@13:03, , 4/13/21

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1

U.S. Calls for Pause on Johnson & Johnson Vaccine After Blood Clotting Cases

Noah Weiland, Sharon LaFraniere and Carl Zimmer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

Officials are expected to temporarily stop using the vaccine at federal sites and are urging states to do so as well while they examine the safety issues.

 

Learning always has a cost.

 

2

Officer William F. Evans, Fatally Struck Outside the Capitol, Will Lie in State

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

“His death has left a gaping void in our lives that will never be filled,” Officer Evans’s family said in a statement released last week.

 

Learning always has a cost.

It is far better to learn the first time.

 

3

Intelligence Report Calls China Biggest Threat to U.S.

Julian E. Barnes, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

A threat assessment report puts China’s push for “global power” first on the list of threats, followed by Russia, Iran and North Korea.

 

A competiter is not a threat unless there is an assumption of position or control.

 

4

As Michigan G.O.P. Plans Voting Limits, Top Corporations Fire a Warning Shot

Reid J. Epstein and Trip Gabriel, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

State Republicans pushing a new voting law are threatening to use a rarely invoked option to circumvent a promised veto by the governor. And Michigan businesses are trying to get out ahead of the issue.

 

The probability of Republican success is small.

 

5

A former Pentagon official is chosen to run the National Counterterrorism Center.

Julian E. Barnes, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

President Biden’s pick, Christine S. Abizaid, would be the first woman to hold the post on a permanent basis if confirmed by the Senate.

 

Joe Biden has good judgement.

 

6

Andrew Cuomo’s White-Knuckle Ride

Matt Flegenheimer, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

Amid scandals, accusations and calls for his resignation, the New York governor seems determined to prove that the instincts that have gotten him into trouble can get him out of it too.

 

Only the New York Democrats can throw him out.  

 

7

Subpoenaing the Brookings Institution, Durham Focuses on Trump-Russia Dossier

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

The special counsel scrutinizing the Russia inquiry, a Trump-era leftover, appears to be retreading ground that an inspector general explored in 2019.

 

Trump is guilty though unindighted.

 

8

Biden picks the first woman to be the Army secretary.

Eric Schmitt, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

Christine E. Wormuth’s nomination comes as the Biden administration has faced criticism for its slow pace of selecting top Pentagon officials.

 

Joe Biden has good judgement.

 

9 

‘Bond Girl’ Talk and Groping: Albany’s Toxic Culture for Women

Sydney Ember, J. David Goodman and Luis Ferré-Sadurní, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 6 hours ago

As allegations against Gov. Andrew Cuomo put a new spotlight on sexual misconduct in New York’s capital, numerous women there described an enduring predatory and misogynistic environment.

 

https://nyheritage.org/exhibits/recognizing-womens-right-vote-new-york-state

 

1917 was not that long ago.

Albany was a "men's club"through the seventies.

 

10

Biden Picks Trump Critic Chris Magnus to Run Border Agency

Zolan Kanno-Youngs, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 12 hours ago

Chris Magnus, the Tucson police chief who carried a Black Lives Matter sign at a protest, was chosen to lead Customs and Border Protection.

 

Joe Biden has good judgement.

 

11 

Biden Picks Anne Milgram, Former NJ Attorney General, to Lead DEA

Cora Engelbrecht, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 14 hours ago

Anne Milgram built her reputation fighting crime in the city of Camden.

 

Joe Biden has good judgement.

 

12 

Pentagon Chief Orders New Review of Attack in Kenya That Killed 3 Americans

Eric Schmitt, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 15 hours ago

The unusual review of the conclusions of the initial inquiry comes more than a year after the attack by the Shabab revealed security lapses at the base.

 

Trump and his Republicans never paid attention to foreign politics.

 

13

Pentagon Chief Orders New Review of Attack That Killed 3 Americans in Kenya

Eric Schmitt, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 15 hours ago

The unusual review of the conclusions of the initial inquiry comes more than a year after the attack by the Shabab revealed security lapses at the base.

 

Trump and his Republicans never paid attention to foreign politics.

 

14 

Not Your Usual Police Chief: Biden Picks Trump Critic to Run Border Agency

Zolan Kanno-Youngs, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 16 hours ago

Chris Magnus, the Tucson police chief who carried a Black Lives Matter sign at a protest, was chosen to lead Customs and Border Protection.

 

Trump and his Republicans never paid attention to foreign politics.

 

15 

President Biden Makes the Case for Infrastructure in Bipartisan Meeting

Luke Broadwater, Annie Karni and Emily Cochrane, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 17 hours ago

The president met with lawmakers from both parties in an effort to show some flexibility on the size of his $2 trillion proposal and how to pay for it.

 

Congress has difficulty comprehending ntional politics.

Macro economics is not taught in business and law schools.

 

16

Surging Virus Has Michigan's Whitmer at Loggerheads With Biden

Noah Weiland and Mitch Smith, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 17 hours ago

As Gov. Gretchen Whitmer pleads for more coronavirus vaccine, the Biden administration on Monday urged her to shut Michigan down, something she wants to avoid.

 

Sometimes the political solution is no.

 

17

Surging Virus Has Michigan’s Democratic Governor at Loggerheads With Biden

Noah Weiland and Mitch Smith, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 17 hours ago

As Gov. Gretchen Whitmer pleads for more coronavirus vaccine, the Biden administration on Monday urged her to shut Michigan down, something she wants to avoid.

 

Sometimes the political solution is no.

 

18 

Why the G.O.P. Can’t Quit Trump

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 17 hours ago

The former president is antagonizing Republican leaders, but he’s still the party’s most popular figure.

 

https://rationaloptimist.wordpress.com/2015/10/02/the-end-of-the-man-on-the-white-horse/

 

Trump presents a classic political trap.

 

19

Biden Names Chris Inglis to Be First National Cyber Director

Michael D. Shear and Julian E. Barnes, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 17 hours ago

Chris Inglis will be nominated to the new post as the president fills out his cybersecurity team and the U.S. considers responses to recent attacks.

 

Chris Inglis could be Minister of propaganda.

Biden may be making a philosophical mistake. 

20

The infrastructure plan spurs a flurry of lobbying in Congress.

Emily Cochrane, Pranshu Verma and Luke Broadwater, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

 

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

 

 

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@21:15, , 4/8/21

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1

In New Book, Boehner Says He Regrets Clinton Impeachment

Luke Broadwater, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 52 minutes ago

Former Speaker John Boehner, Republican of Ohio, writes that the drive to remove President Bill Clinton was a politically motivated move he wishes he had repudiated.

 

The assault on the presidency by the conservative party was misconceived.

 

2

Biden Backs Taiwan, but Some Call for a Clearer Warning to China

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

As China grows stronger and bolder, some experts want to end Washington’s decades-long policy of “strategic ambiguity.”

 

Taiwan should declair independence. 

China cannot do without trade.

3

Emergent BioSolutions: Top Official Warned That Vaccine Plant Had to Be 'Monitored Closely`

Sheryl Gay Stolberg, Sharon LaFraniere and Chris Hamby, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

An Operation Warp Speed report last June flagged staffing and quality control concerns at Emergent BioSolutions’ factory in Baltimore. The troubled plant recently had to throw out up to 15 million doses.

 

The Emergent BioSolutions plant management is bad.

 

4

Biden’s Infrastructure Sales Force Knows Its Potholes and Bridges

Annie Karni and Zolan Kanno-Youngs, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

Five cabinet members, all former mayors or governors and therefore experts in infrastructure fights, are fanning out across America and Capitol Hill to try to sell the president’s rebuilding plan.

 

The job starts with the promise of funding.

 

5

In the Virginia Governor’s Race, Can Anyone Take On Terry McAuliffe?

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

Once again, the state is shaping up to be a case study in the complexities around the politics of race and power.

 

There will be a primary.

 

6

Biden Takes Initial Steps to Address Gun Violence

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

With legislation in Congress stalled by Republican opposition, the president ordered a crackdown on “ghost guns” and said the epidemic of shootings was “an international embarrassment.”

 

Biden is doing what he can without congressional support.

 

7

As U.S. Prospects Brighten, Fed’s Powell Sees Risk in Global Vaccination Pace

Jeanna Smialek, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

Some countries are lagging behind in vaccinations, and policymakers warned that no economy is secure until the world is safe from coronavirus variants.

 

The casualty rate is high until vaccination is general.

 

8

Asa Hutchinson on Arkansas’s Anti-Trans Law and the G.O.P. Culture Wars

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

The state’s Republican governor, who recently vetoed an anti-transgender bill only to be overridden by the legislature, spoke to The Times about why his party has “got to show greater compassion.”

 

 Asa Hutchinson's Faith has overridden his reason.

9

Why Georgia's Voting Laws Are Not Like Colorado's

Maggie Astor, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 6 hours ago

Here are four key differences between the voting systems in the two states.

 

Georgia's new laws disenfranchise the immobile poor, mostly black population.

They are racist in intent.

10

Matt Gaetz Associate Joel Greenberg Is Expected to Plead Guilty, Lawyers Say

Patricia Mazzei and Michael S. Schmidt, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 6 hours ago

The associate could cooperate with prosecutors, giving them information about Mr. Gaetz’s relationships that investigators are examining for possible sex trafficking violations.

 

The prosecutors are scalp hunting. 

Matt Gaetz should not have been elected.

The Democratic party did not do its job.

 

11

Manchin Says He Will Never Back Weakening Filibuster

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

“We will not solve our nation’s problems in one Congress if we seek only partisan solutions,” Mr. Manchin wrote in an op-ed in The Washington Post.

 

Joe Manchin has problems.

He has allowed them to become National problems.

The Democratic caucus must recruit some Republicans.

It is dirty politics.  Do what works.

 

12 

Caitlyn Jenner Is Exploring a Run for Governor of California

Maggie Haberman, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 10 hours ago

Ms. Jenner, a prominent transgender activist and former Olympian, is leaning toward challenging Gov. Gavin Newsom in a possible recall election, according to people familiar with her thinking.

 

She can try.

I do not wish her success.

The perfect must not become the enemy of the broader good.

 

13

U.S. Intelligence Report Warns of Global Consequences of Social Fragmentation

Julian E. Barnes, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 10 hours ago

The coronavirus pandemic has highlighted weaknesses of the international order, said the report, which is issued every four years.

 

Sanity is not democratic.

Living is better when democracy and sanity match.

 

14

How Brian Kemp Is Rebounding Against Trump’s Wrath

Lisa Lerer and Reid J. Epstein, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 11 hours ago

After resisting Donald Trump’s demands to overturn Georgia’s election results, Gov. Brian Kemp was an outcast in his own party. Now he’s embraced the state’s new voting bill as a way to rebuild his standing.

 

"No person is above the law."

 

15

American Suicide Numbers Dropped Last Year

Ian Welsh, Ian Welsh - 13 hours ago

So, we kept being told Covid was causing increased suicides and it turned out not to be true. I suspect this means is that American bosses are so shitty that a pandemic combined with massive economic problems is preferable to working with them in close quarters. One of the great problems with “capitalism” is that […]

 

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

 

Trump brought them from China.

They are supposed to be from Iran but started from Kazackstan.

The Biden candicy and initial administration have been a return of hope for the future. 

 

16

G.O.P. Group Warns Donors Not to Opt Out of Monthly Donations

Shane Goldmacher, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 23 hours ago

The National Republican Congressional Committee says to donors who opt out of recurring monthly donations: “We will have to tell Trump you’re a DEFECTOR.”

 

The defector list smells of fraud.

 

17

Biden to Announce Executive Actions to Tackle Gun Violence

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

President Biden is expected to announce his plan, including a measure to try to stop the proliferation of so-called ghost guns, on Thursday.

 

Biden is doing what he can without congressional support.

 

18

N.R.A. Chief Kept Bankruptcy Filing Secret From Deputies

Danny Hakim and Mary Williams Walsh, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Facing enforcement by the New York attorney general, the National Rifle Association’s chief executive hatched a secret plan for bankruptcy.

 

Wayne LaPierre is guilty of fraud and other wilful misapprehensions.

 

19 

Biden to Announce Several Executive Actions to Tackle Gun Violence

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

President Biden is expected to announce his plan, including a measure to try to stop the proliferation of so-called ghost guns, on Thursday.

 

President Biden is doing what he can about guns.

 

20

What’s in Biden’s Tax Plan?

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

The proposal includes provisions to raise the corporate tax rate to 28 percent, make it harder for companies to move profits overseas and beef up the Internal Revenue Service.

 

Government requires money. 

Everyone must do their share without exception.

Printing it works for the moment. 

It is secular charity in the U.S.

 

 

 

||

 

@15:45, , 4/7/21

 |

 

1

President Biden Unveils Plan to Raise Corporate Taxes

Alan Rappeport, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 45 minutes ago

The tax plan would raise the corporate rate to 28 percent from 21 percent to help fund the president’s economic agenda.

 

This is something for Republicans to fight about.

 

2

Why Kentucky Just Became the Only Red State to Expand Voting Rights

Nick Corasaniti, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

Republican lawmakers and the state’s Democratic governor backed a new law that proved the exception to the trend of G.O.P.-led legislatures moving to restrict ballot access.

 

It is not a significant expansion.

 

3

Likely Legal, ‘Vaccine Passports’ Emerge as the Next Coronavirus Divide

Sheryl Gay Stolberg and Adam Liptak, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

Businesses and universities want fast, easy ways to see if students and customers are vaccinated, but conservative politicians have turned “vaccine passports” into a cultural flash point.

 

This is just something to fight about.

 

4

Matt Gaetz Said to Have Sought Pardon From Trump

Michael S. Schmidt, Maggie Haberman and Nicholas Fandos, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

The congressman was at the time under investigation over whether he violated sex trafficking laws, though it was unclear what he knew of the inquiry.

 

Trump never had the power to pardon state criminals.

 

5

FEMA Will Provide More Money for Covid Funeral Expenses

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

Billions of dollars from two Covid relief measures will be used to soften the financial blow for grieving families by reimbursing funeral and related expenses.

 

The funds should come from the Republican party.

 

6

Capitol Riots: Democratic Lawmakers Join Lawsuit Against Giuliani, Trump

Annie Karni, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

The suit accuses the former president and his lawyer of violating the Ku Klux Klan Act, an 1871 statute that includes protections against violent conspiracies that interfered with Congress’s constitutional duties.

 

I wish them success.

7

Lawmakers Join Suit Against Trump and Giuliani Over Jan. 6 Riot

Annie Karni, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

The suit accuses the former president and his lawyer of violating the Ku Klux Klan Act, an 1871 statute that includes protections against violent conspiracies that interfered with Congress’s constitutional duties.

 

I wish them success.

 

8

Alcee Hastings, Longtime Florida Congressman, Dies at 84

Katharine Q. Seelye, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 6 hours ago

As a federal judge, he was impeached and removed from the bench. He was then elected to the House, where he became known as a strong liberal voice.

 

His works continue.

 

9

Boehner Blasts Trump, Saying He ‘Incited That Bloody Insurrection’

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

In his new book, John Boehner, the Republican former House speaker, sharply rebukes the fiormer president for his role in the “mob violence” at the Capitol on Jan. 6.

 

Trump has committed multiple indigtable offences.  

He should be tried, convicted, and sentenced.

 

10 

Iran and U.S. Agree on Path Back to Nuclear Deal

Steven Erlanger, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 11 hours ago

In indirect talks in Vienna, the U.S. and Iran agreed to try to synchronize Washington’s lifting of sanctions and Iran’s limiting of uranium enrichment.

 

Lifting the Trump sanctions will not hurt the U.S.

Sancctions can be reimposed if Iran renegs.

 

11

Justin Fairfax Accuses Terry McAuliffe of Treating Him Like Emmett Till

Reid J. Epstein, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 18 hours ago

At a debate for Virginia governor, Mr. Fairfax, the state’s lieutenant governor, denounced Mr. McAuliffe for urging him to resign after women accused Mr. Fairfax of sexual assault in 2019.

 

The only way to be not guilty is to have not done the act.

 

12

The Rising Politicization of Covid Vaccines

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 19 hours ago

As shots roll out to growing numbers of Americans, the political picture is getting more chaotic.

 

Early opening is corting disaster.

Get vaccinated.

 

13

Harris Is Moving Into Newly Renovated Official Residence

Katie Rogers, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 19 hours ago

The vice president had been living temporarily in Blair House while Number One Observatory Circle underwent repairs.

 

The Pence cooties have been removed.

 

14

How a Senate Ruling Could Help Push Biden’s Agenda Through Congress

Emily Cochrane and Jim Tankersley, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 19 hours ago

Democrats now appear to have more chances to maneuver bills past Republicans, but it remains unclear how and when they might use them, and for what.

 

Budget reconciliation  can be used more than once.

 

15

Biden Moves Up Vaccine Eligibility Deadline for All Adults to April 19

Sheryl Gay Stolberg, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 20 hours ago

The president pushed up his target date by two weeks, matching the timetable already being put in place by many states.

 

The supply of vaccine has become predictable.

 

16

Capitol Rioters Face the Consequences of Their Selfie Sabotage

Elizabeth Williamson, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 20 hours ago

Joe Biggs and his fellow Proud Boys left an incriminating social media trail for federal investigators before and during the Capitol attack on Jan. 6.

 

Confession may be good for the Soul. 

It limits freedom at trial.

17

Alcee Hastings, Longtime Florida Congressman, Dies at 84

Katharine Q. Seelye, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 20 hours ago

As a federal judge, he was impeached and removed from the bench. He was then elected to the House, where he became known as a strong liberal voice.

 

Noone deserves pancreatic cancer.

His work continues.

 

18

Biden’s $2.3 trillion plan spurs a fight over what ‘infrastructure’ really means.

Jim Tankersley and Jeanna Smialek, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 21 hours ago

 

Republicans are not priveleged to redefine words.

People have always been part of the U.S.

 

19

Mitch McConnell Lashes Out at Corporations Criticizing Voting Restrictions Laws

Glenn Thrush, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 22 hours ago

Senator Mitch McConnell has lashed out at executives with Major League Baseball, Delta and other corporations for criticizing Republican-led efforts in some states to impose restrictions on voting access.

 

Mitch McConnell has defected from his orthodoxy.

 

20

A K-Shaped Recovery, This Time on a Global Scale

Alan Rappeport and Jeanna Smialek, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 22 hours ago

Emerging markets are at risk of falling far behind their advanced counterparts. That’s the whole world’s problem, officials warned.

 

The "Washington Consensus" is broken.

Borrow and spend as necessary.  

Pay down the debt in better times.

 

 

 

||

 

@15:00, , 4/6/21

 |

 

1

U.S. Bet Big on Covid Vaccine Manufacturer Even as Problems Mounted

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

The Baltimore plant that recently had to scrap up to 15 million ruined doses had flouted rules and downplayed errors, according to internal audits, ex-employees and clients. Other doses had to be scrapped last year.

 

 The Trump administration needed only to look effective.

There was no benefit to being effective.

2

Alcee Hastings, Who Represented Florida, Dies at 84

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

The former civil rights lawyer and federal judge served in Congress for nearly three decades.

 

Another campaigner for justice has died.

His work continues.

There have been events while the public has been distracted. 

3

Fears of White People Losing Out Permeate Capitol Rioters’ Towns, Study Finds

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

Counties with the most significant declines in the non-Hispanic white population were the most likely to produce insurrectionists.

Only Zero Covid Worked And Everyone Knows It

Ian Welsh, Ian Welsh - 2 hours ago

Vietnam has a population of 96 million and 34 Covid Deaths. America has a population of 328 million and 550,000 Covid Deaths. Australia has a population of 25 million, and 909 deaths. The UK has a population of 67 million people and 127,000 deaths. South Korea has a population of 52 million, and […]

In Title IX Overhaul, Biden Administration to Seek Public Input

Katie Rogers, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 hours ago

The Department of Education will hold a public hearing for students, educators, and other stakeholders to share “important insights” on sexual harassment and gender-based discrimination.

Biden will offer a virus update as the pace of vaccination accelerates.

Bryan Pietsch and Glenn Thrush, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 3 hours ago

Biden Plan Spurs Fight Over What ‘Infrastructure’ Really Means

Jim Tankersley and Jeanna Smialek, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 4 hours ago

Republicans say the White House is tucking liberal social programs into legislation that should be focused on roads and bridges. Administration officials say their approach invests in the future.

San Francisco and Other Cities Test Universal Basic Income for Artists

Zachary Small, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

Through pilot programs, cities are giving checks to artists in hopes of allowing them to focus on their creative output instead of having a second job.

How Georgia's New Law Risks Making Election Subversion Easier

Nate Cohn, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 8 hours ago

A reminder from a January phone call that the reform bill by congressional Democrats may not have the proper protections.

Gayle Smith, who helped lead the U.S. response to Ebola, will run Biden’s vaccine diplomacy.

Lara Jakes, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 11 hours ago

Ms. Smith will try to corral wealthier nations into distributing Covid-19 vaccines more evenly around the globe.

G.O.P. Governor of Arkansas Vetoes Anti-Transgender Bill

Maggie Astor, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 15 hours ago

The bill, which could still be enacted if state legislators override the governor’s veto, would make it illegal for transgender minors to receive gender-affirming medication or surgery.

Democrats Win Crucial Tool to Enact Biden’s Plans, Including Infrastructure

Emily Cochrane, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 15 hours ago

A ruling from the parliamentarian appears to clear the way for Democrats to bypass Republicans and fast-track at least one more fiscal package through the Senate on a majority vote.

Biden and Democrats Detail Plans to Raise Taxes on Multinational Firms

Jim Tankersley and Alan Rappeport, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 15 hours ago

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said the U.S. would support a global minimum tax, while top Democrats unveiled their own plan to raise taxes on multinational firms.

What’s Driving the Surge at the Southern Border?

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

Blaming the increase in arrivals on current immigration policy only papers over harder truths, experts say.

Gov. Asa Hutchinson of Arkansas, a Republican, vetoed an anti-transgender bill.

Maggie Astor, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 19 hours ago

The bill, which could still be enacted if state legislators override the governor’s veto, would make it illegal for transgender minors to receive gender-affirming medication or surgery.

After a Times Investigation, Trump Says Fund-Raising Was 'Done Legally'

Shane Goldmacher, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 19 hours ago

The Times reported that many donors had unwittingly become repeat contributors to Donald J. Trump’s campaign because of prechecked boxes in digital donation forms.

More Than Half of Republicans in New Poll Blame Capitol Attack on "Left-Wing" Rioters

Glenn Thrush, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 20 hours ago

The survey is a vivid illustration of the effectiveness of misinformation efforts, echoed by right-wing social media.

Biden Thanks Immigrants for 'Choosing Us' Amid Surge at the Border

Glenn Thrush, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 20 hours ago

His statement comes at a time of increased pressure at the border and growing criticism from Republicans.

Aide to Matt Gaetz Says He Was Questioned by the F.B.I.

Nicholas Fandos and Kalyn Wolfe, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 21 hours ago

Nathan Nelson told reporters he had no knowledge of wrongdoing by Mr. Gaetz and called the allegations an attempt to discredit a “vocal conservative.”

Here’s what we know about the man behind Friday’s attack on Capitol Hill.

Nicholas Fandos, Zolan Kanno-Youngs, Giulia McDonnell Nieto del Rio and Aishvarya Kavi, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 23 hours ago

 

 

 

||

1:05, , 4/5/21

 |

1

Military Closes Failing Facility at Guantánamo Bay to Consolidate Prisoners

Carol Rosenberg, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 6 hours ago

The move, which took place in a secret operation over the weekend, was conceived during the Trump administration to save on costs and troops at the remote base in Cuba.

 

Only the Republican party wants the prisons at Guantánamo Bay.

 

2

Biden Effort to Combat Hunger Marks ‘a Profound Change’

Jason DeParle, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

As millions of Americans lack enough to eat, the administration is rapidly increasing aid — with an eye toward a permanent safety net expansion.

 

Persistent hunger dammages childrens brains.

Extreme hunger kills.

 

3

Biden Steps Up Federal Efforts to Combat Domestic Extremism

Zolan Kanno-Youngs and Nicole Hong, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 7 hours ago

The administration has taken a series of steps to prioritize dealing with white supremacists and militias, especially after the Capitol riot on Jan. 6.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DuABc9ZNtrA

 

4

Week-end Wrap – Political Economy – April 4, 2021

Tony Wikrent, Ian Welsh - 11 hours ago

Week-end Wrap – Political Economy – April 4, 2021 by Tony Wikrent Strategic Political Economy The Biden Stimulus: If You Think Inflation is the Problem, Just Wait 

 

There is no unified Left.

 

5

U.S. Taps Johnson & Johnson to Run Troubled Vaccine Plant

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

The extraordinary move came just days after officials learned the plant had ruined 15 million doses of Johnson & Johnson’s coronavirus vaccine.

 

Let industrial management do its job.

 

6

Kemp Lashes M.L.B. as Republicans Defend Georgia’s Voting Law

Nick Corasaniti, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Gov. Brian Kemp of Georgia, who is starting his re-election push, argued that the league had “caved to fear” in moving its All-Star Game as he tried to rally Republicans around the new voting limits.

 

The Republican party has lost its legitimacy.

 

7

Noah Green, Capitol Suspect, Struggled Before Attack

Nicholas Fandos, Zolan Kanno-Youngs, Giulia McDonnell Nieto del Rio and Aishvarya Kavi, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

Noah R. Green had been distressed but had no known history of violence when he rammed his car into two police officers, killing one and injuring another before being killed himself.

 

 I am no wiser.

8

How Trump Steered Supporters Into Unwitting Donations

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

Online donors were guided into weekly recurring contributions. Demands for refunds spiked. Complaints to banks and credit card companies soared. But the money helped keep Donald Trump’s struggling campaign afloat.

 

The courts should call it fraud.

 

9

Georgia’s Election Law, and Why Turnout Isn’t Easy to Turn Off

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

Making voting convenient doesn’t necessarily translate into more votes, research shows.

 

The Repulican Georgia legislature is thrashing.

 

10

Her Ballot Didn’t Count. She Faces 5 Years in Prison for Casting It.

Christina Morales, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

A Texas woman is appealing her conviction of voting illegally in the 2016 election. A lawyer says her prosecution “guts the entire purpose of the provisional ballot system.”

 

Five years seems excessive.

 

11

Border Apprehensions Reach Highest Level in at Least 15 Years

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

More migrant families are entering the United States and being released, new figures for March show, as thousands of children remain in detention facilities.

 

There seems to be no good exit from the Trump immigration system.

 

12

Driver Rams Into Officers at Capitol, Killing One and Injuring Another

Emily Cochrane, Nicholas Fandos and Ben Decker, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The attack shocked a Capitol slowly returning to normalcy after the Jan. 6 riot, raising new questions about securing the complex.

 

Suicide by cop looks likely.

 

13

Is Biden Missing His Chance on Guns?

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

President Biden spent decades pushing for gun control. In the early days of his presidency, he’s taking a far less aggressive approach.

 

The knot on gun rights is not trivial.

It involves racism and parinoia.

 

14

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.

 

15

One Republican’s Lonely Fight Against a Flood of Disinformation

Jeremy W. Peters, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

After losing an ugly congressional race last year, Denver Riggleman is leading a charge against the conspiracy-mongering coursing through his party. He doesn’t have many allies.

 

I can't help him.

 

16

Trump’s Latino Support Was More Widespread Than Thought, Report Finds

Giovanni Russonello and Patricia Mazzei, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 days ago

While Latinos played a major role in Democratic victories last year, Donald Trump’s outreach to them proved successful in states around the country, not just in certain geographic areas.

 

Coin flip voters evenly split.

 

17

MLB Pulls All-Star Game From Atlanta, Georgia, in Response to Voting Law

Kevin Draper, James Wagner, Reid J. Epstein and Nick Corasaniti, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 days ago

The move served as a warning to Republicans in other states who are trying to restrict voting, and is likely to put new pressure on other organizations and corporations to consider pulling business out of Georgia.

 

MLB is not supposed to have politics.

 

18

Reversing Trump, Biden Repeals Sanctions on Human Rights Prosecutor

Pranshu Verma and Marlise Simons, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 days ago

The move revokes an executive order that put the United States at odds with many of its European allies.

 

War Crimes are not supposed to be a matter for political decision.

 

19

How Matt Gaetz Got Here

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 days ago

A prominent young Republican and Trump ally faces a head-spinning scandal.

 

Matt Gaetz cannot make himself not guilty. 

20

M.L.B. Pulls All-Star Game From Georgia in Response to Voting Law

Reid J. Epstein and Nick Corasaniti, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 2 days ago

The league said it would remove its midsummer showcase and its annual entry draft as a response to the state’s new voting law.

 

Only individuals can make moral judgments.

 

 

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@11:00, , 4/3/21

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1

Georgia’s Election Law, and Why Turnout Isn’t Easy to Turn Off

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

Making voting convenient doesn’t necessarily translate into more votes, research shows.

 

Nate Cohn has done a reasoned consideration of the new Georgia election law.

2

Driver Rams Into Officers at Capitol, Killing One and Injuring Another

Emily Cochrane, Nicholas Fandos and Ben Decker, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 hour ago

The attack shocked a Capitol slowly returning to normalcy after the Jan. 6 riot, raising new questions about securing the complex.

 

Suicide by cop makes people nervous.

 

3

Is Biden Missing His Chance on Guns?

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

President Biden spent decades pushing for gun control. In the early days of his presidency, he’s taking a far less aggressive approach.

 

President Biden has limited political capital on second amendment changes.

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

4

Open Thread

Ian Welsh, Ian Welsh - 5 hours ago

Use the comments to discuss topics unrelated to recent posts.

 

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

 

5

One Republican’s Lonely Fight Against a Flood of Disinformation

Jeremy W. Peters, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 5 hours ago

After losing an ugly congressional race last year, Denver Riggleman is leading a charge against the conspiracy-mongering coursing through his party. He doesn’t have many allies.

 

He  remains on the political right,

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Right-wing_politics

6

Border Apprehensions Reach Highest Level in at Least 15 Years

Zolan Kanno-Youngs, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 11 hours ago

More migrant families are entering the United States and being released, new figures for March show, as thousands of children remain in detention facilities.

 

Hope is a motivator. 

7

Trump’s Latino Support Was More Widespread Than Thought, Report Finds

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

While Latinos played a major role in Democratic victories last year, Donald Trump’s outreach to them proved successful in states around the country, not just in certain geographic areas

 

Coin flippers for Trump.

 

8

MLB Pulls All-Star Game From Atlanta, Georgia, in Response to Voting Law.

Kevin Draper, James Wagner, Reid J. Epstein and Nick Corasaniti, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 14 hours ago

The move served as a warning to Republicans in other states who are trying to restrict voting, and is likely to put new pressure on other organizations and corporations to consider pulling business out of Georgia.

 

MLB should be apolitical but I can approve.

 

9

Reversing Trump, Biden Repeals Sanctions on Human Rights Prosecutor

Pranshu Verma and Marlise Simons, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 15 hours ago

The move revokes an executive order that put the United States at odds with many of its European allies.

 

Biden has acted in the interests of justice.

 

10

How Matt Gaetz Got Here

Giovanni Russonello, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 15 hours ago

A prominent young Republican and Trump ally faces a head-spinning scandal.

 

The only way to be "not guilty" is to be not guilty.

11

M.L.B. Pulls All-Star Game From Georgia in Response to Voting Law

Reid J. Epstein and Nick Corasaniti, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 18 hours ago

The league said it would remove its midsummer showcase and its annual entry draft as a response to the state’s new voting law.

 

I am mildly surprised MLB appears to have an oppinion.

 

12

Big Companies Like FedEx and Nike Paid No Federal Taxes

Patricia Cohen, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 18 hours ago

FedEx and Nike are among those found to have avoided U.S. tax liability for three straight years.

 

The taxing authorities should repair the law.

 

13

What We Know About the Matt Gaetz Investigation

Nicholas Fandos, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 19 hours ago

The Justice Department is said to be investigating the congressman’s encounters with women recruited online for sex and whether he had sex with a 17-year-old girl.

 

I expect Gaetz to leave congress.

 

14

What Georgia’s Voting Law Really Does

Nick Corasaniti and Reid J. Epstein, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 19 hours ago

The New York Times analyzed the state’s new 98-page voting law and identified 16 key provisions that will limit ballot access, potentially confuse voters and give more power to Republican lawmakers.

 

It tries to make it harder to vote.

 

15

Justice Dept. Inquiry Into Matt Gaetz Said to Be Focused on Cash Paid to Women

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

The congressman and a former official in Florida sent money to the women using cash apps, receipts showed.

 

Matt Gaetz is a sleaze.  He also may be a criminal.

 

16

Virginia Becomes a Voting Rights Bastion

Reid J. Epstein and Nick Corasaniti, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 21 hours ago

For nearly 50 years, the state was subject to Voting Rights Act rules meant to deter racial discrimination. Those federal guidelines are now shredded, but Virginia just recreated them on its own.

 

This is moving in the proper direction.

 

17

Has The Era Of Ordinary Americans Thinking They Are “Pre-Rich” Ended?

Ian Welsh, Ian Welsh - 1 day ago

Nice statistic here: Buried in the new Morning Consult/Politico poll is an eye-popping statistic: Voters by a 2-to-1 margin prefer a $3 trillion infrastructure bill that includes tax hikes on $400K+ and corporations over one that excludes those tax hikes. For most of my life, tax-cuts were the mantra of the generation and tax-raises were […]

 

Getting rich should not be trivial.

Staying rich should be a constant struggle.

 

18

How The Covid-19 Pandemic Hurt Community Colleges and Its Students

Stephanie Saul, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The community colleges largely serving low-income, Black and Latino students are reeling, and experts worry that inequality in education will increase.

 

Education should be subsidized by government.

Everyone is not lucky in their family.

 

19

The Pandemic Hit the Working Class Hard. The Colleges That Serve Them Are Hurting, Too.

Stephanie Saul, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The community colleges largely serving low-income, Black and Latino students are reeling, and experts worry that inequality in education will increase.

 

Education should be subsidized by government.

Everyone is not lucky in their family.

 

20

Biden Seeks to Use Infrastructure Plan to Address Racial Inequities

Jim Tankersley and Zolan Kanno-Youngs, NYT > U.S. > Politics - 1 day ago

The president’s $2 trillion proposal allocates money to help communities of color, like a New Orleans neighborhood devastated by a highway project a half-century ago.

 

Educated people are the infrastructure of government.

 

 

 

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