Subject: GOP VP Daily Roundup, 5/13/16
From: "Yoxall, Collin" <[email-masked]>
To: Veepstakes <[email-masked]>
Cc: "Dillon, Lauren" <[email-masked]>, "Bauer, Nick" <[email-masked]>, "Graham, Caroline" <[email-masked]>
Date: Fri, 13 May 2016 11:49:04 -0700

GOP VP DAILY UPDATE - 5/13/16

MARSHA BLACKBURN

CHRIS CHRISTIE

BOB CORKER

TOM COTTON

DOUG DUCEY

JONI ERNST

MARY FALLIN

NEWT GINGRICH

JIM JORDAN

JEFF SESSIONS

TIM SCOTT

MARSHA BLACKBURN

Good Samaritan Bill

PIAA: "Thanks @Marshablackburn: "We Hope To Push Good Samaritan Bill Across The Finish Line This Year." #2016MLC" [@PIAAknowsMPL, Twitter, 5/13/16<https://twitter.com/PIAAknowsMPL/status/731131928552689665>]

Opioid Epidemic

Marsha Blackburn: "Today I Spoke On The House Floor In Support Of 18 Bills The House Has Passed Or Is Expected To Pass This Week To Combat The Opioid Crisis." "Opioid addiction has proven to destroy hope, opportunity and families. Certainly we see this across the country, but we are also seeing the devastating effects of addiction in Tennessee. Today I spoke on the House floor in support of 18 bills the House has passed or is expected to pass this week to combat the opioid crisis." [Marsha Blackburn, Facebook, 5/12/16<https://www.facebook.com/marshablackburn/videos/10154117799923396/>]

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac

Wall Street Journal: "Fannie Mae And Freddie Mac Shareholder Group Investors Unite In A Press Release Last March Lauded Rep. Marsha Blackburn (R., Tenn.) For Introducing A Bill That Would Suspend The Government's Sweep Of The Companies' Profits."  "Private shareholders of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have waged an intense lobbying campaign in an effort to drum up support for releasing the companies from government control and in the process restore some value to their shares. Few lawmakers have publicly sided with preserving the companies. But shareholders have been quick to contribute campaign donations to those lawmakers who have worked in their favor. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac shareholder group Investors Unite in a press release last March lauded Rep. Marsha Blackburn (R., Tenn.) for introducing a bill that would suspend the government's sweep of the companies' profits." [Wall Street Journal, 5/12/16<http://blogs.wsj.com/moneybeat/2016/05/12/hedge-fund-cash-flows-to-gop-lawmakers-seeking-to-loosen-government-grip-on-fannie-and-freddie/>]

Wall Street Journal: The Day Before Marsha Blackburn Introduced A Bill To Partially Privatize Fannie Mae And Freddie Mac, Fannie And Freddie's Shareholder Group Director "Donated $5,000 Combined To Ms. Blackburn's Primary And General Campaigns, His First Donation To Her Since 2009." "Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac shareholder group Investors Unite in a press release last March lauded Rep. Marsha Blackburn (R., Tenn.) for introducing a bill that would suspend the government's sweep of the companies' profits. 'As top federal government officials have finally started to acknowledge, the undercapitalization of Fannie and Freddie threatens to put taxpayers on the hook for another bailout,' said Investors Unite founder Timothy Pagliara in a statement when the bill was introduced. He also runs a financial advisory firm whose clients own shares of Fannie and Freddie. The day before Ms. Blackburn introduced the bill, Mr. Pagliara donated $5,000 combined to Ms. Blackburn's primary and general campaigns, his first donation to her since 2009. Mr. Pagliara said the timing of his donation was a coincidence. He said that he had earlier suggested such a bill to Ms. Blackburn and had a longstanding relationship with her but didn't have influence beyond the suggestion." [Wall Street Journal, 5/12/16<http://blogs.wsj.com/moneybeat/2016/05/12/hedge-fund-cash-flows-to-gop-lawmakers-seeking-to-loosen-government-grip-on-fannie-and-freddie/>]

Wall Street Journal: A Spokeswoman For Marsha Blackburn "Didn't Respond To Emails And Calls To Ask About Mr. Pagliara's Contribution Or His Influence On The Bill." "Mr. Pagliara said the timing of his donation was a coincidence. He said that he had earlier suggested such a bill to Ms. Blackburn and had a longstanding relationship with her but didn't have influence beyond the suggestion. A spokeswoman for Rep. Blackburn in an email wrote that the congresswoman 'talked to people on the Hill as well as off the Hill that are interested in protecting the interests of hard-working American taxpayers.' The spokeswoman didn't respond to emails and calls to ask about Mr. Pagliara's contribution or his influence on the bill." [Wall Street Journal, 5/12/16<http://blogs.wsj.com/moneybeat/2016/05/12/hedge-fund-cash-flows-to-gop-lawmakers-seeking-to-loosen-government-grip-on-fannie-and-freddie/>]

Trump

Marsha Blackburn: "I've Said It Was Going To Be An Outsider Year. I Think That's Good And Healthy For The Party And Quite Frankly I'm Energized By All The New Voters That Are Coming Into The Republican Party This Cycle." BLACKBURN: "I've said it was going to be an outsider year. I think that's good and healthy for the party and quite frankly I'm energized by all the new voters that are coming into the Republican party this cycle. Change is good and having somebody that is going to come in and shake up the way government works-I think that's a very healthy thing for us." [Hardball, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

Marsha Blackburn When Chris Matthews Pointed Out That John McCain Could Not Have Done Much To Avoid Capture: "Well, You're Right About That. And I Don't Know. I Haven't Discussed Any Of That With Mr. Trump." MATTHEWS: "What's the best you can say about those, Congresswoman? That you don't really mean it, that he didn't really mean it when he said , you know, John McCain is not war hero, cause he was caught?. Hey look, the plane crashed in the middle of Hanoi, he didn't have many moves left at that point." BLACKBURN: "Well, you're right about that. And I don't know. I haven't discussed any of that with Mr. Trump. I think, though, when you look at the issues that in front of this country, national security, jobs and economic security, retirement security, which is huge with woman, I think people are saying we want somebody who is going to make decisions. Who is going to provide some leadership to the country." [Hardball, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

MSNBC: Marsha Blackburn Dismissed The Idea That Voters Would Be Put Off My Trump's McCain Insults, Saying Voters Want Somebody "Who Is Going To Provide Some Leadership To The Country." MATTHEWS: "What's the best you can say about those, Congresswoman? That you don't really mean it, that he didn't really mean it when he said , you know, John McCain is not war hero, cause he was caught?. Hey look, the plane crashed in the middle of Hanoi, he didn't have many moves left at that point." BLACKBURN: "Well, you're right about that. And I don't know. I haven't discussed any of that with Mr. Trump. I think, though, when you look at the issues that in front of this country, national security, jobs and economic security, retirement security, which is huge with woman, I think people are saying we want somebody who is going to make decisions. Who is going to provide some leadership to the country." [Hardball, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

Marsha Blackburn When Chris Matthews Said That Trump Does Not Want To Change Entitlement Programs: "I Think Sometimes You Get Into What Did Somebody Say And What Did People Hear On That." MATTHEWS: "But he doesn't want to lead on entitlements, he's taking the safe, Democratic position, which is leave things alone, which is very comforting to retirees. Leave it alone, right? That's his position." BLACKBURN: "Well, I think sometimes you get into what did somebody say and what did people hear on that." MATTHEWS: "You think he's for entitlement reform?" BLACKBURN: "People want to-what people want to see done with entitlements is to stabilize Medicare and Social Security for seniors and near seniors and then to look at it and, you know, to do something more on the Ryan-" MATTHEWS: "Is he willing to do that?"  BLACKBURN: "I would hope so, that we can get things straightened out so there is stability and continuity and so that we spending all that money that comes in." [Hardball, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

Marsha Blackburn When Chris Matthews Asked If Trump Would Be Willing To Reform Entitlements: "I Would Hope So."  MATTHEWS: "But he doesn't want to lead on entitlements, he's taking the safe, Democratic position, which is leave things alone, which is very comforting to retirees. Leave it alone, right? That's his position." BLACKBURN: "Well, I think sometimes you get into what did somebody say and what did people hear on that." MATTHEWS: "You think he's for entitlement reform?" BLACKBURN: "People want to-what people want to see done with entitlements is to stabilize Medicare and Social Security for seniors and near seniors and then to look at it and, you know, to do something more on the Ryan-" MATTHEWS: "Is he willing to do that?"  BLACKBURN: "I would hope so, that we can get things straightened out so there is stability and continuity and so that we spending all that money that comes in." [Hardball, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

Marsha Blackburn On How She Would Explain Trump's Insults Toward Women To Her Constituents: "I've Heard Things That And Worse Said About Me And Do On A Daily Basis." MATTHEWS: "How do you explain that [ad featuring Trump insulting women] at home? BLACKBURN:  "Well, I think for a woman like me -" MATTHEWS: "In Tennessee?  BLACKBURN:  "I've heard things that and worse said about me and do on a daily basis." MATTHEWS: "This guy is up for the presidency. He wants your endorsement for the presidency." BLACKBURN: "I've heard it from guys that I've worked with, I've heard it all my life. And you know what, let me tell you-" MATTHEWS: "Would you hire a male that talked like this? Would you hire one?" BLACKBURN: "Let me tell you where I think people are, women are on this. They have heard that all of their life. They've had people condescend to them. They've had people call them names. They are more worried about keeping their community safe. Making certain we don't have terror cells, having jobs for their kids coming out of college. Making certain that a comfortable retirement is there not only for them, but for their parents and elderly relatives." MATTHEWS: "Isn't there anybody around like that that you describe that doesn't have this reputation that he's got?" BLACKBURN: "There are things that he has said I wish he had not said. But I think people are more worried about fate of our country, and they're saying, okay, here we go." [Hardball, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

Marsha Blackburn On How Women Would Trump's Insults: "They Have Heard That All Of Their Life. They've Had People Condescend To Them. They've Had People Call Them Names. They Are More Worried About Keeping Their Community Safe." MATTHEWS: "How do you explain that [ad featuring Trump insulting women] at home? BLACKBURN:  "Well, I think for a woman like me -" MATTHEWS: "In Tennessee?  BLACKBURN:  "I've heard things that and worse said about me and do on a daily basis." MATTHEWS: "This guy is up for the presidency. He wants your endorsement for the presidency." BLACKBURN: "I've heard it from guys that I've worked with, I've heard it all my life. And you know what, let me tell you-" MATTHEWS: "Would you hire a male that talked like this? Would you hire one?" BLACKBURN: "Let me tell you where I think people are, women are on this. They have heard that all of their life. They've had people condescend to them. They've had people call them names. They are more worried about keeping their community safe. Making certain we don't have terror cells, having jobs for their kids coming out of college. Making certain that a comfortable retirement is there not only for them, but for their parents and elderly relatives." MATTHEWS: "Isn't there anybody around like that that you describe that doesn't have this reputation that he's got?" BLACKBURN: "There are things that he has said I wish he had not said. But I think people are more worried about fate of our country, and they're saying, okay, here we go." [Hardball, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

Marsha Blackburn On How She Would Explain Trump's Insults Toward Women To Her Constituents: "There Are Things That He Has Said I Wish He Had Not Said. But I Think People Are More Worried About Fate Of Our Country, And They're Saying, Okay, Here We Go." MATTHEWS: "How do you explain that [ad featuring Trump insulting women] at home? BLACKBURN:  "Well, I think for a woman like me -" MATTHEWS: "In Tennessee?  BLACKBURN:  "I've heard things that and worse said about me and do on a daily basis." MATTHEWS: "This guy is up for the presidency. He wants your endorsement for the presidency." BLACKBURN: "I've heard it from guys that I've worked with, I've heard it all my life. And you know what, let me tell you-" MATTHEWS: "Would you hire a male that talked like this? Would you hire one?" BLACKBURN: "Let me tell you where I think people are, women are on this. They have heard that all of their life. They've had people condescend to them. They've had people call them names. They are more worried about keeping their community safe. Making certain we don't have terror cells, having jobs for their kids coming out of college. Making certain that a comfortable retirement is there not only for them, but for their parents and elderly relatives." MATTHEWS: "Isn't there anybody around like that that you describe that doesn't have this reputation that he's got?" BLACKBURN: "There are things that he has said I wish he had not said. But I think people are more worried about fate of our country, and they're saying, okay, here we go." [Hardball, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

When Asked About Trump's Claim That Rafael Cruz Was Part Of The Kennedy Assassination, Marsha Blackburn Said "There Are Things I Wish He Hadn't Said." MATTHEWS: "Didn't it bother you when he called his opponent's father a part of the Kennedy assassination team, Rafael Cruz? Wasn't that amazing statement?" BLACKBURN: "Well, there are things I wish he hadn't said, you know-" [Hardball, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

MSNBC: When Asked If She Thought Trump Would Stop Making Insane Comments, Marsha Blackburn Said "I Do Think You're Going To See More Presidential Decorum...President Trump, Here We Come." MATTHEWS: "Well he's not going to stop. Do you think he'll stop?" BLACKBURN: "I do think you're going to see more presidential decorum. I think there is going to be...I am an optimist. You're right. President Trump, here we come." [Hardball, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

Marsha Blackburn: "People Look At Donald Trump And They Have Seen Him Listen. They've Responded." HALL: "It does not end with Speaker Ryan saying that he will endorse or support Donald Trump. How do you feel about that?"  BLACKBURN: "I think it's pretty much what we expected. Today was a day about process. How to move forward so that we get everybody unified and on the same page and working toward an agenda and Tamron, I've got to tell you. I think this is an incredibly exciting time. Voters have spoken. We need to be listening to them. People look at Donald Trump and they have seen him listen. They've responded. They want something done in D.C. about the issues important to them, national security, jobs and economic security, and for women, retirement security." [MSNBC Live, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

MSNBC: When Asked If She Supported Donald Trump's Talk About Raising The Minimum Wage, Marsha Blackburn Said "I Don't." HALL: "So you mentioned jobs and economic security. Donald Trump says he would be open to a minimum wage increase. Do you support that?"  "I don't. I think this is something you look at the states and let the states handle this. It's a better handle that way. I think the other thing to interject into this, Tamron, I think you and I maybe talked about this one time, is having a training wage. When you talk to moms that have teenagers in their household, this is something that they will bring up, that there needs to be that entry or that training wage. So all of these policies are going to evolve as we go through. You're going to see an agenda. I think the fall campaign is going to be one of the most exciting that we've ever had." [MSNBC Live, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

Marsha Blackburn On Donald Trump's Seeming Openness To A Minimum Wage Increase: "All Of These Policies Are Going To Evolve As We Go Through." HALL: "So you mentioned jobs and economic security. Donald Trump says he would be open to a minimum wage increase. Do you support that?"  BLACKBURN: "I don't. I think this is something you look at the states and let the states handle this. It's a better handle that way. I think the other thing to interject into this, Tamron, I think you and I maybe talked about this one time, is having a training wage. When you talk to moms that have teenagers in their household, this is something that they will bring up, that there needs to be that entry or that training wage. So all of these policies are going to evolve as we go through. You're going to see an agenda. I think the fall campaign is going to be one of the most exciting that we've ever had." [MSNBC Live, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

Marsha Blackburn On Whether Or Not Donald Trump Would Reform Entitlements: "I Think You Go Back And You Say What Did Someone Say Or What Did People Hear?" HALL: "Donald Trump said he would not touch entitlements, would not touch social security. Do you support that idea?  BLACKBURN: "Well, what you hear from people, I think you go back and you say what did someone say or what did people hear? Here is what people tell us they want to be sure of, is that we stabilize Medicare and Social Security. They are trust funds and people are sick of this money running into the general fund and then there just being IOUs. They want to make certain that the money that the government has taken from them, that they have the opportunity to get that money back."  HALL: "Is that what Donald Trump is saying? Because that is not how he describes it".  BLACKBURN: "I'm sorry I lost you there for a second."  HALL: "That's okay, you are saying what people say. I'm specifically asking about what Donald Trump has said regarding entitlements." BLACKBURN: "Well, and I have heard what he-the statement that he made that he wouldn't affect those. I think what you're seeing is that the older - that individuals who are currently utilizing Medicare and Social Security, and individuals who are near to that process, would not see that effect. Now, I think when it comes to mandatory spending and here we get in to the utilization of different words-" HALL: "But can you answer, you said you don't agree with Donald Trump regarding an increase in the minimum wage--" BLACKBURN: "I haven't talked to him about it. I haven't had a conversation with him." [MSNBC Live, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

Marsha Blackburn On Donald Trump's Seeming Openness To A Minimum Wage Increase: "I Haven't Talked To Him About It. I Haven't Had A Conversation With Him."  HALL: "Donald Trump said he would not touch entitlements, would not touch social security. Do you support that idea?  BLACKBURN: "Well, what you hear from people, I think you go back and you say what did someone say or what did people hear? Here is what people tell us they want to be sure of, is that we stabilize Medicare and Social Security. They are trust funds and people are sick of this money running into the general fund and then there just being IOUs. They want to make certain that the money that the government has taken from them, that they have the opportunity to get that money back."  HALL: "Is that what Donald Trump is saying? Because that is not how he describes it".  BLACKBURN: "I'm sorry I lost you there for a second."  HALL: "That's okay, you are saying what people say. I'm specifically asking about what Donald Trump has said regarding entitlements." BLACKBURN: "Well, and I have heard what he-the statement that he made that he wouldn't affect those. I think what you're seeing is that the older - that individuals who are currently utilizing Medicare and Social Security, and individuals who are near to that process, would not see that effect. Now, I think when it comes to mandatory spending and here we get in to the utilization of different words-" HALL: "But can you answer, you said you don't agree with Donald Trump regarding an increase in the minimum wage--" BLACKBURN: "I haven't talked to him about it. I haven't had a conversation with him." [MSNBC Live, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

MSNBC: When Asked If She Supported Trump's Proposal To Raise Taxes On The Wealthiest, Marsha Blackburn Said "I Haven't Looked At His Tax Plan." HALL: "Donald Trump said this week that he would be in favor of increasing taxes on the wealthiest. Do you support at least the initial proposal idea floated out there?" BLACKBURN: "Well, I haven't looked at his tax plan. I do know he has great people like Art Laffer helping work toward how we get America back on the road to prosperity, to use Speaker Ryan's term. And they are going to come forward with some things. I don't think anybody needs to be paying more tax. You can talk to anybody around and they will tell you we are not undertaxed. We are overtaxed and the federal government is overspent by trillions of dollars. We've got $19 trillion in debt." [MSNBC Live, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

Marsha Blackburn On Donald Trump: "He Has Great People Like Art Laffer Helping Work Toward How We Get America Back On The Road To Prosperity."  HALL: "Donald Trump said this week that he would be in favor of increasing taxes on the wealthiest. Do you support at least the initial proposal idea floated out there?" BLACKBURN: "Well, I haven't looked at his tax plan. I do know he has great people like Art Laffer helping work toward how we get America back on the road to prosperity, to use Speaker Ryan's term. And they are going to come forward with some things. I don't think anybody needs to be paying more tax. You can talk to anybody around and they will tell you we are not undertaxed. We are overtaxed and the federal government is overspent by trillions of dollars. We've got $19 trillion in debt." [MSNBC Live, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

Marsha Blackburn: "I Don't Think Anybody Needs To Be Paying More Tax."  HALL: "Donald Trump said this week that he would be in favor of increasing taxes on the wealthiest. Do you support at least the initial proposal idea floated out there?" BLACKBURN: "Well, I haven't looked at his tax plan. I do know he has great people like Art Laffer helping work toward how we get America back on the road to prosperity, to use Speaker Ryan's term. And they are going to come forward with some things. I don't think anybody needs to be paying more tax. You can talk to anybody around and they will tell you we are not undertaxed. We are overtaxed and the federal government is overspent by trillions of dollars. We've got $19 trillion in debt." [MSNBC Live, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

MSNBC: When Asked If She Supported Trump's Proposal To Raise Taxes On The Wealthiest, Marsha Blackburn Said "I Think His Comment There Was That He Was Talking About The Proposal That He Had Put Forward That Would Actually Reduce Taxes On Higher Income Earners." HALL: "So why do you think Donald Trump would at least be entertaining the idea of increasing taxes on the wealthiest?"  BLACKBURN: "I think his comment there was that he was talking about the proposal that he had put forward that would actually reduce taxes on higher income earners. But it would not be as low as what he had initially come forward with. He was open to negotiation there. But there again, I've not had a conversation with Mr. Trump so I can only tell you what I hear from my constituents and what people are telling me they want to see done. And I think that's the important thing right now. We're not going to have these debates about what the policy or the platform or the ten points we're going to campaign on, we're not going to hold those in the public arena. Those are things that members of the House and the Senate and the presidential campaign are going to work out. What we all need to do is listen to what the voters are saying and the voters are saying we need to tighten up on our national security. We need to make jobs and economic security a priority. And when it comes to retirement security, people need to know that the money the federal government has been taking out of their paychecks for Medicare and Social Security is going to be there. They are not going to have to worry about it."  [MSNBC Live, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

Marsha Blackburn: "We're Not Going To Have These Debates About What The Policy Or The Platform Or The Ten Points We're Going To Campaign On, We're Not Going To Hold Those In The Public Arena." HALL: "So why do you think Donald Trump would at least be entertaining the idea of increasing taxes on the wealthiest?"  BLACKBURN: "I think his comment there was that he was talking about the proposal that he had put forward that would actually reduce taxes on higher income earners. But it would not be as low as what he had initially come forward with. He was open to negotiation there. But there again, I've not had a conversation with Mr. Trump so I can only tell you what I hear from my constituents and what people are telling me they want to see done. And I think that's the important thing right now. We're not going to have these debates about what the policy or the platform or the ten points we're going to campaign on, we're not going to hold those in the public arena. Those are things that members of the House and the Senate and the presidential campaign are going to work out. What we all need to do is listen to what the voters are saying and the voters are saying we need to tighten up on our national security. We need to make jobs and economic security a priority. And when it comes to retirement security, people need to know that the money the federal government has been taking out of their paychecks for Medicare and Social Security is going to be there. They are not going to have to worry about it."  [MSNBC Live, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

Marsha Blackburn: "I've Known Mr. Trump For Several Years." HALL: "Congresswoman, let me ask you something. Donald Trump has said that what we've seen from his millions of voters and votes was a movement."  BLACKBURN: "Sure."  HALL: "This was a ground swell. So you agree with that, which makes me curious why at this stage in the game you don't know a lot about Donald Trump. You're saying you need to talk to him and you're trying to get to know him better. The voters in your party that you keep referring to seem to believe they know enough they went into the ballot to vote, they backed him." BLACKBURN: "Absolutely. That's right." HALL: "So I'm wondering about the curiosity. There seems to have not been curiosity about the person who has been leading in the votes for a very long time. Donald Trump did not happen overnight. So you have yourself and Speaker Ryan all trying to get to know him now. Why weren't you curious about some of the things he was saying before? Why the curiosity now?"  BLACKBURN: "No, I've known Mr. Trump for several years. I have been curious. I've known Mr. Trump for several years. I think what you're wanting -- you're asking for is pin down a specific policy. And I'm saying, let's give the House leadership-There are a lot of folks up here that don't know Mr. Trump as well as I have gotten to know Mr. Trump. I think he is going to be the next president of the United States and he would be an incredible President of the United States." [MSNBC Live, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

Marsha Blackburn On Donald Trump: "I Think He Is Going To Be The Next President Of The United States And He Would Be An Incredible President Of The United States." HALL: "Congresswoman, let me ask you something. Donald Trump has said that what we've seen from his millions of voters and votes was a movement."  BLACKBURN: "Sure."  HALL: "This was a ground swell. So you agree with that, which makes me curious why at this stage in the game you don't know a lot about Donald Trump. You're saying you need to talk to him and you're trying to get to know him better. The voters in your party that you keep referring to seem to believe they know enough they went into the ballot to vote, they backed him." BLACKBURN: "Absolutely. That's right." HALL: "So I'm wondering about the curiosity. There seems to have not been curiosity about the person who has been leading in the votes for a very long time. Donald Trump did not happen overnight. So you have yourself and Speaker Ryan all trying to get to know him now. Why weren't you curious about some of the things he was saying before? Why the curiosity now?"  BLACKBURN: "No, I've known Mr. Trump for several years. I have been curious. I've known Mr. Trump for several years. I think what you're wanting -- you're asking for is pin down a specific policy. And I'm saying, let's give the House leadership-There are a lot of folks up here that don't know Mr. Trump as well as I have gotten to know Mr. Trump. I think he is going to be the next president of the United States and he would be an incredible President of the United States." [MSNBC Live, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

Marsha Blackburn On Why Republicans Were Not Familiar Enough With Donald Trump: "Bear In Mind, He Has Not Been In The Halls Of Congress. He Has Been Out Running Companies." HALL: "But Congresswoman, with all due respect you're saying they don't know him as well as you know him but a few minutes ago you said you still need to get to know him and sit down and talk to him. Which is it? You either are familiar with his policies and where he stands -" BLACKBURN: "No, that is not what I said, and you know that, I said that let's give he and Speaker Ryan -- they've had a good statement. They are going to develop these policies, it is going to be a great campaign in the fall. Mr. Trump has wonderful people working with him and they are working very quickly. Bear in mind, he has not been in the halls of Congress. He has been out running companies -" HALL: "He has been on the campaign trail for months speaking to your base." BLACKBURN: "I have said and told you, we're going to have an outsider campaign, your people are looking for outsiders because they are sick of things not being done in Washington, D.C. And they want those things done. Let's give them time to bring forward what their platforms are going to be. Let's give the RNC time to put forward-" HALL: "But it sounds like things he's brought forward are not things that Paul Ryan wants to see for your party."  [MSNBC Live, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

Minimum Wage

May 2016: Marsha Blackburn Opposed Raising The Minimum Wage. HALL: "So you mentioned jobs and economic security. Donald Trump says he would be open to a minimum wage increase. Do you support that?"  "I don't. I think this is something you look at the states and let the states handle this. It's a better handle that way. I think the other thing to interject into this, Tamron, I think you and I maybe talked about this one time, is having a training wage. When you talk to moms that have teenagers in their household, this is something that they will bring up, that there needs to be that entry or that training wage. So all of these policies are going to evolve as we go through. You're going to see an agenda. I think the fall campaign is going to be one of the most exciting that we've ever had." [MSNBC Live, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

MSNBC: When Asked If She Supported Donald Trump's Talk About Raising The Minimum Wage, Marsha Blackburn Said "I Don't." HALL: "So you mentioned jobs and economic security. Donald Trump says he would be open to a minimum wage increase. Do you support that?"  "I don't. I think this is something you look at the states and let the states handle this. It's a better handle that way. I think the other thing to interject into this, Tamron, I think you and I maybe talked about this one time, is having a training wage. When you talk to moms that have teenagers in their household, this is something that they will bring up, that there needs to be that entry or that training wage. So all of these policies are going to evolve as we go through. You're going to see an agenda. I think the fall campaign is going to be one of the most exciting that we've ever had." [MSNBC Live, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

MSNBC: Marsha Blackburn Wanted A "Training Wage" For Teenagers. HALL: "So you mentioned jobs and economic security. Donald Trump says he would be open to a minimum wage increase. Do you support that?"  "I don't. I think this is something you look at the states and let the states handle this. It's a better handle that way. I think the other thing to interject into this, Tamron, I think you and I maybe talked about this one time, is having a training wage. When you talk to moms that have teenagers in their household, this is something that they will bring up, that there needs to be that entry or that training wage. So all of these policies are going to evolve as we go through. You're going to see an agenda. I think the fall campaign is going to be one of the most exciting that we've ever had." [MSNBC Live, MSNBC, 5/12/16]

CHRIS CHRISTIE

Christie Veto of "Heat and Eat"

Star-Ledger Editorial Headline: "Christie Denies Food To Hungry, Over Bogus Fraud Concern." [Editorial, Star-Ledger, 5/13/16<http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2016/05/christie_denies_food_to_hungry_over_bogus_fraud_co.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter>]

Star-Ledger Editorial: In 2016, Chris Christie Gave A Home Heating Assistance Program A Conditional Veto. "Before Chris Christie gets busy planning the Trump administration, he's given the most vulnerable people in New Jersey one last kick in the teeth. This was his conditional veto of a program known as Heat and Eat." [Editorial, Star-Ledger, 5/13/16<http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2016/05/christie_denies_food_to_hungry_over_bogus_fraud_co.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter>]

Star-Ledger Editorial: "Before Chris Christie Gets Busy Planning The Trump Administration, He's Given The Most Vulnerable People In New Jersey One Last Kick In The Teeth. This Was His Conditional Veto Of A Program Known As Heat And Eat." "Before Chris Christie gets busy planning the Trump administration, he's given the most vulnerable people in New Jersey one last kick in the teeth. This was his conditional veto of a program known as Heat and Eat. First, some history: For years, states like ours have given the poor a small amount of heating assistance in order to boost the total amount of food stamps they get from the federal government. The premise was simple. People who struggle to put food on the table also struggle to heat their homes - and shouldn't have to choose between the two... Twelve other states stood up for their most vulnerable; instead of allowing such a cut, they increased the heating allowance by using federal or state energy funds. But not our governor. Last year, he refused pay $3.2 million to bring in $137 million in federal food assistance to 160,000 low-income households - even though he probably could have used all federal dollars." [Editorial, Star-Ledger, 5/13/16<http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2016/05/christie_denies_food_to_hungry_over_bogus_fraud_co.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter>]

Star-Ledger Editorial: "Twelve Other States Stood Up For Their Most Vulnerable; Instead Of Allowing [Congress To Cut Assistance], They Increased The Heating Allowance By Using Federal Or State Energy Funds. But Not Our Governor." "The premise was simple. People who struggle to put food on the table also struggle to heat their homes - and shouldn't have to choose between the two. But House Republicans called that gaming the system. They wanted to spend less to feed the poor, so increased what states would have to pay to qualify people for federal food stamps. Unless you receive at least $21 in heating aid, your monthly food stamps would be cut by $90. Now, enter Chris Christie. Twelve other states stood up for their most vulnerable; instead of allowing such a cut, they increased the heating allowance by using federal or state energy funds. But not our governor." [Editorial, Star-Ledger, 5/13/16<http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2016/05/christie_denies_food_to_hungry_over_bogus_fraud_co.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter>]

Star-Ledger Editorial: In 2015, Chris Christie "Refused Pay $3.2 Million To Bring In $137 Million In Federal Food Assistance To 160,000 Low-Income Households - Even Though He Probably Could Have Used All Federal Dollars." "Now, enter Chris Christie. Twelve other states stood up for their most vulnerable; instead of allowing such a cut, they increased the heating allowance by using federal or state energy funds. But not our governor. Last year, he refused pay $3.2 million to bring in $137 million in federal food assistance to 160,000 low-income households - even though he probably could have used all federal dollars." [Editorial, Star-Ledger, 5/13/16<http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2016/05/christie_denies_food_to_hungry_over_bogus_fraud_co.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter>]

Star-Ledger Editorial: "Christie Said The State Will Increase The Heating Allowance Only For Poor People Who Have Documented Their Energy Expenses." "Then, last week, he said he'd come up with a compromise to allow some poor people to escape these cuts. Just one catch: advocates say virtually none would qualify. Christie said the state will increase the heating allowance only for poor people who have documented their energy expenses. If you can't find a receipt, or an absentee landlord didn't give you a letter, you're flat out of luck, grandma." [Editorial, Star-Ledger, 5/13/16<http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2016/05/christie_denies_food_to_hungry_over_bogus_fraud_co.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter>]

  *   Star-Ledger Editorial: "Advocates Say Virtually None Would Qualify" If They Were Expected To Produce Documentation Of Their Heating Costs. "Then, last week, he said he'd come up with a compromise to allow some poor people to escape these cuts. Just one catch: advocates say virtually none would qualify. Christie said the state will increase the heating allowance only for poor people who have documented their energy expenses. If you can't find a receipt, or an absentee landlord didn't give you a letter, you're flat out of luck, grandma." [Editorial, Star-Ledger, 5/13/16<http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2016/05/christie_denies_food_to_hungry_over_bogus_fraud_co.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter>]

Star-Ledger Editorial: Chris Christie "Insists He Is No Enemy Of The Poor, But His Actions Tell Another Story." "Imagine a retiree trying to live on $11,880 annually, or a single mother trying to raise two kids on $20,160. That's the threshold to qualify for food stamps. These people should get more based on the high cost of living alone in this state. Instead, Christie is nickel and diming them. Our governor insists he is no enemy of the poor, but his actions tell another story. He vetoed a minimum wage hike, abandoned affordable housing efforts and tried to grab the dedicated funds, hiked commuter fares and abruptly began cutting off housing aid for the poor and people with disabilities." [Editorial, Star-Ledger, 5/13/16<http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2016/05/christie_denies_food_to_hungry_over_bogus_fraud_co.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter>]

  *   Star-Ledger Editorial: Chris Christie "Vetoed A Minimum Wage Hike, Abandoned Affordable Housing Efforts And Tried To Grab The Dedicated Funds, Hiked Commuter Fares And Abruptly Began Cutting Off Housing Aid For The Poor And People With Disabilities." "Imagine a retiree trying to live on $11,880 annually, or a single mother trying to raise two kids on $20,160. That's the threshold to qualify for food stamps. These people should get more based on the high cost of living alone in this state. Instead, Christie is nickel and diming them. Our governor insists he is no enemy of the poor, but his actions tell another story. He vetoed a minimum wage hike, abandoned affordable housing efforts and tried to grab the dedicated funds, hiked commuter fares and abruptly began cutting off housing aid for the poor and people with disabilities." [Editorial, Star-Ledger, 5/13/16<http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2016/05/christie_denies_food_to_hungry_over_bogus_fraud_co.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter>]

Bridgegate

The Record: Christie Himself Has Not Been Charged Or Found To Have Had Any Knowledge Of The Alleged Crimes [Related To Bridgegate]. "Christie himself has not been charged or found to have had any knowledge of the alleged crimes. He has said he had no involvement in the scheme and that it was carried out by rogues without his knowledge or direction." [The Record, 5/12/16<http://www.northjersey.com/news/gwb-scandal-co-conspirators-names-due-today-but-11th-hour-objection-seeks-to-block-release-1.1578040>]

The Record: Chris Christie "Has Said He Had No Involvement In The [Bridgegate] Scheme And That It Was Carried Out By Rogues Without His Knowledge Or Direction." "Christie himself has not been charged or found to have had any knowledge of the alleged crimes. He has said he had no involvement in the scheme and that it was carried out by rogues without his knowledge or direction." [The Record, 5/12/16<http://www.northjersey.com/news/gwb-scandal-co-conspirators-names-due-today-but-11th-hour-objection-seeks-to-block-release-1.1578040>]

BOB CORKER

SFRC

Bob Corker Said The Foreign Relations Committee Should Be Able Focus On Long Term Issues. "U.S. Senator Bob Corker (R-Tenn.), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, convened a hearing today to examine America's role in the world in 2016 and beyond. The committee heard testimony from former Secretary of State James Baker and former National Security Advisor Tom Donilon. 'I don't think this hearing could come at a better time when the nation's beginning more fully to focus on our place in the world,' said Corker. 'The Senate Foreign Relations Committee...should be a place where we...are able to have some distance and look at some long-range issues that we need to deal with and just where we're going to be in the world.' Acknowledging concerns of Americans who believe the U.S. is doing too much abroad, Corker sought the perspective of the witnesses on how the U.S. should address current crises overseas, the most effective use of American power internationally, and the threat posed by the nation's indebtedness." [Press Release, Office Of Senator Corker, 5/12/16<http://www.corker.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-list?ID=DD9D6044-6F5B-4126-A0A9-D88F9115FF53>]

Former Secretary Of State James Baker Applauded Bob Corker's Chairmanship Of The Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Regarding the role of Congress, [Former Secretary Of State James] Baker pointed to the importance of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in the conduct of U.S. foreign affairs. 'Chairman Corker has moved this committee back to the role that it played when J. William Fulbright and others chaired it, and I think that's good,' said Baker. 'And I think Chairman Corker and Ranking Member [Ben] Cardin are taking it back to what it used to be, and I'm delighted to see that.'" [Press Release, Office Of Senator Corker, 5/12/16<http://www.corker.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-list?ID=DD9D6044-6F5B-4126-A0A9-D88F9115FF53>]

Trump

Japan Times: James Baker Said The World "Would Be Far Less Stable" With A Weaker NATO, As Proposed By Donald Trump.

Under questioning from Republican Sen. Marco Rubio, a former Trump rival in the presidential race, Baker said the world "would be far less stable" with a weaker NATO or if more countries had nuclear weapons as has been proposed by Trump. 'We've a got a lot of problems today, but we'd have a hell of a lot more if that were the case,' Baker told a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing, adding that U.S. commitments around the world 'promote U.S. security.' The hearing, on 'America's Role in the World,' was called by the committee's Republican chairman, Sen. Bob Corker. Corker praised a foreign policy speech Trump gave in Washington last month. Some U.S. allies worried after Trump's remarks that his invocation of an 'America first' agenda is a threat to retreat from the world." [Japan Times, 5/13/16<http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2016/05/13/world/politics-diplomacy-world/james-baker-trump-presidency-make-world-far-less-stable/#.VzXoEIQrJQI>]

HEADLINE: "Corker Would Give Trump A Boost" [Clint Cooper, Chattanooga Times Free Press, 5/15/16]

Prior To Tennessee's Republican Presidential Primary, Bob Corker Said That Voters Were Looking For A Record Of Accomplishment, Listing Academics, Medicine And Business As Areas For Success. "One day before Tennessee's presidential primary in March, Sen. Bob Corker didn't take the opportunity to do what so many in his Republican Party had done and lambaste the presidential candidacy of businessman Donald Trump. He didn't praise him, either, while speaking to a small gathering of reporters and editors in the University Center at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. But he seemed to acknowledge that the New York real estate magnate had just as much business in the race as anyone else. 'What people are looking for,' said Corker, who did not endorse a candidate in the primary, 'is a record of accomplishment and success, whether that's someone outstanding in classroom, whether that's a physician, whether that's a business person.' Trump certainly has that record." [Clint Cooper, Chattanooga Times Free Press, 5/15/16]

Chattanooga Times Free Press's Clint Cooper: Donald Trump "Would Signal His Seriousness As A Candidate" If He Were To Select Bob Corker Vice President Or Secretary Of State. "Corker is being mentioned as a possibility to run as vice president on a ticket with Trump, the presumptive nominee. The chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee also is being rumored as a potential secretary of state in a theoretical Trump cabinet. We believe the Republican nominee, assuming it's the New York businessman, would signal his seriousness as a candidate if he were to tab the former Chattanooga mayor as his running mate or say he would be his pick as the nation's top diplomat.

Whether Corker would be willing to fill such a role may be known only by Corker." [Clint Cooper, Chattanooga Times Free Press, 5/15/16]

Chattanooga Times Free Press's Clint Cooper: "There Is Little Downside To Corker Being Willing To Serve In A Potential Trump Administration." "At this point in his career, there is little downside to Corker being willing to serve in a potential Trump administration. Were the ticket to win, Corker -- who has made little effort to hide his disappointment in the Senate's inability to act responsibly -- would be able to put to even better use the knowledge he has gained as Foreign Relations Committee chairman. During his tenure as chairman and even before, he has made numerous trips abroad in order to steep himself in the inner-workings of foreign policy and has an encyclopedic knowledge of it. And if the presumptive nominee is smart, he will line up other possible cabinet members, literally putting together a 'dream team,' in order to blunt his perceived lack of readiness for the office. Were Corker, now 63, to be selected as vice president and the ticket to lose, he could continue to serve out his second term in the Senate. He next faces re-election in 2018. If he desires to run again in 2018, he would only be 74 at the end of that subsequent term, younger than Tennessee's senior senator, Lamar Alexander, is now." [Clint Cooper, Chattanooga Times Free Press, 5/15/16]

HEADLINE: "Editorial: If Trump Asks, Corker Will Surely Say No." [Editorial, Commercial Appeal, 5/13/16<http://www.commercialappeal.com/opinion/editorials/editorial-if-trump-asks-corker-will-surely-say-no-32a9872d-7d6e-1ade-e053-0100007f97e1-379295771.html>]

Commercial Appeal Editorial:  "There Is No Reason To Assume That Trump Will Be Our Next President, And Bob Corker Would Be Risking Too Much To Hit The Campaign Trail With Trump." "We endorse the selection of a running mate who might be able to offset some of Trump's excesses, someone with political acumen and an understanding of international affairs. Should Trump win in November, it would be somewhat reassuring to have a reasonable, rational, knowledgeable consultant at his side - if Trump chose to tap that resource. But at this point there is no reason to assume that Trump will be our next president, and Bob Corker would be risking too much to hit the campaign trail with Trump. He would be forced to defend the indefensible. His credibility would be in shambles. His future service to the people of Tennessee would be in jeopardy, and that's too high a price to pay." [Editorial, Commercial Appeal, 5/13/16<http://www.commercialappeal.com/opinion/editorials/editorial-if-trump-asks-corker-will-surely-say-no-32a9872d-7d6e-1ade-e053-0100007f97e1-379295771.html>]

Commercial Appeal Editorial: When Bob Corker Helped Donald Trump With Foreign Policy, It Was Because It Was The Honorable Thing To Do, Not Because Corker Was Angling To Be Trump's Running Mate. "Speculation about Bob Corker's chances of being paired with the all-but-certain GOP nominee were fueled by Corker's agreement to school Trump on foreign policy. But that was the honorable thing to do. As chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, he has much to offer in Trump's struggle to develop a coherent foreign policy platform, and he has not, like so many other high-ranking members of the GOP, harshly criticized the ill-informed and impulsive reality TV star and business mogul. God forbid, but Trump, as commander in chief of the U.S. military and leader of the free world, might actually wind up in a position to need Corker's help. But we like Corker and choose to assume the gesture was not in his own interest, but in the interest of his party and his country." [Editorial, Commercial Appeal, 5/13/16<http://www.commercialappeal.com/opinion/editorials/editorial-if-trump-asks-corker-will-surely-say-no-32a9872d-7d6e-1ade-e053-0100007f97e1-379295771.html>]

Commercial Appeal Editorial: If Bob Corker Chose To Run With Donald Trump, His Future Could Be "Dimmed By Close Association With A Candidate Who Shows Callous Disrespect For Women, Minorities, American Prisoners Of War And People With Disabilities." "Yes, Corker's future may be bright. But how much would it be dimmed by close association with a candidate [Donald Trump] who shows callous disrespect for women, minorities, American prisoners of war and people with disabilities, who endorses torturing terrorism suspects and murdering their family members, who encourages his followers to assault protesters, who bullies politicians who don't immediately step onto his bandwagon and whose positions on various cultural and economic issues are in a constant state of flux?" [Editorial, Commercial Appeal, 5/13/16<http://www.commercialappeal.com/opinion/editorials/editorial-if-trump-asks-corker-will-surely-say-no-32a9872d-7d6e-1ade-e053-0100007f97e1-379295771.html>]

Tennessee Politics

Commercial Appeal Editorial: Bob Corker Could Make A Fine Candidate For Higher Office Some Day. "This is not to say Corker wouldn't make a fine candidate for higher office some day. It's not to say that his service in the executive branch would not be splendid. We agree with Sen. Lamar Alexander's assessment that Corker 'would be great for our country in whatever capacity he chooses to serve.' But we are heartened by, and truly want to believe, the response he gave to The Commercial Appeal columnist Otis Sanford this week when he was asked about suggestions that he could wind up on the GOP ticket: 'I have no reason to believe,' he said, 'that that is even being considered.'" [Editorial, Commercial Appeal, 5/13/16<http://www.commercialappeal.com/opinion/editorials/editorial-if-trump-asks-corker-will-surely-say-no-32a9872d-7d6e-1ade-e053-0100007f97e1-379295771.html>]

Times Free Press: Bob Corker Said That The 2016 Cycle Was Not A Good Time For Him To Run For President, But "Maybe Someday" He Would Run. "Corker said after a recent Rotary Club speech in Chattanooga that he hasn't had any second thoughts about sitting what turned out to be a tumultuous Republican primary campaign in which Donald Trump has emerged as the presumptive nominee. 'I don't think this year was necessarily the year that a candidate such as myself was what the country was looking for,' said Corker, who is the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. 'I've never had a second thought about it,' he said. 'Maybe someday, but this year was not the right time for a person like me.'" [Times Free Press, 5/12/16<http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/politics/elections/story/2016/may/12/sen-bob-corker-has-no-regrets-about-sitting-out-presidential-race-bid-may-be-future/365360/>]

5/13/16: Bob Corker Was Scheduled To Speak At The Tennessee Republican Party's Statesmen Dinner.  [Nashville Public Radio, 5/13/16<http://nashvillepublicradio.org/post/hillary-clinton-not-trump-be-focus-tennessee-gops-statesmens-dinner#stream/0>]

Misc Social Media:

Bob Corker: "I Appreciate James Baker's Kind Words About Our Efforts To Restore The #SFRC's Important Role In Foreign Affairs. [VIDEO]" [@SenBobCorker, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/SenBobCorker/status/730866383924416512>]

Bob Corker: "I Was Honored To Speak At The @Rotary Congressional Reception Last Night About #EndPolio And The #EndSlaveryAct." [@SenBobCorker, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/SenBobCorker/status/730832811633037312>]

TOM COTTON

On Energy And Water Bill

The Energy And Water Appropriations Bill Passed While Tom Cotton's Amendment Banning Purchases Of Heavy Water From Iran Was Voted Down. "The Senate was poised on Wednesday to adopt its first appropriations bill for 2017 - a roughly $37.5 billion measure for energy and water programs, including $9.3 billion for nuclear weapons programs financed through the federal Energy Department...The energy and water measure, however, had hit a major snag in recent days because of a dispute over an amendment put forward by Senator Tom Cotton, Republican of Arkansas, seeking to bar the United States from buying heavy water, which is used in producing nuclear energy and nuclear weapons, from Iran...The dispute was ultimately resolved on Wednesday with Mr. Cotton's amendment failing on a procedural vote." [The New York Times, 5/12/16<http://www.nytimes.com/politics/first-draft/2016/05/12/senate-is-set-to-pass-a-37-5-billion-energy-appropriations-bill/?_r=0>]

Senator Lamar Alexander Argued For A "No" Vote On Tom Cotton's Amendment. "Senator Lamar Alexander, Republican of Tennessee, who is managing the floor debate on the bill, had urged a no vote on Mr. Cotton's amendment to avoid sinking the overall legislation. 'I don't believe it belongs on the bill,' Mr. Alexander said. 'I think it ought to be considered first by the Foreign Relations Committee, Armed Services and Intelligence Committees because it's filled with national security implications.'" [The New York Times, 5/12/16<http://www.nytimes.com/politics/first-draft/2016/05/12/senate-is-set-to-pass-a-37-5-billion-energy-appropriations-bill/?_r=0>]

The New York Times: "The White House Had Threatened To Veto The Bill If The Amendment Was Approved, And Senate Democrats Said Mr. Cotton's Proposal Would Undermine President Obama's Agreement With Iran To Limit That Country's Nuclear Program." [The New York Times, 5/12/16<http://www.nytimes.com/politics/first-draft/2016/05/12/senate-is-set-to-pass-a-37-5-billion-energy-appropriations-bill/?_r=0>]

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Tom Cotton Said His Amendment Applied Only To Future Purchases Of Heavy Water But The Administration Said "There Are No Current Plans For Further U.S. Purchases" "According to The Associated Press, President Barack Obama's administration bought 32 metric tons of heavy water from Tehran last month, an $8.6 million deal that helped Iran meet the nuclear agreement's terms. Cotton said his measure would restrict only future purchases. There are no current plans for further U.S. purchases, the administration said." [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 5/12/16]

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: "[Tom] Cotton Argued It Was Unwise To Give Millions Of Tax Dollars To A Nation That Poses A Threat To Global Security And Stability." [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 5/12/16]

Tom Cotton Said He Was Happy With The Bipartisan Vote On His Amendment And That The Issue Was On Record. "He thanked Alexander and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky 'for working with me to make sure that we have the Senate on record on this very important issue.' He blamed the delay on Democrats, saying they had tried to keep his amendment from being considered. Afterward, he expressed satisfaction that so many of his colleagues had sided with him on the vote. 'I'm pleased that a bipartisan majority of the Senate agrees that the U.S. taxpayer should not be subsidizing Iran's nuclear program. I'm disappointed that we didn't get the 60 votes needed to pass the legislation,' he said afterward." [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 5/12/16]

White House Spokesman Josh Ernest Criticized Tom Cotton's Amendment In A Press Conference In April And Tom Cotton Responded By Pointing Out That Josh Ernest Never Served In The Military. "When Cotton's amendment first attracted attention, White House spokesman Josh Earnest accused Cotton of trying to derail the Iran nuclear deal. During an April 27 news briefing, Earnest questioned Cotton's mastery of the subject. 'Sen. Cotton is certainly no expert when it comes to heavy water. I'm confident that he couldn't differentiate heavy water from sparkling water,' Earnest said. Cotton, a former Army infantry officer who completed combat missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, noted that the spokesman has never served in the armed forces. 'This chump thinks it's a laughing matter that American taxpayer dollars are subsidizing Iran's nuclear program. I don't think it's that funny. If he had ever been man enough to put on a uniform and go serve in combat and have to worry about dodging Iranian bombs, he might not be laughing so hard,' the Bronze Star recipient said. Cotton said the comment about military service applied to Earnest 'or for that matter pretty much any of the other "yes men" and "fan boys" the president has on his staff, as well as the president himself.' The White House did not respond to numerous emails, voice mails and text messages seeking a response to Cotton's criticisms." [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 5/12/16]

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Arkansas Democrats Called Tom Cotton's Comments "Inappropriate" "But a Democratic Party of Arkansas official said Cotton's comments were inappropriate. 'I respect Sen. Cotton and I respect his service to the country when he served in the armed forces, but Barack Obama is the commander in chief of the armed forces and should be respected as such,' said party spokesman H.L. Moody." [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 5/12/16]

Tom Cotton Said He Expects His Amendment To Be Brought Up In The House Defense Authorization Act. "On Wednesday, he said the amendment will be revived later this year. 'I'll look for appropriate legislation on which to offer this amendment again. I know the House of Representatives will consider the Defense Authorization Act and some allies there expect to offer the amendment then. We may do so in the Senate as well,' he said." [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 5/12/16]

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Tom Cotton Said The White House "Will Do Almost Anything To Keep Iran In This Nuclear Deal, Even If It Means Granting Additional Concessions." "On Wednesday, he repeated his criticism of the White House. 'They think Iran should be treated as a normal nation, that it should be allowed to share the Middle East with our allies there,' he said. 'They will do almost anything to keep Iran in this nuclear deal, even if it means granting additional concessions. That's why so many of our allies are so worried about our commitment to the region.'" [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 5/12/16]

The Energy And Water Bill Was Approved 90-8. "The Senate on Thursday approved a $37.5 billion measure to fund energy and water programs next year, the first of the 12 spending bills lawmakers must approve to keep the government operating. On a vote of 90-8, senators backed the legislation that would fund the Energy Department as well as infrastructure projects administered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Bureau of Reclamation. Spending on energy and water programs beginning Oct. 1 would increase by $355 million over current levels." [Washington Times, 5/12/16<http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2016/may/12/senate-approves-375b-measure-to-fund-energy-water/>]

Tom Cotton's Amendment Needed 60 Votes And Failed 57-42. "The Senate fell three votes short of the 60-vote threshold - 57-42 - to move ahead on the amendment sponsored by freshman Republican Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas. Cotton's proposed provision would have barred the United States from using taxpayer dollars to buy any more Iranian 'heavy water.'" [Houston Chronicle, 5/12/16<http://www.chron.com/news/politics/article/Senate-blocks-measure-to-forbid-buys-of-Iran-7461834.php>]

On House Of Representatives Lawsuit Against Obamacare

Office Of Senator Tom Cotton: "As This Case Continues To Make Its Away Through The Courts, I Will Fight In The Senate To Ensure Arkansans And All Americans Are Protected From The Worst Effects Of Obamacare." "Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today released the following statement on the Federal Court ruling that the Obama administration has been improperly funding an Obamacare subsidy program: 'It's little surprising that President Obama once again broke the law to force his will on the American people. Time and time again he's circumvented Congress and ignored the Constitution to uphold his liberal agenda. Obamacare is driving up healthcare costs and making health insurance more expensive. We need to repeal Obamacare and provide Americans with real healthcare reforms that actually lower costs. As this case continues to make its away through the courts, I will fight in the Senate to ensure Arkansans and all Americans are protected from the worst effects of Obamacare.'" [Press Release, Office Of Senator Tom Cotton, 5/12/16<http://www.cotton.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=384>]

On Financial Advisor Misconduct Letter With Elizabeth Warren

Tom Cotton And Elizabeth Warren Wrote A Letter To The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority To Asking About Steps Being Taken To Combat Financial Advisor Misconduct. "Arkansas Sen. Tom Cotton (R) is teaming up with an ideological rival to investigate a financial regulatory agency. Cotton and Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D, Massachusetts), a popular pro-consumer populist, co-authored a letter to the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) on Thursday, asking about the steps the regular is taking to address financial misconduct. The letter follows a recent study that found 'high rates of misconduct among advisors under FINRA's supervision,' according to a release from Cotton's office. 'Although the vast majority of professionals in the industry conduct themselves ethically, patterns of misconduct highlighted in the study are concerning,' Warren and Cotton wrote. The letter requests that the agency provide information about the steps it is taking to deal with misconduct." [4029 TV, 5/12/16<http://www.4029tv.com/news/cotton-teams-up-with-warren-to-raise-questions-about-financial-adviser-misconduct/39518336>]

On Ben Rhodes Being Called To Testify

WTOP: White House Spokesman Josh Earnest That Republican Lawmakers Like Tom Cotton Should Testify If Ben Rhodes Was Called To Testify About The "White House Narrative" On The Iran Deal. "The White House locked horns on Thursday with a House committee chairman over whether a senior aide should testify before Congress about his role in crafting President Barack Obama's public relations campaign in favor of the Iran nuclear deal. White House spokesman Josh Earnest did not rule out the possibility that deputy national security adviser Ben Rhodes would testify before the House oversight committee at a Tuesday hearing on 'White House narratives on the Iran deal.' But Earnest tried to brush off the request from Chairman Jason Chaffetz by casting the Utah Republican's hearing as political theater and challenging the GOP case against the agreement. 'I think there are some people who have some explaining to do when it comes to the wildly false accusations that they made about the Iran deal. And it's not the administration. It's Republicans who are demonstrably wrong when it comes to the Iran deal,' Earnest said, accusing several Republican lawmakers, including Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., of being 'wildly misinformed, mistaken or lying' when they made claims about the deal's economic benefits for Tehran." [WTOP, 5/12/16<http://wtop.com/dc/2016/05/white-house-defends-aide-fires-back-at-house-gop/>]

Washington Free Beacon: Josh Ernest Said That Tom Cotton Should Testify About Iran Because Of Tom Cotton's "Special Relationship With The Supreme Leader" "Earnest went on to name congressional members who either opposed the Iran deal or as the Earnest put it were "wrong or just lying." Earnest admitted he did not know the procedure for swearing in members of the Senate to participate in the hearing. He then went on to read what a few senators have said about the Iran deal. 'Sen. Tom Cotton, who I know has a special relationship with the supreme leader, so maybe he's got some interesting insight to the deal as well that he would like to share with the committee,' Earnest said referring to the letter that was sent to Iranian leaders and was signed by 47 Republican senators." [Washington Free Beacon, 5/12/16<http://freebeacon.com/national-security/white-house-angrily-reacts-request-rhodes-testify-iran-deal-deception/>]

Jason Chaffetz Said That Tom Cotton Would Testify If Ben Rhodes Would. "Chaffetz responded to Earnest on Twitter. 'Dear @PressSec , @SenTomCotton will testify if @rhodes44 is man enough to show. Let's discuss the truth,' he wrote." [WTOP, 5/12/16<http://wtop.com/dc/2016/05/white-house-defends-aide-fires-back-at-house-gop/>]

On Arkansan Of The Week

Office Of Senator Tom Cotton: "Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) this week recognized Mary Lorraine Wood Borman, of Fayetteville, Arkansas, as the first 'Arkansan of the Week'." "Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) this week recognized Mary Lorraine Wood Borman, of Fayetteville, Arkansas, as the first "Arkansan of the Week". Mary is one of Arkansas's Self-Advocate Ambassadors for the National Down Syndrome Society. You can find the full text of Senator Cotton's recognition on the Senate Floor below, or here. A video of Senator Cotton's remarks can be viewed here and downloaded here. I would like to honor Mary Lorraine Wood Borman, of Fayetteville, Arkansas as this week's 'Arkansan of the Week' for her commitment to the National Down Syndrome Society as a Self-Advocate Ambassador for the great state of Arkansas. Her advocacy to improve the quality of life for those living with down syndrome is noteworthy, and she is a joy and inspiration to many across the state. Outside of her work as an activist, Mary is an involved and multitalented Junior at Fayetteville High School in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Not only does she excel academically-as indicated by her track record as an honor roll student-but she's also a gifted athlete and has won awards in swimming events at the Arkansas State Special Olympic Games for three years. Mary is also a talented dancer and actress, specializing in hip-hop, jazz, and the waltz. I recently had the pleasure of meeting with Mary when she visited my Washington, D.C. office while in town for the Buddy Walk hosted each year by the National Down Syndrome Society. Because of Mary's advocacy and compelling reasoning, I co-sponsored the ABLE to Work Act of 2016 shortly after our meeting. This bill will help persons with disabilities save additional amounts in their ABLE accounts.  Mary has big dreams, and I am confident she will achieve them. I look forward to keeping track of her many accomplishments in the future. Arkansas is lucky to have someone like Mary Borman fighting to make our state a better place and I applaud her for her work. Her story is a testimony of the spirit of Arkansans, and I am certain it will inspire others to take action on causes they believe in." [Press Release, Office Of Senator Tom Cotton, 5/12/16<http://www.cotton.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=383>]

Social Media Action

Tom Cotton: "Feeling Is Mutual: Community Organizers, Failed Novelists, & Physical Cowards Are Good Material." [@TomCottonAR, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/TomCottonAR/status/730848813347438592>]

Tom Cotton: "+1" [@TomCottonAR, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/TomCottonAR/status/730904237954174982>]

Tom Cotton: "Proud To Announce Mary Borman From Fayetteville As The First #ArkansanOfTheWeek!" "Proud to announce Mary Borman from Fayetteville as the first #ArkansanOfTheWeek! Mary is a Self-Advocate Ambassador for the National Down Syndrome Society and an honors student. Thank you, Mary, for all you do for Arkansas! Watch my Senate floor speech honoring Mary here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GYeACjEswik" [Senator Tom Cotton, Facebook, 5/12/16<https://www.facebook.com/SenatorTomCotton/photos/a.139579716203572.28054.120355701459307/601439786684227/?type=3&theater>]

Tom Cotton: "Thinking Of Our Friend And Ally, Israel, On This 68th #IsraelIndependenceDay." [Senator Tom Cotton, Facebook, 5/12/16<https://www.facebook.com/SenatorTomCotton/photos/a.139579716203572.28054.120355701459307/601580620003477/?type=3&theater>]

Tom Cotton: "Time And Time Again He's Circumvented Congress And Ignored The Constitution To Uphold His Liberal Agenda. Obamacare Is Driving Up Healthcare Costs And Making Health Insurance More Expensive." "It's little surprising that President Obama once again broke the law to force his will on the American people. Time and time again he's circumvented Congress and ignored the Constitution to uphold his liberal agenda. Obamacare is driving up healthcare costs and making health insurance more expensive. We need to repeal Obamacare and provide Americans with real healthcare reforms that actually lower costs. As this case continues to make its away through the courts, I will fight in the Senate to ensure Arkansans and all Americans are protected from the worst effects of Obamacare." [Senator Tom Cotton, Facebook, 5/12/16<https://www.facebook.com/SenatorTomCotton/posts/601599093334963>]

Tom Cotton: "Proud To Announce Mary Borman From Fayetteville As The First #ArkansanOfTheWeek! http://ow.ly/eagZ3008GO5" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/730780724526190592>]

Tom Cotton: "Enjoyed Meeting With Members Of The Arkansas Emergency Nurses Association. Thanks For Stopping By!" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/730789764346052610>]

Tom Cotton: "Looking Forward To Running For A Great Cause! (And Retaining My Title For The Fourth Straight Year...)" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/730815520530960384>]

Tom Cotton: "Thinking Of Our Friend And Ally, Israel, On This 68th #IsraelIndependenceDay." [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/730828326718349313>]

Tom Cotton: "It's Little Surprising That POTUS Once Again Broke The Law To Force His Will On The American People #RepealObamacare http://ow.ly/hKqP30097DJ" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/730845798301339648>]

Tom Cotton: "Enjoyed Meeting With Members Of The @ArkRealtors Association. Thanks For Stopping By!" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/730847554531930112>]

Tom Cotton: "Yesterday @SenWarren And I Sent A Letter To FINRA Raising Our Concerns About Financial Advisor Misconduct. http://ow.ly/G5aj30092kX" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/730855101431156736>]

Tom Cotton: "I Will Fight In The Senate To Ensure Arkansans And All Americans Are Protected From The Worst Effects Of #Obamacare. http://ow.ly/Damo30098cT" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/730866417080410113>]

Tom Cotton: "Celebrate The @NatlParkService's 100th Birthday By Exploring All Of The National Parks In Arkansas!" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/730871448231923712>]

DOUG DUCEY

Pre-Emption

Associated Press: Doug Ducey Signed A Bill That "Sets Regulatory Standards, Permits Tax Collection And Blocks Cities From Banning Short-Term Rentals On Lodging Websites" Like Airbnb. "Arizona tourist destinations want restrictions on short-term rentals to keep quiet neighborhoods from becoming raucous hotels, but the state sees dollar signs from the increased tax revenue websites like Airbnb and VRBO help bring to the state. Gov. Doug Ducey weighed in Thursday, signing a proposal that sets regulatory standards, permits tax collection and blocks cities from banning short-term rentals on lodging websites. As cities like Chicago seek to clamp down on short-term rentals, Ducey's banking on a plan to build Arizona's reputation as a leader in the sharing economy - a term used to describe peer-to-peer based goods and services that also include Uber and Lyft. 'We are committed to doing everything we can to support 21st-century companies that employ Arizonans, advance the way we do business and improve the way we live,' Ducey said in a statement." [Associated Press, 5/12/16<http://ktar.com/story/1071848/ariz-gov-ducey-signs-bill-preventing-cities-from-banning-airbnb-short-term-rentals/>]

Capitol Media Services: Doug Ducey Signed A Bill That "Precludes Cities From Enacting Their Own Restrictions" On Drone Usage In Arizona. "Gov. Doug Ducey signed legislation Wednesday designed to say where people can and cannot fly their drones. A key provision of the measure precludes cities from enacting their own restrictions. Sen. John Kavanagh said companies like Amazon want to use drones for delivery. But he said that could be thwarted by a patchwork of local laws, like one in Paradise Valley that prohibits drones from flying over private property." [Capitol Media Services, 5/12/16<http://kjzz.org/content/305134/ducey-signs-new-drone-rules-law-where-you-can-and-cant-fly-them>]

AZ Supreme Court

Associated Press: Arizona Supreme Court Chief Justice Scott Bales Opposed A Bill To Expand The Court, Writing To Doug Ducey That "The Court's Caseload Doesn't Merit Expansion, Especially When The Legislature Has Underfunded Other Court Priorities." "Arizona's top judge is urging Gov. Doug Ducey to veto legislation adding two justices to the state Supreme Court. Chief Justice Scott Bales says in a letter to Ducey that the court's caseload doesn't merit expansion, especially when the Legislature has underfunded other court priorities. The Republican-controlled Legislature approved the $1 million-per-year expansion in the just-ended session. It awaits Ducey's signature or veto. The state budget Ducey signed this week ties pay increases for judges and probation department funding to the expansion. Bales and the other four justices opposed Republican Rep. J.D. Mesnard's expansion plan. But Bales agreed to it if the Legislature added $10 million in funding that included raises for judges statewide. Instead, lawmakers added a much smaller amount. Ducey would appoint the new members." [Associated Press, 5/13/16<http://www.dailyjournal.net/view/story/5d583920e2fa4b1cb6ed85efc783bc40/AZ--Supreme-Court-Adding-Justices>]

May 17 Election

Associated Press: Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich Rejected A "Request To Have Next Week's Special Election Postponed Because Hundreds Of Thousands Of Voters Didn't Receive Their Election Guides In Time." "A Chandler lawyer's request to have next week's special election postponed because hundreds of thousands of voters didn't receive their election guides in time was rejected Thursday by Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich. The state's top legal officer said it was clear Secretary of State Michele Reagan's office violated the law, but there was no legal remedy available. A frustrated Brnovich said cancelling the election would disenfranchise many more voters who have already cast early ballots than the more than 400,000 who didn't receive election publicity pamphlets." [Associated Press, 5/13/16<http://www.fox10phoenix.com/politics/140378623-story>]

Associated Press: In Response To A Request To Postpone The May 17 Special Election, Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich "Said It Was Clear Secretary Of State Michele Reagan's Office Violated The Law, But There Was No Legal Remedy Available." "A Chandler lawyer's request to have next week's special election postponed because hundreds of thousands of voters didn't receive their election guides in time was rejected Thursday by Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich. The state's top legal officer said it was clear Secretary of State Michele Reagan's office violated the law, but there was no legal remedy available. A frustrated Brnovich said cancelling the election would disenfranchise many more voters who have already cast early ballots than the more than 400,000 who didn't receive election publicity pamphlets." [Associated Press, 5/13/16<http://www.fox10phoenix.com/politics/140378623-story>]

Military Families

Doug Ducey: "Thank You To Rep. @Sonnyborrelli For Your Leadership On #HB2153 & Your Commitment To Supporting Our Fallen Military Heroes & Their Families." [@dougducey, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/dougducey/status/730810724591636480>]

Doug Ducey: "#AZ Will Do Everything We Can To Support Our Military & Their Families. #HB2153 Is A Small Token Of Our Gratitude." [@dougducey, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/dougducey/status/730809751513104384>]

Opioid Epidemic

Doug Ducey: "#HB2355 Allows Docs To Prescribe #Naloxone - Giving Families The Ability To Save A Loved One's Life." [@dougducey, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/dougducey/status/730800411112693760>]

Special Needs

Doug Ducey: "I Signed #HB2388, Developing A Program To Better Allow Individuals With Disabilities To Save For Their Future." [@dougducey, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/dougducey/status/730805312895094784>]

Doug Ducey: "Thanks To Rep. John Allen For His Hard Work On #HB2388 And His Compassion For Thousands Of Kids And Families Across #Arizona." [@dougducey, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/dougducey/status/730805883278528512>]

Israel

Doug Ducey: "#AZ Proudly Stands With #Israel Today As They Celebrate 68 Years Of Independence. #Yomhaatzmaut" [@dougducey, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/dougducey/status/730904281109291008>]

JONI ERNST

NDAA

Joni Ernst: "I Fought To Scale Back Washington's Runaway Spending By Offering Up An Amendment To Cut $200 Million In Duplicative, Wasteful Programs." "U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) today released the following statement after voting in favor of the Energy & Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act: 'I take seriously the responsibility Iowans have entrusted in me to make Washington more competent and less wasteful. That is why I fought to scale back Washington's runaway spending by offering up an amendment to cut $200 million in duplicative, wasteful programs. While this might not sound like a lot of money to some in Washington, in Iowa, we know these are dollars we simply cannot afford to waste.  'I also co-sponsored an amendment that would have scrapped the expanded definition of the Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule. This burdensome rule breeds uncertainty and confusion, while adding more red tape that threatens the livelihoods of many in Iowa and across the country. 'While I am disappointed my amendments were not adopted, this legislation includes critical provisions for our nuclear security programs, including weapons activities, naval reactors, and defense nuclear nonproliferation. Protecting our homeland from threats and ensuring our nation is fully prepared and equipped at all times must always be the top priority of the federal government. 'I am pleased that the Senate is working to take up spending bills in a very deliberate and transparent manner. I remain committed to identifying and cutting areas of waste, curbing reckless spending, and working to make our government run more effectively and efficiently.'" [Press Release, Office of Senator Ernst, 5/12/16<http://www.ernst.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=C0CE1ECA-946B-4F66-9931-F9A4512063C1>]

Joni Ernst: "I Also Co-Sponsored An Amendment That Would Have Scrapped The Expanded Definition Of The Waters Of The U.S. (WOTUS) Rule...[Which] Breeds Uncertainty And Confusion, While Adding More Red Tape That Threatens The Livelihoods Of Many In Iowa And Across The Country." "U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) today released the following statement after voting in favor of the Energy & Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act: 'I take seriously the responsibility Iowans have entrusted in me to make Washington more competent and less wasteful. That is why I fought to scale back Washington's runaway spending by offering up an amendment to cut $200 million in duplicative, wasteful programs. While this might not sound like a lot of money to some in Washington, in Iowa, we know these are dollars we simply cannot afford to waste.  'I also co-sponsored an amendment that would have scrapped the expanded definition of the Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule. This burdensome rule breeds uncertainty and confusion, while adding more red tape that threatens the livelihoods of many in Iowa and across the country. 'While I am disappointed my amendments were not adopted, this legislation includes critical provisions for our nuclear security programs, including weapons activities, naval reactors, and defense nuclear nonproliferation. Protecting our homeland from threats and ensuring our nation is fully prepared and equipped at all times must always be the top priority of the federal government. 'I am pleased that the Senate is working to take up spending bills in a very deliberate and transparent manner. I remain committed to identifying and cutting areas of waste, curbing reckless spending, and working to make our government run more effectively and efficiently.'" [Press Release, Office of Senator Ernst, 5/12/16<http://www.ernst.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=C0CE1ECA-946B-4F66-9931-F9A4512063C1>]

Joni Ernst: "Protecting Our Homeland From Threats And Ensuring Our Nation Is Fully Prepared And Equipped At All Times Must Always Be The Top Priority Of The Federal Government." "U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) today released the following statement after voting in favor of the Energy & Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act: 'I take seriously the responsibility Iowans have entrusted in me to make Washington more competent and less wasteful. That is why I fought to scale back Washington's runaway spending by offering up an amendment to cut $200 million in duplicative, wasteful programs. While this might not sound like a lot of money to some in Washington, in Iowa, we know these are dollars we simply cannot afford to waste.  'I also co-sponsored an amendment that would have scrapped the expanded definition of the Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule. This burdensome rule breeds uncertainty and confusion, while adding more red tape that threatens the livelihoods of many in Iowa and across the country. 'While I am disappointed my amendments were not adopted, this legislation includes critical provisions for our nuclear security programs, including weapons activities, naval reactors, and defense nuclear nonproliferation. Protecting our homeland from threats and ensuring our nation is fully prepared and equipped at all times must always be the top priority of the federal government. 'I am pleased that the Senate is working to take up spending bills in a very deliberate and transparent manner. I remain committed to identifying and cutting areas of waste, curbing reckless spending, and working to make our government run more effectively and efficiently.'" [Press Release, Office of Senator Ernst, 5/12/16<http://www.ernst.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=C0CE1ECA-946B-4F66-9931-F9A4512063C1>]

Office Of Senator Ernst: Joni Ernst Praised The NDAA Markup For Including Her Efforts Aimed At "Reforming Program Management Standards Across The DOD To Correct Widespread Deficiencies, Lax Oversight, And Unnecessary Cost Overrun Incurred By Preventable Delays In Meeting Stated Goals And Deadlines." "U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) today released the following statement after several of her measures were included in the Senate Armed Services Committee markup of the Fiscal Year 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The bill will now head to the Senate for further consideration. 'The FY 2017 National Defense Authorization Act continues to build on recent reforms that strengthen our national security and ensure success in potential future conflicts with technologically sophisticated adversaries. This NDAA includes priorities that drive innovation within the Department of Defense to build advanced weapon systems; make sure our men and women have access to the top equipment they need on the battlefield as well as the health care they deserve; improve U.S. capabilities to defeat ISIS and other terrorist groups; and protect our nation from ballistic missile systems. 'I am pleased that several of my provisions to encourage greater efficiency and fiscal restraint were adopted, including reforming program management standards across the DoD to correct widespread deficiencies, lax oversight, and unnecessary cost overrun incurred by preventable delays in meeting stated goals and deadlines. Additionally, my provision to modernize DoD policies to provide transportation and ridesharing companies like Uber access to military installations was adopted." [Press Release, Office of Senator Ernst, 5/12/16<http://www.ernst.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=EBDC3EE0-6614-48EE-9E06-708A749FED1E>]

Joni Ernst On The NDAA Markup: "My Provision To Modernize DOD Policies To Provide Transportation And Ridesharing Companies Like Uber Access To Military Installations Was Adopted."  "U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) today released the following statement after several of her measures were included in the Senate Armed Services Committee markup of the Fiscal Year 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The bill will now head to the Senate for further consideration. 'The FY 2017 National Defense Authorization Act continues to build on recent reforms that strengthen our national security and ensure success in potential future conflicts with technologically sophisticated adversaries. This NDAA includes priorities that drive innovation within the Department of Defense to build advanced weapon systems; make sure our men and women have access to the top equipment they need on the battlefield as well as the health care they deserve; improve U.S. capabilities to defeat ISIS and other terrorist groups; and protect our nation from ballistic missile systems. 'I am pleased that several of my provisions to encourage greater efficiency and fiscal restraint were adopted, including reforming program management standards across the DoD to correct widespread deficiencies, lax oversight, and unnecessary cost overrun incurred by preventable delays in meeting stated goals and deadlines. Additionally, my provision to modernize DoD policies to provide transportation and ridesharing companies like Uber access to military installations was adopted." [Press Release, Office of Senator Ernst, 5/12/16<http://www.ernst.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=EBDC3EE0-6614-48EE-9E06-708A749FED1E>]

Joni Ernst: "The FY17 NDAA Includes My Work To Prevent Retaliation Against Military Sexual Assault Survivors By Making It A Punishable Crime." "'Moreover, the FY17 NDAA includes my work to prevent retaliation against military sexual assault survivors by making it a punishable crime; ensure our military leaders set physical standards for our servicemembers instead of political appointees; mandate a report to Congress implementation of women into combat roles in the Army, Marines, and Special Operations; oversight language designed to improve military intelligence support to our warfighters through more effective spending of taxpayer dollars and eliminating unnecessary military headquarters overhead; and also create a career track for JAGs to specialize in criminal litigation for their entire careers to provide skilled counsel for our servicemembers.  As I have made clear, I am committed to working to change the culture surrounding sexual assault in the military, and focus on the overall prevention of sexual assault in order to stop this trauma in the first place. 'All of these powerful reforms included in NDAA are the product of a bipartisan effort on the Senate Armed Services Committee to put our nation on a strong path forward. I look forward to the continued discussion with my colleagues on the Senate floor in the time ahead.'" [Press Release, Office of Senator Ernst, 5/12/16<http://www.ernst.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=EBDC3EE0-6614-48EE-9E06-708A749FED1E>]

Joni Ernst: "The FY17 NDAA Includes My Work To...Ensure Our Military Leaders Set Physical Standards For Our Servicemembers Instead Of Political Appointees." "'Moreover, the FY17 NDAA includes my work to prevent retaliation against military sexual assault survivors by making it a punishable crime; ensure our military leaders set physical standards for our servicemembers instead of political appointees; mandate a report to Congress implementation of women into combat roles in the Army, Marines, and Special Operations; oversight language designed to improve military intelligence support to our warfighters through more effective spending of taxpayer dollars and eliminating unnecessary military headquarters overhead; and also create a career track for JAGs to specialize in criminal litigation for their entire careers to provide skilled counsel for our servicemembers.  As I have made clear, I am committed to working to change the culture surrounding sexual assault in the military, and focus on the overall prevention of sexual assault in order to stop this trauma in the first place. 'All of these powerful reforms included in NDAA are the product of a bipartisan effort on the Senate Armed Services Committee to put our nation on a strong path forward. I look forward to the continued discussion with my colleagues on the Senate floor in the time ahead.'" [Press Release, Office of Senator Ernst, 5/12/16<http://www.ernst.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=EBDC3EE0-6614-48EE-9E06-708A749FED1E>]

Joni Ernst: "The FY17 NDAA Includes My Work To... Mandate A Report To Congress Implementation Of Women Into Combat Roles In The Army, Marines, And Special Operations." "'Moreover, the FY17 NDAA includes my work to prevent retaliation against military sexual assault survivors by making it a punishable crime; ensure our military leaders set physical standards for our servicemembers instead of political appointees; mandate a report to Congress implementation of women into combat roles in the Army, Marines, and Special Operations; oversight language designed to improve military intelligence support to our warfighters through more effective spending of taxpayer dollars and eliminating unnecessary military headquarters overhead; and also create a career track for JAGs to specialize in criminal litigation for their entire careers to provide skilled counsel for our servicemembers.  As I have made clear, I am committed to working to change the culture surrounding sexual assault in the military, and focus on the overall prevention of sexual assault in order to stop this trauma in the first place. 'All of these powerful reforms included in NDAA are the product of a bipartisan effort on the Senate Armed Services Committee to put our nation on a strong path forward. I look forward to the continued discussion with my colleagues on the Senate floor in the time ahead.'" [Press Release, Office of Senator Ernst, 5/12/16<http://www.ernst.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=EBDC3EE0-6614-48EE-9E06-708A749FED1E>]

Joni Ernst: "The FY17 NDAA Includes My Work To...[Add] Oversight Language Designed To Improve Military Intelligence Support To Our Warfighters Through More Effective Spending Of Taxpayer Dollars And Eliminating Unnecessary Military Headquarters Overhead." "'Moreover, the FY17 NDAA includes my work to prevent retaliation against military sexual assault survivors by making it a punishable crime; ensure our military leaders set physical standards for our servicemembers instead of political appointees; mandate a report to Congress implementation of women into combat roles in the Army, Marines, and Special Operations; oversight language designed to improve military intelligence support to our warfighters through more effective spending of taxpayer dollars and eliminating unnecessary military headquarters overhead; and also create a career track for JAGs to specialize in criminal litigation for their entire careers to provide skilled counsel for our servicemembers.  As I have made clear, I am committed to working to change the culture surrounding sexual assault in the military, and focus on the overall prevention of sexual assault in order to stop this trauma in the first place. 'All of these powerful reforms included in NDAA are the product of a bipartisan effort on the Senate Armed Services Committee to put our nation on a strong path forward. I look forward to the continued discussion with my colleagues on the Senate floor in the time ahead.'" [Press Release, Office of Senator Ernst, 5/12/16<http://www.ernst.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=EBDC3EE0-6614-48EE-9E06-708A749FED1E>]

Joni Ernst: "The FY17 NDAA Includes My Work To...Create A Career Track For JAGs To Specialize In Criminal Litigation For Their Entire Careers To Provide Skilled Counsel For Our Servicemembers." "'Moreover, the FY17 NDAA includes my work to prevent retaliation against military sexual assault survivors by making it a punishable crime; ensure our military leaders set physical standards for our servicemembers instead of political appointees; mandate a report to Congress implementation of women into combat roles in the Army, Marines, and Special Operations; oversight language designed to improve military intelligence support to our warfighters through more effective spending of taxpayer dollars and eliminating unnecessary military headquarters overhead; and also create a career track for JAGs to specialize in criminal litigation for their entire careers to provide skilled counsel for our servicemembers.  As I have made clear, I am committed to working to change the culture surrounding sexual assault in the military, and focus on the overall prevention of sexual assault in order to stop this trauma in the first place. 'All of these powerful reforms included in NDAA are the product of a bipartisan effort on the Senate Armed Services Committee to put our nation on a strong path forward. I look forward to the continued discussion with my colleagues on the Senate floor in the time ahead.'" [Press Release, Office of Senator Ernst, 5/12/16<http://www.ernst.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=EBDC3EE0-6614-48EE-9E06-708A749FED1E>]

Joni Ernst: "I Am Committed To Working To Change The Culture Surrounding Sexual Assault In The Military, And Focus On The Overall Prevention Of Sexual Assault In Order To Stop This Trauma In The First Place." "'Moreover, the FY17 NDAA includes my work to prevent retaliation against military sexual assault survivors by making it a punishable crime; ensure our military leaders set physical standards for our servicemembers instead of political appointees; mandate a report to Congress implementation of women into combat roles in the Army, Marines, and Special Operations; oversight language designed to improve military intelligence support to our warfighters through more effective spending of taxpayer dollars and eliminating unnecessary military headquarters overhead; and also create a career track for JAGs to specialize in criminal litigation for their entire careers to provide skilled counsel for our servicemembers.  As I have made clear, I am committed to working to change the culture surrounding sexual assault in the military, and focus on the overall prevention of sexual assault in order to stop this trauma in the first place. 'All of these powerful reforms included in NDAA are the product of a bipartisan effort on the Senate Armed Services Committee to put our nation on a strong path forward. I look forward to the continued discussion with my colleagues on the Senate floor in the time ahead.'" [Press Release, Office of Senator Ernst, 5/12/16<http://www.ernst.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=EBDC3EE0-6614-48EE-9E06-708A749FED1E>]

Misc Social Media

Joni Ernst: "Do You Have Ideas Of Government Waste That You Think Should Be Cut? Email Me Here: Http://Www.Ernst.Senate.Gov/Public/Index.Cfm?P=Make-Em-Squeal-Email_2 ... #Makeemsqueal" [@SenJoniErnst, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/SenJoniErnst/status/730787049851240449>]

VA

Joni Ernst On The Department Of Veterans Affairs: "We Have To Have An Administration That's Willing To Do The Right Thing." "Ernst says she's disappointed with the V-A's handling of the matter. 'I have been critical of the V-A,' she said. 'I have been, and I will continue to be critical of the V-A. We have some wonderful doctors, some wonderful nurses that work for the V-A system. But, we have to have an administration that's willing to do the right thing. When they switched this system over, the way I understand, they had upgraded the phone system, but they didn't do a good check of it.' As a result, she says veterans were left hanging, because the system didn't work." [KMA News, 5/12/16<http://www.kmaland.com/news/ernst-disappointed-in-v-a-s-crisis-line-response/article_d3e7ad4e-185c-11e6-8707-3fb99a0ce526.html>]

KMA News: Joni Ernst Criticized An Unsuccessful VA Phone System Upgrade, Saying "Anytime A System Is Upgraded, There Should Be An Extensive Test, To Make Sure That No Veterans Are Left Hanging." "'I have been critical of the V-A,' she said. 'I have been, and I will continue to be critical of the V-A. We have some wonderful doctors, some wonderful nurses that work for the V-A system. But, we have to have an administration that's willing to do the right thing. When they switched this system over, the way I understand, they had upgraded the phone system, but they didn't do a good check of it.' As a result, she says veterans were left hanging, because the system didn't work. 'That should never, ever happen,' said Ernst. 'Anytime a system is upgraded, there should be an extensive test, to make sure that no veterans are left hanging.'" [KMA News, 5/12/16<http://www.kmaland.com/news/ernst-disappointed-in-v-a-s-crisis-line-response/article_d3e7ad4e-185c-11e6-8707-3fb99a0ce526.html>]

Joni Ernst On The Department Of Veterans Affairs: "We Really Have To Focus On The Processes, The Systems That We Have In The V-A. Are They Outdated? Do We Need To Modernize? How Can Make Access To Health Care Easier For These Veterans?" "The senator says the federal government must broaden veterans' access to health care--either mental health or regular medical care. 'We have great clinics out there who are supported by the V-A,' she said. 'That's a wonderful way to get out in the community. But, we really have to focus on the processes, the systems that we have in the V-A. Are they outdated? Do we need to modernize? How can make access to health care easier for these veterans?'" [KMA News, 5/12/16<http://www.kmaland.com/news/ernst-disappointed-in-v-a-s-crisis-line-response/article_d3e7ad4e-185c-11e6-8707-3fb99a0ce526.html>]

MARY FALLIN

On Morning Consult Poll Numbers

A Morning Consult Poll Found That Mary Fallin Was One Of The Most Unpopular Governors In The Country, With 42% Approval. "A recent survey revealed which states have the most popular governor, with Oklahoma being in the bottom ten. The Morning Consult reports that Governor Mary Fallin approval rate is at 42 percent with her disapproval rate at 47 percent." [KJRH, 5/12/16<http://www.kjrh.com/news/state/survey-mary-fallin-ranked-in-bottom-ten-for-governor-approval-rating>]

Fox 23: "Fallin Falls At Number 10 On The List Of Least Popular Governors With A Disapproval Rating Of 47 Percent And An Approval Rating Of 42 Percent." [Fox 23, 5/12/16<http://www.fox23.com/news/survey-names-mary-fallin-as-one-of-countrys-least-popular-governors/278998747>]

Mary Fallin Said That Her Low Poll Numbers Have To Do With The State Budget Crisis And The Slowdown In The Energy Industry. "'At times of fiscal crisis with the energy sector downturn, approval ratings of leaders such as governors usually fall,' Governor Fallin responded. 'I knew lower approval ratings were a consequence when I focused my State of the State address to lawmakers in February on the urgent need to improve the state's budgeting process. I proposed specific recommendations to capture recurring revenue to ensure that legislators can adequately fund priority goals related to education, public safety, health and more.' 'I remain focused on getting a budget agreement during these final days of session that protects education, health care and public safety. It will require hard work and important votes for lawmakers, and yes, for me, a dip in approval ratings. But it will be the right thing to do for future generations of Oklahomans,' Fallin said." [Fox 25, 5/12/16<http://okcfox.com/news/local/survey-mary-fallin-among-least-popular-governors>]

On Being Donald Trump's Vice President

East Aurora Bee: "Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin May Have The Inside Track, Should Trump Stick With The Concept Of Choosing An Experienced Politician For The Role Of The Person Who Would Be Only One Heartbeat Away From The Presidency." "Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin may have the inside track, should Trump stick with the concept of choosing an experienced politician for the role of the person who would be only one heartbeat away from the presidency. Trump praised the idea of Fallin as his running mate as 'great' advice last month, according to MSNBC. 'I think what he will do is he won't go with the norm that you pick a battleground state and you pick somebody from that state or a rival candidate,' South Carolina Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer told CNN on April 24. 'I think he needs some balance, and I like Mary Fallin for that reason.'" [East Aurora Bee, 5/12/16]

Daily Mail: "Trump Told Fox News He Was Considering Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin And Arizona Governor Jan Brewer." [Daily Mail, 5/12/16]

*         Donald Trump Said He Was Considering Jan Brewer And Mary Fallin. VAN SUSTEREN: "OK, a few more names -- any women in that group?"  TRUMP: "Actually, yes." VAN SUSTEREN: "OK, last night, Governor Jan Brewer said to me that she thought you ought to look at governor Mary Fallin of Oklahoma. Is she one of the women?" TRUMP: "Well, and also Jan. I mean, Jan Brewer has been fantastic. She has been so fantastic. You know, I won so big -- her territory and we won so big and she is a fabulous woman and I agree with you -- governor of Oklahoma, fabulous person." [Washington Post, 5/12/16]

On State Budget Crisis

Mary Fallin Was Sent A Bill From The State Legislature That Would Impose Sales Tax On Online Purchases. "The Oklahoma House gave final legislative passage Thursday to a bill that seeks to generate more sales tax revenue from online purchases. House Bill 2531, which passed 70-18, now will be considered by Gov. Mary Fallin... State business leaders welcomed the legislation. 'It's unfortunate that for years, Oklahoma retailers have suffered from a tax code that hasn't kept up with technology,' said Jonathan Buxton, the state Chamber's senior vice president of government affairs. 'We are happy that lawmakers are now leveling the playing field between Oklahoma retailers and their out-of-state competitors who currently don't have to charge sales tax. We encourage Gov. Fallin to sign this commonsense legislation.'" [The Oklahoman, 5/12/16<http://newsok.com/article/5497715>]

Associate Press: Mary Fallin Was Sent A Bill From The State Senate That Would "Eliminate $133 Million In Tax Rebates For Certain Oil And Gas Wells Considered "At Risk" Because They Produce Little Profit." "The Oklahoma Senate passed a bill that would eliminate $133 million in tax rebates for certain oil and gas wells considered 'at risk' because they produce little profit. The rebate allows producers of such wells to recoup nearly all of the taxes paid on production. The bill awaits Republican Gov. Mary Fallin's signature for final passage." [Associated Press, 5/13/16]

On "Guilty By Mental Defect" Bill

Associated Press: "Gov. Mary Fallin Has Signed Into Law A Bill Creating A New Criminal Defense Of Guilty But With Mental Defect." "Gov. Mary Fallin has signed into law a bill creating a new criminal defense of guilty but with mental defect.  The bill signed Thursday modifies the state's not guilty by reason of insanity defense. It prohibits anyone diagnosed with anti-social personality disorder who is found guilty but with a mental illness from using the not guilty by reason of insanity defense. Under the law, a plea of guilty with mental defect would result in the same sentence that could be imposed on anyone else convicted of the same crime. Those found guilty under the new law will be examined by the state Department of Mental Health. The new law goes into effect Nov. 1." [Associated Press, 5/12/16]

NEWT GINGRICH

Hillary Clinton

Newt Gingrich Criticized Hillary Clinton's Dedication To Pay Equality, Citing That Men Made More In Her Senate Office And In The Clinton Foundation. "During her time in the Senate, Clinton spoke about the issue frequently, even though, by the standards of measurement she wants to apply to others, she paid women just 72 cents on the dollar compared to men. That is to say, if you add up every dollar her office paid to women and every dollar paid to men, without regard to career experience, job responsibility, or life circumstances, she paid women only 72 percent of what she paid her male staffers on average...  the women senior executives at the Clinton Foundation made just 38 percent on average of what the Clintons paid male senior executives. That number, 38 percent, should stick with Clinton throughout the campaign. Every voter should be reminded of it every time Hillary accuses Republicans of defending "discrimination". If she wants to make pay equity a central issue of her campaign, she owes Americans an explanation of why there was such a disparity in the pay of senior executives at her own foundation." [Newt Gingrich, Washington Times, 5/12/16<http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2016/may/12/newt-gingrich-38-number-should-define-hillary-clin/>]

Trump Buzz

Newt Gingrich Responded To A Question About Being Donald Trump's Running Mate By Saying "Any Citizen Has An Obligation To Listen To A Potential President Of The United States And Then Decide What Is Your Patriotic Duty." "The discussion at Dentons on Thursday evening entitled, "Policy and Political Changes Emerging in the 2016 Presidential Campaign," followed news reports on Wednesday and Thursday that Gingrich may be asked to be Trump's vice presidential candidate. But Gingrich criticized those reports, calling them part of the "Kardashian era" of the news media.

When asked directly if he'd accept a vice president role from Trump, Gingrich said, 'Any citizen has an obligation to listen to a potential president of the United States and then decide what is your patriotic duty.'" [National Law Journal, 5/12/16<http://www.nationallawjournal.com/home/id=1202757574855/Cagey-on-Vice-Presidential-Bid-Gingrich-Says-SCOTUS-Vacancy-Could-Help-Trump?mcode=1202617074964&curindex=0&slreturn=20160413113838>]

Newt Gingrich Tied Hillary Clinton's Record On Equal Pay With Her Record With Wall Street. "After all, how can Hillary promise to "do everything she can" to impose her crude standards of equal pay on American businesses when she doesn't even apply them to women she personally employs? If the past is any guide, she'll do it the same way she runs against the influence of Wall Street billionaires while aggressively soliciting their money, the same way she touts her national security expertise after exposing our secrets to foreign governments through her private server, and the same way she advocates for stricter gun control while she personally has been protected by armed guards since 1983. With stunning hypocrisy." [Newt Gingrich, Washington Times, 5/12/16<http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2016/may/12/newt-gingrich-38-number-should-define-hillary-clin/>]

National Law Journal: Newt Gingrich Had "No Idea" If He Met His Own Qualifications For Vice-President. "Gingrich was asked what Trump should be looking for in a vice president candidate, and said he gives the same three pieces of advice to anyone. 'The person has to be capable of being president because they could be,' Gingrich said. 'They ought to be ideologically and in body chemistry compatible with the nominee because they have to spend a lot of time together. And they have to at least not hurt you.' A reporter asked, 'Are you those three things?' 'I have no idea,' he said." [National Law Journal, 5/12/16<http://www.nationallawjournal.com/home/id=1202757574855/Cagey-on-Vice-Presidential-Bid-Gingrich-Says-SCOTUS-Vacancy-Could-Help-Trump?mcode=1202617074964&curindex=0&slreturn=20160413113838>]

Newt Gingrich Said That Nominating A New Supreme Court Justice "May Be The Most Important Rallying Cry In Getting Conservatives To Decide They're For Trump." "Speaking at an event at the Dentons Chicago office on Thursday, Gingrich said he would expect anyone who joined Trump's ticket to make a major campaign issue out of the U.S. Supreme Court vacancy left by Justice Antonin Scalia's death. 'The issue of the court may be the most important rallying cry in getting conservatives to decide they're for Trump,' Gingrich said to reporters after the event. 'Because the notion of Hillary picking two or three or four Supreme Court justices would so radicalize the court.' The longtime Georgia representative who now works as a senior advisor at Dentons showed enthusiasm for Trump's candidacy while speaking alongside fellow Dentons advisor, former Vermont governor Howard Dean." [National Law Journal, 5/12/16<http://www.nationallawjournal.com/home/id=1202757574855/Cagey-on-Vice-Presidential-Bid-Gingrich-Says-SCOTUS-Vacancy-Could-Help-Trump?mcode=1202617074964&curindex=0&slreturn=20160413113838>]

Newt Gingrich Joked "Why Would I Want To Say No To The Circus? I Like Circuses" When Asked About Being Donald Trump's Running Mate. "Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich said Thursday he has not had any conversations with presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump about serving as his running mate and suggested it would be premature to rule it in or out because the spot hasn't been offered. 'You should never turn down an opportunity until it shows up,' said Gingrich, who appeared with former Vermont Democratic Gov. Howard Dean at the Willis Tower offices of the global law firm Dentons, where the two serve as senior advisers. Later, recounting Trump's unorthodox rise in the Republican primaries, Gingrich added: 'Why would I want to say no to the circus? I like circuses.'" [Chicago Tribune, 5/13/16]

Newt Gingrich Said That Donald Trump Would Appeal To Younger Voters "Partly Out Of Entertainment Value." "Gingrich credited Trump's use of social media and said it actually may appeal to younger voters in the fall 'partly out of entertainment value.' 'This is a culture in which, if one person is really boring and the other person is really amusing, the amusing person gains ground,' he said. The past two GOP presidential nominees, Arizona Sen. John McCain and former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, 'were stiff. They weren't fun' compared with Barack Obama, Gingrich said."  [Chicago Tribune, 5/13/16]

Misc. Social Media

Newt Gingrich: "Discussing What Founding Fathers Might Think Of Current Political Discourse Live On @facebook Now http://bit.ly/1ZN85oR" [@newtgingrich, Twitter, 5/13/16<https://twitter.com/newtgingrich/status/731143740052635648>]

Newt Gingrich: "Discussing Risk We'd Face On The Supreme Court If Hillary Becomes President Live On Facebook Now. Ask Me A Q Http://Bit.Ly/1ZN85oR" [@newtgingrich, Twitter, 5/13/16<https://twitter.com/newtgingrich/status/731142630902513665>]

Newt Gingrich: "Here We Go! Live On @Facebook Now. Ask Me A Question:  Http://Bit.Ly/1ZN85oR" [@newtgingrich, Twitter, 5/13/16<https://twitter.com/newtgingrich/status/731139868764569600>]

Newt Gingrich: "Will Be Live On @Facebook In A Few Minutes. You Can Start Submitting Q's Here: http://bit.ly/1VVLQPf"  [@newtgingrich, Twitter, 5/13/16<https://twitter.com/newtgingrich/status/731136527187599360>]

Newt Gingrich: "When You Walk By Your Speaker Portrait In The Capitol & Can't Help But Strike A Pose. #Tbt Https://Instagram.Com/P/Bfvjawatb-D/" [@newtgingrich, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/newtgingrich/status/730946097435291648>]

Newt Gingrich: "Great Visit To @Sierranevcorp This Week. Had Fun Learning About The #Sncdreamchaser." [@newtgingrich, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/newtgingrich/status/730846229995741184>]

JIM JORDAN

Ohio Politics

Jim Jordan Praised Delbert Latta After His Passing. "Delbert "Del" Latta, a member of the U.S. Congress for 30 years representing parts of 15 counties, including Putnam County, died Thursday. Latta, 96, served as a Republican 15 terms, representing Ohio's Fifth District from 1959 until his retirement in 1989... 'His legacy of honest, decent public service and his commitment to promoting civic involvement will forever be remembered,' U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Urbana, wrote on Facebook." [Lima Ohio, 5/12/16<https://limaohio.com/news/181159/former-u-s-rep-del-latta-dies>]

Trump

Jim Jordan Was Scheduled To Meet With Rick Dearborn, A Trump Ally And Jeff Sessions' Chief Of Staff. "Sen. Jeff Sessions' chief of staff Rick Dearborn - a close Trump ally - is expected to meet with Rep. Jim Jordan, chairman of a group of House conservatives known as Freedom Caucus, Friday morning to schedule a meeting between Trump and the group, Trump endorser Rep. Scott DesJarlais told BuzzFeed News." [Buzzfeed, 5/12/16<https://www.buzzfeed.com/tariniparti/donald-trump-and-republican-lawmakers-make-nice-for-now?utm_term=.ydLBp41Or#.rsYpjBnDm>]

Misc. Social Media

Jim Jordan: "Blanket Federal Policy May Tie Hands Of Those Who Want 2 Protect Kids Frm Dangerous Situations Arising Frm Schl Restroom/Lockerroom Guidance" [@Jim_Jordan, Twitter, 5/13/16<https://twitter.com/Jim_Jordan/status/731169586175971328>]

Jim Jordan: "Seems To Me That Parents, Teachers, School Administrators, School Boards Are Capable Of Handling Any Issue That Arises." [@Jim_Jordan, Twitter, 5/13/16<https://twitter.com/Jim_Jordan/status/731168634232553472>]

Jim Jordan: "There's No Need 4 Federal Restroom Policy Covering Every US School, Esp 1 That Comes W/ #Obama Admin Retaliation Threat 4 Failure 2 Comply." [@Jim_Jordan, Twitter, 5/13/16<https://twitter.com/Jim_Jordan/status/731168344662020096>]

Jim Jordan: "Of All The Schools And Businesses I've Visited In #OH04 Over The Years, Transgender Bathroom Policy Was Never Raised Once." [@Jim_Jordan, Twitter, 5/13/16<https://twitter.com/Jim_Jordan/status/731167571454623744>]

Jim Jordan Retweeted: "RT if you agree: The 4th Amendment also applies to your digital privacy rights. http://spkrryan.us/1WeM1pe" [@SpeakerRyan, Twitter, 5/13/16<https://twitter.com/SpeakerRyan/status/731143399043153920>]

Jim Jordan: "Thankfully, D.C. Court Acted According To Its Constitutional Duty Today And Ruled Against The Obama Administration" [@Jim_Jordan, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/Jim_Jordan/status/730858615670755328>]

Jim Jordan: "It's #Congress' Job 2 Write Laws/Appropriate Funds - It's #Potus' Job 2 Execute Laws - #Obama Admin Chose 2 Ignore Law, Spend As They Wanted" [@Jim_Jordan, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/Jim_Jordan/status/730858433608601600>]

Jim Jordan: "Obamacare Lawsuit:  House Republicans Win A Round Against tTe Obama Administration http://natl.re/FPjHYh Via @NRO" [@Jim_Jordan, Twitter, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/Jim_Jordan/status/730857066491940866>]

JEFF SESSIONS

Trump - Sessions' Pro-Trump Op-Ed in USA Today

Jeff Sessions: "This November Will Give Americans A Clear Choice On ... Whether We Remain A Nation-State That Serves Its Own People, Or Whether We Slide Irrevocably Toward A Soulless Globalism That Treats Humans As Interchangeable Widgets In The World Market." "For the first time in a long time, this November will give Americans a clear choice on perhaps the most important issue facing our country and our civilization: whether we remain a nation-state that serves its own people, or whether we slide irrevocably toward a soulless globalism that treats humans as interchangeable widgets in the world market." [Jeff Sessions, USA Today, 5/12/16<http://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/2016/05/12/donald-trump-hillary-clinton-jeff-sessions-editorials-debates/84298310/>]

Jeff Sessions: "Trump Has Said That Our Trade, Immigration And Foreign Policies Must Be Changed To Protect The Interests Of American Workers And Our Nation." "In Donald Trump, we have a forceful advocate for America. Trump has said that our trade, immigration and foreign policies must be changed to protect the interests of American workers and our nation." [Jeff Sessions, USA Today, 5/12/16<http://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/2016/05/12/donald-trump-hillary-clinton-jeff-sessions-editorials-debates/84298310/>]

Jeff Sessions: "Clinton Was An Ardent Supporter Of The Trans-Pacific Partnership - Which Surrenders American Sovereignty To An International Union Of 12 Countries - And Has Clearly Left The Door Wide Open To Enacting The Pact If Elected." "In Hillary Clinton, we have a committed globalist. Clinton was an ardent supporter of the Trans-Pacific Partnership - which surrenders American sovereignty to an international union of 12 countries - and has clearly left the door wide open to enacting the pact if elected." [Jeff Sessions, USA Today, 5/12/16<http://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/2016/05/12/donald-trump-hillary-clinton-jeff-sessions-editorials-debates/84298310/>]

Jeff Sessions: "There Is Only One Sure Way To Defeat The TPP, And That Is To Defeat Hillary Clinton." "In Hillary Clinton, we have a committed globalist. Clinton was an ardent supporter of the Trans-Pacific Partnership - which surrenders American sovereignty to an international union of 12 countries - and has clearly left the door wide open to enacting the pact if elected. There is only one sure way to defeat the TPP, and that is to defeat Hillary Clinton." [Jeff Sessions, USA Today, 5/12/16<http://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/2016/05/12/donald-trump-hillary-clinton-jeff-sessions-editorials-debates/84298310/>]

  *   Jeff Sessions: "Clinton's Immigration Platform Is The Most Radical In Our History. Freezing Deportations. Ending Detentions. Halting Enforcement. She'd Expand President Obama's Illegal Amnesty Decree, Effectively Creating Open Borders." "There is only one sure way to defeat the TPP, and that is to defeat Hillary Clinton. Meanwhile, Clinton's immigration platform is the most radical in our history. Freezing deportations. Ending detentions. Halting enforcement. She'd expand President Obama's illegal amnesty decree, effectively creating open borders." [Jeff Sessions, USA Today, 5/12/16<http://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/2016/05/12/donald-trump-hillary-clinton-jeff-sessions-editorials-debates/84298310/>]

  *   Jeff Sessions: "Clinton's Extremist Proposal Economically Targets Our Poor African-American And Hispanic Communities Whose Wages And Job Prospects Are Being Steadily Eroded By The Huge Influx Of New Foreign Workers." "There is only one sure way to defeat the TPP, and that is to defeat Hillary Clinton. Meanwhile, Clinton's immigration platform is the most radical in our history. Freezing deportations. Ending detentions. Halting enforcement. She'd expand President Obama's illegal amnesty decree, effectively creating open borders. Clinton's extremist proposal economically targets our poor African-American and Hispanic communities whose wages and job prospects are being steadily eroded by the huge influx of new foreign workers." [Jeff Sessions, USA Today, 5/12/16<http://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/2016/05/12/donald-trump-hillary-clinton-jeff-sessions-editorials-debates/84298310/>]

Jeff Sessions On Donald Trump's Priorities: "Repeal Obamacare; Nominate Constitutionalist Justices; Replace Obama's Radical Cabinet Appointments; Reduce Taxes And Regulations; Produce More American Energy; Rein In The Out-Of-Control EPA; And Cancel Obama's Illegal Amnesties." "Second, the divide between Trump and Clinton on the role of government could not be more stark. Consider just a few of the things President Trump would do after taking the oath: repeal Obamacare; nominate constitutionalist justices; replace Obama's radical Cabinet appointments; reduce taxes and regulations; produce more American energy; rein in the out-of-control EPA; and cancel Obama's illegal amnesties." [Jeff Sessions, USA Today, 5/12/16<http://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/2016/05/12/donald-trump-hillary-clinton-jeff-sessions-editorials-debates/84298310/>]

Trump - Other

BuzzFeed: According To Rep. Scott Desjarlais, "Sen. Jeff Sessions' Chief Of Staff Rick Dearborn - A Close Trump Ally - Is Expected To Meet With Rep. Jim Jordan, Chairman Of A Group Of House Conservatives Known As Freedom Caucus, Friday Morning To Schedule A Meeting Between Trump And The Group." "Sen. Jeff Sessions' chief of staff Rick Dearborn - a close Trump ally - is expected to meet with Rep. Jim Jordan, chairman of a group of House conservatives known as Freedom Caucus, Friday morning to schedule a meeting between Trump and the group, Trump endorser Rep. Scott DesJarlais told BuzzFeed News.

'There's going to be some growing pains, but I think the unity is going to happen,' DesJarlais said in an interview. 'I think Paul Ryan will ultimately endorse him. I think he supports him now. They're just trying to navigate some policy issues.'" [BuzzFeed, 5/12/16<https://www.buzzfeed.com/tariniparti/donald-trump-and-republican-lawmakers-make-nice-for-now?utm_term=.foBKGpqMy#.ral6Jka4v>]

CBS News: "Jeff Sessions ... [Has] Described [Donald] Trump As 'Intellectually Curious,' Even 'Unassuming.'" "Sen. Jeff Sessions, R-Alabama, was Trump's earliest endorser in the U.S. Senate, and he's described Trump as 'intellectually curious,' even 'unassuming.' 'I think he can win, and I believe he will,' Sessions told the Washington Post last month. 'He will need to continue to flesh out the details of his policies. But his instinctive response to Americans' current situation has been pretty darn good.'" [CBS News, 5/13/16<http://www.cbsnews.com/news/4-ways-republican-officeholders-are-reacting-to-donald-trump-election-2016/>]

Jeff Sessions On Donald Trump's Chances To Win The General Election: "I Think He Can Win, And I Believe He Will. He Will Need To Continue To Flesh Out The Details Of His Policies. But His Instinctive Response To Americans' Current Situation Has Been Pretty Darn Good." "Sen. Jeff Sessions, R-Alabama, was Trump's earliest endorser in the U.S. Senate, and he's described Trump as 'intellectually curious,' even 'unassuming.' 'I think he can win, and I believe he will,' Sessions told the Washington Post last month. 'He will need to continue to flesh out the details of his policies. But his instinctive response to Americans' current situation has been pretty darn good.'" [CBS News, 5/13/16<http://www.cbsnews.com/news/4-ways-republican-officeholders-are-reacting-to-donald-trump-election-2016/>]

Jeff Sessions: "The Elites Have Become International And They've Ceased To Have A Primary Loyalty To The Nation-State." "'The elites have become international and they've ceased to have a primary loyalty to the nation-state,' Mr. Sessions said. 'Republicans and Democrats do their fundraising cycles, and they go to Manhattan and they have their cocktails and they hear the whining of some billionaire and ask him for money.'" [Wall Street Journal, 5/13/16<http://blogs.wsj.com/washwire/2016/05/13/why-six-congressional-republicans-were-early-adopters-of-trump/>]

  *   Jeff Sessions: "Republicans And Democrats Do Their Fundraising Cycles, And They Go To Manhattan And They Have Their Cocktails And They Hear The Whining Of Some Billionaire And Ask Him For Money." "'The elites have become international and they've ceased to have a primary loyalty to the nation-state,' Mr. Sessions said. 'Republicans and Democrats do their fundraising cycles, and they go to Manhattan and they have their cocktails and they hear the whining of some billionaire and ask him for money.'" [Wall Street Journal, 5/13/16<http://blogs.wsj.com/washwire/2016/05/13/why-six-congressional-republicans-were-early-adopters-of-trump/>]

  *   Jeff Sessions: "There's A Hunger By The American People For Somebody That Listens To Them." "'The elites have become international and they've ceased to have a primary loyalty to the nation-state,' Mr. Sessions said. 'Republicans and Democrats do their fundraising cycles, and they go to Manhattan and they have their cocktails and they hear the whining of some billionaire and ask him for money.' Policy-wise, he shares the same views as Mr. Trump on immigration and trade. Speaking at a recent breakfast hosted by my organization, the senator declared, 'There's a hunger by the American people for somebody that listens to them. We promise that these trade agreements are going to be great, promise we will fix immigration, but 30 years, and it has not happened. People have a right to be mad.'" [Wall Street Journal, 5/13/16<http://blogs.wsj.com/washwire/2016/05/13/why-six-congressional-republicans-were-early-adopters-of-trump/>]

Misc.

Jeff Sessions On The Sentencing Reform And Corrections Act Of 2015: "We're Not Having An Honest Discussion Here. That's My Biggest Problem With This Bill." "Milwaukee County Sheriff David Clarke scorched the bipartisan privileged authors and backers of the Sentencing Reform and Corrections Act for creating a 'criminal friendly' bill, based on lies and likely to create more crime victims. 'We're not having an honest discussion here. That's my biggest problem with this bill,' he said at a Capitol Hill press conference organized by Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions, a leading opponent of the sentencing reform bill 'As I look around the room, I'll venture a guess that not many of you have an experience of being victimized by violent crime or live anywhere near it,' he told the assembled D.C. reporters Wednesday." [Breitbart, 5/12/16<http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2016/05/12/sentencing-reform-prison-sheriff-david-clarke/>]

Jeff Sessions On Hillary Clinton's Performance In The Democratic Primary: "That Says More About Hillary Clinton. She's Still Losing Primaries, Even A Mainstream State Like Indiana." "Some Sanders critics say his enduring popularity reflects more on Mrs. Clinton's flaws than on his own virtues. The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the former Secretary of State's use of a private email server to conduct official State Department business. 'That says more about Hillary Clinton,' said Sen. Jeff Sessions (R., Ala.), who has endorsed Mr. Trump. 'She's still losing primaries, even a mainstream state like Indiana.'" [Wall Street Journal, 5/12/16<http://www.wsj.com/articles/bernie-sanderss-staying-power-in-presidential-race-surprises-senators-1463096156>]

Jeff Sessions Voted No On The 2016 Energy And Water Development Appropriations Bill. [H.R.2028, Vote 71, 114th Congress, 5/12/16<http://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_lists/roll_call_vote_cfm.cfm?&congress=114&session=2&vote=00071>]

Jeff Sessions: "We Promise That These Trade Agreements Are Going To Be Great, Promise We Will Fix Immigration, But 30 Years, And It Has Not Happened. People Have A Right To Be Mad." "'The elites have become international and they've ceased to have a primary loyalty to the nation-state,' Mr. Sessions said. 'Republicans and Democrats do their fundraising cycles, and they go to Manhattan and they have their cocktails and they hear the whining of some billionaire and ask him for money.' Policy-wise, he shares the same views as Mr. Trump on immigration and trade. Speaking at a recent breakfast hosted by my organization, the senator declared, 'There's a hunger by the American people for somebody that listens to them. We promise that these trade agreements are going to be great, promise we will fix immigration, but 30 years, and it has not happened. People have a right to be mad.'" [Wall Street Journal, 5/13/16<http://blogs.wsj.com/washwire/2016/05/13/why-six-congressional-republicans-were-early-adopters-of-trump/>]

Steve Deace: "Jeff Sessions Votes To Conscript Our Daughters Off To War. There's Another Conservative Hero For You." [@SteveDeaceShow, 5/12/16<https://twitter.com/stevedeaceshow/status/730939139198201856?refsrc=email&s=11>]

TIM SCOTT

On House Of Representatives Lawsuit On Obamacare

Office Of Senator Tim Scott: "Today's Ruling By A Federal District Judge That The Obama Administration Was Improperly Spending Taxpayer Dollars To Pay For Subsidies Related To Obamacare Is Positive News In Our Fight To Stop This Disastrous Law. " "U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) issued the following statement after a federal district judge ruled in House v. Burwell that the Obama administration unlawfully funded parts of Obamacare without an appropriation from Congress: 'Today's ruling by a federal district judge that the Obama Administration was improperly spending taxpayer dollars to pay for subsidies related to Obamacare is positive news in our fight to stop this disastrous law.  The case, brought by Republicans in the House of Representatives, shows two important things.  First, when you pass a bill to figure out what's in it - you end up with a bad bill, and second, we are seeing one more step in Obamacare failing the American people. From my PACE Act, which was recently signed into law, and prevents a harmful expansion of Obamacare, to rising premiums and deductibles for hard working American families, to failing co-ops and state exchanges across the country, it is clear that the Unaffordable Care Act is collapsing under its own weight. I will continue working to repeal Obamacare and to instead bring free-market solutions to the forefront so that our health care system works for the American people, not a massive federal bureaucracy in Washington.'" [Press Release, Office Of Senator Tim Scott, 5/12/16<https://www.scott.senate.gov/press-release/scott-reacts-ruling-against-obamacare-law>]

On ISIS

Tom Scott: "President Obama, It Is Time That We Take Steps To Ensure That The Mass Murder And Violence Doesn't Come To Our Country. What's Your Plan?" "ISIS continues to be a threat to the free world. We know that we are facing radicals who believe that mass murder and violence are tenets of their religion. President Obama, it is time that we take steps to ensure that the mass murder and violence doesn't come to our country. What's your plan?" [Tim Scott For Senate, Facebook, 5/13/16<https://www.facebook.com/votetimscott>]

Tim Scott: "ISIS Is A Threat To The Free World And It Is Time That This Administration Presented A Plan To Defeat Them." [@votetimscott, Twitter, 5/13/16<https://twitter.com/votetimscott/status/731113955490471936>]

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