politicalwire--2020-02-14--Another Top Republican Quits In Pennsylvania

“ The top Republican in the Pennsylvania Senate announced late Wednesday that he is not running for reelection , becoming @ @ @ @ @ in the Capitol to seek retirement in a pivotal election year , ” the Philadelphia @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-02-14--McCabe Won’t Face Charges

McCabe Won’t Face Charges

“ The Justice Department plans to reveal soon that it will not bring charges against former acting FBI director Andrew @ @ @ @ @ about a media disclosure , ending a long-running inquiry into a top law enforcement official @ @ @ @ @ investigate President Trump and soon became the commander in chief ’ s political punching bag @ @ @ @ @ reports .
“ The department could make the decision public in the coming days , @ @ @ @ @ the exact mechanism for their doing so remains unclear .
The move will surely infuriate @ @ @ @ @ publicly and privately in recent months that McCabe and others he considers political enemies should @ @ @ @ @ ”

“The Justice Department plans to reveal soon that it will not bring charges against former acting FBI director Andrew McCabe for lying to investigators about a media disclosure, ending a long-running inquiry into a top law enforcement official who authorized the bureau to investigate President Trump and soon became the commander in chief’s political punching bag,” the Washington Post reports.
“The department could make the decision public in the coming days, the people said, though the exact mechanism for their doing so remains unclear. The move will surely infuriate Trump, who has raged publicly and privately in recent months that McCabe and others he considers political enemies should be charged with crimes.”


politicalwire--2020-02-14--Sanders Holds Lead In Nevada

Sanders Holds Lead In Nevada

A new Las Vegas Review-Journal/WPA Nevada poll finds Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic presidential race with 25 % , followed @ @ @ @ @ % , Elizabeth Warren at 13 % , Tom Steyer at 11 % , Pete @ @ @ @ @ Amy Klobuchar at 10 % .

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


politicalwire--2020-02-14--Facebook to Allow Paid Political Messages

“ Facebook decided Friday to allow a type of paid political message that had sidestepped many of the social network @ @ @ @ @ ads , in a reversal that highlights difficulties tech companies and regulators have in keeping @ @ @ @ @ of paid political messages , ” the AP reports .
“ Its policy change comes @ @ @ @ @ Bloomberg exploited a loophole to run humorous messages promoting his campaign on the accounts of @ @ @ @ @ millions of younger people .
”

“Facebook decided Friday to allow a type of paid political message that had sidestepped many of the social network’s rules governing political ads, in a reversal that highlights difficulties tech companies and regulators have in keeping up with the changing nature of paid political messages,” the AP reports.
“Its policy change comes days after presidential candidate Mike Bloomberg exploited a loophole to run humorous messages promoting his campaign on the accounts of popular Instagram personalities followed by millions of younger people.”


politicalwire--2020-02-14--Megadonor Says Biden Must Win South Carolina

Democratic megadonor Alan Patricof told CNBC he ’ s staying with Joe Biden but said the former vice president must @ @ @ @ @ in the next two nominating contests .
Said Patricof : “ It ’ s critical @ @ @ @ @ and he ’ s got to produce in Nevada .
He ’ s said it @ @ @ @ @ Everybody is sticking with Joe until they see what happens there .
”

Democratic megadonor Alan Patricof told CNBC he’s staying with Joe Biden but said the former vice president must “show his stuff” in the next two nominating contests.
Said Patricof: “It’s critical that Biden wins South Carolina and he’s got to produce in Nevada. He’s said it. Donors feel it. Everybody is sticking with Joe until they see what happens there.”


politicalwire--2020-02-14--Trump Says Democrats Rigged Primary Against Bernie

President Trump is trying again to sow division among Democrats on Twitter , while possibly elevating the candidate he most @ @ @ @ @ Trump : “ It is happening again to Crazy Bernie , just like last time @ @ @ @ @ .
They are taking the Democrat Nomination away from him , and there ’ s @ @ @ @ @ .
A Rigged System !
”

President Trump is trying again to sow division among Democrats on Twitter, while possibly elevating the candidate he most wants to face.
Said Trump: “It is happening again to Crazy Bernie, just like last time, only far more obvious. They are taking the Democrat Nomination away from him, and there’s very little he can do. A Rigged System!”


politicalwire--2020-02-14--When Trump Misses with His Nicknames

When Trump Misses with His Nicknames

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This piece is only available to Political Wire members.
Donald Trump is a master at giving nicknames to his rivals. In just a couple of words he’s able to focus a spotlight on certain character traits and weaknesses of his opponents.


politicalwire--2020-02-14--Bloomberg Overtakes Biden In Florida

Bloomberg Overtakes Biden In Florida

A new St. Pete Polls survey in Florida shows Michael Bloomberg leading the Democratic primary race with 27 % , @ @ @ @ @ 26 % , Pete Buttigieg at 11 % , Bernie Sanders at 10 % , @ @ @ @ @ and Elizabeth Warren at 5 % .


politicalwire--2020-02-14--Trump Allies Take Aim at Buttigieg’s Sexuality

“ Allies of President Trump have sharply focused attention on the sexual identity of presidential contender Pete Buttigieg in recent @ @ @ @ @ terms whether Americans are ready for a gay candidate who kisses his husband onstage , @ @ @ @ @ .
“ The attacks are prompting blunt responses from Buttigieg ’ s allies and even @ @ @ @ @ call the remarks inappropriate and offensive .
The exchanges were ignited by radio host Rush @ @ @ @ @ Presidential Medal of Freedom from Trump last week and who framed his comments as an @ @ @ @ @ feel .
”

“Allies of President Trump have sharply focused attention on the sexual identity of presidential contender Pete Buttigieg in recent days, questioning in stark terms whether Americans are ready for a gay candidate who kisses his husband onstage,” the Washington Post reports.
“The attacks are prompting blunt responses from Buttigieg’s allies and even his Democratic rivals, who call the remarks inappropriate and offensive. The exchanges were ignited by radio host Rush Limbaugh, who received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Trump last week and who framed his comments as an ostensible analysis of how Democrats feel.”


politicalwire--2020-02-14--Volunteers Worry Ahead of Nevada Caucuses

“ With the Nevada Democratic caucuses only a week away , both caucus workers and presidential campaigns are worried about @ @ @ @ @ state party is providing about how the results reporting process will work , ” CNN @ @ @ @ @ plans to use the app that imploded in Iowa in favor of a new “ @ @ @ @ @ “ but caucus volunteers have yet to get their hands on the calculator even though @ @ @ @ @ expected to use it on caucus day , and they have been given few details @ @ @ @

“With the Nevada Democratic caucuses only a week away, both caucus workers and presidential campaigns are worried about the lack of detail the state party is providing about how the results reporting process will work,” CNN reports.
The party scrapped plans to use the app that imploded in Iowa in favor of a new “user friendly” calculator, “but caucus volunteers have yet to get their hands on the calculator even though they’re the ones expected to use it on caucus day, and they have been given few details about it.”


politicalwire--2020-02-16--Trump Will Take Lap at Daytona 500

Trump Will Take Lap at Daytona 500

A portion of the presidential motorcade , including President Trump and first lady Melania Trump , will take a lap @ @ @ @ @ start of NASCAR ’ s Daytona 500 on Sunday CNN reports .
They ’ ll @ @ @ @ @ as “ The Beast .
”

A portion of the presidential motorcade, including President Trump and first lady Melania Trump, will take a lap around the speedway before the start of NASCAR’s Daytona 500 on Sunday CNN reports.
They’ll be riding the car known as “The Beast.”


politicalwire--2020-02-16--Fears Grow Over Nevada Caucus Malfunction

“ Anxiety is rising over the possibility of another tech-induced meltdown at the Nevada Democratic caucuses on Saturday , ” @ @ @ @ @ interviews , three caucus volunteers described serious concerns about rushed preparations for the Feb. 22 @ @ @ @ @ for a newly-adopted electronic vote-tally system and confusing instructions on how to administer the caucuses @ @ @ @ @ questions about the security of Internet connections at some 2,000 precinct sites that will transmit @ @ @ @ @ war room ’ set up by the Nevada Democratic Party.
” Nevada Independent : Long @ @ @ @ @ snag but do not snarl first day of early caucusing in Nevada .

“Anxiety is rising over the possibility of another tech-induced meltdown at the Nevada Democratic caucuses on Saturday,” Politico reports.
“In interviews, three caucus volunteers described serious concerns about rushed preparations for the Feb. 22 election, including insufficient training for a newly-adopted electronic vote-tally system and confusing instructions on how to administer the caucuses. There are also unanswered questions about the security of Internet connections at some 2,000 precinct sites that will transmit results to a central ‘war room’ set up by the Nevada Democratic Party.”
Nevada Independent: Long lines, time-consuming Google Forms snag but do not snarl first day of early caucusing in Nevada.


politicalwire--2020-02-16--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ $ 60 billion can buy you a lot of advertising , but it can ’ t erase your record @ @


politicalwire--2020-02-16--Conway Says Bloomberg’s Sexist Remarks Are Worse

White House counselor Kellyanne Conway on Sunday slammed sexist remarks Michael Bloomberg reportedly made to women who worked for him @ @ @ @ @ far worse ” than what President said on the infamous Access Hollywood tapes , Politico @ @ @ @ @ “ The way Michael Bloomberg treated female employees … to have created that kind culture @ @ @ @ @ to feel that you ’ re being harassed because of your gender , that is @ @ @ @ @ ’ re going to hear more of it .
”

White House counselor Kellyanne Conway on Sunday slammed sexist remarks Michael Bloomberg reportedly made to women who worked for him, saying they are “far worse” than what President said on the infamous Access Hollywood tapes, Politico reports.
Said Conway: “The way Michael Bloomberg treated female employees … to have created that kind culture, that unsafe workplace, to feel that you’re being harassed because of your gender, that is problematic. I think you’re going to hear more of it.”


politicalwire--2020-02-16--Trump Drives Massive Turnout Despite No Real Opposition

“ President Trump doesn ’ t have much of a primary fight on his hands — but Republican voters are @ @ @ @ @ for him , a warning sign for Democrats in November , ” Politico reports .
@ @ @ @ @ a reflection of organic enthusiasm among conservatives and a sophisticated effort by Trump ’ s @ @ @ @ @ get-out-the-vote machine ahead of the general election .
Trump and Vice President Mike Pence traveled @ @ @ @ @ ahead of voting , and the campaign flooded the two states with high-profile surrogates and @ @ @ @ @ reminding supporters to cast ballots .
”

“President Trump doesn’t have much of a primary fight on his hands — but Republican voters are nevertheless turning out in droves for him, a warning sign for Democrats in November,” Politico reports.
“The massive turnout is a reflection of organic enthusiasm among conservatives and a sophisticated effort by Trump’s campaign to rev up its get-out-the-vote machine ahead of the general election. Trump and Vice President Mike Pence traveled to Iowa and New Hampshire ahead of voting, and the campaign flooded the two states with high-profile surrogates and launched a Facebook advertising blitz reminding supporters to cast ballots.”


politicalwire--2020-02-16--Klobuchar Says She’s Raised $12 Million in a Week

Sen. Amy Klobuchar said her presidential campaign has raised more than $ 12 million since the debate in New Hampshire @ @ @ @ @ , The Hill reports .


politicalwire--2020-02-16--Bloomberg Compared ACLU and Teachers Union to NRA

“ Michael Bloomberg has made it his late life ’ s mission to take on the National Rifle Association , @ @ @ @ @ , ’ ‘ dangerous ’ and extreme , ” Politico reports .
“ The problem @ @ @ @ @ seeking the Democratic nomination ?
In his final year as New York mayor , Bloomberg @ @ @ @ @ the Democratic base — a local faction of the American Civil Liberties Union and the @ @ @ @ @ — to the NRA .
”

“Michael Bloomberg has made it his late life’s mission to take on the National Rifle Association, calling the organization ‘shameful,’ ‘dangerous’ and extreme,” Politico reports.
“The problem now that he’s seeking the Democratic nomination? In his final year as New York mayor, Bloomberg compared two groups core to the Democratic base — a local faction of the American Civil Liberties Union and the New York City teachers union — to the NRA.”


politicalwire--2020-02-16--How Biden’s Collapse Made Sanders the Front Runner

“ Bernie Sanders hasn ’ t picked up the voters who are deserting Joe Biden , but he ’ s @ @ @ @ @ former vice president ’ s rapid collapse , ” Axios reports .
“ Of the @ @ @ @ @ race , Sanders ’ polling numbers have changed the least over the last few weeks— @ @ @ @ @ has made Sanders the biggest winner , since the moderate vote is now splintered four @ @ @

“Bernie Sanders hasn’t picked up the voters who are deserting Joe Biden, but he’s the clear beneficiary of the former vice president’s rapid collapse,” Axios reports.
“Of the top six candidates in the race, Sanders’ polling numbers have changed the least over the last few weeks— but Biden’s fall has made Sanders the biggest winner, since the moderate vote is now splintered four ways.”


politicalwire--2020-02-16--Bloomberg Called Obamacare a ‘Disgrace’

Bloomberg Called Obamacare a ‘Disgrace’

Mike Bloomberg said the final Obamacare bill would do “ absolutely nothing to fix the big health care problems ” @ @ @ @ @ “ a disgrace ” in comments made in 2010 , just months after the law @ @ @ @ @ reports .
He added : “ The President , in all fairness , started out @ @ @ @ @ big problems were , but then turned it over to Congress , which didn ’ @ @ @ @ @ any of those big problems and just created another program that ’ s going to @ @ @ @ @ .
”

Mike Bloomberg said the final Obamacare bill would do “absolutely nothing to fix the big health care problems” and also called the program “a disgrace” in comments made in 2010, just months after the law’s passage, CNN reports.
He added: “The President, in all fairness, started out by pointing out what the big problems were, but then turned it over to Congress, which didn’t pay any attention to any of those big problems and just created another program that’s going to cost a lot of money.”


politicalwire--2020-02-16--Sanders Says Bloomberg Won’t Have ‘Excitement’ to Win

Sen. Bernie Sanders took aim at Michael Bloomberg over his self-funded 2020 presidential campaign , saying that the former New @ @ @ @ @ be able to produce the “ excitement ” and “ energy ” needed to defeat @ @ @ @ @ .
Said Sanders : “ The simple truth is that Mayor Bloomberg , with all @ @ @ @ @ create the kind of excitement and energy we need to have the voter turnout we @ @ @ @ @ Trump .
”

Sen. Bernie Sanders took aim at Michael Bloomberg over his self-funded 2020 presidential campaign, saying that the former New York City mayor would not be able to produce the “excitement” and “energy” needed to defeat President Trump, Reuters reports.
Said Sanders: “The simple truth is that Mayor Bloomberg, with all his money, will not create the kind of excitement and energy we need to have the voter turnout we must have to defeat Donald Trump.”


politicalwire--2020-02-16--Who Are Super PAC Donors?

Who Are Super PAC Donors?

Robert Reich : “ Over the last decade , half of all donations to Super PACs came from just 25 @ @ @ @ @ isn ’ t the mark of a kleptocracy , I don ’ t know what @ @ @

Robert Reich: “Over the last decade, half of all donations to Super PACs came from just 25 people.”
“If this isn’t the mark of a kleptocracy, I don’t know what is.”


politicalwire--2020-02-16--Why There Aren’t More Nevada Polls

Why There Aren’t More Nevada Polls

Vox : “ Although the caucuses — which will take place on February 22 this year — have been the @ @ @ @ @ the nation since 2008 , the state is notoriously hard to poll.
” “ So @ @ @ @ @ that until Friday , the most recent poll included in RealClearPolitics ’ Nevada polling average @ @ @ @ @ was more than a month old.
” “ We now have exactly one recent poll @ @ @ @ @ of the Las Vegas Review-Journal , which shows Sen. Bernie Sanders in the lead among @ @ @ @ @ support .
”

Vox: “Although the caucuses — which will take place on February 22 this year — have been the third Democratic primary contest in the nation since 2008, the state is notoriously hard to poll.”
“So hard, in fact, that until Friday, the most recent poll included in RealClearPolitics’ Nevada polling average — from Suffolk University — was more than a month old.”
“We now have exactly one recent poll of the state, courtesy of the Las Vegas Review-Journal, which shows Sen. Bernie Sanders in the lead among likely caucus-goers with 25 percent support.”


politicalwire--2020-02-16--Ex-Prosecutors Press for Barr to Step Down

“ More than 1,100 former federal prosecutors and Justice Department officials called on Attorney General William Barr on Sunday to @ @ @ @ @ last week to lower the Justice Department ’ s sentencing recommendation for President Trump ’ @ @ @ @ @ , ” the New York Times reports .
“ They also urged current government employees @ @ @ @ @ unethical behavior at the Justice Department to the agency ’ s inspector general and to @ @ @

“More than 1,100 former federal prosecutors and Justice Department officials called on Attorney General William Barr on Sunday to step down after he intervened last week to lower the Justice Department’s sentencing recommendation for President Trump’s longtime friend Roger Stone,” the New York Times reports.
“They also urged current government employees to report any signs of unethical behavior at the Justice Department to the agency’s inspector general and to Congress.”


politicalwire--2020-02-16--‘Hillary Still Ain’t in Jail’

‘Hillary Still Ain’t in Jail’

Rep. Bradley Byrne ( R-AL ) , who is running to unseat Sen. Doug Jones ( D-AL ) in November @ @ @ @ @ ad against fellow GOP primary contender and former Attorney General Jeff Sessions , The Hill @ @ @ @ @ new 30-second ad , Bryne criticizes Sessions for being forced by President Trump to resign @ @ @ @ @ video also appeared to reference a common refrain , ‘ lock her up , ’ @ @ @ @ @ job while serving as attorney general , that was chanted about former Democratic presidential nominee @ @ @ @ @ events in 2016.
” From the ad : “ Hillary still ain ’ t in @ @ @

Rep. Bradley Byrne (R-AL), who is running to unseat Sen. Doug Jones (D-AL) in November, released a new attack ad against fellow GOP primary contender and former Attorney General Jeff Sessions, The Hill reports.
“In the new 30-second ad, Bryne criticizes Sessions for being forced by President Trump to resign as attorney general. The video also appeared to reference a common refrain, ‘lock her up,’ to dig at Sessions’ job while serving as attorney general, that was chanted about former Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton during Trump campaign events in 2016.”
From the ad: “Hillary still ain’t in jail.”


politicalwire--2020-02-16--Sanders Attacks Moderates In Nevada

Sanders Attacks Moderates In Nevada

“ Progressive firebrand Bernie Sanders jabbed his more moderate rivals on Saturday for taking campaign cash from billionaires as Democratic @ @ @ @ @ Nevada were overwhelmed by long lines on the first day of early voting in presidential @ @ @ @ @ reports .
Said Sanders : “ Democracy is not candidates going to the homes of @ @ @ @ @

“Progressive firebrand Bernie Sanders jabbed his more moderate rivals on Saturday for taking campaign cash from billionaires as Democratic officials at some sites across Nevada were overwhelmed by long lines on the first day of early voting in presidential caucuses,” the AP reports.
Said Sanders: “Democracy is not candidates going to the homes of billionaires raising money.”


politicalwire--2020-02-15--Kobach Courts Trump as GOP Frets

Kobach Courts Trump as GOP Frets

“ Republican leaders on Capitol Hill are fearful that the conservative hardliner Kris Kobach could cost them a crucial Senate @ @ @ @ @ their narrow majority — and are eager to find a way to defeat him in @ @ @ @ @ ” CNN reports .
“ But Kobach is getting face time with President Donald Trump @ @ @ @ @ s son-in-law , Jared Kushner , over an immigration plan that the White House is @ @ @ @ @ knows how Trump will insert himself into the GOP primary , and whether Senate Republican @ @ @ @ @ him to endorse a candidate they argue has a better chance of winning in November @ @

“Republican leaders on Capitol Hill are fearful that the conservative hardliner Kris Kobach could cost them a crucial Senate seat in Kansas and potentially their narrow majority — and are eager to find a way to defeat him in a hotly contested primary,” CNN reports.
“But Kobach is getting face time with President Donald Trump and consulting with Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, over an immigration plan that the White House is developing. And no one knows how Trump will insert himself into the GOP primary, and whether Senate Republican leaders will succeed in getting him to endorse a candidate they argue has a better chance of winning in November.”


politicalwire--2020-02-15--Biden Wants Sanders to Take Accountability for Supporters

Joe Biden called on Bernie Sanders to accept greater accountability for tactics and rhetoric of his staunchest supporters and do @ @ @ @ @ after what he called the “ outrageous ” threats on a prominent union that criticized @ @ @ @ @ News reports .
Representatives of the powerful Culinary Workers Union said this week that supporters @ @ @ @ @ “ viciously attacked ” its members after its leadership warned about the risk to their @ @ @ @ @ Medicare for All system .

Joe Biden called on Bernie Sanders to accept greater accountability for tactics and rhetoric of his staunchest supporters and do more to discourage it, after what he called the “outrageous” threats on a prominent union that criticized his healthcare plan, NBC News reports.
Representatives of the powerful Culinary Workers Union said this week that supporters of the Vermont senator had “viciously attacked” its members after its leadership warned about the risk to their negotiated health plans under a Medicare for All system.


politicalwire--2020-02-15--Biden Still Holds Lead In South Carolina

A new East Carolina University poll in South Carolina finds Joe Biden leading the Democratic primary field with 28 % @ @ @ @ @ at 20 % , Tom Steyer at 14 % , Elizabeth Warren at 7 % @ @ @ @ @ % and Amy Klobuchar at 7 % .

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


politicalwire--2020-02-15--Memo Justifying Iran Strike Cites No Imminent Threat

“ The White House told Congress on Friday that President Trump authorized the strike last month that killed Iran ’ @ @ @ @ @ respond to attacks that had already taken place and deter future ones , contradicting the @ @ @ @ @ he acted in response to an imminent threat , ” the New York Times reports @ @ @ @ @ mandated , two-page unclassified memo to lawmakers , the White House asserted that the strike @ @ @ @ @ Suleimani was ‘ in response to an escalating series of attacks in preceding months ’ @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“The White House told Congress on Friday that President Trump authorized the strike last month that killed Iran’s most important general to respond to attacks that had already taken place and deter future ones, contradicting the president’s claim that he acted in response to an imminent threat,” the New York Times reports.
“In a legally mandated, two-page unclassified memo to lawmakers, the White House asserted that the strike that killed Maj. Gen. Qassim Suleimani was ‘in response to an escalating series of attacks in preceding months’ by Iran and Iran-backed militias.”


politicalwire--2020-02-15--Rise of Sanders, Trump Shows Decline in Party Power

Wall Street Journal : “ Self-described democratic socialist Sen. Bernie Sanders and President Trump rose in politics by developing strong @ @ @ @ @ only tenuous ties to—and frequently criticizing the leaders of—the parties they later sought to lead.
@ @ @ @ @ the latest sign that the nation ’ s political parties have lost influence in choosing @ @ @ @ @ a development that some party officials see as inevitable in the modern media environment and @ @ @ @ @ their own campaigns , as Mr. Trump initially did and Democrat Michael Bloomberg is doing @ @ @ @ @ one that they say has made politics more volatile and partisan .
”

Wall Street Journal: “Self-described democratic socialist Sen. Bernie Sanders and President Trump rose in politics by developing strong personal brands, while keeping only tenuous ties to—and frequently criticizing the leaders of—the parties they later sought to lead.”
“Their ascents are the latest sign that the nation’s political parties have lost influence in choosing their own presidential nominees, a development that some party officials see as inevitable in the modern media environment and an era of billionaires funding their own campaigns, as Mr. Trump initially did and Democrat Michael Bloomberg is doing today. But it is one that they say has made politics more volatile and partisan.”


politicalwire--2020-02-17--Trump Campaign Deletes Dramatic Air Force One Photo

President Trump ’ s campaign manager deleted a tweet featuring a dramatic photo of Air Force One at the Daytona @ @ @ @ @ that the shot was from President George W. Bush ’ s visit to the NASCAR @ @ @ @ @ from Trump ’ s visit on Sunday , CNN reports .


politicalwire--2020-02-17--Trump’s Revenge Tour Has House In Its Sights

Axios : “ In the lead-up to the 2018 midterm elections — buoyed by Republican control of both chambers — @ @ @ @ @ the House as a lower-tier priority and instead poured his energy into rallying for the @ @ @ @ @ the GOP reckoning in 2018 , and experiencing firsthand how damaging a Democratic-led House has @ @ @ @ @ is now personally invested in helping Republicans regain the majority in November.
” “ If @ @ @ @ @ are able to hold the Senate and take back the House , Trump will essentially @ @ @ @ @ whatever he wants in his second term .
”

Axios: “In the lead-up to the 2018 midterm elections — buoyed by Republican control of both chambers — President Trump viewed campaigning for the House as a lower-tier priority and instead poured his energy into rallying for the Senate.”
“But after the GOP reckoning in 2018, and experiencing firsthand how damaging a Democratic-led House has been to him, Trump is now personally invested in helping Republicans regain the majority in November.”
“If Trump wins re-election and Republicans are able to hold the Senate and take back the House, Trump will essentially have free rein to do whatever he wants in his second term.”


politicalwire--2020-02-17--Trump Campaign Diversifies Beyond Facebook Ads

Axios : “ Today , the campaign is testing new strategies on several dozen platforms , including YouTube , Google @ @ @ @ @ networks and conservative podcasts .
The goal is to be less dependent on Facebook — @ @ @ @ @ play a crucial role in the Trump 2020 strategy.
” “ The Trump campaign began @ @ @ @ @ last spring , including shows hosted by staunch Trump allies Charlie Kirk and Laura Ingraham @ @ @ @ @ get Trump supporters more engaged in the months before Election Day .
”

Axios: “Today, the campaign is testing new strategies on several dozen platforms, including YouTube, Google, ad exchanges, publisher networks and conservative podcasts. The goal is to be less dependent on Facebook — though the platform will still play a crucial role in the Trump 2020 strategy.”
“The Trump campaign began buying ads on conservative podcasts last spring, including shows hosted by staunch Trump allies Charlie Kirk and Laura Ingraham. The goal is to get Trump supporters more engaged in the months before Election Day.”


politicalwire--2020-02-17--Sanders Holds Wide Lead In Nevada

Sanders Holds Wide Lead In Nevada

A new Data for Progress poll in Nevada finds Bernie Sanders leading with 35 % , followed by Elizabeth Warren @ @ @ @ @ Buttigieg at 15 % , Joe Biden at 14 % and Amy Klobuchar at 9 @ @

A new Data for Progress poll in Nevada finds Bernie Sanders leading with 35%, followed by Elizabeth Warren at 16%, Pete Buttigieg at 15%, Joe Biden at 14% and Amy Klobuchar at 9%.
Jon Ralston: “My one caveat is that polls are only as good as their turnout model, and this turnout is very much in flux.”


politicalwire--2020-02-17--Exchange of the Day

Exchange of the Day

Jeff Weaver , campaign manager for Bernie Sanders was interviewed by Brooke Baldwin on CNN : BALDWIN : If Senator @ @ @ @ @ nominee — and we know Mike Bloomberg has pledged to donate as much as one @ @ @ @ @ to defeat President Trump — would you accept his money ?

Jeff Weaver, campaign manager for Bernie Sanders was interviewed by Brooke Baldwin on CNN:
BALDWIN: If Senator Sanders ends up being the nominee — and we know Mike Bloomberg has pledged to donate as much as one billion dollars in an effort to defeat President Trump — would you accept his money?
WEAVER: No.


politicalwire--2020-02-17--Bolton to Break Silence

Bolton to Break Silence

John Bolton is due to make his first public speech since the impeachment inquiry into Trump wrapped up , even @ @ @ @ @ wrangle with the White House over the contents of his highly anticipated book , CNN @ @ @ @ @ speech tonight at Duke University , the first of two public appearances this week , @ @ @ @ @ directly address the issue of impeachment or the ongoing conflict over the contents of his @ @ @ @ @ to take questions .

John Bolton is due to make his first public speech since the impeachment inquiry into Trump wrapped up, even as his lawyers continue to wrangle with the White House over the contents of his highly anticipated book, CNN reports.
Bolton’s speech tonight at Duke University, the first of two public appearances this week, isn’t expected to directly address the issue of impeachment or the ongoing conflict over the contents of his manuscript though he is due to take questions.


politicalwire--2020-02-17--Poll Shows Steyer Ahead In Nevada

Poll Shows Steyer Ahead In Nevada

A new Point Blank Political poll in Nevada shows Tom Steyer leading Democrats with 19 % , followed by Amy @ @ @ @ @ Joe Biden at 14 % , Bernie Sanders at 13 % , Pete Buttigieg at @ @ @ @ @ at 7 % .
Huge caveat : The poll has a sample size of just @ @

A new Point Blank Political poll in Nevada shows Tom Steyer leading Democrats with 19%, followed by Amy Klobuchar at 16%, Joe Biden at 14%, Bernie Sanders at 13%, Pete Buttigieg at 13% and Elizabeth Warren at 7%.
Huge caveat: The poll has a sample size of just 225.


politicalwire--2020-02-17--Stacey Abrams Would Accept Veep Pick

Stacey Abrams Would Accept Veep Pick

Stacey Abrams ( D ) , who has boldly predicted that she ’ ll be president within the next two @ @ @ @ @ that “ of course ” she would be honored to be the vice presidential pick @ @ @ @ @ nomination .

Stacey Abrams (D), who has boldly predicted that she’ll be president within the next two decades, told The View that “of course” she would be honored to be the vice presidential pick of whoever secures the 2020 nomination.


politicalwire--2020-02-17--Why a Contested Convention Is Growing Likely

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politicalwire--2020-02-17--Top NSC Official May Be Moved Over ‘Anonymous’ Fallout

Top Trump administration officials are in discussions to reassign deputy national security adviser Victoria Coates to the Department of Energy @ @ @ @ @ , Axios reports .
“ Coates ’ working relationship with National Security Adviser Robert O @ @ @ @ @ her to the deputy role only months ago , has strained amid an effort by @ @ @ @ @ to tag her as ‘ Anonymous ’ — a charge she has vehemently denied to @ @ @

Top Trump administration officials are in discussions to reassign deputy national security adviser Victoria Coates to the Department of Energy from the National Security Council, Axios reports.
“Coates’ working relationship with National Security Adviser Robert O’Brien, who elevated her to the deputy role only months ago, has strained amid an effort by some people inside the administration to tag her as ‘Anonymous’ — a charge she has vehemently denied to colleagues.”


politicalwire--2020-02-17--Biden Counting on at Least Second Place In Nevada

“ On Friday afternoon , Joseph Biden ’ s campaign manager , Greg Schultz , convened a conference call with @ @ @ @ @ forward following two bruising losses in Iowa and New Hampshire , ” the New York @ @ @ @ @ campaign , Mr. Schultz made clear on the call , was banking on finishing in @ @ @ @ @ the upcoming Nevada caucuses , a contest that will offer the first major test of @ @ @ @ @ that he can uniquely assemble a diverse coalition.
” “ Left unsaid : Nevada will @ @ @ @ @ , the former vice president , can revive his campaign after his first two finishes @ @ @ @ @ plummeting , put his donors on edge and jeopardized his standing even in his perceived @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“On Friday afternoon, Joseph Biden’s campaign manager, Greg Schultz, convened a conference call with supporters to outline a path forward following two bruising losses in Iowa and New Hampshire,” the New York Times reports.
“The campaign, Mr. Schultz made clear on the call, was banking on finishing in at least second place in the upcoming Nevada caucuses, a contest that will offer the first major test of Mr. Biden’s assertion that he can uniquely assemble a diverse coalition.”
“Left unsaid: Nevada will also show whether Mr. Biden, the former vice president, can revive his campaign after his first two finishes sent his national poll numbers plummeting, put his donors on edge and jeopardized his standing even in his perceived firewall state, South Carolina.”


politicalwire--2020-02-17--It’s Time for a Democracy Check

It’s Time for a Democracy Check

Chris Riback checks back in with two Harvard professors — Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt , who wrote the book @ @ @ @ @ on how our democratic system is being eroded under President Trump .


politicalwire--2020-02-17--Pelosi Calls for Democrats to Unify

Pelosi Calls for Democrats to Unify

Speaker Nancy Pelosi warned fellow Democrats in a CNN interview that the party “ must be unified ” to defeat @ @ @ @ @ presidential race , while noting that any of the candidates running to face him “ @ @ @ @ @ ” Said Pelosi : “ I can ’ t even envision a situation where he @ @ @ @ @ we are not , we don ’ t take anything for granted .
As I @ @ @ @ @ have our own vision for the future .
But everybody knows that we must be @ @ @ @ @ he does not have a second term .
”

Speaker Nancy Pelosi warned fellow Democrats in a CNN interview that the party “must be unified” to defeat President Trump in the 2020 presidential race, while noting that any of the candidates running to face him “would be a better president.”
Said Pelosi: “I can’t even envision a situation where he would be reelected. But we are not, we don’t take anything for granted. As I say, we have to have our own vision for the future. But everybody knows that we must be unified in making sure that he does not have a second term.”


politicalwire--2020-02-17--Bloomberg’s Huge Campaign Too Big To Be Ignored

BuzzFeed News : “ The sheer hugeness of the former New York City mayor ’ s campaign is its defining @ @ @ @ @ Death Star of presidential campaigns .
Bloomberg employs more — much more — staff than @ @ @ @ @ pays them unusually well .
And not only that , he offers them three meals @ @ @ @ @ .
Bloomberg ’ s campaign events have everything : catered food , more than enough @ @ @ @ @ highly produced stages with themed backdrops and lecterns .
Bloomberg is carrying out the largest @ @ @ @ @ of American presidential politics , with over $ 400 million spent on ads so far @ @ @ @ @ cornering the market on available staff for other campaigns that might need them .
”

BuzzFeed News: “The sheer hugeness of the former New York City mayor’s campaign is its defining feature. It is the Death Star of presidential campaigns. Bloomberg employs more — much more — staff than any other candidate, and pays them unusually well. And not only that, he offers them three meals a day and iPhone 11s. Bloomberg’s campaign events have everything: catered food, more than enough free t-shirts for everyone, highly produced stages with themed backdrops and lecterns. Bloomberg is carrying out the largest advertising campaign in the history of American presidential politics, with over $400 million spent on ads so far and counting. Bloomberg is cornering the market on available staff for other campaigns that might need them.”


politicalwire--2020-02-17--Sanders’ Iraq War Opposition Was More Complicated

“ Sen .
Bernie Sanders has for years cast his opposition to the Iraq War as near-absolute , insisting he @ @ @ @ @ lying from the start about the threat to the U.S. posed by Saddam Hussein and @ @ @ @ @ production of weapons of mass destruction , ” NBC News reports .
“ But a @ @ @ @ @ and statements before the House vote in October 2002 to authorize the U.S. to use @ @ @ @ @ position wasn ’ t as absolute as he claims .
”

“Sen. Bernie Sanders has for years cast his opposition to the Iraq War as near-absolute, insisting he knew the Bush administration was lying from the start about the threat to the U.S. posed by Saddam Hussein and his regime’s alleged production of weapons of mass destruction,” NBC News reports.
“But a review of the congressional record and statements before the House vote in October 2002 to authorize the U.S. to use military force show that his position wasn’t as absolute as he claims.”


politicalwire--2020-02-17--Bloomberg Prepared for Months to Defend Past Remarks

New York Times : “ For the past two months , Mr. Bloomberg ’ s presidential campaign has been lining @ @ @ @ @ messages to voters and expanding its reach across the country with an eye toward the @ @ @ @ @ : when Mr. Bloomberg , the 78-year-old multibillionaire and former mayor of New York , @ @ @ @ @ afterthought in the race but a prime target , and decades worth of impolitic and @ @ @ @ @ as problematic policy stances — would face renewed scrutiny.
” “ That moment is now @ @ @ @ @ with the kind of political crucible he has not faced since 2009 , when he @ @ @ @ @ .
Over the weekend , the concern about Mr. Bloomberg ’ s ascendancy was evident @ @ @ @ @ Nevada unleashed a barrage of attacks on the former mayor , including familiar laments that @ @ @ @ @ an election and new criticism aided by resurfaced videos that invoked his past controversies .
@

New York Times: “For the past two months, Mr. Bloomberg’s presidential campaign has been lining up endorsements, adjusting its messages to voters and expanding its reach across the country with an eye toward the moment it knew would come: when Mr. Bloomberg, the 78-year-old multibillionaire and former mayor of New York, would no longer be an afterthought in the race but a prime target, and decades worth of impolitic and insensitive remarks — as well as problematic policy stances — would face renewed scrutiny.”
“That moment is now here, presenting Mr. Bloomberg with the kind of political crucible he has not faced since 2009, when he last ran for public office. Over the weekend, the concern about Mr. Bloomberg’s ascendancy was evident as rival Democrats campaigning in Nevada unleashed a barrage of attacks on the former mayor, including familiar laments that he was trying to buy an election and new criticism aided by resurfaced videos that invoked his past controversies.”


politicalwire--2020-02-17--Just Five Have Qualified for This Week’s Debate

CBS News reports that just five of the eight Democrats still in the race for the presidential nomination appear to @ @ @ @ @ s debate : Joe Biden , Pete Buttigieg , Amy Klobuchar , Bernie Sanders and @ @ @ @ @ , Tom Steyer and Tulsi Gabbard have until 11:59 p.m .
ET Tuesday to meet @ @ @ @

CBS News reports that just five of the eight Democrats still in the race for the presidential nomination appear to have qualified for Wednesday’s debate: Joe Biden, Pete Buttigieg, Amy Klobuchar, Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren.
Michael Bloomberg, Tom Steyer and Tulsi Gabbard have until 11:59 p.m. ET Tuesday to meet the debate requirements.


politicalwire--2020-02-17--Inside Trump’s Quest to Rewrite the Russia Probe

Washington Post : “ Seven months after Mueller ’ s marathon testimony brought finality to the Russia investigation , Trump @ @ @ @ @ the narrative that had been meticulously documented by federal law enforcement and intelligence officials , @ @ @ @ @ and for history .
“ Turbocharged by his acquittal in the Senate ’ s impeachment @ @ @ @ @ has acquired the fealty of nearly every Republican in Congress , Trump is claiming vindication @ @ @ @ @ his conduct with Ukraine — for which the House voted to impeach him — but @ @ @ @ @ that have dogged his presidency .
”

Washington Post: “Seven months after Mueller’s marathon testimony brought finality to the Russia investigation, Trump is actively seeking to rewrite the narrative that had been meticulously documented by federal law enforcement and intelligence officials, both for immediate political gain and for history.
“Turbocharged by his acquittal in the Senate’s impeachment trial and confident that he has acquired the fealty of nearly every Republican in Congress, Trump is claiming vindication and exoneration not only over his conduct with Ukraine — for which the House voted to impeach him — but also from the other investigations that have dogged his presidency.”


politicalwire--2020-02-17--Memo to Democrats: Don’t Be Like Mitt

Memo to Democrats: Don’t Be Like Mitt

Dan Pfeiffer : “ Rather than obsess over 2016 , Democrats should focus on 2012—the last year a challenger took @ @ @ @ @ are more parallels than you ’ d think : Barack Obama was a president hugely @ @ @ @ @ , but the economy on the upswing ; the Republicans had a big field and @ @ @ @ @ around a consensus choice .
In the end , that choice was Mitt Romney—and his @ @ @ @ @ election in ways that the Democrats desperately need to pay attention to now.
” Pfeiffer @ @ @ @ @ Un-Trumping America : A Plan to Make America a Democracy Again .

Dan Pfeiffer: “Rather than obsess over 2016, Democrats should focus on 2012—the last year a challenger took on an incumbent. There are more parallels than you’d think: Barack Obama was a president hugely unpopular with the opposing party, but the economy on the upswing; the Republicans had a big field and took a while to coalesce around a consensus choice. In the end, that choice was Mitt Romney—and his campaign misread and misplayed the election in ways that the Democrats desperately need to pay attention to now.”
Pfeiffer’s new book is Un-Trumping America: A Plan to Make America a Democracy Again.


politicalwire--2020-02-17--Bernie Is Becoming Harder to Stop

Bernie Is Becoming Harder to Stop

Politico : “ Advisers to three rival campaigns privately conceded over the weekend that the best anyone else could hope @ @ @ @ @ third .
Some of them gape at the crowd sizes at Sanders ’ events — @ @ @ @ @ who accompanied Sanders , his fist raised , to an early caucus site in Las @ @ @ @ @ first day of early voting in the state.
” “ While few expect that Sanders @ @ @ @ @ third of the vote in Nevada , nearly everyone believes that will be enough to @ @ @ @ @ the moderate vote remains splintered .
It is becoming a source of celebration for Sanders @ @ @ @ @ problem for those who want to prevent him from claiming the nomination.
” Associated Press @ @ @ @ @ the establishment : Fear of Sanders .

Politico: “Advisers to three rival campaigns privately conceded over the weekend that the best anyone else could hope for here is second or third. Some of them gape at the crowd sizes at Sanders’ events — like the swarm of supporters who accompanied Sanders, his fist raised, to an early caucus site in Las Vegas on Saturday, the first day of early voting in the state.”
“While few expect that Sanders can carry more than a third of the vote in Nevada, nearly everyone believes that will be enough to win in a field where the moderate vote remains splintered. It is becoming a source of celebration for Sanders’ supporters and an urgent problem for those who want to prevent him from claiming the nomination.”
Associated Press: One thing that unites the establishment: Fear of Sanders.


politicalwire--2020-02-17--Loeffler Tries to Portray Herself as a Hunter

“ Sen .
Kelly Loeffler ( R-GA ) posted a picture of herself in a camo blouse and orange safety @ @ @ @ @ over one shoulder .
One of her critics quickly discovered she couldn ’ t have @ @ @ @ @ hunt , ” the Atlanta Journal Constitution reports .

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


politicalwire--2020-02-17--What Would Four More Years of Trump Look Like?

Jonathan Chait : “ Here is one starting point for contemplating a second Trump term : The Ukraine scandal only became a Trump scandal because Ukraine refused to submit to a pair of presidential demands that would have been fairly easy to satisfy .
If Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky had merely announced that he was looking into a mysterious missing Democratic server and corruption by the Bidens , then the whole affair probably wouldn ’ t have become a Trump scandal at all .
It would have become , to the American news-consuming public , a Biden scandal .
Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very sensible reason .
Ukrainians , analyzing American politics , calculated that Trump may not stay in office much beyond this year .
It was a hedge against forever Trumpism.
” “ Trump ’ s favorable rating fell faster than any other president-elect ’ s in the history of polling , dropping below 50 percent even before his inauguration , a fact that made him look to most civilians as well as politicians like a probable one-termer from the get-go .
The assumption that his election was a terrible mistake that would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ invisible force propping up the resistance both domestic and international to his agenda .
The Iran nuclear deal has primarily kept its head above water because Europe is still respecting the deal rather than joining in Trump ’ s saber-rattling .
When Trump gutted the Obama administration ’ s fuel-mileage standards , auto companies steered clear , no doubt because it wouldn ’ t pay for them to invest in gas-guzzlers if a Democrat was to come in and force them to change again.
” “ Only in the past few months has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as likely as not .
If he wins , a basic calculation about how to deal with him will tip for a whole range of players .
”

Jonathan Chait: “Here is one starting point for contemplating a second Trump term: The Ukraine scandal only became a Trump scandal because Ukraine refused to submit to a pair of presidential demands that would have been fairly easy to satisfy. If Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky had merely announced that he was looking into a mysterious missing Democratic server and corruption by the Bidens, then the whole affair probably wouldn’t have become a Trump scandal at all. It would have become, to the American news-consuming public, a Biden scandal. Ukraine held off, though, for a very sensible reason. Ukrainians, analyzing American politics, calculated that Trump may not stay in office much beyond this year. It was a hedge against forever Trumpism.”
“Trump’s favorable rating fell faster than any other president-elect’s in the history of polling, dropping below 50 percent even before his inauguration, a fact that made him look to most civilians as well as politicians like a probable one-termer from the get-go. The assumption that his election was a terrible mistake that would be corrected in four years has been an invisible force propping up the resistance both domestic and international to his agenda. The Iran nuclear deal has primarily kept its head above water because Europe is still respecting the deal rather than joining in Trump’s saber-rattling. When Trump gutted the Obama administration’s fuel-mileage standards, auto companies steered clear, no doubt because it wouldn’t pay for them to invest in gas-guzzlers if a Democrat was to come in and force them to change again.”
“Only in the past few months has Trump’s reelection started to appear as likely as not. If he wins, a basic calculation about how to deal with him will tip for a whole range of players.”


politicalwire--2020-02-17--Virginia Lawmakers Reject Assault Weapons Ban

Virginia Gov .
Ralph Northam ’ s ( D ) push to ban the sale of assault weapons has failed @ @ @ @ @ party balked at the proposal , the AP reports .
“ Four moderate Democrats joined @ @ @ @ @ committee vote , rejecting legislation that would have prohibited the sale of certain semiautomatic firearms @ @ @ @ @ rifles , and banned the possession of magazines that hold more than 12 rounds .
@

Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam’s (D) push to ban the sale of assault weapons has failed after members of his own party balked at the proposal, the AP reports.
“Four moderate Democrats joined Republicans in Monday’s committee vote, rejecting legislation that would have prohibited the sale of certain semiautomatic firearms, including popular AR-15 style rifles, and banned the possession of magazines that hold more than 12 rounds.”


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Sanders Leads Nationally as Bloomberg Surges

A new NPR/PBS/Marist poll finds Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic presidential field nationally with 31 % , followed by Mike @ @ @ @ @ Joe Biden at 15 % , Elizabeth Warren at 12 % , Amy Klobuchar at @ @ @ @ @ Buttigieg at 8 % This poll allows Bloomberg to qualify for tomorrow ’ s debate @ @ @ @ @ Sheekey confirmed in a statement tomthe Washington Post that Bloomberg would attend the debate .

A new NPR/PBS/Marist poll finds Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic presidential field nationally with 31%, followed by Mike Bloomberg at 19%, Joe Biden at 15%, Elizabeth Warren at 12%, Amy Klobuchar at 9%, and Pete Buttigieg at 8%
This poll allows Bloomberg to qualify for tomorrow’s debate.
Bloomberg campaign manager Kevin Sheekey confirmed in a statement tomthe Washington Post that Bloomberg would attend the debate.


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Bloomberg and Sanders Lead In Virginia

Bloomberg and Sanders Lead In Virginia

A new Monmouth poll in Virginia , which votes on Super Tuesday March 3 , finds Michael Bloomberg and Bernie @ @ @ @ @ each , followed by Joe Biden at 18 % , Pete Buttigieg at 11 % @ @ @ @ @ % and Elizabeth Warren at 5 % .
Another 11 % of likely primary voters @ @ @ @ @ lean toward any candidate at this time .

A new Monmouth poll in Virginia, which votes on Super Tuesday March 3, finds Michael Bloomberg and Bernie Sanders tied at 22% each, followed by Joe Biden at 18%, Pete Buttigieg at 11%, Amy Klobuchar at 9% and Elizabeth Warren at 5%.
Another 11% of likely primary voters remain undecided and do not lean toward any candidate at this time.


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Bolton Hints at Further Revelations

Bolton Hints at Further Revelations

John Bolton , the former national security adviser to President Trump , suggested that his unpublished book contained far more @ @ @ @ @ to pressure Ukraine for help with domestic politics but said he was fighting “ censorship @ @ @ @ @ , the New York Times reports .

John Bolton, the former national security adviser to President Trump, suggested that his unpublished book contained far more revelations than just the campaign to pressure Ukraine for help with domestic politics but said he was fighting “censorship” by the White House, the New York Times reports.
Said Bolton: “I hope it’s not suppressed.”


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Bloomberg Opens First Attack on Democratic Rival

“ Michael Bloomberg ’ s presidential campaign , which has largely focused its attacks on President Trump , mounted a @ @ @ @ @ his Democratic rivals for the first time , comparing Sen. Bernie Sanders ’ s campaign @ @ @ @ @ the president , ” the New York Times reports .
“ Mr .
Sanders struck @ @ @ @ @ later in the afternoon , drawing comparisons between Mr. Bloomberg and Mr. Trump .
But @ @ @ @ @ in targeting the Vermont liberal : Former Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr. , in @ @ @ @ @ on Mr. Sanders to disavow attacks by some of his supporters on officials at a @ @ @ @ @ that Mr. Biden said was ‘ Trump-like . '
”

“Michael Bloomberg’s presidential campaign, which has largely focused its attacks on President Trump, mounted a frontal offensive against one of his Democratic rivals for the first time, comparing Sen. Bernie Sanders’s campaign tactics with those employed by the president,” the New York Times reports.
“Mr. Sanders struck back at a campaign rally later in the afternoon, drawing comparisons between Mr. Bloomberg and Mr. Trump. But Mr. Bloomberg was not alone in targeting the Vermont liberal: Former Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr., in a television interview, called on Mr. Sanders to disavow attacks by some of his supporters on officials at a Nevada labor union, behavior that Mr. Biden said was ‘Trump-like.'”


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Federal Judges Group Calls Emergency Meeting

A national association of federal judges has called an emergency meeting Tuesday to address growing concerns about the intervention of @ @ @ @ @ Trump in politically sensitive cases , USA Today reports .


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Buttigieg’s Plan If Trump Won’t Leave

Buttigieg’s Plan If Trump Won’t Leave

Pete Buttigieg says if President Trump refuses to leave the White House after losing his reelection bid in November , @ @ @ @ @ do chores , ” The Hill reports .
Said Buttigieg : “ I mean if @ @ @ @ @ , I guess if he ’ s willing to do chores , I guess we @ @ @ @ @ ”

Pete Buttigieg says if President Trump refuses to leave the White House after losing his reelection bid in November, he could stay and “do chores,” The Hill reports.
Said Buttigieg: “I mean if he won’t leave, I guess if he’s willing to do chores, I guess we could work something out.”


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Bloomberg Will Sell Company If Elected

Bloomberg Will Sell Company If Elected

“ Mike Bloomberg would sell the financial data and media company he created in the 1980s — which bears his @ @ @ @ @ multibillionaire — if he is elected U.S. president , ” the AP reports .


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Bloomberg Campaign Hints at Damaging Sanders Info

Bloomberg campaign manager Kevin Sheekey tweets : “ The opposition research on Bernie Sanders could fill Donald Trump ’ s @ @ @ @ @ ” “ It is very damaging , perhaps even disqualifying .
”


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ I ’ m actually , I guess , the chief law enforcement officer of the country.
” — President @ @ @ @ @ , falsely claiming he ’ s got the power of the Attorney General .


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Sanders Would Crush Bloomberg In Two Person Race

Michael Bloomberg is framing the Democratic presidential race as if it ’ s between just him and Bernie Sanders .
@ @ @ @ @ Street Journal/NBC News poll shows Sanders would trounce Bloomberg in a head-to-head match up , @ @ @ @ @ .

Michael Bloomberg is framing the Democratic presidential race as if it’s between just him and Bernie Sanders.
However, the new Wall Street Journal/NBC News poll shows Sanders would trounce Bloomberg in a head-to-head match up, 57% to 37%.


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Bloomberg Referred To Transgender People As ‘It’

“ A newly uncovered video shows Democratic presidential candidate Mike Bloomberg in 2019 describing transgender people as an ‘ he @ @ @ @ @ ’ and ‘ some guy in a dress ’ who enters girls ’ locker rooms @ @ @ @ @ as he argued that transgender rights are toxic for presidential candidates trying to reach middle @ @ @ @ @ reports .
“ And yet , Bloomberg ’ s campaign published a new video on @ @ @ @ @ New York City mayor believed in ‘ inclusivity ’ for ‘ LGBTQ plus youth , @ @ @ @ @ Mizrahi declaring , ‘ Mike is so incredibly sensitive to this issue . '
”

“A newly uncovered video shows Democratic presidential candidate Mike Bloomberg in 2019 describing transgender people as an ‘he, she, or it’ and ‘some guy in a dress’ who enters girls’ locker rooms — invoking a conservative cliché as he argued that transgender rights are toxic for presidential candidates trying to reach middle America,” BuzzFeed News reports.
“And yet, Bloomberg’s campaign published a new video on Tuesday that pledged the former New York City mayor believed in ‘inclusivity’ for ‘LGBTQ plus youth,’ featuring fashion designer Isaac Mizrahi declaring, ‘Mike is so incredibly sensitive to this issue.'”


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Sanders Holds Wide Lead Nationally

Sanders Holds Wide Lead Nationally

A new Wall Street Journal/NBC News poll finds Bernie Sanders leading Democrats nationally with 27 % , followed by Joe @ @ @ @ @ Mike Bloomberg at 14 % , Elizabeth Warren at 14 % , Pete Buttigieg at @ @ @ @ @ at 7 % .
“ As in prior surveys , about 40 % of Democrats @ @ @ @ @ one of the most ardent liberals , Mr. Sanders or Ms. Warren , with 45 @ @ @ @ @ a more centrist candidate .
The difference now is that more candidates are dividing the @ @ @ @ @ voters , while Mr. Sanders has expanded his lead over Ms. Warren among liberals .
@

A new Wall Street Journal/NBC News poll finds Bernie Sanders leading Democrats nationally with 27%, followed by Joe Biden at 15%, Mike Bloomberg at 14%, Elizabeth Warren at 14%, Pete Buttigieg at 13% and Amy Klobuchar at 7%.
“As in prior surveys, about 40% of Democrats say their top choice is one of the most ardent liberals, Mr. Sanders or Ms. Warren, with 45% to 50% picking a more centrist candidate. The difference now is that more candidates are dividing the party’s self-described centrist voters, while Mr. Sanders has expanded his lead over Ms. Warren among liberals.”


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Trump Says Bloomberg ‘Illegally Buying’ Nomination

In a pair of tweets , Trump accused Mike Bloomberg of “ illegally buying ” the Democratic presidential nomination .
@ @ @ @ @ Mini Mike is doing is nothing less than a large scale illegal campaign contribution .
@ @ @ @ @ money all over the place , only to have recipients of his cash payments , @ @ @ @ @ joining or supporting his campaign .
Isn ’ t that called a payoff ?
” @ @ @ @ @ is illegally buying the Democrat Nomination .
They are taking it away from Bernie again @ @ @ @ @ Party Nominations are not for sale !
Good luck in the debate tomorrow night and @ @ @ @ @ boxes !
”

In a pair of tweets, Trump accused Mike Bloomberg of “illegally buying” the Democratic presidential nomination.
Said Trump: “What Mini Mike is doing is nothing less than a large scale illegal campaign contribution. He is ‘spreading’ money all over the place, only to have recipients of his cash payments, many former opponents, happily joining or supporting his campaign. Isn’t that called a payoff?”
He continued: “Mini is illegally buying the Democrat Nomination. They are taking it away from Bernie again. Mini Mike, Major Party Nominations are not for sale! Good luck in the debate tomorrow night and remember, no standing on boxes!”


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Maine Senate Race Is Very Tight

Maine Senate Race Is Very Tight

A new Colby College poll in Maine finds Sara Gideon ( D ) edging Sen. Susan Collins ( R ) @ @ @ @ @ , 43 % to 42 % .
Key takeaway : “ Among women , 36 @ @ @ @ @ vote for Ms. Collins , compared with 49 % who said they would support Ms. @ @ @ @ @ s support among women younger than 50 was even worse , with 25 % saying @ @ @ @ @ her , compared with 56 % who said they would support Ms. Gideon .
”

A new Colby College poll in Maine finds Sara Gideon (D) edging Sen. Susan Collins (R) in the U.S. Senate race, 43% to 42%.
Key takeaway: “Among women, 36% said that they would vote for Ms. Collins, compared with 49% who said they would support Ms. Gideon. Ms. Collins’s support among women younger than 50 was even worse, with 25% saying that they would vote for her, compared with 56% who said they would support Ms. Gideon.”


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Bloomberg Campaign Writes Off Biden

Bloomberg Campaign Writes Off Biden

“ Mike Bloomberg ’ s campaign said the Democratic presidential race is down to a two-man contest — and Joe @ @ @ @ @ of the men in the mix , ” Politico reports .
“ The former vice @ @ @ @ @ plummeted so much since his back-to-back losses in Iowa and New Hampshire that only Bloomberg @ @ @ @ @ challenge the Democrats ’ front-runner , Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders .
”

“Mike Bloomberg’s campaign said the Democratic presidential race is down to a two-man contest — and Joe Biden isn’t one of the men in the mix,” Politico reports.
“The former vice president’s fortunes have plummeted so much since his back-to-back losses in Iowa and New Hampshire that only Bloomberg is polling strongly enough to challenge the Democrats’ front-runner, Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders.”


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Buttigieg Accused of Coordinating with Super PAC

A campaign-finance watchdog group has filed a complaint alleging the presidential campaign of Pete Buttigieg improperly coordinated with VoteVets , @ @ @ @ @ campaign of the former mayor of South Bend , the Washington Post reports .


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Trump Has ‘Total Confidence’ In Barr

Trump Has ‘Total Confidence’ In Barr

President Trump said that he had “ total confidence ” in Attorney General William Barr and acknowledged that he makes @ @ @ @ @ ’ s job “ harder ” with his tweets , The Hill reports .
Said @ @ @ @ @ total confidence in my attorney general .
I think he is doing an excellent job @ @

President Trump said that he had “total confidence” in Attorney General William Barr and acknowledged that he makes his top law enforcement officer’s job “harder” with his tweets, The Hill reports.
Said Trump: “I have total confidence in my attorney general. I think he is doing an excellent job.”


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Warren Says Sanders Must Answer for His Backers

Elizabeth Warren criticized Bernie Sanders after his supporters allegedly released personal information about the leadership of an influential Nevada union @ @ @ @ @ Bernie “ has a lot of questions to answer ” about the incident .
Said @ @ @ @ @ ve said before that we are all responsible for what our supporters do , and @ @ @ @ @ lot of questions to answer here.
” She added : “ I am particularly worried @ @ @ @ @ attacks on members of the culinary union , particularly on the women in leadership .
@ @ @ @ @ build an inclusive Democratic Party… We do not build on a foundation of hate .
@

Elizabeth Warren criticized Bernie Sanders after his supporters allegedly released personal information about the leadership of an influential Nevada union, telling NBC News that Bernie “has a lot of questions to answer” about the incident.
Said Warren: “I’ve said before that we are all responsible for what our supporters do, and I think Bernie has a lot of questions to answer here.”
She added: “I am particularly worried about what happened in the attacks on members of the culinary union, particularly on the women in leadership. That is not how we build an inclusive Democratic Party… We do not build on a foundation of hate.”


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Why Trump’s Approval May Be Inflated

Why Trump’s Approval May Be Inflated

A new Pew Research study finds bogus respondents make up between 4 % and 7 % of participants in opt-in @ @ @ @ @ States .
Washington Post : “ If bogus respondents are not detected and removed , @ @ @ @ @ opt-in online samples may overestimate approval of Trump and other political figures and policies by @ @ @ @ @ That fairly small impact can be meaningful for presidents like Trump facing a close reelection @ @ @ @ @ for certain subgroups , including Hispanics .
”

A new Pew Research study finds bogus respondents make up between 4% and 7% of participants in opt-in online surveys in the United States.
Washington Post: “If bogus respondents are not detected and removed, Pew found, polls using opt-in online samples may overestimate approval of Trump and other political figures and policies by about two percentage points. That fairly small impact can be meaningful for presidents like Trump facing a close reelection bid, and are amplified for certain subgroups, including Hispanics.”


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Top Intel Lawyer Who Handled Whistleblower Quits

The top lawyer for the intelligence community , whose decision to block a whistleblower ’ s complaint about President Donald @ @ @ @ @ Congress helped jumpstart the impeachment inquiry , is resigning from his post , Politico reports @

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


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Trump Commutes Blagojevich’s Sentence

Trump Commutes Blagojevich’s Sentence

President Trump has commuted the 14-year prison sentence of former Gov .
Rod R. Blagojevich of Illinois , the Democrat @ @ @ @ @ to essentially sell President Barack Obama ’ s vacated Senate seat for personal gain , @ @ @ @ @ .
“ By commuting the sentence , the president would free Mr. Blagojevich from prison @ @ @ @ @ .
Republicans have advised the president against it , arguing that Mr. Blagojevich ’ s @ @ @ @ @ Mr. Trump had said he wanted to tackle as president.
” Trump also pardoned former @ @ @ @ @ Kerik , and financier Mike Milken .

President Trump has commuted the 14-year prison sentence of former Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich of Illinois, the Democrat who was convicted of trying to essentially sell President Barack Obama’s vacated Senate seat for personal gain, the New York Times reports.
“By commuting the sentence, the president would free Mr. Blagojevich from prison without wiping out the conviction. Republicans have advised the president against it, arguing that Mr. Blagojevich’s crime epitomizes the corruption that Mr. Trump had said he wanted to tackle as president.”
Trump also pardoned former New York police commissioner Bernard Kerik, and financier Mike Milken.


politicalwire--2020-02-18--India Builds Wall to Block Slum Ahead of Trump Visit

“ A half-kilometer brick wall has been hastily erected in India ’ s Gujarat state ahead of a visit by @ @ @ @ @ saying it was built to block the view of a slum area inhabited by more @ @ @ @ @ the AP reports


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Why Did Susan Collins Bet Her Career on Trump?

The Cut : “ For many of the 23 years she ’ s since spent in the Senate , Collins did maintain a voting record more independent than your average bear ’ s .
According to CQ Roll Call , she voted with Democratic presidents between 49 ( Clinton in 1999 ) and 85 ( Obama in 2009 ) percent of the time and with Republican presidents between 59 ( Bush in 2008 ) and 88 ( Bush in 2001 and 2002 ) percent of the time.
” “ But according to the same publication , in 2017 and 2018 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ administration when Republicans had a narrow majority in the Senate and every vote counted , Collins voted with Trump 94 percent of the time .
Since the Republican majority has grown , she ’ s gone back to casting some ( largely decorative ) votes in opposition , some of which work mostly to alienate her from hard-core Trump voters and look to liberals like little more than a fig leaf.
” “ In short , Collins has gone from pleasing an unusually high number of people , at least some of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ almost never .
”

The Cut: “For many of the 23 years she’s since spent in the Senate, Collins did maintain a voting record more independent than your average bear’s. According to CQ Roll Call, she voted with Democratic presidents between 49 (Clinton in 1999) and 85 (Obama in 2009) percent of the time and with Republican presidents between 59 (Bush in 2008) and 88 (Bush in 2001 and 2002) percent of the time.”
“But according to the same publication, in 2017 and 2018, during the period of the Trump administration when Republicans had a narrow majority in the Senate and every vote counted, Collins voted with Trump 94 percent of the time. Since the Republican majority has grown, she’s gone back to casting some (largely decorative) votes in opposition, some of which work mostly to alienate her from hard-core Trump voters and look to liberals like little more than a fig leaf.”
“In short, Collins has gone from pleasing an unusually high number of people, at least some of the time, to pleasing vanishingly few people almost never.”


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Roger Stone Sentencing to Go Forward

Roger Stone Sentencing to Go Forward

“ The federal judge in Roger Stone ’ s criminal trial said Tuesday that she will still sentence the Republican @ @ @ @ @ may postpone imposing the terms of that punishment pending resolution of his request for a @ @ @ @ @ reports .


politicalwire--2020-02-18--Bloomberg Unveils Plan to Rein In Wall Street

“ Mike Bloomberg on Tuesday rolled an ambitious plan to rein in Wall Street , echoing platforms of some of @ @ @ @ @ , ” CNBC reports .
“ Bloomberg ’ s plan would bolster many of the @ @ @ @ @ or strengthened as part of the 2010 Dodd-Frank Act in response to the Great Recession @ @ @ @ @ blamed on Wall Street banks.
” New York Times : “ Perhaps the most surprising @ @ @ @ @ ’ s close personal ties to Wall Street movers and shakers , is a plan @ @ @ @ @ create a dedicated team to fight corporate crime by ‘ encouraging prosecutors to pursue individuals @ @ @ @ @ for infractions . '
”

“Mike Bloomberg on Tuesday rolled an ambitious plan to rein in Wall Street, echoing platforms of some of his more liberal Democratic rivals,” CNBC reports.
“Bloomberg’s plan would bolster many of the reforms either put in place or strengthened as part of the 2010 Dodd-Frank Act in response to the Great Recession, a crisis that some blamed on Wall Street banks.”
New York Times: “Perhaps the most surprising proposal, given the billionaire’s close personal ties to Wall Street movers and shakers, is a plan for the Justice Department to create a dedicated team to fight corporate crime by ‘encouraging prosecutors to pursue individuals, not only corporations, for infractions.'”


politicalwire--2020-02-19--A ‘Blue Wave’ Is Rising In the Cities

A ‘Blue Wave’ Is Rising In the Cities

“ As President Trump seeks a second term in November , Americans ’ interest in voting is growing faster in @ @ @ @ @ than in conservative rural areas , ” according to an analysis of Reuters/Ipsos national opinion @ @ @ @ @ trend lasts until Election Day on Nov. 3 , it would be a reversal from @ @ @ @ @ turnout outpaced voting in urban areas , helping Trump narrowly win the White House .
@

“As President Trump seeks a second term in November, Americans’ interest in voting is growing faster in large cities dominated by Democrats than in conservative rural areas,” according to an analysis of Reuters/Ipsos national opinion polls.
“If the trend lasts until Election Day on Nov. 3, it would be a reversal from the 2016 election when rural turnout outpaced voting in urban areas, helping Trump narrowly win the White House.”


politicalwire--2020-02-19--Utah Moves to Decriminalize Polygamy

Utah Moves to Decriminalize Polygamy

“ A bill that would effectively decriminalize polygamy and dispel fears of prosecution for plural marriage among consenting adults sailed @ @ @ @ @ Tuesday , ” the Salt Lake Tribune reports .


politicalwire--2020-02-19--Another Poll Shows Sanders Way Ahead

Another Poll Shows Sanders Way Ahead

A new ABC News/Washington Post poll finds Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic race nationally with 32 % , followed by @ @ @ @ @ , Mike Bloomberg at 14 % , Elizabeth Warren at 11 % , Pete Buttigieg @ @ @ @ @ Klobuchar at 6 % .


politicalwire--2020-02-19--Manchin Visits Bloomberg Headquarters

Manchin Visits Bloomberg Headquarters

Sen. Joe Manchin ( D-WV ) visited Michael Bloomberg ’ s 2020 campaign headquarters in New York City over the @ @ @ @ @ Post reports .
“ The visit — on which the Bloomberg campaign and Manchin ’ @ @ @ @ @ to requests for comment — highlights the tricky political position for some centrist Democrats as @ @ @ @ @ ahead as the top-polling candidate in a crowded race for the party ’ s nomination @ @

Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) visited Michael Bloomberg’s 2020 campaign headquarters in New York City over the holiday weekend, the Washington Post reports.
“The visit — on which the Bloomberg campaign and Manchin’s office did not respond to requests for comment — highlights the tricky political position for some centrist Democrats as liberal Sen. Bernie Sanders plows ahead as the top-polling candidate in a crowded race for the party’s nomination.”


politicalwire--2020-02-19--Bloomberg Will Dismiss Rivals at Debate

Bloomberg Will Dismiss Rivals at Debate

When Michael Bloomberg steps onto the Democratic debate stage for the first time on Wednesday , he will be ready @ @ @ @ @ Biden , who as vice president made “ speeches that somebody writes for him , @ @ @ @ @ “ mayor of a town , ” Reuters reports .
Said Bloomberg : “ None @ @ @ @ @ to run a big organization .
”

When Michael Bloomberg steps onto the Democratic debate stage for the first time on Wednesday, he will be ready to dismiss rivals like Joe Biden, who as vice president made “speeches that somebody writes for him,” and Pete Buttigieg, “mayor of a town,” Reuters reports.
Said Bloomberg: “None of them would know how to run a big organization.”


politicalwire--2020-02-19--Bonus Quote of the Day

Bonus Quote of the Day

“ One thing about my marriage is it ’ s never involved me having to send hush money to a @ @ @ @ @ my spouse with him or her , So they wan na debate family values ?
@ @ @ @ @ values .
I ’ m ready .
”


politicalwire--2020-02-19--Sanders Won’t Release Full Medical Records

Sen. Bernie Sanders told CNN he will not release any more medical records during his presidential bid , arguing he @ @ @ @ @ information to quell concerns about his health .


politicalwire--2020-02-19--Sanders Opens Huge Lead In California

Sanders Opens Huge Lead In California

A new Public Policy Institute of California poll in California found Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic field with 32 % @ @ @ @ @ at 14 % , Elizabeth Warren at 13 % , Mike Bloomberg at 12 % @ @ @ @ @ % .
Key findings : “ The findings were particularly grim for Biden and Warren @ @ @ @ @ percentage points from their standings in the institute ’ s poll in January .
Sanders @ @ @ @ @ consolidating support among Latinos and voters under 45 years old.
” A new SurveyUSA poll @ @ @ @ @ leading with 25 % , followed more closely by Bloomberg at 21 % , Biden @ @ @ @ @ at 12 % and Warren at 9 % .

A new Public Policy Institute of California poll in California found Bernie Sanders leading the Democratic field with 32%, followed by Joe Biden at 14%, Elizabeth Warren at 13%, Mike Bloomberg at 12% and Pete Buttigieg at 12%.
Key findings: “The findings were particularly grim for Biden and Warren; each dropped by 10 percentage points from their standings in the institute’s poll in January. Sanders has been especially successful at consolidating support among Latinos and voters under 45 years old.”
A new SurveyUSA poll in the states finds Sanders leading with 25%, followed more closely by Bloomberg at 21%, Biden at 15%, Buttigieg at 12% and Warren at 9%.


politicalwire--2020-02-19--Barr Told Confidants He May Quit Over Trump Tweets

“ Attorney General William Barr has told people close to President Trump — both inside and outside the White House @ @ @ @ @ quitting over Trump ’ s tweets about Justice Department investigations , three administration officials said @ @ @ @ @ between the president and his attorney general over the independence of the Justice Department , @ @ @ @ @ .
“ So far , Trump has defied Barr ’ s requests , both public @ @ @ @ @ quiet on matters of federal law enforcement .
It was not immediately clear Tuesday if @ @ @ @ @ known directly to Trump .
The administration officials said Barr seemed to be sharing his @ @ @ @ @ the president would get the message that he should stop weighing in publicly on the @ @ @ @ @ criminal investigations .
”

“Attorney General William Barr has told people close to President Trump — both inside and outside the White House — that he is considering quitting over Trump’s tweets about Justice Department investigations, three administration officials said, foreshadowing a possible confrontation between the president and his attorney general over the independence of the Justice Department,” the Washington Post reports.
“So far, Trump has defied Barr’s requests, both public and private, to keep quiet on matters of federal law enforcement. It was not immediately clear Tuesday if Barr had made his posture known directly to Trump. The administration officials said Barr seemed to be sharing his position with advisers in hopes the president would get the message that he should stop weighing in publicly on the Justice Department’s ongoing criminal investigations.”


politicalwire--2020-02-19--Trump Backers Seek to Raise Extra $1 Billion

“ Members of President Trump ’ s re-election team and some of the GOP ’ s biggest fundraisers are discussing @ @ @ @ @ an extra $ 1 billion to compete with Michael Bloomberg ’ s record campaign spending @ @ @ @ @ who have been part of the discussions , ” Bloomberg reports .
“ Bloomberg ’ @ @ @ @ @ to $ 1 billion to defeat Trump regardless of whether he wins the nomination is @ @ @ @ @ to keep up , including getting conservative billionaires to make much larger donations to Trump-related @ @ @

“Members of President Trump’s re-election team and some of the GOP’s biggest fundraisers are discussing a new goal of raising an extra $1 billion to compete with Michael Bloomberg’s record campaign spending, according to two bundlers who have been part of the discussions,” Bloomberg reports.
“Bloomberg’s pledge to spend up to $1 billion to defeat Trump regardless of whether he wins the nomination is spurring Republicans to consider ways to keep up, including getting conservative billionaires to make much larger donations to Trump-related super-PACs.”


politicalwire--2020-02-19--Buttigieg Overstated Pledges of Support

Buttigieg Overstated Pledges of Support

“ In several instances reviewed by ABC News , the Buttigieg campaign identified people as supporters who later said their @ @ @ @ @ or misconstrued.
” “ The mix-ups have come at a crucial moment for Buttigieg ’ @ @ @ @ @ made a concerted effort to promote his desire for inclusivity , even as polls show @ @ @ @ @ finding support from voters of color .
”

“In several instances reviewed by ABC News, the Buttigieg campaign identified people as supporters who later said their interactions had either been misunderstood or misconstrued.”
“The mix-ups have come at a crucial moment for Buttigieg’s campaign — which has made a concerted effort to promote his desire for inclusivity, even as polls show he faces an ongoing challenge finding support from voters of color.”


politicalwire--2020-02-19--Sanders Asks for Iowa Recount

Sanders Asks for Iowa Recount

“ Bernie Sanders ’ presidential campaign plans to ask for a partial recount of the Iowa caucus results , after @ @ @ @ @ results of its recanvass late Tuesday that show Sanders and Pete Buttigieg in an effective @ @ @ @ @ reports .
Politico : “ Buttigieg now leads Sanders by .08 state delegate equivalents , @ @ @ @ @ the state party — 26.186 percent for Buttigieg to 26.182 percent for Sanders .
The @ @ @ @ @ apparent reporting or mathematical errors .
”

“Bernie Sanders’ presidential campaign plans to ask for a partial recount of the Iowa caucus results,after the state Democratic Party released results of its recanvass late Tuesday that show Sanders and Pete Buttigieg in an effective tie,” the AP reports.
Politico: “Buttigieg now leads Sanders by .08 state delegate equivalents, according to results posted by the state party — 26.186 percent for Buttigieg to 26.182 percent for Sanders. The initial results were marred by apparent reporting or mathematical errors.”


politicalwire--2020-02-19--Pro-Klobuchar Super PAC Pumps Money Into Races

“ A super PAC supporting Amy Klobuchar is dropping a seven-figure ad buy into Nevada and South Carolina , giving @ @ @ @ @ financial boost , ” Politico reports .
“ The super PAC , called Kitchen Table @ @ @ @ @ last week at a crucial moment in the race for Klobuchar , who has only @ @ @ @ @ surprise third-place finish in New Hampshire before a slew of big-ticket Democratic presidential contests begin @ @

“A super PAC supporting Amy Klobuchar is dropping a seven-figure ad buy into Nevada and South Carolina, giving the Minnesota senator a much-needed financial boost,” Politico reports.
“The super PAC, called Kitchen Table Conversations, was formed late last week at a crucial moment in the race for Klobuchar, who has only days to build on her surprise third-place finish in New Hampshire before a slew of big-ticket Democratic presidential contests begin.”


politicalwire--2020-02-20--What 11 Criminals Granted Clemency Had in Common

New York Times : “ All 11 recipients had an inside connection or were promoted on Fox News .
Some @ @ @ @ @ Trump , donated to his campaign or in one case had a son who weekended @ @ @ @ @ president ’ s eldest son .
Even three obscure women serving time on drug or @ @ @ @ @ Trump ’ s radar screen through a personal connection.
” “ While 14,000 clemency petitions @ @ @ @ @ Department ’ s Office of the Pardon Attorney , Mr. Trump eagerly granted relief to @ @ @ @ @ who hosted a pre-inauguration party , a onetime contestant on “ Celebrity Apprentice ” and @ @ @ @ @ by Rudolph W. Giuliani , the president ’ s personal lawyer , and by the @ @ @ @ @ 10 million fund-raiser for Mr. Trump just last weekend .
”

New York Times: “All 11 recipients had an inside connection or were promoted on Fox News. Some were vocal supporters of Mr. Trump, donated to his campaign or in one case had a son who weekended in the Hamptons with the president’s eldest son. Even three obscure women serving time on drug or fraud charges got on Mr. Trump’s radar screen through a personal connection.”
“While 14,000 clemency petitions sit unaddressed at the Justice Department’s Office of the Pardon Attorney, Mr. Trump eagerly granted relief to a former football team owner who hosted a pre-inauguration party, a onetime contestant on “Celebrity Apprentice” and an infamous investor championed both by Rudolph W. Giuliani, the president’s personal lawyer, and by the billionaire who hosted a $10 million fund-raiser for Mr. Trump just last weekend.”


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Top National Security Official Reassigned

“ Deputy national security adviser Victoria Coates will be reassigned to become a senior adviser to Energy Secretary Dan Brouillette @ @ @ @ @ “ Coates has battled rumors that she is ‘ Anonymous , ’ the still-unknown Trump @ @ @ @ @ New York Times op-ed and book critical of President Trump , though a senior White @ @ @ @ @ the administration ‘ rejects ’ those claims .
”

“Deputy national security adviser Victoria Coates will be reassigned to become a senior adviser to Energy Secretary Dan Brouillette,” Axios reports.
“Coates has battled rumors that she is ‘Anonymous,’ the still-unknown Trump administration official that penned a New York Times op-ed and book critical of President Trump, though a senior White House administration official said that the administration ‘rejects’ those claims.”


The SMOD Debate

Charlie Sykes : “ Say what you will , but the Sweet Meteor of Death finally arrived last night .
But , apparently , it was aimed at Mike Bloomberg.
” “ Sure , he still has $ 60 billion to fix the mess , but five minutes into the debate , Bloomberg had been transformed from possible centrist savior to an extra in the Night of the Living Dead.
” “ It was that kind of night .
a six way clusterfuck with moderates attacking moderates , geriatrics talking about their stents , Pete on Amy , Amy on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at just everyone .
That was an odd choice for Warren , who needs to win the progressive lane against Bernie Sanders , but seemed to devote most of her considerable energy to attacking the late Mayor Bloomberg , Amy Klobuchar , and Pete Buttigieg in no particular order.
” “ At a moment when Democrats needed to focus on derailing the prospect of a Trump-Sanders death march they spent the night knifing one another with various degrees of relish .
It was a murder-suicide worthy of an Agatha Christie novel .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ”

Charlie Sykes: “Say what you will, but the Sweet Meteor of Death finally arrived last night. But, apparently, it was aimed at Mike Bloomberg.”
“Sure, he still has $60 billion to fix the mess, but five minutes into the debate, Bloomberg had been transformed from possible centrist savior to an extra in the Night of the Living Dead.”
“It was that kind of night. a six way clusterfuck with moderates attacking moderates, geriatrics talking about their stents, Pete on Amy, Amy on Pete, and Liz Warren lashing out at just everyone. That was an odd choice for Warren, who needs to win the progressive lane against Bernie Sanders, but seemed to devote most of her considerable energy to attacking the late Mayor Bloomberg, Amy Klobuchar, and Pete Buttigieg in no particular order.”
“At a moment when Democrats needed to focus on derailing the prospect of a Trump-Sanders death march they spent the night knifing one another with various degrees of relish. It was a murder-suicide worthy of an Agatha Christie novel. The one where everyone ends up dead.”


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Campaigns Announce Fundraising from Last Night

Sen. Elizabeth Warren ’ s presidential campaign announced they raised $ 2.8 million after last night ’ s debate .


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Inside Roger Stone’s Relationship with Trump

Politico : “ Stone and Trump have a history unlike anyone else around the president .
They ’ ve known @ @ @ @ @ ’ s 1980 White House campaign and maintained a rapport that includes Stone counseling Trump @ @ @ @ @ and Trump hiring Stone as a lobbyist to represent his gambling , airline and hotel @ @ @ @ @ recent book , Stone boasted that he knew about Trump ’ s 2016 plans more @ @ @ @ @ formal campaign announcement .
”

Politico: “Stone and Trump have a history unlike anyone else around the president. They’ve known each other since Ronald Reagan’s 1980 White House campaign and maintained a rapport that includes Stone counseling Trump during four potential presidential runs and Trump hiring Stone as a lobbyist to represent his gambling, airline and hotel businesses. In his most recent book, Stone boasted that he knew about Trump’s 2016 plans more than two years before the formal campaign announcement.”


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Two Senate Races Shift

Two Senate Races Shift

Larry Sabato ’ s Crystal Ball has two Senate race rating changes this week : Colorado moves from Toss-up to @ @ @ @ @ moves from Leans Republican to Likely Republican .

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


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Trump Approval Steady at 49%

Trump Approval Steady at 49%

President Trump ’ s job approval remains elevated at 49 % in the latest Gallup poll , the same as @ @ @ @ @ up five points from an early January poll conducted before Trump was acquitted by the @ @ @ @ @ .

President Trump’s job approval remains elevated at 49% in the latest Gallup poll, the same as in the previous poll and up five points from an early January poll conducted before Trump was acquitted by the Senate in his impeachment trial.


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Trump Hints at Roger Stone Pardon

Trump Hints at Roger Stone Pardon

Said Carlson : “ Like the Russia collusion fantasy itself , Stone ’ s prosecution was wholly poitical .
It @ @ @ @ @ the American tradition of equal justice .
The whole thing is enough to shake your @ @ @ @ @ .
President Trump could end this travesty in an instant with a pardon , and @ @ @ @ @ he will do that.
” Stone is scheduled to be sentenced later this morning .

President Trump posted a clip of Tucker Carlson discussing the Roger Stone case:
Said Carlson: “Like the Russia collusion fantasy itself, Stone’s prosecution was wholly poitical. It was a shocking insult to the American tradition of equal justice. The whole thing is enough to shake your faith in our justice system. President Trump could end this travesty in an instant with a pardon, and there are indications tonight that he will do that.”
Stone is scheduled to be sentenced later this morning.


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Bloomberg Nabs Three New Congressional Endorsements

“ Mike Bloomberg picked up three new congressional endorsements on the heels of his rocky debate performance , underscoring his @ @ @ @ @ primary race despite an onslaught of attacks from opponents , ” the AP reports .
@ @ @ @ @ of New Jersey , Nita Lowey of New York and Pete Aguilar of California all @ @ @ @ @ his total number of congressional endorsements to 15 , behind only Joe Biden , who @ @ @ @ @ that amount .
”

“Mike Bloomberg picked up three new congressional endorsements on the heels of his rocky debate performance, underscoring his staying power in the Democratic primary race despite an onslaught of attacks from opponents,” the AP reports.
“Democratic Reps. Josh Gottheimer of New Jersey, Nita Lowey of New York and Pete Aguilar of California all endorsed Bloomberg Thursday, bringing his total number of congressional endorsements to 15, behind only Joe Biden, who has more than three times that amount.”


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

Bonus Quote of the Day

“ None of them accuse me of doing anything other than maybe they didn ’ t like a joke I @ @ @ @ @ just — there ’ s agreements between two parties that wanted to keep it quiet @ @ @ @ @ up to them .
They signed those agreements and we ’ ll live with it.
@ @ @ @ @ refusing to answer Elizabeth Warren ’ s question on how many non-disclosure agreements he signed @ @ @ @ @ .

“None of them accuse me of doing anything other than maybe they didn’t like a joke I told. And let me just — there’s agreements between two parties that wanted to keep it quiet. And that’s up to them. They signed those agreements and we’ll live with it.”
— Mike Bloomberg, refusing to answer Elizabeth Warren’s question on how many non-disclosure agreements he signed with women at his company.


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Sanders Skates By as Rivals Fight

Sanders Skates By as Rivals Fight

The Fix : “ You wouldn ’ t have thought from watching the debate that Sanders was the one threatening @ @ @ @ @ insurmountable delegate lead in the weeks ahead .
Instead , the candidates focused mostly on @ @ @ @ @ attacks on each other than on Sanders.
” “ Sanders did have to defend himself @ @ @ @ @ including his refusal to provide more medical disclosure after a heart attack he suffered last @ @ @ @ @ forced to respond to the Culinary Workers Union ’ s criticism of him for wanting @ @ @ @ @ insurance with Medicare-for-all .
But there was pretty much nothing to suggest Sanders ’ s @ @ @ @ @ change.
” New York Times : “ Some rivals hit him… But there was no @ @ @ @ @ to upend his current positive trajectory , both in Nevada and nationally .
And even @ @ @ @ @ deliver his most forceful performance , that might be enough .
”

The Fix: “You wouldn’t have thought from watching the debate that Sanders was the one threatening to open up a potentially insurmountable delegate lead in the weeks ahead. Instead, the candidates focused mostly on Bloomberg and arguably landed tougher attacks on each other than on Sanders.”
“Sanders did have to defend himself on some sticky subjects, including his refusal to provide more medical disclosure after a heart attack he suffered last year. He was also forced to respond to the Culinary Workers Union’s criticism of him for wanting to supplant their private health insurance with Medicare-for-all. But there was pretty much nothing to suggest Sanders’s momentum in this race would change.”
New York Times: “Some rivals hit him… But there was no singular moment that would seem to upend his current positive trajectory, both in Nevada and nationally. And even if Mr. Sanders did not deliver his most forceful performance, that might be enough.”


Bloomberg’s Rough Debut

Mike Allen : “ The debate underscored the Bloomberg ’ s campaign biggest fear : It ’ s hard to @ @ @ @ @ .
Bloomberg had all the time , practice and forewarning money could buy — and @ @ @ @ @ public stage.
” “ But it ’ d be foolish to assume blanket ads can @ @ @ @ @ ” Said Elizabeth Warren after the debate : “ I have no doubt that he @ @ @ @ @ tonight , another hundred million dollars on his campaign … in order to try to @ @ @ @ @ of what happened on that debate stage.
” Politico : “ He was rusty .
@ @ @ @ @ was out of touch .
And , for a candidate often shielded by the scripted @ @ @ @ @ , he was on his own — unable to hide his peevish demeanor and unable @ @ @ @ @ his campaign has tried to do , as the clear choice to stop Bernie Sanders @ @ @ @ @ ”

Mike Allen: “The debate underscored the Bloomberg’s campaign biggest fear: It’s hard to hide to his prickly demeanor. Bloomberg had all the time, practice and forewarning money could buy — and still struggled mightily on the public stage.”
“But it’d be foolish to assume blanket ads can’t undo the damage.”
Said Elizabeth Warren after the debate: “I have no doubt that he is about to drop, tonight, another hundred million dollars on his campaign … in order to try to erase America’s memory of what happened on that debate stage.”
Politico: “He was rusty. He was testy. He was out of touch. And, for a candidate often shielded by the scripted one-liners of killer campaign advisers, he was on his own — unable to hide his peevish demeanor and unable to portray himself, as his campaign has tried to do, as the clear choice to stop Bernie Sanders and beat Donald Trump.”


politicalwire--2020-02-20--Warren Goes for Broke

Warren Goes for Broke

Axios : “ The biggest beneficiary of Bloomberg ’ s presence was Warren , who found the foil she desperately needed after disappointing finishes in Iowa and New Hampshire .
She faced questions after the New Hampshire debate about why she didn ’ t get more speaking time , and it was clear she wasn ’ t going to let that happen again.
” “ With little to lose , Warren targeted nearly every candidate on health care , calling Buttigieg ’ s plan ‘ a slogan that was thought out by his consultants , ’ Klobuchar ’ s plan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ here , ’ and jabbing Sanders for ‘ relentlessly attacking everyone ’ who questions his version of Medicare for All.
” “ A Warren aide tweeted toward the end of the debate that the campaign raised $ 425,000 in 30 minutes .
If this debate doesn ’ t boost her polling numbers , it ’ s unlikely any debate will.
” New York Times : “ It was the kind of aggressive performance that allies and even some of her campaign advisers had been hoping for , even if it marked a sharp @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as an above-the-fray candidate who could unite Democrats .
”

Axios: “The biggest beneficiary of Bloomberg’s presence was Warren, who found the foil she desperately needed after disappointing finishes in Iowa and New Hampshire. She faced questions after the New Hampshire debate about why she didn’t get more speaking time, and it was clear she wasn’t going to let that happen again.”
“With little to lose, Warren targeted nearly every candidate on health care, calling Buttigieg’s plan ‘a slogan that was thought out by his consultants,’ Klobuchar’s plan ‘a Post-it Note — insert plan here,’ and jabbing Sanders for ‘relentlessly attacking everyone’ who questions his version of Medicare for All.”
“A Warren aide tweeted toward the end of the debate that the campaign raised $425,000 in 30 minutes. If this debate doesn’t boost her polling numbers, it’s unlikely any debate will.”
New York Times: “It was the kind of aggressive performance that allies and even some of her campaign advisers had been hoping for, even if it marked a sharp shift from her recent strategy of appearing as an above-the-fray candidate who could unite Democrats.”