ukrainian aid to his demands for investigations into his political opponent Joe Biden.”


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Trump’s Lawyers Double Down

Trump’s Lawyers Double Down

“ President Trump ’ s team of lawyers did not change their tactics Monday despite bombshell new revelations related to @ @ @ @ @ Bolton ’ s alleged knowledge about the Ukraine affair at the center of the president @ @ @ @ @ ” The Hill reports .
“ In hours of arguments on the Senate floor , @ @ @ @ @ not address or seek to knock down Bolton ’ s account , as Trump himself @ @ @ @

“President Trump’s team of lawyers did not change their tactics Monday despite bombshell new revelations related to former national security adviser John Bolton’s alleged knowledge about the Ukraine affair at the center of the president’s impeachment trial,” The Hill reports.
“In hours of arguments on the Senate floor, Trump’s attorneys did not address or seek to knock down Bolton’s account, as Trump himself has done.”


politicalwire--2020-01-27--All the President’s Turncoats

All the President’s Turncoats

Windsor Mann : “ No one scares President Trump as much as people who used to work for him .
@ @ @ @ @ him , and some of them tell it .
When they do , Trump denies @ @ @ @ @ “ It ’ s amazing how many people have turned on Trump in just his @ @ @ @ @ a man who prizes loyalty above all else , and yet one toady after another @ @ @ @ @

Windsor Mann: “No one scares President Trump as much as people who used to work for him. They know the truth about him, and some of them tell it. When they do, Trump denies it and smears them.”
“It’s amazing how many people have turned on Trump in just his first term. He is a man who prizes loyalty above all else, and yet one toady after another has betrayed him.”


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Toomey Proposes a ‘One-for-One’ Deal on Witnesses

Sen. Patrick Toomey ( R-PA ) , an influential conservative in the Senate , has spoken with several colleagues in @ @ @ @ @ just two witnesses to President Trump ’ s impeachment trial , with one called by @ @ @ @ @ , the Washington Post reports .
“ Toomey has confided to GOP senators that proposing @ @ @ @ @ with Senate Democrats may be necessary at some point , particularly with pressure mounting for @ @ @ @ @ has argued that such an arrangement could force Democrats to accept a Republican witness against @ @ @ @ @ having Republicans move ahead to acquit Trump .
”

Sen. Patrick Toomey (R-PA), an influential conservative in the Senate, has spoken with several colleagues in recent days about possibly summoning just two witnesses to President Trump’s impeachment trial, with one called by Republicans and one by Democrats, the Washington Post reports.
“Toomey has confided to GOP senators that proposing a ‘one-for-one’ deal with Senate Democrats may be necessary at some point, particularly with pressure mounting for witnesses to be called… He has argued that such an arrangement could force Democrats to accept a Republican witness against their wishes or else risk having Republicans move ahead to acquit Trump.”


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Extra Bonus Quote of the Day

Extra Bonus Quote of the Day

— Rep. Justin Amash ( I-MI ) , observing that President Trump ’ s lawyers are ignoring reports about John @ @ @ @ @ their impeachment defense .


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Senate Republicans Struggle to Get on Message

“ Senate Republicans were thrown off-balance Monday by the latest John Bolton revelations , offering a range of convoluted — @ @ @ @ @ responses to an episode that threatens to upend President Trump ’ s impeachment trial , @ @ @ @ @ GOP senators , who hadn ’ t yet had time to coordinate their responses before @ @ @ @ @ offered an all-over-the-map assessment of the significance of the former national security adviser ’ s @ @ @ @ @ he would continue withholding military aid until Ukraine provided information about investigations he had been @ @ @ @ @ , including former Vice President Joe Biden .
”

“Senate Republicans were thrown off-balance Monday by the latest John Bolton revelations, offering a range of convoluted — and at times contradictory — responses to an episode that threatens to upend President Trump’s impeachment trial,” Politico reports.
“GOP senators, who hadn’t yet had time to coordinate their responses before arriving at the Capitol, offered an all-over-the-map assessment of the significance of the former national security adviser’s claim that Trump told him he would continue withholding military aid until Ukraine provided information about investigations he had been seeking into his Democratic rivals, including former Vice President Joe Biden.”


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Trump Adviser Prays for ‘Satanic Pregnancies’ to Miscarry

President Trump ’ s spiritual adviser Paula White defended herself against criticism over a prayer she made earlier this month @ @ @ @ @ “ all satanic pregnancies to miscarry right now , ” saying her words were taken @ @ @ @ @ political gain , ” CNN reports .


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Trump Targets Iowa to Show Strength

Trump Targets Iowa to Show Strength

Wall Street Journal : “ For the Feb. 3 caucuses , the Trump campaign is planning an ambitious show of @ @ @ @ @ with over 80 surrogates expected to campaign at caucus locations.
” “ The campaign sees @ @ @ @ @ to test its organizational muscle across the state ’ s 99 counties .
”

Wall Street Journal: “For the Feb. 3 caucuses, the Trump campaign is planning an ambitious show of force around the state, with over 80 surrogates expected to campaign at caucus locations.”
“The campaign sees the night as an opportunity to test its organizational muscle across the state’s 99 counties.”


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Will Warren’s Organization Save Her In Iowa?

Washington Post : “ That ‘ year of organizing ’ will have its ultimate test in one week .
And @ @ @ @ @ .
The campaign made a detailed study of almost all of the state ’ s @ @ @ @ @ determine how to maximize support .
It divided Iowa into nine zones and made an @ @ @ @ @ in each one , including remote towns and areas unlikely to support Warren .
”

Washington Post: “That ‘year of organizing’ will have its ultimate test in one week. And it has been almost microscopic. The campaign made a detailed study of almost all of the state’s more than 1,600 precincts to determine how to maximize support. It divided Iowa into nine zones and made an early investment deploying numerous operatives in each one, including remote towns and areas unlikely to support Warren.”


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Bloomberg Picks Up 5th Congressional Endorsement

Rep. Scott Peters ( D-CA ) announced he will support Michael Bloomberg for president , Politico reports .


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Angus King Sees Up to 10 Republicans Backing Witnesses

Sen. Angus King ( I-ME ) told NPR that as many as 10 Republican senators would eventually vote in favor @ @ @ @ @ President Trump ’ s impeachment trial .


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Bolton Revelations Upend Impeachment Trial Strategy

Playbook : “ After a morning in the Capitol , here ’ s what we can say for sure : @ @ @ @ @ Bolton ’ s manuscript has undoubtedly scrambled the impeachment proceedings , leaving the once cocksure @ @ @ @ @ heads at what comes next .
The body language and the rhetoric have changed — @ @ @ @ @ we ’ re not certain at this moment.
” “ Over the weekend , Republicans @ @ @ @ @ impeachment trial of President Trump would be over by this weekend .
Now there ’ @ @ @ @ @ confusion about when and how this will all end.
” “ At the moment , @ @ @ @ @ us they are still pushing against witnesses — but they acknowledge the situation is fluid @ @ @ @ @ change .
”

Playbook: “After a morning in the Capitol, here’s what we can say for sure: The NYT story about John Bolton’s manuscript has undoubtedly scrambled the impeachment proceedings, leaving the once cocksure Republican Party scratching their collective heads at what comes next. The body language and the rhetoric have changed — but to what end, we’re not certain at this moment.”
“Over the weekend, Republicans were quite sure that the impeachment trial of President Trump would be over by this weekend. Now there’s a distinct sense of confusion about when and how this will all end.”
“At the moment, Senate GOP leadership sources tell us they are still pushing against witnesses — but they acknowledge the situation is fluid, and say it could change.”


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Justices Allow Denying Immigrants Over Public Assistance

“ The Supreme Court allowed a Trump administration rule denying green cards to legal immigrants who use or are likely @ @ @ @ @ as litigation continues , ” the Wall Street Journal reports .
Washington Post : “ @ @ @ @ @ for who can be considered to be dependent on the U.S. government for benefits — @ @ @ @ @ in the words of the law — and thus ineligible for green cards and a @ @ @ @ @ ”

“The Supreme Court allowed a Trump administration rule denying green cards to legal immigrants who use or are likely to use public aid, as litigation continues,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
Washington Post: “The rules establish new criteria for who can be considered to be dependent on the U.S. government for benefits — ‘public charges,’ in the words of the law — and thus ineligible for green cards and a path to U.S. citizenship.”


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Bloomberg Backs Statehood for Puerto Rico

“ I ’ ll state it clearly : I support statehood for Puerto Rico .
And as president , I @ @ @ @ @ bill making it a reality , subject to approval by the people of Puerto Rico @ @ @ @ @ ultimate decision… ” “ We believe taking Puerto Rican voters seriously starts in the Democratic @ @ @ @ @ s why I ’ m opening up an office in San Juan and building a @ @ @ @ @ best way to stop Puerto Rico from being ignored in the future is to stop @ @ @ @ @ ”

Michael Bloomberg writes in the Orlando Sentinel:
“I’ll state it clearly: I support statehood for Puerto Rico. And as president, I will work to pass a bill making it a reality, subject to approval by the people of Puerto Rico — who will make the ultimate decision…”
“We believe taking Puerto Rican voters seriously starts in the Democratic primary, and that’s why I’m opening up an office in San Juan and building a ground operation — because the best way to stop Puerto Rico from being ignored in the future is to stop ignoring it right now.”


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Murkowski ‘Curious’ About Bolton Testimony

Sen. Lisa Murkowski ( R-AK ) said she is “ curious ” to know what John Bolton might have to @ @ @ @ @ s relations with Ukraine but stopped short of saying if she would support calling him @ @ @ @ @ trial , The Hill reports .
Said Murkowski : “ Well I read it .
@ @ @ @ @ I was curious what Ambassador Bolton might have to say and I ’ m still @ @ @

Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) said she is “curious” to know what John Bolton might have to say about President Trump’s relations with Ukraine but stopped short of saying if she would support calling him to testify in the impeachment trial, The Hill reports.
Said Murkowski: “Well I read it. I’ve said before I was curious what Ambassador Bolton might have to say and I’m still curious.”


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Sanders Holds Wide Lead In Utah

Sanders Holds Wide Lead In Utah

A new Salt Lake Tribune/Suffolk University survey in Utah shows Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic presidential field with 27 % @ @ @ @ @ at 14 % , Joe Biden at 12 % and Michael Bloomberg at 10 % @ @ @ @ @ candidate had double-digit support .

A new Salt Lake Tribune/Suffolk University survey in Utah shows Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic presidential field with 27%, followed by Elizabeth Warren at 14%, Joe Biden at 12% and Michael Bloomberg at 10%.
No other Democratic presidential candidate had double-digit support.


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Bloomberg Sending Mailers to Super Tuesday Voters

Michael Bloomberg ’ s campaign told ABC News that “ it will begin sending out its first mailers — yes @ @ @ @ @ to 2.5 million registered Democratic voters across every single Super Tuesday state.
” “ The @ @ @ @ @ unprecedented attention on parts of the country that normally get neglected during the Democratic primary @ @ @ @ @ on .
”

Michael Bloomberg’s campaign told ABC News that “it will begin sending out its first mailers — yes, physical paper letters — to 2.5 million registered Democratic voters across every single Super Tuesday state.”
“The campaign’s move pays unprecedented attention on parts of the country that normally get neglected during the Democratic primary process, especially this early on.”


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Newest Senator Slams Mitt Romney

Newest Senator Slams Mitt Romney

Sen. Kelly Loeffler ( R-GA ) , who was sworn in just last month to replace Sen. Johnny Isakson ( @ @ @ @ @ Mitt Romney ( R-UT ) over his apparent willingness to hear from new witnesses in @ @ @ @ @ trial .
Said Loeffler : “ After 2 weeks , it ’ s clear that @ @ @ @ @ impeachment .
Sadly , my colleague Senator Romney wants to appease the left by calling @ @ @ @ @ Trump during their 15 minutes of fame .
The circus is over .
It ’ @ @ @ @ @ !
”

Sen. Kelly Loeffler (R-GA), who was sworn in just last month to replace Sen. Johnny Isakson (R-GA), criticized Sen. Mitt Romney (R-UT) over his apparent willingness to hear from new witnesses in President Trump’s impeachment trial.
Said Loeffler: “After 2 weeks, it’s clear that Democrats have no case for impeachment. Sadly, my colleague Senator Romney wants to appease the left by calling witnesses who will slander Donald Trump during their 15 minutes of fame. The circus is over. It’s time to move on!”


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Richter Switches Districts In New Jersey

David Richter ( R ) will drop his GOP primary challenge to Democrat-turned-Republican Jeff Van Drew ( R-NJ ) and @ @ @ @ @ Rep. Andy Kim ( D-NJ ) , the New Jersey Globe reports .
Said Richter @ @ @ @ @ to run for Congress , it was to flip a congressional seat .
That ’ @ @ @ @ @ ’ m endorsing Jeff Van Drew .
”

David Richter (R) will drop his GOP primary challenge to Democrat-turned-Republican Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ) and instead seek to run against Rep. Andy Kim (D-NJ), the New Jersey Globe reports.
Said Richter: “When I decided to run for Congress, it was to flip a congressional seat. That’s already happened. I’m endorsing Jeff Van Drew.”


politicalwire--2020-01-27--What We’ve Learned Since Trump Was Impeached

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This piece is only available to Political Wire members.
As Republican senators ponder whether to hear from new witnesses in President Trump’s impeachment trial, they should be reminded of a long trail of new information that has come out since the House first voted to impeach the president on December 18.


politicalwire--2020-01-27--Graham Open to Bolton In Exchange for Biden

Sen. Lindsey Graham ( R-SC ) told McClatchy that he might be open to calling for John Bolton to testify @ @ @ @ @ impeachment trial , but added that he ’ ll also push to hear from other @ @ @ @ @ Hunter Biden and the anonymous whistleblower .

“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--2020-01-28--McConnell Would Force Deal on Witnesses If Pushed

“ Sources close to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell tell Axios that , if it appears that at least 51 @ @ @ @ @ , McConnell and Schumer will likely try to hash out an agreement rather than going @ @ @ @ @ “ If the Senate goes that route , Republicans are likely to demand their own @ @ @ @ @ Joe Biden ’ s son Hunter at the top.
” “ This has privately created @ @ @ @ @ , who are eager for more information but recognize that a vote for witnesses could @ @ @ @ @ to use the impeachment stage to try to deal an insurmountable blow to the campaign @ @ @ @ @ pose the greatest risk to Trump in the general election .
”

“Sources close to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell tell Axios that, if it appears that at least 51 senators will vote for witnesses, McConnell and Schumer will likely try to hash out an agreement rather than going straight to a vote.”
“If the Senate goes that route, Republicans are likely to demand their own list of witnesses — with Joe Biden’s son Hunter at the top.”
“This has privately created a dilemma for some Democrats, who are eager for more information but recognize that a vote for witnesses could open the door for Republicans to use the impeachment stage to try to deal an insurmountable blow to the campaign of a rival thought to pose the greatest risk to Trump in the general election.”


politicalwire--2020-01-28--GOP Echo Chamber Gets Worse

GOP Echo Chamber Gets Worse

A new Pew research study finds that when it comes to news sources , Republicans tend to trust Fox News @ @ @ @ @ source , while Democrats tend to trust a variety of news sources about equally .
@ @ @ @ @ , closely followed by NBC News , ABC News , CBS News and PBS When @ @ @ @ @ taken in 2014 , the results suggests that “ Republicans have grown increasingly alienated from @ @ @ @ @ sources , while Democrats ’ confidence in them remains stable , and in some cases @ @ @ @ @

A new Pew research study finds that when it comes to news sources, Republicans tend to trust Fox News more than any other news source, while Democrats tend to trust a variety of news sources about equally. Their top choice is CNN, closely followed by NBC News, ABC News, CBS News and PBS.
When compared to a similar poll taken in 2014, the results suggests that “Republicans have grown increasingly alienated from most of the more established sources, while Democrats’ confidence in them remains stable, and in some cases, has strengthened,”


politicalwire--2020-01-28--Biden Scales Back In New Hampshire

Biden Scales Back In New Hampshire

“ Joe Biden has said he doesn ’ t need to win the first presidential primary state in the nation @ @ @ @ @ campaigning like it , ” Politico reports .
“ Biden has been dark on New @ @ @ @ @ Year .
He has a smaller presence on the ground compared to his rivals , @ @ @ @ @ , and he ’ s trailing in the polls here .
”

“Joe Biden has said he doesn’t need to win the first presidential primary state in the nation — and he’s campaigning like it,” Politico reports.
“Biden has been dark on New Hampshire television since the New Year. He has a smaller presence on the ground compared to his rivals, barely takes questions from voters, and he’s trailing in the polls here.”


politicalwire--2020-01-28--Pompeo Boots NPR Reporter from Ukraine Trip

“ Secretary of State Mike Pompeo ’ s quarrel with NPR escalated on Monday after one of the radio network @ @ @ @ @ from flying on the secretary ’ s plane during an upcoming trip to Ukraine , @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-01-28--Bolton Was Concerned Trump Did Favors for Autocrats

“ John Bolton , the former national security adviser , privately told Attorney General William Barr last year that he @ @ @ @ @ was effectively granting personal favors to the autocratic leaders of Turkey and China , ” @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Mr .
Barr responded by pointing to a pair of Justice Department investigations @ @ @ @ @ and said he was worried that Mr. Trump had created the appearance that he had @ @ @ @ @ typically be independent inquiries… ” “ Mr .
Bolton ’ s account underscores the fact @ @ @ @ @ Trump ’ s seeming embrace of authoritarian leaders , long expressed by experts and his @ @ @ @ @ some of the senior cabinet officers entrusted by the president to carry out his foreign @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“John Bolton, the former national security adviser, privately told Attorney General William Barr last year that he had concerns that President Trump was effectively granting personal favors to the autocratic leaders of Turkey and China,” the New York Times reports.
“Mr. Barr responded by pointing to a pair of Justice Department investigations of companies in those countries and said he was worried that Mr. Trump had created the appearance that he had undue influence over what would typically be independent inquiries…”
“Mr. Bolton’s account underscores the fact that the unease about Mr. Trump’s seeming embrace of authoritarian leaders, long expressed by experts and his opponents, also existed among some of the senior cabinet officers entrusted by the president to carry out his foreign policy and national security agendas.”


politicalwire--2020-01-28--Collins Will Challenge Loeffler for Senate

Rep. Doug Collins ( R-GA ) will soon announce a challenge to Sen. Kelly Loeffler ( R-GA ) , setting @ @ @ @ @ in November that pits one of President Trump ’ s most vocal defenders against a @ @ @ @ @ Gov .
Brian Kemp ( R ) , the Atlantic Journal Constitution reports .