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White House reversed more than 25 security clearance denials, says whistleblower – live White House reversed more than 25 security clearance denials, says whistleblower – live
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The Trump administration is considering hiring a “border” or “immigration czar” to coordinate the president’s policies on immigration across various federal agencies, the Associated Press reports.
According to the AP, Trump is considering two potential candidates: former Kansas secretary of state Kris Kobach and former Virginia attorney general Ken Cuccinelli , both far-right conservatives with strong views on immigration.
It has yet to be decided whether the post would be housed within the department of homeland security or the White House.
White House press aides, Kobach and Cuccinelli did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The discussion comes as Trump is threatening to close the US-Mexico border if Mexico doesn’t halt all illegal immigration.
My colleague Lauren Gambino is reporting from the We the People summit in Washington, where 2020 Democratic hopefuls are speaking to a gathering of liberal activists.
First up is Beto O’Rourke, the former Texas congressman who formally kicked off his campaign with a rally in his hometown of El Paso on Saturday:
If elected, Beto O’Rourke would require every member of his cabinet to hold monthly town halls.
The former Texas congressman and presidential hopeful said he would sign an executive order requiring each member to commit to the meetings as a way to hold the executive branch more accountable.
“At a time when we face an extraordinary concentration of power and access, when our government does too little for too few, we must ensure that the people of this country can hold their government to account for the decisions it makes in their name,” O’Rourke said at the annual We the People forum in Washington.
“It is only by listening to those we are sworn to serve and represent -- by gaining the full benefit of their ideas, their experiences, their creativity -- that we can come together to confront and overcome the very real challenges before us.”
O’Rourke launched his campaign last month with a roadtrip through the early voting states and the upper Midwest. At each stop, he held town hall-style meetings that began with him urging voters to “ask a question, make a comment, offer me some guidance or an idea. I am all ears”.
O’Rourke is a fan of town halls, which he believes are laboratories for innovative and consensus-building ideas that.
As a candidate for Senate in Texas, O’Rourke held more than 350 town halls during the course of his campaign, during which he visited all of the state’s 254 counties.
Vanessa Tyson, the professor who has accused Virginia’s lieutenant governor Justin Fairfax of sexual assault, detailed her allegations on Monday in her first televised interview.
Speaking with CBS This Morning, Tyson called on Fairfax to resign more than a month after going public with her accusation in early February.
Recalling her encounter with Fairfax, as well as an allegation made by a second accuser, Tyson said: “I think the Virginia people, the voters of Virginia, have a right to know, you know, both my story and Meredith’s story.”
Tyson accused Fairfax of forcing her to perform oral sex on him in a Boston hotel room during the 2004 Democratic National Convention.
Tyson told CBS host Gayle King she connected with Fairfax through a mutual friend. What began as consensual kissing inside his hotel room, she added, quickly transformed into an assault.
“The next thing I know my head is like literally in his crotch and I’m choking and gagging and I couldn’t say anything because I’m choking and gagging,” Tyson said through tears.
“I was just completely caught off guard. It was almost as if I was dumbstruck.”
Tyson went on to say she was too “ashamed” to tell anyone about the incident.
A second accuser, Meredith Watson, has alleged that Fairfax raped her in 2000 when the two were students.
Fairfax has vehemently denied both allegations and resisted calls from Democrats to resign.
CBS is expected to air an interview with Watson on Tuesday.
In a statement to CBS, Fairfax reiterated his innocence:
“I am, and have long been, a strong proponent of the rights of women in our society — among them equal rights, reproductive rights, economic rights, the right to be heard and respected, the right to fair access to the criminal justice system, and right to be free from disrespect, harassment, and assault,” he said. “At the same time, I also believe that we must find a way to ensure that our justice system and even the court of public opinion provide due process and fairness both to accusers and the accused. I, for one, stand accused of crimes that I did not commit.”
A fight between Donald Trump and Democrats over hurricane relief for Puerto Rico is imperiling a widely backed disaster aid bill that’s a top priority for some of the president’s southern Republican allies, the Associated Press reports.A fight between Donald Trump and Democrats over hurricane relief for Puerto Rico is imperiling a widely backed disaster aid bill that’s a top priority for some of the president’s southern Republican allies, the Associated Press reports.
More from the AP:More from the AP:
The amount of money in dispute is relatively small, but Trump feels antipathy toward Puerto Rico’s government and Senate Republicans are taking a hard line — for now — in denying Democratic demands for more aid for the US territory, which was devastated by back-to-back hurricanes in 2017.The amount of money in dispute is relatively small, but Trump feels antipathy toward Puerto Rico’s government and Senate Republicans are taking a hard line — for now — in denying Democratic demands for more aid for the US territory, which was devastated by back-to-back hurricanes in 2017.
Democrats are poised to block the Republican bill in a showdown Senate vote on Monday afternoon. It’s a risky move, but top Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer of New York appears confident that a successful filibuster won’t kill the bill outright, but drive Trump and Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell toward compromise.Democrats are poised to block the Republican bill in a showdown Senate vote on Monday afternoon. It’s a risky move, but top Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer of New York appears confident that a successful filibuster won’t kill the bill outright, but drive Trump and Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell toward compromise.
Trump weighed in on Twitter Monday to preemptively attack Democrats for blocking the measure.Trump weighed in on Twitter Monday to preemptively attack Democrats for blocking the measure.
Democrats should stop fighting Sen. David Perdue’s disaster relief bill. They are blocking funding and relief for our great farmers and rural America!Democrats should stop fighting Sen. David Perdue’s disaster relief bill. They are blocking funding and relief for our great farmers and rural America!
The $13.5b Senate measure mostly mirrors a $14.2b measure passed by the House in January, combining aid to southern farmers, California communities devastated by last summer’s wildfire, and rebuilding help for hurricane-hit states such as Florida, Georgia and North Carolina. Hurricane-damaged military bases in Florida and North Carolina would receive rebuilding funds.The $13.5b Senate measure mostly mirrors a $14.2b measure passed by the House in January, combining aid to southern farmers, California communities devastated by last summer’s wildfire, and rebuilding help for hurricane-hit states such as Florida, Georgia and North Carolina. Hurricane-damaged military bases in Florida and North Carolina would receive rebuilding funds.
Democrats want to add almost $700m more to unlock further disaster aid for Puerto Rico and several states, including help to rebuild badly damaged water systems. Democrats are also seeking to force the administration to release billions of dollars in rebuilding funds that have already been approved.Democrats want to add almost $700m more to unlock further disaster aid for Puerto Rico and several states, including help to rebuild badly damaged water systems. Democrats are also seeking to force the administration to release billions of dollars in rebuilding funds that have already been approved.
Trump has yet to veto a spending bill despite some tough talk and he has signed off on $600m to ease food stamp cuts in Puerto Rico. But he poor-mouthed the island’s government at a meeting with Senate Republicans last week and suggested Puerto Rico has gotten too much disaster help compared with states such as Texas.Trump has yet to veto a spending bill despite some tough talk and he has signed off on $600m to ease food stamp cuts in Puerto Rico. But he poor-mouthed the island’s government at a meeting with Senate Republicans last week and suggested Puerto Rico has gotten too much disaster help compared with states such as Texas.
“I have taken better care of Puerto Rico than any man ever. We have $91b going to Puerto Rico. We have $29b to Texas and $12b to Florida for the hurricane,” Trump said Thursday. “They have to spend the money wisely. They don’t know how to spend the money and they’re not spending it wisely.”“I have taken better care of Puerto Rico than any man ever. We have $91b going to Puerto Rico. We have $29b to Texas and $12b to Florida for the hurricane,” Trump said Thursday. “They have to spend the money wisely. They don’t know how to spend the money and they’re not spending it wisely.”
From my colleague Lauren Gambino, an update on progressive superstar and perhaps the only member of Congress known by her initials, AOC:From my colleague Lauren Gambino, an update on progressive superstar and perhaps the only member of Congress known by her initials, AOC:
Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has raised more than $90,000 for progressive, swing-district Democrats less than 24 hours after she urged supporters to donate to their re-election campaigns.Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has raised more than $90,000 for progressive, swing-district Democrats less than 24 hours after she urged supporters to donate to their re-election campaigns.
As Ocasio-Cortez faces criticism over her left wing politics, the appeal shows how she can use her star-power to boost ideological allies and colleagues in her freshman class.As Ocasio-Cortez faces criticism over her left wing politics, the appeal shows how she can use her star-power to boost ideological allies and colleagues in her freshman class.
Ahead of the Sunday night fundraising deadline, Ocasio-Cortez asked her Twitter followers to donate to freshman representatives Jahana Hayes of Connecticut, Katie Hill of California, and Mike Levin of California. By 1pm EST, the New York congresswoman reported raising $92,800 for the three candidates.Ahead of the Sunday night fundraising deadline, Ocasio-Cortez asked her Twitter followers to donate to freshman representatives Jahana Hayes of Connecticut, Katie Hill of California, and Mike Levin of California. By 1pm EST, the New York congresswoman reported raising $92,800 for the three candidates.
“It isn’t easy being a progressive from a swing district, but these three candidates have stuck to their principles by supporting progressive bills like Medicare-for-all or a Green New Deal,” the donation page says. “Show them that you have their back — split a contribution to all three before the FEC deadline midnight tonight, March 31.”“It isn’t easy being a progressive from a swing district, but these three candidates have stuck to their principles by supporting progressive bills like Medicare-for-all or a Green New Deal,” the donation page says. “Show them that you have their back — split a contribution to all three before the FEC deadline midnight tonight, March 31.”
Official reports on fundraising for the first quarter of the year, a three-month period that went through Sunday March 31, are due on 15 April.Official reports on fundraising for the first quarter of the year, a three-month period that went through Sunday March 31, are due on 15 April.
Ocasio-Cortez’s colleagues took to Twitter to thank her for her help:Ocasio-Cortez’s colleagues took to Twitter to thank her for her help:
Last night @AOC helped raise 3 candidates in tough districts more than 30k each in a few hours. Corporate PACs can give candidates 5K - & it comes with strings. Grassroots $$ lets us stay accountable to the people. That’s the power of this movement — let’s keep building, togetherLast night @AOC helped raise 3 candidates in tough districts more than 30k each in a few hours. Corporate PACs can give candidates 5K - & it comes with strings. Grassroots $$ lets us stay accountable to the people. That’s the power of this movement — let’s keep building, together
Can’t thank my friend @AOC enough for helping me to reach my Q1 goal. We rise by lifting others. Onward!! https://t.co/AoI7PM2vC0Can’t thank my friend @AOC enough for helping me to reach my Q1 goal. We rise by lifting others. Onward!! https://t.co/AoI7PM2vC0
“The more we opt into small-$ giving, the less our system relies on corp lobbyists,” Ocasio-Cortez replied on Twitter. “In a few hrs, we changed the game for swing-district members who stayed strong under pressure.”“The more we opt into small-$ giving, the less our system relies on corp lobbyists,” Ocasio-Cortez replied on Twitter. “In a few hrs, we changed the game for swing-district members who stayed strong under pressure.”
In a statement, Corbin Trent, a spokesman for Ocasio-Cortez told The Guardian: “We are proud to stand with bold Democrats and excited to show that the grassroots will support Representatives who are willing to take a stand for progressive values.”In a statement, Corbin Trent, a spokesman for Ocasio-Cortez told The Guardian: “We are proud to stand with bold Democrats and excited to show that the grassroots will support Representatives who are willing to take a stand for progressive values.”
Trent said just under $90,000 was raised before the midnight deadline.Trent said just under $90,000 was raised before the midnight deadline.
The appeal comes a day after Ocasio-Cortez asked her supporters to donate directly to individual candidates instead of the party, escalating her opposition to a new policy instituted by the House Democrats’ campaign arm that favors incumbents.The appeal comes a day after Ocasio-Cortez asked her supporters to donate directly to individual candidates instead of the party, escalating her opposition to a new policy instituted by the House Democrats’ campaign arm that favors incumbents.
Ocasio-Cortez, who won her seat by upsetting a 10-term Democratic incumbent, is a vocal opponent of a new rule by the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee that prohibits its vendors from working with candidates who challenge incumbent Democrats.Ocasio-Cortez, who won her seat by upsetting a 10-term Democratic incumbent, is a vocal opponent of a new rule by the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee that prohibits its vendors from working with candidates who challenge incumbent Democrats.
The @DCCC’s new rule to blacklist+boycott anyone who does business w/ primary challengers is extremely divisive & harmful to the party.My recommendation, if you’re a small-dollar donor: pause your donations to DCCC & give directly to swing candidates instead.Some great ones:The @DCCC’s new rule to blacklist+boycott anyone who does business w/ primary challengers is extremely divisive & harmful to the party.My recommendation, if you’re a small-dollar donor: pause your donations to DCCC & give directly to swing candidates instead.Some great ones:
In that appeal, she asked supporters to give to Levin as well as Lauren Underwood of Illinois and Katie Porter of California.In that appeal, she asked supporters to give to Levin as well as Lauren Underwood of Illinois and Katie Porter of California.
The campaigns did not immediately return a request for comment on how much were raised after her appeal.The campaigns did not immediately return a request for comment on how much were raised after her appeal.
The DCCC has defended the policy, arguing that it’s part of chairwoman Cheri Bustos’s commitment to protecting the Democrat’s House majority, which is the most female, diverse class in history.The DCCC has defended the policy, arguing that it’s part of chairwoman Cheri Bustos’s commitment to protecting the Democrat’s House majority, which is the most female, diverse class in history.
“When Chairwoman Bustos was running to lead the DCCC, she stood up in front of her colleagues and made a promise to stand with and protect every member of the most diverse caucus in Congressional history as we work to defend and grow our Democratic majority,” said DCCC spokesman Cole Leiter. “This transparent policy follows through on that exact promise and will protect all Members of the Democratic Caucus - regardless of where they fall within our big tent.”“When Chairwoman Bustos was running to lead the DCCC, she stood up in front of her colleagues and made a promise to stand with and protect every member of the most diverse caucus in Congressional history as we work to defend and grow our Democratic majority,” said DCCC spokesman Cole Leiter. “This transparent policy follows through on that exact promise and will protect all Members of the Democratic Caucus - regardless of where they fall within our big tent.”
But progressives argue that it is in an effort to deter primary challenges.But progressives argue that it is in an effort to deter primary challenges.
The fact that I challenged an incumbent meant a lot of folks were told not to come anywhere near my campaign. But I was lucky to build a dynamic, innovative team of staff & consultants who understood the challenges our campaign faced, and who were willing to take a risk (4/x)The fact that I challenged an incumbent meant a lot of folks were told not to come anywhere near my campaign. But I was lucky to build a dynamic, innovative team of staff & consultants who understood the challenges our campaign faced, and who were willing to take a risk (4/x)
Joe Biden’s spokesman hit back at media coverage of the former vice president’s treatment of women, stating photos alleging to show inappropriate behavior on Biden’s part are a smear campaign led by “right wing trolls”.Joe Biden’s spokesman hit back at media coverage of the former vice president’s treatment of women, stating photos alleging to show inappropriate behavior on Biden’s part are a smear campaign led by “right wing trolls”.
These smears and forgeries have existed in the dark recesses of the internet for a while,” Bill Russo, Biden’s spokesman, said Monday. “And to this day, right wing trolls and others continue to exploit them for their own gain.These smears and forgeries have existed in the dark recesses of the internet for a while,” Bill Russo, Biden’s spokesman, said Monday. “And to this day, right wing trolls and others continue to exploit them for their own gain.
Russo’s new statement followed an essay by Stephanie Carter, the wife of former defense secretary Ash Carter, refuting claims that a photo featuring her and the vice president was an example of unwanted touching. Carter wrote that Biden, who was photographed in 2015 with his hands on her shoulders while whispering in her ears, was nothing more than an interaction with a close friend.Russo’s new statement followed an essay by Stephanie Carter, the wife of former defense secretary Ash Carter, refuting claims that a photo featuring her and the vice president was an example of unwanted touching. Carter wrote that Biden, who was photographed in 2015 with his hands on her shoulders while whispering in her ears, was nothing more than an interaction with a close friend.
“As the sole owner of my story, it is high time that I reclaim it – from strangers, Twitter, the pundits and the late-night hosts,” Carter wrote. “I won’t pretend that this will be the last of that picture, but it will be the last of other people speaking for me.”“As the sole owner of my story, it is high time that I reclaim it – from strangers, Twitter, the pundits and the late-night hosts,” Carter wrote. “I won’t pretend that this will be the last of that picture, but it will be the last of other people speaking for me.”
Read my full report here on the intense scrutiny surrounding Biden’s conduct with women, following an allegation by former Nevada state assemblywoman Lucy Flores that the former vice president violated her personal space at an event in 2014.Read my full report here on the intense scrutiny surrounding Biden’s conduct with women, following an allegation by former Nevada state assemblywoman Lucy Flores that the former vice president violated her personal space at an event in 2014.
Russo criticized the media for establishing a supposed pattern in Biden’s behavior by circulating images of his interactions with women without first confirming that the individuals in those photos were ever uncomfortable.Russo criticized the media for establishing a supposed pattern in Biden’s behavior by circulating images of his interactions with women without first confirming that the individuals in those photos were ever uncomfortable.
In addition to Carter, another widely shared image showed Biden leaning toward the 13-year-old daughter of Senator Chris Coons, at the latter’s swearing-in ceremony in 2015, and kissing the side of her head.In addition to Carter, another widely shared image showed Biden leaning toward the 13-year-old daughter of Senator Chris Coons, at the latter’s swearing-in ceremony in 2015, and kissing the side of her head.
Coons told the Washington Post his family is extremely close to the Bidens, and that his children view the former vice president as a grandfather figure.Coons told the Washington Post his family is extremely close to the Bidens, and that his children view the former vice president as a grandfather figure.
“She did not think of it as anything,” Coons said of Biden’s exchange with his daughter. “All three of my kids have known Joe their whole lives.”“She did not think of it as anything,” Coons said of Biden’s exchange with his daughter. “All three of my kids have known Joe their whole lives.”
Senator Susan Collins, a Republican from Maine, is urging attorney general William Barr not to support a move by the Trump administration in favor of eliminating Obamacare.Senator Susan Collins, a Republican from Maine, is urging attorney general William Barr not to support a move by the Trump administration in favor of eliminating Obamacare.
In a letter to Barr on Monday, Collins warned the Justice Department against backing a legal challenge that threatens the existence of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), the landmark healthcare law enacted by Barack Obama.In a letter to Barr on Monday, Collins warned the Justice Department against backing a legal challenge that threatens the existence of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), the landmark healthcare law enacted by Barack Obama.
“Rather than seeking to have the courts invalidate the ACA, the proper route for the administration to pursue would be to propose changes to the ACA or to once again seek its repeal,” Collins wrote.“Rather than seeking to have the courts invalidate the ACA, the proper route for the administration to pursue would be to propose changes to the ACA or to once again seek its repeal,” Collins wrote.
“The administration should not attempt to use the courts to bypass Congress.”“The administration should not attempt to use the courts to bypass Congress.”
Collins’ letter comes one week after the Trump administration chose to side with a ruling by a federal judge in Texas that invalidated the healthcare law entirely. The move marked a sharp reversal for the Justice Department and posed an immediate threat to the healthcare coverage of millions of Americans.Collins’ letter comes one week after the Trump administration chose to side with a ruling by a federal judge in Texas that invalidated the healthcare law entirely. The move marked a sharp reversal for the Justice Department and posed an immediate threat to the healthcare coverage of millions of Americans.
Collins, a key swing vote among Republicans, said there were several provisions within the ACA that Congress would have done away with had US lawmakers desired to do so. That Congress let them stand, she noted reinforced that some of the law’s benefits were indeed “critical consumer provisions”.Collins, a key swing vote among Republicans, said there were several provisions within the ACA that Congress would have done away with had US lawmakers desired to do so. That Congress let them stand, she noted reinforced that some of the law’s benefits were indeed “critical consumer provisions”.
The Trump administration’s decision, Collins add, jeopardized coverage for pre-existing conditions, the Medicaid expansion, preventive coverage and the ability for parents to keep their children on their insurance plans up to age 26.The Trump administration’s decision, Collins add, jeopardized coverage for pre-existing conditions, the Medicaid expansion, preventive coverage and the ability for parents to keep their children on their insurance plans up to age 26.
Collins was one of three Republican senators who broke from the party and voted down an attempt in 2017 to repeal and replace the ACA. Donald Trump has claimed in recent days that Republicans are working on another alternative plan, insisting they will become known as “the party of health care”.Collins was one of three Republican senators who broke from the party and voted down an attempt in 2017 to repeal and replace the ACA. Donald Trump has claimed in recent days that Republicans are working on another alternative plan, insisting they will become known as “the party of health care”.
Any renewed effort by Republicans to repeal the ACA would be dead on arrival in the Democratic-led House of Representatives.Any renewed effort by Republicans to repeal the ACA would be dead on arrival in the Democratic-led House of Representatives.
Republicans in Congress were reportedly caught off guard by Trump’s decision to revisit the issue again. The move was also opposed by Barr and Trump’s health and human services secretary, Alex Azar.Republicans in Congress were reportedly caught off guard by Trump’s decision to revisit the issue again. The move was also opposed by Barr and Trump’s health and human services secretary, Alex Azar.
Donald Trump’s insistence that there is a crisis at the border might soon lead him to create a national emergency unlike any millennials have seen before.Donald Trump’s insistence that there is a crisis at the border might soon lead him to create a national emergency unlike any millennials have seen before.
As the president threatens to shut down the US-Mexico border, experts have warned such a move could cause Americans to run out of avocados in three weeks.As the president threatens to shut down the US-Mexico border, experts have warned such a move could cause Americans to run out of avocados in three weeks.
You heard that right: If Trump closes the border, causing imports from Mexico to grind to a halt, there may be no more avocado toast.You heard that right: If Trump closes the border, causing imports from Mexico to grind to a halt, there may be no more avocado toast.
“You couldn’t pick a worse time of year because Mexico supplies virtually 100 percent of the avocados in the U.S. right now,” Steve Barnard, president and chief executive of Mission Produce, the largest international distributor and grower of avocados, told NBC News.“You couldn’t pick a worse time of year because Mexico supplies virtually 100 percent of the avocados in the U.S. right now,” Steve Barnard, president and chief executive of Mission Produce, the largest international distributor and grower of avocados, told NBC News.
“California is just starting and they have a very small crop, but they’re not relevant right now and won’t be for another month or so.”“California is just starting and they have a very small crop, but they’re not relevant right now and won’t be for another month or so.”
Trump has long talked about shutting down the US-Mexico border, citing his frustration with illegal immigration. Last week, the president claimed such action was imminent in a dramatic escalation of his rhetoric.Trump has long talked about shutting down the US-Mexico border, citing his frustration with illegal immigration. Last week, the president claimed such action was imminent in a dramatic escalation of his rhetoric.
Mexico must use its very strong immigration laws to stop the many thousands of people trying to get into the USA. Our detention areas are maxed out & we will take no more illegals. Next step is to close the Border! This will also help us with stopping the Drug flow from Mexico!Mexico must use its very strong immigration laws to stop the many thousands of people trying to get into the USA. Our detention areas are maxed out & we will take no more illegals. Next step is to close the Border! This will also help us with stopping the Drug flow from Mexico!
Given Mexico is one of America’s most vital trading partners, a closure of the border stands to significantly damage the US economy. Roughly $137b of the US-Mexico partnership is rooted in food imports.Given Mexico is one of America’s most vital trading partners, a closure of the border stands to significantly damage the US economy. Roughly $137b of the US-Mexico partnership is rooted in food imports.
The millennial population is estimated at about 75m strong. Or so it was, until untold numbers of America’s brunch-loving youth perished in the Great Avocado Toast Starvation of 2019.The millennial population is estimated at about 75m strong. Or so it was, until untold numbers of America’s brunch-loving youth perished in the Great Avocado Toast Starvation of 2019.
Ben Ray Luján, the fourth-ranking House Democrat, has announced he will run for the US Senate in New Mexico.Ben Ray Luján, the fourth-ranking House Democrat, has announced he will run for the US Senate in New Mexico.
“It has been the honor of my life to represent New Mexico in the US House and I am humbled by the opportunity to further serve our state in the United States Senate,” Luján said in a statement Monday.“It has been the honor of my life to represent New Mexico in the US House and I am humbled by the opportunity to further serve our state in the United States Senate,” Luján said in a statement Monday.
I'm humbled to announce my candidacy to be New Mexico's next Democratic Senator. I hope I can count on your support as we take this journey together. https://t.co/QlM4S90ele pic.twitter.com/yvrDGYQhVqI'm humbled to announce my candidacy to be New Mexico's next Democratic Senator. I hope I can count on your support as we take this journey together. https://t.co/QlM4S90ele pic.twitter.com/yvrDGYQhVq
Luján is running to fill the seat that will soon be vacated by retiring Senator Tom Udall. As the former chairman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, Luján will enter the race with an established name in Democratic Party circles and a wide network of donors.Luján is running to fill the seat that will soon be vacated by retiring Senator Tom Udall. As the former chairman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, Luján will enter the race with an established name in Democratic Party circles and a wide network of donors.
Democrats are heavily favored to hold onto the Senate seat in New Mexico, which despite once being regarded as a swing state has emerged as reliably blue.Democrats are heavily favored to hold onto the Senate seat in New Mexico, which despite once being regarded as a swing state has emerged as reliably blue.
Stephen Moore, Donald Trump’s nominee for a seat on the Federal Reserve board, has responded to a report in the Guardian that he was found in contempt of court for failing to pay his ex-wife $300,000 in alimony, child support and other debts.Stephen Moore, Donald Trump’s nominee for a seat on the Federal Reserve board, has responded to a report in the Guardian that he was found in contempt of court for failing to pay his ex-wife $300,000 in alimony, child support and other debts.
Moore did not refute the Guardian’s reporting, but instead took a page from the president’s playbook by simply denouncing the media.Moore did not refute the Guardian’s reporting, but instead took a page from the president’s playbook by simply denouncing the media.
“I think it [reinforces] how sleazy the media is resorting to tabloid journalism,” Moore told CNBC.“I think it [reinforces] how sleazy the media is resorting to tabloid journalism,” Moore told CNBC.
Asked if he was concerned about the impact of the revelations on his nomination, Moore simply said “No”.Asked if he was concerned about the impact of the revelations on his nomination, Moore simply said “No”.
Court records obtained by the Guardian showed that Moore was reprimanded by a judge in 2012 for not paying his ex-wife, Allison Moore, hundreds of thousands of dollars owed in spousal support, child support and under the terms of their divorce settlement.Court records obtained by the Guardian showed that Moore was reprimanded by a judge in 2012 for not paying his ex-wife, Allison Moore, hundreds of thousands of dollars owed in spousal support, child support and under the terms of their divorce settlement.
More from the Guardian’s Jon Swaine and David Smith:More from the Guardian’s Jon Swaine and David Smith:
In a divorce filing in August 2010, Moore was accused of inflicting “emotional and psychological abuse” on his ex-wife during their 20-year marriage. Allison Moore said in the filing she had been forced to flee their home to protect herself. She was granted a divorce in May 2011.In a divorce filing in August 2010, Moore was accused of inflicting “emotional and psychological abuse” on his ex-wife during their 20-year marriage. Allison Moore said in the filing she had been forced to flee their home to protect herself. She was granted a divorce in May 2011.
Moore said in a court filing signed in April 2011 he admitted all the allegations in Allison Moore’s divorce complaint.Moore said in a court filing signed in April 2011 he admitted all the allegations in Allison Moore’s divorce complaint.
The White House has yet to comment on the report.The White House has yet to comment on the report.
Moore, an economics commentator, has been a sharp critic of the Federal Reserve and was an adviser to Trump’s 2016 campaign. He has been a vocal proponent of the Trump administration and is a polarizing pick for a seat on the traditionally nonpartisan Federal Reserve board.Moore, an economics commentator, has been a sharp critic of the Federal Reserve and was an adviser to Trump’s 2016 campaign. He has been a vocal proponent of the Trump administration and is a polarizing pick for a seat on the traditionally nonpartisan Federal Reserve board.
A White House whistleblower has told members of Congress that Donald Trump’s administration overturned more than two dozen denials for security clearances, often ignoring the guidance of intelligence officials in what she dubbed as ‘systemic’ problems with the process.A White House whistleblower has told members of Congress that Donald Trump’s administration overturned more than two dozen denials for security clearances, often ignoring the guidance of intelligence officials in what she dubbed as ‘systemic’ problems with the process.
Tricia Newbold, a White House security adviser holding nearly two decades of experience with clearances, made the revelation during an interview with the House Oversight and Reform Committee last month, according to documents released Monday.Tricia Newbold, a White House security adviser holding nearly two decades of experience with clearances, made the revelation during an interview with the House Oversight and Reform Committee last month, according to documents released Monday.
“I feel that right now this is my last hope to really bring the integrity back into our office,” Newbold said, according to the panel’s memo summarizing her interview.“I feel that right now this is my last hope to really bring the integrity back into our office,” Newbold said, according to the panel’s memo summarizing her interview.
“I want it known that this is a systematic, it’s an office issue, and we’re not a political office, but these decisions were being continuously overrode.”“I want it known that this is a systematic, it’s an office issue, and we’re not a political office, but these decisions were being continuously overrode.”
The White House’s handling of security clearances has drawn repeated scrutiny.The White House’s handling of security clearances has drawn repeated scrutiny.
Last month, it was reported that Trump personally intervened to grant Jared Kushner, his son-in-law and senior adviser, a top-level security clearance against the warnings of senior intelligence officials. Democrats in Congress have demanded more information on the security clearance process and delivered an ultimatum to the White House to comply or face a subpoena.Last month, it was reported that Trump personally intervened to grant Jared Kushner, his son-in-law and senior adviser, a top-level security clearance against the warnings of senior intelligence officials. Democrats in Congress have demanded more information on the security clearance process and delivered an ultimatum to the White House to comply or face a subpoena.
Newbold told lawmakers she maintained a list of White House officials whose clearance applications were initially denied, only for the decision to later be overturned. There were as many as 25 people on the list.Newbold told lawmakers she maintained a list of White House officials whose clearance applications were initially denied, only for the decision to later be overturned. There were as many as 25 people on the list.
“According to Ms. Newbold, these individuals had a wide range of serious disqualifying issues involving foreign influence, conflicts of interest, concerning personal conduct, financial problems, drug use, and criminal conduct,” the panel wrote.“According to Ms. Newbold, these individuals had a wide range of serious disqualifying issues involving foreign influence, conflicts of interest, concerning personal conduct, financial problems, drug use, and criminal conduct,” the panel wrote.
Newbold said she raised concerns with her superiors and the White House counsel’s office. According to Newbold, her supervisor Carl Kline, the director of personnel security, played a key role in reversing the security clearance denials of White House officials. Democrats on the committee have said they plan to interview Kline.Newbold said she raised concerns with her superiors and the White House counsel’s office. According to Newbold, her supervisor Carl Kline, the director of personnel security, played a key role in reversing the security clearance denials of White House officials. Democrats on the committee have said they plan to interview Kline.
Donald Trump hit back at Democrats for opposing his administration’s plan to add a question on citizenship to the US Census, defending the move from criticism amid a challenge in the supreme court.Donald Trump hit back at Democrats for opposing his administration’s plan to add a question on citizenship to the US Census, defending the move from criticism amid a challenge in the supreme court.
In a tweet on Monday, Trump said the census report would be ‘meaningless’ without accounting for people’s citizenship.In a tweet on Monday, Trump said the census report would be ‘meaningless’ without accounting for people’s citizenship.
Can you believe that the Radical Left Democrats want to do our new and very important Census Report without the all important Citizenship Question. Report would be meaningless and a waste of the $Billions (ridiculous) that it costs to put together!Can you believe that the Radical Left Democrats want to do our new and very important Census Report without the all important Citizenship Question. Report would be meaningless and a waste of the $Billions (ridiculous) that it costs to put together!
Trump’s comments come as a hearing is expected this month before the supreme court. A lower court previously ruled against his administration’s to ask, “Is this person a citizen of the United States?” as part of the Census Bureau’s research on households across the US.Trump’s comments come as a hearing is expected this month before the supreme court. A lower court previously ruled against his administration’s to ask, “Is this person a citizen of the United States?” as part of the Census Bureau’s research on households across the US.
The census report is used by the US government for research on its population and plays a role in major decisions such as the allocation local and federal programs, as well as the drawing of congressional maps.The census report is used by the US government for research on its population and plays a role in major decisions such as the allocation local and federal programs, as well as the drawing of congressional maps.
Critics of the Trump administration’s proposal said asking about citizenship status would depress participation and prompt fear in immigrant communities that they may be targeted for other means.Critics of the Trump administration’s proposal said asking about citizenship status would depress participation and prompt fear in immigrant communities that they may be targeted for other means.
The questionnaire for the 2020 census report is due out soon. The supreme court is expected to hear oral arguments in April and reach a final decision in June.The questionnaire for the 2020 census report is due out soon. The supreme court is expected to hear oral arguments in April and reach a final decision in June.
Happy April Fool’s Day!Happy April Fool’s Day!
Unfortunately, it would appear the joke’s on all of us...Unfortunately, it would appear the joke’s on all of us...
Trump is now averaging 22 false claims a day, according to WaPo, a steep climb from the average of nearly 5.9 false or misleading claims a day in Trump's first year in office.Trump is now averaging 22 false claims a day, according to WaPo, a steep climb from the average of nearly 5.9 false or misleading claims a day in Trump's first year in office.
House judiciary committee chairman Jerry Nadler will authorize a subpoena to obtain the full, unredacted report of special counsel Robert Mueller, marking an escalation by Democrats in Congress as they seek access to the 400-page report.House judiciary committee chairman Jerry Nadler will authorize a subpoena to obtain the full, unredacted report of special counsel Robert Mueller, marking an escalation by Democrats in Congress as they seek access to the 400-page report.
Nadler said Monday he expects to authorize the subpoena on Wednesday, demanding both the full report and underlying evidence relating to the special counsel’s investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election and the Trump campaign’s ties to Moscow.Nadler said Monday he expects to authorize the subpoena on Wednesday, demanding both the full report and underlying evidence relating to the special counsel’s investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election and the Trump campaign’s ties to Moscow.
Democrats had provided attorney general William Barr with a deadline of 2 April to provide them with Mueller’s full report. Barr has said he will release a redacted version of the report later this month.Democrats had provided attorney general William Barr with a deadline of 2 April to provide them with Mueller’s full report. Barr has said he will release a redacted version of the report later this month.
The looming confrontation comes a week after Mueller delivered his final report to Barr, closing the two-year investigation that has clouded much of Trump’s tenure in office.The looming confrontation comes a week after Mueller delivered his final report to Barr, closing the two-year investigation that has clouded much of Trump’s tenure in office.
In a controversial move, Barr released a letter with his own principal findings -- stating that the special counsel did not find a criminal conspiracy between the Trump campaign and the Russian government, and that he did not believe there was sufficient evidence to charge the president with obstruction of justice. According to Barr’s letter, Mueller found evidence on both sides of the obstruction issue and made clear he was not exonerating the president.In a controversial move, Barr released a letter with his own principal findings -- stating that the special counsel did not find a criminal conspiracy between the Trump campaign and the Russian government, and that he did not believe there was sufficient evidence to charge the president with obstruction of justice. According to Barr’s letter, Mueller found evidence on both sides of the obstruction issue and made clear he was not exonerating the president.
Democrats have blasted Barr for rapidly reaching his own public conclusions in what they believe is an effort to spin the findings in Trump’s favor. In a second letter released on Friday, the attorney general clarified that his initial statement was not intended to be a summary of Mueller’s report.Democrats have blasted Barr for rapidly reaching his own public conclusions in what they believe is an effort to spin the findings in Trump’s favor. In a second letter released on Friday, the attorney general clarified that his initial statement was not intended to be a summary of Mueller’s report.
Nadler said his committee also has plans to subpoena five former White House staffers in relation to the special counsel’s inquiry.Nadler said his committee also has plans to subpoena five former White House staffers in relation to the special counsel’s inquiry.
“We have an obligation to read the full report, and the Department of Justice has an obligation to provide it, in its entirely, without delay,” Nadler wrote in a New York Times op-ed published Monday.“We have an obligation to read the full report, and the Department of Justice has an obligation to provide it, in its entirely, without delay,” Nadler wrote in a New York Times op-ed published Monday.
“We require the report, first, because Congress, not the attorney general, has a duty under the Constitution to determine whether wrongdoing has occurred,” he added.“We require the report, first, because Congress, not the attorney general, has a duty under the Constitution to determine whether wrongdoing has occurred,” he added.
“The special counsel declined to make a ‘traditional prosecutorial judgment’ on the question of obstruction, but it is not the attorney general’s job to step in and substitute his judgment for the special counsel’s.”“The special counsel declined to make a ‘traditional prosecutorial judgment’ on the question of obstruction, but it is not the attorney general’s job to step in and substitute his judgment for the special counsel’s.”
As Joe Biden faces scrutiny of his behavior toward women, the wife of former defense secretary Ash Carter dismissed claims that a photo of her with the former vice president was an example of unwanted touching.As Joe Biden faces scrutiny of his behavior toward women, the wife of former defense secretary Ash Carter dismissed claims that a photo of her with the former vice president was an example of unwanted touching.
In a Medium post released late Sunday, Stephanie Carter addressed a viral photo in which Biden had his hands on her shoulders and appeared to be whispering in her ear during the swearing-in ceremony for her husband in 2015.In a Medium post released late Sunday, Stephanie Carter addressed a viral photo in which Biden had his hands on her shoulders and appeared to be whispering in her ear during the swearing-in ceremony for her husband in 2015.
“As the sole owner of my story, it is high time that I reclaim it — from strangers, Twitter, the pundits and the late-night hosts,” Carter wrote. “I won’t pretend that this will be the last of that picture, but it will be the last of other people speaking for me.”“As the sole owner of my story, it is high time that I reclaim it — from strangers, Twitter, the pundits and the late-night hosts,” Carter wrote. “I won’t pretend that this will be the last of that picture, but it will be the last of other people speaking for me.”
Carter said Biden had hugged her because he sensed she was “uncharacteristically nervous” and leaned in to thank her for letting her husband serve in the Obama administration. The then-vice president, she added kept his hands on her shoulders “as a means of offering his support”.Carter said Biden had hugged her because he sensed she was “uncharacteristically nervous” and leaned in to thank her for letting her husband serve in the Obama administration. The then-vice president, she added kept his hands on her shoulders “as a means of offering his support”.
“But a still shot taken from a video — misleadingly extracted from what was a longer moment between close friends — sent out in a snarky tweet — came to be the lasting image of that day,” Carter added.“But a still shot taken from a video — misleadingly extracted from what was a longer moment between close friends — sent out in a snarky tweet — came to be the lasting image of that day,” Carter added.
Carter’s move to correct the record came just days after Lucy Flores, a former Nevada state assemblywoman, penned an essay recounting an encounter with Biden in 2014 that made her uncomfortable. Flores wrote that Biden touched her shoulders, leaned in to smell her hair and kissed the back of her head -- conduct she found to be a violation of her personal space.Carter’s move to correct the record came just days after Lucy Flores, a former Nevada state assemblywoman, penned an essay recounting an encounter with Biden in 2014 that made her uncomfortable. Flores wrote that Biden touched her shoulders, leaned in to smell her hair and kissed the back of her head -- conduct she found to be a violation of her personal space.
A spokesperson for Biden said the former vice president did not recall the interaction with Flores. Biden issued a statement of his own on Sunday denying allegations that he knowingly behaved inappropriately.A spokesperson for Biden said the former vice president did not recall the interaction with Flores. Biden issued a statement of his own on Sunday denying allegations that he knowingly behaved inappropriately.
“In my many years on the campaign trail and in public life, I have offered countless handshakes, hugs, expressions of affection, support, and comfort,” Biden said. “And not once — never — did I believe I acted inappropriately. If it is suggested I did so, I will listen respectfully. But it was never my intention.”“In my many years on the campaign trail and in public life, I have offered countless handshakes, hugs, expressions of affection, support, and comfort,” Biden said. “And not once — never — did I believe I acted inappropriately. If it is suggested I did so, I will listen respectfully. But it was never my intention.”
Biden’s tendency to get close to women in public events has long been dismissed as part of the former vice president’s friendly posture. But his behavior has come under renewed focus in the aftermath of the #MeToo movement and as Biden is widely believed to enter the 2020 presidential race.Biden’s tendency to get close to women in public events has long been dismissed as part of the former vice president’s friendly posture. But his behavior has come under renewed focus in the aftermath of the #MeToo movement and as Biden is widely believed to enter the 2020 presidential race.
Numerous photos of Biden have been circulated in which the former vice president is seen wrapping his arms around women’s waists or pulling them close and whispering in their ears. Critics have suggested Biden has often failed to respect a woman’s personal space.Numerous photos of Biden have been circulated in which the former vice president is seen wrapping his arms around women’s waists or pulling them close and whispering in their ears. Critics have suggested Biden has often failed to respect a woman’s personal space.
In her essay, Carter said Flores had the right to “speak her truth” about how she felt about her interaction with Biden.In her essay, Carter said Flores had the right to “speak her truth” about how she felt about her interaction with Biden.
“She should be, like all women, believed. But her story is not mine,” Carter wrote. “The Joe Biden in my picture is a close friend helping someone get through a big day, for which I will always be grateful.”“She should be, like all women, believed. But her story is not mine,” Carter wrote. “The Joe Biden in my picture is a close friend helping someone get through a big day, for which I will always be grateful.”
Happy Monday everyone! It’s Sabrina Siddiqui here, ready to kick off the week with the latest in US politics.Happy Monday everyone! It’s Sabrina Siddiqui here, ready to kick off the week with the latest in US politics.
Famous last words, but it’s a relatively quiet day for Donald Trump, who is in private meetings all day...Famous last words, but it’s a relatively quiet day for Donald Trump, who is in private meetings all day...
But we do expect more fallout from the special counsel report, as Democrats continue to fight for its full release. And then there’s that whole thing where the president threatened to shut down the US-Mexico border this week, not to mention a renewed fight over the future of Barack Obama’s healthcare law.But we do expect more fallout from the special counsel report, as Democrats continue to fight for its full release. And then there’s that whole thing where the president threatened to shut down the US-Mexico border this week, not to mention a renewed fight over the future of Barack Obama’s healthcare law.
The 2020 campaigns are also in full swing, so we’ll keep an eye on the candidates vying for the Democratic nomination -- many of whom are speaking at a summit in Washington this week.The 2020 campaigns are also in full swing, so we’ll keep an eye on the candidates vying for the Democratic nomination -- many of whom are speaking at a summit in Washington this week.
Stay tuned for more!Stay tuned for more!