newsweek--2020-11-28--Trump Supporters in Georgia Ask RNC Chair Why They Should Vote in Runoffs When System Is 'Rigged'

Frustrated supporters of President Donald Trump in Georgia challenged Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel on why they should even vote in the upcoming Senate runoffs if `` rigged '' elections are `` already decided . ''
McDaniel 's Saturday campaign stop in Marietta , Georgia , appeared to backfire as Trump supporters who have adopted the president 's conspiratorial accusations about `` voter fraud '' asked why their vote even matters .
The scene does n't bode well for Republicans as they look to hang onto a thin U.S. Senate majority that hinges on prevailing in two January 5 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ senators , David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler , face stiff challenges from Democratic candidates Reverend Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff , respectively .
One baffled Trump supporter at the event asked how Republicans turned out in such `` crazy numbers , '' but somehow Joe Biden still defeated the president .
He claimed `` machines are switching the votes , '' a baseless accusation lifted directly from Trump .
McDaniel was forced to defend the U.S. election system despite Trump 's unfounded claims of widespread voter fraud .
The GOP chairwoman found herself @ @ @ @ @ @ @ messaging , telling state GOP voters to worry about election fraud issues `` later , '' or at least to hold their concerns until after the all-important U.S. Senate runoffs .
`` Why should we vote in this election when we know it 's already decided ? ''
asked one demoralized Marietta voter .
`` It 's not decided .
This is the key—it 's not decided , '' McDaniel told the irate crowd of Republican Trump supporters .
The president lost the state by more than 12,000 votes in the November 3 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you lose your faith and you do n't vote and people walk away—that will decide it , '' she warned attendees .
McDaniel was hit with a barrage of questions directly pertaining to Trump 's ongoing accusations of voter fraud , which he has extended to several other states , including Michigan and Pennsylvania , where he lost by tens or even hundreds of thousands of votes .
Trump supporters present at the event appeared apathetic about the upcoming vote , saying the expansion of `` money and work when [ the election @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Trump warned Americans that `` a lot of things '' are set to change in terms of the presidential election outcome , despite state after state rejecting his campaign 's legal challenges .
McDaniel 's appearance in Marietta on Saturday occurs in the same Cobb County where the local GOP chairman said Thursday they had not even signed on to attorney Sidney Powell 's typo-filled lawsuit contesting the election results .
Nonetheless , Trump has lashed out against several Georgia state lawmakers including Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger , who he called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' a phrase used frequently in Joseph Stalin 's Soviet Union .
`` Kemp is a crook ! ''
one upset Trump supporter shouted at McDaniel Saturday , a reference to the state 's Republican governor , Brian Kemp , who is also a very public backer of the president .
Biden holds a sizable electoral vote margin of victory , and he is pushing ahead with his transition into the White House on January 20 .
McDaniel 's visit to Georgia in support of Republican senators Loeffler and Perdue comes as Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ state ahead of the runoff races .
The president said Thursday he plans to visit the state this coming week to campaign for Perdue and Loeffler .
Longtime Republican strategist Karl Rove noted on Fox News Saturday that if Democrats capture the seats , they `` do n't need to change the rules '' in order to undo Trump 's 2017 tax cuts , which were written into law by the GOP majority .
Instead they can use the Budget Control Act of 1974 and a move labeled `` budget reconciliation '' in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ majority of 50 senate votes plus Vice President Kamala Harris .
McDaniel pointed out to campaign stop attendees that Perdue was leading Ossoff by more than 88,000 votes , urging GOP voters to ensure they get out and vote in such a close race .
Under Georgia state laws , a two-person runoff is held when no candidate receives more than 50 percent of the vote , which occurred in the November 3 contests .
Newsweek reached out to the RNC and the Trump campaign for additional remarks Saturday afternoon .

Frustrated supporters of President Donald Trump in Georgia challenged Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel on why they should even vote in the upcoming Senate runoffs if "rigged" elections are "already decided."
McDaniel's Saturday campaign stop in Marietta, Georgia, appeared to backfire as Trump supporters who have adopted the president's conspiratorial accusations about "voter fraud" asked why their vote even matters. The scene doesn't bode well for Republicans as they look to hang onto a thin U.S. Senate majority that hinges on prevailing in two January 5 runoff elections. Both incumbent Georgia GOP senators, David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler, face stiff challenges from Democratic candidates Reverend Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff, respectively.
One baffled Trump supporter at the event asked how Republicans turned out in such "crazy numbers," but somehow Joe Biden still defeated the president. He claimed "machines are switching the votes," a baseless accusation lifted directly from Trump.
McDaniel was forced to defend the U.S. election system despite Trump's unfounded claims of widespread voter fraud. The GOP chairwoman found herself pushing back against the Republican president's messaging, telling state GOP voters to worry about election fraud issues "later," or at least to hold their concerns until after the all-important U.S. Senate runoffs.
"Why should we vote in this election when we know it's already decided?" asked one demoralized Marietta voter.
"It's not decided. This is the key—it's not decided," McDaniel told the irate crowd of Republican Trump supporters. The president lost the state by more than 12,000 votes in the November 3 election against Biden. "So if you lose your faith and you don't vote and people walk away—that will decide it," she warned attendees.
McDaniel was hit with a barrage of questions directly pertaining to Trump's ongoing accusations of voter fraud, which he has extended to several other states, including Michigan and Pennsylvania, where he lost by tens or even hundreds of thousands of votes. Trump supporters present at the event appeared apathetic about the upcoming vote, saying the expansion of "money and work when [the election] is already decided" seems pointless.
Trump warned Americans that "a lot of things" are set to change in terms of the presidential election outcome, despite state after state rejecting his campaign's legal challenges. McDaniel's appearance in Marietta on Saturday occurs in the same Cobb County where the local GOP chairman said Thursday they had not even signed on to attorney Sidney Powell's typo-filled lawsuit contesting the election results.
Nonetheless, Trump has lashed out against several Georgia state lawmakers including Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, who he called "the enemy of the people," a phrase used frequently in Joseph Stalin's Soviet Union.
"Kemp is a crook!" one upset Trump supporter shouted at McDaniel Saturday, a reference to the state's Republican governor, Brian Kemp, who is also a very public backer of the president.
Biden holds a sizable electoral vote margin of victory, and he is pushing ahead with his transition into the White House on January 20. McDaniel's visit to Georgia in support of Republican senators Loeffler and Perdue comes as Trump himself announced his own visit to the state ahead of the runoff races. The president said Thursday he plans to visit the state this coming week to campaign for Perdue and Loeffler.
Longtime Republican strategist Karl Rove noted on Fox News Saturday that if Democrats capture the seats, they "don't need to change the rules" in order to undo Trump's 2017 tax cuts, which were written into law by the GOP majority. Instead they can use the Budget Control Act of 1974 and a move labeled "budget reconciliation" in order to do it with the simple majority of 50 senate votes plus Vice President Kamala Harris.
McDaniel pointed out to campaign stop attendees that Perdue was leading Ossoff by more than 88,000 votes, urging GOP voters to ensure they get out and vote in such a close race. Under Georgia state laws, a two-person runoff is held when no candidate receives more than 50 percent of the vote, which occurred in the November 3 contests.
Newsweek reached out to the RNC and the Trump campaign for additional remarks Saturday afternoon.


newsweek--2020-11-28--Republican Rep Fires Back After Tweet Accuses Him, GOP Colleagues of 'Corrupt Election'

Republican Virginia Congressman Denver Riggleman shot back at a tweet Saturday that accused him and 10 other GOP politicians of being `` responsible '' for the `` corrupt election '' that President Donald Trump lost .
The meme shows a photo of a man holding a large blank sign .
`` Corrupt old Joe is a tool !
His media allies are hiding his voter fraud , '' the photo says , along with `` Stop the Steal '' and `` We will win . ''
Besides the picture , the person under the Twitter handle of @ ckkirsch1 wrote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is not the only ones responsible for this corrupt election .
So are you all .
Represent honesty '' —before tagging the 11 politicians .
Riggleman responded by saying that many similar posts have sprung up following the election , and that he was `` proud to be on this list with my honorable colleagues , '' many of whom have agreed that President-elect Joe Biden won the November 3 election or have called for a peaceful transition of power from the Trump administration to Biden 's .
`` We have been tagged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use of data analytics , facts and common sense , '' Riggleman tweeted .
`` Time for a GOP that represents the core of America , not the manic fringes . ''
Riggleman has said previously that Republicans should respect the results of the election and not argue it .
`` There 's no way this is gon na be turned around .
This election is over , '' he said in an interview .
The other politicians that @ ckkirsch1 tagged included Maine Senator Susan Collins ; Georgia Secretary of State Brad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; Illinois Congressman John Shimkus ; Florida Congressman Francis Rooney ; Illinois Congressman Adam Kinzinger ; Michigan Congressman Paul Mitchell ; Nebraska Congressman Don Bacon ; Utah Congressman John Curtis ; and Alaska Congressman Don Young .
Many of the Republican politicians that the Twitter user tagged had made similar comments in calling for a smooth transition of power , Trump to concede , or simply acknowledging Biden as the next president .
Some of the politicians listed have expressed skepticism , while showing an acceptance for Biden as president-elect .
Curtis said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a press release , according to The Salt Lake Tribune .
`` I would tell him that I will take him at his word that he will be a unifier and a president to all , including those of us that did not vote for him , '' Curtis said .
Young said he wishes Biden well , even though he predicts disagreements with him , according to the Anchorage Daily News .
In an interview with KETV , Bacon also said he does n't agree with Biden 's policies , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ voters . ''
In a November 9 statement , Collins congratulated Biden and said that he and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris `` should be given every opportunity to ensure that they are ready to govern on January 20th . ''
Similarly , Rooney tweeted congratulations and called for Americans to support the president-elect .
As previously reported , Raffensperger in an interview called for Trump to `` leave quietly , '' after certifying Georgia 's election results .
The three Illinois politicians have all also acknowledged Biden 's victory .
Shimkus and Durkin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to begin in a Facebook post and an interview with The Chicago Sun Times , respectively .
Kinzinger tweeted congratulations to Biden and Harris on November 7 .
He also responded to Riggleman 's tweet , explaining the importance of accepting election results .
`` [ T ] his list is of those who believe that win or lose , you accept the will of the people .
Saying an election is stolen does n't make it so .
Lies and conspiracies wo n't work , '' he wrote .
Congressman Paul Mitchell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expressing pride for standing by his colleagues .
The Michigan representative has tweeted multiple times about beginning the transition of power .
The original tweet that Riggleman responded to demonstrates some of the growing disillusionment with the Republican Party that Trump supporters have experienced following the election .
Similar memes and posts have sprung up in the weeks following the election .
Newsweek called Riggleman 's D.C. office and left a message , but did not receive a response in time for publication .

Republican Virginia Congressman Denver Riggleman shot back at a tweet Saturday that accused him and 10 other GOP politicians of being "responsible" for the "corrupt election" that President Donald Trump lost.
The meme shows a photo of a man holding a large blank sign. "Corrupt old Joe is a tool! His media allies are hiding his voter fraud," the photo says, along with "Stop the Steal" and "We will win."
Besides the picture, the person under the Twitter handle of @ckkirsch1 wrote: "We know that the media is not the only ones responsible for this corrupt election. So are you all. Represent honesty"—before tagging the 11 politicians.
I’m proud to be on this list with my honorable colleagues - it’s one of many circulating.
We have been tagged and called “traitors” based on our use of data analytics, facts and common sense
Time for a GOP that represents the core of America, not the manic fringes https://t.co/Fhv9PXpFup — Congressman Denver Riggleman (@RepRiggleman) November 28, 2020
Riggleman responded by saying that many similar posts have sprung up following the election, and that he was "proud to be on this list with my honorable colleagues," many of whom have agreed that President-elect Joe Biden won the November 3 election or have called for a peaceful transition of power from the Trump administration to Biden's.
"We have been tagged and called 'traitors' based on our use of data analytics, facts and common sense," Riggleman tweeted. "Time for a GOP that represents the core of America, not the manic fringes."
Riggleman has said previously that Republicans should respect the results of the election and not argue it. "There's no way this is gonna be turned around. This election is over," he said in an interview.
The other politicians that @ckkirsch1 tagged included Maine Senator Susan Collins; Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger; Illinois House Leader Jim Durkin; Illinois Congressman John Shimkus; Florida Congressman Francis Rooney; Illinois Congressman Adam Kinzinger; Michigan Congressman Paul Mitchell; Nebraska Congressman Don Bacon; Utah Congressman John Curtis; and Alaska Congressman Don Young.
Many of the Republican politicians that the Twitter user tagged had made similar comments in calling for a smooth transition of power, Trump to concede, or simply acknowledging Biden as the next president.
Some of the politicians listed have expressed skepticism, while showing an acceptance for Biden as president-elect. Curtis said that Biden should be recognized as president-elect in a press release, according to The Salt Lake Tribune.
"I would tell him that I will take him at his word that he will be a unifier and a president to all, including those of us that did not vote for him," Curtis said.
Young said he wishes Biden well, even though he predicts disagreements with him, according to the Anchorage Daily News. In an interview with KETV, Bacon also said he doesn't agree with Biden's policies, but "we respect the will of the voters."
In a November 9 statement, Collins congratulated Biden and said that he and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris "should be given every opportunity to ensure that they are ready to govern on January 20th." Similarly, Rooney tweeted congratulations and called for Americans to support the president-elect.
Congratulations to Pres-elect Biden on a successful campaign. All Americans need to come together to support Pres-elect Biden. Our nation will only be successful if the new admin is. We must work together to enact bipartisan legislation & solve the problems our country faces 1/2 — Francis Rooney (@RepRooney) November 8, 2020
As previously reported, Raffensperger in an interview called for Trump to "leave quietly," after certifying Georgia's election results.
The three Illinois politicians have all also acknowledged Biden's victory. Shimkus and Durkin both called for the transition of power to begin in a Facebook post and an interview with The Chicago Sun Times, respectively. Kinzinger tweeted congratulations to Biden and Harris on November 7. He also responded to Riggleman's tweet, explaining the importance of accepting election results.
"[T]his list is of those who believe that win or lose, you accept the will of the people. Saying an election is stolen doesn't make it so. Lies and conspiracies won't work," he wrote.
Sofia and I extend our Congratulations to Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. Our nation deserves two competing parties who can work together when possible, and compete honorably when not. — Adam Kinzinger (@RepKinzinger) November 7, 2020
100%. Elections are important, accepting the results are too. Please note: this list is of those who believe that win or lose, you accept the will of the people. Saying an election is stolen doesn’t make it so. Lies and conspiracies won’t work. https://t.co/i0Pskloxtg — Adam Kinzinger (@RepKinzinger) November 28, 2020
Congressman Paul Mitchell also responded to Riggleman's tweet, expressing pride for standing by his colleagues. The Michigan representative has tweeted multiple times about beginning the transition of power.
Proud to be among my colleagues that respect elections and our Constitution. I did not run for office to support any single politician but rather our nation. #electionover https://t.co/ZNdcEKfshE — Rep. Paul Mitchell (@RepPaulMitchell) November 28, 2020
The original tweet that Riggleman responded to demonstrates some of the growing disillusionment with the Republican Party that Trump supporters have experienced following the election. Similar memes and posts have sprung up in the weeks following the election.
Here’s a list of elected republicans who either have directly called for Trump to concede, called for a peaceful transfer of power and for Biden to receive intel briefings, or outright attempting sabotage any real audits of every single signature and vote: — Yo dat elefant (@YoDatElefant) November 23, 2020
Newsweek called Riggleman's D.C. office and left a message, but did not receive a response in time for publication.


newsweek--2020-11-28--Vaccines Could Be Forced Upon People Under Current Law, Warns Pro-Trump Legislator in Florida

Anthony Sabatini , a GOP state representative from Florida , said he will file legislation to repeal a state law that could force people to get vaccinated during a public health emergency .
Sabatini warned Floridians that under the current law , Governor Ron DeSantis or any future governor of Florida could violate `` personal liberties '' by forcing people to quarantine or receive a vaccine .
`` Right now in Florida , under the public health emergency statute chapter 381 , they can literally take you , test you , quarantine you , but also force you to take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and force you to do that , '' he said .
`` The powers have not been used yet , but they 've been on the books for over 25 years and it 's important that Floridians know that this power ca n't be exercised by government , because it 's just too much an invasion of their personal liberties . ''
Sabatini was referring to chapter 381.00315 of Florida state law , which gives significant powers to the State Public Health Officer in the event of a public emergency , which Florida @ @ @ @ @ @ @ took hold in March .
In a statement given to Newsweek , Sabatini called the law overreach .
`` It 's government overreach—pure and simple .
Should be an indivisible decision , '' he wrote in an email .
But the law has never been used , and DeSantis has already stated that he would not force any Floridian to get a COVID-19 vaccine when one is made available .
`` The state will not mandate that Floridians take these vaccines – that 's going to be the choice of each and every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 19 .
Sabatini said he trusts DeSantis , but he announced on Friday that he would file legislation in the coming days in order to prevent future governors from abusing personal liberties .
`` We 're not always going to be lucky enough in my opinion to have a Governor DeSantis .
You 're probably going to end up with somebody who is less respectful of personal liberty at some time in Florida 's future , '' he said .
In August , Dr. Anthony Fauci , the nation 's leading infectious disease @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likely never mandate a vaccine for the general public .
`` You do n't want to mandate and try and force anyone to take the vaccine .
We 've never done that .
You can mandate for certain groups of people like health workers , but for the general population you can not , '' Fauci said in August .
Fauci has previously stated that in order to end the pandemic , at least 75 percent of the population would need to be vaccinated .
But recent polls suggest only 58 percent of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` If 50 percent of people do n't take it , you still have a considerable public health challenge , '' he said on The New York Times DealBook webcast .
Sabatini has made a name for himself in part by challenging the constitutionality of mask ordinances throughout central Florida , FloridaPolitics.com reported , for which he 's failed at least six times in court .
The GOP representative also has a history of making shocking statements , and has been a vocal supporter of President Donald Trump .
On Thanksgiving , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ won the election , despite the fact that Joe Biden is projected to have won both the Electoral College and the popular vote .
`` I 'm extremely thankful Biden lost in 2020 , '' Sabatini tweeted .
A few days earlier , Sabatini wrote `` Kyle Rittenhouse for Congress . ''

Anthony Sabatini, a GOP state representative from Florida, said he will file legislation to repeal a state law that could force people to get vaccinated during a public health emergency.
Sabatini warned Floridians that under the current law, Governor Ron DeSantis or any future governor of Florida could violate "personal liberties" by forcing people to quarantine or receive a vaccine.
"Right now in Florida, under the public health emergency statute chapter 381, they can literally take you, test you, quarantine you, but also force you to take a vaccine. They can restrain you and force you to do that," he said. "The powers have not been used yet, but they've been on the books for over 25 years and it's important that Floridians know that this power can't be exercised by government, because it's just too much an invasion of their personal liberties."
Sabatini was referring to chapter 381.00315 of Florida state law, which gives significant powers to the State Public Health Officer in the event of a public emergency, which Florida has been operating under since the pandemic took hold in March.
In a statement given to Newsweek, Sabatini called the law overreach.
"It's government overreach—pure and simple. Should be an indivisible decision," he wrote in an email.
But the law has never been used, and DeSantis has already stated that he would not force any Floridian to get a COVID-19 vaccine when one is made available.
"The state will not mandate that Floridians take these vaccines – that's going to be the choice of each and every Floridian," DeSantis said on November 19.
Sabatini said he trusts DeSantis, but he announced on Friday that he would file legislation in the coming days in order to prevent future governors from abusing personal liberties.
"We're not always going to be lucky enough in my opinion to have a Governor DeSantis. You're probably going to end up with somebody who is less respectful of personal liberty at some time in Florida's future," he said.
In August, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation's leading infectious disease expert, said that the U.S. would likely never mandate a vaccine for the general public.
"You don't want to mandate and try and force anyone to take the vaccine. We've never done that. You can mandate for certain groups of people like health workers, but for the general population you cannot," Fauci said in August.
A woman receives a COVID-19 vaccination during a vaccine study at Research Centers of America on August 07, 2020 in Hollywood, Florida. On Friday, FL GOP state representative Anthony Sabatini said he would work to repeal a law that could mandate vaccines throughout the state. Joe Raedle/Getty
Fauci has previously stated that in order to end the pandemic, at least 75 percent of the population would need to be vaccinated. But recent polls suggest only 58 percent of adults would be willing to get vaccinated.
"If 50 percent of people don't take it, you still have a considerable public health challenge," he said on The New York Times DealBook webcast.
Sabatini has made a name for himself in part by challenging the constitutionality of mask ordinances throughout central Florida, FloridaPolitics.com reported, for which he's failed at least six times in court.
The GOP representative also has a history of making shocking statements, and has been a vocal supporter of President Donald Trump.
On Thanksgiving, Sabatini stoked the false claim that Trump won the election, despite the fact that Joe Biden is projected to have won both the Electoral College and the popular vote.
"I'm extremely thankful Biden lost in 2020," Sabatini tweeted. A few days earlier, Sabatini wrote "Kyle Rittenhouse for Congress."


newsweek--2020-11-28--NYC Councilman Defies COVID Rules With 11-Person Thanksgiving as Cuomo Cutout Watches

A New York City councilman said he and his family enjoyed an 11-person Thanksgiving Day holiday , complete with turkey , kids playing outside and a massive cutout photo of Governor Andrew Cuomo leering in their front window .
Staten Island councilman Joe Borelli posted a picture of himself offering a cheers to friends and family in front of a large cutout of Cuomo 's face lurking in his front yard .
Cuomo 's face had already become a social media meme after many New Yorkers complained he was trying to micromanage their holiday amid the coronavirus pandemic .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ curfew for bars , restaurants and gyms to close by 10 p.m. , and he limited all indoor gatherings , including Thanksgiving parties , to just 10 people .
Borelli , a Republican councilman representing New York City 's District 51 in the largely conservative borough of Staten Island , told the New York Post `` We all had a laugh '' at the large Cuomo head watching over their dinner and festivities .
Borelli said the `` governor has become a cartoon with his absurd and arbitrary edicts , people are tuning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cuomo critics noted that last week the Democratic governor said he would spend his Thanksgiving with his 89-year-old mother and his daughters , which sparked accusations of hypocrisy .
`` Our neighbors got it for us as a joke—they stuck it to the window and rang the bell , '' said Borelli , who has led some of the harshest criticism of Cuomo 's social distancing measures ahead of the holiday season .
On November 11 , Borelli vowed he would hold a large Thanksgiving regardless of the governor or Mayor Bill De @ @ @ @ @ @ @ My address is public record , '' the GOP councilman wrote in a tweet posted earlier this month , upping the ante on Cuomo 's threats to enforce the pandemic policies .
`` Sis-in-law will bring strawberry rhubarb pie , & a turkey will be overcooked . ''
Borelli 's online criticism and seemingly defiant stance was not well-received by many New Yorkers who said it was a `` stunt '' that ultimately could hurt the well-being of others in his community .
Earlier this month , Borelli penned an opinion piece in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ read , `` Sorry , gov : I 'm hosting a big Thanksgiving . ''
But the same New York paper 's editorial board wrote a follow-up op-ed urging its readers , `` Do n't be like Borelli : Staten Island 's Joe risks lives to make a debating point . ''
`` Borelli 's gripe represents a commonly heard frustration and there 's nothing magical about the Cuomo-imposed number .
Why 'd the governor set it at 10 and not 12 irrespective of a home 's capacity , or not simply urge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have over for the holidays , without purporting to impose an inarguably unenforceable mandate ?
Legitimate questions to ask but Borrelli arrives at the wrong answer , '' the editorial board wrote .
Newsweek reached out to Borelli and Cuomo 's office Saturday morning for any additional remarks .

A New York City councilman said he and his family enjoyed an 11-person Thanksgiving Day holiday, complete with turkey, kids playing outside and a massive cutout photo of Governor Andrew Cuomo leering in their front window.
Staten Island councilman Joe Borelli posted a picture of himself offering a cheers to friends and family in front of a large cutout of Cuomo's face lurking in his front yard. Cuomo's face had already become a social media meme after many New Yorkers complained he was trying to micromanage their holiday amid the coronavirus pandemic. The Democratic governor last week issued a new curfew for bars, restaurants and gyms to close by 10 p.m., and he limited all indoor gatherings, including Thanksgiving parties, to just 10 people.
Borelli, a Republican councilman representing New York City's District 51 in the largely conservative borough of Staten Island, told the New York Post "We all had a laugh" at the large Cuomo head watching over their dinner and festivities. Borelli said the "governor has become a cartoon with his absurd and arbitrary edicts, people are tuning him out."
Cuomo's face had already become a social media meme after many New Yorkers complained he was trying to micromanage their holiday amid the coronavirus pandemic. Screenshot: Instagram | @BFearnow21
Borelli and other Cuomo critics noted that last week the Democratic governor said he would spend his Thanksgiving with his 89-year-old mother and his daughters, which sparked accusations of hypocrisy.
"Our neighbors got it for us as a joke—they stuck it to the window and rang the bell," said Borelli, who has led some of the harshest criticism of Cuomo's social distancing measures ahead of the holiday season. On November 11, Borelli vowed he would hold a large Thanksgiving regardless of the governor or Mayor Bill De Blasio's so-called executive orders.
"My address is public record," the GOP councilman wrote in a tweet posted earlier this month, upping the ante on Cuomo's threats to enforce the pandemic policies. "Sis-in-law will bring strawberry rhubarb pie, & a turkey will be overcooked."
Borelli's online criticism and seemingly defiant stance was not well-received by many New Yorkers who said it was a "stunt" that ultimately could hurt the well-being of others in his community. Earlier this month, Borelli penned an opinion piece in the New York Daily News tabloid which read, "Sorry, gov: I'm hosting a big Thanksgiving."
But the same New York paper's editorial board wrote a follow-up op-ed urging its readers, "Don't be like Borelli: Staten Island's Joe risks lives to make a debating point."
"Borelli's gripe represents a commonly heard frustration and there's nothing magical about the Cuomo-imposed number. Why'd the governor set it at 10 and not 12 irrespective of a home's capacity, or not simply urge families to think seriously about who they have over for the holidays, without purporting to impose an inarguably unenforceable mandate? Legitimate questions to ask but Borrelli arrives at the wrong answer," the editorial board wrote.
Newsweek reached out to Borelli and Cuomo's office Saturday morning for any additional remarks.


newsweek--2020-11-28--Trump-Funded Recount Turns Up More Votes for Biden Ahead of Wisconsin Certification

Results for one of the two counties President Donald Trump 's campaign paid have been tallied , giving President-elect Joe Biden a slightly bigger lead over the president in the 2020 election .
The Trump campaign spent $ 3 million for a partial recount in the Wisconsin 's Milwaukee and Dane counties .
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported that the Milwaukee County recount found 257 more votes for Biden and 125 for Trump , giving Biden a slightly larger lead of 132 in that county .
The final recount showed 317,527 ballots cast for Biden and 134,482 for Trump .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ recount by Sunday .
As of Saturday , Dane County Clerk Scott McDonell said that officials were about 83 percent done with the recount .
The deadline for recounts is Tuesday , so the state election commissions can certify the election .
`` There was an examination of every ballot by election workers , a meticulous recounting of every ballot that was properly cast , a transparent process that allowed the public to observe , a fair process that allows the aggrieved candidate who sought the recount an opportunity to observe and object @ @ @ @ @ @ @ counted , '' Milwaukee County Clerk George Christenson said , reported the Journal Sentinel .
Trump has repeatedly claimed that voter fraud cost him the election in many of the states he lost .
Many of his allegations have been debunked and dismissed .
Rick Baas , a Republican member of the County Board of Canvassers , cited human error as the reason for any mistakes .
`` I trust the Trump campaign is looking forward to its day in court .
There were a number of things that had to be corrected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just human error , and usually they are , '' he said .
`` It is important for people to understand how their government works .
A recount is just that : a recount .
There 's evidence that will be taken to another level , and it 'll be reviewed there , but as this body has conducted itself in a manner that is exemplary , '' he continued .
The Trump campaign has filed several lawsuits to try to prove that voter fraud cost him the election in a number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Most of the lawsuits have been dismissed .
On Twitter , people mocked Trump for the results of the Wisconsin recount , with people pointing out the irony .
Katie Couric tweeted : `` Be Careful What You Wish For . ''
According to the Associated Press , Biden won Wisconsin by a very small lead with almost 21,000 votes .
Biden received 49.6 percent of the vote , and Trump received 48.9 percent .
On Saturday afternoon , Trump tweeted that the recount was for `` finding people who have voted illegally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the count . ''
He claimed that the campaign has found illegal votes and will be brought about on Monday or Tuesday , after the recount is finished .
The president ended his tweet by telling his followers to `` Stay tuned ! ''
The Trump campaign did not respond to Newsweek 's emailed request for comment in time for publication .
Update 3:25 p.m. EST : This story has been updated to include Trump 's tweet about the Wisconsin recount .

Results for one of the two counties President Donald Trump's campaign paid have been tallied, giving President-elect Joe Biden a slightly bigger lead over the president in the 2020 election.
The Trump campaign spent $3 million for a partial recount in the Wisconsin's Milwaukee and Dane counties. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported that the Milwaukee County recount found 257 more votes for Biden and 125 for Trump, giving Biden a slightly larger lead of 132 in that county. The final recount showed 317,527 ballots cast for Biden and 134,482 for Trump.
Dane County is anticipated to finish its recount by Sunday. As of Saturday, Dane County Clerk Scott McDonell said that officials were about 83 percent done with the recount.
The deadline for recounts is Tuesday, so the state election commissions can certify the election.
Beginning of Day 8 Dane County recount. 285,621 ballots counted. 83% complete. — Scott McDonell (@samcdonell) November 28, 2020
"There was an examination of every ballot by election workers, a meticulous recounting of every ballot that was properly cast, a transparent process that allowed the public to observe, a fair process that allows the aggrieved candidate who sought the recount an opportunity to observe and object to ballots they believe should not be counted," Milwaukee County Clerk George Christenson said, reported the Journal Sentinel.
Trump has repeatedly claimed that voter fraud cost him the election in many of the states he lost. Many of his allegations have been debunked and dismissed.
Rick Baas, a Republican member of the County Board of Canvassers, cited human error as the reason for any mistakes. "I trust the Trump campaign is looking forward to its day in court. There were a number of things that had to be corrected, and they're often represented as just human error, and usually they are," he said.
Rick Baas, the lone Republican on the three-member Milwaukee County Board of Canvassers, speaking now: pic.twitter.com/x9sFSAuZd2 — Alison Dirr (@AlisonDirr) November 27, 2020
"It is important for people to understand how their government works. A recount is just that: a recount. There's evidence that will be taken to another level, and it'll be reviewed there, but as this body has conducted itself in a manner that is exemplary," he continued.
The Trump campaign has filed several lawsuits to try to prove that voter fraud cost him the election in a number of swing states, such as Pennsylvania. Most of the lawsuits have been dismissed.
On Twitter, people mocked Trump for the results of the Wisconsin recount, with people pointing out the irony. Katie Couric tweeted: "Be Careful What You Wish For."
Under the headline: Be Careful What You Wish For... https://t.co/UtCfQQngwQ — Katie Couric (@katiecouric) November 28, 2020
This year has been so tough for many people, so let us all be warmed by the good news that Donald Trump paid three million dollars for a Wisconsin recount that ended up giving Biden a hundred and thirty-two more votes. — Matt Haig (@matthaig1) November 28, 2020
Let me get this straight: against the expert advice of everyone and anyone credible, Donald Trump paid $3 million for a Wisconsin recount that wound up giving Biden more net votes? Oh, that's beautiful. That's art. — Charlotte Clymer 🏳🌈 (@cmclymer) November 28, 2020
According to the Associated Press, Biden won Wisconsin by a very small lead with almost 21,000 votes. Biden received 49.6 percent of the vote, and Trump received 48.9 percent.
On Saturday afternoon, Trump tweeted that the recount was for "finding people who have voted illegally," rather than "finding mistakes in the count." He claimed that the campaign has found illegal votes and will be brought about on Monday or Tuesday, after the recount is finished.
The president ended his tweet by telling his followers to "Stay tuned!"
The Wisconsin recount is not about finding mistakes in the count, it is about finding people who have voted illegally, and that case will be brought after the recount is over, on Monday or Tuesday. We have found many illegal votes. Stay tuned! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 28, 2020
In an emailed statement received by Newsweek, Trump campaign legal adviser Jenna Ellis said the Dane and Milwaukee County recounts showed "serious issues regarding the legality of ballots cast." The full statement reads:
The recounts in Dane and Milwaukee Counties have revealed serious issues regarding the legality of ballots cast. As we have said from the very beginning, we want every legal vote, and only legal votes to be counted, and we will continue to uphold our promise to the American people to fight for a free and fair election.
Election officials wait as procedural issues are argued during the process of recounting ballots from the November 3 election at the Wisconsin Center on November 20, 2020 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Getty/Scott Olson
Update 3:25 p.m. EST: This story has been updated to include Trump's tweet about the Wisconsin recount.
Update 11/29/20 2:53 p.m. EST: This story has been updated to include comment from the Trump campaign, which was received after the story was originally published.


newsweek--2020-11-28--Georgia Secretary of State's Message to Trump After State's Election Recount: 'You Should Leave Quie

Georgia Secretary of State's Message to Trump After State's Election Recount: 'You Should Leave Quietly'

Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger said that President Donald Trump should `` leave quietly , '' after Georgia certified its election results for Joe Biden last week .
In an interview published in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Saturday , Raffensperger , a Republican , said he 's received threats and angry messages from the president and fellow GOP politicians who disagree with his decision to certify the election .
`` My job as secretary of state is to make sure we have fair and honest elections , follow the law , follow the process , '' Raffensperger said in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an election , you should leave quietly .
It 's the will of the people that has been expressed , '' he added .
Raffensperger 's office certified the election results after a laborious hand recount on November 20 .
According to data released by his team , the recount confirmed that Biden won by more than 12,000 votes out of the 5 million cast in Georgia .
`` As secretary of state , I believe that the numbers that we have presented today are correct , '' Raffensperger said during news conference @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reflect the verdict of the people , not a decision by the secretary of state 's office or of courts or of either campaign . ''
But the announcement came at the dismay of the Trump campaign , who sought to maintain the president 's early lead in Georgia .
On Twitter , the president attacked Raffensperger and accused him of participating in fraud .
`` Georgia Secretary of State , a so-called Republican ( RINO ) , wo n't let the people checking the ballots see the signatures for fraud .
Why @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very unfair and close to meaningless .
Everyone knows that we won the state , '' he tweeted .
Georgia 's two GOP senators , Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue , who are facing runoffs for their seats , called on Raffensperger to resign over `` mismanagement and lack of transparency '' of the elections , but failed to give any examples .
In response , Raffensperger said `` let me start by saying that is not going to happen .
The voters of Georgia hired me , and the voters will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Two days after Raffensperger certified Georgia 's election , the Trump campaign called for yet another recount , after falsely claiming that election officials were unable to verify signatures on the envelopes of absentee ballots in the state .
`` President Trump and his campaign continue to insist on an honest recount in Georgia , which has to include signature matching and other vital safeguards .
Without signature matching , this recount would be a sham and again allow for illegal votes to be counted , '' a statement from the Trump campaign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Trump referred to Raffensperger as `` an enemy of the people , '' and falsely accused him of working with Stacey Abrams to harvest ballots .
But Raffensperger has remained steadfast in his decision to certify the results , stating that while he wishes the outcome were different , the state of Georgia chose Biden .
`` Like other Republicans , I 'm disappointed our candidate did n't win Georgia 's electoral vote .
Close elections sow distrust .
People feel their side was cheated , '' the secretary of state said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's helpful when you create doubt in the election process , '' Raffensperger added .
`` People might throw up their arms and say , 'Why vote ? '
'' Newsweek reached out to Raffensperger for additional comment , but did not receive a response in time for publication .

Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger said that President Donald Trump should "leave quietly," after Georgia certified its election results for Joe Biden last week.
In an interview published in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Saturday, Raffensperger, a Republican, said he's received threats and angry messages from the president and fellow GOP politicians who disagree with his decision to certify the election.
"My job as secretary of state is to make sure we have fair and honest elections, follow the law, follow the process," Raffensperger said in the interview. "When you lose an election, you should leave quietly. It's the will of the people that has been expressed," he added.
Raffensperger's office certified the election results after a laborious hand recount on November 20. According to data released by his team, the recount confirmed that Biden won by more than 12,000 votes out of the 5 million cast in Georgia.
"As secretary of state, I believe that the numbers that we have presented today are correct," Raffensperger said during news conference on November 20. "The numbers reflect the verdict of the people, not a decision by the secretary of state's office or of courts or of either campaign."
But the announcement came at the dismay of the Trump campaign, who sought to maintain the president's early lead in Georgia. On Twitter, the president attacked Raffensperger and accused him of participating in fraud.
Georgia Secretary of State, a so-called Republican (RINO), won’t let the people checking the ballots see the signatures for fraud. Why? Without this the whole process is very unfair and close to meaningless. Everyone knows that we won the state. Where is @BrianKempGA? — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 14, 2020
"Georgia Secretary of State, a so-called Republican (RINO), won't let the people checking the ballots see the signatures for fraud. Why? Without this the whole process is very unfair and close to meaningless. Everyone knows that we won the state," he tweeted.
Georgia's two GOP senators, Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue, who are facing runoffs for their seats, called on Raffensperger to resign over "mismanagement and lack of transparency" of the elections, but failed to give any examples.
In response, Raffensperger said "let me start by saying that is not going to happen. The voters of Georgia hired me, and the voters will be the one to fire me."
Brad Raffensperger, Georgia Secretary of State speaks onstage during 2020 Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Service at Ebenezer Baptist Church on January 20, 2020 in Atlanta, Georgia. After certifying Georgia's election results for Joe Biden last week, Raffensperger said Trump should leave office quietly. Paras Griffin/Getty
Two days after Raffensperger certified Georgia's election, the Trump campaign called for yet another recount, after falsely claiming that election officials were unable to verify signatures on the envelopes of absentee ballots in the state.
"President Trump and his campaign continue to insist on an honest recount in Georgia, which has to include signature matching and other vital safeguards. Without signature matching, this recount would be a sham and again allow for illegal votes to be counted," a statement from the Trump campaign legal team said.
On Thanksgiving night, Trump referred to Raffensperger as "an enemy of the people," and falsely accused him of working with Stacey Abrams to harvest ballots.
But Raffensperger has remained steadfast in his decision to certify the results, stating that while he wishes the outcome were different, the state of Georgia chose Biden.
"Like other Republicans, I'm disappointed our candidate didn't win Georgia's electoral vote. Close elections sow distrust. People feel their side was cheated," the secretary of state said.
"I don't think it's helpful when you create doubt in the election process," Raffensperger added. "People might throw up their arms and say, 'Why vote?'"
Newsweek reached out to Raffensperger for additional comment, but did not receive a response in time for publication.


newsweek--2020-11-28--How Much Is Mike Tyson Getting Paid to Fight Roy Jones Jr.?

Mike Tyson will reportedly earn at least $ 10 million as he makes his return to the ring for the first time in 14 years .
The former undisputed heavyweight champion of the world will take on Roy Jones Jr. at Staples Center in Los Angeles on Saturday in an eight-round exhibition fight .
The bout , which marks the inaugural event of a series produced by Legends Only League , has been dubbed `` Frontline Battle '' and will be valid for the newly-formed WBC Frontline Battle Belt .
Both boxers are set to land a major windfall from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of $ 10 million each , according to Joe Pompliano of Huddle Up .
Entertainment platform Triller has paid $ 50 million to broadcast the bout in the U.S. and Tyson ( 50-6 , 44 KOs ) and Jones Jr. ( 66-9 , 47 KOs ) could make twice as much depending on PPV sales .
In the lead-up to the fight , Triller has been at the center of controversy for suggesting the bout will have `` only one winner '' and could involve a knockout .
The California State Athletic Commission @ @ @ @ @ @ @ announced and that the two boxers would not be allowed to attempt a knockout .
`` There have been some false rumors swirling , so to be crystal clear—the WBC is scoring the fight , '' Triller co-owner Ryan Kavanaugh said in a press conference earlier this week .
`` There could be a knockout and there will be one winner .
Anyone who says there is going to be no judging or no winner either does not understand the rules or has their own agenda .
Unquestionably .
100 percent .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the gloves are 12 ounces , there are eight rounds and the rounds are two minutes rather than three .
That is it . ''
As pointed out by Kavanaugh , the fight will involve 12-ounce gloves as opposed to the traditional 10-ounce gloves used in traditional heavyweight bouts .
Additionally , owing to its exhibition nature , the fight will be contested over eight rounds of two minutes each , as opposed to the usual 12 , three-minute rounds .
Significantly , however , neither Tyson nor Jones Jr. will be required @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clarity we are not implying that CSAC is picking a winner or scoring , '' Kavanaugh subsequently clarified .
`` WBC is scoring and a winner will be determined using those scores as a basis . ''
The statement caused further controversy as the WBC had previously indicated its three celebrity judges will be at the event in an unofficial capacity and will not be ringside .
Even before Triller 's contradicting statement over the rules , the fight had attracted criticism due to the age of the fighters .
Tyson turned 54 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't fought professionally since retiring in the sixth round against Kevin McBride in 2005 .
A short-lived exhibition tour followed but the former undisputed heavyweight champion of the world has n't been involved in a bout of any kind since 2006 .
A former world champion in four weight classes , Jones Jr. is three years younger than his opponent and last fought in 2018 , but admitted earlier this year that he was n't relishing the prospect of squaring off against `` Iron Mike '' .
`` It 's very risky , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of all , '' he told World Boxing News in July .
`` [ Previously ] I was beating everybody in every weight class I was in , so what you gon na do ?
It 's like David and Goliath .
He 's a giant monster , we know .
`` I 'm little David and all I 've got is God on my side , which is all I 'm gon na need . ''
Tyson , meanwhile , insisted his and Jones Jr. 's age should not be a concern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looked in incredible shape after undergoing a grueling training regime , but his stance was n't universally shared .
`` There 's a time when you got ta worry about your health , '' former two-time heavyweight world champion George Foreman told TMZ Sports in July .
`` But it 's a beautiful thing that they would even come out .
`` Maybe they can even name a charity or something for the recipient of the funds .
I think it 's good to come out but it 's got ta be a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ does not hit the other .

Mike Tyson will reportedly earn at least $10 million as he makes his return to the ring for the first time in 14 years.
The former undisputed heavyweight champion of the world will take on Roy Jones Jr. at Staples Center in Los Angeles on Saturday in an eight-round exhibition fight.
The bout, which marks the inaugural event of a series produced by Legends Only League, has been dubbed "Frontline Battle" and will be valid for the newly-formed WBC Frontline Battle Belt.
Both boxers are set to land a major windfall from the fight, with a guaranteed return of $10 million each, according to Joe Pompliano of Huddle Up.
Entertainment platform Triller has paid $50 million to broadcast the bout in the U.S. and Tyson (50-6, 44 KOs) and Jones Jr. (66-9, 47 KOs) could make twice as much depending on PPV sales.
In the lead-up to the fight, Triller has been at the center of controversy for suggesting the bout will have "only one winner" and could involve a knockout.
The California State Athletic Commission had previously stated no winner would be announced and that the two boxers would not be allowed to attempt a knockout.
"There have been some false rumors swirling, so to be crystal clear—the WBC is scoring the fight," Triller co-owner Ryan Kavanaugh said in a press conference earlier this week.
"There could be a knockout and there will be one winner. Anyone who says there is going to be no judging or no winner either does not understand the rules or has their own agenda. Unquestionably. 100 percent.
"The only difference in this fight is the gloves are 12 ounces, there are eight rounds and the rounds are two minutes rather than three. That is it."
As pointed out by Kavanaugh, the fight will involve 12-ounce gloves as opposed to the traditional 10-ounce gloves used in traditional heavyweight bouts.
Additionally, owing to its exhibition nature, the fight will be contested over eight rounds of two minutes each, as opposed to the usual 12, three-minute rounds.
Significantly, however, neither Tyson nor Jones Jr. will be required to wear headgear.
"For total clarity we are not implying that CSAC is picking a winner or scoring," Kavanaugh subsequently clarified.
"WBC is scoring and a winner will be determined using those scores as a basis."
The statement caused further controversy as the WBC had previously indicated its three celebrity judges will be at the event in an unofficial capacity and will not be ringside.
Mike Tyson attends the Citi Taste Of Tennis on August 22, 2019 in New York City. The former heavyweight champion of the world will return to the ring on Saturday. Noam Galai/Getty
Even before Triller's contradicting statement over the rules, the fight had attracted criticism due to the age of the fighters.
Tyson turned 54 at the end of June and hasn't fought professionally since retiring in the sixth round against Kevin McBride in 2005.
A short-lived exhibition tour followed but the former undisputed heavyweight champion of the world hasn't been involved in a bout of any kind since 2006.
A former world champion in four weight classes, Jones Jr. is three years younger than his opponent and last fought in 2018, but admitted earlier this year that he wasn't relishing the prospect of squaring off against "Iron Mike".
"It's very risky, yes. But God's in control of all," he told World Boxing News in July.
"[Previously] I was beating everybody in every weight class I was in, so what you gonna do? It's like David and Goliath. He's a giant monster, we know.
"I'm little David and all I've got is God on my side, which is all I'm gonna need."
Tyson, meanwhile, insisted his and Jones Jr.'s age should not be a concern for anyone. The former heavyweight has looked in incredible shape after undergoing a grueling training regime, but his stance wasn't universally shared.
"There's a time when you gotta worry about your health," former two-time heavyweight world champion George Foreman told TMZ Sports in July.
"But it's a beautiful thing that they would even come out.
"Maybe they can even name a charity or something for the recipient of the funds. I think it's good to come out but it's gotta be a fun thing, but I hope one does not hit the other.


newsweek--2020-11-28--Trump Allies Call for Nixing Certification, Picking Electors After 'Compromised' Pennsylvania Electi

Trump Allies Call for Nixing Certification, Picking Electors After 'Compromised' Pennsylvania Election

A new resolution proposed by Pennsylvania House Republicans calls for state leaders to withdraw certification of the presidential election results and appoint electoral college delegates .
The resolution , posted on Friday , was signed by 26 representatives `` declaring the results of statewide electoral contests in the 2020 General Election to be in dispute , '' despite Pennsylvania Secretary of State Kathy Boockvar 's Tuesday certification of the results , signed by Governor Tom Wolf , confirming President-elect Joe Biden as the winner .
A similar resolution was signed by four GOP state senators .
Republicans control both the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but leaders for each have said they had no plans to overturn the results and award the Keystone State 's 20 electoral votes to President Donald Trump .
The resolution called for Congress `` to declare the selection of presidential electors in this Commonwealth to be in dispute . ''
State Senator Doug Mastriano has also shown support for the legislators selecting delegates rather than Wolf .
On Saturday morning , he posted a thread on Twitter calling for state legislature to pick electors .
`` This power was given to the state @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appointment of our President , specifically contemplating corruption and ensuring that the people are not disenfranchised through a corrupt election process , '' he tweeted .
Mastriano cited Article II , section 1.2 of the Constitution , which reads as follows : Each State shall appoint , in such Manner as the Legislature thereof may direct , a Number of Electors , equal to the whole Number of Senators and Representatives to which the State may be entitled in the Congress : but no Senator or Representative , or Person holding an Office @ @ @ @ @ @ @ States , shall be appointed an Elector .
On Saturday morning , Trump posted a tweet seeming to reference the efforts by local legislators using the constitutional argument .
`` So much credit to all of the brave men and women in state houses who are defending our great Constitution , '' he wrote .
Trump 's campaign has filed numerous lawsuits in Pennsylvania , attempting to overturn the election results with no success .
On Friday , he quote-tweeted Mastriano , claiming that the election was `` rigged '' and that he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani offered similar suggestions to local leaders to try to get the legislature to appoint delegates during a Wednesday meeting by the state 's Senate Majority Policy Committee .
`` It 's the state legislature that controls this process , '' he said .
`` It 's your power .
It 's your responsibility .
And I think you know , and you have to convince the rest of your members , Republican and Democrat , [ that ] they owe that to the people of their state , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the United States . ''
Despite efforts to overturn the election results , many officials in the state legislature have not wavered and do n't plan on shifting positions in choosing electors .
`` Our position on the seating of electors has not changed , and we do n't have a role , '' House GOP spokesperson Jason Gottesman told the York Dispatch .
In an October op-ed in the Centre Daily Times , state Senator Jake Corman and Representative Kerry Benninghoff , both Republicans , said that the state 's General Assembly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ election .
The certification found that Biden defeated Trump by over 80,000 votes .
Newsweek reached out to the governor 's office and secretary of state but did not receive a response in time for publication .

A new resolution proposed by Pennsylvania House Republicans calls for state leaders to withdraw certification of the presidential election results and appoint electoral college delegates.
The resolution, posted on Friday, was signed by 26 representatives "declaring the results of statewide electoral contests in the 2020 General Election to be in dispute," despite Pennsylvania Secretary of State Kathy Boockvar's Tuesday certification of the results, signed by Governor Tom Wolf, confirming President-elect Joe Biden as the winner. A similar resolution was signed by four GOP state senators.
Republicans control both the state Senate and House of Representatives, but leaders for each have said they had no plans to overturn the results and award the Keystone State's 20 electoral votes to President Donald Trump. The resolution called for Congress "to declare the selection of presidential electors in this Commonwealth to be in dispute."
State Senator Doug Mastriano has also shown support for the legislators selecting delegates rather than Wolf. On Saturday morning, he posted a thread on Twitter calling for state legislature to pick electors. "This power was given to the state legislature for the purpose of safeguarding the appointment of our President, specifically contemplating corruption and ensuring that the people are not disenfranchised through a corrupt election process," he tweeted.
There is mounting evidence that the PA presidential election was compromised. If this is the case, under Article II, Section 1.2 of the US Constitution, the state legislature has the sole authority to direct the manner of selecting delegates to the Electoral College. (1) — Senator Doug Mastriano (@SenMastriano) November 28, 2020
Mastriano cited Article II, section 1.2 of the Constitution, which reads as follows:
Each State shall appoint, in such Manner as the Legislature thereof may direct, a Number of Electors, equal to the whole Number of Senators and Representatives to which the State may be entitled in the Congress: but no Senator or Representative, or Person holding an Office of Trust or Profit under the United States, shall be appointed an Elector.
On Saturday morning, Trump posted a tweet seeming to reference the efforts by local legislators using the constitutional argument. "So much credit to all of the brave men and women in state houses who are defending our great Constitution," he wrote.
So much credit to all of the brave men and women in state houses who are defending our great Constitution. Thank you! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 28, 2020
Trump's campaign has filed numerous lawsuits in Pennsylvania, attempting to overturn the election results with no success. On Friday, he quote-tweeted Mastriano, claiming that the election was "rigged" and that he was really the winner in Pennsylvania.
The 1,126,940 votes were created out of thin air. I won Pennsylvania by a lot, perhaps more than anyone will ever know. The Pennsylvania votes were RIGGED. All other swing states also. The world is watching! https://t.co/zmnk34Ny23 — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 28, 2020
Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani offered similar suggestions to local leaders to try to get the legislature to appoint delegates during a Wednesday meeting by the state's Senate Majority Policy Committee. "It's the state legislature that controls this process," he said. "It's your power. It's your responsibility. And I think you know, and you have to convince the rest of your members, Republican and Democrat, [that] they owe that to the people of their state, and they owe that to the people of the United States."
Despite efforts to overturn the election results, many officials in the state legislature have not wavered and don't plan on shifting positions in choosing electors. "Our position on the seating of electors has not changed, and we don't have a role," House GOP spokesperson Jason Gottesman told the York Dispatch.
In an October op-ed in the Centre Daily Times, state Senator Jake Corman and Representative Kerry Benninghoff, both Republicans, said that the state's General Assembly would not decide electors or the presidential election.
House Democratic spokesman Bill Patton called Giuliani's efforts a "ridiculous farce" in a statement to Penn Live.
The certification found that Biden defeated Trump by over 80,000 votes.
Newsweek reached out to the governor's office and secretary of state but did not receive a response in time for publication.


newsweek--2020-11-28--Donald Trump's Biographer Says He 'Cannot Even Succeed at Being a Loser'

Michael D'Antonio , a biographer of President Donald Trump , has described the president as a `` loser '' who ca n't accept his defeat by former Vice President Joe Biden in the recent election .
D'Antonio , a Pulitzer Prize-winner who wrote the 2016 book The Truth About Trump , spoke to CNN on Friday about what he called the president 's `` buffoonery . ''
He is a contributor to the network .
`` He is profoundly an incompetent person—a loser , if you might say , '' D'Antonio said , using an insult Trump is famously fond @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opponents .
`` He 's so incompetent that he can not even succeed at being a loser , '' he said .
D'Antonio was referring to Trump 's refusal to concede the presidential election .
The president and his campaign have repeatedly made unsubstantiated claims of voter fraud and other irregularities .
The author said Trump was `` failing at this essential task , '' which was accepting the fact that `` we all lose at various moments . ''
He said the president wo n't `` acknowledge that the system worked , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the election and claimed Trump was `` dragging us through this show and it 's really redolent of all of the flaws in his personality and character that have been present almost since birth . ''
On Twitter on Friday , Trump again asserted that he had won Pennsylvania and alleged fraud .
The state went to Biden by 50 percent to 48.8 percent and his campaign 's attempt to challenge that result have been unsuccessful .
`` This is the creature he has always been , '' D'Antonio added .
Trump has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's inauguration on January 20 and D'Antonio said he was `` quite capable '' of skipping the event .
It is usual for outgoing presidents to appear at their successors ' inaugurations even when they 've been defeated but refusing to go would not be without precedent .
`` The answer to that will be determined by what he thinks will profit him the most , '' D'Antonio said .
`` By 'profit , ' I mean literal profit [ ... ] but also what he imagines will profit him going forward .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ well declare a 2024 run before Inauguration Day and thereby try to deprive Biden of the attention that he deserves . ''
Other reports have suggested the same—that Trump could seek to pre-empt inauguration coverage with a 2024 announcement .
`` I do n't think we can assume he 'll do anything normal , '' D'Antonio said .

Michael D'Antonio, a biographer of President Donald Trump, has described the president as a "loser" who can't accept his defeat by former Vice President Joe Biden in the recent election.
D'Antonio, a Pulitzer Prize-winner who wrote the 2016 book The Truth About Trump, spoke to CNN on Friday about what he called the president's "buffoonery." He is a contributor to the network.
"He is profoundly an incompetent person—a loser, if you might say," D'Antonio said, using an insult Trump is famously fond of lobbing at his critics and political opponents.
Read more Donald Trump Pardoning Himself Is Being Debated, but Is There Precedent? Donald Trump Pardoning Himself Is Being Debated, but Is There Precedent?
"He's so incompetent that he cannot even succeed at being a loser," he said.
D'Antonio was referring to Trump's refusal to concede the presidential election. The president and his campaign have repeatedly made unsubstantiated claims of voter fraud and other irregularities.
The author said Trump was "failing at this essential task," which was accepting the fact that "we all lose at various moments."
He said the president won't "acknowledge that the system worked, that there was no fraud" in the election and claimed Trump was "dragging us through this show and it's really redolent of all of the flaws in his personality and character that have been present almost since birth."
On Twitter on Friday, Trump again asserted that he had won Pennsylvania and alleged fraud. The state went to Biden by 50 percent to 48.8 percent and his campaign's attempt to challenge that result have been unsuccessful.
"This is the creature he has always been," D'Antonio added.
Trump has hinted that he may not attend Biden's inauguration on January 20 and D'Antonio said he was "quite capable" of skipping the event. It is usual for outgoing presidents to appear at their successors' inaugurations even when they've been defeated but refusing to go would not be without precedent.
"The answer to that will be determined by what he thinks will profit him the most," D'Antonio said. "By 'profit,' I mean literal profit [...] but also what he imagines will profit him going forward."
D'Antonio said Trump could "very well declare a 2024 run before Inauguration Day and thereby try to deprive Biden of the attention that he deserves." Other reports have suggested the same—that Trump could seek to pre-empt inauguration coverage with a 2024 announcement.
"I don't think we can assume he'll do anything normal," D'Antonio said.


newsweek--2020-11-28--'Tax! Bezos!': Demonstrators Gather Near Amazon's Seattle HQ, as Retailer Expects to Rake in Huge Ho

'Tax! Bezos!': Demonstrators Gather Near Amazon's Seattle HQ, as Retailer Expects to Rake in Huge Holiday Sales

Protestors congregated near Amazon 's headquarters in Seattle on Friday to demand better pay and working conditions , as the online retail giant is expected to rake in record-breaking sales this holiday season .
The demonstrators were heard outside of the company 's South Lake Union corporate headquarters , chanting demands such as `` Tax !
Bezos !
, '' `` Stop Union Busting '' and `` Paid Sick Leave ! ''
Though Amazon shares have nearly doubled their value since the pandemic took hold in March—and the company 's CEO , Jeff Bezos , has gained nearly $ 67 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workers have not benefitted from that wealth .
Others have stated that the company has not done enough to protect employees from the coronavirus pandemic , as tens of thousands of warehouse workers have tested positive for the virus since March .
`` We 're going to march and rally and tell these people who are making six figures what they need to hear : We 're essential workers .
And we still exist , '' former Amazon employee and protest organizer Chris Smalls told the Seattle Times .
`` They need us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of us .
They 're not doing that right now . ''
The protest in Seattle echoed other calls for change around the world .
On Black Friday , Amazon workers and activist groups staged a demonstration called `` Make Amazon Pay '' throughout 15 different countries , Business Insider reported , to demand better working conditions , higher pay , and a commitment from the company to end its relationship with fossil fuels .
`` During the Covid-19 pandemic , Amazon became a trillion dollar corporation , with Bezos becoming the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ billion in personal wealth , '' their demands statement said .
`` Meanwhile , Amazon warehouse workers risked their lives as essential workers , and only briefly received an increase in pay . ''
The protests took place in Brazil , Mexico , the U.S. , the UK , Spain , France , Belgium , Germany , Luxembourg , Italy , Poland , India , Bangladesh , the Philippines , and Australia , Business Insider reported .
In Germany , an estimated 2,500 employees across six different Amazon facilities went on strike in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
And in Alabama , employees at a newly opened warehouse have made an effort to unionize to receive higher pay and safer work conditions .
The protest movements come as Amazon saw an incredible boost in sales throughout the pandemic , raking in as much as $ 1 billion a day in its third-quarter earnings .
The company is predicting a blowout holiday shopping period with revenues for the fourth quarter expected between $ 112 billion and $ 121 billion .
On Thursday , Amazon announced that it plans to give out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to workers over the coming holiday season – a number that seems generous , but only amounts to roughly half of the company 's earnings in a single day .
This time of year is known as the company 's `` peak '' season , when Amazon expects workers to clock as much as 60 hours a week , in shifts that some have called `` punishing . ''
`` It 's going to be awful as the holiday season ramps up , '' a protester told the Seattle Times , noting that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for employees .
Newsweek reached out to Amazon for comment , but did not hear back in time for publication .

Protestors congregated near Amazon's headquarters in Seattle on Friday to demand better pay and working conditions, as the online retail giant is expected to rake in record-breaking sales this holiday season.
The demonstrators were heard outside of the company's South Lake Union corporate headquarters, chanting demands such as "Tax! Bezos!," "Stop Union Busting" and "Paid Sick Leave!"
Though Amazon shares have nearly doubled their value since the pandemic took hold in March—and the company's CEO, Jeff Bezos, has gained nearly $67 billion this year— protesters maintain that frontline workers have not benefitted from that wealth.
Others have stated that the company has not done enough to protect employees from the coronavirus pandemic, as tens of thousands of warehouse workers have tested positive for the virus since March.
"We're going to march and rally and tell these people who are making six figures what they need to hear: We're essential workers. And we still exist," former Amazon employee and protest organizer Chris Smalls told the Seattle Times.
"They need us. And they need to take care of us. They're not doing that right now."
Protesters cycle around the block as they participate in a "car caravan" protest at the Amazon Spheres to demand the Seattle City Council tax the city's largest businesses in Seattle, Washington on May 1, 2020. On Friday, protesters gathered outside of Amazon HQ in the city for another protest demanding better working conditions. JASON REDMOND/AFP/Getty
The protest in Seattle echoed other calls for change around the world.
On Black Friday, Amazon workers and activist groups staged a demonstration called "Make Amazon Pay" throughout 15 different countries, Business Insider reported, to demand better working conditions, higher pay, and a commitment from the company to end its relationship with fossil fuels.
"During the Covid-19 pandemic, Amazon became a trillion dollar corporation, with Bezos becoming the first person in history to amass $200 billion in personal wealth," their demands statement said. "Meanwhile, Amazon warehouse workers risked their lives as essential workers, and only briefly received an increase in pay."
The protests took place in Brazil, Mexico, the U.S., the UK, Spain, France, Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, Italy, Poland, India, Bangladesh, the Philippines, and Australia, Business Insider reported.
In Germany, an estimated 2,500 employees across six different Amazon facilities went on strike in an effort to increase the pay rate. And in Alabama, employees at a newly opened warehouse have made an effort to unionize to receive higher pay and safer work conditions.
The protest movements come as Amazon saw an incredible boost in sales throughout the pandemic, raking in as much as $1 billion a day in its third-quarter earnings.
The company is predicting a blowout holiday shopping period with revenues for the fourth quarter expected between $112 billion and $121 billion.
On Thursday, Amazon announced that it plans to give out bonuses worth more than $500 million to workers over the coming holiday season – a number that seems generous, but only amounts to roughly half of the company's earnings in a single day.
This time of year is known as the company's "peak" season, when Amazon expects workers to clock as much as 60 hours a week, in shifts that some have called "punishing."
"It's going to be awful as the holiday season ramps up," a protester told the Seattle Times, noting that peak season could result in stress injuries for employees.
Newsweek reached out to Amazon for comment, but did not hear back in time for publication.


newsweek--2020-11-29--Hotel Worker Tells Angry Customer Her Job Is to 'Listen to You Complain at Me' in Viral Video

A hotel worker told an angry customer that her job was to listen to her complain in a viral video .
The video—titled `` angry karen pt 2 '' —was posted on TikTok on Saturday night .
Apparently uploaded by the person working the hotel 's front desk , the caption said `` someone 's angry Karen grandma yelling at me without a mask . ''
The video soon went viral and has since racked up more than 800,000 views and more than 80,000 likes on the platform .
It appears the customer in the clip was complaining about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic .
It was not immediately clear where the incident took place , but at one point , the customer indicates that it was in a Comfort Inn .
`` I already explained that we do n't do daily servicing because of COVID .
If you ca n't accept that , that 's too bad , '' the employee is heard telling the woman .
`` I do n't know what you want me to do 'cause I ca n't do nothing about it . ''
When the woman complains about the lack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` I can give you toilet paper , but I ca n't do anything else . ''
The customer continues to express her annoyance , saying : `` It 's not my job for me to come and pick it up , it 's your job , the hotel 's job , okay ? ''
`` No , my job is to be front desk and listen to you complain at me , so I 'm doing my job , '' the employee responds .
The customer appears stunned at the response @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , later adding : `` It is a shame , I have never in my entire life , in a Comfort Inn , have never gotten this type of ... '' The TikTok user and Comfort Inn have been contacted for comment .
The same TikTok user posted a video featuring the same customer last week .
A title card for that video said the customer had complained for around 15 minutes .
In that clip , it appeared the customer was demanding a refund and asking the employee to call her manager @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not deal with us .
It 's obvious that you do n't have the capacity , okay ? ''
The customer tells the employee in the video .
`` Can you call somebody ? ''
The employee replies : `` I will not call my manager on her day off . ''
The customer then tells her `` that 's what managers are for , because you do n't have management authority . ''
`` Okay , but I have the authority to stand here and listen to what you 're saying , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you want from me , '' the employee tells her .
`` I 'm not going to give you a refund because you still stayed here . ''
The customer continues to vent , adding : `` We 're not staying here , we 're telling you !
We 're not staying in the darn room ... only a dirty a** person will stay in a nasty a** bed without toilet paper . ''
`` I can give you toilet paper , '' the employee tells her .
The clip is captioned : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gave her toilet paper and coffee . ''

A hotel worker told an angry customer that her job was to listen to her complain in a viral video.
The video—titled "angry karen pt 2"—was posted on TikTok on Saturday night. Apparently uploaded by the person working the hotel's front desk, the caption said "someone's angry Karen grandma yelling at me without a mask."
The video soon went viral and has since racked up more than 800,000 views and more than 80,000 likes on the platform.
It appears the customer in the clip was complaining about the hotel's limited service during the coronavirus pandemic. It was not immediately clear where the incident took place, but at one point, the customer indicates that it was in a Comfort Inn.
"I already explained that we don't do daily servicing because of COVID. If you can't accept that, that's too bad," the employee is heard telling the woman. "I don't know what you want me to do 'cause I can't do nothing about it."
@n0hunny0 someone’s angry Karen grandma yelling at me without a mask to :) ♬ original sound - SHAY
When the woman complains about the lack of toilet paper, the worker replies: "I can give you toilet paper, but I can't do anything else."
The customer continues to express her annoyance, saying: "It's not my job for me to come and pick it up, it's your job, the hotel's job, okay?"
"No, my job is to be front desk and listen to you complain at me, so I'm doing my job," the employee responds.
The customer appears stunned at the response.
"Unbelievable," she says, later adding: "It is a shame, I have never in my entire life, in a Comfort Inn, have never gotten this type of..."
The TikTok user and Comfort Inn have been contacted for comment.
The same TikTok user posted a video featuring the same customer last week.
A title card for that video said the customer had complained for around 15 minutes. In that clip, it appeared the customer was demanding a refund and asking the employee to call her manager.
"We understand that you cannot deal with us. It's obvious that you don't have the capacity, okay?" The customer tells the employee in the video. "Can you call somebody?"
The employee replies: "I will not call my manager on her day off."
The customer then tells her "that's what managers are for, because you don't have management authority."
"Okay, but I have the authority to stand here and listen to what you're saying, so like I don't know what you want from me," the employee tells her. "I'm not going to give you a refund because you still stayed here."
The customer continues to vent, adding: "We're not staying here, we're telling you! We're not staying in the darn room... only a dirty a** person will stay in a nasty a** bed without toilet paper."
"I can give you toilet paper," the employee tells her.
The clip is captioned: "She ended up staying bc I gave her toilet paper and coffee."


newsweek--2020-11-29--Stimulus Clock Ticking as Congress Has Just 14 Days To Work Out Relief Package This Year

As COVID-19 cases surge in the U.S. , negotiations into a second stimulus package remain in limbo as Congress returns Monday .
Democrats and Republicans remain opposed about the scope of financial relief , but are expected to have the topic close to the top of their agendas as the end of the year draws near and president-elect Joe Biden prepares to enter the White House .
Timescales will be tight , with the House of Representatives having nine in-session days , and the Senate having 14 , before breaking for New Year , Cnet reported .
In the months @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Economic Security Act ( CARES Act ) passed in March , the health crisis sparked by the virus has worsened .
Now , the U.S. has recorded more than 13 million infections and over 260,000 deaths .
In October , House Democrats passed the $ 2.2 trillion Health and Economic Recovery Omnibus and Emergency Solutions ( HEROES ) Act , which sought to give Americans a second stimulus check of up to $ 1,200 and extend key financial benefits .
But it was stalled by Republican lawmakers who favor a targeted approach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ McConnell ( R-KY ) has said lawmakers would agree to a targeted bill worth $ 500 billion , while Democrats pushed for a blanket package that would have allocated $ 400 billion alone to state and local governments .
Democrats have pushed for an extra $ 600 in citizens ' weekly pay provided under the CARES Act to be renewed in any future package , CBS News reported .
Without agreement , several government relief schemes under the CARES act are set to expire on December 26 , including the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Unemployment Compensation ( PEUC ) benefits , the ban on home evictions based on inability to pay rent and deferment of student loan bills .
According to The Aspen Institute , up to 30 million people in the U.S. are at risk of eviction in the coming months , while six million now rely on expanded unemployment benefits .
Congressman James Comer ( R-KY ) told Fox News on Saturday any deal would need to be targeted and that he believed the odds of an agreement are slim .
`` Moving forward to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have targeted stimulus .
The restaurant industry , I think that 's the one industry that there 's bipartisan agreement that there is a desperate need for assistance , '' Comer said .
`` But we have a situation in Washington where Nancy Pelosi does n't want to do target stimulus , she wants to do another blanket stimulus bill , and give money to everyone and forgive student loan debt and just a liberal Christmas wish list that 's just not going to happen because we just ca n't afford it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ timescales .
According to Cnet , the new stimulus package could include a second stimulus check and extra unemployment money and funding for small businesses .
But , as noted by CBS , it could take weeks for any funds to reach recipients ' bank accounts .
In recent weeks , House Speaker Pelosi has reiterated a desire to make progress on the COVID-19 relief negotiations with Republican counterparts .
In a letter to Sen. McConnell on November 17 Pelosi said the Democrats were open to a compromise by lowering the financial request @ @ @ @ @ @ @ press briefing on November 20 , Pelosi said Republicans were `` willing to ignore '' the problem .
`` The need for action could not be more urgent .
Real , meaningful relief is desperately needed .
No surprise to anyone , perhaps except Mitch McConnell , '' she said .
On November 20 , McConnell accused the Democrats of blocking COVID-19 targeted relief measures for months with `` all-or-nothing demands . ''
While it is unclear if any decision will be made , House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer said on Friday that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ funding , coronavirus relief , and NDAA [ National Defense Authorization Act ] are ongoing . ''
Hoyer said the House may complete legislative business early the week of December 7 .

As COVID-19 cases surge in the U.S., negotiations into a second stimulus package remain in limbo as Congress returns Monday.
Democrats and Republicans remain opposed about the scope of financial relief, but are expected to have the topic close to the top of their agendas as the end of the year draws near and president-elect Joe Biden prepares to enter the White House.
Timescales will be tight, with the House of Representatives having nine in-session days, and the Senate having 14, before breaking for New Year, Cnet reported.
In the months since the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) passed in March, the health crisis sparked by the virus has worsened. Now, the U.S. has recorded more than 13 million infections and over 260,000 deaths.
In October, House Democrats passed the $2.2 trillion Health and Economic Recovery Omnibus and Emergency Solutions (HEROES) Act, which sought to give Americans a second stimulus check of up to $1,200 and extend key financial benefits. But it was stalled by Republican lawmakers who favor a targeted approach to payouts.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) has said lawmakers would agree to a targeted bill worth $500 billion, while Democrats pushed for a blanket package that would have allocated $400 billion alone to state and local governments.
Democrats have pushed for an extra $600 in citizens' weekly pay provided under the CARES Act to be renewed in any future package, CBS News reported.
Without agreement, several government relief schemes under the CARES act are set to expire on December 26, including the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) benefits, the ban on home evictions based on inability to pay rent and deferment of student loan bills.
According to The Aspen Institute, up to 30 million people in the U.S. are at risk of eviction in the coming months, while six million now rely on expanded unemployment benefits.
Congressman James Comer (R-KY) told Fox News on Saturday any deal would need to be targeted and that he believed the odds of an agreement are slim.
"Moving forward to the second stimulus bill, we need to have targeted stimulus. The restaurant industry, I think that's the one industry that there's bipartisan agreement that there is a desperate need for assistance," Comer said.
"But we have a situation in Washington where Nancy Pelosi doesn't want to do target stimulus, she wants to do another blanket stimulus bill, and give money to everyone and forgive student loan debt and just a liberal Christmas wish list that's just not going to happen because we just can't afford it." He did not elaborate on timescales.
According to Cnet, the new stimulus package could include a second stimulus check and extra unemployment money and funding for small businesses. But, as noted by CBS, it could take weeks for any funds to reach recipients' bank accounts.
In recent weeks, House Speaker Pelosi has reiterated a desire to make progress on the COVID-19 relief negotiations with Republican counterparts.
In a letter to Sen. McConnell on November 17 Pelosi said the Democrats were open to a compromise by lowering the financial request by $1.2 trillion. In a press briefing on November 20, Pelosi said Republicans were "willing to ignore" the problem.
"The need for action could not be more urgent. Real, meaningful relief is desperately needed. No surprise to anyone, perhaps except Mitch McConnell," she said.
On November 20, McConnell accused the Democrats of blocking COVID-19 targeted relief measures for months with "all-or-nothing demands."
While it is unclear if any decision will be made, House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer said on Friday that "conversations surrounding legislation related to government funding, coronavirus relief, and NDAA [National Defense Authorization Act] are ongoing." Hoyer said the House may complete legislative business early the week of December 7.