1/ Trump: removed: thenow: The Russia investigation makes the US "look very bad" and removed: that it "puts the country in a very bad position." The comment …
… that they were fired. There was no explanation or reason removed: was given. (Washington Blade / Newsweek)
… former Trump adviser known to have provided Mueller's team with removed: informationnow: information, and the lenient terms of his plea agreement suggest he …
… president at this point in their term. While Trump did removed: signednow: sign more bills in his first 100 days than any president …
… of senior Trump administration officials have resigned, been fired, or now: been reassigned this year. It's the highest first-year departure rate of …
Removed: WTF Lite: I'm publishing on a shortened end-of-year schedule this week. WTF Just Happened Today will be updated once-a-day Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday this week. I'll be back in the new year on January 2.
… administration is considering separating parents from their children when families removed: they'renow: are caught entering the country illegally. The move is meant to …
… day Friday. House Republicans are working toward passage of a removed: stripped down,now: stripped-down, temporary funding measure to keep the government funded through January …
… the ACA fixes as part of the year-end spending deal removed: werenow: was a promise Mitch McConnell made to Susan Collins in order …
6/ Democrats tapped a constitutional law expert removed: to leadnow: as their leader on the House Judiciary Committee. Jerry Nadler takes over as the …
… two federal laws in January. Don McGahn learned on December removed: 29th, 2016now: 29, 2016, that Flynn had counseled Sergey Kislyak, the Russian ambassador to …
… Foundation. Hillary Clinton, however, wasn't involved in the decision while removed: Secretarynow: secretary of removed: State, whichnow: state, the State Department official who approved the deal has confirmed. …
9/ A secret group of House Republicans removed: havenow: has been investigating Justice Department and FBI officials for what they … ties to the Kremlin. The group hasn't informed Democrats about removed: theirnow: its plans. Adam Schiff, the top Democrat on the House Intelligence … rules require cooperation between Republicans and Democrats, but it requires now: that Paul Ryan removed: enforcingnow: enforce them – that hasn't happened. (Politico)
5. The United Nations removed: general assemblynow: General Assembly rejected Trump's unilateral recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital. The …
7/ Jeff Sessions asked the FBI to reexamine evidence in the dormant Uranium One deal. Trump and some Republicans have called the 2010 deal to sell U.S. uranium mining facilities to Russia's state atomic energy company corrupt, because several people involved had contributed millions of dollars to the Clinton Foundation. Hillary Clinton, however, wasn't involved in the decision while Secretary …
After
7/ The White House counsel knew Michael Flynn had probably violated two federal laws in January. Don McGahn learned on December 29th, 2016 that Flynn had counseled Sergey Kislyak, the Russian ambassador to the United States, not to retaliate against economic sanctions imposed by the Obama administration. McGahn then researched federal laws dealing with lying to federal investigators and negotiating …
4. now: Russian trolls promoted autocracy and fear during key events in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. They infiltrated the online conversations of millions of Americans on Facebook and Twitter. (NBC News) 5. The United Nations general assembly rejected Trump's unilateral recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital. The General Assembly voted 128 to 9, with 35 abstentions, to demand that the US rescind its December 6th declaration on Jerusalem. (The Guardian) 6. "Fox & Friends" was named the "most influential" show in …
… a second time on the $1.5 trillion tax bill, approved removed: the tax billnow: it in a 224 to 201 vote. The Tax Cuts and …
… Obamacare." The bill eliminates the Affordable Care Act's individual mandate, removed: whichnow: but Trump said "we didn't want to bring it up" until …
2. Paul Ryan called reports of his retirement removed: \~greatly exaggerated\~now: ~~greatly exaggerated~~ "rank speculation." It was previously reported that Ryan told confidants …
… 51 to 48 vote. No Democrats backed the bill. The removed: House will now neednow: House, forced to vote now: a second time on the now: $1.5 trillion tax bill, approved the tax bill removed: again after three provisions that violated Senate budget rules hadnow: in a 224 to removed: be removed.now: 201 vote. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is expected to head …
2/ Donald Trump Jr. suggested that "people at the highest levels of government" have conspired to block his father's agenda, saying they "don't want to let America be America." He added that the investigations into Russian election meddling and his father's campaign are evidence of a "rigged system." Trump Jr. made the comments at a gathering of young conservative activists …
After
2/ Trump claimed the Republican tax bill "essentially repealed Obamacare." The bill eliminates the Affordable Care Act's individual mandate, which Trump said "we didn't want to bring it up" until the legislation had passed. (Bloomberg / Talking Points Memo)
… tonight with the provisions removed, which would require the House removed: willnow: to revote on the measure tomorrow, since both chambers must pass …
2/ The GOP now: tax bill will lower taxes for 95% of Americans in 2018, …
… attacks on the federal judiciary "disheartening" and "demoralizing." Trump called now: the report "FAKE NEWS" on Twitter. (Washington Post)
… lawyers were expected to meet with Mueller later this week removed: and are hoping for signsnow: in hopes of a sign that Mueller's focus on Trump is nearing its end. White House lawyers said they'll cooperate with removed: Mueller, butnow: Mueller despite Trump and his allies have recently accused the Justice Department …
… Children's Health Insurance Program lapse in September, which provides insurance removed: tonow: for nearly 9 million children nationwide. (The Hill)
The GOP tax bill will impact now: large, high-tax, removed: high-cost-of-living, bignow: high-cost-of-living cities most by capping the state and local income and …
1/ The House will vote on tax reform today. The Senate will vote either later today or tomorrow. Party-line votes are expected in both chambers and passage appears certain of the biggest overhaul of the tax system in more than 30 years. The bill would add $1.5 trillion to the federal debt over the next decade and deepen the income …
After
1/ The House passed tax reform today, but will have to vote again tomorrow after the Senate parliamentarian said three provisions violated the Byrd Rule and would have to be removed from the bill. Senate Republicans plan to vote on the measure tonight with the provisions removed, which would require the House will revote on the measure tomorrow, since both …
2/ The GOP bill removed: wouldnow: will lower taxes for 95% of Americans in 2018, but within …
Before
3. The Senate Intelligence Committee is looking at Jill Stein for potential "collusion with the Russians." The Green Party candidate attended a 2015 dinner in Moscow, which was also attended by Michael Flynn. Putin was seated next to Flynn and across the table from Stein. (Washington Post)
After
3. The EPA terminated its contract with a GOP opposition research firm after Senate Democrats said Definers Public Affairs' close ties to the GOP "presents an appearance of impropriety to which you as administrator should never be a party." (The Hill) 4. Connecticut will close its health care program for low- and middle-income children on January 31st unless Congress provides …
… "science-based," and "evidence-based" in their 2018 budget documents. "Certain words" now: in the CDC's budget drafts have been sent back to the agency …
9/ Chuck Schumer will removed: would force a Senate vote to reinstate the FCC's net neutrality …
1. removed: Trump will present his first national security strategy later today. The comprehensive plan "describes a world that was on a three-decade holiday from superpower rivalry, and suggests that holiday is over" as the US will confront China and Russia. (New York Times) 2. Congressional Republicans will try to pass both their tax reform …
6. Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner are being sued over omissions on their public financial disclosure forms. The two failed to identify the assets owned by 30 investment funds they have stakes in. (Politico)
After
6. Trump's judicial nominee withdrew himself from consideration after a video went viral of him failing to answer basic questions about the law during his confirmation hearing. (HuffPost)
7. now: Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner are being sued over omissions on their public financial disclosure forms. The two failed to identify the assets owned by 30 investment funds they have stakes in. (Politico) 8. Putin called Trump to thank him for CIA intelligence that …
… emails and the situation is "not looking good." Congresswoman Jackie removed: Speier (D-CA),now: Speier, meanwhile, said "rumors" on Capitol Hill suggest Trump plans to …
1/ Robert Mueller obtained "many tens of thousands" of Trump transition emails, including the emails of Jared Kushner and 11 others. The emails came from the General Services Administration, which hosted the transition email system, and include exchanges about potential appointments, gossip about senators, vulnerabilities of Trump nominees, PR strategies, and policy planning. (Axios)
After
1/ The FBI warned Trump in 2016 that Russia would try to infiltrate his campaign. Both Trump and Hillary Clinton received counterintelligence briefings by senior FBI officials, which advised them to alert the FBI to any "suspicious overtures to their campaigns." Trump was "briefed and warned" at the session about potential espionage threats from Russia. (NBC News)
Before
2/ A lawyer from Trump's transition team accused Robert Mueller of unlawfully obtaining the emails in a seven-page letter sent to the House and Senate oversight committees. Kory Langhofer argued that the General Services Administration "unlawfully produced" emails which were subject to attorney-client privilege. Peter Carr, a spokesman from Mueller's office, said: "When we have obtained emails in the course …
After
2/ Robert Mueller obtained "many tens of thousands" of Trump transition emails, including the emails of Jared Kushner and 11 others. The emails came from the General Services Administration, which hosted the transition email system, and include exchanges about potential appointments, gossip about senators, vulnerabilities of Trump nominees, PR strategies, and policy planning. (Axios)
Before
2. Puerto Rico ordered a recount of the number of people died because of Hurricane Maria. The official death count is 64. A New York Times review suggests that 1,052 more people died than usual in the 42 days after Maria hit. (New York Times)
After
2. Bob Corker hasn't read the GOP tax bill, but denied changing his vote in exchange for a provision slipped into the bill that could personally enrich him. (International Business Times) 3. Witch Hunt at the EPA: Multiple employees have come under scrutiny after speaking out about the agency. Within a matter of days, requests were submitted for copies of …
removed: 3.now: 5. A federal appeals judge abruptly retired today after 15 women …
removed: 4.now: 6. Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner are being sued over omissions …
removed: 5.now: 7. Putin called Trump to thank him for CIA intelligence that …
… said he is not considering firing Robert Mueller, but that removed: his "people"now: "my people" are "very upset" with how Mueller obtained his transition team's emails and the situation is "not looking good." Congresswoman Jackie removed: Speier,now: Speier (D-CA), meanwhile, said "rumors" on Capitol Hill suggest Trump plans to …
… Puerto Rico ordered a recount of the number of people now: who have died because of Hurricane Maria. The official death count is …
> 3. The estate tax would remain but the exemption from it would be doubled.
After
> 3. Eliminates the Affordable Care Act's individual mandate that requires most Americans to buy health insurance or pay a penalty
Before
> 4. The seven individual income tax brackets will remain, but at different rates: 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35% and 37%.
After
> 4. The estate tax would remain but the exemption from it would be doubled.
Before
> 5. Latest Senate version will cost $1.5 trillion over 10 years
After
> 5. The seven individual income tax brackets will remain, but at different rates: 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35% and 37%.
Before
> 6. The child tax credit will double
After
> 6. Latest Senate version will cost $1.5 trillion over 10 years
Before
> 7. The standard deduction will increase to $12,000 for an individual or $24,000 for a family
After
> 7. The child tax credit will double
> 8. now: The standard deduction will increase to $12,000 for an individual or $24,000 for a family > > 9. The Senate is expected to vote Monday and House is …
5/ Jared Kushner's legal team is trying to hire a crisis public relations firm. Kushner's lawyer, Abbe Lowell, has called at least two firms "to handle the time-consuming incoming inquiries on the cases in which I am working that receive media attention." (Washington Post)
After
5/ Trump's lawyers will meet with Robert Mueller's team next week. John Dowd and Jay Sekulow are hoping for signs that Mueller's investigation is nearing its end, or at least the part that has to do with Trump. The meeting comes after Mueller's team completed interviews of White House personnel. (CNN)
… and Bob Corker will vote "yes" on the GOP tax removed: bill.now: bill, giving Republicans the votes needed to pass the measure in the Senate. Rubio announced his support after Republican leaders agreed to expand …
… at the FBI's National Academy. He told the graduating class removed: fornow: of law enforcement managers that he has their "back 100%." Trump promised "to rebuild the FBI" and make it removed: "be biggernow: "bigger and better than ever." He called himself a "true friend …
3. removed: Jared Kushner's legal team is trying to hire a crisis public relations firm. Kushner's lawyer, Abbe Lowell, has called at least two firms "to handle the time-consuming incoming inquiries on the cases in which I am working that receive media attention." (Washington Post) 4. Trump Jr. called Ajit Pai "Obama's FCC chairman" in a …
removed: 5.now: 4. A Wall Street Journal op-ed urging "everybody calm down about …
removed: 6.now: 5. Internet traffic sent to and from Google, Facebook, Apple, and …
1/ Cambridge Analytica handed over employees' emails to Robert Mueller's team as part of the special counsel's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. The firm provided the Trump campaign with data, polling, and research services during the race. The emails had previously been voluntarily turned over to the House Intelligence Committee. (Wall Street Journal)
After
1/ Marco Rubio and Bob Corker will vote "yes" on the GOP tax bill. Rubio announced his support after Republican leaders agreed to expand the Child Tax Credit for low and middle-income families. Corker called the bill a "once-in-a-generation opportunity." Republicans will release the bill's text today and will vote on it next week. (Politico / New York Times / …
Before
2/ Trump called the FBI a "shame" shortly before speaking at the FBI's National Academy. He told the graduating class for law enforcement managers that he has their "back 100%." Trump promised "to rebuild the FBI" and make it "be bigger and better than ever." He called himself a "true friend and loyal champion" of law enforcement – "more loyal …
3/ Trump didn't dismiss the idea of pardoning Michael Flynn. "I don't want to talk about pardons with Michael Flynn yet," Trump told reporters. "We'll see what happens, let's see." (CNN)
After
2/ Cambridge Analytica handed over employees' emails to Robert Mueller's team as part of the special counsel's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. The firm provided the Trump campaign with data, polling, and research services during the race. The emails had previously been voluntarily turned over to the House Intelligence Committee. (Wall Street Journal)
Before
1. A Wall Street Journal op-ed urging "everybody calm down about net neutrality" was written by a former Comcast attorney. (The Intercept)
After
1. The EPA hired an opposition research firm to track and shape press coverage using taxpayer money. Scott Pruitt's office signed the no-bid $120,000 contract with Definers Corp. (Mother Jones) 2. Betsy DeVos was hit with two lawsuits in one day over the letting more than 50,000 student debt relief claims pile up. (Washington Post) 3. Jared Kushner's legal team …
Before
2. The EPA hired an opposition research firm to track and shape press coverage using taxpayer money. Scott Pruitt's office signed the no-bid $120,000 contract with Definers Corp. (Mother Jones)
After
5. A Wall Street Journal op-ed urging "everybody calm down about net neutrality" was written by a former Comcast attorney. (The Intercept)
Before
3. Betsy DeVos was hit with two lawsuits in one day over the letting more than 50,000 student debt relief claims pile up. (Washington Post)
After
6. Internet traffic sent to and from Google, Facebook, Apple, and Microsoft was briefly routed through a previously unknown Russian Internet provider on Wednesday. Researchers called it suspicious and intentional. (Ars Technica)
2/ Trump called the FBI a "shame" removed: hoursnow: shortly before removed: telling new graduatesnow: speaking at the FBI's National Academy. He told the graduating class for law enforcement managers that he has their "back 100%." Trump promised "to rebuild … He called himself a "true friend and loyal champion" of removed: the FBInow: law enforcement – "more loyal than anyone else can be" – but …
… over employees' emails to Robert Mueller's team as part of removed: hisnow: the special counsel's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. The firm …
… basics of trial procedure by Senator John Neely Kennedy, Petersen removed: saidnow: said, "I understand the challenge that would be ahead of me." …
… down about net neutrality" was written by a former Comcast removed: Attorney.now: attorney. (The Intercept)
3. Mike Pence delayed his visit to Israel as Congress prepares to vote on tax reform. Republicans hold a 52-48 majority in the Senate and Pence holds the tie-breaking vote. (CNN)
After
3. A congressional ethics official overseeing the investigations into misconduct by lawmakers is being sued of verbally abusing and physically assaulting women and using his federal position to influence local law enforcement. (Foreign Policy) 4. Mike Pence delayed his visit to Israel as Congress prepares to vote on tax reform. Republicans hold a 52-48 majority in the Senate and Pence …
Before
4. Trump Jr. testified to the Senate Intelligence Committee yesterday, spending nine hours answering questions from the panel. (Reuters)
After
6. Lindsey Graham said there is a 30% chance Trump attacks North Korea, because "time is running out." (The Atlantic)
4/ Trump's pick to regulate toxic chemicals at the removed: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)now: EPA has withdrawn his nomination due to his ties to the …
1/ The removed: FCCnow: Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted to repeal net neutrality, which required internet service providers …
In a letter to FCC removed: Chairmannow: chairman Ajit Pai, 18 attorneys general asked the removed: Commissionnow: commission to delay the net neutrality vote pending an investigation into …
The New York removed: Attorney Generalnow: attorney general said the net neutrality public comment process was corrupted by …
4/ Trump's pick to regulate toxic chemicals at the removed: EPAnow: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has withdrawn his nomination due to his ties to the …
… tried to enter the White House residence after a confrontation now: yesterday with John removed: Kelly yesterday,now: Kelly, who told her that her employment in the administration would …
1/ The FCC removed: will vote on the future ofnow: voted to repeal net removed: neutrality today,now: neutrality, which removed: requiresnow: required internet service providers to treat all web traffic equally. The measure removed: is expected to passnow: passed 3-2 with the Republican appointees supporting repeal and the Democratic appointees opposing. removed: 52%now: 83% of removed: voters supportnow: Americans supported the rules that are in place. removed: (The Hillnow: Internet providers are now free to speed up services for some apps and websites, while blocking or slowing down others. In Ajit Pai's first 11 months as FCC chairman, he's lifted media ownership limits, eased caps on how much broadband providers can charge business customers, and cut back on a low-income broadband program that was supposed to be expanded. (Washington Post / removed: NPR / Fortune)now: New York Times)
Before
📺 Watch the commission meeting.
After
In a letter to FCC Chairman Ajit Pai, 18 attorneys general asked the Commission to delay the net neutrality vote pending an investigation into fake comments. Of the 22 million public comments filed with the FCC, 94% of them "were submitted multiple times, and in some cases those comments were submitted many hundreds of thousands of times." (The Hill / …
removed: 2/ In a letter to FCC Chairman Ajit Pai, 18 attorneys general asked the Commission to delay the net neutrality vote pending an investigation into fake comments. Of the 22 million public comments filed with the FCC, 94% of them "were submitted multiple times, and in some cases those comments were submitted many hundreds of thousands of times." (The Hill / NPR) 3/ The New York Attorney General said the net neutrality public …
2/ Roy Moore removed: won't concedenow: hasn't conceded the race, saying he will "wait on God and let …
Before
5/ House and Senate Republicans reached an agreement on their joint tax bill. The party is expected to vote next week. The agreement would set the top individual tax rate at 37%, down from today’s 39.6%. The corporate rate would be 21% and would take effect in 2018.(New York Times / Wall Street Journal)
After
5/ House and Senate Republicans reached an agreement on their joint tax bill. The House and Senate are expected to vote next week. The agreement would set the top individual tax rate at 37%, down from today’s 39.6%. The corporate rate would drop to 21% from 37% and would take effect in 2018, rather than 2019. (New York Times / …
Before
4. Omarosa Manigault Newman plans to leave the White House next month. (CNN)
After
4. John McCain is in the hospitable for treatment related to his cancer therapy. McCain was diagnosed with glioblastoma in July, an aggressive form of brain cancer. (The Hill) 5. Omarosa Manigault Newman plans to leave the White House next month. (CNN) 6. The Federal Reserve increased interest rates and raised their forecast for economic growth in 2018. (Bloomberg)
removed: 5.now: 7. Minnesota governor Mark Dayton appointed Lt. Gov. Tina F. Smith …
… the primary, recording a robocall on Moore's behalf, and holding now: a campaign-style rally just across the state line in Florida last …
… reach a deal in the coming days with a final removed: votesnow: vote early next week. The soonest Jones could be seated removed: innow: is December 26th or 27th. The Senate passed the tax bill …
… corporate rate would be 21% and would take effect in removed: 2018 (Newnow: 2018.(New York Times / Wall Street Journal)
… Trump are credible, while 29% don't think they're credible and removed: the 21% now: are not sure if they're credible. (Politico)
1. USA Today editorial called Trump unfit to clean now: toilets in Obama's removed: toilets In Presidential Library.now: presidential library. Trump tweeted that "more than 90% of Fake News Media …
… the victim of a fake news hit and turned over removed: a document to Capitol Police now: a document purporting sexual harassment accusations by a former staffer. (Axios)
5. removed: Minnesota'snow: Minnesota governor now: Mark Dayton appointed Lt. Gov. Tina F. Smith to fill Al Franken's seat in the now: U.S. Senate. Smith would become the 22nd woman to serve in …
Removed: 6/ The FCC will vote on the future of net neutrality today, which requires internet service providers to treat all web traffic equally. The measure is expected to pass 3-2 with the Republican appointees supporting repeal and the Democratic appointees opposing. 52% of voters support the rules that are in place. (The Hill / Fortune)
Removed: 📺 Watch the commission meeting.
Before
2. Omarosa Manigault Newman plans to leave the White House next month. (CNN)
After
2. Trump Jr. asked the House Intelligence Committee to investigate the leaked information from his closed-door interview with the committee last week. (New York Times) 3. Chuck Schumer was the victim of a fake news hit and turned over a document to Capitol Police purporting sexual harassment accusations by a former staffer. (Axios) 4. Omarosa Manigault Newman plans to leave …
removed: 3.now: 5. Minnesota's governor appointed Lt. Gov. Tina F. Smith to fill …
… allegations of sexual harassment and assault. Mazie Hirono called Trump removed: is a "misogynist," an "admitted sexual predator," and a "liar" with …
… Roy Moore, supported by Trump, has been accused of pursuing removed: romantic relationships with teenage girls while in his mid-30s, with one woman accusing … the Senate. Polls close today at 8pm ET. (NBC News) now: > UPDATE: > > Democrat Doug Jones won Alabama's special U.S. Senate election, beating Republican Roy Moore and narrowing the GOP advantage in the Senate to 51-49. (Associated Press / New York Times / Washington Post)
… trimmed to 51-49 in the Senate. Polls close today at removed: 5pmnow: 8pm ET. (NBC News) now: Live Alabama Election Results. (New York Times)
… of a recount. Today, the state's Supreme Court stayed the removed: order.now: order, meaning Alabama is allowed to destroy digital voting records. (The Hill / AL.com)
4. now: Then Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman asked Trump to rethink two of his judicial nominees. Chuck Grassley advised the White House to "reconsider" the nomination of Jeff Mateer and said they "should not proceed" on the nomination of Brett Talley. (CNN) 5. The Trump administration will let Assad stay until Syria's next …
removed: 5.now: 6. The House and Senate could reconcile their tax bills this …
4. now: The Trump administration will let Assad stay until Syria's next Presidential election in 2021, reversing the US stance that Assad must step down as part of a peace process. (The New Yorker) 5. The House and Senate could reconcile their tax bills this …
… is a Jew." Her comments came a week after Roy now: Moore attacked George Soros, the Jewish liberal mega-donor, saying Soros "is …
… to protect him from Robert Mueller's "killers" in the Russia removed: probe and facenow: probe, while facing criticism that they are outmatched. (Washington Post)
… announcement could come as soon as today or Wednesday. The removed: "conference"now: conference committee is scheduled to meet Wednesday at 2pm. (Washington Post)
3. now: Trump's legal team is trying to protect him from Robert Mueller's "killers" in the Russia probe and face criticism that they are outmatched. (Washington Post) 4. The House and Senate could reconcile their tax bills this …
3/ removed: Three Democratic senators called for Trump's resignation over sexual harassment and … that brought down Al Franken should be applied to Trump. now: Kirsten Gillibrand added: "Trump has committed assault" and "he should be fully investigated and he should resign." (Washington Post / CNN)
Before
3. Putin ordered the partial withdrawal of Russian troops from Syria. Putin made a similar withdrawal announcement last year, but Russian military operations continued. (BBC)
After
3. A federal judge denied the Trump's request to delay accepting transgender recruits, who will now be able to enlist by January 1st. (Washington Post)
Before
4. Inside Trump's battle for self-preservation. tl;dr Twitter, cable news, and a dozen Diet Cokes. (New York Times)
After
4. Police shoot Americans more than twice as often as previously known, according to data from the 50 largest local police departments. (Vice News)
Before
5. The Trump administration is taking credit for killing 469 regulatory actions. 42% were already dead. (Bloomberg)
After
5. Putin ordered the partial withdrawal of Russian troops from Syria. Putin made a similar withdrawal announcement last year, but Russian military operations continued. (BBC) 6. Inside Trump's battle for self-preservation. tl;dr Twitter, cable news, and a dozen Diet Cokes. (New York Times) 7. The Trump administration is taking credit for killing 469 regulatory actions. 42% were already dead. (Bloomberg) …
… directly on Twitter about the campaign a few weeks after now: the September 14th email was sent removed: by by somebody named Mike Erickson. WikiLeaks began leaking the contents …
… the Civil Rights Museum after civil rights leaders said they now: would boycott the event in Jackson, Mississippi because of the president's …
… for tax deductions for medical expenses, which House Republicans had now: previously voted to eliminate entirely. (Politico / The Hill)
1/ now: Trump, Trump now: Jr., and now: members of the Trump removed: Jr.now: Organization received an email now: during the campaign with the decryption key needed to open the hacked DNC documents that removed: WikiLeaknow: WikiLeaks had posted two months earlier. removed: The September 4th email came the same day that Trump Jr. first tweeted about WikiLeaks and Hillary Clinton, and one month before WikiLeaks began leaking the contents of John Podesta's hacked emails. WikiLeaks contacted Trump Jr. directly on Twitter about the campaign a few weeks now: after September 14th email was sent by by somebody named Mike Erickson. WikiLeaks began leaking the contents of John Podesta's hacked emails a month later. Trump Jr. told investigators he had no recollection of the removed: email, which was sent by somebody named Mike Erickson. [Editor's note: The Washington Post is reporting that the email was sent on Sept. 14th. Will update when this is confirmed.]now: email. (CNN / Washington Post)
Before
3/ Trump's deputy national security adviser plans to leave the White House after the president's first year in office. Dina Powell has been behind the Trump administration's Middle East policy and is leaving on good terms. Powell will continue to advise the administration on Middle East policy from outside the government. (Washington Post)
After
4/ Arizona Rep. Trent Franks allegedly approached two female staffers about acting as a potential pregnancy surrogate. Aides, however, were concerned that Franks was asking about impregnating them through sexual intercourse, rather than through in vitro fertilization. One woman said she was the subject of retribution after rebuffing Franks and that he allegedly offered her $5 million to act as …
Before
3. A woman who accused Roy Moore of sexual assault said she doctored the yearbook message she used as proof to show the two knew each when she was 16 years old. (NBC News)
After
3. Trump withdrew an Obama-era proposal requiring airlines and ticket agencies to disclose baggage fees as soon as passengers start the process of buying a ticket. (The Hill)
Before
4. Trump withdrew an Obama-era proposal requiring airlines and ticket agencies to disclose baggage fees as soon as passengers start the process of buying a ticket. (The Hill)
After
4. The official death toll in Puerto Rico is 62, but the actual deaths may be as high as 1,052. (New York Times)
… began leaking the contents of John Podesta's hacked emails. WikiLeaks removed: contactnow: contacted Trump Jr. directly on Twitter about the campaign a few …
… He's argued that slavery was the last time America was removed: great,now: great and that homosexuality should be removed: illegal,now: illegal; he now: also doesn't believe that Obama was born in the United States, …
… security adviser plans to leave the White House after the removed: President'snow: president's first year in office. Dina Powell has been behind the …
removed: 1. 🇷🇺 What you need to know about the Trump-Russia investigation.
Before
3/ House Democrats will oppose a short-term government funding bill being brought to the floor for a vote today. Nancy Pelosi said Democrats don't want a government shutdown, but the GOP budget bill lacks Democratic priorities, including protections for so-called Dreamers, as well as funding for the opioid crisis, hurricane and wildfire relief, veterans issues and pension protections. (The Hill …
After
3/ The House passed a two-week stopgap spending bill. The measure would fund the government through December 22nd, but still needs to be approved by the Senate and Trump by Friday at midnight in order to avoid a government shutdown. The legislation passed in a 235-193 vote. Fourteen Democrats voted for the measure and 18 Republicans voted "no." (New York …
Before
2. The House approved a bill that would ease restrictions on carrying concealed firearms across state lines. The bill, which was supported by the National Rifle Association, now goes to the Senate, where it is likely to encounter a much tougher battle. (NPR)
After
2. The British publicist who arranged the June 2016 Trump Tower meeting encouraged Dan Scavino to make a page for candidate Trump on the Russian social networking site VK, telling him that "Don and Paul" were on board with the idea. Don and Paul, of course, refer to Donald Trump Jr. and Paul Manafort. The previously undisclosed emails from Rob …
Before
3. Democrats on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee put KT McFarland's nomination on hold until she answers questions about her knowledge of communications between Michael Flynn and Russian ambassador Sergey Kislyak. (CNN)
After
6. Representative Trent Franks is expected to resign from Congress. It's unclear why Franks is stepping down, but one Arizona Republican said there had been rumors of inappropriate behavior. (Roll Call)
Before
4. Devin Nunes met with Blackwater founder Erik Prince earlier this year despite his recusal from the Russia probe. Nunes discussed with Prince the House Intelligence Committee's investigation into the unmasking of Americans' identities in intelligence reports. (Business Insider)
After
7. The Senate voted to begin the process of reconciling its tax bill with the House version, though several big issues, including the size of the corporate tax cut, remain. (New York Times)
Before
5. The Senate voted to begin the process of reconciling its tax bill with the House version, though several big issues, including the size of the corporate tax cut, remain. (New York Times)
After
8. Trump will undergo a physical examination early next year and allow doctors to release details of his medical evaluation. (CNN)
… during the call. Adam Schiff, the top Democrat on the removed: Committee,now: committee, told reporters: "I don't believe you can shield communications between …
2. The House approved a bill removed: tonow: that would ease restrictions removed: fornow: on carrying concealed firearms across state lines. The removed: movenow: bill, which was supported by the National Rifle removed: Association andnow: Association, now goes to the Senate, where it is likely to …
… year despite his recusal from the Russia probe. Nunes discussed now: with Prince the House Intelligence Committee's investigation into the unmasking of Americans' identities in intelligence removed: reports with Prince.now: reports. (Business Insider)
… decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel a removed: "dangerous step"now: "dangerous" and an "irresponsible and unwarranted step." White House officials acknowledged …
5. Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer will meet with Trump and Republican congressional leaders at the White House in hopes of negotiating a spending bill to prevent a government shutdown. (Reuters)
After
5. The Senate voted to begin the process of reconciling its tax bill with the House version, though several big issues, including the size of the corporate tax cut, remain. (New York Times)
… until they completed certain investigative steps." (New York Times / removed: Politico)now: Politico / CNN)
… meet with the House Intelligence Committee behind closed doors today. removed: Thenow: He told the committee removed: is expectednow: that he spoke with Hope Hicks – not his father – about how to removed: ask him about any Russian contacts andnow: respond to news reports of his removed: communication with WikiLeaks duringnow: June 2016 meeting at Trump Tower. While aboard Air Force One, Trump helped write Trump Jr.'s initial response, which was sent through the removed: presidential campaign.now: Trump Organization under Trump Jr.'s name. The voluntary appearance is Trump Jr.'s first face-to-face meeting with … Intelligence Committee soon, although a date has not been set. removed: (Bloombergnow: (CNN / Bloomberg / ABC removed: News / NBC News)
Before
1. The Senate confirmed Kirstjen Nielsen as the next secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. Nielsen was previously John Kelly's chief of staff at DHS. (Washington Post)
After
1. A House vote to impeach Trump overwhelmingly failed as Democrats joined Republicans in a 364-58 vote to sideline the measure. (Politico)
Before
2. Illegal border crossings along the Mexico border drop to their lowest level in 46 years. Border agents made 310,531 arrests, a decline of 24% from the previous year and the fewest overall since 1971. (Washington Post)
After
2. Experts find the GOP tax plan riddled with bugs, loopholes, and other potential problems. Some provisions are so vaguely written that one expert asked, "holy crap, what's this?" (Politico)
Before
3. The Supreme Court appeared divided over a Colorado baker's refusal to design a wedding cake for a same-sex couple. Justice Kennedy will likely cast the deciding vote. (USA Today)
After
3. The Senate confirmed Kirstjen Nielsen as the next secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. Nielsen was previously John Kelly's chief of staff at DHS. (Washington Post)
Before
4. Germany's acting foreign minister said relations between the US and Germany "will never be the same" after Trump and that the Trump administration looks at Europe as a "competitor or economic rival" instead of as an ally. (New York Times)
After
4. Illegal border crossings along the Mexico border drop to their lowest level in 46 years. Border agents made 310,531 arrests, a decline of 24% from the previous year and the fewest overall since 1971. (Washington Post)
Before
5. Britain's intelligence agency MI5 foiled a terrorist plot to assassinate Prime Minister Theresa May. Two men have been charged in connection with a plot to use improvised explosives to blow up the gate to the prime minister's residence and kill May in the chaos. (NPR)
After
5. The Supreme Court appeared divided over a Colorado baker's refusal to design a wedding cake for a same-sex couple. Justice Kennedy will likely cast the deciding vote. (USA Today)
Before
6. Trump recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, reversing nearly seven decades of American foreign policy. The US Embassy in Tel Aviv will move to Jerusalem. (New York Times)
After
6. Germany's acting foreign minister said relations between the US and Germany "will never be the same" after Trump and that the Trump administration looks at Europe as a "competitor or economic rival" instead of as an ally. (New York Times)
Before
7. Kellyanne Conway defended Trump's endorsement of Republican Alabama Senate candidate Roy Moore, saying "president has tremendous moral standards." (The Hill)
After
7. Britain's intelligence agency MI5 foiled a terrorist plot to assassinate Prime Minister Theresa May. Two men have been charged in connection with a plot to use improvised explosives to blow up the gate to the prime minister's residence and kill May in the chaos. (NPR) 8. Trump recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, reversing nearly seven decades of …
… first acts, according to a whistleblower. Flynn worked with Russia now: until June 2016 on a business venture to build nuclear power plants in the Middle removed: East until June 2016.now: East. Ending the sanctions would have allowed the project to move …
… the Middle East until June 2016. Ending the sanctions would removed: allownow: have allowed the project to move forward. During Trump's inaugural address, Flynn …
… Trump Jr. will meet with the House Intelligence Committee behind removed: closed-doorsnow: closed doors today. The committee is expected to ask him about any …
5/ The removed: consumer protection bureaunow: Consumer Financial Protection Bureau reversed its position on a removed: nearly-concludednow: nearly concluded case less than 48 hours after Mick Mulvaney was named acting director. Lawyers withdrew their now: earlier brief and said they would no longer take a position on whether Nationwide should pay $8 million in penalties …
… up nearly three percentage points since 2013 and the highest removed: pointnow: percentage since 1962. As a result, the top 1% of households …
… a government shutdown "could happen," blaming Democrats for derailing the now: budget process. Democrats are vowing to vote against spending legislation if …
… plot to use improvised explosives to blow up the gate now: to the prime minister's residence and kill May in the chaos. …
… their plans and that the project was "good to go." now: The whistleblower approached the House Oversight Committee in June, but Robert Mueller's investigators asked him to "hold on the public release of this information until they completed certain investigative steps." (New York removed: Times)now: Times / Politico)
Before
4/ The wealthiest 1% of American households own 40% of the country's total wealth, up nearly three percentage points since 2013 and the highest point since 1962. As a result, the top 1% of households now own more wealth than the bottom 90% combined. (Washington Post)
After
4/ Trump's voter fraud commission wants to create a centralized voter database. The commission intends to aggregate the names, addresses, party affiliation, and partial social security numbers of millions of American voters in a central location, which more than a half-dozen technology experts and former national security officials say could become a target for hackers. Rules defining who can access …
6. now: Trump recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, reversing nearly seven decades of American foreign policy. The US Embassy in Tel Aviv will move to Jerusalem. (New York Times) 7. Kellyanne Conway defended Trump's endorsement of Republican Alabama Senate candidate …
… endorsed Moore yesterday. The RNC initially cut ties with Moore removed: over allegationsnow: after at least five women accused him of sexual assault removed: ofnow: and unwanted sexual advances as teenage removed: girls, but anow: girls decades ago. A senior RNC official said: "The RNC is the political arm …
… RNC initially cut ties with Moore over allegations of sexual removed: misconduct withnow: assault of teenage girls, but a senior RNC official said: "The RNC …
… Russian-owned banks, which could potentially give Russia leverage over Trump. now: Jay Sekulow, one of Trump's personal lawyers, denied that a subpoena had been issued. (The Guardian / Bloomberg / Reuters) now: Trump Jr. asked if the Russian lawyer had evidence of illegal donations to the Clinton Foundation during the June 2016 Trump Tower meeting. Natalia Veselnitskaya told the Senate Judiciary Committee that Trump Jr. lost interest after she said she did not have meaningful information about Clinton. (NBC News)
Before
1. The Republican National Committee reinstated its support of Alabama GOP Senate candidate Roy Moore after initially cutting ties over allegations of sexual misconduct. (The Hill)
After
1. Representative John Conyers will retire from Congress today amid allegations of sexual misconduct leveled by multiple women. (NPR)
Before
2. Representative John Conyers will retire from Congress today amid allegations of sexual misconduct leveled by multiple women. (NPR)
After
2. Obama had three of the top 10 most retweeted posts of 2017. None of Trump’s tweets from 2017 were among the top 10 most retweeted. (Politico)
Before
3. Obama had three of the top 10 most retweeted posts of 2017. None of Trump’s tweets from 2017 were among the top 10 most retweeted. (Politico)
After
3. Pence's aides maintain he doesn't know anything about Russia and the Trump campaign. (Politico)
Before
4. Pence's aides maintain he doesn't know anything about Russia and the Trump campaign. (Politico)
After
4. Robert Mueller's Russia investigation has cost at least $3.2 million so far. Other Justice Department agencies spent an additional $3.5 million to support the investigation. (USA Today)
Before
5. Robert Mueller's Russia investigation has cost at least $3.2 million so far. Other Justice Department agencies spent an additional $3.5 million to support the investigation. (USA Today)
After
5. FEMA employees who worked too much may have to repay some of their overtime. FEMA said the year of hurricanes, wildfires, and other disasters may force it to claw back employee compensation when it hits an annual pay cap. (Bloomberg)
Before
6. FEMA employees who worked too much may have to repay some of their overtime. FEMA said the year of hurricanes, wildfires, and other disasters may force it to claw back employee compensation when it hits an annual pay cap. (Bloomberg)
After
6. Patagonia will sue Trump for shrinking two national monuments in Utah, saying "the president stole your land." (CNN Money)
Before
7. Patagonia will sue Trump for shrinking two national monuments in Utah, saying "the president stole your land." (CNN Money)
After
7. Germany sees Trump as a bigger challenge than North Korea or Russia. (Reuters)
Before
8. Germany sees Trump as a bigger challenge than North Korea or Russia. (Reuters)
After
8. Trump will recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, despite Arab and European leaders warning that the move could derail the security and stability in the region. (New York Times)
… was written while he was on house arrest facing several removed: felonies,now: felony charges, which would have violated a court order to not publicly …
3/ Trump's former removed: Deputy National Security Advisornow: deputy national security advisor may have contradicted herself during Senate testimony about Michael Flynn's … not discuss or have any knowledge of Flynn's contact with removed: then-Russian ambassador Sergey Kislyak. A December 29th email exchange, however, shows McFarland wrote …
4/ House Republicans are prepared to block removed: Mitch McConnell'snow: the legislative promises removed: he gavenow: Mitch McConnell made to Susan Collins and Jeff Flake in exchange for their …
Senate Republicans accidentally stripped now: from their tax bill research and development tax credits companies use to encourage innovation. …
… Moore trails Doug Jones by 4 points in the Alabama now: U.S. Senate race. 44% of voters support Moore, while 48% support …
… of hurricanes, wildfires, and other disasters may force it to removed: claw-backnow: claw back employee compensation removed: for employees that hitnow: when it hits an annual pay cap. (Bloomberg)
4. Robert Mueller's Russia investigation has cost at least $3.2 million so far. Other Justice Department agencies spent an additional $3.5 million to support the investigation. (USA Today)
After
4. Pence's aides maintain he doesn't know anything about Russia and the Trump campaign. (Politico) 5. Robert Mueller's Russia investigation has cost at least $3.2 million so far. Other Justice Department agencies spent an additional $3.5 million to support the investigation. (USA Today) 6. FEMA employees who worked too much may have to repay some of their overtime. FEMA said …
… Russian meddling and collusion has come to the Oval Office. removed: It was a dramatic step for an investigation that has infuriated Trump since its creation. Flynn spent countless hours briefing the businessman-turned-politician during the 2016 campaign and was Trump's top national security aide. Flynn's plea deal includes an agreement that he could avoid …
now: 1. Catch up quick: Everything you need to know about the Trump-Russia investigation.
… not admit obstruction. That is an ignorant and arrogant assertion." now: In 1999, Senator Jeff Sessions argued that Bill Clinton obstructed justice and should be impeached amid the investigation into his affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky. (Axios) now: / Politico)
… that he fired Michael Flynn because he lied to the removed: FBI.now: FBI about his conversations with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak during the presidential transition last December. "I had to fire General Flynn because he lied to … FBI. He has pled guilty to those lies," Trump tweeted. removed: "It is a shame because his actions during the transition were lawful. There was nothing to hide!"now: (New York Times) 2/ Legal experts said removed: thenow: Trump's tweet is a public admission that removed: Trumpnow: he knew now: Michael Flynn had lied to the FBI, which is possible motivation to obstruct justice. now: In January, White House counsel Donald McGahn told Trump he believed then-national security adviser Flynn had misled the FBI and lied to Pence, and should be fired. Trump ultimately fired Flynn on February 13th. A day later, Trump asked if then-FBI Director James Comey could see "his … to letting Flynn go," according to notes Comey kept. Trump now: then fired Comey in May. removed: (New York Timesnow: (Politico / removed: Politiconow: CNN / Washington Post)
Before
4. Trump is expected to reduce to Bears Ears National Monument by as much as 90%. (New York Times)
After
4. Trump reduced Bears Ears National Monument by 85% and shrunk Grand Staircase-Escalante by 46%. The land could potentially be leased for energy exploration, opened up to cars, and more. No president has tried to modify monuments established under the 1906 Antiquities Act in more than half a century. (Washington Post / New York Times) 5. Jared Kushner failed to …
removed: 5.now: 7. poll/ 71% of Alabama Republicans say the allegations against Roy …
… public admission that Trump knew Flynn had lied to the removed: FBI andnow: FBI, which is possible motivation to obstruct justice. Trump asked if then-FBI Director …
… about firing Flynn. John Dowd said he gave the "sloppy" removed: drafted tweet now: draft to Trump's social media director Dan Scavino. The White House …
Current Status: The New York Times Live Briefing Bloomberg: Where the GOP Tax Plan Stands Right Now
After
Bob Corker will oppose the GOP tax plan, making him the only Republican senator expected to vote no. "This is yet another tough vote. I am disappointed. I wanted to get to yes. But at the end of the day, I am not able to cast aside my fiscal concerns and vote for legislation that I believe, based on the …
… Flynn pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI about conversations now: he had with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak during the presidential transition last …
5/ Senate Republicans removed: appear tonow: said they have the votes needed to pass their tax bill. Holdouts …
Before
7/ Trump said a government shutdown could be good for him politically if Congress doesn't pass a short-term spending bill by the December 8th deadline. Trump wants to blame Democrats and use the shutdown to get money for his border wall. (Washington Post)
After
7/ Republicans intend to cut spending on Social Security and Medicare after tax reform. Paul Ryan said he wants Republicans to focus on reducing spending on government programs and, last month, Trump said welfare reform will "take place right after taxes, very soon, very shortly after taxes." Marco Rubio said this week that "You also have to bring spending under …
… investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. (New York removed: Times / Washington Post)now: Times)
Before
3/ Trump lobbied several Senate Republicans over the summer "to wrap up" the Russia investigation. The chairman of the Intelligence Committee, Richard Burr, said Trump made a request "something along the lines of 'I hope you can conclude this as quickly as possible.'" Trump also approached Senator Roy Blunt, who sits on the committee, and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell …
After
3/ Jared Kushner was the "very senior" Trump official who directed Michael Flynn to contact the Russian ambassador and several other foreign governments. Abbe Lowell, Kusher’s attorney, declined to comment. (Washington Post / CNN)
Before
4/ Senate Republicans appear to have the votes needed to pass their tax bill. Holdouts Steve Daines, Ron Johnson, and Jeff Flake all said they will support the bill. "We have the votes," Mitch McConnell told reporters after meeting with his caucus. (Washington Post / Politico)
After
4/ Trump lobbied several Senate Republicans over the summer "to wrap up" the Russia investigation. The chairman of the Intelligence Committee, Richard Burr, said Trump made a request "something along the lines of 'I hope you can conclude this as quickly as possible.'" Trump also approached Senator Roy Blunt, who sits on the committee, and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell …
Before
6/ Trump said a government shutdown could be good for him politically if Congress doesn't pass a short-term spending bill by the December 8th deadline. Trump wants to blame Democrats and use the shutdown to get money for his border wall. (Washington Post)
… the Russians. The FBI said Flynn communicated with Sergey Kislyak, now: then the removed: then-Russian Ambassadornow: Russian ambassador to the US, after being asked by a senior Trump …
3/ Trump lobbied several Senate Republicans over the summer removed: to "to wrap up" the Russia investigation. The chairman of the removed: intelligence committee,now: Intelligence Committee, Richard Burr, said Trump made a request "something along the … approached Senator Roy Blunt, who sits on the committee, and now: Senate Majority Leader Mitch removed: McConnell,now: McConnell with requests to end the investigations. Trump has now asked at least seven officials in both removed: branchesnow: houses of Congress and the Department of Justice to end the …
… all said they will support the bill. "We have the removed: votes"now: votes," Mitch McConnell told reporters after meeting with his caucus. (Washington …
… an analysis of the Republican tax bill — or if removed: itnow: the Treasury Department even did one. Mnuchin has said economic growth from the …
… Trump ever asked him to obstruct the Russia investigation when removed: askednow: questioned today during his House Intelligence Committee testimony. Sessions said his …
… Theresa May on Twitter after the British prime minister criticized removed: Trumpnow: him for retweeting anti-Muslim propaganda from a British far-right party. "Don’t … the United Kingdom." The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, issued now: a statement of condemnation and called on May to cancel Trump's …
4/ Jeff Sessions declined to say if Trump ever asked him to obstruct the Russia investigation when asked today during his House Intelligence Committee testimony. Sessions said his conversations with Trump were subject to executive privilege and he would not respond to the question either way. (The Hill)
After
4/ Paul Manafort reached an $11 million bail agreement with Robert Mueller's team, clearing the way for Manafort to be released from house arrest. The deal involves Manafort pledging a Virginia condominium, Florida home, a condo in Manhattan, and another property in Bridgehampton, New York. (Politico)
6/ The Secret Service has spent nearly $150,000 on golf cart rentals since Trump took office. Trump has spent more than 100 days at Trump properties, and 81 days at golf courses in particular, during his presidency. (The Hill)
… Cotton. It's unclear if Trump has signed off on the removed: plannow: plan, which was devised by John Kelly. (New York Times / Washington Post)
2/ Jeff Sessions tapped Kellyanne Conway to oversee the removed: the White House's response to the opioid crisis. The removed: DOJnow: Justice Department and removed: DEAnow: the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) also announced $12 million in grants to combat the removed: epidemicnow: epidemic, which Sessions considers "the worst drug crisis in American history." (CBS …
… two weeks ago. Under the Senate plan, wealthy Americans like removed: Trump,now: Trump would receive nearly 62% of removed: all of the removed: benefitsnow: benefit by 2027, while two-thirds of the middle-class now: would face a tax increase. "This is going to cost me … thing, believe me," Trump said. "This is not good for removed: me," addingnow: me." He added that his "very wealthy friends" were "not so happy with …
… at Trump properties, and 81 days at golf courses in removed: particular throughoutnow: particular, during his presidency. (The Hill)
… Jones, the Democrat running against Republican Roy Moore in the removed: Dec. 12now: December 12th special election for an Alabama removed: U.S.now: US Senate seat. The Hatch Act prohibits federal employees from using …
… the videos, while Sarah Huckabee Sanders defended the tweets as now: part of a conversation about the need for national security and military spending. …
… Hatch Act when she made comments about Doug Jones, the removed: Democratic challenger to thenow: Democrat running against Republican Roy Moore in the now: Dec. 12 special election for an Alabama now: U.S. Senate removed: special election.now: seat. The Hatch Act prohibits federal employees from using their offices … an appearance on Fox News last week, Conway called Democrat removed: Doug Jones removed: – Roy Moore's challenger in Alabama's Senate special election – "weak on borders" and "weak on crime." (The Hill)
… promote the conspiracy theory in closed-door meetings. Advisers say Trump removed: continuesnow: also harbors a handful of other theories, including removed: claimsnow: one that widespread voter fraud cost him the popular vote and now: another that the voice on the "Access Hollywood" tape wasn't his. …
… Trump campaign adviser, pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI. removed: And,now: And Michael Flynn is no longer communicating with Trump's legal team, …
Trump removed: questionednow: asked if NBC will fire "low ratings" Joe Scarborough for a …
poll/ 71% of millennials want a third political party, saying Republicans and Democrats are doing a poor job of representing America. 63% of millennials disapprove of the way Trump is handling the job. 65% believe the country is on the wrong track overall. (NBC News) Dept. of Deplorable.
Removed: poll/ 71% of millennials want a third political party, saying Republicans and Democrats are doing a poor job of representing America. 63% of millennials disapprove of the way Trump is handling the job. 65% believe the country is on the wrong track overall. (NBC News)
2/ The White House responded: It is "disappointing" that Schumer and Pelosi pulled out of the meeting with Trump after his Twitter attack on them. Sarah Sanders added that Trump "encourages them to put aside their pettiness, stop the political grandstanding, show up and get to work." (ABC News)
After
2/ The White House accused Schumer and Pelosi of "pettiness" and "political grandstanding" for pulling out of the meeting with Trump after he attacked them on Twitter. Trump, seated between two empty chairs with placard props for Schumer and Pelosi, called the two "weak" and said "they've been all talk and they've been no action, and now it's even worse …
3/ removed: Ron Johnson and Bob Corker said they could vote against their tax bill today during a keynow: The Senate Budget Committee removed: hearing. Republicans holdnow: advanced the GOP tax reform bill in a removed: 12-11 majority on the Budget Committee. Ifnow: party-line vote, with both Bob Corker and Ron Johnson backing the measure removed: passes the committee, thenow: a day after threatening to withhold their support. The tax bill removed: will headnow: now heads to the full Senate floor, where at least six Republicans … and still pass their plan without the support of Democrats. removed: (The Hillnow: (Politico / Reuters / Bloomberg) removed: > UPDATED: > > The Senate Budget Committee approved the GOP tax reform plan, moving it to the Senate floor for a full vote. (Politico)
… capability to launch a missile capable of hitting the US. now: Trump told reporters that he "will take care of it," adding that North Korea "is a situation that we will handle." (New York Times / CNN)
… responded: It is "disappointing" that Schumer and Pelosi pulled out now: of the meeting with Trump after his Twitter attack on them. …
… could vote against their tax bill today during a key removed: a Senate Budget Committee hearing. Republicans hold a 12-11 majority on the Budget Committee. If the measure passes the committee, the tax bill removed: wouldnow: will head to the full Senate removed: floornow: floor, where at least six Republicans don't currently support the plan. …
… a miniaturized warhead on a missile in 2018, which would removed: theoreticalnow: theoretically give North Korea the capability to launch a missile capable …
4/ Michael Flynn's lawyer notified Trump's legal team last removed: weekthatnow: week that they will no longer discuss Robert Mueller's investigation with them. … Flynn may be preparing to cooperate with Mueller's investigation. Flynn’s removed: lawyersnow: legal team had previously been sharing information about the investigation with Trump’s …
6/ The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has two acting directors removed: claiming controlnow: each claiming control of the agency. Richard Cordray resigned on Friday, …
4/ Michael Flynn's removed: lawyersnow: lawyer notified Trump's legal team removed: thatnow: last weekthat they will no longer discuss Robert Mueller's investigation with them. …
5/ removed: Michaelnow: Today, Flynn's lawyer met with Robert Mueller's team, a possible sign …
Before
More soon on Mick Mulvaney, the CFPB, Time's Person of the Year, and Trump's ethics lawyer...
After
6/ The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has two acting directors claiming control claiming control of the agency. Richard Cordray resigned on Friday, naming Leandra English his deputy director and the presumed acting director. The White House responded by appointing Mick Mulvaney, currently the director of the Office of Management and Budget, to be acting director until Trump decided on a …
… by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office. If the tax bill removed: becamenow: becomes law, 4 million Americans now: are projected to lose health insurance by 2019 and 13 million removed: to lose insurance by 2027. The bill would add $1.4 trillion to the deficit over the next removed: decadenow: decade, and Republicans are aiming to have the full Senate vote …
3/ Trump repeated his support for Roy Moore, removed: despitenow: although Senate Republicans now: are still trying to force the nominee from the race. "The …
… with Mueller's investigation. Flynn’s lawyers had previously been sharing information now: about the investigation with Trump’s removed: lawyers about the investigation.now: lawyers. (New York Times / Washington Post)
The FBI failed to notify US officials that removed: Russian hackers were trying to break into their personal Gmail accounts now: were being targeted by Fancy Bear, a removed: Russian government-alignednow: Russian-government-aligned cyberespionage group. now: Many officials learned of the hacking attempts only when informed by the Associated Press. (Associated Press)
… working from Mar-a-Lago and very busy today an hour before removed: goingnow: he went golfing. First, the White House told reporters that Trump "will …
2/ Trump and the White House removed: insistnow: insisted that Trump removed: isnow: was working from Mar-a-Lago and removed: is very busy removed: today.now: today an hour before going golfing. First, the White House told reporters that Trump "will NOT …
1/ Trump called LaVar Ball an "ungrateful fool" and now: said that getting his son home was "a really big deal." … got his son out of a long term prison sentence removed: -now: – IT WAS ME." Ball is the father of one of …
… has a full schedule of meetings and phone calls." Soon removed: afternow: after, Trump tweeted that he "will be having meetings and working … Trump has spent 98 days at his private properties – removed: oncenow: one out of every 3.1 days – and played golf approximately 60 times, …
3/ The former director now: of the Office of Government Ethics filed a complaint over Kellyanne Conway's comments … Conway attacked the Alabama Democratic Senate candidate Doug Jones, saying removed: Jonenow: Jones "will be a vote against tax cuts. He is weak …
4/ Gary Cohn faked a bad connection to get off removed: of a phone call with Trump during a discussion with Democratic …
… tax bill would scrap the $250 educator expense deduction. The removed: deductionnow: deduction, for now: money that America's 3.6 million teachers now: spend out of pocket on classroom supplies, costs the federal government $210 million a year. The Senate …
2/ A federal judge blocked Trump's executive order to cut funding for so-called "sanctuary cities" that limit their cooperation with immigration authorities. US District Court Judge William Orrick said Trump cannot set new conditions on spending approved by Congress. (CNN)
After
2/ Trump defended Roy Moore, the Alabama Republican Senate candidate accused of sexual misconduct with minors, saying that Moore "totally denies" the allegations. "We don’t need a liberal person in there, a Democrat, Jones," Trump said. "I’ve looked at his record. It’s terrible on crime. It’s terrible on the border. It’s terrible on the military." (New York Times / NPR)
Before
3/ Nearly 60,000 Haitians living in the US must leave within 18 months now that the Trump administration has ended their Temporary Protected Status. Temporary status was granted to Haiti in 2010, after an earthquake devastated the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. The Department of Homeland Security said that the "extraordinary conditions" justifying their status in the US "no …
After
The Moore campaign: "We don't believe these women." (CNN)
Before
4/ The Senate GOP tax plan would raise taxes on 50% of Americans by 2027, the nonpartisan Tax Policy Center said. Trump, meanwhile, touted the plan as a Christmas miracle, saying: "We’re going to give the American people a huge tax cut for Christmas – hopefully that will be a great, big, beautiful Christmas present." (Washington Post)
After
3/ A federal judge blocked Trump's executive order to cut funding for so-called "sanctuary cities" that limit their cooperation with immigration authorities. US District Court Judge William Orrick said Trump cannot set new conditions on spending approved by Congress. (CNN)
Before
5/ Tax experts say the House GOP tax bill is full of loopholes for the wealthy. As written, hedge funds could take advantage of the new, lower 25% tax rate intended for small businesses, while private equity fund managers could sidestep a new tax on their earnings. (Bloomberg)
After
4/ A second federal judge halted Trump proposed transgender military ban, saying that active-duty service members are "already suffering harmful consequences" because of the his policy. The preliminary injunction issued by the judge goes further than the earlier ruling and prevents the administration from denying funding for sex-reassignment surgeries. (Washington Post)
Before
6/ Trump is shutting down his charitable foundation. The foundation admitted to violating federal rules on "self-dealing," which prevents nonprofit leaders from funneling their charity's money to themselves, their businesses, or their families. (NBC News)
After
5/ Nearly 60,000 Haitians living in the US must leave within 18 months now that the Trump administration has ended their Temporary Protected Status. Temporary status was granted to Haiti in 2010, after an earthquake devastated the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. The Department of Homeland Security said that the "extraordinary conditions" justifying their status in the US "no …
3/ Nearly 60,000 Haitians living in now: the US must leave within 18 months removed: afternow: now that the Trump administration now: has ended their removed: the Temporary Protected Status. Temporary status was granted to Haiti in …
… plan would raise taxes on 50% of Americans by 2027, now: the nonpartisan Tax Policy Center removed: sad.now: said. Trump, meanwhile, touted the plan as a Christmas miracle, saying: …
3/ Robert Mueller requested documents from the Justice Department related to the firing of James Comey. Investigators are seeking emails related to the firing, as well as to Jeff Sessions' recusal from the investigation, not only those circulated between Justice Department officials, but any related communication they had with the White House. (ABC News)
After
3/ Kellyanne Conway suggested that the White House supports Roy Moore because "we want the votes" to pass tax reform. Conway was discussing tax reform on Fox News when she began hammering Doug Jones, the Democrat in the Alabama Senate race, saying "He will be a vote against tax cuts." Fox News host Brian Kilmeade interrupted: "So vote Roy Moore?" …
… said the Treasury Department will announce new sanctions on the removed: country, which henow: country. He described now: the move as "a very large one." Trump said the designation will …
… are seeking emails related to the firing, as well as now: to Jeff Sessions' recusal from the investigation, removed: from not only now: those circulated between Justice Department officials, but any related communication they had with …
… of "thousands of emails." Spanish anti-corruption officials say Torshin is removed: the a "godfather" of the Russian mafia. (New York Times / …
… didn't recall if anybody on the campaign communicated with WikiLeaks. removed: But,now: But a letter from the Senate Judiciary Committee shows Trump Jr. …
5/ The FCC voted to loosen media ownership rules. The 3-2 vote rolls back a 1970s rule intended to ensure a diversity of voices and opinions could be heard on the air or in print, and makes it easier for media companies to be bought and sold. Critics of the FCC repeal say that the decision will result in less …
After
Jared Kushner is working with an interim security clearance 10 months into Trump’s administration. Kushner’s interim clearance allows him to view sensitive material, and that it is valid unless revoked. (Politico)
Before
6/ The Senate Finance Committee approved the $1.5 trillion Republican tax overhaul proposal after four days of markup. The committee voted along party lines, 14-12, to forward the proposal on to the full Senate, where the Senate is expected to take action after the Thanksgiving break. (CNN/ Politico)
After
5/ The Republican Party is no longer paying Trump's personal legal bills related to the Russia probe. Trump is working with the Office of Government Ethics and tax firm to use his personal funds to help current and former White House staffers caught up in the Justice Department's special counsel investigation with their legal costs. The RNC had previously paid …
Before
7/ Of Trump's 58 judicial nominees, 74% are white men. About 19% are women while 2% are both female and non-white. In total, 53 of Trump's judicial nominees are white, three are Asian-American, one is Hispanic, and one is African-American. He has nominated 47 men and 11 women. (Associated Press)
After
6/ The FCC voted to loosen media ownership rules. The 3-2 vote rolls back a 1970s rule intended to ensure a diversity of voices and opinions could be heard on the air or in print, and makes it easier for media companies to be bought and sold. Critics of the FCC repeal say that the decision will result in less …
… is eight days old and the president put out a removed: statement during his Asia trip on that." The statementnow: statement," which said Moore should step aside "if these allegations are true." …
… race despite several women accusing Moore of sexually assaulting them removed: as teenage girls.now: when they were teenagers. Trump has not publicly condemned Moore’s actions, removed: nornow: or pulled his endorsement of the Republican candidate, even as Mitch … Moore to drop out of the race. Sarah Huckabee Sanders removed: saidnow: said, "The president believes that these allegations are very troubling" but …
… president put out a statement during his Asia trip on removed: that," whichnow: that." The statement said Moore should step aside "if these allegations are true." …
4/ Robert Mueller issued removed: subpoenasnow: a subpoena to Trump's campaign for Russia-related documents from more than a … It does not compel any officials to testify but it removed: caughtnow: surprised the removed: campaign by surprise,now: campaign, which had been voluntarily complying with Mueller's requests for information. …
… overseas meetings with foreign leaders. Papadopoulos also claimed that Trump removed: had called him last year to discuss his role as a …
… ownership rules. The 3-2 vote rolls back a 1970s rule now: intended to ensure a diversity of voices and opinions could be … sold. Critics of the FCC repeal say that the decision removed: will will result in less diversity in local news media and …
… Republican tax overhaul proposal after four days of markup. The removed: Committeenow: committee voted along party lines, 14-12, to forward the proposal on …
… voters in the state have a favorable opinion of Obama removed: vsnow: vs. 49% for Trump. (The Hill)
1/ The Senate tax bill would raise taxes on the middle class while giving large cuts to millionaires over the next decade, according to analysis by the Joint Committee on Taxation. Taxpayers would see their taxes cut by 7.4% on average in 2019, but by 2027 their taxes would rise by an average of 0.2%. Those making between $20,000 and …
After
1/ House Republicans passed their tax bill, which would cut taxes by $1.5 trillion over 10 years in a rewrite of the tax code. The bill also cuts the corporate tax rate to 20% from 35%, collapses the number of tax brackets from seven to four, and eliminates or scales back many popular deductions of individuals, including the state and …
Before
2/ House Republicans are set to pass their tax bill with fewer than a dozen of the 240 House Republicans saying they are opposed to the bill. The House bill delivers more than 80% of its overall cuts to corporations, business owners, and wealthy families subjected to the federal estate tax. A Senate version of the bill contains major differences, …
After
2/ The Senate tax bill would raise taxes on the middle class while giving large cuts to millionaires over the next decade, according to analysis by the Joint Committee on Taxation. Taxpayers would see their taxes cut by 7.4% on average in 2019, but by 2027 their taxes would rise by an average of 0.2%. Those making between $20,000 and …
… sticking with Roy Moore despite at least nine women accusing removed: Moorenow: him of inappropriate, unwanted sexual behavior. Mitch McConnell has called Moore …
1/ Nearly 1.5 million people have signed up for an Affordable Care Act health care plan in the first two weeks of open enrollment, outpacing last year's sign ups by nearly 500,000. The Trump administration cut the 2018 open enrollment period from 12 to 6 weeks, and reduced the ACA advertising budget by 90%. (Reuters)
After
1/ The author of the Trump dossier believes his report is 70-90% accurate. Christopher Steele's reports were commissioned by Fusion GPS as opposition report and detail allegations that the Kremlin had personally compromising material on Trump, including sex tapes recorded during a 2013 trip to Moscow, as well as evidence that Trump and his associates actively colluded with Russian intelligence …
Before
2/ The Trump administration rejected 4,000 "late" DACA renewals despite some applications sitting in its mailbox at the October 5th deadline. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) only counted applications it had marked as "received" before the deadline. USCIS did not honor the postmarked date. The plaintiffs in a lawsuit against the Trump administration allege that many more …
After
RT registered in the US as a foreign agent, bowing to pressure from the Justice Department. Russia's parliament voted to allow the Kremlin to brand foreign media outlets like CNN as "foreign agents" in retaliation. (NPR / The Guardian)
Before
3/ Mitch McConnell proposed that Jeff Sessions could be run as a write-in candidate to replace Roy Moore in the Alabama Senate race and reclaim his old seat. McConnell suggested that if Moore won the election, he could be sworn in but immediately subjected to an ethics investigation that would include his testifying under oath. Moore has made no public …
After
2/ Nearly 1.5 million people have signed up for an Affordable Care Act health care plan in the first two weeks of open enrollment, outpacing last year's sign ups by nearly 500,000. The Trump administration cut the 2018 open enrollment period from 12 to 6 weeks, and reduced the ACA advertising budget by 90%. (Reuters)
poll/ In a hypothetical matchup, Joe Biden removed: would leadnow: leads Trump by 11 points in the 2020 general election. 46% … Biden compared to 35% who would choose to reelect Trump. now: While Biden has said he has "no plans" to run in 2020, removed: but thatnow: he's also said it would be "foolish" to rule it out completely. (Politico)
Before
*** Updates In Progress: Russia, North Korea, China, and more. ***
After
poll/ 52% of voters disapprove of the Republican tax plan while 25% approve of the plan. 61% believe the wealthy would mainly benefit from this tax plan. (Quinnipiac)
… applications sitting in its mailbox at the October 5th deadline. now: The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services now: (USCIS) only counted applications it had marked as "received" before the …
4/ The US embassy in Moscow hired a security firm owned by Putin's former KGB counter-intelligence director to provide "local guard services" for the US mission in Russia. Moscow forced Washington to cut its diplomatic staff in Russia from more than 1,200 to 455 in response to sanctions adopted against Russia in August. To make up for the loss of …
After
7/ Democrats raised concerns about Trump's ability to use nuclear weapons during a Senate Foreign Affairs Committee meeting. "We are concerned that the President of the United States is so unstable, is so volatile, has a decision-making process that is so quixotic that he might order a nuclear weapons strike that is wildly out of step with US national security …
2/ removed: Sessions told the House Judiciary Committee there wasnow: Sessions: There is "not enough basis" for assigning a new special counsel to investigate Hillary Clinton. Earlier, Sessions sent the removed: committeenow: House Judiciary Committee a letter informing them that the Justice Department was looking …
… them bearing the memo line "to finance election campaign of removed: 2016," BuzzFeed News reported on Tuesday.now: 2016." Nearly $30,000 was sent to the Russian embassy in Washington, …
… clear recollection" of the proposed Trump-Putin meeting. Despite repeatedly answering removed: with "I do not recall" to questions about a March 2016 …
… new special counsel to investigate Hillary Clinton. Earlier, Sessions sent now: the committee a letter removed: sent informing removed: the Committeenow: them that the Justice Department was looking into whether a special …
… Trump tweeted about John Podesta's hacked emails 15 minutes after removed: Wikileaksnow: WikiLeaks told Trump Jr. "we just released Podesta Emails Part 4." … didn't respond to the message, he tweeted out a link removed: Wikileaksnow: WikiLeaks had provided him two days later. (The Hill / The …
… Pence denied knowing that Trump Jr. was in contact with removed: Wikileaksnow: WikiLeaks during the campaign. In October 2016, Pence was asked if …
… make up for the loss of security guards, Washington awarded removed: Elite Security a $2.8 million no-bid removed: contract,now: contract to Elite Security, which was removed: founded founded in 1997 by Viktor Budanov and his son Dmitry. …
… that exceeded $380,000 in total to its embassies around the removed: world –now: world, most of them bearing the memo line "to finance election campaign of removed: 2016." The FBI is scrutinizing more than 60 wire transfers,now: 2016," BuzzFeed News reported on removed: Tuesday, totaling more than $380,000.now: Tuesday. Nearly $30,000 was sent to the Russian embassy in Washington, …
… of its probe into Russian meddling. Wikileaks made multiple requests removed: tonow: of Trump Jr., including asking for Trump's tax returns, urging the Trump campaign to reject the results of the election as rigged, removed: and requesting Trumpnow: not to removed: tellnow: concede if he lost, and, later, asking the president-elect to have Australia removed: to appoint Julian Assange as ambassador to the United States. Intelligence …
… misconduct when they were teenagers, the Senate majority leader said. now: Moore tweeted that McConnell is "the person who should step aside ... He has failed conservatives and must be replaced." Republicans are exploring whether to pursue a write-in candidate for … effort to retain their Senate seat. (New York Times / removed: Politico)now: Politico / The Hill) {% twitter https://twitter.com/MooreSenate/status/930128259035082756 %}
4/ Kim Jong-un called Trump an "old lunatic." Trump removed: responded by suggesting in a tweetnow: tweeted that Kim was "short and fat". "Why would Kim Jong-un …
… I asked him again. You can only ask so many removed: times...now: times ... Every time he sees me he says, 'I didn’t do …
… Kim Jong-un called Trump an "old lunatic." Trump responded by removed: callingnow: suggesting in a tweet that Kim now: was "short and removed: fat" in a tweet.now: fat". "Why would Kim Jong-un insult me by calling me 'old,' …
… Moore of sexual misconduct when they were teenagers, the Senate removed: Majority Leadernow: majority leader said. Republicans are exploring whether to pursue a write-in candidate …
… vacated by Tom Price after it was revealed that Price removed: took repeated trips usingnow: used government and private jets now: to take repeated trips that cost taxpayers more than $1 million. Azar is a …
… House counsel. Brett Talley has practiced law for three years, now: has never tried a case, and has been unanimously rated as …
2/ The Republican Party's Senate campaign committee ended its fundraising agreement with Roy Moore. The joint fundraising committee involving Moore's campaign, the Alabama Republican Party, the Republican National Committee, and the National Republican Senatorial Committee allowed Moore to raise $80,500 at a time from individual contributors. (Politico / The Daily Beast)
After
2/ Roy Moore called the allegations against him "completely false and misleading" and that he would remain in the race for the Alabama Senate seat. Senate Republicans are trying to block their candidate, having discussed fielding a write-in candidate, delaying the December 12th special election, and possibly not seating Moore at all if he is elected. (CNN / New York …
Before
3/ Robert Mueller is investigating Michael Flynn's role in a plan to extradite a Muslim cleric in the US and deliver him to Turkey in return for $15 million. Investigators are looking into the role Flynn and his son may have played in the alleged proposal to deliver Fethullah Gülen to the Turkish government. Erdoğan views Fethullah Gülen as a …
After
3/ The Republican Party's Senate campaign committee ended its fundraising agreement with Roy Moore. The joint fundraising committee involving Moore's campaign, the Alabama Republican Party, the Republican National Committee, and the National Republican Senatorial Committee allowed Moore to raise $80,500 at a time from individual contributors. (Politico / The Daily Beast)
Before
4/ Mueller's team is investigating a meeting between Michael Flynn and a pro-Russia congressman. The meeting between Dana Rohrabacher and Flynn took place in Washington on September 20th, 2016, while Flynn was an adviser to Trump’s campaign. Rohrabacher has pushed for better relations with Russia, traveled to Moscow to meet with officials, and advocated for overturning the Magnitsky Act, a …
After
4/ Robert Mueller is investigating Michael Flynn's role in a plan to extradite a Muslim cleric in the US and deliver him to Turkey in return for $15 million. Investigators are looking into the role Flynn and his son may have played in the alleged proposal to deliver Fethullah Gülen to the Turkish government. Erdoğan views Fethullah Gülen as a …
Before
5/ George Papadopoulos initially lied to the FBI out of loyalty to Trump. Papadopoulos has since pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI, while Trump has tried to distance himself from Papadopoulos, tweeting that "few people knew the young, low level volunteer named George, who has already proven to be a liar." (ABC News)
After
5/ Mueller's team is investigating a meeting between Michael Flynn and a pro-Russia congressman. The meeting between Dana Rohrabacher and Flynn took place in Washington on September 20th, 2016, while Flynn was an adviser to Trump’s campaign. Rohrabacher has pushed for better relations with Russia, traveled to Moscow to meet with officials, and advocated for overturning the Magnitsky Act, a …
Before
6/ The Senate Judiciary Committee approved a Trump nominee for a federal judgeship who has never tried a case. Brett Talley, 36, was unanimously rated as "not qualified" for the lifetime appointment by the American Bar Association. Talley has practiced law for three years. As a blogger he denounced "Hillary Rotten Clinton" and pledged support for the National Rifle Association. …
After
6/ George Papadopoulos initially lied to the FBI out of loyalty to Trump. Papadopoulos has since pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI, while Trump has tried to distance himself from Papadopoulos, tweeting that "few people knew the young, low level volunteer named George, who has already proven to be a liar." (ABC News)
2/ The Republican Party's Senate campaign now: committee ended its fundraising agreement with Roy Moore. The joint fundraising committee removed: between Moore andnow: involving Moore's campaign, the Alabama Republican Party, the Republican National Committee, and the …
… US and deliver him to Turkey in return for $15 removed: million dollars.now: million. Investigators are looking into the role Flynn and his son may have played in the alleged proposal to deliver Fethullah removed: Gulennow: Gülen to the Turkish government. Erdoğan views Fethullah Gülen as a political enemy and has repeatedly pressed the US to removed: extradite.now: extradite him. Flynn is facing military, congressional, and criminal investigations for concealing … bribed to act on behalf of a foreign government would removed: constitutenow: involve multiple federal crimes. (NBC News / Wall Street Journal)
… FBI, while Trump has tried to distance himself from Papadopoulos, removed: tweeting:now: tweeting that "few people knew the young, low level volunteer named George, …
6/ The Senate Judiciary Committee approved a Trump removed: judicial nominee now: for a federal judgeship who has never tried a removed: case for a lifetime appointment.now: case. Brett removed: Talley is 36 andnow: Talley, 36, was unanimously rated as "not qualified" now: for the lifetime appointment by the American Bar Association. Talley has practiced law for three removed: years and asnow: years. As a blogger he denounced "Hillary Rotten Clinton" and pledged support …
7/ Five states now: have asked a federal judge to halt the rollback of the … employers to include birth control coverage in their health insurance removed: plansnow: plans, citing moral and religious grounds. (The Hill)
2/ Affordable Care Act signups are outpacing last year's now: enrollment with more than 600,000 people selecting a plan through HealthCare.gov …
Before
4/ Michael Flynn is worried about his son's legal exposure as Robert Mueller continues to investigate Russian meddling and the business dealings of key campaign advisers to Trump. Flynn Jr. served as his father's chief of staff and top aide, and was actively involved in his father's consulting and lobbying work at their firm, Flynn Intel Group. In December 2015, …
After
8/ Trump's bodyguard testified that Russians offered to "send five women" to Trump's hotel room in Moscow. "We don't do that type of stuff," Keith Schiller said. The comments came as Schiller disputed the allegations made in the dossier that describes Trump as having an encounter with prostitutes at the hotel during the 2013 Miss Universe Pageant. Schiller testified that …
Before
5/ The House Intelligence Committee will interview the Russian-American lobbyist who was at the Trump Tower meeting with Trump Jr., Jared Kushner, and Paul Manafort. Rinat Akhmetshin will meet with House investigators next week. The panel last week interviewed Ike Kaveladze, a Russian who attended the meeting on behalf of Russian billionaire Aras Agalarov, the oligarch who initiated the session. …
After
9/ The Education Department has shed about 8% of its staff since December and hopes to offer buyouts to an additional 255 employees. The budget proposal Betsy DeVos plans to submit would cut $9.2 billion from the department's budget, eliminating teacher training and college-prep programs while investing in charter schools and potentially offering vouchers for private schools. Congress would likely …
Before
6/ The Justice Department is seeking a plea deal with Paul Manafort's son-in-law. The investigation into Jeffrey Yohai by the FBI and the US attorney's office in Los Angeles is separate from the Robert Mueller investigation. However, in the Mueller's indictment of Manafort alleges that Yohai and his father-in-law worked together on real estate deals in Los Angeles and New …
After
10/ The Senate unveiled an outline of its tax reform bill that differs significantly from the House and the White House. The Senate tax package would delay cutting the corporate tax rate from 35% to 20% until 2019 – a departure from Trump’s expectation for immediate tax cuts. The Senate bill would keep seven tax brackets, while the House bill …
Before
7/ The Education Department has shed about 8% of its staff since December and hopes to offer buyouts to an additional 255 employees. The budget proposal Betsy DeVos plans to submit would cut $9.2 billion from the department's budget, eliminating teacher training and college-prep programs while investing in charter schools and potentially offering vouchers for private schools. Congress would likely …
After
11/ A former Treasury secretary charged that current Treasury secretary Steven Mnuchin is making "irresponsible" economic assessments of the administration's tax plan and acting as a "sycophant" to Trump. Lawrence Summers, who was Bill Clinton's Treasury secretary, has been criticizing Mnuchin in podcasts, blog posts, and op-eds and on Twitter for suggesting that the tax plan currently being debated by …
Before
8/ A former Treasury secretary charged that current Treasury secretary Steven Mnuchin is making "irresponsible" economic assessments of the administration's tax plan and acting as a "sycophant" to Trump. Lawrence Summers, who was Bill Clinton's Treasury secretary, has been criticizing Mnuchin in podcasts, blog posts, and op-eds and on Twitter for suggesting that the tax plan currently being debated by …
After
12/ Trump's voter fraud commission was sued by one of the panel's own members. Matt Dunlap, one of four Democrats on the 11-member board, filed a suit claiming that he's being denied access to the commission's records and has been effectively frozen out of its activities. (Politico)
Before
9/ Trump's voter fraud commission was sued by one of the panel's own members. Matt Dunlap, one of four Democrats on the 11-member board, filed a suit claiming that he's being denied access to the commission's records and has been effectively frozen out of its activities. (Politico)
After
13/ Mitch McConnell called on the Republican nominee in Alabama to withdraw from the Senate race if the reports that he pursued teenage girls in his 30's are true. Several women told the Washington Post that Roy Moore initiated sexual contact with them when as teenagers, including one who said she was 14 and he was 32. "If these allegations …
… being able to take advantage of another country for benefit removed: ifnow: of their citizens? I give China great credit." (Washington Post / …
3/ John Kelly pressured the removed: Actingnow: acting Homeland Security removed: Secretarynow: secretary, Elaine removed: Dukenow: Duke, to expel tens of thousands of Honduran immigrants after she granted them a six-month removed: extension.now: extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS). Kelly and Tom Bossert, White House homeland security adviser, both … call was Kelly's concern that his handpicked nominee for DHS removed: Secretary,now: secretary, Kirstjen Nielsen, would face potentially uncomfortable questions about TPS during …
… consulting and lobbying work at their firm, Flynn Intel Group. removed: The Flynn'snow: In December 2015, the Flynns traveled to removed: Moscow in December 2015,now: Moscow, where the removed: eldestnow: elder Flynn dined with Putin at a gala for the RT …
… son-in-law. The investigation into Jeffrey Yohai by the FBI and now: the US attorney's office in Los Angeles is separate from the … Manafort alleges that Yohai and his father-in-law worked together on removed: real-estatenow: real estate deals in Los Angeles and New York, some of which …
… to submit would cut $9.2 billion from the department's budget, removed: eliminatenow: eliminating teacher training and college-prep removed: programs,now: programs while investing in charter schools and potentially offering vouchers for …
8/ A former Treasury secretary charged that current Treasury removed: secretary,now: secretary Steven removed: Mnuchin,now: Mnuchin is making "irresponsible" economic assessments of the administration's tax plan … Treasury secretary, has been criticizing Mnuchin in podcasts, blog posts, removed: op-eds,now: and op-eds and on Twitter for suggesting that the tax plan currently …
… elected mayor of Charlotte, North Carolina. Democrat Vi Lyles won removed: won about 58% to 42% of the vote in unofficial returns. …
… transgender woman of color was elected to public office. Andrea removed: Jenkins, a black transgender woman,now: Jenkins won a seat on the Minneapolis City Council. (The Hill …
The CBO: Repealing the Affordable Care Act's individual mandate would now: leave 13 million more Americans without insurance and reduce the federal deficit by $338 billion over a decade. …
7/ Democrats won victories in governor's races in Virginia and New Jersey last night. In Virginia, Democrat Ralph Northam beat Republican Ed Gillespie, 54% to 45%. And in New Jersey, Democrat Phil Murphy defeated Republican Kim Guadagno, 55.4% to 42.5%. (New York Times)
After
Democrats won victories in governor's races in Virginia and New Jersey last night. In Virginia, Democrat Ralph Northam beat Republican Ed Gillespie, 54% to 45%. And in New Jersey, Democrat Phil Murphy defeated Republican Kim Guadagno, 55.4% to 42.5%. (New York Times) After going to bat for Gillespie during the run-up, Trump distanced himself after the loss, tweeting that Gillespie …
removed: 8/ In Maine, voters approved a ballot measure to expand Medicaid …
removed: 9/ Maine's Republican governor said he won't implement the expansion unless …
removed: 10/ House Republican Frank LoBiondo announced his retirement, which puts his …
removed: 11/ Ted Poe also announced that he would not seek re-election, …
removed: 12/ Arizona congresswoman Martha McSally has told colleagues that she will run for Senate in 2018 as a now: GOP primary challenger to Kelli Ward. McSally would be the first …
Before
*** MORE SOON! ***
After
exit poll/ Half of Virginia voters said Trump was the reason for their vote with twice as many saying they were voting to oppose him (34%) as to support him (17%). (Politico)
4/ Leadership at the State Department is being "depleted at a dizzying speed," the president of the Foreign Service officers’ union said. State has lost 60% of its career ambassadors, who have retired or quit since January, nearly half of its career ministers are gone (down to 19 from 33), and 62 minister counselors have left since Labor Day – …
After
4/ Leadership at the State Department is being "depleted at a dizzying speed," the president of the Foreign Service officers’ union said. Since January, the State Department has lost 60% of its career ambassadors, 42% of its career ministers, and 15% of its minister counselors – and the numbers "are still falling." (ABC News / Vox) 5/ Scott Pruitt will …
Before
5/ A fourth Trump judicial nominee has been deemed unqualified for the job by the American Bar Association. Brett Talley has faced criticism for a 2013 blog post in which he called on readers to "join the National Rifle Association" and characterized gun control legislation passed after the massacre at Sandy Hook as "the greatest attack on our constitutional freedoms …
After
12/ Arizona congresswoman Martha McSally has told colleagues that she will run for Senate in 2018 as a primary challenger to Kelli Ward. McSally would be the first Republican to join the Senate race since Jeff Flake retirement announcement. (AZ Central)
Before
// Editor's Note: I'm writing today's update from a plane. I hope to provide a recap shortly on what happened in last night's election and a round up of what's happened in the year since the presidential election. -Matt
… votes. The Senate plans to release its tax bill this removed: week, whichnow: week; it is expected to differ significantly from the House bill. (NBC …
… putting the country in "grave danger." Trump, during a speech now: to South Korea's National Assembly, called on all countries to isolate … menace of a rogue regime that threatens it with nuclear removed: devastation" andnow: devastation." He warned North Korea to "not underestimate us and do not try us." Trump’s …
… to the House Oversight Committee that he had asked Lewandowski now: and Hope Hicks for permission to travel to Moscow. After the trip, Page emailed Lewandowski, Hicks, Sam Clovis, JD Gordon, and then-Senator Jeff removed: Sessions,now: Sessions about his trip to Russia, where he met with Russian …
… and 62 minister counselors have left since Labor Day – removed: "and arenow: and the numbers "are still falling." (ABC News)
… the American Bar Association. Brett Talley has faced criticism for removed: hisnow: a 2013 blog post removed: wherenow: in which he called on readers to "join the National Rifle Association" …
… tax, because they need to give something to rich people. now: Repealing the estate tax would provide an additional $300 billion dollar tax break to the wealthy. The Joint Committee on Taxation found that the tax bill would add $1.574 trillion to the deficit over a decade, which is $74 billion over the maximum amount it can add if Republicans want to take advantage of special Senate rules that would allow them to pass the bill with 50 votes. The Senate plans to release its tax bill this week, which is expected to differ significantly from the House bill. (NBC removed: News)now: News / Washington Post)
… provide a recap shortly on what happened in last night's now: election and a round up of what's happened in the year since the presidential election. -Matt
2/ Trump told CIA director Mike Pompeo to meet with a former intelligence officer who claimed the DNC emails were "leaked" – not hacked. Pompeo met last month with William Binney, who has challenged a January 2017 intelligence community report from the CIA, the FBI, and the NSA that concludes "Putin ordered an influence campaign ... to undermine public faith …
After
2/ Jeff Sessions will testify before the House Judiciary Committee on November 14th about his past statements regarding contacts between Trump campaign and Russian intermediaries. Sessions is also expected appear in a closed session with the House Intelligence Committee on the same day. (Reuters)
Before
3/ The White House has prepared an executive order to weaken the Affordable Care Act's individual mandate, which requires taxpayers to demonstrate proof of insurance or pay a fine. The order would broaden the "hardship exemption" that was established for those facing extraordinary circumstances (e.g., the death of a family member, bankruptcy, or natural disaster). Trump would sign the order …
After
Justice Department dropped their case against a woman who laughed at Jeff Sessions during his confirmation hearing. (HuffPost)
Before
4/ Syria will join the Paris climate agreement, leaving the US as the only country to reject the global deal. France, meanwhile, said that Trump, "for the time being," is not invited to December's climate change summit in Paris. (New York Times / Reuters)
… to visit Moscow in July 2016, he told the House removed: intelligence committeenow: Intelligence Committee during removed: a seven hournow: his seven-hour testimony yesterday. Page also told senior campaign officials Sam Clovis, Hope Hicks, and JD Gordon, as well as then-Senator Jeff removed: Sessionsnow: Sessions, about his trip to Russia. When he returned, Page sent … a little bit." Page maintains that his trip was made removed: was as a private citizen and now: was unrelated to his role removed: withnow: in the Trump campaign. (CNN / NBC News / Washington Post)
2/ Trump told now: CIA director Mike Pompeo to meet with a former intelligence officer who claimed the DNC emails were "leaked" – not hacked. removed: The CIA directornow: Pompeo met now: last month with William removed: Binney last month,now: Binney, who has challenged a January 2017 intelligence community report from now: the CIA, the FBI, and the NSA that concludes "Putin ordered an influence removed: campaign...now: campaign ... to undermine public faith in the US democratic process, denigrate …
… an executive order to weaken the Affordable Care Act's individual removed: mandate thatnow: mandate, which requires taxpayers now: to demonstrate proof of insurance or pay a fine. The order would broaden the "hardship exemption" that was established for those removed: who facing extraordinary circumstances removed: (i.e.now: (e.g., the death of a family member, bankruptcy, removed: anow: or natural disaster). Trump would sign the order if Republicans fail to include removed: itnow: such a measure in the tax reform process. (Washington Post / Washington Examiner)
… Trump said "hundreds more" would have died in Texas if removed: gunsnow: gun laws were tougher and another man now: using his own gun hadn't been able to "neutralize" the removed: shooter using his own gun.now: shooter. Paul Ryan suggested that "prayer works" as an effective form …
… worse off than it was before Trump became president. 53% removed: of say they don't think Trump has a clear agenda. (NBC …
… Democratic party – the lowest mark in more than a removed: quartnow: quarter century of polling. 30% of Americans hold a favorable view …
… more than $730,000) would receive an average cut of $37,000. now: Overall, 70% of people would get a tax cut next year averaging $2,000, but 12% would pay an average of $1,560 more. By 2027, those paying more would grow to 28% of all taxpayers, who would pay an average $1,980 more, while 57% would save $2,400. (Washington Post / Vox / now: USA Today/ Tax Policy Center)
… who had contacts with Russians during the campaign or presidential removed: transition.now: transition and include Paul Manafort, Michael Cohen, Trump Jr., Jared Kushner, …
Removed: Paul Manafort's attorney will challenge Robert Mueller's authority. Kevin Downing will file pre-trial motions that question "the legal basis for and sufficiency of the charges, the suppression of evidence improperly obtained by search warrant, subpoena or otherwise." Downing said he may try to prevent Mueller’s prosecutors from presenting some of their evidence during the criminal trial. (Politico)
3/ The Russian lawyer claimed Trump Jr. offered to have an anti-Russian law re-examine if Trump won the election. "Looking ahead, if we come to power, we can return to this issue and think what to do about it," Trump Jr. said of the Magnitsky Act, which the lawyer, Natalia Veselnitskaya, was lobbying against. Trump Jr. met with Veselnitskaya lawyer …
After
3/ A Russian lawyer said Trump Jr. offered to have an anti-Russian law re-examined if Trump won the election. "Looking ahead, if we come to power, we can return to this issue and think what to do about it," Trump Jr. said of the Magnitsky Act, which the lawyer, Natalia Veselnitskaya, was lobbying against. Trump Jr. met with Veselnitskaya lawyer …
Before
4/ Trump told Japan that it can protect itself from North Korea by purchasing US military equipment to shoot down missiles. "The prime minister of Japan is going to be purchasing massive amounts of military equipment, as he should," Trump said. North Korea launched a missile over Japan in September. (New York Times)
After
Trump asked Japan to build its cars in the US. Three out of four Japanese cars sold in the US last year were built in North America. "Try building your cars in the United States instead of shipping them over," Trump told Japanese automakers. "Is that possible to ask? That's not rude. Is that rude? I don't think so." (CNN)
Before
5/ Trump asked Japan to build its cars in the US. Three out of four Japanese cars sold in the US last year were built in North America. "Try building your cars in the United States instead of shipping them over," Trump told Japanese automakers. "Is that possible to ask? That's not rude. Is that rude? I don't think so." …
After
6/ The House Republican tax plan would cause taxes to go up for 28% of Americans by 2027, according to analysis by the nonpartisan Tax Policy Center. Families earning less than $10,000 a year would see a tax cut of about $10. Those making $48,000 to $86,000 would get an average tax cut of $700 next year, while taxpayers in …
Before
*** More soon on the Paradise Papers, Wilbur Ross, Kushner, and Mueller **
After
poll/ 44% of Americans are "very concerned" about the Trump campaign's contacts with the Russians, up from 27% who said so in July. (CNN)
… by cutting a separate public health program and raising Medicare removed: premiums.now: premiums. Senators, meanwhile, have agreed on a bill extending the program’s …
3/ The Russian lawyer removed: who met withnow: claimed Trump Jr. removed: claimed the latter offered to removed: re-examinenow: have an anti-Russian law now: re-examine if Trump won the election. "Looking ahead, if we come …
3/ The Russian lawyer removed: thatnow: who met with Trump Jr. claimed removed: henow: the latter offered to re-examine an anti-Russian law if Trump won the … about it," Trump Jr. said of the Magnitsky Act, which now: the lawyer, Natalia removed: Veselnitskayanow: Veselnitskaya, was lobbying against. Trump Jr. met with removed: the Russiannow: Veselnitskaya lawyer in June 2016 at Trump Tower after being promised …
5/ Trump asked Japan to build its cars in the US. Three out of four Japanese cars sold in the US last year were built in North America. "Try building your cars in the United States instead of shipping them over," Trump told Japanese automakers. "Is that possible to ask? That's not rude. Is that rude? I don't think so." …
Before
Ignoring the fact that Japanese carmakers have assembly plants in the US, Trump told Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to "try building your cars in the United States instead of shipping them over. That’s not too much to ask. Is that rude to ask?"
After
6/ George Bush called Trump a "blowhard" who is only interested in feeding his own ego. (New York Times)
Removed: 5/ George Bush called Trump a "blowhard" who is only interested in feeding his own ego. (New York Times)
1/ Trump's not worried about the unfilled State Department jobs, because "I'm the only one that matters." As of last month, the administration had filled about a quarter of the roughly 600 State Department positions that require Senate confirmation. "We don't need all of the people," Trump said in an interview with Fox News, arguing that the lack of nominees …
After
Current Status: Trump and Jeff Sessions have denied knowing about the Trump campaign's contacts with Russia. Court documents suggest otherwise. Records show that at a March 31, 2016, meeting between Trump, Sessions, and the campaign's foreign policy team, George Papadopoulos introduced himself and said "that he had connections that could help arrange a meeting between then-candidate Trump and President Putin." …
1/ Trump does not "remember much" from the meeting with George Papadopoulos, where Papadopoulos offered to arrange a meeting between Trump and Putin. Trump called it a "very unimportant meeting [that] took place a long time [ago]. Don't remember much about it." According to a person present for the meeting, Trump didn't dismiss the idea of meeting with Putin, but …
Before
2/ Trump and Jeff Sessions denied knowing about the Trump campaign's contacts with Russia. Court documents suggest otherwise. Records show that at a March 31, 2016, meeting between Trump, Sessions, and the campaign's foreign policy team, George Papadopoulos introduced himself and said "that he had connections that could help arrange a meeting between then-candidate Trump and President Putin." (New York …
After
2/ Carter Page testified that he told Jeff Sessions about his 2016 trip to Russia during the presidential campaign. At a Senate Intelligence Committee hearing in June, Sessions testified that he had "no knowledge" of any conversations between "anyone connected to the Trump campaign." During his confirmation hearing, Sessions was asked if "anyone affiliated with the Trump campaign communicated with …
Before
3/ Trump does not "remember much" from the meeting with George Papadopoulos, where Papadopoulos offered to arrange a meeting between Trump and Putin. Trump called it a "very unimportant meeting [that] took place a long time [ago]. Don't remember much about it." According to a person present for the meeting, Trump didn't dismiss the idea of meeting with Putin, but …
After
3/ Republicans called on Robert Mueller to resign as special counsel over what they contend to be "obvious conflicts of interest." Matt Gaetz, Andy Biggs, and Louie Gohmert introduced a measure to put the House on record describing Mueller as unfit to lead the Russia probe because of his relationship with James Comey, who was Mueller's successor at the FBI. …
Robert Mueller estimates he will need three weeks to present his case against Paul Manafort and Rick Gates to a jury. U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson set May 7th as a possible trial date. (ABC News)
Before
4/ Carter Page testified that he told Jeff Sessions about his 2016 trip to Russia during the presidential campaign. At a Senate Intelligence Committee hearing in June, Sessions testified that he had "no knowledge" of any conversations between "anyone connected to the Trump campaign." During his confirmation hearing, Sessions was asked if "anyone affiliated with the Trump campaign communicated with …
After
4/ Trump's not worried about the unfilled State Department jobs, because "I'm the only one that matters." As of last month, the administration had filled about a quarter of the roughly 600 State Department positions that require Senate confirmation. "We don't need all of the people," Trump said in an interview with Fox News, arguing that the lack of nominees …
6/ A Twitter removed: employeenow: contractor leaving the company deactivated Trump's account, which was down for …
2/ Trump and Jeff Sessions denied knowing about the removed: campaignsnow: Trump campaign's contacts with Russia. Court documents suggest otherwise. Records show that at a March 31, removed: 2016now: 2016, meeting between Trump, Sessions, and the campaign's foreign policy team, …
… trip to Russia during the presidential campaign. At a Senate removed: intelligence committeenow: Intelligence Committee hearing in June, Sessions testified that he had "no knowledge" … campaign. Sessions responded: "I'm not aware of any of those removed: activities...now: activities ... I didn't have — did not have communications with the …
… thing" – Trump insisted that the DOJ investigate "Crooked Hillary," removed: "Crazienow: "Crazy Bernie," and "Pocahontas," a nickname he uses for Elizabeth Warren. …
… month, the administration had filled about a quarter of the removed: somenow: roughly 600 State Department positions that require Senate confirmation. "We don't …
Removed: 4/ Jared Kushner turned over documents from the campaign and the transition to Robert Mueller in recent weeks. The documents are similar to the ones Kushner gave to the Senate Intelligence Committee. Mueller has been asking witnesses about Kushner's role in the firing of FBI Director James Comey. (CNN)
… and Donna Brazile both say the 2016 Democratic primary was removed: rigged.now: "rigged." In removed: a Politico op-ed,now: an excerpt promoting her upcoming book, Brazile accused Hillary Clinton's campaign of "unethical" conduct that "compromised the party's integrity" through a joint fundraising agreement with the DNC that now: allegedly gave Clinton control of the "party's finances, strategy, and all the money raised" before she officially won the nomination. Bernie Sanders' removed: 2016 campaign also signed its own joint fundraising agreement with the removed: DNC.now: DNC in 2015. Warren removed: said "yes" when asked if she believesnow: agrees that the 2016 Democratic primary was "rigged." (CNN / Washington Post)
3/ The Justice Department has identified at least six Russian government officials involved in the DNC hack that resulted in thousands of emails being released by WikiLeaks last year. Prosecutors have assembled evidence to charge the Russian officials and could bring a case next year. U.S. intelligence agencies have attributed the hack to Russian intelligence services. (Wall Street Journal)
After
3/ Senate Democrats asked Jeff Sessions to clarify his confirmation hearing remarks regarding attempts by the campaign to coordinate a meeting between Trump and Putin. Both the Senate intelligence and judiciary committees asked Sessions to formally clarify his remarks after it was reported that Trump declined to rule out the idea proposed by George Papadopoulos. Sessions weighed in and rejected …
Before
4/ The hackers who targeted Hillary Clinton's campaign had international targets corresponding with Russian interests. A digital "hit list" shows a multi-year operation that tried to break into the inboxes of 4,700 Gmail accounts worldwide and targeted the emails of Ukrainian officers, Russian opposition leaders, U.S. defense contractors, and more. The list was found by the cybersecurity firm Secureworks after …
After
Carter Page met with the House Intelligence Committee in private looking into Russian involvement in the 2016 election. Page originally wanted to be questioned by the panel in public. The committee agreed to release a transcript three days after the interview. (Bloomberg)
Before
5/ Senate Democrats asked Jeff Sessions to clarify his confirmation hearing remarks regarding attempts by the campaign to coordinate a meeting between Trump and Putin. Both the Senate intelligence and judiciary committees asked Sessions to formally clarify his remarks after it was reported that Trump declined to rule out the idea proposed by George Papadopoulos. Sessions weighed in and rejected …
After
Paul Manafort wired millions of dollars into the US through a company linked to one of Russia’s most notorious criminals. The Cyprus-based Lucicle Consultants Limited received millions of dollars from a businessman and Ukrainian parliamentarian named Ivan Fursin, who is closely linked to Semion Mogilevich, who is frequently described as "the most dangerous mobster in the world." (The Daily Beast) …
… and expands the child tax credit from $1,000 to $1,600. removed: Pre-taxnow: The treatment of pre-tax contributions to 401(k) and IRA would be preserved. Homeowners can … deduction, but the bill caps the deduction for new mortgages removed: of $500,000 or more,now: at $500,000, while also repealing the estate tax in 2024. The bill …
… U.S. defense contractors, and more. The list was found by now: the cybersecurity firm Secureworks after the "Fancy Bear" hacking group forgot …
… from 35% to 20%, repeals the state and local income removed: taxes,now: tax deductions, limits the property tax deduction to $10,000, and expands the …
2/ Facebook, Google, and Twitter testified before the Senate Intelligence removed: Committee fornow: Committee. It was the second day in a row removed: after answeringnow: the tech companies answered questions removed: from the Senate Judiciary Committee on removed: Tuesday.now: Capitol Hill. The tech firms admitted that they could have done more …
Paul Manafort and Rick Gates posed a "serious risk of flight," Robert Mueller argued in the pair's bail memo. He requested sizable bail and travel restrictions on the two because of their "substantial overseas ties, including assets held abroad, significant foreign work connections, and significant travel abroad." Manafort's bail was set at $10 million, Gates's at $5 million. Manafort currently …
After
Paul Manafort and Rick Gates posed a "serious risk of flight," Robert Mueller argued in the pair's bail memo. He requested sizable bail and travel restrictions on the two because of their "substantial overseas ties, including assets held abroad, significant foreign work connections, and significant travel abroad." Manafort's bail was set at $10 million, Gates's at $5 million. Manafort currently …
removed: 2/now: 4/ In a call with Steve Bannon, Trump blamed Jared Kushner … [approval] in Gallup. You can’t go any lower. He’s fucked." now: In a call with the New York Times, Trump said he was "not angry at anybody" and that the investigation into his campaign's links to Russia have "nothing to do with us." (Vanity Fair)
… a member of the Senate's Gang of Eight, which proposed removed: changes to removed: U.S. immigration laws, including the eliminationnow: eliminate of the diversity lottery. The bill passed in the Senate …
… and President Trump's actions this morning could not be starker." now: Trump, meanwhile, called the justice system a "joke" and "a laughing stock." (Washington Post / CBS News)
removed: 2/ Paul Manafort and Rick Gates posed a "serious risk of …
Before
3/ Trump blamed Chuck Schumer for yesterday's terror attack in New York City where a motorist killed several people after driving onto a bicycle path near the World Trade Center memorial. Trump tweeted that "the terrorist came into our country through what is called the 'Diversity Visa Lottery Program,' a Chuck Schumer beauty. I want merit based." Trump added: "I …
After
As many as 20 million Americans may have seen Russian-backed content on Instagram in the run-up to the 2016 presidential election. (Reuters)
… trillion spending limit set by the budget. The tax plan removed: willnow: is expected to maintain the top individual tax rate of 39.6%, removed: but will cut the corporate tax rate to removed: 20%. (Associated Press / NBCnow: 20%, delay the planned repeal of the estate tax, and limit the individual tax-free contributions to 401(k)s. Trump has insisted that the bill be called the Cut Cut Cut Act and called on Congress to repeal the Affordable Care Act's individual mandate as part of its tax overhaul. (NBC News / Wall Street removed: Journal)now: Journal / ABC News) {% twitter https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/925739132579729420 %} {% twitter https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/925740081805217792 %}
4/ House removed: Republicannow: Republicans delayed the release of their tax bill until Thursday as …
… that counsel the agency on scientific decisions. In doing so, now: EPA head Scott Pruitt removed: strippednow: removed six scientists and academics removed: ofnow: from advisory positions at the EPA. Pruitt is expected to now …
… has also called the Affordable Care Act's birth control benefit removed: "andnow: "an assault on religious liberty." Barrett was confirmed 55-43 to a …
4/ Steve Bannon advised Trump to find new lawyers, because he believes that Ty Cobb and John Dowd, the top two attorneys on Trump's legal team, "are asleep at the wheel." Bannon is also pushing Trump to take action against Robert Mueller, urging him to defund the investigation – a move that would curtail Mueller without having to formally fire …
After
4/ Sam Clovis was questioned by Robert Mueller's team last week and testified before the investigating grand jury. Clovis supervised George Papadopoulos during the campaign. The former co-chair and policy adviser to Trump’s campaign was also interviewed recently by the Senate Intelligence Committee’s investigation of Russian interference in the 2016 election. He was described as "a fully cooperative witness." Clovis …
Before
5/ Facebook, Twitter, and Google will appear before a Senate Judiciary subcommittee today. Facebook will tell members that Russians bought 3,000 Facebook ads, which reached the newsfeeds of 126 million users – equivalent to more than half of the total U.S. voting population. Google found 1,108 videos with 43 hours of content related to the Russian effort on YouTube. And …
After
5/ Hope Hicks will meet with Robert Mueller in mid-November. The White House communications director, and longtime Trump aide, has been at the president's side and in the room since before he launched his presidential campaign. The White House currently expects Mueller to wrap up his interviews by Thanksgiving. (Politico)
Before
What You Should Know about the Senate Judiciary Sub-Committee Hearing on Extremist Content and Russian Disinformation Online - Working with Tech to Find Solutions.
After
6/ Steve Bannon advised Trump to find new lawyers, because he believes that Ty Cobb and John Dowd, the top two attorneys on Trump's legal team, "are asleep at the wheel." Bannon is also pushing Trump to take action against Robert Mueller, urging him to defund the investigation – a move that would curtail Mueller without having to formally fire …
Before
poll/ 49% of voters support impeaching Trump, to 41% who are opposed to doing so. (Public Policy Polling)
After
7/ Facebook, Twitter, and Google appeared before a Senate Judiciary subcommittee today for the first of three public hearings. Facebook told members that Russians bought 3,000 Facebook ads, which had the potential reach of 126 million users – equivalent to more than half of the total U.S. voting population. Google found 1,108 videos with 43 hours of content related to …
… sort of vindication for the campaign, but belittled Papadopoulos as now: a proven liar, despite having called him "an excellent guy" in …
now: The "High-Ranking Campaign Official" named is campaign manager Corey Lewandowski. Papadopoulos …
"Another high-ranking campaign official" is Paul Manafort, removed: to whomnow: who Papadopoulos sent an email now: to with the subject line "Request from Russia to meet Mr. …
… is scheduled to testify behind closed doors before a House removed: intelligence committeenow: Intelligence Committee panel on Thursday. (CNN / Politico)
… hours of content related to the Russian effort on YouTube. removed: And,now: And Twitter identified 2,752 accounts controlled by Russian operatives and more than 36,000 bots that tweeted 1.4 million times during the removed: election.now: election campaign. (Washington Post / Bloomberg / CNN)
… 49% of voters support impeaching Trump, to 41% who are removed: opposenow: opposed to doing so. (Public Policy Polling)
"Another high-ranking campaign official" is Paul Manafort, removed: whonow: to whom Papadopoulos sent an email removed: to with the subject line "Request from Russia to meet Mr. …
"Another high-ranking campaign official" is Paul Manafort, who Papadopoulos sent removed: andnow: an email to with the subject line "Request from Russia to …
… – make no mention of Trump or Russian election meddling. removed: (New York Times / Washington Post / Wall Street Journal) > UPDATE: > >now: Both Manafort and removed: Rick Gates surrendered to Justice Department and pleaded not guilty on all removed: counts. (CNNnow: counts today. (New York Times / removed: Politiconow: Washington Post / removed: CBS News)now: Wall Street Journal / Politico)
now: A conservative website funded by a major Republican donor was the first to hire Fusion GPS to conduct opposition research on Trump. The Washington Free Beacon, funded in large part by the New York hedge fund billionaire Paul Singer, hired Fusion GPS in October 2015. (New York Times) 2/ Trump's former foreign policy adviser pleaded guilty to lying … Russian government officials. Papadopoulos was arrested in July 2017 and removed: pleaded guilty on October 5th.now: has been working with Mueller ever since as a "proactive cooperator," court documents show. The single felony count against Papadopolous directly relates to now: the 2016 presidential removed: campaign activity.now: campaign. (New York Times / Bloomberg / NBC News / Politico) now: {% twitter https://twitter.com/ZoeTillman/status/925021552009269255 %}
now: Fox News discussed the cheeseburger emoji instead of the Manafort indictment. (Vox) {% twitter https://twitter.com/marinafang/status/924981160253558784 %} 4/ Tony Podesta will step down from his lobbying firm … that Manafort and Rick Gates were indicted on multiple charges. removed: (Politico)now: The Podesta Group and Mercury Public Affairs are the two unnamed companies in the grand jury indictment of Paul Manafort and Rick Gates, which were referred to as "Company A" and "Company B" in the indictment. (Politico / NBC News)
Removed: Today's update will be revised hourly to reflect the evolving news.
7/ A federal judge blocked enforcement of Trump's ban on removed: transgenderednow: transgender troops in the military. US District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly said …
… Dems the focus?????" Trump continued: "....Also, there is NO COLLUSION!" now: The White House added that "today has zero to do with the" Trump campaign. (NBC News / The Hill / Vox)
… – make no mention of Trump or Russian election meddling. removed: Manafort and Rick Gates surrendered to Justice Department. (New York Times / Washington Post / Wall Street Journal)
> Manafort and now: Rick Gates now: surrendered to Justice Department and pleaded not guilty on all counts. removed: (Politiconow: (CNN / Politico / CBS News)
removed: {% youtube 7pdWAcK6Eh8 %} 4/ Tony Podesta will step down from his lobbying firm … had worked on a campaign with Paul Manafort to promote removed: the Ukraine's image in the West. Podesta’s decision to leave the …
… impacts on their careers and their families." (HuffPost / Washington removed: Post)now: Post / USA Today)
… Dems the focus?????" Trump continued: "....Also, there is NO COLLUSION!" now: The White House added that "today has zero to do with the" Trump campaign. (NBC News / The Hill / Vox)
4/ Trump, Pence, and Jeff Sessions are schedule to meet today. Sessions was invited to Trump's weekly lunch with Pence. (The Hill)
After
4/ Tony Podesta will step down from his lobbying firm after coming under investigation by Robert Mueller. Podesta (the brother of John Podesta) and the Podesta Group had worked on a campaign with Paul Manafort to promote the Ukraine's image in the West. Podesta’s decision to leave the firm came on the same day that Manafort and Rick Gates were …
1/ now: In a 12-count indictment Robert Mueller charged Paul Manafort and his associate Rick Gates removed: in a 12-count indictment with conspiracy to launder more than $18 million, making false … laundering money through 2016, and continuing the conspiracy against the removed: U.S.now: US in 2017. The charges – the first by Mueller – make no mention of Trump or Russian election meddling. removed: Manafort and Rick Gates surrendered to Justice Department. (New York Times / Washington Post / Wall Street Journal)
… noises in response to the indictment news. Starting Sunday, Trump now: in a tweet storm challenged Republicans to "DO SOMETHING!" about Obamacare, Hillary Clinton, Democrats, the Fusion GPS dossier, tax cuts, and the Mueller removed: investigation in a tweet storm.now: investigation. He continued Monday following the indictments: "Sorry, but this is …
4/ Trump, Pence, and Jeff Sessions are removed: schedulenow: scheduled to meet today. Sessions was invited to Trump's weekly lunch …
Removed: 5/ Puerto Rico cancelled its contract with Whitefish Energy. The $300 million contract awarded to a two-person Montana utility company linked to the Trump administration to repair Puerto Rico's electrical infrastructure has drawn criticism. FEMA said it has "significant concerns" about the contract. (NPR / Washington Post)
Removed: 6/ More than 50% of Trump’s nominees are tied to the industries they're supposed to regulate. Of the 341 nominations Trump has made to Senate-confirmed administration positions, more than half (179) have some notable conflict of interest. One hundred and five nominees worked in the industries that they were being tasked with regulating; 63 lobbied for, were lawyers for, or …
Removed: poll/ 38% of voters approve of Trump's job performance – down five points since September – while 58% of voters disapprove. (NBC News)
… – make no mention of Trump or Russian election meddling. now: Manafort and Rick Gates surrendered to Justice Department. (New York Times / Washington Post / Wall Street Journal)
… influence in US political affairs. The indictment of Manafort, Trump's removed: formnow: former campaign chairman, and Gates focused on their work advising a …
5/ Kellyanne Conway "can’t be bothered" that the Trump campaign's data analytics firm attempted to partner with WikiLeaks. During the campaign, Cambridge Analytica reached out to WikiLeaks about locating Hillary Clinton’s emails. Julian Assange declined to work with the firm. Conway was Trump's campaign manager at the time. (The Hill)
After
5/ Kellyanne Conway "can’t be bothered" that the Trump campaign's data analytics firm attempted to partner with WikiLeaks. During the campaign, Cambridge Analytica reached out to WikiLeaks about locating Hillary Clinton’s emails. Julian Assange declined to work with the firm. Conway was Trump's campaign manager at the time and said she knows "nothing about that." (The Hill) A Trump donor …
removed: 6/now: Before Obama approved the 2010 deal to give Moscow control of a large swath of American uranium, the FBI had evidence showing Russian nuclear officials routing millions of dollars to the US designed to benefit Bill Clinton’s charitable foundation while Hillary Clinton was serving as Secretary of State. She was not involved in the review by the Committee on Foreign Investment, which approved the deal. (CNN / The Hill) 7/ The Whitefish contract with Puerto Rico doesn't allow the government …
… lawmakers intend to wind down their Trump-Russia investigations even though now: the issue of collusion remains unresolved. The Senate Intelligence Committee wants the panel’s …
4/ The memo removed: the Russian lawyernow: Natalia Veselnitskaya brought to the Trump Tower meeting was coordinated with the Kremlin, undercutting removed: hernow: the Russian lawyer's claim that she was an independent actor when she sat … Kushner, and Paul Manafort. In the months before the meeting, removed: Natalia Veselnitskaya had discussed allegations that Democratic donors were guilty of … office had given to Representative Dana Rohrabacher, a California Republican now: who is considered to be one of the most pro-Russia lawmakers in …
… statement added that FEMA "has significant concerns over how PREPA now: [Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority] procured this contract and has not confirmed whether the contract …
8/ Trump promises to release the JFK files today, despite CIA Director Mike Pompeo asking him to withhold or delay some of the documents. The files will primarily come from the FBI and CIA, and would be the final batch to be released by the National Archives under a 1992 law that ordered the government to make all remaining documents …
After
8/ Trump delayed the release of classified documents related to John F. Kennedy's assassination, but approved the immediate release of 2,800 of the 35,000 documents by the National Archives. The rest will remain secret, due to national security concerns by the CIA, FBI and other federal agencies. The intelligence agencies have 180-days to re-review their reasons for keeping the records …
2/ Trump said the soldier’s widow must be wrong because he has "one of the greatest memories of all time." Trump suggested that there was no way he could have stumbled on Sgt. La David Johnson's name during his condolence call with Myeshia Johnson, because he has "one of the great memories of all time." That and his staff gave …
After
2/ After months of promises, Trump declared the opioid epidemic a public health emergency today – not a national emergency, which would have unlocked federal funding through FEMA's Disaster Relief Fund. Under the Public Health Services Act designation, no federal funding will be automatically directed to the crisis. Federal agencies will, however, be directed to devote more grant money to …
now: ## Department of Presidential removed: Quotes From Yesterday:now: Quotes:
Before
3/ After months of promises, Trump said he will declare the opioid epidemic a public health emergency today – not a national emergency, which would have unlocked federal funding through FEMA's Disaster Relief Fund. Under the Public Health Services Act designation, no federal funding will be automatically directed to the crisis. Federal agencies will, however, be directed to devote more …
After
8/ Trump promises to release the JFK files today, despite CIA Director Mike Pompeo asking him to withhold or delay some of the documents. The files will primarily come from the FBI and CIA, and would be the final batch to be released by the National Archives under a 1992 law that ordered the government to make all remaining documents …
Before
6/ Trump promises to release the JFK files today, despite CIA Director Mike Pompeo asking him to withhold or delay some of the documents. The files will primarily come from the FBI and CIA, and would be the final batch to be released by the National Archives under a 1992 law that ordered the government to make all remaining documents …
After
> UPDATE: > > The National Archives hasn't received Trump's approval to release the 35,000 documents because the the CIA, State Department and other agencies haven't told Trump what documents they want to redact. A handful of documents are expected to be released today, not the entire batch. (NBC News)
… banned Wall Street banks and credit card companies from inserting now: arbitration clauses into contracts removed: arbitration clauses that prevented consumers from banding together to bring class-action lawsuits. …
removed: 3/now: 6/ The head of Cambridge Analytica removed: wantednow: tried to work with Wikileaks to find Hillary Clinton’s 33,000 deleted … replied that he didn't want Nix's help. (The Daily Beast) now: 7/ Paul Manafort is facing a third money laundering probe. The Manhattan US attorney's office is working in collaboration with special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation to look at Trump's former campaign chairman. The state of New York also has its own money laundering investigation going. (Wall Street Journal) 8/ CBO Score: The bipartisan health care bill would reduce the deficit by nearly $4 billion over 10 years. If the insurer subsidies aren't funded, however, the federal deficit would increase by $194 billion by 2026. (The Hill)
Before
4/ Paul Manafort is facing a third money laundering probe. The Manhattan US attorney's office is working in collaboration with special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation to look at Trump's former campaign chairman. The state of New York also has its own money laundering investigation going. (Wall Street Journal)
After
A judge rejected a request by Democratic attorneys general in 18 states to block Trump's decision to end subsidy payments to health insurers under the Affordable Care Act. U.S. District Judge Vince Chhabria in San Francisco said the government does not have to make the payments while litigation over the subsidies unfolds. (Reuters)
Before
5/ CBO Score: The bipartisan health care bill would reduce the deficit by nearly $4 billion over 10 years. If the insurer subsidies aren't funded, however, the federal deficit would increase by $194 billion by 2026. (The Hill)
After
9/ The FCC will roll back media consolidation rules designed to preserve media diversity in local markets. FCC Chairman Ajit Pai's plan will eliminate a 1975 rule that prevented a single company from owning a TV station and newspaper in the same market. Critics say the move will lead to greater media consolidation and the loss of independent voices, while …
… 64% of Americans support legalizing marijuana, including 51% of Republicans. now: The Trump administration said February that it viewed recreational marijuana use as a flagrant violation of federal law. (Gallup)
… banned Wall Street banks and credit card companies from inserting now: into contracts arbitration clauses removed: into contracts that prevented consumers from banding together to removed: formnow: bring class-action lawsuits. Democrats and consumer advocates called the effort a …
… Wikileaks to find Hillary Clinton’s 33,000 deleted emails. Alexander Nix, removed: who'snow: whose firm worked for Trump’s campaign, wrote an email to Julian … could work together to find and release Clinton's emails. Assange now: replied that he didn't want Nix's help. (The Daily Beast)
… former campaign chairman. The state of New York also has removed: it'snow: its own money laundering investigation going. (Wall Street Journal)
6/ A two-person Montana utility company linked to the Trump administration won a $300 million contract to repair Puerto Rico's electrical infrastructure. The private-equity firm that finances Whitefish Energy was founded by Joe Colonnetta, who contributed $20,000 to the Trump Victory PAC during the general election, $2,700 to Trump’s primary election campaign, $2,700 to Trump’s general election campaign, and a …
After
6/ Mitch McConnell and John McCain praised Flake's speech, while Sarah Huckabee Sanders characterized it as "petty," adding: "I don't think Sen Flake’s language was befitting of the Senate floor." (The Hill / CNN)
Before
Zinke funneled millions to questionable PACs. The Interior secretary has helped raise money for political operatives that some Republicans accuse of collecting donations from conservative voters while doing little for their cause. (Politico)
After
7/ A two-person Montana utility company linked to the Trump administration won a $300 million contract to repair Puerto Rico's electrical infrastructure. The private-equity firm that finances Whitefish Energy was founded by Joe Colonnetta, who contributed $20,000 to the Trump Victory PAC during the general election, $2,700 to Trump’s primary election campaign, $2,700 to Trump’s general election campaign, and a …
Before
7/ Mitch McConnell and John McCain praised Flake's speech, while Sarah Huckabee Sanders characterized it as "petty," adding: "I don't think Sen Flake’s language was befitting of the Senate floor." (The Hill / CNN)
After
Zinke funneled millions to questionable PACs. The Interior secretary has helped raise money for political operatives that some Republicans accuse of collecting donations from conservative voters while doing little for their cause. (Politico)
Removed: 5/ Trump has personally attacked 1 in 5 Republican senators: Bob Corker, Ted Cruz, Jeff Flake, Lindsey Graham, Dean Heller, John McCain, Mitch McConnell, Lisa Murkowski, Rand Paul, Marco Rubio, and Ben Sasse have all drawn Trump's ire. Republicans hold a 52-48 advantage in the Senate and can only afford to lose two votes on any piece of legislation. (CNN)
Removed: 6/ The firm behind the Trump Dossier asked a judge to block the House Intelligence Committee from obtaining its bank records. Fusion GPS argues that the committee's subpoena threatens the First Amendment rights of the journalists who compiled the dossier by revealing the identities of clients who sought political research from the firm, and poses an "existential threat" to the …
Removed: 7/ The Clinton campaign and the DNC helped fund research that resulted in the Trump Dossier. A lawyer representing the Clinton campaign and the DNC retrained Fusion GPS in April 2016 to conduct the research. Prior to that agreement, Fusion GPS’s research into Trump was funded by a still unknown Republican client during the GOP primary. (Washington Post)
Before
8/ Two House panels opened a joint investigation into the Justice Department's actions during the 2016 campaign. The House Judiciary Committee and the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman said their investigation will look at FBI decisions regarding Hillary Clinton’s handling of classified information and the FBI's investigation into Trump campaign associates. (Reuters / Politico)
After
8/ Trump has personally attacked 1 in 5 Republican senators: Bob Corker, Ted Cruz, Jeff Flake, Lindsey Graham, Dean Heller, John McCain, Mitch McConnell, Lisa Murkowski, Rand Paul, Marco Rubio, and Ben Sasse have all drawn Trump's ire. Republicans hold a 52-48 advantage in the Senate and can only afford to lose two votes on any piece of legislation. (CNN)
6/ Two House panels opened a joint investigation into the Justice Department's actions during the 2016 campaign. The House Judiciary Committee and the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman said their investigation will look at FBI decisions regarding Hillary Clinton’s handling of classified information and the FBI's investigation into Trump campaign associates. (Reuters / Politico)
After
6/ The firm behind the Trump Dossier asked a judge to block the House Intelligence Committee from obtaining its bank records. Fusion GPS argues that the committee's subpoena threatens the First Amendment rights of the journalists who compiled the dossier by revealing the identities of clients who sought political research from the firm, and poses an "existential threat" to the …
Before
7/ Trump's personal lawyer will meet with the House Intelligence Committee today. Michael Cohen emailed Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, during the presidential campaign seeking help getting a Trump Tower built in Moscow. Peskov said he never responded to the email. (NBC News)
After
7/ The Clinton campaign and the DNC helped fund research that resulted in the Trump Dossier. A lawyer representing the Clinton campaign and the DNC retrained Fusion GPS in April 2016 to conduct the research. Prior to that agreement, Fusion GPS’s research into Trump was funded by a still unknown Republican client during the GOP primary. (Washington Post)
Before
8/ The firm behind the Trump Dossier asked a judge to block the House Intelligence Committee from obtaining its bank records. Fusion GPS argues that the committee's subpoena threatens the First Amendment rights of the journalists who compiled the dossier by revealing the identities of clients who sought political research from the firm, and poses an "existential threat" to the …
After
8/ Two House panels opened a joint investigation into the Justice Department's actions during the 2016 campaign. The House Judiciary Committee and the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman said their investigation will look at FBI decisions regarding Hillary Clinton’s handling of classified information and the FBI's investigation into Trump campaign associates. (Reuters / Politico)
1/ Two House panels opened a joint investigation into the Justice Department's actions during the 2016 campaign. The House Judiciary Committee and the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman said their investigation will look at FBI decisions regarding Hillary Clinton’s handling of classified information and the FBI's investigation into Trump campaign associates. (Reuters / Politico)
After
1/ Rematch: The feud between Trump and Bob Corker was relit ahead of the president's critical meeting with Senate Republicans on taxes after Corker appeared on both NBC's "Today" show and ABC's "Good Morning America." He said Trump should "step aside" from tax reform, stop "kneecap[ing] your secretary of state," and "leave it to the professionals for a while and …
Before
2/ Trump's personal lawyer will meet with the House Intelligence Committee today. Michael Cohen emailed Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, during the presidential campaign seeking help getting a Trump Tower built in Moscow. Peskov said he never responded to the email. (NBC News)
After
Trump tweeted that Corker was trying to stymie his agenda, called him a "lightweight," and charged that Corker "couldn't get elected dog catcher in Tennessee" – whatever that means. Corker replied on Twitter: "Same untruths from an utterly untruthful president. #AlertTheDaycareStaff."
Before
3/ The firm behind the Trump Dossier asked a judge to block the House Intelligence Committee from obtaining its bank records. Fusion GPS argues that the committee's subpoena threatens the First Amendment rights of the journalists who compiled the dossier by revealing the identities of clients who sought political research from the firm, and poses an "existential threat" to the …
After
Then, in an interview with CNN, Corker escalated his criticism, calling Trump a serial liar, saying he regretted supporting him for president, accused him of debasing the country, and refused to say whether he trusted Trump with the nuclear codes. In an interview with ABC News, Corker stopped short of calling Trump a liar. Instead, he characterized Trump as "utterly …
Before
4/ A small Montana utility company linked to the Trump administration won a $300 million contract to repair Puerto Rico's electrical infrastructure. The private-equity firm that finances Whitefish Energy, HBC Investments, was founded by Joe Colonnetta, who contributed $20,000 to the Trump Victory PAC during the general election, $2,700 to Trump’s primary election campaign, $2,700 to Trump’s general election campaign, …
After
Senator Thom Tillis brought a bag of popcorn to the tax luncheon in a nod to the ongoing Corker-Trump spectacle within the party. (The Hill / Washington Post / Politico)
Before
7/ Trump has personally attacked 1 in 5 Republican senators: Bob Corker, Ted Cruz, Jeff Flake, Lindsey Graham, Dean Heller, John McCain, Mitch McConnell, Lisa Murkowski, Rand Paul, Marco Rubio, and Ben Sasse have all drawn Trump's ire. Republicans hold a 52-50 advantage in the Senate and can only afford to lose two votes on any piece of legislation. (CNN)
After
2/ Jeff Flake announced that will not run for re-election, saying he "will no longer be complicit or silent" in the face of Trump's "reckless, outrageous and undignified" behavior. The Republican senator delivered a 17-minute speech on the Senate floor less than an hour after Trump met with Republicans for lunch, saying the "stability of the entire world [is] routinely …
… is also located in the hometown of Interior Secretary Ryan removed: Zinke andnow: Zinke, who is friends with the Whitefish CEO Andy Techmanski. (Washington Post …
… the committee's subpoena threatens the First Amendment rights of the removed: journalists'now: journalists who compiled the dossier by revealing the identities of clients …
… Two House panels opened a joint investigation into the Justice removed: Departmentsnow: Department's actions during the 2016 campaign. The House Judiciary Committee and …
… DeVos rescinded 72 guidelines that protect the rights of disabled removed: students.now: students under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and the Rehabilitation Act. The Department of Education called the policies "outdated, unnecessary, or ineffective." now: During her confirmation hearing in January, DeVos said she was "confused" about the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act when asked whether she supported it. DeVos said she thought it was best "left to the states," but "is certainly worth discussion." (Washington removed: Post)now: Post / VICE News)
Before
2/ Trump rush-shipped condolence letters to military families last week after he falsely claimed he had called or written letters to "virtually all" of the families. Four families of fallen soldiers received next-day UPS letters from Trump two days after Trump told the widow of a fallen soldier "he knew what he signed up for." (The Atlantic)
9/ The State Department revoked the visa of a Putin critic after Russia placed Bill Browder on Interpol's wanted list. Browder was responsible for the Magnitsky Act, a law aimed at punishing Russian officials believed responsible for the death in a Moscow prison of Sergei Magnitsky. In response to the Magnitsky Act, Russia cut off the US adoption of Russian …
After
12/ Trump signed an executive order on Friday that would allow the Air Force to recall 1,000 retired pilots in order to address what the Pentagon says is a pilot shortage. The order amends a post-9/11 emergency declaration that allows the Air Force to recall pilots from retirement. The Air Force is currently short approximately 1,500 pilots. (The Hill / …
Before
10/ Chuck Schumer said "all 48 Democrats" in the Senate are on board with the bipartisan health care deal. Mitch McConnell, meanwhile, said he would bring the Alexander-Murray bill to the floor if Trump signals that he would sign the legislation aimed at stabilizing health insurance markets. Last week Trump tweeted that he could never support the bill, which he …
After
The Air Force denied that it is preparing to put nuclear-armed bombers on 24-hour ready alert. On Sunday, it was reported that the Air Force could put its fleet of B-52 bombers on "a ready-to-fly posture" for the first time since 1991. An Air Force spokesperson said: "We are not planning or preparing to put B-52s on alert." (CNBC)
Before
11/ Trump signed an executive order on Friday that would allow the Air Force to recall 1,000 retired pilots in order to address what the Pentagon says is a pilot shortage. The order amends a post-9/11 emergency declaration that allows the Air Force to recall pilots from retirement. The Air Force is currently short approximately 1,500 pilots. (The Hill / …
After
13/ Trump’s voter fraud commission has left Democratic members in the dark about what it’s doing. Two of the commission’s four Democrats have written letters to its executive director, asking for basic information such as when the panel might meet again, what kind of research is being conducted, and when it might send a report to Trump. (Washington Post)
Before
The Air Force denied that it is preparing to put nuclear-armed bombers on 24-hour ready alert. On Sunday, it was reported that the Air Force could put its fleet of B-52 bombers on "a ready-to-fly posture" for the first time since 1991. An Air Force spokesperson said: "We are not planning or preparing to put B-52s on alert." (CNBC)
After
poll/ 42% of voters approve of the job Trump is doing, while 58% disapprove. (The Hill)
7/ Trump's digital director will meet with the House Intelligence Committee about Russian meddling in last year’s election. It will be Brad Parscale’s first interview with any of the committees investigating the matter. Parscale claimed that Facebook, Google, and Twitter employees were "embedded" inside the Trump campaign. (Reuters) Special Counsel Robert Mueller is investigating a Democratic lobbying firm about whether …
… last week after he falsely claimed he had called or removed: wrotenow: written letters to "virtually all" of the families. Four families of …
3/ Trump "stumbl[ed] on my husband's name" in removed: thenow: his condolence call removed: withnow: to the widow of the fallen soldier. Myeshia Johnson told "Good …
4/ Senators didn't know there removed: arenow: were 1,000 troops in Niger. Lindsey Graham, who sits on the …
Republicans on the House Ways and Means Committee removed: isnow: are considering removed: annow: retaining the income tax rate for people who earn $1 million or …
… The scientists contributed substantial material to a 400-page report about removed: the how climate change is affecting air and water temperatures, precipitation, sea level and fish in and around the Narragansett Bay removed: estuary, which thenow: estuary. The EPA helped removed: fund.now: fund the report. (New York Times)
Scott removed: Pruittnow: Pruitt's security detail is adding a dozen more agents as the number of threats against the EPA removed: leadernow: head has increased "four to five times." Pruitt has also purchased …
… for what Defense Secretary Jim Mattis called an "unlikely" attack. now: A senior congressional aide characterized the ambush as a "massive intelligence failure."
Private contractors removed: were used helicopters to evacuate the injured and dead, but Army …
***Updates coming soon on Health Care, John Kelly, Niger, and more.***
After
6/ The FBI has joined the investigation into the ambush that left four Green Berets dead after the 12-member team was attacked by 50 ISIS fighters in Niger two weeks ago. Investigators are questioning whether US forces had adequate resources for what Defense Secretary Jim Mattis called an "unlikely" attack. The troops were engaged in a firefight for 30 minutes …
5/ The EPA removed now: from its website climate change resources removed: from its website, whichnow: that local governments used to address climate change, curb emissions, and now: devise strategies for adapting to weather extremes. An EPA spokesman said …
… the next generation." He did not mention Trump by name. removed: (Politico)now: (Politico / New York Times)
removed: 4/now: 5/ On November 1st, now: the general counsel for both Facebook and Twitter will testify before …
Before
7/ John Kelly didn't know Trump would publicize that Obama didn't call when his son died. Kelly and the White House were caught off-guard by Trump using the death of Kelly's son to defend his handling of four soldiers killed in Niger. (CNN)
After
8/ John Kelly didn't know Trump would publicize that Obama didn't call when his son died. Kelly and the White House were caught off-guard by Trump using the death of Kelly's son to defend his handling of four soldiers killed in Niger. Kelly also defended Trump's condolence call to the widow of a fallen soldier where Trump said the solider …
Before
8/ Trump sent the $25,000 check to the fallen soldier's family the same day it was reported that he never did. The Washington Post reported that Trump had promised the soldier's father a personal donation during a June condolence call but had never followed through. (CNN)
After
poll/ 42% of Americans think Trump will be remembered as one of worst presidents in history. 16% think Trump will be remembered as a below average leader. (Marist)
2/ Trump suggested that the Democratic Party, the removed: FBInow: FBI, or the Kremlin paid for the dossier alleging ties between … from Fusion GPS, the firm behind the dossier, invoked their removed: fifth amendmentnow: Fifth Amendment rights against self-incrimination and refused to answer questions from the …
… Sessions cited Trump's executive privilege for his refusal to answer removed: question.now: questions. (New York Times)
4/ removed: Both Facebook's and Twitter'snow: On November 1st, general counsel now: for both Facebook and Twitter will testify before the House and Senate intelligence committees on removed: November 1st into Russia's use of technology to try to interfere with the …
now: The Internet Research Agency used Russian trolls to co-opt unwitting American …
… political ads to the election commission. The tech industry has removed: preventednow: resisted previous efforts to mandate advertising disclosures, saying the ads on …
… proof)," raising questions about whether Trump tapes calls and conversations. now: Sarah Sanders said there is no recording of the call, adding that Wilson's conduct is "appalling and disgusting." The mother of the fallen soldier stood behind Wilson's account, … with his comments during the call. (Washington Post / ABC removed: News)now: News / CNN)
Before
7/ Democrats asked the chairman of the House oversight committee to subpoena the White House for documents related to Michael Flynn and his company the Flynn Intel Group. "[T]he White House has been openly defying this Committee’s bipartisan request for documents regarding General Flynn for months without any assertion of privilege of any kind," 18 Democrats wrote in a 10-page …
After
poll/ 46% of voters believe the news media fabricates stories about Trump and his administration. 76% of Republican voters think the news media invent stories about Trump compared to 65% of Democrats who think the news media does not. (Politico)
Before
poll/ 46% of voters believe the news media fabricates stories about Trump and his administration. 76% of Republican voters think the news media invent stories about Trump compared to 65% of Democrats who think the news media does not. (Politico)
After
poll/ 52% of Americans oppose Trump's recent tax reform proposal while 34% say they support the plan. The tax plan would consolidate the number of tax rates from seven to three: 12%, 25% and 35%. The plan would also increase the standard deduction, increase the child tax credit, repeal the alternative minimum tax, and drop the corporate tax rate to …
… second federal judge blocked Trump's latest travel ban attempt citing removed: hisnow: Trump's tweets as evidence the policy carries the same intent as removed: Trump'snow: his Muslim ban proposal. The Maryland judge granted a nationwide preliminary …
… White House for documents related to Michael Flynn and his removed: companynow: company, the Flynn Intel Group. "[T]he White House has been openly …
… his administration. 76% of Republican voters think the news media removed: inventnow: invents stories about Trump compared to 65% of Democrats who think …
… the EPA to speed up regulation on issues such as removed: climate change and air and water removed: pollution.now: pollution, as well as climate change. (Reuters)
9/ The Senate Intelligence Committee has requested documents and testimony now: from Michael Flynn's son. They have not received a removed: response,now: response yet. Michael G. Flynn was involved in the day-to-day operations …
… is no level of radiation is safe and concluded that removed: "Thenow: "the current body of scientific knowledge tells us this." (Bloomberg)
… the EPA to speed up regulation on issues such as removed: climate and air and water removed: pollution.now: pollution, as well as climate change. (Reuters)
… to protect students from predatory career college programs. DeVos froze now: an Obama-era rule called "gainful employment." The rule would have cut …
11/ Scott Pruitt directed the EPA to stop settling lawsuits with environmental groups behind closed doors, saying the groups have had too much influence on regulation. Pruitt sued the agency he now runs more than a dozen times while the attorney general of Oklahoma. The practice of "sue and settle" is used by green groups to push the EPA to …
After
14/ A group of 18 Democratic attorneys general are suing Betsy DeVos over the Education Department's refusal to enforce regulation meant to protect students from predatory career college programs. DeVos froze Obama-era rule called "gainful employment." The rule would have cut off federal financial aid funding from for-profit colleges that leave students with low incomes and massive debt. (BuzzFeed News …
5/ Trump's nominee for drug czar has withdrawn his name from consideration after it was reported the lawmaker guided legislation in Congress that made it harder for the DEA to act against giant drug companies. "Rep.Tom Marino has informed me that he is withdrawing his name from consideration as drug czar," Trump tweeted. "Tom is a fine man and a …
After
5/ Senators have agreed "in principle" to a bipartisan deal to fund subsidies for health insurers and stabilize insurance markets under the Affordable Care Act. Trump had threatened to cut off the payments which lower out-of-pocket costs for low-income consumers. The deal will fund subsidies for two years, providing short-term certainty to insurers. (New York Times / ABC News)
6/ Putin's "chef" is believed to have financed the Russian "troll factory" that used social media to spread fake news during the 2016 US presidential campaign. Yevgeny Prigozhin is a Russian oligarch and the main backer of the St. Petersburg-based Internet Research Agency. A declassified assessment by US intelligence concluded in January that the "likely financier of the so-called Internet …
… that Obama didn't call the families of troops killed in now: the line of duty. "If you look at President Obama and other presidents, …
… needs to "Stop the damn lying - you’re the President." removed: And,now: And Benjamin Rhodes, a former deputy national security adviser, called Trump's …
6/ The Senate Intelligence Committee has requested documents and testimony now: from Michael Flynn's son. They have not received a response, yet. …
… under Obama. A 2007 version of the same document said removed: there isnow: that no level of radiation is safe and concluded that removed: "Thenow: "the current body of scientific knowledge tells us this." (Bloomberg)
… agency he now runs more than a dozen times while now: he was the attorney general of Oklahoma. The practice of "sue and … EPA to speed up regulation on issues such as climate now: change and air and water pollution. (Reuters)
… dismissing the question as the "petty stuff" of Washington. Meanwhile, removed: Bob Corker charged that Trump's tweetsnow: Trump tweeted that Tillerson "is wasting his time" trying to talk with North removed: Koreanow: Korea, and Bob Corker charged that Trump had "publicly castrate[d]" removed: Tillerson.now: him. "I checked," Tillerson said, "I’m fully intact." (Washington Post / …
4/ Paul Manafort's financial ties to a Russian oligarch total around $60 million over the past decade. Previously unreported documents revealed a $26 million loan between a Manafort-linked company and Oleg Deripaska, a billionaire with close ties to the Kremlin. (NBC News)
After
6/ Trump said that Pence "wants to hang" all gay people. The comment, an apparent joke, came after a legal scholar told the two that if the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, many states would legalize abortion on their own. "You see? You've wasted all this time and energy on it, and it's not going to end abortion anyway," …
Before
5/ Trump once joked that Pence "wants to hang" all gay people. The comment came after a legal scholar told the two that if the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, many states would legalize on their own. "You see? You've wasted all this time and energy on it, and it's not going to end abortion anyway," Trump said. When …
After
Jeff Sessions sent a federal hate crimes lawyer to help prosecute a man charged with murdering a transgender high school student. Sessions has spoken out against same-sex marriage, voted against expanding federal hate crimes laws to protect transgender people, directed the Justice Department to no longer protects gay or transgender people from workplace discrimination, and reversed a policy encouraging schools …
TK/ Steven Mnuchin: repealing the estate tax "disproportionately helps rich people." The Treasury secretary's concession contradicts what Trump said about the estate tax last month: "To protect millions of small businesses and the American farmer, we are finally ending the crushing, the horrible, the unfair estate tax, or as it is often referred to, the death tax." (New York Times)
After
7/ Eighteen states sued the Trump administration to stop him from scrapping subsidies to insurers that help millions of low-income people pay medical expenses. Trump said he would dismantle the Affordable Care Act "step by step," which prompted Adam Schiff to tweet that "Trump is the worst President in modern history," accusing him of "deliberately undermining people’s health care out …
TK/ Robert Mueller’s team interviewed Reince Priebus. The former chief of staff was present for many key moments, including Trump's efforts to limit questions about Russian meddling in the election and the discussions that led to James Comey’s firing. (Washington Post)
After
1/ Mitch McConnell and Trump met for lunch today after Steve Bannon called for a "season of war" against the Senate majority leader and the rest of the GOP establishment. Bannon compared McConnell to Julius Caesar and vowed to challenge any Senate Republican who doesn’t publicly condemn attacks on Trump. “Yeah, Mitch, the donors are not happy. They’ve all left …
removed: TK/ Paul Manafort's financial ties to a Russian oligarch total around $60 million over the past decade. Previously unreported documents revealed a $26 million loan between a Manafort-linked company and Oleg Deripaska, a billionaire with close ties to the Kremlin. (NBC News) TK/now: 2/ Rex Tillerson refused to answer whether he called Trump a …
Before
TK/ Mitch McConnell and Trump met for lunch today after Steve Bannon called for a "season of war" against the Senate majority leader and the rest of the GOP establishment. Bannon compared McConnell to Julius Caesar and vowed to challenge any Senate Republican who doesn’t publicly condemn attacks on Trump. “Yeah, Mitch, the donors are not happy. They’ve all left …
After
3/ Robert Mueller’s team interviewed Reince Priebus. The former chief of staff was present for many key moments, including Trump's efforts to limit questions about Russian meddling in the election and the discussions that led to James Comey’s firing. (Washington Post) 4/ Paul Manafort's financial ties to a Russian oligarch total around $60 million over the past decade. Previously unreported …
removed: TK/now: 5/ Trump once joked that Pence "wants to hang" all gay …
removed: TK/now: 6/ Trump's top allies aren't sure if he realizes his feuds …
1/ Trump will removed: cutoffnow: cut off essential subsidy payments to Affordable Care Act insurers. The subsidies are used to pay out-of-pocket costs removed: ofnow: for low-income people and represent an estimated $7 billion this year. … "the government cannot lawfully make the cost-sharing reduction payments." Trump removed: callednow: said the ACA removed: an "imploding,"now: was "imploding" and called it a "broken mess" in a pair of tweets. Chuck Schumer and …
… Russian disinformation campaign. The data was deleted a day after removed: a researcher Jonathan Albright published a report showing that the reach …
… environmental initiatives a "deluded and illegitimate battle against climate change." removed: Herenow: Her TPPF fellowship received funding from the fossil fuel industry. (The …
4/ The background check chief said he has "never seen [the] level of mistakes" Jared Kushner made on his security clearance application. Kushner's initial SF-86 form did not mention any foreign contacts. He updated the form in the spring, listing about 100 contacts, but omitted the June 2016 meeting with the Russian lawyer, Trump Jr., and Paul Manafort. He updated …
After
6/ Twitter's privacy policy required it to delete data relevant to the Russia probe. Whenever a user removes a tweet, promotion, or account, Twitter is obligated to also delete that data from its servers. Because Russian operatives immediately erase all of their digital footprint, a substantial amount of valuable information held by Twitter has been lost. Twitter engineers are trying …
Before
5/ Twitter's privacy policy required it to delete data relevant to the Russia probe. Whenever a user removes a tweet, promotion, or account, Twitter is obligated to also delete that data from its servers. Because Russian operatives immediately erase all of their digital footprint, a substantial amount of valuable information held by Twitter has been lost. Twitter engineers are trying …
After
7/ Facebook removed thousands of posts from public view that were linked to the Russian disinformation campaign. The data was deleted a day after a researcher Jonathan Albright published a report showing that the reach of the Russian campaign was at least twice what Facebook had said. Facebook claimed it simply fixed a "bug," which allowed researchers to access cached …
Before
6/ Facebook removed thousands of posts from public view that were linked to the Russian disinformation campaign. The data was deleted a day after a researcher Jonathan Albright published a report showing that the reach of the Russian campaign was at least twice what Facebook had said. Facebook claimed it simply fixed a "bug," which allowed researchers to access cached …
After
8/ Trump nominated a climate change skeptic to lead the White House’s environmental policy board. While a fellow at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, Kathleen Hartnett White led a project to "explain the forgotten moral case for fossil fuels." She's written that carbon dioxide is the gas "that makes life possible on the earth and naturally fertilizes plant growth" and …
Before
7/ Trump nominated a climate change skeptic to lead the White House’s environmental policy board. While a fellow at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, Kathleen Hartnett White led a project to "explain the forgotten moral case for fossil fuels." She's written that carbon dioxide is the gas "that makes life possible on the earth and naturally fertilizes plant growth" and …
After
9/ Trump will extend the March 5th DACA deadline if Congress fails to pass legislation before then. Trump told Senator James Lankford that he was willing to “give it some more time” to allow lawmakers to find a solution for "dreamers." There are currently 690,000 young people with DACA status. (Washington Post)
Before
8/ Trump will extend the March 5th DACA deadline if Congress fails to pass legislation before then. Trump told Senator James Lankford that he was willing to “give it some more time” to allow lawmakers to find a solution for "dreamers." There are currently 690,000 young people with DACA status. (Washington Post)
After
10/ The Pentagon and FEMA accidentally included a reporter on their email chain about how to "spin" the Puerto Rico recovery effort. They suggested saying 'the federal government’s full attention is on Hurricane Maria response' to combat what San Juan Mayor Carmen Yulín Cruz characterized as a 'people-are-dying story.'" FEMA was told to stress its success in reaching "all municipalities …
… leading up to the Iraq War. (Bloomberg / Politico) / removed: [Newnow: New York removed: Times] (https://www.nytimes.com/2017/10/12/us/politics/trump-unesco-withdrawal.html)now: Times)
… the deal. Trump was reportedly "incensed" by the arguments Rex removed: Tillersonnow: Tillerson and Jim Mattis made when he certified Iran's compliance in …
6/ The House passed removed: a $36.5 billion in emergency relief for Puerto Rico and other …
… EPA's draft four-year strategic plan. Scott Pruitt outlines his agency's removed: prioritizesnow: priorities as a focus on the "core mission" of clean air, land and water, "rebalance" now: of the federal role in environmental regulation, and removed: enforcenow: enforcement of laws "as Congress intended." The plan does not mention carbon …
… John Dowd, called the report that they were willing to removed: cooperationnow: cooperate with the special counsel “Totally false!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” (Politico)
… from the United Nations cultural organization. The US hasn’t paid now: its roughly $70 million yearly dues to UNESCO since 2011, removed: when Obama stopped paying about $72 millionnow: due to a removed: year when thenow: 1990s-era amendment mandating a cutoff of American money to any UN organization removed: acceptednow: accepting Palestine as a full member. removed: Thenow: Previously, the US removed: also withdrew from the organization in 1984 now: over Cold War concerns, but rejoined in removed: 2003.now: 2003 in a show of international cooperation leading up to the Iraq War. (Bloomberg / Politico) now: / [New York Times] (https://www.nytimes.com/2017/10/12/us/politics/trump-unesco-withdrawal.html)
6/ The House passed removed: a $36.5 billion in emergency relief for Puerto Rico and other …
… as a focus on the "core mission" of clean air, removed: landnow: land, and water, "rebalance" the federal role in environmental regulation, and …
… an effort to speed up the Russia probe and dispel removed: the suspicion overnow: suspicions surrounding Trump. Trump told reporters this spring that he was “100 …
1/ Trump signed an executive order removed: easingnow: eliminating some Affordable Care Act now: insurance rules for small businesses that band together to buy health … result in higher costs for the sick and potentially destabilize now: and undermine the ACA insurance marketplace. (New York Times / Washington Post …
Before
*** AND MORE COMING SOON ***
After
6/ The House passed a $36.5 billion in emergency relief for Puerto Rico and other communities affected by recent hurricanes and wildfires. The package includes $18.7 billion for FEMA's disaster relief fund, $16 billion to address national flood insurance program debt, and $576.5 million for wildfire recovery efforts. It also provided $1.27 billion for disaster food assistance for Puerto Rico. …
… 6,000 people were still in shelters. Trump tweeted the situation removed: isnow: represents a "total lack of accountability" and that the "electric and …
… a tenfold increase in the US nuclear arsenal during a now: July 20th meeting at the removed: Pentagon during a July 20th meeting.now: Pentagon. Shortly after the meeting ended, Rex Tillerson called removed: trumpnow: Trump a "fucking moron" to the officials who remained behind. Any …
… that NBC’s broadcast license should be pulled as punishment for now: reporting what he considers fake news. “Fake @NBCNews made up a …
… of the GOP convention last year. In addition, the FBI removed: hadnow: has been monitoring Page removed: last summer afternow: since he travelled to removed: Russia. to meetnow: Russia and met with high-level associates of removed: Putin.now: Putin last year. (Politico)
… the offer to have Facebook provide the same service. The removed: Trump’snow: Trump campaign spent roughly $70 million on Facebook by election day. …
… Goldstone if she could bring a “lobbyist and trusted associate" now: to the meeting, because of his knowledge of the Magnitsky Act, a 2012 …
… Goldstone and Trump Jr. tell a different story, however. Goldstone removed: wrotenow: requested the meeting Trump removed: Jr.now: Jr., saying the Russian government wanted to help the Trump campaign …
… of his knowledge of the Magnitsky Act, a 2012 law removed: despised that imposed financial sanctions on wealthy Russians as punishment for …
Before
poll/ 47% of voters in non-metro areas approved of Trump's job performance, while 47% disapproved. That is down from Trump’s first four weeks in office, when 55% said they approved of the president while 39% disapproved. (Reuters)
After
7/ Facebook, Google, and Twitter employees were "embedded" inside the Trump campaign. Brad Parscale, the Trump campaign's digital director, said employees from the tech companies "were there multiple days a week" to "teach us how to use their platform." Parscale said Trump's digital team "took opportunities" that Hillary Clinton's did not, like pulling Facebook staffers into their folds multiple times …
Before
*** UPDATES IN PROGRESS. CHECK BACK SOON. ***
After
8/ Google said Russian agents bought ads aimed to spread disinformation on YouTube, Google Search, Gmail, and DoubleClick, the company’s ad network. The ads don't appear to be from the same Kremlin-affiliated troll farm that bought ads on Facebook. Google runs the world’s largest online advertising business, and YouTube is the world’s largest online video site. (Washington Post) Russian operatives …
… of his knowledge of the Magnitsky Act, a 2012 law removed: despised that imposed financial sanctions on wealthy Russians as punishment for …
… have to wait and see.” Last week at a photo-op, now: surrounded by military leaders, Trump warned that "maybe it’s the calm before the removed: storm" while surrounded by military leaders.now: storm." (Politico / CNN / Washington Post)
… to launch one more long-range missile in the near future," now: said Anton removed: Morozov said,now: Morozov, a member of the Russian lower house of parliament’s international …
… Christopher Steele is talking with the Senate Intelligence Committee about now: formally speaking removed: tonow: with its leaders. The sticking point for the former British intelligence …
5/ The Trump administration rolled back the federal requirement for employers to include birth control coverage in their health insurance plans. The new regulation allows for a broad group of employers and insurers to exempt themselves from covering contraceptives on religious or moral grounds. More than 55 million women have access to birth control without co-payments because of the contraceptive …
After
6/ Trump rolled back the federal requirement for employers to include birth control coverage in their health insurance plans. The new regulation allows for a broad group of employers and insurers to exempt themselves from covering contraceptives on religious or moral grounds. More than 55 million women have access to birth control without co-payments because of the contraceptive coverage mandate …
Before
6/ FEMA removed statistics about drinking water access and electricity in Puerto Rico from its website. A FEMA spokesman said both measures are still being reported, but are available on a website maintained by the Puerto Rican governor's office. He did not explain why FEMA no longer maintains the statistics on the main FEMA website. (Washington Post)
After
Steven Mnuchin has flown on military aircraft seven times at a cost of more than $800,000 to taxpayers. In total, the treasury secretary has made nine requests for military aircraft, including a request to use a military plane for his European honeymoon with his wife. (New York Times)
Before
7/ Trump nominated a coal lobbyist to help lead the EPA. Andrew Wheeler, who is an outspoken denier of established science on climate change, would become the second most powerful person at the EPA. (New York Times)
After
poll/ 24% of Americans believe the country is heading in the right direction, representing a 10-point drop since June. 44% of Republicans agree that the country is headed in the right direction, down from 60% in June. (ABC News)
… Wing, according to a memo sent to agents. Other news removed: outletnow: outlets have not confirmed the authenticity of the memo. (Politico)
… Puerto Rican governor's office. He did not explain why FEMA removed: are no longer maintains the statistics on the main FEMA removed: web site.now: website. (Washington Post)
… Russian hackers stole NSA data about US cyber defense after removed: a contractornow: an employee removed the highly classified material, put it on his home …
… the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said that removed: Tillerson,now: Tillerson and Mattis, as well as Chief of Staff John removed: Kellynow: Kelly, “help separate the country from chaos" – meaning Trump. He …
… for legislation. Instead, they urged lawmakers to pass "National Right-to-Carry removed: reciprocity,now: reciprocity," which would allow gun owners to travel between states with …
The NRA doesn't allow bump stock firing systems at their removed: shootnow: shooting range. Bump stocks increase the rate bullets are fired, causing …
9/ The House GOP removed: is expected to passnow: passed its budget today, which calls for more than $5 trillion in spending cuts over the next decade. The now: budget plan promises deep cuts to social programs while paving the way for a GOP removed: plan is essentially a set of nonbinding promises withnow: drive to rewrite the removed: purpose of setting upnow: tax code later this year using budget reconciliation – a key procedural hurdle that would allow …
1/ Rex Tillerson, James Mattis, and Steven Mnuchin have a "suicide pact," where all three cabinet secretaries will leave in the event that Trump fires one of them. Bob Corker, the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said that Tillerson, Mattis, as well as Chief of Staff John Kelly “help separate the country from chaos" – meaning Trump. He …
After
1/ Russian hackers stole NSA data about US cyber defense after a contractor removed the highly classified material, put it on his home computer, and used an antivirus app made by Russia-based Kaspersky Lab. The US government had previously banned the use of Kaspersky Lab software over concerns of Russian cyberespionage. The stolen material includes details about how the NSA …
Before
3/ FBI director on Russian hacking: We "should have seen this coming." Speaking at the Cambridge Cyber Summit, Andrew McCabe implied that Russian meddling hasn't stopped, either: "The experience in the 2016 elections allowed us to diagnose the problem. Have we cured it yet? Absolutely not." (CNN)
After
5/ Jeff Sessions rescinded a policy that protects transgender workers from discrimination. The Obama-era policy argued that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act protected employees from being discriminated against due to an "individual's race, color, religion, sex, or national origin." Sessions said that "Title VII's prohibition on sex discrimination encompasses discrimination between men and women but does not encompass …
Before
4/ Two former CIA chiefs said Russia needed help targeting US voters and districts in the 2016 presidential campaign. "It is not intuitively obvious that they could have done this themselves," former CIA director Michael Hayden said. Russia either needed someone to help give it information on who to microtarget or it stole the necessary information through hacking. (Bloomberg)
After
10/ The House Homeland Security Committee approved $10 billion for a border wall as part of a border security bill. The legislation will head to the House floor, which Democrats have criticized as a political stunt to appease Trump. The bill is expected to pass the House, but unlikely to clear the Senate, where it needs a 60-vote majority. (The …
Before
5/ With the GOP agenda at a standstill, some donors are closing their wallets and threatening to deprive Republicans of resources ahead of the 2018 midterms. Fundraisers say they’re having an unusually hard time setting up meetings with major contributors. An email from a sought-after donor to a GOP fundraiser read: “The GOP leaders should know, no movement on remaining …
After
11/ Democrats introduced a bill to ban "bump stocks," a gun conversion kit that turns semiautomatic weapons into weapons capable of firing a continuous stream of bullets. Top congressional Republicans signaled they would be open to considering legislation on bump stocks, which the Las Vegas gunman used on his rifles. The legislation would ban the sale, manufacture and possession of …
Before
6/ The House GOP is expected to pass its budget today, which calls for more than $5 trillion in spending cuts over the next decade. The GOP plan is essentially a set of nonbinding promises with the purpose of setting up budget reconciliation – a key procedural hurdle that would allow Republicans to pass tax reform without the threat of …
After
The NRA called for a additional regulation on "bump stocks," but stopped short of calling for legislation. Instead, they urged lawmakers to pass "National Right-to-Carry reciprocity, which would allow gun owners to travel between states with concealed weapons – even when traveling to states with laws restricting concealed weapons. (The Hill)
Before
7/ The House Homeland Security Committee approved $10 billion for a border wall as part of a border security bill. The legislation will head to the House floor, which Democrats have criticized as a political stunt to appease Trump. The bill is expected to pass the House, but unlikely to clear the Senate, where it needs a 60-vote majority. (The …
After
The NRA doesn't allow bump stock firing systems at their shoot range. Bump stocks increase the rate bullets are fired, causing the entire weapon to move back and forth in the shooter’s grip and decreasing accuracy. (Politico)
Before
8/ Democrats introduced a bill to ban "bump stocks," a gun conversion kit that turns semiautomatic weapons into weapons capable of firing a continuous stream of bullets. Top congressional Republicans signaled they would be open to considering legislation on bump stocks, which the Las Vegas gunman used on his rifles. The legislation would ban the sale, manufacture and possession of …
After
poll/ 62% of voters have an unfavorable view of the GOP. 43% of voters are looking to congressional Democrats to protect families when it comes to health care, compared to 15% who trust Trump on health care. Less than 10% say the Republican Party should lead the way. (Suffolk University)
2/ now: Today, Tillerson denied he considered resigning from his job, but did …
… 2016 presidential election. Richard Burr, chairman of the committee, said removed: the "general consensus" of those involved with the Russian investigationnow: they "trust the conclusions" of the Intelligence Community Assessment that Russia … fake social media accounts. The issue of collusion remains open. removed: (New York Times / Washington Post / ABC News)
Before
4/ Senate intelligence committee leaders will provide an update on their investigation into Russian election meddling and possible collusion with Trump associates. Richard Burr and Mark Warner will publicly report on what the panel has confirmed regarding Russian meddling and "sound the alarm" about Trump's refusal to explicitly say Russia was responsible. They'll also provide steps that Congress can take …
After
Senators also acknowledged that they have been unable to get traction on the Steele dossier, which contains a series of claims about Trump and Russia. The memos’ author, Christopher Steele, has not agreed to meet with investigators or the senators. Robert Mueller's special counsel has taken over FBI inquiries into the Steele dossier. (New York Times / Washington Post / …
Before
5/ Russian-linked Facebook ads specifically targeted Michigan and Wisconsin, two states Trump won by less than 1% of the vote. The ads promoted divisiveness and anti-Muslim messages. Trump beat Hillary Clinton in Michigan by about 10,700 votes out of nearly 4.8 million ballots cast. In Wisconsin, Trump won by only about 22,700 votes. (CNN)
After
4/ Facebook and Twitter agreed to testify publicly before the Senate intelligence committee as part of the congressional probe into Russian interference during the 2016 presidential election. Facebook will also testify at the House Intelligence Committee hearing. Twitter and Facebook have already briefed both committees on their findings regarding Russian use of their platforms to influence the election. While invited, …
Before
9/ The DACA renewal deadline is Thursday. The Trump administration didn't notify immigrants about it. Jeff Sessions announced on September 5th that the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, which has provided renewable, two-year work permits to nearly 800,000 "dreamers," would end on March 5, 2018. Citizenship and Immigration Services had sent out notices prior to the announcement reminding DACA …
After
11/ Trump said the US will need to "wipe out" Puerto Rico's debt in order to address the US territory's financial crisis. Trump’s budget director, meanwhile, said not to take the suggestion literally. Mick Mulvaney tried to clarify Trump's statement: "I think what you heard the president say is that Puerto Rico is going to have to figure out a …
1/ Rex Tillerson now: reportedly called Trump a removed: moronnow: "moron" and nearly removed: resigned.now: resigned this summer. The comment came removed: this past summer afternow: during a now: July meeting at the Pentagon with members of Trump’s national security …
2/ Tillerson denied he considered resigning from his removed: job. Henow: job, but did not address whether he called Trump a "moron." Minutes … that the news network "should issue an apology to AMERICA!" now: Later in the day Trump called it “a totally phony story” and said he has "total confidence” in Tillerson. (USA Today / CBS removed: News)now: News / New York Times)
Before
3/ Senate intelligence committee leaders will provide an update on their investigation into Russian election meddling and possible collusion with Trump associates. Richard Burr and Mark Warner will publicly report on what the panel has confirmed regarding Russian meddling and "sound the alarm" about Trump's refusal to explicitly say Russia was responsible. They'll also provide steps that Congress can take …
After
3/ The Senate Intelligence Committee endorsed the conclusions of American intelligence agencies that Putin directed a campaign of hacking and propaganda to disrupt the 2016 presidential election. Richard Burr, chairman of the committee, said the "general consensus" of those involved with the Russian investigation "trust the conclusions" of the Intelligence Community Assessment that Russia was behind the hacking of the …
… and Donald Trump Jr. avoided a criminal indictment in 2012 removed: afternow: after Trump's personal lawyer met with the Manhattan District Attorney. Marc …
… Congress can take to protect future elections as well as removed: how to prevent abuse of social networks like Facebook, Twitter, and … meddling and potential collusion between Trump's team and the Russian removed: government, along withnow: government. Also ongoing is the federal investigation led by special counsel Robert Mueller. (CNN)
… won by less than 1% of the vote. The ads removed: used divisive messagesnow: promoted divisiveness and removed: promoted anti-Muslim messages. Trump beat Hillary Clinton in Michigan by about …
Russia targeted NATO removed: soldier'snow: soldiers' smartphones in an effort to gain information about operations and …
… Trump's personal lawyer met with the Manhattan District Attorney. Marc removed: Kasowicznow: Kasowitz donated $25,000 to District Attorney Cy Vance Jr.'s reelection campaign … DA overruled his staff. The donation was returned, but less now: than six months later, Kasowitz made an even larger donation removed: to Vance’s campaign of more than removed: $50,000.now: $50,000 to Vance’s campaign. For two years, prosecutors had been building a criminal case … Jr. for misleading prospective buyers of units in the Trump removed: SoHo,now: SoHo hotel, which included emails showing coordination about how to move forward …
… ethics rules as part of a months-long process of divesting removed: hisnow: Kushner's stock and assets. It’s the second time that Kushner has …
8/ The DACA renewal deadline is removed: Thursday, which thenow: Thursday. The Trump administration didn't notify immigrants removed: about.now: about it. Jeff Sessions announced on September 5th that the Deferred Action … which has provided renewable, two-year work permits to nearly 800,000 removed: dreamers,now: "dreamers," would end on March 5, 2018. Citizenship and Immigration Services …
5/ Ivanka and Donald Trump Jr. avoided a criminal indictment in 2012 after Trump's personal lawyer met with the Manhattan District Attorney. Marc Kasowicz donated $25,000 to District Attorney Cy Vance Jr.'s reelection campaign and three months later the case was dropped when the DA overruled his staff. The donation was returned, but less six months later, Kasowitz made an …
… than 3,000 ads that were seen by roughly 10 million removed: users. Approximatelynow: users — approximately 44% of which were seen before the November 8th election. …
… estimated 10 million people in the US saw the ads. removed: 44% ofnow: Of total ad removed: impressionsnow: impressions, 44% were before the US election on November 8, 2016. Roughly …
8/ Trump visited Puerto Rico removed: today despitenow: today, against urging from aides removed: urging him to put off the trip removed: citingnow: over concerns of protests about the slow relief effort. FEMA hasn't … the electrical grid working, 17% of cellphone towers working, and removed: morenow: less than half of residents removed: withoutnow: with running water. (New York Times / Vox)
… that more didn't die in “a real catastrophe like Katrina,” removed: adding,now: adding that by needing hurricane relief funds, the devastated island has …
… this week. In a 2002 paper, paid for by the now: chemical industry trade association American Chemistry Council and the pesticide industry group CropLife America, …
… pre-emptive presidential pardons. Michael Dreeben has been researching past pardons removed: and determiningnow: to determine if any limits exist as now: Trump's current and former removed: Trump advisers removed: arenow: come under the special counsel's scrutiny. Trump removed: hasnow: previously tweeted that "all agree the U. S. President has the … 16 seasoned prosecutors investigating Russian interference in the 2016 election removed: andnow: as well as any potential collusion between Russian and members of Trump’s campaign. …
… using Facebook's Custom Audiences, Russian-linked ad buyers were able to removed: spentnow: spend $100,000 on more than 3,000 ads that were seen by …
… Ivanka used personal email accounts to conduct some government business. now: The couple has since moved their personal email accounts to computers run by the Trump Organization. (Politico)
… more didn't die like in “a real catastrophe like Katrina,” removed: adding,now: adding that by needing hurricane relief funds, the devastated island has …
*** UPDATES IN PROGRESS. More soon on the EPA, DeVos, and the House vote on abortion. ***
After
10/ Pence’s chief of staff called for wealthy donors to "purge" Republican lawmakers that don’t support Trump’s agenda. Nick Ayers urged donors to "form a coalition" to take on leadership and members who don’t back the president, saying "we can purge the handful of people who continue to work to defeat [Trump]." The White House and Pence's office declined to …
*** UPDATES IN PROGRESS. More soon on: Russia, Facebook, the EPA, DeVos, and Puerto Rico ***
After
6/ The CIA denied a request by the Senate Judiciary Committee to let them view information about Russian meddling that the intelligence committee was allowed to see. The material pertains to obstruction of justice matters that are in the Judiciary Committee’s jurisdiction. (Politico) HP Enterprise let Russia scrutinize cyberdefense system used by Pentagon. The Russian review of ArcSight’s source code, …
… congressional baseball practice. The House is also expected to vote now: this fall on separate legislation, the Hearing Protection Act, removed: this fall thatnow: which would allow people to carry their legally concealed weapons across …
… to a conference in Russia that would be attended by removed: Putin andnow: Putin; in the other case, Cohen received a second proposal for … project during the campaign. Trump Jr., Jared Kushner, Paul Manafort, removed: a low-level foreign policy advisers and, now, Cohen were all contacted …
… Emails turned over to investigators show how the former campaign removed: chair'snow: chair tried to please Oleg Vladimirovich Deripaska, one of Russia’s richest …
… have confirmed they will attend. The House Intelligence Committee will removed: also hold a public hearing in October, and would like the …
… tweeted from his golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey on removed: Saturdaynow: Saturday, continuing: "They want everything to be done for them when it …
3/ Rex Tillerson said the US is in direct communication with North Korea about its nuclear program even after Trump tweeted in August that “talking is not the answer!” and vowed to “totally destroy” North Korea. “We are probing, so stay tuned,” the Secretary of State said. “We can talk to them, we do talk to them directly, through our …
After
3/ Trump's associates had two more previously undisclosed contacts with Russia during the 2016 campaign. The documents were turned over to congressional committees and special counsel Robert Mueller. Trump’s personal attorney, Michael Cohen, was invited to a conference in Russia that would be attended by Putin and in the other case, Cohen received a second proposal for a Trump-branded Moscow …
removed: 6/now: 8/ Congress let funding for the Children’s Health Insurance Program expire, … CHIP money available, but several are expected to drain their removed: CHIP funding by the end of the year. now: Trump, meanwhile, proclaimed today is Child Health Day and committed to "protecting and promoting the health and well-being of our Nation's young people." (ABC News / Washington Post)
6/ Congress let funding for the Children’s Health Insurance Program expire, which provides low-cost health insurance to 9 million children. The CHIP program is a partnership between the federal government and states that insures American children from low and moderate-income families. States still have some CHIP money available, but several are expected to drain their CHIP funding by the end …
… Trump called the Las Vegas shooting "an act of pure removed: evil," which killed atnow: evil." At least 58 now: people were killed and removed: injured more than 500 removed: people.now: injured. Police said the gunman was found dead in his Mandalay …
5/ Trump urged senior staff to portray removed: hisnow: him as a "crazy guy," while discussing whether the US would … 'This guy's so crazy he could pull out any minute,'" removed: addingnow: adding, "You tell them if they don't give the concessions now, …
6/ The Treasury Department removed a paper now: from its website that contradicted Steven removed: Mnuchinnow: Mnuchin's argument that workers would benefit the most from a corporate …
… after racking up at least $400,000 in private charter flights. removed: Innow: Yesterday, in an effort to satisfy removed: Trump yesterday,now: Trump, Price offered to reimburse the government $51,887. removed: The announcementnow: Price's resignation came hours after Trump told reporters he considered Price a …
… deficit over 10 years, giving lawmakers the ability to lower now: tax rates for businesses and individuals. Republicans believe they will offset removed: thatnow: the lost revenue with increased economic growth prompted by the tax …
6/ The Treasury Department removed a paper that removed: contradictnow: contradicted Steven Mnuchin argument that workers would benefit the most from … tax while owners pay 82%. A Mnuchin spokeswoman said that now: other “studies show that 70% of the tax burden falls on …
… content on the Facebook page." Information from the three accounts removed: that could provide the personal details of thousands of activists who … from disruptj20.org be turned over, which a DC judge ruled now: that the web hosting company was obligated to turn over. (NBC …
… Democratic-drawn political maps in court using data and legal efforts removed: andnow: to “serve as a central resource to coordinate and collaborate” on …
1/ Trump could personally save about $1.1 billion in taxes under his proposed plan. The analysis is based on Trump’s 2005 federal tax return and his estimated $2.86 billion net worth. In theory, Trump could save about $1.1 billion from repealing the estate tax, $31 million from repealing the alternative minimum tax, about $16 million from changes to certain types …
After
1/ Tom Price resigned as Trump's Health and Human Services Secretary after racking up at least $400,000 in private charter flights. In an effort to satisfy Trump yesterday, Price offered to reimburse the government $51,887. The announcement came hours after Trump told reporters he considered Price a “fine man” but that he “didn't like the optics” and would make a …
Before
7/ The Senate confirmed Jon Huntsman to be the US ambassador to Russia. Huntsman testified earlier this month before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that there is "no question" that Moscow meddled in the election. Huntsman previously served as ambassador to China and Singapore. (Politico)
After
poll/ 49% say NFL players who kneel during the National Anthem are doing the wrong thing to express their political opinion, while 43% say it's the right thing. (CNN)
Before
8/ The White House launched an internal probe of private email use after it was reported that Jared Kushner and several senior White House officials used private email accounts to conduct government business. At least five current and former White House officials have used private email, including Kushner, Ivanka Trump, Gary Cohn, Steve Bannon, and Reince Priebus. (Politico)
After
poll/ 83% of voters support a path for illegal immigrants to become legal residents, up nine points since last year. 14% say “deport as many as possible,” down from a high of 30 percent in July 2015. (Fox News)
… in taxes under his proposed plan. The analysis is based removed: offnow: on Trump’s 2005 federal tax return and his estimated $2.86 billion …
… the use of budget reconciliation to advance the legislation with removed: 50-votesnow: 50 votes in the Senate, rather than the usual 60-vote supermajority. Under …
4/ The acting Homeland Security Secretary called Puerto Rico's recovery removed: a "really a good news story." San Juan Mayor Carmen Yulín …
5/ The Justice Department wants Facebook now: to turn over information about people who "liked" an anti-Trump Facebook …
… for RT America that it is obligated to register under now: the Foreign Agents Registration Act due to the work it does …
… a family vacation. They can increase their lifestyle.” Yesterday, Gary removed: Cohennow: Cohn said he "can't guarantee" taxes won't go up for the … are not getting a tax cut" under Trump’s tax plan. removed: Cohennow: Cohn is worth an estimated $266 million. (HuffPost)
Before
*** UPDATES IN PROGRESS ***
After
5/ The Justice Department wants Facebook turn over information about people who "liked" an anti-Trump Facebook page. The department obtained search warrants requiring The DisruptJ20 Facebook page – now Resist This – and two others to hand over "nonpublic lists of people who planned to attend political organizing events and even the names of people who simply liked, followed, reacted …
… Kushner to double-check that he has turned over all relevant removed: documentnow: documents to the committee, including those from his personal email account, …
… steps the company took to stop it. Twitter told Congress removed: saidnow: that about 200 accounts are tied to some of the same …
… costing more than $400,000 since May to conduct official business. removed: Pricenow: Price, however, will now: only reimburse taxpayers now: for just under removed: $52,000 for the cost of his charter jet travels for official government business.now: $52,000. Meanwhile, EPA chief Scott Pruitt has taken at least four …
… costing more than $400,000 since May to conduct official business. now: Price will reimburse taxpayers just under $52,000 for the cost of his charter jet travels for official government business. Meanwhile, EPA chief Scott Pruitt has taken at least four …
… House intelligence committees about fake news spread by Russian accounts removed: on the network and what steps the company took to stop it. Twitter … the same Russian-linked sources that purchased ads on Facebook. The now: vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee removed: has asked Facebook, Google,now: criticized Twitter for failing to aggressively investigate the Russian misuse of its platform beyond the accounts linked to fraudulent profiles already identified by Facebook. Mark Warner said the company's presentation “showed an enormous lack of understanding from the Twitter team of how serious this issue is, the threat it poses to democratic institutions and removed: Twitter to testifynow: again begs many more questions than they offered." He added: “Their response was frankly inadequate on removed: Russian meddling at a public hearing on November 1st. The House Intelligence Committee also wants to hold a public hearing next month with representatives from several unnamed technology companies (hint, hint) in an effort to “better understand how Russia used online tools and platforms to sow discord in and influence our election.” Recode / Reutersnow: every level.” (Recode / New York removed: Times / Politico)now: Times)
Before
5/ A Russian-backed group impersonated a real American Muslim organization on Facebook and Instagram to spread misinformation. The United Muslims of America pushed memes that claimed Hillary Clinton admitted the US “created, funded and armed” al-Qaeda and ISIS, claimed that John McCain was ISIS’ true founder, and alleged Osama bin Laden was a “CIA agent.” (The Daily Beast)
After
5/ The Senate Intelligence Committee has asked Facebook, Google, and Twitter to testify on Russian meddling at a public hearing on November 1st. The House Intelligence Committee also wants to hold a public hearing next month with representatives from several unnamed technology companies (hint, hint) in an effort to “better understand how Russia used online tools and platforms to sow …
2/ now: Jared Kushner didn't disclose the existence of his personal email account to the Senate intelligence committee when he testified in July, which he used from January through August. The chair and vice chair of the committee wrote his attorney, Abbe Lowell, instructing Kushner to double-check that he has turned over all relevant document to the committee, including those from his personal email account, "as well as all other email accounts, messaging apps, or similar communications channels you may have used, or that may contain information relevant to our inquiry." (CNN) 3/ Trump waived the shipping restrictions for Puerto Rico, which were … and will cover all products being shipped to the island. removed: Meanwhile,now: The State Department evacuated 225 people from the removed: administration is reportedly forcing evacuees from Puerto Rico and Dominica to signnow: Caribbean island of Dominica, who signed promissory notes now: agreeing to removed: paynow: reimburse the State Department for removed: transportation costs and is keeping evacuees' passports as collateral.now: travel costs. (CNN / Washington Post / The Hill) now: > UPDATE: > > The State Department is not requiring anyone evacuated from hurricane-ravaged Puerto Rico to sign promissory notes reimbursing the government for travel costs.
removed: 3/now: 4/ Twitter briefed members of the Senate and House intelligence committees about fake news spread by Russian accounts on the network and what steps the company took to stop it. Twitter told Congress said about 200 accounts are tied to some of the same Russian-linked sources that purchased ads on Facebook. The Senate Intelligence Committee now: has asked Facebook, Google, and Twitter to testify on Russian meddling at a public hearing on November 1st. The removed: committee wants to know if fake news spread by Russians accounts on Twitter made it into real news stories and what steps the company took to stop it. The House Intelligence Committee also wants to hold removed: an opennow: a public hearing next month with representatives from several unnamed technology companies now: (hint, hint) in an effort to “better understand how Russia used online tools and platforms to sow discord in and influence our election.” removed: A newnow: Recode / Reuters / New York Times / Politico) An Oxford University study shows there was a higher concentration of … in the swing states Trump won than in uncontested states. removed: (Reuters / New York Times / Politico)now: (Oxford Internet Institute) A Russian hacker who previously worked for Putin’s United Russia party was arrested in Barcelona on a US warrant. Prosecutors charged Peter Levashov with operating a network of tens of thousands of infected computers used by cyber criminals. (Reuters) 5/ A Russian-backed group impersonated a real American Muslim organization on Facebook and Instagram to spread misinformation. The United Muslims of America pushed memes that claimed Hillary Clinton admitted the US “created, funded and armed” al-Qaeda and ISIS, claimed that John McCain was ISIS’ true founder, and alleged Osama bin Laden was a “CIA agent.” (The Daily Beast)
Before
4/ A Russian-backed group impersonated a real American Muslim organization on Facebook and Instagram to spread misinformation. The United Muslims of America pushed memes that claimed Hillary Clinton admitted the US “created, funded and armed” al-Qaeda and ISIS, claimed that John McCain was ISIS’ true founder, and alleged Osama bin Laden was a “CIA agent.” (The Daily Beast)
After
6/ Tom Price will repay taxpayers for his private jet travel, saying "I regret the concerns this has raised regarding the use of taxpayer dollars." He added: "The taxpayers won’t pay a dime for my seat on those planes." Price has taken at least 26 charter flights costing more than $400,000 since May to conduct official business. Meanwhile, EPA chief …
… and the wealthy, while eliminating widely used exemptions and deductions. removed: Thenow: He dubbed the plan now: a "middle class miracle," which would collapse the tax brackets from seven down to removed: three: 12%, 25%, and 35%. The current top rate is 39.6% andnow: three while raising the lowest rate removed: is 10%.now: from 10% to 12% and cut the top rate from 39.6% to 35%. The standard deduction would double to $12,000 for individuals and …
1/ Trump's tax plan will cut rates for now: businesses and the removed: wealthy and businesses,now: wealthy, while eliminating widely used exemptions and deductions. The plan would collapse the tax brackets from seven down to now: three: 12%, 25%, and 35%. The current top rate is 39.6% … and to $24,000 for married couples. The White House and removed: Republicannow: the Republicans haven't said what loopholes would be closed in order to …
… number to 110,000 in 2017. Defense and State Department officials, now: the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the United Nations had recommended …
4/ Trump deleted his tweets supporting Luther Strange after removed: losingnow: Strange lost in Alabama's primary runoff. The deleted tweets were archived by ProPublica and now: are no longer public on Twitter, but watchdog groups believe Trump …
… even after his presidential campaign had ended. The ads appeared removed: designnow: designed to create divisions while sometimes praising Trump, removed: Sandersnow: Sanders, and Green Party candidate Jill Stein. A number of the … media against him during the campaign, tweeting: "Facebook was always removed: anti-Trump.Thenow: anti-Trump. The Networks were always anti-Trump removed: hence,Fakenow: hence, Fake News @nytimes (apologized) & @WaPo were anti-Trump. Collusion?" He added: … has accomplished what we have accomplished in the first 9 removed: months-andnow: months – and economy roaring." (Politico / The Hill)
… associated with Viktor Vekselberg, one of the richest men in removed: Russianow: Russia, who holds frequent meetings with Putin. Donations began flowing to …
… Spicer, Hope Hicks, Don McGahn, Josh Raffel, and James Burnham. removed: Relatedly,now: Related, Trump’s former campaign manager, Paul Manafort, has said he's been …
… McCain, and Rand Paul was enough to sink the legislation. now: McConnell said Republicans are not giving up on a health care bill, but will pivot to tax reform in search of a legislative victory. (CNN / removed: Bloomberg)now: Bloomberg / Politico / New York Times)
Before
6/ Wisconsin's strict voter ID laws kept nearly 17,000 registered voters from the polls in the November election. The November turnout in Wisconsin, 69.4% of eligible voters, was the lowest in a presidential election year since 2000. Trump defeated Clinton by 22,748 votes. (New York Times)
After
6/ The IRS Criminal Investigation division is sharing information with Robert Mueller about Trump's campaign associates, including Paul Manafort and Michael Flynn. IRS agents had been working before the election with the FBI to investigate Manafort in a similar probe that centered on possible money laundering and tax fraud issues. It's unclear if the special counsel has asked for or …
… addresses to conduct official government business.” Hillary Clinton called the removed: revelation"thenow: revelation "the height of hypocrisy." It is not illegal for White House …
… to pass both health care and tax reform for the now: 2018 fiscal removed: 2018 budget. Or,now: year budget, or take up a budget for now: the 2019 fiscal removed: 2019now: year early next year and address an Obamacare repeal in that …
… staff as soon as this week. On Mueller's short list removed: isnow: are Reince Priebus, Sean Spicer, Hope Hicks, Don McGahn, Josh Raffel, and James Burnham. removed: Related,now: Relatedly, Trump’s former campaign manager, Paul Manafort, has said he's been …
poll/ now: Only 54% of Americans removed: don't know that Puerto Ricans are US citizens. Puerto Rico is …
2/ With Graham-Cassidy likely DOA, Senate Republicans are now discussing whether to merge another Obamacare repeal effort into tax reform. They would use budget reconciliation, which would allow them pass legislation with just 50 votes. Republicans have two options: attempt to pass both health care and tax reform for the fiscal 2018 budget. Or, take up a budget for fiscal …
After
2/ The Senate will not vote on the Graham-Cassidy bill to repeal Obamacare, Mitch McConnell told Republicans in a closed-door meeting. Opposition by Susan Collins, John McCain, and Rand Paul was enough to sink the legislation. (CNN / Bloomberg)
4/ Wisconsin's strict removed: votenow: voter ID laws kept nearly 17,000 registered voters from the polls …
… in "deep trouble" because of its outdated infrastructure and large removed: debt that.now: debt. San Juan's mayor responded to Trump, saying "you don't put …
… transcribed interviews to provide eyewitness accounts of the Comey firing. removed: While thenow: The House intelligence committee is threatening to hold a public hearing …
1/ removed: Bill Cassidynow: The Graham-Cassidy bill appears dead on arrival after Susan Collins announced she'll join John McCain and removed: Lindsey Graham revised theirnow: Rand Paul in opposing the legislation. The latest health care proposal removed: to includenow: included more funding to Alaska, Arizona, Kentucky, and Maine removed: – the home states ofnow: in an effort to win votes from Lisa Murkowski, removed: John McCain, removed: Rand Paul, and removed: Susan Collins. removed: All have either opposed or been reluctant to support the bill. Rand Paul reiterated his opposition to the revised health care bill, Collins said she was all but certain to oppose the proposal, McCain came out against the earlier form of the bill, and Murkowski, who voted against the previous repeal bill in July, hasn't announced her position. Ted Cruz said he doesn’t support the bill and suggested that Mike Lee also opposes it. removed: A vote must occurnow: The three “No” votes likely kill the last-ditch GOP effort to repeal Obamacare this week before protections against a Democratic filibuster expire. removed: “No” votes from three of the 52 GOP senators would kill the bill. (Washington Post / New York Times / Politico / Associated removed: Press)now: Press / CNN)
… on Sunday after Trump called for NFL teams to suspend removed: ofnow: or fire players who protested the anthem. Several teams stayed in …
… proposal to include more funding to Alaska, Arizona, Kentucky, and removed: Maine,now: Maine – the home states of Lisa Murkowski, John McCain, Rand Paul, … Rand Paul reiterated his opposition to the revised health care removed: bill.now: bill, Collins said she was all but certain to oppose the removed: proposal. On Friday,now: proposal, McCain came out against the earlier form of the removed: bill.now: bill, and Murkowski, who voted against the previous repeal bill in July, …
2/ Trump removed: expandednow: issued an executive order to expand his travel removed: ban, restrictingnow: ban and permanently restrict visitors from eight removed: countries asnow: countries. With his removed: revisednow: revised, temporary travel ban removed: expired.now: now expired, the new order will stay in place until Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria, Yemen, Chad, North Korea, and Venezuela meet security requirements set by Homeland Security. Starting October 18th, the new order indefinitely bans almost all travel to the US from now: the eight removed: countries: Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria, Yemen, Chad, North Korea, and Venezuela.now: countries. (NBC News / New York Times / Washington Post)
… to handle government business when she was secretary of state. now: Kushner's lawyer, Abbe Lowell, said he adhered to government record-keeping requirements by forwarding all the emails to his government account. (Politico / New York Times / Washington Post)
Before
4/ Homeland Security notified 21 states that they had been targeted by Russian government hackers during the 2016 election campaign. Hackers penetrated computer systems in a handful of states, but there is no evidence that hackers tampered with voting machines. DHS left it to individual states to decide whether to make public whether they had been targeted, but officials confirmed …
After
Ivanka Trump used a personal email address to communicate with a government official after her father took office. Documents from a Freedom of Information Act request show that on February 28, Trump emailed the administrator of the Small Business Administration from a personal domain. At the time, Trump was operating inside the White House in a nonofficial capacity. (Newsweek)
now: 4/ Homeland Security notified 21 states that they had been targeted by Russian government hackers during the 2016 election campaign. Hackers penetrated computer systems in a handful of states, but there is no evidence that hackers tampered with voting machines. DHS left it to individual states to decide whether to publicly acknowledge if they had been targeted, but officials confirmed that Alabama, Colorado, Connecticut, Iowa, Maryland, Minnesota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Wisconsin and Washington were among the states targeted. (Washington Post) 5/ North Korea accused Trump of declaring war, saying it … yet inside the air-space border of our country.” The North’s removed: assertionsnow: assertion that the US has declared war comes two days after … F-15C Eagle fighter escorts in international airspace near North Korea. removed: The North's foreign minister said that the question of “who would be around much longer will be answered” by North Korea. Last week, White House aides removed: repeatedly warned Trump not to personally attack the North Korean leader during his United Nations speech, saying now: that insulting Kim Jong Un in such a prominent venue could … Korea and that "rocket man is on a suicide mission." now: The White House rejected the notion that the US had declared war, calling the suggestion "absurd." (New York Times / CNN / removed: Politico)now: Politico / NBC News)
7/ now: Steve Bannon tried to place a mole inside Facebook days before he took over Trump’s president campaign in August 2016. The plan was "for Breitbart to flood the zone with candidates" for a Public Policy Manager role at Facebook’s WhatsApp, who would then report back to Bannon. Breitbart News Tech Editor Milo Yiannopoulos forwarded Bannon’s request to a group of contracted researchers, one of whom responded that it “Seems dificult [sic] to do quietly without them becoming aware of efforts.” (BuzzFeed News) 8/ More than 200 football players, coaches, and team owners sat, … you will see change take place fast. Fire or suspend!” removed: He then added that "NFL attendance and ratings are WAY DOWN. Boring games yes, but many stay away because they love our country. League should back U.S." Trump Jr. removed: then attackednow: piled on, attacking Roger Goodell after the NFL commissioner released a statement criticizing … and traumatic brain injury as he does about disrespecting America." removed: And, finally, Steven Mnuchin defended Trump's removed: commentsnow: comments, saying that players "have the right to have the First …
But that's not all. Trump now: also disinvited the Golden State Warriors from the traditional White House visit because Stephen removed: Curry’s public oppositionnow: Curry said he didn't want to removed: him, saying "Curry is hesitating,therefore invitation is withdrawn!" Sticking up for Curry and the Warriors,now: go. LeBron James now: then called Trump a "bum," removed: tweetingnow: and tweeted that going to the "White House was a great honor …
… Cassidy and Lindsey Graham revised their health care proposal to removed: includesnow: include more funding to Alaska, Arizona, Kentucky, and Maine, the home …
… travel ban is set to expire on Sunday, and he removed: has hinted at broadeningnow: is expected to broaden the order. Early reports suggest a new order may include …
… at a military parade, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said Iran removed: "willnow: will increase removed: our militarynow: its "military power as a deterrent" and that it "will not seek permission from anyone to removed: defend our country."now: defend" itself. (Reuters)
… to turn over to Congress details of ads sold to removed: Russian-linkednow: Russia-linked accounts during the 2016 election. The decision represents a reversal …
… Trump's Oval Office meeting with Sergey Lavrov and Sergey Kislyak removed: (thenow: the day after the firing of James removed: Comey),now: Comey, as well as documents concerning the firing of Mike Flynn …
3/ Mueller interviewed Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein about the removed: firing of James Comey.now: Comey firing. The interview occurred in June or July. Since Jeff Sessions …
2/ Special counsel Robert Mueller interviewed Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein about the firing of James Comey. The interview occurred in June or July. Since Jeff Sessions recused himself from the investigation, Rosenstein is ultimately in charge of overseeing the Russia probe. (Wall Street Journal)
After
2/ Special counsel Robert Mueller sent a document to the White House requesting details on Trump's behavior in office. The request encompasses Trump's Oval Office meeting with Sergey Lavrov and Sergey Kislyak (the day after the firing of James Comey), as well as documents concerning the firing of Mike Flynn and the administration's response to news of the 2016 Trump …
Before
3/ The Senate will likely begin voting on the latest bill to repeal the Affordable Care Act next Wednesday. The Graham-Cassidy plan has received pushback from a variety of legislators, as well as from a bipartisan group of 10 governors. Lamar Alexander and Patty Murray continue to negotiate for a bipartisan approach to health care reform. (Axios / Washinton Post)
After
3/ Mueller interviewed Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein about the firing of James Comey. The interview occurred in June or July. Since Jeff Sessions recused himself from the investigation, Rosenstein is ultimately in charge of overseeing the Russia probe. (Wall Street Journal)
Before
4/ The Trump administration is shifting oversight of international gun sales from State to the Commerce Department. The move will make it easier to sell non-military firearms to foreign buyers. An administration official, noting the increased flexibility, said, "You could really turn the spigot on if you do it the right way." (Reuters)
After
4/ The Senate will likely begin voting on the latest bill to repeal the Affordable Care Act next Wednesday. The Graham-Cassidy plan has received pushback from a variety of legislators, as well as from a bipartisan group of 10 governors. Lamar Alexander and Patty Murray continue to negotiate for a bipartisan approach to health care reform. (Axios / Washinton Post)
Before
5/ Erdoğan said Trump apologized to him for the indictment of Turkish security personnel following their clash with anti-Erdoğan protestors in Washington in May. The Turkish president also said Trump told him "he was going to follow up on this issue when we come to the United States within the framework of an official visit." The White House denied the …
After
5/ The Trump administration is shifting oversight of international gun sales from State to the Commerce Department. The move will make it easier to sell non-military firearms to foreign buyers. An administration official, noting the increased flexibility, said, "You could really turn the spigot on if you do it the right way." (Reuters)
Before
6/ Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Tom Price reportedly spent tens of thousands of dollars on private flights last week, breaking with his predecessors. Price did not comment on the expenditures, but a spokesman said charter flights are acceptable when "commercial aircraft cannot reasonably accommodate travel requirements." Price flew to Maine, New Hampshire, and Pennsylvania. (Politico)
After
6/ Erdoğan said Trump apologized to him for the indictment of Turkish security personnel following their clash with anti-Erdoğan protestors in Washington in May. The Turkish president also said Trump told him "he was going to follow up on this issue when we come to the United States within the framework of an official visit." The White House denied the …
Before
7/ Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro called Trump "the new Hitler" following Trump's speech at the United Nations. Trump has openly criticized the Maduro regime for weeks, citing the decline of democracy in the Latin American country. Said Maduro: "Nobody threatens Venezuela and nobody owns Venezuela." (NBC News)
After
7/ Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Tom Price reportedly spent tens of thousands of dollars on private flights last week, breaking with his predecessors. Price did not comment on the expenditures, but a spokesman said charter flights are acceptable when "commercial aircraft cannot reasonably accommodate travel requirements." Price flew to Maine, New Hampshire, and Pennsylvania. (Politico)
4/ The Trump administration rejected a Department of Health and Human Services study demonstrating the positive economic impact of refugees. The draft report said refugees "contributed an estimated $269.1 billion in revenues to all levels of government" over the past decade, amounting to a net gain of $63 billion. The White House is seeking a rationale for reducing the number …
After
4/ Trump is paying legal fees related to the Russia investigation with RNC and reelection campaign funds. Under the FEC, the move is legal, but Trump is the first president in modern history to use campaign funding in this manner. Trump lawyer John Dowd told reporters the question of financing Trump's legal bills was "none of your business.” (Reuters)
Before
5/ Trump said the United States is "prepared to take further action if the government of Venezuela persists." Speaking at a United Nations dinner in New York, Trump argued the United States must "take important steps to hold the regime accountable," referencing the erosion of democracy under President Nicolás Maduro. (Politico)
After
5/ The Trump administration rejected a Department of Health and Human Services study demonstrating the positive economic impact of refugees. The draft report said refugees "contributed an estimated $269.1 billion in revenues to all levels of government" over the past decade, amounting to a net gain of $63 billion. The White House is seeking a rationale for reducing the number …
Before
6/ Trump Jr. and Kellyanne Conway are dropping their Secret Service detail. The two cases are unrelated: Trump Jr. seeks more privacy, and Conway was only temporarily covered due to threats she received earlier this year. (New York Times)
After
6/ Trump said the United States is "prepared to take further action if the government of Venezuela persists." Speaking at a United Nations dinner in New York, Trump argued the United States must "take important steps to hold the regime accountable," referencing the erosion of democracy under President Nicolás Maduro. (Politico)
4/ The Trump administration confirmed it is indeed pulling out of the Paris Agreement despite reports to the contrary. Over the weekend, The Wall Street Journal reported that top officials were considering remaining a party to the agreement. National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster called the article "a false report." The United States cannot formally withdraw from the deal until 2020. …
After
4/ Mike Flynn's family established a legal defense fund, citing a "tremendous financial burden" stemming from the Russia investigation. In a public statement, Flynn's siblings emphasized that the legal fees required of former Trump aides "far exceed their ability to pay." The Trump administration recently legalized anonymous donations to legal defense funds. (ABC News)
Before
5/ The Department of the Interior recommended cutting, scaling back, or otherwise changing the boundaries of seven national monuments. An Interior report recommends, for example, reducing the size of Bear Ears in Utah and opening protected ocean waters for commercial fishing. The White House has not yet acted on the report's recommendations. (Wall Street Journal)
After
5/ The Trump administration confirmed it is indeed pulling out of the Paris Agreement despite reports to the contrary. Over the weekend, The Wall Street Journal reported that top officials were considering remaining a party to the agreement. National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster called the article "a false report." The United States cannot formally withdraw from the deal until 2020. …
… administration confirmed it is indeed pulling out of the Paris removed: Agreement,now: Agreement despite reports to the contrary. Over the weekend, The Wall …
5/ The Trump administration will cut funding for Affordable Care Act enrollment groups by up to 92%. Known as navigators, the grassroots organizations help people sign up for ACA health insurance during the open enrollment period. Under Trump, the Department of Health and Human Services has repeatedly questioned their value. (Washington Post)
After
5/ The Department of Justice declined to release visitor logs for Mar-a-Lago despite a federal court ordering the Secret Service to do so. Earlier this year, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, the National Security Archive, and the Knight First Amendment Institute sued the administration for the Mar-a-Lago logs, as well as those for the White House and Trump …
Before
6/ The State Department held off on further sanctions on Iran while it decides to continue with the Iran nuclear deal. The administration will decide next month if Iran has met its commitments under the deal. An official said the Trump administration "seeks to bring a change in Iran's behavior." (Washington Post)
After
6/ The Trump administration will cut funding for Affordable Care Act enrollment groups by up to 92%. Known as navigators, the grassroots organizations help people sign up for ACA health insurance during the open enrollment period. Under Trump, the Department of Health and Human Services has repeatedly questioned their value. (Washington Post)
… with Tim Scott, who addressed the president directly about his removed: rhetoric of false removed: equivalence.now: equivalence rhetoric. (New York Times)
2/ Congress unanimously passed a joint resolution calling on Trump to denounce hate groups. The measure, which now heads to Trump's desk in search of a signature, explicitly condemns "White nationalists, White supremacists, the Ku Klux Klan, neo-Nazis, and other hate groups." It is nonbinding. (New York Times)
After
Flynn's son, Michael G. Flynn, is a subject of the federal Russia probe, as well. The investigation focuses in part on Flynn's work with Mike Flynn's lobbying firm. (NBC News)
Before
3/ The Trump administration is mulling lowering the refugee quota to its lowest level since at least 1980. Trump has already reduced the resettlement cap to 50,000. Now, some White House officials, including Stephen Miller, are pressing for a lower ceiling. (New York Times)
After
2/ The U.S. government has banned the use of Kaspersky Lab software over concerns of Russian cyberespionage. Federal agencies will have three months to remove the software. Homeland Security called the risk that Russia could "capitalize on access provided by Kaspersky products" a national security threat. Kaspersky Lab denies any wrongdoing and claims it is "caught in the middle of …
Before
4/ The Supreme Court blocked two rulings that would have forced Texas to redraw congressional and state districts. The lower court had ruled Texas had intentionally tried to weaken Hispanic voters' political power via its district maps. The districts in question will likely be used in 2018. (The Hill / Bloomberg)
After
3/ Congress unanimously passed a joint resolution calling on Trump to denounce hate groups. The measure, which now heads to Trump's desk in search of a signature, explicitly condemns "White nationalists, White supremacists, the Ku Klux Klan, neo-Nazis, and other hate groups." It is nonbinding. (New York Times)
Before
5/ The Department of Justice won't bring civil rights charges against the Baltimore police officers who arrested Freddie Gray. Gray died of spinal cord injuries in April 2015 after the officers failed to secure him in a police van. In a statement, DOJ called his in-custody death "undeniably tragic." (AP)
After
4/ The Trump administration is mulling lowering the refugee quota to its lowest level since at least 1980. Trump has already reduced the resettlement cap to 50,000. Now, some White House officials, including Stephen Miller, are pressing for a lower ceiling. (New York Times)
2/ ICE cancelled its plan to removed: roundupnow: round up 8,400 undocumented immigrants, citing the "weather situation" in Florida and … as "the largest operation of its kind in the history" removed: fornow: of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. (NBC News)
… they haven’t registered vehicles in New Hampshire or gotten in-state removed: driversnow: driver's licenses since the election. Experts say the allegation is baseless. …
… Trump Tower during the campaign. Trump personally helped craft his removed: sonsnow: son's misleading statement while aboard Air Force removed: One, whichnow: One. It claimed Trump Jr. "primarily discussed a program about the adoption of Russian children" during his meeting with removed: anow: the Russian lawyer. That claim was later debunked by multiple accounts …
3/ The United States is urging the U.N. Security Council to impose a North Korean oil embargo and ban exports of the country's textiles. South Korea expects another North Korean ICBM launch on Saturday. (Reuters)
After
3/ Under Betsy DeVos, the Department of Education will replace an Obama-era guidance on campus sexual assault. In a speech, DeVos argued the move is "not about letting institutions off the hook," but rather about balancing the rights of victims and the accused. The Obama guidance said universities were compelled to combat sexual harassment and violence under Title IX. (Politico …
Before
4/ In a meeting with Congressional leaders, Trump suggested the debt ceiling should be scrapped altogether. The suggestion came in the same meeting in which Trump struck a fiscal deal with Democrats for a short-term debt ceiling increase, angering Republicans. (Politico)
After
4/ The United States is urging the U.N. Security Council to impose a North Korean oil embargo and ban exports of the country's textiles. South Korea expects another North Korean ICBM launch on Saturday. (Reuters)
… pressure on Congress." Trump said he has "no second thoughts" now: on DACA. (CNN / Politico / Washington Post)
… ads had digital footprints that led to a Russian company removed: seeking to targetnow: targeting voters. The Facebook team also discovered 470 suspicious and likely fraudulent Facebook accounts and pages now: that were operated out of Russia. (Washington Post)
… “tools at his disposal to put more pressure on Congress." now: Trump said he has "no second thoughts" DACA. (CNN / removed: Politico)now: Politico / Washington Post)
Source links: updated cnn.com / i2.cdn.turner.com
4/ now: Trump sided with Democrats and agreed to increase the debt limit and fund the government until mid-December. The now: agreement came after the House approved nearly $8 billion in disaster aid for Hurricane Harvey victims. removed: Congressional Democratsnow: Democratic leaders offered to support removed: a GOP plannow: the short-term package to removed: pair Harvey relief funding with a short-term increase innow: fund the government, raise the debt removed: limit until mid-December, setting up a year-end fiscal cliff. Congress is also expectednow: ceiling, and provide relief for Harvey victims in order to removed: extendnow: maintain leverage on issues like government removed: funding until the end of thenow: spending, health care, and DACA later this year. (New York Times / Washington Post / Politico)
Before
poll/ 55% of voters say they’re comfortable with the nation becoming more diverse and tolerant of different lifestyles, gender roles, languages, cultures and experiences. 24% say they’re uneasy with these changes, because they believe what makes the US special is the country’s uniquely American experience, speaking English and sharing a background that brings everyone together. (NBC News / Wall Street …
After
5/ Trump Jr. will meet with the the Senate Judiciary Committee on Thursday to discuss the Trump campaign’s contacts with Russia. It's the first time someone from Trump's inner circle will speak with the committee members about the campaign’s alleged attempts to engage with Kremlin surrogates. Committee members still hope to interview Paul Manafort and Jared Kushner about the meeting …
Before
*** UPDATES IN PROGRESS ***
After
6/ The House intelligence committee subpoenaed the FBI and Justice Department last month, seeking documents related to a dossier that alleged Russia collected compromising material on Trump. The pair of subpoenas were issued last month and are designed to "undermine" the claims about the Trump campaign and the Kremlin. "We've got to run this thing to ground," said Republican Rep. …
… sites in Texas that are “experiencing possible damage” because they removed: arenow: had “not been accessible by response personnel." The Associated Press, however, …
… fitting on an intercontinental ballistic missile, and hours after South removed: Koreannow: Korea said they might be preparing to launch another ICBM. Defense …
2/ The Department of Homeland Security will be able to use DACA recipients’ personal information to deport them. DACA recipients gave DHS information proving they are undocumented so they could get relief from the threat of deportation, including where they live, work, and go to school. DHS said it won’t proactively provide immigration officers with a list with the names …
After
2/ Obama called Trump's decision to end DACA “cruel” and “self-defeating.” In a Facebook post, Obama added that "to target these young people is wrong -- because they have done nothing wrong." (CNN / Politico)
now: Transcript: Jeff Sessions on Trump ending DACA program. (Politico) 2/ now: The Department of Homeland Security will be able to use DACA recipients’ personal information to deport them. DACA recipients gave DHS information proving they are undocumented so they could get relief from the threat of deportation, including where they live, work, and go to school. DHS said it won’t proactively provide immigration officers with a list with the names and addresses of DACA recipients, but if ICE officers ask for it, the agency will provide it. (The Daily Beast) 3/ North Korea “is begging for war,” Nikki Haley told the … South Korean said they might be preparing to launch another removed: ballistic missile.now: ICBM. Defense Secretary James Mattis warned of a "massive military response" …
Before
4/ The Justice Department said that it has no evidence to support Trump's claim that Obama wiretapped the phones in Trump Tower. The DOJ made the statement in response to a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit by the watchdog group American Oversight. "Both FBI and NSD confirm that they have no records related to wiretaps as described by the March …
After
Trump joked that his hands were “too big” while putting on plastic gloves to serve food to victims of Hurricane Harvey in Houston. (The Hill)
Before
*** UPDATES IN PROGRESS ***
After
8/ Trump's pick to lead NASA doesn't believe that humans are causing climate change. Representative Jim Bridenstine of Oklahoma would be the first elected official to hold the job and will need to be confirmed by the Senate. The two senators who represent Florida's Space Coast have publicly objected to the choice of a politician as head of the space …
… 4, 2017 tweets," the department's motion reads. On March 4, removed: Trumpnow: Trump, citing no evidence, tweeted: "Terrible! Just found out that Obama had my 'wires …
… Yesterday, the Trump administration ordered Russia to close the consulate now: after the Kremlin cut American diplomatic and technical staff in Russia. …
4/ Trump's head of voter fraud is also a paid Breitbart News columnist. Kobach has published seven columns, most highlighting immigration and sanctuary cities, but also his own Commission on Election Integrity. “I get paid for my columns... just like you’re paid,” Kobach said. (The Hill / Kansas City Star)
After
4/ Black smoke was seen pouring from the Russian consulate in San Francisco. Yesterday, the Trump administration ordered Russia to close the consulate the Kremlin cut American diplomatic and technical staff in Russia. (Associated Press)
Before
5/ Adam Schiff is pushing to defund Trump's commission on voter fraud, introducing an amendment to the upcoming government spending bill. The California Democrat accused the commission of "appearing to lay the groundwork for a push to place new restrictions on voting that disproportionately disadvantages minority voters." (The Hill)
After
5/ Trump's head of voter fraud is also a paid Breitbart News columnist. Kobach has published seven columns, most highlighting immigration and sanctuary cities, but also his own Commission on Election Integrity. “I get paid for my columns... just like you’re paid,” Kobach said. (The Hill / Kansas City Star)
Before
6/ Paul Ryan wants Trump to hold off on rescinding Obama's Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. "I actually don't think he should do that," Ryan said. "I believe that this is something that Congress has to fix." Orrin Hatch added that rescinding DACA would be "an action that would further complicate a system in serious need of a permanent, …
After
6/ Adam Schiff is pushing to defund Trump's commission on voter fraud, introducing an amendment to the upcoming government spending bill. The California Democrat accused the commission of "appearing to lay the groundwork for a push to place new restrictions on voting that disproportionately disadvantages minority voters." (The Hill)
… of a private email server. They base their timeline on removed: heavily redactednow: heavily-redacted transcripts where an unidentified FBI aide says that Comey first …
… were problematic. A different letter was ultimately sent, written by removed: the deputy attorney general,now: Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, focusing on Comey’s handling of the investigation into …
… additional troops to Afghanistan. There are about 11,000 US troops removed: are serving in Afghanistan. (Reuters)
… comments were pre-written form letters. Of the unique comments, 98.5% removed: of unique net neutrality comments oppose the plan to repeal the rules. The FCC has …
1/ Robert Mueller and the New York attorney general removed: are working togethernow: have teamed up to removed: investigation intonow: investigate Paul Manafort and his financial transactions. Mueller and Eric Schneiderman …
2/ now: Manafort's notes from the Trump Tower meeting mentioned "donations" near a reference to the Republican National Committee. Investigators want to know if the meeting included discussion of donations from Russians to either the Trump campaign or the Republican Party. It is illegal for foreigners to donate to American elections. (NBC News) Manafort's political-consulting work often involved Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska, whose …
Before
6/ Trump's treasury secretary won’t commit to putting Harriet Tubman on $20 bill. Last year, Obama and his treasury secretary proposed to replace Andrew Jackson’s image with Tubman, the famous abolitionist who helped free enslaved people. She would be the first woman on American currency as well as the first African American. (Washington Post)
After
11/ The net neutrality comment period ended with nearly 22 million total replies. A telecom-backed study found that more than 90% of the comments were pre-written form letters. Of the unique comments, 98.5% of unique net neutrality comments oppose the plan to repeal the rules. The FCC has said it would consider the quality, not the quantity, of the comments …
… aligned with some of Putin’s foreign-policy objectives. Manafort worked with removed: Depripaskanow: Deripaska for more than a decade on projects in Ukraine, Georgia, …
… disasters” and “help ensure federal projects last as long as removed: intended.now: intended." (HuffPost)
3/ removed: Defense Secretary Jimnow: Contrary to reports, Mattis removed: will allownow: did not “freeze” the transgender ban. USA Today reported that the defense secretary would delay the implementation of Trump’s directive and "allow" transgender troops to continue serving in the military while the Pentagon removed: studiesnow: studied the removed: issue, delaying the implementation of Trump’s directive.now: issue. Instead, Mattis removed: will establish a “panel of experts serving within the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security” to provide advice and recommendations for putting Trump's order to bar transgender individuals from serving. Mattis has until February 21st to submit a plan for implementing the new policy. (USA Today / Politico) > UPDATE: > > Mattis did not “freeze” the transgender ban. He'snow: is doing what Trump directed him to do in his memo, … address transgender individuals currently serving in the United States military.” removed: (Salon)now: Mattis has until February 21st to submit a plan for implementing the new policy. (Salon / Vox)
poll/ 61% of voters removed: surveyed oppose shutting down the government in order to fund Trump's …
… troops to continue serving in the military while the Pentagon removed: studiednow: studies the issue, delaying the implementation of Trump’s directive. Mattis will …
1/ Defense Secretary Jim Mattis will allow transgender troops to continue serving in the military while the Pentagon studies the issue, delaying the implementation of Trump’s directive. Mattis will establish a “panel of experts serving within the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security” to provide advice and recommendations for putting Trump's order to bar transgender individuals from serving. Mattis has …
After
1/ Less than two weeks before Hurricane Harvey, Trump rescinded Obama's coastal flood protections, which required federal, state, and local agencies to take steps to protect infrastructure from flooding caused by climate change. The Federal Flood Risk Management Standard aimed to “reduce the risk and cost of future flood disasters” and “help ensure federal projects last as long as intended. …
Before
2/ The Kremlin confirmed that Trump’s personal lawyer reached out during the 2016 presidential campaign requesting assistance on a stalled Trump Tower real estate project in Moscow. Putin’s spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, said they received Michael Cohen’s email, but the Kremlin didn't reply. Peskov said that he had seen the email but that it was not given to Putin. (Associated Press …
After
2/ House Republicans want to cut almost $1 billion from FEMA's disaster relief fund, which only has $2.3 billion remaining in its budget. Trump, meanwhile, is promising billions to help Texas rebuild from Harvey-caused flooding. The $876 million cut pays for roughly half the cost of Trump’s down payment on the border wall. (Associated Press)
removed: 4/now: 8/ Mattis removed: tonow: contradicted Trump: We're "never out of diplomatic solutions" on North Korea. … is what we are here to discuss today." (The Hill) now: 9/ The White House will end an Obama-era policy aimed at addressing pay disparities. The data collection requirement would have required business owners to document how much they pay workers based on their gender, race, and ethnicity. Ivanka Trump, supporting the policy, issued a statement saying: “Ultimately, while I believe the intention was good and agree that pay transparency is important, the proposed policy would not yield the intended results." (Wall Street Journal)
Before
5/ The White House will end an Obama-era policy aimed at addressing pay disparities. The data collection requirement would have required business owners to document how much they pay workers based on their gender, race, and ethnicity. Ivanka Trump, supporting the policy, issued a statement saying: “Ultimately, while I believe the intention was good and agree that pay transparency is …
After
10/ A focus group of Pittsburgh-area voters called Trump “outrageous,” “dishonest,” “disappointing,” “narcissistic,” “an abject disappointment,” “unique,” “not ready to be president,” “off the scale,” “crazy,” “unbelievable,” and “contemptible.” Five of the group's 12 members voted for Trump. (NBC News / Politico)
… troops to continue serving in the military while the Pentagon removed: studiednow: studies the issue, delaying the implementation of Trump’s directive. Mattis will …
2/ Michael Cohen said he didn’t inform Trump that he had sent the email to Putin’s top press official asking for “assistance” in arranging a licensing deal for a Trump Tower in Moscow. The Trump Organization attorney sent the email in January 2016 to Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin’s top press aide, at the recommendation of Felix Sater, a Russian-American businessman …
After
2/ Trump Jr. agreed to testify privately before the Senate Judiciary Committee in the “next few weeks.” The panel had invited him to attend a July hearing to testify in public, but he declined. It's unclear if he will eventually testify publicly. (Politico / CNN)
Before
3/ Trump warned North Korea that "all options are on the table" after it fired a missile over Japan. The recent ballistic missile test "has signaled its contempt" for the international community, Trump said in a statement. U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley added that “something serious has to happen.” (Politico / CNN)
After
3/ Michael Cohen said he didn’t inform Trump that he had sent the email to Putin’s top press official asking for “assistance” in arranging a licensing deal for a Trump Tower in Moscow. The Trump Organization attorney sent the email in January 2016 to Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin’s top press aide, at the recommendation of Felix Sater, a Russian-American businessman …
Before
4/ Trump fired the organizer for his Phoenix speech because he was upset about the crowd size and TV coverage. After his speech, Trump had his top security aide inform longtime aide George Gigicos that he’d never manage a Trump rally again. Gigicos has organized all of Trump’s main campaign events and occasional rallies since entering office and is one …
After
4/ Mueller issued subpoenas for Paul Manafort's current spokesman and his former lawyer seeking documents and testimony. The subpoenas are among dozens that the Mueller investigative team has sent out in recent months since taking over the investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election. Manafort is under investigation for possible tax and financial crimes. (CNN)
poll/ 16% of removed: Americansnow: American say they like the way Trump conducts himself as president. …
… a Trump Tower in Moscow while he was running for removed: president in late 2015 and early 2016.now: president. Discussions about the Moscow project began in September 2015 removed: and despite signing a letter of intent, the projectnow: until it was abandoned just before the presidential primaries began in January 2016, emails show. The details of the deal removed: havenow: had not previously been disclosed. The Trump Organization has turned over …
Before
7/ Sebastian Gorka left the White House and will return to Breitbart News, reuniting him with Steve Bannon. One White House official said Gorka submitted his resignation to John Kelly, while a second White House official said "Gorka did not resign, but I can confirm he is no longer with the White House." The White House issued an unattributed statement …
After
11/ Trump announced Arpaio's pardon as Hurricane Harvey made landfall because he “assumed the ratings would be far higher.” Trump told reporters at a press conference: "In the middle of a hurricane, even though it was a Friday evening, I assumed the ratings would be far higher than they would be normally. You know, the hurricane was just starting.” (The …
… Jeff Sessions strongly believes Trump should end DACA, which would removed: effectnow: affect at least 750,000 people. Trump’s aides have recently pushed him …
… against Venezuela explicitly exempt Citgo, which donated $500,000 to fund removed: the Trump's inaugural ceremony. The country’s state-owned oil company has also …
… The effort to seek out the hackers was led by removed: a longtime Republican activist Peter W. Smith, who in correspondence and … that other senior Trump campaign officials were coordinating with him. removed: Smith'snow: Smith also named Flynn’s consulting firm and his son in the …
3/ The former British spy who put together the dossier of allegations about Trump during last year’s campaign has been ordered to give a deposition in the libel case brought against BuzzFeed News, who published the document. Christopher Steele authored the 35-page dossier while working for Fusion GPS and its founder Glenn Simpson. The document was crafted as opposition research …
After
3/ Robert Mueller is examining what role, if any, Michael Flynn may have played in an effort to obtain Hillary Clinton’s emails from Russian hackers. The effort to seek out the hackers was led by a longtime Republican activist Peter W. Smith, who in correspondence and conversations with his colleagues portrayed Flynn as an ally and implied that other senior …
Before
4/ The White House's new sanctions against Venezuela explicitly exempt Citgo, which donated $500,000 to fund the Trump's inaugural ceremony. The country’s state-owned oil company has also paid $160,000 to lobby the White House, hiring Trump's former campaign manager Corey Lewandowski and campaign adviser Barry Bennett to lobby for the exemption. (The Daily Beast)
After
4/ The former British spy who put together the dossier of allegations about Trump during last year’s campaign has been ordered to give a deposition in the libel case brought against BuzzFeed News, who published the document. Christopher Steele authored the 35-page dossier while working for Fusion GPS and its founder Glenn Simpson. The document was crafted as opposition research …
Before
5/ The Republican National Committee condemned white supremacy but didn't call it a rebuke of Trump’s remarks, saying "this has nothing to do with the president." (Washington Post)
After
5/ The White House's new sanctions against Venezuela explicitly exempt Citgo, which donated $500,000 to fund the Trump's inaugural ceremony. The country’s state-owned oil company has also paid $160,000 to lobby the White House, hiring Trump's former campaign manager Corey Lewandowski and campaign adviser Barry Bennett to lobby for the exemption. (The Daily Beast)
Before
6/ Trump is considering ending DACA, the Obama-era policy that shields some illegal immigrants from deportation. Jeff Sessions strongly believes Trump should end DACA, which would effect at least 750,000 people. Trump’s aides have recently pushed him to protect young children brought to the US illegally, despite his campaign promise to deport so-called Dreamers. (Axios / ABC News / NBC …
After
6/ The Republican National Committee condemned white supremacy but didn't call it a rebuke of Trump’s remarks, saying "this has nothing to do with the president." (Washington Post)
Before
7/ A federal court ruled that parts of Texas' state House maps are intentionally discriminatory and ordered them redrawn ahead of the 2018 elections. Last week, the court required that the state’s congressional maps had to be redrawn because they illegally discriminate against Hispanic and black voters. In both the congressional and state House rulings, Texas' attorney general signaled that …
After
7/ Trump is considering ending DACA, the Obama-era policy that shields some illegal immigrants from deportation. Jeff Sessions strongly believes Trump should end DACA, which would effect at least 750,000 people. Trump’s aides have recently pushed him to protect young children brought to the US illegally, despite his campaign promise to deport so-called Dreamers. (Axios / ABC News / NBC …
4/ The White House's new sanctions against Venezuela explicitly removed: exemptednow: exempt Citgo, which donated $500,000 to fund the Trump's inaugural ceremony. …
… remarks were in contrast to Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who removed: defended Trump.now: said that "under no circumstances" was he planning to resign after Trump’s remarks that "both sides" were to blame for the violence. Mnuchin is also Jewish. (New York Times / CNN / now: Politico / Financial Times)
Before
4/ Trump is considering ending DACA, the Obama-era policy that shields some illegal immigrants from deportation. Jeff Sessions strongly believes Trump should end DACA, which would effect at least 750,000 people. Trump’s aides have recently pushed him to protect young children brought to the US illegally, despite his campaign promise to deport so-called Dreamers. (Axios)
After
4/ The White House's new sanctions against Venezuela that explicitly exempted Citgo, which donated $500,000 to fund the Trump's inaugural ceremony. The country’s state-owned oil company has also paid $160,000 to lobby the White House, hiring Trump's former campaign manager Corey Lewandowski and campaign adviser Barry Bennett to lobby for the exemption. (The Daily Beast) 5/ The Republican National Committee …
… last year’s campaign has been ordered to give a deposition now: in the libel case brought against BuzzFeed removed: News thatnow: News, who published the document. Christopher Steele authored the 35-page dossier while …
… almost 10 hours behind closed doors with the Senate Judiciary removed: Committee.now: Committee yesterday. Glenn Simpson, who cofounded the private research firm Fusion GPS, …
6/ There removed: isnow: are 3,500 additional troops in Afghanistan removed: thatnow: than the Pentagon has removed: not publicly disclosed. The Pentagon has acknowledged that about 8,400 troops …
… of GOP lawmakers who did not endorse Trump for president. now: Flake has been skeptical of building a border wall between the US and Mexico. (Politico / New York Times)
3/ The United Nations issued an “early warning” to the US over its "alarming" racism, urging the Trump administration to “unequivocally and unconditionally” reject discrimination. The only other countries to be issued an early warning were Burundi, Iraq, Ivory Coast, Kyrgyzstan and Nigeria. (The Guardian)
After
3/ The White House has prepared the paperwork for Trump to pardon former sheriff Joe Arpaio. One of the talking points is that Arpaio served his country for 50 years and that it is not appropriate to send him to prison for "enforcing the law" and "working to keep people safe." Arpaio was found guilty of criminal contempt for disregarding …
Before
4/ The Pentagon has thousands more troops in Afghanistan than its publicly disclosed. There are about 8,400 troops in Afghanistan that the Pentagon has publicly acknowledged. But, there's another 3,500 troops there on temporary assignment, bringing the total number in Afghanistan to above 12,000. (Wall Street Journal / NBC News)
After
4/ Trump followed up his threat to shut down the government if Congress didn't fund his wall by going after Senator Jeff Flake of Arizona. Trump tweeted "I love the Great State of Arizona. Not a fan of Jeff Flake, weak on crime and border!” Flake is one of two Republican senators up for re-election next year and was among …
1/ Trump put forward his strategy for resolving the nearly 16-year-old conflict in Afghanistan last night. He insisted he would “not talk about numbers of troops” needed or telegraph military moves, but hinted that he supports the Pentagon’s proposal to add nearly 4,000 troops to the roughly 8,400 Americans there now. Trump also said the US will shift away from …
After
1/ Mitch McConnell has privately expressed uncertainty that Trump can salvage his administration. The two have not spoken to each other in weeks and in offhand remarks, McConnell questioned whether Trump will be in a position to lead the Republican Party into next year’s elections and beyond. (New York Times)
Before
2/ Trump's national security team spent months talking him out of ending the war in Afghanistan. “It wasn’t a debate,” said a senior White House aide. “It was an attempt to convince the president.” Trump's acceptance was less a change of heart than a willingness to be persuaded as long as he could be seen as a strong and decisive …
After
2/ Trump put forward his strategy for resolving the nearly 16-year-old conflict in Afghanistan last night. He insisted he would “not talk about numbers of troops” needed or telegraph military moves, but hinted that he supports the Pentagon’s proposal to add nearly 4,000 troops to the roughly 8,400 Americans there now. Trump also said the US will shift away from …
Before
3/ The Treasury Department sanctioned China and Russia for assisting North Korea’s development of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles. Six individuals and 10 companies were added to the sanctions list in order to increase economic leverage on North Korea and reduce the flow of money to its weapons development. (Bloomberg / CNBC)
After
3/ Trump's national security team spent months talking him out of abruptly ending the war in Afghanistan. “It wasn’t a debate,” said a senior White House aide. “It was an attempt to convince the president.” Trump's acceptance was less a change of heart than a willingness to be persuaded as long as he could be seen as a strong and …
Before
4/ Pro-Trump rallies in 36 states have been canceled. The America First Rallies were scheduled for September 9th, but “out of an abundance of caution” due “to the recent violence in America and in Europe" the rallies will be held as online demonstrations because "citizens cannot peacefully express their opinion without risk of physical harm from terror groups domestic and …
After
4/ Trump’s aides are pushing him to protect young children brought to the country illegally despite his campaign promise to deport so-called Dreamers. White House officials want to use the issue as a bargaining chip for a larger immigration deal that offers Dreamers protection in exchange for legislation that pays for a border wall and more detention facilities, curbs legal …
Before
5/ Paul Ryan said Trump “messed up” his response to Charlottesville when he failed to denounce white supremacy and defended them as "fine people." Ryan said that by blaming "both sides" for last week's violence, Trump “made comments that are much more morally ambiguous, much more confusing” than he should have. He stopped short of calling on Trump to apologize …
After
5/ The Treasury Department sanctioned China and Russia for assisting North Korea’s development of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles. Six individuals and 10 companies were added to the sanctions list in order to increase economic leverage on North Korea and reduce the flow of money to its weapons development. (Bloomberg / CNBC)
… at Mar-a-Lago. Large nonprofits began walking away from Mar-a-Lago after removed: Trump'snow: Trump blamed “both sides” for the violence in Charlottesville and now: claimed there were “very fine people on both removed: sides."now: sides.” (New York Times / Washington Post)
… is investigating the Russian lobbyist with deep ties to Moscow removed: thatnow: who attended the Trump Jr. meeting. It was previously reported that …
8/ removed: A ninth charity hasnow: At least 15 charities have cancelled removed: itsnow: their planned removed: fundraisernow: fundraisers at Mar-a-Lago. Large nonprofits began walking away from Mar-a-Lago after … people on both sides." (New York Times / Washington Post) now: {% twitter https://twitter.com/Fahrenthold/status/899696523444989955 %}
1/ The Secret Service removed: ran out of moneynow: has blown through its budget to pay agents because of Trump's frequent travel and large … overtime allowances that were meant to last the entire year. now: The Secret Service has enough to money to continue protecting Trump and his family through September. If Congress don’t lift the cap, about a third of the agency’s agents would be working overtime without being paid. (USA removed: Today)now: Today / Washington Post)
Before
poll/ Trump's job approval rating is below 40% in three key states that won him the White House. Six-in-10 voters in Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin also say Trump’s conduct as president has embarrassed them. (NBC News)
After
11/ Robert Mueller is investigating the Russian lobbyist with deep ties to Moscow that attended the Trump Jr. meeting. It was previously reported that Rinat Akhmetshin attended the June 2016 meeting between Paul Manafort, Donald Trump Jr., Jared Kushner, and the Russian lawyer Natalia Veselnitskaya. However, Akhmetshin's ties to the Russian government and Kremlin-backed oligarchs are much deeper than was …
Before
BONUS/ Trump looked at the sun without glasses during the eclipse despite warnings. (Talking Points Memo)
After
poll/ Trump's job approval rating is below 40% in three key states that won him the White House. Six-in-10 voters in Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin also say Trump’s conduct as president has embarrassed them. (NBC News)
poll/ 28% approve of Trump's response to Charlottesville. 42% believe Trump has been equating neo-Nazis and white supremacists to those who oppose them. (ABC News)
… June to send as many as 3,900 troops to Afghanistan. now: It will be Trump's first prime-time broadcast on a specific policy issue. (NBC News / Washington Post / New York Times)
Before
*** Check back soon: updates in progress ***
After
6/ Paul Ryan will hold his first public town hall in nearly two years tonight. The town hall will air tonight at 9:30PM ET on CNN. Last month, Ryan said he would not hold public town halls due to concerns over potential protesters coming in from outside districts. (CNN / The Hill) 7/ Trump's pick for USDA chief scientist has …
2/ Bannon will return now: to Breitbart News as executive chairman and will be “going to …
… opportunity in the digital age." It's the third advisory council removed: of to see resignations this week following Trump's remarks that there …
… in a rebuke of Trump and his response to Charlottesville. removed: James isnow: James, the son of Rupert Murdoch, now: is the CEO of 21st Century removed: Fox,now: Fox and an informal adviser to Trump. "Standing up to Nazis is …
2/ Robert Mueller is focusing on Trump Jr.'s intent when he met with the Russian lawyer as prosecutors investigate possible collusion between Russia and the Trump campaign. Trump Jr. has acknowledged that he was looking for negative information about Hillary Clinton, but he claimed he didn't receive anything useful. Prosecutors are trying to determine what information was provided. (BuzzFeed News)
After
2/ Bannon will return Breitbart News as executive chairman and will be “going to war” for Trump, vowing to intensify from the fight from the outside. “Steve is now unchained,” a source close to Bannon said. “Fully unchained.” Another added that "He’s going nuclear. You have no idea. This is gonna be really fucking bad.” Earlier this week Bannon met …
Before
3/ Mitt Romney called on Trump to apologize for his Charlottesville comments. Romney warned of “an unraveling of our national fabric” if Trump doesn’t take “remedial action in the extreme." He added that "whether he intended to or not, what he communicated caused racists to rejoice, minorities to weep, and the vast heart of America to mourn." (Washington Post / …
After
3/ Robert Mueller is focusing on Trump Jr.'s intent when he met with the Russian lawyer as prosecutors investigate possible collusion between Russia and the Trump campaign. Trump Jr. has acknowledged that he was looking for negative information about Hillary Clinton, but he claimed he didn't receive anything useful. Prosecutors are trying to determine what information was provided. (BuzzFeed News)
Before
4/ The remaining members of Trump's arts commission resigned in protest over his comments on the violence in Charlottesville. The presidential arts and humanities panel, whose members are from Broadway, Hollywood, and the broader arts and entertainment community, said in a letter to Trump that “Supremacy, discrimination, and vitriol are not American values. Your values are not American values. We …
After
4/ Mitt Romney called on Trump to apologize for his Charlottesville comments. Romney warned of “an unraveling of our national fabric” if Trump doesn’t take “remedial action in the extreme." He added that "whether he intended to or not, what he communicated caused racists to rejoice, minorities to weep, and the vast heart of America to mourn." (Washington Post / …
Before
5/ House Democrats have introduced a measure to censure Trump for his response to the violent white supremacist march in Charlottesville. At least 79 Democratic colleagues have signed on, including Nancy Pelosi, Jerry Nadler, Bonnie Watson, and Pramila Jayapal. A censure is a formal condemnation from Congress that's rarely used, but is the preliminary step before introducing impeachment. (Politico / …
After
5/ Billionaire investor Carl Icahn stepped down as a special adviser to Trump. Unlike other executives who quit Trump’s advisory councils in protest over his refusal to condemn white supremacists, Icahn quit because he didn't want to be subject to questions of potential conflicts of interests over his role. (Financial Times / Bloomberg)
Before
6/ Five charities are cancelling planned fundraising events at Mar-a-Lago. The American Red Cross, The Salvation Army, Susan G. Komen foundation, the Cleveland Clinic, American Cancer Society, and the American Friends of Magen David Adom all said they wouldn't hold their 2018 galas at the resort. (CNN Money / Washington Post)
After
6/ The remaining members of Trump's arts commission resigned in protest over his comments on the violence in Charlottesville. The presidential arts and humanities panel, whose members are from Broadway, Hollywood, and the broader arts and entertainment community, said in a letter to Trump that “Supremacy, discrimination, and vitriol are not American values. Your values are not American values. We …
Before
7/ Pence praised Trump as the modern reincarnation of Theodore Roosevelt. “Just as President Roosevelt exhorted his fellow Americans to ‘dare to be great,’" Pence said, "President Donald Trump has dared our nation to ‘make America great again,’ and we’ll do it with all of our friends in the world.” (Washington Post)
After
Members of the digital economy council have resigned in protest. The committee’s aim is to “provide recommendations on ways to advance economic growth and opportunity in the digital age." It's the third advisory council of to see resignations this week following Trump's remarks that there were “very fine people on both sides” of the Charlottesville violence. (Vice News)
… keep Bannon on board. (New York Times / CNN / removed: Politico)now: Politico / Washington Post)
… the violence in Charlottesville. The presidential arts and humanities panel, removed: whichnow: whose members are from Broadway, Hollywood, and the broader arts and entertainment community, said in a letter to Trump removed: that “Your words and actions push us all further away from the freedoms we are guaranteed," adding that “Supremacy, discrimination, and vitriol are not American values. Your …
Before
5/ Neil Gorsuch will speak at the Trump International Hotel in Washington next month, raising questions about his impartiality and ethics concerns. The speaking engagement is for the celebration of the 50th anniversary of The Fund for American Studies group and is scheduled just days before the Supreme Court's next term begins. (CNN)
After
5/ House Democrats have introduced a measure to censure Trump for his response to the violent white supremacist march in Charlottesville. At least 79 Democratic colleagues have signed on, including Nancy Pelosi, Jerry Nadler, Bonnie Watson, and Pramila Jayapal. A censure is a formal condemnation from Congress that's rarely used, but is the preliminary step before introducing impeachment. (Politico / …
Before
6/ Pence praised Trump as the modern reincarnation of Theodore Roosevelt. “Just as President Roosevelt exhorted his fellow Americans to ‘dare to be great,’" Pence said, "President Donald Trump has dared our nation to ‘make America great again,’ and we’ll do it with all of our friends in the world.” (Washington Post)
After
6/ Five charities are cancelling planned fundraising events at Mar-a-Lago. The American Red Cross, The Salvation Army, Susan G. Komen foundation, the Cleveland Clinic, American Cancer Society, and the American Friends of Magen David Adom all said they wouldn't hold their 2018 galas at the resort. (CNN Money / Washington Post)
Before
7/ House Democrats have introduced a measure to censure Trump for his response to the violent white supremacist march in Charlottesville. At least 79 Democratic colleagues have signed on, including Nancy Pelosi, Jerry Nadler, Bonnie Watson, and Pramila Jayapal. A censure is a formal condemnation from Congress that's rarely used, but is the preliminary step before introducing impeachment. (Politico / …
After
7/ Pence praised Trump as the modern reincarnation of Theodore Roosevelt. “Just as President Roosevelt exhorted his fellow Americans to ‘dare to be great,’" Pence said, "President Donald Trump has dared our nation to ‘make America great again,’ and we’ll do it with all of our friends in the world.” (Washington Post) 8/ Neil Gorsuch will speak at the Trump …
7/ House Democrats have introduced a measure to censure Trump for his response to the violent white supremacist march in Charlottesville. At least 79 Democratic colleagues have signed on, including Nancy Pelosi, Jerry Nadler, Bonnie Watson, and Pramila Jayapal. A censure is a formal condemnation from Congress that's rarely used, but is the preliminary step before introducing impeachment. (Politico / …
… 7th, but it was delayed in the wake of Charlottesville. now: A White House official said Bannon and then-Chief of Staff Reince Priebus were supposed to be fired at same time, but the chairman of the conservative House Freedom Caucus urged Trump to keep Bannon on board. (New York Times / removed: Axios / CNN / Politico)
… the violence in Charlottesville. The presidential arts and humanities panel, removed: whose members arenow: which from Broadway, Hollywood, and the broader arts and entertainment community, …
5/ Neil Gorsuch plans to make a speaking appearance at the Trump International Hotel in Washington
After
5/ Neil Gorsuch will speak at the Trump International Hotel in Washington next month, raising questions about his impartiality and ethics concerns. The speaking engagement is for the celebration of the 50th anniversary of The Fund for American Studies group and is scheduled just days before the Supreme Court's next term begins. (CNN)
… the violence in Charlottesville. The presidential arts and humanities panel, removed: whichnow: whose members are from Broadway, Hollywood, and the broader arts and entertainment community, …
1/ Trump removed: has told senior aides that he will removenow: fired Steve Bannon. removed: Trump and seniornow: The White House removed: officialsnow: issued a statement saying, "White House Chief of Staff John Kelly and Steve Bannon have mutually agreed today would be Steve's last day. We are removed: working out how whennow: grateful for his service and removed: how to dismiss.now: wish him the best." A person close to Bannon insists that it was his … delayed in the wake of Charlottesville. (New York Times / removed: Axios) Bannon out as White House chief strategist. (Politico) Trump's chief strategist Steve Bannon out at White House. (CNN) Steve Bannon out as White House chief strategist. (ABC News)now: Axios / CNN / Politico)
4/ Steve Bannon gave an outrageous interview then removed: pretendednow: said he didn't know he was removed: giving itnow: being interviewed in removed: ordernow: an attempt to divert attention from Charlottesville. Bannon called Robert Kuttner, the …
… people worldwide trust Putin over Trump to handle foreign affairs. removed: Ofnow: 22 of the the 36 countries polled, removed: 22, including Germany, France and Japan, trust Putin more than Trump, …
… Confederacy are being taken down. He tweeted that we're seeing removed: "our historynow: the "history and culture of our great country being ripped apart." (Associated …
… His Predecessors, Trump Steps Back From a Moral Judgment. Asked removed: ifnow: is he would put white supremacists and neo-Nazis on the same …
6/ Mitch McConnell removed: also issued a statement condemning white nationalist groups ahead of a …
Before
9/ Trump disbanded his manufacturing council after multiple executives quit after equating white nationalist hate groups with the protesters opposing them. He also ended the separate Strategic and Policy Forum. "Rather than putting pressure on the businesspeople of the Manufacturing Council and Strategy and Policy Forum, I am ending both," Trump tweeted. (ABC News / New York Times)
After
13/ The Trump administration agreed to continue making health care subsidy payments after the CBO reported that cutting off the payments would increase federal spending and cause insurance premiums to rise sharply. (Los Angeles Times)
3/ The White House is telling Republicans to say Trump's comments on Charlottesville are “entirely correct.” The evening communications briefing encouraged members to echo Trump's line that “both sides … acted inappropriately, and bear some responsibility.” The memo adds that the "media reacted with hysteria" and that "we should not overlook the facts just because the media finds them inconvenient.” …
After
3/ Former Presidents H.W. and W. Bush denounce racism in wake of Charlottesville. "America must always reject racial bigotry, anti-Semitism, and hatred in all forms," the statement said. (CNN)
… white nationalists and racist organizations have been equivocal: It started now: on Saturday with his removed: Saturday comment removed: of placing blame “on many sides," which was followed by a …
2/ removed: Threenow: Trump, again, blamed both sides for the Charlottesville violence, asking why the "alt-left" is not being blamed because, he says, they were “very, very violent” when they confronted white nationalist and Nazi groups. He asked if George Washington statues were going to come down next. (New York Times / Washington Post / Politico / Bloomberg) 3/ Four CEOs removed: resignnow: have now resigned from Trump's advisory council over his slow denouncement of white supremacists. The chief executives of Merck, Under Armour, removed: and Intelnow: Intel, Alliance for American Manufacturing have all quit the manufacturing council. Trump, meanwhile, tweeted that "For … take their place. Grandstanders should not have gone on. JOBS!" now: Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, left the council earlier this year after Trump announced the US would withdraw from the Paris climate agreement. (CNN Money / Recode / removed: Reuters)now: Reuters / The Hill)
Before
3/ Trump won't visit Charlottesville. “Why the hell would we do that?” one White House official said, suggesting that the administration sees no upside and whatever Trump might do in Charlottesville would be “used against” him by the media. (The Daily Beast)
After
4/ Trump won't visit Charlottesville, because “why the hell would we do that?" The White House official suggested that the administration sees no upside and whatever Trump might do in Charlottesville would be “used against” him by the media. (The Daily Beast) 5/ Trump went off script, ad-libbing his "many sides" remark in response to Charlottesville violence. "Those were his …
Before
4/ The leaders of four minority House caucus groups sent a letter to Trump asking him to fire Steve Bannon, Stephen Miller, and Sebastian Gorka. “Americans deserve to know that white nationalists, white supremacists, and neo-Nazis are not in a position to influence US policy,” the heads of the black, Hispanic, Asian and progressive caucuses wrote, suggesting that their continued …
After
7/ North Korea won't fire missiles at Guam after all. State media said Kim Jong-un reviewed plans to fire missiles towards Guam but decided to hold off. He warned he could change his mind “if the Yankees persist in their extremely dangerous reckless actions.” (NPR / BBC / Wall Street Journal)
Before
5/ North Korea won't fire missiles at Guam after all. State media said Kim Jong-un reviewed plans to fire missiles towards Guam but decided to hold off. He warned he could change his mind “if the Yankees persist in their extremely dangerous reckless actions.” (NPR / BBC / Wall Street Journal)
After
8/ The Justice Department has demanded that 1.3 million IP addresses from a Trump resistance site be turned over. The web hosting company, DreamHost, is fighting the search warrant, saying that the request for visitor logs, contact information, emails, and photos could be used to identify people who are exercising their Constitutional right of free speech to protest. Prosecutors obtained …
Before
6/ The Justice Department has demanded that 1.3 million IP addresses from a Trump resistance site be turned over. The web hosting company is fighting the search warrant, saying that the request for visitor logs, contact information, emails, and photos could be used to identify people who are exercising their Constitutional right of free speech to protest. (The Hill / …
After
9/ Trump's threat to end Obamacare insurance subsidies would send premiums up 20% next year and increase the federal budget deficits by $194 billion in the coming decade, the Congressional Budget Office said. Trump has said he would "Let Obamacare implode" in order to force Democrats to negotiate on a replacement plan. (New York Times / Vox)
… supremacists, and neo-Nazis are not in a position to influence removed: USnow: U.S. policy,” the heads of the black, Hispanic, Asian and progressive …
8/ A now: junior Trump removed: junior campaign adviser repeatedly tried to setup a meeting with Putin. … 2016, George Papadopoulos sent at least a half-dozen emails to removed: the Trump campaign leadership to set up “a meeting between us …
… a technology too complex for North Korea to have switched removed: gearsnow: to so quickly themselves, a classified report by American intelligence agencies says. The report suggests that North Korea purchased black market rocket engines now: that were probably from the Ukrainian factory. (New York Times)
… believes Steve Bannon is behind the White House leaks targeting removed: National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster and has considered firing him. West Wing colleagues say …
1/ The White House issued a statement removed: condemningnow: criticizing white supremacists for the violence that led to one death …
… top advisers attempted to defend his vague statements: Ivanka Trump removed: tweeted thatnow: tweeted: “There should be no place in society for racism, white … and, “frankly, pretty unambiguous” in responding to the violence, adding removed: “Whennow: “when someone marches with a Nazi flag, that's unacceptable, and I …
removed: 3/ Pence spoke out more forcefully than Trump on Charlottesville, saying: …
Before
4/ Contrasting Trump's reluctance to criticize white supremacists, Jeff Sessions said the “evil attack” in Charlottesville is an act of domestic terrorism. “You can be sure we will charge and advance the investigation toward the most serious charges that can be brought because this is unequivocally an unacceptable evil attack." McMaster added: "Certainly I think we can confidently call it …
After
Even Anthony Scaramucci criticized Trump's unwillingness to single out white supremacy groups. “I wouldn’t have recommended that statement," the former White House communications director said. "I think he needed to be much harsher as it related to the white supremacists and the nature of that." (Washington Post)
Before
5/ Even Anthony Scaramucci criticized Trump's unwillingness to single out white supremacy groups. “I wouldn’t have recommended that statement," the former White House communications director said. "I think he needed to be much harsher as it related to the white supremacists and the nature of that." (Washington Post)
After
3/ Contrasting Trump's reluctance to criticize white supremacists, Jeff Sessions said the “evil attack” in Charlottesville is an act of domestic terrorism. “You can be sure we will charge and advance the investigation toward the most serious charges that can be brought because this is unequivocally an unacceptable evil attack." McMaster added: "Certainly I think we can confidently call it …
removed: 7/now: 5/ Trump finally denounced white supremacists 48 hours after initially blaming the Charlottesville violence on “many sides," removed: promptingnow: which prompted nearly universal criticism. “Racism is evil,” Trump said. “And those …
Before
10/ North Korea’s successful ICBM tests have been linked to a Ukrainian factory with ties to Russia’s Cold War missile program. The engine design on North Korea's latest missiles match those that once powered the Soviet Union’s missile fleet and are based on a technology too complex for North Korea to have switched gears so quickly themselves, a classified report …
After
8/ A Trump junior campaign adviser repeatedly tried to setup a meeting with Putin. Starting in March 2016, George Papadopoulos sent at least a half-dozen emails to the Trump campaign leadership to set up “a meeting between us and the Russian leadership to discuss US-Russia ties under President Trump.” He said that his Russian contacts welcomed the opportunity and that …
8/ Special Counsel Bob Mueller wants to interview Reince Priebus. Mueller has been talking with the West Wing about interviewing other current and former senior administration officials about specific meetings, who attended them and whether there are any notes, transcripts or documents about them. Mueller also wants to ask the officials about Trump’s decision to fire James Comey. (New York …
After
8/ In May, the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security warned Trump about the white supremacist movement and that it “likely will continue to pose a threat of lethal violence over the next year.” The report, titled “White Supremacist Extremism Poses Persistent Threat of Lethal Violence,” showed that white supremacist groups had already carried out more attacks than any …
Before
*** UPDATES IN PROGRESS***
After
9/ Special Counsel Bob Mueller wants to interview Reince Priebus. Mueller has been talking with the West Wing about interviewing other current and former senior administration officials about specific meetings, who attended them and whether there are any notes, transcripts or documents about them. Mueller also wants to ask the officials about Trump’s decision to fire James Comey. (New York …
1/ The White House issued a statement condemning removed: “white supremacists”now: white supremacists for the violence that led to one death in Charlottesville …
… “pretty tough stuff." Manafort is “a very decent man,” Trump removed: said. Addingnow: said, adding that “I thought [the raid] was a very, very strong …
… the US or its allies. He added that he's "backed now: by 100 percent by our military, we’re removed: backnow: backed by everybody and we’re backed by many other leaders." (USA …
… who hasn't been accused of wrongdoing, is a business partner removed: with Manafort and it'snow: of Manafort's. It's unclear if investigators have secured removed: cooperation from Yohai.now: Yohai's cooperation. Manafort is a focus in the investigations into Russian meddling … presidential campaign. He and Yohai are also under investigation for now: some of their business and real estate transactions. (Politico)
… Washington grand jury to global banks for account information and now: transaction records removed: of transactions involving Manafort and some of his companies. It's unclear when it happened, but Manafort removed: had alertednow: responsible for alerting authorities to the meeting involving Trump Jr. and a Russian lawyer removed: promisingnow: who promised damaging information on Hillary Clinton. (Bloomberg)
… Korea, suggesting that "maybe it wasn’t tough enough." Trump escalated removed: thenow: his rhetoric, saying “things will happen to them like they never …
8/ Trump removed: tweets atnow: tweeted that Mitch removed: McConnell, urging him tonow: McConnell should "get back to work" and "put Repeal and Replace, Tax …
… that Americans are already feeling the effects of climate change. removed: Environmental Protection Agencynow: The EPA chief called for “red team/blue team” removed: exercises to try now: and challenge what removed: he's callednow: he says is “so-called settled science” on climate change. Pruitt is skeptical of … report today, which concludes that 2016 was the third consecutive now: warmest year now: on record in 137 years of record removed: global warmth,now: keeping, with the highest levels of greenhouse gas concentrations, sea level, …
… on his threats to unleash "fire and fury" on North removed: Koreanow: Korea, suggesting that removed: his rhetoric "maybe it wasn’t tough enough." Trump now: escalated the rhetoric, saying “things will happen to them like they never thought possible” should North Korea attack the US or its allies. He added that he's "backed 100 percent by our military, we’re … we’re backed by many other leaders." (USA Today / ABC removed: News)now: News / Washington Post)
… out the Senate majority leader. Later in the day, Trump removed: saidnow: suggested that if McConnell doesn't get health care reform, taxes, and an infrastructure bill passed, he removed: would entertain questions about whether McConnell should step down as majority leader. (CNN / ABC News …
… records of transactions involving Manafort and some of his companies. now: It's unclear when it happened, but Manafort had alerted authorities to the meeting involving Trump Jr. and a Russian lawyer promising damaging information on Hillary Clinton. (Bloomberg)
Before
4/ The White House has failed to coordinate with a coalition of Latino organizations to develop Affordable Care Act outreach campaigns ahead of the open enrollment period, which begins on November 1st. Since 2013, the Department of Health and Human Services and the White House have helped develop education campaigns aimed at helping millions of Latinos sign up for health …
After
4/ Trump doubled down on his threats to unleash "fire and fury" on North Korea suggesting that his rhetoric "maybe it wasn’t tough enough." Trump added that he's "backed 100 percent by our military, we’re back by everybody and we’re backed by many other leaders." (USA Today / ABC News)
Before
5/ A nonpartisan study found that Trump's own actions have triggered health care premium increases. Trump's mixed signals have created uncertainty “far outside the norm,” which is leading to double-digit premium increases on individual health insurance policies purchased by many consumers. 15 of the 20 major metropolitan areas will see increases of 10% or more next year. (Associated Press)
After
5/ The White House has failed to coordinate with a coalition of Latino organizations to develop Affordable Care Act outreach campaigns ahead of the open enrollment period, which begins on November 1st. Since 2013, the Department of Health and Human Services and the White House have helped develop education campaigns aimed at helping millions of Latinos sign up for health …
… on Mitch McConnell's "excessive expectations" line about the legislative progress removed: fornow: and his agenda, tweeting that "After 7 years of hearing Repeal …
… seize tax documents and foreign banking records. The predawn raid removed: ofnow: at the home of Trump's former campaign chairman came on July 26, one day after he now: voluntarily met removed: voluntarily with the Senate Intelligence Committee. In that meeting, Manafort provided …
… Tillerson urged Americans to remain calm despite Trump and North removed: Korea continuing tonow: Korea's continued exchange now: of threats. He said Americans should have “no concerns," adding that …
1/ FBI agents raided the Virginia home of Paul Manafort last month, using a search warrant to seize tax documents and foreign banking records. The predawn raid of the home of Trump's former campaign chairman came on July 26, one day after he met voluntarily with the Senate Intelligence Committee. In that meeting, Manafort provided investigators with notes from the …
After
1/ The Pentagon has prepared a plan for a preemptive strike on North Korea's missile sites should Trump order an attack. The plan calls for B-1B heavy bombers originating from Andersen Air Force Base in Guam to attack approximately two-dozen North Korean missile-launch sites, testing grounds, and support facilities. The B-1 bomber plan is one of several options under consideration. …
Before
2/ The Trump campaign has started to turn over thousands of documents to the Senate Judiciary Committee as part of the panel’s investigation into Russian election meddling. The Trump campaign has turned over 20,000 pages of documents, while Manafort has provided about 400 pages, and Trump Jr. about 250 pages. (Bloomberg)
After
2/ James Mattis warned North Korea that its actions will cause the "end of its regime" and the "destruction of its people." Despite the defense secretary's stern ultimatum, Mattis has consistently said that he prefers to resolve issues over North Korea's missile and nuclear programs through diplomacy. (ABC News / CNN)
Removed: 3/ Rex Tillerson urged Americans to remain calm despite Trump and North Korea exchanging threats. He said Americans should have “no concerns," adding that “Americans should sleep well at night,” because "nothing that I have seen and nothing that I know of would indicate that the situation has dramatically changed in the last 24 hours.” (Associated Press)
Before
5/ One of Trump’s evangelical advisers says "God has given Trump authority to take out Kim Jong Un.” Robert Jeffress, a pastor at a Texas megachurch, released a statement saying that "When it comes to how we should deal with evil doers, the Bible, in the book of Romans, is very clear: God has endowed rulers full power to use …
After
4/ North Korea’s military dismissed Trump’s warning as a “load of nonsense," warning that "only absolute force can work on [Trump].” A North Korean general said they'll have a plan by mid-August to fire four mid-range missiles into the waters 18 to 25 miles from Guam. He called it a “historic enveloping fire at Guam.” (Associated Press) 5/ Rex Tillerson …
Before
6/ James Mattis warned North Korea that its actions will cause the "end of its regime" and the "destruction of its people." Despite the defense secretary's stern ultimatum, Mattis has consistently said that he prefers to resolve issues over North Korea's missile and nuclear programs through diplomacy. (ABC News / CNN)
After
6/ Lawmakers in both parties criticized Trump's warning to North Korea that it would "face fire and fury like the world has never seen" if Pyongyang keeps threatening the US. Democrats called Trump's a reaction overly "bombastic" and "unhinged," with the top Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee saying that Trump has undermined US credibility "by drawing an absurd …
Before
7/ Lawmakers in both parties criticized Trump's warning to North Korea that it would "face fire and fury like the world has never seen" if Pyongyang keeps threatening the US. Democrats called Trump's a reaction overly "bombastic" and "unhinged," with the top Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee saying that Trump has undermined US credibility "by drawing an absurd …
After
7/ Trump's ominous warning to Pyongyang yesterday was entirely improvised. In discussions with advisers beforehand, Trump had not run the language by them, which have now escalated the confrontation with North Korea to a new level. (New York Times)
Before
8/ Trump's ominous warning to Pyongyang yesterday was entirely improvised. In discussions with advisers beforehand, Trump had not run the language by them, which have now escalated the confrontation with North Korea to a new level. (New York Times)
After
8/ One of Trump’s evangelical advisers says "God has given Trump authority to take out Kim Jong Un.” Robert Jeffress, a pastor at a Texas megachurch, released a statement saying that "When it comes to how we should deal with evil doers, the Bible, in the book of Romans, is very clear: God has endowed rulers full power to use …
… Russian lawyer claiming to have damaging information on Hillary Clinton. now: Hours after the raid, Trump attacked Jeff Sessions for not firing Andrew McCabe, the acting FBI director. (Washington Post / New York Times)
4/ Trump removed: continuednow: turned to removed: threaten North Korea forcefully using Twitter this morning to now: continue his attacks on North Korea and assert that the US nuclear arsenal is “far stronger and …
… Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee saying that Trump removed: hadnow: has undermined US credibility "by drawing an absurd red line." John …
… Nikki Haley appeared on Fox. Haley indicated that the report now: of North Korea loading anti-ship cruise missiles onto a patrol boat were classified and removed: was leaked. "I can't talk about anything that's classified and if …
… of positive cable news chyrons, tweets, and news stories. The now: document is prepared around 9:30 AM and the follow-up around 4:30 …
5/ US spy satellites detect North Korea loading two anti-ship cruise missiles onto a patrol boat. It's the first time these missiles have been deployed on this type of platform since 2014. (Fox News)
After
5/ North Korea said it is "carefully examining" a plan to strike Guam with missiles, hours after Trump told the North that any threat to the US would be met with "fire and fury." North Korea also said it could carry out a pre-emptive operation if the US showed signs of provocation. (Reuters)
Before
6/ Trump retweeted a Fox News story containing classified information a few hours before US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley appeared on Fox. Haley indicated that the report North Korea loading anti-ship cruise missiles onto a patrol boat were classified and was leaked. "I can't talk about anything that's classified and if that's in the newspaper that's a …
After
6/ US spy satellites detect North Korea loading two anti-ship cruise missiles onto a patrol boat. It's the first time these missiles have been deployed on this type of platform since 2014. (Fox News)
Before
7/ Trump has sent private messages of "appreciation and greetings" to special counsel Robert Mueller. “The president has sent messages back and forth,’’ Trump's chief counsel John Dowd said, declining to elaborate further. Trump has publicly called the investigation into Russia's election meddling a "witch hunt" and a hoax. (USA Today)
After
7/ Trump retweeted a Fox News story containing classified information a few hours before US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley appeared on Fox. Haley indicated that the report North Korea loading anti-ship cruise missiles onto a patrol boat were classified and was leaked. "I can't talk about anything that's classified and if that's in the newspaper that's a …
Before
8/ Trump is considering a plan to privatize the war in Afghanistan. The unprecedented proposal would rely on 5,500 private contractors to advise Afghan combat forces as well as a 90-plane private air force that would provide air support. The plan will cost less than $10 billion a year, lower than the more than $40 billion the Pentagon has budgeted …
After
8/ Trump has sent private messages of "appreciation and greetings" to special counsel Robert Mueller. “The president has sent messages back and forth,’’ Trump's chief counsel John Dowd said, declining to elaborate further. Trump has publicly called the investigation into Russia's election meddling a "witch hunt" and a hoax. (USA Today)
Before
9/ Trump's Justice Department now supports Ohio's purging of inactive voters, reversing the Obama administration's position. Civil rights groups challenged Ohio’s process of removing thousands of inactive voters from the voting rolls, arguing the purge is prohibited under the National Voter Registration Act. Under Obama, the Justice Department filed an amicus brief siding with the groups. The Supreme Court is …
After
9/ Trump is considering a plan to privatize the war in Afghanistan. The unprecedented proposal would rely on 5,500 private contractors to advise Afghan combat forces as well as a 90-plane private air force that would provide air support. The plan will cost less than $10 billion a year, lower than the more than $40 billion the Pentagon has budgeted …
Before
10/ Mitch McConnell criticized Trump's "excessive expectations" about how Congress works, saying that he's set "too many artificial deadlines." (CNN)
After
10/ Trump's Justice Department now supports Ohio's purging of inactive voters, reversing the Obama administration's position. Civil rights groups challenged Ohio’s process of removing thousands of inactive voters from the voting rolls, arguing the purge is prohibited under the National Voter Registration Act. Under Obama, the Justice Department filed an amicus brief siding with the groups. The Supreme Court is …
4/ Trump is considering a plan to privatize the war in Afghanistan. The unprecedented proposal would rely on 5,500 private contractors to advise Afghan combat forces as well as a 90-plane private air force that would provide air support. The plan will cost less than $10 billion a year, lower than the more than $40 billion the Pentagon has budgeted …
After
4/ Trump threatened to unleash "fire and fury" against North Korea if it continues to provoke the US. Trump's comments came hours after North Korea criticized the US and its allies for the latest round of UN sanctions, warning that it will mobilize all its resources to take “physical action” in retaliation. “North Korea best not make any more threats …
Before
poll/ 35% are confident in Trump's ability to handle North Korea and its nuclear weapons. 61% are uneasy in his approach. (CBS News)
After
5/ US spy satellites detect North Korea loading two anti-ship cruise missiles onto a patrol boat. It's the first time these missiles have been deployed on this type of platform since 2014. (Fox News) 6/ Trump retweeted a Fox News story containing classified information a few hours before US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley appeared on Fox. Haley …
Before
poll/ 36% of Americans consider Trump's first 200 days a success while 59% consider it a failure. 47% say they strongly disapprove of Trump's handling of the job and 43% say he can "bring the kind of change the country needs," down from 48% in April. 60% don't consider Trump honest and trustworthy. 52% say his tweets are not an …
After
9/ Trump's Justice Department now supports Ohio's purging of inactive voters, reversing the Obama administration's position. Civil rights groups challenged Ohio’s process of removing thousands of inactive voters from the voting rolls, arguing the purge is prohibited under the National Voter Registration Act. Under Obama, the Justice Department filed an amicus brief siding with the groups. The Supreme Court is …
Before
*** Updates in Progress ***
After
poll/ 36% of Americans consider Trump's first 200 days a success while 59% consider it a failure. 47% say they strongly disapprove of Trump's handling of the job and 43% say he can "bring the kind of change the country needs," down from 48% in April. 60% don't consider Trump honest and trustworthy. 52% say his tweets are not an …
… change adaption," staff were told to use “resilience to weather removed: extremes”.now: extremes.” Instead of “reduce greenhouse gases," use "build soil organic matter, …
now: How Americans think about climate change in six maps. Americans overwhelmingly believe that global warming is happening, and that carbon emissions should be scaled back. But fewer are sure that the changes will harm them personally. (New York Times) 3/ North Korea has successfully produced a miniaturized nuclear warhead …
… there is a 50% chance the Trump presidency “ends in removed: disaster.”now: disaster” due to the “incompetent” administration. In June, Thiel said the Trump’s administration is “off to …
9/ Peter Thiel dumps Trump. Silicon Valley's most prominent Trump supporter has told friends that there is a 50% chance the Trump presidency “ends in disaster.” In June, Thiel said the Trump’s administration is “off to a terrific start.” (BuzzFeed News) 10/ Trump has filled about a fifth of the essential executive branch jobs and lags behind his predecessors in …
… law and the new conditions are unconstitutional. (CNN / The removed: Guardian)now: Guardian / Associated Press)
… CNN to discuss the crackdown on leaks, sanctions on North removed: Koreanow: Korea, and what he called "potential collusion" between the Trump campaign and Russia. Blumenthal was criticized during his Senate campaign removed: thatnow: for saying he had “served” in Vietnam, even though he did his full Marine service in the US. removed: Trumpnow: Trump, meanwhile, skirted Vietnam altogether due to bad feet. Blumenthal responded on Twitter that Trump's "bullying" won't be removed: effective.(Washingtonnow: effective. (Washington Post / USA Today / CBS News)
… cycle, and Trump wanted the new execeutive order to get removed: it'snow: its own "moment." Signing the executive order today, as originally planned, …
10/ Portland joins Seattle in suing the Trump administration over removed: it'snow: its order to withhold federal grants from "sanctuary cities". (The Oregonian{:target="_blank"})
now: 3/ Kellyanne Conway tried to downplay the ongoing investigation, removed: sayingnow: saying: “Let me remind everyone what the president has said about …
removed: 4/now: 6/ The Secret Service has removed: left thenow: vacated Trump Tower after a dispute between the government and Trump’s …
… had created a new counterintelligence unit to manage these cases. now: The Justice Department is pursuing three times as many leak investigations as the Obama administration. Sessions wants to pursue "effective" subpoenas on media outlets, because …
… in favor of Democrats taking the Senate. There are 10 now: Senate Democrats in red states up for re-election in 2018 and one blue-state now: Senate Republican. (Quinnipiac)
… staff members to stay in their lanes. He's attempting to removed: brokeringnow: broker peace between the different factions in the West Wing, telling …
… put, these leaks hurt our country." Kellyanne Conway suggested using removed: that lie detectors to figure who's leaking information. "It's easier to …
… leaked of Trump's January phone calls with Mexico and Australia. now: Sessions vowed to bring criminal charges against people who had leaked classified information, while announcing that the FBI had created a new counterintelligence unit to manage these cases. Sessions wants to pursue "effective" subpoenas on media outlets, because … the leakers may realize," she said. (CBS News / ABC removed: News)now: News / New York Times)
5/ Jeff Sessions issued a warning that the "culture of leaking must stop" a day after transcripts leaked of Trump's January phone calls with Mexico and Australia. Sessions wants to pursue "effective" subpoenas on media outlets, because "simply put, these leaks hurt our country." (CBS News)
After
5/ Jeff Sessions issued a warning that the "culture of leaking must stop" a day after transcripts leaked of Trump's January phone calls with Mexico and Australia. Sessions wants to pursue "effective" subpoenas on media outlets, because "simply put, these leaks hurt our country." Kellyanne Conway suggested using that lie detectors to figure who's leaking information. "It's easier to figure …
… leaking must stop" a day after transcripts leaked of Trump's now: January phone removed: January calls with Mexico and Australia. Sessions wants to pursue "effective" …
… investigation in May, he inherited a grand jury in Alexandria, removed: Va.,now: VA, which was impaneled to assist in the Michael Flynn investigation …
… with the Russian lawyer. The subpoenas, issued in recent weeks, removed: seeksnow: seek documents and testimony from people involved in the meeting. Yesterday, …
1/ Robert Mueller's grand jury now: has issued subpoenas related to Trump Jr.'s 2016 meeting with the Russian removed: lawyernow: lawyer. The subpoenas, issued in recent removed: weeks. The subpoenanow: weeks, seeks removed: both documents and testimony from people involved in the meeting. Yesterday, …
1/ Trump urged the Mexican president to stop publicly saying that he would never pay for the border wall, during their January 27 call. “You cannot say that to the press,” Trump repeatedly told Enrique Peña Nieto. “If you are going to say that Mexico is not going to pay for the wall, then I do not want to meet …
After
1/ Special Counsel Robert Mueller has launched a grand jury to investigate Russia’s interference in the 2016 elections and whether Trump or any of his team colluded during the campaign. A grand jury will allow prosecutors to subpoena documents, put witnesses under oath and seek indictments, if there is evidence of a crime. The decision to impanel a grand jury …
Before
The next day, Trump called Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, which was even more contentious and the conversation immediately devolved over a US agreement to accept refugees from Australian detention centers. “I hate taking these people,” Trump said. “I guarantee you they are bad. That is why they are in prison right now. They are not going to be wonderful …
After
2/ Mueller has turned his attention to Trump and his associates’ financial ties to Russia. Federal investigators have widened their focus on possible financial crimes, which could offer a more concrete path toward potential prosecution than the broader questions of collusion in the 2016 campaign. Trump previously warned Mueller that his financial dealings were a red line that he shouldn't …
Before
Transcripts of Trump’s calls with Mexico and Australia. (Washington Post)
After
3/ Top FBI officials could be asked to testify against Trump. Acting FBI Director Andrew McCabe told the highest-ranking members of the bureau that they should consider themselves possible witnesses in any investigation into whether Trump obstructed justice. McCabe acknowledged that he's also a potential witness in the probe, as well as the investigation into whether Team Trump colluded with …
Before
2/ The Senate Judiciary Committee is introducing a bipartisan bill to protect Robert Mueller and ensure the integrity of independent investigations. The bill would allow any special counsel for the Department of Justice to challenge their removal in court, with a review by a three-judge panel within 14 days of the challenge. Lindsey Graham said that he was working on …
3/ Congressional investigators want the phone records related to Trump Jr.'s meeting with the Russian lawyer. They want "all relevant documents" connected to the people before, during, and after the meeting, including Jared Kushner and Paul Manafort. It's unclear if it's the Senate Intelligence Committee or the House Intelligence Committee seeking the records. Senator James Risch, who serves on the …
After
{% twitter https://twitter.com/SenJohnMcCain/status/893118454898843649 %} 7/ Trump urged the Mexican president to stop publicly saying that he would never pay for the border wall, during their January 27 call. “You cannot say that to the press,” Trump repeatedly told Enrique Peña Nieto. “If you are going to say that Mexico is not going to pay for the wall, then I do …
… Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, which was even more contentious and now: the conversation immediately devolved over a US agreement to accept refugees from …
… president at the time. After weeks of silence from the removed: Tumpnow: Trump camp, producers pulled the part, prompting Trump’s lawyer Michael Cohen …
4/ The House Judiciary Committee has prioritized investigating Hillary Clinton over Russian meddling, Trump’s decision to fire James Comey, and the public attacks on Jeff Sessions. The panel asked Jeff Sessions to appoint a second special counsel to investigate the “troubling, unanswered questions” about Clinton and officials appointed by Obama, after Democrats tried to force a resolution demanding more information …
After
4/ Trump's nominee for Agriculture once accused progressives of "enslaving" minorities, called black leaders "race traders," and labeled Obama a "Maoist" with "communist" roots. Sam Clovis wrote the blog posts in between 2011 and 2012. He's since deleted the blog and is serving as the senior White House adviser to the USDA. Clovis' nomination for the chief scientist job at …
Before
5/ The lawyer in the Fox "fake news" suit wants Trump and Spicer to testify. Rod Wheeler’s lawsuit claims that Fox fabricated quotes implicating DNC staffer Seth Rich in the WikiLeaks scandal. “We’re going to litigate this case as we would any other,” and that means “we’ll want to depose anyone who has information,” including the president, Wheeler's attorney. (Yahoo …
After
5/ The House Judiciary Committee has prioritized investigating Hillary Clinton over Russian meddling, Trump’s decision to fire James Comey, and the public attacks on Jeff Sessions. The panel asked Jeff Sessions to appoint a second special counsel to investigate the “troubling, unanswered questions” about Clinton and officials appointed by Obama, after Democrats tried to force a resolution demanding more information …
Before
6/ Rex Tillerson tells North Korea: "We are not your enemy." He added that the US does "not seek a regime change, we do not seek a collapse of the regime, we do not seek an accelerated reunification of the peninsula, we do not seek an excuse to send our military north of the 38th Parallel." Yesterday, Lindsey Graham said …
After
6/ The lawyer in the Fox "fake news" suit wants Trump and Spicer to testify. Rod Wheeler’s lawsuit claims that Fox fabricated quotes implicating DNC staffer Seth Rich in the WikiLeaks scandal. “We’re going to litigate this case as we would any other,” and that means “we’ll want to depose anyone who has information,” including the president, Wheeler's attorney. (Yahoo …
Before
7/ Tillerson won't spend nearly $80 million allocated for fighting terrorist propaganda and Russian disinformation, despite pleas from State Department officials. $60 million will expire on September 30th if it's not transferred to the State Department by then. The money is potentially unwelcome because attempts to counter Russian influence would anger Moscow. (Politico)
After
7/ Rex Tillerson tells North Korea: "We are not your enemy." He added that the US does "not seek a regime change, we do not seek a collapse of the regime, we do not seek an accelerated reunification of the peninsula, we do not seek an excuse to send our military north of the 38th Parallel." Yesterday, Lindsey Graham said …
Before
8/ Senate Republicans are planning to pass their tax plan with just GOP votes. Mitch McConnell will use budget reconciliation in order to sideline Democrats and protect Republicans from a filibuster. McConnell needs just 50 votes to pass his tax reform bill. (Politico)
After
8/ Tillerson won't spend nearly $80 million allocated for fighting terrorist propaganda and Russian disinformation, despite pleas from State Department officials. $60 million will expire on September 30th if it's not transferred to the State Department by then. The money is potentially unwelcome because attempts to counter Russian influence would anger Moscow. (Politico)
Before
9/ Trump is considering Rick Perry for Homeland Security secretary. The Energy Secretary would replace John Kelly, who is now Trump's chief of staff. Perry's views on immigration don't align with Trump’s. During Perry's 2012 presidential campaign, he accused his Republican opponents of not having a “heart” about letting undocumented children of immigrants pay in-state tuition for college. (Bloomberg)
After
9/ Senate Republicans are planning to pass their tax plan with just GOP votes. Mitch McConnell will use budget reconciliation in order to sideline Democrats and protect Republicans from a filibuster. McConnell needs just 50 votes to pass his tax reform bill. (Politico)
Before
10/ Trump: "That White House is a real dump," he told members at his Bedminster golf club. He then teed off. (Golf)
After
10/ Trump is considering Rick Perry for Homeland Security secretary. The Energy Secretary would replace John Kelly, who is now Trump's chief of staff. Perry's views on immigration don't align with Trump’s. During Perry's 2012 presidential campaign, he accused his Republican opponents of not having a “heart” about letting undocumented children of immigrants pay in-state tuition for college. (Bloomberg)
… difficulty getting the 60 votes needed to prevent a filibuster. now: “This competitive application process will favor applicants who can speak English, financially support themselves and their families and demonstrate skills that will contribute to our economy,” Trump said. "This legislation demonstrates our compassion for struggling American families who deserve an immigration system that puts their needs first and that puts America first.” (Washington Post / CNN / removed: Politico)now: Politico / New York Times)
3/ Rex Tillerson tells North Korea: "We are not your enemy." He added that the US does "not seek a regime change, we do not seek a collapse of the regime, we do not seek an accelerated reunification of the peninsula, we do not seek an excuse to send our military north of the 38th Parallel." Yesterday, Lindsey Graham said …
After
3/ The Trump Justice Department will sue universities that it deems to have discriminated against white students through their affirmative action admissions policies. The new civil rights division doesn't explicitly identify who is at risk of discrimination, but says it'll investigate “intentional race-based discrimination in college and university admissions" that give an edge to disadvantaged groups over applicants with comparable …
Before
4/ Tillerson won't spend nearly $80 million allocated for fighting terrorist propaganda and Russian disinformation, despite pleas from State Department officials. $60 million will expire on September 30th if it's not transferred to the State Department by then. The money is potentially unwelcome because attempts to counter Russian influence would anger Moscow. (Politico)
After
4/ The House Judiciary Committee has prioritized investigating Hillary Clinton over Russian meddling, Trump’s decision to fire James Comey, and the public attacks on Jeff Sessions. The panel asked Jeff Sessions to appoint a second special counsel to investigate the “troubling, unanswered questions” about Clinton and officials appointed by Obama, after Democrats tried to force a resolution demanding more information …
2/ Rex Tillerson tells North Korea: "We are not your enemy." He added that the US does "not seek a regime change, we do not seek a collapse of the regime, we do not seek an accelerated reunification of the peninsula, we do not seek an excuse to send our military north of the 38th Parallel." Yesterday, Lindsey Graham said …
After
2/ Trump endorsed a Senate bill aimed at slashing immigration levels over a decade and shift the system's emphasis away from family ties and toward skills. GOP Senators Tom Cotton and David Perdue introduced a modified version of their bill, which would cut immigration by half, tighten rules for temporary workers, restrict family-based visas, and cap the refugee program at …
Before
3/ Tillerson won't spend nearly $80 million allocated for fighting terrorist propaganda and Russian disinformation, despite pleas from State Department officials. $60 million will expire on September 30th if it's not transferred to the State Department by then. The money is potentially unwelcome because attempts to counter Russian influence would anger Moscow. (Politico)
After
3/ Rex Tillerson tells North Korea: "We are not your enemy." He added that the US does "not seek a regime change, we do not seek a collapse of the regime, we do not seek an accelerated reunification of the peninsula, we do not seek an excuse to send our military north of the 38th Parallel." Yesterday, Lindsey Graham said …
… have signaled that they were looking for other victories, as now: the 50 votes removed: for rollingnow: needed to roll back removed: health carenow: Obamacare appears unlikely. (Washington Post)
5/ A GOP House member called on now: special counsel Robert Mueller to resign, saying he has a “conflict of interest” since Comey was the deputy attorney general in 2003 when removed: henow: Mueller served as the FBI director. Trent Franks is attempting to cast Mueller and Comey as “longtime allies" removed: andnow: who is "in clear violation of the law." (The Hill / Washington …
… communications team. Bill Shine has been named in lawsuits that removed: accusednow: accuse him of abetting Ailes’s harassing behavior toward women. The former …
removed: > UPDATE: > >now: 2/ The White House said Trump only "weighed in" on Trump … Huckabee Sanders said "The statement that Don Jr. issued is removed: true," and "there'snow: true, there's no inaccuracy in the statement. The President weighed in as any father would, based on the limited information that he had." removed: (CNN)now: The White House response contradicts what Trump's lawyer, Jay Sekulow, said in July: "The president did not draft the response...I can't say whether the president was told the statement was going to be coming." (CNN / Axios)
Before
3/ A GOP House member called on Mueller to resign, saying he has a “conflict of interest” since Comey was the deputy attorney general in 2003 when he served as the FBI director. Trent Franks is attempting to cast Mueller and Comey as “longtime allies." (The Hill)
After
5/ A GOP House member called on Mueller to resign, saying he has a “conflict of interest” since Comey was the deputy attorney general in 2003 when he served as the FBI director. Trent Franks is attempting to cast Mueller and Comey as “longtime allies" and "in clear violation of the law." (The Hill / Washington Post) 6/ The Senate …
Before
4/ Multiple White House officials were tricked by an email prankster masquerading as Jared Kushner, Reince Priebus, and Eric Trump. The UK prankster fooled Anthony Scaramucci, Homeland Security Adviser Tom Bossert, and others into responding. In Bossert's case, he revealed his personal email address. Real Scaramucci responded to Fake Priebus: "You know what you did. We all do. Even today. …
After
10/ Fox News and a Trump donor created a fake news story to deflect attention from the administration's ties to Russia, a lawsuit alleges. The story is about the death of Seth Rich, a Democratic National Committee staffer, which first aired in May, but was retracted a week later. The lawsuit, filed by Rod Wheeler, a paid commentator for the …
Before
5/ Jared Kushner told congressional interns that Trump’s election team was too disorganized to collude with Russia. “They thought we colluded, but we couldn’t even collude with our local offices,” Kushner said, adding: “I’m a lot more comfortable talking to you guys today ’cause there isn’t any press." (Foreign Policy / WIRED)
After
11/ A former Fox News executive who helped Roger Ailes cover up sexual harassment could be joining Trump’s communications team. Bill Shine has been named in lawsuits that accused him of abetting Ailes’s harassing behavior toward women. The former co-president of Fox News and top lieutenant to Ailes has denied knowing that Ailes had sexually harassed employees. (New York Times)
Before
6/ Fox News and a Trump donor created a fake news story to deflect attention from the administration's ties to Russia, a lawsuit alleges. The story is about the death of Seth Rich, a Democratic National Committee staffer, which first aired in May, but was retracted a week later. The lawsuit, filed by Rod Wheeler, a paid commentator for the …
After
12/ The military will test launch an ICBM early Wednesday morning. The test launch comes days after North Korea’s second ICBM test and is meant "to validate and verify the effectiveness, readiness, and accuracy of the weapon system." Lindsey Graham, meanwhile, said that military options are "inevitable if North Korea continues." He added that "there is a military option to …
Before
7/ A former Fox News executive who helped Roger Ailes cover up sexual harassment could be joining Trump’s communications team. Bill Shine has been named in lawsuits that accused him of abetting Ailes’s harassing behavior toward women. The former co-president of Fox News and top lieutenant to Ailes has denied knowing that Ailes had sexually harassed employees. (New York Times)
After
The US military has detected "highly unusual and unprecedented levels" of North Korean submarine activity and evidence of an "ejection test" in the days following Pyongyang's second intercontinental ballistic missile launch this month. (CNN)
7/ A former Fox News executive who helped Roger Ailes removed: cover-upnow: cover up sexual harassment could be joining Trump’s communications team. Bill Shine …
7/ A former Fox News executive who helped Roger Ailes removed: cover upnow: cover-up sexual harassment could be joining Trump’s communications team. Bill Shine …
7/ A former Fox News executive who helped Roger Ailes removed: coverupnow: cover up sexual harassment could be joining Trump’s communications team. Bill Shine …
6/ Fox News and a Trump removed: supporternow: donor created a fake news story to deflect attention from the administration's ties to Russia, a lawsuit alleges. The story now: is about the death of Seth Rich, a Democratic National Committee staffer, now: which first aired in May, but was retracted a week later. The removed: lawsuit wasnow: lawsuit, filed by Rod Wheeler, a paid commentator for the news network, removed: who claims a Fox News reporter created quotations out of thin air and attributed them to him in order to propel removed: hernow: the story. now: A month before the story ran, Trump donor Ed Butowsky and Wheeler met at the White House with Sean Spicer to brief him on what they were uncovering. At a press gaggle after the story ran, Spicer claimed to have no knowledge of the Rich story. Spicer now confirms meeting with the two. (NPR)
4/ Trump tweeted that Republican removed: senatorsnow: Senators look "like fools" and will be "total quitters" removed: and threatened to cut lawmakers’ own health insurance plans if they fail to revive their effort to rollback Obamacare. now: He threatened to cut lawmakers’ own health insurance plans. Republicans, meanwhile, may have to choose between attempting to repeal …
poll/ 64% of Americans want Congress to move on from removed: healthcarenow: health care reform by either keeping Obamacare "entirely as is" or fixing …
… within the White House, and all staff will report to removed: him."now: him," including Jared Kushner, Ivanka Trump, and Steve removed: Bannon will all now report to Kelly.now: Bannon. Meanwhile, Scaramucci does not have an administration role "at this …
now: 3/ Kelly called James Comey after Trump fired him to say …
removed: 3/now: 4/ Trump tweeted that Republican senators look "like fools" and will be "total quitters" removed: if they don't attempt to repeal and removed: replace, again. Trump threatened to cut lawmakers’ own health insurance plans if removed: Congress failednow: they fail to revive their effort to rollback Obamacare. Republicans, meanwhile, may … attempting to repeal Obamacare or tackling tax reform, because they removed: probably don't have time to do both. The Senate and House now: must also removed: must pass a spending plan with Democrat cooperation in order to … open past the end of the fiscal year on September removed: 30.now: 30th. Congress must also raise the debt limit now: in September or risk defaulting on its debt obligations. (New York Times …
5/ A bipartisan group of House members now: will unveil their plan to removed: unveil their proposed Obamacare fixes today. Theirnow: fix Obamacare. The plan removed: focusesnow: will focus on stabilizing the insurance market by funding the cost-sharing subsidies …
6/ After a contentious week in Washington, one now: GOP senator says removed: the Republicans are complicit if they don't call out Trump. Jeff … is urging members to turn back to what he calls removed: "traditional conservatism."now: traditional conservatism. "The last thing you want to do is wake up …
… sanctions bill, which places sanctions on Russia, North Korea, and removed: Iran, andnow: Iran. It also limits Trump's ability to lift removed: themnow: sanctions unilaterally. It was passed by veto-proof margins in the Senate …
… Trump told law enforcement officers in Suffolk County, New York. removed: Trumpnow: He spoke dismissively of the practice by which arresting officers shield …
11/ now: The Trump administration urged China to confront North Korea over its …
… say yes, while others on the commission argue there wasn't now: fraud and would rather focus on upgrading the voting systems and …
… came at the request of new chief of staff John now: Kelly, who "has the full authority to operate within the White House, and all staff will report to him." Jared Kushner, Ivanka Trump, and Steve Bannon will all now report to Kelly. now: Meanwhile, Scaramucci does not have removed: anynow: an administration role "at this time," Sarah Huckabee Sanders said. (New York Times / removed: Politico)now: Politico / CNN)
1/ Trump fired Anthony Scaramucci as White House communications removed: director,now: director 10 days after he was brought in. Scaramucci's verbal tirade … came at the request of new chief of staff John removed: Kelly and it'snow: Kelly. Scaramucci does not removed: clear if Scaramucci would take on a newnow: have any administration role removed: in the White House.now: "at this time," Sarah Huckabee Sanders said. (New York Times / Politico)
9/ Democrats removed: movenow: have moved to revoke Jared Kushner’s security clearance, introducing the Security Clearance … At least 20 Democrats have cosigned on the bill. (Salon) now: 10/ Trump appeared to advocate for rougher treatment of people in police custody. “Don’t be too nice,” Trump told law enforcement officers in Suffolk County, New York. Trump spoke dismissively of the practice by which arresting officers shield the heads of handcuffed suspects as they are placed in police cars. “I said, ‘You could take the hand away, OK,’” Trump said. (Associated Press)
1/ Trump fired Anthony Scaramucci as White House communications director, 10 days after he was brought in. Scaramucci's verbal tirade led to the departures of Sean Spicer and Reince Priebus. The change came at the request of new chief of staff John Kelly and it's not clear if Scaramucci would take on a new role in the White House. (New …
Before
1/ Trump fired Anthony Scaramucci as White House communications director, 10 days after he was brought in. Scaramucci's verbal tirade led to the departures of Sean Spicer and Reince Priebus. (New York Times)
After
2/ Trump swears in his new chief of staff, saying he has “no doubt” that John Kelly will do a “spectacular job” in his new role. Kelly is a retired four-star Marine general and will take over for Reince Priebus. (Washington Post / CNN)
Before
2/ Trump swears in his new chief of staff, saying he has “no doubt” that John Kelly will do a “spectacular job” in his new role. Kelly is a retired four-star Marine general and will take over for Reince Priebus. (Washington Post / CNN)
After
Kelly called James Comey after Trump fired him to say he was considering resigning from the Department of Homeland Security. Comey told Kelly not to resign. (CNN)
Before
3/ The bipartisan group of House members plan to unveil their proposed Obamacare fixes today. Their plan focuses on stabilizing the insurance market by funding the cost-sharing subsidies and then pushing for Obamacare changes that has received bipartisan backing in the past. (Politico)
After
3/ Trump tweeted that Republican senators look "like fools" and will be "total quitters" if they don't attempt to repeal and replace, again. Trump threatened to cut lawmakers’ own health insurance plans if Congress failed to revive their effort to rollback Obamacare. Republicans, meanwhile, may have to choose between attempting to repeal Obamacare or tackling tax reform, because they probably …
1/ Trump swears in his new chief of staff, saying he has “no doubt” that John Kelly will do a “spectacular job” in his new role. Kelly is a retired four-star Marine general and will take over for Reince Priebus. (Washington Post / CNN)
After
1/ Trump fired Anthony Scaramucci as White House communications director, 10 days after he was brought in. Scaramucci's verbal tirade led to the departures of Sean Spicer and Reince Priebus. (New York Times)
Before
2/ The bipartisan group of House members plan to unveil their proposed Obamacare fixes today. Their plan focuses on stabilizing the insurance market by funding the cost-sharing subsidies and then pushing for Obamacare changes that has received bipartisan backing in the past. (Politico)
After
2/ Trump swears in his new chief of staff, saying he has “no doubt” that John Kelly will do a “spectacular job” in his new role. Kelly is a retired four-star Marine general and will take over for Reince Priebus. (Washington Post / CNN)
… as the new White House chief of staff. Trump's advisers removed: argued thatnow: pushed back on the Kelly appointment, saying Trump needs someone more in tune with the nationalist political …
3/ Reince Priebus resigned. removed: Trump announced the news, naturally, on Twitter. The moves comes after a week in which Priebus endured … political agenda that helped propel him to the White House. now: Trump announced the news, naturally, on Twitter, saying Priebus was a "good man" but called Kelly a "star." Priebus is the last of the RNC staffers to exit …
… Japanese coast in waters between Japan and the Korean Peninsula. removed: It was not immediately clear if this was annow: Experts estimate that the intercontinental ballistic removed: missile.now: missile had the reach to hit practically all of the major cities on the US mainland. (Associated Press / ABC News / New York removed: Times)now: Times / Politico)
… retired Marine four-star general currently serving as secretary of homeland removed: security,now: security who oversaw the implementation of Trump’s travel ban, will take over as the new White House chief of … Spicer. (New York Times / NPR / NBC News / removed: CNN)now: CNN / Wall Street Journal)
3/ now: Reince Priebus resigned. Trump removed: fired Reince Priebus, announcing his decision,now: announced the news, naturally, on Twitter. The moves comes after a week in … by Sean Spicer. (New York Times / NPR / NBC removed: News)now: News / CNN)
5/ The House has passed a $788 billion spending bill to boost military spending and $1.6 billion for Trump’s border wall. The bill would increase the Department of Defense budget by $68.1 billion. (Associated Press / Reuters)
After
7/ The Trump Organization requires all employees at all levels to sign a confidentiality agreement, or else they will lose their jobs. The agreement rolled out after the election, which recently leaked, shows that employees must keep secret any information they learn about anyone in the "Trump family" and extended family, including their "present, former and future spouses, children, parents, …
Before
*** UPDATES IN PROGRESS ***
After
poll/ 58% of adults believe that transgender individuals should be allowed to serve in the military. When asked about the impact on military capabilities, 14% said prohibiting transgender service members made the military "more capable" while 43% said "no impact," 22% said "less capable," and the rest said they don't know. (Reuters)
… to the military’s transgender policy until Trump clarifies what he removed: meant in a series of surprise tweets.now: meant. “I know there are questions about yesterday's announcement on the …
… “vote-a-rama." The bill will rollback the individual mandate, partially repeal removed: of the employer mandate, defund Planned Parenthood for one year, and … estimated 15 million to 16 million Americans would lose coverage removed: and expectsnow: while premiums to rise 20% in the individual market. (Politico / …
… majorities in both the Senate and House. The Senate voted removed: 76-1now: 78-2 to pass the bill two days after the House passed …
… Senate passes a bill and they're under pressure to act. now: “The skinny bill as policy is a disaster,” Graham said. (New York Times / Politico / The Hill)
7/ House conservatives said the skinny repeal is untenable. Even if Senate Republicans can pass their minimalist plan to alter the ACA, uniting with their House colleagues to enact a bill would be far more challenging. Mark Meadows, chairman of the House Freedom Caucus, said a skinny repeal would be “dead on arrival” in the House. (Washington Post)
After
State health care waivers violate Senate budget rules. Republicans want to expand the ACA's waivers that allow states to opt out of ACA rules, including the "essential health benefit" requirements. But, the Senate Budget Committee Democrats said parts of the proposal can't be passed under Senate budget rules and would require 60 votes in order to pass. (Axios) 7/ Four …
Before
8/ Scaramucci blamed Reince Priebus for leaking his publicly available financial disclosure form, which showed that he still stands to profit from an ownership stake in his investment firm SkyBridge Capital. Scaramucci tweeted that “In light of the leak of my financial disclosure info which is a felony I will be contacting FBI and the TheJusticeDept.” He tagged Priebus in …
After
Scaramucci said his split with Priebus may not be reparable. Scaramucci joined the White House last week and reports directly to the president, rather than to the chief of staff as is customary. (Wall Street Journal)
Before
Scaramucci said his split with Priebus may not be reparable. Scaramucci joined the White House last week and reports directly to the president, rather than to the chief of staff as is customary. (Wall Street Journal)
After
9/ Trump gave Scaramucci the "green light" to go after Priebus, a White House adviser said. Additionally, Scaramucci himself claimed that he had secured Trump’s “blessing” for his words and actions. Sarah Huckabee Sanders declined to publicly express Trump's confidence in the chief of staff during today's press briefing. Privately, Kellyanne Conway has told people that Priebus is "gone" and …
4/ The Trump administration threatened retribution against Alaska over Lisa Murkowski's no vote on health care. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke called Alaska's other GOP senator, Dan Sullivan, to deliver a "troubling message" that left him worried "that the strong economic growth, pro-energy, pro-mining, pro-jobs, and personnel from Alaska who are part of those policies are going to stop." (Alaska Dispatch …
After
4/ Lindsey Graham will introduce a bill next week that curtails Trump's power to fire Special Counsel Robert Mueller without first getting approval from a federal judge. “We need a check and balance here,” Graham said. "A special counsel cannot be fired when they were impaneled to investigate the president or his team unless you have judicial review of the …
Before
5/ Mitch McConnell is expected to unveil the GOP’s “skinny repeal” bill during today's “vote-a-rama." The bill will rollback the individual mandate, partially repeal of the employer mandate, defund Planned Parenthood for one year, and provide more money for community health centers. The skinny repeal isn’t really that skinny at all. The CBO estimated 15 million to 16 million Americans …
After
5/ The Trump administration threatened retribution against Alaska over Lisa Murkowski's no vote on health care. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke called Alaska's other GOP senator, Dan Sullivan, to deliver a "troubling message" that left him worried "that the strong economic growth, pro-energy, pro-mining, pro-jobs, and personnel from Alaska who are part of those policies are going to stop." (Alaska Dispatch …
… of the Affordable Care Act without providing a replacement. The removed: votednow: vote failed 45-55. The last viable path for Senate Republicans is to removed: turn tonow: now try their "skinny repeal," which rolls back the mandate that most …
… from Hillary Clinton and her representatives. Drain the Swamp!” At now: a news conference yesterday, Trump was asked if he would fire …
… of delivering a missile that can reach the continental US removed: innow: within a year. (CNN / New York Times)
poll/ Trump's job approval removed: isnow: stands at 43% in 11 states he won. Overall, Trump has a …
… debate on a bill to repeal the Affordable Care Act. removed: Today, Senators will consider a straight repeal of Obamacare without providing a replacement, which is also expected to fail. (New York Times / Washington Post / Reuters / CNN)
removed: > UPDATE: > >now: 2/ The Senate rejected the now: GOP repeal-only measure, which would have repealed major parts of the Affordable Care Act without providing a replacement. The voted failed 45-55. removed: In two separate votes over the course of less than 24 hours, senators have rejected different approaches to rewriting Obamacare. The vote was unexpectedly delayed earlier in the day over language in the amendment about Planned Parenthood, and whether it passed the so-called "Byrd Rule." The rules determines what language is permissible under the budget reconciliation process. The last viable path for Senate Republicans is to removed: fall backnow: turn to removed: thenow: their "skinny repeal," which rolls back the mandate that most people have removed: insurance and a tax on medical devices,now: insurance, but leaves most of Obama’s health law in place. Senators …
Before
7/ Rex Tillerson is "just taking a little time off," but has no plans to resign as Secretary of State. After Trump's public attack on Jeff Sessions, rumors swirled that Tillerson could resign from his role citing Trump's behavior as unprofessional. Tillerson took some vacation earlier this week, but returned to work today after "a lengthy meeting with the vice …
After
An Alabama Senate candidate offered to withdraw from the race so Sessions can take his former seat. Mo Brooks proposed that all nine candidates drop out of the race simultaneously if Trump ousts Sessions from the Justice Department. The other candidates are almost certain to reject the proposal. (Politico) 8/ Sessions escalated his crackdown on so-called sanctuary cities, saying they …
… Affordable Care Act without providing a replacement. The voted failed removed: 45-54 (with one left to vote).now: 45-55. In two separate votes over the course of less than …
… replacement. The voted failed 45-54 (with one left to vote). now: In two separate votes over the course of less than 24 hours, senators have rejected different approaches to rewriting Obamacare. The vote was unexpectedly delayed earlier in the day over … determines what language is permissible under the budget reconciliation process. now: The last viable path for Senate Republicans is to fall back to the "skinny repeal," which rolls back the mandate that most people have insurance and a tax on medical devices, but leaves most of Obama’s health law in place. Senators would then take their narrow bill into negotiations with the House. (New York Times / now: Washington Post / CNN)
> The removed: Senate's schedulednow: Senate rejected the repeal-only measure, which would have repealed major parts of the Affordable Care Act without providing a replacement. The voted failed 45-54 (with one left to vote). The vote was unexpectedly delayed removed: until laternow: earlier in the removed: afternoonnow: day over language in the amendment about Planned Parenthood, and whether … determines what language is permissible under the budget reconciliation process. removed: (CNN)now: (New York Times / CNN)
… could resign from his role citing Trump's behavior as unprofessional. now: Tillerson took some vacation earlier this week, but returned to work today after "a lengthy meeting with the vice president at the White House on some important policy issues." (USA removed: Today)now: Today / The Hill)
… response and saying the sanctions make it impossible to achieve removed: the Trump's goal of improved Russian relations. Russia has reportedly prepared …
1/ removed: The Senate removed: advancednow: Republicans secured the now: 51 votes needed to advance their health care bill removed: asnow: after Pence removed: breaks a 50-50 tie.now: cast the tie-breaking vote. The Senate will now begin debating, amending, and ultimately voting … Rand Paul, Dean Heller, Rob Portman, and Shelley Moore Capito. removed: Bothnow: Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski now: both voted against the motion to proceed. (New York Times / …
2/ The Senate will now have 20 hours of removed: debate,now: debate the health care bill, evenly split between the two sides. Senators can removed: then bring up and debate an unlimited number of amendments to the bill as long as removed: the amendmentsnow: they are “germane” to the bill and would not add to … replacement. If that fails (as is expected), Senators will then removed: likely vote on the Better Care Reconciliation Act, which cuts massive portions of the ACA. Because of reconciliation rules, these removed: will amendments would removed: takenow: require 60 votes to pass. If BCRA fails, Senators will consider … the employer mandate penalty, and the tax on medical devices. removed: Once all the amendments have been decided and voted on, the Senate will vote on the bill's final passage. Mitch McConnell can pull the bill from the floor at any time. (New York Times / Vox / Time / NBC News)
4/ now: Later in the day, Trump now: added that he is "very disappointed in Jeff Sessions" but won’t say if …
7/ Senate Democrats are planning a procedural removed: movesnow: move to prevent Trump from making recess appointments by forcing the Senate to hold removed: pro forma sessions.now: "pro forma" sessions – brief meetings, often only a few minutes. Democrats are worried Trump could attempt to bypass Congress and …
10/ Trump confirmed a covert CIA program while tweeting now: that the Washington Post had “fabricated the facts” about his decision …
… before it was due in open court in May for removed: $6mnow: $6 million with no admission of guilt on the part of the …
… he planned to fire him over alleged leaks. Michael Short removed: wasnow: is the first to leave after Scaramucci promised all aides “a … not leaking. "This is the problem with the leaking," Scaramucci removed: said.now: told reporters outside the White House. "This is actually a terrible thing. Let’s say I’m firing … me as a human being and as a Roman Catholic." now: Short, who initially said Tuesday that he hadn’t yet been informed of any decision, resigned Tuesday afternoon. (Washington Post / Politico / The Hill)
2/ The Senate will now have 20 hours of debate, evenly split between the two sides. Senators can bring an unlimited number of amendments to the bill, as long as they are “germane” and would not add to the budget deficit. (New York Times)
After
2/ The Senate will now have 20 hours of debate, evenly split between the two sides. Senators can then bring up and debate an unlimited number of amendments to the bill as long as the amendments are “germane” to the bill and would not add to the budget deficit. Then a period known as vote-a-rama happens, where Senators votes on …
… the House before making its way to Trump's desk. McConnell removed: is forced the procedural vote to put every senator on record. …
1/ The health care repeal vote is too close to call and Senate Republicans don't know what's in their plan, but they'll vote anyway on the motion to proceed. About a half-dozen senators are publicly undecided about whether to start debate on rolling back the Affordable Care Act. Mitch McConnell needs 50 out of the 52 Senate Republicans to support …
After
1/ The Senate advanced the health care bill as Pence breaks a 50-50 tie. The Senate will now begin debating, amending, and ultimately voting in the coming days on the future of Obamacare. The vote was too close to call until the last moments, when several Republican holdouts announced their support, including Rand Paul, Dean Heller, Rob Portman, and Shelley …
Before
If the procedural vote passes, it doesn't mean the bill will. Once debate starts, senators can then introduce amendments to the bill. The final version will still need to pass with 50 votes. The bill would then have to pass the House before making its way to Trump's desk. If the procedural vote fails, it doesn't mean the bill is …
After
2/ The Senate will now have 20 hours of debate, evenly split between the two sides. Senators can bring an unlimited number of amendments to the bill, as long as they are “germane” and would not add to the budget deficit. (New York Times)
Before
> UPDATE: > > The Senate advanced the health care bill as Pence breaks a 50-50 tie. The Senate will now begin debating, amending, and ultimately voting in the coming days on the future of Obamacare. The vote was too close to call until the last moments, when several Republican holdouts announced their support, including Rand Paul, Dean Heller, Rob …
After
John McCain returned to the Senate for the health care vote after being diagnosed with brain cancer last week. McCain's vote is critical to today's procedural vote. His absence would have left Senate Republicans with no margin of error. (Washington Post / Politico)
Before
The Senate will now have 20 hours of debate, evenly split between the two sides. Senators can bring an unlimited number of amendments to the bill, as long as they are “germane” and would not add to the budget deficit. (New York Times) 2/ John McCain returned to the Senate for the health care vote after being diagnosed with brain …
After
Senate Republicans don't know what's in their health care plan, but they voted anyway on the motion to proceed. About a half-dozen senators were publicly undecided about whether to start debate on rolling back the Affordable Care Act. Several senators have said they want a "replace" plan ready to go before voting "yes." An agreed upon replace plan is not …
Before
6/ Senate Republicans are not pleased with Trump's attacks on Sessions. Senators have said that attacks on Sessions, who spent 20 years in the Senate, strain Trump’s relationship with Senate Republicans. Many GOP senators have expressed annoyance with Trump's tweets, saying "I really have a hard time with this” and "I’d prefer that he didn’t do that. We’d like Jeff …
After
7/ Senate Democrats are planning a procedural moves to prevent Trump from making recess appointments by forcing the Senate to hold pro forma sessions. Democrats are worried Trump could attempt to bypass Congress and appoint a new attorney general and undermine special counsel Robert Mueller's ongoing probe into alleged Russian meddling in the US election during the planned August recess. …
Before
11/ Jared Kushner bought real estate from an oligarch's firm represented by the Russian lawyer. Lev Leviev was a business partner at Prevezon Holdings, where Natalia Veselnitskaya acted as legal counsel. Prevezon was being investigated by Preet Bharara for money laundering before he was fired by Trump in March. Prevezon Holdings attempted to use Manhattan real estate deals to launder …
After
13/ A White House press aide resigned after Anthony Scaramucci said he planned to fire him over alleged leaks. Michael Short was the first to leave after Scaramucci promised all aides “a clean slate” and “amnesty” to prove that they were not leaking. "This is the problem with the leaking," Scaramucci said. "This is actually a terrible thing. Let’s say …
4/ Trump now: is "very disappointed in Jeff Sessions" but won’t say if he'll fire him. Trump has now: previously discussed replacing Jeff removed: Sessions. The move,now: Sessions in a move viewed by some of Trump's removed: advisors, isnow: advisors as part of a strategy for firing special counsel Robert Mueller removed: and endingnow: in order to end his investigation into the campaign's efforts to coordinate with the … longtime ally Rudy Giuliani as a possible replacement for Sessions. removed: (Washingtonnow: (Wall Street Journal / Washington Post / Associated Press)
… with Trump's attacks on Sessions. Senators have said that attacks now: on Sessions, who spent 20 years in the Senate, removed: strainsnow: strain Trump’s relationship with Senate Republicans. Many GOP senators have expressed …
8/ Parents are removed: angernow: angry after Trump delivered a politicized speech to tens of thousands …
… "absolutely repugnant" that Susan Collins, Shelley Moore, and Lisa Murkowski now: have failed to show the courage to dismantle the health care …
… wants to know why "beleaguered" Jeff Sessions isn't investigating Clinton. now: On Saturday, Trump tweeted that “so many people” were asking why Sessions was not looking into Clinton and her deleted emails despite Trump telling the Justice Department they should not investigate Clinton after he won the election. Last week, Trump said he never would have nominated Sessions … himself from the Russia investigation. (CNN / New York Times) now: {% twitter https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/888726438265966592 %}
Removed: 8/ Trump threatened Republicans that the "repercussions will be far greater" than they expect if they don't repeal and replace Obamacare. Earlier, Trump went after members of his own party, saying Republicans "do very little to protect their President." The Senate is a planing a vote this week on the revised healthcare legislation. (Politico / The Hill)
13/ removed: Scaramucci's strategy for curtailing leaks: Firenow: To slow White House leaks Scaramucci plans to fire everybody. "If you're going to keep leaking, I'm going to …
14/ removed: Scaramucci tells Sarah Huckabee Sanders removed: tonow: should use the hair and makeup person from Friday’s removed: briefing.now: briefing, Scaramucci says on live TV. “I want to do everything I can to make her …
… to influence the 2016 election. The new communications director said now: Trump doesn't accept the intelligence community's conclusion that the Russian government …
… office. 46% say Trump won't complete his first term, while removed: 27%,now: 27% are confident that he'll serve all four years of his …
… knew he intended to recuse himself from the Russia investigation. removed: Trump has raised the possibility of bringing in Rudolph Giuliani to head the Justice Department. (CNN / New York removed: Times / Axios)now: Times)
Removed: 6/ Scaramucci outs Trump as his anonymous source while disputing the conclusion that Russian meddled in the election. “Somebody said to me yesterday — I won’t tell you who — that if the Russians actually hacked this situation and spilled out those emails, you would have never seen it, you would have never had any evidence of them," Scaramucci said. …
… own party, saying Republicans "do very little to protect their removed: President."(Politiconow: President." The Senate is a planing a vote this week on the revised healthcare legislation. (Politico / The Hill)
… increase revenue. The 52 Senate Republicans will now need to removed: votesnow: vote to preserve each provision flagged by the Senate Budget Committee …
… only “three or four” agencies came to the conclusion that removed: Russiannow: Russia meddled in the election. (The Hill)
… build a case to fire Mueller. Trump has been particularly now: upset that Mueller could access his personal tax returns, which he …
… strong defender of him on television and wants him to removed: be focusednow: focus on the surrogate strategy as communications director. Scaramucci supported Trump's …
… Scaramucci's hire. Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump encouraged the move. now: Sarah Huckabee Sanders was named White House press secretary. (New York Times / removed: CNN)now: CNN / ABC News / Politico)
Removed: Sarah Huckabee Sanders was named White House press secretary. (ABC News / Politico)
… themselves – and possibly build a case to fire Mueller. now: Trump has been particularly that Mueller could access his personal tax returns, which he has repeatedly declined to release to the public. (New York removed: Times)now: Times / The Hill)
Removed: 3/ Trump reshuffled his legal team. Marc Kasowitz, Trump's longtime personal attorney who has been the lead lawyer on the Russia investigation, will step aside as the role requires Washington-centric expertise. John Dowd and Jay Sekulow will now be Trump's primary personal attorneys for the investigation, with Dowd in the lead. From inside the White House, Ty Cobb will take …
Removed: 4/ Robert Mueller asked White House staff to preserve all documents relating to Trump Jr.'s meeting with the Russian lawyer. The notice, called a document preservation request, asked White House staff to save any text messages, emails, notes, voicemails, and other communications and documentation from the June 2016 meeting. (CNN)
Removed: 5/ The Russian lawyer Trump Jr. met with had Russian intelligence connections. Natalia Veselnitskaya had previously represented Russia’s top spy agency, the Federal Security Service, in a land dispute in Moscow. There is no information that Veselnitskaya is an intelligence agent or an employee of the Russian government. (Washington Post)
Before
8/ The spokesman for Trump’s legal team resigned two months after starting. Mark Corallo said the dynamics in the White House were untenable and that there was "too much fighting all the time." He had grown frustrated with the operation and was concerned about whether he was being told the truth about various matters. (Politico)
After
5/ Robert Mueller asked White House staff to preserve all documents relating to Trump Jr.'s meeting with the Russian lawyer. The notice, called a document preservation request, asked White House staff to save any text messages, emails, notes, voicemails, and other communications and documentation from the June 2016 meeting. (CNN) 6/ The Russian lawyer Trump Jr. met with had Russian …
Before
9/ Russia's foreign minister suggested Trump may have had more meetings with Putin at the G-20 summit. Sergey Lavrov shrugged off the importance of the encounters, dismissing speculation about the leaders' meetings, and joking that "maybe they went to the toilet together." Trump and Putin met three times at the summit. (NBC News)
After
9/ Trump reshuffled his legal team. Marc Kasowitz, Trump's longtime personal attorney who has been the lead lawyer on the Russia investigation, will step aside as the role requires Washington-centric expertise. John Dowd and Jay Sekulow will now be Trump's primary personal attorneys for the investigation, with Dowd in the lead. From inside the White House, Ty Cobb will take …
Before
10/ Susan Rice privately met with the Senate intelligence committee as part of the committee's investigation into Russia meddling in the election. Rice, who served as Obama's national security adviser, is under scrutiny from House Republicans because they believe she improperly "unmasked" the identities of Trump associates in US intelligence reports. (CNN)
After
10/ The spokesman for Trump’s legal team resigned two months after starting. Mark Corallo said the dynamics in the White House were untenable and that there was "too much fighting all the time." He had grown frustrated with the operation and was concerned about whether he was being told the truth about various matters. (Politico)
… the new White House communications director, a wealthy Wall Street removed: financier.now: financier, schmoozer, and fixture on the global financial scene. Trump sees Scaramucci as a strong defender of him on television and wants him to be focused on the surrogate strategy as communications director. Scaramucci supported Trump's campaign, dealing with fundraising and appearing on … Dubke resigned in May. (Axios / Washington Post / NBC removed: News)now: News / Politico)
Before
7/ Sean Spicer resigned as the White House Press Secretary, telling Trump he "vehemently disagreed" with the appointment of New York financier Anthony Scaramucci as communications director. After Trump asked Spicer to stay on after offering the job to Scaramucci, but Spicer declined, telling Trump he believed the appointment was a major mistake. (New York Times)
After
Scaramucci once called Trump a "hack politician" and said his rhetoric was "anti-American." In August 2015, then-candidate Trump railed against “hedge-fund guys paying nothing” in taxes. Scaramucci shot back, calling hiim “another hack politician,” whose remarks “anti-American and divisive.” (Time) {% youtube KZOeqL2ZSWA %} 7/ Sean Spicer resigned as the White House Press Secretary, telling Trump he "vehemently disagreed" with …
… on cable TV as a frequent defender of the president. now: The role has been open since Mike Dubke resigned in May. (Axios / Washington Post / NBC News)
… resigned as the White House Press Secretary, telling Trump he removed: vehemently disagreednow: "vehemently disagreed" with the appointment of New York financier Anthony Scaramucci as communications director. now: After Trump asked Spicer to stay on after offering the job to Scaramucci, but Spicer declined, telling Trump he believed the appointment was a major mistake. (New York Times)
7/ Trump’s embrace of Russia places him at odds with his national security and foreign policy advisers. "Deep divisions" are growing in the White House on the best way to approach Moscow. Foreign officials have said Trump and his team have sent “mixed signals” with regards to their Russia policy, leaving diplomats and intelligence officials “dumbfounded” by Trump's approach. (Associated …
After
7/ Mueller is investigating Manafort for possible money laundering. The inquiry began several weeks ago and looks at how Manafort spent and borrowed tens of millions of dollars in connection with properties in the US over the past decade. The Senate and House intelligence committees also are probing possible money laundering by Manafort. (Wall Street Journal)
Before
8/ The Trump team used Obamacare money to run ads that undermined the health care law. The Trump administration requested $574 million from the Department of Health and Human Services' “consumer information and outreach” budget, which is supposed to be used for advertising the ACA and encouraging enrollment. Instead, they bought social media ads and produced more than 130 videos …
After
8/ Trump’s embrace of Russia places him at odds with his national security and foreign policy advisers. "Deep divisions" are growing in the White House on the best way to approach Moscow. Foreign officials have said Trump and his team have sent “mixed signals” with regards to their Russia policy, leaving diplomats and intelligence officials “dumbfounded” by Trump's approach. (Associated …
Before
9/ John McCain was diagnosed with brain cancer. McCain had a blood clot removed from above his left eye last week and "subsequent tissue pathology revealed that a primary brain tumor known as a glioblastoma." McCain and his family are reviewing further treatment options, including potential chemotherapy and radiation. (BuzzFeed News)
After
9/ The Trump team used Obamacare money to run ads that undermined the health care law. The Trump administration requested $574 million from the Department of Health and Human Services' “consumer information and outreach” budget, which is supposed to be used for advertising the ACA and encouraging enrollment. Instead, they bought social media ads and produced more than 130 videos …
Before
10/ After their White House meeting, Senate Republicans are still unlikely to repeal Obamacare in the coming days. Mitch McConnell needs 51 votes (or 50 plus Pence as a tie-breaker) to begin debate. There are 52 Senate Republicans and at least four Republican senators having announced opposition to starting debate on the current health care replacement plan: Susan Collins, Rand …
After
10/ John McCain was diagnosed with brain cancer. McCain had a blood clot removed from above his left eye last week and "subsequent tissue pathology revealed that a primary brain tumor known as a glioblastoma." McCain and his family are reviewing further treatment options, including potential chemotherapy and radiation. (BuzzFeed News)
Before
11/ The Senate confirmed a federal judge who once compared abortion to slavery, calling them “the two greatest tragedies in our country.” The Senate confirmed John K. Bush's lifetime appointment as a judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth. The vote was 51-47. (HuffPost / The Daily Beast)
After
11/ After their White House meeting, Senate Republicans are still unlikely to repeal Obamacare in the coming days. Mitch McConnell needs 51 votes (or 50 plus Pence as a tie-breaker) to begin debate. There are 52 Senate Republicans and at least four Republican senators having announced opposition to starting debate on the current health care replacement plan: Susan Collins, Rand …
… says Trump still has confidence in Sessions, despite being "disappointed" now: in Sessions' decision to recuse himself. Sarah Huckabee Sanders told reporters …
10/ After now: their White House meeting, Senate Republicans are still unlikely to repeal …
… liberal Democrats can't stand friends who voted for Trump, saying removed: it's putnow: it puts a strain on their friendships. Among Democrats and Democratic-leaning voters …
4/ Jared Kushner, Paul Manafort, and Trump Jr. will testify before Senate committees next week. Kushner will appear before the Senate intelligence committee on Monday, while Trump Jr. and Manafort are scheduled to testify before the Senate judiciary committee on Wednesday. (CNN / ABC News)
After
6/ Paul Manafort was in debt to pro-Russia interests when he joined Trump’s campaign in March 2016. Shell companies linked to Manafort's businesses in Ukraine owed as much as $17 million. (New York Times)
Before
5/ Paul Manafort was in debt to pro-Russia interests when he joined Trump’s campaign in March 2016. Shell companies linked to Manafort's businesses in Ukraine owed as much as $17 million. (New York Times)
After
7/ Trump’s embrace of Russia places him at odds with his national security and foreign policy advisers. "Deep divisions" are growing in the White House on the best way to approach Moscow. Foreign officials have said Trump and his team have sent “mixed signals” with regards to their Russia policy, leaving diplomats and intelligence officials “dumbfounded” by Trump's approach. (Associated …
Before
6/ Trump’s embrace of Russia places him at odds with his national security and foreign policy advisers. "Deep divisions" are growing in the White House on the best way to approach Moscow. Foreign officials have said Trump and his team have sent “mixed signals” with regards to their Russia policy, leaving diplomats and intelligence officials “dumbfounded” by Trump's approach. (Associated …
After
8/ The Trump team used Obamacare money to run ads that undermined the health care law. The Trump administration requested $574 million from the Department of Health and Human Services' “consumer information and outreach” budget, which is supposed to be used for advertising the ACA and encouraging enrollment. Instead, they bought social media ads and produced more than 130 videos …
Before
7/ The Trump team used Obamacare money to run ads that undermined the health care law. The Trump administration requested $574 million from the Department of Health and Human Services' “consumer information and outreach” budget, which is supposed to be used for advertising the ACA and encouraging enrollment. Instead, they bought social media ads and produced more than 130 videos …
After
9/ John McCain was diagnosed with brain cancer. McCain had a blood clot removed from above his left eye last week and "subsequent tissue pathology revealed that a primary brain tumor known as a glioblastoma." McCain and his family are reviewing further treatment options, including potential chemotherapy and radiation. (BuzzFeed News)
Before
8/ John McCain was diagnosed with brain cancer. McCain had a blood clot removed from above his left eye last week and "subsequent tissue pathology revealed that a primary brain tumor known as a glioblastoma." McCain and his family are reviewing further treatment options, including potential chemotherapy and radiation. (BuzzFeed News)
After
10/ After White House meeting, Senate Republicans are still unlikely to repeal Obamacare in the coming days. Mitch McConnell needs 51 votes (or 50 plus Pence as a tie-breaker) to begin debate. There are 52 Senate Republicans and at least four Republican senators having announced opposition to starting debate on the current health care replacement plan: Susan Collins, Rand Paul, …
… and Human Services' “consumer information and outreach” budget, which is removed: supposenow: supposed to be used for advertising the ACA and encouraging enrollment. …
… Florida mansion to a Russian oligarch in 2008. In Trump's removed: [interviewnow: interview with the New York removed: Times](https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/19/us/politics/trump-interview-transcript.html),now: Times, he defended his involvement with Russia saying, "it’s possible there’s …
4/ Jared Kushner, Paul Manafort, and Trump Jr. will testify before Senate committees next week. Kushner will appear before the Senate intelligence committee on Monday, while Trump Jr. and Manafort are scheduled to testify before the Senate judiciary committee on Wednesday. (CNN / ABC News) 5/ Paul Manafort was in debt to pro-Russia interests when he joined Trump’s campaign in …
… Rohrabacher tried to set up a virtual "show trial" last removed: Junenow: June, around the same time that Trump Jr. met with the Russian removed: lawyernow: lawyer, in an attempt to undermine a set of sanctions placed …
3/ Trump is threatening to gut the Obamacare markets, repeatedly telling aides and advisers that he wants to end the subsidy payments. The deadline for sending out the monthly Affordable Care Act subsidies to health plans is Thursday. Trump has the discretion to decide unilaterally whether the payments continue while a lawsuit House Republicans won in 2014 is being appealed. …
After
3/ A Republican congressman attempted to alter Russian sanctions after receiving a confidential document while in Moscow. Dana Rohrabacher tried to set up a virtual "show trial" last June around the same time that Trump Jr. met with the Russian lawyer in an attempt to undermine a set of sanctions placed on Russia. The document contends that the US – …
Before
4/ More than 20 members of Congress want the FBI to review Ivanka Trump’s security clearance. The group sent a letter to acting FBI Director Andrew McCabe asking him to “conduct a review of a potentially serious issue" involving Ivanka and whether she properly filled out her SF-86 form, which is the security clearance required for federal officials. (Yahoo)
After
4/ Trump is threatening to gut the Obamacare markets, repeatedly telling aides and advisers that he wants to end the subsidy payments. The deadline for sending out the monthly Affordable Care Act subsidies to health plans is Thursday. Trump has the discretion to decide unilaterally whether the payments continue while a lawsuit House Republicans won in 2014 is being appealed. …
Before
5/ The Russian lawyer said she's willing to testify to Congress about what she called "mass hysteria" regarding her meeting with Trump Jr. Natalia Veselnitskaya told Russia's Kremlin-backed RT TV channel that she never obtained damaging information about Clinton and that she has no ties with the Kremlin. (Reuters)
After
5/ Senate Republicans who opposed the health care bill are meeting tonight to try and revive the Affordable Care Act repeal and replacement bill after being told by Trump that they need to get a deal done before the August recess. Mitch McConnell wants vote next week for the procedural motion to take up the bill and start debate. Trump …
Before
6/ The military is paying $130,000 a month to lease space in Trump Tower for offices that support the White House despite Trump not spending a night there since becoming president. The military’s lease in Trump Tower is far above market rate for similarly sized apartments in the luxury high rise market, making it one of the most expensive residential …
After
6/ The CBO estimates that the Senate "repeal only" bill would leave 32 million more uninsured and double premiums over a decade. The legislation is on track to reach the Senate floor early next week, where it would likely fail. (Politico)
Before
7/ Trump sanctioned Iran a day after certifying its compliance with the nuclear deal. The sanctions targeted 18 people and entities that were involved in missile development, weapons procurement, and software theft. (CNN / New York Times)
After
7/ The Supreme Court allows the "grandparent" exemption to Trump's travel ban. The court upheld parts of a lower court order that temporarily exempts grandparents and other relatives from the travel ban. Now grandparents, grandchildren, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, aunts and uncles, nephews and nieces, and cousins are considered "close family." (NPR / CNN / Washington Post)
poll/ now: Hillary Clinton more unpopular than Trump. 39% of Americans view now: Hillary Clinton favorably, compared to 41% for Trump. Meanwhile, 58% have …
… person at the Trump Tower meeting has been identified. Ike removed: Kaveladzenow: Kaveladze, attended as an interpreter for the Russian lawyer, is an American-based employee of a Russian real estate company … developers who hosted the Trump-owned Miss Universe pageant in 2013. now: In October 2000, a report by the Government Accountability Office accused Kaveladze removed: attended as an interpreter for thenow: of laundering $1.4 billion of Russian removed: lawyer.now: and Eastern European money through US banks. Special Counsel Robert Mueller's team is investigating the meeting. (Washington Post / CNN / New York Times / Wall Street removed: Journal)now: Journal / The Daily Beast)
… developers who hosted the Trump-owned Miss Universe pageant in 2013. now: Kaveladze attended as an interpreter for the Russian lawyer. Special Counsel Robert Mueller's team is investigating the meeting. (Washington Post / removed: CNN)now: CNN / New York Times / Wall Street Journal)
10/ Trump claims to have signed more bills than any president ever in his first six months. “We’ve signed more bills — and I’m talking about through the legislature — than any president, ever,” Trump said at a “Made in America” event. Carter signed 70 bills in his first six months, Clinton signed 50., W. Bush signed 20 bills, and …
After
10/ The eighth person at the Trump Tower meeting has been identified. Ike Kaveladze is an American-based employee of a Russian real estate company owned by Emin and Aras Agalarov, the Russian developers who hosted the Trump-owned Miss Universe pageant in 2013. Special Counsel Robert Mueller's team is investigating the meeting. (Washington Post / CNN)
… to proceed with an immediate repeal of the health care removed: law. (Washingtonnow: law without a replacement — enough to doom the effort before it could get any momentum. (New York Times / Washington Post)
5/ House Republicans want to defund the only federal agency that works to ensure the voting process is secure as part of proposed federal budget cuts. Republicans say that the Federal Election Commission could bear the Election Assistance Commission's responsibilities and that the EAC improperly interferes in the right of states to conduct their elections. (Wall Street Journal)
After
5/ Three Republican senators said they would oppose McConnell's repeal-only idea. Susan Collins, Shelley Moore Capito, and Lisa Murkowski said they would oppose any vote to proceed with an immediate repeal of the health care law. (Washington Post)
Before
6/ The vice chair of Trump’s voter fraud commission wants to add new requirements for voting. The day after Trump was elected, Kris Kobach, the Kansas Secretary of State, proposed a change federal law to make voter registration requirements stricter and "to make clear that proof of citizenship requirements are permitted." Kobach is now the vice chair of the Presidential …
After
6/ House Republican unveiled their 2018 budget proposal, which slashes billions in spending to social programs like Medicaid and food stamp, and paves the way for a major overhaul of the tax code. Defense spending would steadily increase over the next 10 years while non-defense, discretionary spending would decline to $424 billion — about 23% below current spending in the …
Before
7/ Thousands of voters are removing themselves from state voter rolls, worried that Trump’s vote fraud commission will reveal their personal information. Colorado has seen 3,738 voters remove their names from the rolls since Trump's election commission sent letters to all states requesting voter information. (NBC News)
After
7/ House Republicans want to defund the only federal agency that works to ensure the voting process is secure as part of proposed federal budget cuts. Republicans say that the Federal Election Commission could bear the Election Assistance Commission's responsibilities and that the EAC improperly interferes in the right of states to conduct their elections. (Wall Street Journal)
Before
8/ Trump claims to have signed more bills than any president ever in his first six months. “We’ve signed more bills — and I’m talking about through the legislature — than any president, ever,” Trump said at a “Made in America” event. Carter signed 70 bills in his first six months, Clinton signed 50., W. Bush signed 20 bills, and …
After
8/ The vice chair of Trump’s voter fraud commission wants to add new requirements for voting. The day after Trump was elected, Kris Kobach, the Kansas Secretary of State, proposed a change federal law to make voter registration requirements stricter and "to make clear that proof of citizenship requirements are permitted." Kobach is now the vice chair of the Presidential …
Trump blindsided by now: the implosion of now: the GOP health care bill. While the president strategized with Republican … senators were finalizing their statements tanking the current proposal. (Politico) now: How the Republican health care bill fell apart. Trump was "annoyed" at the news, which came after a dinner with Republican senators. (CNN)
… Obamacare will not be successful," McConnell said in a statement. removed: (CNN)now: He added that "in the coming days," the Senate would vote on "a repeal of Obamacare with a two-year delay to provide for a stable transition period to a patient-centered health care system that gives Americans access to quality, affordable care." (CNN / ABC News)
… Americans prefer Obamacare to the Republican replacement by a 2-to-1 removed: margin.now: margin – 50% to 24%. More specifically, 77% of Democrats prefer Obamacare, while 59% of Republicans removed: favoringnow: favor their party’s solution. (Washington Post)
5/ Insurers called the Senate health care bill “simply unworkable in any form” and warned that it would cause major hardship for middle-class people with serious medical problems. America’s Health Insurance Plans and the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association said “millions of more individuals will become uninsured." (HuffPost)
… to Russia were funding the Democratic National Committee and supporting removed: Clinton, Akhmetshin said.now: Clinton. Veselnitskaya brought a plastic folder with printed-out documents detailing the … the information public could help the Trump campaign. Trump Jr. removed: has said he did not receive the information he was promised. …
… some US officials of having ongoing ties to Russian intelligence. now: The revelation brings the total in attendance to eight: Trump Jr., Kushner, Manafort, Veselnitskaya, Akhmetshin, publicist Rob Goldstone, who helped set up the meeting, and at least two other people: a translator and a representative of the Russian family who had asked Goldstone to set up the meeting. Senator Charles Grassley said Akhmetshin failed to register as a … as an intelligence agent. (NBC News / Associated Press / removed: CNN)now: CNN / Washington Post)
Before
2/ Akhmetshin was accused of hacking a Russian mining company and stealing documents. Court papers from 2015 say Akhmetshin was paid $140,000 to organize a public relations smear campaign targeting International Mineral Resources. Shortly after he began that work, IMR was hacked and gigabytes of data were allegedly stolen. Akhmetshin has denied the accusation, but admitted to passing around a …
After
Government watchdogs filed a complaint against Trump Jr., Jared Kushner, and Paul Manafort with the Federal Election Commission, arguing the three violated the law by meeting with a Russian who was offering damaging information on Hillary Clinton. The complaint said the emails provided evidence that Trump Jr. violated the law by asking a foreign national for something of value. (Reuters) …
Before
3/ Government watchdogs filed a complaint against Trump Jr., Jared Kushner, and Paul Manafort with the Federal Election Commission, arguing the three violated the law by meeting with a Russian who was offering damaging information on Hillary Clinton. The complaint said the emails provided evidence that Trump Jr. violated the law by asking a foreign national for something of value. …
After
2/ The former intel officer was accused of hacking a Russian mining company and stealing documents. Court papers from 2015 say Rinat Akhmetshin was paid $140,000 to organize a public relations smear campaign targeting International Mineral Resources. Shortly after he began that work, IMR was hacked and gigabytes of data were allegedly stolen. Akhmetshin has denied the accusation, but admitted …
Before
4/ Kushner was angry that the White House wasn't more aggressive in its defense of the Trump Jr. meeting. Kushner wanted the White House to complain about chyrons on cable news, call reporters to update stories with White House statements, and push out surrogates with talking points to change the narrative around the latest twist in the Russia scandal. Sean …
After
3/ Veselnitskaya presented the Trump team with documents that she believed showed people tied to Russia were funding the Democratic National Committee and supporting Clinton, Akhmetshin said. Veselnitskaya brought a plastic folder with printed-out documents detailing the flow of illicit funds to the DNC and suggested that making the information public could help the Trump campaign. Trump Jr. has said …
Before
7/ A Hawaiian judge loosened Trump's travel ban, changing the definition of a "bona fide" relationship. The decision means that "grandparents, grandchildren, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins of persons in the United States" will now count as close family relationships and can gain entry into the country. (Wall Street Journal / CNN)
After
10/ Jeff Sessions said the Trump administration will appeal the latest travel ban ruling to the Supreme Court. Sessions said "the district court has improperly substituted its policy preferences for the national security judgments of the executive branch in a time of grave threats, defying both the lawful prerogatives of the executive branch and the directive of the Supreme Court." …
1/ A former Soviet counterintelligence officer removed: was also atnow: attended the Trump Jr. meeting. The Russian lawyer, Natalia Veselnitskaya, was …
… Trump's travel ban, changing the definition of a "bona fide" removed: relationship to a person or entity in the US.now: relationship. The decision means that "grandparents, grandchildren, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, aunts, uncles, …
… At least three Senate Republicans will vote against the revised removed: Senate health bill. Susan Collins, Rand Paul, and Rob Portman all …
3/ Two Republican senators introduced an alternative health care removed: plan,now: plan moments before McConnell briefed senators on the revised bill to …
… "She’s in such good physical shape," before looking back at removed: the Brigitte Macron to say “Beautiful.” Earlier in the day, Trump …
poll/ 65% of people that disapprove of Trump's performance now: say it's because of his character and personality. 16% say they disapprove …
… people to pay for insurance with pre-tax money, and spend removed: billions morenow: $45 billion to fight opioid addiction. The plan also includes an amendment … would cause premiums to spike for those with pre-existing conditions. now: The revised bill would provide an additional $70 billion in funds that states could use to make health care more affordable on top of the more than $100 billion already included. (Politico / CNN)
Before
2/ Trump threatened to get "very angry" if Republicans fail to pass the health care bill. "I don't even want to talk about it because I think it would be very bad," Trump said in an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network. “I am sitting in the Oval Office with a pen in hand, waiting for our senators to give …
After
2/ At least three Senate Republicans will vote against the revised Senate health bill. Susan Collins, Rand Paul, and Rob Portman all remain opposed. Collins said the deep cuts to Medicaid were standing in the way. “My strong intention and current inclination is to vote no on the motion to proceed,” Collins said. Mitch McConnell needs the support of 50 …
removed: 6/now: 10/ A 2013 video shows Trump attending dinner with the associates … the 2016, Goldstone claimed to have damaging information against Hillary removed: Clinton.now: Clinton and setup the meeting between Trump Jr., Paul Manafort, and Jared Kushner with the Russian lawyer. (CNN)
removed: 7/now: 11/ Pence’s press secretary repeatedly refused to say if the VP … with representative from Russia?” Bill Hemmer, host of Fox News' removed: "America’s Newsroom," asked.now: _America’s Newsroom_. “The vice president is not focused on the areas where, …
Before
8/ Trump’s friend Jim may not exist. Throughout the campaign, Trump mentioned a friend named Jim while linking immigration policies in Europe to increased terrorist attacks, particularly those in France. Trump has never given his last name. The White House has not responded about who Jim is or whether he will be on Trump's trip to Paris. (Associated Press / …
After
12/ Trump won't say whether he believed Putin's denial of Russian meddling in the election. He did say, however, that he’s willing to invite Russian president to the White House. (Bloomberg) 13/ Trump’s friend Jim may not exist. Throughout the campaign, Trump mentioned a friend named Jim while linking immigration policies in Europe to increased terrorist attacks, particularly those in …
Before
9/ Trump claimed he's "done more in five months than practically any president in history." He added that the current mood in the White House is "fantastic," despite recent pressure following allegations of Trump Jr.'s involvement with Russia during last year's election campaign. (CNBC)
10/ Kellyanne Conway used flash card props to explain the Russia controversy and how the White House viewed the scrutiny about Trump's associates' ties to Russia during the campaign during a _Hannity_ apperance. "What's the conclusion? Collusion? No. We don't have that yet. I see illusion and delusion," Conway said. (CNN)
After
17/ The CBO refuted Trump’s claim that his plan will balance the federal budget in a decade. The CBO did say that Trump's budget proposal would reduce the federal deficit over a decade, but the estimated deficit reduction would be lower than the administration's because the White House projects higher economic growth. (CNBC)
poll/ 65% of people that disapprove of Trump's performance because of his character and personality. 16% say they disapprove of his work based on his policies and stances on issues. In contrast, Americans who disapproved of Obama's job performance during his first year in office focused mainly on his policies and stances on issues. (Gallup)
… Kellyanne Conway used flash card props to explain the Russia removed: controverynow: controversy and how the White House viewed the scrutiny about Trump's … have that yet. I see illusion and delusion," Conway said. removed: (CNN /now: (CNN)
… reviewing documents. The team amended Kushner's clearance forms to disclose removed: it.now: it, but Kushner now: still faces potential trouble because he currently works in the White House and neglected to mention the encounter on now: the forms he filled out for a background check to obtain …
… the meeting on a supplemental form. Sarah Huckabee Sanders dodged now: the question, saying the White House has “never discussed the security …
… at Trump-branded properties since he took office in January. (Washington removed: Postnow: Post)
… to Trump Jr.'s tweets containing copies of the email chain. removed: (CNN)now: Trump said he did not fault his son for holding the meeting. "I think many people would have held that meeting," he added. (CNN / Reuters)
… say whether Jared Kushner still has a security clearance after removed: Kushner Kushnernow: he omitted the interaction with the Russian lawyer on his application …
… from our friends across the aisle." Disagreements within the caucus removed: centersnow: center on a conservative proposal from Mike Lee and Ted Cruz, which would allow the sale of cheap insurance plans outside now: of Obamacare’s regulatory structure. The next now: revision of the removed: revised bill could be unveiled to as soon as Thursday, with …
… government agencies have declined to disclose information about their deregulation removed: teams, refusing to saynow: teams and what the appointees are working on. (ProPublica / New York …
… forum that cannot bar people from as a government official. now: Sean Spicer previously said Trump's tweets are official statements. (New York Times)
Before
12/ The federal government cancelled the decade-long search for a new FBI headquarters. The General Services Administration originally planned to trade away the Hoover Building to a real estate developer and then use nearly $2 billion in taxpayer money to cover the remaining cost. Dysfunction and escalating costs mired the project, and the lack of leadership at both the FBI …
After
12/ Trump's state visit to the UK has been delayed until next year, citing "a scheduling issue," an official said. "Finding a date that works for everyone turned out to be difficult. We're looking at next year." (Reuters)
Before
13/ Trump's state visit to the UK delayed until next year, citing "a scheduling issue," an official said. "Finding a date that works for everyone turned out to be difficult. We're looking at next year." (Reuters)
After
13/ Steve Bannon and Jared Kushner recruited two war profiteers to devise alternative options in Afghanistan to counter the Pentagon’s plan to send thousands of additional troops. Erik Prince, founder of the private security firm Blackwater Worldwide, and Stephen Feinberg, a billionaire financier who owns the giant military contractor DynCorp International, developed a proposal that relied on contractors instead of …
14/ removed: Steve Bannon and Jared Kushner removed: recruited two war profiteers to devise alternative options in Afghanistan to counter the Pentagon’s plan to send thousands of additional troops. Erik Prince, founder of the private security firm Blackwater Worldwide, and Stephen Feinberg, a billionaire financier who owns the giant military contractor DynCorp International, developed a proposal to rely on contractors instead of American troops. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis declined to include the outside strategies in his review of Afghanistan policy that he is leading along with the national security adviser, H. R. McMaster. (New York Times) 15/ Jared Kushner’s unsuccessfully sought a half-billion dollar investment from Qatar's former prime minister a few months before Trump encouraged the blockade. now: He didn't get it and now Qatar is facing an ongoing blockade led by Saudi Arabia …
1/ Trump Jr. was told in an email the Russian government wanted to help the Trump campaign. The email was sent by Rob Goldstone, who brokered the June 2016 meeting with a Kremlin-connected lawyer, Natalia Veselnitskaya, that promised damaging information about Clinton as part of a Russian government effort to aid the Trump campaign. The meeting took place less than …
After
The Justice Department will look at Trump Jr.'s emails and meeting. Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigators plan to examine the meeting and email exchanges disclosed by Trump Jr. as part of the broader Russian-meddling investigation. (CNN) Senators respond to Trump Jr.'s emails. Lindsey Graham called them "disturbing" and "very problematic," while Tim Kaine suggested Trump Jr. may have committed treason. …
… Trump called Trump Jr. a "high-quality person" after emails about now: the Russian lawyer now: and meeting now: were released. Sarah Huckabee Sanders held an off-camera press briefing to …
… Jr. to the Russian lawyer checked in for the meeting now: at Trump Tower on Facebook. A screenshot from Rob Goldstone's Facebook page suggests he was at Trump Tower the day of the meeting. The caption removed: saysnow: reads “preparing for meeting.” (Business Insider)
12/ Steve Bannon and Jared Kushner recruited two war profiteers removed: <span style="font-size: 1rem;">to </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">devise</span><span style="font-size: 1rem;"> alternativenow: to devise alternative options removed: in </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;"><b>Afghanistan</b>now: in Afghanistan to counter removed: the</span><span style="font-size: 1rem;"> </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">Pentagon’snow: the Pentagon’s plan to send thousands of additional troops. Erik removed: Prince, </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">foundernow: Prince, founder of the private security firm Blackwater Worldwide, removed: and </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">Stephennow: and Stephen Feinberg, a billionaire financier who owns the giant military contractor DynCorp International, developed a proposal removed: to </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">relynow: to rely on contractors instead of American removed: troops. </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">Defensenow: troops. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis declined to include the outside strategies in … leading along with the national security adviser, H. R. McMaster. removed: (<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/10/world/asia/trump-afghanistan-policy-erik-prince-stephen-feinberg.html">Newnow: (New York removed: Times</a>)</span>now: Times)
removed: <span style="font-size: 1rem;">13/ </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">Jarednow: 13/ Jared Kushner’s unsuccessfully sought a half-billion dollar investment removed: from </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">Qatar's </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">formernow: from Qatar's former prime removed: minister</span><span style="font-size: 1rem;"> a few</span><span style="font-size: 1rem;"> monthsnow: minister a few months before Trump encouraged the removed: blockade. </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">Qatarnow: blockade. Qatar is facing an ongoing blockade led by Saudi Arabia and … by Egypt and Bahrain, which Trump has taken credit for removed: sparking. </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">Kushnernow: sparking. Kushner reportedly played a key behind-the-scenes role in hardening the US posture toward the nation. removed: (<a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-07-11/kushner-cos-sought-qatar-funds-as-jared-advised-trump">Bloomberg</a>now: (Bloomberg / removed: <a href="https://theintercept.com/2017/07/10/jared-kushner-tried-and-failed-to-get-a-half-billion-dollar-bailout-from-qatar/">The Intercept</a>)</span>now: The Intercept)
… by a lack of cooperation from our friends across the removed: aisle."Disagreementsnow: aisle." Disagreements within the caucus centers on a conservative proposal from Mike …
removed: <span style="font-size: 1rem;"><b>Trumpnow: Trump promised big news about Clinton’s crimes in his Republican nominee victory removed: speech</b>,now: speech, which occurred four days after Goldstone's first contact with Trump Jr. and two days before the meeting at Trump Tower on June removed: 9th.</span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">"Inow: 9th. "I am going to give a major speech on probably Monday … of the things that have taken place with the Clintons." removed: (<a href="http://talkingpointsmemo.com/edblog/oh-boy-3">Talkingnow: (Talking Points removed: Memo</a>now: Memo / removed: <a href="http://time.com/4360872/donald-trump-new-jersey-victory-speech-transcript/">Time</a>)</span>now: Time)
… the situation described in Trump Jr.’s emails was not collusion. removed: (Politico)<span style="font-size: 1rem;"><br></span>now: (Politico)
removed: <span style="font-size: 1rem;">6/ </span>Thenow: 6/ The Russian lawyer denied having any connection to the Kremlin or damaging information on removed: Clinton<span style="font-size: 1rem;">.now: Clinton. Veselnitskaya said she met with Trump Jr. in 2016 to … occurred, saying the topic of conversation was primarily about adoption. removed: (</span><a href="http://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/russian-lawyer-who-met-trump-jr-i-didn-t-have-n781631" style="font-size: 1rem; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">NBC News</a><span style="font-size: 1rem;">)</span>now: (NBC News)
5/ removed: <span style="font-size: 1rem;"><b>Trumpnow: Trump called Trump Jr. a "high-quality person" after emails about Russian lawyer meeting removed: released</b>. </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">Sarahnow: released. Sarah Huckabee Sanders held an off-camera press briefing to address the … Trump’s campaign and the Russian government during the 2016 presidential removed: campaign. </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">Shenow: campaign. She stood by her statement that there was no collusion, removed: declining </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">tonow: declining to clarify how the situation described in Trump Jr.’s emails was not removed: collusion.</span><spannow: collusion. (Politico)<span style="font-size: removed: 1rem;"> </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">(</span><a href="http://www.politico.com/story/2017/07/11/white-house-briefing-donald-trump-jr-240410" style="font-size: 1rem; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Politico</a><span style="font-size: 1rem;">)</span>now: 1rem;"><br></span>
removed: 6/ Thenow: <span style="font-size: 1rem;">6/ </span>The Russian lawyer denied having any connection to the Kremlin or damaging information on removed: Clinton.now: Clinton<span style="font-size: 1rem;">. Veselnitskaya said she met with Trump Jr. in 2016 to … occurred, saying the topic of conversation was primarily about adoption. removed: (NBC News)now: (</span><a href="http://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/russian-lawyer-who-met-trump-jr-i-didn-t-have-n781631" style="font-size: 1rem; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">NBC News</a><span style="font-size: 1rem;">)</span>
5/ The Russian lawyer denied having any connection to the Kremlin or damaging information on Clinton. Veselnitskaya said she met with Trump Jr. in 2016 to discuss sanctions between Russia and the US. “I never had any damaging or sensitive information about Hillary Clinton. It was never my intention to have that,” Veselnitskaya said. “It is quite possible that maybe …
After
5/ <span style="font-size: 1rem;"><b>Trump called Trump Jr. a "high-quality person" after emails about Russian lawyer meeting released</b>. </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">Sarah Huckabee Sanders held an off-camera press briefing to address the emails, which offer the most direct link between Trump’s campaign and the Russian government during the 2016 presidential campaign. </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">She stood by her statement that there was no collusion, declining </span><span …
Before
6/ The man connecting Trump Jr. to the Russian lawyer checked in for the meeting on Facebook. A screenshot from Rob Goldstone's Facebook page suggests he was at Trump Tower the day of the meeting. The caption says “preparing for meeting.” (Business Insider)
After
6/ The Russian lawyer denied having any connection to the Kremlin or damaging information on Clinton. Veselnitskaya said she met with Trump Jr. in 2016 to discuss sanctions between Russia and the US. “I never had any damaging or sensitive information about Hillary Clinton. It was never my intention to have that,” Veselnitskaya said. “It is quite possible that maybe …
Before
7/ Trump's election commission freezes its effort to gather voter data from states as legal challenges grow. The panel's designated officer, Andrew Kossack, asked state elections officers to "hold on submitting any data." The panel asked states for voter data, including birth dates and the last four digits of voters' Social Security numbers. Most US states have rejected full compliance, …
After
7/ The man connecting Trump Jr. to the Russian lawyer checked in for the meeting on Facebook. A screenshot from Rob Goldstone's Facebook page suggests he was at Trump Tower the day of the meeting. The caption says “preparing for meeting.” (Business Insider)
Before
8/ Mitch McConnell delayed the Senate's August recess in order to "complete action on important legislative items." The move comes as McConnell aims to pass the GOP health care bill, which has been "stalled by a lack of cooperation from our friends across the aisle."Disagreements within the caucus centers on a conservative proposal from Mike Lee and Ted Cruz, which …
After
8/ Trump's election commission freezes its effort to gather voter data from states as legal challenges grow. The panel's designated officer, Andrew Kossack, asked state elections officers to "hold on submitting any data." The panel asked states for voter data, including birth dates and the last four digits of voters' Social Security numbers. Most US states have rejected full compliance, …
… by a lack of cooperation from our friends across the removed: aisle." D<span style="font-size: 1rem;">isagreementsnow: aisle."Disagreements within the caucus centers on a conservative proposal from Mike Lee and Ted removed: Cruz, </span>whichnow: Cruz, which would allow the sale of cheap insurance plans outside Obamacare’s regulatory structure. removed: <span style="font-size: 1rem;">Thenow: The next of the revised bill could be unveiled to as … Congressional Budget Office score likely to follow as soon as removed: Monday. </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">Thenow: Monday. The Senate will remain at work through the week of August 7th. removed: (</span><a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/senate-health-bill-likely-will-keep-acas-taxes-on-high-income-households-1499794004" style="font-size: 1rem; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Wallnow: (Wall Street removed: Journal</a><span style="font-size: 1rem;">now: Journal / removed: </span><a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/powerpost/mcconnell-delays-august-recess-to-complete-work-on-health-care-bill-other-issues/2017/07/11/1d90e3d2-6647-11e7-9928-22d00a47778f_story.html" style="font-size: 1rem; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Washington Post</a>now: Washington Post / removed: Politico<span style="font-size: 1rem;">)</span>now: Politico)
8/ Mitch McConnell delayed the Senate's August recess in order to "complete action on important legislative items." The move comes as McConnell aims to pass the GOP health care bill, which has been "stalled by a lack of cooperation from our friends across the aisle." The Senate will remain at work through the week of August 7th. (Wall Street Journal …
After
8/ Mitch McConnell delayed the Senate's August recess in order to "complete action on important legislative items." The move comes as McConnell aims to pass the GOP health care bill, which has been "stalled by a lack of cooperation from our friends across the aisle." D<span style="font-size: 1rem;">isagreements within the caucus centers on a conservative proposal from Mike Lee and …
… a lack of cooperation from our friends across the aisle." removed: <span style="font-size: 1rem;">Thenow: The Senate will remain at work through the week of August 7th. removed: (<a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/senate-health-bill-likely-will-keep-acas-taxes-on-high-income-households-1499794004">Wallnow: (Wall Street removed: Journal</a>now: Journal / removed: <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/powerpost/mcconnell-delays-august-recess-to-complete-work-on-health-care-bill-other-issues/2017/07/11/1d90e3d2-6647-11e7-9928-22d00a47778f_story.html">Washington Post</a>)</span>now: Washington Post)
… represents a Russian pop star, whose father, Aras Agalarov, helped removed: Trump bring removed: thenow: Trump's 2013 Miss Universe pageant to Moscow. Agalarovis is now: also a close removed: to Putinnow: friend of Putin. (New York Times)
… universities have a positive effect on the country. Overall, 55% removed: thinksnow: think colleges and universities help the US. (The Hill)
… effort to gather voter data from states as legal challenges removed: grow..now: grow. The panel's designated officer, Andrew Kossack, asked state elections officers … which many called unnecessary and a violation of privacy. (Reuters) now: 8/ The federal government cancelled the decade-long search for a new FBI headquarters. The General Services Administration originally planned to trade away the Hoover Building to a real estate developer and then use nearly $2 billion in taxpayer money to cover the remaining cost. Dysfunction and escalating costs mired the project, and the lack of leadership at both the FBI and the GSA have hindered the case for funding. Trump’s appointee to the FBI, Christopher Wray, has not been confirmed, and Trump has not appointed a permanent GSA administrator. The GSA is also the landlord to Trump's DC hotel. (Washington Post)
… to Moscow. Agalarovis is a close to Putin (New York removed: Timesnow: Times)
… saying the topic of conversation was primarily about adoption. (NBC removed: New)now: News)
7/ Trump's election now: commission freezes its effort to now: gather voter data from states as legal challenges removed: grow.now: grow.. The panel's designated officer, Andrew Kossack, asked state elections officers …
1/ Donald Trump Jr. removed: was promisednow: met with a Kremlin-connected Russian lawyer to acquire damaging information about Hillary Clinton removed: before meeting with a Kremlin-connected Russian lawyernow: in June 2016 at Trump Tower in New York removed: on June 9, 2016. A day earlier,now: City. On Saturday, Trump Jr. said the meeting was about the issue of US adoptions of Russian children and not the campaign. removed: Butnow: However, in March, Trump Jr. said he never met with any … Kushner – was disclosed when Kushner filed a revised form removed: requirednow: in order to obtain a security clearance. Manafort also recently disclosed the removed: meetingnow: meeting, and Trump Jr.’s role in organizing removed: itnow: it, to congressional investigators looking into his foreign contacts. (New York …
2/ now: Trump Jr.'s meeting may have violated a federal law prohibiting the solicitation or acceptance of anything of value from a foreign national. Trump Jr. admitted that the meeting was an attempt to acquire damaging information on Hillary Clinton. Despite the meeting not bearing any “meaningful information” about Clinton, solicitation itself is the offense. (Vox / Politico) 3/ Trump Jr. tried to downplay his meeting removed: with Russian lawyer, tweetingnow: while hiring a lawyer to represent him in the Russia probe. He tweeted that removed: "Obviouslynow: "obviously I'm the first person on a campaign to ever take … statements, saying the meeting ended up being primarily about adoptions. now: Trump Jr. hired Alan Futerfas, a criminal defense attorney that's represented organized crime and cybercrime cases. (ABC now: News / Reuters / BuzzFeed News)
removed: 3/now: Schumer: Trump Jr. should testify before Senate Intel. "This revelation should be the end of the idea pushed by the administration and the president that there is absolutely no evidence of an intent by the Trump campaign to coordinate or collude. It is certainly not proof positive ... but these reports in the press at least demand further investigation," Schumer said from the Senate floor on Monday. (The Hill) 4/ The Kremlin removed: deniesnow: denied knowing about Trump Jr.'s meeting with a Russian lawyer. A Putin spokesman said the Kremlin doesn't know the lawyer, adding that removed: the Kremlinnow: they “cannot keep track of every Russian lawyer and their meetings …
removed: 4/now: 5/ Trump backtracked on his push for a US-Russia cybersecurity unit, saying it cannot happen. On Sunday, Trump tweeted that removed: himnow: he and Putin "discussed forming an impenetrable Cyber Security unit so …
removed: 5/now: 6/ Trump accused Comey of illegally leaking classified information. After Trump … by Comey after his nine conversations with Trump. Four were now: allegedly marked as “secret” or “confidential." (Washington Post / The Hill)
removed: 8/now: 10/ Trump defended Ivanka's seat-holding at the G20, saying "If Chelsea … in for Trump when he stepped away for a one-on-one removed: discussionsnow: discussion with other leaders. Ivanka serves as an unpaid adviser to …
… to the media which were <s>an unclassified,</s> a personal "recollection" removed: recountingnow: of his interactions with Trump. There were seven memos by Comey …
… friend to leak his memos to the media which were removed: <a>an unclassified,</a>now: <s>an unclassified,</s> a personal "recollection" recounting his interactions with Trump. There were …
… Comey asked a friend to leak his memos to the removed: media. <s>whichnow: media which were removed: an unclassified,now: <a>an unclassified,</a> a personal "recollection" recounting his interactions with removed: Trump.</s>now: Trump. There were seven memos removed: prepared by Comey after his nine conversations with Trump. Four were marked as removed: classified as “secret” or “confidential." (Washington Post / The Hill)
… Comey asked a friend to leak his memos to the removed: media, whichnow: media. <s>which were an unclassified, personal "recollection" recounting his interactions with now: Trump.</s> There were seven memos prepared by Comey after his nine conversations with Trump. now: Four were marked as classified as “secret” or “confidential." (Washington removed: Post)now: Post / The Hill)
2/ The Kremlin denies knowing about Trump Jr.'s meeting with a Russian lawyer. A Putin spokesman said the Kremlin doesn't know the lawyer, adding that the Kremlin “cannot keep track of every Russian lawyer and their meetings domestically or abroad.” (Washington Post)
After
2/ Trump Jr. tried to downplay his meeting with Russian lawyer, tweeting that "Obviously I'm the first person on a campaign to ever take a meeting to hear info about an opponent." He added that there was "no inconsistency" in his two statements, saying the meeting ended up being primarily about adoptions. (ABC News)
2/ Paul Ryan will no longer hold public town halls because he doesn't "want to have a situation where we just have a screaming fest, a shouting fest, where people are being bused in from out of the district to get on TV because they're yelling at somebody." (CBS News)
After
2/ The Kremlin denies knowing about Trump Jr.'s meeting with a Russian lawyer. A Putin spokesman said the Kremlin doesn't know the lawyer, adding that the Kremlin “cannot keep track of every Russian lawyer and their meetings domestically or abroad.” (Washington Post)
… FOR PRES!" Clinton responded on Twitter: "Good morning Mr. President. now: It would never have occurred to my mother or my father to ask me." Ivanka sat in for Trump when he stepped away for …
… lack of retaliatory response from both Trump and Obama. It's removed: beleivednow: believed the Russians now have nearly 150 suspected intelligence operatives in …
… it comes to Russia. 54% believe he has done something removed: illegal, while 29% thinknow: illegal or unethical, with 25% saying he has done something removed: unethical.now: illegal and another 29% thinking he has done something unethical although not necessarily illegal. (NPR)
… NATO's mutual defense clause, after failing to do so on now: his first Europe trip. He then called on allies to honored …
5/ removed: Military spending alone is not enough as Trump asks "whether the West has the will to removed: survive."now: survive," saying military spending alone is not enough. He told the bused-in, friendly Polish crowd that “radical Islamic …
… Obama administration and were set to take effect on July removed: 1.now: 1, but DeVos has delayed the implementation of the rules. (Politico)
… director resigns, saying rules need to be tougher. Walter Shaub removed: Jr., the government’s top ethics watchdog,now: Jr.'s resignation follows months of clashes with the White House over … and the administration's delay in disclosing ethics waivers for appointees. now: He was the government’s top ethics watchdog. (New York Times / Washington Post / NPR)
… flew to Europe today, stopping in Poland where the government removed: bussed-innow: bused-in thousands to ensure a friendly, cheering crowd for his speech. …
… G20 summit in Hamburg, Germany is expecting up to 100,000 removed: protesters, as well asnow: protesters. In London, mass demonstrations removed: in Londonnow: are expected when Trump makes his long-awaited state visit to the UK. …
… DC have refused to comply with Trump's election integrity commission. now: In response, Trump tweeted that states are "trying to hide" things from … last four digits of their social security numbers, voting history removed: in since 2006, military status, whether they lived overseas, and more. … State Kris Kobach, who leads Trump's Commission on Election Integrity, removed: <a href="https://whatthefuckjusthappenedtoday.com/2017/06/30/Day-162/#1-trump’s-voter-fraud-commission-ask">sentnow: sent a letter to all 50 states last removed: week</a>now: week requesting the voter data, which will eventually be made available …
… since 2006, military status, whether they lived overseas, and more. removed: <span style="font-size: 1rem;">Kansasnow: Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach, who leads Trump's Commission on … voter data, which will eventually be made available to the removed: public.</span><span style="font-size: 1rem;"> (</span><a href="http://www.cnn.com/2017/07/03/politics/kris-kobach-letter-voter-fraud-commission-information/index.html" style="font-size: 1rem; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">CNN</a><span style="font-size: 1rem;">now: public. (CNN / removed: </span><a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2017/07/01/trump-says-states-are-trying-to-hide-things-from-his-voter-fraud-commission-heres-what-they-actually-say/" style="font-size: 1rem; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Washington Post</a><span style="font-size: 1rem;">)</span>now: Washington Post)
… the government bussed-in thousands to ensure a friendly, cheering crowd removed: for<span style="font-size: 1rem;"><b> his speech</b>.now: for his speech. In contrast, the G20 summit removed: in </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">Hamburg,now: in Hamburg, Germany is expecting up to 100,000 protesters, as well as … when Trump makes his long-awaited state visit to the UK. removed: (<a href="http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-40497732">BBC</a>now: (BBC / removed: <a href="https://apnews.com/4aeff5f56d614bedacdde0a8e2cac030">Associated Press</a>)</span>now: Associated Press)
… "boxed in" when he meets with Putin this week. After removed: m<span style="font-size: 1rem;">onthsnow: months of controversy involving Russia, foreign policy experts are starting to … meet with Putin on the sidelines of the G20 summit removed: in </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">Hamburgnow: in Hamburg on Friday. removed: (<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/05/us/politics/trump-poland-germany-g20-putin.html">Newnow: (New York removed: Times</a>now: Times / removed: <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/months-of-russia-controversy-leaves-trump-boxed-in-ahead-of-putin-meeting/2017/07/04/882b51c2-60a8-11e7-a6c7-f769fa1d5691_story.html">Washington Post</a>)</span>now: Washington Post)
removed: <span style="font-size: 1rem;">9/ </span>Thenow: 9/ The US denied visas for Afghanistan's all-girl robotics removed: team<span style="font-size: 1rem;">.now: team. The six teenage Afghan inventors made a 500 mile trek … Afghanistan and team Gambia have been denied visas so far. removed: (</span><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/hilarybrueck/2017/06/29/denied-afghanistans-all-girl-robotics-team-cant-get-visas-to-the-u-s/#3e5ccc4a367f" style="font-size: 1rem; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Forbes</a><span style="font-size: 1rem;">)</span>now: (Forbes)
… with “large heavy nuclear warheads.” Experts don't believe the North removed: can'tnow: can make a nuclear warhead small enough to be mounted on …
Before
4/ 44 states and DC have refused to comply with Trump's election integrity commission. Trump tweets that states are "trying to hide" things from his commission, which is seeking voter's full names, addresses, dates of birth, political parties, the last four digits of their social security numbers, voting history in since 2006, military status, whether they lived overseas, and more. …
After
4/ At least 44 states and DC have refused to comply with Trump's election integrity commission. Trump tweeted that states are "trying to hide" things from his commission, which is seeking voter's full names, addresses, dates of birth, political parties, the last four digits of their social security numbers, voting history in since 2006, military status, whether they lived overseas, …
Before
7/ The US denied visas for Afghanistan's all-girl robotics team. The six teenage Afghan inventors made a 500 mile trek to the American embassy in Kabul to interview for one-week travel visas so they could escort their robot to the inaugural FIRST Global Challenge. Teams from Iraq, Iran, and Sudan were all able to secure travel visas. Only team Afghanistan …
After
7/ Trump flew to Europe today, stopping in Poland where the government bussed-in thousands to ensure a friendly, cheering crowd for<span style="font-size: 1rem;"><b> his speech</b>. In contrast, the G20 summit in </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">Hamburg, Germany is expecting up to 100,000 protesters, as well as mass demonstrations in London when Trump makes his long-awaited state visit to the UK. (<a href="http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-40497732">BBC</a> / <a …
1/ Trump’s voter-fraud commission asked all 50 states removed: fornow: to turn over their full removed: voter-rollnow: voter roll data for every voter in the US. The request includes …
2/ removed: Virginia, California, and Kentucky refusenow: At least 21 states are refusing to turn over voter removed: roll data to Trump's election panel. "At best this commission was …
12/ NASA removed: issued a denialnow: denied that it's running a child slave colony on removed: Mars after annow: Mars. An Alex Jones guest alleged the space agency had kidnapped children …
8/ Trump appoints an anti-transgender activist to the office of Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment. In 2016, Bethany Kozma campaigned to oppose the Obama's guidance to public schools that transgender students have the right to use bathrooms matching their gender identity, repeating an unsubstantiated assertion the policy leads to sexual assault. (BuzzFeed News)
After
10/ The White House council for women and girls has been silently disbanded while the administration evaluates whether to keep the office. Obama’s White House Council on Women and Girls was created in 2009 to monitor the impact of policy changes and liaise with women's groups. (Politico)
Before
9/ The White House council for women and girls has been silently disbanded while the administration evaluates whether to keep the office. Obama’s White House Council on Women and Girls was created in 2009 to monitor the impact of policy changes and liaise with women's groups. (Politico)
After
11/ Scott Pruitt is launching an initiative to "critique" climate science at the EPA. Pruitt's stated that he believes the climate is changing and humans have some role, but is skeptical that greenhouse gases are the primary cause of climate change, despite overwhelming scientific consensus. (Climatewire / The Hill)
Before
10/ Scott Pruitt is launching an initiative to "critique" climate science at the EPA. Pruitt's stated that he believes the climate is changing and humans have some role, but is skeptical that greenhouse gases are the primary cause of climate change, despite overwhelming scientific consensus. (Climatewire / The Hill)
After
12/ NASA issued a denial that it's running a child slave colony on Mars after an Alex Jones guest alleged the space agency had kidnapped children and sent them on a two-decade mission to space... (The Daily Beast).
2/ Paul Ryan called Trump's tweet attacking Brzezinski inappropriate. “I don’t see that as an appropriate comment,” Ryan said at a press conference. (Politico)
After
2/ The White House offered an unapologetic defense of Trump's tweets. Sarah Huckabee Sanders responded to questions by reporters about Trump’s inflammatory tweets, saying “The only person I see a war on is this president and everybody that works for him. I don’t think you can expect someone to be personally attacked, day after day, minute by minute, and sit …
Before
3/ Rex Tillerson ripped a White House aide for sinking his nominees, questioning his judgment, and leaking to the press. A frustrated Tillerson ripped into Johnny DeStefano, head of the presidential personnel office, in front of Reince Priebus, Jared Kushner and others, saying he did not want DeStefano’s office to “have any role in staffing” and “expressed frustration that anybody …
After
3/ Paul Ryan called Trump's tweet attacking Brzezinski inappropriate. “I don’t see that as an appropriate comment,” Ryan said at a press conference. (Politico)
4/ now: Rex Tillerson ripped a White House aide for sinking his nominees, questioning his judgment, and leaking to the press. A frustrated Tillerson ripped into Johnny DeStefano, head of the presidential personnel office, in front of Reince Priebus, Jared Kushner and others, saying he did not want DeStefano’s office to “have any role in staffing” and “expressed frustration that anybody would know better” than him about who should work in his department. Kushner called the outburst unprofessional. (Politico) 5/ Trump's travel ban takes effect at 8PM ET today. Visa … considered to be "close relations." (Washington Post / New York removed: Tiems)now: Times)
5/ Trump’s lawyer postponed filing a complaint about Comey and his memos in what Trump considered to be an illegal “leak." Marc Kasowitz, however, still intends to file the complaint with the Justice Department. He has delayed it as a courtesy to Robert Mueller and his investigation, which Trump has repeatedly called a "witch hunt." Trump has also refrained from …
After
5/ Trump's advisers are struggling to convince him that Russia still poses a threat. There is no paper trail -- schedules, readouts or briefing documents -- to indicate Trump has dedicated time to the issue. He has, however, continued to tweet about Obama failing to stop Russian meddling in the election. Trump has repeatedly blamed the Democratic National Committee, China, …
Before
6/ Paul Manafort's consulting firm received more than $17 million from a pro-Russian Ukrainian political party. In Manafort's retroactive registration as a foreign agent, he indicated that he was retained by the Party of Regions to advise Ukrainian officials in their dealings with American government officials. The report makes Manafort the second former senior Trump adviser to disclose work for …
7/ Trump tapped the lawyer that helped draft the Patriot Act for the top State Department role. If confirmed, Jennifer Newstead would serve as the State Department’s top legal adviser, overseeing issues involving foreign policy and security, as well as playing a key role in justifying the use of military force, how to apply the laws of war to cyber …
8/ The FBI interviewed at least a dozen employees of a Russia-based cyber-security company, gathering facts about how Kaspersky Lab works, including to what extent the US operations report to Moscow. Kaspersky has long been of interest to the US government, whose founder graduated from the KGB-backed Institute of Cryptography, Telecommunications, and Computer Science. Kaspersky Lab paid former national security …
9/ The computer system of at least one US nuclear plant was hacked. There is no evidence that any sensitive or operational systems were breached. Authorities have not said who may be responsible, but agencies are looking at the possibility that another country may be behind the hack. (ABC News)
poll/ 16% removed: percent of American voters support the Republican health care plan, according …
… of Americans support the Senate Republican health care plan, a removed: new USA TODAY/Suffolk University Poll finds. 53% say Congress should either … or fix its problems while keeping the framework intact. (USA removed: Today.now: Today)
… to the White House to discuss the health care bill. removed: Thenow: <s>The senators-only meeting is scheduled for 4PM EST at the White removed: House.now: House.</s> (Politico / CNN)
… health care bill is "hanging by a thread" as Republicans removed: are strugglingnow: struggle to find the votes needed. At least six Republican senators … It's been Pence's team – not Trump – that has removed: been played the prominent role in trying to whip up votes …
… a CNN producer called the network's Russia coverage "mostly bullshit." now: She conceded that she did not know "whether it's accurate or not," then added that "if it is accurate, I think it's a disgrace to all of media, to all of journalism." (Washington Post / Politico / HuffPost)
… the Republican health care vote until after the July 4th removed: recess,now: recess as they search for the 50 votes needed to start …
… a thread" as Republicans are struggling to find the votes removed: needed to repeal Obamacare.now: needed. At least six Republican senators are currently opposed to the …
3/ removed: Mitch McConnell: If Obamacare repeal fails, Republicans will be forced to …
… person or entity in the United States.” Trump said the now: court’s decision to hear arguments on the travel ban removed: wouldnow: cases in October was a “clear victory” for national security and will go into effect removed: 72 hours after receiving an approval from the courts. The court will hear arguments in removed: the case in October.now: 72-hours. Three justices — Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito and Neil Gorsuch …
Removed: The CBO will release its estimate for the Senate health care plan today. (CBO)
6/ White House allies are retaliating against a Republican Senator who opposes the Obamacare repeal plan. America First Policies launched a $1 million attack against Dean Heller to both punish and sway his vote. (Politico)
After
6/ The Senate health bill would leavee 22 million uninsured by 2026, slightly lower than the 23 million the House bill was projected at. 15 million more people would become uninsured next year compared to the current law. The federal deficit would decrease by $321 billion over a decade, compared to $119 billion for the House’s version. (New York Times …
Before
7/ Trump confirmed that he called health care bill "mean" and then accused Obama of stealing his term. Last week Obama said the Senate health care bill "will do you harm.”, adding that there is a "fundamental meanness" to the Republican health care bill. In a Fox and Friends interview, Trump took credit. "Well he actually used my term, 'mean.' …
After
7/ White House allies are retaliating against a Republican Senator who opposes the Obamacare repeal plan. America First Policies launched a $1 million attack against Dean Heller to both punish and sway his vote. (Politico)
Before
8/ Kellyanne Conway suggested people who lose Medicaid coverage could find jobs to provide health insurance. Projections show the Senate health bill would cut Medicaid by $800 billion, which Conway asserted is not a cut, but rather "getting Medicaid back to where it was." (CNBC / ABC News)
After
8/ Trump confirmed that he called health care bill "mean" and then accused Obama of stealing his term. Last week Obama said the Senate health care bill "will do you harm.”, adding that there is a "fundamental meanness" to the Republican health care bill. In a Fox and Friends interview, Trump took credit. "Well he actually used my term, 'mean.' …
Before
9/ Senate Republicans are skeptical their health care bill can pass this week. Republicans say the biggest problems with the Obamacare repeal bill are its steep Medicaid cuts and effects on older Americans’ premiums. “There's no way we should be voting on this” before the recess, Senator Ron Johnson said, urging party leaders to “not rush this process.” (Politico)
After
9/ Kellyanne Conway suggested people who lose Medicaid coverage could find jobs to provide health insurance. Projections show the Senate health bill would cut Medicaid by $800 billion, which Conway asserted is not a cut, but rather "getting Medicaid back to where it was." (CNBC / ABC News)
Before
The CBO will release its estimate for the Senate health care plan today. (CBO)
After
10/ Senate Republicans are skeptical their health care bill can pass this week. Republicans say the biggest problems with the Obamacare repeal bill are its steep Medicaid cuts and effects on older Americans’ premiums. “There's no way we should be voting on this” before the recess, Senator Ron Johnson said, urging party leaders to “not rush this process.” (Politico)
Removed: 7/ Kellyanne Conway suggested people who lose Medicaid coverage could find jobs to provide health insurance. Projections show the Senate health bill would cut Medicaid by $800 billion, which Conway asserted is not a cut, but rather "getting Medicaid back to where it was." (CNBC / ABC News)
Before
8/ Senate Republicans are skeptical their health care bill can pass this week. Republicans say the biggest problems with the Obamacare repeal bill are its steep Medicaid cuts and effects on older Americans’ premiums. “There's no way we should be voting on this” before the recess, Senator Ron Johnson said, urging party leaders to “not rush this process.” (Politico)
After
7/ Trump confirmed that he called health care bill "mean" and then accused Obama of stealing his term. Last week Obama said the Senate health care bill "will do you harm.”, adding that there is a "fundamental meanness" to the Republican health care bill. In a Fox and Friends interview, Trump took credit. "Well he actually used my term, 'mean.' …
Before
9/ Ivanka Trump, senior adviser to the president: "I try to stay out of politics." She's met with senators to discuss paid family leave, delivered the keynote at the Republican National Convention, and has met with world leaders. (ABC News / Politico)
After
8/ Kellyanne Conway suggested people who lose Medicaid coverage could find jobs to provide health insurance. Projections show the Senate health bill would cut Medicaid by $800 billion, which Conway asserted is not a cut, but rather "getting Medicaid back to where it was." (CNBC / ABC News)
1/ Trump denied obstructing Comey's FBI probe in a Fox & Friends interview. He said his tweet hinting of "tapes" was intended to influence Comey's testimony before Congress, suggesting it was possible that anyone could have taped their discussions. "With surveillance all over the place,” Trump said in the interview, “...you never know what’s out there, but I didn’t tape, …
After
1/ Obama weighed pre-election retaliation against Moscow for the Russian assault on the US election. The Obama administration debated dozens of options for deterring or punishing Russia, including cyberattacks on infrastructure, the release of CIA material to embarrass Putin, and sanctions that could “crater” the Russian economy. Instead, he expelled 35 Russian diplomats and closed two compounds. Obama also approved …
Before
2/ Trump called Preet Bharara the day before dozens of US attorneys were asked to resign. The now former US Attorney sent an email to the Justice Department expressing his concern about a voicemail he received from Trump’s secretary. "It appeared to be that [Trump] was trying to cultivate some kind of relationship," Bharara said. "...It's a very weird and …
After
2/ Trump denied obstructing Comey's FBI probe in a Fox & Friends interview. He said his tweet hinting of "tapes" was intended to influence Comey's testimony before Congress, suggesting it was possible that anyone could have taped their discussions. "With surveillance all over the place,” Trump said in the interview, “...you never know what’s out there, but I didn’t tape, …
Before
3/ The director of national intelligence told House investigators that Trump seemed obsessed with the Russia probe and repeatedly asked him to publicly acknowledge there was no evidence of collusion. At a Senate hearing earlier this month, Dan Coats said Trump never pressured him to do anything inappropriate, but refused to confirm or deny allegations that Trump asked him to …
After
3/ Trump called Preet Bharara the day before dozens of US attorneys were asked to resign. The now former US Attorney sent an email to the Justice Department expressing his concern about a voicemail he received from Trump’s secretary. "It appeared to be that [Trump] was trying to cultivate some kind of relationship," Bharara said. "...It's a very weird and …
Before
4/ Trump: It's "bothersome" that Robert Mueller is "very, very good friends with Comey." He added that “there’s been no collusion, no obstruction, and virtually everybody agrees to that" and that Mueller's team of lawyers are "all Hillary Clinton supporters." (ABC News)
After
4/ The director of national intelligence told House investigators that Trump seemed obsessed with the Russia probe and repeatedly asked him to publicly acknowledge there was no evidence of collusion. At a Senate hearing earlier this month, Dan Coats said Trump never pressured him to do anything inappropriate, but refused to confirm or deny allegations that Trump asked him to …
Before
5/ Frustrated by the Russia probe, Trump loses patience with his White House lawyer. Trump took Don McGahn to task in the Oval Office for not doing more to squash the Russia probe early on despite having handed over the Russia investigation to his personal attorney Marc Kasowitz. (Politico)
After
5/ Trump: It's "bothersome" that Robert Mueller is "very, very good friends with Comey." He added that “there’s been no collusion, no obstruction, and virtually everybody agrees to that" and that Mueller's team of lawyers are "all Hillary Clinton supporters." (ABC News)
Before
6/ West Wing aides struggle to keep Trump calm on Russia. His new morning routine begins at 6:30 AM with a venting session with his outside legal team in an effort to prevent the Russia probe from consuming him all day. (Politico)
After
6/ Frustrated by the Russia probe, Trump loses patience with his White House lawyer. Trump took Don McGahn to task in the Oval Office for not doing more to squash the Russia probe early on despite having handed over the Russia investigation to his personal attorney Marc Kasowitz. (Politico)
Before
7/ Art of the Deal: Carrier is preparing to lay off 600 employees next month as Trump's deal fails to live up to the hype. Carrier will continue to employ at least 1,069 people at their plant for 10 years in exchange for up to $7 million in incentives. But, only 730 of those positions are the manufacturing jobs that …
After
7/ West Wing aides struggle to keep Trump calm on Russia. His new morning routine begins at 6:30 AM with a venting session with his outside legal team in an effort to prevent the Russia probe from consuming him all day. (Politico)
Before
8/ The FBI is investigating business deals involving Paul Manafort and his son-in-law. Manafort helped finance a series of real estate deals by Jeffrey Yohai, who has been accused of defrauding investors. Manafort was Trump’s campaign chairman until reports surfaced that he had received millions of dollars off-the-book for his consulting work in Ukraine. (New York Times)
After
8/ Art of the Deal: Carrier is preparing to lay off 600 employees next month as Trump's deal fails to live up to the hype. Carrier will continue to employ at least 1,069 people at their plant for 10 years in exchange for up to $7 million in incentives. But, only 730 of those positions are the manufacturing jobs that …
Before
9/ Trump proposed a law that's existed for 20 years. During his rally on Wednesday, Trump called for a new law barring immigrants from receiving welfare for at least five years. Clinton signed the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act in 1996. The law prevents immigrants from receiving federal benefits, such as food stamps, Medicaid, and Social Security for …
After
9/ The FBI is investigating business deals involving Paul Manafort and his son-in-law. Manafort helped finance a series of real estate deals by Jeffrey Yohai, who has been accused of defrauding investors. Manafort was Trump’s campaign chairman until reports surfaced that he had received millions of dollars off-the-book for his consulting work in Ukraine. (New York Times)
… conference. Sarah Huckabee Sanders said today's press conference would not removed: includenow: be a video affair and then said the announcement itself was "NOT …
… Trump tweets that he didn't tape his conversations with Comey removed: afterall.now: after all. In May, Trump warned Comey against leaking to the press, …
11/ The White House is urging House Republicans to weaken removed: a it'snow: its Russia sanctions bill, which was overwhelmingly passed by the Senate. The bill would place new sanctions on Russia for removed: it'snow: its meddling in the 2016 election and allow Congress to block …
1/ The Senate unveiled its health care removed: bill.now: bill today. It's similar to the House bill that passed last month, …
Before
2/ Two of the top intelligence officials told Robert Mueller that Trump suggested they refute collusion with the Russians. Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats and National Security Agency Director Mike Rogers described the interaction as odd and uncomfortable, but that they don't believe Trump gave them orders to interfere. The two repeatedly refused to say whether Trump asked them …
After
What's in the Senate Republican health care bill. Like the House version, McConnell’s proposal would slash taxes, cut Medicaid, and eliminate Obamacare’s insurance mandates for individuals and employers. (The Atlantic) The GOP health plan is really a Medicaid rollback. It would also permanently restructure Medicaid, which covers tens of millions of poor or disabled Americans, including millions who are living …
Before
3/ Trump at Iowa rally: "All we do is win, win, win." He then blamed Democrats for his problems, boasted about his "amazing progress," and called the Russia investigation a "phony witch hunt" at his campaign-style rally in Cedar Rapids last night. During the 70-minute speech, Trump promised to lay out the next steps in “our incredible movement to make …
After
2/ Obama said the Senate health care bill "will do you harm.” In a nearly 1,000-word critique, Obama framed the GOP health care plan as fundamentally inhumane. “The Senate bill, unveiled today, is not a health care bill,” he wrote. “It’s a massive transfer of wealth from middle-class and poor families to the richest people in America." (Barack Obama / …
Before
4/ Trump: "I just don't want a poor person" in charge of the economy. "When you get the president of Goldman Sachs, smart," Trump told the crowd at his Cedar Rapids rally. During the campaign, Trump frequently bashed the investment bank for having too much influence in politics. Trump has one of the wealthiest Cabinets in history. (CNN)
After
3/ Four Republican senators say they will not vote for the GOP health care bill unless changes are made, putting passage of the bill at risk hours after it was unveiled. In a statement, Ted Cruz, Ron Johnson, Mike Lee, and Rand Paul said they are "not ready" to support the measure. They are open to negotiating changes to win …
Before
5/ House Democrats want to suspend Jared Kushner's security clearance. Kushner's previously undisclosed meetings with Russian officials have drawn the attention of investigators. Democrats say these contacts should be enough to suspend his access to sensitive information. (ABC News)
After
Where Senators stand on the health care bill. It needs at least 50 votes to pass. Every Democrat is expected to oppose the bill, which means three Republican “no” votes would block it. (New York Times)
Before
6/ Betsy DeVos picked the CEO of a private student loan company to run the federal student loan system. 42 million Americans currently owe $1.4 trillion in student loans. (The Hill)
After
4/ The White House refused to say if Trump will support the Senate health care bill. Trump previously called the House health care bill "mean" and wanted the Senate version to be "more generous." (Politico)
Before
7/ Trump will host his first re-election fundraiser at the Trump International Hotel next week, raising ethics concerns from conflict of interest attorneys. Trump is “becoming more and more brazen in his efforts to monetize the presidency,” Obama’s lead ethics attorney said. (Associated Press)
After
5/ Trump tweets that he didn't tape his conversations with Comey afterall. In May, Trump warned Comey against leaking to the press, suggesting there were "tapes" of their private conversations. Soon after reports surfaced of memos Comey had written detailing Trump's effort to shut down the Michael Flynn investigation. Today, Trump tweeted that "with all of the recently reported electronic …
Before
8/ North Korea called Trump a "psychopath" and warned South Korea that no good will come from aligning with him. The commentary, published in a state newspaper, suggested that Trump could launch a preemptive strike on North Korea to distract from his domestic problems. (AOL News / Washington Post)
… Georgia's special election for a House seat. Trump tweeted his removed: excitement, firing off a series of celebratory tweets.now: excitement: “Well, the Special Elections are over and those that want … O! All the Fake News, all the money spent = removed: 0," Trump wrote.now: 0." The Georgia race was the most expensive House race in …
8/ Trump has only held one solo press conference since becoming president, lagging behind his predecessors. Obama had held six solo press conferences by this point in his presidency, George W. Bush had held three, and Clinton seven. Trump's last press conference was four months ago, where he delivered a series of raw and personal attacks on the media in …
After
8/ The EPA plans to buy out more than 1,200 employees this summer as part of a push by the administration to shrink the agency Trump once promised to eliminate “in almost every form.” It would be about an 8% reduction of the current 15,000-person EPA workforce. The administration has also proposed a 31% cut to the EPA budget. (Washington …
Before
9/ The EPA plans to buy out more than 1,200 employees this summer as part of a push by the administration to shrink the agency Trump once promised to eliminate “in almost every form.” It would be about an 8% reduction of the current 15,000-person EPA workforce. The administration has also proposed a 31% cut to the EPA budget. (Washington …
10/ Trump’s budget seeks to cut funding for programs that shelter the poor and combat homelessness, except for a federal housing subsidy that earns him millions of dollars a year. (Washington Post)
3/ now: Spicer hasn't talked to Trump about whether Russia interfered in the election. The US intelligence community concluded that Russia orchestrated a hacking and influence campaign to swing the election in Trump's favor. “I have not sat down and asked him about the specific reaction,” Spicer said. “I'd be glad to touch base with him and get back to you.” Trump's repeatedly raised doubts about their conclusions. (Politico / The Hill) {% twitter https://twitter.com/rosiegray/status/877229477352308736 %} 4/ The Senate will vote on their health care bill next … to pass it. The Senate will release the bill's text removed: later this weeknow: Thursday, with the CBO expected to score its impact on the … up to pressure from constituents at town-hall meetings. (Wall Street removed: Journal)now: Journal / BuzzFeed News)
Before
5/ Wray billed New Jersey taxpayers more than $2.1 million while representing Chris Christie during the Bridgegate trial for legal charges and expenses. The public wasn't aware that Wray was working for Christie for almost two years. Christie hasn't said whether he recommended Wray for the FBI job. (WYNC)
After
7/ Michael Flynn failed to report a business trip to Saudi Arabia where he represented US and Russian state-sponsored companies, and Saudi financing interests to build 16 nuclear power plants a congressional letter issued Monday shows. The letter questions why Flynn failed to mention one trip and underreported a second for the renewal of his federal security clearance. It also …
Before
6/ Michael Flynn failed to report a business trip to Saudi Arabia where he represented US and Russian state-sponsored companies, and Saudi financing interests to build 16 nuclear power plants a congressional letter issued Monday shows. The letter questions why Flynn failed to mention one trip and underreported a second for the renewal of his federal security clearance. It also …
After
8/ The FBI is investigating Flynn’s former business partner and looking at whether payments from foreign clients were lawful. The now-defunct Flynn Intel Group received payments by three Russian companies and the Netherlands-based company Inovo. (Reuters)
Before
7/ The FBI is investigating Flynn’s former business partner and looking at whether payments from foreign clients were lawful. The now-defunct Flynn Intel Group received payments by three Russian companies and the Netherlands-based company Inovo. (Reuters)
After
9/ Robert Mueller adds a witness-flipping expert to his team. Andrew Weissmann is best known for gaining witness cooperation in the Enron investigation. He previously headed the Justice Department's criminal fraud unit. (Reuters)
Before
8/ Robert Mueller adds a witness-flipping expert to his team. Andrew Weissmann is best known for gaining witness cooperation in the Enron investigation. He previously headed the Justice Department's criminal fraud unit. (Reuters)
After
10/ Rex Tillerson has a three-point plan for future US-Russia relations in an effort to seek constructive working relationship with Putin on a limited set of issues. Step 1: Tell Moscow that aggressive actions against the US are a losing proposition. Step 2: Engage on issues that are of strategic interest to the US. Step 3: Emphasize the importance of …
4/ The White House is pushing the House removed: GOPnow: Republicans for a friendlier sanctions deal against Russia. Senate Democrats fear …
… turning to procedural moves to slow Republican efforts to repeal removed: Obamacare,now: Obamacare by objecting to all unanimous consent requests in the Senate. It likely won’t change the timing of the health care removed: vote and Democrats are unlikely to be able to force the House bill to committee or delay it,now: vote, but it will force Republicans to answer removed: for for what Democrats say is a rushed process and bad …
… a conflict between his public role and his financial incentives. now: Qatar hosts America's largest air base in the region. (New York Times)
removed: 2/ Russia threatened to target US-led coalition warplanes over removed: Syria.now: Syria in response. "Any aircraft, including planes and drones belonging to the international …
Before
6/ McConnell wants to force a health care vote by July 4th despite deep differences in Medicaid funding and insurance market regulations. The Senate won't vote without a CBO score, which means they need to finish negotiations this week. (Axios)
After
5/ Jared Kushner is reconsidering his legal team. He's contacted high-powered criminal lawyers about potentially representing him in the wide-ranging investigation into Russia’s influence on the 2016 election. (New York Times)
Before
7/ Six people have resigned from Trump's HIV/AIDS advisory council because he "doesn't care." Trump has not appointed anyone to head the White House Office of National AIDS Policy. The agency's website has not been updated five months after taking office. "We have dedicated our lives to combating this disease and no longer feel we can do so effectively within …
After
6/ McConnell wants to force a health care vote by July 4th and is considering making even deeper cuts to Medicaid spending than the bill passed by the House. The Senate won't vote without a CBO score, which means they need to finish negotiations this week. The CBO, however, found that the House bill would cause 14 million fewer people …
Before
8/ Trump’s business ties in the Gulf raise questions about his allegiances after spending years trying to enter the Qatar market. As Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar feud, Trump has thrown his weight behind the two countries where he's done business, raising new concerns about a conflict between his public role and his financial incentives. (New York …
After
7/ Democrats are turning to procedural moves to slow Republican efforts to repeal Obamacare, by objecting to all unanimous consent requests in the Senate. It likely won’t change the timing of the health care vote and Democrats are unlikely to be able to force the House bill to committee or delay it, but it will force Republicans to answer for …
Before
9/ Milwaukee Sheriff David Clarke withdrew his name from consideration for an assistant secretary of Homeland Security post. Clarke's appointment had been subject to significant delays, contributing to his withdrawal. He was also accused of plagiarism, as well as drawing scrutiny for the conditions in his jails that left one mentally ill inmate dead. (Washington Post)
After
Six people have resigned from Trump's HIV/AIDS advisory council because he "doesn't care." Trump has not appointed anyone to head the White House Office of National AIDS Policy. The agency's website has not been updated five months after taking office. "We have dedicated our lives to combating this disease and no longer feel we can do so effectively within the …
Before
10/ A 17-year-old Muslim girl was killed after leaving her Virginia mosque on Sunday. Police found human remains in a pond about three miles from where the initial altercation took place. A baseball bat was also recovered. Police charged Martinez Torres with the murder of the 17-year-old, which is not currently being investigated as a hate crime. (Washington Post / …
After
8/ The Supreme Court will hear a landmark case on partisan gerrymandering. The case could have "enormous ramifications" on how to draw district lines nationwide. Obama has said that one of his post-presidency projects will be to combat partisan gerrymanders after the 2020 Census. (CNN / Washington Post)
Before
11/ The body-slamming congressman now calls for civil politics, four days after being convicted for assaulting a reporter who asked him a question about health care. In May, Greg Gianforte had grabbed a reporter by the neck with both hands, slammed him into the ground, and then began punching the reporter. Gianforte had to pay a fine, perform community service, …
After
9/ The personal information and voter profile data on 198 million American voters was stored on an unsecured server owned by Republican data analytics firm Deep Root Analytics. The folder includes dozens of spreadsheets containing a unique identifier for each voter for the 2008 and 2012 presidential campaigns, which link to "dozens of sensitive and personally identifying data points, making …
Before
12/ The Supreme Court will hear a landmark case on partisan gerrymandering. The case could have "enormous ramifications" on how to draw district lines nationwide. Obama has said that one of his post-presidency projects will be to combat partisan gerrymanders after the 2020 Census. (CNN / Washington Post)
After
10/ Trump’s business ties in the Gulf raise questions about his allegiances after spending years trying to enter the Qatar market. As Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar feud, Trump has thrown his weight behind the two countries where he's done business, raising new concerns about a conflict between his public role and his financial incentives. (New York …
Before
13/ Trump demands face time with his favorite Cabinet appointees, turning the White House into a hangout for his chosen department heads. Trump doesn’t trust bureaucrats who do the day-to-day work of the federal government, referring to them as the “deep state,” and blaming them for the frequent leaks to the press. But for Trump’s Cabinet members, being present means …
After
--- ## _News You May Have Missed_ At the height of Russia tensions last summer, Trump's campaign chairman met with a former Russian army business associate. Konstantin Kilimnik had helped run the Ukraine office for Paul Manafort international political consulting practice for 10 years. (Washington Post) Milwaukee Sheriff David Clarke withdrew his name from consideration for an assistant secretary of …
… under investigation for his role in firing James Comey and removed: seemingly accused Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein of overseeing the "witch …
… threat to Trump and his presidency comes from his own removed: conduct and thenow: conduct. And his obsessive removed: behavior after he took office.now: behavior. (Politico)
… stories attributed to anonymous officials. It's unclear why Rosenstein would removed: suddenly issue the statement, but it follows several stories quoting unnamed …
… Michael Flynn, Paul Manafort, and Carter Page who are now removed: being investigatednow: under investigation by FBI agents and federal prosecutors. Kushner has agreed to …
5/ The Trump transition team removed: was ordered now: members to preserve Russia-related documents, removed: as well asnow: including records related to Ukraine and certain campaign advisers and officials. … matter of the pending investigations.” (New York Times / Politico) now: 6/ The House Intelligence Committee wants to talk to Trump's digital director about Russia and possible connections between the Trump team and Russian operatives. Brad Parscale played a critical role on the Trump campaign, directing online spending and voter targeting with the use of a data bank built by the Republican National Committee. (CNN) 7/ The FBI won't release Comey's memos because they're part of a "pending or prospective law enforcement proceeding," a Freedom of Information Act request revealed. At least one of the memos is unclassified, but wouldn't because it could "reasonably interfere with enforcement proceedings." (BuzzFeed News)
Before
8/ Trump picked his family's event planner to run federal housing programs in New York. Lynne Patton will oversee the distribution of billions of taxpayer dollars despite having no housing experience, and claiming to have a law degree the school says she never earned. (NY Daily News)
After
12/ Trump rolled back Obama's Cuba policy, tightening travel restrictions and blocking business with the island. Trump called it a "completely one-sided deal." At one point, Trump considered severing diplomatic relations with Cuba. (NBC News / The Hill)
Before
9/ Senate Republican leaders want to bring their health care bill to the Senate floor by the end of June even as lingering disagreements threaten to derail their efforts. Mitch McConnell and a small group of GOP aides are crafting the bill behind closed doors. Earlier this week Trump called the House version "mean," which has angered House Republicans and …
After
13/ The Pentagon will send about 4,000 more American troops to Afghanistan, the largest deployment of Trump's presidency. Trump gave Defense Secretary Jim Mattis the authority to manage troop levels to help Afghanistan's army against a resurgent Taliban. (Washington Post)
… Y2K bug, 17 years after year 2000 came and went. removed: Federalnow: <s>Federal workers still report on preparedness for the Y2K bug, consuming some 1,200 man-hours every removed: year.now: year.</s> _[Editor's note: I misunderstood this statistic. It was attributed to other, pointless paperwork. The Y2K requirements are often ignored in practice.]_ (Bloomberg)
… for a Chinese construction billionaire. A lawyer involved in discussions removed: saidnow: said, “He’s going around telling people that he’s still talking to …
3/ Trump revised his travel ban to address arguments that it would expire today. Under the ban's original wording, it would last "for 90 days from the effective date of this order." An seperate provision set the effective date as March 16, meaning the ban would have expired June 14. The administration is arguing that the court orders blocking the …
After
3/ Pence hired outside counsel to help with House and Senate committee inquiries, and the special counsel investigation into possible collusion between Trump’s campaign and Russia. (Washington Post)
Before
4/ A GOP congressman wants members of Congress to "curtail" their town halls after the Scalise shooting "until we agree that we need to be more civil." In addition to yesterday's shooting, Lou Barletta cited "those town halls where the police had to carry people out" as a safety concern and reason to cut back on hosting town hall forums. …
After
4/ Trump revised his travel ban to address arguments that it would expire today. Under the ban's original wording, it would last "for 90 days from the effective date of this order." An seperate provision set the effective date as March 16, meaning the ban would have expired June 14. The administration is arguing that the court orders blocking the …
1/ Almost 200 congressional Democrats will sue Trump over foreign business ties. They contend that Trump has ignored the emoluments clause of the Constitution, which prohibits federal officials from accepting gifts from foreign powers without congressional approval. The case is one of at least four pending lawsuits alleging that by retaining interests in a global business empire, Trump has violated …
After
1/ Robert Mueller is now investigating Trump for possible obstruction of justice, marking a major turning point in the nearly year-old FBI investigation. The obstruction of justice investigation into the president began days after Comey was fired on May 9 with the team actively pursuing potential witnesses inside and outside the government. The White House is referring all questions about …
Before
2/ China preliminary approved six new trademarks for the Trump brand as it relates to veterinary services and construction sectors. The new marks brings his total to at least 123 registered and provisionally approved trademarks in China. (New York Times)
After
2/ Almost 200 congressional Democrats will sue Trump over foreign business ties. They contend that Trump has ignored the emoluments clause of the Constitution, which prohibits federal officials from accepting gifts from foreign powers without congressional approval. The case is one of at least four pending lawsuits alleging that by retaining interests in a global business empire, Trump has violated …
Before
3/ The majority of Trump's real estate sales are to secretive shell companies, which obscure the buyers’ identities. Since winning the Republican nomination, about 70% of buyers of Trump properties were LLCs, compared with about 4% of buyers in the two years before. Since the election, Trump’s businesses have sold 28 properties for $33 million. (USA Today)
After
3/ China preliminary approved six new trademarks for the Trump brand as it relates to veterinary services and construction sectors. The new marks brings his total to at least 123 registered and provisionally approved trademarks in China. (New York Times)
Before
4/ Trump gave the Pentagon authority to unilaterally send new troops to Afghanistan. The Pentagon is weighing plans to send 3,000 to 5,000 troops after years of reductions in hopes that Kabul could handle threats on its own. There is fewer than 9,000 troops currently in Afghanistan. (Wall Street Journal)
After
4/ The majority of Trump's real estate sales are to secretive shell companies, which obscure the buyers’ identities. Since winning the Republican nomination, about 70% of buyers of Trump properties were LLCs, compared with about 4% of buyers in the two years before. Since the election, Trump’s businesses have sold 28 properties for $33 million. (USA Today)
9/ The Senate approved new bipartisan sanctions against Russia, removed: andnow: which establishes a congressional review of any changes the Trump administration …
9/ The Senate approved new bipartisan sanctions against Russia, and establishes a congressional review of any changes the Trump administration wants to make to the current penalties. Senators voted 97-2, but its future in the GOP-controlled House is unclear, as is whether Trump would even sign the bill. (Politico) 10/ Robert Mueller met with the Senate intelligence committee to plot …
6/ Jeff Sessions asked congressional leaders to undo federal medical marijuana protections so he could prosecute providers. Research strongly suggests that cracking down on medical marijuana laws could make the opiate epidemic even worse. (Washington Post)
After
6/ Jeff Sessions declined to answer questions about his conversations with Trump, including whether he spoke to Trump about Comey’s handling of the Russia investigation. Sessions cited Trump's executive privilege to not answer questions about his confidential talks with the president despite Trump not having invoked executive privilege. Sessions called any suggestion that he colluded with Russians during the campaign …
8/ Reince Priebus has until July 4th to clean up the White House. Trump has threatened to fire his chief of staff if major changes are not made. While Trump has set deadlines for staff changes before, he's under more scrutiny than ever with the sprawling Russia investigation. (Politico)
After
8/ The secret service says it has no audio or transcripts of any tapes recorded in the White House. The FOIA request doesn’t exclude the possibility that recordings could have been created by another "entity." (Wall Street Journal)
Before
9/ Trump's visit to the U.K. might be put on hold to avoid large-scale protests. Trump's come under criticism for starting a feud with London's mayor on Twitter following the terrorist attack in London. Prime Minister Theresa May said there had been no change of plans for Trump's state visit. More than half of the British public views Trump as …
After
9/ Reince Priebus has until July 4th to clean up the White House. Trump has threatened to fire his chief of staff if major changes are not made. While Trump has set deadlines for staff changes before, he's under more scrutiny than ever with the sprawling Russia investigation. (Politico)
… has undermined the integrity of the US political system. (Washington removed: Post)now: Post / Politico)
Before
6/ Trump’s attorneys won't rule out firing Robert Mueller, the special counsel appointed to look into the Trump campaign’s ties to Russia. "I'm not going to speculate on what he will, or will not, do," Trump attorney Jay Sekulow said. “That, again, is an issue that the president with his advisers would discuss if there was a basis.” (Politico)
After
6/ Senate Republicans won't release a draft of their health care bill. It's unclear what changes Republicans have made, because there have been no hearings and no possibility for amendment. They want to vote on the bill before the July 4th recess. (Axios / The Week)
Before
7/ Reince Priebus has until July 4th to clean up the White House. Trump has threatened to fire his chief of staff if major changes are not made. While Trump has set deadlines for staff changes before, he's under more scrutiny than ever with the sprawling Russia investigation. (Politico)
After
7/ Trump’s attorneys won't rule out firing Robert Mueller, the special counsel appointed to look into the Trump campaign’s ties to Russia. "I'm not going to speculate on what he will, or will not, do," Trump attorney Jay Sekulow said. “That, again, is an issue that the president with his advisers would discuss if there was a basis.” (Politico)
… team will leverage their database of opposition research to use removed: Democratsnow: Democrats' past statements against them. (Wall Street Journal)
1/ Comey blasted the White House for "lies, plain and simple." The fired FBI director accused Trump and his aides during testimony before the Senate Intelligence Committee of defaming him after he was fired. (Politico)
After
Comey goes nuclear in showdown with Trump. He accused Trump and his top aides of lying, suggesting that the president wanted special treatment in exchange for loyalty, and he said he thinks he lost his job because of how he handled the Russia investigation. (ABC News) Comey's testimony takes aim at Trump’s credibility. (Associated Press) Comey's testimony shifts focus to …
Removed: 3/ Comey: "Lordy, I hope there are tapes." During his testimony, Comey expressed his hope that his conversations with Trump were recorded. (The Hill)
Before
4/ Comey helped release details of his Trump meetings. Comey acknowledged that he shared copies of his memos documenting his Trump meetings with a “close friend” — a professor at Columbia Law School — who could share the information with reporters. (Washington Post)
After
4/ Comey: "Lordy, I hope there are tapes." During his testimony, Comey expressed his hope that his conversations with Trump were recorded. (The Hill)
Before
7/ Annotated copy of Comey's opening statement. Here are Comey's full prepared remarks, annotated by NPR journalists. (NPR)
After
7/ Comey helped release details of his meetings with Trump. Comey acknowledged that he shared copies of his memos documenting his Trump meetings with a “close friend” — a professor at Columbia Law School — who could share the information with reporters. (Washington Post)
Before
8/ Paul Ryan: Trump asking for Comey's loyalty is "obviously" inappropriate and it's clear that Russia meddled in the US election. "What we need to determine is not whether they did it -- we know that. It's what did they do, how did they do it, how do we prevent it from happening again? And then how do we help …
After
8/ Trump's lawyer said Comey made "unauthorized disclosures" of privileged talks designed to damage the president. Marc Kasowitz said Comey's testimony "makes clear that the president never sought to impede the investigation into attempted Russian interference in the 2016 election." (USA Today)
Before
9/ Republican National Committee will lead Trump's response to Comey's testimony. A team of about 60 RNC staffers will mount a political offensive aimed at Democrats in response to Comey's testimony. The RNC has lined up a host of surrogates to appear on national and local television and radio to support Trump. The rapid response team will leverage their database …
After
9/ Paul Ryan: Trump asking for Comey's loyalty is "obviously" inappropriate and it's clear that Russia meddled in the US election. "What we need to determine is not whether they did it -- we know that. It's what did they do, how did they do it, how do we prevent it from happening again? And then how do we help …
Before
10/ Trump's FBI pick has Russian ties. Christopher Wray's law firm – King & Spalding – represents Rosneft and Gazprom, two of Russia’s biggest state-controlled oil companies. (USA Today)
After
10/ Comey's testimony laid out the case that Trump obstructed justice and suggested senior leaders at the FBI might have contemplated the matter before Trump removed him as director. Whether justice was obstructed, Comey said, was a question for recently appointed special counsel Robert Mueller. (Washington Post)
Before
11/ The House of Representatives votes on a bill today that would gut major elements of Dodd-Frank, the regulatory legislation drafted in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis. The Financial Choice Act would exempt financial institutions deemed "too big to fail" from Dodd-Frank’s restrictions that limit risk taking. Republicans say Dodd-Frank regulations are the primary reason for anemic economic …
After
11/ Former Watergate special prosecutor: I helped prosecute Watergate. Comey’s statement is sufficient evidence for an obstruction of justice case. The ball is in Bob Mueller’s court to decide whether he has enough evidence to charge Trump with obstruction and, if so, whether to reach the same conclusion that I reached in the Nixon investigation — that, like everyone else …
Before
12/ House and Senate Democrats plan to sue Trump over conflicts of interest related to the his corporation’s business deals and foreign governments looking to curry favor with the administration. They claim he is breaking the law by refusing to relinquish ownership of his sprawling real-estate empire while it continues to profit from business with foreign governments. (Politico)
After
12/ Trump's FBI pick has Russian ties. Christopher Wray's law firm – King & Spalding – represents Rosneft and Gazprom, two of Russia’s biggest state-controlled oil companies. (USA Today)
Before
13/ Trump doesn't plan to fire Sessions, despite his frustration with Sessions for the handling of the administration’s failed travel ban and for recusing himself from the Russia probe. (Bloomberg)
After
13/ The House of Representatives passed a bill that would gut major elements of Dodd-Frank, the regulatory legislation drafted in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis. The Financial Choice Act exempts financial institutions deemed "too big to fail" from restrictions that limit risk taking. Republicans say Dodd-Frank regulations are the primary reason for anemic economic growth in the US. …
Before
The White House won't say if Trump has confidence in Jeff Sessions. For two straight days, Sean Spicer and Sarah Sanders declined to say if Trump has confidence in the attorney general. (Axios)
After
14/ House and Senate Democrats plan to sue Trump over conflicts of interest related to the his corporation’s business deals and foreign governments looking to curry favor with the administration. They claim he is breaking the law by refusing to relinquish ownership of his sprawling real-estate empire while it continues to profit from business with foreign governments. (Politico)
Before
14/ Former Watergate special prosecutor: I helped prosecute Watergate. Comey’s statement is sufficient evidence for an obstruction of justice case. The ball is in Bob Mueller’s court to decide whether he has enough evidence to charge Trump with obstruction and, if so, whether to reach the same conclusion that I reached in the Nixon investigation — that, like everyone else …
After
15/ Trump doesn't plan to fire Sessions, despite his frustration with Sessions for the handling of the administration’s failed travel ban and for recusing himself from the Russia probe. (Bloomberg) The White House won't say if Trump has confidence in Jeff Sessions. For two straight days, Sean Spicer and Sarah Sanders declined to say if Trump has confidence in the …
… Comey and Obstruction of Justice: A Primer. As the fired removed: F.B.I.now: FBI director testifies about his dealings with the president, here’s what …
removed: 5/ How partisan media covered Comey’s hearing. These are the headlines …
Removed: _[Editor's note: This is a collection of Comey-related news and analysis. The full WTFJHT post will be updated shortly]_
Before
1/ Trump, Comey and Obstruction of Justice: A Primer. As the fired F.B.I. director testifies about his dealings with the president, here’s what you need to know about a murky law. (New York Times)
After
1/ Comey blasts the White House for "lies, plain and simple." The fired FBI director accused Trump and his aides during testimony before the Senate Intelligence Committee of defaming him after he was fired. (Politico)
Before
2/ Comey’s Political Shrewdness Is on Display in Tussle With Trump. Comey, a savvy veteran of Washington, has shown why presidents are normally loath to fire their FBI directors. (New York Times)
After
Comey said that he found the shifting explanations for why he was fired both confusing and concerning. (Reuters)
Removed: 3/ Trump vs. Comey: A timeline. Here's a timeline on the rupture between the president and the FBI director. (Washington Post)
Before
4/ Comey blasts the White House for "lies, plain and simple." The fired FBI director accused Trump and his aides of defaming him after his ouster. (Politico)
After
2/ James Comey: The administration is working to "defame" me and the FBI, and telling "lies" to the American people. "Although the law requires no reason at all to fire an FBI director the administration then chose to defame me and more importantly the FBI by saying that the organization was in disarray, that it was poorly led, that the …
Before
5/ James Comey: The administration is working to "defame" me and the FBI, and telling "lies" to the American people. Although the law requires no reason at all to fire an FBI director the administration then chose to defame me and more importantly the FBI by saying that the organization was in disarray, that it was poorly led, that the …
After
## _More Comey News_
Before
6/ Comey: "Lordy, I hope there are tapes." During testimony, Comey expressed his hope that his conversations with Trump were recorded. (The Hill)
After
1/ Trump, Comey and Obstruction of Justice: A Primer. As the fired F.B.I. director testifies about his dealings with the president, here’s what you need to know about a murky law. (New York Times) 2/ Comey’s Political Shrewdness Is on Display in Tussle With Trump. Comey, a savvy veteran of Washington, has shown why presidents are normally loath to fire …
Before
7/ Comey helped release details of his Trump meetings. During testimony, Comey acknowledged that he shared copies of his memos documenting his Trump meetings with a “close friend” — a professor at Columbia Law School — who could share the information with reporters. (Washington Post)
After
3/ Trump vs. Comey: A timeline. Here's a timeline on the rupture between the president and the FBI director. (Washington Post)
Before
Live Blogs
After
2/ Who are the senators asking Comey questions today? There are 15 full-time members of the committee — eight Republicans and seven Democrats — and the panel is considered to be one of the last bastions of bipartisanship on Capitol Hill. (Washington Post) ## _(No Longer) Live Blogs_
Removed: ## _News of Lesser Importance_
Removed: 1/ Paul Ryan: Trump asking for Comey's loyalty is "obviously" inappropriate and it's clear that Russia meddled in the US election. "What we need to determine is not whether they did it -- we know that. It's what did they do, how did they do it, how do we prevent it from happening again? And then how do we help …
Removed: 2/ Who are the senators asking Comey questions today? There are 15 full-time members of the committee — eight Republicans and seven Democrats — and the panel is considered to be one of the last bastions of bipartisanship on Capitol Hill. (Washington Post)
Removed: 3/ Republican National Committee will lead Trump's response to Comey's testimony. A team of about 60 RNC staffers will mount a political offensive aimed at Democrats in response to Comey's testimony. The RNC has lined up a host of surrogates to appear on national and local television and radio to support Trump. The rapid response team will leverage their database …
Removed: 4/ Trump's FBI pick has Russian ties. Christopher Wray's law firm – King & Spalding – represents Rosneft and Gazprom, two of Russia’s biggest state-controlled oil companies. (USA Today)
Removed: 5/ The House of Representatives votes on a bill today that would gut major elements of Dodd-Frank, the regulatory legislation drafted in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis. The Financial Choice Act would exempt financial institutions deemed "too big to fail" from Dodd-Frank’s restrictions that limit risk taking. Republicans say Dodd-Frank regulations are the primary reason for anemic economic …
Removed: 6/ House and Senate Democrats plan to sue Trump over conflicts of interest related to the his corporation’s business deals and foreign governments looking to curry favor with the administration. They claim he is breaking the law by refusing to relinquish ownership of his sprawling real-estate empire while it continues to profit from business with foreign governments. (Politico)
Removed: 7/ Trump doesn't plan to fire Sessions, despite his frustration with Sessions for the handling of the administration’s failed travel ban and for recusing himself from the Russia probe. (Bloomberg)
Removed: The White House won't say if Trump has confidence in Jeff Sessions. For two straight days, Sean Spicer and Sarah Sanders declined to say if Trump has confidence in the attorney general. (Axios)
Removed: 8/ Former Watergate special prosecutor: I helped prosecute Watergate. Comey’s statement is sufficient evidence for an obstruction of justice case. The ball is in Bob Mueller’s court to decide whether he has enough evidence to charge Trump with obstruction and, if so, whether to reach the same conclusion that I reached in the Nixon investigation — that, like everyone else …
Removed: poll/ Trump's approval rating hits 34%, a new Quinnipiac poll released Wednesday finds. 40% of voters do not expect Trump to complete his four-year term. (CNN)
6/ Comey helped release details of his Trump meetings. During testimony, Comey acknowledged that he shared copies of his memos documenting his Trump meetings with a “close friend” — a professor at Columbia Law School — who could share the information with reporters. (Washington Post)
After
6/ Comey: "Lordy, I hope there are tapes." During testimony, Comey expressed his hope that his conversations with Trump were recorded. (The Hill)
Before
7/ How cable news networks are reacting to Comey’s hearing. Coverage of former FBI director James Comey’s testimony looks about the same across cable news channels. A closeup of a Senator forming a question, a wide show of the room — there’s just not much to show on TV. (Washington Post)
After
7/ Comey helped release details of his Trump meetings. During testimony, Comey acknowledged that he shared copies of his memos documenting his Trump meetings with a “close friend” — a professor at Columbia Law School — who could share the information with reporters. (Washington Post)
6/ How cable news networks are reacting to Comey’s hearing. Coverage of former FBI director James Comey’s testimony looks about the same across cable news channels. A closeup of a Senator forming a question, a wide show of the room — there’s just not much to show on TV. (Washington Post)
After
6/ Comey helped release details of his Trump meetings. During testimony, Comey acknowledged that he shared copies of his memos documenting his Trump meetings with a “close friend” — a professor at Columbia Law School — who could share the information with reporters. (Washington Post)
… In March, Trump asked Dan Coats if he could get removed: Comey's Russia probenow: Comey to back off removed: itsnow: his investigation into Michael Flynn. The director of national intelligence chose …
… private White House dinner in January, according to Comey's prepared removed: remarksnow: remarks, which were released ahead of his Senate Intelligence Committee removed: testimony.now: testimony tomorrow. Comey said he thought the encounter was designed to "create some part of patronage relationship." removed: Innow: Later, in March, Trump removed: then pressured Comey to “lift the cloud” put over the administration from the ongoing investigation removed: into Trump's campaign’s alleged tiesnow: and repeatedly asked Comey to removed: Russia. Comey released thenow: announce that he was not personally under investigation. (Bloomberg / Washington Post / removed: Politico)now: Politico / New York Times) Comey's opening statement. (Senate.gov) Comey’s seven-page written statement is the "most shocking single document compiled about the official conduct of the public duties of any President since the release of the Watergate tapes." Comey's statement makes no allegations and expresses no opinions, but instead recounts the set of facts Comey is prepared to testify on tomorrow. (Lawfare)
2/ Trump asked Dan Coats if he could get Comey's Russia probe to back off its investigation into Michael Flynn. The director of national intelligence chose not to step in, citing Trump's prodding as inappropriate. CIA Director Mike Pompeo, who was also present for Trump's request, declined to comment on the closed-door discussion. Trump had asked Comey to drop his …
After
Democrats are furious at the evasive answers by Coats and Rogers during their Senate intelligence committee testimony. The two intelligence chiefs repeatedly said it wouldn't be appropriate to discuss their conversations with Trump in a public setting. Both indicated they might be more forthcoming in a classified setting, however. (CNN) Senator tells the NSA chief: "What you feel isn’t relevant, …
Before
3/ Comey's role in the Russia probe has Trump "infuriated at a deep-gut, personal level," Newt Gingrich said. "He's not going to let some guy like that smear him without punching him as hard as he can." Trump's lawyers and aides have been urging him to resist engaging on Twitter, but are bracing for a worst-case scenario tomorrow: he ignores …
After
2/ In March, Trump asked Dan Coats if he could get Comey's Russia probe to back off its investigation into Michael Flynn. The director of national intelligence chose not to step in, citing Trump's prodding as inappropriate. CIA Director Mike Pompeo, who was also present for Trump's request, declined to comment on the closed-door discussion. Trump had asked Comey to …
removed: 9/ Trumpnow: 10/ Trump's pick for FBI director blindsided White House staff and Congress, leaving much of his senior staff out of the loop before announcing he'd picked Christopher Wray removed: for FBI director. The former assistant attorney generalnow: on Twitter. At least six White House and senior officials said that they weren't aware of Trump's decision before his early morning tweet. Wray acted as Chris Christie’s personal attorney during the Bridgegate scandal. Trump removed: announced his decision on Twitter, callingnow: called him a "man of impeccable credentials." removed: (Newnow: (The Daily Beast / New York Times / NBC News / Politico)
Before
11/ Fox News host to Trump: "Fake news media" isn’t the issue. "It’s you." Neil Cavuto hit Trump for his criticism of how the media has covered his Twitter habits, saying "Mr. President, it’s not the fake news media that’s your problem. It’s you. It’s not just your tweeting, it’s your scapegoating. It’s your refusal to see that sometimes you’re …
After
13/ North Korea condemned Trump’s decision to pull out of Paris accord, calling it "the height of egotism" and a “shortsighted and silly decision.” Despite its international isolation, even North Korea signed the Paris agreement. (Washington Post)
removed: 6/now: 8/ Scott Pruitt falsely claimed that "almost 50,000 jobs" have been added in removed: coal, but thenow: coal. The actual gains were in "mining" removed: job –now: job, which have nothing to do with coal. 1,000 coal jobs …
Before
10/ Trump will live-tweet during Comey's testimony on Thursday. He "wants to be the messenger, his own warrior, his own lawyer, his own spokesman" and as such will directly respond to Comey on Twitter as the testimony is underway. "He wants to be the one driving the process." _[Editor's note: This is a pretty ridiculous claim and could turn out …
After
The Knight First Amendment Institute asked Trump to unblock his critics on Twitter, saying his account is a “designated public forum” subject to the First Amendment and bars the government from excluding individuals from a public forum because of their views. (Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University )
1/ Even Trump's national security team was blindsided by his NATO speech. National security adviser H.R. McMaster, Defense Secretary James Mattis and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson had all urged Trump to explicitly reaffirm America’s commitment to the NATO mutual defense clause (known as Article 5) in his speech. Instead, Trump, along with Steve Bannon and policy aide Stephen Miller, …
After
1/ A top-secret NSA report shows Russian military intelligence executed a cyberattack on at least one US voting software supplier last year, sending spear-phishing emails to more than 100 local election officials just days before the election. The report indicates that Russian hacking penetrated further into voting systems than was previously understood and states unequivocally that it was Russian military …
removed: 3/now: 6/ While world leaders called for unity after the London attack, Trump removed: tweetsnow: tweeted the complete opposite. Before London police had linked the attack …
removed: 4/now: 7/ A Louisiana Congressman proposed an extreme solution to the London … hunt them down. Hunt them, identity them, and kill them.” removed: Concludingnow: He concluded that the only now: appropriate solution removed: isnow: was to “Kill them all. For the sake of all that is good and righteous. Kill them all.” (Facebook / Mother Jones) removed: 5/ Trump won't invoke his executive privilege to prevent Comey from testifying to Congress. Comey is expected to testify about conversations where Trump encouraged him to stop investigating Michael Flynn, as well as asking Comey to pledge his loyalty, which he declined to do. Trump could still move to block the testimony, but legal experts say Trump has a weak case to invoke executive privilege because he has publicly addressed his conversations with Comey, and any such move could carry serious political risks. (New York Times)
removed: 6/now: 8/ Jeff Sessions and Rod Rosenstein never told Comey they were uneasy with removed: Comey'snow: his "deeply troubling" and "serious mistakes" before removed: firingnow: they fired him. The former FBI director is "angry" they failed to …
Before
8/ Putin denies having compromising information on Trump. During an interview with Megyn Kelly, Putin called the dossier of unverified information "just another load of nonsense." He added: "I haven’t seen, even once, any direct proof of Russian interference in the presidential election in the United States." Seventeen US intelligence agencies have concluded that Russia interfered with the election. (Politico …
After
poll/ Trump's job approval rating drops to 36% with 58% of Americans disapproving of his performance. (Gallup / CNN)
Before
poll/ Trump's job approval rating drops to 36% with 58% of Americans disapproving of his performance. (Gallup / CNN)
After
poll/ Nearly 6 in 10 oppose Trump's scrapping of the Paris agreement. 59% of Americans oppose the decision to withdraw, saying the move will damage the United States’ global leadership, while 28% in support the decision. (Washington Post)
3/ The White House ordered federal agencies to ignore Democrats’ oversight requests, fearing the information could be weaponized against Trump. The goal is to choke off the Democratic congressional minorities from asking questions of the administration intended to embarrass or attack the president. (Politico)
After
3/ Michael Bloomberg pledges $15 million to help foot the Paris Climate Agreement bill. Bloomberg Philanthropies and its partners will cover part of the United States' share of the operating budget. Trump's budget could cut as much as $2 billion in funding for UN climate change programs as a result of leaving the Paris agreement. (CNN Money)
Before
4/ US intelligence agencies formally asked the Justice Department to investigate Russia-related leaks. As many as six recent leaks have been formally referred to the DOJ for criminal investigation. (ABC News)
5/ The Russia probe now includes a grand jury investigation into Michael Flynn. Robert Mueller's investigation is looking into Flynn’s paid work as a lobbyist for a Turkish businessman and contacts between Russian officials and Flynn and other Trump associates during and after the election. (Reuters)
After
4/ The White House ordered federal agencies to ignore Democrats’ oversight requests, fearing the information could be weaponized against Trump. The goal is to choke off the Democratic congressional minorities from asking questions of the administration intended to embarrass or attack the president. (Politico)
Before
6/ The Trump team wanted to lift sanctions on Russia when he took office, but career diplomats pressured Congress to block the move. Bipartisan legislation was introduced in February to bar the administration from granting sanctions relief without a congressional review. The proposed bill was shelved six days later when Flynn resigned, making it "clear that if they lifted sanctions, …
After
5/ US intelligence agencies formally asked the Justice Department to investigate Russia-related leaks. As many as six recent leaks have been formally referred to the DOJ for criminal investigation. (ABC News)
Before
7/ Hurricane season started yesterday with nobody in charge at FEMA or NOAA. The agencies that oversee the government's weather forecasting and response to disasters are both leaderless nearly five months after Trump was sworn in. Forecasters say the 2017 Atlantic hurricane season could bring "above-normal" storm activity. (NPR)
After
6/ The Russia probe now includes a grand jury investigation into Michael Flynn. Robert Mueller's investigation is looking into Flynn’s paid work as a lobbyist for a Turkish businessman and contacts between Russian officials and Flynn and other Trump associates during and after the election. (Reuters)
… him. Trump could invoke executive privilege and try to prevent removed: Comeynow: testimony from removed: testifying,now: Comey, who is expected to be asked about several conversations he …
9/ The federal government now requires US visa applicants removed: fornow: to provide their last five removed: yearsnow: years' worth of social media handles, email addresses and phone numbers. removed: As well as the lastnow: They must also provide 15 years of biographical information including addresses, removed: employment,now: employment and travel history. (Reuters)
1/ Trump removed: pullsnow: pulled the US from the Paris climate accord, prioritizing the economy …
Obama: now: The Trump removed: adminnow: administration joins "handful of nations that reject the future," adding the … floodgates" to jobs as opposed to being the economic drag removed: that Trump now: has cast it as. (ABC News)
… make deal that's fair. And if we can, that's great." now: He argued that the Paris agreement would “punish” Americans by instituting “onerous energy restrictions” that stymie economic growth, while leaders around the world said the exit from the accord is an irresponsible abdication of American leadership. The US is the world's #2 greenhouse-gas producer, and would …
Before
2/ Congress is examining whether Jeff Sessions had a third undisclosed meeting with Russia's ambassador Sergey Kislyak during the presidential campaign. During his confirmation hearing on January 10, Sessions testified that he "did not have any communications with the Russians" during the campaign. In March, reports emerged that Sessions met with Kislyak in July and September. He insisted those meetings …
After
Al Gore on Trump's withdrawl from the Paris Agreement: “Removing the United States from the Paris Agreement is a reckless and indefensible action. It undermines America’s standing in the world and threatens to damage humanity’s ability to solve the climate crisis in time. (Al Gore) Obama: Trump admin joins "handful of nations that reject the future," adding the accord "opened …
Before
3/ Senators had asked Comey to investigate Sessions for possible perjury before he was fired by Trump. "We are concerned about Attorney General Sessions' lack of candor to the committee and his failure thus far to accept responsibility for testimony that could be construed as perjury," Senators Patrick Leahy and Al Franken wrote to Comey in their first request. The …
After
2/ Germany, France and Italy respond: The Paris deal cannot be renegotiated. "We deem the momentum generated in Paris in December 2015 irreversible and we firmly believe that the Paris Agreement cannot be renegotiated since it is a vital instrument for our planet, societies and economies," the leaders of the three countries said in a joint statement. (Reuters)
Before
4/ Putin insists Russia never engaged in hacking, but praised Trump's lack of political background as a good thing. Putin denied any state role, but acknowledged that some individual "patriotically minded" private Russian hackers could have mounted an attack. He added that Trump is "a straightforward person, a frank person," which is a political advantage because "he has a fresh …
After
3/ Congress is examining whether Jeff Sessions had a third undisclosed meeting with Russia's ambassador Sergey Kislyak during the presidential campaign. During his confirmation hearing on January 10, Sessions testified that he "did not have any communications with the Russians" during the campaign. In March, reports emerged that Sessions met with Kislyak in July and September. He insisted those meetings …
Before
5/ The former pro-Brexit Ukip leader is a "person of interest" in the FBI investigation into Trump and Russia. Nigel Farage's relationships with both the Trump campaign and WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has raised the interest of the FBI. “If you triangulate Russia, WikiLeaks, Assange and Trump associates the person who comes up with the most hits is Nigel Farage. …
After
4/ Senators had asked Comey to investigate Sessions for possible perjury before he was fired by Trump. "We are concerned about Attorney General Sessions' lack of candor to the committee and his failure thus far to accept responsibility for testimony that could be construed as perjury," Senators Patrick Leahy and Al Franken wrote to Comey in their first request. The …
Before
6/ The administration is considering returning two Russian diplomatic compounds in NYC and Maryland, which were closed by Obama as punishment for interference in the election. The Trump administration told the Russians that it would give the properties back to Moscow if it would lift the freeze on construction of a new US consulate in St. Petersburg. (Washington Post)
After
5/ Putin insists Russia never engaged in hacking, but praised Trump's lack of political background as a good thing. Putin denied any state role, but acknowledged that some individual "patriotically minded" private Russian hackers could have mounted an attack. He added that Trump is "a straightforward person, a frank person," which is a political advantage because "he has a fresh …
Before
7/ The White House will stop answering questions about the Trump-Russia investigation. Spicer told reporters that any future questions about the investigation would be addressed by Trump's personal lawyer. (The Hill)
After
6/ The former pro-Brexit Ukip leader is a "person of interest" in the FBI investigation into Trump and Russia. Nigel Farage's relationships with both the Trump campaign and WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has raised the interest of the FBI. “If you triangulate Russia, WikiLeaks, Assange and Trump associates the person who comes up with the most hits is Nigel Farage. …
Before
8/ The federal government now requires US visa applicants for their last five years worth of social media handles, email addresses and phone numbers. As well as the last 15 years of biographical information including addresses, employment, and travel history. (Reuters)
After
7/ The administration is considering returning two Russian diplomatic compounds in NYC and Maryland, which were closed by Obama as punishment for interference in the election. The Trump administration told the Russians that it would give the properties back to Moscow if it would lift the freeze on construction of a new US consulate in St. Petersburg. (Washington Post)
Before
9/ Trump exempted his entire senior staff from his own ethics rules, allowing them to work with political and advocacy groups that support the administration. Conway, for instance, can now communicate and meet with organizations that previously employed her consulting firm, while Bannon can talk with Breitbart News, which he chaired until last year. The White House said that the …
After
8/ The White House will stop answering questions about the Trump-Russia investigation. Spicer told reporters that any future questions about the investigation would be addressed by Trump's personal lawyer. (The Hill)
Before
10/ Senators expect Comey to testify next week as long as Trump doesn't block him. Trump could invoke executive privilege and try to prevent Comey from testifying, who is expected to be asked about several conversations he had with Trump. Presidents have a constitutional right to keep discussions a secret in many instances. However, Trump has made it difficult to …
After
9/ The federal government now requires US visa applicants for their last five years worth of social media handles, email addresses and phone numbers. As well as the last 15 years of biographical information including addresses, employment, and travel history. (Reuters)
Before
> UPDATE: > Comey will testify before the Senate Intelligence Committee next Thursday. A public session will be held in the morning, followed by a private briefing. (Politico) >
After
10/ Trump exempted his entire senior staff from his own ethics rules, allowing them to work with political and advocacy groups that support the administration. Conway, for instance, can now communicate and meet with organizations that previously employed her consulting firm, while Bannon can talk with Breitbart News, which he chaired until last year. The White House said that the …
removed: "Thenow: _"The Paris Accord is a BAD deal for Americans, and the … negotiated poorly by the Obama Administration and signed out of removed: desperation."now: desperation."_
1/ Congress is examining whether Jeff Sessions had a third undisclosed meeting with Russia's ambassador Sergey Kislyak during the presidential campaign. During his confirmation hearing on January 10, Sessions testified that he "did not have any communications with the Russians" during the campaign. In March, reports emerged that Sessions met with Kislyak in July and September. He insisted those meetings …
After
1/ Trump pulls the US from the Paris climate accord, prioritizing the economy over the environment and global alliances. Trump will stick to the process laid out in the Paris agreement, which will take about four years to complete, leaving a final decision up to American voters in the 2020 election. Trump said the US will "begin negotiations to reenter …
Before
2/ Senators had asked Comey to investigate Sessions for possible perjury before he was fired by Trump. "We are concerned about Attorney General Sessions' lack of candor to the committee and his failure thus far to accept responsibility for testimony that could be construed as perjury," Senators Patrick Leahy and Al Franken wrote to Comey in their first request. The …
After
> White House Memo: > "The Paris Accord is a BAD deal for Americans, and the President’s action today is keeping his campaign promise to put American workers first. The Accord was negotiated poorly by the Obama Administration and signed out of desperation." >
Before
3/ Putin insists Russia never engaged in hacking, but praised Trump's lack of political background as a good thing. Putin denied any state role, but acknowledged that some individual "patriotically minded" private Russian hackers could have mounted an attack. He added that Trump is "a straightforward person, a frank person," which is a political advantage because "he has a fresh …
After
2/ Congress is examining whether Jeff Sessions had a third undisclosed meeting with Russia's ambassador Sergey Kislyak during the presidential campaign. During his confirmation hearing on January 10, Sessions testified that he "did not have any communications with the Russians" during the campaign. In March, reports emerged that Sessions met with Kislyak in July and September. He insisted those meetings …
Before
4/ The former pro-Brexit Ukip leader is a "person of interest" in the FBI investigation into Trump and Russia. Nigel Farage's relationships with both the Trump campaign and WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has raised the interest of the FBI. “If you triangulate Russia, WikiLeaks, Assange and Trump associates the person who comes up with the most hits is Nigel Farage. …
After
3/ Senators had asked Comey to investigate Sessions for possible perjury before he was fired by Trump. "We are concerned about Attorney General Sessions' lack of candor to the committee and his failure thus far to accept responsibility for testimony that could be construed as perjury," Senators Patrick Leahy and Al Franken wrote to Comey in their first request. The …
Before
5/ The administration is considering returning two Russian diplomatic compounds in NYC and Maryland, which were closed by Obama as punishment for interference in the election. The Trump administration told the Russians that it would give the properties back to Moscow if it would lift the freeze on construction of a new US consulate in St. Petersburg.(Washington Post)
After
4/ Putin insists Russia never engaged in hacking, but praised Trump's lack of political background as a good thing. Putin denied any state role, but acknowledged that some individual "patriotically minded" private Russian hackers could have mounted an attack. He added that Trump is "a straightforward person, a frank person," which is a political advantage because "he has a fresh …
Before
6/ The White House will stop answering questions about the Trump-Russia investigation. Spicer told reporters that any future questions about the investigation would be addressed by Trump's personal lawyer. (The Hill)
After
5/ The former pro-Brexit Ukip leader is a "person of interest" in the FBI investigation into Trump and Russia. Nigel Farage's relationships with both the Trump campaign and WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has raised the interest of the FBI. “If you triangulate Russia, WikiLeaks, Assange and Trump associates the person who comes up with the most hits is Nigel Farage. …
Before
7/ The federal government now requires US visa applicants for their last five years worth of social media handles, email addresses and phone numbers. As well as the last 15 years of biographical information including addresses, employment, and travel history. (Reuters)
After
6/ The administration is considering returning two Russian diplomatic compounds in NYC and Maryland, which were closed by Obama as punishment for interference in the election. The Trump administration told the Russians that it would give the properties back to Moscow if it would lift the freeze on construction of a new US consulate in St. Petersburg. (Washington Post)
Before
8/ Trump exempted his entire senior staff from his own ethics rules, allowing them to work with political and advocacy groups that support the administration. Conway, for instance, can now communicate and meet with organizations that previously employed her consulting firm, while Bannon can talk with Breitbart News, which he chaired until last year. (The Daily Beast)
After
7/ The White House will stop answering questions about the Trump-Russia investigation. Spicer told reporters that any future questions about the investigation would be addressed by Trump's personal lawyer. (The Hill)
… Committee issued seven subpoenas. Four are related to the Russia removed: investigation.now: investigation – Michael Flynn and Trump's personal attorney Michael Cohen, and their businesses. The other three – to NSA, FBI, CIA – are …
… over the Russia investigations. Mueller and Comey discussed parameters to removed: avoid conflicts with criminal probe.now: ensure his testimony won’t hurt the special counsel’s investigation. It will be Comey's first time speaking in public since removed: presidentnow: Trump unexpectedly fired him. (CNN / Wall Street Journal)
Before
4/ Trump's top advisers claim he backed NATO's Article 5, despite never explicitly doing so during his speech to NATO last week. In a Wall Street Journal op-ed by the national security adviser and director of the national economic council wrote that by "reconfirming America’s commitment to NATO and Article 5, the president challenged our allies to share equitably the …
After
4/ The House Intelligence Committee issued seven subpoenas. Four are related to the Russia investigation. The other three – to NSA, FBI, CIA – are related to how and why the names of Trump's associates were "unmasked." (Wall Street Journal)
Before
7/ Paul Ryan appointed a controversial cancer doctor to a Health and Human Services committee, which will advise the Trump administration on policy around health information technology. Patrick Soon-Shiong leads a network of for-profit and not-for-profit ventures researching cancer. The problem: the majority of the expenditures of his nonprofits flow to his for-profit businesses, raising questions about potential conflicts of …
After
7/ Trump's top advisers claim he backed NATO's Article 5, despite never explicitly doing so during his speech to NATO last week. In a Wall Street Journal op-ed by the national security adviser and director of the national economic council, they wrote that by "reconfirming America’s commitment to NATO and Article 5, the president challenged our allies to share equitably …
Before
poll/ 43% want Congress to begin impeachment proceedings, but most don't believe that Trump is actually guilty of an impeachable offense, like treason, bribery or obstructing justice. (Politico)
After
poll/ 8% think GOP health care bill should pass. Nearly half of consumers say that their cost of health care will be "worse" under the American Health Care Act, compared to 16% who think the cost will be "better" and 36% who feel it will be "about the same." (CNN Money)
Before
poll/ 8% think GOP health care bill should pass. Nearly half of consumers say that their cost of health care will be "worse" under the American Health Care Act, compared to 16% who think the cost will be "better" and 36% who feel it will be "about the same." (CNN Money)
After
poll/ 43% want Congress to begin impeachment proceedings, but most don't believe that Trump is actually guilty of an impeachable offense, like treason, bribery or obstructing justice. (Politico)
2/ Trump's top advisers claim he backed NATO's Article 5, despite never explicitly doing so during his speech to NATO last week. In a Wall Street Journal op-ed by the national security adviser and director of the national economic council wrote that by "reconfirming America’s commitment to NATO and Article 5, the president challenged our allies to share equitably the …
After
2/ Elon Musk threatens to leave Trump's advisory councils if the US exits the Paris climate deal. He joins twenty-five leading tech companies who signed a letter arguing in favor of climate pact that is set to run as a full-page ad in the New York Times and Wall Street Journal tomorrow. (Bloomberg / Politico / The Verge)
Before
3/ Al Franken: "everything points to" collusion between Trump's campaign and the Russians. "My feeling is that there was some cooperation between the Trump campaign and the Russians," the Minnesota Democrat said. (Bloomberg)
4/ The Russia probe has slowed Trump’s effort to fill hundreds of vacant jobs across the federal government. The growing scandal is scaring off candidates and distracting aides from finding new recruits. The White House has announced nominees for just 117 of the 559 most important Senate-confirmed positions. (Politico)
After
3/ Comey will testify publicly about Trump pressuring him to end his investigation into Flynn's ties to Russia. Comey will appear before the Senate Intelligence Committee and is expected to confirm that Trump confronted him over the Russia investigations. Mueller and Comey discussed parameters to avoid conflicts with criminal probe. It will be Comey's first time speaking in public since …
Before
5/ Paul Ryan appointed a controversial cancer doctor to a Health and Human Services committee, which will advise the Trump administration on policy around health information technology. Patrick Soon-Shiong leads a network of for-profit and not-for-profit ventures researching cancer. The problem: the majority of the expenditures of his nonprofits flow to his for-profit businesses, raising questions about potential conflicts of …
After
4/ Trump's top advisers claim he backed NATO's Article 5, despite never explicitly doing so during his speech to NATO last week. In a Wall Street Journal op-ed by the national security adviser and director of the national economic council wrote that by "reconfirming America’s commitment to NATO and Article 5, the president challenged our allies to share equitably the …
3/ Paul Ryan appointed a controversial cancer doctor to a Health and Human Services committee, which will advise the Trump administration on policy around health information technology. Patrick Soon-Shiong leads a network of for-profit and not-for-profit ventures researching cancer. The problem: the majority of the expenditures of his nonprofits flow to his for-profit businesses, raising questions about potential conflicts of …
After
3/ Al Franken: "everything points to" collusion between Trump's campaign and the Russians. "My feeling is that there was some cooperation between the Trump campaign and the Russians," the Minnesota Democrat said. (Bloomberg)
Before
4/ Al Franken: "everything points to" collusion between Trump's campaign and the Russians. ""My feeling is that there was some cooperation between the Trump campaign and the Russians," the Minnesota Democrat said. (Bloomberg)
After
4/ The Russia probe has slowed Trump’s effort to fill hundreds of vacant jobs across the federal government. The growing scandal is scaring off candidates and distracting aides from finding new recruits. The White House has announced nominees for just 117 of the 559 most important Senate-confirmed positions. (Politico)
Before
5/ The Russia probe has slowed Trump’s effort to fill hundreds of vacant jobs across the federal government. The growing scandal is scaring off candidates and distracting aides from finding new recruits. The White House has announced nominees for just 117 of the 559 most important Senate-confirmed positions. (Politico)
After
5/ Paul Ryan appointed a controversial cancer doctor to a Health and Human Services committee, which will advise the Trump administration on policy around health information technology. Patrick Soon-Shiong leads a network of for-profit and not-for-profit ventures researching cancer. The problem: the majority of the expenditures of his nonprofits flow to his for-profit businesses, raising questions about potential conflicts of …
… contacts he had with people connected to the Russian government. now: He said he'll "gladly" testify if Congress subpoenas him. (ABC removed: News)now: News / CNN / New York Times)
… free contraception requirement from the Affordable Care Act. (New York removed: Times)now: Times / Washington Post)
now: In December Kushner met with Sergey Gorkov, a Russian banker and "Putin crony" removed: in December, who is also graduate of a "finishing school" for spies. …
2/ The Russia investigation now includes Trump's personal attorney. Michael Cohen turned down invitations from the House and Senate investigators "to provide information and testimony" about any contacts he had with people connected to the Russian government. (ABC News)
After
2/ Michael Flynn will turn over some business records to the Senate Intelligence Committee. Flynn initially refused to cooperate with a Senate subpoena, claiming his constitutional right against self incrimination. The committee then subpoenaed records from two of his businesses, which cannot be shielded by the Fifth Amendment. (Wall Street Journal)
Before
3/ Investigators are examining why Kushner met with a Russian banker during the transition and what they wanted from each other. It is not clear if Kushner wanted to use the banker as a go-between or whether it was part of the effort to establish a direct, secure line to Putin. The banker, Sergey Gorkov, is a close associate of …
After
3/ The Russia investigation now includes Trump's personal attorney. Michael Cohen turned down invitations from the House and Senate investigators "to provide information and testimony" about any contacts he had with people connected to the Russian government. (ABC News)
removed: 11/now: 12/ Trump is expected to roll back Obamacare's birth control coverage … "conscience-based objections to the preventive-care mandate," which would undo the removed: require free-contraceptionnow: required free contraception requirement from the Affordable Care Act. (New York Times) / …
2/ Investigators are examining why Kushner met with a Russian banker during the transition and what they wanted from each other. It is not clear if Kushner wanted to use the banker as a go-between or whether it was part of the effort to establish a direct, secure line to Putin. The banker, Sergey Gorkov, is a close associate of …
After
2/ The Russia investigation now includes Trump's personal attorney. Michael Cohen turned down invitations from the House and Senate investigators "to provide information and testimony" about any contacts he had with people connected to the Russian government. (ABC News)
removed: 5/ Trump'snow: 7/ The White House communication director removed: resignsnow: resigned after three months. Mike Dubke’s exit comes as Trump weighs …
removed: 6/ Trump wants his intelligencenow: 8/ Intelligence briefings now: must be short and full of "killer removed: graphics."now: graphics" in Trump's administration. The daily briefings are so casual and visually driven – …
Before
9/ The Russia investigation now includes Trump's personal attorney. Michael Cohen turned down invitations from the House and Senate investigators "to provide information and testimony" about any contacts he had with people connected to the Russian government. (ABC News)
After
11/ Trump is expected to roll back Obamacare's birth control coverage for religious employers. The White House is reviewing a draft rule to provide "conscience-based objections to the preventive-care mandate," which would undo the require free-contraception requirement from the Affordable Care Act. (New York Times) / Washington Post) 12/ Trump's budget proposal wants the poor to work for their government …
2/ Trump's communication director resigns after three months. Mike Dubke’s exit comes as Trump weighs larger staff changes in an effort to contain the deepening Russia scandal. Dubke stepped down as communications director on May 18, but offered to stay through Trump's first foreign trip, which just ended. (Politico / Axios)
After
2/ Investigators are examining why Kushner met with a Russian banker during the transition and what they wanted from each other. It is not clear if Kushner wanted to use the banker as a go-between or whether it was part of the effort to establish a direct, secure line to Putin. The banker, Sergey Gorkov, is a close associate of …
Before
3/ Trump wants his intelligence briefings short and full of "killer graphics." The daily briefings are so casual and visually driven – maps, charts, pictures, and videos – that the CIA director and director of national intelligence are worried Trump may not be retaining all the intelligence he is presented. Rank-and-file staffers are "very worried about how do you deal …
After
3/ James Clapper says Russia "absolutely" meddled in the 2016 election. The former director of national intelligence said there has never been a case of election interference more aggressive than what happened in 2016. He added, however, that it's unclear if the "interference actually affected the outcome of the election." (CNN)
Before
4/ A Texas lawmaker threatened to shoot a colleague after reporting protesters to ICE. Representative Matt Rinaldi called ICE on "several illegal immigrants" after seeing signs in the gallery at the State Capitol that read, "I am illegal and here to stay." Rinaldi then threatened to shoot a lawmaker who objected. (New York Times / NPR)
… important issues) calling for urgent, drastic cuts in fossil-fuel emissions. removed: Trump'snow: Trump has called climate change a hoax perpetrated by the Chinese. (Bloomberg)
2/ Trump removed: tellsnow: chastises "obsolete" NATO removed: thatnow: about how it's "not fair" some members don't pay their share. now: He lectured 23 of the 28 member now: for what he called their "chronic underpayments" to the military alliance. The mutual defense pledge requires nations removed: aren't meeting their defense spending obligations ofnow: to contribute at least 2% of their removed: GDP and owe “massive amounts” from past years.now: GDP. (ABC News / now: New York Times / Washington Post)
… their defense spending obligations of at least 2% of their removed: GDP.now: GDP and owe “massive amounts” from past years. (ABC removed: News)now: News / Washington Post)
… his input on whether Kim is "stable or not stable." now: Duterte has been accused of presiding over the extrajudicial killing of thousands of drug dealers and users. (Washington Post)
… of North Korea, Trump told Duterte during last month's call. removed: Trumpnow: He revealed that “we have a lot of firepower over there. …
Before
3/ Trump congratulated Duterte for doing an "unbelievable job" in his war on drugs, where the government has allowed extrajudicial killing for drug dealers and users. "You are a good man," Trump told Duterte. "Keep up the good work." The State Department’s human rights report calls the Philippines "disregard for human rights and due process" one of the "most significant …
After
3/ The Pentagon is in shock that Trump told Duterte about the submarines. The Pentagon never talks about the location of submarines on the belief that stealth is key to their mission. (BuzzFeed News)
Before
Transcript: Trump's call with Duterte. (DocumentCloud)
After
4/ Trump congratulated Duterte for doing an "unbelievable job" in his war on drugs, where the government has allowed extrajudicial killing for drug dealers and users. "You are a good man," Trump told Duterte. "Keep up the good work." The State Department’s human rights report calls the Philippines "disregard for human rights and due process" one of the "most significant …
Before
4/ The Pentagon is in shock that Trump told Duterte about the two nuclear submarines near North Korea. The Pentagon never talks about the location of submarines on the belief that stealth is key to their mission. (BuzzFeed News)
After
Transcript: Trump's call with Duterte. (DocumentCloud)
… and risks being held in contempt of Congress if he removed: does not comply with the requests.now: doesn't comply. (ABC News
… up and retains Marc Kasowitz for the Russia investigation. Related, removed: Trump is "very close" to choosing an FBI director. Formernow: former Connecticut Senator Joseph Lieberman now: joined Kasowitz' law firm in 2013 and was removed: hisnow: Trump's top choice removed: untilnow: for the now: FBI director job. The administration hit now: the reset now: button on the search today, wanting to see a broader list of candidates. removed: Lieberman joined Kasowitz' law firm in 2013. (NBC News / CNN)
Before
9/ Mitch McConnell on Obamacare: "I don't know how we get to 50 (votes)" The Senate Majority Leader has not asked the White House for input on the legislation being crafted to dismantle Obamacare. (Reuters)
After
9/ The House health care bill would leave 23 million more uninsured by 2026, the Congressional Budget Office projected. If passed, 14 million people would lose insurance next year and would make coverage less comprehensive than it is now for those still insured. The Senate has already said it will make substantial changes to the measure passed by the House. …
removed: 10/now: 11/ Ben Carson called poverty "a state of mind." He said he believes that government can provide a "helping hand" to removed: helpnow: for people now: to climb out of poverty, but warned against programs that are …
4/ Pope Francis urged Trump to meet US commitments on climate change. He gave Trump copy of his 2015 encyclical (a type of papal document used for significant or important issues) calling for urgent, drastic cuts in fossil-fuel emissions. Trump's called climate change a hoax perpetrated by the Chinese. (Bloomberg)
After
4/ The Pentagon is in shock that Trump told Duterte about the two nuclear submarines near North Korea. The Pentagon never talks about the location of submarines on the belief that stealth is key to their mission. (BuzzFeed News)
Before
7/ Democrats flipped seats in two districts that voted for Trump. The new legislature seats in New York and New Hampshire won't change the balance of power, but may signal a change in the country's political climate. (HuffPost)
After
Poll/ 65% of voters believe there is a lot of fake news in the mainstream media. 84% of voters said it's hard to know what news to believe online. (_Editor's Suggestion: Get the fuck off Facebook._) (The Hill)
3/ The removed: balanced budget removed: goal is based on a $2 trillion math error. removed: But itnow: It appears Trump is double counting the benefits of economic growth: …
Before
4/ Trump wants to sell off half of the US strategic oil reserve in order to trim the national debt. By draining the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, Trump's would raise $500 million in fiscal year 2018 and as much as $16.6 billion in oil sales over the next decade. (Bloomberg)
After
4/ Russia may have successfully recruited Trump campaign aides and "brazenly" interfered in the election. John Brennan, the Former CIA Director, told the House Intelligence Committee that there was a “very aggressive” effort to intervene in the 2016 campaign, which he warned his counterpart in Russian intelligence about. Brennan said he didn't know if the Trump campaign colluded with Russia, …
Before
5/ Russia may have successfully recruited Trump campaign aides and "brazenly" interfered in the election. John Brennan, the Former CIA Director, told the House Intelligence Committee that there was a “very aggressive” effort to intervene in the 2016 campaign, which he warned his counterpart in Russian intelligence about. Brennan said he didn't know if the Trump campaign colluded with Russia, …
After
5/ Flynn hit with two new subpoenas by Senate Intelligence Committee in an effort to compel him to turn over documents about his contacts with Russian officials. Flynn invoked the Fifth Amendment in response to the previous subpoena attempt. The new subpoenas are aimed at Flynn's businesses, believing they can't plead the Fifth. (Politico)
… for new border security measures, including $1.6 billion to build removed: walls and replace existing barriers.now: the border wall. Medicaid, food assistance and other anti-poverty and welfare programs – which provide benefits removed: tonow: for up to a fifth of all Americans – would be … years. Trump’s budget is based on sustained growth above 3%, removed: sharplynow: much higher than the expectations of most private economists. (CNN Money … / New York Times / Associated Press / NBC News) now: > By The Numbers: > State Department – 29.1% decrease > Homeland Security – 6.8% increase > Department of Education – 13.5% decrease > EPA – 31.4% decrease > Department of Transportation – 12.7% decrease > Department of Defense – 10.1% increase > Department of Housing and Urban Development – 13.2% decrease > Veterans Affairs – 5.8% increase > Corps of Engineers – 16.3% decrease > Department of Justice – 3.8% decrease > Department of Labor - 19.8% decrease > Department of the Interior – 10.9% decrease > _Source:_ (CNN) >
Before
3/ Comey's public House Oversight Committee testimony postponed. He wants to speak with Robert Mueller first, who is investigating the ties between Russia and the presidential election campaign. Comey is also expected to testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee on the Russia probe later this month. (Reuters)
After
7/ ISIS claimed responsibility for the Manchester attack; Trump calls them "evil losers" and vows to "call them, from now on, losers because that's what they are: losers." (Washington Post / NBC News)
Before
4/ Russia may have successfully recruited Trump campaign aides and "brazenly" interfered in the election. John Brennan, the Former CIA Director, told the House Intelligence Committee that there was a “very aggressive” effort to intervene in the 2016 campaign, which he warned his counterpart in Russian intelligence about. (Politico / Wall Street Journal / New York Times / Associated Press)
After
8/ Chris Christie gave Jared Kushner legal advice when asked him if Trump should hire a lawyer. In private, Christie told Kushner that the president "better lawyer up and keep his mouth shut," according to a person who who recounted Christie's conversation with Kushner. (Vanity Fair)
Before
5/ ISIS claimed responsibility for the Manchester attack; Trump calls them "evil losers" and vows to "call them, from now on, losers because that's what they are: losers." (Washington Post / NBC News)
After
9/ Jeff Sessions narrowed Trump's executive order on sanctuary cities. A federal judge said Trump had overstepped his authority in attaching conditions to federal money. Sessions' new memo says Trump's order will only apply to grants from the Departments of Justice and Homeland Security "and not to other sources of federal funding." (New York Times) / Politico)
Before
6/ Jeff Sessions narrowed Trump's executive order on sanctuary cities. A federal judge said Trump had overstepped his authority in attaching conditions to federal money. Sessions' new memo says Trump's order will only apply to grants from the Departments of Justice and Homeland Security "and not to other sources of federal funding." (New York Times) / Politico)
After
10/ Sheriff David Clarke is unsure if the Trump administration will still hire him. A review of Clarke's master's thesis found 47 examples where Clarke copied entire sentences, but credited them with a footnote – not quotation marks to indicate that he took the language verbatim. (CNN)
1/ Michael Flynn will invoke his Fifth Amendment protection against self-incrimination as he notifies the Senate Intelligence committee that he will not comply with a subpoena seeking documents. (Associated Press)
After
1/ Michael Flynn will invoke his Fifth Amendment protection against self-incrimination as he notifies the Senate Intelligence committee that he will not comply with a subpoena seeking documents. His decision to invoke his Fifth Amendment right puts him at risk of being held in contempt of Congress, which can also result in a criminal charge. After Flynn rejected the subpoena, …
Before
2/ Trump's budget is expected to cut $1.7 trillion from Medicaid and anti-poverty programs over the next 10 years. Assuming the GOP health care bill becomes law, the budget proposal will cut $800 billion from Medicaid leaving an estimated 10 million people without benefits. SNAP, the modern version of food stamps, will be reduced by $193 billion – about a …
After
2/ Trump: "I never mentioned the word or the name Israel" to the Russians. It was an off-script effort to push back and refute the the damage he did to Israeli intelligence capabilities after revealing highly classified information to Russian operatives earlier this month. To add further insult to injury, he also told a room of Israelis that he "just …
Before
3/ Comey believes that Donald Trump was trying to influence his judgment on the Russia probe. He initially thought he could teach Trump and the White House what was appropriate during their communications, despite noting that the new President was not following normal protocols during their interactions. (CNN)
4/ Priebus and Bannon returned to Washington after Saudi visit. Major issues await Trump back home, including the possible hiring of outside legal counsel in the Russia probe, the selection of a new FBI director, and the effort to pivot his domestic agenda. (CNN)
After
3/ Trump's budget is expected to cut $1.7 trillion from Medicaid and anti-poverty programs over the next 10 years. Assuming the GOP health care bill becomes law, the budget proposal will cut $800 billion from Medicaid leaving an estimated 10 million people without benefits. SNAP, the modern version of food stamps, will be reduced by $193 billion – about a …
Before
5/ The White House is trying to block the disclosure of ethics waivers granted to former lobbyists who work in the administration or federal agencies. Ethics watchdogs are concerned that former lobbyists are taking high-ranking political jobs working on the exact topics they had previously handled on behalf of private-sector clients — including oil and gas companies and Wall Street …
After
4/ Comey believes that Donald Trump was trying to influence his judgment on the Russia probe. He initially thought he could teach Trump and the White House what was appropriate during their communications, despite noting that the new President was not following normal protocols during their interactions. (CNN)
Before
6/ Sheriff David Clarke plagiarized portions of his master's thesis on homeland security. Clarke will be joining Trump's administration as assistant secretary in the Department of Homeland Security. He denied the report, calling the journalist a "sleaze bag." (CNN / Reuters)
After
5/ Trump is assembling outside counsel to help him navigate the Russian investigation now that Robert Mueller has begun work on the possible ties between the Trump campaign and Russian officials. The outside legal team would be separate from the White House Counsel’s Office, which is led by Donald McGahn, who served as the Trump campaign’s lawyer. (Washington Post)
Before
7/ Commerce secretary Wilbur Ross said he was pleased that there were no protesters with "a bad placard" during his trip to Saudi Arabia. American-style protest is illegal in Saudi Arabia and can result in a death sentence. (Washington Post)
After
Priebus and Bannon returned to Washington after Saudi visit. Major issues await Trump back home, including the possible hiring of outside legal counsel in the Russia probe, the selection of a new FBI director, and the effort to pivot his domestic agenda. (CNN)
Before
8/ McMaster won't say if Trump confronted Russian officials about election interference during the meeting at the White House. He said "there already was too much that's been leaked from those meetings," but wouldn't deny that Trump called Comey "crazy, a real nut job." (ABC News)
After
6/ The White House is trying to block the disclosure of ethics waivers granted to former lobbyists who work in the administration or federal agencies. Ethics watchdogs are concerned that former lobbyists are taking high-ranking political jobs working on the exact topics they had previously handled on behalf of private-sector clients — including oil and gas companies and Wall Street …
5/ now: James Comey has agreed to testify in a public session at the Senate Intelligence Committee. The hearing will occur after Memorial Day, committee leaders said. (Politico) {% twitter https://twitter.com/BraddJaffy/status/865699661142732805 %} Comey tried to preserve distance between the FBI and the …
4/ Kushner intervened to help seal a $110 billion arms deal with the Saudis - just in time for Trump's visit to the kingdom this weekend where he hopes to frame it as a symbol of America’s renewed commitment to security in the Persian Gulf. (New York Times)
After
8/ Trump said he is "very close" to choosing a new FBI director. A senior White House official said the odds of a selection coming today were "better than 50-50." Former Sen. Joe Lieberman is his top choice. (CNN / NBC News)
Before
5/ Trump said he is "very close" to choosing a new FBI director. A senior White House official said the odds of a selection coming today were "better than 50-50." Former Sen. Joe Lieberman is his top choice. (CNN / NBC News)
After
9/ Trump's attorney didn’t want him to sign his financial disclosure to certify the information was true, because he was filing voluntarily. Trump’s 2016 disclosures will span his general election candidacy, election, and transition to power, which would potentially shed light on the impact his nomination and election had on his Trump Organization. (Associated Press)
Before
6/ Trump's attorney didn’t want him to sign his financial disclosure to certify the information was true, because he was filing voluntarily. Trump’s 2016 disclosures will span his general election candidacy, election, and transition to power, which would potentially shed light on the impact his nomination and election had on his Trump Organization. (Associated Press)
After
10/ Health insurers are planning rate hikes on Obamacare — and they blame Trump. State insurance regulators — both Democrat and Republican — have concluded they cannot count on the Trump administration to help them ensure that consumers will have access to a health plan next year, which is forcing them to make plans to raise premiums to account for …
Before
7/ Health insurers are planning rate hikes on Obamacare — and they blame Trump. State insurance regulators — both Democrat and Republican — have concluded they cannot count on the Trump administration to help them ensure that consumers will have access to a health plan next year, which is forcing them to make plans to raise premiums to account for …
After
11/ Nearly 700 positions at the CDC are vacant because of Trump's hiring freeze. Programs supporting local and state public health emergency readiness, infectious disease control and chronic disease prevention are all affected. At least 125 job categories have been blocked from being filled. (Washington Post)
Before
8/ Nearly 700 positions at the CDC are vacant because of Trump's hiring freeze. Programs supporting local and state public health emergency readiness, infectious disease control and chronic disease prevention are all affected. At least 125 job categories have been blocked from being filled. (Washington Post)
After
12/ American warplanes attacked a pro-Syrian government convoy, which ignored warnings and violated a restricted zone around a base where US and British Special Forces train rebels to fight the Islamic State. The Syria and its Russian allies condemned the attack, which marked an escalation in hostile US action toward Bashar al-Assad. (New York Times / Wall Street Journal)
Before
9/ American warplanes attacked a pro-Syrian government convoy, which ignored warnings and violated a restricted zone around a base where US and British Special Forces train rebels to fight the Islamic State. The Syria and its Russian allies condemned the attack, which marked an escalation in hostile US action toward Bashar al-Assad. (New York Times / Wall Street Journal)
After
13/ Jeff Sessions and the Department of Justice are telling lawyers to stop representing immigrants in deportation proceedings. They're accusing immigrant-rights lawyers of breaking a rule that was put in place to protect people from lawyers who take their money and then drop their case. The cease and desist letter could dissuade law firms from letting their lawyers volunteer for …
Before
10/ Jeff Sessions and the Department of Justice are telling lawyers to stop representing immigrants in deportation proceedings. They're accusing immigrant-rights lawyers of breaking a rule that was put in place to protect people from lawyers who take their money and then drop their case. The cease and desist letter could dissuade law firms from letting their lawyers volunteer for …
After
14/ White House lawyers are researching impeachment procedures in an effort to prepare for what officials believe is a distant possibility that Trump could have to fend off attempts to remove him from office. (CNN)
6/ NATO critic Stephen Miller is writing Trump's NATO speech. Miller, an anti-globalist, has called the military alliance "incongruent with our current foreign policy challenges." (BuzzFeed News)
After
11/ Trump notified Congress that it plans to renegotiate NAFTA, which triggers a 90-day consultation period between the administration and Congress. Negotiations with Canada and Mexico can begin as soon as August 16th. Trump has called NAFTA the worst trade deal in history. (New York Times / CNN Money / Washington Post)
1/ removed: The Deputy attorney general appointed a special counsel to oversee probe of Russian interference in election. Rod Rosenstein appointed former FBI Director Bob Mueller to oversee the removed: investigation.now: investigation of Russian interference in election. Mueller will take command of the prosecutors and FBI agents who are working on the far reaching Russia investigation. now: Trump said that he expects the probe will find no collusion between his 2016 White House campaign and foreign countries, calling the Russia inquiry a “taxpayer-funded charade." (NBC News / New York Times / Washington removed: Post)now: Post / Politico)
3/ Jason Chaffetz asked the FBI to turn now: over all documents it has on Trump and Comey's conversations. The …
… interference, how the intelligence community handled the matter, and the removed: Trump'snow: Trump administration's involvement. “You’re watching an obstruction of justice investigation developing in …
1/ Democratic congressman Al Green called for "the impeachment of the President of the United States of America for obstruction of justice." Green said it was the House of Representative's "duty" to take up impeachment. More Republicans and Democrats are starting to talk of the possibility that Trump could face impeachment after reports that he pressed James Comey to end …
After
1/ The Deputy attorney general appointed a special counsel to oversee probe of Russian interference in election. Rod Rosenstein appointed former FBI Director Bob Mueller to oversee the investigation. Mueller will take command of the prosecutors and FBI agents who are working on the far reaching Russia investigation. (NBC News / New York Times / Washington Post)
removed: 4/ The Senate Intelligence Committee requested that James Comey testify publicly … to testify in a closed session, but he declined. (Politico) now: The House Oversight Committee invited Comey to testify next Wednesday. Jason Chaffetz has officially scheduled the hearing and is in the process of trying to connect with Comey. The hearing will be the day the FBI is due to send documents to the oversight panel. (Politico)
Before
5/ The House Oversight Committee invited Comey to testify next Wednesday. Jason Chaffetz has officially scheduled the hearing and is in the process of trying to connect with Comey. The hearing will be the day the FBI is due to send documents to the oversight panel. (Politico)
After
5/ Democratic congressman Al Green called for "the impeachment of the President of the United States of America for obstruction of justice." Green said it was the House of Representative's "duty" to take up impeachment. More Republicans and Democrats are starting to talk of the possibility that Trump could face impeachment after reports that he pressed James Comey to end …
removed: 8/now: 7/ Paul Ryan tried to contain the political fallout from the … to harm the president." (CNN / Washington Post / Politico) removed: 9/ McCain compares Comey memo about his meeting with Trump to Watergate. "The only thing I can say is I think we’ve seen this movie before. I think it's reaching the point where it's of Watergate size and scale," McCain said. His advice to Trump is "the same thing that you advised Richard Nixon, which he didn’t do... get it all out... it’s not going to be over until every aspect of it is thoroughly examined and the American people make a judgment. And the longer you delay, the longer it’s going to last." (ABC News / The Daily Beast)
Before
10/ Putin offers to provide Congress with the transcript to prove Trump didn't pass Russia secrets, turning up the pressure on the White House to provide its own transcript of the meeting. Putin said Russia could hand over a transcript of Trump's meeting with Lavrov, if the Trump administration deemed it appropriate. (Reuters / New York Times / CNN / …
After
8/ McCain compares Comey memo about his meeting with Trump to Watergate. "The only thing I can say is I think we’ve seen this movie before. I think it's reaching the point where it's of Watergate size and scale," McCain said. His advice to Trump is "the same thing that you advised Richard Nixon, which he didn’t do... get it …
Before
11/ Adam Schiff: "Last thing" Trump needs "is Putin vouching for him." Schiff called Putin's offer "yet another twist in the road" and said, "all of this gets more baffling every day." (CNN)
After
9/ Putin offers to provide Congress with the transcript to prove Trump didn't pass Russia secrets, turning up the pressure on the White House to provide its own transcript of the meeting. Putin said Russia could hand over a transcript of Trump's meeting with Lavrov, if the Trump administration deemed it appropriate. (Reuters / New York Times / CNN / …
… was the House of Representative's "duty" to take up impeachment. removed: (CNN / The Hill)now: More Republicans and Democrats are removed: beginningnow: starting to talk of the possibility that Trump could face impeachment … obstructed justice." Democrats can't impeach Trump without significant Republican support. removed: (Thenow: (CNN / The Hill / BuzzFeed News)
3/ now: Senate and House Republicans and Democrats want Comey to testify removed: before Congress about his interactions with Trump, including whether Trump tried to … to resist a change in approach, Representative Charlie Dent said. now: "I think we need to hear from him as soon as possible in public to respond to the issues that have been raised in recent days," Mitch McConnell said. (Politico / Washington removed: Post)now: Post / (Wall Street Journal) 4/ The Senate Intelligence Committee requested that James Comey testify publicly in the wake of his firing by Trump. Sentors Richard Burr and Mark Warner sent a letter asking Comey to testify before their panel in both open and closed sessions. The senators had previously asked Comey to testify in a closed session, but he declined. (Politico)
removed: > UPDATE: > Senate Intelligence Committee requests that James Comey testify publicly in the wake of his firing by Trump. Sentors Richard Burr and Mark Warner sent a letter asking Comey to testify before their panel in both open and closed sessions.now: 5/ The removed: senators had previously asked Comey to testify in a closed session, but he declined. (Politico) > House Oversight Committee removed: invitesnow: invited Comey to testify next Wednesday. Jason Chaffetz has officially scheduled … is due to send documents to the oversight panel. (Politico) removed: >
removed: 4/now: 6/ Republicans blocked the Democrats removed: will try andnow: attempt to force a vote now: on creating a bipartisan congressional commission to removed: establish an independent probe ofnow: investigate Russian removed: interference innow: interference, how the removed: US election. A small but growing number of Republican lawmakers are predicting thatnow: intelligence community handled the removed: party will rally behind some sort of independent investigative body.now: matter, and the Trump's involvement. “You’re watching an obstruction of justice investigation developing in real …
removed: 5/now: 8/ Paul Ryan removed: triesnow: tried to contain the political fallout from the Comey memo by …
Before
10/ Trump: No politician "has been treated worse or more unfairly," warning graduating Coast Guard cadets that life is unfair. (Politico)
After
13/ Sally Yates disputed Sean Spicer's characterization of her warnings that Flynn could be open to blackmail by Russia as a "heads up." Yates said she expected the White House to act urgently on the information that Flynn had been compromised by his contact with Russian officials prior to Trump's inauguration. (CNN / NBC News)
Before
11/ Sally Yates disputed Sean Spicer's characterization of her warnings that Flynn could be open to blackmail by Russia as a "heads up." Yates said she expected the White House to act urgently on the information that Flynn had been compromised by his contact with Russian officials prior to Trump's inauguration. (CNN / NBC News)
After
14/ Members of the Turkish president’s security team breached police lines and attacked protesters outside the Turkish ambassador’s residence in the US. About two dozen demonstrators showed up outside of embassy hours after Erdogan met with Trump and a brawl erupted when Erdogan’s security detail attacked protesters carrying the flag of the Kurdish PYD party. (CNN / The Guardian / …
Before
12/ Members of the Turkish president’s security team breached police lines and attacked protesters outside the Turkish ambassador’s residence in the US. About two dozen demonstrators showed up outside of embassy hours after Erdogan met with Trump and a brawl erupted when Erdogan’s security detail attacked protesters carrying the flag of the Kurdish PYD party. (CNN / The Guardian / …
After
15/ The Iran nuclear deal will remain as Trump imposes new penalties over its ballistic missile program. The new sanctions is the latest attempt by the administration to signal its displeasure with Iran while not jettisoning the 2015 nuclear deal. (Politico / New York Times)
Before
13/ The Iran nuclear deal will remain as Trump imposes new penalties over its ballistic missile program. The new sanctions is the latest attempt by the administration to signal its displeasure with Iran while not jettisoning the 2015 nuclear deal. (Politico / New York Times)
After
16/ Milwaukee County Sheriff David Clarke accepted a job at the Department of Homeland Security. Clarke has made a name himself for supporting Trump’s crackdown on illegal immigration and for patrolling of Muslim neighborhoods. (Milwaukee-Wisconsin Journal Sentinel / Los Angeles Times)
Removed: 9/ Trump: No politician "has been treated worse or more unfairly," warning graduating Coast Guard cadets that life is unfair. (Politico)
Before
10/ Republicans and Democrats are beginning to talk of the possibility that Trump could face impeachment after reports that he pressed James Comey to end an investigation of Michael Flynn. Representative Justin Amash said if the reports about Trump's pressure on Comey are true, it would merit impeachment. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi both …
After
10/ Trump: No politician "has been treated worse or more unfairly," warning graduating Coast Guard cadets that life is unfair. (Politico)
now: Comey’s memos were a product of a culture of note-taking. It is standard for people who work in law enforcement to keep detailed phone and meeting logs. (New York Times) 2/ Republicans and Democrats want Comey to testify before Congress … make it difficult” for Republicans to resist a change in removed: approach.now: approach, Representative Charlie Dent said. (Politico / Washington Post)
Senate Intelligence Committee removed: requestednow: requests that James Comey testify publicly in the wake of his … to testify in a closed session, but he declined. (Politico) now: > House Oversight Committee invites Comey to testify next Wednesday. Jason Chaffetz has officially scheduled the hearing and is in the process of trying to connect with Comey. The hearing will be the day the FBI is due to send documents to the oversight panel. (Politico)
...check back soon for the rest of today's hot mess.
After
8/ Trump provided Russia with secrets so sensitive that news organizations are being asked not to report it. Trump told the Russian foreign minister and the Russian ambassador that the Islamic State had used stolen airport security equipment to test a bomb that could be hidden in electronic devices. US intelligence officials have asked media organizations not to report on …
… shut down the Michael Flynn investigation in a February memo removed: Comeynow: he wrote shortly after meeting with Trump. “I hope you can let this removed: go,”now: go," Trump told Comey. The request is the clearest evidence that he tried to directly influence the Justice Department and FBI investigations. now: Comey kept detailed notes of his meetings with Trump, documenting what he perceived as improper efforts to influence a continuing investigation. An FBI agent’s notes are widely held up in court as credible evidence of conversations. (New York Times)
7/ Trump will disclose some of his personal finances this year, which will likely indicate his personal income, assets, and liabilities. They won't contain details like his tax rate or any charitable donations. (Associated Press)
After
9/ Paul Manafort took out a $3.5 million mortgage and never paid taxes on it. The former Trump campaign manager took out the mortgage through a shell company just after leaving the campaign and never paid the $36,000 in taxes that would be due on the loan. (NBC News)
Before
8/ Paul Manafort took out a $3.5 million mortgage and never paid taxes on it. The former Trump campaign manager took out the mortgage through a shell company just after leaving the campaign and never paid the $36,000 in taxes that would be due on the loan. (NBC News)
After
10/ Trump to meet with Turkey's president amid differences over the Trump administration's plan to directly arm Kurdish rebels in Syria for the fight against ISIS. Turkey considers the group a terrorist organization, because it maintains ties with a Kurdish revolutionary group inside Turkey. (ABC News)
Before
9/ Trump to meet with Turkey's president amid differences over the Trump administration's plan to directly arm Kurdish rebels in Syria for the fight against ISIS. Turkey considers the group a terrorist organization, because it maintains ties with a Kurdish revolutionary group inside Turkey. (ABC News)
After
11/ Gingrich urged Trump to shut down White House press room in order to send a message to the country "that the media is a corrupt institution and [Trump] is tired of being harassed by people whose only interest is making him look bad." (Politico)
2/ McMaster defends Trump's sharing of sensitive intelligence with Russians: "It is wholly appropriate for the president to share whatever information he thinks is necessary." He added that Trump "wasn't even aware where this information came from. He wasn't briefed on the source or method of the information either." McMaster refused to confirm whether the information the president shared with …
After
3/ Israel was the source of ISIS-related intelligence that Trump shared with Russia last week. Two Israeli officials said that the intelligence shared by Trump "syncs up" with intelligence that shared with its US counterparts. The revelation is Israel's "worst fears confirmed" as it raises the possibility that the information could be passed to Iran, Russia’s close ally and Israel’s …
… briefed on the source or method of the information either." removed: (Politiconow: McMaster refused to confirm whether the information the president shared with the Russians was highly classified. (ABC News / removed: ABC News)now: Washington Post / Politico)
2/ McMaster defends removed: Trump:now: Trump's sharing of sensitive intelligence with Russians: "It is wholly appropriate for the president to share whatever …
2/ CIA Director Mike Pompeo will brief the members of the House intelligence committee today on what Trump discussed with Russian officials last week, following claims that Trump apparently revealed classified information. (CNN)
After
2/ McMaster defends Trump: "It is wholly appropriate for the president to share whatever information he thinks is necessary." He added that Trump "wasn't even aware where this information came from. He wasn't briefed on the source or method of the information either." (Politico / ABC News)
removed: 7/now: 8/ Trump to meet with Turkey's president amid differences over the … maintains ties with a Kurdish revolutionary group inside Turkey. (ABC removed: Newsnow: News)
1/ Trump is considering a "huge reboot" that could take out everyone from Reince Priebus and Steve Bannon, to counsel Don McGahn and Sean Spicer. Trump is irritated with several Cabinet members and "frustrated, and angry at everyone." (Axios)
After
1/ Trump revealed highly classified information to Russian diplomats during their Oval Office meeting last week, which has jeopardized a critical source of intelligence on the Islamic State. Trump’s decision to disclose information risks cooperation from an ally that has access to the inner workings of the Islamic State. A US official said Trump “revealed more information to the Russian …
Before
2/ Trump revealed highly classified information to Russian diplomats during their Oval Office meeting last week, which has jeopardized a critical source of intelligence on the Islamic State. Trump’s decision to disclose information risks cooperation from an ally that has access to the inner workings of the Islamic State. A US official said Trump “revealed more information to the Russian …
After
2/ Trump is considering a "huge reboot" that could take out everyone from Reince Priebus and Steve Bannon, to counsel Don McGahn and Sean Spicer. Trump is irritated with several Cabinet members and "frustrated, and angry at everyone." (Axios)
… and warned that federal checks and balances are eroding. Former removed: directornow: Director of removed: national intelligencenow: National Intelligence called on the other branches of the federal government to …
… believes Syria's "building of a crematorium is an effort to removed: coverupnow: cover up the extent of mass murders taking place in Saydnaya prison." …
… filibusters in the Senate. If the Medicaid cutbacks get passed now: by both chambers, it could significantly scale back the federal-state insurance …
2/ Trump revealed highly classified information to Russian diplomats removed: innow: during their Oval Office meeting last week, which removed: havenow: has jeopardized a critical source of intelligence on the Islamic State. …
… signaling an advance in their development of an intercontinental ballistic removed: missile.now: missile program. North Korea said the new "medium long-range" missile is capable …
… Syria is using a crematorium to hide executions, the State removed: Deptartment says.now: Department said. The US believes Syria's "building of a crematorium is an …
13/ Syria now: is using now: a crematorium to hide executions, the State Deptartment says. The US … murders taking place in Saydnaya prison." A State Department official removed: saysnow: said the regime could be killing as many as 50 detainees …
4/ North Korea successfully test-fired a new type of ballistic missile, signaling an advance in their development of an intercontinental ballistic missile. North Korea said the new "medium long-range" missile is capable of carrying a large nuclear warhead, warning that the United States’ military bases in the Pacific were within its range. (New York Times / Wall Street Journal / …
After
8/ The Supreme Court rejected an appeal to reinstate North Carolina’s voter identification law, which a lower court said targeted African-Americans “with almost surgical precision.” Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. issued a statement noting that there was a dispute about who represented the state in the case and that nothing should be read into the court’s decision to decline …
Before
5/ 9th Circuit Court to hear the travel ban appeal, again. A three-judge panel will hear a challenge to a Hawaii judge's decision to halt travel ban 2.0. Lawyers at the Justice Department must convince at least two of the judges to ignore Trump's record of campaign calls to ban Muslims from entering the US. (CNN)
After
9/ The Dakota Access pipeline has its first leak. The $3.8bn oil pipeline is not yet fully operational, but managed to spill 84 gallons of crude oil. (The Guardian)
Before
6/ The Supreme Court rejected an appeal to reinstate North Carolina’s voter identification law, which a lower court said targeted African-Americans “with almost surgical precision.” (Associated Press / Politico)
After
10/ White Nationalist Richard Spencer led a torch-bearing group protesting the sale of a statue of Robert E. Lee in Virginia. The group chanted “You will not replace us." Spencer added: “What brings us together is that we are white, we are a people, we will not be replaced." (NPR / Washington Post)
Before
7/ The Dakota Access pipeline has its first leak. The $3.8bn oil pipeline is not yet fully operational, but managed to spill 84 gallons of crude oil. (The Guardian)
After
11/ Trump thinks that exercising too much uses up the body’s "finite" energy. Trump mostly gave up athletics after college because he “believed the human body was like a battery, with a finite amount of energy, which exercise only depleted.” (Washington Post)
Before
8/ White Nationalist Richard Spencer lead a torch-bearing group protesting the sale of a statue of Robert E. Lee in Virginia. The group chanted “You will not replace us." Spencer added: “What brings us together is that we are white, we are a people, we will not be replaced." (NPR / Washington Post)
After
12/ Comey said he'd be willing to testify before the Senate Intelligence Committee, but wants it to be in public. Comey originally declined an invitation from the committee to be interviewed in a closed-door hearing. (New York Times)
Before
9/ Trump thinks that exercising too much uses up the body’s "finite" energy. Trump mostly gave up athletics after college because he “believed the human body was like a battery, with a finite amount of energy, which exercise only depleted.” (Washington Post
After
13/ Syria using crematorium to hide executions, the State Deptartment says. The US believes Syria's "building of a crematorium is an effort to coverup the extent of mass murders taking place in Saydnaya prison." A State Department official says the regime could be killing as many as 50 detainees a day. (CNN / BuzzFeed News / Washington Post)
… returns don't show "any income of any type from Russian removed: sources.""now: sources." Except for some income from the 2013 Miss Universe pageant …
1/ removed: Tweet:now: In a tweet, Trump removed: threatensnow: threatened to cancel all future press briefings for the "sake of removed: accuracy." And, because it isnow: accuracy," saying it's "not possible" to always tell the truth. While the White … Comey, Trump has offered his solution: cancel all press briefings. now: Spicer declined to say whether Trump had decided to stop holding daily news briefings, saying that Trump is “a little dismayed” about the unwillingness of reporters to focus on the policy actions of his administration. (CNN / New York Times / Washington Post)
2/ removed: Tweet:now: In a tweet, Trump removed: warnsnow: warned James Comey against leaking to the press, suggesting there are "tapes" of their private conversations. It's unclear if any tapes removed: exist, however.now: exist. Regardless, Comey is "not worried about any tapes," a CNN …
Before
3/ Comey's reportedly furious by the lack of respect the White House showed him. Trump called Comey a "showboat" and "a grandstander," and even suggested he was not "competent." (ABC News)
After
3/ Trump asked for Comey to pledge his loyalty at a private dinner seven days after the inauguration. Comey declined to make the pledge, but instead told Trump that he would always give him "honesty." Trump pressed him on whether it would be "honest loyalty." Comey agreed. Trump claims Comey assured him "three times" that he was not under FBI …
Before
4/ Trump asked for Comey to pledge his loyalty at a private dinner seven days after the inauguration. Comey declined to make the pledge, but instead told Trump that he would always give him "honesty." Trump pressed him on whether it would be "honest loyalty." Comey agreed. Trump claims Comey assured him "three times" that he was not under FBI …
After
4/ Comey declined to testify before the Senate Intelligence Committee. The panel is investigating Russia’s election meddling and allegations of collusion between the Trump campaign and Moscow. Testifying would have provided Comey a chance to discuss with lawmakers the circumstances of his firing. (Politico)
Before
5/ Trump shifts his reason for firing Comey to "this Russia thing" being a "made-up story." He labeled it "an excuse by the Democrats for having lost an election that they should have won." (New York Times)
After
5/ Sean Spicer won’t say if Trump is taping conversations in the Oval Office. The White House won't deny Trump taped meetings with Comey — or that Trump may be recording conversations in the Oval Office. “The president has nothing further to add on that,” Spicer said, repeating the answer or some variation of it several more times as reporters …
Before
6/ Jeff Sessions directed prosecutors to seek the toughest drug charges. The new sentencing guidelines roll back an Obama-era policy of avoiding charging nonviolent, less-serious drug offenders with long, mandatory-minimum sentences, and instead revives a Bush-era policy that tasked federal prosecutors with charging "the most serious readily provable offense." (Wall Street Journal / Washington Post / CNN)
After
6/ Trump shifts his reason for firing Comey to "this Russia thing" being a "made-up story." He labeled it "an excuse by the Democrats for having lost an election that they should have won." (New York Times)
Before
7/ The EPA may allow a massive gold and copper mine at the headwaters of one of Alaska’s salmon fisheries. The Trump administration will allow a Canadian-owned company to seek a federal permit to build a mine near Bristol Bay. In 2014, the EPA released a study that concluded large-scale mining in the bay posed significant risk to salmon and …
After
Comey's reportedly furious by the lack of respect the White House showed him. Trump called Comey a "showboat" and "a grandstander," and even suggested he was not "competent." (ABC News)
Before
8/ Lawyers said that a review of Trump's last 10 years of tax returns don't show "any income of any type from Russian sources." Except for some income from the 2013 Miss Universe pageant that was held in Moscow as well as a property sold to a Russian billionaire in 2008 for $95 million. The attorneys did not release copies …
After
7/ Jeff Sessions directed prosecutors to seek the toughest drug charges for offenders. The new sentencing guidelines roll back an Obama-era policy of avoiding charging nonviolent, less-serious drug offenders with long, mandatory-minimum sentences, and instead revives a Bush-era policy that tasked federal prosecutors with charging "the most serious readily provable offense." (Wall Street Journal / Washington Post / CNN) 8/ …
2/ Tweet: Trump warns Comey against leaking now: to the press, suggesting there are "tapes" of their private removed: conversations to the media, suggesting that there are possibly recorded conversations between the two men that could be leaked to counter the former FBI director if necessary.now: conversations. It's unclear if any tapes exist, however. Regardless, Comey is …
… "tapes" of their private conversations to the media, suggesting that removed: Comey may have recordings of their communications.now: there are possibly recorded conversations between the two men that could be leaked to counter the former FBI director if necessary. It's unclear if any tapes exist, however. now: Regardless, Comey is "not worried about any tapes," a CNN source …
… of their communications. It's unclear if any tapes exist, however. now: Comey is "not worried about any tapes," a CNN source said, adding that "if there is a tape, there's nothing [Comey] is worried about" that could be on it. (Washington Post / Politico / removed: BBC)now: CNN)
Removed: poll/ 54% think Trump's abrupt dismissal of Comey was not appropriate, while 46% think that Comey was fired due to the Russia investigation. (NBC News)
… in the Russia probe and said that the firing of now: James Comey had not affected the Justice Department’s investigation. McCabe also … rank-and-file FBI agents, contradicting a claim by the White House. now: Trump then offered a new version of his decision to fire Comey, saying he would have dismissed him regardless of whether the attorney general and his deputy recommended it. He called Comey a "showboat" and "grandstander," and said that while he never tried to pressure Comey into dropping the FBI probe of the Trump campaign, he did ask Comey whether he was under investigation. (Politico / New York Times / removed: Reutersnow: NBC News / ABC removed: News)now: News / Reuters)
4/ Trump removed: is launchingnow: launched a commission to investigate voter fraud. The effort will be …
now: > UPDATE: > Trump nixes plan to visit FBI after being told he would not be greeted warmly. The FBI told the White House the optics would not be good and made clear that Trump would not draw many smiles and cheers, having just unceremoniously sacked a very popular director. (NBC News) > 7/ Comey refused to preview his removed: planned Senate removed: testimony.now: testimony for Trump, Attorney General Jeff Sessions and deputy Attorney General Rod removed: Rosensteinnow: Rosenstein, who wanted a heads-up removed: from Comey about what he would say removed: at his May 3 hearing regarding his handling of an investigation into Hillary Clinton's use …
9/ Trump admits now: his White House is too combative. He said it could be …
… by the White House. (Politico / New York Times / removed: Reuters)now: Reuters / ABC News) The man now running the FBI just testified that the Trump White House is lying about Comey. McCabe’s statement directly contradicts what White House deputy press secretary Sarah Sanders told reporters, when she said Comey was fired because Trump, along with Jeff Sessions, had “lost confidence in him.” Sanders added that “most importantly, the rank and file of the FBI had lost confidence in their director.” (Quartz) Trump contradicted his three top spokespeople and offered a polar-opposite version the White House’s entire Comey narrative. (Washington Post)
… be investigated after appearing on TV condemning the president’s action. now: Later, White House spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders said Comey was dismissed because he committed “atrocities” and that Trump had been considering the decision to fire Comey before his inauguration. Putin weighed in, saying the firing will have "no effect" on US-Russia relations and that Trump acted in accordance with the US law and Constitution. Thanks Putin! (New York Times / Vox / Associated removed: Press)now: Press / The Daily Beast / CBS News)
Before
4/ Mitch McConnell rejected calls for a special prosecutor or independent commission to investigate Russia’s election meddling in the wake of the firing of FBI Director James Comey. The Senate Majority Leader said, "Today we'll no doubt hear calls for a new investigation, which could only serve to impede the current work being done." (Politico)
After
4/ Trump also met with Henry Kissinger, Richard Nixon’s national security adviser, less than a day after firing Comey in Nixonian fashion. Kissinger was there to discuss "Russia and various other matters." (Slate
Before
7/ The Senate failed to revoke Obama-era methane rules. The measure would have given oil and gas companies a reprieve from methane emission rules on federal land. The defeat is a blow to oil and natural gas drillers who had made this a top priority. (Reuters / Bloomberg)
After
11/ A West Virginia journalist was arrested after asking HHS Secretary Tom Price a question. Dan Heyman was charged with willful disruption of governmental processes, a misdemeanor, for allegedly causing a disturbance and yelling questions at federal leaders in town. (WSAZ News)
Before
8/ The Census Bureau director resigns as the agency faces a funding debate over the 2020 Census. Congress wants the cost of the 2020 count to not exceed the cost of the 2010 count, the bureau wanting to implement a new system that relies more on electronic data collection, which was promoted as a cost-saving measure. (NPR / Washington Post)
After
12/ Students booed and turned their backs on Betsy DeVos as she gave the keynote address at a historically black university. The speech was part of an effort by Trump and DeVos to reach out to historically black schools. Students and alumni said that outreach is an empty gesture. (Washington Post)
… Jeff Sessions. In a letter dated Tuesday to Comey, Trump removed: concurednow: concurred "with the judgment of the Department of Justice that [Comey … to explain his reasoning were the cause of his dismissal. now: Democrats reacted with shock and alarm, accusing Trump of ousting the FBI director to escape scrutiny over his campaign’s Russia ties. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer urged deputy Rosenstein to appoint a special prosecutor for the federal probe into the Trump campaign’s ties with Russian officials — warning that failing to do so will lead the public to “rightly suspect” that Comey’s surprise firing “was part of a cover-up.” (Washington Post / New York Times / NBC News / removed: CNN)now: CNN / Politico)
… coming days while the search is on for a permanent removed: replacement..now: replacement. The acting FBI Director is Andrew McCabe, who was Comey's deputy prior to his firing. (ABC News) now: A timeline of James Comey's consequential final months as FBI director. (CNBC News) Here’s how unusual it is for an FBI director to be fired. (Washington Post)
… not the "hundreds and thousands" he’d claimed in his testimony. now: The move sweeps away the man who is responsible for the investigation into whether members of Trump's campaign team colluded with Russia in its interference in last year's election. Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein laid out the reasons for Comey's firing, arguing that the handling of his investigation into Clinton's private server, his decision not to recommend charges be filed, and the news conference he held to explain his reasoning were the cause of his dismissal. (Washington Post / New York Times / NBC removed: News)now: News / CNN)
removed: 4/now: 5/ Wisconsin’s voter-ID law suppressed 200,000 votes in the 2016 election. Trump removed: Wonnow: won by removed: 22,748.now: 22,748 votes. A new study by Priorities USA shows that strict voter-ID …
1/ James Comey’s testimony removed: regardingnow: on Huma Abedin forwarding thousands of emails was inaccurate. The FBI …
Before
5/ An Iowa congressman abruptly ended a TV interview and then walked into an angry town hall meeting. He was unhappy with questions about who would be allowed into the series of town hall events he is holding this week in his district. A few hours later, he showed up at his town hall meeting where most of the prescreened …
After
10/ Trump Photoshopped a tweet denying collusion with Russia into his Twitter header. During Senate testimony yesterday, former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper said he was not aware of any evidence that proves there was collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia. Trump has since changed his Twitter header to a picture without the Photoshopped tweet. (New York Magazine …
Before
6/ The Trump administration cited a segregation-era ruling to defend its travel ban. In 1971, the Supreme Court decided that courts shouldn’t investigate the motivations of officials who closed public pools in Jackson, Mississippi, rather than integrate them. (HuffPost)
After
11/ Mitch McConnell stacks the Senate Republican working group on health care with 13 conservative men – but no women. The working group includes the party’s top leaders, as well as three committee chairmen and two of the most conservative senators, Ted Cruz and Mike Lee. (New York Times / Los Angeles Times)
Before
7/ Trump Photoshopped a tweet denying collusion with Russia into his Twitter header. During Senate testimony yesterday, former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper said he was not aware of any evidence that proves there was collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia. Trump has since changed his Twitter header to a picture without the Photoshopped tweet. (New York Magazine …
After
12/ Trump's review of Dodd-Frank will not be completed by early June as originally targeted. Instead, officials will report findings piece-by-piece, with priority given to banking regulations. In February, Trump ordered Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin to review the law and report back within 120 days, saying his administration expected to be cutting large parts of it. (Reuters)
Before
8/ Mitch McConnell stacks the Senate Republican working group on health care with 13 conservative men – but no women. The working group includes the party’s top leaders, as well as three committee chairmen and two of the most conservative senators, Ted Cruz and Mike Lee. (New York Times / Los Angeles Times)
After
13/ Trump's team marks its 6-month election anniversary by vowing to air video of the Clinton campaign's concession call. The White House director of social media tweeted a screen grab of the late night phone call where Hillary Clinton conceded to Trump and promised to share video of the conversation. (Yahoo)
Before
9/ Trump's review of Dodd-Frank will not be completed by early June as originally targeted. Instead, officials will report findings piece-by-piece, with priority given to banking regulations. In February, Trump ordered Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin to review the law and report back within 120 days, saying his administration expected to be cutting large parts of it. (Reuters)
2/ Sally Yates is testifying today before the Senate Judiciary subcommittee investigating Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. The hearing is Yates’s first appearance on Capitol Hill since her firing in January and is expected to fill in details about what and when she told the Trump White House in regard to Michael Flynn's ties to Russia. (CNN{:target="_blank"} / …
After
2/ Sally Yates said she warned the White House that Flynn could be "blackmailed" by Russia, and gave the White House a warning "so that they could take action." The former acting attorney general's testimony raises questions about how Trump responded to her concerns about Flynn, who wasn't fired until two weeks later. Former director of national intelligence James Clapper …
Before
4/ The EPA dismissed half of its scientific advisers on a review board, which provides guidance on whether research has sufficient rigor and integrity. The move, which Scott Pruitt cited as his desire to make a “clean break” with the Obama administration, came as a surprise to members of the board, who had been informed both in January and recently …
After
4/ Trump's call for a Muslim ban was deleted from his campaign site shortly after Sean Spicer was pressed on why the plan was still there by a reporter. The site had a press release from then-candidate Trump's call for the "total and complete shutdown" of Muslims entering the US until the government could "figure out what is going on." …
Before
5/ Trump expressed his "unwavering support" for historically black colleges after the White House announced that it would treat a program that helps HBCUs get low-cost loans “in a manner consistent with the (Constitutional) requirement to afford equal protection of the laws.” (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
After
5/ The EPA dismissed half of its scientific advisers on a review board, which provides guidance on whether research has sufficient rigor and integrity. The move, which Scott Pruitt cited as his desire to make a “clean break” with the Obama administration, came as a surprise to members of the board, who had been informed both in January and recently …
Before
8/ The Texas governor signed a “sanctuary cities” ban into law while broadcasting on Facebook Live. The measure threatens law-enforcement officials with jail time if they don’t cooperate with federal agencies in cracking down on undocumented immigrants. Dubbed a “Show Me Your Papers” law, it allows police to inquire about a person’s immigration status, which has been condemned by Democrats …
After
10/ Kushner’s sister is promising Chinese investors a path toward US residency in exchange for putting $500,000 into a New Jersey real-estate project. She cited the EB-5 immigrant investor visa program to make her pitch, though critics have accused organizers of the event of playing up their ties to the White House. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
Before
9/ Kushner’s sister is promising Chinese investors a path toward US residency in exchange for putting $500,000 into a New Jersey real-estate project. She cited the EB-5 immigrant investor visa program to make her pitch, though critics have accused organizers of the event of playing up their ties to the White House. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
After
Jared Kushner's family apologized for name dropping in its pitch to Chinese investors. Nicole Kushner Meyer mentioned the name of Trump’s son-in-law when seeking more than $150m from wealthy Chinese for New Jersey real estate project. (The Guardian)
… sat down for a 90-minute conversation in the Oval Office. removed: (CNN{:target="_blank"}now: (CNN / New York Times{:target="_blank"} / NBC News{:target="_blank"})
… regard to Michael Flynn's ties to Russia. (CNN{:target="_blank"} / Associated removed: Press{:target="_blank"})now: Press{:target="_blank"} / Washington Post)
… has been condemned by Democrats and human-rights groups as legalized removed: discrimination.(Texasnow: discrimination. (Texas Observer{:target="_blank"})
3/ Trump praised Australia's universal health care system hours after the Obamacare repeal, saying America's new plan is "going to be fantastic health care." Australia's universal health care system gives citizens free access to doctors and public hospitals paid for by the government. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
After
3/ Health care looks to be the defining issue in the next election cycles. GOP members of Congress will be asked to defend their votes for a bill that could strip insurance from 24 million Americans and jack up premiums and deductibles for the country’s sickest and oldest citizens in the 2018 midterms. Meanwhile, governors, gubernatorial candidates, and state legislators …
Before
5/ North Korea accused the US and South Korea of an unsuccessful assassination attempt involving biochemical weapons. The alleged plan resembles the assassination earlier this year of Kim Jong Un’s exiled half brother. That attack, using the chemical war agent VX, was widely blamed on North Korea and led to calls in the United States to relist the North as …
After
7/ The White House fired its chief usher — the first woman and second African American to hold the position. The chief usher oversees all activities in the White House residence and works as general manager of the building. The job is one that typically involves a long tenure — there have been just nine since the beginning of the …
Before
6/ The White House fired its chief usher — the first woman and second African American to hold the position. The chief usher oversees all activities in the White House residence and works as general manager of the building. The job is one that typically involves a long tenure — there have been just nine since the beginning of the …
After
8/ Refugee admissions plummet under Trump's threats to bar their entry. The US accepted 2,070 refugees in March, the lowest monthly total since 2013, and 3,316 in April, the second-lowest total since 2013. (USA Today{:target="_blank"})
Before
7/ Refugee admissions plummet under Trump's threats to bar their entry. The US accepted 2,070 refugees in March, the lowest monthly total since 2013, and 3,316 in April, the second-lowest total since 2013. (USA Today{:target="_blank"})
After
9/ A New York GOP congressman admits he didn't read the health care bill and was unaware the bill would nix funding for a health care program in his state. The AHCA would eliminate the Essential Plan option, which provides New York with $3 billion annually for a program that offers benefits for low-income residents who do not qualify for …
Before
8/ A New York GOP congressman admits he didn't read the health care bill and was unaware the bill would nix funding for a health care program in his state. The AHCA would eliminate the Essential Plan option, which provides New York with $3 billion annually for a program that offers benefits for low-income residents who do not qualify for …
After
10/ The Senate asks Trump associates for records of communication with Russians in an effort to accelerate its broad investigation into Russian meddling in the presidential election. Roger Stone, Carter Page, Paul Manafort, and Michael T. Flynn were all sent requests. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
Before
9/ The Senate asks Trump associates for records of communication with Russians in an effort to accelerate its broad investigation into Russian meddling in the presidential election. Roger Stone, Carter Page, Paul Manafort, and Michael T. Flynn were all sent requests. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
After
11/ Trump’s fiscal 2018 budget would cut about 95% of funding for the drug control office, effectively ending its mission as the lead agency in charge of combating opioid and drug epidemics. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
4/ removed: Healthnow: ~~Health care bill will exempt members of Congress and their staffs … to close the loophole in separate legislation. (The Hill{:target="_blank"} / removed: Vox{:target="_blank"})now: Vox{:target="_blank"})~~ _Editor's note: This was amended by [H.R. 2192{:target="_blank"}, which eliminated the non-application of certain State waiver provisions to Members of Congress and congressional staff.]_
… cost and impact. The measure moves to the Senate, where removed: it'snow: its fate is far from certain. Democrats are confident that some …
… for most legislation. (Bloomberg{:target="_blank"} / New York Times{:target="_blank"} / Washington removed: Post{:target="_blank"}))now: Post{:target="_blank"})
Removed: The Obamacare replacement bill would protect just 5% of people with pre-existing conditions. The Republican bill would potentially allow insurers to charge sick people higher premiums. To offset those costs, the bill also allocates funding for financial aid for sicker people. High-risk pools in states before Obamacare tended not to cover enough people. (CNBC{:target="_blank"})
2/ A last-minute amendment to the health care bill removed: wouldnow: will allow states to waive 10 essential benefits and potentially impact …
Before
3/ The GOP health bill will cut special education funding by 25%. The $880 billion in cuts over the next 10 years would effectively "convert Medicaid from an entitlement designed to cover any costs incurred to a more limited program.” Republicans say the cuts are necessary due to skyrocketing health care costs. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
After
Sexual assault could be considered a pre-existing condition under the new MacArthur-Meadows amendment, which allows states to discriminate based on medical history. In addition to rape, postpartum depression, cesarean sections, and surviving domestic violence are all considered preexisting conditions. Companies can also deny coverage for gynecological services and mammograms. (New York Magazine{:target="_blank"}) The GOP health bill will cut special education …
> LIVE VOTE COUNTS: > If 22 Republicans vote “no”, and one G.O.P. representative is absent, as expected, the vote is likely to fail. All 193 Democrats are expected to vote against the bill. (New York Times{:target="_blank"}) > Republicans’ health-care bill looks like it has enough votes to pass the House. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"}) > 1/ House Republicans plan health care …
After
1/ House Republicans narrowly passed the controversial health care bill to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. The vote passed 217-213 six weeks after House leaders failed to get the votes needed to pass an earlier version of their bill. The bill included last-minute amendments designed to draw votes from the most conservative House Republicans in the House Freedom …
… still opposed by health care providers, patient advocates, and retirees. removed: (Politiconow: (Politico{:target="_blank"} / New York removed: Timesnow: Times{:target="_blank"} / Associated removed: Pressnow: Press{:target="_blank"} / removed: Reuters)now: Reuters{:target="_blank"})
… up the Republican replacement bill for the Affordable Care Act. removed: (CSPAN)now: (CSPAN{:target="_blank"}) What to know about today's House health care vote. The … people it might help, or how many it might hurt. removed: (Axios)now: (Axios{:target="_blank"}) The Obamacare replacement bill would protect just 5% of people with pre-existing conditions. The Republican bill would potentially allow insurers to charge sick people higher premiums. To offset those costs, the bill also allocates funding for financial aid for sicker people. High-risk pools in states before Obamacare tended not to cover enough people. (CNBC{:target="_blank"})
… care, prescription drugs, mental health treatment, and hospitalization. (Wall Street removed: Journal)now: Journal{:target="_blank"})
… are necessary due to skyrocketing health care costs. (New York removed: Times)now: Times{:target="_blank"})
… has vowed to close the loophole in separate legislation. (The removed: Hillnow: Hill{:target="_blank"} / removed: Vox)now: Vox{:target="_blank"})
… to cut State Department budget by 26% for "efficiency improvements." removed: (CNNnow: (CNN{:target="_blank"} / CBS removed: News)now: News{:target="_blank"})
… to put “America first" will right those imbalances. (New York removed: Times)now: Times{:target="_blank"})
… wall” is more of a fence than a wall. (The removed: Guardian)now: Guardian{:target="_blank"})
… departure from the bipartisan invitations extended to other witnesses.” (Fox removed: News)now: News{:target="_blank"})
Before
Susan Rice declined to testify before Senate subcommittee on Russian hacking. Republicans have raised concerns that Rice may have acted improperly, but GOP and Democratic lawmakers so far have found no evidence of wrongdoing. (CNN / Politico)
After
Susan Rice declined to testify before Senate subcommittee on Russian hacking. Republicans have raised concerns that Rice may have acted improperly, but GOP and Democratic lawmakers so far have found no evidence of wrongdoing. (CNN{:target="_blank"} / Politico{:target="_blank"}) 8/ Border agents are wrongly telling asylum-seekers that the US won't take them. Customs and Border Protection said its policies haven’t changed and …
… for discrimination against LGBT Americans. (Politico / Fox News{:target="_blank"} / removed: CNN{:target="_blank"})now: CNN{:target="_blank"} / New York Times{:target="_blank"})
… says classified Clinton emails were forwarded to Anthony Weiner. (Washington removed: Post{:target="_blank"})now: Post{:target="_blank"} / CNN{:target="_blank"})
… that she gave a forceful warning to the White House removed: aboutnow: that Flynn's was removed: yingnow: lying when he denied in public and private that he had …
3/ The South Korea THAAD missile defense system is now operational. The system is meant to protect South Korea from ballistic missiles fired by North Korea, but China and other critics say the move will only increase tensions on the Korean Peninsula. (NPR{:target="_blank"})
After
McConnell shoots down Trump's call to end the filibuster. (The Hill{:target="_blank"})
Before
4/ Trump's attack on Syria was "in lieu of after-dinner entertainment" for the guests dining at Mar-a-Lago the US commerce secretary Wilbur Ross said. Trump interrupted dessert to tell Chinese President Xi about the cruise missile attack. The "entertainment didn’t cost the president anything." (The Guardian{:target="_blank"} / CNN{:target="_blank"})
After
3/ Hillary Clinton – describing herself as "part of the resistance" – criticized Trump’s conduct in office, his foreign policy, and for posting on Twitter. She also said that Trump “should worry less about the election and my winning the popular vote” than about urgent matters of policy confronting the country. While Clinton said she took “absolute personal responsibility” for …
Before
5/ Trump puts antiabortion activist in charge of family planning funding for poor Americans and those without health insurance. About 4 million Americans receive family planning coverage through the Title X program, and the majority of them are low-income and people of color. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
After
4/ Sally Yates is expected to contradict the administration's version of events surrounding Michael Flynn. The former acting attorney general is prepared to testify before a Senate panel next week that she gave a forceful warning to the White House about Flynn's was ying when he denied in public and private that he had discussed US sanctions on Russia in …
removed: 9/ Here'snow: Here are the 23 environmental rules Trump has rolled back. Citing federal …
4/ Trump claims Andrew Jackson was upset about the Civil War and wonders why that the issues "could not have been worked out." Jackson died 16 years before the war began. Trump suggested that if Jackson had been president "a little later, you wouldn't have had the Civil War." (Associated Press{:target="_blank"})
After
5/ The administration ends Michelle Obama's girls education program. The "Let Girls Learn" program comes to an end as Melania Trump begins to define her own platform as first lady. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
6/ The Department of Agriculture is relaxing Obama-era school lunch standards. The new rules suspend the sodium reduction and whole-grain requirements, as well as allow 1% fat chocolate milk back into school cafeterias nationwide because of "palatability issues." (ABC News{:target="_blank"})
Before
5/ Trump abruptly ended an interview after being pushed on his claims that Obama ordered surveillance of him. He said his allegation that he was illegally surveilled has “been proven very strongly" and that he is entitled to his own “opinions.” (Politico{:target="_blank"})
After
7/ Trump claims Andrew Jackson was upset about the Civil War and wonders why that the issues "could not have been worked out." Jackson died 16 years before the war began. Trump suggested that if Jackson had been president "a little later, you wouldn't have had the Civil War." (Associated Press{:target="_blank"})
Before
Trump's interview with "Face the Nation." (CBS News{:target="_blank"})
Trump's interview with "Face the Nation." (CBS News{:target="_blank"})
removed: 3/now: 11/ Trump says his rally crowd broke records despite empty seats … Journalists pointed out rows of empty seats at the expo removed: center.(Thenow: center. (The Hill{:target="_blank"})
5/ Steve Mnuchin can't guarantee the middle class won't pay more under his new tax plan. He said the "objective" of the plan is to ensure no absolute tax cuts for the wealthy, but declined to say how the plan would affect Trump himself. (ABC News{:target="_blank"})
After
5/ Democrats threaten to oppose short-term funding bill to prevent a shutdown if the healthcare vote happens this week. The House Rules Committee passed a rule that allows any legislation to be brought up between now and Saturday, including a vote on the latest healthcare plan. No vote has been scheduled. Paul Ryan said he was "confident" the government would …
Before
6/ Ivanka Trump says the US should consider admitting Syrian refugees. If you haven't been paying attention, this is a significant break from her father, who is so against the idea that both failed versions of his travel ban have included temporary suspensions of all refugee resettlement. (New York Magazine{:target="_blank"})
After
6/ Steve Mnuchin can't guarantee the middle class won't pay more under his new tax plan. He said the "objective" of the plan is to ensure no absolute tax cuts for the wealthy, but declined to say how the plan would affect Trump himself. (ABC News{:target="_blank"})
Before
7/ Homeland security unveils Trump's controversial immigrant crime office set up to support the victims of crimes committed solely by undocumented migrants. Critics warn that the office is misguided and is a device for “scapegoating immigrants” by advocates who pointed to numerous studies showing immigrants are significantly less likely to commit crime. (The Guardian{:target="_blank"})
After
Economists fear Trump’s tax plan will only heighten a "mountain of debt." The proposed tax overhaul calls for steep tax cuts with only modest offsetting revenue increases. Economists estimate it would add trillions to the national debt over the next decade. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
Before
8/ The White House says Ivanka will have "no authority" over the World Bank fund to invest in women-owned businesses. The idea is under consideration at the World Bank – inspired by Ivanka – but has raised legal and ethical questions due to her formal role as “assistant to the president.” By rule, she would be prohibited from using her …
After
7/ Ivanka Trump says the US should consider admitting Syrian refugees. If you haven't been paying attention, this is a significant break from her father, who is so against the idea that both failed versions of his travel ban have included temporary suspensions of all refugee resettlement. (New York Magazine{:target="_blank"})
… a one-week funding extension to avoid a shutdown. In the removed: mean time,now: meantime, the White House said it would continue paying Affordable Care …
1/ The White House trumpets its tax cuts as the "biggest in history" as they seek a reduction in the corporate tax rate, from 35% to 15%, paid by businesses large and small. It's unclear how the cuts would be financed, although the administration noted that the proposed cuts could dramatically add to the national debt. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
After
1/ Trump unveils his plan to overhaul the tax code. The proposal — a one-page outline that leaves key details incomplete — would eliminate key tax breaks and reduce the number of income tax brackets from seven to three. It would also lower the corporate tax rate from 35% to 15%. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"}) Trump's tax plan would cut corporate and …
Removed: 2/ Trump's tax plan would cut corporate and small business rates and boost the standard deduction to $15,000 for individuals and $30,000 for families. The proposed plan could potentially put thousands of dollars each year into the pockets of tens of millions of Americans, but could lead to a large loss of government revenue and bloat the federal deficit. (Washington …
removed: 5/ Missilenow: 6/ US missile defense system moved to a deployment site in South Korea, …
removed: 7/ Trump loses trade dispute with Mexico over dolphin safe tuna. …
removed: 3/ Sally Yates is set to testify at the May 8 … accusations the White House didn't want her to testify. (CNN{:target="_blank"}) now: 3/ A federal judge has blocked Trump's directive seeking to deny federal funding to "sanctuary cities." The ruling is another high-profile blow to Trump's efforts to use executive orders to carry out major policy moves. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
TK/ The House oversight panel says Flynn did not comply with the law. Trump's former national security adviser did not properly disclosed payments from Russia on his security clearance application. Flynn received $45,000 for a speech he gave to RT-TV in Russia. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
After
2/ Flynn’s Turkish lobbying now linked to Russia. A Turkish man that gave Flynn a $600,000 lobbying deal just before Trump picked him to be national security adviser had business ties to Russia. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
Before
TK/ Flynn’s Turkish lobbying now linked to Russia. A Turkish man that gave Flynn a $600,000 lobbying deal just before Trump picked him to be national security adviser had business ties to Russia. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
After
3/ Sally Yates is set to testify at the May 8 Senate hearing. Yates was suppose to tell lawmakers last month about phone calls between Michael Flynn and Russian ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak. The hearing was abruptly postponed amid accusations the White House didn't want her to testify. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
Before
TK/ Sally Yates is set to testify at the May 8 Senate hearing. Yates was suppose to tell lawmakers last month about phone calls between Michael Flynn and Russian ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak. The hearing was abruptly postponed amid accusations the White House didn't want her to testify. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
After
4/ Trump promised the biggest tax cut in history. The plan he put forward as a candidate would reduce revenues by 2.6% of GDP. That would be less than the cuts that Truman made (2.7%) in 1945, as well as those that Reagan enacted (2.9%) in 1981. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
Before
TK/ Trump promised the biggest tax cut in history. The plan he put forward as a candidate would reduce revenues by 2.6% of GDP. That would be less than the cuts that Truman made (2.7%) in 1945, as well as those that Reagan enacted (2.9%) in 1981. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
After
5/ The government's costs could increase by $2.3 billion in 2018 if Congress and Trump decide not to fund Obamacare-related payments to health insurers. Trump has threatened to withhold the payments to force Democrats to the negotiating table on a healthcare bill to replace Obamacare. (Reuters{:target="_blank"})
removed: TK/ The government's costs could increase by $2.3 billion in 2018 if Congress and Trump decide not to fund Obamacare-related payments to health insurers. Trump has threatened to withhold the payments to force Democrats to the negotiating table on a healthcare bill to replace Obamacare. (Reuters{:target="_blank"}) TK/now: 6/ The White House is "confident" it will avert a shutdown …
removed: TK/now: 7/ Mexico is worried that the border wall will worsen flooding. …
removed: TK/now: 8/ Republican lawmakers ask Trump to scale back Obama-era protections for …
removed: TK/now: 9/ Ivanka Trump gets booed and hissed at during a Berlin …
removed: TK/now: 10/ The US imposed sanctions on 271 employees of the Syrian …
removed: TK/now: 11/ Trump warns Canada over its import tax dairy tax: "We …
removed: TK/now: 12/ Trump slaps Canada with 20% tariffs on softwood lumber in …
removed: TK/now: 13/ State Department posts, then removes article promoting Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort. …
… political atmosphere" has played a role in the rise of now: actions ranging from bomb threats and cemetery desecration to assaults and bullying. (Reuters{:target="_blank"})
… raise concerns about the erosion of the value of expertise, now: and the rise of removed: pseudoscientific,now: pseudoscientific and anti-scientific notions. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
… Trump’s wall request. No House or Senate members that represent removed: the territorynow: territories on the southwest border have expressed support for Trump's $1.4 …
… Trump's former foreign policy adviser, and his 2016 trip further removed: stirnow: stirs the agency's interest in the businessman. It is unclear what …
… is weighing whether to bring criminal charges against members of removed: the WikiLeaks. Prosecutors are examining the 2010 leak of cables and …
… effort to overhaul the nation’s tax code. The announcement is removed: supposenow: supposed to come Wednesday. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
… Russian aircraft did not enter sovereign airspace, American and Canadian removed: fightersnow: fighter jets intercepted the two military aircraft flying around the north …
5/ Syria still has chemical weapons. Israeli defense officials estimate that Syria still has up to three tons of chemical weapons in its possession. Mattis says Syria has "dispersed their aircraft" in the wake of punitive US missile strikes. The implication is that Syria may be concerned about additional strikes. Moving its combat aircrafts will them less vulnerable to an …
After
9/ Trump’s lawyers have argued that anti-Trump protesters “have no right” to “express dissenting views” at his campaign rallies. Lawyers for Trump’s campaign say that his calls to remove the protesters were protected by the First Amendment. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
Before
6/ Trump’s lawyers have argued that anti-Trump protesters “have no right” to “express dissenting views” at his campaign rallies. Lawyers for Trump’s campaign say that his calls to remove the protesters were protected by the First Amendment. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
After
10/ Jeff Sessions makes arresting WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange a priority. WikiLeaks allegedly played an active role in helping Edward Snowden disclose a massive cache of classified documents he took from the NSA. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
Before
7/ Jeff Sessions makes arresting WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange a priority. WikiLeaks allegedly played an active role in helping Edward Snowden disclose a massive cache of classified documents he took from the NSA. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
After
11/ Georgia NAACP chief is suing the state for trying to block newly registered voters from taking part in a runoff election. Georgia law requires that individuals who vote in a runoff election must be registered to vote in the initial election. Election officials say that the June runoff is simply a continuation of the special election, so they don’t …
Before
8/ Georgia NAACP chief is suing the state for trying to block newly registered voters from taking part in a runoff election. Georgia law requires that individuals who vote in a runoff election must be registered to vote in the initial election. Election officials say that the June runoff is simply a continuation of the special election, so they don’t …
After
12/ Nearing the 100-day mark with limited accomplishments, Trump calls it a "ridiculous standard." Trump hits the 100-day mark at the end of the next week and has no major wins on Capitol Hill beyond Gorsuch. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
Before
9/ Nearing the 100-day mark with limited accomplishments, Trump calls it a "ridiculous standard." Trump’s hits the 100-day mark at the end of the next week and has no major wins on Capitol Hill beyond Gorsuch. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
After
The White House is desperate to demonstrate progress on Trump’s promise to repeal the Affordable Care Act. The Republicans are trying to resurrect the health care bill before his 100th day in office. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
Before
The White House is desperate to demonstrate progress on Trump’s promise to repeal the Affordable Care Act. They're Republicans to resurrect the health care bill before his 100th day in office. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
After
13/ At least 25 temporary political appointees are now getting permanent federal jobs with little or no public notice. In January, the Trump administration installed more than 400 political appointees across the federal government. Hiring rules allow them to have those positions for up to eight months. (ProPublica{:target="_blank"})
7/ now: The judge Trump denigrated for his Mexican heritage last year will hear deported DREAMer case. Trump claimed that US District Judge Gonzalo Curiel could not impartially hear a lawsuit against Trump University last year because of Curiel's background and Trump's own hardline immigration policies. Curiel will now oversee a lawsuit where a California resident was deported despite being approved for the Deferred Actions for Childhood Arrivals program, which provides protective status for undocumented immigrants brought to the country as children. (CNN{:target="_blank"}) 8/ Trump blows his own deadline for developing an anti-hacking now: plan within 90 days of taking office. Yesterday was the 90-day …
2/ Spicer argued that more public removed: disclosurenow: disclosures are unnecessary and harmful to Trump’s ability to govern. He … offer frank advice to the president and his top advisers. removed: There were already procedures in place to provide anonymity when needed. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
… a runoff between the top two finishers, on June 20th. removed: Democrat'snow: Democrats are hoping Jon Ossoff can pull off a major upset …
… picture was taken four days after Sean Spicer described the removed: warshipsnow: warship's mission in the Sea of Japan. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
… offer frank advice to the president and his top advisers. now: There were already procedures in place to provide anonymity when needed. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
5/ In an upcoming executive order, Trump will have the Department of Homeland Security review how H-1B visas are awarded. The agency will be instructed to suggest reforms to move away from the current lottery system and to a merit-based system so that visas only land in the hands of highly paid, specially skilled applicants. (Record{:target="_blank"})
After
5/ Georgia voting machines were stolen just days before the polls open for a special election. The Cobb County Elections waited two days to tell the Secretary of State about the theft of four ExpressPoll machines. (WSBTV{:target="_blank"})
Before
Trump's executive order is aimed at making it harder for technology companies to recruit low-wage workers from foreign countries and undercut Americans looking for jobs. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
After
6/ In an upcoming executive order, Trump will have the Department of Homeland Security review how H-1B visas are awarded. The agency will be instructed to suggest reforms to move away from the current lottery system and to a merit-based system so that visas only land in the hands of highly paid, specially skilled applicants. (Record{:target="_blank"})
Before
6/ The South Korea-US free trade agreement will be reviewed. Pence said the US trade deficit has more than doubled in the five years since the agreement began and there are too many barriers for US businesses in the country. (Reuters{:target="_blank"})
After
Trump's executive order is aimed at making it harder for technology companies to recruit low-wage workers from foreign countries and undercut Americans looking for jobs. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
Before
7/ Theresa May stunned the UK political world by calling for an early general election in order to strengthen her hand in Brexit negotiations. May became PM by default last year in the days after the Brexit vote and David Cameron’s resignation. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
After
7/ The South Korea-US free trade agreement will be reviewed. Pence said the US trade deficit has more than doubled in the five years since the agreement began and there are too many barriers for US businesses in the country. (Reuters{:target="_blank"})
Before
8/ Georgia voting machines were stolen just days before the polls open for a special election. The Cobb County Elections waited two days to tell the Secretary of State about the theft of four ExpressPoll machines. (WSBTV{:target="_blank"})
After
8/ Theresa May stunned the UK political world by calling for an early general election in order to strengthen her hand in Brexit negotiations. May became PM by default last year in the days after the Brexit vote and David Cameron’s resignation. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
… the Department of Homeland Security review how H-1B visas are removed: rewarded.now: awarded. The agency will be instructed to suggest reforms to move …
6/ The South Korea-US free trade agreement will be removed: reviewednow: reviewed. Pence said the US trade deficit has more than doubled …
… world by calling for an early general election in order now: to strengthen her hand in Brexit negotiations. May became PM by …
… Armed Forces of the United States in this region," the removed: vice presidentnow: Vice President warned. (NPR{:target="_blank"})
… changes to the Department of Justice. He's moved quickly to removed: rollednow: roll back protections for transgender students, rescinded plans to phase out …
… voters wonder when the "winning" will start. Many still trust removed: him,now: Trump, but wonder why his deal-making instincts don't translate. They admire …
9/ Trump's border wall could leave some Americans on the removed: "Meixcannow: "Mexican side." Technically residents living near the Rio Grande Valley would …
4/ Trump taunts Democratic candidate in Georgia special election. He called the 30-year-old candidate a "super Liberal Democrat" that is soft on crime and big on raising taxes. Many see the special election as an early referendum on his Trump's performance so far. (Fox News{:target="_blank"})
After
8/ Corporate America is uniting on climate change. While consumer brands and industrial giants have been supporting government action on climate change for years, the biggest and most important US energy companies are now dropping their resistance to a global climate deal. The consensus is the broadest it's been in a decade. (Axios{:target="_blank"})
Before
5/ Jeff Sessions has brought sweeping changes to the Department of Justice. He's moved quickly to rolled back protections for transgender students, rescinded plans to phase out the government’s use of private prisons, and is resurrecting the tough-on-crime policies. (The Hill{:target="_blank"})
After
9/ Trump's border wall could leave some Americans on the "Meixcan side." Technically residents living near the Rio Grande Valley would be on US soil, but outside of a barrier built north of the river separating the two countries. (NBC News{:target="_blank"})
Before
6/ Swing state voters wonder when the "winning" will start. Many still trust him, but wonder why his deal-making instincts don't translate. They admire his zeal, but are baffled by his tweets. They insist he will be fine, but suggest that maybe Pence should assume a more expansive role. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
After
10/ The EPA becomes a target after Trump asks manufacturers how to boost domestic manufacturing. Nearly half of the 168 recommendations submitted were aimed at the EPA. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
Before
7/ Corporate America is uniting on climate change. While consumer brands and industrial giants have been supporting government action on climate change for years, the biggest and most important US energy companies are now dropping their resistance to a global climate deal. The consensus is the broadest it's been in a decade. (Axios{:target="_blank"})
After
11/ Russian TV says Trump is more dangerous than Kim Jong-Un. The Kremlin’s top TV mouthpiece said “Trump is more impulsive and unpredictable than Kim Jong Un." (Bloomberg{:target="_blank"})
… he cannot be sued for inciting violence because, as the removed: presidentnow: President, he is immune from civil lawsuits. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
… West Wing is a place where the ground is always removed: shiftingnow: shifting, with the exception of Ivanka and Kushner. The amount of …
… released logs about about three months after visits occurred. Trump removed: had called has called Obama the "least transparent president." (Politico{:target="_blank"})
… Trump administration over it's order to withhold federal grants from removed: sanctuary cities.now: "sanctuary cities". (The Oregonian{:target="_blank"})
2/ The US dropped the largest non-nuclear bomb in removed: Afghanistanan.now: Afghanistan. The Massive Ordnance Air Blast Bomb – or MOAB – … 21,600-pound, GPS-guided munition with a one mile blast radius. (CNN{:target="_blank"}) now: Trump: I don’t know if using the "mother of all bombs" in Afghanistan will send a message to North Korea. He's not worried though, saying “the problem” with that country “will be taken care of,” regardless. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
7/ Scott Pruitt will receive around-the-clock security detail as the EPA budget shrinks by 31%. The proposed budget would double the agency’s infrastructure and operations staff as it gets slashed from $8.1 billion to $5.7 billion, eliminating a quarter of the agency’s 15,000 jobs. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
After
7/ Trump privately signed a bill aimed at cutting off federal funding to Planned Parenthood and other groups that perform abortions. The bill allows states to withhold federal money from organizations that provide abortion services, whether or not these facilities also provide other family planning and medical services. Planned Parenthood says 3% of the services it provides are abortions. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
Before
8/ On the same day that Paul Manafort left Trump’s campaign he borrowed $13 million from Trump-connected businesses. Manafort’s ties to Ukraine and Russia have come under scrutiny as federal officials investigate Russian meddling in the American presidential election. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
After
8/ Scott Pruitt will receive around-the-clock security detail as the EPA budget shrinks by 31%. The proposed budget would double the agency’s infrastructure and operations staff as it gets slashed from $8.1 billion to $5.7 billion, eliminating a quarter of the agency’s 15,000 jobs. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
Before
9/ Portland joins Seattle in suing the Trump administration over it's order to withhold federal grants from sanctuary cities. (The Oregonian{:target="_blank"})
After
9/ On the same day that Paul Manafort left Trump’s campaign he borrowed $13 million from Trump-connected businesses. Manafort’s ties to Ukraine and Russia have come under scrutiny as federal officials investigate Russian meddling in the American presidential election. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
2/ An airstrike by the American-led coalition fighting the Islamic State mistakenly killed 18 Syrian fighters allied with the US. The strike was the third time in a month that American-led airstrikes may have killed civilians or allies. The military called the episode “tragic." Central Command said the airstrike was "misdirected." (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
After
2/ The US dropped the largest non-nuclear bomb in Afghanistanan. The Massive Ordnance Air Blast Bomb – or MOAB – targeted an ISIS tunnel and cave complex. The bomb is more commonly known as the "mother of all bombs," since it's a 21,600-pound, GPS-guided munition with a one mile blast radius. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
Before
3/ Assad called the alleged chemical attack a "100 percent fabrication" in order to justify a US military strike. He denied any use of chemical weapons. Moscow said the deaths where the result of a conventional strike hitting a rebel arms depot containing "toxic substances". (Agence France Presse{:target="_blank"})
After
3/ An airstrike by the American-led coalition fighting the Islamic State mistakenly killed 18 Syrian fighters allied with the US. The strike was the third time in a month that American-led airstrikes may have killed civilians or allies. The military called the episode “tragic." Central Command said the airstrike was "misdirected." (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
… provided visitor log information despite FOIA requests. The groups are removed: askinnow: asking for the records of who is visiting the White House …
… race to fill Mike Pompeo's seat, which he gave up now: in order to head the CIA. The Republicans are up about a …
8/ North Korea issued a warning as the US now: Navy strike group removed: headsnow: headed toward the Korean Peninsula. The North said removed: isnow: it's "ready to react to any mode of war desired by the US" and will defend itself "by powerful force of arms." The removed: alsonow: North called the deployment of Navy ships a "reckless moves." (BBC{:target="_blank"})
… thoroughly." Putin likened the accusations to the flawed intelligence that removed: Bush’snow: the Bush administration used to justify the invasion of Iraq. (New York …
… caused Trump and Pence to record robocalls, and Ted Cruz now: to flew to Wichita for a rally. (Kansas City Star{:target="_blank"})
1/ The White House accused Russia of engaging in a cover-up of the chemical weapons attack in Syria. US intelligence confirmed that the Syrians used sarin gas on their own people. In a declassified four-page report, the White House asserted that the Syrian and Russian governments sought to confuse the world community about the assault through disinformation and “false narratives.” …
After
1/ Sean Spicer claimed Hitler "didn’t even sink to using chemical weapons." Instead he sent Jews to "the Holocaust centers." While emphasizing how serious the US takes Assad's use of sarin gas, Spicer – unprompted – said that even someone as despicable as Adolf Hitler didn't use chemical weapons. Hitler used gas chambers to killed millions of Jews. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
removed: 5/now: 6/ Republicans are sweating a surprisingly close Kansas congressional race to … sign of a backlash against Trump in the heartland. The removed: situationsnow: situation has caused Trump and Pence to record robocalls, and Ted Cruz removed: to flew to Wichita for a rally. (Kansas City Star{:target="_blank"})
removed: 6/now: 7/ North Korea issued a warning as the US strike group heads toward the Korean Peninsula. The North said removed: it is "ready to react to any mode of war desired …
… to expand offshore oil drilling, reversing an Obama-era policy that removed: restrictingnow: restricted the activity. The order is set to schedule the sale …
10/ The CIA had information last summer indicating that Russia was working to help elect Trump.
After
10/ The CIA had information last summer indicating that Russia was working to help elect Trump. The briefing revealed a split between the CIA and FBI, where officials believed that Russia’s cyberattacks were aimed only at disrupting America’s political system – not at getting Trump elected. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
Before
The briefing revealed a split between the CIA and FBI, where officials believed that Russia’s cyberattacks were aimed only at disrupting America’s political system – not at getting Trump elected. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
After
11/ Twitter sued the federal government to block the unmasking of an anonymous account that had been posting critical messages about the Trump administration. Twitter said it could not be compelled to disclose the account holder’s identity. The company argued that the government’s request and reasoning were unlawful, and that uncovering the identity of the user would have “a grave …
3/ Democratic senator holds floor in removed: 14now: 15 hour marathon speech criticizing Gorsuch. Democrats say Gorsuch is too …
Removed: > UPDATE:
Removed: >
Removed: >
Before
> UPDATE: > Trump: Chemical attacks in Syria “crossed many, many lines beyond a red line." He then criticized Obama for not taking military action in Syria – at the time Trump had publicly urged the president not to do so. (Politico{:target="_blank"}) >
After
11/ The Senate's most senior Republicans are split on the going “nuclear” and changing the rules to confirm Gorsuch. McConnell says the "nuclear option" helps the Senate, while McCain says "whoever says that is a stupid idiot." (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
2/ House Republicans rekindled health care talks. The White House and the Freedom Caucus discussed a proposal to revive the bill, which would cast aside the Affordable Care Act’s pre-existing conditions provision. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
After
House Republicans rekindled health care talks. The White House and the Freedom Caucus discussed a proposal to revive the bill, which would cast aside the Affordable Care Act’s pre-existing conditions provision. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"}) 2/ Assad apparently "gasses" civilians days after Tillerson suggested he could stay in power. In a series of airstrikes, helicopters dropped what is likely sarin gas in …
Before
8/ McCain ripped the Trump administration's decision to no longer prioritize ending the Syrian civil war. He called it "another disgraceful chapter in American history." The Trump administration has doubled down on prioritizing the fight against ISIS over ending the Syrian civil war and getting rid of Assad. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
After
8/ Trump urged investigators to scrutinize alleged spying on his transition team. Trump's administration is concerned about the Obama administration’s role in unmasking identities in intelligence reports. Trump is facing two congressional investigations into Russia’s alleged meddling in the election. The FBI is also conducting its own investigation. (Wall Street Journal{:target="_blank"}) Susan Rice may "be of interest to us" the …
Before
9/ Trump urged investigators to scrutinize alleged spying on his transition team. Trump's administration is concerned about the Obama administration’s role in unmasking identities in intelligence reports. Trump is facing two congressional investigations into Russia’s alleged meddling in the election. The FBI is also conducting its own investigation. (Wall Street Journal{:target="_blank"})
After
poll/ Trump approval rating plummets. 34% of Americans approve of Trump’s job performance. (The Hill{:target="_blank"})
Removed: 10/ California's Senate passes "sanctuary state" bill – gives middle finger to Trump. The bill limits state and local police cooperation in enforcing federal immigration laws in order to protect local immigrant populations. Jeff Sessions has said the administration will use federal funds to crack down on "sanctuary cities" and states that choose not to comply with federal immigration laws. …
1/ Democrats removed: are close tonow: secured the 41 votes needed removed: to block the nomination of Gorsuch. Mitch McConnell reiterated that he's prepared to kill the filibuster to get the high court nominee confirmed. (Politico{:target="_blank"}) > UPDATE: Democrats secured enough votes to filibuster Gorsuch, setting the stage for Senate Republicans to … option" – a unilateral rule change to eliminate the filibuster. now: Trump and the Republicans have vowed that Gorsuch will be confirmed despite any filibuster. (Washington removed: Post)now: Post{:target="_blank"})
2/ Trump says the US can "solve" North Korea's now: nuclear weapons testing program without the help of China. The assertion …
removed: 6/now: 8/ Jared Kushner flew to Iraq to get a first-hand assessment of counter-ISIS operations. removed: Kishnernow: Kushner was invited by the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of …
1/ Trump declared war on the House Freedom Caucus, tweeting "we must fight them” in the 2018 midterm elections. The group of hard-line conservative Republicans blocked the health care bill. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"}) {% twitter https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/847435163143454723 %} Ryan warned Republican holdouts they need to unify or risk Trump cutting a deal with Democrats. Republicans appear uncomfortable with the harsh new tone …
After
1/ Flynn offers to testify in exchange for immunity. The former national security adviser tells FBI, the House and Senate intelligence committees he’s willing to be interviewed in exchange for a grant of immunity from prosecution. (Wall Street Journal{:target="_blank"})
5/ North Carolina reached an agreement to repeal the restrictive now: transgender bathroom law. Gay rights advocates raised objections, arguing that the …
2/ The US won’t tally LGBT people in the 2020 census. A draft of subjects planned for the census initially had a proposal to include sexual orientation and gender identity for the first time. That inclusion was not listed in the finalized report delivered to Congress this week. (Huffington Post{:target="_blank"})
After
2/ The Senate Intelligence Committee has asked to question 20 people in its investigation into Russian interference in the election. The bipartisan composure contrasts the House Intelligence Committee, where Representative Devin Nunes ties to the Trump White House have raised doubts about his ability to conduct an impartial investigation. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
Before
3/ Neil Gorsuch looks short of the 60 votes needed to avoid a filibuster. This is as close to must-win as it gets for Trump and the GOP after last week's health care debacle and McConnell has guaranteed Gorsuch will be confirmed on April 7. If Democrats filibuster, McConnell will then need to whip 50 of his 52 members to …
After
Fiorina calls for an independent panel or special prosecutor to handle the Russia investigation. (The Hill{:target="_blank"}) Senate steps up as House Russia probe flails. The leaders of the Senate Intelligence Committee delivered a bipartisan show of force. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
Before
4/ Ivanka Trump will take an unpaid federal job as her father's assistant. She'll be moving from an informal, voluntary role to an official adviser. Her previous role raised ethics concerns, which would allow her to avoid some rules and disclosures. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
After
3/ The US won’t tally LGBT people in the 2020 census. A draft of subjects planned for the census initially had a proposal to include sexual orientation and gender identity for the first time. That inclusion was not listed in the finalized report delivered to Congress this week. (Huffington Post{:target="_blank"})
Before
5/ House GOP is weighing another vote on Obamacare. Paul Ryan is encouraging members to continue talking about how to “get to a place of yes” on health care. Members of Freedom Caucus have been talking with Republican moderate holdouts in an effort to identify changes that could bring them on board with the measure. (Bloomberg{:target="_blank"})
After
4/ Neil Gorsuch looks short of the 60 votes needed to avoid a filibuster. This is as close to must-win as it gets for Trump and the GOP after last week's health care debacle and McConnell has guaranteed Gorsuch will be confirmed on April 7. If Democrats filibuster, McConnell will then need to whip 50 of his 52 members to …
Before
6/ Theresa May triggers the official Brexit process in a letter to the EU. The move kicks off a two-year negotiation period for both sides to agree to the divorce and establish a new trade deal before the March 2019 deadline. (BBC{:target="_blank"})
After
5/ Ivanka Trump will take an unpaid federal job as her father's assistant. She'll be moving from an informal, voluntary role to an official adviser. Her previous role raised ethics concerns, which would allow her to avoid some rules and disclosures. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
Before
7/ DNC Chairman asks all staffers for their resignation letters in a major overhaul of the party's organization. The mass resignation letters will give Tom Perez a chance to completely remake the DNC's headquarters from scratch. (NBC News{:target="_blank"})
After
6/ House GOP is weighing another vote on Obamacare. Paul Ryan is encouraging members to continue talking about how to “get to a place of yes” on health care. Members of Freedom Caucus have been talking with Republican moderate holdouts in an effort to identify changes that could bring them on board with the measure. (Bloomberg{:target="_blank"})
Before
8/ Trump’s company pursues a second Washington hotel amid criticism over ethics. The second hotel would be under the new Scion brand and licensed by a developer from the Trumps. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
After
7/ Theresa May triggers the official Brexit process in a letter to the EU. The move kicks off a two-year negotiation period for both sides to agree to the divorce and establish a new trade deal before the March 2019 deadline. (BBC{:target="_blank"})
Before
9/ Police union warns Trump's "sanctuary city" cuts could risk safety. The Fraternal Order of Police were one of Trump's biggest supporters during the 2016 election. (Reuters{:target="_blank"})
After
8/ DNC Chairman asks all staffers for their resignation letters in a major overhaul of the party's organization. The mass resignation letters will give Tom Perez a chance to completely remake the DNC's headquarters from scratch. (NBC News{:target="_blank"})
Before
10/ Sean Spicer lashes out at a reporter: "Stop shaking your head." Spicer snapped at the American Urban Radio Networks' correspondent April Ryan after she asked how Trump's administration would work to repair its image. (NBC News{:target="_blank"})
After
9/ Trump’s company pursues a second Washington hotel amid criticism over ethics. The second hotel would be under the new Scion brand and licensed by a developer from the Trumps. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
4/ Theresa May triggers the official Brexit process in a letter to the EU. The move kicks off a two-year negotiation period for both sides to agree to the divorce and establish a new trade deal before the March 2019 deadline. (BBC{:target="_blank"})
After
4/ Ivanka Trump will take an unpaid federal job as her father's assistant. She'll be moving from an informal, voluntary role to an official adviser. Her previous role raised ethics concerns, which would allow her to avoid some rules and disclosures. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
Before
5/ DNC Chairman asks all staffers for their resignation letters in a major overhaul of the party's organization. The mass resignation letters will give Tom Perez a chance to completely remake the DNC's headquarters from scratch. (NBC News{:target="_blank"})
After
5/ House GOP is weighing another vote on Obamacare. Paul Ryan is encouraging members to continue talking about how to “get to a place of yes” on health care. Members of Freedom Caucus have been talking with Republican moderate holdouts in an effort to identify changes that could bring them on board with the measure. (Bloomberg{:target="_blank"})
Before
6/ Trump’s company pursues a second Washington hotel amid criticism over ethics. The second hotel would be under the new Scion brand and licensed by a developer from the Trumps. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
After
6/ Theresa May triggers the official Brexit process in a letter to the EU. The move kicks off a two-year negotiation period for both sides to agree to the divorce and establish a new trade deal before the March 2019 deadline. (BBC{:target="_blank"})
Before
7/ Police union warns Trump's "sanctuary city" cuts could risk safety. The Fraternal Order of Police were one of Trump's biggest supporters during the 2016 election. (Reuters{:target="_blank"})
After
7/ DNC Chairman asks all staffers for their resignation letters in a major overhaul of the party's organization. The mass resignation letters will give Tom Perez a chance to completely remake the DNC's headquarters from scratch. (NBC News{:target="_blank"})
Before
8/ Sean Spicer lashes out at a reporter: "Stop shaking your head." Spicer snapped at the American Urban Radio Networks' correspondent April Ryan after she asked how Trump's administration would work to repair its image. (NBC News{:target="_blank"})
After
8/ Trump’s company pursues a second Washington hotel amid criticism over ethics. The second hotel would be under the new Scion brand and licensed by a developer from the Trumps. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
… for Trump and the GOP after last week's health care removed: debacle. Republicans are desperate for a winnow: debacle and McConnell has guaranteed Gorsuch will be confirmed on removed: Gorsuch.now: April 7. If Democrats filibuster, McConnell will then need to whip 50 of his 52 members to change the rules unilaterally to end the filibuster by simple majority and allow Gorsuch’s confirmation. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
… House Intelligence Committee, making it difficult for him to remain removed: credibile.now: credible. The committee has scrapped all meetings this week amid the …
Despite Trump's move to ease carbon removed: emmissions,now: emissions, companies will continue to shift from coal. Energy experts say …
… his wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. Trump's hoping to jump-start removed: constructurenow: construction with money in a must-pass government funding bill. Democratic leaders …
… recuse himself in Russia probe. Pelosi and Schiff both say removed: Nunes'now: Nunes is too close to the White House to lead a … Committee, making it difficult for him to remain credibile. The removed: Committeenow: committee has scrapped all meetings this week amid the turmoil. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
… pattern used in money laundering. The former Trump campaign manager removed: ifnow: is also facing multiple investigations for his political and financial ties …
3/ Trump removed: to signnow: signs an removed: order dismantling Obama's efforts to reverse climate change. The order will suspend, rescind, or flag for review more than a half-dozen measures in an effort to boost domestic energy production in the form of fossil fuels. Trump has called global warming a "hoax" invented by the Chinese. (Associated Press{:target="_blank"}) > UPDATE: > Trump signs executive order removed: unwindingnow: to dismantle Obama's climate removed: policies, celebratingnow: change policies. Trump celebrated the move as a way to promote energy independence and removed: to restore thousands of lost coal industry jobs. The executive order … withdrawing and rewriting the Clean Power Plan. (New York Times{:target="_blank"}) removed: >
8/ The White House is asking Congress to cut $18 billion on everything from education to mental health programs. The cut would help pay for Trump’s military supplemental request, the proposed border wall, and the rest absorbed to help prevent a government shutdown. (Politico{:target="_blank"}
After
8/ The White House is asking Congress to cut $18 billion on everything from education to mental health programs. The cut would help pay for Trump’s military supplemental request, the proposed border wall, and the rest absorbed to help prevent a government shutdown. (Politico{:target="_blank"}) 9/ House Republicans and the White House have restarted negotiations on legislation to repeal the Affordable …
… Nunes went off the grid to view dozens of intelligence removed: reportst henow: reports the night before announcing that the "intelligence community incidentally collected information …
1/ Kushner to removed: meet withnow: testify before the Senate Intelligence Committee as part of their inquiry into ties between Trump and Russia. The Committee wants to question Kushner about now: previously undisclosed meetings he arranged with the Russian ambassador Sergey I. Kislyak. …
Before
2/ Trump taps Kushner to lead a new White House office aimed at fixing government using business ideas. The White House Office of American Innovation will operate as its own power center within the West Wing and will report directly to Trump. The office will be staffed by former business executives and is designed to infuse fresh thinking into Washington …
After
2/ Nunes says he was on White House grounds the day before revealing Trump surveillance information. He was not in the White House itself that day and nobody from the White House even knew he was there. Nunes said he went to the White House grounds for additional meetings "to confirm what I already knew" and needed a secure area …
Before
3/ Republicans set their sights on tax reform after the bruising collapse of their health care plan. The failure also makes the tax overhaul more politically complex. If Republicans use a procedure called budget reconciliation to have the Senate pass tax legislation with a simple majority, their plans cannot add to deficits over a period of 10 years. Eliminating the …
After
Devin Nunes explains his White House visit. Nunes went off the grid to view dozens of intelligence reportst he night before announcing that the "intelligence community incidentally collected information about U.S. citizens involved in the Trump transition." After briefing reporters the next day, Nunes then went back to the White House to inform Trump. (Bloomberg{:target="_blank"})
Before
4/ Nunes says he was on White House grounds the day before revealing Trump surveillance information. He was not in the White House itself that day and nobody from the White House even knew he was there. Nunes said he went to the White House grounds for additional meetings "to confirm what I already knew" and needed a secure area …
After
3/ Democrats delay the vote on Supreme Court nominee Neil Gorsuch. At least 19 Democrats have come out in opposition to Gorsuch and Chuck Schumer has said that he will filibuster the nominee. Republicans hold 52 seats, which means they will need at least eight Democrats to vote with them to end the filibuster and send Gorsuch forward for a …
Before
5/ Stocks sank on worries that the Trump White House may not be able to help businesses as much as once thought. Many of the trends that have been in place since Election Day went into sharp reverse: The dollar's value sank against other currencies, as did bank stocks, while prices jumped for Treasury bonds. (ABC News{:target="_blank"})
After
4/ Trump taps Kushner to lead a new White House office aimed at fixing government using business ideas. The White House Office of American Innovation will operate as its own power center within the West Wing and will report directly to Trump. The office will be staffed by former business executives and is designed to infuse fresh thinking into Washington …
Before
6/ US economy expected to grow slower than Trump pledged. According to 50 economists, the economy will grow 2.3% this year and 2.5% in 2018. Those rates would be up from 2016's 1.6%, but below the 3% to 4% growth Trump has promised to bring through steep corporate and individual tax cuts and more spending on roads, airports and tunnels. …
After
5/ Republicans set their sights on tax reform after the bruising collapse of their health care plan. The failure also makes the tax overhaul more politically complex. If Republicans use a procedure called budget reconciliation to have the Senate pass tax legislation with a simple majority, their plans cannot add to deficits over a period of 10 years. Eliminating the …
Before
7/ Russians take to the streets in nationwide anti-government protest. The Kremlin dismissed the protests as "provocation" by anti-corruption activist Alexei Navalny. Thousands of Russians turned out to protest corruption under Putin. More than 1,000 people taken into custody by police. (NPR{:target="_blank"})
After
6/ Sessions says grants to be withheld from sanctuary cities. Compliance with federal immigration laws will be a prerequisite for states and localities that want to receive grants from the department’s Office of Justice Programs that provide billions of dollars in funding to help criminal justice programs across the country. (The Hill{:target="_blank"})
removed: 4/now: ~~4/ Trump handed Angela Merkel a bill for more than £300bn … required and then charged interest. (The Times and The Sunday removed: Times{:target="_blank"})now: Times{:target="_blank"})~~ Editor's note: Germany didn’t receive NATO invoice from Trump. There is no "debt account at NATO," says German government spokesman. ([Politico{:target="_blank"})]
2/ The White House is prepared to blame Paul Ryan if the health bill fails. In public, however, Trump said that Ryan shouldn’t lose his job if the bill goes down. (Bloomberg{:target="_blank"})
After
2/ Trump blames Democrats for his health care defeat and predicted that they would seek a deal within a year after “Obamacare explodes” because of high premiums. Trump and Stephen Bannon demanded to see a confidential whip count list compiled to exact revenge on the the bill’s Republican opponents. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
1/ Ryan lacks enough votes for the health care bill as Republicans mutiny. Ryan rushed to the White House to inform Trump he did not have the votes to pass legislation to repeal the Affordable Care Act. If the bill does not pass, it would represent multiple failures for Trump and the Republican Congress. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
After
1/ House leaders pull Obamacare repeal bill. A slew of late-breaking defections by Republicans were unbowed by Trump's ultimatum to vote for the plan or live with Obamacare. House Republican leaders abruptly pull the bill moments before the vote was due to begin. The House is now holding an emergency GOP caucus meeting. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
Removed: Obamacare repeal vote too close to call. Trump's gambit is simple: dare the Freedom Caucus to vote against the best chance they've ever had to repeal Obamacare or leave it in place. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
1/ After Trump’s ultimatum, some GOP lawmakers change stance on the health care bill. It's unclear whether Trump and Paul Ryan have the votes to get the package through the House. At least three lawmakers who had previously pledged to vote against the bill have changed their minds. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
After
1/ Ryan lacks enough votes for the health care bill as Republicans mutiny. Ryan rushed to the White House to inform Trump he did not have the votes to pass legislation to repeal the Affordable Care Act. If the bill does not pass, it would represent multiple failures for Trump and the Republican Congress. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
… Ivanka to... stand for women." Planned Parenthood's president called on removed: Ivanknow: Ivanka to step into the debate over the Republican health care …
removed: 2/now: 3/ Latest House GOP health care bill would still cause 24 million more Americans to be uninsured. The CBO analysis says the newest plan would reduce savings in federal spending by half as much as the original legislation, but would leave just as many uninsured by 2026. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"}) 4/ Trump's now: health care repeal concessions to now: the House likely wouldn't pass in the Senate. Democrats in the …
Before
5/ Nunes apologizes after going directly to White House with monitoring claims. Schiff blasted Nunes for briefing the White House on his claims before telling his own committee. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
After
7/ In a step toward "extreme vetting," Trump orders new security checks on people seeking visas for family, business or tourism reasons. Diplomatic cables sent from Rex Tillerson to all American embassies instructed consular officials to broadly increase scrutiny. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
removed: 7//now: 9/ Senate Republicans vote to gut privacy rules that require internet …
1/ The Freedom Caucus is closing in on a deal to rewrite the health care bill at the 11th hour. The group is negotiating directly with Trump and the White House on an amendment to the bill, cutting out GOP leadership from the conversation as Paul Ryan and his deputies work to corral votes for a bill that is, in …
After
1/ GOP health care plan in doubt after Freedom Caucus rebuffs White House offer to strip a key set of mandates. Ryan can only lose 21 Republican votes. 37 Republicans say they will vote against the bill as it now stands. The only existing mandates conservatives are open to preserving are ones that bar insurers from denying coverage based on …
Before
2/ Trump struggles to win votes on Obamacare repeal. Trump and Ryan need strong support from their side of the aisle and can only afford to lose 21 Republican votes. (Reuters{:target="_blank"})
After
The Freedom Caucus is closing in on a deal to rewrite the health care bill at the 11th hour. The group is negotiating directly with Trump and the White House on an amendment to the bill, cutting out GOP leadership from the conversation as Paul Ryan and his deputies work to corral votes for a bill that is, in these …
6/ Members of the Trump transition team were under now: inadvertent surveillance removed: by the Obama administration following the election. House Intelligence Chairman Devin Nunes said the …
1/ Paul Manafort, Trump's former campaign chairman, secretly worked for a Russian billionaire to advance the interests of Putin a decade ago. He proposed a political strategy to undermine anti-Russian opposition across the former Soviet republics, contradicting assertions by the Trump administration and Manafort himself that he never worked for Russian interests. (Associated Press{:target="_blank"})
After
1/ Trump associates may have coordinated with Russians to release of information damaging the Clinton campaign. One official said the information suggests the "people connected to the campaign were in contact and it appeared they were giving the thumbs up to release information when it was ready." (CNN{:target="_blank"})
Before
2/ Trump and House GOP leaders lack the votes needed to pass the Obamacare repeal. More than 25 Freedom Caucus members are threatening to derail the legislation, saying the latest revisions don’t go far enough. It only takes 22 GOP lawmakers to block the bill. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
After
2/ Paul Manafort, Trump's former campaign chairman, secretly worked for a Russian billionaire to advance the interests of Putin a decade ago. He proposed a political strategy to undermine anti-Russian opposition across the former Soviet republics, contradicting assertions by the Trump administration and Manafort himself that he never worked for Russian interests. (Associated Press{:target="_blank"})
Before
3/ Schumer calls for delaying Gorsuch vote because of the Trump-Russia probe. While his demand is unlikely to gain traction with Senate GOP leaders, the move illustrates a strategy of using the stain of an FBI probe to undercut the rest of Trump’s agenda. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
After
3/ Trump and House GOP leaders lack the votes needed to pass the Obamacare repeal. More than 25 Freedom Caucus members are threatening to derail the legislation, saying the latest revisions don’t go far enough. It only takes 22 GOP lawmakers to block the bill. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
… Trump transition team were under surveillance by the Obama administration removed: follingnow: following the election. House Intelligence Chairman Devin Nunes said the surveillance …
… leaders lack the votes needed to pass the Obamacare repeal. removed: Conservative hard-liners from the Housenow: More than 25 Freedom Caucus now: members are threatening to derail the legislation, saying the latest revisions don’t go far enough. now: It only takes 22 GOP lawmakers to block the bill. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
Before
3/ "I’ll criticize judges," Trump says, hours after Gorsuch said he'd rule against Trump if the law required it. “When anyone criticizes the honesty or integrity or motives of a federal judge,” Gorsuch said at his confirmation hearing, “I find that disheartening and demoralizing.” Trump called out a federal court judge in Hawaii who placed a stay on his second …
After
3/ Schumer calls for delaying Gorsuch vote because of the Trump-Russia probe. While his demand is unlikely to gain traction with Senate GOP leaders, the move illustrates a strategy of using the stain of an FBI probe to undercut the rest of Trump’s agenda. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
Before
4/ Schumer calls for delaying Gorsuch vote because of the Trump-Russia probe. While his demand is unlikely to gain traction with Senate GOP leaders, the move illustrates a strategy of using the stain of an FBI probe to undercut the rest of Trump’s agenda. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
After
4/ While Gorsuch was testifying, the Supreme Court unanimously overturned his ruling on providing students with disabilities with an education. Gorsuch's 2008 opinion said school districts simply had to provide disabled students with a little more than nothing, rather than a free and "appropriate public education." All eight justices said Gorsuch 2008's opinion was wrong and that public school instruction …
Before
5/ Former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn didn’t sign Trump’s ethics pledge. The pledge barred federal appointees from lobbying their former colleagues for five years after leaving the administration and banned them from lobbying on behalf of foreign governments for life. (The Daily Beast{:target="_blank"})
After
"I’ll criticize judges," Trump says, hours after Gorsuch said he'd rule against Trump if the law required it. “When anyone criticizes the honesty or integrity or motives of a federal judge,” Gorsuch said at his confirmation hearing, “I find that disheartening and demoralizing.” Trump called out a federal court judge in Hawaii who placed a stay on his second travel …
Before
6/ North Korea has no fear of U.S. sanctions move and will pursue "acceleration" of its nuclear and missile programs. This includes developing a "pre-emptive first strike capability" and an inter-continental ballistic missile. (Reuters{:target="_blank"})
After
5/ Members of the Trump transition team were under surveillance by the Obama administration folling the election. House Intelligence Chairman Devin Nunes said the surveillance appears to have been legal, incidental collection and that it does not appear to have been related to concerns over collusion with Russia. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
Before
7/ The White House is preparing to dismantle Obama’s climate change policy. Trump will order Scott Pruitt, EPA chief, to withdraw and rewrite a set of Obama-era regulations known as the Clean Power Plan, which was devised to shut down hundreds of heavily polluting coal-fired power plants and freeze construction of new coal plants, while replacing them with vast wind …
After
6/ Former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn didn’t sign Trump’s ethics pledge. The pledge barred federal appointees from lobbying their former colleagues for five years after leaving the administration and banned them from lobbying on behalf of foreign governments for life. (The Daily Beast{:target="_blank"})
Before
8/ Trump signs NASA bill aimed at sending people to Mars. The bill authorized $19.5 billion in funding to support NASA's long-term goal of sending humans to Mars by the 2030s. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
After
7/ North Korea has no fear of U.S. sanctions move and will pursue "acceleration" of its nuclear and missile programs. This includes developing a "pre-emptive first strike capability" and an inter-continental ballistic missile. (Reuters{:target="_blank"})
… larger investigation into whether Russia meddled in the 2016 U.S. removed: election.now: election, but sees “no information” to support wiretapping claim. (Politico{:target="_blank"}) now: Comey says Russia wanted to hurt US and Clinton, and help Trump. "They wanted to hurt our democracy, hurt her, help him. I think all three we were confident in at least as early as December," Comey said. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
… shadow government of political appointees is tasked with monitoring the removed: loyalty secretaries' loyalty to Trump. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
1/ The White House apologizes to the British government over Spicer's spying claims that a UK intelligence agency wiretapped Trump Tower. Britain has received assurances that claims won't be repeated. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
After
1/ Trump offers no apology for claim on British spying. Trump has stuck by his unsubstantiated assertion that Obama ordered his telephone tapped last year despite across-the-board denials and wryly used Merkel’s visit to repeat his contention that the White House had nothing to retract or apologize for. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
… Korea to freeze its nuclear and missile programs and said removed: fornow: that the Trump administration might be forced to take pre-emptive action …
6/ The GOP health care bill advances despite opposition from removed: conservatives three conservatives on the panel. The budget panel passed the …
8/ Tillerson promises new policy on North Korea after "20 years of a failed approach." China is expected to present a plan to cool North Korea tensions and suspend its ballistic missile tests and nuclear activities. The United States and South Korea would also halt their large-scale military exercises that annually antagonize Pyongyang. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
After
11/ Moscow paid $45,000 for Flynn’s 2015 talk at RT's 10th anniversary party. RT is the Russian state-owned television network described by U.S. intelligence officials as “the Kremlin’s principal international propaganda outlet." (Yahoo News{:target="_blank"})
Before
9/ Trump wants $4.1 billion for border wall. Republicans are showing increasing reluctance to build a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border, as Trump prepares to ask Congress to include billions for one of his signature campaign promises in his first budget proposal since taking office. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
After
Flynn worked for several Russian companies and was paid more than $50,000 shortly before he became a formal adviser to the then-candidate. (Wall Street Journal{:target="_blank"}) Flynn collected nearly $68,000 in fees and expenses from Russia-related entities in 2015, a higher amount than was previously known. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
3/ The FBI was investigating former Trump national security advisor Michael Flynn as recently as December. It remains unknown when the FBI first started investigating Flynn and whether the probe has since been closed. (BuzzFeed News{:target="_blank"})
After
GOP Senators say house health bill won’t pass without fundamental changes as concerns mount that millions would be uninsured. (Wall Street Journal{:target="_blank"})
Before
4/ Kaine expects FBI to announce White House-Russia investigation. Kaine stressed that the investigation must look into whether the highest office in the land is connected to Russia. (The Hill{:target="_blank"})
After
3/ Comey will testify on Russia investigation next week at a public House Intelligence Committee hearing. Separately, Comey will brief the two top senators on the Senate Judiciary Committee today. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
removed: 5/now: Kaine expects FBI to announce White House-Russia investigation. Kaine stressed that the investigation must look into whether the highest office in the land is connected to Russia. (The Hill{:target="_blank"}) Lindsey Graham on Trump wiretap claims: "If it's not true, …
Before
6/ Trump will reexamine fuel efficiency standards set in place during the Obama administration, opening the door for the regulations to potentially be reduced in the coming years. Trump will not take steps to revoke a waiver that allows California and a dozen other states to enforce emissions standards beyond those of the EPA. If those regulations remain intact, automakers …
After
4/ House Intelligence Chair says he doesn't believe Trump Tower was wiretapped. The top Democrat on the House committee, Adam Schiff, said he has seen "no evidence whatsoever" that supports Trump's claim that Obama tapped his phone at Trump Tower. (NPR{:target="_blank"})
1/ Trump and his wife Melania paid $5.3 million in regular federal income tax in 2005 – a rate of less than 4%. However, the Trumps paid an additional $31 million in the so-called “alternative minimum tax,” or AMT. Trump has previously called for the elimination of this tax. (The Daily Beast{:target="_blank"})
After
1/ Trump wrote off $100 million in business losses to reduce his federal taxes in 2005. Trump paid $38 million in federal income taxes on reported income of $150 million, an effective tax rate of 25%. By claiming losses from previous years, Trump was able to save tens of millions of dollars in taxes that he otherwise might have owed. …
1/ Trump and his wife Melania removed: payingnow: paid $5.3 million in regular federal income tax now: in 2005 – a rate of less than 4%. However, the Trumps …
1/ Secretary of State Rex Tillerson used an email alias to discuss climate change while he was CEO of Exxon Mobil. Tillerson used the account for "secure and expedited communications between select senior company officials and the former chairman for a broad range of business-related topics," after his primary account began receiving too many messages. (Bloomberg{:target="_blank"})
After
1/ White House tries to salvage GOP health-care proposal as criticism mounts. The White House has launched an intensive effort to salvage support for the Republican plan to revise the Affordable Care Act, even as a growing number of lawmakers weighed in against the proposal. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
Before
2/ Several states jointly sue to block Trump's revised travel ban. Washington, California, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, and Oregon asked a judge to stop Trump's revised temporary ban on refugees and travelers from taking effect. (Reuters{:target="_blank"})
After
Trump’s backing a healthcare plan that breaks his promises. Trump was clear both as a candidate and as president: No one would be left behind under his health care plan. But the CBO found Trump would break his promise — by a mile. (NBC News{:target="_blank"}) Trump said it could take several years for health insurance prices to start to drop …
Before
3/ DOJ asks for more time on inquiry into Trump wiretapping allegations after it failed to meet the House Intelligence Committee's deadline to turn over evidence. (ABC News{:target="_blank"})
After
2/ Rattled by CBO report, moderate Republicans turn against GOP bill. Republican leaders are struggling to unify conservative and moderate factions on health care. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
Before
4/ Trump gives CIA new authority to conduct drone strikes against suspected terrorists, changing the Obama administration’s policy of limiting the spy agency’s paramilitary role and reopening a turf war between the agency and the Pentagon. (Wall Street Journal{:target="_blank"})
After
Conservatives’ reaction to CBO report casts doubt on GOP health plan’s viability. Lawmakers continue to push back on healthcare plan, saying the bill doesn’t repeal Obamacare, doesn’t unite Republicans, and doesn’t bring down the cost of premiums. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"}) Republican Rep. Peter Roskam: GOP healthcare bill "very much a work in progress." Roskam voted for the plan just days ago …
Before
Trump’s backing a healthcare plan that breaks his promises. Trump was clear both as a candidate and as president: No one would be left behind under his health care plan. But the CBO found Trump would break his promise — by a mile. (NBC News{:target="_blank"})
After
Ted Cruz calls rising premiums "most troubling aspect" of CBO health care report. “This is not the mandate that we were elected to fulfill,” Cruz said. (Dallas News{:target="_blank"}) 4/ Secretary of State Rex Tillerson used an email alias to discuss climate change while he was CEO of Exxon Mobil. Tillerson used the account for "secure and expedited communications between select …
Before
6/ Conservatives’ reaction to CBO report casts doubt on GOP health plan’s viability. Lawmakers continue to push back on healthcare plan, saying the bill doesn’t repeal Obamacare, doesn’t unite Republicans, and doesn’t bring down the cost of premiums. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
After
7/ Trump gives CIA new authority to conduct drone strikes against suspected terrorists, changing the Obama administration’s policy of limiting the spy agency’s paramilitary role and reopening a turf war between the agency and the Pentagon. (Wall Street Journal{:target="_blank"})
Before
7/ Trump said it could take several years for health insurance prices to start to drop under the healthcare replacement plan he is promoting, creating a rocky transition period that could pose a risk for members of Congress up for re-election next year and Trump’s own bid for a second term in 2020. (Bloomberg{:target="_blank"})
After
8/ Breitbart turns up the heat on Paul Ryan, leaking audio of Ryan disavowing Trump. “I am not going to defend Donald Trump—not now, not in the future,” Ryan says in an October conference call intended for House Republican members. (Breitbart{:target="_blank"})
Before
8/ Breitbart turns up the heat on Paul Ryan, leaking audio of Ryan disavowing Trump. “I am not going to defend Donald Trump—not now, not in the future,” Ryan says in an October conference call intended for House Republican members. (Breitbart{:target="_blank"})
After
9/ Trump is set to sign a sweeping directive to dramatically shrink the role climate change plays in decisions across the government, ranging from appliance standards to pipeline approvals. Trump’s order also will compel a reconsideration of the government’s use of a metric known as the "social cost of carbon" that reflects the potential economic damage from climate change. (Bloomberg{:target="_blank"})
1/ Trump’s budget proposal is expected to create historic contraction in the federal workforce if enacted. The spending budget Trump is set to release this week will offer the clearest snapshot of his vision: a smaller government, less involved in regulating life in America, with private companies and states playing a much bigger role. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
After
1/ 24 million would lose insurance under the G.O.P. health bill within a decade, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office found. Democrats criticized Republicans for pushing the health care bill through two House committees last week before the Congressional Budget Office had weighed in, saying it was irresponsible to begin considering legislation without a firm grip on its potential costs and …
Before
2/ The House Intelligence panel wants wiretapping evidence today. Trump has not offered evidence to support his explosive wiretapping tweets, in which he compared the alleged wiretapping to the Watergate scandal. (NBC News{:target="_blank"})
After
Republicans may soon get a preview of the political price of health reform. The CBO will issue a report likely showing that millions of people may lose coverage under Republican health care legislation. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
Before
3/ House investigators on a Trump-Russia "collision course" as the top Republican on the intelligence committee was also on Trump's transition team. The lead Democrat is a fierce Trump critic. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
After
2/ Trump’s budget proposal is expected to create historic contraction in the federal workforce if enacted. The spending budget Trump is set to release this week will offer the clearest snapshot of his vision: a smaller government, less involved in regulating life in America, with private companies and states playing a much bigger role. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
… with constituents, raising numerous objections to the House bill. (Politico{:target="_blank"}) removed: 6/ Republicans may soon get a preview of the political price of health reform. The CBO will issue a report likely showing that millions of people may lose coverage under Republican health care legislation. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
removed: TK/now: 1/ "Nobody will be worse off financially" under the GOP health …
removed: TK/now: 2/ Here's how much millionaires would save under GOP Obamacare repeal …
removed: TK/now: 3/ Major health insurer backs GOP's Obamacare repeal bill. Anthem endorsed …
removed: TK/now: 4/ McCain to Trump: Retract wiretapping claim or prove it. The …
removed: TK/now: 5/ US attorney Bharara was fired after a standoff with Trump. …
removed: TK/now: 6/ Elizabeth Warren says Trump pushed out prosecutors to install "cronies." …
Before
TK/ Democrats may abandon the Russia inquiry if it is not "legitimate." The Republican-controlled panel may offer their best chance for scrutinizing links between people close to President Trump and Russian officials, but some House Intelligence Committee Democrats are warning that they may pull their support for the inquiry if it becomes mired in party-line politics. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
After
8/ 134 foreign policy experts denounce Trump's revised travel ban as just as damaging to the United States’ interests and reputation as his original order that halted refugees and froze travelers from predominantly Muslim countries. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
removed: TK/ 134 foreign policy experts denounce Trump's revised travel ban as just as damaging to the United States’ interests and reputation as his original order that halted refugees and froze travelers from predominantly Muslim countries. (New York Times{:target="_blank"}) TK/now: 9/ Trump associate plays down Twitter contact with Guccifer 2.0 -- …
… Breitbart was source of Trump's wiretaps claim. A staffer placed now: the story, published on Breitbart, into Trump's daily reading pile. The Breitbart article was a removed: story from Breitbart, which reprinted now: version of radio host Mark Levin's removed: thenow: on-air claim that Obama wiretapped Trump removed: Tower, which was then piece in Trump's daily reading pile.now: Tower. (Axios{:target="_blank"})
… the health care program. The GOP plan would instead leave now: it up to states -- and their budgets -- to decide whether now: or not to cover drug treatment and mental health services under Medicaid. …
12/ A bill moving through Congress removed: would letnow: could give employers removed: demandnow: access to workers’ genetic test results. The bill, HR 1313, was approved … all 22 Republicans supporting it and all 17 Democrats opposed. removed: It has been overshadowed bynow: Employers may provide insurance premium discounts to workers who take part in their companies’ voluntary wellness programs. Once enrolled, businesses are allowed to collect “information about the removed: debate over the House GOP proposal to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act.now: manifested disease or disorder of a family member” of participating employees. (STAT{:target="_blank"})
… and powerful/influential industry groups, like AARP and the American Hospital removed: Association.now: Association have voiced their opposition. (NBC News{:target="_blank"})
… nuclear development program — and it must do so quickly removed: andnow: following a round of provocative missile tests. (ABC News{:target="_blank"})
7/ Federal criminal probe being opened into WikiLeaks' publication of CIA documents. The FBI and CIA are coordinating an investigation into how the documents came into WikiLeaks' possession and whether they might have been leaked by an employee or contractor. The CIA is also trying to determine if there are other unpublished documents WikiLeaks may have. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
After
7/ Democrats trying to delay House GOP health care bill. Democrats are complaining that the hearings are taking place before the Congressional Budget Office has a chance to "score" the House legislation, a process that will provide answers on how much it will cost and how many people it will cover. Republicans are holding the line to block Democratic efforts …
… Morning America,” a spokeswoman, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, said President Trump removed: continuednow: continues to believe he was wiretapped by President Barack Obama. (New …
… order bans travelers from six Muslim-majority countries applying for visas. removed: Trump's newnow: Trump is preparing to sign a new executive order that imposes … for new visa seekers from six majority-Muslim nations. The nation’s removed: refugeenow: refugee program will also be suspended for 120 days, and it …
3/ Former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper denied any suggestion that Trump Tower communications were wiretapped before the election. Asked again whether there was a FISA Court order to monitor Trump Tower, Clapper said, "Not to my knowledge." (NBC News{:target="_blank"})
After
3/ Senator: Intel panel to look at alleged wiretap. Trump's unsubstantiated allegations that his predecessor ordered wiretaps of Trump Tower will become part of the committee's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. (ABC News{:target="_blank"})
Before
4/ Schumer: "The president is in trouble." The Senate minority leader said that Trump's Saturday morning allegations about Obama will be damaging to his presidency whether they are true or not and that "the president makes it worse with these tweets." (Politico{:target="_blank"})
After
4/ Former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper denied any suggestion that Trump Tower communications were wiretapped before the election. Asked again whether there was a FISA Court order to monitor Trump Tower, Clapper said, "Not to my knowledge." (NBC News{:target="_blank"})
Before
5/ Trump angry and frustrated at staff over Sessions fallout for stealing his thunder in the wake of his address to Congress. "Nobody has seen him that upset," one source said, adding the feeling was the communications team allowed the Sessions news, which the administration deemed a nonstory, to overtake the narrative. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
After
5/ Schumer: "The president is in trouble." The Senate minority leader said that Trump's Saturday morning allegations about Obama will be damaging to his presidency whether they are true or not and that "the president makes it worse with these tweets." (Politico{:target="_blank"})
… latest news reports connecting Russia with the new administration and removed: Jessnow: Jeff Sessions abrupt decision to recuse himself. Trump felt Sessions' recusal …
2/ The U.S. can’t effectively counter a nuclear threat from North Korea. Trump inherited a secret cyberwar against North Korean missiles designed to "manufacturing errors." The threats pose such a danger that Obama warned Trump that a nuclear threat would likely be his most urgent problem. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
After
2/ Trump went "ballistic" on his senior staff over the latest news reports connecting Russia with the new administration and Jess Sessions abrupt decision to recuse himself. Trump felt Sessions' recusal was unnecessary. (ABC News{:target="_blank"})
Before
3/ Sessions will submit amended testimony and address Senators’ questions over his contacts with Russia's ambassador last year. The offer came after all nine Democratic senators on the Senate Judiciary Committee in a letter asked the committee chairman to bring Sessions back for a follow-up hearing to explain his past testimony and recent decision to recuse himself from any investigation …
After
3/ The U.S. can’t effectively counter a nuclear threat from North Korea. Trump inherited a secret cyberwar against North Korean missiles designed to "manufacturing errors." The threats pose such a danger that Obama warned Trump that a nuclear threat would likely be his most urgent problem. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
Before
4/ A growing list of contacts between Trump associates and Russia is drawing increased scrutiny. Part of the problem underlying the disputed contact is Trump’s pugnacious style that leaves little room for nuance. At a news conference last month, he said that he had “nothing to do with Russia,” and that “to the best of my knowledge, no person that …
After
4/ Sessions will submit amended testimony and address Senators’ questions over his contacts with Russia's ambassador last year. The offer came after all nine Democratic senators on the Senate Judiciary Committee in a letter asked the committee chairman to bring Sessions back for a follow-up hearing to explain his past testimony and recent decision to recuse himself from any investigation …
Before
5/ The Trump administration will temporarily suspends expedited applications for H-1B visas. The H-1B non-immigrant visa allows U.S. companies to employ graduate-level workers in several specialized fields, including information technology, medicine, engineering and mathematics. (Reuters{:target="_blank"})
After
5/ A growing list of contacts between Trump associates and Russia is drawing increased scrutiny. Part of the problem underlying the disputed contact is Trump’s pugnacious style that leaves little room for nuance. At a news conference last month, he said that he had “nothing to do with Russia,” and that “to the best of my knowledge, no person that …
Before
6/ Keystone XL oil pipeline won't use US steel despite Trump's pledge. The executive order Trump signed to greenlight the project only applies to new pipelines or those under repair. Last week Trump said the Keystone and Dakota Access pipelines must use American steel "or we're not building one." (Fox News{:target="_blank"})
After
6/ The Trump administration will temporarily suspends expedited applications for H-1B visas. The H-1B non-immigrant visa allows U.S. companies to employ graduate-level workers in several specialized fields, including information technology, medicine, engineering and mathematics. (Reuters{:target="_blank"})
4/ Sessions used campaign funds for RNC trip, where he met Russian ambassador for "official" reasons. Records show the attorney general used campaign account for travel expenses to Cleveland, where he met the Russian envoy and spoke about Trump’s campaign at the event. (Wall Street Journal{:target="_blank"})
After
3/ The White House looks to slash the budget of NOAA by 17% The cuts to one of the government’s premier climate science agencies would reduce funding for research and satellite programs used for weather forecasts. The proposal would also eliminate funding for a variety of smaller programs, including external research, coastal management, estuary reserves and “coastal resilience,” which seeks …
Before
5/ Lawyers say Sessions could face legal ordeal over testimony if a special counsel takes over Trump-Russia probe even if he didn't commit perjury. "It is, at best, very misleading testimony," said Richard Painter, formerly the top ethics lawyer in President George W. Bush's White House. "I don't go so far as to say that it's perjury, but there is …
After
4/ Photo contradicts Pelosi's statement about not meeting Russian ambassador Kislyak. The Democratic House leader sat with the Russian ambassador in 2010. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
Before
8/ The GOP's bold prediction: Obamacare repeal will pass this month. Trump is reportedly on board, which suggests the House is poised to steamroll conservative opposition by daring their constituents to vote against an Obamacare repeal. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
After
> UPDATE: > New details in of the GOP Obamacare replacement leak. The latest plan still includes a new tax credits for individuals based on age, which hardline conservatives have derided as "Obamacare lite." (Politico{:target="_blank"}) >
… anti-gay attack: "You live in Trump country now." A man removed: drivingnow: on a now: rented scooter removed: strucknow: harrassed two men riding bicycles together in Key West, striking the back tire of removed: a North Carolina couple out riding bikes,now: one of the cyclists knocking removed: onenow: him to the ground. He accused them of voting for Clinton. …
… anti-gay attack: "You live in Trump country now." A man removed: onnow: driving a scooter removed: rode bumpednow: struck the back tire of a now: North Carolina couple now: out riding bikes, knocking one removed: over.now: to the ground. He accused them of voting for Clinton. He was then …
… Senate Democrats were dragging their heels on Trump’s Cabinet picks. removed: Butnow: Two of the main removed: problem isnow: problems are that Trump's pick for Secretary of Labor withdrew last removed: month, but also Trump’snow: month and his pick to run the Department of Agriculture hasn't been sent …
1/ Jeff Sessions recused himself from the Russia inquiry removed: andfromnow: and from any future investigation of Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential …
1/ Top Republicans call on Sessions to recuse himself from Russia investigation. Some Democrats have called on Sessions to resign and have demanded an independent investigation. The calls from two of the House’s most prominent Republicans follow revelations that Sessions met with the Russian ambassador during election season. Under oath in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee for his confirmation …
After
1/ Jeff Sessions recused himself from the Russia inquiry andfrom any future investigation of Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election. His conversations with the ambassador, Sergey Kislyak, came amid suspected Russian hacking directed at Clinton’s campaign. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
Before
> BACKGROUND: > Sessions met with Russians twice last year, but didn't disclose the encounters during his confirmation hearing when asked about possible contacts between members of Trump’s campaign and representatives of Moscow. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"}) >
After
2/ Republicans continue to stick with Trump despite news that Sessions had met with the Russian ambassador, contradicting testimony he had given under oath. Republicans are resisting calls for a special prosecutor or select congressional committee to review the matter. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"}) 3/ The top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee accused FBI Director James Comey of withholding information on …
Before
2/ Sessions: "I will recuse myself" if necessary. Sessions confirmed he met with the Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak before the presidential election in his capacity as a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee — not as a representative of the Trump campaign – and denied discussing the Trump campaign when he met with him. Kislyak is considered a top …
After
Former Trump adviser Carter Page also met with Russian envoy. Sergey Kislyak and Page spoke on the sidelines of the GOP convention last July. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
Before
3/ Trump taps Putin critic for senior White House position as Trump administration draws fire for contacts with Russian officials. (Foreign Policy{:target="_blank"})
After
5/ Pence used personal email for state business — and was hacked. As governor of Indiana, Pence communicated via his personal AOL account with top advisers on topics ranging from security gates at the governor’s residence to the state’s response to terror attacks across the globe. (USA Today{:target="_blank"})
Before
4/ Trump’s team nixed ethics course for White House staff that would have provided training on leadership, ethics and management. The program could have better prepared officials for working within existing laws and executive orders, and provided guidance on how to navigate Senate confirmation for nominees and political appointees, how to deal with congressional and media scrutiny, and how to …
After
New EPA head told Congress he never used personal email for government business. But it turns out he did. Senators are demanding a review of the personal email account of Scott Pruitt after he said during confirmation hearings that he never used that account for official business as Oklahoma state attorney general. The result of an Open Records Act lawsuit …
… the Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak before the presidential election in removed: thenow: his capacity as a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee … – and denied discussing the Trump campaign when he met removed: with.now: with him. Kislyak now: is considered a top spy and is the same person who …
… disagreements remain between Republican leaders and the party’s most conservative removed: members,now: members around the plan to replace the Affordable Care Act, particularly over the details of a proposed tax credit. (New …
… an office to serve American victims" of crimes committed by removed: immigrant.now: immigrants. The Victims of Immigration Crime Engagement (VOICE) would provide "a …
… called historically black colleges and universities “real pioneers” of school removed: choice backlash.now: choice. In a series of tweets, DeVos acknowledged that the schools …
… letter makes no mention of plans for disciplinary action. (CNN removed: Money{:target="_blank"})){:target="_blank"})now: Money{:target="_blank"})
poll/ removed: Two early polls: Trump’s speech was a hit with removed: viewers.now: viewers in two early polls. A CBS News/YouGov poll found 76% of viewers approved of …
removed: TK/now: 2/ DeVos backpedals on remarks about historically black colleges due to … country were not allowed into segregated white schools. (New York removed: Times{:target="_blank"})){:target="_blank"})now: Times{:target="_blank"})
6/ E.P.A. braces for a possibly “devastating" 25% budget cut. There is widespread concern within the E.P.A. that the changes will dramatically alter the function of an agency that was created under Republican President Richard Nixon in 1970, and will weaken the agency to the point where it can only do its most basic functions. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
After
9/ Sen. Lindsey Graham: Trump budget is "dead on arrival." Trump's proposing $54 billion in cuts to fund an equivalent boost in defense spending, but lacks key details but is already stoking bipartisan concern. (The Hill{:target="_blank"})
Before
9/ New NSC chief pushed Trump to moderate his language on terrorism, urging him to stop using the phrase "radical Islamic terrorism.” The phrase, however, will be in Trump's speech to a joint session of Congress tonight — even though McMaster reviewed drafts and his staff pressed the president's speechwriter not to use it. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
After
13/ Trump signed off on checking White House staffers’ phones to make certain they weren't communicating with reporters by text message or through encrypted apps. The decision sent a signal across the administration that Trump is furious at leaks from inside the White House. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
Before
10/ Trump signed off on checking White House staffers’ phones to make certain they weren't communicating with reporters by text message or through encrypted apps. The decision sent a signal across the administration that Trump is furious at leaks from inside the White House. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
After
14/ Trump appears to blame generals for SEAL's death in Yemen raid. Trump highlighted that the controversial raid in Yemen that left one Navy SEAL dead had been a a success, and in the works before he took office. He said “they lost” the SEAL — apparently in reference to the generals who planned the mission. (The Hill{:target="_blank"})
The Washington Post reported on the push removed: back{:target="_blank"})now: back{:target="_blank"} Friday with the article, "Trump administration sought to enlist intelligence …
8/ Trump's Justice Department is ending the government's opposition to a controversial voter ID law in Texas. For the last six years, the Justice Department has sided with the citizens and civil rights groups fighting Texas' voter ID law, which a federal judge at one point found to be intentionally discriminatory against black and Latino voters. (Talking Points Memo)
After
8/ Trump's Justice Department is ending the government's opposition to a controversial voter ID law in Texas. For the last six years, the Justice Department has sided with the citizens and civil rights groups fighting Texas' voter ID law, which a federal judge at one point found to be intentionally discriminatory against black and Latino voters. (Talking Points Memo{:target="_blank"}) 9/ …
… Spicer personally arranged CIA and GOP intelligence push-back in attempts now: to discredit a New York Times article{:target="_blank"} about alleged contacts between …
… GOP intelligence push-back in attempts discredit a New York Times removed: article{:target="_blank"})now: article{:target="_blank"} about alleged contacts between members of Trump’s campaign team and …
Rubio on skipping town halls: Activists will "heckle and scream at me." Rubio won’t participate in town hall meetings because he says political activists will crash them to create a media spectacle. (Politico{:target="_blank"}) 4/ Trump’s upcoming budget won’t touch entitlement programs such as Social Security or Medicare. The administration thinks tax cuts and regulatory relief will lead to a sharp …
4/ removed: Attorney Generalnow: Recently confirmed EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt used a private email for state business. The revelation is in direct conflict with removed: what Pruitt’snow: the former Oklahoma Attorney General's written and oral testimony before the Senate Environment and Public Works removed: Committee during the confirmation process.now: Committee. Pruitt told lawmakers he had never used private email for state removed: business.now: business in his confirmation process. (Fox 25 - KOKH{:target="_blank"})
… behind Russia’s interference in the 2016 election—and what lies ahead? removed: (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})now: (The New Yorker{:target="_blank"})
… business interests, or even with the tastes of the audience. removed: (Colombianow: (Columbia Journalism Review{:target="_blank"})
… York Times, the Los Angeles Times, Politico and BuzzFeed were removed: also excluded from the meeting, which is known as a gaggle … it. It was my decision to expand the pool." (CNN{:target="_blank"}) now: In December, Spicer said barring media access is what a "dictatorship" does. Today, he barred media access. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
Removed: 10/ He yelled "get out of my country," and then shot 2 men from India, killing one. A 51-year-old man faces first-degree murder charges after shooting three men in an Olathe, Kansas bar Wednesday night. He reportedly told two local Garmin engineers from India to “get out of my country.” Authorities would not classify the shooting as a hate crime, …
Before
11/ At the request of Kushner and Ivanka, language critical of a global climate deal was struck from an executive order that Trump plans to sign soon. The issue is aimed at rolling back Obama climate agenda. (Wall Street Journal{:target="_blank"})
After
12/ He yelled "get out of my country," and then shot 2 men from India, killing one. A 51-year-old man faces first-degree murder charges after shooting three men in an Olathe, Kansas bar Wednesday night. He reportedly told two local Garmin engineers from India to “get out of my country.” Authorities would not classify the shooting as a hate crime, …
Before
12/ Under fire, GOP congressman calls for Trump tax returns, but stopped short of saying Congress should subpoena those returns. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
After
13/ At the request of Kushner and Ivanka, language critical of a global climate deal was struck from an executive order that Trump plans to sign soon. The issue is aimed at rolling back Obama climate agenda. (Wall Street Journal{:target="_blank"})
Before
13/ Santa Cruz and federal agents in war of words over whether a gang sweep was really a secret immigration raid. The police chief accused Homeland Security officials of lying about the scope of the raids conducted jointly between his department and federal agents this month aimed at apprehending MS-13 gang members. (Los Angeles Times{:target="_blank"})
After
14/ Under fire, GOP congressman calls for Trump tax returns, but stopped short of saying Congress should subpoena those returns. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
Before
14/ White House confirms conversation with FBI about Trump and Russia. Reince Priebus, FBI director James Comey, and deputy director Andrew McCabe had a conversation which appears to violate justice department rules. (The Guardian{:target="_blank"})
After
15/ Santa Cruz and federal agents in war of words over whether a gang sweep was really a secret immigration raid. The police chief accused Homeland Security officials of lying about the scope of the raids conducted jointly between his department and federal agents this month aimed at apprehending MS-13 gang members. (Los Angeles Times{:target="_blank"})
Trump denounces FBI over leaks and demands an removed: investigration.now: investigation. Trump assailed the FBI as a dangerously porous agency, charging …
Removed: 1/ Trump to CPAC: "Now you finally have a president, finally." In a wide-ranging speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference, Trump blasted the media for its coverage of his administration and promised that the Republican Party would “be the party of the American worker.” Trump said that in a matter of days, he would have “brand new action” to …
Removed: Trump intensified his slashing attack on the news media at CPAC, reiterating his charge that “fake news” outlets are “the enemy of the people.” The opening portion of Trump's free-range, campaign-style speech centered on a declaration of war on the press — a new foil to replace vanquished political opponents like Hillary Clinton. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
9/ He yelled "get out of my country," and then shot 2 men from India, killing one. A 51-year-old man faces first-degree murder charges after shooting three men in an Olathe, Kansas bar Wednesday night. He reportedly told two local Garmin engineers from India to “get out of my country.” Authorities would not classify the shooting as a hate crime, …
After
12/ Under fire, GOP congressman calls for Trump tax returns, but stopped short of saying Congress should subpoena those returns. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
Before
10/ At the request of Kushner and Ivanka, language critical of a global climate deal was struck from an executive order that Trump plans to sign soon. The issue is aimed at rolling back Obama climate agenda. (Wall Street Journal{:target="_blank"})
After
13/ Santa Cruz and federal agents in war of words over whether a gang sweep was really a secret immigration raid. The police chief accused Homeland Security officials of lying about the scope of the raids conducted jointly between his department and federal agents this month aimed at apprehending MS-13 gang members. (Los Angeles Times{:target="_blank"})
Before
11/ Under fire, GOP congressman calls for Trump tax returns, but stopped short of saying Congress should subpoena those returns. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
After
14/ White House confirms conversation with FBI about Trump and Russia. Reince Priebus, FBI director James Comey, and deputy director Andrew McCabe had a conversation which appears to violate justice department rules. (The Guardian{:target="_blank"})
Before
12/ Santa Cruz and federal agents in war of words over whether a gang sweep was really a secret immigration raid. The police chief accused Homeland Security officials of lying about the scope of the raids conducted jointly between his department and federal agents this month aimed at apprehending MS-13 gang members. (Los Angeles Times{:target="_blank"})
After
15/ Republican lawmakers introduce bills to curb protesting in at least 18 states in what civil liberties experts are calling “an attack on protest rights throughout the states.” None of the proposed legislation has yet been passed into law, and several bills have already been shelved in committee. Critics doubt whether many of the laws would pass Constitutional muster. (Washington …
14/ Air Force removed: Stumpednow: stumped by removed: Trump's Claimnow: Trump’s claim of $1 removed: Billion Savingsnow: billion in savings on removed: Jet.now: jet. Trump has boasted that he’s personally intervened to cut costs …
2/ Trump touts recent immigration raids, calling them a "military removed: operation", saying his effortsnow: operation". The effort to ramp up deportations are aimed at ridding the U.S. …
removed: T3/now: 13/ Ivanka and Kushner publicly silent as White House rolls back …
1/ Tillerson and Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly head to Mexico amid deep strains in bilateral ties in what is expected to be the first in a series of high-level meetings focusing on drug trafficking, trade and immigration. Twin threats hang over the frayed relationship between the two nations: Trump’s new orders to round up and deport immigrants who are …
After
1/ The FBI rejected a White House request to publicly knock down media reports about communications between Trump's associates and Russians during the 2016 presidential campaign. Comey rejected the request for the FBI to comment on the stories, because the alleged communications between Trump associates and Russians known to US intelligence are the subject of an ongoing investigation. The White …
Before
Mexico’s foreign minister drew a sharp line against “unilateral” U.S. immigration policies before the top-level Trump administration team could cool tensions that threaten to derail trade and other agreements. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
After
Paul Manafort faced blackmail attempt while he was Trump’s campaign chairman last summer. Stolen text messages from his daughter's phone appear to be threats to expose relations between Russia-friendly forces, Trump, and Manafort. Manafort confirmed the authenticity of the texts and added that, before the texts were sent to his daughter, he had received similar texts to his own phone …
Before
2/ Trump has largely benched the State Department from its long-standing role as the preeminent voice of U.S. foreign policy, curtailing public engagement and official travel and relegating Secretary of State Rex Tillerson to a mostly offstage role. Tillerson has also been notably absent from White House meetings with foreign leaders. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
After
4/ Trump wants to make sure U.S. nuclear arsenal at "top of the pack", saying the United States has fallen behind in its weapons capacity. Trump said in the interview he would like to see a world with no nuclear weapons but expressed concern that the United States has "fallen behind on nuclear weapon capacity." (Reuters{:target="_blank"})
removed: 3/ White House punts new travel order to next week. No …
removed: 8/now: 11/ Trump's plan to hire 15,000 border patrol and ICE agents won't be easy. The removed: time time to recruit and hire Border Agents, administer medical exams …
Removed: 9/ House Republicans plan to derail a Democratic resolution that would force disclosure of Trump's potential ties with Russia and any possible business conflicts of interest. Democrats have blasted Trump for failing to make a clean break from his real estate empire, accusing him of being vulnerable to conflicts of interest. They also are suspicious of his campaign’s relationship with …
Before
10/ Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin says he won't designate China a currency manipulator... yet. Mnuchin wants to use a regular review of foreign-exchange markets to determine if the U.S.’s largest trading partner is cheating. The decision contradicts a pledge by then-candidate Trump to direct his Treasury secretary to name China a manipulator on the first day of his administration. (Bloomberg{:target="_blank"})
After
T3/ Ivanka and Kushner publicly silent as White House rolls back transgender protections. The couple is seen as a moderating force on social issues, but transgender allies want them to take a stand as the new administration rolls back Obama-era policies on school bathrooms. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
Removed: 11/ Paul Manafort faced blackmail attempt while he was Trump’s campaign chairman last summer. Stolen text messages from his daughter's phone appear to be threats to expose relations between Russia-friendly forces, Trump, and Manafort. Manafort confirmed the authenticity of the texts and added that, before the texts were sent to his daughter, he had received similar texts to his own …
… House Republicans plan to derail a Democratic resolution that would removed: have forcednow: force disclosure of Trump's potential ties with Russia and any possible …
… it to pay for a border wall instead. (New York removed: Timesnow: Times{:target="_blank"})
Removed: Mexico’s foreign minister drew a sharp line against “unilateral” U.S. immigration policies before the top-level Trump administration team could cool tensions that threaten to derail trade and other agreements. (Washington Post
Before
2/ Trump has largely benched the State Department from its long-standing role as the preeminent voice of U.S. foreign policy, curtailing public engagement and official travel and relegating Secretary of State Rex Tillerson to a mostly offstage role. Tillerson has also been notably absent from White House meetings with foreign leaders. (Washington Post
After
Mexico’s foreign minister drew a sharp line against “unilateral” U.S. immigration policies before the top-level Trump administration team could cool tensions that threaten to derail trade and other agreements. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
Removed: Tillerson looking for ways to raise his public profile. The secretary of state's lack of visibility has worried diplomats who fear it suggests Tillerson may lack sway with Trump. (Politico
Before
3/ White House punts new travel order to next week. No explanation was given for the delay, and it remains unclear how the White House will tweak the travel ban to avoid future legal pitfalls. (The Hill
After
2/ Trump has largely benched the State Department from its long-standing role as the preeminent voice of U.S. foreign policy, curtailing public engagement and official travel and relegating Secretary of State Rex Tillerson to a mostly offstage role. Tillerson has also been notably absent from White House meetings with foreign leaders. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
Removed: 4/ Repeal of Obamacare face obstacles in House, not just the Senate. Conservative Republicans are pushing for a fast repeal with only a bare-bones replacement plan, but moderates are interested in coming up with a clear and robust plan. It's becoming increasingly likely that a consensus in the House may be just as hard to reach. (New York Times
Before
John Boehner: a full repeal and replace of Obamacare is “not going to happen.” He said changes to former President Barack Obama’s signature legislative achievement would likely be relatively modest. (Politico
After
Tillerson looking for ways to raise his public profile. The secretary of state's lack of visibility has worried diplomats who fear it suggests Tillerson may lack sway with Trump. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
Removed: 5/ Protests break out after an off-duty LAPD officer fired his gun in a scuffle with teens. No one was shot. The officer detained a 13-year-old boy after he allegedly threatened to shoot him. The officer has been placed on administrative leave while the Force Investigation Division conducts an investigation to "determine whether the use of deadly force complied with …
Before
6/ New research suggests that private school vouchers may harm students who receive them. Voucher advocates often cite poor test scores in public schools to justify creating private school vouchers in the first place. The new evidence on vouchers does not seem to have deterred the Trump administration, which has proposed a new $20 billion voucher program. Secretary DeVos’s enthusiasm …
After
3/ White House punts new travel order to next week. No explanation was given for the delay, and it remains unclear how the White House will tweak the travel ban to avoid future legal pitfalls. (The Hill{:target="_blank"})
Removed: 7/ McCain made a secret trip to Syria to meet with U.S. troops and Kurdish fighters amid their longstanding battle to defeat ISIS. The trip comes as Trump administration continues to re-evaluate the U.S. plan to defeat ISIS. On the campaign trail, Trump frequently criticized Obama's policy to defeat the group, which controls territory in both Syria and neighboring Iraq. …
Before
Iraqi forces storm Mosul airport in a push to recapture the city from Islamic State. The advance into the airport will allow Iraqi troops to launch operations into the fortified western suburbs, where several thousand of Isis’s most seasoned fighters have prepared defences. (The Guardian
After
4/ Repeal of Obamacare face obstacles in House, not just the Senate. Conservative Republicans are pushing for a fast repeal with only a bare-bones replacement plan, but moderates are interested in coming up with a clear and robust plan. It's becoming increasingly likely that a consensus in the House may be just as hard to reach. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
Removed: 8/ Trump's plan to hire 15,000 border patrol and ICE agents won't be easy. The time time to recruit and hire Border Agents, administer medical exams and drug screening, polygraph tests, fitness tests, and training could take a year or more to bring a new agent on board. Customs and Border Protection has also had a problem retaining Border Patrol …
Before
Arizona Senate votes to seize assets of those who plan, participate in protests that turn violent. The bill expands the state’s racketeering laws to include rioting and redefines it to include actions that result in damage to the property of others. (Arizona Capitol Times
After
John Boehner: a full repeal and replace of Obamacare is “not going to happen.” He said changes to former President Barack Obama’s signature legislative achievement would likely be relatively modest. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
Removed: 9/ House Republicans plan to derail a Democratic resolution that would have forced disclosure of Trump's potential ties with Russia and any possible business conflicts of interest. Democrats have blasted Trump for failing to make a clean break from his real estate empire, accusing him of being vulnerable to conflicts of interest. They also are suspicious of his campaign’s relationship …
Before
Trump campaigned as the populist protector of federal programs for the working class, yet he has surrounded himself with traditional small-government conservatives bent on cutting back or eliminating many of the programs he has championed. Many of his aides and cabinet members have expressed views that are fundamentally opposed to those he campaigned on. (New York Times
After
5/ Protests break out after an off-duty LAPD officer fired his gun in a scuffle with teens. No one was shot. The officer detained a 13-year-old boy after he allegedly threatened to shoot him. The officer has been placed on administrative leave while the Force Investigation Division conducts an investigation to "determine whether the use of deadly force complied with …
Removed: 10/ Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin says he won't designate China a currency manipulator... yet. Mnuchin wants to use a regular review of foreign-exchange markets to determine if the U.S.’s largest trading partner is cheating. The decision contradicts a pledge by then-candidate Trump to direct his Treasury secretary to name China a manipulator on the first day of his administration. (Bloomberg
Before
11/ Paul Manafort faced blackmail attempt while he was Trump’s campaign chairman last summer. Stolen text messages from his daughter's phone appear to be threats to expose relations between Russia-friendly forces, Trump, and Manafort. Manafort confirmed the authenticity of the texts and added that, before the texts were sent to his daughter, he had received similar texts to his own …
After
6/ New research suggests that private school vouchers may harm students who receive them. Voucher advocates often cite poor test scores in public schools to justify creating private school vouchers in the first place. The new evidence on vouchers does not seem to have deterred the Trump administration, which has proposed a new $20 billion voucher program. Secretary DeVos’s enthusiasm …
Removed: 12/ Chaffetz is investigating a months-old tweet from his state's Bryce Canyon National Park instead of Trump. The House Oversight Committee Chairman's probe comes amid criticism that Chaffetz is not aggressively investigating the Trump administration for potential conflicts of interest or collusion with Russia. Chaffetz recently launched a probe into Trump’s handling of classified intelligence information while on an open …
… for taking a shot at one of their heroes. (The removed: Guardiannow: Guardian{:target="_blank"})
3/ John Podesta: "Forces within the FBI" may have cost Clinton election. Podesta did not offer any specific evidence to advance the argument, but the Clinton campaign has long pointed to Comey’s letter – 11 days before the election – as a turning-point in the election which may have caused their electoral college defeat. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
After
3/ GOP senator wants Flynn to testify on Russia ties before the Senate Intelligence Committee, which is investigating ties between the Trump campaign and Russia. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
Before
4/ Thousands of emails show that the E.P.A. chief worked to battle environmental regulation as attorney general of Oklahoma. Scott Pruitt, now head of the Environmental Protection Agency, closely coordinated with major oil and gas producers, electric utilities, and political groups to roll back environmental regulations. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
After
4/ John Podesta: "Forces within the FBI" may have cost Clinton election. Podesta did not offer any specific evidence to advance the argument, but the Clinton campaign has long pointed to Comey’s letter – 11 days before the election – as a turning-point in the election which may have caused their electoral college defeat. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
Before
5/ Trump officials weigh fate of birth-control mandate. The requirement that insurance companies cover contraception at no cost is believed to be on the chopping block now that Tom Price has taken over the Department of Health and Human Services. (The Hill{:target="_blank"})
After
5/ Thousands of emails show that the E.P.A. chief worked to battle environmental regulation as attorney general of Oklahoma. Scott Pruitt, now head of the Environmental Protection Agency, closely coordinated with major oil and gas producers, electric utilities, and political groups to roll back environmental regulations. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
Before
6/ Maryland school asks teachers to take down pro-diversity posters because they’re “anti-Trump” and perceived as “political” after one staff member complained. The posters depicted Latina, Muslim, and black women were designed by Shepard Fairey, the artist who created the “Hope” posters from Obama's 2008 campaign. The women are rendered in patriotic colors, with messages like “We the people are …
After
6/ Trump said his team has "enormous work to do" to assemble a federal budget that will bring down deficits and deliver on priorities such as a military buildup, public infrastructure investments, expansion of immigration enforcement, and tax cuts. Trump said he would release a health plan in early to mid-March, ahead of tackling his promised tax overhaul. (Bloomberg{:target="_blank"})
Before
7/ A "Refugees Welcome” banner was unfurled atop the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty. The stunt happened the same day the Homeland Security Department announced expanded immigration enforcement policies. (NBC New York{:target="_blank"})
After
Congressional Republicans don't expect Trump to offer his own health or tax plans. Instead, they anticipate he will simply align himself with theirs. (CNBC{:target="_blank"}) Trump officials weigh fate of birth-control mandate. The requirement that insurance companies cover contraception at no cost is believed to be on the chopping block now that Tom Price has taken over the Department of Health …
10/ The first casualties of Trump's trade wars are Texas cattle ranchers. By threatening a trade war with Mexico within days of inauguration, the president helped trigger a slide in cattle futures. Mexico is a major export market. By sinking the Trans-Pacific Partnership, the new administration cut off long-sought access to the Japanese market. Now banks have raised the conditions …
After
~~10/ Leaked Trump tape: "You are the special people”. While meeting potential Cabinet nominees in November, Trump invited partygoers at his New Jersey golf club to stop by to join him on staff interviews. “We’re doing a lot of interviews tomorrow — generals, dictators, we have everything,” Trump told the crowd. “You may wanna come around. It’ll be fun. We’re …
Before
11/ CNN host Don Lemon abruptly ended his segment after a commentator continued to call a story they were discussing "fake news" while defending Trump. Lemon was moderating a discussion on the cost of Trump's visits to Mar-a-Lago in Florida when Paris Dennard, a political analyst and commentator, called it "fake news." Dennard insisted that "this is a fake news …
After
11/ The first casualties of Trump's trade wars are Texas cattle ranchers. By threatening a trade war with Mexico within days of inauguration, the president helped trigger a slide in cattle futures. Mexico is a major export market. By sinking the Trans-Pacific Partnership, the new administration cut off long-sought access to the Japanese market. Now banks have raised the conditions …
10/ Leaked Trump tape: "You are the special people”. While meeting potential Cabinet nominees in November, Trump invited partygoers at his New Jersey golf club to stop by to join him on staff interviews. “We’re doing a lot of interviews tomorrow — generals, dictators, we have everything,” Trump told the crowd. “You may wanna come around. It’ll be fun. We’re …
After
10/ The first casualties of Trump's trade wars are Texas cattle ranchers. By threatening a trade war with Mexico within days of inauguration, the president helped trigger a slide in cattle futures. Mexico is a major export market. By sinking the Trans-Pacific Partnership, the new administration cut off long-sought access to the Japanese market. Now banks have raised the conditions …
Before
11/ The first casualties of Trump's trade wars are Texas cattle ranchers. By threatening a trade war with Mexico within days of inauguration, the president helped trigger a slide in cattle futures. Mexico is a major export market. By sinking the Trans-Pacific Partnership, the new administration cut off long-sought access to the Japanese market. Now banks have raised the conditions …
After
11/ CNN host Don Lemon abruptly ended his segment after a commentator continued to call a story they were discussing "fake news" while defending Trump. Lemon was moderating a discussion on the cost of Trump's visits to Mar-a-Lago in Florida when Paris Dennard, a political analyst and commentator, called it "fake news." Dennard insisted that "this is a fake news …
Removed: 12/ CNN host Don Lemon abruptly ended his segment after a commentator continued to call a story they were discussing "fake news" while defending Trump. Lemon was moderating a discussion on the cost of Trump's visits to Mar-a-Lago in Florida when Paris Dennard, a political analyst and commentator, called it "fake news." Dennard insisted that "this is a fake news …
now: > UPDATE: > Donald Trump’s streak of falsehoods now stands at 33 days. There hasn't been a single day of Trump's presidency in which he has said nothing false or misleading. The total count stands at 132. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"}) Chuck Schumer: Jeff Sessions must recuse himself from the Flynn … to the FBI cannot be overstated or ignored. Revelations about removed: about that contact may be only the tip of the iceberg. …
… House is already cooking the books. The Trump transition team removed: instead ordered the Council of Economic Advisers to predict sustained economic …
14/ Trump escalates his attack on Sweden’s migration policies, doubling down on his suggestion that refugees in the Scandinavian country were behind a rise in crime and terrorism. The Swedish officials say they have not seen any evidence for the claim that migration has driven an uptick in crime. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
After
17/ "Not My President": Thousands of demonstrators turned out across the US to challenge Trump on Presidents Day and call attention to Trump’s crackdown on immigration, his party’s response to climate change and the environment. Organizers said they chose to rally on the holiday as a way to honor past presidents by exercising their constitutional right to assemble and peacefully …
2/ US Defense Secretary, James Mattis told reporters, "We're not in Iraq to seize anybody's oil.” His comments are a departure from Trump who said, "We should have kept the oil. Maybe we'll have another chance.” (CNN{:target="_blank"})
After
2/ Trump names Army Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster as national security adviser, replacing the ousted Michael Flynn. Kellogg, who has been serving in an acting capacity as national security adviser, will be the chief of staff on the National Security Council. Trump shared the news with reporters as he prepared to leave his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
Before
3/ Revised travel ban targets same seven countries listed in Trump's original executive order and exempts travelers who already have a visa to travel to the U.S. The new draft also no longer directs authorities to single out — and reject — Syrian refugees when processing new visa applications. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
After
3/ US Defense Secretary, James Mattis told reporters, "We're not in Iraq to seize anybody's oil.” His comments are a departure from Trump who said, "We should have kept the oil. Maybe we'll have another chance.” (CNN{:target="_blank"})
Before
4/ Russia compiles psychological dossier on Trump for Putin. Its preliminary conclusions is that Trump is a risk-taker who can be naïve. (NBC News{:target="_blank"})
After
4/ Revised travel ban targets same seven countries listed in Trump's original executive order and exempts travelers who already have a visa to travel to the U.S. The new draft also no longer directs authorities to single out — and reject — Syrian refugees when processing new visa applications. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
Before
5/ Statisticians worry about alternative economic facts and doctored data from the government if the economy turns sour. Trump has yet to nominate anyone to the Council of Economic Advisers, established in 1946 to provide presidents with objective economic analysis and advice. The fears about data manipulation arise from the nontraditional approach the Trump administration has taken to interpreting economic …
After
5/ Russia compiles psychological dossier on Trump for Putin. Its preliminary conclusions is that Trump is a risk-taker who can be naïve. (NBC News{:target="_blank"})
Before
6/ More than 100 protesters across the country were fired after joining the “Day Without Immigrants” demonstration. The protests were aimed at showcasing the impact immigrants have on the U.S. economy. (NBC News{:target="_blank"})
After
6/ Statisticians worry about alternative economic facts and doctored data from the government if the economy turns sour. Trump has yet to nominate anyone to the Council of Economic Advisers, established in 1946 to provide presidents with objective economic analysis and advice. The fears about data manipulation arise from the nontraditional approach the Trump administration has taken to interpreting economic …
Before
7/ Trump's Navy secretary nominee on the verge of withdrawing. Philip Bilden, a former Army Reserve military officer with little naval experience, has drawn resistance to his lack of familiarity with Navy issues and has encountered difficulty separating himself from his financial interests. The White House has publicly denied that Bilden is reconsidering his nomination. (CBS News{:target="_blank"})
After
> UPDATE: > Trump is basing his budget projections on the assumption that the U.S. economy will grow almost twice as fast as independent institutions like the Congressional Budget Office and the Federal Reserve expect. The Trump team is apparently projecting growth at between 3 and 3.5 percent for a decade. This wouldn’t be unprecedented: the U.S. economy grew at …
… House abruptly dismissed a senior National Security Council aide after removed: he harshlynow: his harsh criticism of Trump removed: at at a private, off-the-record think tank gathering. The aide laced …
3/ Trump down to three candidates to replace Flynn after former CIA Director David Petraeus pulled his name from consideration for National Security Adviser. Still on the short list for the position are acting national security adviser Keith Kellogg, former United Nations ambassador John Bolton, and Army strategist Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster. (The Hill{:target="_blank"})
After
3/ The White House abruptly dismissed a senior National Security Council aide after he harshly criticism of Trump at at a private, off-the-record think tank gathering. The aide laced into Trump, his chief strategist Steve Bannon, as well as Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump. (Politico{:target="_blank"})
Before
4/ Trump weighs new travel ban that won’t stop green card holders or travelers already on planes from entering the U.S. The Homeland Security chief says there will be a "short phase-in period” to avoid people being stopped in transit. (Reuters{:target="_blank"})
After
4/ Trump down to three candidates to replace Flynn after former CIA Director David Petraeus pulled his name from consideration for National Security Adviser. Still on the short list for the position are acting national security adviser Keith Kellogg, former United Nations ambassador John Bolton, and Army strategist Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster. (The Hill{:target="_blank"})
Before
5/ Trump yells at CIA Director Mike Pompeo for not pushing back hard enough against reports that the intelligence community was withholding information from him. The White House denied the report. The president “did not yell at the CIA director,” a White House spokesperson said. (CBS News{:target="_blank"})
After
5/ Trump weighs new travel ban that won’t stop green card holders or travelers already on planes from entering the U.S. The Homeland Security chief says there will be a "short phase-in period” to avoid people being stopped in transit. (Reuters{:target="_blank"})
Before
8/ Ben Carson “baffled” and “speechless” at the firing of one of his Housing and Urban Development staffers. One of Carson’s closest aides was fired from the agency after writings critical of Trump from October resurfaced. Carson had no knowledge his staffer was going to be escorted out of the building until after it happened. (BuzzFeed News{:target="_blank"})
After
11/ The first casualties of Trump's trade wars are Texas cattle ranchers. By threatening a trade war with Mexico within days of inauguration, the president helped trigger a slide in cattle futures. Mexico is a major export market. By sinking the Trans-Pacific Partnership, the new administration cut off long-sought access to the Japanese market. Now banks have raised the conditions …
Before
9/ Leaked Trump tape: "You are the special people”. While meeting potential Cabinet nominees in November, Trump invited partygoers at his New Jersey golf club to stop by to join him on staff interviews. “We’re doing a lot of interviews tomorrow — generals, dictators, we have everything,” Trump told the crowd. “You may wanna come around. It’ll be fun. We’re …
After
12/ CNN host Don Lemon abruptly ended his segment after a commentator continued to call a story they were discussing "fake news" while defending Trump. Lemon was moderating a discussion on the cost of Trump's visits to Mar-a-Lago in Florida when Paris Dennard, a political analyst and commentator, called it "fake news." Dennard insisted that "this is a fake news …
Before
10/ The first casualties of Trump's trade wars are Texas cattle ranchers. By threatening a trade war with Mexico within days of inauguration, the president helped trigger a slide in cattle futures. Mexico is a major export market. By sinking the Trans-Pacific Partnership, the new administration cut off long-sought access to the Japanese market. Now banks have raised the conditions …
After
13/ Reince Priebus advised Americans to take Trump’s attacks on the media “seriously,” following the president’s denunciations of the press as the “enemy.” The chief of staff continued to hammer the press for its coverage, saying “the American people suffer” because of it. (CBS News{:target="_blank"})
removed: E.P.A.now: EPA workers try to block Trump’s contentious nominee to run the agency in show of defiance. Employees of the removed: E.P.A.now: EPA have been calling their senators, urging them to vote against … the scientists, environmental lawyers and policy experts who work in removed: E.P.A.now: EPA offices say the calls are a last resort. Pruitt has …
Homeland Security on AP’s National Guard: "Absolutely Incorrect". The memo the AP cited was an early, pre-decisional draft, that DHS Secretary John Kelly never approved, and that the department as a whole never seriously considered. (The Daily Beast{:target="_blank"})
Homeland Security on AP’s National Guard: "Absolutely Incorrect". The memo the AP cited was an early, pre-decisional draft, that DHS Secretary John Kelly never approved, and that the department as a whole never seriously considered. (The Daily Beast{:target="_blank"})
… presidents to refer to hostile foreign governments or terrorist organizations. now: (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
Trump removed: Wants You To Take This Bizarre Survey On Media Bias.now: wants you to take this bizarre survey on media bias. The “Mainstream Media Accountability Survey,” which was emailed to people …
2/ Trump – under fire – returns to his scorched-earth politics that served him during the campaign. He'll continue his campaign-style reboot with a rally in Florida, reuniting with the devoted supporters who view Trump as a political crusader dedicated to the obliteration of Washington's elites. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
After
2/ Senate on track to confirm Scott Pruitt as EPA administrator despite calls from Democrats to delay until he turns over thousands of requested emails from his time as attorney general as part of a public records lawsuit. Democrats boycotted a committee vote on Pruitt's nomination last month in an effort to delay his confirmation. Republican leaders have shown no …
Before
3/ More Democrats call on Sessions to withdraw from Russia probe. A letter sent to Sessions by 55 lawmakers asks him to withdraw based on his ties to Trump’s campaign and key figures who have been alleged to have ties to Russia. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
After
> UPDATE: > Senate confirms climate-change skeptic Scott Pruitt to lead EPA, an agency he sued as Oklahoma attorney general. Pruitt’s confirmation marked a serious defeat for environmental advocacy groups. Pruitt has sued the EPA more than a dozen times during the Obama administration, challenging the agency’s authority to regulate toxic mercury pollution, smog, carbon emissions from power plants and …
Before
4/ Senate on track to confirm Scott Pruitt as EPA administrator despite calls from Democrats to delay until he turns over thousands of requested emails from his time as attorney general as part of a public records lawsuit. Democrats boycotted a committee vote on Pruitt's nomination last month in an effort to delay his confirmation. Republican leaders have shown no …
After
3/ Trump – under fire – returns to his scorched-earth politics that served him during the campaign. He'll continue his campaign-style reboot with a rally in Florida, reuniting with the devoted supporters who view Trump as a political crusader dedicated to the obliteration of Washington's elites. (CNN{:target="_blank"}) 4/ More Democrats call on Sessions to withdraw from Russia probe. A letter …
6/ ICE detains woman seeking domestic abuse protection at Texas courthouse. A hearing in El Paso County in Texas went from ordinary to “unprecedented” last week when half a dozen Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents showed up at a courthouse where an undocumented woman was seeking a protective order against the boyfriend she accused of abusing her. She left under …
After
9/ Leaked emails show Justice Clarence Thomas’s wife pushing travel ban. In an email sent to a conservative listserv, Ginni Thomas asked for advice on how to organize in favor of Trump’s travel ban. But by doing so, she may have inadvertently made it harder for the executive order to survive the Supreme Court. (The Daily Beast{:target="_blank"})
Before
7/ Leaked emails show Justice Clarence Thomas’s wife pushing travel ban. In an email sent to a conservative listserv, Ginni Thomas asked for advice on how to organize in favor of Trump’s travel ban. But by doing so, she may have inadvertently made it harder for the executive order to survive the Supreme Court. (The Daily Beast{:target="_blank"})
After
10/ Trump signs law rolling back disclosure rule for energy and mining companies. The bill cancels out a Securities and Exchange Commission regulation that would have required oil and gas and mining companies to disclose in detail the payments they make to foreign governments in a bid to boost transparency in resource-rich countries. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
Before
8/ Trump signs law rolling back disclosure rule for energy and mining companies. The bill cancels out a Securities and Exchange Commission regulation that would have required oil and gas and mining companies to disclose in detail the payments they make to foreign governments in a bid to boost transparency in resource-rich countries. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
After
11/ The Endangered Species Act may be heading for the threatened list. A Senate hearing to “modernize the Endangered Species Act” unfolded just as supporters of the law had feared, with round after round of criticism from Republican lawmakers who said the federal effort to keep species from going extinct encroaches on states’ rights, is unfair to landowners and stymies …
Before
9/ The Endangered Species Act may be heading for the threatened list. A Senate hearing to “modernize the Endangered Species Act” unfolded just as supporters of the law had feared, with round after round of criticism from Republican lawmakers who said the federal effort to keep species from going extinct encroaches on states’ rights, is unfair to landowners and stymies …
After
12/ The EPA posted a mirror of its site before Trump can cut the real one. The mirror is an archive of the site the way it appeared the day before Trump took office. (Vice{:target="_blank"})
… Puzder withdraws from consideration as labor secretary. The Hardee’s/Carl’s Jr. removed: ownernow: CEO came under intense fire from Democrats and liberal groups who …
> UPDATE: > It’s bigger than Flynn. New Russia revelations widen Trump’s credibility gap. Trump’s long-term fixation on and admiration for Vladimir Putin as well as Flynn’s departure has lent new gravity and intensity to long-simmering questions about Trump and Russia. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
Before
2/ Senators from both parties pledge to deepen probe of Russia and the 2016 election. Mitch McConnell said an investigation is “highly likely,” and the top two members of the Senate Intelligence Committee announced that the committee’s ongoing probe must include an examination of any contacts between Trump campaign officials and the Russian government. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
After
2/ Andrew Puzder withdraws from consideration as labor secretary. The Hardee’s/Carl’s Jr. owner came under intense fire from Democrats and liberal groups who accused him of mistreating his workers, opposing the minimum wage and supporting automation in the workplace. The attacks on his policy views were compounded by intense scrutiny of his personal life, including allegations that he abused his …
Before
_Related:_
After
McConnell to White House: Andrew Puzder lacks the votes to win confirmation. At least seven Republican senators said they planned to withhold support for Puzder, saying that they wanted to see how the political novice fares at his confirmation hearing. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
Removed: Senator Lindsey Graham: Any Trump ally working inappropriately with Russia "needs to pay a price”. If the reports are true about communication between Trump's aides and Russia during the campaign, Graham said Congress needs a joint select committee to examine Trump’s business ties to Russia. Trump called recent news stories reporting that his aides had contact with Russian intelligence officials …
Before
3/ Jeff Sessions resists pressure to remove himself from his role in investigating Trump’s aides and their relationship with Russia. Democrats and outside groups say Sessions lacks the independence to oversee criminal investigations that might lead back to the White House. Sessions and Flynn were both early, influential advisers in Trump’s presidential campaign. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
After
3/ Senators from both parties pledge to deepen probe of Russia and the 2016 election. Mitch McConnell said an investigation is “highly likely,” and the top two members of the Senate Intelligence Committee announced that the committee’s ongoing probe must include an examination of any contacts between Trump campaign officials and the Russian government. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"}) Senator Lindsey Graham: Any …
Before
4/ Flynn's departure erupts into a full-blown crisis for the Trump White House. The circumstances leading up to Flynn’s departure have quickly become a major crisis for the fledgling administration, forcing the White House on the defensive and precipitating the first significant breach in relations between Trump and an increasingly restive Republican Congress. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
After
4/ Jeff Sessions resists pressure to remove himself from his role in investigating Trump’s aides and their relationship with Russia. Democrats and outside groups say Sessions lacks the independence to oversee criminal investigations that might lead back to the White House. Sessions and Flynn were both early, influential advisers in Trump’s presidential campaign. (New York Times{:target="_blank"})
Before
_Related:_
After
5/ Flynn's departure erupts into a full-blown crisis for the Trump White House. The circumstances leading up to Flynn’s departure have quickly become a major crisis for the fledgling administration, forcing the White House on the defensive and precipitating the first significant breach in relations between Trump and an increasingly restive Republican Congress. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
Removed: _Related:_
Before
8/ Trump to welcome Netanyahu for talks that could shape the contours of future Middle East policy. Palestinians fear the U.S. will abandon its two-state solution for the Israel-Palestinian conflict. Palestine living peacefully alongside Israel has been the bedrock U.S. position for decades. Negotiations broke down in 2014. Under a two-state solution, Israel would end its military occupation of Palestinian …
After
12/ Defense Secretary Jim Mattis issued an ultimatum to NATO allies, warning that if they do not boost their defense spending to goals set by the alliance, the United States may alter its relationship with them. It marks an escalation in Washington’s long-running frustration that many NATO countries do not spend at least 2 percent of their gross domestic product …
Before
9/ Defense Secretary Jim Mattis issued an ultimatum to NATO allies, warning that if they do not boost their defense spending to goals set by the alliance, the United States may alter its relationship with them. It marks an escalation in Washington’s long-running frustration that many NATO countries do not spend at least 2 percent of their gross domestic product …
After
13/ Trump will not fill out an NCAA tournament bracket. Fun sponge. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
The timeline of Michael Flynn’s resignation just looks bad for the Trump White House. Was the White House concerned that Flynn had apparently lied to them — or at least done something he shouldn't have and failed to disclose it? Would it ever have taken corrective action if the situation hadn't been made public? (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
After
3/ Ethics office: Conway committed "clear violation" with Ivanka plug and recommends that the White House investigate Trump's senior adviser. Conway offered what she described as a “free commercial” for Ivanka Trump’s clothing line after Nordstrom pulled her items from its racks, drawing a Twitter rebuke from Trump. (Politico{:target="_blank"}) _Related:_
Before
Flynn sets record with only 24 days as national security adviser. The average tenure is about 2.6 years. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
After
Matt Lauer: “Kellyanne, that makes no sense” (Vox{:target="_blank"}) {% twitter https://twitter.com/TODAYshow/status/831476776517898240 %} Kellyanne Conway struggling to cool controversies she set off. The counselor to the president insists she hasn't lost Trump's confidence. (Politico{:target="_blank"}) {% twitter https://twitter.com/KellyannePolls/status/831566360153042944 %} Conway claims she doesn’t know who retweeted a white nationalist from her twitter account. Seriously, WTF? (BuzzFeed{:target="_blank"})
… the sudden resignation of the US national security advisor. (BuzzFeed removed: Newsnow: News{:target="_blank"})
1/ removed: UPDATE: Michael Flynn resigns as National Security Adviser after it was … the job for less than a month. (New York Times{:target="_blank"}) removed: ~~Flynn on thin ice but still in at the White House after turbulent few days. Despite a turbulent 72 hours caused by the national security adviser's inability to deny that he spoke about sanctions against Russia with the Russian ambassador before Trump took office, Flynn has no plans to resign and no expectations that he will be fired. (CNN{:target="_blank"})~~
Removed: UPDATE: Trump declines to say whether he has full confidence in Flynn, deferring to a statement to come. (NPR{:target="_blank"})
2/ removed: UPDATE: At Mar-a-Lago, Trump tackles crisis diplomacy at close range. Wealthy …
3/ removed: UPDATE: Steven Mnuchin wins slim vote for Treasury secretary. The Senate’s …
4/ removed: UPDATE: Trudeau and Trump try to bridge some gaps while avoiding …
6/ removed: UPDATE: Courts still proceeding with lawsuits — and a new injunction …
1/ now: UPDATE: Michael Flynn now: resigns as National Security Adviser after it was revealed that he had misled Pence and other top White House officials about his conversations with the Russian ambassador to the United States. Flynn served in the job for less than a month. (New York Times{:target="_blank"}) ~~Flynn on thin ice but still in at the White House … to resign and no expectations that he will be fired. removed: (CNN{:target="_blank"})now: (CNN{:target="_blank"})~~
> UPDATE: now: > Flynn apologizes after admitting he may have discussed sanctions with …
4/ Federal immigration officials arrested more than 600 people across at least 11 states last week, detaining 40 people in the New York City area, law enforcement officials said. It's unclear whether the actions by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents were part of continuing operations to round up illegal immigrants with criminal convictions or a ramping-up of deportations by the …
After
6/ UPDATE: Courts still proceeding with lawsuits — and a new injunction — against Trump’s travel ban. While the Justice Department lawyers attempted to confine the court battle to the federal appeals court hearing the challenge out of Washington, two district court judges on Monday sided with challengers to the president’s executive order. (BuzzFeed News{:target="_blank"})
removed: 5/now: 7/ Federal immigration officials arrested more than 600 people across at least 11 states last week, detaining 40 people in the New York City area, law enforcement officials said. It's unclear whether the actions by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents were part of continuing operations to round up illegal immigrants with criminal convictions or a ramping-up of deportations by the Trump administration. (New York Times{:target="_blank"}) 8/ California governor asks Trump now: for storm disaster declaration, as the state grapples with a massive …
Removed: 7/ America’s biggest foreign creditors dump Treasuries in warning to Trump. Few overseas investors want to step into the $13.9 trillion U.S. Treasury market right now. Whether it’s the prospect of bigger deficits and more inflation under Trump or higher interest rates from the Federal Reserve, the world’s safest debt market seems less of a sure thing. And then there …
Before
8/ Trump ran a campaign based on intelligence security. That’s not how he’s governing. The president discussed a national security incident in a public room, with phone flashlights lighting the way. Why is this important? Mobile phones have flashlights — and cameras, microphones and Internet connectivity. Phones — especially phones with their flashes turned on for improved visibility — are …
After
10/ America’s biggest foreign creditors dump Treasuries in warning to Trump. Few overseas investors want to step into the $13.9 trillion U.S. Treasury market right now. Whether it’s the prospect of bigger deficits and more inflation under Trump or higher interest rates from the Federal Reserve, the world’s safest debt market seems less of a sure thing. And then there …
Before
9/ Trump responds to North Korean missile launch with uncharacteristic restraint. Trump read a statement of just 23 words that pledged American support for Tokyo without even mentioning North Korea. The muted comment stood in sharp contrast to his response after Iran tested a ballistic missile, when he directed his national security adviser to publicly warn Tehran that he was …
After
11/ Trump ran a campaign based on intelligence security. That’s not how he’s governing. The president discussed a national security incident in a public room, with phone flashlights lighting the way. Why is this important? Mobile phones have flashlights — and cameras, microphones and Internet connectivity. Phones — especially phones with their flashes turned on for improved visibility — are …
Removed: 6/ America’s biggest foreign creditors dump Treasuries in warning to Trump. Few overseas investors want to step into the $13.9 trillion U.S. Treasury market right now. Whether it’s the prospect of bigger deficits and more inflation under Trump or higher interest rates from the Federal Reserve, the world’s safest debt market seems less of a sure thing. And then there …
Before
7/ Trump ran a campaign based on intelligence security. That’s not how he’s governing. The president discussed a national security incident in a public room, with phone flashlights lighting the way. Why is this important? Mobile phones have flashlights — and cameras, microphones and Internet connectivity. Phones — especially phones with their flashes turned on for improved visibility — are …
After
7/ America’s biggest foreign creditors dump Treasuries in warning to Trump. Few overseas investors want to step into the $13.9 trillion U.S. Treasury market right now. Whether it’s the prospect of bigger deficits and more inflation under Trump or higher interest rates from the Federal Reserve, the world’s safest debt market seems less of a sure thing. And then there …
Before
At Mar-a-Lago, Trump tackles crisis diplomacy at close range. Wealthy members looked on from their tables, and with a keyboard player crooning in the background, Trump and Abe's evening meal quickly morphed into a strategy session, the decision-making on full view to fellow diners. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
After
8/ Trump ran a campaign based on intelligence security. That’s not how he’s governing. The president discussed a national security incident in a public room, with phone flashlights lighting the way. Why is this important? Mobile phones have flashlights — and cameras, microphones and Internet connectivity. Phones — especially phones with their flashes turned on for improved visibility — are …
… American heritage was "because she has high cheekbones.” Trump was removed: referencesnow: referencing questions over Warren's ancestry from her 2012 Senate race. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
… travel ban, Reince Priebus said the White House is now removed: “reviewingnow: "reviewing all of our options in the court removed: system,”now: system," including possibly going to the Supreme Court. (Washington Post{:target="_blank"})
3/ Russia considers returning removed: snowdennow: Snowden to U.S. to "curry removed: fvor"now: favor" with Trump. Trump has called the NSA leaker a "spy" …
Removed: 5/ When asked if Trump was considering signing a new executive order on immigration: "Nothing's off the table.” Trump also has the option of going back to the drawing board and coming up with a new way to impose "extreme vetting" restrictions he says are necessary. But it seems certain he will not take the route since to do so …
… Russia for its alleged interference in the 2016 election. (Washington removed: Post)now: Post{:target="_blank"})
… or the vice president knowingly misled the American people. (Washington removed: Post)now: Post{:target="_blank"})
… the relationship between China and the United States. (New York removed: Times)now: Times{:target="_blank"})
… to the territory and maintaining close ties to Taiwan. (ABC removed: Newsnow: News{:target="_blank"})
… tariffs and currencies that he could tout as a victory. removed: (CNN)now: (CNN{:target="_blank"})
… boundaries of the State Department or National Security Council. (Washington removed: Post)now: Post{:target="_blank"})
… were also troubled by lingering ethics questions over Price's investments. removed: (NPR)now: (NPR{:target="_blank"})
… Act and put in its place a yet-to-be-defined conservative approach. removed: (Bloomberg)now: (Bloomberg{:target="_blank"})
… but repudiating the combative win-at-all-costs attitude that animates his character. removed: (CNN)now: (CNN{:target="_blank"})
… adviser tweeted that she had the full support of Trump. removed: (CNN)now: (CNN{:target="_blank"})
… than a $12-billion figure cited by Trump in his campaign. removed: (Reuters)now: (Reuters{:target="_blank"})
8/ Treasury nominee vows no tax cut for removed: tich.now: rich. But the math says the opposite. Mnuchin said any rate … similar, sketchier proposals that Mr. Trump has offered. (New York removed: Times)now: Times{:target="_blank"})
… holding up his aggressive initiatives to staff in-fighting and leaks. removed: (Politico)now: (Politico{:target="_blank"})
… would be part of the brand new 12th Circuit. (Fox removed: News)now: News{:target="_blank"})
… in the Senate, leverage civil society, keep Trump distracted. (Washington removed: Post)now: Post{:target="_blank"})
… an indigenous-led movement is being construed as domestic terrorism. (The removed: Guardian)now: Guardian{:target="_blank"})
… (57%) than favorably (42%) – the worst in a decade. removed: (Gallup)now: (Gallup{:target="_blank"})
… last week, to its 46% standing this week. (Public Policy removed: Polling)now: Polling{:target="_blank"})
1/ now: The 9th Circuit Court removed: refusesnow: refused to reinstate travel ban, delivering the latest and most stinging judicial rebuke to removed: hisnow: Trump's effort to removed: make good on a campaign promise and tighten the standards for entry into the United removed: States.now: States and make good on a campaign promise. The ruling was focused on the narrow question of whether …
now: > UPDATE: Story is dated 2016. ~~8/ Feds try to forcefully search Wall Street Journal reporter's … that border agents have the authority to do that. (CNN{:target="_blank"})~~ removed: > UPDATE: Story is dated 2016.
3/ now: Sessions sworn in as attorney general while Trump signed three executive actions aimed at bolstering law enforcement. Sessions pledged to attack a crime problem that he described as "a dangerous permanent trend that has places the health and safety of the American people at risk." Although murder jumped by 11% in 2015, the biggest one-year increase in more than 40 years, the overall rate remains the lowest in decades. (USA Today{:target="_blank"}) _Related:_ ACLU vows to sue Sessions if he violates Constitution as …
Before
8/ Feds try to forcefully search Wall Street Journal reporter's phone. A Wall Street Journal reporter was detained by federal agents at the Los Angeles airport who demanded to confiscate her two cell phones -- and was surprised to find that border agents have the authority to do that. (CNN{:target="_blank"})
After
8/ In call with Putin, Trump denounced Obama-era nuclear arms treaty that caps U.S. and Russian deployment of nuclear warheads. When Putin raised the possibility of extending the 2010 treaty, Trump paused to ask his aides in an aside what the treaty was. The phone call with Putin has added to concerns that Trump is not adequately prepared for discussions …