politicalwire--2020-11-21--GOP Enables Trump’s Risky Endgame

GOP Enables Trump’s Risky Endgame

“ Republicans in Congress are engaged in a risky but calculated bet that once President Trump has exhausted his legal @ @ @ @ @ he will come to grips with his loss to President-elect Joe Biden , ” the @ @ @ @ @ one Trump court case after another falls by the wayside , Trump is doubling down @ @ @ @ @ election outcome .
Rather than accept the reality of the vote , the president is @ @ @ @ @ office to try to squash it .
He summoned Michigan state lawmakers to the White @ @ @ @ @ reaching out to GOP officials ahead of next week ’ s deadline to certify election @ @ @ @ @ may similarly be invited in.
” Washington Post : Trump suffers twin defeats in effort @ @ @ @ @ victory in key states .

“Republicans in Congress are engaged in a risky but calculated bet that once President Trump has exhausted his legal challenges to the election, he will come to grips with his loss to President-elect Joe Biden,” the AP reports.
“But the opposite is happening.”
“As one Trump court case after another falls by the wayside, Trump is doubling down on efforts to disrupt the election outcome. Rather than accept the reality of the vote, the president is using the weight of his office to try to squash it. He summoned Michigan state lawmakers to the White House on Friday after personally reaching out to GOP officials ahead of next week’s deadline to certify election results. Others from Pennsylvania may similarly be invited in.”
Washington Post: Trump suffers twin defeats in effort to reverse Biden’s victory in key states.


politicalwire--2020-11-21--Blackburn Called Biden ‘President-Elect’

Sen. Marsha Blackburn ( R-TN ) , a stalwart supporter of President Trump , on Friday referred to Joe Biden @ @ @ @ @ “ president-elect , ” a comment her staff later said was a mistake , the @ @ @ @ @ asked whether she had been in contact with Biden to congratulate him , as president-elect @ @ @ @ @ Said Blackburn : “ I have not spoken with the president-elect .
We did have @ @ @ @ @ the floor , the vice president-elect come to the floor this week to cast a @ @ @ @ @ at the time .
Didn ’ t get to speak with her .
”

Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), a stalwart supporter of President Trump, on Friday referred to Joe Biden as the country’s “president-elect,” a comment her staff later said was a mistake, the Tennessean reports.
She was asked whether she had been in contact with Biden to congratulate him, as president-elect, on his victory.
Said Blackburn: “I have not spoken with the president-elect. We did have the vice president come to the floor, the vice president-elect come to the floor this week to cast a vote. I was presiding at the time. Didn’t get to speak with her.”


politicalwire--2020-11-21--Trump’s Indifference Amounts to Negligent Homicide

James Fallows : “ More than a year ago , I argued in these pages that if Donald Trump held @ @ @ @ @ responsibility in modern society , he would already have been removed from that role… If @ @ @ @ @ the impulsiveness , the irrationality , the vindictiveness , the ceaseless need for glorification that @ @ @ @ @ authorities would long ago have suspended them .
The stakes—in lives , legal exposure , @ @ @ @ @ and peace—would be too great to do otherwise.
” “ At the time of that @ @ @ @ @ against Trump involved his temperamental , intellectual , and moral unfitness for the job .
@ @ @ @ @ ve moved into the realm of manslaughter .
Yesterday nearly 2,000 Americans died of COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ another 10,000 to 15,000 will have perished .
By year ’ s end , who @ @ @ @ @ person in charge of guiding the national response does nothing .
”

James Fallows: “More than a year ago, I argued in these pages that if Donald Trump held virtually any other position of responsibility in modern society, he would already have been removed from that role… If any of them had demonstrated the impulsiveness, the irrationality, the vindictiveness, the ceaseless need for glorification that all distinguish Trump, responsible authorities would long ago have suspended them. The stakes—in lives, legal exposure, dollars and cents, war and peace—would be too great to do otherwise.”
“At the time of that comparison, the main case against Trump involved his temperamental, intellectual, and moral unfitness for the job. But since then we’ve moved into the realm of manslaughter. Yesterday nearly 2,000 Americans died of COVID-19. By Thanksgiving Day, another 10,000 to 15,000 will have perished. By year’s end, who knows? And meanwhile the person in charge of guiding the national response does nothing.”


politicalwire--2020-11-22--Toomey Says Trump Is Done

Toomey Says Trump Is Done

Sen. Pat Toomey ( R-PA ) released a statement saying Donald Trump has “ exhausted all plausible legal options ” @ @ @ @ @ accept the outcome of the election and facilitate the presidential transition process.
” He added @ @ @ @ @ Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris on their victory .
They are both dedicated public @ @ @ @ @ praying for them and for our country .
”

Sen. Pat Toomey (R-PA) released a statement saying Donald Trump has “exhausted all plausible legal options” and told him to “accept the outcome of the election and facilitate the presidential transition process.”
He added: “I congratulate President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris on their victory. They are both dedicated public servants and I will be praying for them and for our country.”


politicalwire--2020-11-22--Trump Asks, ‘Why Biden Is Forming a Cabinet?’

“ Why is Joe Biden so quickly forming a Cabinet when my investigators have found hundreds of thousands of fraudulent @ @ @ @ @ flip ’ at least four States , which in turn is more than enough to @ @ @ @ @

President Trump tweets:
“Why is Joe Biden so quickly forming a Cabinet when my investigators have found hundreds of thousands of fraudulent votes, enough to ‘flip’ at least four States, which in turn is more than enough to win the Election?”


politicalwire--2020-11-22--Trump Sends Bombers to Middle East

Trump Sends Bombers to Middle East

“ California capped a week of unprecedented coronavirus spread , with officials unsure how much worse it will get while @ @ @ @ @ could help slow infections as the holidays…

“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--2020-11-22--Don Jr. Posts Clip of His Father Beating Up Biden


politicalwire--2020-11-22--Experimental Drug Given to Trump Gets FDA Clearance

“ The FDA granted emergency authorization to the experimental antibody treatment given to President Trump last month when he developed @ @ @ @ @ by the coronavirus , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ The drug , made @ @ @ @ @ designed to prevent infected people from developing severe illness .
Instead of waiting for the @ @ @ @ @ protective immune response , the drug imitates the body ’ s natural defenses .
”

“The FDA granted emergency authorization to the experimental antibody treatment given to President Trump last month when he developed covid-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus,” the Washington Post reports.
“The drug, made by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, is designed to prevent infected people from developing severe illness. Instead of waiting for the body to develop its own protective immune response, the drug imitates the body’s natural defenses.”


politicalwire--2020-11-21--Trump Loses Biggest Remaining Election Case

“ A lawsuit brought by President Trump ’ s campaign that sought to block the certification of Pennsylvania ’ s @ @ @ @ @ a federal judge on Saturday evening , ” the Washington Post reports .
Rick Hasen @ @ @ @ @ loss the the Trump campaign , a federal district court in Pennsylvania has dismissed the @ @ @ @ @ the campaign and denied the campaign a motion to file an amended complaint.
” “ @ @ @ @ @ suit , which those of us in the field have called ridiculous from the start @ @

“A lawsuit brought by President Trump’s campaign that sought to block the certification of Pennsylvania’s election results was dismissed by a federal judge on Saturday evening,” the Washington Post reports.
Rick Hasen: “In a total loss the the Trump campaign, a federal district court in Pennsylvania has dismissed the most serious case brought by the campaign and denied the campaign a motion to file an amended complaint.”
“The judge just excoriates this suit, which those of us in the field have called ridiculous from the start.”


politicalwire--2020-11-21--Biden Considers Two Women for Attorney General

“ The Biden transition team is weighing attorney general contenders led by Lisa Monaco , who held key national security @ @ @ @ @ , and Sally Yates , who gained fame when she was fired by President Trump @ @ @ @ @ “ The choice of either would help President-elect Joe Biden achieve his goal of having @ @ @ @ @ levels of his administration.
” “ Monaco and Yates both had extensive careers inside the @ @ @ @ @ positions that required Senate confirmation .
But her history of tussling with the Trump White @ @ @ @ @ s approval harder if the Senate is still controlled by Republicans .
”

“The Biden transition team is weighing attorney general contenders led by Lisa Monaco, who held key national security posts in the Obama administration, and Sally Yates, who gained fame when she was fired by President Trump,” Bloomberg reports.
“The choice of either would help President-elect Joe Biden achieve his goal of having women represented at the highest levels of his administration.”
“Monaco and Yates both had extensive careers inside the Justice Department and previously held positions that required Senate confirmation. But her history of tussling with the Trump White House might make Yates’s approval harder if the Senate is still controlled by Republicans.”


politicalwire--2020-11-21--Trump Already Plotting 2024 Bid

Trump Already Plotting 2024 Bid

“ President Trump would have the world falsely believe that he won the election and is preparing for a second @ @ @ @ @ Post reports .
“ In private huddles and phone conversations , however , Trump has @ @ @ @ @ next act : another presidential run in 2024.
” “ In a nod to the @ @ @ @ @ to leave office in January , the president is seriously contemplating life beyond the White @ @ @ @ @ he wants to remain an omnipresent force in politics and the media — perhaps by @ @ @ @ @ again.
” “ Trump has told confidants that he could announce a 2024 campaign before @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“President Trump would have the world falsely believe that he won the election and is preparing for a second term,” the Washington Post reports.
“In private huddles and phone conversations, however, Trump has been discussing an entirely different next act: another presidential run in 2024.”
“In a nod to the reality that he is destined to leave office in January, the president is seriously contemplating life beyond the White House, telling advisers that he wants to remain an omnipresent force in politics and the media — perhaps by running for the White House again.”
“Trump has told confidants that he could announce a 2024 campaign before the end of this year.”


politicalwire--2020-11-21--GOP Leaders Ask Michigan to Delay Certification

“ The heads of the Republican National Committee and Michigan Republican Party issued a joint statement Saturday calling for Michigan @ @ @ @ @ to delay certification of the results of the election , marking the latest attempt by @ @ @ @ @ the state ’ s electoral process , ” the Washington Post reports .
“ In @ @ @ @ @ RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel , who is from Michigan , and state GOP Chair Laura @ @ @ @ @ the canvassing board to adjourn for 14 days and allow for a ‘ full audit @ @ @ @ @ convene to certify the state ’ s election results , a procedural step that is @ @ @ @ @ Monday afternoon .
”

“The heads of the Republican National Committee and Michigan Republican Party issued a joint statement Saturday calling for Michigan’s state canvassing board to delay certification of the results of the election, marking the latest attempt by party leaders to intervene in the state’s electoral process,” the Washington Post reports.
“In the letter — signed by RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel, who is from Michigan, and state GOP Chair Laura Cox — the officials ask the canvassing board to adjourn for 14 days and allow for a ‘full audit and investigation’ before they convene to certify the state’s election results, a procedural step that is set to take place on Monday afternoon.”


politicalwire--2020-11-21--How Don Jr. Is Spending His Quarantine

How Don Jr. Is Spending His Quarantine

In a cabin decorated with deer heads on the walls , Donald Trump Jr. told his Instagram followers on Friday @ @ @ @ @ passing the time in coronavirus quarantine by cleaning his guns .


politicalwire--2020-11-21--Trump Tries to Drum Out GOP Elections Officials

“ President Trump has driven senators into retirement and tweeted wayward Republicans into primary defeat during four years leading the @ @ @ @ @ a lame duck , he ’ s launched a new campaign against GOP election officials @ @ @ @ @ to his will , ” Politico reports .
Trump ’ s drive to discredit the @ @ @ @ @ lost has put him at odds with the Republican elected officials and administrators who oversaw @ @ @ @ @ — and called it what it was : a free and fair election .
Being @ @ @ @ @ ’ t go over well in today ’ s Republican Party , and Trump has @ @ @ @ @ them , even unleashing threats from his most rabid supporters .

“President Trump has driven senators into retirement and tweeted wayward Republicans into primary defeat during four years leading the GOP. Now, as a lame duck, he’s launched a new campaign against GOP election officials who won’t bend to his will,” Politico reports.
Trump’s drive to discredit the results of an election he lost has put him at odds with the Republican elected officials and administrators who oversaw the vote in key states — and called it what it was: a free and fair election. Being at odds with Trump doesn’t go over well in today’s Republican Party, and Trump has turned their political bases against them, even unleashing threats from his most rabid supporters.


politicalwire--2020-11-21--Stacey Abrams Ramps Up Grassroots Efforts

“ The voting rights group founded by Stacey Abrams is pumping $ 2.7 million to boost the work of a @ @ @ @ @ of the Jan. 5 runoffs – not to finance more TV ads but to strengthen @ @ @ @ @ the Atlanta Journal Constitution reports .


politicalwire--2020-11-21--Democrats Push Biden to Use Executive Power

“ Democratic senators are calling on President-elect Joe Biden to use executive power to advance goals such as tackling climate @ @ @ @ @ and creating a more progressive immigration system , ” NBC News reports .
“ The @ @ @ @ @ recognition that Democratic lawmakers may not be able to pass a transformative legislative agenda after @ @ @ @ @ And unless Democrats win two Georgia Senate runoffs on Jan. 5 , Biden will be @ @ @ @ @ to enter office without his party controlling both chambers of Congress .
”

“Democratic senators are calling on President-elect Joe Biden to use executive power to advance goals such as tackling climate change, relieving student debt and creating a more progressive immigration system,” NBC News reports.
“The calls from senators reflect a recognition that Democratic lawmakers may not be able to pass a transformative legislative agenda after under-performing in congressional races. And unless Democrats win two Georgia Senate runoffs on Jan. 5, Biden will be the first president since 1989 to enter office without his party controlling both chambers of Congress.”


politicalwire--2020-11-21--Why We’re Numb to 250,000 Deaths

Why We’re Numb to 250,000 Deaths

“ The U.S. passed 250,000 confirmed deaths from COVID-19 this week , a figure that is truly vast — too @ @ @ @ @ us to comprehend , ” Axios reports .
“ The psychic numbing that sets in @ @ @ @ @ of our empathy for victims and discourages us from making the sacrifices needed to control @ @ @ @ @ hampers our ability to prepare for other rare but potentially catastrophic risks down the road @ @

“The U.S. passed 250,000 confirmed deaths from COVID-19 this week, a figure that is truly vast — too vast, perhaps, for us to comprehend,” Axios reports.
“The psychic numbing that sets in around mass death saps us of our empathy for victims and discourages us from making the sacrifices needed to control the pandemic, while it hampers our ability to prepare for other rare but potentially catastrophic risks down the road.”


politicalwire--2020-11-21--Infections Hit Unprecedented Levels in California

“ California capped a week of unprecedented coronavirus spread , with officials unsure how much worse it will get while @ @ @ @ @ could help slow infections as the holidays approach , ” the Los Angeles Times reports @ @ @ @ @ in cases caught many off guard , with long lines at some testing facilities and @ @ @ @ @ cause even more people to be infected .
”

“California capped a week of unprecedented coronavirus spread, with officials unsure how much worse it will get while placing hope that new restrictions could help slow infections as the holidays approach,” the Los Angeles Times reports.
“The staggering rise in cases caught many off guard, with long lines at some testing facilities and worries about whether Thanksgiving will cause even more people to be infected.”


politicalwire--2020-11-21--Trump Bid to Overturn Vote Crashes Into Deadlines

“ President Trump ’ s effort to overturn the election results is about to smash into reality : a gauntlet @ @ @ @ @ are poised to extinguish his increasingly desperate attempts to hold onto the presidency , ” @ @ @ @ @ is due to certify its state results Monday .
Arizona and Pennsylvania counties must also @ @ @ @ @ day .
On the heels of Georgia ’ s certification of Joe Biden ’ s @ @ @ @ @ series of administrative deadlines stands to all but formalize Biden ’ s win by officially @ @ @ @ @ contested states to put him over the 270-electoral-vote threshold .
”

“President Trump’s effort to overturn the election results is about to smash into reality: a gauntlet of battleground state deadlines that are poised to extinguish his increasingly desperate attempts to hold onto the presidency,” Politico reports.
“Michigan is due to certify its state results Monday. Arizona and Pennsylvania counties must also finalize their results the same day. On the heels of Georgia’s certification of Joe Biden’s victory on Friday, the series of administrative deadlines stands to all but formalize Biden’s win by officially affirming the results in enough contested states to put him over the 270-electoral-vote threshold.”


politicalwire--2020-11-22--How Trump Hopes to Retain Control of the GOP

“ As President Trump brazenly seeks to delay the certification of the election in hopes of overturning his defeat , @ @ @ @ @ less high-profile but similarly audacious bid to keep control of the Republican National Committee even @ @ @ @ @ ” the New York Times reports .
“ Ronna McDaniel , Mr. Trump ’ s @ @ @ @ @ the president ’ s support for her re-election to another term in January , when @ @ @ @ @ gather for its winter meeting .
But her intention to run with Mr. Trump ’ @ @ @ @ @ behind-the-scenes proxy battle , dividing Republicans between those who believe the national party should not @ @ @ @ @ the outgoing president and others happy for Mr. Trump to remain in control of it @ @

“As President Trump brazenly seeks to delay the certification of the election in hopes of overturning his defeat, he is also mounting a less high-profile but similarly audacious bid to keep control of the Republican National Committee even after he leaves office,” the New York Times reports.
“Ronna McDaniel, Mr. Trump’s handpicked chairwoman, has secured the president’s support for her re-election to another term in January, when the party is expected to gather for its winter meeting. But her intention to run with Mr. Trump’s blessing has incited a behind-the-scenes proxy battle, dividing Republicans between those who believe the national party should not be a political subsidiary of the outgoing president and others happy for Mr. Trump to remain in control of it.”


politicalwire--2020-11-22--Biden Prepares for Inauguration Unlike Any Other

“ Joe Biden spent months of his presidential campaign safely ensconced in his basement , communicating to the country via @ @ @ @ @ convention speech was delivered to a near-empty room in Delaware .
His remarks after being @ @ @ @ @ given before a distanced parking lot full of honking cars , ” the Washington Post @ @ @ @ @ , as candidate Biden transitions to President Biden , he is planning an inauguration ceremony @ @ @ @ @ , will look like no other in recent American history .
”

“Joe Biden spent months of his presidential campaign safely ensconced in his basement, communicating to the country via a television camera. His convention speech was delivered to a near-empty room in Delaware. His remarks after being declared the 46th president were given before a distanced parking lot full of honking cars,” the Washington Post reports.
“And now, as candidate Biden transitions to President Biden, he is planning an inauguration ceremony that, like his campaign, will look like no other in recent American history.”


politicalwire--2020-11-22--Trump Formally Requests Recount In Georgia

“ President Trump would have the world falsely believe that he won the election and is preparing for a second @ @ @ @ @ Post reports .
“ In private huddles and phone conversations , …


politicalwire--2020-11-22--Kelly Loeffler May Have Coronavirus

Kelly Loeffler May Have Coronavirus

Sen. Kelly Loeffler ’ s ( R-GA ) campaign said Saturday she is self-isolating after she tested positive for the @ @ @ @ @ inconclusive result , the Atlanta Journal Constitution reports .
It ’ s not clear how @ @ @ @ @ nationally-watched Jan. 5 runoff .

Sen. Kelly Loeffler’s (R-GA) campaign said Saturday she is self-isolating after she tested positive for the coronavirus and later received an inconclusive result, the Atlanta Journal Constitution reports.
It’s not clear how the diagnosis will affect her nationally-watched Jan. 5 runoff.


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Biden Picks Tony Blinken as Secretary of State

President-elect Joe Biden intends to name his longtime adviser Antony Blinken as Secretary of State , Bloomberg reports .
Blinken @ @ @ @ @ Senate Foreign Relations Committee in the 2000s when Biden was the top Democrat on the @ @ @ @ @ Jake Sullivan is likely to be Biden ’ s national security adviser .

President-elect Joe Biden intends to name his longtime adviser Antony Blinken as Secretary of State, Bloomberg reports.
Blinken was staff director on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in the 2000s when Biden was the top Democrat on the panel.
In addition, Jake Sullivan is likely to be Biden’s national security adviser.


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Bonus Quote of the Day

Bonus Quote of the Day

“ If you had done your job , America ’ s governors wouldn ’ t have been forced to fend @ @ @ @ @ in the middle of a pandemic , as we successfully did in…


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Murkowski Calls on Trump to Begin Transition

“ There are about 74 million people out there who do not feel like the result of this election that @ @ @ @ @ ” — Lara Trump , on Fox News… .


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Trump Conspiracies Hurt U.S. More Than Russia

“ A longtime diplomat and Joe Biden adviser tells Axios that the United States has lost international credibility as President @ @ @ @ @ his losing election results , Axios reports .
“ Nicholas Burns , a Harvard professor @ @ @ @ @ both political parties as a former ambassador and undersecretary of state , says the president @ @ @ @ @ undercut the U.S. as a beacon of democracy and critical voice against governmental overreach in @ @ @ @

“A longtime diplomat and Joe Biden adviser tells Axios that the United States has lost international credibility as President Trump spreads conspiracies while challenging his losing election results, Axios reports.
“Nicholas Burns, a Harvard professor who previously served presidents from both political parties as a former ambassador and undersecretary of state, says the president’s baseless challenges have undercut the U.S. as a beacon of democracy and critical voice against governmental overreach in other nations.”


politicalwire--2020-11-22--Trump Legal Team Shuns Sidney Powell

Trump Legal Team Shuns Sidney Powell


politicalwire--2020-11-22--Inside Republicans’ Troubled Election Day Operations


politicalwire--2020-11-22--Trump’s Air Force One Problem

Trump’s Air Force One Problem

“ One of President Trump ’ s favorite items on display in the Oval Office has been a model of @ @ @ @ @ One revamp that swaps Jackie Kennedy ’ s iconic light blue design for Trump ’ @ @ @ @ @ white top and dark blue bottom set off with a red stripe , ” Axios @ @ @ @ @ familiar with the planning process tells Axios that Boeing has ‘ not yet had conversations @ @ @ @ @ administration on the paint job for the 747-8s — which are being modified in San @ @ @ @ @ be ready until 2024.
” “ But the source said that the look and feel @ @ @ @ @ that will be up to the sitting president at the time .
”

“One of President Trump’s favorite items on display in the Oval Office has been a model of Boeing’s Air Force One revamp that swaps Jackie Kennedy’s iconic light blue design for Trump’s preferred look: a white top and dark blue bottom set off with a red stripe,” Axios reports.
” A source familiar with the planning process tells Axios that Boeing has ‘not yet had conversations’ with the incoming Biden administration on the paint job for the 747-8s — which are being modified in San Antonio and won’t be ready until 2024.”
“But the source said that the look and feel of the planes are decisions that will be up to the sitting president at the time.”


politicalwire--2020-11-22--Republicans Quietly Plot to Sink Biden Nominees

“ Republicans are making plans to torpedo some of President-elect Biden ’ s prospective Cabinet , agency and judicial nominees @ @ @ @ @ majority , ” Axios reports .
“ Top targets include political names and civil servants @ @ @ @ @ President Trump , forced out his appointees or became stars in the impeachment hearings — @ @ @ @ @ Col. Alexander Vindman — as well as longtime targets of conservative media , like Susan @ @ @ @ @ include more obscure potential nominees for federal judgeships , solicitor general and the Supreme Court @ @ @ @ @ could blunt conservative moves on deregulation or social policy .
”

“Republicans are making plans to torpedo some of President-elect Biden’s prospective Cabinet, agency and judicial nominees if the GOP keeps its majority,” Axios reports.
“Top targets include political names and civil servants who spoke out loudest against President Trump, forced out his appointees or became stars in the impeachment hearings — like Sally Yates and Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman — as well as longtime targets of conservative media, like Susan Rice.”
“Targets also include more obscure potential nominees for federal judgeships, solicitor general and the Supreme Court. Republicans worry these nominees could blunt conservative moves on deregulation or social policy.”


politicalwire--2020-11-22--Harris Getting Classified Briefings While Biden Isn’t

“ Vice President-elect Kamala Harris took part in a classified briefing of the Senate Intelligence Committee this week and emerged @ @ @ @ @ being more informed about current threats than President-elect Joe Biden but bound by congressional rules @ @ @ @ @ him , ” CNN reports .

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


politicalwire--2020-11-22--Biden Team Pushing Quick Stimulus Deal

Biden Team Pushing Quick Stimulus Deal

Advisers to President-elect Joe Biden are planning for the increasing likelihood that the United States economy is headed for a @ @ @ @ @ next year , the New York Times reports .
“ They are pushing for Democratic @ @ @ @ @ a quick stimulus deal with Senate Republicans , even if it falls short of the @ @ @ @ @ seeking .
”

Advisers to President-elect Joe Biden are planning for the increasing likelihood that the United States economy is headed for a “double-dip” recession early next year, the New York Times reports.
“They are pushing for Democratic leaders in Congress to reach a quick stimulus deal with Senate Republicans, even if it falls short of the larger package Democrats have been seeking.”


politicalwire--2020-11-22--Trump Seeks to Invalidate Thousands of Wisconsin Votes

“ President Trump ’ s campaign is seeking to use a recount of the presidential election in Wisconsin to attempt @ @ @ @ @ of votes in the state , making sweeping challenges to whole categories of ballots cast @ @ @ @ @ two Democratic-leaning counties in his last-gasp effort to reverse President-elect Joe Biden ’ s win @ @ @ @ @ reports .
“ As a recount began on Friday in Dane and Milwaukee counties — @ @ @ @ @ Madison and Milwaukee — Trump lawyers argued that officials should not merely retabulate all the @ @ @ @ @ 3 election to reconfirm they ’ d been counted properly.
” “ Instead , they @ @ @ @ @ ballots had been improperly accepted and counted in the first place .
”

“President Trump’s campaign is seeking to use a recount of the presidential election in Wisconsin to attempt to invalidate tens of thousands of votes in the state, making sweeping challenges to whole categories of ballots cast in the state’s two Democratic-leaning counties in his last-gasp effort to reverse President-elect Joe Biden’s win,” the Washington Post reports.
“As a recount began on Friday in Dane and Milwaukee counties — home to the cities of Madison and Milwaukee — Trump lawyers argued that officials should not merely retabulate all the votes cast in the Nov. 3 election to reconfirm they’d been counted properly.”
“Instead, they argued that large batches of ballots had been improperly accepted and counted in the first place.”


politicalwire--2020-11-22--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ If you had done your job , America ’ s governors wouldn ’ t have been forced to fend @ @ @ @ @ in the middle of a pandemic , as we successfully did in Maryland .
Stop @ @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-11-22--McMaster Rips ‘Abhorrent’ Trump Plan on Afghanistan

H.R .
McMaster , a retired lieutenant general and President Trump ’ s former national security adviser , told CBS @ @ @ @ @ handing the Taliban a victory by withdrawing troops from Afghanistan , calling the plan “ @ @ @ @ @ “ If the Taliban establishes control of large parts of Afghanistan , gives safe haven @ @ @ @ @ organizations who want to commit mass murder against us on the scale of 9/11 , @ @ @ @ @ safe and vulnerable to these groups .
And I think what happened is the prioritization @ @ @ @ @ led to us actually empowering the Taliban .
”

H.R. McMaster, a retired lieutenant general and President Trump’s former national security adviser, told CBS News the Trump administration is handing the Taliban a victory by withdrawing troops from Afghanistan, calling the plan “abhorrent.”
Said McMaster: “If the Taliban establishes control of large parts of Afghanistan, gives safe haven and support base to terrorist organizations who want to commit mass murder against us on the scale of 9/11, we will be far less safe and vulnerable to these groups. And I think what happened is the prioritization of withdrawal over our interests led to us actually empowering the Taliban.”


politicalwire--2020-11-22--Vindictive Trump Seeks to Undermine Biden

Dan Balz : “ Judging by his actions , Trump appears to have a motive other than overturning the election @ @ @ @ @ cripple Biden ’ s presidency even before it becomes official .
No defeated president has @ @ @ @ @ and anti-democratic act .
There are short-term and longer-term consequences that could deeply affect Biden @ @ @ @ @ ” “ This is a mean-spirited effort on the part of the president to gum @ @ @ @ @ orderly , nonpartisan process .
”

Dan Balz: “Judging by his actions, Trump appears to have a motive other than overturning the election. He is determined to cripple Biden’s presidency even before it becomes official. No defeated president has ever undertaken such an audacious and anti-democratic act. There are short-term and longer-term consequences that could deeply affect Biden’s ability to govern.”
“This is a mean-spirited effort on the part of the president to gum up what should be an orderly, nonpartisan process.”


politicalwire--2020-11-22--Biden Will Campaign In Georgia

Biden Will Campaign In Georgia

Ron Klain , President-elect Joe Biden ’ s newly named chief of staff , said Sunday that Biden will likely @ @ @ @ @ Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock , the two Democratic candidates in the state ’ s @ @ @ @ @ Hill reports .
Said Klain : “ Winning those two Senate seats in Georgia is @ @ @ @ @ re going to do everything we can to help those two … great candidates in @ @ @ @ @ .
”

Ron Klain, President-elect Joe Biden’s newly named chief of staff, said Sunday that Biden will likely visit Georgia to campaign for Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock, the two Democratic candidates in the state’s January Senate runoffs, The Hill reports.
Said Klain: “Winning those two Senate seats in Georgia is important, but we’re going to do everything we can to help those two … great candidates in Georgia, help them win.”


politicalwire--2020-11-22--Trump Admits Virus Is ‘Running Wild’

Trump Admits Virus Is ‘Running Wild’

“ The Fake News is not talking about the fact that ‘ Covid ’ is running wild all over the @ @ @ @ @ the U.S .
I was at the Virtual G-20 meeting early this morning and the @ @ @ @ @ We will be healing fast , especially with our vaccines !
”

President Trump on Twitter:
“The Fake News is not talking about the fact that ‘Covid’ is running wild all over the World, not just in the U.S. I was at the Virtual G-20 meeting early this morning and the biggest subject was Covid. We will be healing fast, especially with our vaccines!”


politicalwire--2020-11-22--Democrats Grapple with Downballot Losses

“ Heading into the election , Democrats dreamed it would go something like Star Wars , with rebel forces blowing @ @ @ @ @ celebrating in the streets as a blue wave swept them into power in Washington and @ @ @ @ @ , ” NBC News reports .
“ But President-Elect Joe Biden ’ s victory ended @ @ @ @ @ horror movie Alien , with the last bedraggled survivor kicking the monster out the airlock @ @ @ @ @ an uncertain fate in deep dark space .
And wherever they ended up , there @ @ @ @ @ ” “ Yes , Biden soundly defeated President Trump — and there was even some @ @ @ @ @ but the results were brutal down the ballot for Democrats in ways that could haunt @ @ @ @ @

“Heading into the election, Democrats dreamed it would go something like Star Wars, with rebel forces blowing up the Death Star and celebrating in the streets as a blue wave swept them into power in Washington and state capitals across the country,” NBC News reports.
“But President-Elect Joe Biden’s victory ended up looking more like the horror movie Alien, with the last bedraggled survivor kicking the monster out the airlock and then drifting off to an uncertain fate in deep dark space. And wherever they ended up, there would probably be another alien.”
“Yes, Biden soundly defeated President Trump — and there was even some partying in the streets — but the results were brutal down the ballot for Democrats in ways that could haunt them for years.”


politicalwire--2020-11-22--Christie Calls Trump Challenge a ‘National Embarrassment’

Former New Jersey Gov .
Chris Christie on Sunday denounced a lack of evidence in President Trump ’ s legal @ @ @ @ @ “ a national embarrassment , ” emphasizing that Trump has had his chance to prove @ @ @ @ @ in court , Axios reports .
Said Christie : “ I have been a supporter @ @ @ @ @ .
I voted for him twice , but elections have consequences , and we can @ @ @ @ @ if something happened here that didn ’ t happen .
You have an obligation to @ @ @ @ @

Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie on Sunday denounced a lack of evidence in President Trump’s legal challenges against election results as “a national embarrassment,” emphasizing that Trump has had his chance to prove allegations of widespread voter fraud in court, Axios reports.
Said Christie: “I have been a supporter of the president’s. I voted for him twice, but elections have consequences, and we cannot continue to act as if something happened here that didn’t happen. You have an obligation to present the evidence.”


politicalwire--2020-11-22--Trump Threatens to Wreak Havoc on GOP

Trump Threatens to Wreak Havoc on GOP

“ President Trump has spent the three weeks since he lost the election savaging a pair of GOP governors for @ @ @ @ @ was robbed , ” Politico reports .
“ Republicans are worried it ’ s just @ @ @ @ @ s in store from the soon-to-be-ex-president.
” “ Trump ’ s attacks on Georgia Gov @ @ @ @ @ Gov .
Mike DeWine — both of whom are up for reelection in 2022 — @ @ @ @ @ within the party that he will use his post-presidency to exact revenge on perceived enemies @ @ @ @ @ in ways that are not helpful .
”

“President Trump has spent the three weeks since he lost the election savaging a pair of GOP governors for not backing his claims he was robbed,” Politico reports.
“Republicans are worried it’s just the start of what’s in store from the soon-to-be-ex-president.”
“Trump’s attacks on Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp and Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine — both of whom are up for reelection in 2022 — has led to broader concerns within the party that he will use his post-presidency to exact revenge on perceived enemies and insert himself into races in ways that are not helpful.”
Newsweek: GOP civil war, inspired by Trump, grips Georgia, threatens other states.


politicalwire--2020-11-22--U.S. Economy Hurtles Toward ‘COVID Cliff’

A slew of expiring emergency programs are setting up an economic “ COVID cliff ” come 2021 , which could @ @ @ @ @ unemployment insurance and get evictions , while a growing wave of small businesses close shop @ @ @ @ @ Axios : “ With Thanksgiving canceled , doctors quitting their practices and grocers limiting purchase @ @ @ @ @ Americans have the ambient sense that our safety net is unraveling .
Not only are @ @ @ @ @ , they may not return to normal for a long time .
”

A slew of expiring emergency programs are setting up an economic “COVID cliff” come 2021, which could see millions of people lose unemployment insurance and get evictions, while a growing wave of small businesses close shop, The Hill reports.
Axios: “With Thanksgiving canceled, doctors quitting their practices and grocers limiting purchase quantities (again), Americans have the ambient sense that our safety net is unraveling. Not only are things not returning to normal, they may not return to normal for a long time.”


politicalwire--2020-11-23--JP Morgan Sees Economy Contracting In First Quarter

“ JP Morgan economists now see an economic contraction in the first quarter due to the spreading coronavirus and related @ @ @ @ @ and cities , ” CNBC reports .
“ The new forecast is a departure from @ @ @ @ @ held view that the first quarter would be positive , with an improving economy throughout @ @ @

“JP Morgan economists now see an economic contraction in the first quarter due to the spreading coronavirus and related restrictions being imposed by states and cities,” CNBC reports.
“The new forecast is a departure from Wall Street’s widely held view that the first quarter would be positive, with an improving economy throughout 2021.”


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Republicans Are Calculating, not Cowards

Dan Pffeiffer : “ The leading theory in Washington is cowardice .
Most political observers believe that for the last four years Republicans remained silent about Trump ’ s chaotic incompetence and crass corruption out of trepidation .
Whenever a Republican enables another Trump transgression , every liberal blue checkmark tweets ‘ COWARD.
’ The sense among reporters is that Republicans don ’ t like what Trump says or does , but if they speak up they will be tweeted out of the party.
” “ This narrative is comforting because it implies that the Republican Party is not beyond @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not bad people .
Here ’ s the problem : the events of the last few weeks make it crystal clear that this narrative is wrong .
It is way too generous to the Republicans.
” “ Cowards want to to do the right thing but are too afraid to do it .
I do not believe the Republicans want to do the right thing and I do not believe they are concerned about the damage Trump is doing to our democracy .
Ultimately what bothers them about Trump is not that he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s that he is a clumsy , incompetent racist authoritarian .
The Republican supplication to Trump ’ s whims — before and after the election — is not cowardice , it ’ s calculation .
”

Dan Pffeiffer: “The leading theory in Washington is cowardice. Most political observers believe that for the last four years Republicans remained silent about Trump’s chaotic incompetence and crass corruption out of trepidation. Whenever a Republican enables another Trump transgression, every liberal blue checkmark tweets ‘COWARD.’ The sense among reporters is that Republicans don’t like what Trump says or does, but if they speak up they will be tweeted out of the party.”
“This narrative is comforting because it implies that the Republican Party is not beyond repair — they are just cowards, not bad people. Here’s the problem: the events of the last few weeks make it crystal clear that this narrative is wrong. It is way too generous to the Republicans.”
“Cowards want to to do the right thing but are too afraid to do it. I do not believe the Republicans want to do the right thing and I do not believe they are concerned about the damage Trump is doing to our democracy. Ultimately what bothers them about Trump is not that he is a racist authoritarian. It’s that he is a clumsy, incompetent racist authoritarian. The Republican supplication to Trump’s whims — before and after the election — is not cowardice, it’s calculation.”


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Trump Set to Veto Defense Bill Over Renaming Bases

“ President Trump is threatening to veto legislation to fund the military as one of his final acts in office @ @ @ @ @ bipartisan provision to rename military bases honoring Confederate military leaders is removed , ” NBC @ @ @ @ @ the Nov. 3 election , Trump has privately told Republican lawmakers that he won ’ @ @ @ @ @ position during the campaign that he would veto the annual National Defense Authorization Act if @ @ @ @ @ rename the bases .
”

“President Trump is threatening to veto legislation to fund the military as one of his final acts in office unless a widely supported, bipartisan provision to rename military bases honoring Confederate military leaders is removed,” NBC News reports.
“Since the Nov. 3 election, Trump has privately told Republican lawmakers that he won’t back down from his position during the campaign that he would veto the annual National Defense Authorization Act if it includes an amendment to rename the bases.”


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Senate Republicans Face Tough Map In 2022

Politico : “ Ahead of another brutal fight for Senate control and a 2022 map tilted against the GOP , @ @ @ @ @ their incumbents to run again .
Leadership is already getting some positive results , with @ @ @ @ @ signaling they will run for reelection in battleground states.
” “ The tough map for @ @ @ @ @ have a huge impact on what , if any , deals McConnell makes with President-elect @ @ @ @ @ Chuck Schumer ( D-NY ) .
And as in this last cycle , McConnell will @ @ @ @ @ incumbents — both by moving legislation they support and saving them from having to cast @ @ @ @

Politico: “Ahead of another brutal fight for Senate control and a 2022 map tilted against the GOP, Republicans are racing to persuade their incumbents to run again. Leadership is already getting some positive results, with a number of GOP senators signaling they will run for reelection in battleground states.”
“The tough map for Senate Republicans is likely to have a huge impact on what, if any, deals McConnell makes with President-elect Joe Biden and Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY). And as in this last cycle, McConnell will be looking to protect vulnerable incumbents — both by moving legislation they support and saving them from having to cast tough votes.”


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Key Trump Supporter Says Biden Won

Key Trump Supporter Says Biden Won

Axios : “ It ’ s over .
That ’ s what Blackstone chairman , CEO and co-founder Steve Schwarzman @ @ @ @ @ ’ s most loyal allies — and other top Republicans are signaling to the defeated @ @ @ @ @ Joe Biden clinched the win.
” Said Schwarzman : “ I ’ m a fan @ @ @ @ @ my comments three days after the election , I was trying to be a voice @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s in the national interest to have all Americans believe the election is @ @ @ @ @ the outcome is very certain today , and the country should move on .
”

Axios: “It’s over. That’s what Blackstone chairman, CEO and co-founder Steve Schwarzman — one of President Trump’s most loyal allies — and other top Republicans are signaling to the defeated president, 16 days after Joe Biden clinched the win.”
Said Schwarzman: “I’m a fan of good process. In my comments three days after the election, I was trying to be a voice of reason and express why it’s in the national interest to have all Americans believe the election is being resolved correctly. But the outcome is very certain today, and the country should move on.”


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Kasich Says Republicans Are Afraid of Trump

Former Gov .
John Kasich told NPR that Republicans are “ either in complete lockstep with Trump or they ’ @ @ @ @ @ He added : “ They ’ re afraid that they ’ ll be primaried or @ @ @ @ @ ’ ll be severely criticized .
And it ’ s a pretty remarkable situation .
@

Former Gov. John Kasich told NPR that Republicans are “either in complete lockstep with Trump or they’re afraid of him.”
He added: “They’re afraid that they’ll be primaried or they’re afraid they’ll be severely criticized. And it’s a pretty remarkable situation.”


politicalwire--2020-11-23--21 Republican Senators Who Know Better

21 Republican Senators Who Know Better

Carl Bernstein reports that 21 Republican Senators — in conversations with colleagues , staff members , lobbyists and White House @ @ @ @ @ extreme contempt for Donald Trump and his fitness to be president .
They are : @ @ @ @ @ , Ben Sasse , Roy Blunt , Susan Collins , Lisa Murkowski , John Cornyn @ @ @ @ @ Romney , Mike Braun , Todd Young , Tim Scott , Rick Scott , Marco @ @ @ @ @ Richard Burr , Pat Toomey , Martha McSally , Jerry Moran , Pat Roberts and @ @ @ @ @ : “ With few exceptions , their craven public silence has helped enable Trump ’ @ @ @ @ @ and discrediting the US the electoral system .
”

Carl Bernstein reports that 21 Republican Senators — in conversations with colleagues, staff members, lobbyists and White House aides — have repeatedly expressed extreme contempt for Donald Trump and his fitness to be president.
They are: Rob Portman, Lamar Alexander, Ben Sasse, Roy Blunt, Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, John Cornyn, John Thune, Mitt Romney, Mike Braun, Todd Young, Tim Scott, Rick Scott, Marco Rubio, Chuck Grassley, Richard Burr, Pat Toomey, Martha McSally, Jerry Moran, Pat Roberts and Richard Shelby.
Said Bernstein: “With few exceptions, their craven public silence has helped enable Trump’s most grievous conduct—including undermining and discrediting the US the electoral system.”


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Flashback Quote of the Day

Flashback Quote of the Day

“ I am the most fabulous whiner .
I do whine because I want to win .
And I ’ @ @ @ @ @ ’ m not winning .
And I am a whiner .
And I ’ m @ @ @ @ @ whining and whining until I win .
”

“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--2020-11-23--Most Trump Voters Don’t Think Count Is Accurate

“ There are about 74 million people out there who do not feel like the result of this election that @ @ @ @ @ ” — Lara Trump , on Fox News… .


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Michigan Board May Deadlock on Vote Certification

Detroit Free Press : “ For what is believed would be the first time in history , Michigan ’ s @ @ @ @ @ on certifying the state ’ s presidential election results.
” “ By law and by @ @ @ @ @ Board of State Canvassers — comprised of two Democratic appointees and two Republican ones — @ @ @ @ @ routine sign-off .
Certification acknowledges that Michigan ’ s unofficial results match the tabulated vote @ @ @ @ @ two-week period of double-checking in Michigan ’ s 83 counties , where some inaccuracies in @ @ @ @ @ is normal , were found and corrected.
” “ But these are not normal times @ @ @ @ @ , disinformation is rampant , and Republican President Donald Trump and his team of lawyers @ @ @ @ @ working to somehow overturn election results in Michigan and other key states , and upend @ @ @ @ @ victory in the Electoral College , where Biden rung up 306 electoral votes to Trump @ @ @ @ @

Detroit Free Press: “For what is believed would be the first time in history, Michigan’s elections board could deadlock Monday on certifying the state’s presidential election results.”
“By law and by practice, certification by the Board of State Canvassers — comprised of two Democratic appointees and two Republican ones — is supposed to be a routine sign-off. Certification acknowledges that Michigan’s unofficial results match the tabulated vote counts. It follows a two-week period of double-checking in Michigan’s 83 counties, where some inaccuracies in the unofficial numbers, as is normal, were found and corrected.”
“But these are not normal times. The climate is hyper-partisan, disinformation is rampant, and Republican President Donald Trump and his team of lawyers are spreading false claims, working to somehow overturn election results in Michigan and other key states, and upend President-elect Joe Biden’s victory in the Electoral College, where Biden rung up 306 electoral votes to Trump’s 232.”


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Netanyahu Flew to Saudi Arabia

Netanyahu Flew to Saudi Arabia

“ Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu traveled in secret Sunday to the city of Neom on Saudi Arabia ’ s @ @ @ @ @ meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo , ” @ @ @ @ @ and Saudi Arabia had a secret relationship for many years , but this is the @ @ @ @ @ level meeting has been reported — even though neither side confirmed it officially .
”

“Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu traveled in secret Sunday to the city of Neom on Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast for a meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo,” Axios reports.
“Israel and Saudi Arabia had a secret relationship for many years, but this is the first time such a high level meeting has been reported — even though neither side confirmed it officially.”


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Biden to Spotlight CDC Officials Shunned by Trump

Politico : “ President-elect Joe Biden is putting scientists in charge and back on the stage to restore trust in @ @ @ @ @ and Prevention .
The plans include immediately reviving regular media briefings and giving a central @ @ @ @ @ including Nancy Messonnier , the public health official who first warned of the ‘ severe @ @ @ @ @ back in February .
”

Politico: “President-elect Joe Biden is putting scientists in charge and back on the stage to restore trust in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The plans include immediately reviving regular media briefings and giving a central role to long-sidelined career officials including Nancy Messonnier, the public health official who first warned of the ‘severe’ impact of the Covid-19 back in February.”


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Newsom Pressured on Filling Kamala Harris’ Seat

“ As speculation grows that Gov .
Gavin Newsom is leaning toward California elections chief Alex Padilla to fill the @ @ @ @ @ President-elect Kamala Harris , a crowd of top Democratic donors and former San Francisco Mayor @ @ @ @ @ aggressive campaign to argue that another woman of color should fill that seat instead , @ @ @ @

“As speculation grows that Gov. Gavin Newsom is leaning toward California elections chief Alex Padilla to fill the U.S. Senate seat of Vice President-elect Kamala Harris, a crowd of top Democratic donors and former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown are launching an aggressive campaign to argue that another woman of color should fill that seat instead,” Politico reports.


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Biden Picks Linda Thomas-Greenfield as UN Ambassador


politicalwire--2020-11-24--Biden’s Pick for Defense Secretary Still In Flux

“ President-elect Joe Biden ’ s transition team unveiled his picks for top national security positions on Monday .
But @ @ @ @ @ from the list : secretary of Defense , ” Politico reports .
“ Biden-watchers and @ @ @ @ @ omission as a sign that Michèle Flournoy , the woman who has been rumored for @ @ @ @ @ for Biden ’ s Pentagon chief , might not have a lock on the job @ @ @ @ @ Flournoy is still a strong contender , six people close to the transition say Biden @ @ @ @ @ the woman who was widely seen as Hillary Clinton ’ s pick for Defense secretary @ @ @ @ @ presidency in 2016 .
”

“President-elect Joe Biden’s transition team unveiled his picks for top national security positions on Monday. But one post was notably absent from the list: secretary of Defense,” Politico reports.
“Biden-watchers and national security veterans saw the omission as a sign that Michèle Flournoy, the woman who has been rumored for months to be a shoo-in for Biden’s Pentagon chief, might not have a lock on the job after all.”
“While Flournoy is still a strong contender, six people close to the transition say Biden is not entirely sold on the woman who was widely seen as Hillary Clinton’s pick for Defense secretary if she had won the presidency in 2016.”


politicalwire--2020-11-24--Cassidy Says Biden Won the Election

Cassidy Says Biden Won the Election

“ With Michigan ’ s certifying it ’ s results , Joe Biden has over 270 electoral college votes .
@ @ @ @ @ team has not presented evidence of the massive fraud which would have had to be @ @ @ @ @ .
I voted for President Trump but Joe Biden won .
The transition should begin @ @ @ @ @ country .
”

Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA) on Twitter:
“With Michigan’s certifying it’s results, Joe Biden has over 270 electoral college votes. President Trump’s legal team has not presented evidence of the massive fraud which would have had to be present to overturn the election. I voted for President Trump but Joe Biden won. The transition should begin for the sake of the country.”


politicalwire--2020-11-24--House Democrats Reckon with Diminished Majority

Washington Post : “ Following unexpected Election Day setbacks , Democrats could hold as few as 222 seats when the @ @ @ @ @ number , just a handful of seats over the majority threshold of 218 , will @ @ @ @ @ Richmond ( D-LA ) resigns to join the Biden administration as a senior adviser to @ @ @ @ @ governing implications for President-elect Joe Biden , House Speaker Nancy Pelosi ( D-CA ) and @ @ @ @ @ : Pushing any sort of partisan measure through the House will require near-unanimity inside their @ @ @ @ @ with various factions of lawmakers and perhaps fewer aspirational ‘ messaging ’ bills meant to @ @ @ @ @ not necessarily become law.
” “ Meanwhile , an emboldened Republican minority will look to @ @ @ @ @ disputes ahead of the 2022 midterms .
”

Washington Post: “Following unexpected Election Day setbacks, Democrats could hold as few as 222 seats when the new Congress convenes. That number, just a handful of seats over the majority threshold of 218, will drop further when Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-LA) resigns to join the Biden administration as a senior adviser to the president.”
“The governing implications for President-elect Joe Biden, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and Democratic congressional leaders are stark: Pushing any sort of partisan measure through the House will require near-unanimity inside their party, forcing careful negotiations with various factions of lawmakers and perhaps fewer aspirational ‘messaging’ bills meant to set out Democratic ideals but not necessarily become law.”
“Meanwhile, an emboldened Republican minority will look to wreak havoc and magnify internal disputes ahead of the 2022 midterms.”


politicalwire--2020-11-24--The Closest House Race In the Country

The Closest House Race In the Country

Washington Post : “ At the heart of this optimism is the belief that politicians on both sides of the @ @ @ @ @ they like each other .
And the other…


politicalwire--2020-11-24--Feinstein Won’t Seek Top Judiciary Spot

Feinstein Won’t Seek Top Judiciary Spot

“ Sen .
Dianne Feinstein ( D-CA ) will not pursue leadership of the high-profile Senate Judiciary Committee or any @ @ @ @ @ taking a dramatic step back following pressure from progressives who questioned her willingness to use @ @ @ @ @ confirm Biden administration Supreme Court picks and other judicial nominations , ” the Los Angeles @ @ @ @ @ : “ California is a huge state confronting two existential threats — wildfire and drought @ @ @ @ @ worse with climate change .
In the next Congress , I plan to increase my @ @ @ @ @ issues .
”

“Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) will not pursue leadership of the high-profile Senate Judiciary Committee or any other committee next year, taking a dramatic step back following pressure from progressives who questioned her willingness to use tough, partisan politics to confirm Biden administration Supreme Court picks and other judicial nominations,” the Los Angeles Times reports.
Said Feinstein: “California is a huge state confronting two existential threats — wildfire and drought — that are only getting worse with climate change. In the next Congress, I plan to increase my attention on those two crucial issues.”


politicalwire--2020-11-23--GSA Tells Biden Transition Can Begin

GSA Tells Biden Transition Can Begin


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day

“ Since it seems apparent that Joe Biden will be the president-elect , my hope is that President Trump will @ @ @ @ @ accomplishments , put the country first and have a prompt and orderly transition to help @ @ @ @ @ When you are in public life , people remember the last thing you do.
” @ @ @ @ @ R-TN ) , in a statement calling on President Trump to begin the transition .

“Since it seems apparent that Joe Biden will be the president-elect, my hope is that President Trump will take pride in his considerable accomplishments, put the country first and have a prompt and orderly transition to help the new administration succeed. When you are in public life, people remember the last thing you do.”
— Sen. Lamar Alexander (R-TN), in a statement calling on President Trump to begin the transition.


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Michigan Board Certifies Biden as Winner

“ A Republican member of Michigan ’ s state canvassing board broke with his GOP colleague Monday , joining two @ @ @ @ @ the state ’ s election results , ” the Detroit Free Press reports .
Washington @ @ @ @ @ dealt another blow to Trump ’ s unprecedented effort to undo Biden ’ s win @ @ @ @ @ certification of the election results in key states .
”

“A Republican member of Michigan’s state canvassing board broke with his GOP colleague Monday, joining two Democrats in voting to certify the state’s election results,” the Detroit Free Press reports.
Washington Post: “The decision dealt another blow to Trump’s unprecedented effort to undo Biden’s win by attempting to delay the certification of the election results in key states.”


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Secret Service Planning for Trump to Depart

“ Secret Service agents in the president ’ s detail are being asked whether they ’ re interested in transferring @ @ @ @ @ , ” ABC News reports .
“ The Secret Service ’ s Miami field office @ @ @ @ @ physical reinforcements to Mar-a-Largo , the president ’ s golf club to which he refers @ @ @ @ @ House . '
”

“Secret Service agents in the president’s detail are being asked whether they’re interested in transferring to Palm Beach, Florida,” ABC News reports.
“The Secret Service’s Miami field office also has begun looking at physical reinforcements to Mar-a-Largo, the president’s golf club to which he refers as ‘the winter White House.'”


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Capito Calls for Transition to Begin

Capito Calls for Transition to Begin

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito ( R-WV ) released a statement calling for the presidential transition to begin .
Said Capito @ @ @ @ @ and fraud have been found and should be punished , there is no indication that @ @ @ @ @ call into question the outcome of the election .
”

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) released a statement calling for the presidential transition to begin.
Said Capito: “While some irregularities and fraud have been found and should be punished, there is no indication that these are widespread enough to call into question the outcome of the election.”


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Make Schmoozing Great Again

Make Schmoozing Great Again

Washington Post : “ At the heart of this optimism is the belief that politicians on both sides of the @ @ @ @ @ they like each other .
And the other business of Washington — the cultural institutions @ @ @ @ @ the gala fundraisers , the hundreds of historical traditions — need bipartisanship to really thrive @ @ @ @ @ Trump administration , when everything became a test of loyalty and the notion that good @ @ @ @ @ disagreeable was laughable.
” “ Back to normal will mean more state dinners , a @ @ @ @ @ reestablishing global ties .
And it means that Washington events traditionally attended by the president @ @ @ @ @ better part of five decades — the Honors , the Alfalfa dinner , the Gridiron @ @ @ @ @ gala and the correspondents ’ dinner — will likely return to their former glory .
@

Washington Post: “At the heart of this optimism is the belief that politicians on both sides of the aisle get more accomplished when they like each other. And the other business of Washington — the cultural institutions, the diplomatic corps, the gala fundraisers, the hundreds of historical traditions — need bipartisanship to really thrive. They struggled during the Trump administration, when everything became a test of loyalty and the notion that good people could disagree without being disagreeable was laughable.”
“Back to normal will mean more state dinners, a prestigious and glamorous way of reestablishing global ties. And it means that Washington events traditionally attended by the president and first lady for the better part of five decades — the Honors, the Alfalfa dinner, the Gridiron, Ford’s Theatre gala and the correspondents’ dinner — will likely return to their former glory.”


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Trump Loses Yet Again In Pennsylvania Court


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Key Michigan Republican Won’t Delay Certification

“ A Republican member of the board responsible for certifying Michigan ’ s election results signaled his intention to vote @ @ @ @ @ dealing a potential death blow to the Trump campaign ’ s attempt to delay official @ @ @ @ @ ’ s decisive victory in the state , ” the New York Times reports .
@ @ @ @ @ Langevelde : “ The law basically says we have a legal duty to canvass the @ @ @ @ @ in the law that gives me the authority to request an audit .
”

“A Republican member of the board responsible for certifying Michigan’s election results signaled his intention to vote with Democrats on Monday, dealing a potential death blow to the Trump campaign’s attempt to delay official recognition of President-elect Joe Biden’s decisive victory in the state,” the New York Times reports.
Said board member Aaron Van Langevelde: “The law basically says we have a legal duty to canvass the returns. There is nothing in the law that gives me the authority to request an audit.”


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Will Senate Republicans Block Biden’s Nominees?


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Biden Picks Yellen for Treasury Secretary

“ President-elect Joe Biden plans to nominate former Federal Reserve Chairwoman Janet Yellen , an economist at the forefront of @ @ @ @ @ to become the next Treasury secretary , ” the Wall Street Journal reports .
“ @ @ @ @ @ , Ms. Yellen would become the first woman to hold the job.
” CNBC : @ @ @ @ @ as a politically “ safe ” pick for the role , likely to garner support @ @ @ @ @ capable of pursing bipartisan compromise during an otherwise fragile time for the economy .
”

“President-elect Joe Biden plans to nominate former Federal Reserve Chairwoman Janet Yellen, an economist at the forefront of policy-making for three decades, to become the next Treasury secretary,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
“If confirmed by the Senate, Ms. Yellen would become the first woman to hold the job.”
CNBC: “Yellen is widely seen as a politically “safe” pick for the role, likely to garner support from Senate Republicans as someone capable of pursing bipartisan compromise during an otherwise fragile time for the economy.”


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Georgia Republicans Rile Up Their Base

Georgia Republicans Rile Up Their Base

New York Times : “ The Republican Senate candidates in Georgia are spending tens of millions of dollars on an @ @ @ @ @ , embracing a strategy of riling up the conservative base instead of reaching out to @ @ @ @ @ hopes of generating enough turnout to win two critical runoff elections that will decide control @ @ @ @ @ There is no run to the center , despite Georgia ’ s voting for a @ @ @ @ @ first time in decades and proving itself to be a true battleground state… At campaign @ @ @ @ @ well as on airwaves with more than 27 different ads currently appearing , the candidates @ @ @ @ @ their own bases instead of catering to swing voters .
Both parties have bet the @ @ @ @ @ persuasion .
”

New York Times: “The Republican Senate candidates in Georgia are spending tens of millions of dollars on an almost entirely negative advertising campaign, embracing a strategy of riling up the conservative base instead of reaching out to a cross-section of voters in hopes of generating enough turnout to win two critical runoff elections that will decide control of the Senate…”
“There is no run to the center, despite Georgia’s voting for a Democratic presidential nominee for the first time in decades and proving itself to be a true battleground state… At campaign events and debates, as well as on airwaves with more than 27 different ads currently appearing, the candidates are racing furiously to motivate their own bases instead of catering to swing voters. Both parties have bet the house on turnout, not persuasion.”


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Trump Left a Ticking Time Bomb

Trump Left a Ticking Time Bomb

Greg Sargent : “ So is this really how it ’ s going to be ?
Will it now become @ @ @ @ @ life that Democrats will be required to win future presidential elections by steal-proof margins in @ @ @ @ @ “ With President Trump ’ s attempts to overturn the election continuing in Michigan and @ @ @ @ @ distancing themselves .
They are ‘ subtly urging ’ Trump to accept reality and are @ @ @ @ @ his antics , we are told .
But in the very formulation that some of @ @ @ @ @ and in the sheer numbers who have refrained from going even this far — there @ @ @ @ @ about what all this portends.
” “ What happens if the last-ditch tactic Trump ’ @ @ @ @ @ trying to get rogue GOP-controlled state legislatures to appoint pro-Trump electors to the electoral college @ @ @ @ @ ’ s voters — becomes seen as a conventional tool of political warfare , akin @ @ @ @ @ efforts ?
”

Greg Sargent: “So is this really how it’s going to be? Will it now become a fact of our political life that Democrats will be required to win future presidential elections by steal-proof margins in order to prevail?”
“With President Trump’s attempts to overturn the election continuing in Michigan and Wisconsin, more Republicans are distancing themselves. They are ‘subtly urging’ Trump to accept reality and are ‘losing patience’ with his antics, we are told. But in the very formulation that some of these Republicans have adopted — and in the sheer numbers who have refrained from going even this far — there is grounds for serious pessimism about what all this portends.”
“What happens if the last-ditch tactic Trump’s team has adopted — trying to get rogue GOP-controlled state legislatures to appoint pro-Trump electors to the electoral college in defiance of their state’s voters — becomes seen as a conventional tool of political warfare, akin to more typical voter suppression efforts?”


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Trump Worries Legal Team Making Him Look Bad

President Trump is worried that his campaign ’ s legal team , which is being led by his personal lawyer @ @ @ @ @ of “ fools that are making him look bad , ” NBC News reports .
@ @ @ @ @ has unironically called itself an ‘ elite strike force team , ’ to date has @ @ @ @ @ victories that would invalidate votes for Biden , the former Democratic vice president , even @ @ @ @ @ wildly broad claims of fraud for which they have offered no convincing evidence.
” Even @ @ @ @ @ s lawyers : ‘ They promised blockbuster stuff and then nothing happened .
”

President Trump is worried that his campaign’s legal team, which is being led by his personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani, is comprised of “fools that are making him look bad,” NBC News reports.
“That crew, which has unironically called itself an ‘elite strike force team,’ to date has failed to win any legal victories that would invalidate votes for Biden, the former Democratic vice president, even as the legal eagles tout wildly broad claims of fraud for which they have offered no convincing evidence.”
Even Rush Limbaugh slammed Trump’s lawyers: ‘They promised blockbuster stuff and then nothing happened.”


politicalwire--2020-11-23--GM Drops Support for Trump Climate Rollbacks

“ General Motors abandoned President Trump ’ s battle to nullify California ’ s fuel economy rules meant to curb @ @ @ @ @ sign yet that corporate America is moving on from Mr. Trump and adapting to an @ @ @ @ @ the New York Times reports .
“ The company also signaled that it was ready @ @ @ @ @ Biden , who has promised swift action to reduce climate-warming emissions in the auto sector @ @

“General Motors abandoned President Trump’s battle to nullify California’s fuel economy rules meant to curb global warming, the strongest sign yet that corporate America is moving on from Mr. Trump and adapting to an incoming Democratic administration,” the New York Times reports.
“The company also signaled that it was ready to work with President-elect Joe Biden, who has promised swift action to reduce climate-warming emissions in the auto sector.”


politicalwire--2020-11-23--Biden Team Denies Brainard Out of Mix for Treasury

President-elect Joe Biden ’ s transition team denied a Bloomberg report that it has asked Federal Reserve governor Lael Brainard @ @ @ @ @ bank rather than becoming Treasury Secretary .
Bloomberg said Brainard “ emerged as a top @ @ @ @ @ female Treasury secretary before the election , but in recent weeks liberal figures in the @ @ @ @ @ to choose former Fed chair Janet Yellen for the post .
”

President-elect Joe Biden’s transition team denied a Bloomberg report that it has asked Federal Reserve governor Lael Brainard to stay at the central bank rather than becoming Treasury Secretary.
Bloomberg said Brainard “emerged as a top contender to become the first female Treasury secretary before the election, but in recent weeks liberal figures in the Democratic party have pushed Biden to choose former Fed chair Janet Yellen for the post.”


politicalwire--2020-11-24--Trump Fundraising Amounts to Political Slush Fund

CNN : “ All these missives from President Trump ’ s political operation landed in supporters ’ inboxes Monday morning @ @ @ @ @ help Trump fund recounts and legal challenges to overturn the election results.
” “ But @ @ @ @ @ each shows that a new Trump fundraising arm , Save America , actually will get @ @ @ @ @ money that comes in .
And because spending rules for leadership PACs are so loose @ @ @ @ @ Save America could easily become a political slush fund for Trump and those close to @ @ @

CNN: “All these missives from President Trump’s political operation landed in supporters’ inboxes Monday morning claiming to solicit funds to help Trump fund recounts and legal challenges to overturn the election results.”
“But the legal fine print on each shows that a new Trump fundraising arm, Save America, actually will get the first cut of any money that comes in. And because spending rules for leadership PACs are so loose, campaign-finance experts warn that Save America could easily become a political slush fund for Trump and those close to him.”


politicalwire--2020-11-24--New Lawmaker Wants to Carry Gun In U.S. Capitol

Rep. Lauren Boebert ( R ) , who owns a gun-themed restaurant in Rifle , Colorado , has already asked @ @ @ @ @ weapon on Capitol grounds , NBC News reports .
“ The practice is allowed for @ @ @ @ @ , under decades-old congressional regulations .
The public is barred from carrying weapons in the @ @ @ @ @ office buildings .
”

Rep. Lauren Boebert (R), who owns a gun-themed restaurant in Rifle, Colorado, has already asked Capitol Police about carrying her weapon on Capitol grounds, NBC News reports.
“The practice is allowed for lawmakers, with some limitations, under decades-old congressional regulations. The public is barred from carrying weapons in the Capitol, its grounds and office buildings.”


politicalwire--2020-11-24--Charles Koch Says He ‘Screwed Up’

Charles Koch Says He ‘Screwed Up’

Playbook ; “ Joe Biden is 78 and expected by many to serve only one term .
Speaker Nancy Pelosi @ @ @ @ @ is her last term .
Senate Minority Leader Chuck…

“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--2020-11-24--Trump’s National Security Adviser Floats 2024 Bid

“ No national security adviser has ever run for president .
Few people outside of Washington policy circles even know @ @ @ @ @ s national security adviser is at any given moment , ” Politico reports .
“ @ @ @ @ @ , President Donald Trump ’ s fourth — and least well-known — national security adviser @ @ @ @ @ he is considering a presidential bid in 2024 .
”

“No national security adviser has ever run for president. Few people outside of Washington policy circles even know who the White House’s national security adviser is at any given moment,” Politico reports.
“Yet Robert O’Brien, President Donald Trump’s fourth — and least well-known — national security adviser is telling friends and colleagues he is considering a presidential bid in 2024.”


politicalwire--2020-11-24--Tweeting and Not Much Else for Trump

Tweeting and Not Much Else for Trump

“ In the three weeks since Election Day , President Trump ’ s most visible presence has been on Twitter @ @ @ @ @ he has posted some 550 tweets — about three-quarters of which attempted to undermine the @ @ @ @ @ results , ” the New York Times reports .
“ As Mr. Trump ’ s @ @ @ @ @ pandemic rages on , worse than ever .
At least 24,000 people in the United @ @ @ @ @ in the past three weeks.
” “ Mr .
Trump ’ s public calendar , @ @ @ @ @ light , especially relative to his pre-election schedule , when he often attended multiple campaign @ @ @ @ @ .
”

“In the three weeks since Election Day, President Trump’s most visible presence has been on Twitter. Since Nov. 3, he has posted some 550 tweets — about three-quarters of which attempted to undermine the integrity of the 2020 election results,” the New York Times reports.
“As Mr. Trump’s attacks continue, the coronavirus pandemic rages on, worse than ever. At least 24,000 people in the United States have died from Covid in the past three weeks.”
“Mr. Trump’s public calendar, meanwhile, has been remarkably light, especially relative to his pre-election schedule, when he often attended multiple campaign rallies in a single day.”


politicalwire--2020-11-24--Park Avenue Helped Biden Win More than Scranton

USA Today : “ Months before Election Day , the Biden campaign adopted an economic populist message aimed directly at @ @ @ @ @ they could peel off a small portion of President Trump ’ s base.
” “ @ @ @ @ @ election victory , this demographic – white voters without college degrees – remained just as @ @ @ @ @ president , defying public polling before the election that suggested Democrats were poised for small @ @ @ @ @ , wins in battleground states came thanks to growing support in affluent suburbs around cities @ @ @ @ @ Detroit where the president-elect expanded margins with a new Democratic stronghold : white voters who @ @ @ @

USA Today: “Months before Election Day, the Biden campaign adopted an economic populist message aimed directly at white working-class voters, convinced they could peel off a small portion of President Trump’s base.”
“Yet despite Biden’s election victory, this demographic – white voters without college degrees – remained just as loyal as ever to the president, defying public polling before the election that suggested Democrats were poised for small inroads.”
“For Biden, wins in battleground states came thanks to growing support in affluent suburbs around cities like Atlanta, Philadelphia and Detroit where the president-elect expanded margins with a new Democratic stronghold: white voters who graduated college.”


politicalwire--2020-11-24--Thanksgiving Could Be Make-or-Break In Virus Response

Associated Press : “ As governors and mayors grapple with an out-of-control pandemic , they are ratcheting up mask mandates @ @ @ @ @ indoor gatherings , which have been blamed for accelerating the spread of the coronavirus .
@ @ @ @ @ the weight of law , they are , in practical terms , unenforceable , and @ @ @ @ @ compliance instead.
” “ Good luck with that .
While many are undoubtedly heeding public @ @ @ @ @ plans , avoiding get-togethers , wearing masks when they ’ re around people who don @ @ @ @ @ — it ’ s inevitable that a segment of the population will blow off new @ @ @ @ @ socialize anyway .
Experts say that could put greater stress on overburdened hospitals and lead @ @ @ @ @ in sickness and death over the holidays.
” A new Axios-Ipsos poll finds 39 % @ @ @ @ @ their Thanksgiving plans due to the pandemic .

Associated Press: “As governors and mayors grapple with an out-of-control pandemic, they are ratcheting up mask mandates and imposing restrictions on small indoor gatherings, which have been blamed for accelerating the spread of the coronavirus. But while such measures carry the weight of law, they are, in practical terms, unenforceable, and officials are banking on voluntary compliance instead.”
“Good luck with that. While many are undoubtedly heeding public health advice — downsizing Thanksgiving plans, avoiding get-togethers, wearing masks when they’re around people who don’t live with them — it’s inevitable that a segment of the population will blow off new state and local restrictions and socialize anyway. Experts say that could put greater stress on overburdened hospitals and lead to an even bigger spike in sickness and death over the holidays.”
A new Axios-Ipsos poll finds 39% of Americans did not change their Thanksgiving plans due to the pandemic.


politicalwire--2020-11-24--Stocks Rally on News Transition Moves Ahead


Lame Duck Term?

Playbook ; “ Joe Biden is 78 and expected by many to serve only one term .
Speaker Nancy Pelosi @ @ @ @ @ is her last term .
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is up for reelection in @ @ @ @ @ ’ re on your way out , , it typically means you have less power @ @ @ @ @ s on their way out… ”

Playbook; “Joe Biden is 78 and expected by many to serve only one term. Speaker Nancy Pelosi has all but said this is her last term. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is up for reelection in 2022.”
“When you’re on your way out, it typically means you have less power. But if everyone’s on their way out…”


politicalwire--2020-11-24--Tensions Rise Amid Scramble for Biden Jobs

Ryan Lizza : “ It is still early in the Biden transition .
There are thousands of jobs to fill @ @ @ @ @ of dread is starting to bubble up from veterans of the Biden campaign , particularly @ @ @ @ @ the president-elect from the Philadelphia announcement speech to the Wilmington victory speech .
The target @ @ @ @ @ Obama establishment , which has eclipsed the Clinton name as shorthand for yesterday ’ s @ @ @ @ @ senior Biden official : “ The Obama staffers are now cutting out the people who @ @ @ @ @ of these people found the courage to help the VP when he was running and @ @ @ @ @ friends over the Biden people .
It ’ s fucked up .
”

Ryan Lizza: “It is still early in the Biden transition. There are thousands of jobs to fill. But a similar sense of dread is starting to bubble up from veterans of the Biden campaign, particularly those who were there with the president-elect from the Philadelphia announcement speech to the Wilmington victory speech. The target of their ire? The Obama establishment, which has eclipsed the Clinton name as shorthand for yesterday’s Democratic Party.”
Said one senior Biden official: “The Obama staffers are now cutting out the people who got Biden elected, None of these people found the courage to help the VP when he was running and now they are elevating their friends over the Biden people. It’s fucked up.”


politicalwire--2020-11-24--Flournoy for Defense Chief Faces Progressive Pushback

“ President-elect Joe Biden named a slate of experienced hands for his national security team on Monday—but stopped short of @ @ @ @ @ ” Foreign Policy reports .
“ Now , backers of Michèle Flournoy , his likely @ @ @ @ @ are trying to head off a last-minute push by some left-leaning Democrats trying to derail @ @ @ @ @ progressives seeing her nomination as a continuation of what critics refer to as America ’ @ @ @ @ @ ' ”

“President-elect Joe Biden named a slate of experienced hands for his national security team on Monday—but stopped short of selecting a defense secretary,” Foreign Policy reports.
“Now, backers of Michèle Flournoy, his likely pick for defense secretary, are trying to head off a last-minute push by some left-leaning Democrats trying to derail her selection, with many progressives seeing her nomination as a continuation of what critics refer to as America’s ‘forever wars.'”


politicalwire--2020-11-24--Trump Was Pushed to Let Transition Begin

New York Times : “ Mr .
Trump had been resisting any move toward a transition .
But in conversations @ @ @ @ @ Monday morning , top aides — including Mark Meadows , the White House chief of @ @ @ @ @ the White House counsel ; and Jay Sekulow , the president ’ s personal lawyer @ @ @ @ @ transition needed to begin .
He did not need to say the word ‘ concede @ @ @ @ @ ” “ Some of the advisers drafted a statement for the president to issue .
@ @ @ @ @ Trump did not put one out , but aides said the tone was similar to @ @ @ @ @ , in which he appeared to take credit for Ms. Murphy ’ s decision to @ @ @ @ @ ” John Bennett : Trump goes out with a whimper and a tweet .
It @ @ @ @ @ that way .

New York Times: “Mr. Trump had been resisting any move toward a transition. But in conversations in recent days that intensified Monday morning, top aides — including Mark Meadows, the White House chief of staff; Pat Cipollone, the White House counsel; and Jay Sekulow, the president’s personal lawyer — told the president the transition needed to begin. He did not need to say the word ‘concede,’ they told him.”
“Some of the advisers drafted a statement for the president to issue. In the end, Mr. Trump did not put one out, but aides said the tone was similar to his tweets in the evening, in which he appeared to take credit for Ms. Murphy’s decision to allow the transition to begin.”
John Bennett: Trump goes out with a whimper and a tweet. It was always going to be that way.


politicalwire--2020-11-24--Durbin Wants to Be Top Democrat on Judiciary

Sen. Dick Durbin ( D-IL ) said on Monday he will seek to become the top Democrat on the Senate @ @ @ @ @ after Sen. Dianne Feinstein ( D-CA ) said she will step down from the position @ @ @ @


politicalwire--2020-11-26--Trump Pardoned Flynn to Save Himself

Trump Pardoned Flynn to Save Himself

David Frum : “ Here ’ s the first and most important thing to understand about the crime for which @ @ @ @ @ National Security Adviser Michael Flynn : Flynn did not lie to protect himself .
He @ @ @ @ @ ” “ From Flynn ’ s own narrow personal point of view , there was @ @ @ @ @ any of these conversations .
Yes , he was pushing the limits a little bit @ @ @ @ @ new administration took office .
A more elegant diplomat would have found a way to @ @ @ @ @ ’ s only one administration at a time , while also communicating what he wanted @ @ @ @ @ the differing intentions of the incoming administration .
But such limit-pushing has surely happened often @ @ @ @ @ American foreign policy .
All Flynn had to say to avoid legal jeopardy was , @ @ @ @ @ to Ambassador Kislyak .
Possibly I was premature .
My bad . '
” “ @ @ @ @ @ he say that ?
”

David Frum: “Here’s the first and most important thing to understand about the crime for which President Trump just pardoned former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn: Flynn did not lie to protect himself. He lied to protect Donald Trump…”
“From Flynn’s own narrow personal point of view, there was no reason to lie about any of these conversations. Yes, he was pushing the limits a little bit, doing diplomacy before the new administration took office. A more elegant diplomat would have found a way to honor the rule that there’s only one administration at a time, while also communicating what he wanted the Russians to know about the differing intentions of the incoming administration. But such limit-pushing has surely happened often before in the history of American foreign policy. All Flynn had to say to avoid legal jeopardy was, ‘Yes, I spoke to Ambassador Kislyak. Possibly I was premature. My bad.'”
“So why didn’t he say that?”


politicalwire--2020-11-26--Brian Deese Likely Pick for Biden’s Economic Adviser

“ President-elect Joe Biden is leaning towards naming former senior Obama administration official and current investment executive Brian Deese his @ @ @ @ @ White House , although pushback from the progressive wing of the Democratic Party could still @ @ @ @ @ Politico reports .


politicalwire--2020-11-26--Biden Leans Towards Donilon as CIA Director

“ President-elect Joe Biden is leaning toward naming former Obama administration national security adviser Tom Donilon as his CIA director @ @ @ @ @ “ The choice for the spymaster role is one of the toughest facing Biden as @ @ @ @ @ security team .
The CIA has found itself uncomfortably embroiled in domestic politics under Donald @ @ @ @ @ outgoing president and his allies of seeking to tar him as an agent of Moscow @ @ @ @ @ state ” bent on undermining his policies .
Whomever Biden picks will also confront an @ @ @ @ @ aggressive China , along with transnational threats like climate change and pandemics .
”

“President-elect Joe Biden is leaning toward naming former Obama administration national security adviser Tom Donilon as his CIA director,” Politico reports.
“The choice for the spymaster role is one of the toughest facing Biden as he puts together his national security team. The CIA has found itself uncomfortably embroiled in domestic politics under Donald Trump, accused by the outgoing president and his allies of seeking to tar him as an agent of Moscow and representing a “deep state” bent on undermining his policies. Whomever Biden picks will also confront an emboldened Russia and an increasingly aggressive China, along with transnational threats like climate change and pandemics.”


politicalwire--2020-11-26--Bonus Quote of the Day

Bonus Quote of the Day

“ History will record the shameful irony that a president who lied to avoid military service staged a bogus event @ @ @ @ @ Gettysburg in a brazen attempt to undermine the Republic for which scores of real patriots @ @ @ @ @ preserve since its founding .
”

“History will record the shameful irony that a president who lied to avoid military service staged a bogus event on the hallowed grounds of Gettysburg in a brazen attempt to undermine the Republic for which scores of real patriots had fought and died to preserve since its founding.”
— Former Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Ridge (R), on Twitter.


politicalwire--2020-11-25--Trump Rambles About Voter Fraud on Speakerphone

“ President Trump phoned into a Pennsylvania state Senate hearing where his legal team was appearing as part of their @ @ @ @ @ election results , ” NBC News reports .
“ After calling his lawyers in the @ @ @ @ @ held at the Wyndham Hotel in Gettysburg , Pennsylvania — Trump launched a breathless , @ @ @ @ @ fraud during which he surfaced many his familiar false claims about dead people voting , @ @ @ @ @ corruption and more .
”

“President Trump phoned into a Pennsylvania state Senate hearing where his legal team was appearing as part of their shriveling legal battle against the election results,” NBC News reports.
“After calling his lawyers in the middle of the hearing — held at the Wyndham Hotel in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania — Trump launched a breathless, 10-minute long rant about election fraud during which he surfaced many his familiar false claims about dead people voting, illegal ballots, Democrats’ corruption and more.”


politicalwire--2020-11-25--Trump Pardons Michael Flynn

Trump Pardons Michael Flynn

President Trump announced he had pardoned his former national security adviser Michael Flynn , ending a three-year legal saga that @ @ @ @ @ a guilty plea for lying to the FBI and a controversial reversal by the Justice @ @ @ @ @ the Washington Post reports .
Politico : “ Trump ’ s move is an extraordinary @ @ @ @ @ ally who pleaded guilty in 2017 and has spent the last two years fighting to @ @ @ @ @ Mark Osler : “ President Trump ’ s announcement that he has pardoned Michael Flynn… @ @ @ @ @ of the gross favoritism on display .
What Trump has done once again is corrupt @ @ @ @ @ beyond corruption : the mercy that the most powerful person in the world can bestow @ @ @ @ @ chains .
”

President Trump announced he had pardoned his former national security adviser Michael Flynn, ending a three-year legal saga that saw Flynn seek to withdraw a guilty plea for lying to the FBI and a controversial reversal by the Justice Department on his case, the Washington Post reports.
Politico: “Trump’s move is an extraordinary intervention on behalf of an ally who pleaded guilty in 2017 and has spent the last two years fighting to overturn his original plea.”
Mark Osler: “President Trump’s announcement that he has pardoned Michael Flynn… is infuriating—and not merely because of the gross favoritism on display. What Trump has done once again is corrupt something that ought to be beyond corruption: the mercy that the most powerful person in the world can bestow upon those who are in chains.”


politicalwire--2020-11-25--Fauci Expects Role In Biden’s Coronavirus Response

Dr. Anthony Fauci , the nation ’ s leading infectious disease expert , told McClatchy that he expects a role @ @ @ @ @ would serve in a senior position if called upon by President-elect Joe Biden .
“ @ @ @ @ @ will stay in his job as director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious @ @ @ @ @ has held since 1984 .
But he would ‘ seriously consider ’ serving in another @ @ @ @ @ of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or as secretary of Health and Human @ @ @ @ @ .
”

Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s leading infectious disease expert, told McClatchy that he expects a role in the incoming administration and would serve in a senior position if called upon by President-elect Joe Biden.
“Fauci said he assumes he will stay in his job as director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, a position he has held since 1984. But he would ‘seriously consider’ serving in another capacity, such as director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or as secretary of Health and Human Services, if Biden asked.”


politicalwire--2020-11-25--NRA Reports Executive Misconduct to IRS

NRA Reports Executive Misconduct to IRS

“ After years of denying allegations of lax financial oversight , the National Rifle Association has made a stunning declaration @ @ @ @ @ : Current and former executives used the nonprofit group ’ s money for personal benefit @ @ @ @ @ Washington Post reports .
“ The NRA said in the filing that it continues to @ @ @ @ @ funds , as the tax-exempt organization curtails services and runs up multimillion-dollar legal bills .
@ @ @ @ @ four months after the attorney general of New York state filed a lawsuit accusing NRA @ @ @ @ @ other top officials of using NRA funds for decades to provide inflated salaries and expense @ @ @

“After years of denying allegations of lax financial oversight, the National Rifle Association has made a stunning declaration in a new tax filing: Current and former executives used the nonprofit group’s money for personal benefit and enrichment,” the Washington Post reports.
“The NRA said in the filing that it continues to review the alleged abuse of funds, as the tax-exempt organization curtails services and runs up multimillion-dollar legal bills. The assertion of impropriety comes four months after the attorney general of New York state filed a lawsuit accusing NRA chief executive Wayne LaPierre and other top officials of using NRA funds for decades to provide inflated salaries and expense accounts.”


politicalwire--2020-11-25--Scarborough Says He’s Left the GOP Forever

David Frum : “ Here ’ s the first and most important thing to understand about the crime for which @ @ @ @ @ National Security Adviser Michael Flynn : Flynn did not lie…


politicalwire--2020-11-25--North Dakota Court Denies Governor’s Appointment

“ North Dakota ’ s Supreme Court has stopped Gov .
Doug Burgum ( R ) from appointing a state @ @ @ @ @ seat won by a deceased candidate , ” the Bismarck Tribune reports .
“ Now @ @ @ @ @ s most powerful members who has crossed swords with the governor is set to hold @ @ @ @ @ in the June primary but securing appointment last week by district Republicans .
”

“North Dakota’s Supreme Court has stopped Gov. Doug Burgum (R) from appointing a state representative to a Bismarck-area House seat won by a deceased candidate,” the Bismarck Tribune reports.
“Now one of the Legislature’s most powerful members who has crossed swords with the governor is set to hold the seat after being defeated in the June primary but securing appointment last week by district Republicans.”


politicalwire--2020-11-25--White House Weighs Pardon Blitz Before Trump’s Exit

“ It ’ s not just Michael Flynn .
The White House is weighing a wave of pardons and commutations @ @ @ @ @ final weeks in office , prompting jockeying by a range of clemency seekers and their @ @ @ @ @ of Mr. Trump , ” the New York Times reports .
“ Among those hoping @ @ @ @ @ Trump campaign advisers , Rick Gates and George Papadopoulos , who like Mr. Flynn , @ @ @ @ @ who is already said to be in line for a pardon from Mr. Trump , @ @ @ @ @ from the special counsel ’ s Russia investigation .
”

“It’s not just Michael Flynn. The White House is weighing a wave of pardons and commutations by President Trump in his final weeks in office, prompting jockeying by a range of clemency seekers and their representatives, including more allies of Mr. Trump,” the New York Times reports.
“Among those hoping for pardons are two former Trump campaign advisers, Rick Gates and George Papadopoulos, who like Mr. Flynn, the former national security adviser who is already said to be in line for a pardon from Mr. Trump, were convicted in cases stemming from the special counsel’s Russia investigation.”


politicalwire--2020-11-25--Iowa House Race Gets Even Closer

Iowa House Race Gets Even Closer

“ A razor-thin margin separating the Republican and Democrat candidates for an open southeast Iowa congressional seat continues to narrow @ @ @ @ @ of votes in what could become a single-digit race , ” the Quad City Times @ @

“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--2020-11-25--Lawmaker’s Campaign Account Resembles a Slush Fund

“ As a congressional ethics office investigates Rep. Steven Palazzo ’ s ( R-MS ) campaign spending , a deeper @ @ @ @ @ raises questions of whether he uses his account as a second personal income , ” @ @ @ @ @ In all , Palazzo has spent more than $ 115,600 on meals since he took @ @ @ @ @ average of $ 11,560 a year — not counting the nearly $ 188,000 he spent @ @ @ @ @ for his campaign… ” “ Palazzo has also spent tens of thousands of dollars on @ @ @ @ @ Mississippi and beachside Florida resorts , entertainment and golfing — including a $ 3,100 golf @ @ @ @ @ has spent nearly $ 42,000 on ‘ gifts . '
”

“As a congressional ethics office investigates Rep. Steven Palazzo’s (R-MS) campaign spending, a deeper look at his campaign finances raises questions of whether he uses his account as a second personal income,” Mississippi Today reports.
“In all, Palazzo has spent more than $115,600 on meals since he took office in 2010 — an average of $11,560 a year — not counting the nearly $188,000 he spent catering events and booking venues for his campaign…”
“Palazzo has also spent tens of thousands of dollars on hotel rooms in D.C., Mississippi and beachside Florida resorts, entertainment and golfing — including a $3,100 golf cart. The campaign also has spent nearly $42,000 on ‘gifts.'”


politicalwire--2020-11-25--Denver Mayor Boards Flights After Saying Not to Travel

Denver Mayor Michael Hancock ( D ) boarded a flight to Houston ahead of Thanksgiving despite his warnings that people @ @ @ @ @ and only spend the holiday with their own household if they can , KUSA reports @


politicalwire--2020-11-25--Biden Won’t Order Investigations of Trump

President-elect Joe Biden downplayed the prospect of pursuing investigations of President Trump after he leaves office , USA Today reports @ @ @ @ @ I will not do what this president does and use the Justice Department as my @ @ @ @ @ happened .
”

President-elect Joe Biden downplayed the prospect of pursuing investigations of President Trump after he leaves office, USA Today reports.
Said Biden: “I will not do what this president does and use the Justice Department as my vehicle to insist that something happened.”