msnbc--2020-01-29--Dershowitz shocks with argument about Trump, political interests

I naively thought Alan Dershowitz had gone about as far as he could go in Donald Trump ’ s impeachment trial when he argued that Donald Trump can ’ t be convicted , even if he ’ s guilty , because presidential abuses of power are permissible .
Little did I know the argument he ’ d present on the Senate floor today .
Alan Dershowitz argued that a quid pro quo involving a president ’ s political benefit was fine because all presidents believe their elections are in the public ’ s interest .
Essentially , if Trump withheld @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pressure Ukraine into announcing investigations of Democrats to help his campaign , that ’ s fine because Trump thinks his election is to the country ’ s benefit .
“ If a president does something which he believes will help him get elected in the public interest , that can not be the kind of quid pro quo that results in impeachment , ” he said .
Let ’ s pause to follow the logic .
As Dershowitz see it , a president can ’ t be impeached if he or she is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ president also has the authority to pursue a foreign policy in the public interest .
And finally , a president also believes his or her re-election is in the public interest .
Ergo , Donald Trump has the authority to use foreign policy to advance his re-election prospects – and that should be seen as entirely permissible in our system of government .
It ’ s not corrupt , Dershowitz asserted , so long as the Republican believes the country would be better off with him in office .
It ’ s an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may very well have tried to coerce a vulnerable ally into helping his campaign , though Dershowitz believes there ’ s nothing wrong with that because Trump also believe his re-election would benefit the public .
The problem , beyond the apparent fact that this is crazypants bonkers , is how such a position could be applied in the real world .
Evidently , for example , a president could use this perspective to ignore Congress and federal law , endanger a foreign ally , and undermine U.S. national security interests .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the FBI to harass those who stand in his way ?
Could he arrest his opponent under the auspices that it ’ s “ in the public interest ” ?
Could he or she dish out pardons in exchange for campaign contributions ?
Could he or she launch a war for made-up reasons ?
Could he or she transfer public funds from the Treasury to his or her re-election coffers ?
By Dershowitz ’ s reasoning , the answer to each of these questions appears to be , “ Yes.
” The next @ @ @ @ @ @ @ masse , are prepared to go along with such a proposition , or whether they ’ ll say this is a bridge too far .
I have a hunch they ’ ll choose the former over the latter .
Indeed , several GOP senators have already effectively answered the question , insisting yesterday that they ’ re indifferent to presidential abuses of power .

I naively thought Alan Dershowitz had gone about as far as he could go in Donald Trump's impeachment trial when he argued that Donald Trump can't be convicted, even if he's guilty, because presidential abuses of power are permissible. Little did I know the argument he'd present on the Senate floor today.
Alan Dershowitz argued that a quid pro quo involving a president's political benefit was fine because all presidents believe their elections are in the public's interest.Essentially, if Trump withheld nearly $400 million in aid to pressure Ukraine into announcing investigations of Democrats to help his campaign, that's fine because Trump thinks his election is to the country's benefit."If a president does something which he believes will help him get elected in the public interest, that cannot be the kind of quid pro quo that results in impeachment," he said.
Let's pause to follow the logic. As Dershowitz sees it, a president can't be impeached if he or she is acting in the public interest. A president also has the authority to pursue a foreign policy in the public interest. And finally, a president also believes his or her re-election is in the public interest.
Ergo, Donald Trump has the authority to use foreign policy to advance his re-election prospects -- and that should be seen as entirely permissible in our system of government. It's not corrupt, Dershowitz asserted, so long as the Republican believes the country would be better off with him in office.
It's an argument rooted in the belief that Trump may very well have tried to coerce a vulnerable ally into helping his campaign, though Dershowitz believes there's nothing wrong with that because Trump also believe his re-election would benefit the public.
The problem, beyond the apparent fact that this is crazypants bonkers, is how such a position could be applied in the real world.
Evidently, for example, a president could use this perspective to ignore Congress and federal law, endanger a foreign ally, and undermine U.S. national security interests. But what else? Could a president order the FBI to harass those who stand in his way? Could he arrest his opponent under the auspices that it's "in the public interest"?
Could he or she dish out pardons in exchange for campaign contributions? Could he or she launch a war for made-up reasons? Could he or she transfer public funds from the Treasury to his or her re-election coffers?
By Dershowitz's reasoning, the answer to each of these questions appears to be, "Yes."
The next question is whether Senate Republicans, en masse, are prepared to go along with such a proposition, or whether they'll say this is a bridge too far. I have a hunch they'll choose the former over the latter.
Indeed, several GOP senators have already effectively answered the question, insisting yesterday that they're indifferent to presidential abuses of power.


msnbc--2020-01-29--Wallace: 'I don't know whether to cry or laugh at McConnell's political stupidity'

Trump lawyer echoes infamous Nixon defense at trial : Whatever Trump does to win is not impeachable

Wallace: 'I don't know whether to cry or laugh at McConnell's political stupidity'
Nicolle Wallace remarks on the political acumen of Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell's attempt to block former Amb. John Bolton from testifying when his book comes out in three weeks.Jan. 29, 2020


msnbc--2020-01-29--Johnson on Trump defense: Multiple motivations don't exculpate you

The MSNBC panel, including Jason Johnson and Michael Steele, talk to Nicolle Wallace about the defense argument that multiple motivations that were behind the hold on Ukraine, therefore the offense is not impeachable.Jan. 29, 2020


msnbc--2020-01-29--Wiley: Dershowitz's argument put the Constitution through a shredder

Alan Dershowitz argued that if Trump withheld nearly $400 million in aid to pressure Ukraine into announcing investigations of Democrats to help his campaign, that's fine because Trump thought his election is to the country's benefit. Maya Wiley tells Nicolle Wallace that that argument is a "constitutional shredder."Jan. 29, 2020


msnbc--2020-01-29--To shield Trump, GOP quietly abandons its...

It was four months ago when Steve Doocy , a co-host of one of Donald Trump ’ s favorite Fox News programs , delivered one of the most memorable lines of the entire Ukraine scandal .
Just as the scope of the controversy was coming into focus , Doocy declared , “ If the president said , ‘ I ’ ll give you the money , but you ’ ve got to investigate Joe Biden , ’ that ’ d be off the rails wrong.
” The comment came at a point at which there was still some uncertainty about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and when and why he ’ d done it , and the White House ’ s allies were still operating under the assumption that the story would soon fizzle .
After all , it wasn ’ t as if the public would soon confront evidence that the president was directly responsible for orchestrating an illegal extortion scheme , undermining U.S. national security , all in the hopes of cheating during his re-election campaign , right ?
It was just this week , in the face of insurmountable evidence , that Doocy adopted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the one he espoused in late September , though it ’ d be unfair to single out the Fox News host as a uniquely brazen figure .
He had plenty of company .
“ If you could show me that Trump actually was engaging in a quid pro quo , outside the phone call , ” [ Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham ] said , “ that would be very disturbing.
” [ … ] Sen. Charles E. Grassley ( R-Iowa ) , for example , was explicit after the rough transcript @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quid pro quo , ” he said to reporters .
“ You ’ d have to have that if there was going to be anything wrong.
” Sen. Kevin Cramer ( R-N.D. ) said something similar : “ It would be troubling if any president did a quid pro quo with tax dollars … but so far we don ’ t have evidence that ’ s happened.
” The Washington Post analysis counted at least 10 Senate Republicans who expressed “ at least some concern about a quid pro quo in relation to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time that Sen. Ben Sasse ( R-Neb . )
conceded that there was “ terrible stuff ” in the call summary documenting Trump ’ s call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky .
The Nebraska Republican added , “ Republicans ought not to be rushing to circle the wagons and say there ’ s no ‘ there ’ there when there ’ s obviously a lot that ’ s very troubling there.. ” That was before former White House National Security Advisor John Bolton , a far-right voice whom Republicans have trusted for decades @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that says the president told him he was withholding congressionally approved military assistance precisely because he hoped to coerce our vulnerable ally into going after his domestic political rivals .
And it was at that point that Republicans moved the goalposts .
To suggest that GOP lawmakers adopt Democratic principles and standards is unrealistic , but to ask Republicans to honor the principles and standards that Republicans themselves espoused a few months ago is hardly outrageous .
Indeed , the larger dynamic began over the summer , when Congress discovered that the administration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the time , for reasons unknown .
As Rachel explained on the show last night , the initial Republican response wasn ’ t that Trump should simply do whatever he wants ; it was actually far more respectable : several prominent GOP lawmakers insisted that the White House follow the law and deliver the security assistance .
The president , faced with bipartisan pushback , backed down and Kyiv received its aid .
The point is , however , that Republicans saw what Trump was doing , and even if they didn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it wasn ’ t right .
Soon after , many of these same GOP officials and their partisan brethren said a quid pro quo , trading military aid for campaign assistance , wouldn ’ t be right , either .
Sen. Pat Toomey ( R-Pa. ) said in September , “ I think it would be wildly inappropriate for an American president to invite a foreign country ’ s leader to get engaged in an American presidential election .
That strikes me as entirely inappropriate.
” A few days later , a Republican @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there is evidence of a quid pro quo , many think the dam will start to break on our side.
” In October , then-Ambassador Bill Taylor , Trump ’ s top diplomat to Ukraine , delivered brutal testimony to Congress , supported by extensive contemporaneous notes , in which he described the president ’ s involvement in an explicit scheme to leverage both military aid and a White House meeting as part of a plan to coerce Ukraine into participating in a domestic political scheme .
Senate Majority Whip John Thune ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , “ The picture coming out of [ the hearings ] based on the reporting we ’ ve seen is , yeah , I would say is not a good one.
” But when reality got in the way , Republicans didn ’ t abandon Trump ; they abandoned everything they ’ d said in September and October .

It was four months ago when Steve Doocy, a co-host of one of Donald Trump's favorite Fox News programs, delivered one of the most memorable lines of the entire Ukraine scandal. Just as the scope of the controversy was coming into focus, Doocy declared, "If the president said, 'I'll give you the money, but you've got to investigate Joe Biden,' that'd be off the rails wrong."
The comment came at a point at which there was still some uncertainty about what, precisely, Trump had done, and when and why he'd done it, and the White House's allies were still operating under the assumption that the story would soon fizzle. After all, it wasn't as if the public would soon confront evidence that the president was directly responsible for orchestrating an illegal extortion scheme, undermining U.S. national security, all in the hopes of cheating during his re-election campaign, right?
Ahem.
It was just this week, in the face of insurmountable evidence, that Doocy adopted an entirely new posture, which contradicted the one he espoused in late September, though it'd be unfair to single out the Fox News host as a uniquely brazen figure. He had plenty of company.
"If you could show me that Trump actually was engaging in a quid pro quo, outside the phone call," [Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham] said, "that would be very disturbing." [...]Sen. Charles E. Grassley (R-Iowa), for example, was explicit after the rough transcript came out. "There was no quid pro quo," he said to reporters. "You'd have to have that if there was going to be anything wrong." Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) said something similar: "It would be troubling if any president did a quid pro quo with tax dollars ... but so far we don't have evidence that's happened."
The Washington Post analysis counted at least 10 Senate Republicans who expressed "at least some concern about a quid pro quo in relation to Ukraine."
It was around this same time that Sen. Ben Sasse (R-Neb.) conceded that there was "terrible stuff" in the call summary documenting Trump's call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The Nebraska Republican added, "Republicans ought not to be rushing to circle the wagons and say there's no 'there' there when there's obviously a lot that's very troubling there.."
That was before former White House National Security Advisor John Bolton, a far-right voice whom Republicans have trusted for decades, appears to have written a book that says the president told him he was withholding congressionally approved military assistance precisely because he hoped to coerce our vulnerable ally into going after his domestic political rivals.
And it was at that point that Republicans moved the goalposts.
To suggest that GOP lawmakers adopt Democratic principles and standards is unrealistic, but to ask Republicans to honor the principles and standards that Republicans themselves espoused a few months ago is hardly outrageous.
Indeed, the larger dynamic began over the summer, when Congress discovered that the administration withheld the aid to Ukraine -- at the time, for reasons unknown. As Rachel explained on the show last night, the initial Republican response wasn't that Trump should simply do whatever he wants; it was actually far more respectable: several prominent GOP lawmakers insisted that the White House follow the law and deliver the security assistance.
The president, faced with bipartisan pushback, backed down and Kyiv received its aid.
The point is, however, that Republicans saw what Trump was doing, and even if they didn't initially know why, they said it wasn't right. Soon after, many of these same GOP officials and their partisan brethren said a quid pro quo, trading military aid for campaign assistance, wouldn't be right, either.
Sen. Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) said in September, "I think it would be wildly inappropriate for an American president to invite a foreign country's leader to get engaged in an American presidential election. That strikes me as entirely inappropriate."
A few days later, a Republican told the Washington Examiner, "If there is evidence of a quid pro quo, many think the dam will start to break on our side."
In October, then-Ambassador Bill Taylor, Trump's top diplomat to Ukraine, delivered brutal testimony to Congress, supported by extensive contemporaneous notes, in which he described the president's involvement in an explicit scheme to leverage both military aid and a White House meeting as part of a plan to coerce Ukraine into participating in a domestic political scheme. Senate Majority Whip John Thune (R-S.D.) conceded the next day, "The picture coming out of [the hearings] based on the reporting we've seen is, yeah, I would say is not a good one."
But when reality got in the way, Republicans didn't abandon Trump; they abandoned everything they'd said in September and October.


msnbc--2020-01-29--White House attempts to halt publication of Bolton book, claims it includes 'classified information'

The White House has sent a letter to John Bolton's attorney saying that his manuscript "may not be published" without the deletion of classified information. Brian Williams, Nicolle Wallace and Claire McCaskill discuss.Jan. 29, 2020


msnbc--2020-01-29--Trump trial lawyer admits abuse of power is impeachable, previews 'temporary' defense

Trump impeachment lawyer Robert Ray defended the President at his historic Senate trial this week, conceding some problems with Trump’s approach to Ukraine while insisting there was no impeachable offense. One day after finishing that case, MSNBC Chief Legal Correspondent Ari Melber presses Ray on the evidence Trump sought a Biden investigation, including Trump’s own words, and presses Ray on Trump lawyers’ presenting the “false” argument that abuse of power is not impeachable, quoting from past Articles of Impeachment. Ray partly concedes abuse of power is impeachable, breaking with his co-counsel Alan Dershowitz, but argues that the case is stronger when combined with alleged crimes. Ray also asserts that regardless of Trump’s intent, he is “entitled to withhold aid in order to see what the Ukrainians do,” previewing a “temporary” defense to address mounting evidence there was a quid pro quo.Jan. 29, 2020


msnbc--2020-01-29--Bolton ‘strongly implied’ misconduct in Yovanovitch ouster in September call, Rep. Engel claims

House Foreign Affairs committee chairman Rep. Ellliot Engel claims that during a September 23 phone call, Ambassador Bolton suggested that the committee "look into the recall of Ambassador Marie Yovanovitch," and "strongly implied that something improper had occurred around her removal."Jan. 29, 2020


msnbc--2020-01-30--Exclusive first look at Bloomberg's Super Bowl ad

Dershowitz : Anything Trump did to win re-election is in the public interest

Meacham: Pence probably saved the republic, but I don't always want to count on one person to do it 08:18


msnbc--2020-01-30--Dershowitz: Anything Trump did to win re-election is in the public interest

Dershowitz: Anything Trump did to win re-election is in the public interest
On the first day of Q&A at the Senate impeachment hearing, Trump attorney Alan Dershowitz argued that a quid pro quo arrangement that benefits the president politically is fine, because all politicians believe their elections are in the public's interest.Jan. 30, 2020


msnbc--2020-01-30--Joe Biden responds to new Republican attacks

Republican Senators Joni Ernst and Rick Scott publicly criticized Joe Biden this week and while campaigning in Iowa, Biden had a few thoughts of his own on the attacks.Jan. 30, 2020


msnbc--2020-01-30--Why it's possible impeachment could be over by Friday

Why it's possible impeachment could be over by Friday
GOP sources tell NBC News they expect to have enough votes to block Senate testimony at the president's impeachment trial. If that happens, impeachment proceedings could end by Friday. The panel discusses.Jan. 30, 2020


msnbc--2020-01-30--Karine Jean-Pierre: Today we saw Republicans start a cover-up for Trump

Fmr. Obama campaign staffer Karine Jean-Pierre says during the questions from senators in the Trump impeachment trial, she believes was the makings of a cover-up from Republicans for Trump.Jan. 30, 2020


msnbc--2020-01-30--David Jolly: Republicans are bringing FOX News talking points to the Senate floor

Fmr. Republican and fmr. congressman David Jolly blasted Republican senators for bringing the kinds of things usually said on FOX News to the Senate floor during the questions in Trump's impeachment trial.Jan. 30, 2020


msnbc--2020-01-30--Why Alan Dershowitz's defense of Trump reminded people of Nixon

Nixon once argument a crime wasn't a crime if the president does it. An argument from Trump's attorney Alan Dershowitz during the Senate impeachment trial sounded rather similar. Our panel reacts.Jan. 30, 2020


msnbc--2020-01-30--Sen. Coons: The American people need to hear from John Bolton

Meacham: Pence probably saved the republic, but I don't always want to count on one person to do it


msnbc--2020-01-30--Sen. Murphy: If GOP senators whitewash the truth, 'there will be hell to pay'


msnbc--2020-01-29--Steele: Following Trump, GOP senators have opened a Pandora's box of hell


msnbc--2020-01-30--Steve Schmidt says ‘a trial without witnesses really isn’t a trial’

Vance : 'There is no longer rule of law , ' Senate has handed over their oversight ability

Steve Schmidt says ‘a trial without witnesses really isn’t a trial’
Steve Schmidt says that the Senate impeachment trial is a ‘kangaroo court,’ and that “a trial without witnesses really isn’t a trial.”Jan. 31, 2020


msnbc--2020-01-30--‘Constitutional madness’: Backlash to ‘King Trump’ claims at Senate trial

In this “The Beat Breakdown: Trump on Trial”, MSNBC Chief Legal Correspondent Ari Melber reports on the final day of Senate jurors posing their questions to both sides. Melber breaks down the key exchanges – including one with Sen. Collins, why Rep. Adam Schiff got heated, how the Trump defense is distracting from the real question and what happens if the pivotal witness vote is tied. (MSNBC Digital Exclusive.)Jan. 31, 2020


msnbc--2020-01-30--What should Chief Justice John Roberts' role be during this phase of impeachment trial?

Chris Matthews says he thought Chief Justice John Roberts "would be much more aggressive" in overseeing the impeachment trial. The panel discusses what the role of a chief justice should be in this impeachment trial, and whether Roberts could be expected to cast a tie-breaking vote on witnesses.Jan. 31, 2020


Thursday's Mini-Report, 1.30.20

* Coronavirus : “ The World Health Organization on Thursday declared the new coronavirus outbreak a global public health emergency .
While nearly 99 percent of the 7,874 diagnoses have been limited to China , 98 cases have been diagnosed in 18 other countries , including the United States.
” * On a related note : “ The husband of one of the patients in the U.S. with coronavirus has also been diagnosed with the illness – the first evidence that the new virus has spread person-to-person in this country , the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported Thursday.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures today : “ One of the measures would block funding for any use of offensive military force in or against Iran without congressional approval .
It passed 228-175 .
The other would repeal the 2002 resolution that authorized military force against the Saddam Hussein regime in Iraq and has since been invoked by successive presidents pursuing fights against new enemies .
It passed 236-166.
” * Brexit : “ The European Parliament voted in Brussels on Wednesday to ratify the withdrawal agreement that governs Britain ’ s withdrawal from the European Union @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at midnight Brussels time.
” * Remember , walls don ’ t stop tunnels : “ U.S .
authorities this week announced the discovery of the longest smuggling tunnel ever found on the Southwest border , stretching more than three-quarters of a mile from an industrial site in Tijuana , Mexico , to the San Diego area.
” * More bad news for those who want to believe the Trump administration is “ tough ” on Russia : “ The Treasury Department announced Wednesday that it will lift sanctions on three companies linked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who was punished for Russian interference in the 2016 election.
” * The White House continues to describe the revised NAFTA – the USMCA – as the “ biggest trade deal ever.
” That ’ s not even close to being true .
* An interesting move on the ERA : “ Three states urged a federal judge Thursday to declare that the proposed Equal Rights Amendment is now part of the U.S. Constitution , after Virginia this week became the 38th state to ratify it.
” * I find it amazing that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ necessary , though Rep. Paul Gosar ’ s ( R-Ariz. ) recent antics didn ’ t help : “ The House Ethics Committee is warning lawmakers not to share doctored images or videos that could ‘ erode public trust , effect public discourse , or sway an election , ’ guidance that comes during a proliferation of online misinformation in the run-up to the 2020 elections .
”

Today's edition of quick hits:
* Coronavirus: "The World Health Organization on Thursday declared the new coronavirus outbreak a global public health emergency. While nearly 99 percent of the 7,874 diagnoses have been limited to China, 98 cases have been diagnosed in 18 other countries, including the United States."
* On a related note: "The husband of one of the patients in the U.S. with coronavirus has also been diagnosed with the illness -- the first evidence that the new virus has spread person-to-person in this country, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported Thursday."
* The House approved two notable measures today: "One of the measures would block funding for any use of offensive military force in or against Iran without congressional approval. It passed 228-175. The other would repeal the 2002 resolution that authorized military force against the Saddam Hussein regime in Iraq and has since been invoked by successive presidents pursuing fights against new enemies. It passed 236-166."
* Brexit: "The European Parliament voted in Brussels on Wednesday to ratify the withdrawal agreement that governs Britain's withdrawal from the European Union, which will formally happen on Friday at midnight Brussels time."
* Remember, walls don't stop tunnels: "U.S. authorities this week announced the discovery of the longest smuggling tunnel ever found on the Southwest border, stretching more than three-quarters of a mile from an industrial site in Tijuana, Mexico, to the San Diego area."
* More bad news for those who want to believe the Trump administration is "tough" on Russia: "The Treasury Department announced Wednesday that it will lift sanctions on three companies linked to Oleg Deripaska, the Russian billionaire who was punished for Russian interference in the 2016 election."
* The White House continues to describe the revised NAFTA -- the USMCA -- as the "biggest trade deal ever." That's not even close to being true.
* An interesting move on the ERA: "Three states urged a federal judge Thursday to declare that the proposed Equal Rights Amendment is now part of the U.S. Constitution, after Virginia this week became the 38th state to ratify it."
* I find it amazing that a warning like this one was deemed necessary, though Rep. Paul Gosar's (R-Ariz.) recent antics didn't help: "The House Ethics Committee is warning lawmakers not to share doctored images or videos that could 'erode public trust, effect public discourse, or sway an election,' guidance that comes during a proliferation of online misinformation in the run-up to the 2020 elections."
See you tomorrow.


msnbc--2020-01-30--Team Trump: President didn't 'necessarily' ask for Biden investigation

One of the more exasperating elements of the impeachment fight is a dispute that need not exist .
We know that Donald Trump pressed foreign officials to launch investigations into Joe Biden , but we also know that many of the president ’ s allies prefer to pretend he didn ’ t .
Last week , for example , PBS ’ s Judy Woodruff sat down with Sen. Deb Fischer ( R-Neb . )
, and the host noted , “ It was wrong of the president to ask the president of Ukraine to conduct an investigation into Vice President @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accept their premise that that is what President Trump did ?
” This afternoon , during the president ’ s impeachment trial , Deputy White House Counsel Patrick Philbin echoed the point while fielding a question on Trump ’ s efforts , denying that his client ever actually called for a Biden-related investigation .
Trump lawyer Patrick Philbin argued on Thursday that Trump wasn ’ t “ necessarily ” asking for a probe of the Bidens , he just wanted to look into the firing of former top Ukrainian prosecutor Viktor Shokin “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if you can look into it , that sounds horrible , it sounds like a bad situation , ’ ” Philbin said , pointing to the White House summary of Trump ’ s July 25 call with Zelenskiy .
“ That ’ s not calling for an investigation necessarily into Vice President Biden or his son , but the situation in which the prosecutor had been fired , which affected anti-corruption efforts in the Ukraine.
’ ” The White House lawyer added that “ there ’ s a lot of loose talk in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the president did , but Trump didn ’ t “ necessarily ” push for a probe into the Bidens .
Look , I don ’ t mean to sound unsympathetic .
Philbin is in a tough spot , trying to defend a client who appears to be awfully guilty .
He ’ s also trying to navigate complex political waters : Philbin can ’ t say anything that the president won ’ t like , regardless of merit of accuracy .
When lawyers don ’ t have a lot to work with , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resort to awkward and clumsy claims .
But to suggest that Trump didn ’ t “ necessarily ” call for Biden-related investigations is kind of bizarre .
The White House released an official call summary of Trump ’ s July 25 conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky , in which the American president pressed his counterpart in Kyiv to “ look into ” the former Democratic vice president .
“ [ T ] here ’ s a lot of talk about Biden ’ s son , that Biden stopped the prosecution and a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about that so whatever you can do with the attorney general would be great , ” the Republican said in the phone meeting .
Trump continued , “ Biden went around bragging that he stopped the prosecution so if you can look into it … It sounds horrible to me.
” I suppose one might quibble with the precise meaning to “ look into , ” but it was the next day that Trump reportedly asked Ambassador Gordon Sondland , “ So , he ’ s gon na do the investigation ?
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to what the American president meant by “ look into.
” But we need not stop there .
A week after that call summary was released to the public , Trump stood on the South Lawn of the White House and told reporters on camera , “ China should start an investigation into the Bidens.
” The Republican added soon after , “ I would say that President Zelensky , if it were me , I would recommend that they start an investigation into the Bidens.
” So , to borrow Philbin ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a lot of loose talk in sort of shorthand ” that references Trump calling for foreign investigations into Biden because that ’ s precisely what happened .

One of the more exasperating elements of the impeachment fight is a dispute that need not exist. We know that Donald Trump pressed foreign officials to launch investigations into Joe Biden, but we also know that many of the president's allies prefer to pretend he didn't.
Last week, for example, PBS's Judy Woodruff sat down with Sen. Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), and the host noted, "It was wrong of the president to ask the president of Ukraine to conduct an investigation into Vice President Biden and his son. Do you accept their premise that that is what President Trump did?"
The Republican senator replied, "I don't," reality notwithstanding.
This afternoon, during the president's impeachment trial, Deputy White House Counsel Patrick Philbin echoed the point while fielding a question on Trump's efforts, denying that his client ever actually called for a Biden-related investigation.
Trump lawyer Patrick Philbin argued on Thursday that Trump wasn't "necessarily" asking for a probe of the Bidens, he just wanted to look into the firing of former top Ukrainian prosecutor Viktor Shokin"All the president says is 'so if you can look into it, that sounds horrible, it sounds like a bad situation,'" Philbin said, pointing to the White House summary of Trump's July 25 call with Zelenskiy. "That's not calling for an investigation necessarily into Vice President Biden or his son, but the situation in which the prosecutor had been fired, which affected anti-corruption efforts in the Ukraine.'"
The White House lawyer added that "there's a lot of loose talk in sort of shorthand reference to" what the president did, but Trump didn't "necessarily" push for a probe into the Bidens.
Look, I don't mean to sound unsympathetic. Philbin is in a tough spot, trying to defend a client who appears to be awfully guilty. He's also trying to navigate complex political waters: Philbin can't say anything that the president won't like, regardless of merit of accuracy.
When lawyers don't have a lot to work with, it's not surprising that they resort to awkward and clumsy claims. But to suggest that Trump didn't "necessarily" call for Biden-related investigations is kind of bizarre.
The White House released an official call summary of Trump's July 25 conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in which the American president pressed his counterpart in Kyiv to "look into" the former Democratic vice president. "[T]here's a lot of talk about Biden's son, that Biden stopped the prosecution and a lot of people want to find out about that so whatever you can do with the attorney general would be great," the Republican said in the phone meeting.
Trump continued, "Biden went around bragging that he stopped the prosecution so if you can look into it ... It sounds horrible to me."
I suppose one might quibble with the precise meaning to "look into," but it was the next day that Trump reportedly asked Ambassador Gordon Sondland, "So, he's gonna do the investigation?"
That seems to remove all doubt as to what the American president meant by "look into."
But we need not stop there. A week after that call summary was released to the public, Trump stood on the South Lawn of the White House and told reporters on camera, "China should start an investigation into the Bidens." The Republican added soon after, "I would say that President Zelensky, if it were me, I would recommend that they start an investigation into the Bidens."
So, to borrow Philbin's phrasing, there's "a lot of loose talk in sort of shorthand" that references Trump calling for foreign investigations into Biden because that's precisely what happened.


msnbc--2020-01-30--Nicole Wallace on the 'lunacy' of the Senate's legal, political 'outrages'

Nicole Wallace on the 'lunacy' of the Senate's legal, political 'outrages'
Nicolle Wallace remarks on the "lunacy" of the Senate impeachment trial, claiming she does not know where to begin, the legal outrages, or the constitutional ones.Jan. 30, 2020


msnbc--2020-01-30--Schiff: GOP defense is a 'decent into constitutional madness'

Former Justice Department prosecutor Andrew Weissman breaks down Rep. Adam Schiff's take on the state of the impeachment trial: "A decent into constitutional madness." Weissman notes, "The United States is now exporting corruption when we've spend decades fighting against corruption."Jan. 30, 2020


msnbc--2020-01-30--Vance: 'There is no longer rule of law,' Senate has handed over their oversight ability

Discussing The Possible Release Of The Affidavit FBI Used To Get A Search Warrant For Mar-a-Lago 09:32


msnbc--2020-01-30--Following sexual assault allegation,...

Following sexual assault allegation,...

After Donald Trump ’ s lawyers recently tried and failed to make E. Jean Carroll ’ s defamation lawsuit go away , the case is proceeding in ways the president probably won ’ t like .
The Associated Press reported today : Lawyers for a woman who accuses President Donald Trump of raping her in the 1990s are asking for a DNA sample , seeking to determine whether his genetic material is on a dress she says she wore during the encounter .
Advice columnist E. Jean Carroll ’ s lawyers served notice to a Trump attorney Thursday for Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Washington for “ analysis and comparison against unidentified male DNA present on the dress.
” Several other people were tested and eliminated as possible contributors to the mix , according to the lab report , which was obtained by The Associated Press .
Their names are redacted .
While the notice is a demand , such demands often spur court fights requiring a judge to weigh in on whether they will be enforced .
For those who may need a refresher on the controversy , Carroll spent years as a prominent writer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including having hosted a show on America ’ s Talking , which later became MSNBC .
As regular readers may recall , in June , she also joined a long list of women who ’ ve accused Trump of sexual misconduct .
Indeed , in a book published last year , Carroll described an alleged encounter in a New York department store in the mid-1990s , which the writer described as a violent sexual assault committed by the future president .
Though definitively proving or disproving Caroll ’ s claim is difficult @ @ @ @ @ @ @ review – the writer said she confided in two friends shortly after the alleged incident , telling them at the time what she said occurred .
Those friends soon after came forward with on-the-record accounts .
She also wrote on her book , “ The Donna Karan coatdress still hangs on the back of my closet door , unworn and unlaundered since that evening.
” Carroll added in a statement today , “ Unidentified male DNA on the dress could prove that Donald Trump not only knows who I am , but also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dressing room at Bergdorf Goodman and then defamed me by lying about it and impugning my character.
” The president has denied the claim , arguing , among other things , that his latest accuser is a “ liar ” who isn ’ t his “ type.
” It ’ s what prompted Carroll to sue Trump for defamation .
When the allegations first surfaced over the summer , Trump issued a statement claiming that he ’ s never met E. Jean Carroll .
There is , however , a photograph of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mid-1980s .
It ’ s also worth noting for context that the public was confronted with a recording from 2005 in which Trump was heard bragging about committing sexual assaults .
The Republican said that he kisses women he considers attractive – “ I don ’ t even wait , ” Trump claimed at the time – which he said he could get away with because of his public profile .
“ When you ’ re a star , they let you do it , ” Trump said on the recording .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ em by the p—y.
” Among the claims raised by Carroll was an allegation , denied by the president , that Trump “ forced his fingers around my private area .
”

After Donald Trump's lawyers recently tried and failed to make E. Jean Carroll's defamation lawsuit go away, the case is proceeding in ways the president probably won't like. The Associated Press reported today:
Lawyers for a woman who accuses President Donald Trump of raping her in the 1990s are asking for a DNA sample, seeking to determine whether his genetic material is on a dress she says she wore during the encounter.Advice columnist E. Jean Carroll's lawyers served notice to a Trump attorney Thursday for Trump to submit a sample on March 2 in Washington for "analysis and comparison against unidentified male DNA present on the dress."Several other people were tested and eliminated as possible contributors to the mix, according to the lab report, which was obtained by The Associated Press. Their names are redacted.While the notice is a demand, such demands often spur court fights requiring a judge to weigh in on whether they will be enforced.
For those who may need a refresher on the controversy, Carroll spent years as a prominent writer, media figure, and advice columnist, including having hosted a show on America’s Talking, which later became MSNBC. As regular readers may recall, in June, she also joined a long list of women who’ve accused Trump of sexual misconduct.
Indeed, in a book published last year, Carroll described an alleged encounter in a New York department store in the mid-1990s, which the writer described as a violent sexual assault committed by the future president. Though definitively proving or disproving Caroll’s claim is difficult – there is no security footage to review – the writer said she confided in two friends shortly after the alleged incident, telling them at the time what she said occurred. Those friends soon after came forward with on-the-record accounts.
She also wrote on her book, "The Donna Karan coatdress still hangs on the back of my closet door, unworn and unlaundered since that evening."
Carroll added in a statement today, "Unidentified male DNA on the dress could prove that Donald Trump not only knows who I am, but also that he violently assaulted me in a dressing room at Bergdorf Goodman and then defamed me by lying about it and impugning my character."
The president has denied the claim, arguing, among other things, that his latest accuser is a “liar” who isn’t his “type.” It's what prompted Carroll to sue Trump for defamation.
When the allegations first surfaced over the summer, Trump issued a statement claiming that he’s never met E. Jean Carroll. There is, however, a photograph of the two interacting at an event in the mid-1980s.
It’s also worth noting for context that the public was confronted with a recording from 2005 in which Trump was heard bragging about committing sexual assaults. The Republican said that he kisses women he considers attractive – “I don’t even wait,” Trump claimed at the time – which he said he could get away with because of his public profile.
“When you’re a star, they let you do it,” Trump said on the recording. “You can do anything. Grab ‘em by the p—y.”
Among the claims raised by Carroll was an allegation, denied by the president, that Trump “forced his fingers around my private area.”


msnbc--2020-02-05--Rattner: Job growth under Trump slower than it was under Obama

Obama speechwriter on Trump State of the Union : ' I 'm in mourning '

Meacham: Pence probably saved the republic, but I don't always want to count on one person to do it 08:18


msnbc--2020-02-05--Joe: How do you call it a good speech if it's fed by lies?


msnbc--2020-02-05--'Bizarre,' 'unusual' 'reality show' moments at 2020 State of the Union


msnbc--2020-02-05--Bipartisan prescription drug bill waits in Senate

Congresswoman Katie Porter (D-CA) responds to Donald Trump's State of the Union call to lower prescription drug prices as a bipartisan bill that passed the House is pending in the Senate.Feb. 5, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-05--Rep. Tim Ryan walks out of State of the Union: ‘Give me a break!’

Rep. Tim Ryan walks out of State of the Union: ‘Give me a break!’
Rep. Tim Ryan tells Lawrence O’Donnell he had to leave during Trump’s speech because of the countless lies Trump was telling. He asks, “how much can a guy take?”Feb. 5, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-05--Narrow gap between Buttigieg, Sanders in Iowa

Narrow gap between Buttigieg, Sanders in Iowa
With 71% of the results being reported by the Iowa Democratic party, Mayor Pete Buttigieg and Sen. Bernie Sanders remain in the lead in delegate count.Feb. 5, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-05--Warren: 'Our democracy hangs in the balance'


msnbc--2020-02-04--Obama speechwriter on Trump State of the Union: 'I'm in mourning'


msnbc--2020-02-04--Steph Ruhle fact checks Trump State of the Union on the economy


msnbc--2020-02-05--WSJ: White House ‘caught off guard’ by Romney vote on impeachment

Claire McCaskill : Sen. Mitt Romney 's stand was courageous , but so were Democrats in red states who voted @ @

Aides to the president told the Wall Street Journal that the White House “had been predicting that all Republican senators would vote to acquit the president, and was caught off-guard by Mr. Romney's announcement."Feb. 6, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-05--Rural areas keep Buttigieg ahead of Sanders as Iowa results trickle in

IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser.


msnbc--2020-02-05--Meacham: History shows 10 percent of voters are up for grabs

Meacham: History shows 10 percent of voters are up for grabs
Historian Jon Meacham looks back into past administrations to see what amount of voters are willing to cross party lines.Feb. 5, 2020


Wednesday's Mini-Report, 2.5.20

* Trump ’ s still the first president to ever face a bipartisan conviction vote : “ The Senate acquitted President Donald Trump almost entirely along party lines on charges of abusing his power and obstructing Congress on Wednesday , bringing an end to the third presidential impeachment trial in United States history.
” * The latest from Iowa : “ Former South Bend , Indiana , Mayor Pete Buttigieg remained in the lead in the Iowa caucus results after the state Democratic Party on Wednesday afternoon released its second update of the day .
With 85 percent of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I-Vt. , remained in second place , followed by Sen. Elizabeth Warren , D-Mass.
, former Vice President Joe Biden and Sen. Amy Klobuchar , D-Minn. ” * Climate crisis : “ Europe just concluded its warmest January on record , coming on the heels of a toasty December and making the 2019-2020 winter season a contender for the warmest Europe has observed .
Although the calendar has flipped to a new decade , there has been no slowing in the growing list of locations experiencing record temperatures amid a quickly warming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health officials in Wisconsin have confirmed a case of the new coronavirus in that state , bringing the national total to 12 .
The patient had come into contact with an individual with the virus while traveling in China.
” * Guaido at the White House : “ Venezuela ’ s opposition leader , Juan Guaido , got a big push Wednesday , when he met with President Donald Trump at the White House for the first time since he recognized the young leader as the legitimate president of the South American country.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ an opinion piece surfacedin which he linked “ multiculturalism ” to domestic terrorism : “ The nominee for a top personnel job in the Pentagon has withdrawn , according to three sources close to the matter , the latest in a string of vacancy problems among high-ranking civilian officials at the Defense Department.
” * Speaking of Team Trump personnel moves , Sarah Makin has a new gig : “ An aide to Vice President Mike Pence is expected to be named to a National Security Council-based post overseeing the Trump administration ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If he faced pressure from his colleagues , maybe he ’ d be more responsible : “ Sen .
Rand Paul read aloud the name of the alleged whistleblower who first raised alarms about President Donald Trump ’ s conduct toward Ukraine .
And most Republicans didn ’ t seem to care.
” * There ’ s just something funny about stories that cast Florida in an unflattering light : “ Two men charged with drug trafficking could have done a better job hiding their wares than using a package labeled ‘ Bag @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
”

Today's edition of quick hits:
* Trump's still the first president to ever face a bipartisan conviction vote: "The Senate acquitted President Donald Trump almost entirely along party lines on charges of abusing his power and obstructing Congress on Wednesday, bringing an end to the third presidential impeachment trial in United States history."
* The latest from Iowa: "Former South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg remained in the lead in the Iowa caucus results after the state Democratic Party on Wednesday afternoon released its second update of the day. With 85 percent of the results now reported, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., remained in second place, followed by Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., former Vice President Joe Biden and Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn."
* Climate crisis: "Europe just concluded its warmest January on record, coming on the heels of a toasty December and making the 2019-2020 winter season a contender for the warmest Europe has observed. Although the calendar has flipped to a new decade, there has been no slowing in the growing list of locations experiencing record temperatures amid a quickly warming climate."
* Coronavirus: "Public health officials in Wisconsin have confirmed a case of the new coronavirus in that state, bringing the national total to 12. The patient had come into contact with an individual with the virus while traveling in China."
* Guaido at the White House: "Venezuela's opposition leader, Juan Guaido, got a big push Wednesday, when he met with President Donald Trump at the White House for the first time since he recognized the young leader as the legitimate president of the South American country."
* J. David Patterson withdrew after an opinion piece surfaced in which he linked "multiculturalism" to domestic terrorism: "The nominee for a top personnel job in the Pentagon has withdrawn, according to three sources close to the matter, the latest in a string of vacancy problems among high-ranking civilian officials at the Defense Department."
* Speaking of Team Trump personnel moves, Sarah Makin has a new gig: "An aide to Vice President Mike Pence is expected to be named to a National Security Council-based post overseeing the Trump administration's international religious freedom efforts."
* If he faced pressure from his colleagues, maybe he'd be more responsible: "Sen. Rand Paul read aloud the name of the alleged whistleblower who first raised alarms about President Donald Trump's conduct toward Ukraine. And most Republicans didn't seem to care."
* There's just something funny about stories that cast Florida in an unflattering light: "Two men charged with drug trafficking could have done a better job hiding their wares than using a package labeled 'Bag Full of Drugs,' Florida authorities said."
See you tomorrow.


msnbc--2020-02-05--McConnell: Impeachment ‘has been a colossal political mistake’

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell spoke of the political consequences of impeachment, calling it "a colossal political mistake," at least in the short term.Feb. 5, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-05--The Senate votes to acquit Pres. Trump on both articles of impeachment

The Senate voted to acquit Pres. Trump on both articles of impeachment. Chuck Todd says, "This afternoon's vote brings to an end a saga that began nearly five months ago, and while today's verdict was not in doubt the country's path forward is anything but certain.”Feb. 5, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-05--Meacham: 'We the people are now the jury'


msnbc--2020-02-05--McCaskill: Romney's stand was courageous, but so were Dems in red states who voted to convict

Claire McCaskill says that Sen. Mitt Romney's vote to convict President Trump on the abuse of power charge is courageous. But she says credit is also due to four Democratic senators from states where Trump is popular who could be risking their seats with their vote to convict.Feb. 5, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-05--Meacham: The articles failed, but in some ways this was a beginning

Meacham: The articles failed, but in some ways this was a beginning
Presidential historian Jon Meacham discusses the Senate's vote to acquit President Donald Trump. t was the third time in the nation’s history that a president has been impeached — and the third time that a president has been acquitted on all impeachment articles.Feb. 5, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-05--Democrats signal united front on conviction after Manchin, Sinema announce votes


msnbc--2020-02-06--Biden takes gut punch in New Hampshire polling

Sen. Sanders could take the lead in Iowa

Joe Biden is polling third in New Hampshire, according to new polling. The panel discusses Biden's standing in the race as of now and if he can rebound.Feb. 6, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-06--Senate acquits Trump on articles of impeachment

The Senate on Wednesday voted almost entirely along party lines to acquit President Donald Trump on abuse of power and obstruction of justice. In a dramatic speech on the Senate floor, Republican Mitt Romney of Utah said he would vote to convict President Trump on the first of two articles of impeachment.Feb. 6, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-06--Sen. Sanders could take the lead in Iowa


msnbc--2020-02-06--Kornacki: 'There is now a chance' Sanders will overtake Buttigieg and win the Iowa caucuses

Kornacki: 'There is now a chance' Sanders will overtake Buttigieg and win the Iowa caucuses
Steve Kornacki reports on the "last minute twist" from the Iowa Caucuses, with 97% of precincts reporting, and how "there is now a chance that Bernie Sanders will overtake Pete Buttigieg and win the Iowa caucuses."Feb. 6, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-05--Late Iowa Caucus results tighten race between Buttigieg and Sanders

Iowa is coming down to the wire, and Steve Kornacki joins to explain why the latest numbers there could change things up for the two men leading the pack.Feb. 6, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-05--Sen. Warren: ‘Mitch McConnell should not be there to block our democracy’

Sen. Warren: ‘Mitch McConnell should not be there to block our democracy’
Sen. Elizabeth Warren tells Lawrence O'Donnell how she plans to defeat Trump in 2020 and try to win back the Senate, but she says "my first legislative fight with Mitch McConnell is I've got the biggest anti-corruption plan since Watergate and people support it across this country."Feb. 6, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-05--Sen. Klobuchar: ‘It's still gonna be a close Senate’

Sen. Amy Klobuchar tells Lawrence O'Donnell that she has a game plan to get things done as president - like immigration reform, infrastructure, and pharmaceutical costs - whether or not Mitch McConnell controls the Senate in 2021.Feb. 6, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-05--Sen. Doug Jones: Vote to convict Trump a ‘vote of conscience’

Doug Jones, in his first interview since casting his votes to convict Trump, said that he thought about his children and grandchildren when he voted to remove Trump from office and how history would look upon him.Feb. 6, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-05--Vulnerable Senate Democrats cast tough guilty vote against Trump

Meacham: Pence probably saved the republic, but I don't always want to count on one person to do it


msnbc--2020-02-05--Lawrence: Doug Jones put his career on the line to convict Trump

Lawrence: Doug Jones put his career on the line to convict Trump
Lawrence O’Donnell argues that Doug Jones, even more than Mitt Romney, took the hardest and most politically courageous vote in voting to convict Trump on both articles of impeachment, because Jones jeopardized his own re-election to stand up for what he believed in.Feb. 6, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-06--Ross Matthews on Buttigieg after Iowa and if America is ready for a gay president

DNC Chair calls on Iowa Democratic Party to recanvass the results of the Iowa Caucus

Ross Matthews on Buttigieg after Iowa and if America is ready for a gay president
TV host and “Tonight Show” Alum Ross Mathews and NBC’s Cynthia McFadden join MSNBC’s Ari Melber, for a special 2020 edition of Fallback, an irreverent segment on the news show “The Beat with Ari Melber.” Mathews and McFadden discuss the fallout from Iowa and Pete Buttigieg’s historic presidential run.Feb. 6, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-06--Chen: The idea that Romney's vote was because of 'sour grapes ... just doesn't make sense'

Former Romney Campaign Policy Adviser Lanhee Chen speaks to the possible blowback of Sen. Mitt Romney’s impeachment vote. He said, “The notion that he did it because of sour grapes or did it because of politics just doesn’t make sense to me.”Feb. 6, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-06--Obsessed: The day the Iowa caucuses died

IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser.


msnbc--2020-02-06--Plouffe: The way to make Sanders the nominee is for establishment to say 'Anybody but Bernie'

Plouffe: The way to make Sanders the nominee is for establishment to say 'Anybody but Bernie'
Former Obama Campaign Manager David Plouffe warns the establishment of the Democratic Party to not say "anybody but Bernie." He said, “If the establishment were to come in … and say, you know what, 'It’s anybody but Bernie Sanders,’ that’s the way to make him the nominee.”Feb. 6, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-06--Rep. Swalwell: If John Bolton has information, I’m sure that Speaker Pelosi will authorize us to use

Rep. Swalwell: If John Bolton has information, I’m sure that Speaker Pelosi will authorize us to use subpoena power
Rep. Eric Swalwell weighs in on if the House will subpoena John Bolton after he refused to submit an affidavit for the Senate trialFeb. 6, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-06--A more combative Biden works to stave off collapse after Iowa letdown

A more combative Biden works to stave off collapse after Iowa letdown
Joe Biden has taken aim at his two rivals currently vying for first place in delegates from Iowa: Pete Buttigieg and Bernie Sanders.Feb. 6, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-06--Trump celebrates acquittal and rails against rivals

President Trump pledges revenge against the FBI, sitting senators, and the Speaker of the House in the East Room of the White HouseFeb. 6, 2020


Thursday's Mini-Report, 2.6.20

* E. Jean Carroll ’ s defamation suit : “ President Donald Trump ’ s lawyers want to put the brakes on a lawsuit filed by an advice columnist who has accused him of raping her in the 1990s and is seeking his DNA as possible evidence.
” * DHS : “ The Department of Homeland Security said Wednesday it was suspending New Yorkers ’ ability to enroll in Global Entry and other programs that allow travelers to pass quickly through airport security and customs in a move following a state law that allows undocumented immigrants to obtain driver ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have a problem with Puerto Rico : “ The White House issued a veto threat Wednesday over a $ 4.7 billion emergency aid package intended to help Puerto Rico recover from a series of damaging earthquakes.
” * Erik Prince : “ The Justice Department has begun reviewing a 10-month-old allegation by the House Intelligence Committee chairman , Rep. Adam Schiff ( D-Calif. ) , that Erik Prince , an ally of President Donald Trump , repeatedly misled lawmakers during the panel ’ s investigation of Russian interference in the 2016 election.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to a Fox News host on Wednesday to inform an excited Rep. Matt Gaetz ( R-Fla. ) that no , House Speaker Nancy Pelosi ( D-Calif. ) can ’ t be prosecuted and sent to prison or fined for ripping up a copy of President Trump ’ s State of the Union address .
This , after Gaetz called for a House Ethics Committee investigation of Pelosi and a referral of her action to the Justice Department for a criminal investigation.
” * On a related note : “ The Democratic-led House immediately @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s tearing up a copy of the State of the Union speech… .
The House tabled it on a 224-to-193 vote.
” * It was the lowest rated SOTU address in four years : “ President Trump put a ‘ Celebrity Apprentice ’ spin on his State of the Union address on Tuesday… .
It was the kind of camera-ready spectacle that can translate into big ratings for afternoon talk-show hosts and prime-time reality shows .
This time , though , the Nielsen numbers did not come through .
”

Today's edition of quick hits:
* E. Jean Carroll's defamation suit: "President Donald Trump's lawyers want to put the brakes on a lawsuit filed by an advice columnist who has accused him of raping her in the 1990s and is seeking his DNA as possible evidence."
* DHS: "The Department of Homeland Security said Wednesday it was suspending New Yorkers' ability to enroll in Global Entry and other programs that allow travelers to pass quickly through airport security and customs in a move following a state law that allows undocumented immigrants to obtain driver's licenses."
* He really seems to have a problem with Puerto Rico: "The White House issued a veto threat Wednesday over a $4.7 billion emergency aid package intended to help Puerto Rico recover from a series of damaging earthquakes."
* Erik Prince: "The Justice Department has begun reviewing a 10-month-old allegation by the House Intelligence Committee chairman, Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), that Erik Prince, an ally of President Donald Trump, repeatedly misled lawmakers during the panel's investigation of Russian interference in the 2016 election."
* Seriously? "It fell to a Fox News host on Wednesday to inform an excited Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) that no, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) can't be prosecuted and sent to prison or fined for ripping up a copy of President Trump's State of the Union address. This, after Gaetz called for a House Ethics Committee investigation of Pelosi and a referral of her action to the Justice Department for a criminal investigation."
* On a related note: "The Democratic-led House immediately rejected a Republican resolution disapproving of Pelosi's tearing up a copy of the State of the Union speech.... The House tabled it on a 224-to-193 vote."
* It was the lowest rated SOTU address in four years: "President Trump put a 'Celebrity Apprentice' spin on his State of the Union address on Tuesday.... It was the kind of camera-ready spectacle that can translate into big ratings for afternoon talk-show hosts and prime-time reality shows. This time, though, the Nielsen numbers did not come through."
See you tomorrow.


msnbc--2020-02-06--Kornacki: 'Is a Sanders, Buttigieg race … taking shape here?


msnbc--2020-02-06--DNC Chair calls on Iowa Democratic Party to recanvass the results of the Iowa Caucus

DNC Chair calls on Iowa Democratic Party to recanvass the results of the Iowa Caucus
DNC Chair Tom Perez called on the Iowa Democratic Party to recanvass the results of the Iowa Caucus. Chuck Todd says, “If you thought the situation for Democrats out of Iowa couldn't get any more chaotic, you'd be wrong.”Feb. 6, 2020


Trump celebrates acquittal

Joe : Trump mocked the words of Jesus Christ and he got away with it

Donald Trump took a vengeful victory lap less than 24 hours after his impeachment acquittal on charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress, lashing out at his adversaries, touting his perceived accomplishments and denying any wrongdoing.Feb. 7, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-07--Joe: Trump mocked the words of Jesus Christ and he got away with it

Meacham: Pence probably saved the republic, but I don't always want to count on one person to do it 08:18


msnbc--2020-02-07--Humility vs. Hubris: Clinton, Trump in their own words post-impeachment


msnbc--2020-02-06--Searching for a win, Warren pulls TV ads in Nevada and South Carolina

After a loss in Iowa and the polls in New Hampshire show her trailing, what is Elizabeth Warren's way forward in the 2020 campaign? We talk to our Ali Vitali.Feb. 7, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-06--Figliuzzi blasts Trump and Barr after president calls FBI 'scum'


msnbc--2020-02-06--Day 1,113: Swearing and rambling, Trump lashes out after impeachment acquittal


msnbc--2020-02-06--Cecile Richards says women are motivated to defeat Trump in 2020

Cecile Richards says women are motivated to defeat Trump in 2020
Cecile Richards tells Lawrence O'Donnell that women are unseen and unheard in the Trump administration, and they're fired up to beat him in November: "58% of caucusgoers in Iowa were women... If 58% of voters next fall are women, it's game over."Feb. 7, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-06--Sen. Markey on his vote to convict and remove

Sen. Markey on his vote to convict and remove
Sen. Ed Markey tells Lawrence how he felt when he cast his historic vote in the impeachment trial of Donald Trump -- and what it was like to watch Republican senators in the chamber.Feb. 7, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-06--Lawrence: Prayer breakfast rant shows Trump doesn't understand what love is

Trump raged against Nancy Pelosi, Mitt Romney, and others at the National Prayer Breakfast and rejected the teachings of Christian love. Lawrence argues that that's because Trump fundamentally doesn't understand the concept of love.Feb. 7, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-07--Maria Teresa Kumar: There could be a 'potential pop' for Warren in Nevada

Sanders campaign : 'Will reach across all elements of the [ Democratic ] party '


msnbc--2020-02-07--Sanders campaign: 'Will reach across all elements of the [Democratic] party'


Friday's Mini-Report, 2.7.20

* Checking off names from Trump ’ s enemies list : “ Lt .
Col. Alexander Vindman , the top Ukraine expert on the National Security Council who testified during the House impeachment inquiry into President Donald Trump , was ‘ escorted out of the White House ’ on Friday afternoon , his lawyer said.
” * There ’ s no record of it ever reaching 64.9 degrees Fahrenheit at the tip of Antarctica : “ The U.N. weather agency said Friday that an Argentine research base on the northern tip of Antarctica is reporting a temperature that , if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the icy continent.
” * New York Gov .
Andrew Cuomo ( D ) announced today that “ the state will sue the Trump administration over its decision to bar New Yorkers from enrolling in Global Entry and other programs that allow travelers to pass quickly through airport security and customs.
” * AQAP : “ President Donald Trump said Thursday that the U.S. at his direction has conducted a counter-terrorism operation in Yemen that killed Qassim al-Rimi , an al-Qaida leader who claimed responsibility for last year ’ s deadly shooting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Saudi aviation trainee killed three American sailors.
” * Another immigration ruling of note : “ A federal judge issued a permanent nationwide injunction Thursday against yet another Trump administration immigration policy : a move to make it harder for foreigners to remain in the U.S. after their legal status runs out.
” * Perhaps the cruelty is the point : “ A rule change to the federal food stamp program proposed by the Trump administration would cause children in low-income families across the United States to go hungry , educators and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ * I ’ d like to hear more about this : “ Lana Marks is a successful fashion designer and member of U.S. President Donald Trump ’ s private Mar-a-Lago club in Florida .
Though she has no prior diplomatic experience , Marks is also Trump ’ s ambassador to South Africa , and last month she forced out her second in command , the veteran career foreign service officer David Young .
Multiple current and former officials familiar say issues at the embassy arose over disputed accounts of the ambassador pushing for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ role with the embassy.
” * I suspect she ’ s afraid not to clap , given Trump ’ s sensitivities : “ CIA Director Gina Haspel ’ s attendance at President Donald Trump ’ s State of the Union on Tuesday – and her decision to stand and clap at certain lines – has surprised former senior intelligence officials who say the agency director should consistently appear nonpartisan.
” * No good can come of this : “ House GOP lawmakers have picked Rep. Jim Jordan – one of President Donald Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hill – to be the next top Republican on the powerful House Judiciary Committee .
”

Today's edition of quick hits:
* Checking off names from Trump's enemies list: "Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman, the top Ukraine expert on the National Security Council who testified during the House impeachment inquiry into President Donald Trump, was 'escorted out of the White House' on Friday afternoon, his lawyer said."
* There's no record of it ever reaching 64.9 degrees Fahrenheit at the tip of Antarctica: "The U.N. weather agency said Friday that an Argentine research base on the northern tip of Antarctica is reporting a temperature that, if confirmed, could be a record high for the icy continent."
* New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) announced today that "the state will sue the Trump administration over its decision to bar New Yorkers from enrolling in Global Entry and other programs that allow travelers to pass quickly through airport security and customs."
* AQAP: "President Donald Trump said Thursday that the U.S. at his direction has conducted a counter-terrorism operation in Yemen that killed Qassim al-Rimi, an al-Qaida leader who claimed responsibility for last year's deadly shooting at Naval Air Station Pensacola, where a Saudi aviation trainee killed three American sailors."
* Another immigration ruling of note: "A federal judge issued a permanent nationwide injunction Thursday against yet another Trump administration immigration policy: a move to make it harder for foreigners to remain in the U.S. after their legal status runs out."
* Perhaps the cruelty is the point: "A rule change to the federal food stamp program proposed by the Trump administration would cause children in low-income families across the United States to go hungry, educators and hunger advocates told Congress on Thursday."
* I'd like to hear more about this: "Lana Marks is a successful fashion designer and member of U.S. President Donald Trump's private Mar-a-Lago club in Florida. Though she has no prior diplomatic experience, Marks is also Trump's ambassador to South Africa, and last month she forced out her second in command, the veteran career foreign service officer David Young. Multiple current and former officials familiar say issues at the embassy arose over disputed accounts of the ambassador pushing for her son to take on an elevated role with the embassy."
* I suspect she's afraid not to clap, given Trump's sensitivities: "CIA Director Gina Haspel's attendance at President Donald Trump's State of the Union on Tuesday -- and her decision to stand and clap at certain lines -- has surprised former senior intelligence officials who say the agency director should consistently appear nonpartisan."
* No good can come of this: "House GOP lawmakers have picked Rep. Jim Jordan -- one of President Donald Trump's most loyal allies on Capitol Hill -- to be the next top Republican on the powerful House Judiciary Committee."
Enjoy the weekend.


msnbc--2020-02-07--What to expect from the Biden campaign ahead of tonight's debate

What to expect from the Biden campaign ahead of tonight's debate
NBC correspondent, Mike Memoli on the Biden campaign strategy ahead of tonight's debate in New Hampshire and latest news of the campaign's staff changes.Feb. 7, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-07--Sanders, Buttigieg lead new NBC News/Marist poll out of New Hampshire

Sanders, Buttigieg lead new NBC News/Marist poll out of New Hampshire
In a brand new NBC News/Marist poll out of New Hampshire, Sanders and Buttigieg lead the Democratic field while Warren and Biden trail in third and fourth place.Feb. 7, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-07--Donald Trump signals his intention to seek revenge against perceived enemies

Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Vindman is escorted from the White House after Trump signals his intention to seek revenge against those who testified in his impeachment investigationFeb. 7, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-07--Impeachment is forever, so Trump wants...

House congressional leaders have emphasized more than once in recent weeks that the stain of Donald Trump ’ s impeachment scandal will not wash off .
His misdeeds were not enough to sway his Senate Republican allies , but they will help define his troubled legacy .
“ I think that we have pulled back a veil of behavior totally unacceptable to our founders , and that the public will see this with a clearer eye , an unblurred eye , ” House Speaker Pelosi said of the president , adding , “ Whatever happens , he has been impeached @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – or is it ?
Evidently , Trump doesn ’ t quite see it that way .
President Donald Trump said Friday that his impeachment should be invalidated , and he gave an ominous warning when asked how he ’ ll pay back those responsible , saying , “ You ’ ll see.
” “ Should they expunge the impeachment in the House ?
They should because it was a hoax , ” Trump told reporters at the White House before departing on Marine One .
A week ago today , Alan Dershowitz @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s legal defense team , told Fox News ’ Sean Hannity that he disagrees with the idea that Trump will “ forever ” wear the label of impeachment .
“ If he wins this [ trial in the Senate ] , I think nobody should regard him as having been impeached , ” Dershowitz argued .
That was a difficult position to take seriously , since what people “ regard ” as true is far less important than what is true .
But his client seems to be going one step further @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , House members – take it all back .
It ’ s as if Trump believes the chamber can and should hold a do-over vote , un-impeaching him .
I have a hunch that won ’ t happen anytime soon , not only because there ’ s a Democratic majority in the chamber , but also because the evidence of Trump ’ s guilt is obvious and overwhelming .
Indeed , it was a point Senate Democrats , two Senate independents who caucus with Democrats , and a Senate Republican could all agree @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about a more long-term strategy .
Perhaps someone told him about the fact that lawmakers censured Andrew Jackson in 1834 , only to have his allies “ expunge ” the censure from the record in 1837 after control of the Senate switched party hands .
I won ’ t pretend to know whether Trump will win a second term or when Republicans will next control a House majority , but don ’ t be surprised if , should those circumstances arise in the near future , if Trump asks his GOP allies to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how ridiculous – intended to say his impeachment didn ’ t really count .

House congressional leaders have emphasized more than once in recent weeks that the stain of Donald Trump's impeachment scandal will not wash off. His misdeeds were not enough to sway his Senate Republican allies, but they will help define his troubled legacy.
"I think that we have pulled back a veil of behavior totally unacceptable to our founders, and that the public will see this with a clearer eye, an unblurred eye," House Speaker Pelosi said of the president, adding, "Whatever happens, he has been impeached forever."
That's obviously true -- or is it? Evidently, Trump doesn't quite see it that way.
President Donald Trump said Friday that his impeachment should be invalidated, and he gave an ominous warning when asked how he'll pay back those responsible, saying, "You'll see.""Should they expunge the impeachment in the House? They should because it was a hoax," Trump told reporters at the White House before departing on Marine One.
A week ago today, Alan Dershowitz, a controversial member of the president's legal defense team, told Fox News' Sean Hannity that he disagrees with the idea that Trump will "forever" wear the label of impeachment.
"If he wins this [trial in the Senate], I think nobody should regard him as having been impeached," Dershowitz argued.
That was a difficult position to take seriously, since what people "regard" as true is far less important than what is true. But his client seems to be going one step further, suggesting "they" -- presumably, House members -- take it all back. It's as if Trump believes the chamber can and should hold a do-over vote, un-impeaching him.
I have a hunch that won't happen anytime soon, not only because there's a Democratic majority in the chamber, but also because the evidence of Trump's guilt is obvious and overwhelming. Indeed, it was a point Senate Democrats, two Senate independents who caucus with Democrats, and a Senate Republican could all agree on.
But Trump may be thinking about a more long-term strategy. Perhaps someone told him about the fact that lawmakers censured Andrew Jackson in 1834, only to have his allies "expunge" the censure from the record in 1837 after control of the Senate switched party hands.
I won't pretend to know whether Trump will win a second term or when Republicans will next control a House majority, but don't be surprised if, should those circumstances arise in the near future, if Trump asks his GOP allies to vote on a resolution -- no matter how ridiculous -- intended to say his impeachment didn't really count.


msnbc--2020-02-07--All eyes turn to New Hampshire

All eyes turn to New Hampshire

IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser.


msnbc--2020-02-07--Rep. Porter on pitching Warren to undecided voters

Ali Velshi talks with Rep. Katie Porter (D-CA), a co-chair of Sen. Elizabeth Warren’s presidential campaign, about how she makes the case for Warren to voters as polls show her support dwindling.Feb. 7, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-09--Allen: Klobuchar is 'ride or die in a bar brawl'

Trump treated State of the Union like reality TV experts say

NBCNews.com Reporter Jonathan Allen joins Chris Jansing to discuss Sen. Amy Klobuchar's performance in the final debate before the New Hampshire primary, where she demonstrated a trait that Democratic voters look for in a candidate - fight.Feb. 9, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-09--Fouhy: 'People are very eager to vote against Donald Trump'

Fouhy: 'People are very eager to vote against Donald Trump'
Senior Politics Editor Beth Fouhy discusses why so many Democratic voters are so eager to vote against Pres. Donald Trump, but still undecided on which candidate they'll be voting for.Feb. 9, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-09--Rep. Maloney on GOP senators acquitting Trump: 'Phony friends are worse than honest enemies'


msnbc--2020-02-09--Weld on being the last Republican standing against Trump

Judge Luttig on Trump’s likely third indictment: 'These are the gravest offenses against the U.S.' 10:00


msnbc--2020-02-09--Fmr. Rep. Katie Hill: 'No matter who the nominee is we have to rally behind them'


msnbc--2020-02-09--Biden vs. Buttigieg leads to dispute of support among mayors

The fight between Democratic presidential candidates Joe Biden and Pete Buttigieg is heating up and both are getting support from mayors across the country. MSNBC’s Ali Velshi talks to Cincinnati Mayor John Cranley, a Buttigieg backer and Mayor James Diossa of Central Falls, RI, a Biden supporter.Feb. 9, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-09--How Democrats might compete with Trump’s showbiz sensibility

Donald Trump treated the State of the Union like a scripted reality TV show many experts say. How might Democrats compete with the president’s show business sensibility? Joy Reid and her panel discuss.Feb. 9, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-09--Who will win big at the Oscars?

Who will win big at the Oscars?

Who will win big at the Oscars?
Ahead of tonight's 92nd Academy Awards, Alex Witt and Deadline Senior Editor Dominic Patten preview the major awards, with Patten giving his picks for who will bring home an Oscar.Feb. 9, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-09--Couple hosting presidential candidates: ‘They call us, we don’t call them’

Gerri and Ron King host house parties for presidential candidates every four years. The New Hampshire couple has already hosted 11 of the candidates for the current election cycle. Watch as they explain their prep process when hosting breakfast, dinner and everything in between.Feb. 9, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-10--Will New Hampshire finish Biden's political career?

Meacham: Pence probably saved the republic, but I don't always want to count on one person to do it 08:18


msnbc--2020-02-10--2020 Democrats make their final push in New Hampshire


msnbc--2020-02-09--Democratic candidates caught between a rock and the Granite State

Fmr. Rep Hill: No plans to run for office, but ‘Literally everything has been exposed, including my naked pictures, not through my choice’ 05:31


msnbc--2020-02-09--KLOBUCHAR: ‘I’m the better candidate to lead the ticket’

As Pete Buttigieg rises in polls, Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) says her “experience is better” and that she’s the better candidate to take on President Trump in the Fall.Feb. 10, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-09--Michael Bennet: ‘I think we need a new set of leadership.’

Presidential candidate Sen. Michael Bennet (D-CO) is staking his campaign on a strong showing in Tuesday’s New Hampshire primary. The Senator tells NBC’s Kasie Hunt, 'I believe that I'm the right generation, in which it feels like it's time for us to turn the page on the generation that got us here and begin to do work with the next generations of America needs us to do.'Feb. 10, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-09--Tom Steyer: If the Democratic party is divided 'we will lose'

Tom Steyer: If the Democratic party is divided 'we will lose'
Presidential candidate Tom Steyer, who finds himself polling in second place in South Carolina, stresses the need for Democrats to coalesce around the eventual nominee, warning that President Trump will win re-election if they don’t.Feb. 10, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-09--President Trump casts shadow over Democratic field in New Hampshire

The 2020 candidates struggle to play catch up in New Hampshire while President Trump attempts to steal the spotlight. NBC’s Shaquille Brewster talks to voters in the Granite State after a chaotic week in politicsFeb. 10, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-10--Panel: Biden reads teleprompter speech on NH primary eve

Dems are the 'only ' thing between the U.S. and 'the abyss ' , says James Carville

Are any of the candidates succeeding at doing things "the New Hampshire way"? The panel discusses and gives credit to Pete Buttigieg, among others.Feb. 10, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-10--Klobuchar campaign on next steps as she surges New Hampshire polls

IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser.


msnbc--2020-02-10--Bennet: ‘No doubt’ Democrats will be stronger than Trump

2020 candidate Sen. Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) says if he or Bernie Sanders can "get out of the primary" he has no doubt someone with their message will beat Donald Trump.Feb. 10, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-10--Steyer: Not going to join the 'Stop Bernie' campaign


Monday's Mini-Report, 2.10.20

* Afghanistan : `` Two U.S. troops were killed and six others wounded in an attack Saturday in Nangarhar Province , Afghanistan , a military official said .
U.S. and Afghan forces were conducting a joint operation when an individual wearing an Afghan uniform opened fire on the service members using a machine gun , according to Col. Sonny Leggett , spokesman for American forces in Afghanistan . ''
* Beijing : `` Chinese President Xi Jinping made a public appearance Monday , donning a face mask and having his temperature taken at a `` front-line '' coronavirus facility in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ * This was quite a hack : `` The Justice Department has charged four members of the Chinese military with a 2017 hack at the credit reporting agency Equifax , a massive data breach that compromised the personal information of nearly half of all Americans . ''
* Quite a story out of the VA : `` The Veterans Affairs Department 's inspector general is reviewing a request from a top House leader to investigate allegations that VA Secretary Robert Wilkie sought to dig up dirt on one of the congressman 's aides @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at VA 's Washington hospital . ''
* Elections have consequences in Virginia : `` [ Last ] week , the Virginia House voted to strike Lee-Jackson Day from the list of state holidays .
The holiday , observed on the Friday before Martin Luther King , Jr. Day in January , honors Robert E. Lee and Thomas 'Stonewall ' Jackson as 'defenders of causes . '
...
In its place , the House bill proposed that the state replace it with Election Day , the first Tuesday after the First Monday in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is an important point , which relates directly to Sen. Rand Paul 's ( R-Ky. ) recent antics : `` Who 's really shredding standards on Capitol Hill ?
Naming the alleged whistle-blower is much worse than tearing up a speech . ''
* I actually think this is an idea with merit : `` The White House is throwing its support behind a plan to transfer the U.S. Secret Service back to the Treasury Department to better focus on the growing threat of online financial crimes . ''
* Too often , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` Sen. Mitt Romney ( R-Utah ) has faced a bitter GOP backlash after casting the lone Republican vote for President Trump 's impeachment .
There have been angry tweets and calls for the party to expel the man it once nominated to lead the country .
On Sunday , one influential conservative went so far as to say he could not be sure of Romney 's safety at a major right-wing gathering , alarming some of the Utah senator 's defenders and -- in some critics ' eyes -- crossing a @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Today's edition of quick hits:
* Afghanistan: "Two U.S. troops were killed and six others wounded in an attack Saturday in Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan, a military official said. U.S. and Afghan forces were conducting a joint operation when an individual wearing an Afghan uniform opened fire on the service members using a machine gun, according to Col. Sonny Leggett, spokesman for American forces in Afghanistan."
* Beijing: "Chinese President Xi Jinping made a public appearance Monday, donning a face mask and having his temperature taken at a "front-line" coronavirus facility in the Chaoyang district of Beijing."
* This was quite a hack: "The Justice Department has charged four members of the Chinese military with a 2017 hack at the credit reporting agency Equifax, a massive data breach that compromised the personal information of nearly half of all Americans."
* Quite a story out of the VA: "The Veterans Affairs Department's inspector general is reviewing a request from a top House leader to investigate allegations that VA Secretary Robert Wilkie sought to dig up dirt on one of the congressman's aides after she said she was sexually assaulted at VA's Washington hospital."
* Elections have consequences in Virginia: "[Last] week, the Virginia House voted to strike Lee-Jackson Day from the list of state holidays. The holiday, observed on the Friday before Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in January, honors Robert E. Lee and Thomas 'Stonewall' Jackson as 'defenders of causes.' ... In its place, the House bill proposed that the state replace it with Election Day, the first Tuesday after the First Monday in November, instead."
* This is an important point, which relates directly to Sen. Rand Paul's (R-Ky.) recent antics: "Who's really shredding standards on Capitol Hill? Naming the alleged whistle-blower is much worse than tearing up a speech."
* I actually think this is an idea with merit: "The White House is throwing its support behind a plan to transfer the U.S. Secret Service back to the Treasury Department to better focus on the growing threat of online financial crimes."
* Too often, all is not well on the right: "Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah) has faced a bitter GOP backlash after casting the lone Republican vote for President Trump's impeachment. There have been angry tweets and calls for the party to expel the man it once nominated to lead the country. On Sunday, one influential conservative went so far as to say he could not be sure of Romney's safety at a major right-wing gathering, alarming some of the Utah senator's defenders and -- in some critics' eyes -- crossing a line from outrage to threat."
See you tomorrow.


msnbc--2020-02-10--Making a historical parallel to Trump’s impeachment revenge tour


msnbc--2020-02-10--Biden: Attacks on Buttigieg 'didn't backfire'


msnbc--2020-02-10--Voter group works to increase the young vote

Opponents of two new laws say the rules could keep young voters from the polls. But officials from NextGen America, a group started by Tom Steyer that works to increase youth voter registration, says, “this is not an issue young folks are confused about.” Brian Rogers, the New Hampshire State Director of NextGen America, joins Ali Velshi.Feb. 10, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-10--Figliuzzi: Trump is using vengeance as a strategy, and it's not over yet

Figliuzzi: Trump is using vengeance as a strategy, and it's not over yet
Nicolle Wallace shares a Twitter thread from Ben Wittes, likening President Trump's actions to a poem about Nazi Germany. Frank Figliuzzi joins the discussion about how Trump is using "vengeance as a strategy," and predicts his next move.Feb. 10, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-10--Sen. Van Hollen on whistleblower protection efforts

Ali Velshi talks with Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) about efforts to get federal government inspectors general to investigate reports of retaliation against people who testified as part of the impeachment inquiry.Feb. 10, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-11--Sen. Sanders captures enthusiasm, electricity of NH

Democrats make final pitch to New Hampshire voters on eve of primary


msnbc--2020-02-11--Sen. Sanders holds rally for over 7,500 ahead of primary day

Sen. Bernie Sanders held a rally Monday evening for 7,500 supporters at the University of New Hampshire's Whittemore Center in Durham, New Hampshire. The event also featured a performance by The Strokes. The panel discusses.Feb. 11, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-11--Democrats make final pitch to New Hampshire voters on eve of primary

Democratic presidential candidates made their final pitch to New Hampshire voters ahead of the first votes being cast in the Granite State's primary. With Sen. Bernie Sanders leading initial polls, the primary will be crucial for some candidates to continue their campaigns.Feb. 11, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-11--Joe: Trump's Manchester rally is a reminder for Dems


msnbc--2020-02-11--Klobuchar tops Dems as three tiny NH towns start primary with midnight votes

Meacham: Pence probably saved the republic, but I don't always want to count on one person to do it


msnbc--2020-02-10--Skipping Iowa and New Hampshire, Bloomberg builds a national political army

Will a huge campaign staff and millions of dollars spent on national ads make up for Mike Bloomberg missing out on the Iowa Caucus and New Hampshire primary? Jonathan Swan reacts.Feb. 11, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-10--Jason Johnson: This is a life or death election for black voters


msnbc--2020-02-10--Sen. Amy Klobuchar's Last Word to NH Voters: ‘You have a home with me’

Hours before polls open in the NH primary, Sen. Amy Klobuchar joined Lawrence O'Donnell to offer her Last Word to voters: "I don't have the biggest bank account, I don't have the most name ID, but what I've got is this: I've got heart and I'm someone that's resilient, and I know you and I will fight for you."Feb. 11, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-10--Giuliani is giving Trump DOJ Ukraine info and Dems demand answers


msnbc--2020-02-10--Klobuchar on Trump’s budget cuts: ‘This president lacks empathy’

Sen. Amy Klobuchar tells Lawrence O’Donnell that Trump's proposed budget cuts to Medicare and Medicaid show that Trump lacks empathy because when he boasts about the economy, most Americans aren't feeling that prosperity: "That's what's missing with this president" telling voters, "I know you and I will fight for you."Feb. 11, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-11--Rosenberg: Eventual Roger Stone verdict 'infected' after DOJ removes appearance of fairness

Every prosecutor on Roger Stone case quits in protest after DOJ lightens sentencing recommendation

Chuck Rosenberg discusses the abrupt resignation of four federal prosecutors from the Roger Stone case after the Department of Justice Justice Department said it planned to reduce its recommended sentence for the longtime Trump ally. He discusses the ruling's affect on the verdict, and how it will be viewed by the pubic.Feb. 11, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-11--Every prosecutor on Roger Stone case quits in protest after DOJ lightens sentencing recommendation

Every prosecutor in Roger Stone's criminal case abruptly resigned from the case on Tuesday after the Justice Department said it planned to reduce its recommended 7 to 9 years sentence for the longtime Trump ally.Feb. 11, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-11--Buttigieg campaign co-chair: N.H. primary will create ‘dramatic shift’


msnbc--2020-02-11--Sanders Campaign Manager: 'I think it'll be tight' in New Hampshire

Sanders Campaign Manager: 'I think it'll be tight' in New Hampshire
Bernie Sanders Campaign Manager says President Trump's 'meddling' in the election shows that the Sanders campaign is a threat.Feb. 11, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-11--New Hampshire voters head to the polls to cast votes in the first 2020 Democratic primary

New Hampshire voters head to the polls to cast votes in the first 2020 Democratic primary
Voting is underway in New Hampshire where it appears that Bernie Sanders and Pete Buttigieg are poised for another showdownFeb. 11, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-11--DOJ files new sentencing memo in Roger Stone case


msnbc--2020-02-11--First N.H. exit polls show drop in young voters

Voters in today’s New Hampshire Democratic presidential primary are more likely to be female and more educated than those voting on the Republican side, early results from the NBC News Exit Poll show.Feb. 11, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-11--NH Governor talks Trump's ground game

NH Governor talks Trump's ground game

'To the right of this government, is only a wall' Impact of new judicial law in Israel 05:32


msnbc--2020-02-11--‘Tuesday afternoon massacre?’ 3rd DOJ prosecutor leaves Roger Stone case

NBC's Kristen Welker discusses the news that a third prosecutor has resigned from the Roger Stone case after the DOJ backpedals on their sentencing recommendation.Feb. 11, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-11--Independents could decide New Hampshire primary


msnbc--2020-02-12--Sanders beats Buttigieg, Klobuchar in close N.H. primary

Democrats look ahead to more diverse states of Nevada and South Carolina

Bernie Sanders won the New Hampshire Democratic primary by a margin of about 4,000 votes, or less than 2 percentage points, over Pete Buttigieg. Buttigieg was closely bunched with the third-place candidate, Amy Klobuchar, allowing all three to claim momentum going into South Carolina.Feb. 12, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-12--Warren predicts long primary process, calls for Democratic unity

Senator Elizabeth Warren puts her disappointing performance in the New Hampshire primary in the context of a long primary race and calls for Democrats to work together, particularly in the face of Donald Trump's increasing corruption of the rule of law.Feb. 12, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-12--Entire Roger Stone prosecution team quits case in protest

IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser.


msnbc--2020-02-12--Kornacki: New Hampshire voter turnout on pace to be slightly higher than 2008


msnbc--2020-02-12--Bloomberg money could be a wild card late in the 2020 race


msnbc--2020-02-11--Democrats look ahead to more diverse states of Nevada and South Carolina

Democrats look ahead to more diverse states of Nevada and South Carolina
With the Iowa Caucus and New Hampshire Primary now done, Democrats move on to the more diverse states of Nevada and New Hampshire. Jon Ralston and Meg Kinnard join to discuss.Feb. 12, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-11--Sanders wins NH, but Buttigieg will get same number of delegates

NBC News projects that Bernie Sanders has won the NH primary, Pete Buttigieg came in second, and Amy Klobuchar will come in third. But Steve Kornacki explains how Buttigieg will get the same number of delegates as Sanders.Feb. 12, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-11--Bernie Sanders after NH Primary win: Dems will unite to beat Trump


msnbc--2020-02-12--Chris Matthews on DOJ interfering in Stone case: Trump acting like a third world dictator

Clyburn : ' I know exactly who I would endorse , and I 've known for some time now '

Chris Matthews on DOJ interfering in Stone case: Trump acting like a third world dictator
With Trump cheering on the DOJ intervention in the Roger Stone case, Chris says "Trump is acting like a third world dictator here."Feb. 13, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-12--Trump not ruling out pardon for Roger Stone

Trump not ruling out pardon for Roger Stone
President Trump told reporters he doesn’t want to say on whether he’s considering a pardon for Roger Stone.Feb. 13, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-12--Clyburn: 'I know exactly who I would endorse, and I've known for some time now'

Clyburn: 'I know exactly who I would endorse, and I've known for some time now'
Rep. Jim Clyburn (D-S.C.) tells Chuck Todd "I know exactly who I would endorse, and I've known for some time now" in the South Carolina primary.Feb. 12, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-12--Sanders margin of victory was so small in NH, Buttigieg and Sanders earned the same number of delega

Sanders margin of victory was so small in NH, Buttigieg and Sanders earned the same number of delegates
Sanders margin of victory was so small in NH, Buttigieg and Sanders earned the same number of delegates. "To borrow a phrase from our Decision Desk, ‘it’s too early to call’ when it comes to the question of who the front runner is right now,” Chuck Todd said.Feb. 12, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-12--Health expert: Coronavirus spreading because humans are healthier

Thomas Bollyky, Director of the Global Health Program at the Council on Foreign Relations, tells MSNBC’s Ali Velshi that the deadly coronavirus is spreading because the investment in basic health care has not kept up with the medical advances extending life spans worldwide.Feb. 12, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-12--'The Mike Bloomberg Black New Yorkers Know'

Ali Velshi talks with Rolling Stone Magazine Senior Writer Jamil Smith about his new piece in which he argues that former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg is projecting an image of himself to black voters in an attempt to distract from questions surrounding his support for the city’s controversial stop-and-frisk program.Feb. 12, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-12--Bloomberg defends stop and frisk in 2015 audio tapes

While 2020 Democratic presidential candidate Mike Bloomberg has defended stop and frisk in the past, his campaign is looking to bounce back with new endorsements from members of the Congressional Black Caucus. Former Mayor of Philadelphia, Michael Nutter, who also serves as Bloomberg’s national campaign co-chair, joins Ali Velshi to discuss Bloomberg’s path forward.Feb. 12, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-12--Sanders edges out Buttigieg in New Hampshire as Klobuchar bursts into the top-tier


msnbc--2020-02-12--Whitehouse to Justice Dept. officials: 'You can do what a lot of whistleblowers did at the EPA'

Whitehouse to Justice Dept. officials: 'You can do what a lot of whistleblowers did at the EPA'
Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) encourages whistleblowers to speak out within the Justice Dept., "If you’re seeing things that are really wrong, you can do what a lot of whistleblowers did at the EPA that put the skids under Scott Pruitt.”Feb. 12, 2020


msnbc--2020-02-12--Trump’s Republican competitor nets nine percent of NH primary vote

President Trump’s only competition in the 2020 Republican presidential primary, Former Massachusetts Governor Bill Weld, secured more than nine percent of the vote in Tuesday’s New Hampshire primary. MSNBC’s Ali Velshi talks with Weld about his current relationship with the Republican party and the road heading into “Super Tuesday.”Feb. 12, 2020