Subject: GOP VP Daily Update, 5.6
From: "Haxo, Chris" <[email-masked]>
To: Veepstakes <[email-masked]>, "Graham, Caroline" <[email-masked]>, "Dillon, Lauren" <[email-masked]>, "Bauer, Nick" <[email-masked]>
Date: Fri, 6 May 2016 10:32:30 -0700

GOP VP DAILY UPDATE - 5/6/16

MARSHA BLACKBURN
CHRIS CHRISTIE
BOB CORKER
TOM COTTON
DOUG DUCEY
MARY FALLIN
JIM JORDAN
JEFF SESSIONS
TIM SCOTT

MARSHA BLACKBURN

Misc Social Media

Marsha Blackburn: "Humbled & Honored To Be Listed Among Such Talented Women On @Newsmax's 50 Most Influential Female Republicans List." [@MarshaBlackburn, Twitter, 5/6/16<https://twitter.com/MarshaBlackburn/status/728574495636721664>]

Marsha Blackburn: "Today, We Ask The Almighty For His Divine Guidance, Wisdom & Thank Him For All Our Blessings." [@MarshaBlackburn, Twitter, 5/5/16<https://twitter.com/MarshaBlackburn/status/728277830715453440>]

Marsha Blackburn: "Thank You @Teamredstone For The Tour Of Your Facility Yesterday & For All You Do To Benefit Our Military." [@MarshaBlackburn, Twitter, 5/5/16<https://twitter.com/MarshaBlackburn/status/728255932061388801>]

Fetal Tissue

Marsha Blackburn: "These Accounting & Banking Docs Are Needed To Determine If Stemexpress Profited From The Sale Of Human Fetal Tissue." [@MarshaBlackburn, Twitter, 5/5/16<https://twitter.com/MarshaBlackburn/status/728321445328240640>]

Marsha Blackburn: "Documents Uncovered By Our Investigation So Far Point To The Very Troubling Possibility That Stemexpress May Have Violated Federal Law By Profiting From The Sale Of Baby Body Parts." "Documents uncovered by our investigation so far point to the very troubling possibility that StemExpress may have violated federal law by profiting from the sale of baby body parts. We have learned that not only is this investigation warranted, but further examination of accounting records is needed to get the complete facts about what was actually going on." [Marsha Blackburn, Facebook, 5/6/16<https://www.facebook.com/marshablackburn/posts/10154101250208396>]

Marsha Blackburn On StemExpress Investigation: "We Have Learned That Not Only Is This Investigation Warranted, But Further Examination Of Accounting Records Is Needed To Get The Complete Facts About What Was Actually Going On." "Documents uncovered by our investigation so far point to the very troubling possibility that StemExpress may have violated federal law by profiting from the sale of baby body parts. We have learned that not only is this investigation warranted, but further examination of accounting records is needed to get the complete facts about what was actually going on." [Marsha Blackburn, Facebook, 5/6/16<https://www.facebook.com/marshablackburn/posts/10154101250208396>]

Obamacare

Marsha Blackburn: "No Surprise Here. Get Ready For Higher Obamacare Premiums Next Year. Just More Bad News As We're Learning Three Major Insurance Companies Are Getting Out Of The Exchange." [Marsha Blackburn, Facebook, 5/6/16<https://www.facebook.com/marshablackburn/posts/10154101250208396>]

VP

The Hill Listed Marsha Blackburn As One Of The Top 10 Contenders For Trump's Running Mate. "The outspoken Tennessee Republican is a veteran legislator with more than a decade of experience on Capitol Hill. She's vice chair of the Energy and Commerce Committee, a member of the Budget Committee and leading the House investigation into Planned Parenthood. Trump has stumbled on abortion and failed in the eyes of some conservatives as a fierce enough critic of Planned Parenthood. And having a woman on the ticket could be critical for Trump, who will likely face a rival in Hillary Clinton eager to highlight his past disparaging remarks about women. Blackburn said she'd be open to being Trump's vice president as far back as February, when most lawmakers were loathe to be associated with the businessman." [The Hill, 5/5/16<http://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/278773-trumps-vp-top-10-contenders>]

The Hill On Marsha Blackburn: "The Outspoken Tennessee Republican Is A Veteran Legislator With More Than A Decade Of Experience On Capitol Hill." "The outspoken Tennessee Republican is a veteran legislator with more than a decade of experience on Capitol Hill. She's vice chair of the Energy and Commerce Committee, a member of the Budget Committee and leading the House investigation into Planned Parenthood. Trump has stumbled on abortion and failed in the eyes of some conservatives as a fierce enough critic of Planned Parenthood. And having a woman on the ticket could be critical for Trump, who will likely face a rival in Hillary Clinton eager to highlight his past disparaging remarks about women. Blackburn said she'd be open to being Trump's vice president as far back as February, when most lawmakers were loathe to be associated with the businessman." [The Hill, 5/5/16<http://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/278773-trumps-vp-top-10-contenders>]

Trump

Commercial Appeal: U.S. Rep. Marsha Blackburn Of Brentwood Didn't Mention Trump By Name, But Said, 'I Will Support The Republican Nominee, And I Look Forward To Seeing A Republican In The White House.'" [Commercial Appeal, 5/5/16]

CHRIS CHRISTIE

BOB CORKER

Trump

Bob Corker Said Donald Trump "Is Well Aware Now That He Has To Move Into A Period Of Really Laying Out More Substantial Policies" And That Corker Would Be Willing To Help Flesh That Out. "Sen. Bob Corker, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has offered to help Donald Trump develop a foreign policy platform, making him one of the few senators to publicly embrace Trump as the presumptive GOP presidential nominee. Corker, R-Tenn., said Trump called him last week and he and Trump's campaign staff have talked since then, most recently on Thursday night. 'I think he is well aware now that he has to move into a period of really laying out more substantial policies and certainly as he evolves, to the extent we can be helpful and flesh those out, we are more than glad to do so,' Corker said in a Thursday interview." [WBIR, 5/6/16<http://www.wbir.com/news/local/sen-bob-corker-says-hell-advise-donald-trump-on-foreign-policy/177148642>]

Chattanoogan: Bob Corker "I Don't Know Mr. Trump, I've Never Met Him." "'He also said he looked forward to hearing more in the future about specific plans from Donald Trump and that Trump's recent speech on foreign policy was 'an important step in that direction.' 'I don't know Mr. Trump. I've never met him,' Senator Corker said. 'I did receive a phone call from him, and we did talk at length about foreign policy.'" [Chattanoogan, 5/5/16<http://www.chattanoogan.com/2016/5/5/323572/Corker-Says-He-Will-Support-Republican.aspx>]

Chattanoogan: Bob Corker Said That To Respond To Rumors About Potentially Being Donald Trump's Vice President Was "Out Of Bounds." "When asked how he would respond if a presidential candidate asked him to serve as his or her vice president, Senator Corker said, 'Those kind of decisions are made by one person and to even respond to it is, from my perspective, out of bounds, because I have no control over it.' 'I'm now finally in a place that I know I'm affecting people,' he said. 'I really do cherish the job that I have today.'" [Chattanoogan, 5/5/16<http://www.chattanoogan.com/2016/5/5/323572/Corker-Says-He-Will-Support-Republican.aspx>]

Bob Corker Said That He Had Spoken At Length With Donald Trump About Foreign Policy. "'U.S. Sen. Bob Corker said he's talked at length over the phone with Donald Trump about foreign policy and thinks Trump's recent speech on the topic was "a really important step in a good direction.' Corker, R-Tenn., said Thursday he hasn't seen much substantive debate between candidates thus far, and he appreciates how Trump is bringing realism and maturity to the foreign policy conversation." [Times Free Press, 5/6/16<http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/local/story/2016/may/06/sen-corker-talks-trump-chattanooga/364091/>]

Bob Corker Did Not Say What He Would Do If He Was Offered Donald Trump VP Spot. "Speaking at the Chattanooga Downtown Rotary Club, Corker would not say what he'd do if asked to join the presidential ticket [with Donald Trump]. He said he cherishes the work he is doing now as chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, but added that if asked, he'd consider the impact he could have in the post." [Times Free Press, 5/6/16<http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/local/story/2016/may/06/sen-corker-talks-trump-chattanooga/364091/>]

Chattanoogan: Bob Corker Touted A Foreign Policy Realism That Mixed American Exceptionalism With An Understanding "That We're Gonna Have To Deal With People That Are Different Than Us."
"Senator Corker also wanted to know how America was going to relate to the rest of the world. He hopes that there will soon be a real debate on this topic, as well. 'As a nation, certainly we believe our country is exceptional. Certainly we believe our country needs to play a leading role around the world,' he said. 'But at the same time we're gonna have to understand that we're gonna have to deal with people that are different than us. That's realism.' Senator Corker said Republican Presidential candidate Trump's recent speech on foreign policy 'was a really important step in a good direction.' He called the speech a 'bringing back of realism' and said there was a 'matureness that (he) saw in Bush 41.'" [Chattanoogan, 5/5/16<http://www.chattanoogan.com/2016/5/5/323572/Corker-Says-He-Will-Support-Republican.aspx>]

Bob Corker Said That Donald Trump's Foreign Policy Approach Reminded Him Of Realism, A "Matureness That [He] Saw In Bush 41." "Senator Corker also wanted to know how America was going to relate to the rest of the world. He hopes that there will soon be a real debate on this topic, as well. 'As a nation, certainly we believe our country is exceptional. Certainly we believe our country needs to play a leading role around the world,' he said. 'But at the same time we're gonna have to understand that we're gonna have to deal with people that are different than us. That's realism.' Senator Corker said Republican Presidential candidate Trump's recent speech on foreign policy 'was a really important step in a good direction.' He called the speech a 'bringing back of realism' and said there was a 'matureness that (he) saw in Bush 41.'" [Chattanoogan, 5/5/16<http://www.chattanoogan.com/2016/5/5/323572/Corker-Says-He-Will-Support-Republican.aspx>]

Bob Corker Reminded Voters That They Charted The Course Of The Presidential Election. "Corker reminded those in the crowd that they have been a part of charting the course of this year's election. 'Things have turned out differently than people anticipated because voters like you across the country decided that things would turn out differently,' Corker said." [Times Free Press, 5/6/16<http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/local/story/2016/may/06/sen-corker-talks-trump-chattanooga/364091/>]

Debt

Bob Corker Highlighted The Importance Of Forcing Presidential Candidates To Discuss Their Solutions To The Country's Debt And Reforming Entitlements. "He urged those gathered to demand that the presidential candidates discuss their plans to deal with the country's debt, the economic situation and how the nation is going to relate around the world. Corker said candidates will not bring up the financial system on their own, but called it the 'No. 1 threat to our nation's future.' He called what he and fellow senators do on the budget committee 'a total hoax,' saying about 75 percent of the budget each year is distributed on 'autopilot.' 'It's a joke,' Corker said. He hopes this presidential race will provide a path allowing the country to move forward, specifically citing the need for reform in the country's entitlement program." [Times Free Press, 5/6/16<http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/local/story/2016/may/06/sen-corker-talks-trump-chattanooga/364091/>]

Bob Corker Said That He Was Disappointed By The Lack Of Serious Discussion About Debt. "During his speech to the Rotary Club, Senator Corker said, 'Now that we have a pretty good idea of who our candidate will be on each side of the aisle, we need to start dealing with the real issues our nation has. He said the 'number one threat to our nation's future' is America's financial situation, and that the solutions aren't really that difficult, but are difficult to talk about. He was disappointed that there has not been a serious debate on this topic. 'The greatest threat to our nation's greatness is this issue,' Senator Corker said. 'What has become conservative in our country is to spend the same amount of money but not pay for it,' he said. 'We just keep borrowing money every year.' He hoped that in the next presidential debate candidates would talk about 'the number one threat to our country.'"

Chattanoogan: Bob Corker Said "What Has Become Conservative In Our Country Is To Spend The Same Amount Of Money But Not Pay For It."  "During his speech to the Rotary Club, Senator Corker said, 'Now that we have a pretty good idea of who our candidate will be on each side of the aisle, we need to start dealing with the real issues our nation has. He said the 'number one threat to our nation's future' is America's financial situation, and that the solutions aren't really that difficult, but are difficult to talk about. He was disappointed that there has not been a serious debate on this topic. 'The greatest threat to our nation's greatness is this issue,' Senator Corker said. 'What has become conservative in our country is to spend the same amount of money but not pay for it,' he said. 'We just keep borrowing money every year.' He hoped that in the next presidential debate candidates would talk about 'the number one threat to our country.'" [Chattanoogan, 5/5/16<http://www.chattanoogan.com/2016/5/5/323572/Corker-Says-He-Will-Support-Republican.aspx>]

Bernie Sanders

Times Free Press: Bob Corker Said That Bernie Sanders' Has Had The Same Views "For Decades." "Corker said he's known Sanders for a long time, and the things he is saying now are things he's believed for decades. 'What he's saying on the campaign trail I've been hearing him say for nine years and three months on the Senate floor,' Corker said. 'These are not things he concocted for a presidential race." [Times Free Press, 5/6/16<http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/local/story/2016/may/06/sen-corker-talks-trump-chattanooga/364091/>]

Chattanoogan: Bob Corker Called Bernie Saunders "Very Authentic." "When asked about Sanders beating Hilary Clinton in Indiana, Senator Corker said, 'Bernie is a very authentic person and what he believes, he has believed for 40 or 50 years. He's been very consistent. On the Democratic side of the aisle, people have seen that and have been energized by that.' he said Sanders has 'an authenticity that is real' and that 'these are not things that he concocted for a presidential race.' He said he thinks it was 'for that reason people migrated to him.'" [Chattanoogan, 5/5/16<http://www.chattanoogan.com/2016/5/5/323572/Corker-Says-He-Will-Support-Republican.aspx>]

Bob Corker Had No Regrets About Not Entering The Presidential Race. "Corker said he's known Sanders for a long time, and the things he is saying now are things he's believed for decades. 'What he's saying on the campaign trail I've been hearing him say for nine years and three months on the Senate floor,' Corker said. 'These are not things he concocted for a presidential race. This is him in a heartfelt manner.' When asked if he wished he had run for the Republican nomination, Corker said he does not regret staying out of the presidential race. 'This year was not the right time for a person like me,' he said, and reiterated that he plans to support whoever is chosen as the Republican nominee." [Times Free Press, 5/6/16<http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/local/story/2016/may/06/sen-corker-talks-trump-chattanooga/364091/>]

Tennessee Politics

Bob Corker-Supported Non-Profit "End Slavery Tennessee" Was Scheduled To Launch A Major Media Campaign On Ending Human Trafficking. "On Monday, local non-profit End Slavery Tennessee will launch a major media campaign with big names attached-Gov. Bill Haslam, Nashville Mayor Megan Barry, U.S. Sen. Bob Corker, and Attorney General Herb Slatery. Entitled "What is 13?", the campaign is designed to raise awareness that the average age of entry into human trafficking is 13." [Nashville Post, 5/6/16<http://www.nashvillepost.com/politics/article/20630834/antihuman-trafficking-campaign-launches-monday>]

Chattanoogan: Bob Corker Said That He "Cherished" His Role In The Senate. "When asked how he would respond if a presidential candidate asked him to serve as his or her vice president, Senator Corker said, 'Those kind of decisions are made by one person and to even respond to it is, from my perspective, out of bounds, because I have no control over it.' 'I'm now finally in a place that I know I'm affecting people,' he said. 'I really do cherish the job that I have today.'" [Chattanoogan, 5/5/16<http://www.chattanoogan.com/2016/5/5/323572/Corker-Says-He-Will-Support-Republican.aspx>]

Bob Corker Helped A Tennessee Family Bring Their Adopted Daughter From Congo To Knoxville. "On a cloudy day in May, Tabatha Huffman waited anxiously by a window at McGhee Tyson Airport, checking her phone, surrounded by her friends and family. The few hours at the airport, while tough, are nothing for Tabatha. She and her husband, Landon, had been waiting for two years for what was about to happen. Their adoptive daughter, Malu, was finally coming home. Years of red tape had prevented the Huffmans from bringing their legally adopted daughter home to Knoxville from the Democratic Republic of Congo. 'It's been a long, long wait,' said Tabatha. 'There was a lot of surrendering and trusting in the Lord that no matter how long the wait, he'd bring her home.' In June of 2013, the Congolese government put a hold on all exit visas for foreign adoptions. The Huffmans had already signed up with an agency to adopt a child from DRC. In June 2014, they were matched with Malu... The Huffmans never lost hope. With the help of President Obama and Tennessee Senators Bob Corker and Lamar Alexander, in February, the DRC lifted the suspension for 150 American families. Malu's name made the list." [WBIR, 5/5/16<http://www.wbir.com/features/familiy-reunited-with-adopted-daughter-after-two-years-of-waiting/174636836>]

Misc. Social Media

Bob Corker's Office Said That He Intended To Attend The GOP Convention In Cleveland. "Both @SenAlexander and @SenBobCorker plan to attend #GOPconvention in Cleveland in July, their offices say. @knoxnews @informemphis" [@mcollinsNEW, Twitter, 5/5/16<https://twitter.com/mcollinsNEWS/status/728324413159034881>]

Bob Corker: "Welcome Home, Malu." [@SenBobCorker, Twitter, 5/5/16<https://twitter.com/SenBobCorker/status/728398673504292864>]
Bob Corker: "Thank You @PruSpirit For Recognizing Madison Of Murfreesboro, & Graci Of Franklin For Outstanding Volunteer Service." [@SenBobCorker, Twitter, 5/5/16<https://twitter.com/SenBobCorker/status/728296581179580422>]

TOM COTTON

On Supporting Donald Trump As The Republican Nominee

Tom Cotton Said That He Would Support The Republican Nominee And Hoped Donald Trump Would Unite The Party Against Hillary Clinton. "Sens. John McCain, Tom Cotton and Dan Sullivan said Thursday they will support the Republican nominee for president, even if it is Donald Trump...Both Cotton (R-Arkansas) and Sullivan (R-Alaska) echoed the longtime senator's words, though all were hesitant to say outright they supported Trump to lead the party's 2016 attempt at the White House, instead opting for the phrase 'Republican nominee...' Cotton said that, while he hopes Trump bears the "responsibility and opportunity to unite the party," he is willing to support a nominee who can keep Clinton out of the White House." [KTAR, 5/5/16<http://ktar.com/story/1056689/sen-john-mccain-two-other-senators-will-support-donald-trump-as-gop-nominee/>]

Tom Cotton, Dan Sullivan, And John McCain All Said They Disagreed With Donald Trump But Will Support The Republican Nominee. "Three Republican senators - Arizona Sen. John McCain, Alaska Sen. Dan Sullivan, and Arkansas Sen. Tom Cotton - said they'll support Donald Trump as the Republican nominee of the party.
The senators said they disagreed with Trump in many policy and rhetorical ways, but said they would support 'the nominee' of the party." [Buzzfeed, 5/5/16<https://www.buzzfeed.com/andrewkaczynski/three-senators-say-they-disagree-with-trump-but-will-support?utm_term=.qcW3DkW95>]

Buzzfeed: "'I Believe Four Years Of Hillary Clinton Will Be An Absolute Disaster For This Nation, As Far As National Security Is Concerned...I'm Not Comfortable With A Lot Of The Things That He [Donald Trump] Has Done,' Added Mccain." "'Well, first of all, I've always said I would support the nominee of the party, the party of Ronald Reagan and Teddy Roosevelt,' said McCain speaking with Arizona radio's KTAR's Mac & Gaydos show. 'I have strong disagreements with Mr. Trump on a number of issues. I believe four years of Hillary Clinton will be an absolute disaster for this nation, as far as national security is concerned.' 'I'm not comfortable with a lot of the things that he has done,' added McCain." [Buzzfeed, 5/5/16<https://www.buzzfeed.com/andrewkaczynski/three-senators-say-they-disagree-with-trump-but-will-support?utm_term=.qcW3DkW95>]

Dan Sullivan Said He Was Focused On Getting Senator McCain Reelected. "Next up, Sullivan's answer mirrored McCain's, saying he disagreed with Trump but won't oppose him. 'Well, look I agree with what Sen. McCain said,' said Sullivan, saying he was in the state to help McCain get re-elected." [Buzzfeed, 5/5/16<https://www.buzzfeed.com/andrewkaczynski/three-senators-say-they-disagree-with-trump-but-will-support?utm_term=.qcW3DkW95>]

Tom Cotton Said He Would Support Donald Trump. "Meanwhile, Cotton said he too would support Trump.
'I've long said that I will support the Republican nominee because we can't afford a third Obama-Clinton term,' said Cotton, saying Trump would need to unite the party." [Buzzfeed, 5/5/16<https://www.buzzfeed.com/andrewkaczynski/three-senators-say-they-disagree-with-trump-but-will-support?utm_term=.qcW3DkW95>]

On National Day Of Prayer

Office Of Senator Tom Cotton: "So Today, On This National Day Of Prayer, Let Us Come Together In Quiet Reflection And Give Thanks To God For The Grace He Has Bestowed Upon Us." "Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today released the following statement in recognition of the National Day of Prayer: 'In the Army 'there are no atheists in foxholes' is a common saying among soldiers as they reflect on their faith. While that common proverb surely contains some truth for us all, today is a day to focus on the importance of prayer in the here and now. Prayer brings us closer to God, helping us endure life's challenges and humbling us to give thanks for life's blessings. It is no small thing that we live in a nation where all are free to pray and worship as we please and to share our faith with others, and we are protected against persecution by the founding documents of our country. So today, on this National Day of Prayer, let us come together in quiet reflection and give thanks to God for the grace he has bestowed upon us. And let us also remember those Christians and other religious minorities around the world who are persecuted for their faith. May they find comfort in His hands.'" [Press Release, Office Of Senator Tom Cotton, 5/6/16<http://www.cotton.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=378>]

Social Media Action

Tom Cotton: "Hi Delight Elementary! Hope You Enjoyed My Video Message & Learning How I Represent You In The U.S. Senate!" [Senator Tom Cotton, Facebook, 5/5/16<https://www.facebook.com/SenatorTomCotton/videos/598232490338290/>]

Tom Cotton: "Hi Delight Elementary! Hope You Enjoyed My Video Message & Learning How I Represent You In The U.S. Senate!" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 5/5/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/728235378776412160>]

Tom Cotton: "My Bill Will Rightly Ensure That Victims In Flint Can Seek Redress For Damages Caused By The @EPA. http://ow.ly/4nsChS" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 5/5/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/728246711957729280>]

Tom Cotton: "Last Night @SpecialReport Highlighted My Bill, EPA Accountability In Flint Act. WATCH:" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 5/5/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/728249320135393280>]

Tom Cotton: "On This National Day Of Prayer, Let Us Come Together In Quiet Reflection & Give Thanks To God. http://ow.ly/4nsO2q" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 5/5/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/728263811661238272>]

Tom Cotton: ".@EPA Officials Are Not Above The Law, We Must Take Actions Before AR Finds Itself As The Next Victim @SpecialReport<mailto:.@EPA%20Officials%20Are%20Not%20Above%20The%20Law,%20We%20Must%20Take%20Actions%20Before%20AR%20Finds%20Itself%20As%20The%20Next%20Victim%20@SpecialReport>" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 5/5/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/728274910448107520>]

Tom Cotton: "Happy #TeacherAppreciationWeek To All The Wonderful And Inspiring Teachers In Arkansas. Thank You For All You Do." [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 5/5/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/728279373166596098>]

Tom Cotton: "Please Be Sure To Sign Up For My Newsletter! http://ow.ly/4mZbKU" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 5/5/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/728283229694918657>]

Tom Cotton: "It Is Imperative That We Address The Irresponsibility And Lack Of Transparency At The @EPA. http://ow.ly/4nsVNU" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 5/5/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/728289444067954689>]

Tom Cotton: "My Statement On The National Day Of Prayer: http://ow.ly/4nsV1L" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 5/5/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/728302046525394945>]

Tom Cotton: "Please Be Sure To Sign Up For My Newsletter! http://ow.ly/4mZbKU" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 5/5/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/728314618972622848>]

Tom Cotton: "My Bill Will Rightly Ensure That Victims In Flint Can Seek Redress For Damages Caused By the @EPA. http://ow.ly/4nsVZ3" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 5/5/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/728323436238536704>]

DOUG DUCEY

Legislature

Associated Press: "The Arizona House Has Reversed Course And Approved A Bill Giving Developers More Power To Issue Municipal Bonds And Levy Taxes To Pay For Public Infrastructure In Communities They Are Building." "The Arizona House has reversed course and approved a bill giving developers more power to issue municipal bonds and levy taxes to pay for public infrastructure in communities they are building. House Bill 2568 was rejected Thursday on a 32-28 vote, but after House Speaker David Gowan worked for hours to get more votes it passed during a 31-26 reconsideration vote. It now goes to gov. Doug Ducey for his consideration. Eight Republicans broke ranks to reject House Bill 2568, but Gowan corralled enough support on a second try to have it pass. The proposal would allow developers and land owners to automatically set up what's known as a special taxing district. The units are run by boards with authority similar to governments, including the use of eminent domain." [Associated Press, 5/6/16]

Associated Press: Doug Ducey Championed A Bill To Prevent "Local Governments From Banning Short-Term Rentals On Lodging Websites Like Airbnb." "A bill preventing local governments from banning short-term rentals on lodging websites like Airbnb has passed the house and is headed to Gov. Doug Ducey's desk. The proposal by Republican Sen. Debbie Lesko of Peoria also allows Airbnb and similar websites to collect taxes on behalf of renters and turn them over to the state. That should help the state collect taxes not now being collected. Senate Bill 1350 passed on a 52-6 vote Thursday. It previously passed the Senate with just one no vote. Republican Sen. John Kavanagh of Fountain Hills says the provision barring cities and towns from regulating weekend rentals earned his no vote. He says homeowners should not have to endure with weekend rentals next door that turn into parties. Ducey has championed the proposal." [Associated Press, 5/6/16<http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2016/may/5/bill-barring-cities-from-banning-airbnb-heads-to-d/>]

Water

Capitol Media Services: "Doug Ducey Is Going To Have To Decide Whether He Wants To Dilute Provisions Of State Water Laws." "Gov. Doug Ducey is going to have to decide whether he wants to dilute provisions of state water laws. On a 16-12 vote the Senate gave final approval to SB 1400, which requires counties that have their own water-requirements for developers to review them every five years. But it would take a unanimous vote of the Board of Supervisors to rescind the ordinance. The potentially more far-reaching measure, SB 1268, would allow any city within either Cochise or Yuma counties to unilaterally exempt itself from the requirements. It was approved on a 17-12 vote. Both measures now await action by Ducey who has said in speeches that ensuring Arizona has adequate water is important." [Capitol Media Services, 5/5/16]

Water Experts Called On Doug Ducey To Veto A Bill That Weakened Groundwater Protection Standards.  "Several Arizona water experts are calling on Gov. Doug Ducey to veto legislation passed this week that they denounce as weakening groundwater protection standards in two counties and threatening Arizona's reputation for smart water management. The bills' proponents, including lawmakers who represent Cochise County, said they are written narrowly to avoid upending statewide water law but are necessary to protect individual rights. Both passed with overwhelmingly Republican support." [Arizona Republic, 5/6/16<http://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-water/2016/05/06/water-experts-denounce-arizona-groundwater-bills-ask-ducey-veto/83989242/>]

Food Stamps

Associated Press: "The Republican-Controlled Arizona House On Thursday Advanced A Proposal That Could Cut Off Nearly 80,000 People From The State's Food Stamp Program." "The Republican-controlled Arizona House on Thursday advanced a proposal that could cut off nearly 80,000 people from the state's food stamp program, despite assurances from the sponsor two months ago that he would remove the provision. Republican Rep. Justin Olson's bill is mainly aimed at cutting fraud and includes lifetime bans for some violations of food stamp rules. Senate Bill 1161 also bars anyone who is behind in their child support payments from getting food stamps." [Associated Press, 5/5/16]

Associated Press: A Bill To Gut Arizona's Food Stamps Program Included "Lifetime Bans For Some Violations Of Food Stamp Rules" And Barred "Anyone Who Is Behind In Their Child Support Payments From Getting Food Stamps." "The Republican-controlled Arizona House on Thursday advanced a proposal that could cut off nearly 80,000 people from the state's food stamp program, despite assurances from the sponsor two months ago that he would remove the provision. Republican Rep. Justin Olson's bill is mainly aimed at cutting fraud and includes lifetime bans for some violations of food stamp rules. Senate Bill 1161 also bars anyone who is behind in their child support payments from getting food stamps." [Associated Press, 5/5/16]

MARY FALLIN

On Being Donald Trump's Vice President

The Norman Transcript: "Trump doesn't need help in Republican dominated Oklahoma, Shapard said and, if he did, Lankford -- or almost anyone -- would be a much more likely choice. 'It's highly unlikely he wants or needs Mary Fallin,' [SoonerPoll Founder Bill] Shapard said. "Is Trump really considering Gov. Mary Fallin as a running mate?
Story continues below video Shapard points to favorability polls that rank U.S. Sen. James Lankford, R-Edmond, as most favorable in the state and the governor as... not, a fact he said makes it unlikely she's really being considered as a VP running mate for Trump, despite trending speculation and reported comments by the billionaire candidate. Fallin endorsed Trump Wednesday, spurring the vice presidential selection rumors. Trump doesn't need help in Republican dominated Oklahoma, Shapard said and, if he did, Lankford -- or almost anyone -- would be a much more likely choice. 'It's highly unlikely he wants or needs Mary Fallin,' Shapard said. Fallin trailed the field of Republicans in a recent favorability poll, and SoonerPoll reports that Fallin's favorability has been an issue since before the 2014 election. 'She was also the most well-known statewide official tested with only 2 percent having no opinion,' according to SoonerPoll." [Norman Transcript, 5/5/16]

On Education Funding

The Associated Press: "'It's unacceptable to have a four-day school week,' Gov. Mary Fallin said at a recent news conference announcing cuts to balance the budget." "'It's unacceptable to have a four-day school week,' Gov. Mary Fallin said at a recent news conference announcing cuts to balance the budget. Fallin has proposed a budget for next year that would increase funding for K-12 education by about 4.6 percent from current adjusted spending of nearly $2.4 billion. Her plan would be paid for by issuing road bonds to free up cash and eliminating some sales tax exemptions, but so far those ideas have received a frosty reception in the Republican-controlled Legislature." [Associated Press, 5/5/16<https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/education-cuts-prompt-revolt-despair-in-oklahoma/2016/05/05/6f26d97e-12db-11e6-a9b5-bf703a5a7191_story.html>]

Some Oklahoma Teachers Are Thinking About Leaving The State Because Of Low Funding. "Dozens of educators are fighting the cuts by running for political office and organizing in groups to lobby lawmakers for better funding. Other teachers have given up hope that finances will improve in Oklahoma and are looking for jobs elsewhere. 'I have so many friends that are applying all over. Some would rather just live in Oklahoma and drive to Texas for the $10,000 salary increase,' said Torie Shoecraft, who teaches kindergarten at Nichols Hills Elementary in Oklahoma City." [Associated Press, 5/5/16<https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/education-cuts-prompt-revolt-despair-in-oklahoma/2016/05/05/6f26d97e-12db-11e6-a9b5-bf703a5a7191_story.html>]

On Oklahoma Abortion Law

Mary Fallin May Sign A Bill That Would Make Performing An Abortion A Felony Except In The Case Of Saving The Mother's Life. "In Oklahoma, a new bill would make performing an abortion a felony, punishable by up to three years in prison and the revocation of the doctor's medical license. The only legal abortions would be those required to save a woman's life. 'Give Oklahoma lawmakers points, at least, for honesty,' the New York Times editorial board said. 'They wanted to ban abortion, so they voted effectively to do just that-without offering any pretense of trying to protect women's health, as supporters of other virulent anti-choice laws in states like Texas have done.' The bill awaits Governor Mary Fallin's signature. It may be relevant context that Fallin is one of the only Republicans reportedly "intrigued" by the idea of being Donald Trump's running mate." [Slate, 5/5/16<http://www.slate.com/blogs/xx_factor/2016/05/05/latest_anti_abortion_bills_in_alabama_oklahoma_and_utah_demonize_abortion.html>]

JIM JORDAN

Ohio Politics

Jim Jordan Praised Participants In Ohio's Forth Congressional District Art Competition. "Bellefontaine High School senior Diana Van Voorhis of Bellefontaine, Ohio won first place in the Fourth District of Ohio's 2016 Congressional Art Competition. Her winning piece, 'Lost in Time, Never Forgotten,' will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol along with other winners from around the country. Congressman Jim Jordan, R-Urbana, 4th District, attended a reception recently honoring the winners of the competition. The reception was held at Temple Christian School in Lima, Ohio, and hosted by school superintendent Hunter Powell and Lima Baptist Temple's senior pastor Al Elmore. The annual competition allows aspiring artists in high school to compete for the chance to feature a work of art in the U.S. Capitol. Of the competition Jordan said, 'We had a great number of submissions this year and an impressive display of talent from our district's high schoolers. I'm so proud of Diana, Steven, Brody and Joshua, along with all of the Fourth District students who participated, for their hard work and enthusiasm.'" [Sidney Daily News, 5/5/16<https://sidneydailynews.com/top-stories/24885/jordan-honors-sidney-artist>]

Budget

Jim Jordan Rejected The Idea Of Skipping Straight To Appropriations In The Budget Process. "Next week, House Republicans likely will make history by skipping arrival at a budget number and moving straight to the appropriations process, if McCarthy's stated position plays out... In March, Reps. Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming and Thomas Massie of Kentucky said they would support the bypass [of the standard budget process] to get the appropriations process off the ground. But Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, former chairman of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, rejected the idea. Jordan stressed the need for a spending proposal at the $1.04 trillion level, $30 billion less than leadership's number. 'Look, the right thing to do is to pass a budget,' Jordan said, 'to pass a budget that's reflective of the fiscal situation that the country's in, and to pass a budget that begins to address the problem.'" [Daily Signal, 5/5/16<http://dailysignal.com/2016/05/05/house-republicans-to-move-forward-on-spending-without-a-budget-number/>]

Daily Signal: Jim Jordan Rejected Suggestions Of Alternative Methods Of Passing A Budget By Saying "I Think We Just Have Got To Come Back To The Basics Here... The Basics Are The Country Has A Fiscal Problem, The Government Has A Fiscal Problem." "After months of stalled negotiations, more liberal Republicans proposed using an obscure, controversial parliamentary process known as 'Queen of the Hill.' To break a budget impasse, the procedure allows consideration of multiple plans at once. In turn, members have the opportunity to vote for and against each budget on the House floor... Both Flores and Jordan rejected that option when speaking with The Daily Signal, saying the royal maneuver could result in that higher spending level. I think we just have got to come back to the basics here,' Jordan said. 'The basics are the country has a fiscal problem, the government has a fiscal problem ... so we shouldn't be increasing spending, plain and simple." Dent described conservatives who are reluctant about voting for a Queen of the Hill as 'folks out there who say they're ready to take their marbles and go home if they don't get their way.'" [Daily Signal, 5/5/16<http://dailysignal.com/2016/05/05/house-republicans-to-move-forward-on-spending-without-a-budget-number/>]

JEFF SESSIONS

Donald Trump - Capitol Hill Outreach

Politico: "Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions' Operation Is Trying To Broker Meetings Between Trump And Republican Factions According To Multiple Sources Familiar With The Plans." "Donald Trump might be coming to Capitol Hill as soon as next week to begin wooing Republican members of Congress. Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions' operation is trying to broker meetings between Trump and Republican factions according to multiple sources familiar with the plans. Trump may even meet with members of Republican leadership, according to the sources. The outreach, which is in its initial stage, is a sign that Trump knows he has work to do in Washington now that he is the presumptive nominee." [Politico, 5/5/16<http://www.politico.com/story/2016/05/trump-visit-capitol-hill-222845>]

Jeff Sessions On Paul Ryan's Decision To Withhold Support From Donald Trump: "I Think This Was A Big Mistake, I Really Do. And I'm Surprised, Frankly, Because He Indicated He'd Support Whoever The Nominee Was." DOBBS: "It's shocking for me to hear conservatives like-a man who claims he's a conservative-like Paul Ryan says he's not ready, quote-on-quote, to support the party's presumptive nominee?" SESSIONS: "Well the Speaker of the House is a big leader and an important figure in the Republican Party. He calls on House members every day to stand with him in unity. And he needs to set a good example for Republicans. I think this was a big mistake. I really do. And I'm really surprised, frankly, since he indicated he'd support whoever the nominee was." DOBBS: "He is breaking his word." [Lou Dobbs Tonight, Fox Business, 5/5/16]

Jeff Sessions On Donald Trump's Republican Primary Win: "Trump Has Been Strong And Clear. He's Had The Courage To Take On The Establishment And Some Of 'Em Have Been Having Difficulty Dealing With His Big Victory So Far." [Lou Dobbs Tonight, Fox Business, 5/5/16]

Jeff Sessions On Efforts To Unite Trump Supporters With Party Insiders In Washington: "We Need To Reach Out And Are. I'm Working And Others Are, To Talk To Leaders Within The Washington And Other Areas. But You Know, Ryan Was Right About One Thing, He Only Has One Vote." DOBBS: "Let me ask you this. Let's turn to the future and Donald Trump already working to unite the party. What is your sense of when we'll start to see even more progress in that direction?" SESSIONS: "Well, you know, we need to reach out and are. I'm working and others are, to talk to leaders within the Washington and other areas. But you know, Ryan was right about one thing, he only has one vote. It's the vote of the American people that are [sic] going to decide the next election. People with the most endorsements have, pretty much, gotten the lowest votes so far." [Lou Dobbs Tonight, Fox Business, 5/5/16]

Jeff Sessions On Paul Ryan's Failure To Anticipate Donald Trump's Republican Primary Victory: "He Did Say He Wasn't Expecting This Result. So If He'd Called Me, I Would've Told Him How It Was Going To Come Out." DOBBS: "I mean, I just gotta say this, Senator, Paul Ryan needs another month to adjust to new circumstances? I don't know if we've got the right person in that Speaker job, if he's that slow to process, do you?" SESSIONS: "Well, you know-" DOBBS: "I shouldn't put it that way, Senator, for you. You've got to negotiate." SESSIONS: "Lou, he did say he wasn't expecting this result. So if he'd called me, I would've told him how it was going to come out." DOBBS: "You've been very clear about that for the last few months." [Lou Dobbs Tonight, Fox Business, 5/5/16]

Donald Trump - Vice President

Donald Trump On His Choice For Running Mate: "You Take Somebody Like Jeff Sessions, Although I Think He Is Very Happy Where He Is.  He Is A Very Important Senator.  So, You Know, That's A Pretty Good Position." KERNEN:  "I've heard you intimate that you might go into the convention with some, you know, already with a team selected for certain positions.  Could you tell us anything for sure at this point about, you know, whether there is Chris Christie?  Is it A.G., or Giuliani as Homeland Security?" TRUMP:  "Well I -- yes.  Sure.  I've had great support from Rudy Giuliani.  I have had great support, like from Chris Christie, Dr. Ben Carson.  You take somebody like Jeff Sessions, although I think he is very happy where he is.  He is a very important senator.  So, you know, that's a pretty good position." [Squawk Box, CNBC, 5/5/16]

LifeZette's Jon Conradi: "Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions Is The Thought Leader Behind Trump's Populist Platform But Is Soft-Spoken And Very Southern. Sessions Would Be More Of A Great Pick For Trump's Cabinet As Attorney General Or DHS Secretary." "The media circus of speculation is swirling over who will take a position beside Donald Trump as his vice presidential nominee...There are of course a panoply of other veep potentials for Trump to consider - they all have their drawbacks...Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions is the thought leader behind Trump's populist platform but is soft-spoken and very southern. Sessions would be more of a great pick for Trump's cabinet as Attorney General or DHS Secretary." [LifeZette, accessed 5/6/16<http://www.lifezette.com/polizette/trumps-winning-pick-vp/>]

Donald Trump - Korean Trade

The Dong-A Ilbo (Korea): "Sessions, A Fourth-Term Senator, Was The First Senator To Announce His Support Of Trump In February. A Former Alabama Attorney General, He Is Called A Military Expert." "In an interview with the Washington Post on March 21, he was asked about the sources of his foreign policy-related information. He said that he read and watched newspapers and television, indicating that he had never read any proper foreign affairs-related book. At that time, he unveiled the list of his national security advisers, none of whom were top-notch experts. They were led by Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions...Sessions, a fourth-term Senator, was the first Senator to announce his support of Trump in February. A former Alabama Attorney General, he is called a military expert." [The Dong-A Ilbo, 5/6/16<http://english.donga.com/Home/3/all/26/533570/1>]

The Dong-A Ilbo (Korea): "Although South Korea's Hyundai Motor Co. Has A Plant In His State, He Told A Senate Plenary Session Late Last Month That The South Koreas-U.S. Free Trade Agreement 'Sounded Pretty Good, But Their Estimates Were Way Off.'" "Sessions, a fourth-term Senator, was the first Senator to announce his support of Trump in February. A former Alabama Attorney General, he is called a military expert...Although South Korea's Hyundai Motor Co. has a plant in his state, he told a Senate plenary session late last month that the South Koreas-U.S. free trade agreement 'sounded pretty good, but their estimates were way off.' Reportedly, he was the architect of Trump's 'America First' doctrine announced on April 27." [The Dong-A Ilbo, 5/6/16<http://english.donga.com/Home/3/all/26/533570/1>]

The Dong-A Ilbo (Korea): "Reportedly, [Jeff Sessions] Was The Architect Of [Donald] Trump's 'America First' Doctrine Announced On April 27." "In an interview with the Washington Post on March 21, [Donald Trump] was asked about the sources of his foreign policy-related information. He said that he read and watched newspapers and television, indicating that he had never read any proper foreign affairs-related book. At that time, he unveiled the list of his national security advisers, none of whom were top-notch experts. They were led by Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions... Sessions, a fourth-term Senator, was the first Senator to announce his support of Trump in February. A former Alabama Attorney General, he is called a military expert...Reportedly, he was the architect of Trump's 'America First' doctrine announced on April 27." [The Dong-A Ilbo, 5/6/16<http://english.donga.com/Home/3/all/26/533570/1>]

Gay Rights

Jeff Sessions On Whether Americans Would Accept A Gay Supreme Court Nominee: "Well, I Think That Would Be A Big Concern That The American People Might Feel - Might Feel Uneasy About That." Q: "On the question of a gay nominee, one person is noted as saying that he believes it is a bridge too far to have a gay nominee." SESSIONS: "Well, I think that would be a big concern that the American people might feel - might feel uneasy about that. It is a matter for the president to decide." [Huffington Post, 6/8/09<http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/05/08/republicans-gay-scotus-ju_n_199079.html?show_comment_id=24052415>]
Huffington Post's Michelangelo Signorile: Jeff Sessions "Is Among The Most Anti-LGBT Senators In History, Scoring A Zero Continually From The Human Rights Campaign, Voting For Everything Anti-Gay That Ever Came Before The Senate, Like A Constitutional Amendment Banning Gay Marriage, And Against Everything Remotely Pro-Gay, From A Hate Crimes Bill To Protect Gays To The Repeal Of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." [Huffington Post, 6/8/09<http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/05/08/republicans-gay-scotus-ju_n_199079.html?show_comment_id=24052415>]

Criminal Justice Reform

Office Of Jeff Sessions On The Sentencing Reform And Corrections Act Of 2015: It "Would Release Thousands Of Violent Felons And Endanger Millions Of Americans Whose Safety Is Increasingly Threatened By Rising Crime Rates." "A breakthrough came last spring when Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley, the chairman of the Judiciary Committee, signaled a willingness to look at reforming parts of the justice system. Grassley had previously been a stalwart opponent of reforms, to the point of making Senate floor speeches against the proposals. But  he joined supporters in negotiating a new bipartisan approach. After months of careful work, they unveiled legislation that reduces some mandatory minimum sentences while giving judges more discretion over sentencing, and also creates new recidivism programs to allow some inmates to earn reduced sentences...The Judiciary Committee took up the bill quickly and passed it on a bipartisan vote of 15-5 last October, but things stalled in the following months. Conservative senators, including Ted Cruz of Texas, Tom Cotton of Arkansas and Jeff Sessions of Alabama, expressed fears that the legislation could free violent criminals...Sessions' office termed the legislation 'unsafe,' asserting in a written statement that it would 'leave us with legislation that still would release thousands of violent felons and endanger millions of Americans whose safety is increasingly threatened by rising crime rates.'" [Real Clear Politics, 5/6/16<http://www.realclearpolitics.com/articles/2016/05/06/criminal_justice_reform_theres_bipartisan_hope__130482.html>]

Immigration

Global Data Point: "Jeff Sessions Linked The Rise In Deaths And The Growth Of Abuse Of The Drug To Our Weak Southern Border, Where A Steady Caravan Of Drug Dealers Are Smuggling The Drug Into The Country." "More than 11,000 people died from heroin use in 2014 alone. Fentanyl, a drug 200 times more powerful than heroin, has been sending drug users to the hospital and the morgue for the last several years. Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions linked the rise in deaths and the growth of abuse of the drug to our weak southern border, where a steady caravan of drug dealers are smuggling the drug into the country." [Global Data Point, 5/5/16]

Office Of Senator Jeff Sessions: "ADMINISTRATION REMOVED LESS THAN ONE PERCENT OF ALIENS WHO OVERSTAYED THEIR VISAS IN 2015." [Press Release, Office Of Senator Jeff Sessions, 5/6/16<http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=0D99801C-2709-4BF0-90F3-E10A937616BB>]

Office Of Senator Jeff Sessions: "The Decision By The Obama Administration Not To Enforce Immigration Law By Allowing Those Who Have Overstayed Their Visas To Remain In The Country Has Not Gone Unnoticed By The American People." "The decision by the Obama Administration not to enforce immigration law by allowing those who have overstayed their visas to remain in the country has not gone unnoticed by the American people. A Rasmussen Reports poll released earlier this year indicates that approximately 3 out of 4 Americans not only want the Obama Administration to find these aliens who overstay their visas, but also to deport them. The same poll indicates that 68 percent of Americans consider visa overstays a 'serious national security risk,' and 31 percent consider visa overstays a 'very serious' national security risk." [Press Release, Office Of Senator Jeff Sessions, 5/6/16<http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=0D99801C-2709-4BF0-90F3-E10A937616BB>]

Office Of Senator Jeff Sessions: "Visa Overstays Undermine The Integrity Of Our Immigration System, And Pose Considerable National Security Risks." "Recognizing the fact that visa overstays undermine the integrity of our immigration system, and pose considerable national security risks, Congress has required the implementation of an entry-exit tracking system for nearly twenty years - and has mandated that the system be biometrically based since 2004." [Press Release, Office Of Senator Jeff Sessions, 5/6/16<http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=0D99801C-2709-4BF0-90F3-E10A937616BB>]

TIM SCOTT

On Supporting Donald Trump As The Republican Presidential Nominee

Through A Spokesperson, Tim Scott Said He Would Support The Republican Nominee But Would Be Focused On His Reelection. "Sen. Tim Scott's campaign spokeswoman, Margaret Spaulding, issued a statement to McClatchy on his behalf, saying, 'As (Scott) has consistently said over the past year, he will support the Republican nominee.' She added, 'Now that Donald Trump is the presumptive Republican nominee, the Senator will do what he can to assist his campaign; however, his focus will remain on his own reelection and serving the people of South Carolina.'" [News And Observer, 5/5/16<http://www.newsobserver.com/news/politics-government/article75907852.html>]