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Trump defends 'excellent' labor secretary amid scrutiny over Epstein plea deal – live Trump defends 'excellent' labor secretary amid scrutiny over Epstein plea deal – live
(32 minutes later)
Donald Trump’s administration is looking to speed up initial screenings of immigrants seeking asylum, according to a report in Buzzfeed News.
The move, immigration advocates said, would give immigrants less time to prepare for their interviews and recover from the grueling journey to the US-Mexico border.
The Trump administration has taken several steps to limit the number of asylum-seekers in the US.
More from Buzzfeed:
Asylum officers have had to wait at least 48 hours after an immigrant has been detained for crossing into the US to interview them and hear their case. However, under a new directive implemented by US Citizenship and Immigration Services Acting Director Ken Cuccinelli, that window has been reduced to one calendar day, according to a policy change released to staffers on Monday and obtained by BuzzFeed News.”
It’s been quite a heavy day, so here’s a small dose of fun:It’s been quite a heavy day, so here’s a small dose of fun:
Public Policy Polling, a Democratic polling firm, tested how Donald Trump would fare against US soccer star Megan Rapinoe in a 2020 matchup.Public Policy Polling, a Democratic polling firm, tested how Donald Trump would fare against US soccer star Megan Rapinoe in a 2020 matchup.
As it turns out, Rapinoe leads Trump by 1%. According to the survey, which was conducted ‘by popular demand’, Rapinoe received 42% of the vote to Trump’s 41%.As it turns out, Rapinoe leads Trump by 1%. According to the survey, which was conducted ‘by popular demand’, Rapinoe received 42% of the vote to Trump’s 41%.
As we saw with Tom Steyer, it’s not too late to jump into the race. Just sayin...As we saw with Tom Steyer, it’s not too late to jump into the race. Just sayin...
Barack Obama’s healthcare law is once again in jeopardy, as a federal appeals court on Tuesday hears arguments on its validity.Barack Obama’s healthcare law is once again in jeopardy, as a federal appeals court on Tuesday hears arguments on its validity.
The case, which could once again place the fate of the Affordable Care Act before the supreme court, was brought by a group of Republican governors and attorneys general.The case, which could once again place the fate of the Affordable Care Act before the supreme court, was brought by a group of Republican governors and attorneys general.
The healthcare law was struck down by a federal judge in Texas in December. Three judges on the New Orleans-based 5th US circuit court of appeals will now determine if that ruling was correct.The healthcare law was struck down by a federal judge in Texas in December. Three judges on the New Orleans-based 5th US circuit court of appeals will now determine if that ruling was correct.
The case has significant implications for millions of Americans who have gained health insurance through the Affordable Care Act, which was signed into law by Obama in 2010.The case has significant implications for millions of Americans who have gained health insurance through the Affordable Care Act, which was signed into law by Obama in 2010.
The supreme court upheld the core of the law, commonly referred to as ‘Obamacare’, in 2012. Republicans have nonetheless carried on with their efforts to dismantle the law.The supreme court upheld the core of the law, commonly referred to as ‘Obamacare’, in 2012. Republicans have nonetheless carried on with their efforts to dismantle the law.
As part of Donald Trump’s tax overhaul in 2017, the Republican-led Congress did away with the Affordable Care Act’s individual mandate -- which required most Americans to either purchase health insurance or incur a tax penalty. Republicans have argued that removing the penalty effectively did away with the legal rationale the supreme court relied upon when upholding the Affordable Care Act in 2012.As part of Donald Trump’s tax overhaul in 2017, the Republican-led Congress did away with the Affordable Care Act’s individual mandate -- which required most Americans to either purchase health insurance or incur a tax penalty. Republicans have argued that removing the penalty effectively did away with the legal rationale the supreme court relied upon when upholding the Affordable Care Act in 2012.
The appeals court weighing the fresh challenge of the law is known as one of the most conservative appellate courts in the country, which means the case will almost certainly wind up back before the supreme court.The appeals court weighing the fresh challenge of the law is known as one of the most conservative appellate courts in the country, which means the case will almost certainly wind up back before the supreme court.
It’s been quite a day, and we’re no where near done yet...! So here is a summary to help bring you up to speed on what you’ve missed if you’re just tuning in:It’s been quite a day, and we’re no where near done yet...! So here is a summary to help bring you up to speed on what you’ve missed if you’re just tuning in:
Donald Trump is standing by his embattled labor secretary Alexander Acosta amid calls for the latter’s resignation; Acosta has come under heightened scrutiny for striking a lenient plea deal in 2008 with financier Jeffrey Epstein, who has been charged with operating a sex trafficking ring that involved underage girls.Donald Trump is standing by his embattled labor secretary Alexander Acosta amid calls for the latter’s resignation; Acosta has come under heightened scrutiny for striking a lenient plea deal in 2008 with financier Jeffrey Epstein, who has been charged with operating a sex trafficking ring that involved underage girls.
Acosta broke his silence on the subject as Democrats called for him to step down; the labor secretary said Epstein’s crimes were “horrific” and suggested the evidence before prosecutors today was far more expansive than the case he oversaw as Miami’s top federal prosecutor in 2008.Acosta broke his silence on the subject as Democrats called for him to step down; the labor secretary said Epstein’s crimes were “horrific” and suggested the evidence before prosecutors today was far more expansive than the case he oversaw as Miami’s top federal prosecutor in 2008.
Trump is still fuming over leaked memos in which Sir Kim Darroch, the British ambassador to the US, described the president as “inept” and characterized his administration as “dysfunctional”; Trump said Darroch was “a very stupid guy” in a Tuesday morning tweetstorm, in which he also took aim at British prime minister Theresa May and her handling of Brexit.Trump is still fuming over leaked memos in which Sir Kim Darroch, the British ambassador to the US, described the president as “inept” and characterized his administration as “dysfunctional”; Trump said Darroch was “a very stupid guy” in a Tuesday morning tweetstorm, in which he also took aim at British prime minister Theresa May and her handling of Brexit.
Two-time presidential candidate Ross Perot has died at age 89 following a five-month battle with leukemia. The Texan billionaire and philanthropist emerged as one of the most successful third-party candidates in modern US history in the 1992 presidential elections, earning nearly 19% of the popular vote.Two-time presidential candidate Ross Perot has died at age 89 following a five-month battle with leukemia. The Texan billionaire and philanthropist emerged as one of the most successful third-party candidates in modern US history in the 1992 presidential elections, earning nearly 19% of the popular vote.
Tom Steyer formally launched his campaign for president, adding his name to the crowded field of 2020 Democratic contenders. Steyer, a billionaire environmental activist, has been a leading proponent of impeaching Trump and poured millions of dollars into the fight against climate change.Tom Steyer formally launched his campaign for president, adding his name to the crowded field of 2020 Democratic contenders. Steyer, a billionaire environmental activist, has been a leading proponent of impeaching Trump and poured millions of dollars into the fight against climate change.
A federal appeals court ruled that Trump cannot block his critics on Twitter, upholding an earlier decision which found the president in violation of the US constitution for doing so; the case was brought by seven individuals who in 2017 were blocked by Trump for tweeting critical comments at the president.A federal appeals court ruled that Trump cannot block his critics on Twitter, upholding an earlier decision which found the president in violation of the US constitution for doing so; the case was brought by seven individuals who in 2017 were blocked by Trump for tweeting critical comments at the president.
Keep watching this space for more developments!Keep watching this space for more developments!
2020 presidential candidate Kirsten Gillibrand has released a new television ad attacking Donald Trump for failing to make good on his promises to save jobs and improve the lives of average Americans.2020 presidential candidate Kirsten Gillibrand has released a new television ad attacking Donald Trump for failing to make good on his promises to save jobs and improve the lives of average Americans.
The spot is titled “I Promise” and will air in Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania, the so-called “Rust Belt” states that helped propel Trump to victory.The spot is titled “I Promise” and will air in Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania, the so-called “Rust Belt” states that helped propel Trump to victory.
Gillibrand, a senator from New York, is poised to embark on a two-day swing through those battleground states this week. Her campaign said the ad will target former Barack Obama voters who cast their ballots for Trump in 2016.Gillibrand, a senator from New York, is poised to embark on a two-day swing through those battleground states this week. Her campaign said the ad will target former Barack Obama voters who cast their ballots for Trump in 2016.
It opens with footage of promises Trump made as a candidate in the last election cycle, such as improving US infrastructure, lowering prescription drug prices and restoring manufacturing jobs. But those promises were left unkept, the ad states.It opens with footage of promises Trump made as a candidate in the last election cycle, such as improving US infrastructure, lowering prescription drug prices and restoring manufacturing jobs. But those promises were left unkept, the ad states.
Gillibrand has struggled to gain traction in the crowded Democratic field. She has nonetheless continued to expand her staff in the crucial early voting states Iowa and New Hampshire.Gillibrand has struggled to gain traction in the crowded Democratic field. She has nonetheless continued to expand her staff in the crucial early voting states Iowa and New Hampshire.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has appeared to rule out Congress investigating or impeaching Alexander Acosta.House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has appeared to rule out Congress investigating or impeaching Alexander Acosta.
Shortly after Donald Trump stood by his labor secretary, Pelosi told reporters on Capitol Hill:Shortly after Donald Trump stood by his labor secretary, Pelosi told reporters on Capitol Hill:
It’s up to the president, it’s his cabinet. We have a great deal of work to do here for the good of the American people and we have to focus on that.”It’s up to the president, it’s his cabinet. We have a great deal of work to do here for the good of the American people and we have to focus on that.”
Here is the full transcript of what Donald Trump said of his labor secretary, Alexander Acosta, amid the controversy over the latter’s 2008 plea deal with Jeffrey Epstein:Here is the full transcript of what Donald Trump said of his labor secretary, Alexander Acosta, amid the controversy over the latter’s 2008 plea deal with Jeffrey Epstein:
I can tell you that for two and a half years he has been just an excellent secretary of labor. He’s done just a fantastic job. Now part of it is our economy is so good, our unemployment numbers are at record lows. So many good things are happening. But the fact is he has been a very good secretary of labor.I can tell you that for two and a half years he has been just an excellent secretary of labor. He’s done just a fantastic job. Now part of it is our economy is so good, our unemployment numbers are at record lows. So many good things are happening. But the fact is he has been a very good secretary of labor.
What happened 12 or 15 years ago with respect to when he was a US attorney, I think in Miami ... If you go back and look at everybody else’s decisions, whether it’s a US attorney or an assistant US attorney, or a judge, if you go back 12 or 15 years ago or 20 years ago and look at their past decisions, I would think you would probably find that they would wish they had maybe did it a different way.What happened 12 or 15 years ago with respect to when he was a US attorney, I think in Miami ... If you go back and look at everybody else’s decisions, whether it’s a US attorney or an assistant US attorney, or a judge, if you go back 12 or 15 years ago or 20 years ago and look at their past decisions, I would think you would probably find that they would wish they had maybe did it a different way.
I do know that there were a lot of people involved in that decision, not just him. And I can only say this from what I know, and what I do know is that he has been a great -- a really great secretary of labor. The rest of it we’ll have to look at, we’ll have to look at it very carefully. But we’re talking about a long time ago and again it was a decision made I think not by him but by a lot of people. So we’re going to look at it very carefully, we’ll be looking at that very carefully.”I do know that there were a lot of people involved in that decision, not just him. And I can only say this from what I know, and what I do know is that he has been a great -- a really great secretary of labor. The rest of it we’ll have to look at, we’ll have to look at it very carefully. But we’re talking about a long time ago and again it was a decision made I think not by him but by a lot of people. So we’re going to look at it very carefully, we’ll be looking at that very carefully.”
Speaking of Bernie Sanders, the Vermont senator does not seem particularly enthused by Tom Steyer’s foray into the 2020 presidential race.Speaking of Bernie Sanders, the Vermont senator does not seem particularly enthused by Tom Steyer’s foray into the 2020 presidential race.
Asked about the launch of Steyers campaign on Tuesday, Sanders told MSNBC:Asked about the launch of Steyers campaign on Tuesday, Sanders told MSNBC:
I am a bit tired of seeing billionaires trying to buy political power. So I like Tom, he’s a good guy. He’s a friend of mine, but I’m not a great fan of billionaires getting involved in the political process.”I am a bit tired of seeing billionaires trying to buy political power. So I like Tom, he’s a good guy. He’s a friend of mine, but I’m not a great fan of billionaires getting involved in the political process.”
Steyer’s announcement focused on removing the influence of corporate interests from US politics.Steyer’s announcement focused on removing the influence of corporate interests from US politics.
Senator Bernie Sanders said he “absolutely” will outline a blueprint for how he would fight the climate crisis if elected president but did not elaborate on what it would include or when it would be published.Senator Bernie Sanders said he “absolutely” will outline a blueprint for how he would fight the climate crisis if elected president but did not elaborate on what it would include or when it would be published.
On a call with reporters about a resolution he is cosponsoring to declare a climate emergency, he said “what is imperative to understand is it’s not just the plan.”On a call with reporters about a resolution he is cosponsoring to declare a climate emergency, he said “what is imperative to understand is it’s not just the plan.”
“There are a lot of very, very good plans out there. I think we’ll have the strongest plan,” Sanders said.“There are a lot of very, very good plans out there. I think we’ll have the strongest plan,” Sanders said.
In addition to transforming the US energy system, he said he would prioritize taking on the “greed and dishonesty of the fossil fuel industry,” and would also “reach out to countries all over the world” to tackle the global problem.In addition to transforming the US energy system, he said he would prioritize taking on the “greed and dishonesty of the fossil fuel industry,” and would also “reach out to countries all over the world” to tackle the global problem.
Some other Democrats vying for the White House have specified how they would eliminate US carbon dioxide emissions heating the planet. Sanders has previously advocated for a carbon tax with revenues returned to taxpayers. More recently, he has endorsed the Green New Deal.Some other Democrats vying for the White House have specified how they would eliminate US carbon dioxide emissions heating the planet. Sanders has previously advocated for a carbon tax with revenues returned to taxpayers. More recently, he has endorsed the Green New Deal.
Asked twice what specific measures he would pursue, Sanders did not elaborate beyond “massive” investments in sustainable energy and energy efficiency and a transformation of the transportation.Asked twice what specific measures he would pursue, Sanders did not elaborate beyond “massive” investments in sustainable energy and energy efficiency and a transformation of the transportation.
“The issue here is not that we cannot address this problem, I think we can. I think we know exactly what has to be done,” Sanders said.“The issue here is not that we cannot address this problem, I think we can. I think we know exactly what has to be done,” Sanders said.
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the New York congresswoman who is signing on to the climate emergency resolution written by Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore.), said she supports climate liability lawsuits against oil companies, which she called a “fascinating tool.”Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the New York congresswoman who is signing on to the climate emergency resolution written by Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore.), said she supports climate liability lawsuits against oil companies, which she called a “fascinating tool.”
She also touted the possibility of public banks compete with fossil fuel-invested Wall Street.She also touted the possibility of public banks compete with fossil fuel-invested Wall Street.
Donald Trump has defended his embattled labor secretary Alexander Acosta amid growing calls for his resignation.Donald Trump has defended his embattled labor secretary Alexander Acosta amid growing calls for his resignation.
Speaking to reporters at the White House on Tuesday, Trump said Acosta had done an ‘excellent’ job as labor secretary following fresh scrutiny toward Acosta’s role in securing a lenient 2008 plea deal for financier Jeffrey Epstein.Speaking to reporters at the White House on Tuesday, Trump said Acosta had done an ‘excellent’ job as labor secretary following fresh scrutiny toward Acosta’s role in securing a lenient 2008 plea deal for financier Jeffrey Epstein.
Trump said he felt “very badly” for Acosta, while adding he would look at his role in Epstein’s plea deal “very carefully”.Trump said he felt “very badly” for Acosta, while adding he would look at his role in Epstein’s plea deal “very carefully”.
Trump also sought to distance himself from Epstein, a onetime friend he previously called a “terrific guy”, stating: “He was a fixture in Palm Beach, I had a falling out with him many years ago. I don’t think I’ve spoken to him in 15 years.”Trump also sought to distance himself from Epstein, a onetime friend he previously called a “terrific guy”, stating: “He was a fixture in Palm Beach, I had a falling out with him many years ago. I don’t think I’ve spoken to him in 15 years.”
Trump’s comments came as Acosta broke his silence on Epstein, who was charged with running a sex trafficking ring that involved underage girls.Trump’s comments came as Acosta broke his silence on Epstein, who was charged with running a sex trafficking ring that involved underage girls.
“The crimes committed by Epstein are horrific, and I am pleased that NY prosecutors are moving forward with a case based on new evidence,” Acosta tweeted on Tuesday.“The crimes committed by Epstein are horrific, and I am pleased that NY prosecutors are moving forward with a case based on new evidence,” Acosta tweeted on Tuesday.
The crimes committed by Epstein are horrific, and I am pleased that NY prosecutors are moving forward with a case based on new evidence.The crimes committed by Epstein are horrific, and I am pleased that NY prosecutors are moving forward with a case based on new evidence.
As Miami’s top federal prosecutor in 2008, Acosta struck a plea deal with Epstein that enabled the billionaire to avoid a public trial and a heavy prison sentence.As Miami’s top federal prosecutor in 2008, Acosta struck a plea deal with Epstein that enabled the billionaire to avoid a public trial and a heavy prison sentence.
Acosta sought to draw distance between the evidence available 11 years ago and that contained in the recently unsealed indictment against Epstein.Acosta sought to draw distance between the evidence available 11 years ago and that contained in the recently unsealed indictment against Epstein.
“With the evidence available more than a decade ago, federal prosecutors insisted that Epstein go to jail, register as a sex offender and put the world on notice that he was a sexual predator,” Acosta wrote.“With the evidence available more than a decade ago, federal prosecutors insisted that Epstein go to jail, register as a sex offender and put the world on notice that he was a sexual predator,” Acosta wrote.
“Now that new evidence and additional testimony is available, the NY prosecution offers an important opportunity to more fully bring him to justice.”“Now that new evidence and additional testimony is available, the NY prosecution offers an important opportunity to more fully bring him to justice.”
A slew of Democrats, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer, have called for Acosta to step down as labor secretary amid the renewed scrutiny over his 2008 agreement with Epstein.A slew of Democrats, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer, have called for Acosta to step down as labor secretary amid the renewed scrutiny over his 2008 agreement with Epstein.
Donald Trump cannot block his critics on Twitter, the social media platform he has used as a central form of communication, a federal appeals court ruled on Tuesday.Donald Trump cannot block his critics on Twitter, the social media platform he has used as a central form of communication, a federal appeals court ruled on Tuesday.
The decision upheld a previous ruling that Trump violated the first amendment of the US constitution by blocking those who criticized the president on Twitter.The decision upheld a previous ruling that Trump violated the first amendment of the US constitution by blocking those who criticized the president on Twitter.
In a unanimous decision by the New York-based appeals court, Judge Barrington D. Parker wrote:In a unanimous decision by the New York-based appeals court, Judge Barrington D. Parker wrote:
The First Amendment does not permit a public official who utilizes a social media account for all manner of official purposes to exclude persons from an otherwise open online dialogue because they expressed views with which the official disagrees.”The First Amendment does not permit a public official who utilizes a social media account for all manner of official purposes to exclude persons from an otherwise open online dialogue because they expressed views with which the official disagrees.”
The case was brought by several people who had been blocked by Trump in 2017 after tweeting critical comments directed at him.The case was brought by several people who had been blocked by Trump in 2017 after tweeting critical comments directed at him.
The ruling is expected to set a more clear precedent for elected officials as they navigate the social media landscape that has emerged as a key means of connecting with the American public.The ruling is expected to set a more clear precedent for elected officials as they navigate the social media landscape that has emerged as a key means of connecting with the American public.
The Justice Department argued in court that @realdonaldtrump is a personal account, as opposed to the White House’s official Twitter handle. But Trump primarily uses his personal account to communicate, with the vast majority of his official statements and announcements being disseminated through his own handle.The Justice Department argued in court that @realdonaldtrump is a personal account, as opposed to the White House’s official Twitter handle. But Trump primarily uses his personal account to communicate, with the vast majority of his official statements and announcements being disseminated through his own handle.
Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer joined calls for labor secretary Alexander Acosta’s resignation on Tuesday over his role in securing a lenient 2008 plea deal for Jeffrey Epstein, the billionaire financier charged with operating a sex trafficking ring involving underage girls.Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer joined calls for labor secretary Alexander Acosta’s resignation on Tuesday over his role in securing a lenient 2008 plea deal for Jeffrey Epstein, the billionaire financier charged with operating a sex trafficking ring involving underage girls.
“It is now impossible for anyone to have confidence in Secretary Acosta’s ability to lead the department of labor. If he refuses to resign, President Trump should fire him,” Schumer said in a speech on the Senate floor.“It is now impossible for anyone to have confidence in Secretary Acosta’s ability to lead the department of labor. If he refuses to resign, President Trump should fire him,” Schumer said in a speech on the Senate floor.
Schumer was the latest prominent Democrat to push for Acosta’s departure amid fresh scrunity over the ‘sweetheart deal’ he cut with Epstein while serving as Miami’s top federal prosecutor more than a decade ago.Schumer was the latest prominent Democrat to push for Acosta’s departure amid fresh scrunity over the ‘sweetheart deal’ he cut with Epstein while serving as Miami’s top federal prosecutor more than a decade ago.
In a tweet late Monday, House speaker Nancy Pelosi said Acosta “must step down”, while dubbing his agreement with Epstein as “unconscionable”.In a tweet late Monday, House speaker Nancy Pelosi said Acosta “must step down”, while dubbing his agreement with Epstein as “unconscionable”.
.@SecretaryAcosta must step down. As US Attorney, he engaged in an unconscionable agreement w/ Jeffrey Epstein kept secret from courageous, young victims preventing them from seeking justice. This was known by @POTUS when he appointed him to the cabinet. #AcostaResign.@SecretaryAcosta must step down. As US Attorney, he engaged in an unconscionable agreement w/ Jeffrey Epstein kept secret from courageous, young victims preventing them from seeking justice. This was known by @POTUS when he appointed him to the cabinet. #AcostaResign
Epstein pleaded not guilty on Monday in a New York court to one count of sex trafficking conspiracy and a second of sex trafficking underage females. Some of the victims were as young as 14, according to the unsealed indictment.Epstein pleaded not guilty on Monday in a New York court to one count of sex trafficking conspiracy and a second of sex trafficking underage females. Some of the victims were as young as 14, according to the unsealed indictment.
My colleague Ed Pilkington has a report on the growing brigade of Democrats seeking Acosta’s resignation, as well as the details of the deal he struck with Epstein that enabled the financier to avoid a public trial and heavy jail sentence:My colleague Ed Pilkington has a report on the growing brigade of Democrats seeking Acosta’s resignation, as well as the details of the deal he struck with Epstein that enabled the financier to avoid a public trial and heavy jail sentence:
As the federal prosecutor leading the case in 2008, Acosta oversaw a plea deal in which Epstein was granted a highly unusual non-prosecution agreement that shielded him from all federal criminal charges relating to his more than 30 incidents of potential abuse of young girls. Under the deal, the FBI investigation that had already culminated in a 53-page draft indictment was shut down in favor of Epstein pleading guilty to two lesser state charges that controversially labelled his victims as prostitutes.As the federal prosecutor leading the case in 2008, Acosta oversaw a plea deal in which Epstein was granted a highly unusual non-prosecution agreement that shielded him from all federal criminal charges relating to his more than 30 incidents of potential abuse of young girls. Under the deal, the FBI investigation that had already culminated in a 53-page draft indictment was shut down in favor of Epstein pleading guilty to two lesser state charges that controversially labelled his victims as prostitutes.
Immunity was also granted to Epstein’s “potential co-conspirators”, though it did not identify individuals. Epstein ended up serving just 13 months in jail with the ability to leave the prison every day to attend his luxury business premises.Immunity was also granted to Epstein’s “potential co-conspirators”, though it did not identify individuals. Epstein ended up serving just 13 months in jail with the ability to leave the prison every day to attend his luxury business premises.
2020 presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Amy Klobuchar also called on Acosta to resign on Tuesday.2020 presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Amy Klobuchar also called on Acosta to resign on Tuesday.
Alex Acosta should resign as Labor Secretary. We need leaders committed to fighting for justice for survivors of abuse, not protecting predators.Alex Acosta should resign as Labor Secretary. We need leaders committed to fighting for justice for survivors of abuse, not protecting predators.
“Since when do underage girl sex ring traffickers get to go to their office every day while they serve their time? The victims should have had a say. That’s what the law says,” Klobuchar, a senator from Minnesota who opposed Acosta’s nomination for labor secretary, said in a written statement.“Since when do underage girl sex ring traffickers get to go to their office every day while they serve their time? The victims should have had a say. That’s what the law says,” Klobuchar, a senator from Minnesota who opposed Acosta’s nomination for labor secretary, said in a written statement.
“I didn’t vote for former Florida U.S. Attorney Acosta to begin with and he should step down.”“I didn’t vote for former Florida U.S. Attorney Acosta to begin with and he should step down.”
Amy McGrath, a retired Marine fighter pilot, will run against Senate majority Leader Mitch McConnell in the 2020 election.Amy McGrath, a retired Marine fighter pilot, will run against Senate majority Leader Mitch McConnell in the 2020 election.
McGrath rose to prominence in the 2018 midterms despite narrowly losing a bid for the House of Representatives. In an announcement video released on Tuesday, McGrath recalled writing a letter to McConnell as a 13-year-old girl detailing her wish to fly combat jets for the US.McGrath rose to prominence in the 2018 midterms despite narrowly losing a bid for the House of Representatives. In an announcement video released on Tuesday, McGrath recalled writing a letter to McConnell as a 13-year-old girl detailing her wish to fly combat jets for the US.
“He never wrote back,” McGrath said.“He never wrote back,” McGrath said.
“I’m Amy McGrath, and I’ve often wondered, how many other people did Mitch McConnell never take the time to write back or even think about?”“I’m Amy McGrath, and I’ve often wondered, how many other people did Mitch McConnell never take the time to write back or even think about?”
I’m running to replace Mitch McConnell in the U.S. Senate. Everything that’s wrong with Washington had to start somewhere—it started with him. With your help, we can defeat Mitch and defend democracy. Join us: https://t.co/c4b0WAp4ji pic.twitter.com/DNLjFkHGuaI’m running to replace Mitch McConnell in the U.S. Senate. Everything that’s wrong with Washington had to start somewhere—it started with him. With your help, we can defeat Mitch and defend democracy. Join us: https://t.co/c4b0WAp4ji pic.twitter.com/DNLjFkHGua
McGrath’s entry into the Kentucky Senate race ended months of speculation over her plans. She was actively recruited by Chuck Schumer, the Senate minority leader, according to reports.McGrath’s entry into the Kentucky Senate race ended months of speculation over her plans. She was actively recruited by Chuck Schumer, the Senate minority leader, according to reports.
McConnell’s campaign swiftly responded to McGrath’s announcement by releasing a video casting her as too liberal for the state of Kentucky.McConnell’s campaign swiftly responded to McGrath’s announcement by releasing a video casting her as too liberal for the state of Kentucky.
Welcome to the race, Amy. #KYSen pic.twitter.com/VdmKfFvTpIWelcome to the race, Amy. #KYSen pic.twitter.com/VdmKfFvTpI
Ross Perot, the two-time independent candidate for president, has died after a battle with leukemia, Dallas News reported.Ross Perot, the two-time independent candidate for president, has died after a battle with leukemia, Dallas News reported.
Perot was diagnosed with leukemia in February. He was 89.Perot was diagnosed with leukemia in February. He was 89.
A family spokesperson confirmed Perot’s death to the Associated Press.A family spokesperson confirmed Perot’s death to the Associated Press.
A self-made billionaire from Texas, Perot emerged as one of the most successful third-party candidates in modern history during the 1992 presidential election.A self-made billionaire from Texas, Perot emerged as one of the most successful third-party candidates in modern history during the 1992 presidential election.
Although he did not win any electoral college votes, Perot received nearly 19% of the popular vote -- marking the most impressive showing for an independent candidate since Theodore Roosevelt 80 years prior. Perot’s second third-party run in 1996 was less successful.Although he did not win any electoral college votes, Perot received nearly 19% of the popular vote -- marking the most impressive showing for an independent candidate since Theodore Roosevelt 80 years prior. Perot’s second third-party run in 1996 was less successful.
He was famously impersonated by Dana Carvey on Saturday Night Live during the 1990s. Following his second bid for president, Perot largely stayed out of politics.He was famously impersonated by Dana Carvey on Saturday Night Live during the 1990s. Following his second bid for president, Perot largely stayed out of politics.
Perot is survived by his wife, Margot, and five children.Perot is survived by his wife, Margot, and five children.
Donald Trump may have disinvited Sir Kim Darroch from a dinner for the Amir of Qatar in Washington on Monday, but billionaire businessman Robert Kraft still had a seat at the table.Donald Trump may have disinvited Sir Kim Darroch from a dinner for the Amir of Qatar in Washington on Monday, but billionaire businessman Robert Kraft still had a seat at the table.
Yes, the same Kraft who owns the New England Patriots who was charged as part of a prostitution investigation in south Florida.Yes, the same Kraft who owns the New England Patriots who was charged as part of a prostitution investigation in south Florida.
A photo from the dinner showed Kraft seated at Trump’s table next to Christine Lagarde, the incoming president of the European Central Bank.A photo from the dinner showed Kraft seated at Trump’s table next to Christine Lagarde, the incoming president of the European Central Bank.
Meant to attach this photo to previous tweet, of President Trump's dinner table with the Amir of Qatar, Christine Lagarde and Robert Kraft. pic.twitter.com/sq9l6nkuT4Meant to attach this photo to previous tweet, of President Trump's dinner table with the Amir of Qatar, Christine Lagarde and Robert Kraft. pic.twitter.com/sq9l6nkuT4
The dinner was hosted by treasury secretary Steven Mnuchin inside the department’s Cash Room in honor of Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani. Trump is poised to meet with al-Thani at the White House on Tuesday.The dinner was hosted by treasury secretary Steven Mnuchin inside the department’s Cash Room in honor of Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani. Trump is poised to meet with al-Thani at the White House on Tuesday.
Earlier this year, Trump said he was “very surprised” to see Kraft at the center of the prostitution scandal even as he defended the Patriots owner as having proclaimed his innocence.Earlier this year, Trump said he was “very surprised” to see Kraft at the center of the prostitution scandal even as he defended the Patriots owner as having proclaimed his innocence.
Billionaire environmental activist Tom Steyer has formally launched his campaign for president, framing himself as “an outsider” who has “led grassroots efforts that have taken on big corporations and won results for people”.Billionaire environmental activist Tom Steyer has formally launched his campaign for president, framing himself as “an outsider” who has “led grassroots efforts that have taken on big corporations and won results for people”.
Steyer made his bid official in an announcement video released on Tuesday, which calls for eradicating the influence of corporations on US politics.Steyer made his bid official in an announcement video released on Tuesday, which calls for eradicating the influence of corporations on US politics.
“Americans are deeply disappointed and hurt by the way they’re treated by what they think is the power elite in Washington DC,” Steyer said. “And that goes across party lines and it goes across geography.”“Americans are deeply disappointed and hurt by the way they’re treated by what they think is the power elite in Washington DC,” Steyer said. “And that goes across party lines and it goes across geography.”
It’s true. I’m running for president. pic.twitter.com/u8x2lZah7ZIt’s true. I’m running for president. pic.twitter.com/u8x2lZah7Z
Steyer is a former hedge fund investor who in recent years has been the Democratic Party’s largest donor. He has spent the past year as the face of the movement to impeach Donald Trump and also poured millions of dollars into the fight against climate change.Steyer is a former hedge fund investor who in recent years has been the Democratic Party’s largest donor. He has spent the past year as the face of the movement to impeach Donald Trump and also poured millions of dollars into the fight against climate change.
The topic of impeachment is nonetheless absent from Steyer’s video, which avoids mentioning the president all together. Steyer is poised to spend $100m of his own fortune to fund his campaign.The topic of impeachment is nonetheless absent from Steyer’s video, which avoids mentioning the president all together. Steyer is poised to spend $100m of his own fortune to fund his campaign.
Read my full report on Steyer’s 2020 launch here, in which my colleague Sam Levin and I break down the challenges he might face by entering a crowded Democratic field that has already held its first primary debates.Read my full report on Steyer’s 2020 launch here, in which my colleague Sam Levin and I break down the challenges he might face by entering a crowded Democratic field that has already held its first primary debates.
Donald Trump has lashed out at Sir Kim Darroch as “a very stupid guy” in another Twitter tirade against the British ambassador to Washington that also took aim at Theresa May as “foolish”.Donald Trump has lashed out at Sir Kim Darroch as “a very stupid guy” in another Twitter tirade against the British ambassador to Washington that also took aim at Theresa May as “foolish”.
In a fresh pair of tweets on Tuesday, the president continued to react to leaked memos in which Kim described him as “inept” and “dysfunctional”.In a fresh pair of tweets on Tuesday, the president continued to react to leaked memos in which Kim described him as “inept” and “dysfunctional”.
“The wacky Ambassador that the U.K. foisted upon the United States is not someone we are thrilled with, a very stupid guy,” Trump tweeted.“The wacky Ambassador that the U.K. foisted upon the United States is not someone we are thrilled with, a very stupid guy,” Trump tweeted.
“He should speak to his country, and Prime Minister May, about their failed Brexit negotiation, and not be upset with my criticism of how badly it was... handled.”“He should speak to his country, and Prime Minister May, about their failed Brexit negotiation, and not be upset with my criticism of how badly it was... handled.”
Trump’s tweets came one day after he declared he would no longer deal with Darroch and claimed the British ambassador was “not liked or well thought of within the U.S.”.Trump’s tweets came one day after he declared he would no longer deal with Darroch and claimed the British ambassador was “not liked or well thought of within the U.S.”.
The wacky Ambassador that the U.K. foisted upon the United States is not someone we are thrilled with, a very stupid guy. He should speak to his country, and Prime Minister May, about their failed Brexit negotiation, and not be upset with my criticism of how badly it was...The wacky Ambassador that the U.K. foisted upon the United States is not someone we are thrilled with, a very stupid guy. He should speak to his country, and Prime Minister May, about their failed Brexit negotiation, and not be upset with my criticism of how badly it was...
...handled. I told @theresa_may how to do that deal, but she went her own foolish way-was unable to get it done. A disaster! I don’t know the Ambassador but have been told he is a pompous fool. Tell him the USA now has the best Economy & Military anywhere in the World, by far......handled. I told @theresa_may how to do that deal, but she went her own foolish way-was unable to get it done. A disaster! I don’t know the Ambassador but have been told he is a pompous fool. Tell him the USA now has the best Economy & Military anywhere in the World, by far...
....and they are both only getting bigger, better and stronger.....Thank you, Mr. President!....and they are both only getting bigger, better and stronger.....Thank you, Mr. President!
Darroch was also uninvited from a dinner Trump hosted for the Emir of Qatar on Monday.Darroch was also uninvited from a dinner Trump hosted for the Emir of Qatar on Monday.
May has meanwhile stood by Darroch amid the controversy, even as she rejected his assessment of Trump. In a written statement, Downing Street said Darroch “continues to have the prime minister’s full support”, while adding: “We have made clear to the US how unfortunate this leak is.”May has meanwhile stood by Darroch amid the controversy, even as she rejected his assessment of Trump. In a written statement, Downing Street said Darroch “continues to have the prime minister’s full support”, while adding: “We have made clear to the US how unfortunate this leak is.”
“The selective extracts leaked do not reflect the closeness of, and the esteem in which we hold, the relationship,” the spokesperson said. “At the same time, we have also underlined the importance of Ambassadors being able to provide honest, unvarnished assessments of the politics in their country.“The selective extracts leaked do not reflect the closeness of, and the esteem in which we hold, the relationship,” the spokesperson said. “At the same time, we have also underlined the importance of Ambassadors being able to provide honest, unvarnished assessments of the politics in their country.
Liam Fox, Britain’s international trade secretary, was set to meet on Tuesday with Ivanka Trump, the president’s daughter and senior adviser, in a bid to smooth over tensions.Liam Fox, Britain’s international trade secretary, was set to meet on Tuesday with Ivanka Trump, the president’s daughter and senior adviser, in a bid to smooth over tensions.
Good morning everyone! Sabrina Siddiqui here, ready to give you the latest in Washington and beyond.Good morning everyone! Sabrina Siddiqui here, ready to give you the latest in Washington and beyond.
Donald Trump is already tweeting and continues to have some choice words for Theresa May and British ambassador Kim Darroch (more on that in just a moment). The president is poised to welcome the Emir of Qatar at the White House today, but clearly his mind does travel...Donald Trump is already tweeting and continues to have some choice words for Theresa May and British ambassador Kim Darroch (more on that in just a moment). The president is poised to welcome the Emir of Qatar at the White House today, but clearly his mind does travel...
I’ll also bring you the latest on the 2020 election, where the Democratic field has seen yet another entry with Tom Steyer. Because that’s just what the party needs – more candidates. All eyes are on the billionaire environmental activist, who launched his campaign today.I’ll also bring you the latest on the 2020 election, where the Democratic field has seen yet another entry with Tom Steyer. Because that’s just what the party needs – more candidates. All eyes are on the billionaire environmental activist, who launched his campaign today.
So buckle up and stay tuned for more!So buckle up and stay tuned for more!