Subject: GOP VP Daily Roundup, 4/22/16
From: "Yoxall, Collin" <[email-masked]>
To: Veepstakes <[email-masked]>
Cc: "Dillon, Lauren" <[email-masked]>, "Bauer, Nick" <[email-masked]>, "Graham, Caroline" <[email-masked]>
Date: Fri, 22 Apr 2016 09:53:02 -0700

GOP VP DAILY ROUNDUP, 4/22/16

BOB CORKER
TOM COTTON
CARLY FIORINA
JEFF SESSIONS
RICK SCOTT
DOUG DUCEY
NIKKI HALEY
SCOTT WALKER
PAM BONDI
CHRIS CHRISTIE

BOB CORKER

Foreign Policy

Bob Corker Said The U.S. Should Not Be Involved In Britain’s Decision About The European Union. “Senate Foreign Committee Chairman Bob Corker, a Tennessee Republican, told CNN that he did not support telling the British people how to vote: ‘I haven't appreciated foreign efforts to influence political decisions in our country, so I do not support American attempts to do the same in the United Kingdom.’” [CNN, 4/22/16]

Bob Corker Spoke With A Senior Representative Of The Syrian Opposition, Concluding That Peace Talks Were Collapsing. “U.S. Senator Bob Corker (R-Tenn.), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today spoke with Dr. Riyad Hijab, a senior representative of the Syrian opposition, as the peace talks in Geneva appear to collapse. ‘Having just spoken with Dr. Riyad Hijab about the current situation in Syria, I understand why the moderate opposition is withdrawing from the Geneva talks,’ said Corker. ‘The Assad regime continues to target civilians, block humanitarian access, and refuse the release of detainees. Meanwhile Russia and Iran continue to flood weapons, heavy equipment and personnel into Syria as violence is picking up throughout the country.’” [Press Release, United States Senate Committee On Foreign Relations, 4/22/16<http://www.foreign.senate.gov/press/chair/release/corker-talks-to-syrian-opposition-leader-as-geneva-peace-talks-appear-to-collapse>]

  *   Bob Corker: “Now That The Cessation Of Hostilities Is Effectively Dead, It Looks Like It’s Time To Consider What Secretary Kerry Referred To As ‘Plan B’, And I Look Forward To Him Laying That Out Very Soon.” [Press Release, United States Senate Committee On Foreign Relations, 4/22/16<http://www.foreign.senate.gov/press/chair/release/corker-talks-to-syrian-opposition-leader-as-geneva-peace-talks-appear-to-collapse>]

Tennessee Politics

Bob Corker Was Disappointed That Tennessean Andrew Jackson Would Be Removed From The Ten Dollar Bill. “’I do not think it’s a very good idea,” said Sen. Bob Corker, the junior senator from Tennessee. Corker said he understood that the popularity of the Hamilton hip-hop musical—a recent Pulitzer Prize winner—helped push the Treasury Department to back off a plan to add a woman to the $10 bill in place of Alexander Hamilton, the nation’s first Treasury Secretary. ‘But Andrew Jackson is a figure that Tennesseans care about and, as you can imagine, they would prefer that another bill be looked at,’ Corker said.” [Fortune, 4/21/16<http://fortune.com/2016/04/21/andrew-jackson-backers/>]

  *   Bob Corker Called Andrew Jackson A “Consequential President” In Defense Of His Place On The Ten Dollar Bill. “Even Tennessee lawmakers who say Jackson should remain on currency hesitate when asked why. ‘He was the president of the United States, a consequential presidential of the United States,’ Corker said.” [Fortune, 4/21/16<http://fortune.com/2016/04/21/andrew-jackson-backers/>]
  *   In Response To Harriet Tubman Going On The Ten Dollar Bill, Bob Corker Criticized Diminishing Andrew Jackson’s “Legacy.” “Sen. Bob Corker (R) added, "While I support finding new ways to pay tribute to the many deserving women throughout American history, I would hope we could do so without diminishing the legacy of others." [The Hill, 4/21/16<http://thehill.com/policy/finance/banking-financial-institutions/277176-backlash-to-tubman-decision-limited-isolated>]

Misc. Social Media

Bob Corker: “Now That The Cessation Of Hostilities In #Syria Is Effectively Dead, It’s Time For Sec. Kerry To Lay Out What He Referred To As ‘Plan B’.” [@SenBobCorker, Twitter, 4/21/16<https://twitter.com/SenBobCorker/status/723295230557040640>]

Bob Corker: “Today I Spoke With @Syrianhnc_En Leader Dr. Riyad Hijab As #Syria Peace Talks Appear To Collapse. Read My Statement: Http://1.Usa.Gov/245nxpj” [@SenBobCorker, Twitter, 4/21/16<https://twitter.com/SenBobCorker/status/723295019986259969>]

TOM COTTON

On Blocking Of Treasury Counter-Terrorism Official

The Weekly Standard: Tom Cotton Said That He Is Not Against Adam Szubin Personally, But “Someone In The Obama Administration Has To Answer For All The Mendacity.” “Cotton believes that the White House has lied to and continues to lie to the representatives of the American people about the Iran nuclear deal, specifically right now about letting Iran have access to the dollar, which the White House said would never happen. The way Cotton sees it, someone in the Obama administration has to answer for all the mendacity. The problem isn’t really Szubin, as Cotton explained: ‘Mr. Szubin’ he said, ‘is well respected on both sides of the aisle having worked in the former Bush administration.’" [Weekly Standard, 4/21/16<http://www.weeklystandard.com/cotton-puts-his-foot-down-on-iran-deal/article/2002047>]

The Weekly Standard: Tom Cotton Called President Obama, Deputy National Security Advisor Ben Rhodes, And Advisor Valerie Jarrett The “"The Community Organizer And The Failed Novelist And The Political Operative” Respectively. “The problem rather is with the administration that Szubin now answers to— that is, ‘the community organizer and the failed novelist and the political operative who are in charge of implementing these parts of the Iran nuclear deal,’ as Cotton said, presumably referring to the president, and two of his chief aides, Ben Rhodes and Valerie Jarrett.”

The Hill: Democrats Argued That Adam Szubin Needs To Be Confirmed And Move Out Of His “Acting” Under Secretary Capacity. “He was approved by the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee last month, and is currently filling the post in an acting capacity.  Democrats, however, argue that he still needs to be confirmed.‘We know that financing is the linchpin of a terrorist organization to be able to do everything that they do threatening our country,’ said Sen. Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.). ‘For the United States to ably and effectively do that work, Adam Szubin needs to be confirmed.’ Sen. Joe Donnelly (D-Ind.), separately, praised Szubin saying ‘he has helped shape and enforce U.S. sanctions against our adversaries for nearly a decade.’” [The Hill, 4/20/16<http://thehill.com/blogs/floor-action/senate/277029-gop-blocks-obama-sanctions-czar>]

Ottawa Citizen: The Senate Banking Committee Delayed Voting On Szubin Because Chairman Richard Shelby Wanted To Win His Primary First. “The Senate Banking Committee had approved Szubin nomination last month. The committee's chairman, Sen. Richard Shelby, R-Ala., had delayed action on Szubin's and all other nominations before his panel, stubbornly refusing to act until winning his re-election primary in early March.” [Ottawa Citizen, 4/19/16<http://www.ottawacitizen.com/business/senator+blocks+nominee+responsible+terrorism+fight/11865735/story.html>]

MSNBC: Tom Cotton Blocking Szubin’s Confirmation Is Hurting National Security. “The timing of all of this is a bit ironic. Just this week, on the one-year anniversary of Szubin’s nomination, Cotton delivered the Republican Party’s official weekly address in which he complained that President Obama wants Americans to be complacent about the terrorist threat. As the GOP senator put it, Obama prefers that the public ‘relax,’ rather than keep the dangers posed by terrorists foremost in our minds. Just a few days later, given the opportunity to confirm a qualified counter-terrorism official, Cotton balked. When it comes to talking about national security, congressional Republicans are ready and willing. When it comes to doing actual work, however, GOP lawmakers are routinely reluctant to follow through. Postscript: It’s worth emphasizing, as the Huffington Post has reported, that the work is still getting done at Treasury, though that doesn’t make the Senate GOP’s ridiculous antics any better…Something to keep in mind the next time Tom Cotton and his colleagues start posturing about how important they think national security is.” [MSNBC, 4/21/16<http://www.msnbc.com/rachel-maddow-show/tom-cotton-needlessly-blocks-key-counter-terrorism-nominee>]

On Russian Aggression

Office Of Senator Tom Cotton: Tom Cotton Asked General Curtis Scaparotti About Russian Aggression Against The United States In A Hearing. “Today during a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) questioned General Curtis Scaparrotti, nominee for Commander of the United States European Command, about Russian aggression against the United States. Specifically, he questioned General Scaparrotti on Russian aircrafts' recent fly-bys of U.S. ships and aircrafts and Russia's relationship with NATO. Excerpts from his questions can be found below. Additonaly, a video of the exchange can be found here. ‘I want to return to a question a few of the Senators have addressed about Russian aircraft flying by first one of our ships and then one of our aircrafts in northern Europe. I know you are not aware of all of the circumstances to specify a response but does activity like that call for some kind of response? Is that because with no response it emboldens Putin's Russia to probe even further? Need that response be symmetrical, must we fly by one of their ships or one of their aircraft, or could it be asymmetrical? For example, Javelin showing up on the border in Ukraine and Russia? Whatever the response may be, even if its not a public response, Vladimir Putin needs to understand that it is a response. Vladimir Putin and many other analysts in Russia often site historical grievances for their activity in places like the Ukraine to bolster themselves domestically. They site three grievances in particular -- the collapse of Warsaw Pact, the collapse and disintegration of the Soviet Union, and NATO expansion into those historically Russian dominated territories. Do you think that is a fair account for what has happened in the post-Cold War era? And given that countries like Poland, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia have all chosen freely to join NATO do you think there is any truth to his claims that these are lands that are traditionally oriented to the East? And the final claim that he makes about NATO expansion is that this is an aggressive action towards Russia and could threaten their territorial integrity and sovereignty. Has NATO been investing lately in large scale rearmaments of the kind that would launch a massive land invasion of Russia? To look at this claim from the other direction has Russia been investing in massive defensive buildups, say building tank ditches on its border with NATO or moving in other kinds of massive defensive weaponry to forestall this supposed invasion of Russia? Based on the historical record as well as their own investments it suggests to me that Vladimir Putin's narrative about the west is maybe another classic Russian campaign of disinformation.” [Press Release, Office Of Senator Tom Cotton, 4/21/16<http://www.cotton.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=362>]

Washington Times: General Scaparrotti Told Tom Cotton That U.S. Should Consider A Military Response If Russia Continues To Be Aggressive. “Gen. Scaparrotti said U.S. forces will not relinquish their right to operate in international waters in the face of ongoing Russian challenges, telling Sen. Tom Cotton, Arkansas Republican, that U.S. military leaders “should keep everything on the table,” including military action, as a potential response.” [Washington Times, 4/22/16<http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2016/apr/21/us-mulls-using-military-force-against-russia/>]

On General Lori Robinson Confirmation

Union Leader: Tom Cotton And Thom Tillis Committed To Confirm General Lori Robinson For North America Command And NORAD In Her Confirmation Hearing. “Defense News reported that Robinson appeared to have a smooth hearing Thursday, with only a smattering of questions from the senators present and some commitments to confirm her, including from Republican senators Thom Tillis of North Carolina and Tom Cotton of Arkansas.” [Union Leader, 4/21/16<http://www.unionleader.com/article/20160422/NEWS10/160429786>]

On Immigration

Cotton For Senate: “President Obama Cannot Pick And Choose Which Laws To Enforce, Nor Can He Pass His Own Laws Through Executive Order.” “As the Supreme Court considers an immigration ruling, and President Obama puts more ink in his “Executive Order” printer, let’s look at some of the facts concerning this topic. America is a nation of immigrants, but we are also a nation of laws. Laws that are enacted by the legislature and enforced by the executive branch. Or, under the Obama administration, not enforced. President Obama cannot pick and choose which laws to enforce, nor can he pass his own laws through executive order. The world is full of violence, oppression, corruption and injustice. But we cannot solve all of the world’s problems. Our obligation first and foremost must be protect and serve Americans. And we have to say to would-be immigrants, “Do not violate our laws. Do not come here illegally.” Allowing that, or promoting amnesty, tells people who have patiently waited in line for legal status that THEY did something wrong. What kind of a mixed-up world is that?” [Blog Post, Cotton For Senate, 4/20/16<http://www.tomcotton.com/2016/04/president-obama-cannot-pick-choose-laws-enforce/>]

On Fort Smith Osteopathic Medical School

Office Of Tom Cotton: Tom Cotton Congratulated The Arkansas College Of Osteopathic Medicine On Pre-Accreditation Status. “Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today released the following statement on news that the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine was granted continued pre-accreditation for an osteopathic medical school in Fort Smith, Arkansas: ‘Congratulations to the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine on receiving pre-accreditation for a new osteopathic medical school in Fort Smith. This school will undoubtedly be an invaluable resource for the Arkansas River Valley, and the entire state. Its future students will have an opportunity to be a part of a program that will have a lasting impact on our communities in Arkansas. I look forward to seeing this school open its doors next year.’” [Press Release, Office Of Senator Tom Cotton, 4/21/16<http://www.cotton.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=364>]

On National Parks Week

Office Of Tom Cotton: Tom Cotton Gave A Speech On The Floor Honoring National Parks Week. “This week, I encourage Arkansans and all Americans to take a moment and enjoy your local national parks as we celebrate National Park Week 2016. This year, National Park Week is particularly important because it also happens to be the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service-a milestone that we will celebrate all year long. For those of you who don't know, our National Park System began in 1872 with the establishment of Yellowstone National Park. The organization charged with managing these parks, the National Park Service, was established four decades later in 1916. Today we have over 400 National Parks and historic sites around the country, all full of wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and rich culture. These sites are all cared for by over 20,000 dedicated employees of the National Park Service including Park Rangers, who patrol our parks and keep visitors safe. Arkansas is home to several National Parks and national historic sites-some of the prettiest and most interesting in the country, in my opinion. For those of you who haven't been to Arkansas, I encourage you to visit Hot Springs National Park to see our natural springs and thermal pools. If you're a history buff, you can also visit Arkansas Post, the site of the only Revolutionary War activity in the state of Arkansas. If you are into the outdoors you can float the Buffalo River. The list goes on. Each of the National Parks and historic sites in Arkansas and around the country has its own unique appeal and holds its own adventure. So happy National Park week and happy 100th birthday to the National Park Service. I encourage everyone to take advantage of the free admission to all National Parks in Arkansas and across the country through this Sunday, April 24th. Have a little fun, learn a little bit about our great country, and show your support and thanks for the men and women who serve us in the National Parks.” [Press Release, Office Of Senator Tom Cotton, 4/21/16<http://www.cotton.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=363>]

On Blocking FCC Nominee

Washington Internet Daily: Tom  Cotton, Other Republican Senators Deny Placing Hold On FCC Nominee. “Several GOP senators or their spokespeople denied responsibility for the latest hold. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, didn't place it, his spokeswoman said, nor did Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., a spokeswoman for him said.” [Washington Internet Daily, 4/22/16]

Social Media Action

Tom Cotton: “Do You Know An Arkansan Who Has Made An Impact On Their Community? Nominate Them For #Arkansanoftheweek Http://Ow.Ly/4mz10a” [Senator Tom Cotton, Facebook, 4/22/16<https://www.facebook.com/SenatorTomCotton/photos/a.139579716203572.28054.120355701459307/592568367571369/?type=3&theater>]

Tom Cotton: “This school will undoubtedly be an invaluable resource for the Arkansas River Valley, and the entire state.” “Congratulations to the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine on receiving pre-accreditation for a new osteopathic medical school in Fort Smith. This school will undoubtedly be an invaluable resource for the Arkansas River Valley, and the entire state. Its future students will have an opportunity to be a part of a program that will have a lasting impact on our communities in Arkansas. I look forward to seeing this school open its doors next year.” [Senator Tom Cotton, Facebook, 4/21/16<https://www.facebook.com/SenatorTomCotton/posts/592256827602523>]

Tom Cotton: “Today I Spoke On The Senate Floor In Honor Of National Park Week.” “Today I spoke on the Senate floor in honor of National Park Week. I encourage everyone to take advantage of the free admission to all National Parks in Arkansas and across the country through this Sunday, April 24th. Have a little fun, learn a little bit about our great country, and show your support and thanks for the men and women who serve us in the National Parks. CLICK below to watch my floor speech.” [Senator Tom Cotton, Facebook, 4/21/16<https://www.facebook.com/SenatorTomCotton/videos/592235104271362/>]

Tom Cotton: “Enjoyed Meeting With Ouachita Baptist University Students Yesterday. Thanks For Stopping By!” [Senator Tom Cotton, Facebook, 4/21/16<https://www.facebook.com/SenatorTomCotton/photos/a.139579716203572.28054.120355701459307/592220154272857/?type=3&theater>]

Tom Cotton: “Honored To Have Arkansas Veterans In Washington, D.C. Through Honor Flights. We Are Grateful For Your Service. ‪#‎USA” [Senator Tom Cotton, Facebook, 4/21/16<https://www.facebook.com/SenatorTomCotton/posts/592167730944766>]

Tom Cotton: “America Is A Nation Of Immigrants, But We Are Also A Nation Of Laws. Laws That Are Enacted By The Legislature And Enforced By The Executive Branch. Or, Under The Obama Administration, Not Enforced.” “America is a nation of immigrants, but we are also a nation of laws. Laws that are enacted by the legislature and enforced by the executive branch. Or, under the Obama administration, not enforced. President Obama cannot pick and choose which laws to enforce, nor can he pass his own laws through executive order. The federal government's duty is to protect and serve the American people, not put them at risk through unlawful actions. Click here if you agree.” [Cotton For Senate, Facebook, 4/21/16<https://www.facebook.com/TomCottonAR/posts/1145815975463660>]

Tom Cotton: “Honoring #Nationalparkweek On The Senate Floor. Tune In! Http://Ow.Ly/4mx7ev” [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 4/21/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/723211768764354562>]

Tom Cotton: “This Week Explore Arkansas’s National Parks With Free Admission For #Nationalparkweek. #Findyourpark Http://Ow.Ly/4mtmzy” [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 4/21/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/723226118740955136>]

Tom Cotton: “Please Be Sure To Sign Up For My Newsletter! Http://Ow.Ly/10sam4” [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 4/21/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/723217411579740160>]

Tom Cotton: “Need Help With The IRS, VA, Or Social Security? My Office Can Help! Http://Ow.Ly/4mrcd1” [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 4/21/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/723233660665737216>]

Tom Cotton: “Today I Spoke On The Senate Floor In Honor Of #Nationalparkweek. WATCH:” [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 4/21/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/723237091157663746>]

Tom Cotton: “Congrats To The AR College Of Osteopathic Medicine On Receiving Pre-Accreditation For A New School In Fort Smith: Http://Ow.Ly/4mxt5b” [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 4/21/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/723250309125050372>]

Tom Cotton: “Last Year Over 1,500 Arkansas Vets Contacted My Office For Assistance. In 2016 We Are Ready To Do More!” [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 4/21/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/723251294543208448>]

Tom Cotton: “Do You Know An Arkansan Who Has Made An Impact On Their Community? #Arkansanoftheweek Http://Ow.Ly/4mz10a” [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 4/22/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/723506905235247105>]

CARLY FIORINA

Ted Cruz

Jamie Weinstein: Carly Fiorina And Nikki Haley Are Top VP Picks For Any Republican Nominee. WEINSTEIN: “I think regardless of who the Democratic vice presidential nominee is, if Hillary Clinton is the nominee, a woman will be top and center for a Republican candidate primarily because, as you know, in 2012 and throughout kind of the 2000s, this idea of a Republican war on women has been out there and that's an attack on Republicans. I think it's ridiculous, but to kind of mitigate that attack, I wouldn't be surprised if someone like Carly Fiorina or the Governor of South Carolina Nikki Haley, was considered a top choice for V.P. by whoever the Republican nominee is.”
COSTELLO: “But do you think that those -- do you think those two women would ever agree to run with Donald Trump?”
WEINSTEIN: “Maybe not with Donald Trump but I'm not so sure Donald Trump is yet the nominee. With Ted Cruz obviously you could see a Cruz/Fiorina ticket. And Donald Trump maybe he would reach out to Nikki Haley and convince her to come on. I'm not sure Carly Fiorina would want to join Donald Trump but maybe Nikki Haley.” [CNN Newsroom, CNN, 4/21/16]

The Cruz Campaign Schedules One-On-One Meetings In Order To Sway Delegates With Ted Cruz And Top Surrogates Like Top Carly Fiorina. “Cruz and his staff routinely refuse to talk about their strategy, but his aggressive courting of Pennsylvania delegates reveals a two-part game plan: personal appeals from the senator himself and top surrogates like Carly Fiorina to delegate candidates; once they’ve identified their supporters, making sure they are elected delegates…’By the time we wrap up, on next Monday evening, we will have at least reached out to everyone,” Henry said, noting that he’s already introduced 50-60 delegate candidates to Cruz, and some to Fiorina, too. Schedules permitting ‘we might meet everyone, except for a few hardcore Trump supporters.’ In interviews, delegate candidates said the 30-45 minute-long meetings with Cruz and Fiorina gave them a chance to ask questions about policy and campaign strategy, in an intimate setting. Thomas Pyne, a Cruz supporter running in the state’s 11th district, was invited by the campaign to meet Fiorina last week at the opening of the state’s campaign headquarters. They met Cruz after sitting near him onstage at the Hershey event.” [MSNBC, 4/21/16<http://www.msnbc.com/msnbc/how-ted-cruz-hunts-delegates>]

Misc. Social Media

Carly Fiorina: “What Broke My Heart About Running For The Presidency: [VIDEO]” [@CarlyFiorina, Twitter, 4/21/16<https://twitter.com/CarlyFiorina/status/723274519922659328>]

JEFF SESSIONS

Trump

CNN’s Manu Raju: “Trump Supporter Jeff Sessions Disagrees With Trump View Of NC Bathroom Law. ‘I Would Acquiesce To North Carolina's Decision,’ He Tells Me.” [@mkraju, 4/21/16<https://twitter.com/mkraju/status/723195770032263169?refsrc=email&s=11>]

Yellowhammer News: Jeff Sessions “Said That It Would Be Easier For Bernie Sanders To Take The Democratic Nomination From Hillary Clinton With Fewer Delegates Than It Would Be For Cruz Or Kasich To Take The Republican Nomination From Trump.” “Trump’s Big Apple victory brought his delegate count to 845, just 392 shy of the 1,237 needed to secure the nomination at the Republican National Convention. Ted Cruz currently has 559 delegates, and John Kasich trails far behind with 147. Sessions also said that it would be easier for Bernie Sanders to take the Democratic nomination from Hillary Clinton with fewer delegates than it would be for Cruz or Kasich to take the Republican nomination from Trump. The New York businessman’s lead over his opponents is far greater than Clinton’s current lead over Sanders.” [Yellowhammer News, 4/21/16<http://yellowhammernews.com/politics-2/sessions-getting-tougher-gop-nominee-anyone-trump/>]

New York Times: Jeff Sessions Is Connected With The “Center For The National Interest” A Foreign Policy Think Tank Formerly Part Of The Richard Nixon Library And Birthplace Foundation. “The speech will be hosted by the Center for the National Interest, formerly known as the Nixon Center, and the magazine it publishes, The National Interest, according to a news release provided by the Trump campaign. The group, which left the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum in 2011 to become a nonprofit, says on its website that it was founded by the former president to be a voice to promote “strategic realism in U.S. foreign policy.” Its associates include Henry A. Kissinger, the secretary of state under Nixon, as well as Senator Jeff Sessions, Republican of Alabama and a senior adviser to Mr. Trump. Roger Stone, a sometime adviser of Mr. Trump, is a former Nixon aide.” [New York Times, 4/21/16<http://www.nytimes.com/politics/first-draft/2016/04/21/donald-trump-schedules-his-first-foreign-policy-address/>]

  *   4/27/16: Donald Trump Delivered A Speech At The National Press Club, Hosted By The Center For The National Interest, A Foreign Policy Think Tank. “Donald J. Trump will deliver his first foreign policy address at the National Press Club in Washington next week, his campaign said, at an event hosted by an organization founded by President Richard M. Nixon. The speech, planned for lunchtime on Wednesday, will be Mr. Trump’s first major policy address since a national security speech last fall. The speech will be hosted by the Center for the National Interest, formerly known as the Nixon Center, and the magazine it publishes, The National Interest, according to a news release provided by the Trump campaign.” [New York Times, 4/21/16<http://www.nytimes.com/politics/first-draft/2016/04/21/donald-trump-schedules-his-first-foreign-policy-address/>]

US Response To Zika Virus

Jeff Sessions On US Aid To Fight Zika Virus: “We Must Resist The Temptation Just To Treat Every Unusual Expenditure As An Emergency That Can Be Not Paid For.” “Senators said Thursday they’re close to striking a deal to spend hundreds of millions of dollars fighting the Zika virus, as health officials’ warnings and political pressure from Democrats have forced the GOP to the negotiating table. Bipartisan negotiators are working ‘diligently’ to figure out how much the government needs to work on a vaccine and try to eradicate the mosquito that carries the virus, said Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Thad Cochran…Senators are not eyeing offsets, meaning the money would be added onto the already-growing deficit. That’s likely to be a sticking point with Republicans, who are already fighting for spending cuts elsewhere and who will look askance at any requests for new money. ‘We must resist the temptation just to treat every unusual expenditure as an emergency that can be not paid for,’ Sen. Jeff Sessions, Alabama Republican, said Thursday.” [Washington Times, 4/21/16<http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2016/apr/21/senate-works-partially-fund-obamas-zika-request/>]

Health Care

Office Of Senator Johnny Isakson: Jeff Sessions Cosponsored The Fair Medicare Hospital Payments Act Of 2016. “Today, U.S. Senators Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., Mark Warner, D-Va., and Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, introduced bipartisan, budget-neutral legislation to ensure hospitals are fairly reimbursed for their services by the federal government so they are able to remain open and functioning, especially in underserved and economically struggling regions. The Fair Medicare Hospital Payments Act of 2016 (S.2832) would correct a flawed formula that results in disproportionately low Medicare reimbursement payments to hospitals in rural and low-wage areas. Additional co-sponsors of the Fair Medicare Hospital Payments Act of 2016 are U.S. Senators Jeff Sessions, R-Ala., and Tim Kaine, D-Va.” [Joint Press Release, Office Of Senator Johnny Isakson, 4/21/16]

Natural Resources

Office Of Senator Marco Rubio: Jeff Sessions Cosponsored An Amendment To The Fiscal Year 2017 Energy And Water Development And Related Agencies Appropriations Act That Mandates State Control Over Some Water Allocation In The US Southeast. “U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) spoke on the Senate floor today in favor of an amendment he has filed to the fiscal year 2017 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act that would require the governors of all affected states to agree on water allocation before the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers can reallocate waters between the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint (ACF) River Basin. In addition, the amendment states that no funds will be available for reallocation of water within the ACF River Basin until agreed on by the states affected. The amendment would also address the Alabama-Coosa-Tallapoosa (ACT) River Basin. Co-sponsors include Senators Bill Nelson (D-FL), Jeff Sessions (R-AL) and Richard Shelby (R-AL).” [Press Release, Office of Senator Marco Rubio, 4/21/16]

RICK SCOTT

Florida Senate Race

Miami Herald: After Insisting He Had No Favorite In Florida’s Senate Race, Rick Scott “Heaped Plenty Of Praise Of Manatee County Developer Carlos Beruff And Highlighted Parts Of His Resume In Surprising Detail.” “Gov. Rick Scott once again insisted on Thursday night that he has no favorite in the race for the U.S. Senate. But in a speech in Sarasota, he heaped plenty of praise of Manatee County developer Carlos Beruff and highlighted parts of his resume in surprising detail. ‘I want to wish Carlos Beruff unbelievable success,’ Scott told more than 450 people, including Beruff, at a hotel ballroom in downtown Sarasota.” [Miami Herald, 4/22/16<http://www.bradenton.com/news/politics-government/article73278362.html>]

RNC Meeting

Rick Scott On Changing GOP Convention Rules: “We've Got To Be Transparent And We Can't Take A Chance That We Are Accused Of Any Monkey Business, Tricks.” “The action – which involved not taking action – came shortly after a speech to the RNC at which Florida Gov. Rick Scott — one of Trump's most prominent endorsers — reminded party members that like Trump, he was an anti-establishment candidate when he first ran in 2010, and argued against tinkering with the system. ‘We've got to be transparent and we can't take a chance that we are accused of any monkey business, tricks’ or anything that leads Republicans not to have confidence in the way their party is operating, Scott said. Trump has been fueling concerns among his supporters that establishment Republicans are scheming to manipulate the rules to make his nomination more difficult.” [Sun-Sentinel, 4/22/16<http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/politics/fl-republican-president-rules-20160421-story.html>]

Rick Scott: “The Way To Win In November Is Rally Behind Donald Trump.” “The governor notably didn't mention Trump by name during his 12-minute speech at the RNC luncheon on Thursday, at a gathering where many of the party establishment leaders aren't Trump fans. Instead, he offered a less direct plea to the crowd that included many supporters of other candidates to support the eventual nominee. Speaking to reporters after his speech, Scott was more direct: ‘The way to win in November is rally behind Donald Trump,’ he said.” [Sun-Sentinel, 4/22/16<http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/politics/fl-republican-president-rules-20160421-story.html>]

Rick Scott On Rallying Behind Donald Trump: “Follow The Will Of The Voters.” “‘Follow the will of the voters,’ Scott recommended. Scott signaled his support for Trump early in the year, but didn't officially endorse him until after the Florida primary, once presidential candidate U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla, lost in Florida and dropped out of the presidential race. Scott didn't want to alienate Rubio supporters in South Florida as he prepares for what's widely believed to be his plan to run for U.S. Senate in 2018.” [Sun-Sentinel, 4/22/16<http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/politics/fl-republican-president-rules-20160421-story.html>]

Sun-Sentinel: In An April 2016 Speech To The RNC, Rick Scott “Said President Barack Obama ‘Ruined’ The Economy.” “Much of Scott's speech was a variation on his usual talking points, in which he touted the state's economic recovery since the Great Recession — and took shots at Democrats. Early in his speech, he said former Gov. Charlie Crist ‘wrecked’ the economy. Later in his speech, he said President Barack Obama ‘ruined’ the economy.” [Sun-Sentinel, 4/22/16<http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/politics/fl-republican-president-rules-20160421-story.html>]

Sun-Sentinel: In An April 2016 Speech To The RNC, Rick Scott Suggested Attendees “Buy A Second Or Third Or Fourth Home” To Invest In Florida. “Scott said the state's economy would get even better if the Republicans from across the country spent money in Florida, which means they'd pay state sales tax. And, to the group that includes many who are well-heeled, he suggested another way they could spend their money in Florida: ‘Buy a second or third or fourth home.’” [Sun-Sentinel, 4/22/16<http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/politics/fl-republican-president-rules-20160421-story.html>]

Rick Scott: “Democrats Are Going Down The Path Of Socialism,’ Scott Said. ‘We Are Going To Go Down The Path Of Jobs, Capitalism, Free Market. We Are Going To Talk About Jobs And We Are Going To Win.” “A key to victory, Scott said, is to focus on the economy. ‘In this president's race, we have not talked enough about jobs, enough about capitalism, enough about growing this economy,’ Scott said. ‘We need to focus on growing this economy.’ ‘Democrats are going down the path of socialism,’ Scott said. ‘We are going to go down the path of jobs, capitalism, free market. We are going to talk about jobs and we are going to win.’” [Sun-Sentinel, 4/22/16<http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/politics/fl-republican-president-rules-20160421-story.html>]

Sun-Sentinel: Reince Priebus Called Rick Scott A “Fantastic Governor.” “Priebus introduced Scott by saying ‘it's awesome that we've got a fantastic governor of the state of Florida with us today.’” [Sun-Sentinel, 4/22/16<http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/politics/fl-republican-president-rules-20160421-story.html>]

New York Times: The RNC’s Decision To Scale Back Support For Battleground States Was Worrisome For The Florida Party, Which Had “Encountered Financial Difficulties Since Gov. Rick Scott's Preferred Candidate For State Party Chairman Was Rejected Last Year, Making It More Reliant On National Assistance.” “The Republican National Committee is scaling back its financial commitments to some of the most hotly contested states because of flagging fund-raising, the most concrete evidence yet of how the party's divisive and protracted presidential race is threatening the party's entire ticket in November…The situation is particularly urgent in Florida, the largest of the traditional presidential swing states, which this year is holding a wide-open contest for Senator Marco Rubio's seat, the outcome of which could determine control of the Senate. The usually well-funded Florida Republican Party has encountered financial difficulties since Gov. Rick Scott's preferred candidate for state party chairman was rejected last year, making it more reliant on national assistance. What is more, the sort of get-out-the-vote efforts that are typically funded by the parties are especially crucial in Florida, because many of its voters cast absentee ballots or take advantage of early voting.” [New York Times, 4/22/16<http://www.nytimes.com/2016/04/22/us/politics/with-uncertainty-at-top-of-ticket-republicans-back-off-in-some-states.html?_r=0>]

Rick Scott: “I Have Never Met One Person That's A High School Senior And Said, My Goal Is To Go Live In Public Housing. I Want To Be On Those Food Stamps. They All Want To Work.” SCOTT: “The third thing is, let's remember the biggest issue, it's jobs, growing the economy. It's capitalism. That's what will do more for people in this country than anything else we can do. We need to talk about jobs and we need to talk about jobs and we need to talk about jobs. I have never met one person that's a high school senior and said, My goal is to go live in public housing. I want to be on those food stamps. They all want to work. We have to talk about our -- how capitalism, how growing this economy will be good for everybody.” [Remarks at RNC Spring Meeting, 4/21/16]

Rape Kits

Rick Scott Signed A Bill To Ensure Timely Testing Of New Rape Kits And Devote “More Than $2 Million This Year As Part Of A Three Year Effort To Reduce A Startling Backlog Of 13,000 Untest[ed] Rape Kits In Florida.” “Scott used the personal story as a lead in to why Florida is becoming increasingly aggressive in testing sexual assault kits faster. In March, the Florida Legislature passed a budget that will boost funding for the state crime lab to process all crime evidence faster - including DNA samples from rape kits. And the budget dedicates more than $2 million this year as part of a three year effort to reduce a startling backlog of 13,000 untest rape kits in Florida. The Legislature also passed new legislation directing law enforcement to submit rape kits in a more timely manner for testing to assure the state never gets a backlog in kits like it has today. That new law requires local law enforcement agencies to submit rape kits they collect to a statewide crime lab for forensic testing within 30 days of a sexual assault offense being reported. Testing of the kits would have to be completed within 120 by crime labs.”  [Tampa Bay Times, 4/21/16<http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/the-buzz-florida-politics/daughters-experience-motivates-gov-rick-scott-on-rape-kit-laws/2274174>]

Homeowners

Rick Scott’s Administration Lost Out On $250 Million In Aid To Help Homeowners Facing Foreclosures Because The State Did Not Apply For The Funds. “There is no excuse for Florida's irresponsible decision to forfeit up to $250 million in aid to help homeowners facing foreclosure. The state did not apply for the federal foreclosure assistance, the most recent and perhaps most egregious fumble in a disappointing string of actions by the Florida Housing Finance Corp., which manages the state's Hardest Hit programs. The agency has failed to properly manage $1 billion in foreclosure aid it had previously received from the federal government and should give taxpayers a full explanation about why it passed up another opportunity to help homeowners in need.” [Editorial, Tampa Bay Times, 4/21/16<http://web.tampabay.com/opinion/editorials/editorial-florida-turns-its-back-on-struggling-homeowners/2274227>]

Tampa Bay Times Editorial: “The State Did Not Apply For The Federal Foreclosure Assistance, The Most Recent And Perhaps Most Egregious Fumble In A Disappointing String Of Actions By The Florida Housing Finance Corp.” “There is no excuse for Florida's irresponsible decision to forfeit up to $250 million in aid to help homeowners facing foreclosure. The state did not apply for the federal foreclosure assistance, the most recent and perhaps most egregious fumble in a disappointing string of actions by the Florida Housing Finance Corp., which manages the state's Hardest Hit programs. The agency has failed to properly manage $1 billion in foreclosure aid it had previously received from the federal government and should give taxpayers a full explanation about why it passed up another opportunity to help homeowners in need.” [Editorial, Tampa Bay Times, 4/21/16<http://web.tampabay.com/opinion/editorials/editorial-florida-turns-its-back-on-struggling-homeowners/2274227>]

Tampa Bay Times Editorial: Rick Scott “Has Indefensibly Turned Down Tens Of Billions Of Federal Dollars To Help In Areas Ranging From Health Care To Transportation.” “By now, Florida should have cleaned up its Hardest Hit program and been positioned to accept more money from the federal government. The state's inaction had better not be the result of pressure from Gov. Rick Scott, who has indefensibly turned down tens of billions of federal dollars to help in areas ranging from health care to transportation. Partisan politics should not play into such important decisions.” [Editorial, Tampa Bay Times, 4/21/16<http://web.tampabay.com/opinion/editorials/editorial-florida-turns-its-back-on-struggling-homeowners/2274227>]

Abortion

The Florida Supreme Court Halted The State’s 24-Waiting Period For Abortions While They Considered The Law’s Constitutionality. “Women will no longer be required to wait 24 hours before having an abortion -- at least for now. The Florida Supreme Court on Friday tapped the brakes on the controversial state law, which requires women to visit the doctor, in person, a full day before an abortion. It's the latest in a protracted legal fight that began last summer after the measure was passed by the Republican-controlled state Legislature and signed by Gov. Rick Scott… For about a day in July, the law was in effect before a judge issued the injunciton. Then, on Feb. 26, a three-judge panel of the 1st District Court of Appeals ruled in the state's favor, allowing the waiting period to become state law while the lawsuit moves forward.  The Supreme Court's 5-2 ruling, however, puts the law's implementation on hold while the state's highest justices decide whether to accept the case.” [Miami Herald, 4/22/16<http://miamiherald.typepad.com/nakedpolitics/2016/04/supreme-court-stops-24-hour-waiting-period-for-abortions.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter>]

DOUG DUCEY

Lending Industry

The Arizona Legislature Pushed A Bill That Would Allow Consumer Lenders To Make Loans With 15 Percent Interest Rates In Exchange For Donating A Certain Amount Of Money To Charity That Would Be Decided By Doug Ducey. “In a last-minute bid for votes, the consumer lending industry is offering to give some undetermined share of its profits to charities in exchange for being given the legal right to make loans with monthly interest rates up to 15 percent. Members of a Republican-dominated conference committee Thursday approved legislation permitting the high-interest loans of up to $2,500 for up to 18 months. That came after supporters added industry-crafted language that sets up a fund that the Governor's Office for Children, Youth and Families could use to give grants to charities . But the legislation was purposely designed to not say how much of each company's profits they would have to kick in. That's because the Arizona Constitution requires a two-thirds vote for any new specific assessment, a vote the plan cannot get. Instead, the language leaves it up to an appointee of Gov. Doug Ducey to decide how much to assess. And while there is a cap of how much could be collected -- $10 million over the next decade -- there is no minimum.” [Capitol Media Services, 4/22/16]

Abortion

Capitol Media Services: Arizona State Lawmakers Were Moving To Repeal A Bill Signed In March 2016 By Doug Ducey That “Made It Illegal For Doctors To Use RU-486 To Induce An Abortion Beyond The Seventh Week Of Pregnancy.” “State lawmakers are moving to alter two controversial abortion laws. Members of a House-Senate conference committee voted Wednesday to repeal a bill signed into law last month by Gov. Doug Ducey that made it illegal for doctors to use RU-486 to induce an abortion beyond the seventh week of pregnancy. Lawmakers also agreed to rescind a requirement that doctors tell women considering a medication abortion that the procedure may be reversible.” [Capitol Media Services, 4/22/16]

Capitol Media Services: Arizona State Lawmakers Were Moving To Repeal A Bill Signed In 2015 By Doug Ducey That Requires “Doctors Tell Women Considering A Medication Abortion That The Procedure May Be Reversible.” “State lawmakers are moving to alter two controversial abortion laws. Members of a House-Senate conference committee voted Wednesday to repeal a bill signed into law last month by Gov. Doug Ducey that made it illegal for doctors to use RU-486 to induce an abortion beyond the seventh week of pregnancy. Lawmakers also agreed to rescind a requirement that doctors tell women considering a medication abortion that the procedure may be reversible. A federal court already has blocked the state from enforcing that 2015 law, which was challenged by Planned Parenthood as ‘junk science.’ But the action by lawmakers does not repeal the law.” [Capitol Media Services, 4/22/16]

Legislative Session

Arizona Republic On The State’s 2016 Legislative Session: “The House And Senate Are Still Fighting Over Budget Details While Ducey Waits.” “Last year: Republican leaders in the Legislature reached a $9.1 billion budget agreement by March 7, the 55th day of that session. Its quick passage and signature by Ducey secured the governor's honeymoon status with the rank-and-file and more conservative members of the Legislature. This year: The House and Senate are still fighting over budget details while Ducey waits.” [Arizona Republic, 4/22/16<http://www.azcentral.com/story/news/politics/legislature/2016/04/22/arizona-legislative-session-2016-different-from-2016/83290132/>]

Social Media

Doug Ducey: “Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport's Countdown Clock Will Tick Down To 2017's NCAA Final Four Tournament In ‪#‎Phoenix. Looking Forward To Hosting It Here In ‪#‎AZ.” [Governor Doug Ducey, Facebook, 4/21/16<https://www.facebook.com/dougducey/posts/891343267654246>]

NIKKI HALEY

On Being Trump’s Vice President

CNN: Jamie Weinstein, Senior Editor Of The Daily Caller, Suggested That Donald Trump Could Consider Asking Nikki Haley To Be His Vice President. COSTELLO: “So would that at all force Trump to name a woman to his ticket? Would that ever happen?” WEINSTEIN: “I think regardless of who the Democratic vice presidential nominee is, if Hillary Clinton is the nominee, a woman will be top and center for a Republican candidate primarily because, as you know, in 2012 and throughout kind of the 2000s, this idea of a Republican war on women has been out there and that's an attack on Republicans. I think it's ridiculous, but to kind of mitigate that attack, I wouldn't be surprised if someone like Carly Fiorina or the Governor of South Carolina Nikki Haley, was considered a top choice for V.P. by whoever the Republican nominee is.” COSTELLO: “But do you think that those -- do you think those two women would ever agree to run with Donald Trump?” WEINSTEIN: “Maybe not with Donald Trump but I'm not so sure Donald Trump is yet the nominee. With Ted Cruz obviously you could see a Cruz/Fiorina ticket. And Donald Trump maybe he would reach out to Nikki Haley and convince her to come on. I'm not sure Carly Fiorina would want to join Donald Trump but maybe Nikki Haley.” [CNN Newsroom, 4/21/16]

On Time Magazine 100 Most Influential

WSAV: Nikki Haley Was Named To The Time 100. “South Carolina Governor, Nikki Haley was among the group of leaders chosen for the annual list.” [WSAV, 4/21/16<http://wsav.com/2016/04/21/governor-nikki-haley-among-time-magazines-100-most-influential/>]

FITS News: Nikki Haley Does Not Deserve Praise For The Confederate Flag Issue Or For Her Response To The Charleston Shooting. “Wow … we continue to be mystified by the positive press Haley is receiving over the Confederate flag. Seriously, she previously rebuffed efforts to remove it – and even went on record supporting the flag’s presence on the S.C. State House grounds. Why did she flip-flop? Well it sure as hell wasn’t because of the ‘Holy City Massacre,’ the murder of nine black parishioners at a church in Charleston, S.C.  Remember, Haley initially dodged the issue following the shooting – and only called for the flag to come down after it became clear that’s what the state’s crony capitalist behemoths wanted her to do. Is that the ‘mettle of a leader?’ No.  It’s the behavior of a typical politician.” [FITS News, 4/21/16<http://www.fitsnews.com/2016/04/21/lindsey-graham-loves-nikki-haley/>]

On Domestic Violence Pledge From Sheriff Leon Lott

The State: Nikki Haley’s Office Received A Signed Domestic Violence Pledge From Sheriff Leon Lott. “Gov. Nikki Haley’s office now has a signed anti-domestic violence pledge from all 46 sheriffs in South Carolina. The governor accused Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott during a press conference Wednesday of being the only one of 46 sheriffs in the state not to sign her pledge. Lott said he told the governor’s office on Tuesday he agreed to sign onto a plan to improve officer response to domestic-violence calls and planned to submit the pledge on Thursday.” [The State, 4/21/16<http://www.thestate.com/news/local/article73112232.html>]

The State: “On Thursday Afternoon, Governor’s Office Spokesman Rob Godfrey Tweeted A Photo Of Lott’s Signed Pledge. ‘Finally In Receipt Of The 46th Pledge. All It Took Was A Little Nudge From @Nikkihaley,’ Godfrey Tweeted.” [The State, 4/21/16<http://www.thestate.com/news/local/article73112232.html>]

The State: Nikki Haley Said Sheriff Lott Would Only Turn In The Pledge Because It Was An Election Year, A Charge The Sheriff Denied. “Haley said Wednesday that if Lott did turn in the pledge, it would only be due to this being an election year. Lott denied that, saying domestic violence has long been a priority for his department. ‘We should be worrying about our state leading the nation in domestic violence related deaths,’ Lott said. ‘Politics has nothing to do with this at all. If that’s being said about me, I guess that’s being the other 45 sheriffs that signed it also.’” [The State, 4/21/16<http://www.thestate.com/news/local/article73112232.html>]

WACH: Sheriff Lott Responded With A Statement On His Signing Of The Pledge. “Lott responded with the following statement Wednesday: ‘We have been a leader in combating domestic violence, not just in the past year that the task force was formed. I actively participated with the Governors Domestic Violence Task Force, and helped develop issues that needed to be addressed; we are already doing the guidelines. I signed the pledge, and our Executive Director of the Sheriff's Association was advised of such. It's a shame the Governor is interjecting politics into public safety when we lead the Nation in domestic violence related deaths and assaults.’” [WACH, 4/21/16<http://wach.com/news/local/dust-settles-for-now-in-war-of-words-between-haley-and-lott>]

WACH: Nikki Haley And Sheriff Lott Disagree Over A Bill To Move Office Involved Shooting Investigations To The State Law Enforcement Department, Not Local Departments, As Sheriff Lott Would Like. “The tension between the two officials started after Sheriff Lott said he did not want SLED to investigate officer related shootings within his department. Haley is pushing for a bill that would make it law that all officer related shootings must be handed over to SLED.” [WACH, 4/21/16<http://wach.com/news/local/dust-settles-for-now-in-war-of-words-between-haley-and-lott>]

On Richland County Recreation Commission Controversy

WLTX: Members Of The Richland County Recreation Commission Board Are Accused Of Sexual Harassment, Civil Conspiracy, Defamation, Inappropriate Handling Of Funds And Intimidation. “Amid a series of lawsuits accusing the Richland County Recreation Commission, members of the Board of Commissioners, the Executive Director James Brown III as well as members of the commission's staff of sexual harassment, civil conspiracy, defamation, inappropriate handling of funds and intimidation some are questioning who governs the Richland County Recreation Commission.” [WLTX, 4/21/16<http://www.wltx.com/news/local/recreation-commission-exploring-who-governs/145864507>]

WLTX: Members Of The Board Are Appointed By Governor Nikki Haley On Recommendation From The County Legislative Delegation. “Seven Richland County residents recommended by the Richland County Legislative Delegation and appointed by Governor Nikki Haley make up that board.” [WLTX, 4/21/16<http://www.wltx.com/news/local/recreation-commission-exploring-who-governs/145864507>]

SCOTT WALKER

State of Emergency

Scott Walker Signed An Executive Order Declaring A State Of Emergency “Due To Very Dry Conditions & A High-Risk For Wildfires.” “Signed Executive Order #196 as a preventative measure, declaring State of Emergency due to very dry conditions & a high-risk for wildfires.” [Governor Scott Walker, Facebook, 4/21/16<https://www.facebook.com/governorscottwalker/posts/1312334342117139>]

Food Stamps

Scott Walker: “We're Not Making It Harder To Get Government Assistance. We're Making It Easier To Find A Job!” [Governor Scott Walker, Facebook, 4/21/16<https://www.facebook.com/governorscottwalker/photos/a.199567226727195.57943.175220979161820/1312181038799136/?type=3&theater>]

Wisconsin Radio Network: In Response To News That 41,000 Wisconsinites Lost Food Stamp Benefits, Scott Walker “Fired Back At Critics, Saying They Don’t Understand The Program Or Are Intentionally Misrepresenting How It Works.” “The program has also faced criticism though, in the wake of a report from the Department of Health Services that also shows about 41,000 people lost benefits in the first year the tougher work and training requirements were in effect. Several groups, including the Hunger Task Force, contend some of the groups the state is contracting with are doing an ineffective job, and have also asked the state to request federal waivers in areas where people are having a harder time finding work because of labor surpluses. During a stop in Green Bay Wednesday, Walker fired back at critics, saying they don’t understand the program or are intentionally misrepresenting how it works. Walker noted that those who lose benefits have chosen not to participate for at least three months. ‘I think most people in this state, be they Democrat or Republican, would say there’s gotta be a line the sand that says we will help you out, but you gotta help us out.’” [Wisconsin Radio Network, 4/21/16<http://www.wrn.com/2016/04/governor-walker-responds-to-critics-of-foodshare-employment-and-training-program/>]

Wisconsin Radio Network: In Response To News That 41,000 Wisconsinites Lost Food Stamp Benefits, Scott Walker “Noted That Those Who Lose Benefits Have Chosen Not To Participate For At Least Three Months.” “The program has also faced criticism though, in the wake of a report from the Department of Health Services that also shows about 41,000 people lost benefits in the first year the tougher work and training requirements were in effect. Several groups, including the Hunger Task Force, contend some of the groups the state is contracting with are doing an ineffective job, and have also asked the state to request federal waivers in areas where people are having a harder time finding work because of labor surpluses. During a stop in Green Bay Wednesday, Walker fired back at critics, saying they don’t understand the program or are intentionally misrepresenting how it works. Walker noted that those who lose benefits have chosen not to participate for at least three months. ‘I think most people in this state, be they Democrat or Republican, would say there’s gotta be a line the sand that says we will help you out, but you gotta help us out.’” [Wisconsin Radio Network, 4/21/16<http://www.wrn.com/2016/04/governor-walker-responds-to-critics-of-foodshare-employment-and-training-program/>]

Wisconsin Radio Network: In Response To News That 41,000 Wisconsinites Lost Food Stamp Benefits, Scott Walker Said “I Think Most People In This State, Be They Democrat Or Republican, Would Say There’s Gotta Be A Line The Sand That Says We Will Help You Out, But You Gotta Help Us Out.” “The program has also faced criticism though, in the wake of a report from the Department of Health Services that also shows about 41,000 people lost benefits in the first year the tougher work and training requirements were in effect. Several groups, including the Hunger Task Force, contend some of the groups the state is contracting with are doing an ineffective job, and have also asked the state to request federal waivers in areas where people are having a harder time finding work because of labor surpluses. During a stop in Green Bay Wednesday, Walker fired back at critics, saying they don’t understand the program or are intentionally misrepresenting how it works. Walker noted that those who lose benefits have chosen not to participate for at least three months. ‘I think most people in this state, be they Democrat or Republican, would say there’s gotta be a line the sand that says we will help you out, but you gotta help us out.’” [Wisconsin Radio Network, 4/21/16<http://www.wrn.com/2016/04/governor-walker-responds-to-critics-of-foodshare-employment-and-training-program/>]

Third Term

Wisconsin Democrats Hit Scott Walker Over His Failed Jobs Promises Just Days After Walker Said He Was Considering Running For A Third Term. “When Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker dropped another strong hint this week that he's planning to seek re-election in 2018, the state Democratic Party wasted no time. The party sent not one, but two fundraising solicitations, urging supporters to donate in order to ‘stop Scott Walker before he wins a third term.’ But beating Walker in Wisconsin is easier said than done. And it hasn't been done in a very long time…’I think we point out how working class people all over the state of Wisconsin have been harmed by the policies of the Republican Party,’ said state party chairwoman Martha Laning when asked how the party intends to stop Walker. ‘Gov. Walker came in and made a lot of promises. Ten thousand new companies were going to be here. We were going to add 250,000 jobs. All of his promises have failed.’” [Capital Times, 4/22/16<http://host.madison.com/ct/news/local/govt-and-politics/election-matters/democrats-say-they-re-going-to-stop-scott-walker-in/article_1074f17a-dd85-50fa-a693-6c34d98f7718.html>]

Deer

Associated Press: Scott Walker Was “Considering Democrats' Calls To Launch Another Attempt To Aggressively Kill Deer In Hopes Of Containing Chronic Wasting Disease After Infection Rates Hit An All-Time High Last Year.” “Republican Gov. Scott Walker is considering Democrats' calls to launch another attempt to aggressively kill deer in hopes of containing chronic wasting disease after infection rates hit an all-time high last year, his office said Thursday. The governor's chief-of-staff, Rich Zipperer, met with Democratic state Reps. Chris Danou and Nick Milroy on Wednesday to feel out their new CWD plans, which include culling herds around new infection sites and adopting Illinois' herd-thinning plan. Walker spokesman Tom Evenson said in an email to The Associated Press that Walker's staff is evaluating the proposals and will consult with the Department of Natural Resources.” [Associated Press, 4/21/16<http://www.dailyjournal.net/view/story/7f28975c385b48db992787aff1b44314/WI--Wasting-Disease>]

PAM BONDI

On Donald Trump Endorsement

Miami Herald’s Fred Grimm: “Maybe Attorney General Pam Bondi’s Endorsement Shouldn’t Have Been Unexpected…Not Pam, Despite Scads Of Complaints Against Trump U In Florida. Not After She Received That Nice $25,000 Campaign Contribution From The Donald J. Trump Foundation.” “Maybe Attorney General Pam Bondi’s endorsement shouldn’t have been unexpected. Back in 2013, when Bondi was revving up her re-election campaign, some of her fellow state attorneys general were going after the for-profit college rip-off called Trump University. Not Pam, despite scads of complaints against Trump U in Florida. Not after she received that nice $25,000 campaign contribution from the Donald J. Trump Foundation.” [Fred Grimm, Miami Herald, 4/22/16<http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/news-columns-blogs/fred-grimm/article73193572.html>]

On Lobbying Investigation By The Florida Commission On Ethics

The Fine Print Blog Post: Pam Bondi Allowed A Lawyer From A Firm That Was In Contact With The Attorney General’s Office About A Client Recovering From Surgery At Bondi’s Home. “Right before she was elected to a second term into office, a series of stories by the New York Times detailed the practice of law firms who were skilled at developing contacts and relationships with the top lawyers of various states - including Attorney General Pam Bondi. These firms helped out corporate clients whose businesses had been targeted by some states, but not others. One of the stories also pointed out that Bondi allowed a lawyer from one of the firms to recuperate from surgery at Bondi's house.” [Blog Post, The Fine Print, 4/21/16<http://findout.typepad.com/the_fine_print/2016/04/right-before-she-was-elected-to-a-second-term-into-office-a-series-of-stories-by-the-new-york-times-detailing-the-practice-o.html>]

The Fine Print Blog Post: “During Her First Four Years In Office [Pam] Bondi Accepted More Than $51,000 Worth Of Travel Costs, Hotels And Meals To Conferences And Other Events With Other Attorneys General.” “During her first four years in office Bondi accepted more than $51,000 worth of travel costs, hotels and meals to conferences and other events with other attorneys general. The trips to places such as California, Michigan and countries such as Mexico were picked up by groups such as the Republican Attorneys General Association.”  [Blog Post, The Fine Print, 4/21/16<http://findout.typepad.com/the_fine_print/2016/04/right-before-she-was-elected-to-a-second-term-into-office-a-series-of-stories-by-the-new-york-times-detailing-the-practice-o.html>]

The Fine Print Blog Post: “[Pam] Bondi Herself Was Never Questioned Directly By Investigators.” “Bondi herself was never questioned directly by investigators. The investigative report states "Her staff advised that due to her busy schedule and heavy workload she would be unavailable for an interview." Those close to Bondi contend that this may paint a somewhat inaccurate picture, arguing that after investigators interviewed Muniz they did not make it clear they wanted to talk to her.”  [Blog Post, The Fine Print, 4/21/16<http://findout.typepad.com/the_fine_print/2016/04/right-before-she-was-elected-to-a-second-term-into-office-a-series-of-stories-by-the-new-york-times-detailing-the-practice-o.html>]

The Fine Print Blog Post: The Lawyer Who Contacted Pam Bondi’s Office Thinks Bondi And Her Chief Of Staff Attended One Dinner Paid For By The Firm But Is Not Sure About Possible Attendance At Other Events. “During an hour-long recorded interview with Nash, he tells the commission investigator about how his firm would set up dinners and receptions where they would invite all attorney generals across the state to join them. He said that those from states with ethical restrictions would pay their own way. Nash is unsure if Bondi or Muniz, who usually accompanied her to some of the conferences, attended those dinners. But Nash said no log or register was ever kept of who attended the events. Nash was not asked if any receipts were kept to verify that attendees bound by ethical restrictions in fact paid. Muniz told investigators that he is certain he and Bondi attended at least one of the meals and maybe more. He said both he and the attorney general always paid for their meals.” [Blog Post, The Fine Print, 4/21/16<http://findout.typepad.com/the_fine_print/2016/04/right-before-she-was-elected-to-a-second-term-into-office-a-series-of-stories-by-the-new-york-times-detailing-the-practice-o.html>]

The Fine Print Blog Post: “Even Though Bondi Was Subjected To Scrutiny Over Her Free Trips Two Years Ago, She Has Continued To Accept Them Since She Was Re-Elected.” “Even though Bondi was subjected to scrutiny over her free trips two years ago, she has continued to accept them since she was re-elected. Gift disclosure forms show that since the fall of 2014 Bondi has received airfare, hotel and meals worth nearly $51,000, including more than $11,000 donated by the government of Taiwan during an eight-day visit in October of last year that appears to have been organized by the National Association of Attorneys General. She has also taken several trips paid by the Rule of Law Defense Fund - a group that bills itself as a ‘forum for Republican attorneys general to study, discuss and engage on important policy affecting the states and their citizens.’” [Blog Post, The Fine Print, 4/21/16<http://findout.typepad.com/the_fine_print/2016/04/right-before-she-was-elected-to-a-second-term-into-office-a-series-of-stories-by-the-new-york-times-detailing-the-practice-o.html>]

On Florida Insurance Commissioner Search

BestWire: Pam Bondi’s Assistant Selected State Representative Bill Hager For An Interview For Insurance Commissioner. “Rob Johnson, the aide for Attorney General Pam Bondi who also selected Hager for a March interview reminded Tornillo that Atwater had nominated Hager previously.” [BestWire, 4/21/16]

CHRIS CHRISTIE

NJ Advance Media: “NJ Transit Did Not Negotiate A Compensation Package With The Man It Tapped As Its New Executive Director Before Hiring Him, An Unusual Move That Likely Led To His Withdrawal From The Job When The Sides Could Not Come To An Agreement.” “NJ Transit did not negotiate a compensation package with the man it tapped as its new executive director before hiring him, an unusual move that likely led to his withdrawal from the job when the sides could not come to an agreement, a source with knowledge of the talks said Thursday. William Crosbie, the former COO of Amtrak, was scheduled to start April 25 as NJ Transit's new boss. Instead, he told acting state Transportation Commissioner Richard Hammer late Wednesday that he wasn't taking the job, a move the state attributed to Crosbie having issues about moving his family from Virginia.” [NJ Advance Media, 4/22/16<http://www.nj.com/traffic/index.ssf/2016/04/incoming_nj_transit_boss_withdrew_over_compensation_package_source_says.html>]

Chris Christie, When Asked If He Would Be Donald Trump’s Running Mate: “By The Way, We Don't Know Who The President Is Going To Be.” “After Gov. Chris Christie paid a visit to the Motor Vehicle Commission offices in South Plainfield Thursday, the assembled press confronted him yet again about whether he'd like to be Donald Trump's running-mate, or failing that, secure a cabinet post. But instead of merely reiterating his on-air ‘never say “never”’ line of the night before, the governor also let slip an assessment of Trump's chances in the general election. ‘By the way, we don't know who the president is going to be,’ said Christie, in a  blunt acknowledgement of the knife-edge on which American presidential politics teeters. ‘I don't think I'll be the choice of a Hillary Clinton or Bernie Sanders administration, so we'll have to see the way all this stuff goes,’ the governor said.” [NJ Advance Media, 4/22/16<http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/04/did_christie_just_say_trump_could_lose_in_november.html>]

Collin Yoxall
Research Associate, DNC
Office: 202-863-8126 X8126
Mobile: 334-703-1690
[email-masked]<mailto:[email-masked]>