JULY 13, 2018


NEWS AND VIEWS


"THEY ACTUALLY HAVE QUITE A LOT IN COMMON," ROYAL BIOGRAPHER ROBERT HARDMAN TOLD "CBS THIS MORNING" ABOUT MR. TRUMP AND THE QUEEN. "THEY BOTH GOT SCOTTISH MOTHERS, THEY BOTH OWN FAIRLY LARGE PARTS OF SCOTLAND – IN HER CASE BALMORAL [AND] IN HIS CASE TWO GOLF COURSES – AND SHE'S USED TO DEALING WITH THE MOST APPALLING DESPOTS, MONSTERS, CROOKS, DICTATORS. I THINK THEY'RE GOING TO GET ON GREAT."

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/trump-meets-queen-elizabeth-at-windsor-castle/
CBS NEWS July 13, 2018, 12:23 PM
Trump meets Queen Elizabeth at Windsor Castle

President Trump is meeting with Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain at Windsor Castle, in Berkshire, on Friday. This is Mr. Trump's first official meeting with the British monarch, who has met with nearly every single one of the last 12 American presidents. Before meeting the queen, he called her an "incredible woman" and said he was excited to meet with her.

Mr. Trump and his wife, first lady Melania Trump were treated to a rendition of the U.S. National Anthem before Mr. Trump and the queen inspect her guard of honor. The Trumps and the queen are having tea together afterward.

The president's visit to Great Britain, which comes after the NATO meeting in Belgium and before Mr. Trump meets with Russian leader Vladimir Putin in Helsinki, Finland, has not been without its share of controversy.

Mr. Trump, who was greeted by massive protests in London, criticized UK Prime Minister Theresa May in an interview published Thursday in The Sun, a British tabloid, over her handling of Brexit. Mr. Trump complemented Boris Johnson, who resigned earlier this week from May's cabinet over disputes about Brexit negotiations, saying Johnson would be an excellent prime minister. May and Mr. Trump then attempted to mend fences during a Friday press conference in which the president complimented the prime minister at length and dismissed reports of his criticism as "fake news."

"I think she's a terrific woman," Mr. Trump told reporters at the joint press conference.

However, royal observers say the queen's meeting with Mr. Trump is likely to be anything but tumultuous. A practiced diplomat, Queen Elizabeth has sat on the throne since 1952, and is used to receiving foreign leaders with big personalities.

"They actually have quite a lot in common," royal biographer Robert Hardman told "CBS This Morning" about Mr. Trump and the queen. "They both got Scottish mothers, they both own fairly large parts of Scotland – in her case Balmoral [and] in his case two golf courses – and she's used to dealing with the most appalling despots, monsters, crooks, dictators. I think they're going to get on great."

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"PRO-AMERICA, ANTI-DONALD TRUMP"

https://www.cbsnews.com/live-news/donald-trump-uk-protests-today-london-trump-baby-balloon-2018-07-13-live-updates/
CBS/AP July 13, 2018, 12:10 PM
Huge protests in London as Donald Trump visits, meets Queen Elizabeth II

CBS NEWS VIDEO WITH ELIZABETH PALMER

LONDON -- Hordes of demonstrators converged in central London on Friday, intent on mocking U.S. President Donald Trump on his only full day of business with British leaders on what has been dubbed a "working visit" to the United Kingdom. The visual cornerstone of the anti-Trump protests on Friday -- which include several organized marches by varying groups -- is a giant balloon depicting the U.S. leader as an angry, screaming orange baby in a diaper, clutching a cell phone with Twitter on the screen.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan, who has clashed for months on Twitter with Mr. Trump, had to give the final approval for "Trump baby" to fly. Mr. Trump has acknowledged that he feels unwelcome in the British capital, suggesting it was part of the reason he wasn't spending much time there during his U.K. visit.

"Trump baby," as the balloon is known, will be flown high over Parliament Square in London, but Mr. Trump is spending the day miles away from the center of the British capital -- and the protesters -- in meetings with Prime Minster Theresa May and then later with Queen Elizabeth II.

Tens of thousands are expected march through the streets of London to protest the American leader's visit to the U.K., his policies on issues ranging from immigration and race relations to women and climate change.

Protests mock Trump during U.K. visit
44 Photos
Protests mock Trump during U.K. visit

But as CBS News correspondent Mark Phillips reported, this is not the grand visit he was originally promised -- it is a much delayed, much diminished "working visit," most of it planned for outside of central London, where the protesters have prepared their own special welcome.

Leo Murray, who calls himself "Trump baby's" daddy, told Phillips that the 20-foot-high protest balloon design was chosen deliberately because Mr. Trump, "is uniquely vulnerable to personal insults, so we just got right down at his level, to speak to him in a language that he understands."

Murray, grandson of a former Labor Party parliamentarian, has a history of leading protests but says the balloon idea emerged one afternoon at a pub with friends.

Mr. Trump declared on Thursday in Brussels that, "I think they like me a lot in the U.K."

According to recent surveys by non-partisan British polling organization YouGov, only 11 percent of Britons said they thought Mr. Trump was a "great" or "good president." By contrast, 67 percent said they believed he was a "poor" or "terrible president."

As Phillips says, on the whole, the U.S. leader may not get the reception in Britain that he had hoped for.

Follow along for live updates on Friday's protests and President Trump's visit to Britain:
Trump meets Queen Elizabeth II
President Trump and first lady Melania are at Windsor Castle, east of London, this afternoon to meet Queen Elizabeth II. The president arrived on board his Marine One helicopter to the castle grounds just before 12 p.m. Eastern (5 p.m. British time).

The British monarch was already waiting for him in a tent set up in a central courtyard or quadrangle at the ancient castle, in front of a formation of Cold Stream Guards, one of Britain's oldest Army units, who were to perform a "Trooping of the Color" ceremony for the heads of state.

As CBS News correspondent Charlie D'Agata reported earlier today, Mr. Trump has expressed great admiration for the British monarch, and said both he and Melania were eager to meet her.

The first couple were driven into the castle quadrangle in one of the royal family's Land Rovers, and then then stood on either side of the monarch with their hands on their chests as the U.S. National Anthem was belted out British military brass.


Mr. Trump and the queen walked along a lineup of the Cold Stream Guards, "inspecting" the troops, before turning to head back to the shade of the the tent where Melania was waiting.

The soldiers marched out of the quadrangle in tight formation, and then the fist couple and Queen Elizabeth into the confines of the castle -- where no cameras are allowed in, and as D'Agata reports, no information is allowed out; details of discussions with Britain's monarch are always strictly off the record.

The Trumps are to have tea with the queen after the military ceremony, but they are not being treated to the full regalia and pageantry of an official state visit, usually including a formal banquet. That was the original invite extended by Prime Minister Theresa May just after Mr. Trump took office, but widespread public opposition to such an honor saw the trip downgraded to what has been dubbed a "working visit."

Mr. Trump is the 11th sitting U.S. President that Queen Elizabeth II has met during her 66-year reign.

Trafalgar Square: Protest Ground Zero


Haley Joelle Ott
@haleyjoelleott
Thousands of protesters gather in London's Trafalgar Square to protest the UK visit of US President Donald Trump @CBSNews

10:58 AM - Jul 13, 2018
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Thousands of protesters have massed on London's iconic Trafalgar Square as a day of demonstrations against U.S. President Donald Trump's first official visit to the U.K. culminates. Organizers have claimed about 100,000 people showed up to protest Mr. Trump's visit, twice as many as were expected, but London's Metropolitan Police have not confirmed the crowd size.

Even half that, 50,000, would be the biggest weekday protest in London's streets since demonstrations against the Iraq war in 2003.

CBS News' Haley Joelle Ott says protest leaders are urging those already in Trafalgar Square to fill up empty spaces and make room for others who are on their way.

Helicopters buzzed overhead as the crowds cheered speakers. A huge sign was draped over a wall on the steps up to London's National Gallery of art, which faces the square, reading "BUILD BRIDGES NOT WALLS."

"It's nice to see so many people gathered for one cause," protester Rania Belarbi told CBS News. "We're all gathered for love, for equality, for togetherness, so that's a great message that we're sending out to the world."

Pro-Trump protesters show up


Haley Joelle Ott
@haleyjoelleott
Police separate pro-Trump demonstrators shouting "We love Trump!" from anti-Trump protesters in London @CBSNews

10:26 AM - Jul 13, 2018
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Tensions have flared as a small group of pro-Donald Trump demonstrators exchanged chants with anti-Trump protesters near London's Trafalgar Square.

"We love Trump!" about 10 demonstrators chanted as police officers standing shoulder to shoulder kept the two opposing groups apart.

The anti-Trump protesters, of whom there were dozens at the location, responded with chants of "Fascists go home!"


Haley Joelle Ott
@haleyjoelleott
· 3h
Police separate pro-Trump demonstrators shouting "We love Trump!" from anti-Trump protesters in London @CBSNews pic.twitter.com/KlAxBywwNp


Haley Joelle Ott
@haleyjoelleott
pic.twitter.com/8gNSCJQPD7

10:33 AM - Jul 13, 2018

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So far Friday's demonstrations in London have remained peaceful, reports CBS News' Haley Joelle Ott.

Tens of thousands are expected to gather later in Trafalgar Square for what is anticipated to be one of the largest protests since the marches in London against the Iraq War in 2003.

Mini-Trump soars... low
View image on Twitter
View image on Twitter

Haley Joelle Ott
@haleyjoelleott
Mini-Trump Baby balloon paraded in London anti-Trump protest. People holding it wearing jumpsuits saying "TRUMP BABYSITTER" @CBSNews

9:54 AM - Jul 13, 2018
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A smaller version of the no infamous "Trump baby" balloon, which London Mayor Sadiq Khan gave permission to fly over Parliament Square on Friday morning, made an appearance among the throngs of protesters later in the day.

"We took some of the hot air out of bigger Donald, some of the narcissism, some of the fascism, and a little bit of the xenophobia," Barny Francis, one of the people holding the smaller balloon down with tether ropes told CBS News' Haley Ott as he marched. "We put it into this smaller version of him, Francis continued.

"So he's still full of hot gas, it's just a little version of him now. This is mini-Donald," he said, adding that the larger balloon was on a "secret mission."

Francis and his companions wore red jumpsuits an hats emblazoned with a slogan declaring them "Trump Babysitters."

"Pro-America, anti-Donald Trump"


Haley Joelle Ott
@haleyjoelleott
"We are pro-America, anti-Donald Trump," one protester tells @cbsnews

9:22 AM - Jul 13, 2018
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"We are pro-America, anti-Donald Trump," Catherine Murgatroyd told CBS News as she marched in central London on Friday to protest President Trump's visit to Britain.

Murgatroyd travelled from Portsmouth on England's south coast to London with her daughter to participate in the protests. She helped hold up one side of an oversized sign reading "UK REJECTS TRUMP!!" as she and thousands of others marched toward Parliament Square in the heart of the city.

"We think it's important that the U.K. stand up against someone with a lack of morals like Donald Trump," Murgatroyd told CBS News' Haley Ott. She said she wanted to communicate to Mr. Trump, "that he's not welcome. That we don't tolerate people with a disregard for human rights."


Haley Joelle Ott
@haleyjoelleott
Nicky Moorey from Bath in England is protesting the US president's visit to UK. She says she loves America, but doesn't like Trump @CBSNews

7:50 AM - Jul 13, 2018
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Thousands were converging in Parliament Square as a second protest march, expected to be the larger of the two on Friday, was heading toward Trafalgar Square to hold a rally later in the evening.

Speaking with PM May

President Trump is holding a joint news conference with British Prime Minister Teresa May in the middle of his trip to the United Kingdom. Mr. Trump's visit to Britain is sandwiched between the Brussels NATO summit, where he blasted allies over defense spending and trade, and ahead of his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Helsinki, Finland.

The president and May met before the press conference at her country residence Chequers, and in a photo opportunity with reporters, Mr. Trump said that they had worked hard together at the NATO summit and declared that NATO has never been more united.

The two leaders did not address his comments to the Sun newspaper, in which he blasted May's blueprint for Britain's exit from the European Union, during the photo op, though a pool reporter asked about the interview.

"The relationship is very strong," Mr. Trump said. He also said they "probably never developed a better relationship than last night," during their dinner at Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill.

Trump and the queen

President Trump and first lady Melania Trump will sit down later Friday with Queen Elizabeth II for their first official visit with the monarch. She has met nearly every one of the last 12 U.S. presidents.

Mr. Trump has said he is looking forward to meeting the queen, whom he described as an "incredible woman," at Windsor Castle.

CBS News correspondent Charlie D'Agata says that while Her Majesty the queen and the current U.S. president may have very different personalities, royal biographer Robert Hardman doesn't see any problems ahead for their encounter.

"They actually have quite a lot in common. They've both got Scottish mothers, they both own fairly large parts of Scotland -- in her case Balmoral, in his case two golf courses -- and she's used to dealing with the most appalling despots, monsters, crooks, dictators," Hardman said. "I think they're going to get on great."

Stick with CBSNews.com and CBSN for live coverage of the Trumps' visit with the queen from about noon Eastern.

Michael Avenatti joins anti-Trump protest


Haley Joelle Ott
@haleyjoelleott
The Women's March-led protest against U.S. President Trump is gathering in London's Portland place and @MichaelAvenatti is here @CBSNews

6:59 AM - Jul 13, 2018
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Michael Avenatti, the attorney for porn actress and presidential antagonist Stephanie Clifford, or Stormy Daniels as she is more commonly known, was in London on Friday to participate in the Women's March protesting Mr. Trump's visit to the U.K.

"I think the president's visit is like a lot of things the president does; It's insufficient," Avenatti told CBS News' Haley Joelle Ott on the noisy streets of central London. "He's trying to avoid the protests because he wants to bury his head in the sand and doesn't want to look at what's really going on and face the facts," he said."At some point this president needs to step up or step out," Avenatti asserted.

"I think that this march in particular deals with a lot of the issues that we talk about in Stormy's case, and I think it deals significantly with the issues that I'm dealing with day in and day out, as it relates to some of these mothers who have been separated from their children from the southern border of the United States... The bottom line is these families need to be reunited yesterday."

"To say someone resisted"


Haley Joelle Ott
@haleyjoelleott
Hundreds of protesters set off down London's Regent Street protesting US Pres Trump's visit to UK @CBSNews

7:35 AM - Jul 13, 2018
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Hundreds of protesters gathered outside Portland Place in central London on Friday morning ahead of the first of two large protests planned in the capital, where tens of thousands are expected to demonstrate against President Trump's first visit to the United Kingdom as U.S. leader.

CBS News correspondent Elizabeth Palmer says as many as 50,000 protesters were expected to take to London's streets on Friday, which would make it the biggest weekday demonstration in the British capital in 15 years.

"We just wanted to really highlight the fact that many citizens are not happy with the divisive rhetoric that has been coming out of the Trump-Pence administration," protest organizer Huda Jawad told CBS News's Haley Joelle Ott.

"I'm a woman. I'm a woman of color. I came to this country as a refugee... I also have two boys," she said. "They're growing up in an increasingly uncomfortable, unsafe world and environment, and I wanted to do this for them."


Haley Joelle Ott
@haleyjoelleott
Organiser of Women's March protest against U.K. Visit of Donald Trump @hudzyboo came to country as refugee

7:11 AM - Jul 13, 2018
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After Mr. Trump derided London's Muslim Mayor Sadiq Khan as being soft on terrorism, among other things, in an interview published Thursday with the Sun newspaper, Jawad said she was also determined to demonstrate against, "these policies, the rhetoric of racism, misogyny, caging children, regressing in terms of gender rights and human rights, the appalling way in which the environment is being treated by the administration."

Her aim in protesting, she told CBS News, was "to say someone resisted, and not on our watch."

"Very good relationship"

Speaking Friday next to British Prime Minister Theresa May at her official country residence outside of London, President Donald Trump insisted the two had bonded more than ever before over dinner the previous evening. He lauded the U.S.-U.K. relationship as "very, very strong. We really have a very good relationship."

His remarks came about 12 hours after British tabloid the Sun published an interview with the U.S. leader in which he lambasted her plan for a "soft" exit from the European Union, saying Mrs. May's Brexit blueprint would "probably kill" hopes of a bilateral trade deal going forward. He also lauded May's top political rival, Boris Johnson, whom he said would make a good prime minister.

Both the White House and Prime Minster May's office have been at pains since Mr. Trump's harsh rhetoric emerged to stress that relations remain cordial.

"The prime minister has a good relationship with the president," May's spokeswoman said on Friday.

May and Mr. Trump shook hands and spoke briefly to reporters Friday morning at Chequers before going behind closed doors for meetings that Mr. Trump said would focus on trade, military cooperation and events in the Middle East.

Mr. Trump said, in spite of the Sun interview emerging as they sat down together for a formal dinner on Thursday night, that he and May had bonded like never before over the course of the meal.

Heading out of London
Donald Trump visit to UK

PHOTOGRAPH -- A "Baby Trump" balloon rises after being inflated in London's Parliament Square, as part of the protests against the visit of President Donald Trump to the U.K., July 13, 2018. AP

As the "Trump baby" balloon slowly took flight on Friday morning, climbing at first just several yards off the ground, President Trump left the U.S. ambassador's mansion in London with first lady Melania Trump to visit the renowned Sandhurst Military Academy, south of the city. Melania diverged after their departure and instead of Sandhurst, went to meet British veterans at the Royal Chelsea Hospital and residence in central London dedicated to them.

After observing a joint counter-terrorism exercise there with Prime Minister Theresa May, Mr. Trump is to hold afternoon meetings with May -- guaranteed to be tense after the publication of an interview in which Mr. Trump ridiculed May's plans for Brexit and lauded her political rival Boris Johnson -- at the PM's official rural residence, Chequers.

CBS News partner network BBC News reported Friday morning that British government ministers were on damage control following the release of Mr. Trump's interview with the Sun tabloid, with many suggesting they looked forward to further explaining the government's stance on exiting the European Union.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Phillip Hammond, Britain's chief banker and a member of May's cabinet, told the BBC on Friday that Mr. Trump probably "hasn't yet had a chance" to study the detail of the proposed Brexit plan from May, and that she looked forward to explaining it in their meetings.


Sam Gyimah MP
✔
@SamGyimah
Where are your manners, Mr President?

04:21 - 13 Jul 2018
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Sam Gyimah, a junior member of government and Mrs. May's own Conservative Party, was less reserved, however, asking succinctly in a tweet on Friday, "Where are your manners, Mr. President?"



THIS IS GOING TO BE A PROBLEM, PROBABLY, BUT MAYBE THOSE REPUBLICANS WHO DON’T REALLY LOVE DONALD TRUMP WILL STAND UP FOR ROSENSTEIN. I DO HOPE HE DOESN’T GO DOWN. AT WHAT POINT WILL THE LEGISLATURE MOVE TO IMPEACH TRUMP, THOUGH? THIS IS PROBABLY A TIME FOR AMERICANS TO FLOOD THE LEGISLATURE WITH EMAILS, LETTERS AND PHONE CALLS TO PROTECT MUELLER AND ROSENSTEIN.

https://www.politico.com/story/2018/07/13/house-republicans-rod-rosenstein-impeachment-719816
House conservatives prep push to impeach Rosenstein
By RACHAEL BADE and KYLE CHENEY 07/13/2018 04:00 PM EDT

PHOTOGRAPH -- Conservative GOP lawmakers have been plotting to remove Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein for weeks. | Evan Vucci/AP Photo

House conservatives are preparing a new push to oust Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, according to three conservative Capitol Hill sources — putting the finishing touches on an impeachment filing even as Rosenstein announced the indictment of 12 Russian intelligence officers for interfering in the 2016 election.

House Freedom Caucus Chairman Mark Meadows, in fact, had the impeachment document on the floor of the House at the very moment that Rosenstein spoke to reporters and TV cameras Friday.

Conservative GOP lawmakers have been plotting to remove Rosenstein for weeks, accusing him of slow-walking their probe of FBI agents they’ve accused of bias against President Donald Trump.

Democrats contend Republicans’ fixation on Rosenstein is really an effort to undermine special counsel Robert Mueller, who reports to Rosenstein and has been making inroads in his investigation of the Russian election interference plot. Mueller’s probe has entangled members of Trump’s inner circle and Trump has increasingly assailed it as a politically motivated “witch hunt” as it’s presented greater danger to him and his allies.

Conservative sources say they could file the impeachment document as soon as Monday, as Meadows and Freedom Caucus founder Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) look to build Republican support in the House. One source cautioned, however, that the timing was still fluid.

“It has not been filed today,” was all Meadows spokesman Ben Williamson would say. Williamson declined to rule out whether Meadows intended to file the document next week.

Republicans could also try to hold Rosenstein in contempt of Congress, if they want to go a step before impeachment.

It is unclear how much support conservatives will have in their effort. Rosenstein has become a punching bag for Trump and his allies as they vent frustration over the Russia investigation. Since Attorney General Jeff Sessions recused himself, Rosenstein has overseen the Mueller probe, which is also examining potential obstruction of justice charges against the president.

But House GOP leaders like Speaker Paul Ryan have clearly been uncomfortable with the notion of going after Rosenstein. It’s unlikely that will change anytime soon, especially so soon after the latest indictments. Ryan’s office was not immediately available for comment.

Rosenstein has clashed with House Republicans for months, with Rosenstein insisting that he’s working to comply with the GOP’s intensive demands for documents — some directly relevant to Mueller’s ongoing probe.

But Ryan and other top GOP lawmakers have accused him of stonewalling and flouting Congress’ oversight authority. Trump, too, has frequently sided with lawmakers to pressure Rosenstein to turn over more documents, an effort Democrats say is really meant to arm Trump with more insight into the Russia probe.

The House, with Ryan’s blessing, adopted a measure last month accusing Rosenstein and other DOJ officials of bucking Congress and demanding access to thousands of sensitive FBI documents by July 6. It’s unclear whether Republican leaders are satisfied with DOJ's efforts since then or if they're preparing a renewed push for the materials.

Donald Trump is pictured.
A look back at Trump’s statements on whether Russia meddled in the election
By MATTHEW NUSSBAUM

The New York Times reported on Thursday that the White House overruled the FBI and ordered broader access for some GOP lawmakers to documents related to an informant connected to the ongoing Russia probe.

In his remarks Friday, Rosenstein urged the public to be wary of leaks surrounding the Mueller probe.

“We do not try cases on television or in congressional hearings. Most anonymous leaks are not from the government officials who are actually conducting these investigations,” he said.

“We follow the rule of law, which means that we follow procedures, and we reserve judgment,” he added. “We complete our investigations, and we evaluate all of the relevant evidence before we reach any conclusion. That is how the American people expect their Department of Justice to operate, and that is how our department is going to operate.”

But House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) has made clear that he doesn't consider Rosenstein out of the woods yet.

After a daylong grilling Thursday of FBI counterintelligence agent Peter Strzok — whom Republicans have accused of bias in the Russia probe — Goodlatte said he blamed Rosenstein for limiting Strzok’s ability to reveal details of his work.

“Rosenstein, who has oversight over the FBI and of the Mueller investigation is where the buck stops,” he said. “Congress has been blocked today from conducting its constitutional oversight duty.”



I WOULD LIKE TO FIND OUT MUCH MORE ABOUT OUR OWN CYBER TECHNOLOGY AND SKILLS, AND WHAT IF ANY COUPS WE HAVE MADE ON THEIR COUNTRY AND TECHNICAL FACILITIES.

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/intel-chief-dan-coats-says-of-cyber-attacks-we-are-at-a-critical-point/
By OLIVIA GAZIS CBS NEWS July 13, 2018, 5:27 PM
Intel chief Dan Coats says of cyberattacks, "We are at a critical point"

LIVE CBS NEWS SPECIAL REPORT – ROSENSTEIN SPEAKING

Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats warned of an impending, potentially devastating cyberattack on U.S. systems, saying the country's digital infrastructure "is literally under attack" and warning that among state actors, Russia is the "worst offender."

Speaking at a scheduled event at the Hudson Institute, he adopted the language of former Director of Central Intelligence George Tenet who, in the months ahead of the 9/11 attacks, warned that the "system was blinking red." Coats, citing daily attacks from Russia, China, Iran and North Korea, said, "Here we are, nearly two decades later, and I'm here to say the warning lights are blinking red again."

He said the aggressors' targets were diverse, and included businesses, federal, state and local governments, the U.S. military, academic and financial institutions, and critical infrastructure. The FBI and Department of Homeland Security had already detected Russian government actors exploring vulnerabilities in energy, nuclear, water, aviation and manufacturing sectors, he warned.

rtx377u5.jpg
Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats YURI GRIPAS / REUTERS

"All of these disparate efforts share a common purpose," he observed, "to exploit America's openness in order to undermine our long-term competitive advantage."

Coats also said there was "no question" that Russia was the "most aggressive foreign actor," and its efforts to undermine American democracy are ongoing, even if they appear to have abated from 2016 levels.

"We are not yet seeing the kind of electoral interference in specific states and in voter databases that we experienced," he said. "However, we realize we are just one click of the keyboard away from a similar situation repeating itself." Russian attempts to stoke social and political tensions on social media platforms, Coats said, were still "aggressive," with new fake accounts continually being created by the Internet Research Agency. Special counsel Robert Mueller indicted the IRA, along with thirteen Russian nationals it employed, in February.

"These actions are persistent, they're pervasive and they are meant to undermine America's democracy on a daily basis, regardless of whether it is election time or not," Coats said. "The warning signs are there. The system is blinking. And it is why I believe we are at a critical point."

As part of an ongoing restructuring process called "Intelligence Community 2025," Coats said, the 17 agencies of the intelligence community would make their own efforts to boost transparency and information-sharing, including by working to eliminate what he called "information silos" between the public and private sector. He also urged all consumers of information to be vigilant about its provenance.

"We need the American people to verify the credibility of the sources of information upon which they base their decisions," he said. "Whether those sources are social media reports, cable news or newspapers, it is essential that we all apply critical thinking to all sources of information."

Coats' stark warning was issued on the same day the Department of Justice announced an 11-count indictment against 12 Russian intelligence officers accused of hacking the Democratic National Committee and Clinton campaign – and just three days before President Trump is scheduled to hold a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Despite an outpouring of admonishments from Republican and Democratic lawmakers, who said the meeting should be cancelled in light of the DOJ's most recent indictments, the White House said it would proceed.

For its part, hours before the Mueller indictment was issued, the Kremlin again denied ever attempting to meddle. "The Russian state has never interfered and has no intention of interfering in the U.S. elections," said Kremlin adviser Yuri Ushakov.

Coats, asked by moderator Walter Russel Mead what message he would offer the Russian president, said, "My message would be, 'We know what you're doing," he said. "President Putin, the decisions are up to you...we know what you do and so you make the choice. But if you want to stay in this tit-for-tat, we're going to beat you."



CAN THE INDICTED RUSSIANS BE PROSECUTED? IF WE WERE RUSSIA, WE WOULD JUST KIDNAP THEM AND TAKE THEM TO A SAFE PLACE TO “DISAPPEAR” THEM.

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/deputy-attorney-general-rod-rosenstein-makes-announcement-live-updates/
CBS NEWS July 13, 2018, 12:01 PM
Russian intelligence officers indicted for hacking in DNC hacking — live updates

CBSN LIVE – RUSSIAN INTELLIGENCE OFFICERS CHARGED WITH HACKING

A grand jury in the special counsel probe has returned the indictment of 12 Russian intelligence officers for hacking-related offenses in the 2016 election, the Justice Department announced Friday.

The DOJ says the Russians intended to interfere with the 2016 presidential election, and all 12 defendants are members of the GRU, a Russian intelligence agency. The indictment alleges the defendants began spearphishing volunteers and employees of Hillary Clinton's campaign, and were able to steal usernames and passworks, eventually hacking into the networks of the Democratic National Campaign Committee and Democratic National Committee. The GRU, Rosenstein said, created and controlled the groups D.C. Leaks and Guccifer 2.0.


CBS News
✔
@CBSNews
Hacking groups D.C. Leaks and Guccifer 2.0 were both created and controlled by the Russian GRU, Rosenstein says https://cbsn.ws/2uwgoh1

12:23 PM - Jul 13, 2018
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"There is no allegation in this indictment that Americans knew they were corresponding with Russian intelligence officers," Rosenstein said in his announcement.

The charges come just days before President Trump is set to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Helsinki, Finland. Rosenstein said he briefed Mr. Trump on the indictment earlier this week. Asked whether he will bring up election meddling when he meets with Putin, Mr. Trump on Friday said he would.

The charges come after Mueller's investigation has already led to the indictment of 12 Russian nationals earlier this year.

The indictment charges 11 of the defendants with conspiracy to commit computer crimes, eight counts of aggravated identity theft, and conspiracy to launder money, according to the special counsel's office. Two of the defendants are charged with a separate conspiracy to commit computer crimes.

In the face of alleged foreign interference, Rosenstein urged unity and patriotism against foreign interference.

"The partisan warfare fueled by modern technology does not fairly reflect the grace, dignity and unity of the American people," Rosenstein said.

This is a developing story and will be updated.

Read the press release from the DOJ:

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ABOVE THE LAW, I GUESS

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/rep-paul-mosley-arizona-pulled-over-speeding-video-140-mph/
CBS/AP July 13, 2018, 10:19 AM
Arizona state lawmaker pulled over for speeding tells deputy on video he sometimes drives 140 mph

IMAGE -- An image capture from a body camera video from the La Paz County Sheriff's Office, via KLPZ/ParkerLiveOnline, shows Arizona state Rep. Paul Mosley during a traffic stop outside Parker, Arizona, on March 27, 2018. LA PAZ COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE/KLPZ/PARKERLIVEONLINE VIA AP

PHOENIX -- An Arizona state lawmaker was seen telling a sheriff's deputy he sometimes drives as fast as 130 or 140 mph after he was pulled over for speeding. The deputy said in a report later that the driver claimed to have legislative immunity.

State Rep. Paul Mosley was stopped on March 27 outside of Parker, Arizona. The rural area near the California border is in Mosley's district and more than 150 miles west of the state capital in Phoenix.

A body camera video obtained by KLPZ and first published on its website ParkerLiveOnline.com shows a La Paz County Sheriff's deputy warning Mosley to slow down. Mosley was going 97 mph in a 55 mph zone on state Route 95, the news outlet reported.

Mosley then says he sometimes drives "130, 140, 120," while trying to get home to surprise his wife. He says he doesn't notice the speed because of his vehicle's nice wheels and suspension.

Arizona state representative brags to officer about speeding by KLPZ on YouTube

The deputy's written report said Mosley told him not to waste time on the incident because he has legislative immunity, KLPZ reported.

"I don't break the law because I can, but because, you know, I'm just trying to get home," Mosley says in the video.

Mosely on Thursday posted an apology on his Facebook page, referring to the comments to the deputy as a joke. "My desire to get home to see my family does not justify how fast I was speeding nor my reference to legislative immunity when being pulled over," he said. He said his comments to the deputy were inappropriate and showed bad judgment.

While the state constitution does provide for certain kinds of legislative immunity, elections lawyer Kory Langhofer told CBS affiliate KPHO-TV it exists only to protect lawmakers from missing votes during the legislative session because they happen to be arrested on a minor legal matter.

"It is a big no-no to claim legislative immunity to get out of a speeding ticket," Langhofer told the station. "It really is just a shameful thing. It also doesn't work."

A document from November 2002 shared by the House Rules Committee says speeding tickets - as well as violations for driving under the influence - aren't covered.

The video does not show the deputy, who was not identified, issuing a speeding ticket, but the incident is under review by Cochise County Attorney Brian McIntyre after the La Paz County Attorney's Office referred the incident to avoid a potential conflict of interest. McIntyre said in a statement a complaint has not yet been filed.

"I do not believe the ethical rules permit me to say whether I intend to charge the matter or not, however," McIntyre's statement said. "I am able to say that it will be reviewed consistent with our ethical obligations and a charging decision will be made as time and resources permit."

Speaker of the House J.D. Mesnard said he was "disturbed" to see Mosley's actions and doesn't think the immunity provision would apply.

"Nothing short of an emergency justifies that kind of speeding, and assertions of immunity in that situation seem outside the intent of the constitutional provision regarding legislative immunity," Mesnard said.

A search of court records in Arizona didn't immediately turn up any traffic violations issued against Mosley.

Mosley, a Republican from Lake Havasu City, was elected in 2016; he is running for another two-year term in November.

The Arizona Fraternal Order of Police withdrew its endorsement of Mosley and condemned his speeding.

"Rep. Mosley's recklessness, his demeanor and his utter disregard for the safety of the public represent the exact opposite of what the Arizona Fraternal Order of Police looks for in an elected official," the group's president John Ortolano said in a statement.

"Potentially lethal speeding isn't a joke. We will not stand with those who think it's acceptable or funny to risk the lives of others while behind the wheel of a lethal weapon."

© 2018 CBS Interactive Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.



I THINK TEN YEARS IN PRISON WOULD BE A GOOD SENTENCE FOR THESE CREATURES WHO CALL THEMSELVES MEN.

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/whistleblower-former-kool-smiles-employees-take-on-pediatric-dental-chain-when-they-suspect-company-of-wrongdoing/
CBS NEWS July 13, 2018, 2:26 PM
"Whistleblower": Former employees take on pediatric dental chain when they suspect the company of wrongdoing

What would you do if something just felt wrong at work? If you feared people could get hurt? Would you have the courage to blow the whistle?

Whistleblowers often risk their own safety to right a wrong they feel they witnessed. A new CBS series called "Whistleblower" tells the stories of heroic people who put everything on the line to expose wrongdoing. It is hosted by attorney Alex Ferrer, a former police officer and judge.

In the series premiere, airing tonight at 8/7c, Ferrer introduces people who blew the whistle on pediatric dental chain Kool Smiles. The former employees believe unsafe practices were used on young patients.

Watch a sneak peek
"I lived in fear every day … what I would face," says Dr. Rai.

"I was scared. Did I think something might happen? You never know when money's involved," says Dr. Michael Greenwald.

It's David vs. Goliath. "It's a huge corporation. The intimidation is there," says Rai.

kool-smiles-office.jpg
Kool Smiles is a nationwide corporation with more than 120 clinics
Kool Smiles is a massive nationwide corporation with more than 120 clinics catering to kids.

"I was a dentist and I saw … unnecessary procedures, children being traumatized," says Rai. "I was stressed to my eyeballs."

"They're taking advantage of little kids," says Greenwald. "They were doing baby root canals on teeth that could've had regular fillings."

"I would hear children crying at work. All day," Rai tells Ferrer.

An online job posting caught the eye of Greenwald.

"Kool Smiles typically targeted … recipients of Medicaid," he explains. "I thought it was just, wow, this is a great idea. We're treating children. …They're underserved. We're gonna do some good."

Unlike Greenwald, who had 30 years of dentistry under his belt, Kool Smiles recruits were mostly young, inexperienced dentists and recent immigrants. Dr. Rai was one of them.

"It was a dream job," she says.

"What did they offer you as a starting salary?" Ferrer asks.

"The total package was $180, 000,"Rai replies.

whistleblower-combo.jpg
Dentists Dr. Michael Greenwald, left, and Dr. Rai, blew the whistle on their former employer CBS

But it was a deal with the devil.

Greenwald describes his first impression of working at Kool Smiles as "production."

"Like a mill?" asks Ferrer.

"Like a mill. It's -- chicken nuggets [laughs] getting produced down a conveyor belt," Greenwald explains.

Greenwald says corporate owners dictated the work to be done. "So each tooth went from a $30, $40 filling to a $500 gain," he explains. "It was money. It was production."

Greenwald says demands at Kool Smiles were dangerous.

"The faster you work, the sloppier you can get. …And you run the risk of injuring the child," he tells Ferrer. "I diligently maintained some records of names, dates, times, procedures. … I wanted to stop this. It was insane, pick on someone your own size."

The stakes could not have been higher. Greenwald says he feared someone could get hurt.

911 dispatcher: 911, what is the address of your emergency.

Caller: I am at Kool Smiles.

911 dispatcher: You need police or medical?

Caller: Medical.

Kool Smiles said in a statement the company follows "the guidelines from the American Dental Association and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Treatment is provided only after conducting a consultation and obtaining the informed, written consent of the patient's parent or guardian."

Asked about that 911 call and the status of the child during an appearance on "CBS This Morning," Ferrer tells CBS News' Bianna Golodryga, ""Sadly, the child died a few days after getting -- a dental procedure performed at Kool Smiles. I do want to point out the death of the child was years after the whistleblower's lawsuit was started, but the parents are in the process of suing Kool Smiles."

"And the doctors clearly were fearful about coming forward," Golodryga notes. "What happened with those whistleblowers?"

"All whistleblowers go through a long and stressful journey – they lose their jobs and most of the time they are blackballed in the industry and never work in the industry again. Very often they lose friends," Ferrer explains, describing the process as difficult.

"It's one of the reasons why we want to showcase whistleblowers. They really are heroes and they do this because they know it's the right thing to do. These particular dentists are still working as dentists."

Ferrer says there is a silver lining.

"There is a law that allows the government to reward the whistleblowers who come forward by paying them a percentage of what the government recovers – and that can be substantial," he explains. "We have whistleblowers who are paid millions and millions of dollars for doing the right thing.

They don't go into it for that reason of course. Hey go into it because they want to do the right thing."

"Whistleblower" airs Fridays at 8/7c on CBS.

© 2018 CBS Interactive Inc. All Rights Reserved.



STRZOK STRZIKES BACK

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/5-takeaways-from-fbi-agent-peter-strzoks-explosive-congressional-hearing/
AP July 13, 2018, 7:02 AM
5 takeaways from FBI agent Peter Strzok's explosive congressional hearing

WASHINGTON — The cameras were on, and the theatrics were high.

In an explosive, hourslong congressional hearing Thursday, FBI agent Peter Strzok was defiant as Republicans unleashed blistering attacks, saying his anti-Trump sentiment — captured in personal text messages — is evidence of bias at the Justice Department.

FBI investigator Peter Strzok testifies - live updates
Trey Gowdy v. Peter Strzok: 15 minutes of fiery exchanges

Democrats threw their support behind Strzok with gusto. At one point, Democratic Rep. Ted Lieu of California chimed in, saying, "This is a stupid and ridiculous hearing."

But despite the partisan hubbub, the stakes were high.

Strzok is in the hot seat because he helped steer two politically charged investigations, into Hillary Clinton's email use and possible coordination between the Trump campaign and Russia. He was removed from the Russia investigation last year after the texts were discovered.

An internal FBI report released last month found no evidence of political bias in the FBI's decision not to pursue criminal charges against Clinton. But House Republicans remain unconvinced.

Here are some takeaways from the all-day hearing:

STRZOK IS DEFIANT

Finally able to defend himself after months of angry criticism from President Donald Trump and Republicans, Strzok was mostly unapologetic.

He defended himself forcefully and doubled down on some of his most controversial comments in the texts, which he exchanged with FBI lawyer Lisa Page during the presidential campaign. Strzok and Page were having an extramarital affair at the time.

On Thursday, Republicans disputed his contention that he wasn't biased and that his views didn't affect the investigation. One lawmaker said he was lying and another said he didn't believe him. Rep. Louie Gohmert, R-Texas, got personal, calling out his relationship with Page, which was noted in the inspector general report.

"I can't help but wonder when I see you looking there with a little smirk, how many times did you look so innocent into your wife's eyes and lie to her about Lisa Page?" Gohmert asked.

Strzok shot back, saying the question revealed more about Gohmert's character than his own.

___

HE SAYS HE'S NOT BIASED AGAINST TRUMP

Strzok expressed little regret for the most controversial text exchange with Page. In the text, Page says Mr. Trump is "not ever going to become president, right? Right?!"

Strzok replied that he won't. "We'll stop it," he said.

On Thursday, Strzok said the message was written late at night after Mr. Trump's campaign comments disparaging a slain U.S. soldier.

"It was in response to a series of events that included then-candidate Trump insulting the immigrant family of a fallen war hero and my presumption, based on that horrible, disgusting behavior, that the American population would not elect somebody demonstrating that behavior to be president of the United States," Strzok said.

But while reinforcing his dislike for the president, Strzok repeated several times that he did not believe that the messages showed bias, to the frustration and disbelief of Republicans.

"Every American, every single one, has a political belief," Strzok said, and the vast majority of those don't constitute bias.

He said bias means that you let those opinions get in the way of the work, and he did not do that.

___

REPUBLICANS AREN'T BACKING DOWN

The hearing represented a public culmination of a monthslong campaign by House Republicans who are critical of the Justice Department and FBI. Most of the committees' investigation has so far happened behind closed doors, with lawmakers unable to question witnesses in public.

Republicans yelled at Strzok and pointed fingers at him, making it clear they did not believe him. California Rep. Darrell Issa made Strzok read out his own texts, including some with profane language and one that calls Mr. Trump a "disaster."

"Mr. Strzok, are you starting to understand why some folks out there don't believe a word you say?" said Rep. John Ratcliffe, R-Texas.

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Robert Goodlatte, R-Va., held open the possibility that the panel would still hold Strzok in contempt because he wouldn't answer questions about the ongoing Russia investigation.

___

DEMOCRATS BELIEVE THE MUELLER INVESTIGATION IS AT STAKE

Democrats upped the drama as well, yelling at the Republicans throughout the hearing. Maryland Rep. Elijah Cummings, the top Democrat on the oversight panel, had aides hold up posters of everyone who has pleaded guilty in the special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation.

The Democrats repeatedly called the hearing a farce designed to undermine Mueller, protect Donald Trump and sway public opinion against the FBI as it investigates Mr. Trump's campaign and whether he obstructed justice.

"This is about promoting a narrative, you're a prop," said Rep. David Cicilline, D-R.I. He said Strzok's texts were "the perfect foil" for Republicans.

"They aren't interested in hearing your context and explanation," Cicilline said. "Because it's not about you."

___

STRZOK WANTS TO SAY MORE

As Republicans asked multiple questions about the Russia probe, Strzok repeated that he would like to answer the question, "but at the direction of the FBI, because it relates to an operational matter, I can't."

He also said — more than once — that it was more frustrating for him than it was for lawmakers, suggesting he feels like there is more information that could help him clear his name.

"I am certain that Congress will have the opportunity to look at any investigation once it is closed," he said.

© 2018 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

READER COMMENTS – [AND EXCEPTIONALLY ASTUTE ONES. I HAVE ALWAYS ADMIRED THOMAS JEFFERSON AND BENJAMIN FRANKLIN FOR THEIR WISDOM AND TRUE PATRIOTISM, EVEN THOUGH JEFFERSON DID OWN SLAVES AS HE SPOKE AGAINST SLAVERY. LW.]

Christopher Daly
Funny that a U.S. Congressman asks an FBI Agent if America believes him? Congressional approval is what? 22%? More likely to believe an FBI Agent than a political hack. Gowdy has the credibility of a toad and the idea that Congress would defend a POTUS that is a social media bully, a blowhard and a proven liar is laughable and emblematic of what is wrong with Congress. I'm thinking it's time for a constitutional convention to enforce term limits, remove any preferential treatment for government employees over the populace, define a human as a human and a corporation as not a human, define money as not free speech because by definition, money is PAID speech, insert the balanced budget amendment and move on.
Reply
140 Likes

Charles Smart
Damn well said ....
Reply
35 Likes

Ruth Thomas
I agree with almost everything you say, except, having a constitutional convention now. We can make all the changes you've identified without throwing the baby out with the bath water. (btw, you know that Jefferson wanted to have a constitutional convention every 20(?) years to keep up with changes in society. He finally agreed to sign the constitution once the ability to have amendments was included.)
Reply
7 Likes

BECCI CHITTI
the only way this works in a timely way is to replace this GOP congress with real defenders of the constitution. This will depend entirely on the sanctity of the ballot, which is getting short shrift at present, probably by design. You will have noticed Trump's new "confidence" since "buying out" the Supreme Court...he believes the "fix" is in. Although with you in theory, I'm not sure our constitution can withstand the ravage of the corruption we see in Washington. It goes much deeper than the oval office.
Reply
5 Likes

9012036166


MADDOW BLOG – STRZOK BEFORE CONGRESS AND THE FBI INVESTIGATION OF RUSSIAN INTERFERENCE IN OUR 2018 ELECTION. I WONDER HOW OFTEN OUTSIDE INTERFERENCE HAS HAPPENED TO THIS DEGREE. STRZOK’S COMMENTS ARE MORE, IN MY VIEW, THAN SIMPLY “HOLDING HIS OWN.” MAKE SURE TO LISTEN TO IT, AND LOOK AT TREY GOWDY’S FACIAL EXPRESSION AFTER HE FINISHES.

http://www.msnbc.com/rachel-maddow/watch/strzok-holds-his-own-as-republicans-try-to-put-on-show-at-hearing-1276039235677?playlist=associated&v=a
CONGRESSIONAL VIDEO
Strzok holds his own as Republicans try to put on show at hearing

Rachel Maddow reviews some highlights as well as some newly learned details from FBI Agent Peter Strzok's testimony in Congress as Strzok stood up to Republicans bent on political showmanship.
Jul.12.2018



WRITTEN REPORT ON THE STRZOK HEARING

https://thetandd.com/news/national/govt-and-politics/fbi-agent-clashes-with-gop-at-hearing-on-russia-probe/article_e93821cc-b438-5383-9dd6-12278a04e57c.html
FBI agent clashes with GOP at hearing on Russia probe
By ERIC TUCKER and MARY CLARE JALONICK Associated Press
Jul 12, 2018 Updated 18 hrs ago



“THE TIMES, THEY ARE A’CHANGIN’” [FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO ARE LITTLE MORE THAN BABIES, LISTEN TO THIS YOUTUBE RECORDING OF BOB DYLAN 1964.]

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/papa-johns-dumped-by-sports-teams-schools-over-schnatter-comments/
CBS/AP July 13, 2018, 6:15 PM
Papa John's dumped by sports teams, schools over Schnatter comments

Last Updated Jul 13, 2018 6:18 PM EDT

The fallout continued Friday for Papa John's, as business partners and even universities that have accepted large sums from the pizza chain's founder scrambled to distance themselves after John Schnatter admitted using a racial slur during a business call.

The University of Louisville announced that the school's football stadium will no longer carry the Papa John's name. The stadium is to be redubbed "Cardinal Stadium" effective immediately, university president Neeli Bendapudi said Friday.

Later that day, Schnatter admitted to using the N-word on a conference call and apologized, but said it was taken out of context.

In a radio interview with WHAS in Louisville, Schnatter said he feels "sick" about the incident. Explaining how he came to use the slur, he said was "just talking the way that the Colonel talked," according to The Associated Press — a reference to the Colonel Sanders of KFC. But "I said it, and it's wrong," he told the station.

Cutting ties

The University of Kentucky, which houses the "John H. Schnatter Institute for the Study of Free Enterprise," on Friday said it would no longer use Schnatter's name.

"We appreciate Mr. Schnatter's understanding that his unacceptable language is contrary to the values of the University of Kentucky," it said on Twitter. However, believing that maintaining ties with him would create a "barrier," the statement said, "neither the Gatton College of Business and Economics nor the Institute will recognize Mr. Schnatter in any way."

Schnatter helped found the center in 2005 with a he made an $8 million gift to the school. The Charles Koch Foundation contributed $4 million to help start the center.

Even Papa John's Pizza is moving to distance itself from the man who started the company. The chain on Friday said it was pulling Schnatter's image from its marketing materials. It also plans to launch a listening tour and hire an outside auditor on matters of inclusion, it said.

"We want to regain trust, though I know we need to earn it," CEO Steve Ritchie said in a statement.

Papa John's does not plan to change its name, according to the Associated Press.

The face of the company

Schnatter has long been the face of the Papa John's brand, and the company has acknowledged in regulatory filings that its business could be hurt if his reputation was damaged. That scenario seemed to play out last year after Schnatter blamed disappointing pizza sales on the outcry surrounding NFL players kneeling during the national anthem. At the time Papa John's was an NFL sponsor. He resigned as CEO soon after.

This week, Schnatter stepped down from his role as chairman of the board of the pizza chain. He remains the company's largest shareholder, however, owning about 30 percent of Papa John's shares.

Sports teams are also pulling the plug on partnerships with Papa John's in wake of Schnatter's comments.

The New York Yankees said on Friday they were ending their relationship with the franchise. "In response to the reprehensible remarks made by Papa John's founder and owner, the New York Yankees are suspending their relationship with the company," the MLB team said on Twitter.

Previously, the Miami Marlins said they were ending their relationship with the chain, including ending a promotional deal and closing the Papa John's concession stand at Marlins Park, according to the Miami Herald. The Tampa Bay Rays made a similar move on Thursday, ending a promotion offering fans half-price pizza after a game in which the team scored six or more runs.

Also on Friday, the NFL's Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United of Major League Soccer said they are suspending their partnerships with Papa John's and reexamining the relationship, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

"The divisive comments made and acknowledged by the company's founder are reprehensible and do not align with our core values," AMB Sports and Entertainment, a group representing the franchises, said in a statement.

Hometown fallout

Fallout from the incident is having local repercussions as well. Schnatter's hometown of Jeffersonville, Indiana, is putting distance between itself and the man it once called a "hometown hero." The mayor of Jeffersonville, Mike Moore, returned a $400,000 donation from Schnatter to restore the Nachand Fieldhouse, a historic gym.

Schnatter had pledged $800,000 to renovate the building, which also carried his name until earlier this week.

"I'm not going to allow that name with those comments to be attached to anything in the city of Jeffersonville," Moore told CBS News affiliate WLKY. "An $800,000 gift to the city of Jeff is enormous, but the city of Jeff is worth more than $800,000. It's not for sale," Moore said.

Schnatter is also a frequent donor to Republican candidates in Kentucky and nationwide.

© 2018 CBS Interactive Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e7qQ6_RV4VQ
Bob Dylan *The Times They Are A Changin' 1964


THE PROGRESSIVES ARE ON THE MOVE. DONALD TRUMP IS A WANNABE DICTATOR, BUT A REAL LIFE CATALYST. I’M WATCHING DAILY AS IT ALL ROLLS OUT.

WHAT IS THE DFL?

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minnesota_Democratic%E2%80%93Farmer%E2%80%93Labor_Party
Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party (DFL) is a socially liberal political party in the U.S. state of Minnesota. It is affiliated with the U.S. Democratic Party. Formed by a merger of the Minnesota Democratic Party and the social democratic Minnesota Farmer–Labor Party in 1944, the DFL is one of only two state Democratic party affiliates of a different name (the other being the North Dakota Democratic-Nonpartisan League Party).

The DFL was created on April 15, 1944, with the merger of the Minnesota Democratic Party and the Farmer–Labor Party. Leading the merger effort were Elmer Kelm, the head of the Minnesota Democratic Party and founding chairman of the DFL; Elmer Benson, effectively the head of the Farmer–Labor Party by virtue of his leadership of its dominant left-wing faction; and rising star Hubert H. Humphrey, who chaired the Fusion Committee that accomplished the union and then went on to chair its first state convention



THE DFL AT WORK -- HOW WELL -STATED THIS IS: "NO ONE SHOULD BE TOO BIG THAT THEY ARE ABOVE THE LAW, AND NO ONE SHOULD BE TOO SMALL THAT THEY'RE BELOW ITS PROTECTION," SHE SAID. THIS IS A TRUE COMPETITION AMONG DEMOCRATIC-FARMER-LABOR CANDIDATES IN MINNESOTA. BERNIE SANDERS IS CAMPAIGNING FOR ELLISON, BUT THEY ALL SOUND LIKE GOOD CANDIDATES. AND THEY AREN’T TRYING TO CRIPPLE OR KILL EACH OTHER TO BECOME ATTORNEY GENERAL, EITHER.

https://www.mprnews.org/story/2018/07/13/with-spotlight-on-ellison-other-dfl-attorney-general-candidates-look-for-votes
With spotlight on Ellison, other DFL AG candidates look for votes
Politics Tim Pugmire St. Paul Jul 13, 2018

PHOTOGRAPH -- U.S. Rep. Keith Ellison files to run for Minnesota attorney general inside the secretary of state's office in St. Paul on June 5, 2018. Lacey Young | MPR News File

U.S. Rep. Keith Ellison is getting a boost for his campaign for attorney general Friday from Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, who will campaign in Minneapolis and Duluth.

In the crowded primary race, Ellison has attracted the most attention, in part because his decision to leave Congress touched off a different primary battle for that seat. Whether that attention adds up to more votes won't be clear until the Aug. 14 primary election, but four other Democrats are also making a case for their qualifications for the job.

Matt Pelikan Tim Pugmire | MPR News

Matt Pelikan, a Minneapolis lawyer and first-time candidate, won the DFL endorsement for attorney general last month when incumbent Lori Swanson dropped out of the race. She later launched a bid for governor.

Pelikan said he has great respect for Ellison and his other primary opponents: former Ramsey County attorney Tom Foley, state Rep. Debra Hilstrom and former state Commerce Commissioner Mike Rothman. But Pelikan said he believes voters are looking for a bold, progressive attorney general.

"Qualifications are about more than experience. It's about perspective and values. And for me, it's about everything from growing up in small-town Minnesota with a loving family, but as a gay kid who faced my share of bullying and isolation that taught me how politics can make a difference in peoples' lives, that gave me a deep empathy for fighting for people," he said.

Debra Hilstrom
Debra Hilstrom Tim Pugmire | MPR News

Hilstrom is also promising to be a fighter as attorney general. For the past 18 years, Hilstrom has represented her hometown of Brooklyn Center in the Minnesota House. She is the lead Democrat on the House public safety committee and spent time as a prosecutor in Anoka County before she was elected to the Legislature.

Hilstrom said she is uniquely qualified to take on the job of protecting Minnesotans.

"No one should be too big that they are above the law, and no one should be too small that they're below its protection," she said.

Mike Rothman
Mike Rothman Tim Pugmire | MPR News

All the candidates are highlighting their resumes as better than the others.

"I have the most experience of all of them," said Rothman, adding that his consumer protection credentials and previous work as a trial lawyer make him the most qualified candidate.

"On day one, if we had a case in the Supreme Court of Minnesota or managing cases, I'd be able to pick up the briefs, run with them and stand strong for the people of Minnesota to protect them," he said.

Foley spent 16 years as Ramsey County attorney, beginning in 1979, and prosecuted several prominent cases. He also served a year as Washington County attorney and made unsuccessful runs for the U.S. Senate and U.S. House.

Tom Foley files to run for Minnesota attorney general.

Former Ramsey County Attorney Tom Foley files to run for Minnesota attorney general. Lacey Young | MPR News

Foley didn't name names but raised concerns about a "weak candidate" winning the primary and putting the DFL's 48-year hold on the attorney general's office in jeopardy.

"If there's a weak candidate there, I think they could drag down the rest of the ticket," Foley said.

As the oldest candidate in the field, Foley sees his experience and style as key differences from his DFL rivals.

"Running a public law office is a great responsibility," he said. "I think it should be more legal-oriented, experience-oriented and not just jumping up and giving political platitudes that sound good to the public but really has nothing to do with the office."



PROGRESSIVES STRIDE FORWARD

http://www.startribune.com/sen-bernie-sanders-to-rally-support-for-rep-keith-ellison-at-first-ave/488103021/
Sen. Bernie Sanders rallies for Rep. Keith Ellison
Sanders called Ellison a "personal friend" and "vigorous fighter."
By Jessie Van Berkel Star Tribune JULY 13, 2018 — 3:37PM

PHOTOGRAPH -- U.S. Rep. Keith Ellison was joined by Sen. Bernie Sanders on Friday, July 13, 2018, at First Avenue in Minneapolis.
BRIAN PETERSON, STAR TRIBUNE

U.S. Rep. Keith Ellison drew on the star power of Sen. Bernie Sanders to pack First Avenue Friday morning, where the politicians urged voters to make Ellison the state's next attorney general and revved the crowd by blasting President Donald Trump.

"The American people are in strong disagreement with the Trump administration. Our job, in a way that we have never done it before, is to get out into the streets and make it clear what Trump stands for and make it clear what our alternative progressive vision is," said Sanders, an independent progressive from Vermont and the runner-up in the 2016 Democratic contest for president.

The event was aimed at rallying supporters around Ellison's attorney general bid. But the politicians who spoke, including Sen. Tina Smith, primarily focused on the Trump administration, and Sanders' sustained attack on the president's policies was reminiscent of a campaign speech.

Sanders called Ellison's departure from the U.S. House "bittersweet." He said Ellison has concluded he could play a bigger role in fighting for workers, small businesses, women's rights, health care and other causes by becoming attorney general.

Ellison is one of five candidates running in August 14 DFL primary for attorney general. By enlisting Sanders, Ellison showed he can harness his own national political profile as he pivots to running statewide in Minnesota. More than 1,200 supporters packed the downtown Minneapolis rock club for the event.

People lined up in the rain Friday morning outside First Avenue in Minneapolis for a rally for Rep. Keith Ellison featuring Sen. Bernie Sanders of Ver

BRIAN PETERSON, STAR TRIBUNE
People lined up in the rain Friday morning outside First Avenue in Minneapolis for a rally for Rep. Keith Ellison featuring Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont.

Ellison said wants to join fellow Democratic AGs around the country who have sued to protect an open internet and fought in court against the travel ban on people from predominantly Muslim countries and the Trump administration's policy of separating parents and children.

He told the crowd that political cynicism is their enemy. Democrats have prevented the repeal of Obamacare, he said, and will oppose Trump's Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh.

"Don't you think for a minute we cannot beat this right-wing, reactionary so-called justice Kavanaugh. We can beat him too," Ellison said.

The other DFL candidates are state Rep. Debra Hilstrom, former Minnesota Commerce Commissioner Mike Rothman, former Ramsey County Attorney Tom Foley and DFL-endorsed Matt Pelikan, a private attorney, are racing to win over voters. Several Republicans will also face off in a primary: former state Rep. Doug Wardlow, who won the GOP endorsement, is competing with former state Sen. Robert Lessard and perennial candidate Sharon Anderson.

"Bernie Sanders is an elitist East-coast socialist. Sanders wants to help Ellison take the office of Attorney General to conduct political warfare. His support for Ellison demonstrates that Ellison is just too extreme for Minnesota," Wardlow said in a statement after the event. Sanders has in the past described himself as a socialist, according to the website PolitiFact.

Sanders called Ellison, a supporter of his presidential bid, "a personal friend" in an interview ahead of the rally. Sanders endorsed Ellison when he ran unsuccessfully for Democratic National Committee chairman in 2017.

Ellison and Sanders started the day in Minneapolis and were headed to Duluth for an afternoon event at Denfield High School.

The event in the main room at First Avenue kicked off with performances by Dwynell Roland and DJ Shannon Blowtorch. There were speeches from activist Ady Barkan, who has ALS and is traveling the country encouraging people to vote for candidates who will protect health care, along with Minneapolis City Council President Lisa Bender, and Smith.

Some attendees shouted over Smith, who faces a contested primary against Richard Painter, a lawyer who served as President George W. Bush's ethics counsel. People yelled at Smith to support the Boundary Waters and Medicare for all. One person called out "sell out" and another man yelled, "Just give us Keith."

Sanders urged support for Smith as well as Ellison. Sanders will continue on the campaign trail over the weekend, holding events with candidates in Wisconsin and Pennsylvania.

Foley, one of Ellison's DFL rivals, said it won't just be Ellison who will benefit from the high-profile visitor.

"Bernie Sanders is going all over the country, obviously he's kind of a firebrand, trying to turnout the Democratic vote and he's doing that for Minnesota and Keith Ellison," Foley said. "But I think he'll be turning out everyone's voters ... The more people that are aware that the election's coming up, I think it works well for all of us."

Leslie Firkins and her 15-year-old son Logan Paczkowski came from Oakdale to see Sanders and Ellison. Paczkowski, who has a political Instagram account called "politicalsocdem," was there to see Sanders, whose stance on single-payer health care he supports. Firkins, meanwhile, said she hopes Ellison wins and picks up some good experience fighting for all Americans as attorney general, then uses that to further his political career.

"I was at first disappointed he wouldn't be in Congress for us, because I think we need his voice there," she said, but she was happy to hear state Rep. Ilhan Omar was among those running for his open congressional seat.

Cass Markovich, a northeast Minneapolis resident and retiree, sQWASaid it was her first time at a political rally. She said she has friends who are Sanders supporters who did not vote in the 2016 general election after he lost the primary to Hillary Clinton.

She hopes his visit to Minnesota will encourage people not to sit out the midterm elections.

Congressman Keith Ellison stood with Sen. Bernie Sanders and Jane O'Meara Sanders after introducing the candidate Tuesday night in St. Paul. ] JEFF WH

"Our grandkids are at stake," she said. " ... We can't afford to keep doing that."

Jessie.VanBerkel@startribune.com

PHOTOGRAPH --Congressman Keith Ellison stood with Sen. Bernie Sanders and Jane O'Meara Sanders after introducing the candidate Tuesday night in St. Paul. ] JEFF WHEELER ï jeff.wheeler@startribune.com Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Bernie Sanders made a campaign stop in St. Paul for a rally at RiverCentre Tuesday night, January 26, 2016.


SEE ALSO THESE TWO ARTICLES ABOUT SANDERS TEAMING UP WITH ALEXANDRIA OCASIO-CORTEZ, AND JAMES THOMPSON, RESPECTIVELY.
HE MAY NOT BE RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT, BUT HE CERTAINLY IS IN THE NEWS DAILY.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/powerpost/wp/2018/07/13/bernie-sanders-and-alexandria-ocasio-cortez-will-campaign-together-in-kansas/

http://www.kwch.com/content/news/Sen-Bernie-Sanders-Alexandria-Ocasio-Cortez-to-campaign-for-James-Thompson-in-Wichita-488141091.html



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