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sgamer82 Since: Jan, 2001
#239451: Apr 20th 2018 at 10:42:28 AM

https://whatthefuckjusthappenedtoday.com/2018/04/20/day-456/

Day 456: Unprecedented treachery.

1/ The Democratic National Committee filed a lawsuit against the Russian government, the Trump campaign and Wiki Leaks alleging a conspiracy to help Trump win the 2016 election. The lawsuit claims that between Russian hacking and the Trump campaign's contacts with Russia and the public cheerleading of the hacks amounted to conspiracy to interfere in the election and cause damage to the Democratic Party. DNC Chairman Tom Perez said in a statement: "This constituted an act of unprecedented treachery: the campaign of a nominee for President of the United States in league with a hostile foreign power to bolster its own chance to win the presidency." (Washington Post)

https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/democratic-party-files-lawsuit-alleging-russia-the-trump-campaign-and-wikileaks-conspired-to-disrupt-the-2016-campaign/2018/04/20/befe8364-4418-11e8-8569-26fda6b404c7_story.html

2/ The Justice Department sent partially redacted copies of James Comey's memos – 15 pages in total – to Congress, which leaked to the public within hours. The memos cover the first three months of the Trump administration. Following the release, Trump tweeted that the memos "show clearly that there was NO COLLUSION and NO OBSTRUCTION." (Associated Press / New York Times / Washington Post)

https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/justice-department-hands-comey-memos-to-congress/2018/04/19/e670f5f4-4430-11e8-bba2-0976a82b05a2_story.html

READ: James Comey's memos. (Document Cloud)

https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/4442900-Ex-FBI-Director-James-Comey-s-memos.html

Six takeaways from the Comey memos. (New York Times)

https://www.nytimes.com/2018/04/20/us/politics/comey-memos-takeaways.html

What the Comey memos tell us about Trump. (Axios)

https://www.axios.com/what-james-comey-memos-tell-us-about-donald-trump-611462a9-7648-45db-95b0-9ad265733f30.html

3/ Trump was annoyed with Michael Flynn for making Putin wait six days for a return congratulatory phone call. Trump complained that Flynn "has serious judgment issues" as a result. Days before Michael Flynn was fired, then-White House Chief of Staff Reince Priebus asked Comey if Flynn's communications were being monitored under a FISA surveillance warrant. (Reuters / The Guardian)

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-trump-russia-memos/comey-says-in-memos-that-trump-showed-concern-about-leaks-loyalty-dossier-idUSKBN1HR079

4/ Trump tweets that Michael Flynn's life is now "totally destroyed" while "Shadey James Comey can Leak and Lie and make lots of money from a third rate book." Flynn pleaded guilty in December to lying to federal agents and is cooperating with Robert Mueller's probe into Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. election and whether the Trump campaign was involved. (Bloomberg)

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2018-04-20/comey-memos-offer-account-of-private-conversations-with-trump

5/ Putin once told Trump that Russia has "some of the most beautiful hookers in the world," according to Comey. In a memo dated Feb. 8, 2017, Comey writes that Trump "brought up the 'Golden Showers thing,'" saying that "'the hookers thing' is nonsense." (The Hill)

http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/384067-comey-trump-says-putin-bragged-about-russia-having-the-most

6/ Comey explained why he thinks "it's possible" that Russia has compromising information on Trump. First, he says, is that "the President is constantly bringing it up with me to deny it." And, second, Trump "wouldn't criticize Vladimir Putin even in private, which struck me as odd." (CNN)

https://www.cnn.com/2018/04/19/politics/james-comey-jake-tapper-cnntv/index.html

7/ Trump pressed Jeff Sessions and FBI Director Christopher Wray to find derogatory information on two senior FBI officials. Trump wanted to know why Peter Strzok and Lisa Page were still in their jobs, following allegations by his allies that they had been disloyal and had unfairly targeted him and his administration. Trump wanted information about Strzok and Page turned over to congressional Republicans in order to discredit them. (Vox)

https://www.vox.com/2018/4/20/17258230/trump-sessions-fire-fbi-officials-strzok-page-text-messages

BACKGROUND:

Strzok helped oversee the probe of Hillary Clinton's email use and the investigation into whether the Trump campaign colluded with Russia during the 2016 presidential election.

Page provided legal and strategic advice about both investigations to both Comey and Mc Cabe.

The two repeatedly disparaged Trump in their private text messages to each other.

8/ Trump's legal team is still negotiating a possible interview with Robert Mueller, according to White House lawyer Ty Cobb. "The Cohen searches have not yet changed our strategy or level of cooperation with the special counsel," Cobb said, referring to recent raids on the home and workplace of Michael Cohen. At the time, it was reported that Trump was "less inclined" to sit for an interview with Mueller. (Daily Beast)

https://www.thedailybeast.com/white-house-attorney-ty-cobb-says-trumps-interview-negotiations-with-mueller-are-still-on

9/ Trump complained to advisers that Neil Gorsuch has been too liberal in recent cases. Trump was "incensed" that Gorsuch voted against the administration on an immigration case, renewing Trump's doubts that Gorsuch would be a reliable conservative. (Washington Post / The Hill)

http://thehill.com/regulation/court-battles/384073-trump-complaining-that-gorsuch-is-becoming-too-liberal-report

10/ In May 1984, Trump – pretending to be a Trump Organization executive – lied about his wealth to a Forbes reporter so he could make the Forbes 400 list. Trump, posing as "John Barron," called the Jonathan Greenberg and claimed he was worth $100 million. At the time, Trump was worth less than $5 million. (Washington Post)

https://www.washingtonpost.com/outlook/trump-lied-to-me-about-his-wealth-to-get-onto-the-forbes-400-here-are-the-tapes/2018/04/20/ac762b08-4287-11e8-8569-26fda6b404c7_story.html

Notables.

Trump will not attend Barbara Bush's funeral in order to "avoid disruptions" and out of respect for her family and friends. (CNN)

https://www.cnn.com/2018/04/19/politics/barbara-bush-funeral-donald-trump/index.html

Scott Pruitt spent $45,000 to fly a five-person "advance" team to Australia to prepare for meetings that were later canceled. (Reuters)

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-trump-pruitt-exclusive/exclusive-epa-chiefs-aides-security-agents-made-45000-trip-to-australia-idUSKBN1HQ2U7

Democratic Sen. Heidi Heitkamp will support Mike Pompeo's nomination for secretary of state, becoming the first Democrat to say she'll vote for the current CIA director. Pompeo's is expected to receive an unfavorable recommendation from the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, but GOP leaders plan to bring the nomination to the Senate floor anyway late next week. (CNN / New York Times)

https://www.cnn.com/2018/04/19/politics/heidi-heitkamp-to-vote-for-pompeo/index.html

A man linked to the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks was captured in Syria by U.S.-backed forces more than a month ago. The 9/11 Commission report, a Congressional account on the 2001 attacks, said Mohammad Haydar Zammar was an "outspoken, flamboyant Islamist" who extolled "the virtues of violent jihad." (Reuters)

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-prisoner/man-linked-to-9-11-attacks-on-u-s-captured-in-syria-pentagon-idUSKBN1HR027

Jared Kushner's family business received a federal subpoena. Investigators are looking into whether the real estate company repeatedly filed false paperwork that claimed it had zero rent-regulated tenants, when it had hundreds. (Wall Street Journal / The Hill)

http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/384045-kushners-company-subpoenaed-by-federal-jury-after-filing-false

edited 20th Apr '18 10:44:16 AM by sgamer82

ironballs16 Since: Jul, 2009 Relationship Status: Owner of a lonely heart
#239452: Apr 20th 2018 at 11:08:21 AM

Just to point out, but the Jay Sekulow investigation article was from June of last year - I haven't been able to find any updates about it, though.

"Why would I inflict myself on somebody else?"
DeMarquis Since: Feb, 2010
#239453: Apr 20th 2018 at 11:40:15 AM

While the GOP leadership continue to be Trump's little b!#$&s, the Chinese sanctions targeted at Trump's base seem to be having an effect, esp. Midwestern farmers (where I happen to live).

Parable Since: Aug, 2009
#239454: Apr 20th 2018 at 11:50:04 AM

What's the reaction over in the Midwest from your perspective?

DeMarquis Since: Feb, 2010
#239455: Apr 20th 2018 at 11:51:57 AM

I have yet to meet a Trump voter who isnt deeply disapointed in him.

These people arent going to vote Democrat in 2018, or 2020, but they might stay home.

megaeliz Since: Mar, 2017
#239456: Apr 20th 2018 at 12:04:17 PM

Trump's twitter so far:

So General Michael Flynn’s life can be totally destroyed while Shadey James Comey can Leak and Lie and make lots of money from a third rate book (that should never have been written). Is that really the way life in America is supposed to work? I don’t think so!

Nancy Pelosi is going absolutely crazy about the big Tax Cuts given to the American People by the Republicans...got not one Democrat Vote! Here’s a choice. They want to end them and raise your taxes substantially. Republicans are working on making them permanent and more cuts! note 

Looks like OPEC is at it again. With record amounts of Oil all over the place, including the fully loaded ships at sea, Oil prices are artificially Very High! No good and will not be accepted!

CrimsonZephyr Would that it were so simple. from Massachusetts Since: Aug, 2010 Relationship Status: It's complicated
Would that it were so simple.
#239457: Apr 20th 2018 at 12:56:34 PM

[up][up]Define "might stay home," though. Is it closer to "they'll probably vote, but there's a fleeting chance they'll skip election day," "it's a tossup and dependent on how the next few months turn out," or "there's a good chance they won't vote, but there's a possibility they'll hold their nose and vote GOP anyway."

GOP voters are really regimented, and it's difficult to crack their turnout. How many will are really that disillusioned?

"For all those whose cares have been our concern, the work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives, and the dream shall never die."
Fourthspartan56 from Georgia, US Since: Oct, 2016 Relationship Status: THIS CONCEPT OF 'WUV' CONFUSES AND INFURIATES US!
#239458: Apr 20th 2018 at 1:01:29 PM

[up]There's reason to believe that there's a enthusiasm gap between Republicans and Democrats so clearly being regimented isn't enough to stop people from not voting.

edited 20th Apr '18 1:01:35 PM by Fourthspartan56

"Sandwiches are probably easier to fix than the actual problems" -Hylarn
fruitpork Since: Oct, 2010
#239459: Apr 20th 2018 at 1:05:21 PM

Even if it doesn’t reach 2020, the effects on Congress will be felt. I’m still not holding out for a blue wave until the ballots are completely counted, but it’s something to be optimistic about.

BearyScary Since: Sep, 2010 Relationship Status: [TOP SECRET]
#239460: Apr 20th 2018 at 1:31:10 PM

So Trump is Mad at Gorsuch for how he's voted lately. Interesting.

I liked it better when Questionable Casting was called WTH Casting Agency
smokeycut Since: Mar, 2013
#239461: Apr 20th 2018 at 1:40:57 PM

Who wants to bet that he’ll try to find a way to undo the appointment and put in a different judge?

Larkmarn Since: Nov, 2010 Relationship Status: Hello, I love you
#239462: Apr 20th 2018 at 1:45:56 PM

With Trump working so hard to figure out ways to deport legal immigrants, maybe he's trying to find a way to have Melania deported?

Found a Youtube Channel with political stances you want to share? Hop on over to this page and add them.
megaeliz Since: Mar, 2017
#239463: Apr 20th 2018 at 1:46:59 PM

Interesting tidbit about narcissists:

Today's lesson on Narcissistic Personality Disorder:

Severe narcissists always think the crime is being punished for wrongdoing - not the wrongdoing itself.

LSBK Since: Sep, 2014
#239464: Apr 20th 2018 at 1:50:30 PM

[up]Could you clarify that, it doesn't seem terribly clear to me.

Fourthspartan56 from Georgia, US Since: Oct, 2016 Relationship Status: THIS CONCEPT OF 'WUV' CONFUSES AND INFURIATES US!
#239465: Apr 20th 2018 at 1:52:35 PM

To be frank I just don't see the relevance, yeah Trump is probably a narcissist but it doesn't mean that random narcissist posts are exactly relevant or useful.

"Sandwiches are probably easier to fix than the actual problems" -Hylarn
ironballs16 Since: Jul, 2009 Relationship Status: Owner of a lonely heart
#239466: Apr 20th 2018 at 1:54:42 PM

Source for Trump being miffed at Gorsuch. Also, I really hope the Democrats invoke the GOP stonewalling of Garland should Kennedy's rumored retirement happen, as they can say "Well the American People want a say in the nomination process" - though still at least meet with the nominee prior to that, just to underscore that they can be reasonable in comparison.

[up][up]

In short - a kid will think the "crime" is being sent to time-out, not for hitting their sibling to begin with.

edited 20th Apr '18 1:55:39 PM by ironballs16

"Why would I inflict myself on somebody else?"
BlueNinja0 The Mod with the Migraine from Taking a left at Albuquerque Since: Dec, 2010 Relationship Status: Showing feelings of an almost human nature
The Mod with the Migraine
#239467: Apr 20th 2018 at 1:55:20 PM

[up][up][up] Narcissists are so It's All About Me that in their minds, the punishment they get for anything is a crime, while whatever they did was absolutely justified. It's not possible for them to commit a crime, they can only be a victim.

edited 20th Apr '18 1:58:00 PM by BlueNinja0

That’s the epitome of privilege right there, not considering armed nazis a threat to your life. - Silasw
megaeliz Since: Mar, 2017
#239468: Apr 20th 2018 at 1:56:46 PM

[up] it was in reponse to this:

James Comey Memos just out and show clearly that there was NO COLLUSION and NO OBSTRUCTION. Also, he leaked classified information. WOW! Will the Witch Hunt continue?

But it actually explains a lot, like Micheal Cohen was more of a "Fixer" rather than an actual lawyer. Etc.

Fourthspartan56 from Georgia, US Since: Oct, 2016 Relationship Status: THIS CONCEPT OF 'WUV' CONFUSES AND INFURIATES US!
#239469: Apr 20th 2018 at 1:56:50 PM

[up][up]I read the tweet yes.

My point stands, Trump obviously sees this as a personal attack instead of a legitimate investigation into a wrong doing but that... isn't really new or surprising.

edited 20th Apr '18 1:56:57 PM by Fourthspartan56

"Sandwiches are probably easier to fix than the actual problems" -Hylarn
unknowing from somewhere.. Since: Mar, 2014
#239470: Apr 20th 2018 at 2:54:13 PM

[up]No but it kinda good to remenber how is mind work, is complex is symplicity.

It would be fasinating if wasnt the damn president.

"My Name is Bolt, Bolt Crank and I dont care if you believe or not"
Parable Since: Aug, 2009
#239471: Apr 20th 2018 at 3:40:39 PM

Washington Post reported that Sessions apparently found some spine and warned that Trump firing Rod Rosenstein would result in him quitting in protest, which would have Congress blowing a gasket.

Fourthspartan56 from Georgia, US Since: Oct, 2016 Relationship Status: THIS CONCEPT OF 'WUV' CONFUSES AND INFURIATES US!
#239472: Apr 20th 2018 at 3:42:54 PM

While I'm not sure if I believe him I think that it's something that should be taken seriously, that probably isn't something he would say if he wasn't serious.

"Sandwiches are probably easier to fix than the actual problems" -Hylarn
DeMarquis Since: Feb, 2010
#239473: Apr 20th 2018 at 4:35:23 PM

We dont need many Reps to stay home on election day to win—a few percentage points should do it.

That said, no one really knows what they will do this far ahead.

TobiasDrake Queen of Good Things, Honest (Edited uphill both ways) Relationship Status: Arm chopping is not a love language!
Queen of Good Things, Honest
#239475: Apr 20th 2018 at 4:56:17 PM

That's the thing- if trump goes down, he takes the republican party with him. All the moderates are jumping ship because they see the writing on the wall. Might as well kill em all at once.

The moderates are jumping ship because they do see the writing on the wall. That writing says that Trump has defined the course of the Republican party for the foreseeable future and can't be outlasted. That the Republican party will never be the party that they believed in again. That their options are either embrace the will of Trump or leave, and so they choose the latter.

Trump's the new Reagan. Even if we take him down, his brand of Republicans will just decry it as a partisan action, deny any wrongdoing, and continue down this course. For better or worse, this is what the Republican party is now. And when you get right down to it, it's what the Republican party's been for a while; it's just out in the open, where moderates can't deny its presence anymore.

My Tumblr. Currently liveblogging Haruhi Suzumiya and revisiting Danganronpa V3.

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