Subject: GOP VP Daily Roundup, 4/25/16
From: "Kasnetz, Joel" <[email-masked]>
To: "Bauer, Nick" <[email-masked]>, "Dillon, Lauren" <[email-masked]>, "Graham, Caroline" <[email-masked]>, Veepstakes <[email-masked]>
Date: Mon, 25 Apr 2016 11:28:25 -0700

GOP VP DAILY ROUNDUP, 4/22/16

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

BOB CORKER

Foreign Policy

Bob Corker Said That Relations With Saudi Arabia Had Deteriorated In The Last Two Years. "President Obama's chilly reception in Saudi Arabia this week was the culmination of long lingering tension between the two allies that bubbled to the surface over the course of the last year and a half...'It's not like it was two years ago, the state of the relationship,' Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Bob Corker (R-Tenn.) told The Hill this week." [The Hill, 4/23/16<http://thehill.com/policy/international/277394-how-us-saudi-ties-frayed-under-obama>]

Bob Corker Said That Saudi Arabia No Longer Counts On The United States To The Same Extent As A Result Of Longstanding Issues Coming To The Surface. "'The issues that have come to the surface really have been more longstanding, and Saudi Arabia has really come to not feel like they can count on us quite as much,' said Corker. 'They've begun to take things into their own hands that in the past they didn't, and I just think that's created tensions between the administration and them.'" [The Hill, 4/23/16<http://thehill.com/policy/international/277394-how-us-saudi-ties-frayed-under-obama>]

Misc. Social Media

Bob Corker Held A "Tennessee Tuesday" Event, Meeting With Over 90 Tennesseans. "Senator Corker hosted more than 90 Tennesseans at this week's "Tennessee Tuesday," a regular breakfast held on Capitol Hill every week the Senate is in session for visitors from the Volunteer State. For more information, click here: http://bit.ly/TNTuesday" [Senator Bob Corker, Facebook, 4/22/16<https://www.facebook.com/bobcorker/>]

Micah Johnson (Senate Office Communications Director): "Excited To Officially Welcome @Joshfalzone To Team Corker Today As Our Personal Office Press Secretary. Give Him A Follow, Folks!" [@MicahTNDC, Twitter, 4/25/16<https://twitter.com/MicahTNDC/status/724561413545574400>]

TOM COTTON

On Third Party Efforts Against Donald Trump

Breitbart News: Bill Kristol Named Tom Cotton, Mitt Romney, And Marco Rubio As Third Part Options If Donald Trump Wins The Republican Nomination. "Bill Kristol, son of Irving, names Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL), Mitt Romney, Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR), and others on his hypothetical shortlist of third-party candidates that he could run if Donald Trump becomes the Republican nominee." [Breitbart News, 4/25/16<http://www.breitbart.com/2016-presidential-race/2016/04/25/romney-rubio-tom-cotton-make-bill-kristols-list-third-party-prospects/>]

Breitbart News: If Indiana Were To Be A Win For Trump, Bill Kristol Would Look At Third Party Options, Including Tom Cotton. "The "Weekly Standard" editor and self-styled neoconservative power broker is back to talking about a third party, declaring that a Trump victory in Indiana would force him to re-focus on his so-called "Latter-Day Republicans" independent ticket... But Kristol now has a shortlist of predictable options, including Mitt Romney and neoconservative rising star Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas." [Breitbart News, 4/25/16<http://www.breitbart.com/2016-presidential-race/2016/04/25/romney-rubio-tom-cotton-make-bill-kristols-list-third-party-prospects/>]

Breitbart News: "A Third Party Could Help To Split The Vote On The Right And Elect Hillary Clinton President, Which Would Allow Kristol To Stave Off The Trump Threat And Regain Control Of The Party In 2020 Without Actually Having To Formally Support Clinton." [Breitbart News, 4/25/16<http://www.breitbart.com/2016-presidential-race/2016/04/25/romney-rubio-tom-cotton-make-bill-kristols-list-third-party-prospects/>]

Bill Kristol: "If Indiana Goes South, Focus Turns To An Independent Race. (And FWIW, Texas's Early Deadline Probably Won't Stand Up To Legal Challenge)." [@BillKristol, Twitter, 4/23/16<https://twitter.com/BillKristol/status/723867158799876096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw>]

Bill Kristol: "Just Spitballing Here. Lots Of Varieties Of Indie Tickets: Centrist: Mattis-Rhee. Young: Sasse-Kinzinger. Conservative: Gen. [John] Kelly-Cotton." [@BillKristol, Twitter, 4/23/16<https://twitter.com/BillKristol/status/723942988758560770?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw>]

Bill Kristol: "More Spitballing: Some More Possible Independent Tickets: Pompeo-Willett; Abbott-Haley; Fiorina-Tim Scott; Kyl-Lieberman; Romney-Rubio." [@BillKristol, Twitter, 4/23/16<https://twitter.com/BillKristol/status/723946236114509824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw>]

On Running As A Delegate For The GOP Convention

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Tom Cotton Told Arkansas G.O.P Chair Doyle Webb Which Delegate Slot He Plans To Run For But Has Not Said Publicly. "U.S. Sen. Tom Cotton of Dardanelle also told Webb which of the three delegate slots he plans to seek, but he has not publicly announced his decision or made any formal endorsement, the senator's spokesman said earlier this month." [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/24/16<http://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/apr/24/state-s-100-on-fence-as-delegates-for-t/>]

On The Clean Line Project

Office Of Senator Tom Cotton: Tom Cotton And John Boozman Filed An Amendment To Stop Funding For The Clean Line Project. "Senators Tom Cotton and John Boozman (R-Arkansas) yesterday filed an amendment to the Energy and Water Appropriations Bill to block funding for Clean Line Energy's transmission project. 'The Department of Energy's decision to move forward with the Clean Line transmission project despite the objections of Arkansans is executive overreach at its worst,' said the Senators. 'Despite our best efforts to work with the Department of Energy, Secretary Moniz has proven himself unwilling to compromise and we must take action to stop this assault on Arkansas and the rights of private property owners.' Background: This amendment would block all funding for projects carried out under Section 1222 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, thereby preventing the federal government from carrying out the Plains and Eastern Clean Line Project, a transmission line recently approved by the Department of Energy after being rejected by the Arkansas Public Services Commission in an unprecedented case of federal overreach. The amendment would also temporarily prevent the Department of Energy from approving other projects, restoring the traditional right of states to approve or disapprove transmission projects based on state and local interests rather than the interests of federal lobbyists and private companies." [Press Release, Office Of Senator Tom Cotton, 4/22/16<http://www.cotton.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=366>]

Talk Business And Politics: Tom Cotton And John Boozman Filed An Amendment To The Energy And Water Appropriations Bill To Block Funding For The Cline Line Project. "U.S. Sens. John Boozman, R-Ark. and Tom Cotton, R-Ark., have filed an amendment to block funding to the controversial Clean Line transmission line that will run through Arkansas and was recently approved by the U.S. Department of Energy. The amendment, filed Thursday (April 21), is attached to the Energy and Water Appropriations Bill and would block funding for projects carried out under Section 1222 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005. The Clean Line approval is the first allowed under 1222, which is a provision that gives the Energy Secretary increased authority in approving power transmission projects." [Talk Business And Politics, 4/22/16<http://talkbusiness.net/2016/04/sens-boozman-cotton-file-amendment-to-block-funding-for-the-clean-line-project/>]

Talk Business And Politics: Tom Cotton And Boozman Said The Amendment Was Necessary To Fight An "Unprecedented Case Of Federal Overreach." "Boozman and Cotton reiterated their belief that Clean Line approval is an "unprecedented case of federal overreach." 'The Department of Energy's decision to move forward with the Clean Line transmission project despite the objections of Arkansans is executive overreach at its worst,' the two Senators noted in a joint statement released by Cotton's office. 'Despite our best efforts to work with the Department of Energy, Secretary Moniz has proven himself unwilling to compromise and we must take action to stop this assault on Arkansas and the rights of private property owners.'" [Talk Business And Politics, 4/22/16<http://talkbusiness.net/2016/04/sens-boozman-cotton-file-amendment-to-block-funding-for-the-clean-line-project/>]

Arkansas News: Tom Cotton Is the Lead Sponsor Of The Blocking Amendment. "In a joint news release, Cotton and Boozman said that Thursday they filed a proposed amendment to an appropriation bill for Department of Energy programs. Cotton is the lead sponsor." [Arkansas News, 4/22/16<http://arkansasnews.com/news/arkansas/cotton-boozman-seek-block-funding-clean-line-project?platform=hootsuite>]

Talk Business And Politics: The Developers Of The Project, Clean Line Partners, Called The Amendment A "Clear Example Of Political Meddling Targeted At One Company And Changes The Rules In The Middle Of The Game..." "Clean Line officials issued this statement about the amendment: 'This is a clear example of political meddling targeted at one company and changes the rules in the middle of the game, after tens of millions of private dollars have been invested. The Cotton amendment hurts American consumers and business by undermining the law that was passed under a Republican administration with bipartisan support. Earlier this week there was strong bipartisan affirmation of the full U.S. Senate of the Section 1222 program that is part of the Energy Policy Act of 2005.'" [Talk Business And Politics, 4/22/16<http://talkbusiness.net/2016/04/sens-boozman-cotton-file-amendment-to-block-funding-for-the-clean-line-project/>]

Arkansas News: Clean Line Partners Said That "The Cotton Amendment Freezes Spending Authority For Public/Private Partnerships And Creates A Hostile Environment For Private Investment In Arkansas." "Clean Line said in a statement Friday, 'The Cotton amendment freezes spending authority for public/private partnerships and creates a hostile environment for private investment in Arkansas. This amendment makes it harder to build energy infrastructure, kills Arkansas jobs and increases the cost of energy for Arkansas consumers. The Cotton amendment does not save the federal government or taxpayers any money.'" [Arkansas News, 4/22/16<http://arkansasnews.com/news/arkansas/cotton-boozman-seek-block-funding-clean-line-project?platform=hootsuite>]

Arkansas News: Opponents Of The Clean Line Project Said They Appreciated The Senators' Help. "Alison Millsaps, spokeswoman for Golden Bridge, an organization of landowners and allies formed to oppose the project, said in a statement Friday, 'We are always appreciative of the senators' efforts to protect the state and its citizens from unnecessary federal overreach. As an organization, we are focused on ensuring that affected landowners understand their substantive and procedural rights, and we remain committed to exploring all available options to help Arkansas landowners avoid the many significant impacts attributable to the Plains & Eastern Clean Line project.'" [Arkansas News, 4/22/16<http://arkansasnews.com/news/arkansas/cotton-boozman-seek-block-funding-clean-line-project?platform=hootsuite>]

On Profile In Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Tom Cotton's Rhetoric Is What Has Gotten Him Attention. "Often it's about his recalcitrant behavior and bold rhetoric, which have earned accolades and criticism... Cotton's words, more than his bills or voting record, render him as polarizing as President Obama and nearly as controversial as Donald Trump." [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/24/16<http://m.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/apr/24/thomas-bryant-cotton-20160424/>]

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Tom Cotton's Politics Where Shaped By The Clinton Years. "Cotton's narrative is consistent, often down to the phrasing used to relay it. He discovered his political convictions at 16, during the first year of his former governor's presidency, when Bill Clinton raised income tax and pulled out of Mogadishu." [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/24/16<http://m.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/apr/24/thomas-bryant-cotton-20160424/>]

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: "Cotton Describes His Early Years In Idyllic Terms." "Cotton describes his early years in idyllic terms. His father, Len, raised beef cattle and his mother, Avis, taught home economics and later took night classes at the University of Central Arkansas, becoming principal of Dardanelle Middle School. Cotton spent summer days in town, at his grandmother's and great-aunt's houses, playing video games and riding bikes with the neighborhood kids. As a 6-foot-5 teenager, he co-captained the Sand Lizards basketball team and, under the influence of an admired history teacher, developed a fetish for biographies and 'politics and warfare ... the development of human civilization and the nation state, diplomatic foreign relations and international political development.'" [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/24/16<http://m.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/apr/24/thomas-bryant-cotton-20160424/>]

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Tom Cotton Has Not Lived In Dardanelle Full Time Since He Left For College. "When he graduated from Dardanelle High School in 1995, Cotton moved to Massachusetts to study political science at Harvard College. He hasn't lived in Dardanelle full time since." [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/24/16<http://m.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/apr/24/thomas-bryant-cotton-20160424/>]

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Tom Cotton Said That Since His College Opinion Writing Days He Has "Learned A Lot More About The World... But I Wouldn't Say I've Had Foundational Changes." [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/24/16<http://m.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/apr/24/thomas-bryant-cotton-20160424/>]

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: A Harvard Classmate Said Tom Cotton Is "Very Self-Possessed ... And Doesn't Need Adulation In Order To Feel Valued," [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/24/16<http://m.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/apr/24/thomas-bryant-cotton-20160424/>]

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: While On A Panel During College, Tom Cotton Was Called A "Contrarian" And He Wrote Late That He Liked The Name. "Cotton once wrote about a panel discussion he joined his last year of college: 'After my opening remarks, another participant called me "contrarian." That I did not intend my remarks to sound eccentric or esoteric yet still received this label especially pleased me.'" [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/24/16<http://m.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/apr/24/thomas-bryant-cotton-20160424/>]

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Tom Cotton Worked For A Law Firm, Cooper & Kirk, PLLC, That Labels Itself As "The Go-To Firm To Sue The Federal Government" "After graduating from Harvard Law, Cotton spent a year clerking for a Reagan-appointed Appeals Court judge. Then, over the next 18 months, he worked for two private firms in D.C., one of which -- Cooper & Kirk, PLLC -- self-labels as 'the go-to firm to sue the federal government.'" [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/24/16<http://m.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/apr/24/thomas-bryant-cotton-20160424/>]

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Tom Cotton Is A "United State Senator Second. Or Third Or Fourth Or Fifth, Actually" According To His Sister. "'I don't know if many people would describe him as chill and laid-back, but he was when he was little-bitty,' says Cotton's older sister, Sarah Patterson, a partner with Friday, Eldridge & Clark. 'He's very family-oriented. ... He's the United States senator second. Or third or fourth or fifth, actually.'" [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/24/16<http://m.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/apr/24/thomas-bryant-cotton-20160424/>]

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Tom Cotton Calls Himself "Thick-Skinned" And "Even-Tempered" "Cotton describes himself as 'thick-skinned' and 'even-tempered,' qualities he attributes to his father's reactionary tendency and his mother's imperturbability. (During nine weeks of basic training, Norton 'never saw Tom Cotton get upset.' Tipton recalls a single instance when, angry at a referee's call, Cotton slammed the basketball to the floor. It rebounded and popped him in the nose.)" [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/24/16<http://m.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/apr/24/thomas-bryant-cotton-20160424/>]

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Tom Cotton Intended To Be A Prosecutor. "Driven by public service, Cotton planned to be a prosecutor -- in his words, 'to put the bad guys away.'" [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/24/16<http://m.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/apr/24/thomas-bryant-cotton-20160424/>]

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Despite A Campaign Ad About His Father, Tom Cotton's Father Len Could Have A Short Temper. "Many of his childhood stories involve his father, and they paint a more complex picture than the 14-minute campaign ad, 'Dardanelle Boys Always Come Home,' which portrays Len as a folksy farmer calling high school football games. Len could be short-tempered. When he was 13, Cotton rammed a truck into his parents' bedroom wall. He had been trying to move the truck to mow the lawn, but Len had forgotten to mention that the brakes were out. The truck burst through the roll-down garage door, movie-style, bumping to rest against the wall. When Len surveyed the damage, he shouted until Avis interceded. 'It was one of those times that I want to thank my mother for intervening out of my earshot, to remind him that this was all his fault,' Cotton says. This memory coexists with another: the time Cotton saw his father stop a Little League game and ask the other team's coach to apologize to a player's father, after the coach directed a racial slur toward the man. 'He could have let that comment go. Not everyone on the team had heard it ... but he stopped the game and righted that wrong.'" [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/24/16<http://m.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/apr/24/thomas-bryant-cotton-20160424/>]

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Tom Cotton Met His Wife Anna Through A Member Of The Heritage Foundation Board. "In January 2013, Larry Arnn -- a fellow Arkansan and a Heritage Foundation board member -- sent Anna to a luncheon where the freshly minted representative was speaking. She passed Cotton her number. After their initial date at an upscale steakhouse, Cotton called his sister to report that he'd found his future wife." [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/24/16<http://m.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/apr/24/thomas-bryant-cotton-20160424/>]

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Anna Cotton Is A Lawyer For The CIA. "This united front is a tenet he hopes to practice in his own marriage to Anna Peckham Cotton, a Central Intelligence Agency lawyer from Nebraska." [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/24/16<http://m.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/apr/24/thomas-bryant-cotton-20160424/>]

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Tom Cotton's Relationship With His Wife Anna Is His First Serious Relationship. "'When I met her, I thought she was very beautiful. ... As we were first texting, then talking on the phone, I liked more and more what I was learning about her,' Cotton says. It was his first serious relationship." [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/24/16<http://m.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/apr/24/thomas-bryant-cotton-20160424/>]

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Tom And Anna Cotton Were Married At A West Virginia Resort That Housed A Cold War Bunker. "In March 2014, the Cottons were married at The Greenbrier -- a West Virginia resort built in 1778, notable because it has a Cold War-era bunker large enough to house all of Congress." [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/24/16<http://m.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/apr/24/thomas-bryant-cotton-20160424/>]

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Tom Cotton Jogs In The Morning And Eats Birthday Cake Every Day. "He jogs most mornings in order to indulge this habit, he told The New York Times in April 2015. Like nearly everything Cotton says, the tidbit became media fodder, satirized by the Washington Post and other sites ('Things Tom Cotton Likes: War and Birthday Cake,' from the Bob & Chez Show podcast) and generally passed around the Internet on wonkish blogs." [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/24/16<http://m.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/apr/24/thomas-bryant-cotton-20160424/>]
Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Tom Cotton Owned A FryDaddy While Interning In Washington, D.C. "But -- little-known fact -- Cotton also owns a FryDaddy. Or at least, he once did. And according to Kovacevich, he can make fried chicken in it. When the two were housemates during D.C.-based internships, the Californian was mystified by the 'plug-in hot pot of grease.'" [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/24/16<http://m.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/apr/24/thomas-bryant-cotton-20160424/>]

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Tom Cotton's Friend Is "Sometimes Mystified By His Friend's Inflexible Political Stances" But Still Admires Him. "These days [Adam] Kovacevich [Director Of Public Policy For Google And Cotton's Harvard Classmate], a self-described Democrat, is sometimes mystified by his friend's inflexible political stances, but that doesn't keep him from admiring the man behind the politics. 'He's serious about ideas, but that doesn't make him humorless. ... He appreciates absurdity,' Kovacevich says." [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/24/16<http://m.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/apr/24/thomas-bryant-cotton-20160424/>]

On Energy Bill

Southwest Times Record: Tom Cotton Voted Against The Bipartisan Energy Bill. "As the first major energy package since the administration of George W. Bush, the bill grew out of a months-long bipartisan effort led by Sens. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and Maria Cantwell of Washington, the panel's top Democrat...Sens. John Boozman, R-Ark., Tom Cotton, R-Ark., James Lankford, R-Okla., voted against the bill while Sen. James Inhofe, R-Okla., voted for it." [Southwest Times Record, 4/24/16<http://swtimes.com/news/washington-roundup-senate-approves-energy-faa-bills>]

On FAA Reauthorization Bill

Southwest Times Record: Tom Cotton Voted For The Bipartisan FAA Reauthorization Bill. "Another bipartisan effort by Sens. John Thune, R-S.D., chairman of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, and Bill Nelson of Florida, the panel's top Democrat, led to the bill that would reauthorize the FAA through fiscal year 2017... Boozman, Cotton, Inhofe and Lankford voted for the bill." [Southwest Times Record, 4/24/16<http://swtimes.com/news/washington-roundup-senate-approves-energy-faa-bills>]

On National Park Week

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Tom Cotton Encouraged People To Visit Arkansas' National Parks During A Floor Speech. "U.S. Sen. Tom Cotton spoke on the floor of the U.S. Senate last week to highlight National Park Week. The Dardanelle Republican used his time to tout Natural State tourist sites." [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/24/16<http://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/apr/24/westerman-pushes-island-to-fix-its-debt/?f=news-politics>]

On "Arkansan Of The Week" Initiative

Office Of Senator Tom Cotton: "Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) Today Announced The 'Arkansan Of The Week' Initiative To Honor Arkansans Who Have Gone Above And Beyond In Their Commitment To Their Communities, And To The State." "Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today announced the "Arkansan of the Week" initiative to honor Arkansans who have gone above and beyond in their commitment to their communities, and to the state. 'Arkansans are compassionate, hard-working people who care deeply about making Arkansas a special place to live. By highlighting those groups and individuals who commit themselves to helping others, I hope to express my gratitude for their efforts. And I hope to show others in the community how they too can get involved with a variety of different causes or activities.' Senator Cotton will honor each 'Arkansan of the Week' by submitting a statement of recognition to the official Congressional Record, the document that reflects the official proceedings of Congress and posting their recognition on his social media pages and official website. If you know someone who has made an impact on their local community or Arkansas as a whole, Senator Cotton would like to recognize them! To nominate someone for 'Arkansan of the Week,' send an email to [email-masked]<mailto:[email-masked]> with the following:  Name of Nominee, Detailed description of why they should be recognized as 'Arkansan of the Week,' Contact Info, Photos if Available" [Press Release, Office Of Senator Tom Cotton, 4/22/16<http://www.cotton.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=365>]

Social Media Action

Tom Cotton: "The Department Of Energy's Decision To Move Forward With The Clean Line Transmission Project Despite The Objections Of Arkansans Is Executive Overreach At Its Worst." "Yesterday, Senator John Boozman and I filed an amendment to the Energy and Water Appropriations Bill to block funding for Clean Line Energy's transmission project. The Department of Energy's decision to move forward with the Clean Line transmission project despite the objections of Arkansans is executive overreach at its worst. Despite our best efforts to work with the Department of Energy, Secretary Moniz has proven himself unwilling to compromise and we must take action to stop this assault on Arkansas and the rights of private property owners. READ MORE: http://www.cotton.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=366" [Senator Tom Cotton, Facebook, 4/22/16<https://www.facebook.com/SenatorTomCotton/posts/592676620893877>]

Senate GOP (Shared By Senator Tom Cotton): "'The Right Strategy Against The Threat Of Radical Islam Is To Confront This Radical Ideology And Defeat It On The Battlefield Before It Grows Larger And Stronger.' - Senator Tom Cotton" "Dangerous World 'President Obama wants us to 'chill out' ... even as these savages blow themselves up in public places. The right strategy against the threat of radical Islam is to confront this radical ideology and defeat it on the battlefield before it grows larger and stronger.' - Senator Tom Cotton" [Senate GOP, Facebook, 4/22/16<https://www.facebook.com/SenatorTomCotton/posts/592678947560311>]

Tom Cotton: "Until Sunday, April 24th You Can Explore Arkansas's National Parks With Free Admission For #Nationalparkweek! #Findyourpark" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 4/22/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/723544479081357312>]

Tom Cotton: "Please be sure to sign up for my newsletter! http://ow.ly/4mZbKU" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 4/22/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/723558311824633857>]

Tom Cotton: "Do You Know An Arkansan Who Deserves To Be Nominated For #Arkansanoftheweek? Http://Ow.Ly/4mzenw" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 4/22/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/723573387222724609>]

Tom Cotton: "Congrats To The The South AR Regional Airport On Your New Hangar. Thanks For Serving The Community." [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 4/22/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/723588509253160960>]

Tom Cotton: "I Filed An Amendment With @Johnboozman To Block Funding For Clean Line Energy's Transmission Project Http://Ow.Ly/4mzvpg" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 4/22/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/723592762944294912>]

Tom Cotton: "Congrats To Those Who Competed In The 16th Annual Collegiate Business Plan Competition In Little Rock!" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 4/22/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/723626236560441345>]

Tom Cotton: "Great Crowd At The 3rd Anniversary Event For The WWII Japanese American Internment Museum In Mcgehee." [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 4/23/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/723865300693848064>]

Tom Cotton: "Great Open House For The Newly Remodeled Central AR Development Council Sr. Adult Center. Thanks For Your Work!" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 4/23/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/723891764105478145>]

Tom Cotton: "Our State Director Got To Try Out The Welding Equipment On The "Be Pro, Be Proud" Trailer That's Traveling Around AR" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 4/23/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/723905599336005632>]

Tom Cotton: "Last Day To Explore Arkansas's National Parks With Free Admission For #Nationalparkweek! #Findyourpark" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 4/24/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/724222669118304258>]

Tom Cotton: "Great Recent Jacksonville-Cabot Chamber Luncheon. Thanks For Your Work In The Community!" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 4/24/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/724270532431122433>]

Tom Cotton: "The AR Leadership Prayer Breakfast Is An Important Event -Thanks For Praying For Our Leaders, Our State & Our Nation" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 4/24/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/724284358295707648>]

Tom Cotton: "I Filed An Amendment W/ @Johnboozman To Block Funding For Clean Line Project. Read More Via @Arkansasnews" [@SenTomCotton, Twitter, 4/25/16<https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/724597548321771520>]

CARLY FIORINA

Carly Fiorina Was Scheduled To Speak At An Oklahoma GOP Fundraiser On May 13 In Oklahoma City. [Tulsa World, 4/25/16<http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/capitol_report/political-notebook-late-night-makes-for-contentious-times-in-state/article_3c4c8f06-dbb6-56b5-819e-555e5a1766d6.html>]

New York Magazine: As A Potential Running-Mate, Carly Fiorina Was "More Camera-Ready," But Had A Less Than Impressive Resume. "All other things being equal, Trump will likely pick someone with significant elected-official experience to reduce the terror associated with his nomination in Establishment circles. Cruz might do so as well for the same reasons. Everyone will be aware that a woman on the ticket would be helpful, though several of the more camera-ready possibilities, like Carly Fiorina and Joni Ernst, don't exactly have impressive résumés." [New York Magazine, 4/22/16<http://nymag.com/daily/intelligencer/2016/04/early-gop-veep-speculation-runs-gamut.html>]

Carly Fiorina's Presidential Campaign Had No Outstanding Debt As Of 3/31/16. "Some 2016ers have no debt at all, including Texas Gov. Rick Perry, former Hewlett Packard CEO Carly Fiorina and former Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal. (South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham is down to just $57,040, and former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee is down to $90,621.) On the Democratic side, former Virginia Sen. Jim Webb has no debt and former Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley is down to just $19,423." [CBS News, 4/21/16<http://www.cbsnews.com/news/campaign-cash-heres-what-we-learned-from-this-months-fec-reports/>]

JEFF SESSIONS

Trump

Jeff Sessions: "I Do Think The Republican Party Needs To Recognize That It Is In Danger Of Promoting An Agenda That's Contrary To The Wishes Of Its Own Voters. This Can Be A Death Blow." "Donald Trump and Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions would seem to have little in common...Yet the two have become kindred political spirits in the 2016 election, drawn together by a shared belief that some of their Republican Party leaders are selling out their own voters on immigration, as well as on trade. It's an argument Sessions has made for years in relative obscurity and one Trump has ridden to the top of the Republican presidential primary field. 'I do think the Republican Party needs to recognize that it is in danger of promoting an agenda that's contrary to the wishes of its own voters,' Sessions said. 'This can be a death blow.'" [Associated Press, 4/25/16<http://bigstory.ap.org/urn:publicid:ap.org:881dc2739a7844ddb14d7ac18f019392>]

Donald Trump On Jeff Sessions: "When It Came To Immigration, Which Is A Very Big Issue For Me, And Trade, Which Is An Enormous Issue For Me, I Felt He's The Most Respected Person In Washington." "When Trump name-drops Sessions on the campaign trail, it elicits cheers from crowds who have come to see his endorsement as affirmation of their candidate's hard line on immigration. 'When it came to immigration, which is a very big issue for me, and trade, which is an enormous issue for me, I felt he's the most respected person in Washington,' Trump said of Sessions during an interview with The Associated Press." [Associated Press, 4/25/16<http://bigstory.ap.org/urn:publicid:ap.org:881dc2739a7844ddb14d7ac18f019392>]

Associated Press: Jeff Sessions Was "The Longest-Serving Republican In The Senate Without A Committee Chairmanship Or Leadership Post." [Associated Press, 4/25/16<http://bigstory.ap.org/urn:publicid:ap.org:881dc2739a7844ddb14d7ac18f019392>]

Associated Press: Jeff Sessions Saw Donald "Trump's Rise As Validation Of His Belief That Republicans' Political Success Depends Not On Expanding Its Appeal With The Fast-Growing Hispanic Voting Bloc, But On Siding With Working-Class Voters Who View Job Competition From Immigrants And Trade Agreements As A Threat To Their Own Economic Security." [Associated Press, 4/25/16<http://bigstory.ap.org/urn:publicid:ap.org:881dc2739a7844ddb14d7ac18f019392>]

Jeff Sessions On The Appeal Of Donald Trump's Anti-Immigrant Message To Minority Voters: "You Bring In More Labor [Through Immigration], You're Competing Directly With Them." "Sessions sees Trump's rise as validation of his belief that Republicans' political success depends not on expanding its appeal with the fast-growing Hispanic voting bloc, but on siding with working-class voters who view job competition from immigrants and trade agreements as a threat to their own economic security. The senator dismisses the notion that he and Trump's views are geared only toward white voters, saying he's 'morally' confident that he's aligned with Hispanics and African-Americans as much as anyone else. 'You bring in more labor, you're competing directly with them,' Sessions said of minorities." [Associated Press, 4/25/16<http://bigstory.ap.org/urn:publicid:ap.org:881dc2739a7844ddb14d7ac18f019392>]

September 2015: Jeff Sessions And Donald Trump "Held A 90-Minute Meeting At Session's Hideaway Office On Capitol Hill, Where Trump Told The Senator Flatly That He Was In The Race To Win It." [Associated Press, 4/25/16<http://bigstory.ap.org/urn:publicid:ap.org:881dc2739a7844ddb14d7ac18f019392>]

January 2016: Jeff Sessions Attended An Exclusive Conservative Retreat In Sea Island, Georgia, Just A Few Weeks Before Primary Voting Began. "Sessions grew fond of Trump but resisted endorsing him...A turning point came in January, when the senator joined other lawmakers and prominent conservatives at a private retreat in Sea Island, Georgia. The exclusive gathering was held just a few weeks before primary voting began, as the reality that Trump's candidacy wasn't fading began to set in with many Republicans." [Associated Press, 4/25/16<http://bigstory.ap.org/urn:publicid:ap.org:881dc2739a7844ddb14d7ac18f019392>]

·         Associated Press: In January 2016, At An Exclusive Conservative Retreat, Jeff Sessions Delivered An Impromptu Speech Defending Donald Trump. "A turning point came in January, when the senator joined other lawmakers and prominent conservatives at a private retreat in Sea Island, Georgia...Sessions became incensed as one high-profile speaker in particular railed against Trump, warning that he would be destructive for the party. Though Sessions wasn't scheduled to speak, he stood up unexpectedly and berated his colleagues for being the ones putting the party's future at risk by failing to fully understand their voters' economic concerns." [Associated Press, 4/25/16<http://bigstory.ap.org/urn:publicid:ap.org:881dc2739a7844ddb14d7ac18f019392>]

·         Associated Press: Jeff Sessions "Stood Up Unexpectedly And Berated His Colleagues For Being The Ones Putting The Party's Future At Risk By Failing To Fully Understand Their Voters' Economic Concerns," In Response To Anti-Trump Speech At A Conservative Retreat. "A turning point came in January, when the senator joined other lawmakers and prominent conservatives at a private retreat in Sea Island, Georgia...Sessions became incensed as one high-profile speaker in particular railed against Trump, warning that he would be destructive for the party. Though Sessions wasn't scheduled to speak, he stood up unexpectedly and berated his colleagues for being the ones putting the party's future at risk by failing to fully understand their voters' economic concerns." [Associated Press, 4/25/16<http://bigstory.ap.org/urn:publicid:ap.org:881dc2739a7844ddb14d7ac18f019392>]

·         Jeff Sessions Defended Donald Trump To Conservative Allies: "I Just Felt Like, We've Got To Battle For The Heart And Soul For The Republican Party...Are We Going To Reattach With The Middle Class, Working Americans Or Are We Going To Continue To Kowtow To The Donor Class?" "Though Sessions wasn't scheduled to speak, he stood up unexpectedly and berated his colleagues for being the ones putting the party's future at risk by failing to fully understand their voters' economic concerns. 'I just felt like, we've got to battle for the heart and soul for the Republican Party,' Sessions said. 'Are we going to reattach with the middle class, working Americans or are we going to continue to kowtow to the donor class?'" [Associated Press, 4/25/16<http://bigstory.ap.org/urn:publicid:ap.org:881dc2739a7844ddb14d7ac18f019392>]

Donald Trump On How He Secured Jeff Sessions' Support: "It Wasn't Easy. I Put In A Lot Of Work. Not So Much For The Endorsement - I Put In A Lot Of Work On The Subjects. And Then The Endorsement Came Much More Naturally. I Put In A Lot Of Work On The Subject Matter." "Trump often brags that legions of lawmakers and Washington powerbrokers are constantly reaching out to him. But he conceded that Sessions made him work for his support and needed to be sure the first-time politician was a true-believer on immigration and trade.'It wasn't easy,' Trump said. 'I put in a lot of work. Not so much for the endorsement - I put in a lot of work on the subjects. And then the endorsement came much more naturally. I put in a lot of work on the subject matter.'" [Associated Press, 4/25/16<http://bigstory.ap.org/urn:publicid:ap.org:881dc2739a7844ddb14d7ac18f019392>]

Associated Press: "If Trump Does Become The Republican Nominee...Some See Sessions As A Natural Fit In The Administration If The Businessman Goes On To Be President." "If Trump does become the Republican nominee - he's on a narrow path to getting the delegates he needs, but could still face the unpredictability of a contested convention - some see Sessions has a natural fit in the administration if the businessman goes on to be president." [Associated Press, 4/25/16<http://bigstory.ap.org/urn:publicid:ap.org:881dc2739a7844ddb14d7ac18f019392>]

Criminal Justice Reform

Bill Kristol: "Gutsy Of @Sendavidperdue, @Jeffsessions, @Sentomcotton & Others To Stand Against Overwhelming Media Drumbeat For 'Criminal Justice Reform.'" [@BillKristol, 4/24/16<https://twitter.com/billkristol/status/724362127234981890>]

Harriet Tubman On The $20 Bill

Newsmax: Jeff Sessions Opposed Removing Andrew Jackson From The $20 Bill. "Alabama's GOP Sens. Richard Shelby and Jeff Sessions, who are opposed to removing Jackson from the $20 bill, worry some changes put the nation's heritage at risk, The Hill reports." [Newsmax, 4/23/16<http://www.newsmax.com/Politics/GOP-PC-Political-Correctness-Mississippi/2016/04/23/id/725384/>]

Immigration

Associated Press: Jeff Sessions "Was Instrumental In Derailing President George W. Bush's Attempts At Immigration Overhauls And Was A Leading Opponent Of The 2013 'Gang Of Eight' Bill That Passed In The Senate But Was Blocked In The House." "If Sessions has been known for anything outside of his home state in recent years, it's been as the target of immigration advocates, who have branded him a nativist for his support of tough enforcement policies and limiting legal immigration. He was instrumental in derailing President George W. Bush's attempts at immigration overhauls and was a leading opponent of the 2013 'Gang of Eight' bill that passed in the Senate but was blocked in the House." [Associated Press, 4/25/16<http://bigstory.ap.org/urn:publicid:ap.org:881dc2739a7844ddb14d7ac18f019392>]

Washington Post: "At A Hearing Before The Senate Judiciary Committee In February, Alabama Republican Jeff Sessions [Said] He Was Disappointed That ICE Had Only Ordered 121 People Deported After Immigration Judges Denied The Asylum Petitions Of 1,800 Migrants." "At a hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee in February, Alabama Republican Jeff Sessions told [executive associate director for Enforcement and Removal Operations at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Thomas] Homan he was disappointed that ICE had only ordered 121 people deported after immigration judges denied the asylum petitions of 1,800 migrants. 'Did people say, 'Good work, Mr. Homan, you're doing a good job?' Sessions asked. 'Or did they attack you for trying to enforce the law the judge had ordered?'" [Washington Post, 4/25/16]

America's Voice's Frank Sharry: Jeff Sessions Was "The Most Ardent, Anti-Immigrant Restrictionist That You Can Find. He Comes From The Kick-Them-Out-And-Keep-Them-Out Camp." "'He's the most ardent, anti-immigrant restrictionist that you can find,' said Frank Sharry, executive director of the pro-immigration group America's Voice. 'He comes from the kick-them-out-and-keep-them-out camp.'" [Associated Press, 4/25/16<http://bigstory.ap.org/urn:publicid:ap.org:881dc2739a7844ddb14d7ac18f019392>]

Trade

Associated Press: Jeff Sessions Was "Out Of Step With His Party's Leaders On Major Issues, Including His Staunch Opposition To The Sweeping Trans-Pacific Partnership Trade Agreement." [Associated Press, 4/25/16<http://bigstory.ap.org/urn:publicid:ap.org:881dc2739a7844ddb14d7ac18f019392>]

RICK SCOTT

Economy

Rick Scott Tweeted Out A Graphic Saying "Florida Private Sector Businesses Have Added 1,061,700 Jobs Since December 2010." "On the way to becoming #FirstforJobs! [GRAPHIC: 'Florida private sector businesses have added 1,061,700 jobs since December 2010.']" [@FLGovScott, 4/24/16<https://twitter.com/FLGovScott/status/724335369748013056>]

Insurance Commission

Associated Press: Due To A Stalemate Between Rick Scott And Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater, "Florida Could Enter Hurricane Season With No One Firmly In Charge Of The State Agency Responsible For Regulating The State's At-Times Fragile Insurance Industry." "Thanks to an arcane state law, Florida could enter hurricane season with no one firmly in charge of the state agency responsible for regulating the state's at-times fragile insurance industry. The reason? The two Republican elected officials responsible for picking a new commissioner are locked in a stalemate over who should be hired to replace outgoing Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty. Gov. Rick Scott and Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater have been backing rival candidates for the job, which has delayed a final decision. The governor and the three members of the Cabinet must vote on the position, but state law allows Scott and Atwater to individually veto the choice." [Associated Press, 4/24/16]

DOUG DUCEY

Budget

Doug Ducey Neared An Agreement With Republican Legislators Who Wanted To Add Spending On Education, Infrastructure, And Children's Healthcare To Ducey's Budget Request. "Republican leaders of the Arizona House and Senate spent long hours in the past week behind closed doors with Gov. Doug Ducey's representatives hashing out details of a budget deal that could be revealed as early as Monday...House Republicans want to add to Ducey's spending proposals on universities, K-12 education and county local roadbuilding efforts, and many also want to restore a health care program for low-income children known as KidsCare. Whether all those items make it into the agreed-upon budget is yet to be seen." [Associated Press, 4/24/16<http://www.abc15.com/news/state/house-senate-nearing-deal-on-arizona-state-budget-with-governor-doug-ducey>]

Prop 123

Arizona Republic: As Doug Ducey Pushed Prop 123, Which Put Money From The State Land Trust Into Education, "Some Voters Are Struggling To Put Faith In State Leaders Who For Years Have Held Down Public-School Spending While Cutting Corporate Taxes And Expanding Private-School Programs." "Supporters of Proposition 123 promise the $3.5 billion, 10-year plan is only the first step toward adequately funding Arizona's schools. But some voters are struggling to put faith in state leaders who for years have held down public-school spending while cutting corporate taxes and expanding private-school programs. Gov. Doug Ducey and other state leaders have not articulated how they will fix the long-standing funding problems beyond Prop. 123." [Arizona Republic, 4/24/16<http://www.azcentral.com/story/news/politics/arizona-education/2016/04/24/political-mistrust-could-hurt-proposition-123/82960144/>]

Doug Ducey Refused To Commit To Any State Education Reforms Before The Successful Passage Of Prop 123. "Ducey, during a recent event with state business leaders, repeated his often-used line that Prop. 123 is 'a first step.' He conceded the question he is most often asked these days is, 'What's next?' Ducey listed a number of options: Renewing Prop. 301, the sales tax voters passed in 2000 to help fund education, that expires in 2021; Reworking the state's complicated, decades-old school funding formula; Providing training, support and raises for teachers. He has vowed to not support new taxes. 'There's many ideas we have,' Ducey said. 'But we know none of them come without the success of Prop. 123. Give us this next month-plus to have success on Prop. 123 and then we'll be talking about that. Right now, it's 100 percent focus on Prop. 123.'" [Arizona Republic, 4/24/16<http://www.azcentral.com/story/news/politics/arizona-education/2016/04/24/political-mistrust-could-hurt-proposition-123/82960144/>]

Economy

Prescott Daily Courier: Doug Ducey Reiterated His Lack Of Concern With "A Recent Report That Shows Jobs In Arizona For Those Without Even A High School Education Are Growing Faster Than Any Other Segment Of The Economy." "Gov. Doug Ducey said he's not concerned about a recent report that shows jobs in Arizona for those without even a high school education are growing faster than any other segment of the economy. In fact, he said, that actually may be a good sign. The figures from the Department of Administration predict that the number of people working in jobs where there are no formal educational requirements will grow by more than 6.6 percent in the next two years, followed by a nearly 5.8 percent growth in jobs where only a high school diploma is needed." [Prescott Daily Courier, 4/23/16<a%20recent%20report%20that%20shows%20jobs%20in%20Arizona%20for%20those%20without%20even%20a%20high%20school%20education%20are%20growing%20faster%20than%20any%20other%20segment%20of%20the%20economy.>]

Prescott Daily Courier: Doug Ducey Dismissed Concern With A Report Showing Most Job Growth In Arizona Would Be Among Low Wage Professions, Citing A Friend Who Told Him "We Don't Need Any More Lawyers. We Need A Plumber." "Ducey said that's not necessarily a bad thing, citing a conversation with a college chum who now is an attorney in Prescott. 'He called me up and said, "Doug, we don't need any more lawyers. We need a plumber in Prescott. It's hard to find one,"' the governor said. He said there are jobs that do require some training beyond school can be good jobs, with 'six-figure incomes and with a lot of flexibility.'' And he said there will always be a need for such workers." [Prescott Daily Courier, 4/23/16<a%20recent%20report%20that%20shows%20jobs%20in%20Arizona%20for%20those%20without%20even%20a%20high%20school%20education%20are%20growing%20faster%20than%20any%20other%20segment%20of%20the%20economy.>]

Prescott Daily Courier: Doug Ducey "Acknowledged The Problems Created When, In A Budget-Saving Maneuver, He Signed A Budget Last Year That Would Have Cut $30 Million From Joint Technical Education Districts For The Coming Year," And Then Initially Proposed Restoring Only A Third Of The Funding. "Ducey acknowledged the problems created when, in a budget-saving maneuver, he signed a budget last year that would have cut $30 million from Joint Technical Education Districts for the coming year. And he essentially conceded a misstep this year when he proposed restoring only $10 million of that, and only for three years. The final version restores all but $1 million of that $30 million cut. 'We got that message loud and clear,' the governor said. But Ducey said he's not particular sure that having JTED programs separate from academic classes is a good idea." [Prescott Daily Courier, 4/23/16<a%20recent%20report%20that%20shows%20jobs%20in%20Arizona%20for%20those%20without%20even%20a%20high%20school%20education%20are%20growing%20faster%20than%20any%20other%20segment%20of%20the%20economy.>]

Minimum Wage

Capitol Media Services: Doug Ducey Hinted That He May Support A $9.50 Minimum Wage Bill In Order To "Preclude An Even Bigger Evil: Allowing Arizona Communities To Set Their Own Minimum Wages Even Higher." "He doesn't believe government should be in the business of telling companies how much they have to pay their workers. But Gov. Doug Ducey finds himself in the position where he is leaning toward supporting a ballot measure that would boost the state minimum wage even higher than it is now. It's not that Ducey thinks mandating that companies pay $9.50 an hour by 2020 is a particularly good idea. Ducey said the measure, being pushed by the Arizona Restaurant and Hospitality Association, would preclude an even bigger evil: allowing Arizona communities to set their own minimum wages even higher." [Capitol Media Services, 4/25/16<http://tucson.com/news/state-and-regional/raising-state-s-minimum-wage-may-be-arizona-s-best/article_f6ee99af-4a56-550e-99f5-c6d43bec4429.html>]

Doug Ducey On Local Minimum Wage Measures: "What I'm Opposed To Is A Patchwork Of Different Wage Laws Around The State." "And he acknowledged that the restaurant proposal, which he wants to study further, would push up wages even higher than what they otherwise would be. But the governor said he worries about not preempting local options. 'What I'm opposed to is a patchwork of different wage laws around the state,' he said, saying it makes it difficult for companies with multiple outlets to operate in Arizona." [Capitol Media Services, 4/25/16<http://tucson.com/news/state-and-regional/raising-state-s-minimum-wage-may-be-arizona-s-best/article_f6ee99af-4a56-550e-99f5-c6d43bec4429.html>]

Capitol Media Services: Doug Ducey "Said The Problem Of What Companies Have To Pay Should Take Care Of Itself." "'What I want to see is everyone make more money than the minimum wage,' the governor said. And he said the problem of what companies have to pay should take care of itself. 'When you're an employer and need employees, you're going to have to pay what it takes to get that employee into your business to do the work that's necessary,' he said. 'So I always want to see employers have the flexibility that they're able to access the labor that they need.'" [Capitol Media Services, 4/25/16<http://tucson.com/news/state-and-regional/raising-state-s-minimum-wage-may-be-arizona-s-best/article_f6ee99af-4a56-550e-99f5-c6d43bec4429.html>]

Doug Ducey Implied Mandatory Overtime Didn't Make Sense Because Many Jobs "Aren't So Much Punch-In And Punch-Out." "Ducey said he sees current federal laws on a 40-hour work week and time-and-a-half pay for beyond that in the same light. 'I think it really depends on the job and the business,' he said. The governor said there are many jobs that 'aren't so much punch-in and punch-out,' where greater flexibility should be allowed. And he said that works both in the interest of the employer and the workers." [Capitol Media Services, 4/25/16<http://tucson.com/news/state-and-regional/raising-state-s-minimum-wage-may-be-arizona-s-best/article_f6ee99af-4a56-550e-99f5-c6d43bec4429.html>]

Doug Ducey On Mandatory Overtime: "I Think That We Limit Some People Who Want To Take On More Responsibility In Organizations By Saying, 'You Must Leave At 5 P.M.' Or That There's A Mandatory Payment That Comes Along With That." "Ducey said he sees current federal laws on a 40-hour work week and time-and-a-half pay for beyond that in the same light. 'I think it really depends on the job and the business,' he said. The governor said there are many jobs that 'aren't so much punch-in and punch-out,' where greater flexibility should be allowed. And he said that works both in the interest of the employer and the workers. 'I think that we limit some people who want to take on more responsibility in organizations by saying, "You must leave at 5 p.m." or that there's a mandatory payment that comes along with that,' Ducey said. Anyway, he said, in a growing economy 'good people are traditionally able to go elsewhere if they're being mistreated.'" [Capitol Media Services, 4/25/16<http://tucson.com/news/state-and-regional/raising-state-s-minimum-wage-may-be-arizona-s-best/article_f6ee99af-4a56-550e-99f5-c6d43bec4429.html>]

Doug Ducey Implied Mandatory Overtime Wasn't Necessary Because In A Growing Economy, "Good People Are Traditionally Able To Go Elsewhere If They're Being Mistreated." "Ducey said he sees current federal laws on a 40-hour work week and time-and-a-half pay for beyond that in the same light. 'I think it really depends on the job and the business,' he said. The governor said there are many jobs that 'aren't so much punch-in and punch-out,' where greater flexibility should be allowed. And he said that works both in the interest of the employer and the workers. 'I think that we limit some people who want to take on more responsibility in organizations by saying, "You must leave at 5 p.m." or that there's a mandatory payment that comes along with that,' Ducey said. Anyway, he said, in a growing economy 'good people are traditionally able to go elsewhere if they're being mistreated.'" [Capitol Media Services, 4/25/16<http://tucson.com/news/state-and-regional/raising-state-s-minimum-wage-may-be-arizona-s-best/article_f6ee99af-4a56-550e-99f5-c6d43bec4429.html>]

University of Arizona

Arizona Daily Star: The University Of Arizona Usually Ads Up To 200 Jobs Each Year, But Started The 2016 School Year By Slashing Jobs Instead "In The Wake Of A Major State Funding Cut." "The University of Arizona - Southern Arizona's largest employer - usually adds scores of employees to its payroll every year, but that wasn't the case this year in the wake of a major state funding cut. The UA, which typically adds the equivalent of about 150 to 200 full-time employees a year, started this school year by slashing jobs instead." [Arizona Daily Star, 4/24/16<http://tucson.com/jobs-cut-added-as-university-of-arizona-funding-sources-change/article_b872a98e-fc51-5b93-b28f-56c8fcad8ad8.html>]

NIKKI HALEY

On New Day SC

Charleston Currents' Andy Brack "We Were Flabbergasted - And Kind Of Sickened" At Size Of One Donation To Nikki Haley's Group Targeting Opponents Of The Governor. "The amount of money spent in politics these days is obscene. But even we were flabbergasted - and kind of sickened -  when one New Jersey man gave $250,000 on March 31 to Gov. Nikki Haley's new political advocacy organization known as A Great Day SC.  But he wasn't alone. The new group collected only six donations, five from out of state, for a grand total of $515,000." [Andy Brack, Charleston Currents, 4/25/16<http://charlestoncurrents.com/2016/04/brack-the-problem-with-big-money-in-s-c-politics/>]

On School Improvements Bill

The State: Nikki Haley Proposed $200 Million To Renovate And Build South Carolina Schools. "First proposed by Gov. Nikki Haley, the bill would commit up to $200 million a year in state spending to help school districts renovate and build school facilities. Given its broad support, the bill likely will clear the House this week and sail smoothly into the Senate." [The State, 4/23/16]

On Attorney General Alan Wilson Scandal

The State: Both Alan Wilson And Nikki Haley Are From Lexington County. [The State, 4/23/16]

On Juvenile Justice Department Lawsuit

FITS News: Nikki Haley's Juvenile Justice Department To Be Sued. "The scandal-scarred S.C. Department of Juvenile Justice (SCDJJ) is about to be slapped with a major lawsuit related to its mishandling of a recent spate of violence at its detention facilities. The outburst of violence - which included a late February riot reported on exclusively by this website - has prompted multiple legislative investigations (and a sadly predictable response from governor Nikki Haley, whose administration oversees SCDJJ). Now the courts are about to get involved in the drama ... According to multiple sources familiar with the details of the case, SCDJJ is about to be sued over questionable inmate transfers that took place in the aftermath of the riot." [FITS News, 4/25/16<http://www.fitsnews.com/2016/04/25/sc-juvenile-justice-agency-lawsuit-imminent/>]

SCOTT WALKER

ID Laws

Fox 6: Scott Walker Signed A Bill That Prohibits Local Governments From Issuing "Local Photo Ids To The Homeless, Immigrants In The Country Illegally And Others Who Have Difficulty Obtaining State Ids." "Gov. Scott Walker has signed a bill that hinders Milwaukee's efforts to provide local photo IDs to the homeless, immigrants in the country illegally and others who have difficulty obtaining state IDs. The Republican bill prohibits towns and counties from spending money on or issuing photo IDs. It also prohibits using city or village IDs to vote or obtain public benefits, like food stamps... Critics call the ID bill anti-immigrant and say it's aimed at Milwaukee city and county plans to issue local IDs to assist with everyday tasks, like opening bank accounts or obtaining prescriptions. The bill's supporters say it will reduce confusion and fraud." [Fox 6, 4/25/16<http://fox6now.com/2016/04/25/gov-scott-walker-signs-bill-banning-local-government-ids/>]

Fox 6: Scott Walker Signed A Bill That Prohibiting Local Governments From Issuing Photo IDs, Which Critics Called Anti-Immigrant. "Gov. Scott Walker has signed a bill that hinders Milwaukee's efforts to provide local photo IDs to the homeless, immigrants in the country illegally and others who have difficulty obtaining state IDs. The Republican bill prohibits towns and counties from spending money on or issuing photo IDs. It also prohibits using city or village IDs to vote or obtain public benefits, like food stamps... Critics call the ID bill anti-immigrant and say it's aimed at Milwaukee city and county plans to issue local IDs to assist with everyday tasks, like opening bank accounts or obtaining prescriptions. The bill's supporters say it will reduce confusion and fraud." [Fox 6, 4/25/16<http://fox6now.com/2016/04/25/gov-scott-walker-signs-bill-banning-local-government-ids/>]

Campaign Debt

In March 2016, Scott Walker Raised $141,000 To Pay Down His Debt From His 2016 Presidential Campaign, About Half Of Which Came From Renting Out His Supporter List. "Gov. Scott Walker chipped away $141,000 from his presidential campaign debt in March, largely by renting his donor lists to other campaigns. Walker's campaign debt stood at $952,255 on March 31st, down from nearly $1.1 million a month earlier, according to a filing made Friday, April 22nd with the Federal Election Commission. At the end of 2015, Walker had more than $1.2 million in debt from his presidential campaign, which ended in September. The campaign raised $73,253 in March by renting to other candidates its list of donors and supporters. Walker has said publicly that he plans to pay off the remaining debt by year's end." [Fox 6, 4/25/16<http://fox6now.com/2016/04/23/governor-walker-owes-952k-from-failed-presidential-bid/>]

After March 2016, Scott Walker Stilled Owed $952,255 In Debt From His 2016 Presidential Campaign. "Gov. Scott Walker chipped away $141,000 from his presidential campaign debt in March, largely by renting his donor lists to other campaigns. Walker's campaign debt stood at $952,255 on March 31st, down from nearly $1.1 million a month earlier, according to a filing made Friday, April 22nd with the Federal Election Commission. At the end of 2015, Walker had more than $1.2 million in debt from his presidential campaign, which ended in September. The campaign raised $73,253 in March by renting to other candidates its list of donors and supporters. Walker has said publicly that he plans to pay off the remaining debt by year's end." [Fox 6, 4/25/16<http://fox6now.com/2016/04/23/governor-walker-owes-952k-from-failed-presidential-bid/>]

Cruz

Scott Walker Said That He May Join Ted Cruz To Campaign In Indiana Ahead Of Their May 3 Primary. "Gov. Scott Walker says he may join Republican presidential hopeful Ted Cruz on the campaign trail in Indiana. Walker told reporters during a question-and-answer session Monday that he hasn't gotten any requests from Cruz yet but there's a possibility he might join the candidate on Sunday. The governor said hadn't heard about any specific event yet, however." [Fox 6, 4/25/16<http://fox6now.com/2016/04/25/governor-scott-walker-may-join-ted-cruz-on-indiana-campaign-trail/>]

School Shooting

Associated Press: After A School Shooting In Wisconsin, Scott Walker Said  "Rather Than Imposing More Controls On Firearms, Authorities Should Address Bullying And Mental Health, As Well As Teaching Students How To Resolve Disagreements Peacefully." "Gov. Scott Walker is calling for more discussion about bullying in the wake of a shooting outside a high school prom in northern Wisconsin. Authorities say 18-year-old Jakob E. Wagner shot and injured two prom-goers outside the school with a high-powered rifle before police killed him Saturday evening. Asked about gun control Monday, Walker told reporters the bigger issue is how to deal with individuals like Wagner. He says he has heard news reports that Wagner was bullied and that rather than imposing more controls on firearms, authorities should address bullying and mental health, as well as teaching students how to resolve disagreements peacefully. Walker says he doesn't think he's heard anyone talk about banning rifles in Wisconsin, saying, 'if you did, you wouldn't have hunting here.'" [Associated Press, 4/25/16<http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/1871c18aaccb4ac1b886ca574a224754/US--Prom-Shooting-Wisconsin-The-Latest>]

Scott Walker: "We Praise The Antigo Police Department's Response Which Undoubtedly Saved Lives. Our Prayers To The Students, Families & Community Of Antigo." [@ScottWalker, 4/24/16<https://twitter.com/GovWalker/status/724291963881697282>]

Right-to-Work

Capital Times: A Dane County Judge "Denied The State Department Of Justice's Request To Stay His Order Deeming [Wisconsin's Right To Work] Law Unconstitutional." "Wisconsin's right-to-work law will remain blocked under a decision issued Monday by a Dane County judge.  Circuit Court Judge William Foust denied the state Department of Justice's request to stay his order deeming the law unconstitutional, arguing the harm to unions who must represent non-dues-paying employees outweighs the harm to those employees who will be required to pay dues for representation.  'We are disappointed our motion for stay in the right-to-work case was denied in Dane County Circuit Court and plan to seek a stay in the Court of Appeals, where we feel confident this law will be upheld,' said Attorney General Brad Schimel in a statement." [Capital Times, 4/25/16<http://host.madison.com/ct/news/local/govt-and-politics/election-matters/dane-county-judge-denies-stay-wisconsin-right-to-work-law/article_00a1684b-0605-5da9-8479-0e659c15985d.html>]

Scott Walker: "Freedom To Work Will Be Upheld In The Appeals Process." [@ScottWalker, 4/25/16<https://twitter.com/ScottWalker/status/724646029476372480>]

Foreign Policy

Scott Walker On President Obama: "Instead Of Telling The UK To Stay In The EU, How About Working On A Plan To Defeat ISIS?" [@ScottWalker, 4/23/16<https://twitter.com/ScottWalker/status/723936232229711872>]

PAM BONDI

On Florida Insurance Commission Search

Tampa Bay Business Journal: Pam Bondi Put Forward Bill Hager As A Candidate For Insurance Commissioner. "[CFO Jeff} Atwater, who on Wednesday said he didn't want to 'drag out' the process, also included Hager on a list, released Thursday, of applicants he wants interviewed. Hager and Bragg were advanced to the interview stage earlier Wednesday during a Cabinet aides meeting. Attorney General Pam Bondi initially put Hager forward for an interview." [Tampa Bay Business Journal, 4/22/16]

Sun Sentinel's Randy Shultz: Pam Bondi Said That Health Care Navigators Should Be Required To Undergo Background Checks, Which Is Not Required Of Uber Or Lyft Drivers. "In 2013, the Obama administration began hiring "navigators" to sign up people for coverage through the law. Bondi claimed that Florida should require background checks for the navigators. What about possible identity theft?... Nevertheless, the Legislature in 2013 required fingerprint checks for navigators -- something the Legislature did not require this year of Uber and Lyft drivers. [State Representative And Insurance Commission Bill] Hager proudly told Bondi that he voted for the legislation." [Randy Shultz, Sun Sentinel, 4/23/16]

Sun Sentinel's Randy Shultz: "Floridians Need To Hear About Policy, Not Whether Bondi 'Knows Bill Hager Personally,' As She Said Last Month In Expressing Support For Him." "Since Hager voted to strip the Office of Insurance Regulation of power in such a key area, one question he ought to get next week is: Why should you be Florida's insurance commissioner if you didn't want the current one to do his job? Floridians need to hear about policy, not whether Bondi 'knows Bill Hager personally,' as she said last month in expressing support for him." [Randy Shultz, Sun Sentinel, 4/23/16]

On Florida's 24 Hour Wait For Abortion Law

Miami Herald: After The Florida Supreme Court Struck Down The 24 Hour Abortion Wait Period Law, Pam Bondi's Spokesman Said They Would Continue To Defend The Law. "Whitney Ray, a spokesman for Attorney General Pam Bondi, said they are 'waiting to see if the Florida Supreme Court accepts jurisdiction so we can continue to defend the law.'" [Miami Herald, 4/22/16]

On Voting In The Florida Primary

WTSP: Unlike Other Florida Elected Officials, Pam Bondi Did Vote In The Florida Primary. "Lawmakers vote for a living, and many suggest whom you should vote for in national races.  But 10Investigates found a number of those same Florida legislators didn't bother to vote in March's presidential primary...Gov. Rick Scott, Lt. Gov. Carlos Lopez-Cantera, Attorney General Pam Bondi, Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam, and Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater all voted in the 2016 PPP election." [WTSP, 4/24/16<http://www.wtsp.com/news/local/whoops-florida-lawmakers-forget-to-vote-for-president/151773806>]

CHRIS CHRISTIE

Trump

The Record: Chris Christie "Would Most Likely Lead Any Negotiations For New Jersey Delegates [To Support Donald Trump] In A Multiballot Convention." "As head of the Trump ticket in the state, Christie, who's been mentioned as a possible running mate for the builder/TV personality, would most likely lead any negotiations for New Jersey delegates in a multiballot convention. But each delegate would be able to vote independently after the first ballot, which could open the door for Christie to cut deals to keep people loyal - deals that could potentially involve his role as governor, and the county leaders' roles as lobbyists representing companies with business before the state." [The Record, 4/24/16]

Bloomberg Politics: Donald Trump Hired Chris Christie's Former Presidential Campaign Manager, Ken McKay, As Senior Advisor. "Donald Trump is hiring his third campaign manager of a former rival, adding another veteran political operative to help fight for the delegates needed to clinch the nomination. Ken McKay joins as a senior adviser working on the team led by Trump convention manager Paul Manafort, aides told Bloomberg on Monday. A formal announcement was expected later Monday." [Bloomberg Politics, 4/25/16<http://www.bloomberg.com/politics/articles/2016-04-25/trump-to-hire-another-veteran-operative-to-fight-for-delegates>]