@13:10, , 10/24/20

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1

While Her Father Rails Against ‘Idiot’ Scientists, Ivanka Trump Talks Ice Cream

Mark Leibovich, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

The first daughter is trying to woo the white suburban female voters who have become her father’s demographic kryptonite.

 

A nonsequiteur.

 

2

Open Thread

Ian Welsh, Ian Welsh - 6 hours ago

Use comments to discuss topics unrelated to recent posts.

 

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

 

3

Trump’s Rallies, Red-State Democrats: This Week in the 2020 Race

Annie Karni and Astead W. Herndon, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 6 hours ago

At the debate, President Trump and Joe Biden were actually able to debate. Offstage, both candidates are carrying on distinctly different campaign styles that suit them best.

 

There is no real change.

 

4

Voting in a Covid Pandemic: Wear a Mask and Bring Your Own Pens

Denise Grady, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

A new C.D.C. report cites lessons learned from Delaware’s primary and suggests that voters could use some instruction in the right way to wear a mask.

 

Good advice.

I plan to vote on next Tuesday.

 

5

Day After Debate, Biden and Trump Amplify Attacks, Seeking an Edge

Sydney Ember and Maggie Haberman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

Joseph Biden continued to hammer President Trump over his denial of the coronavirus threat, while the president sought to exploit what he viewed as a new opening — Mr. Biden’s comments on oil.

 

Trump is floundering.

 

6

5 Policy Issues Where Trump and Biden Diverged at Final Debate

Glenn Thrush and Matt Stevens, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 16 hours ago

The debate on Thursday night had long stretches of illuminating policy discussion on climate change, health care, the coronavirus, immigration and criminal and racial justice.

 

Trump is floundering.

 

7 

Ken Kurson, a Trump Family Ally, is Arrested on Cyberstalking Charge

Nicole Hong and Jesse Drucker, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 16 hours ago

Ken Kurson, a close friend of the president’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, was arrested in connection with incidents stemming from his divorce.

 

Ex wives deserve respect.

 

8

Trump Tried to Blur Responsibility for His Family Separation Policy in Final Debate

Zolan Kanno-Youngs, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 17 hours ago

President Trump repeatedly hurled the phrase “They built the cages” at his debate opponent Thursday, but separating children from parents was a policy all his own.

 

Asylum has been U.S. policy.

 

9

As Time Runs Short, Optimism Fades for a Pre-Election Stimulus Deal

Emily Cochrane, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 17 hours ago

Speaker Nancy Pelosi said she was still optimistic about the chances for an agreement, but it would be up to President Trump when it came together. And time is all but up to cement a compromise before Nov. 3.

 

There will be no relief from this congress.

 

10

Trump’s Philanthropy: Big Tax Write-Offs and Claims That Don’t Always Add Up

Susanne Craig, Russ Buettner and Mike McIntire, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 17 hours ago

Hidden financial records cast doubt on a number of his charitable commitments and show that most of his giving came from land deals that offset his income.

 

Trump is probably bankrupt.

 

11

At 63 Million Viewers, Final Debate Is Trump’s Least Watched

John Koblin and Michael M. Grynbaum, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 18 hours ago

About 10 million fewer Americans watched Thursday’s Biden-Trump debate than the candidates’ first, more chaotic matchup in Cleveland last month.

 

The electorate has decided.

 

12

A Missed Moment for Trump? Second Debate Suggests What Might Have Been

Adam Nagourney, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 18 hours ago

Trailing in the polls, President Trump had more at stake in the debate against Joseph R. Biden Jr. Now Republicans hope the president can present a powerful contrast with Mr. Biden that translates into voter turnout.

 

Trump lost by not winning.

 

13

U.S. Issues Sanctions on Russian Center Involved in Potentially Deadly Cyberattacks

Nicole Perlroth, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 19 hours ago

The penalties were aimed at a Russian research center that developed tools used in a cyberattack on a Saudi petrochemical plant, which took out the safety controls used to prevent an explosion.

 

This group is not paid from U.S. funds.  A loud noise and no damage.

14

Russians Who Pose Election Threat Have Hacked Nuclear Plants and Power Grid

Nicole Perlroth, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 19 hours ago

The hacking group, Energetic Bear, is among Russia’s stealthiest. It appears to be casting a wide net to find useful targets ahead of the election, experts said.

 

Saber rattling does not kill.

 

15 

Democrats Try to Shut Down Senate, Seeking to Stain Barrett Confirmation

Nicholas Fandos, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 20 hours ago

Lacking the ability to block President Trump’s Supreme Court nominee, Democrats are using the final days of the debate to stoke outrage among voters about the rush to confirm her.

 

Do what works.  

The attempt did not work.

 

16

Oil Industry Expresses Concern, Not Alarm, About Biden Comments

Clifford Krauss, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 21 hours ago

After the candidate called for a “transition” away from oil and gas, executives said the country would need fossil fuels for decades to come.

 

Panic will not help

 

17

5 Policy Issues Where Trump and Biden Diverged at Final Debate

Glenn Thrush and Matt Stevens, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 21 hours ago

The debate on Thursday night had long stretches of illuminating policy discussion on climate change, health care, the coronavirus, immigration and criminal and racial justice.

 

Biden spoke cogently.

 

18

As Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds Resists Mask Mandate, Voters Sour on G.O.P.

Trip Gabriel and Astead W. Herndon, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 21 hours ago

Gov. Kim Reynolds has adopted President Trump’s defiant attitude toward public health guidance on the coronavirus. But while she isn’t on the ballot, her leadership may be dragging down Republicans who are.

 

One can hope.

 

19

Bullock Trails Daines Narrowly in Key Montana Senate Race

Nate Cohn, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 22 hours ago

Democrats, including Biden, are competitive in a red state, and Bullock is three points behind in the contest the party cares about most.

 

There is still a little time though not much hope.

 

20

The ‘Borat’ Sequel’s 3 Wildest Scenes: Here’s What Happens

Kyle Buchanan, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 23 hours ago

Sacha Baron Cohen’s pranks involve political figures like Mike Pence and Rudy Giuliani, as well as one unexpected A-list celebrity.

 

It would not be funny if it were not believable. 

 

 

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@19:25, , 10/22/20

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I am distracted by a burial.

1

Trump Campaign Draws Rebuke for Surveilling Philadelphia Voters

Danny Hakim and Nick Corasaniti, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

President Trump’s campaign has been videotaping voters at ballot drop boxes, a tactic that could amount to illegal voter intimidation, Pennsylvania’s attorney general says.

 

There are official poll watchers.

 

2

What Do Polls Say About the Issues on the Agenda for Tonight’s Debate?

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

On topics from climate change to leadership, most Americans say they prefer Joe Biden over President Trump.

 

The electorate is concerned.

 

3

Trump Posts ‘60 Minutes’ Interview After Telling Lesley Stahl: ‘That’s No Way to Talk’

Michael M. Grynbaum and Maggie Haberman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

“I feel that you both have insulted ‘60 Minutes’ and me by not answering any of our questions,” Ms. Stahl tells Vice President Mike Pence.

 

"The facts have a well known liberal bias."

 

4

Trump Campaign Draws Rebuke for Surveilling Philadelphia Voters

Danny Hakim and Nick Corasaniti, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

President Trump’s campaign has been videotaping voters at ballot drop boxes, a tactic that could amount to illegal voter intimidation, Pennsylvania’s attorney general says.

Manafort Prosecution Barred by Double Jeopardy Rule, Appeals Court Says

Mihir Zaveri, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

The Manhattan district attorney has tried to ensure Paul Manafort would still face prison time if President Trump pardoned him.

Russia Poses Greater Election Threat Than Iran, Many U.S. Officials Say

Julian E. Barnes, Nicole Perlroth and David E. Sanger, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

Russia’s hackers appeared to be preparing to sow chaos amid any uncertainty around election results, officials said.

Trump Holds Small Lead in Conservative Kansas, Poll Shows

Trip Gabriel and Isabella Grullón Paz, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

President Trump won Kansas by more than 20 points, but he leads Joe Biden by only seven in a Times/Siena College poll. The Republican Senate candidate leads his Democratic rival by an even smaller amount, 46 percent to 42.

What Are the Rules for Trump and Biden's Debate Tonight?

Reid J. Epstein, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

Each candidate will be muted during his opponent’s opening answers, but after that, it may be another free-for-all.

Unemployment Claims Are Down, but Many Workers Lower Expectations

Patricia Cohen and Ben Casselman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

With temporary layoffs turning permanent and career paths derailed, economists say a new coronavirus wave could derail the recovery.

Iowa Never Locked Down. Its Economy Is Struggling Anyway.

Ben Casselman and Jim Tankersley, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

President Trump has blamed Democratic officials’ rules for impeding the recovery. But even where restrictions are few, business is far from normal.

How Trump's Cash Crunch is Affecting the Campaign's Final Weeks

Shane Goldmacher and Maggie Haberman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

With far less money than anticipated, campaign officials are scrambling to address a severe financial disadvantage against Joseph R. Biden Jr., producing something of an internal blame game.

Here Are The 6 Key Issues Trump and Biden Will Debate Tonight

Thomas Kaplan and Michael D. Shear, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 6 hours ago

President Trump and Joe Biden will have their last major opportunity on Thursday to promote their record and criticize their opponent as they address questions on the coronavirus crisis, race, national security and more.

Parents Are Worried About Schools. Are the Candidates?

Abby Goodnough, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

The pandemic has made education a top issue for many voters. But you wouldn’t know that from the candidates’ stump speeches.

Can Trump Win The Election? Yes. But the Path to 270 Is Difficult.

Adam Nagourney, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 8 hours ago

President Trump’s prospects depend on late and fundamental shifts in the dynamics of the race, including Joe Biden stumbling badly in Thursday’s debate and Mr. Trump exhibiting discipline on the virus.

Polls Ahead of Tonight's Debate: What Do They Say?

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 8 hours ago

On topics from climate change to leadership, most Americans say they prefer Joe Biden over President Trump.

Debate Tonight: Full Guide

Adam Nagourney, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 9 hours ago

Does the president dial back his aggression? How will Joe Biden lay out his closing argument? Here’s what we’ll be looking for as the candidates face off in Nashville on Thursday night.

A Full Guide to the Debate Tonight

Adam Nagourney, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 9 hours ago

Does the president dial back his aggression? How will Joe Biden lay out his closing argument? Here’s what we’ll be looking for as the candidates face off in Nashville on Thursday night.

How to Watch The Debate: Time, Moderator and Streaming

The New York Times, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 10 hours ago

The second and final debate between President Trump and Joe Biden will kick off at 9 p.m. Eastern on Thursday. Here’s how to follow along.

What Are Iran and Russia Up To?

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 12 hours ago

A late-October F.B.I. news conference raises many questions: This is your morning tip sheet.

What Are Iran and Russia Up To?

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 12 hours ago

A late-October F.B.I. news conference raises many questions: This is your morning tip sheet.

 

 

||

@20:24, , 10/20/20

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1

Trump Records Shed New Light on Chinese Business Pursuits

Mike McIntire, Russ Buettner and Susanne Craig, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 47 minutes ago

As he raises questions about his opponent’s standing with China, President Trump’s taxes reveal details about his own activities there, including a previously unknown bank account.

 

Trump likes strong arm tactics.

 

2

A Democratic Super PAC Surge Helps Biden Expand His Map

Nick Corasaniti, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 47 minutes ago

Enormous advertising buys announced in the last month of the campaign amount to a huge advantage for Joe Biden, allowing him to fight in long-shot states like Texas.

 

Always spend  someone else's money if it is legal.

3

Elliott Broidy Pleads Guilty in Foreign Lobbying Case

Kenneth P. Vogel, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

A former fund-raiser for President Trump admitted to a role in a covert campaign to influence the administration on behalf of Chinese and Malaysian interests.

 

Beyond the fact this is not news.

 

4

Trump Taunts Lesley Stahl of ‘60 Minutes’ After Cutting Off Interview

Michael M. Grynbaum and Maggie Haberman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

Two weeks from Election Day, the president picked a fight with the country’s most popular television news program.

 

Trump gained no points.

 

5

U.S. Government and Tech Firms Push Back on Russia (and Trump)

David E. Sanger and Nicole Perlroth, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

The goal is to disrupt Russia’s well-honed information-warfare systems, whether they are poised to hack election systems or influence the minds of voters.

 

The voters can't handle the truth.

They will need to deal with the facts.

 

6

Dept. of Justice Accuses Google of Illegally Protecting Monopoly

Cecilia Kang, David McCabe and Daisuke Wakabayashi, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

A victory for the government could remake one of America’s most recognizable companies and the internet economy that it has helped define.

 

Google has no need of illegality.

People are always complaining about the house.

 

7

U.S. and Russia Appear to Edge Toward Extension of Nuclear Treaty

David E. Sanger and Andrew Higgins, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

Russia proposed that the two countries make a “political obligation” to freeze their existing arsenals of warheads for one year.

 

I would like a better deal.

I will not make the good the enemy of the better.

 

8

How the F.D.A. Stood Up to the President

Sheila Kaplan, Sharon LaFraniere, Noah Weiland and Maggie Haberman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

After months of caving to pressures from the White House, Commissioner Stephen Hahn and a band of agency scientists have eked out a few victories.

 

The F.D.A. must deal with facts.

 

9

Watergate Led to Reforms. Now, Would-Be Reformers Believe, So Will Trump.

Peter Baker, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

Among the possibilities are proposals developed by a Justice Department official from the Bush administration and a White House counsel under President Barack Obama.

 

The U.S. Constitution is a modified text.  Marbury v. Madison is law.

 

10

With College Campuses Quiet, Some Democrats Fear Losing Students’ Votes

Kathleen Gray, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

Representative Elissa Slotkin, who narrowly won her Michigan district in 2018, is worried about missing out on thousands of reliably Democratic votes from Michigan State University.

 

Cancel Culture is a Federalist Society fiction.

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

 

11

Marine General Removed After Subordinates Say He Used Racial Slur

Jennifer Steinhauer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

The Marine Corps said it relieved Maj. Gen. Stephen M. Neary from his role overseeing forces in Europe and Africa “due to a loss of trust and confidence in his ability to serve in command.”

 

He should have known better.

 

12

Fiancée Sues Saudi Crown Prince Over Khashoggi Killing

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

The fiancée of the slain Washington Post journalist sued Prince Mohammed bin Salman in an attempt to learn more about the 2018 killing.

 

Good luck to her.

 

13

Democrats Gain in Georgia Senate Races as Presidential Race Remains Tied

Nate Cohn, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

Our latest survey shows a shift toward Biden among college-educated white voters, but surprising Trump gains among nonwhite voters.

 

Ask better questions.

 

14

The Big Role That Big Donors Still Play, Quietly, for Joe Biden

Shane Goldmacher, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

The Biden campaign has trumpeted its success with small donations, but in the last six months it has raised almost $200 million from donors who gave at least $100,000. As sums have grown, transparency has diminished.

 

This will continue to be the best government money can buy.

The price tags will not show.

 

15

It’s Google’s World. We Just Live in It.

Brian X. Chen, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 6 hours ago

Googling something was all we once did with Google. Now we spend hours a day using its maps, videos, security cameras, email, smartphones and more.

 

"Just say no"

 

16

Facing a Deluge of Misinformation, Colorado Takes the Offensive Against It

Nick Corasaniti and Davey Alba, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 9 hours ago

The state will combat false information on social media and even buy Google ads against it. But few states are following suit.

 

It is late for active measures.

Education is more effective.

 

17

Voters Prefer Biden Over Trump on Almost All Major Issues, Poll Shows

Alexander Burns and Jonathan Martin, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 11 hours ago

Joe Biden leads President Trump, 50 percent to 41 percent, a New York Times/Siena College poll shows, with voters favoring him by wide margins on the coronavirus and law and order.

 

The police are not an army of occupation.

 

18

A Supreme Court Split on Voting

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

A decision on Pennsylvania ballots has implications for the future: This is your morning tip sheet.

 

https://www.nytimes.com/live/2020/10/21/us/trump-biden-election

 

19

Kamala Harris, Mass Incarceration and Me

Reginald Dwayne Betts, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 15 hours ago

Many progressives mistrust her for her past as a prosecutor. As an ex-convict — and also the son of a crime victim — I can tell you it’s not that simple.

 

Kamala Harris did the best job she could.  Prosecutors do not make the law.

 

20

Trump and Biden Will Be Muted for Parts of Their Next Debate

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

In an unusual move meant to avoid interruptions like those that marred the first debate, the organizers said they would turn off each candidate’s audio feed while his rival had the floor.

 

That might be enough.

Both participants need to talk.

 

 

||

@15:40, , 10/18/20

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1

Anne Washburn Just Wants Her Trump Play to Be Irrelevant

Joshua Barone, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

“Shipwreck,” a fantasia about white liberals and the president’s infamous dinner with James Comey, has been adapted into an audio play.

 

She will need to write another play come January.

 

2

Trump Runs the Kind of Campaign He Likes, but Not the One He Might Need

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

With little time left to change the trajectory of the race, there is a large gulf separating the president’s experience of the campaign from the more sobering assessments of party officials.

 

Canibalism does not appeal to the eaten.

 

3

Bess Abell, Social Secretary in Johnson White House, Dies at 87

Katharine Q. Seelye, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

Averting last-minute crises is part of the job description; she was built for it, carried it out in style and had a good time doing it.

 

The executioner gets a generous tip.

 

4

Week-end Wrap – Political Economy –  October 18, 2020

Tony Wikrent, Ian Welsh - 3 hours ago

Week-end Wrap – Political Economy – October 18, 2020 by Tony Wikrent VOTE! See something? Report voter suppression and obstacles to voting. [Twitter, via Naked Capitalism Water Cooler 10-8-20] The Epidemic Steps for Reducing COVID Transmission [GoogleDoc) Cyrus Maher [UCSF, via Naked Capitalism 10-11-20] Lambert Strether’s intro: “This is the must-read for the week. It’s […]

 

Old news.   Much has been disproven.

 

5

‘Please Like Me,’ Trump Begged. For Many Women, It’s Way Too Late.

Lisa Lerer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

The white suburban voters the president needs to carve a path to victory have turned away from him, for deeply personal reasons.

 

People have learned.

 

6

Why These Voters Rejected Hillary Clinton but Are Backing Joe Biden

Lisa Lerer and Reid J. Epstein, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

For many Democrats and independents who sat out 2016, voted for third-party candidates or backed Donald Trump, Mr. Biden is more acceptable to them in ways large and small than Mrs. Clinton was.

 

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

Opposition began in 1976?

 

7

Young Joe Biden and His Non-Radical 1960s

Matt Flegenheimer and Katie Glueck, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

Trump has called Biden a tool of leftist agitators. Friends say that has never much been his way, even as a young man surrounded by protest.

 

Protesters have trouble getting political traction.

 

8

Georgia at a Tipping Point

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

After several near misses, Democrats can taste victory in Georgia — and Republicans fear President Trump’s lackluster numbers may drag down the party’s Senate candidates with him.

 

https://www.nytimes.com/live/2020/10/19/us/trump-vs-biden

 

https://projects.fivethirtyeight.com/2020-election-forecast/georgia/

 

9

How Mormons Fed Up With Trump Could Help Lift Biden in Arizona

Hank Stephenson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

Loyalty to the Republican Party is ingrained in the Latter-day Saints religion. But in Arizona, some find the president’s behavior at odds with their values and are shifting to Joe Biden.

 

Trump has been ugly.

 

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

 

 10

Ernst Struggles in Iowa as Republicans Battle to Hold Senate Amid Trump’s Woes

Luke Broadwater, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 22 hours ago

Senator Joni Ernst, the first woman to represent Iowa in Congress, is facing the same headwinds plaguing President Trump, who is lagging in the state in part because of deep disadvantage among women.

 

The woes continue. 

11

Federal Appeals Courts Emerge as Crucial for Trump in Voting Cases

Jim Rutenberg and Rebecca R. Ruiz, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Federal district courts have tended to rule for Democrats in litigation over how to run the election, but appeals courts, well stocked with the president’s nominees, are blocking them.

 

Trump enjoys fealty.

 

12

In Kalamazoo, Old High School Classmates Reckon With a Divided Country

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

The Michigan city, like the state, is a battleground of cultural and racial tensions. I should know: I grew up there.

 

The division is real.

 

13

Trump’s Nominee Gets a Hearing and the Town Hall Divide: This Week in the 2020 Race

Astead W. Herndon and Annie Karni, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Judge Amy Coney Barrett’s Supreme Court confirmation hearing unfolded on Capitol Hill while President Trump and Joe Biden participated in dueling town hall events.

 

• A deadlocked Supreme Court allows extra time for some Pennsylvania ballots.

  New

• Trump calls Fauci ‘a disaster’ in a campaign call, then repeats his attacks before a rally in Arizona.

• Democrats fail in an effort to shut down Senate business in protest of the Barrett nomination, but vow to try again.

  New

• Pelosi and Mnuchin are racing against a Tuesday deadline for a new stimulus deal.

  New

• In Arizona, Trump says the state is ‘doing great with the pandemic’ even as cases tick up again.

  New

• In-person early voting begins this week in Florida and Wisconsin, where Trump needs to win.

• A new Trump ad featuring the president in a mask tries to recast his virus response.

  New

• Melania Trump will appear with the president Tuesday at a Pennsylvania rally.

  New

14

Open Thread

Ian Welsh, Ian Welsh - 1 day ago

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

 

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

 

15

In Reversal, Twitter Is No Longer Blocking New York Post Article

Kate Conger and Mike Isaac, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The latest change underlined how rapidly social media platforms are shifting their positions in the days leading up to the election.

 

Rupert Murdoch is a turncoat.

 

16

Trump Calls $421 Million Debt 'a Peanut,' but Challenges Lie Ahead

Russ Buettner and Susanne Craig, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The president on Thursday played down big loans he guaranteed for his struggling businesses. But much of that debt is soon to come due in the midst of declining revenue and an I.R.S. audit that could cost him over $100 million.

 

Trump is bankrupt.

 

17

$421 Million in Debt: Trump Calls It ‘a Peanut,’ but Challenges Lie Ahead

Russ Buettner and Susanne Craig, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The president on Thursday played down big loans he guaranteed for his struggling businesses. But much of that debt is soon to come due in the midst of declining revenue and an I.R.S. audit that could cost him over $100 million.

 

Debtors prison is closed.

 

18

Third Justice Dept. Prosecutor Publicly Denounces Barr

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

The prosecutor also said he retired after staying on to protect a public corruption case against a Republican congressman.

 

Barr is abusing his position.

 

19

Fearing a ‘Blood Bath,’ Republican Senators Begin to Edge Away From Trump

Catie Edmondson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The statements offer an answer to the question of when Republicans might begin to repudiate the president after years of embracing him: the moment they 

believed he threatened their own political survival.

 

Wisdom comes late to these.

https://www.nytimes.com/live/2020/presidential-polls-trump-biden

 

20

U.S. Budget Deficit Hit $3.1 Trillion Amid Virus Spending Surge

Alan Rappeport, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

A surge in spending, combined with falling tax receipts have sent the deficit soaring, complicating plans for additional stimulus.

 

I knew this when the bill passed.

 

 

||

 

@16:16

 |

 

1

Ernst Struggles in Iowa as Republicans Battle to Hold Senate Amid Trump’s Woes

Luke Broadwater, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

Senator Joni Ernst, the first woman to represent Iowa in Congress, is facing the same headwinds plaguing President Trump, who is lagging in the state in part because of deep disadvantage among women.

 

https://projects.fivethirtyeight.com/2020-election-forecast/

 

https://projects.fivethirtyeight.com/2020-election-forecast/iowa/

 

https://projects.fivethirtyeight.com/2020-election-forecast/senate/iowa/

 

Update in progress.

 

2

Federal Appeals Courts Emerge as Crucial for Trump in Voting Cases

Jim Rutenberg and Rebecca R. Ruiz, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

Federal district courts have tended to rule for Democrats in litigation over how to run the election, but appeals courts, well stocked with the president’s nominees, are blocking them.

 

All conservatives are not Trump partisans.

 

3

Young Joe Biden and His Non-Radical 1960s

Matt Flegenheimer and Katie Glueck, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

Trump has called Biden a tool of leftist agitators. Friends say that has never much been his way, even as a young man surrounded by protest.

 

A trusted student deferment can do that.

 

4

Georgia at a Tipping Point

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

After several near misses, Democrats can taste victory in Georgia — and Republicans fear President Trump’s lackluster numbers may drag down the party’s Senate candidates with him.

 

https://www.nytimes.com/live/2020/presidential-polls-trump-biden 

5

Biden Town Hall Leads Trump in Ratings Battle

Michael M. Grynbaum and John Koblin, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

Nielsen figures showed Joseph R. Biden Jr. drawing 15.1 million viewers, against 13.5 million for President Trump, a ratings obsessive.

 

Word salad is not attractive.

 

6

Military Names Air Force Judge for Guantánamo Bay 9/11 Trial. But There’s a Snag.

Carol Rosenberg, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

The latest judge assigned to the long-running death penalty case is based in Virginia and has had a military career focused on defense work, but he has been on the bench for less than two years.

 

Torture is also a war crime.

 

7

In Kalamazoo, Old High School Classmates Reckon With a Divided Country

Jennifer Steinhauer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 8 hours ago

The Michigan city, like the state, is a battleground of cultural and racial tensions. I should know: I grew up there.

 

https://www.nytimes.com/live/2020/10/17/us/trump-vs-biden

 

Michigan is waking up.

 

8

Trump’s Nominee Gets a Hearing and the Town Hall Divide: This Week in the 2020 Race

Astead W. Herndon and Annie Karni, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 11 hours ago

Judge Amy Coney Barrett’s Supreme Court confirmation hearing unfolded on Capitol Hill while President Trump and Joe Biden participated in dueling town hall events.

 

 Amy Coney Barrett should not be a justice on the supreme court.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marbury_v._Madison

 

Marbury_v._Madison is not understood by texturalists.

 

9

‘Please Like Me,’ Trump Begged. For Many Women, It’s Way Too Late.

Lisa Lerer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 13 hours ago

The white suburban voters the president needs to carve a path to victory have turned away from him, for deeply personal reasons.

 

https://www.nytimes.com/live/2020/10/17/us/trump-vs-biden

If he loses the election, Trump mused Friday, ‘Maybe I’ll have to leave the country.’ 

10

A Regulatory Rush by Federal Agencies to Secure Trump’s Legacy

Eric Lipton, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 14 hours ago

With the president’s re-election in doubt, cabinet departments are scrambling to finish dozens of new rules affecting millions of Americans.

 

A silly worry.  These rules will be reversed with a memo.

 

11

Open Thread

Ian Welsh, Ian Welsh - 15 hours ago

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

 

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

 

12

In Reversal, Twitter Is No Longer Blocking New York Post Article

Kate Conger and Mike Isaac, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 20 hours ago

The latest change underlined how rapidly social media platforms are shifting their positions in the days leading up to the election.

 

Twitter and Facebook should be broken.

 

13

Trump Calls $421 Million Debt 'a Peanut,' but Challenges Lie Ahead

Russ Buettner and Susanne Craig, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 20 hours ago

The president on Thursday played down big loans he guaranteed for his struggling businesses. But much of that debt is soon to come due in the midst of declining revenue and an I.R.S. audit that could cost him over $100 million.

 

Trump inc. is imploding. 

Trump's pension should be garnisheed.

 

14

$421 Million in Debt: Trump Calls It ‘a Peanut,’ but Challenges Lie Ahead

Russ Buettner and Susanne Craig, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 20 hours ago

The president on Thursday played down big loans he guaranteed for his struggling businesses. But much of that debt is soon to come due in the midst of declining revenue and an I.R.S. audit that could cost him over $100 million.

 

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

 

15

Third Justice Dept. Prosecutor Publicly Denounces Barr

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

The prosecutor also said he retired after staying on to protect a public corruption case against a Republican congressman.

 

Pay attention.

 

16

Fearing a ‘Blood Bath,’ Republican Senators Begin to Edge Away From Trump

Catie Edmondson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 21 hours ago

The statements offer an answer to the question of when Republicans might begin to repudiate the president after years of embracing him: the moment they believed he threatened their own political survival.

 

The rats are fleeing the sinking ship.

 

17

U.S. Budget Deficit Hit $3.1 Trillion Amid Virus Spending Surge

Alan Rappeport, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 23 hours ago

A surge in spending, combined with falling tax receipts have sent the deficit soaring, complicating plans for additional stimulus.

 

The debt will triple before the crisis is over or people will starve and freeze in the streets.

 

18

In Ohio, a Printing Company Is Overwhelmed and Mail Ballots Are Delayed

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

The company was until recently flying a “Trump 2020’’ flag over its Cleveland headquarters. The problems it has had underscore the stress that mail voting has put on the nation’s election process amid the pandemic.

 

Hire more capacity.

 

19

Alaska Is More Competitive, but Republicans Still Lead in Polls

Nate Cohn, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

A fondness for minor-party candidates injects some uncertainty, making the state an unlikely late-stage battleground.

 

Alaska is not winnable at this stage. 

20

Are Ballot Selfies Legal?

Valeriya Safronova, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Showing your ballot to anyone, including your Instagram followers, is against the law in New York and several other states. So … maybe not!

 

It should not be legal to get paid for the picture.

Buying votes is a crime.

 

 

 

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@18:36, , 10/15/20

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1

Biden Town Hall Leads Trump in Ratings Battle

Michael M. Grynbaum and John Koblin, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 39 minutes ago

Nielsen figures showed Joseph R. Biden Jr. drawing 15.1 million viewers, against 13.5 million for President Trump, a ratings obsessive.

 

People like income.

 

2

Fearing a ‘Blood Bath,’ Republican Senators Begin to Edge Away From Trump

Catie Edmondson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 53 minutes ago

The statements offer an answer to the question of when Republicans might begin to repudiate the president after years of embracing him: the moment they believed he threatened their own political survival.

 

Trump has no "coat tails".

 

3

A Regulatory Rush by Federal Agencies to Secure Trump’s Legacy

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

With the president’s re-election in doubt, cabinet departments are scrambling to finish dozens of new rules affecting millions of Americans.

 

Congress will not help.

 

4

U.S. Budget Deficit Hit $3.1 Trillion Amid Virus Spending Surge

Alan Rappeport, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

A surge in spending, combined with falling tax receipts have sent the deficit soaring, complicating plans for additional stimulus.

 

This debt will be paid very slowly with mostly more debt.

Deficits are just debt that is not yet bonds.

Bonds cost less than one percent per year. 

They can be rolled over indefinitely.

5

In Reversal, Twitter Is No Longer Blocking New York Post Article

Kate Conger and Mike Isaac, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

The latest change underlined how rapidly social media platforms are shifting their positions in the days leading up to the election.

 

Election results should not be published before the write ins are counted.

 

6

Military Names Air Force Judge for Guantánamo Bay 9/11 Trial

Carol Rosenberg, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

The latest judge assigned to the long-running death penalty case is based in Virginia and has had a military career that focused on defense work.

 

The Guantanamo Bay prison is a war crime.

 

7

G.O.P.-Appointed Judges Threaten Democracy, Liberals Seeking Court Expansion Say

Charlie Savage, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

A new study found a partisan pattern in rulings that could make it easier or harder to vote, fueling a debate among Democrats over court packing.

 

Justice has been made political by the Republican Party.

 

8

In Ohio, a Printing Company Is Overwhelmed and Mail Ballots Are Delayed

Reid J. Epstein, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

The company was until recently flying a “Trump 2020’’ flag over its Cleveland headquarters. The problems it has had underscore the stress that mail voting has put on the nation’s election process amid the pandemic.

 

Hire another printer.

 

9

Alaska Is More Competitive, but Republicans Still Lead in Polls

Nate Cohn, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

A fondness for minor-party candidates injects some uncertainty, making the state an unlikely late-stage battleground.

 

https://projects.fivethirtyeight.com/2020-election-forecast/

https://projects.fivethirtyeight.com/2020-election-forecast/alaska/

 

10

'Inshallah': The Perfect Phrase for 2020

Sasha von Oldershausen, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

‘Inshallah’ can express hope or resignation. (Guess which one Joe Biden meant.)

 

Leave gods out of this.

https://www.nytimes.com/live/2020/10/16/us/trump-biden-town-halls

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

 

11

Are Ballot Selfies Legal?

Valeriya Safronova, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

Showing your ballot to anyone, including your Instagram followers, is against the law in New York and several other states. So … maybe not!

 

Getting paid for them is not legal.

Putting one in the family album should only be cause for a fight.  

12

Six Takeaways From Thursday’s Dueling Trump and Biden Town Halls

Adam Nagourney and Shane Goldmacher, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

After the cacophony of the first presidential debate, it turns out simultaneous events aren’t much of an improvement.

 

Biden won on ratings.     It is hard to understand noise. 

https://www.nytimes.com/2020/10/16/business/media/biden-trump-town-hall-ratings.html

 

13

Trump Aide Insists U.S. Will Reduce Forces in Afghanistan to 2,500 Troops

Michael Crowley, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

The national security adviser, Robert C. O’Brien, reiterated a plan to draw down troops to 2,500 by early 2021, sidestepping President Trump’s call for a Christmas exit.

 

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

 

14

Trump Campaign Lawyers Are Aiding a Leading Proponent of QAnon

Danny Hakim, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

A firm started by a group of Trump lawyers highlights the campaign’s connections to the false conspiracy theory and reinforces how deeply it has taken hold in the Republican Party.

 

Convenient.

"While federal filings show that the firm, Elections L.L.C., principally collects fees from the president’s campaign and the Republican National Committee, it also does work for a number of congressional candidates, and none more so than Ms. Greene, underscoring the connections between QAnon and Mr. Trump and his inner circle. The latest example came Thursday night, when President Trump repeatedly declined to disavow QAnon at a televised town hall."

 

15

A Lincoln Project ad frames a choice: a president who demeans women or one who respects them.

Sydney Ember, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdJ97qWHOxo

 

16

Coronavirus Vaccine: Pfizer Says It Won't Seek Authorization Before Mid-November

Katie Thomas and Noah Weiland, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 9 hours ago

Friday’s announcement represents a shift in tone for the company and its leader, who has repeatedly emphasized the month of October in interviews and public appearances.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdJ97qWHOxo 

17

Alternative Programming

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

The Trump and Biden shows last night were strikingly different. But I’m not sure who benefited from the exercise.

 

https://projects.fivethirtyeight.com/2020-election-forecast/

 

18

How the Internet Viewed the Presidential Town Halls

Matt Stevens, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 11 hours ago

President Trump and Joe Biden answered questions from voters at the same time, on separate networks. The difference between the two events did not escape anyone’s notice.

 

I did not look.

 

19

Before Nov. 3, Watch This and This and This

Nicole Sperling, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 13 hours ago

A number of movies, documentaries and TV mini-series that are coming out have immediate relevance to the 2020 election.

 

I have been listening.

 

20

Mail-In Ballots in N.J.: 'It’s Like They Can’t Wait to Vote’

Tracey Tully, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 13 hours ago

Democrats in New Jersey are voting at higher rates than Republicans in conservative strongholds with three weeks to go before Election Day.

 

Vote.

The political machine may be broken.

 

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