@0:30, , 1/31/21

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1

 

Trump Parts Ways With Lead Impeachment Lawyer

Maggie Haberman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

Four other lawyers reported to be joining the defense team are said to be leaving, a little over a week before the former president’s Senate trial is set to begin.

 

Trump should be denied any future office or other benefit of his former office.

 

2

Pentagon Halts Plan to Vaccinate the 40 Prisoners at Guantánamo Bay

Carol Rosenberg, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

The decision to vaccinate the prisoners ignited criticism over whether the government was prioritizing terrorism suspects over American citizens.

 

These men are captives facing trial.  They should be vaccinated.

 

3

How Trump’s Focus on Antifa Distracted Attention From the Far-Right Threat

Adam Goldman, Katie Benner and Zolan Kanno-Youngs, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

Federal law enforcement shifted resources last year in response to Donald Trump’s insistence that the radical left endangered the country. Meanwhile, right-wing extremism was building ominously.

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antifa_(United_States)

 

As an organization it is ad hoc. 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ad_hoc

4

For McCarthy and McConnell, Two Paths on Trumpian Crisis Management

Jonathan Martin, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 9 hours ago

Kevin McCarthy, the House minority leader, and Mitch McConnell, the Senate minority leader, want to take back control of Congress in 2022. First they have to figure out how to handle Donald Trump.

 

Trump will neither go or win.

 

5

Biden's Fast Start Echoes F.D.R.'s. Now Comes the Hard Part.

Peter Baker, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 11 hours ago

The most daunting challenge for Mr. Biden in the weeks ahead will be balancing his stated desire for bipartisanship with his sense of urgency.

 

The fast start is required. 

The Republicans will back reluctantly into the next development.

They must own their sabotage and the pain it will cause.

 

6

Marjorie Taylor Greene's Controversies Are Piling Up. Republicans Are Quiet.

Catie Edmondson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 12 hours ago

In a video from 2018, Ms. Greene falsely suggested that 9/11 was a hoax, President Barack Obama was a Muslim and the Clintons were guilty of murder.

 

So far the sun has risen on milenialists.  The end of the world has been delayed.

 

7

Federal Court Lifts Block on Trump Policy Expelling Migrant Children at the Border

Zolan Kanno-Youngs, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 14 hours ago

The prospect of border agents again turning away children is likely to renew pressure on the Biden administration.

 

The Texas court decision will be stayed and appealed.

8

Fact-Checking Biden’s First Week in Office

Linda Qiu, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 19 hours ago

All but three of 20 claims the president made were accurate, demonstrating his regard for basic facts and his proclivity to err when speaking off the cuff.

 

Biden is doing well.

 

9

Trump’s Shadow Lingers Over Divided G.O.P.

Lisa Lerer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 19 hours ago

Republicans seem more focused on attacking those who break with the former president, than members who continue to push violent conspiracy theories that flourished under his leadership.

 

Trump is not fading as fast as I could wish.

 

10

C.I.A. analyst Morgan Muir to run Biden’s daily briefings

Julian E. Barnes and Adam Goldman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 21 hours ago

The new intelligence chief wanted a briefer with experience and an apolitical record. She chose Morgan Muir, perhaps the first time a former White House briefer has returned to the post.

 

Foreign intelligence should not be partisan.

 

11

Open Thread

Ian Welsh, Ian Welsh - 1 day ago

Use the comments to discuss topics unrelated to recent posts.

 

Sooner is better.    As soon as you can is best.

 

12

G.M. Announcement Shakes Up U.S. Automakers’ Transition to Electric Cars

Neal E. Boudette and Coral Davenport, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Every carmaker is trying to figure out how to make the leap before governments force it and Tesla and other start-ups lure away drivers.

 

Electric automobile makers must source high capacity batteries.

 

13

Biden Visits Walter Reed, Where His Son Battled Brain Cancer

Michael D. Shear, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

“I’ve spent a lot of time at Walter Reed,” Mr. Biden said as he left the White House for the visit on Friday. “They’re great Americans. They’re great people.”

 

The VA will be properly funded by Biden.

 

14

Kevin Clinesmith, Ex-F.B.I. Lawyer, Is Sentenced to Probation

Charlie Savage, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

A judge rebuffed a request by prosecutors to impose a prison sentence on Kevin Clinesmith, who admitted doctoring an email used to help authorize a wiretap on a former Trump campaign aide.

 

Kevin Clinesmith should not have allowed himself to be guilty.

 

15

U.S. Airstrike Kills Top ISIS Leader in Iraq

Jane Arraf and Falih Hassan, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The joint operation with Iraqi forces was aimed at stemming the group’s resurgence, and illustrates Iraq’s continued reliance on the U.S. military.

 

Iraq will remain a client state of the U.S. until it grows its own government.

 

16

In Biden’s White House, Masks, Closed Doors and Empty Halls

Annie Karni, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The West Wing has become a different place in an administration serious about Covid restrictions.

 

More work is being done.

 

17

Macron Tells Biden That Cooperation With U.S. Cannot Be Dependence

Roger Cohen, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

In a “very agreeable call,” the French president told his American counterpart that Europe wanted “strategic autonomy.” In an interview with foreign media, he also reflected on the pandemic and threats to democracy.

 

Diplomacy continues.

 

18

Job Seekers With Trump White House on Their Résumés Face a Cold Reality

Katie Rogers, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Working at the White House has traditionally been a ticket to a lucrative future. But that hasn’t been the case so far for Trump alumni.

 

Association with failure is not a plus.

 

19

Former U.S. Climate Leaders Press Biden on Amazon Deforestation

Lisa Friedman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Former environmental officials from both parties are pressing President Biden to counter deforestation in the Amazon, especially in Brazil.

 

Direct pressure on Brazil is a problem for the U.N.

 

20

Biden Moves Cautiously on Health Care

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

“There’s nothing new that we’re doing here”: This is your morning tip sheet.

 

Health care increases are an automatic no among Republicans.

Care must be taken to maintain the Democratic majority.

 

 

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@23:44, , 1/29/21

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1

C.I.A. analyst Morgan Muir to run Biden’s daily briefings

Julian E. Barnes and Adam Goldman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 31 minutes ago

The new intelligence chief wanted a briefer with experience and an apolitical record. She chose Morgan Muir, perhaps the first time a former White House briefer has returned to the post.

 

If the facts get through, that is what we hope for.

 

2 

G.M. Announcement Shakes Up U.S. Automakers’ Transition to Electric Cars

Neal E. Boudette and Coral Davenport, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 53 minutes ago

Every carmaker is trying to figure out how to make the leap before governments force it and Tesla and other start-ups lure away drivers.

 

GM must move quickly if it is to survive.  Two years is an eternity in this market.

 

3

G.O.P. Quiet as Pressure Mounts to Address Lawmaker’s Conspiracy Claims

Catie Edmondson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 59 minutes ago

In a newly unearthed video from 2018, Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene suggested that 9/11 was a hoax, President Barack Obama was a Muslim and the Clintons were guilty of murder.

 

The Republican party can deal with her in the halls.

 

4

Biden Visits Walter Reed, Where His Son Battled Brain Cancer

Michael D. Shear, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

“I’ve spent a lot of time at Walter Reed,” Mr. Biden said as he left the White House for the visit on Friday. “They’re great Americans. They’re great people.”

 

The VA will be generously funded in support of the Covid-19 emergency.

 

5

Kevin Clinesmith, Ex-F.B.I. Lawyer, Is Sentenced to Probation

Charlie Savage, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

A judge rebuffed a request by prosecutors to impose a prison sentence on Kevin Clinesmith, who admitted doctoring an email used to help authorize a wiretap on a former Trump campaign aide.

 

Character assassination is not safe.

 

6

U.S. Airstrike Kills Top ISIS Leader in Iraq

Jane Arraf and Falih Hassan, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

The joint operation with Iraqi forces was aimed at stemming the group’s resurgence, and illustrates Iraq’s continued reliance on the U.S. military.

 

The U.S. can kill anyone.  It changes few minds.

 

7

In Biden’s White House, Masks, Closed Doors and Empty Halls

Annie Karni, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

The West Wing has become a different place in an administration serious about Covid restrictions.

 

More work is getting done.

 

8

Macron Tells Biden That Cooperation With U.S. Cannot Be Dependence

Roger Cohen, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

In a “very agreeable call,” the French president told his American counterpart that Europe wanted “strategic autonomy.” In an interview with foreign media, he also reflected on the pandemic and threats to democracy.

 

Macron understands vassalage.

Trump never did.

Biden seems to understand.

 

9

Biden Wants the Biggest Stimulus in Modern History. Is It Too Big?

Neil Irwin, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

Supporters of a ‘hot’ economy see a chance to correct the mistakes of the last recession. Others see danger.

 

The fix for economic overheating is known and even easy.

It is taxes.

Over heat the economy.

 

10

Job Seekers With Trump White House on Their Résumés Face a Cold Reality

Katie Rogers, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

Working at the White House has traditionally been a ticket to a lucrative future. But that hasn’t been the case so far for Trump alumni.

 

The Trump administration was a failure.

 

11

Former U.S. Climate Leaders Press Biden on Amazon Deforestation

Lisa Friedman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

Former environmental officials from both parties are pressing President Biden to counter deforestation in the Amazon, especially in Brazil.

 

The deforestation of Amazonia must end.

It is a matter for the U.N. rather than the U.S.

 

12

Democrats Prepare to Move on Economic Aid, With or Without the G.O.P.

Jim Tankersley and Emily Cochrane, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 10 hours ago

President Biden is trying to persuade Republicans to back a $1.9 trillion spending package, but Democrats are pursuing another path to get the relief approved without bipartisan support.

 

Generous relief is necessary.

The Republican party is convinced of things that just aint so.

 

13

Biden Moves to Expand Health Coverage in Pandemic Economy

Sheryl Gay Stolberg and Abby Goodnough, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 12 hours ago

President Biden ordered the reopening of Affordable Care Act exchanges and moved to restore coverage mandates and Medicaid plans undermined by his predecessor.

 

Biden is doing his job.

 

14

Biden Moves Cautiously on Health Care

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 13 hours ago

“There’s nothing new that we’re doing here”: This is your morning tip sheet.

 

Congress is not doing its job.

Health care will work better.

The battery business must grow beyond Tesla.  Other electric vehicles must enter the market.

 

15

U.S. Names Iran Envoy in Battle of Wills With Tehran Over Nuclear Negotiations

Lara Jakes and Michael Crowley, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 21 hours ago

Robert Malley, a former Middle East adviser to Democratic presidents and a conflict resolution analyst, had faced opposition from conservatives even before his appointment was announced.

 

We must negotiate with Tehran.

Republicans under Trump do not negotiate.

 

16

Capitol Police Call for More Security, Prompting Debate Over How Far to Go

Hailey Fuchs, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The Capitol Police, Washington’s mayor and lawmakers are weighing options for permanent fencing around Congress and bigger forces to respond to continuing threats.

 

More security on the capitol grounds is not required.

The next time the authoritarians come they will come in force.

The capitol police should setup an intelligence unit with good communications with the F.B.I.

There also should be a rapid response connection with the National Guards. 

17

Bernie Sanders Meme Merchandise Earns $1.8 Million for Vermont Charities

Derrick Bryson Taylor and Johnny Diaz, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Proceeds from sales of the T-shirts and sweatshirts will go to community organizations in the senator’s home state, including Feeding Chittenden.

 

Bernie has won his war.

Vermont will elect another as his replacement.

 

18

Pentagon May Send Troops to Assist With Vaccines, Enlarging Federal Role

Jennifer Steinhauer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The move would be the first significant sign that the Biden administration is taking more control of a vaccine distribution effort that states are struggling to manage.

 

Biden would be grabbing the wrong endof the process.

The problem seems to be with the necessary rationing.

 

19

McCarthy Seeks Thaw With Trump as G.O.P. Rallies Behind Former President

Maggie Haberman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The top House Republican met with former President Donald J. Trump, working to mend fences after saying that Mr. Trump bore responsibility for the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol.

 

Kevin McCarthy got it right the first time,

He should not win his next election.

 

20

After Presidency, Trump Hotel in Washington Is a Limited Draw

Eric Lipton, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Traffic on two recent evenings at the hotel was exceedingly slow, even after the city lifted a ban on indoor dining.

 

A Trump fire sale would please me.

 

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

1

C.I.A. analyst Morgan Muir to run Biden’s daily briefings

Julian E. Barnes and Adam Goldman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 27 minutes ago

The new intelligence chief wanted a briefer with experience and an apolitical record. She chose Morgan Muir, perhaps the first time a former White House briefer has returned to the post.

 

She will do it well or suffer.

 

2

Federal Court Lifts Block on Trump Policy Expelling Migrant Children at the Border

Zolan Kanno-Youngs, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

The prospect of border agents again turning away children is likely to renew pressure on the Biden 

administration.

 

The Texas decision will be appealed.

 

3

Marjorie Taylor Greene Controversies Are Piling Up. Republicans are Quiet.

Catie Edmondson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

In a newly unearthed video from 2018, Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene suggested that 9/11 was a hoax, President Barack Obama was a Muslim and the Clintons were guilty of murder.

 

Fiction should not win debates on facts.

 

4

G.M. Announcement Shakes Up U.S. Automakers’ Transition to Electric Cars

Neal E. Boudette and Coral Davenport, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

Every carmaker is trying to figure out how to make the leap before governments force it and Tesla and other start-ups lure away drivers.

 

GM must find a source for batteries.

 

5

Biden Visits Walter Reed, Where His Son Battled Brain Cancer

Michael D. Shear, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

“I’ve spent a lot of time at Walter Reed,” Mr. Biden said as he left the White House for the visit on Friday. “They’re great Americans. They’re great people.”

 

The VA will be funded.

 

6

Kevin Clinesmith, Ex-F.B.I. Lawyer, Is Sentenced to Probation

Charlie Savage, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

A judge rebuffed a request by prosecutors to impose a prison sentence on Kevin Clinesmith, who admitted doctoring an email used to help authorize a wiretap on a former Trump campaign aide.

 

He should not have made himself guilty.

 

7

U.S. Airstrike Kills Top ISIS Leader in Iraq

Jane Arraf and Falih Hassan, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

The joint operation with Iraqi forces was aimed at stemming the group’s resurgence, and illustrates Iraq’s continued reliance on the U.S. military.

 

Killing flies with a heavy hammer.

 

8

In Biden’s White House, Masks, Closed Doors and Empty Halls

Annie Karni, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 6 hours ago

The West Wing has become a different place in an administration serious about Covid restrictions.

 

Work is getting done.

 

9

Macron Tells Biden That Cooperation With U.S. Cannot Be Dependence

Roger Cohen, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 6 hours ago

In a “very agreeable call,” the French president told his American counterpart that Europe wanted “strategic autonomy.” In an interview with foreign media, he also reflected on the pandemic and threats to democracy.

 

Deplomacy is necessary.

 

10

Biden Wants the Biggest Stimulus in Modern History. Is It Too Big?

Neil Irwin, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 6 hours ago

Supporters of a ‘hot’ economy see a chance to correct the mistakes of the last recession. Others see danger.

 

Fixing inflation is easy.

Taxation does it.

 

11

Job Seekers With Trump White House on Their Résumés Face a Cold Reality

Katie Rogers, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 10 hours ago

Working at the White House has traditionally been a ticket to a lucrative future. But that hasn’t been the case so far for Trump alumni.

 

Dramatic failure is not a plus.

 

12

Former U.S. Climate Leaders Press Biden on Amazon Deforestation

Lisa Friedman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 11 hours ago

Former environmental officials from both parties are pressing President Biden to counter deforestation 

in the amazon.

Amazonia is a problem for the U.N.

Brazil is sovereign.

13

Democrats Prepare to Move on Economic Aid, With or Without the G.O.P.

Jim Tankersley and Emily Cochrane, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 14 hours ago

President Biden is trying to persuade Republicans to back a $1.9 trillion spending package, but Democrats are pursuing another path to get the relief approved without bipartisan support.

 

Republicans do not negotiate.

 

14

Biden Moves to Expand Health Coverage in Pandemic Economy

Sheryl Gay Stolberg and Abby Goodnough, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 15 hours ago

President Biden ordered the reopening of Affordable Care Act exchanges and moved to restore coverage mandates and Medicaid plans undermined by his predecessor.

 

Biden has no choice.

 

15

Biden Moves Cautiously on Health Care

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 16 hours ago

“There’s nothing new that we’re doing here”: This is your morning tip sheet.

 

Trump and his congress left few options.

 

16

U.S. Names Iran Envoy in Battle of Wills With Tehran Over Nuclear Negotiations

Lara Jakes and Michael Crowley, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Robert Malley, a former Middle East adviser to Democratic presidents and a conflict resolution analyst, had faced opposition from conservatives even before his appointment was announced.

 

Tehran insists on diplomacy.

 

17

Capitol Police Call for More Security, Prompting Debate Over How Far to Go

Hailey Fuchs, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The Capitol Police, Washington’s mayor and lawmakers are weighing options for permanent fencing around Congress and bigger forces to respond to continuing threats.

 

The capitol police need an inteligence squad and rapid response from other forces.

 

18

Bernie Sanders Meme Merchandise Earns $1.8 Million for Vermont Charities

Derrick Bryson Taylor and Johnny Diaz, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Proceeds from sales of the T-shirts and sweatshirts will go to community organizations in the senator’s home state, including Feeding Chittenden.

 

Vermont will send another democratic socialist when the time comes.

 

19

Pentagon May Send Troops to Assist With Vaccines, Enlarging Federal Role

Jennifer Steinhauer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The move would be the first significant sign that the Biden administration is taking more control of a vaccine distribution effort that states are struggling to manage.

 

National Guards can do the job without more help.

 

20

McCarthy Seeks Thaw With Trump as G.O.P. Rallies Behind Former President

Maggie Haberman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The top House Republican met with former President Donald J. Trump, working to mend fences after saying that Mr. Trump bore responsibility for the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol.

 

Such a raprochment should cost McCarthy his next election.

 

 

||

 

21:00, 1/27/21

 |

 

1  

McConnell Was Done With Trump. His Party Said Not So Fast.

Nicholas Fandos and Jonathan Martin, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 minutes ago

After four years, the minority leader had finally had enough. But with most Republicans rallying around Donald J. Trump, he sided with his colleagues trying to throw out the impeachment case.

 

Mitch McConnell remains a Republican.

 

2

Extremists Emboldened by Capitol Attack Pose Rising Threat, Homeland Security Says

Zolan Kanno-Youngs and David E. Sanger, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 8 minutes ago

The warning was a notable departure for a Department of Homeland Security accused of being reluctant during the Trump administration to publish intelligence reports or public warnings about the dangers posed by extremists and white supremacist groups.

 

"The pot is calling the kettle black"

 

3

Biden Administration Reviewing Trump Arms Sales to U.A.E. and Saudi Arabia

Michael Crowley, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 18 minutes ago

Officials called the review standard for a new administration, but many Democrats critical of the Gulf States want the president to cancel the deals.

 

The review is proper.

The problem is one for the diplomats.

 

4

Millions Meant for Public Health Threats Were Diverted Elsewhere, Watchdog Says

Sheryl Gay Stolberg, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

The money went to unrelated government activities like the removal of office furniture, news subscriptions and legal expenses.

 

I am not surprised at this shocking condition.

 

5

For Trump’s Aggrieved Defenders, This Impeachment Confirms Everything

Dionne Searcey, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

His supporters see his second impeachment, a historic first, as the culmination of years of unfair treatment. The belief’s ubiquity shows the resilience of his message and the power of conservative media.

 

Trump loyalism is a denial of reality.

 

6

Biden Appoints New Cabinet Secretaries, Ousting Trump Loyalists

David E. Sanger, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

President Biden named nearly all of his cabinet secretaries and their immediate deputies before he took office, but his real grasp on the levers of power has come several layers down.

 

There is no unseemly rush.

 

7

Why Aren't Progressives Pressuring Biden on the Filibuster?

Astead W. Herndon and Lisa Lerer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

The president doesn’t want to eliminate the Senate’s 60-vote threshold, an impediment to major legislation. Left-leaning Democrats disagree, but they’re holding their fire for now.

 

The Republicans may again be a majority in the senate.

The filabuster should be difficult and demanding of individual senators.

 

8

How Biden Could Use Reconciliation to Speed Through His Pandemic Aid Plan

Emily Cochrane, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

The complex and arcane budget reconciliation process would ease passage of President Biden’s stimulus bill, but it could also limit what he is able to accomplish with the plan.

 

The government debt game has gotten very old.

Retire federal debt concerns while the economy is depressed.

 

9

Twitter Troll Tricked 4,900 Democrats in Vote-by-Phone Scheme, U.S. Says

Nicole Hong, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

Douglass Mackey, a right-wing provocateur, was accused of spreading memes that made Hillary Clinton supporters falsely believe they could cast ballots in 2016 via text message.

 

This charge probably should not stand when it gets to court.

 

10

Rioters Followed a Long Conspiratorial Road to the Capitol

Elizabeth Williamson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 9 hours ago

The Capitol extremists and their cheerleaders did not make a giant leap to “Stop the Steal.” A pathway of conspiratorial steppingstones led them there.

 

Conspiracy has a long history.

 

11

The Battle Lines Are Forming in Biden’s Climate Push

Coral Davenport and Lisa Friedman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 11 hours ago

The president is moving rapidly to address global warming, with unlikely allies backing him and huge hurdles, some from his own party, directly ahead.

 

This old news has acquired new urgency.

 

12

MyPillow C.E.O.’s Trump Conspiracy Theories Put Company on the Spot

Sapna Maheshwari and Tiffany Hsu, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 12 hours ago

Retailers have stopped carrying its products, though Mike Lindell, the founder and face of MyPillow, blamed “cancel culture” and said he didn’t think it would last.

 

Mike Lindell is inexcuseable.

 

13 

Impeachment Trial: Could Trump Be Convicted?

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 13 hours ago

G.O.P. senators appear unwilling to punish the party’s leader: This is your morning tip sheet.

 

Trump is now subject to state prosecution.

 

14

The Road to Clemency From Trump Was Closed to Most Who Sought It

Kenneth P. Vogel, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 17 hours ago

Of the nearly 240 pardons and commutations he granted during his term, only 25 came through the regular Justice Department process. The rest were a product of connections, influence and money.

 

Trump abused the clemmency power.

State prosecutors should not be gentle with him.

 

15

The Free, Diverse Internet In America Is Coming To An End

Ian Welsh, Ian Welsh - 17 hours ago

Matt Taibbi’s been covering who is being censored, and his latest is worth a read. But basically the internet now runs thru a number of major content aggregators: Google, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, etc… (many of these are owned by the same few firms.) Most people go to the major sites and find their media […]

 

Ian Welsh is still depressed.

Fat happy voters are important to advertisers.

 

16 

Capitol Police Detail Failures During Pro-Trump Assault

Luke Broadwater, Emily Cochrane and Adam Goldman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 20 hours ago

The acting chief of the Capitol Police told lawmakers that the department knew days ahead of time of the risk of violence targeting lawmakers but was unprepared when the mob attacked on Jan. 6.

 

The capitol police may have been setup by the Sergeants at arms.

 

17

Who is on the Prosecution Team in Trump's Impeachment Trial?

Allyson Waller, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 23 hours ago

The nine House members who will serve as the prosecution team in the Senate trial include notable players from Trump’s first impeachment.

 

They should speak as with one voice.

 

18

Republicans Rally Against Impeachment Trial, Signaling Likely Acquittal for Trump

Nicholas Fandos, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

All but five Republican senators voted to challenge the constitutionality of the trial, suggesting that Democrats were unlikely to find the 17 they would need to join them in convicting the former president.

 

The Republicans fear political death.

 

19

Biden Pledges to Speed Flow of Vaccines to the States

Sheryl Gay Stolberg, Noah Weiland and Sharon LaFraniere, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

President Biden said the amount of coronavirus vaccines reaching the states would rise next week and a deal was near to provide enough shots to vaccinate nearly all Americans by the end of summer.

 

There is no desire to slow the delivery of vaccine.

 

20

Comparing Biden and Trump's Cabinet Picks

Eileen Sullivan, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

President Biden has chosen policymakers, while President Donald J. Trump valued cabinet secretaries he saw as deal makers.

 

Biden has chosen well for governing.

Trump chose to destroy government.

 

 

||

@21:48, , 1/26/21

 |

 

1

Biden Pledges to Speed Flow of Vaccines to the States

Sheryl Gay Stolberg, Noah Weiland and Sharon LaFraniere, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

President Biden said the amount of coronavirus vaccines reaching the states would rise next week and a deal was near to provide enough shots to vaccinate nearly all Americans by the end of summer.

 

Vaccine distribution has been a mess.  

The messes are being corrected.

 

2

Lloyd Austin Tackles Military’s Sexual Assault Problem

Jennifer Steinhauer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

President Biden has been a vocal proponent of moving the cases outside of the military chain of command, even as general after general has argued against it.

 

I wish Lloyd Austin success in this effort.

Failure cannot be considered.

 

3

Senator Patrick Leahy, 80, is hospitalized as a precaution after reporting feeling unwell.

Emily Cochrane, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

Mr. Leahy, whose position in the Senate puts him third in line for the presidency, oversaw the start of the impeachment proceedings against former President Donald J. Trump earlier on Tuesday.

 

It appears to be a false alarm.

It is well worth some attention.

4

Comparing Biden and Trump's Cabinet Picks

Eileen Sullivan, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

President Biden has chosen policymakers, while President Donald J. Trump valued cabinet secretaries he saw as deal makers.

 

Biden has chosen people who will run their areas with minimal supervision. 

5

Cabinet Picks: Comparing Biden and Trump’s First Teams

Eileen Sullivan, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

President Biden has chosen policymakers, while President Donald J. Trump valued cabinet secretaries he saw as deal makers.

 

Biden has chosen people who will run their areas with minimal supervision. 

Government requires constant attention.  A president has more than enough to attend to.

 

6

Biden Will Restore U.S. Relations With Palestinians, Reversing Trump Cutoff

Michael Crowley, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

Despite the move, analysts believe the prospects for an Israeli-Palestinian agreement remain distant.

 

Talk changes things.  I see no hope of peace.

 

7

A Witness to History and Bernie Sanders in His Mittens

Marie Fazio, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

Brendan Smialowski, a photojournalist for Agence France-Presse, shot the image of a bundled Mr. Sanders that spawned a multitude of memes on Inauguration Day .

 

Brendan Smialowski had skill and luck.

Bernie Sanders has the image and presence to tempt the pirates.

 

8

Judge Blocks 100-Day Pause on Deportation, a Blow to Biden's Immigration Agenda

Miriam Jordan, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

A court in Texas issued a 14-day nationwide temporary restraining order sought by the state’s attorney general that would prevent carrying out the policy, which was issued within hours of the president’s inauguration.

 

Drew B. Tipton joins the cast of Animal House.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Animal_house

 

9

An impasse ends in the Senate as Democrats win a filibuster battle.

Carl Hulse, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

 

A senator should personally hold the floor to filibuster.

 

10 

C.I.A. Warns Former Officers About Working for Foreign Governments

Julian E. Barnes and Maggie Haberman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

An unusual email from the agency’s counterintelligence chief also warned retired officers to carefully weigh their comments on television, social media and podcasts.

 

"Nicole de Haay, a C.I.A. spokeswoman, said there was nothing unusual about the email’s content. “We routinely reiterate counterintelligence guidance to current and former C.I.A. officers alike, and reading more into it than that is a mistake,” she said." 

11

Janet Yellen Is Sworn In as Treasury Secretary

Alan Rappeport, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

Ms. Yellen will quickly be thrust into fraught negotiations over how to design and pass a robust stimulus package to help revive an economy that has been hammered by the pandemic.

 

Janet Yellen should do well as Treasury Secretaary.

 

12

Most Republicans vote against trying Trump, signaling he is likely to be acquitted of the impeachment charge.

Nicholas Fandos, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

 

The Republicans have not learned.

 

13

Most Republicans vote against trying Trump, signaling he is likely to be acquitted of the impeachment charge.

Nicholas Fandos, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

 

Trump will go to jail in New York.

 

14

Fox Hires Larry Kudlow but Says Kayleigh McEnany Doesn't 'Currently' Work There

Michael M. Grynbaum, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 6 hours ago

 

Larry Kudlow has never been correct about anything according to Paul Krugman.

15

Blinken Takes Over at State Dept. With a Review of Trump’s Policies

Lara Jakes, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 6 hours ago

The Senate confirmed Antony J. Blinken as secretary of state. He is looking to reverse the Trump administration’s confrontational approach to diplomacy.

 

The former assistant secretary should be a good choice.

 

16

Capitol Police Chief Apologizes For Security Failures During Assault

Luke Broadwater, Emily Cochrane and Adam Goldman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

 

The former command structure of the capitol police was probably corrupt.

 

17

The White House press briefings will include an American Sign Language interpreter.

Eileen Sullivan, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 8 hours ago

 

Television requires an interpreter for deaf viewers.

 

18

The White House extends Covid-19-related travel bans on Brazil and much of Europe and adds South Africa.

Michael D. Shear and Sheryl Gay Stolberg, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 12 hours ago

 

A lockdown is needed to hunt the novel Covid-19 viruses.

 

19

Biden’s pick for commerce secretary, Gina Raimondo, has a confirmation hearing.

Ana Swanson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 12 hours ago

 

Gina M. Raimondo, Biden's choice for commerce secretary, should be appointed.

 

20 

The Covid Fight Gets More Challenging

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 14 hours ago

Vaccine distribution and a puzzling variant complicate Biden’s task: This is your morning tip sheet.

 

A national lock down is necessary to eliminate the novel variants of Covid-19.

 

 

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@20:00, , 1/24/21

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1

Five Takeaways From the Developing Space War Between China and the U.S.

William J. Broad, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 26 minutes ago

The Biden administration is inheriting the menace of Chinese antisatellite arms as well as an innovative way of trying to defuse the escalating threat.

 

There is no way to "Beat the Chinese" by direct action.

The U.S. can destroy their orbital projects as they can destroy ours.

Cyber war will continue and everyone will harden their systems.  Running backups that are air gapped and encrypted.  The U.S. must support the laboratories and development shops.  Know that if it can be done here soon it can be done there.

Diplomacy must manage the direct action groups.

William J. Broad has a simplistic view of all the world.  It is all dynamic.

"One must run as fast as one can tostay in the same place."  

 

2 

How Space Became the Next ‘Great Power’ Contest Between the U.S. and China

William J. Broad, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 27 minutes ago

The Biden administration faces not only waves of Chinese antisatellite weapons but a history of jumbled responses to the intensifying threat.

 

Treat the diplomatic corps as the professionals they are.

Talk with the Chinese and deal with them as a fellow sovereign nation.

3

How Alvin the Beagle Helped Usher In a Democratic Senate

Shane Goldmacher, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

Senator Raphael Warnock was sworn in this week as Georgia’s first Black senator, and he arrived with a canny canine assist.

 

Beagles are an excellent breed.  Have one if you wish.  I have no objection.  

I still don't want to be owned by a dog.

 

4

Son Tipped Off F.B.I. About His Father, Who Is Charged in Capitol Riot

Bryan Pietsch, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

“I put my emotions behind me to do what I thought was right,” said Jackson Reffitt, who weeks before the siege alerted the F.B.I. that his father was planning “something big.”

 

Jackson Reffitt should probably shelter in the military.   The navy might be a good choice.

 

5 

Divisions Harden in Senate as It Prepares to Receive Impeachment Article

Catie Edmondson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

Mitt Romney indicated that he believed the charge against former President Donald J. Trump was impeachable, while Marco Rubio called a trial “stupid.”

 

Trump is guilty but conviction will require seven more votes than Shumer can count on.

 

6

How Democrats Planned for Doomsday

Alexander Burns, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

A huge coalition of activist groups had been working together since the spring to make sure that Joe Biden won and that the “election stayed won” amid Donald Trump’s subterfuge.

 

The Democrats nearly lost the down ballot election.

They did not but They are not in a strong position.

There is work to be done for 2022.

 

7

Fauci on What Working for Trump Was Really Like

Donald G. McNeil Jr., NYT > U.S. > Politics - 6 hours ago

From denialism to death threats, Dr. Anthony S. Fauci describes a fraught year as an adviser to President Donald J. Trump on the Covid-19 pandemic.

 

Dr. Fauci reports that Trump did not work with him.

 

8

Surge of Student Suicides Pushes Las Vegas Schools to Reopen

Erica L. Green, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

Firmly linking teen suicides to school closings is difficult, but rising mental health emergencies and suicide rates point to the toll the pandemic lockdown is taking.

 

Social support for children is necessary.

At this time of covid-19 it should not be in large groups.

Keep the schools closed but keep the social functions.

There are no economies of scale beyond remote instruction.

 

9

Week-end Wrap – Political Economy – January 24, 2021

Tony Wikrent, Ian Welsh - 8 hours ago

Week-end Wrap – Political Economy – January 24, 2021 by Tony Wikrent The Biden Transition and the Fight for Real Hope and Change This Time The Biden Recovery Plan and the Disarray of Economic Theory: The pandemic had one good effect. It sidelined a lot of bad economic thinking. Robert Kuttner, January 19, 2021 [The American Prospect] […]

 

Biden seems to be doing the right things.

 

10

Forget ‘Dry January’ and Other New Year’s Resolutions

Maria Cramer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 11 hours ago

It seems a long time since we pledged to drink less, eat better, exercise more, cut spending and stop doom-scrolling. Be gentle on yourself: It’s been a tough month.

 

There are reasons to do these projects one day at a time.  

Persistance wins with the proper theory.

AA does not reject the fallen.  They can try again and again.

 

11

Pennsylvania Lawmaker Played Key Role in Trump’s Plot to Oust Acting Attorney General

Katie Benner and Catie Edmondson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 20 hours ago

The congressman’s involvement underlined how far the former president was willing to go to overturn the election, and Democratic lawmakers have begun calling for investigations into those efforts.

 

There is a group of "true believers" 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/True-believer_syndrome

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_True_Believer

12

Arizona G.O.P. Censures Three Top Members Criticized by Trump Loyalists

Hank Stephenson and Jennifer Medina, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 21 hours ago

The party rebuked Gov. Doug Ducey, former Senator Jeff Flake and Cindy McCain, all of whom have been criticized by some Trump supporters as insufficiently loyal to the former president.

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apostasy

 

13

Biden Administration Removes Trump Allies From U.S.-Funded News Outlets

Pranshu Verma, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 21 hours ago

The Trump administration had been accused of trying to turn the federally funded news agencies into partisan mouthpieces for his presidency.

 

These persons should never have been appointed.

 

14

Man Threatened to Assassinate Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Officials Say

Michael Levenson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 22 hours ago

Garret Miller, who was among those who stormed the Capitol, also threatened the officer who fatally shot a Trump supporter, saying he would “hug his neck with a nice rope,” prosecutors said.

 

His actions are enough to hold and try him.

 

15

The Trump Presidency Is Now History. So How Will It Rank?

Sarah Lyall, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

As scholars consider the legacy of Donald J. Trump, it appears that even the woefully inadequate James Buchanan has some serious competition.

 

Trump ranks below Andrew Jackson and contests with Andrew Johnson for the bottom.

 

16 

Is President Biden Ready for the New Senate?

Lisa Lerer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Mr. Biden, a man of old Washington, might be in for a rude awakening.

 

Joe Biden is probably ready for the snake pit.

 

17

Open Thread

Ian Welsh, Ian Welsh - 1 day ago

Feel free to use to discuss topics unrelated to recent posts.

 

Sooner is better.    As soon as you can is best.

 

18

How Doug Ducey, Arizona’s Republican Governor, Views His Party After Trump

Jennifer Medina, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Mr. Ducey, who is facing censure by his state party on Saturday, says the divisions within the Republican Party are nothing new.

 

The Trump party should  not caucus with the conservatives.

19

10 Republicans Voted to Impeach Trump. The Backlash Has Been Swift.

Reid J. Epstein and Katie Glueck, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The House Republicans who voted to charge President Donald J. Trump with inciting the Capitol riot are facing a fleet of primary challengers, censures and other rebukes from their party.

 

Apostacy is not tollerated among the orthodox.

 

20

Who is Jonathan Braun? Trump's Last Minute Pardon Still Faces Accusations of Violence

Michael S. Schmidt, Maggie Haberman and William K. Rashbaum, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Jonathan Braun’s 10-year sentence for running a drug ring was commuted by the departing president. The White House did not mention that he faces separate accusations of violence.

 

Jonathan Braun is a client of Alan Dershowitz who defended Trump in his first impeachment.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alan_Dershowitz

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