The president of the UN Security Council, Indonesia, has said it was "not in the position to take further action" on a US bid to trigger a return of all UN sanctions on Iran

UNSC Rejects US' demand to restore sanctions on Iran

Melania Trump called for an end to violence and looting “being done in the name of justice," as protests continue to erupted nationwide following the death of African-American George Floyd.

'I urge people to stop violence in the name of justice', says Melania Trump at RNC

While Trump speaks from Washington, D.C., Secretary of State Mike Pompeo speaks from the other side of the world. Pompeo is on a trip to the Middle East but will take time out to speak from Jerusalem.

RNC Day 2: Mike Pompeo speaks from Jerusalem, FLOTUS from White House' Rose Garden

The GOP went all guns blazing on the first night of its National convention. Nikki Haley invoked her Indian roots to counter the immigrant narrative of the Democrats. Meanwhile, Kimberly Guilfoyle stole the show with her 'high-spirited' speech. Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you the big highlights.

Gravitas: Republicans go all guns-blazing on Day 1 of RNC

Pence also made a surprise appearance at Charlotte where the roll call vote was done. He will deliver his formal acceptance speech on Wednesday.

Mike Pence formally renominated for Vice President at RNC 2020

Not much has changed even after three months of the brutal killing of George Floyd, which was followed by nation-wide protests.&nbsp;This time, the state of Wisconsin is on fire.

On august 23,&nbsp;Jacob Blake, a black man, was shot in the back by white police officers in the city of Kenosha. Blake's three young sons were in the back of the car and they witnessed their father being shot.

Blake's fiancée, who was at the scene of shooting, pleaded with the officers to let the kids out but her cries were ignored.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-black-lives-matter-protest-wisconsin-burns-323077/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"That you treat somebody like that - who's not armed, not giving you no problems, he ain't throw no punch or nothing. What you mad because you tased him and he didn't bend, he didn't break, he pulled it out? So you felt intimidated cause you had a gun, so you used it!? You overused it! That's what you did," Blake's fiancée said.

After being shot in the back multiple times, Blake has had a surgery and doctors claims his condition is now stable.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wisconsin-governor-calls-national-guard-after-protesters-clash-with-police-over-shooting-of-jacob-blake-322910">Also read:&nbsp;Wisconsin governor calls National Guard after protesters clash with police over shooting of Jacob Blake</a>

The police officers have been placed on administrative leave. They were, reportedly, investigating a 911 call about domestic violence. When they arrived on the scene of the crime, they&nbsp;saw Blake leaving in his car, and later started shooting at him after a brief confronttation.

Shortly after the news broke out, hundreds of&nbsp;defied a curfew to demand justice. They demanded the officers to be fired and&nbsp;prosecuted immediately. However,&nbsp;what started as a peaceful protest turned into arson.

Governor Tony Evers had to bring in the national guard to help restore order.

"I would hate to see this not end with Jacob Blake. That's why we have to respond and we know that we can't remedy the white supremacy and the systemic racism that is built into all of our systems in just a couple of years or with any package of legislation. But that doesn't mean we don't act," he said.

Lebron James, a basketball player, also reacted to repeated instances of police brutality against the African-American community in the US. "If you're sitting here and telling me that there was no way to subdue that gentleman (jacob blake) or detain him or just before the firing of guns, then you're sitting here and lying to not only me, you're lying to every african american, and every black person in the community. Because we see it over and over and over," he said.

However, the US President Donald Trump has not reacted to the shooting of Jacob Blake. His competitior, Joe Biden, on the other hand, called for an immediate, full and transparent investigation into the shooting.

Not much has changed even after three months of the brutal killing of George Floyd, which was followed by nation-wide protests. This time, the state of Wisconsin is on fire.

Not much has changed even after three months of the brutal killing of George Floyd, which was followed by nation-wide protests. This time, the state of Wisconsin is on fire. On august 23, Jacob Blake, a black man, was shot in the back by white police officers in the city of Kenosha. Blake's three young sons were in the back of the car and they witnessed their father being shot. Blake's fiancée, who was at the scene of shooting, pleaded with the officers to let the kids out but her cries were ignored. "That you treat somebody like that - who's not armed, not giving you no problems, he ain't throw no punch or nothing. What you mad because you tased him and he didn't bend, he didn't break, he pulled it out? So you felt intimidated cause you had a gun, so you used it!? You overused it! That's what you did," Blake's fiancée said. After being shot in the back multiple times, Blake has had a surgery and doctors claims his condition is now stable. Also read: Wisconsin governor calls National Guard after protesters clash with police over shooting of Jacob Blake The police officers have been placed on administrative leave. They were, reportedly, investigating a 911 call about domestic violence. When they arrived on the scene of the crime, they saw Blake leaving in his car, and later started shooting at him after a brief confronttation. Shortly after the news broke out, hundreds of defied a curfew to demand justice. They demanded the officers to be fired and prosecuted immediately. However, what started as a peaceful protest turned into arson. Governor Tony Evers had to bring in the national guard to help restore order. "I would hate to see this not end with Jacob Blake. That's why we have to respond and we know that we can't remedy the white supremacy and the systemic racism that is built into all of our systems in just a couple of years or with any package of legislation. But that doesn't mean we don't act," he said. Lebron James, a basketball player, also reacted to repeated instances of police brutality against the African-American community in the US. "If you're sitting here and telling me that there was no way to subdue that gentleman (jacob blake) or detain him or just before the firing of guns, then you're sitting here and lying to not only me, you're lying to every african american, and every black person in the community. Because we see it over and over and over," he said. However, the US President Donald Trump has not reacted to the shooting of Jacob Blake. His competitior, Joe Biden, on the other hand, called for an immediate, full and transparent investigation into the shooting.

Black Lives Matter: After George Floyd, Jacob Blake becomes next victim of police brutality

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo praised President Donald Trump's foreign policy record in a Republican National Convention speech on Tuesday that Democrats criticized as a breach of protocol and perhaps the law.

Speaking in a recorded video from a Jerusalem rooftop during an official trip, Pompeo, a Trump appointee widely believed to harbor presidential aspirations, said the president had exposed the "predatory aggression" of the Chinese Communist Party, while defeating Islamic State militants and lowering the threat from North Korea.

Even before he spoke, critics pounced, saying Pompeo had broken with decades of protocol in using his appointed office for partisan purposes.

The chairman of a Democratic-led U.S. House of Representatives subcommittee announced on Tuesday an investigation into whether Pompeo's appearance broke federal law and regulations.

"The Trump administration and Secretary Pompeo have shown a gross disregard not only of basic ethics, but also a blatant willingness to violate federal law for political gain," Joaquin Castro, head of the House Foreign Affairs Committee's oversight subcommittee, said in a statement.

In a letter to Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun, Castro said Pompeo's appearance was "highly unusual and likely unprecedented," and "may also be illegal."

A State Department official told a pool reporter traveling with Pompeo that the secretary was appearing in his personal capacity and no State Department personnel or resources were involved.

John Bellinger, the top State Department lawyer under former Republican Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, said the agency had long barred senior political appointees from partisan activity, including attending party conventions, even if they might be permitted under the 1939 Hatch Act limiting the political activities of federal employees.

Pompeo's address also appeared to violate his own instructions restating the department's prohibition on political activities - which applies to official and private time - sent to personnel in a July 24 cable reviewed on Monday by Reuters. [nL1N2FQ206]

In his letter to Biegun, Castro wrote that it was "readily apparent" from documents in his panel's possession that Pompeo's appearance may violate the Hatch Act, federal regulations implementing that law and federal rules.

He asked that Biegun answer a series of questions by no later than Sept. 1 and arrange a briefing for lawmakers by the same date.

In his remarks to the Republican convention, Pompeo described what he called Trump's foreign policy successes, including the president's decision to move the U.S. Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem and holding talks with North Korean leadership.

"The primary constitutional function of the national government is ensuring that your family – and mine – are safe and enjoy the freedom to live, to work, to learn and to worship as they choose," Pompeo said. 
&nbsp;

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo praised President Donald Trump's foreign policy record in a Republican National Convention speech on Tuesday that Democrats criticized as a breach of protocol and perhaps the law.

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo praised President Donald Trump's foreign policy record in a Republican National Convention speech on Tuesday that Democrats criticized as a breach of protocol and perhaps the law. Speaking in a recorded video from a Jerusalem rooftop during an official trip, Pompeo, a Trump appointee widely believed to harbor presidential aspirations, said the president had exposed the "predatory aggression" of the Chinese Communist Party, while defeating Islamic State militants and lowering the threat from North Korea. Even before he spoke, critics pounced, saying Pompeo had broken with decades of protocol in using his appointed office for partisan purposes. The chairman of a Democratic-led U.S. House of Representatives subcommittee announced on Tuesday an investigation into whether Pompeo's appearance broke federal law and regulations. "The Trump administration and Secretary Pompeo have shown a gross disregard not only of basic ethics, but also a blatant willingness to violate federal law for political gain," Joaquin Castro, head of the House Foreign Affairs Committee's oversight subcommittee, said in a statement. In a letter to Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun, Castro said Pompeo's appearance was "highly unusual and likely unprecedented," and "may also be illegal." A State Department official told a pool reporter traveling with Pompeo that the secretary was appearing in his personal capacity and no State Department personnel or resources were involved. John Bellinger, the top State Department lawyer under former Republican Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, said the agency had long barred senior political appointees from partisan activity, including attending party conventions, even if they might be permitted under the 1939 Hatch Act limiting the political activities of federal employees. Pompeo's address also appeared to violate his own instructions restating the department's prohibition on political activities - which applies to official and private time - sent to personnel in a July 24 cable reviewed on Monday by Reuters. [nL1N2FQ206] In his letter to Biegun, Castro wrote that it was "readily apparent" from documents in his panel's possession that Pompeo's appearance may violate the Hatch Act, federal regulations implementing that law and federal rules. He asked that Biegun answer a series of questions by no later than Sept. 1 and arrange a briefing for lawmakers by the same date. In his remarks to the Republican convention, Pompeo described what he called Trump's foreign policy successes, including the president's decision to move the U.S. Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem and holding talks with North Korean leadership. "The primary constitutional function of the national government is ensuring that your family – and mine – are safe and enjoy the freedom to live, to work, to learn and to worship as they choose," Pompeo said.

Pompeo addresses RNC for Trump from Jerusalem, sparks criticism

Eric Trump, the executive vice president to the US President's campaign and son of Donald Trump, addressed the Republican National Convention in Washington and said that "Biden has been a total pushover for Communist China".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/if-elected-joe-biden-will-clear-path-for-chinas-treacherous-agenda-292289">Opinion | If elected, Joe Biden will clear path for China’s treacherous agenda</a> 
 
"Joe Biden is a politician who has been in the government for 47 years. He is a career politician who has never signed the front of a check and does not know the slightest thing about the American worker or the American business," Eric said. 
 
Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-us-china-relationship-took-a-turn-for-the-worse-314882">How US-China relationship took a turn for the worse</a>

“The same politician has been a total pushover for Communist China and someone who would be a giant relief for terrorists. Joe Biden has pledged to raise taxes by USD 400 trillion. My father fights for the American people every day," he added. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-jinping-warns-period-of-turbulent-change-as-external-risks-rise-322953" hreflang="en">China: Jinping warns 'period of turbulent change' as external risks rise</a>

In a message to his father stating that he was "proud of what you (Donald) are doing for this country".&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Eric Trump, the executive vice president to the US President's campaign and son of Donald Trump, addressed the Republican National Convention in Washington and said that "Biden has been a total pushover for Communist China".

Eric Trump, the executive vice president to the US President's campaign and son of Donald Trump, addressed the Republican National Convention in Washington and said that "Biden has been a total pushover for Communist China". Opinion | If elected, Joe Biden will clear path for China’s treacherous agenda "Joe Biden is a politician who has been in the government for 47 years. He is a career politician who has never signed the front of a check and does not know the slightest thing about the American worker or the American business," Eric said. Also see: How US-China relationship took a turn for the worse “The same politician has been a total pushover for Communist China and someone who would be a giant relief for terrorists. Joe Biden has pledged to raise taxes by USD 400 trillion. My father fights for the American people every day," he added. Also read: China: Jinping warns 'period of turbulent change' as external risks rise In a message to his father stating that he was "proud of what you (Donald) are doing for this country". (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump's son lashes out on rival Joe Biden, calls him 'pushover' to China

First lady Melania Trump has reportedly been taped making disparaging remarks about Trump, as well as his daughter, Ivanka.

FLOTUS made disparaging remarks about US Prez Trump

Top Chinese and US negotiators spoke on the phone Tuesday and agreed to "push forward" their phase one economic deal amid intense bilateral trade war since years. The proposal seems optimistic as both nations confirms holding a 'Constructive Dialogue'.

US-China trade talks back on track; Agree to push forward phase-1 deal

Donald Trump Jr. delivered a forceful endorsement for his father's reelection on the opening night of the Republican National Convention.

Donald Trump Jr. speech at Republican National Convention 2020

US President Donald Trump has won an official nomination as the 2020 Republican presidential candidate on Monday, a symbolic moment to open the party’s convention and officially kick off the final stretch of his uphill climb for a second term.

Republican Party officially nominates Trump for President | US elections 2020

Day one of the Republican National Convention has wrapped up. The event included prominent as well as divisive speakers. Let's have a look at who all will address the convention on day 2.

US election 2020: Melania Trump to address Republican National Convention

US President DonaldTrump has been formally renominated by the Republicans on the first day of their convention. Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you a report on the developments and controversies surrounding this 4-day political event.

Gravitas: Trump formally nominated for Republican party ticket

“This is the most important election in the history of our country,” Trump said before remarking on the “special evening” that was the 2016 election.

'We were more divided under Obama', says Trump at Republican convention

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not harbor "deep state" elements, the agency's head told Reuters on Monday, rejecting criticism from President Donald Trump that staff there were trying to delay a coronavirus vaccine.

Dr. Stephen Hahn said he was completely confident that FDA workers were focused solely on the interests of the American people during the coronavirus pandemic.

Without evidence, Trump on Saturday accused members of the so-called "deep state" working within the FDA of complicating efforts to test COVID-19 vaccines in order to delay results until after the Nov. 3 presidential election.

"I have not seen anything that I would consider to be 'deep state' at the FDA," Hahn told Reuters in an interview. Trump's use of the term "deep state" appears to refer to long-serving government employees he believes are determined to undermine his agenda.

Hahn said he had a solid relationship with Trump, a Republican whose re-election chances in November have been dampened by public discontent over his handling of the coronavirus pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-without-proof-that-fda-deep-state-slowing-coronavirus-trials-322449">Also read:&nbsp;Trump says without proof that FDA 'deep state' slowing coronavirus trials</a>

"I enjoy a very good relationship with the president and I have discussed our decisions with him, and I feel very comfortable and continue to feel comfortable with that relationship," Hahn said.

Trump`s tweet, which tagged the commissioner, said: "The deep state, or whoever, over at the FDA is making it very difficult for drug companies to get people in order to test the vaccines and therapeutics. Obviously, they are hoping to delay the answer until after November 3rd."

Trump has talked up the possibility of a coronavirus vaccine coming soon and the White House is eager to have positive news on the development of one before the election.

Trump and his advisers are also eager to show that his administration is moving quickly to find both a vaccine and treatments for the disease, even as scientists have warned that time is required for testing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/republicans-to-make-case-for-trump-after-democrats-endorse-biden-322281">Also read:&nbsp;Republicans to make case for Trump after Democrats endorse Biden</a>

Hahn said the FDA`s recent authorization of a coronavirus treatment using blood plasma from recovered patients was not made because of political pressure and emphasized that on his watch any decision on a vaccine would be based on science.

Peter Marks, director of the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research and a regulator who will help decide the fate of coronavirus vaccine candidates, has said he would resign if the Trump administration approved a vaccine before it was shown to be safe and effective.

Hahn said he had spoken to Marks and respected his judgment.

"I'm not going to ... speculate about what I would do," in such a situation, he said. "But what I can tell you is that I will not participate in a decision at FDA that`s made upon anything other than data and science. That I can assure you," he said.

Trump hailed the FDA "emergency use authorization" for convalescent plasma on Sunday, shortly before the beginning of this week's Republican National Convention.

Hahn said the decision was made by the agency's scientists and that he concurred with it after looking at the data.

Hahn acknowledged that Dr. Anthony Fauci, the top U.S. infectious diseases expert, and Dr. Francis Collins of the National Institutes of Health had expressed concern that the data did not justify the authorization.

"Previously when we did have a discussion with them, they were concerned that the data might not be robust enough. That`s why we did the validation ... to provide further confirmation," Hahn said.

Fauci told Reuters on Monday that premature approval of a COVID-19 vaccine could undermine trials of other vaccine candidates.

Hahn said there was medical urgency to develop a vaccine. "But we want to be as sure as we possibly can regarding safety and efficacy," he said.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not harbor "deep state" elements, the agency's head told Reuters on Monday, rejecting criticism from President Donald Trump that staff there were trying to delay a coronavirus vaccine.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not harbor "deep state" elements, the agency's head told Reuters on Monday, rejecting criticism from President Donald Trump that staff there were trying to delay a coronavirus vaccine. Dr. Stephen Hahn said he was completely confident that FDA workers were focused solely on the interests of the American people during the coronavirus pandemic. Without evidence, Trump on Saturday accused members of the so-called "deep state" working within the FDA of complicating efforts to test COVID-19 vaccines in order to delay results until after the Nov. 3 presidential election. "I have not seen anything that I would consider to be 'deep state' at the FDA," Hahn told Reuters in an interview. Trump's use of the term "deep state" appears to refer to long-serving government employees he believes are determined to undermine his agenda. Hahn said he had a solid relationship with Trump, a Republican whose re-election chances in November have been dampened by public discontent over his handling of the coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Trump says without proof that FDA 'deep state' slowing coronavirus trials "I enjoy a very good relationship with the president and I have discussed our decisions with him, and I feel very comfortable and continue to feel comfortable with that relationship," Hahn said. Trump`s tweet, which tagged the commissioner, said: "The deep state, or whoever, over at the FDA is making it very difficult for drug companies to get people in order to test the vaccines and therapeutics. Obviously, they are hoping to delay the answer until after November 3rd." Trump has talked up the possibility of a coronavirus vaccine coming soon and the White House is eager to have positive news on the development of one before the election. Trump and his advisers are also eager to show that his administration is moving quickly to find both a vaccine and treatments for the disease, even as scientists have warned that time is required for testing. Also read: Republicans to make case for Trump after Democrats endorse Biden Hahn said the FDA`s recent authorization of a coronavirus treatment using blood plasma from recovered patients was not made because of political pressure and emphasized that on his watch any decision on a vaccine would be based on science. Peter Marks, director of the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research and a regulator who will help decide the fate of coronavirus vaccine candidates, has said he would resign if the Trump administration approved a vaccine before it was shown to be safe and effective. Hahn said he had spoken to Marks and respected his judgment. "I'm not going to ... speculate about what I would do," in such a situation, he said. "But what I can tell you is that I will not participate in a decision at FDA that`s made upon anything other than data and science. That I can assure you," he said. Trump hailed the FDA "emergency use authorization" for convalescent plasma on Sunday, shortly before the beginning of this week's Republican National Convention. Hahn said the decision was made by the agency's scientists and that he concurred with it after looking at the data. Hahn acknowledged that Dr. Anthony Fauci, the top U.S. infectious diseases expert, and Dr. Francis Collins of the National Institutes of Health had expressed concern that the data did not justify the authorization. "Previously when we did have a discussion with them, they were concerned that the data might not be robust enough. That`s why we did the validation ... to provide further confirmation," Hahn said. Fauci told Reuters on Monday that premature approval of a COVID-19 vaccine could undermine trials of other vaccine candidates. Hahn said there was medical urgency to develop a vaccine. "But we want to be as sure as we possibly can regarding safety and efficacy," he said.

FDA commissioner disputes Trump, says no 'deep state' thwarting vaccine

Chinese Trump wax statue makers face losses amid coronavirus

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will speak to the Republican National Convention this week. Despite having told U.S. diplomats that presidential and political appointees may not take part in any such political activity.

Republican National Convention: Mike Pompeo to address the event this week violating his own orders

In the United States, the race to the White House is heating up. After the Democratic Convention, a four-day celebration of the US president has begun.&nbsp;

The difference, though, is unlike the Democratic one, this is not an entirely virtual event.&nbsp;

Watch |

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-trump-formally-nominated-for-republican-party-ticket-322856/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

At least 336 Republican delegates from all over America have gathered in Charlotte, North America.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/republicans-nominate-donald-trump-for-second-term-to-take-on-biden-in-the-fall-322842">Republicans nominate Donald Trump for second term, to take on Biden in the fall</a>

For the next three days, they will be honouring what they call "The Great American Story" and US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;

The convention will highlight four years of the Trump administration, the promises he delivered on, the governance he has transformed, the international agreements he has secured and the greatness that America has achieved under him.&nbsp;

The convention began with the nomination of Donald Trump for his second term and will culminate with a live acceptance speech by Trump, all the way from the White House.&nbsp;

Amid all this, take a look at some of the developments in America.&nbsp;

There are large-scale protests outside the Charlotte Convention Centre, where dozens of 'Black Lives Matter' demonstrators are facing off with the police.&nbsp;

The authorities say the protesters are trying to derail the Convention, though the protesters say they just want Trump to acknowledge their concerns in his speech.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, most leading news websites have been inundated with Trump campaign ads. This is because the Trump campaign has invested heavily in 'premium' or 'unskippable' ads on most websites.&nbsp;

Also, the Trump campaign is using snippets from the 'Howdy Modi' event held last year to woo Indian American voters.&nbsp;

In fact, they have released an entire campaign video dedicated to America's friendship with India, headline as "four more years".&nbsp;

There are some other controversies too that surround the Republican Convention. The row about mail-in voting, which Trump says will lead to fraud.&nbsp;

The pandemic is driving many Americans to vote through this system but there are concerns as US Postal Service is cash-strapped and will find it difficult to function on a national scale.&nbsp;

However, Democrat-run House of Representatives has recently voted to provide US Postal Service with $25 billion to fix the system.

But, Louis DeJoy, US Postmaster General is still in two minds, saying that the money won't be enough to solve the problem.&nbsp;

The Democrats called him a Republican operative and blamed him for undertaking some operation changes in the system to suit Trump's party.&nbsp;

DeJoy testified before the US House Committee earlier today and the details of the testimony are still awaited.&nbsp;

It seems Trump's wax replicas are also in trouble.

Trump is the best-selling model for the Shanghai-based arts organisation.

Zheng Sheng, the manager of the company, is still waiting for new orders for Trump's replicas as the Wuhan virus has hit the orders.&nbsp;

He is now thinking of switching to make Biden's replicas and in the US too, the tide is seeming to turn into Joe Biden's favour.&nbsp;

Even before the Republican National Convention began, the American media was lauding Biden for his performance at the Democratic event.

Much to Biden's surprise, Fox News, Trump's primary source for most of his arguments, praised him.

Three days ago, Fox News carried this headline: 'Biden promises a healing presence in a speech praised by Left and Right'.&nbsp;

Trump may be losing his friends in the media and the Republican Convention could be his last chance to win them back.&nbsp;

In the United States, the race to the White House is heating up. After the Democratic Convention, a four-day celebration of the US president has begun. The difference, though, is unlike the Democratic one, this is not an entirely virtual event.

In the United States, the race to the White House is heating up. After the Democratic Convention, a four-day celebration of the US president has begun. The difference, though, is unlike the Democratic one, this is not an entirely virtual event. Watch | At least 336 Republican delegates from all over America have gathered in Charlotte, North America. Also read | Republicans nominate Donald Trump for second term, to take on Biden in the fall For the next three days, they will be honouring what they call "The Great American Story" and US President Donald Trump. The convention will highlight four years of the Trump administration, the promises he delivered on, the governance he has transformed, the international agreements he has secured and the greatness that America has achieved under him. The convention began with the nomination of Donald Trump for his second term and will culminate with a live acceptance speech by Trump, all the way from the White House. Amid all this, take a look at some of the developments in America. There are large-scale protests outside the Charlotte Convention Centre, where dozens of 'Black Lives Matter' demonstrators are facing off with the police. The authorities say the protesters are trying to derail the Convention, though the protesters say they just want Trump to acknowledge their concerns in his speech. Meanwhile, most leading news websites have been inundated with Trump campaign ads. This is because the Trump campaign has invested heavily in 'premium' or 'unskippable' ads on most websites. Also, the Trump campaign is using snippets from the 'Howdy Modi' event held last year to woo Indian American voters. In fact, they have released an entire campaign video dedicated to America's friendship with India, headline as "four more years". There are some other controversies too that surround the Republican Convention. The row about mail-in voting, which Trump says will lead to fraud. The pandemic is driving many Americans to vote through this system but there are concerns as US Postal Service is cash-strapped and will find it difficult to function on a national scale. However, Democrat-run House of Representatives has recently voted to provide US Postal Service with $25 billion to fix the system. But, Louis DeJoy, US Postmaster General is still in two minds, saying that the money won't be enough to solve the problem. The Democrats called him a Republican operative and blamed him for undertaking some operation changes in the system to suit Trump's party. DeJoy testified before the US House Committee earlier today and the details of the testimony are still awaited. It seems Trump's wax replicas are also in trouble. Trump is the best-selling model for the Shanghai-based arts organisation. Zheng Sheng, the manager of the company, is still waiting for new orders for Trump's replicas as the Wuhan virus has hit the orders. He is now thinking of switching to make Biden's replicas and in the US too, the tide is seeming to turn into Joe Biden's favour. Even before the Republican National Convention began, the American media was lauding Biden for his performance at the Democratic event. Much to Biden's surprise, Fox News, Trump's primary source for most of his arguments, praised him. Three days ago, Fox News carried this headline: 'Biden promises a healing presence in a speech praised by Left and Right'. Trump may be losing his friends in the media and the Republican Convention could be his last chance to win them back.

Are Americans listening to Donald Trump's 'Great American story'?

Day one of the Republican National Convention has wrapped up. The event included prominent as well as divisive speakers. Nikki Haley & Former Footballer Herschel Walker defended Donald Trump over the racism. Donald Trump Jr. wants 'Beijing Biden' to win.

Day one of RNC: Nikki Haley & Former Footballer defended Trump on racism

Tropical Storm Laura currently lies at other end of Caribbean to a separate tropical depression

Thousands evacuated as twin storms head for Southern United States

Republicans nominate Donald Trump for second term at Republican National Convention 2020

Kellyanne Conway, a long-serving advisor to US President Donald Trump known for sparring with reporters, has stepped down to focus on her family.

Conway has been at Trump's side since day one, managing his 2016 campaign that catapulted him to victory. But looks like her family was one of the reasons behind her decision.

Her husband, prominent Washington lawyer George Conway, is one of Twitter's most prolific Trump critics, repeatedly and loudly questioning the president's mental fitness for office.

Conway's 15-year-old daughter Claudia wrote on Twitter Saturday that she was "devastated" that her mother would speak at the Republican convention, and pledged to seek legal emancipation "due to years of childhood trauma and abuse".

Less than 24 hours later, Kellyanne Conway on Sunday tweeted a statement that closes by saying: "For now, and for my beloved children, it will be less drama, more mama".

Conway said she would step down by the end of the month and that her husband George would also be making some changes.

"We disagree about plenty but we are united on what matters most: the kids," she wrote.

Conway has become both famous and notorious for sparring with the media, often by finding a way to change the topic, turn the question back on the reporter, or merely complain.

All of which did with a flamboyant fashion sense -- snake-skin pattern dress one day, a bright red one the next -- standing out in an often-gray city.

Her work led her at one point to be depicted on the long-running US comedy show Saturday Night Live as "Kellywise", a spoof of the murderous, sewer-dwelling clown from horror novel and film "It".

Conway also stuck out her White House role while a parade of other aides were forced out, quit or left in humiliation.

Conway, a lawyer and pollster by training, said her departure was her call.

"This is completely my choice and my voice. In time, I will announce future plans." 
&nbsp;

Kellyanne Conway, a long-serving advisor to US President Donald Trump known for sparring with reporters, has stepped down to focus on her family. Conway has been at Trump's side since day one, managing his 2016 campaign that catapulted him to victory.

Kellyanne Conway, a long-serving advisor to US President Donald Trump known for sparring with reporters, has stepped down to focus on her family. Conway has been at Trump's side since day one, managing his 2016 campaign that catapulted him to victory. But looks like her family was one of the reasons behind her decision. Her husband, prominent Washington lawyer George Conway, is one of Twitter's most prolific Trump critics, repeatedly and loudly questioning the president's mental fitness for office. Conway's 15-year-old daughter Claudia wrote on Twitter Saturday that she was "devastated" that her mother would speak at the Republican convention, and pledged to seek legal emancipation "due to years of childhood trauma and abuse". Less than 24 hours later, Kellyanne Conway on Sunday tweeted a statement that closes by saying: "For now, and for my beloved children, it will be less drama, more mama". Conway said she would step down by the end of the month and that her husband George would also be making some changes. "We disagree about plenty but we are united on what matters most: the kids," she wrote. Conway has become both famous and notorious for sparring with the media, often by finding a way to change the topic, turn the question back on the reporter, or merely complain. All of which did with a flamboyant fashion sense -- snake-skin pattern dress one day, a bright red one the next -- standing out in an often-gray city. Her work led her at one point to be depicted on the long-running US comedy show Saturday Night Live as "Kellywise", a spoof of the murderous, sewer-dwelling clown from horror novel and film "It". Conway also stuck out her White House role while a parade of other aides were forced out, quit or left in humiliation. Conway, a lawyer and pollster by training, said her departure was her call. "This is completely my choice and my voice. In time, I will announce future plans."

White House counsel to Trump Kellyanne Conway steps down

All eyes are on the upcoming Republican event where Donald Trump will be nominated as the presidential candidate.

Republican National Convention 2020 to kick-off in North Carolina

The various R.N.C. committees must meet to complete the formal paperwork to nominate Mr. Trump by the coming deadlines.

Republicans gear up to re-nominate Trump

Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden has said he would follow public health advisors' advice if they called for a national shutdown if the coronavirus had not subsided by the time he takes office.

"I would be prepared to do whatever it takes to save lives. We cannot get the country moving until we control the virus," Biden said in an interview broadcast Sunday night on ABC News.

He even said he would not shy from a national shutdown if scientists said it was necessary.

"I would shut it down," he said.

The former vice president's remarks came in his first joint interview with vice presidential nominee Kamala Harris. The pair accepted their party's nominations during a virtual convention last week. On Monday, Republicans begin their convention to nominate Trump and Vice President Mike Pence for a second term.

When asked about Trump's recent assertion that the only way he'd lose was if the election were rigged, the Democratic challenger dismissed any notions that the incumbent president wouldn't leave the White House voluntarily if he loses.

"The American people will not let that happen," he said.&nbsp;

"No one's going to allow that to happen."&nbsp;

The first Black woman on a major party national ticket, Harris said she and Biden are on the same page on race amid the nation's ongoing reckoning with systemic racism.

"There are real racial disparities that are rooted in systemic racism," Harris said, noting wealth gaps and the disproportionate effects of COVID-19 on Black and Hispanic communities.&nbsp;

Biden said they "have the same value set" and are "on same exact page about what the possibilities are right now."&nbsp;

"I signed on to bills that were about great ideas to fix the problem," Harris told ABC, arguing that she and Biden "are completely aligned on " making sure everyone has health care." 
&nbsp;

Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden has said he would follow public health advisors' advice if they called for a national shutdown if the coronavirus had not subsided by the time he takes office.

Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden has said he would follow public health advisors' advice if they called for a national shutdown if the coronavirus had not subsided by the time he takes office. "I would be prepared to do whatever it takes to save lives. We cannot get the country moving until we control the virus," Biden said in an interview broadcast Sunday night on ABC News. He even said he would not shy from a national shutdown if scientists said it was necessary. "I would shut it down," he said. The former vice president's remarks came in his first joint interview with vice presidential nominee Kamala Harris. The pair accepted their party's nominations during a virtual convention last week. On Monday, Republicans begin their convention to nominate Trump and Vice President Mike Pence for a second term. When asked about Trump's recent assertion that the only way he'd lose was if the election were rigged, the Democratic challenger dismissed any notions that the incumbent president wouldn't leave the White House voluntarily if he loses. "The American people will not let that happen," he said. "No one's going to allow that to happen." The first Black woman on a major party national ticket, Harris said she and Biden are on the same page on race amid the nation's ongoing reckoning with systemic racism. "There are real racial disparities that are rooted in systemic racism," Harris said, noting wealth gaps and the disproportionate effects of COVID-19 on Black and Hispanic communities. Biden said they "have the same value set" and are "on same exact page about what the possibilities are right now." "I signed on to bills that were about great ideas to fix the problem," Harris told ABC, arguing that she and Biden "are completely aligned on " making sure everyone has health care."

Joe Biden says he'd shut down economy if scientists recommended

Twitter Inc placed a disclaimer on United States President Donald Trump’s tweet criticising the promotion of drop boxes by Democrats as an option for voters in the upcoming presidential election. The disclaimer, placed on Sunday, said the tweet violated the company’s “civic and election integrity” rules.

“So now the Democrats are using Mail Drop Boxes, which are a voter security disaster. Among other things, they make it possible for a person to vote multiple times. Also, who controls them, are they placed in Republican or Democrat areas? They are not Covid sanitized. A big fraud!” Trump said in a tweet posted on Sunday morning.

To this end, Twitter, in a disclaimer attached to the tweet, said: “Twitter has determined that it may be in the public’s interest for the tweet to remain accessible.”

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/facebook-tags-disclaimer-on-donald-trumps-post-on-mail-in-voting-314989">Also read |&nbsp;Facebook tags disclaimer on Donald Trump's post on 'mail- in voting'</a>

Democrats across the country are promoting drop boxes as a convenient and reliable option for voters who do not want to entrust their ballots to the US Postal Service.&nbsp;

Republican officials in other states have prevented their use.

In a similar vein, the Democratic-led US House of Representatives has approved a legislation to provide the cash-strapped Postal Service with $25 billion and block policy changes that have stirred concerns about mail-in balloting ahead of the November 3 election.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-approves-bill-to-send-25-billion-to-postal-service-and-block-policy-changes-322453">Also read |&nbsp;US House approves bill to send $25 billion to Postal Service and block policy changes</a>

The Saturday bill was passed 257-150, largely along party lines, with Democrats supporting it -- defying President Donald Trump, who actively urged Republicans to oppose it.

Twitter Inc placed a disclaimer on United States President Donald Trump’s tweet criticising the promotion of drop boxes by Democrats as an option for voters in the upcoming presidential election.

Twitter Inc placed a disclaimer on United States President Donald Trump’s tweet criticising the promotion of drop boxes by Democrats as an option for voters in the upcoming presidential election. The disclaimer, placed on Sunday, said the tweet violated the company’s “civic and election integrity” rules. “So now the Democrats are using Mail Drop Boxes, which are a voter security disaster. Among other things, they make it possible for a person to vote multiple times. Also, who controls them, are they placed in Republican or Democrat areas? They are not Covid sanitized. A big fraud!” Trump said in a tweet posted on Sunday morning. To this end, Twitter, in a disclaimer attached to the tweet, said: “Twitter has determined that it may be in the public’s interest for the tweet to remain accessible.” Also read | Facebook tags disclaimer on Donald Trump's post on 'mail- in voting' Democrats across the country are promoting drop boxes as a convenient and reliable option for voters who do not want to entrust their ballots to the US Postal Service. Republican officials in other states have prevented their use. In a similar vein, the Democratic-led US House of Representatives has approved a legislation to provide the cash-strapped Postal Service with $25 billion and block policy changes that have stirred concerns about mail-in balloting ahead of the November 3 election. Also read | US House approves bill to send $25 billion to Postal Service and block policy changes The Saturday bill was passed 257-150, largely along party lines, with Democrats supporting it -- defying President Donald Trump, who actively urged Republicans to oppose it.

Twitter attaches disclaimer on Trump's 'mail drop boxes' tweet

Vietnamese technology firm VNG is suing TikTok, the popular short-form video app, saying it does not have adequate licences for the songs being used in its videos, sources said on Monday.

VNG is accusing the Chinese-owned company of using audio tracks owned by Zing, a VNG subsidiary, without the company`s consent, two sources familiar with the issue said.

A legal document from the people`s court of Ho Chi Minh City seen by Reuters seeks damages from TikTok and demands that it ceases use of Zing`s music.

"VNG requests TikTok remove all music segments taken from Zing records from both the TikTok application and website, and an indemnification for damages of over 221 billion dong ($9.5 million)," read the document.

TikTok and VNG did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

VNG Corporation is a Vietnam-based technology firm founded in 2004, known for its online games, music streaming and messaging applications.

TikTok has soared in popularity in Vietnam, where it recorded 10 million users as of August with millions of short-clip uploads to the platform, official data showed.

But some music rights-holders say TikTok does not have adequate licences for the songs being used in its videos.

"Notably, TikTok has introduced a very complicated business model to avoid copyright compliance in Vietnam," the Vietnam Music Association said in a response to questions from Reuters.

Vietnamese technology firm VNG is suing TikTok, the popular short-form video app, saying it does not have adequate licences for the songs being used in its videos, sources said on Monday.

Vietnamese technology firm VNG is suing TikTok, the popular short-form video app, saying it does not have adequate licences for the songs being used in its videos, sources said on Monday. VNG is accusing the Chinese-owned company of using audio tracks owned by Zing, a VNG subsidiary, without the company`s consent, two sources familiar with the issue said. A legal document from the people`s court of Ho Chi Minh City seen by Reuters seeks damages from TikTok and demands that it ceases use of Zing`s music. "VNG requests TikTok remove all music segments taken from Zing records from both the TikTok application and website, and an indemnification for damages of over 221 billion dong ($9.5 million)," read the document. TikTok and VNG did not immediately respond to requests for comment. VNG Corporation is a Vietnam-based technology firm founded in 2004, known for its online games, music streaming and messaging applications. TikTok has soared in popularity in Vietnam, where it recorded 10 million users as of August with millions of short-clip uploads to the platform, official data showed. But some music rights-holders say TikTok does not have adequate licences for the songs being used in its videos. "Notably, TikTok has introduced a very complicated business model to avoid copyright compliance in Vietnam," the Vietnam Music Association said in a response to questions from Reuters.

Vietnamese tech firm sues TikTok, alleging copyright infringement

The Taliban's chief has zeroed in on a negotiating team that is to have sweeping decision-making powers in upcoming intra-Afghan negotiations.

Maulvi Hibatullah Akhunzada picked the 20-member team, 13 of whom come from the Taliban's leadership council. The negotiating team will have the authority to set agendas, decide strategy and even sign agreements with the political leadership of the Afghan government in Kabul.

Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar will keep the powerful post as head of the Taliban's political office in the Gulf Arab state of Qatar. He had signed the peace deal with Washington on February 29 paving the way for America's troop withdrawal and the eventual intra-Afghan negotiations.

The critical intra-Afghan talks, which were laid out in the peace deal signed in February, were expected to begin August 20 but have been plagued by relentless delays.

The agenda of the talks will include a permanent cease-fire, the rights of minorities and women, constitutional changes and the fate of tens of thousands of armed Taliban and militias loyal to Kabul-allied warlords.

According to the deal Washington signed with the Taliban, the Afghan government was to release 5,000 Taliban prisoners, and the Taliban were to free 1,000 government and military men.

Since signing the agreement, the Taliban have held to a promise not to attack US and NATO troops, but have carried out regular attacks on Afghan security forces.

On Sunday, Baradar, head of the Taliban political office, was travelling to Pakistan from Doha, just days after Islamabad issued fresh orders implementing the 2015 UN sanctions against the Taliban as well as a number of other outlawed groups.

The Taliban's chief has zeroed in on a negotiating team that is to have sweeping decision-making powers in upcoming intra-Afghan negotiations. Maulvi Hibatullah Akhunzada picked the 20-member team, 13 of whom come from the Taliban's leadership council.

The Taliban's chief has zeroed in on a negotiating team that is to have sweeping decision-making powers in upcoming intra-Afghan negotiations. Maulvi Hibatullah Akhunzada picked the 20-member team, 13 of whom come from the Taliban's leadership council. The negotiating team will have the authority to set agendas, decide strategy and even sign agreements with the political leadership of the Afghan government in Kabul. Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar will keep the powerful post as head of the Taliban's political office in the Gulf Arab state of Qatar. He had signed the peace deal with Washington on February 29 paving the way for America's troop withdrawal and the eventual intra-Afghan negotiations. The critical intra-Afghan talks, which were laid out in the peace deal signed in February, were expected to begin August 20 but have been plagued by relentless delays. The agenda of the talks will include a permanent cease-fire, the rights of minorities and women, constitutional changes and the fate of tens of thousands of armed Taliban and militias loyal to Kabul-allied warlords. According to the deal Washington signed with the Taliban, the Afghan government was to release 5,000 Taliban prisoners, and the Taliban were to free 1,000 government and military men. Since signing the agreement, the Taliban have held to a promise not to attack US and NATO troops, but have carried out regular attacks on Afghan security forces. On Sunday, Baradar, head of the Taliban political office, was travelling to Pakistan from Doha, just days after Islamabad issued fresh orders implementing the 2015 UN sanctions against the Taliban as well as a number of other outlawed groups.

Taliban set for intra-Afghan talks

President Donald Trump will draw on all his showman's instincts at the Republican convention starting Monday to get Americans to look beyond his handling of the coronavirus crisis and return him to the White House for a second term.

Facing anger over the pandemic and ensuing economic turmoil, Trump badly trails his Democratic opponent Joe Biden in the polls.

But the Republican insists he can replicate his surprise 2016 win -- and hopes the convention, where he will be nominated to seek reelection November 3, will launch the comeback.

Due to COVID-19, the convention will be largely online, the same as the Democrats' unprecedented convention last week. But technical aspects will be only the start of the tradition-wrecking changes brought to the Trump party.

Unlike standard conventions, where the candidate stays mostly out of the way until the last night, Trump is expected to be in the limelight all four days.

His family, which has had an unusual amount of influence and access at the White House during his tumultuous first term, will also be omnipresent.

There'll be First Lady Melania Trump's speech in the Rose Garden on Tuesday and addresses by the president's children, including right-wing firebrand son Don Jr, daughter-advisor Ivanka and daughter-in-law Lara Trump.

On Monday, the convention kicks off with Republican delegates meeting in Charlotte, North Carolina, to hear Trump speak.

Trump's climactic speech on Thursday, which the Republicans hope to follow with fireworks, will be delivered at the White House itself -- a show of power trampling over the custom of separating political campaigns from the office of president.

In yet another move raising eyebrows, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, a big Trump supporter, will make a speech on his behalf while conducting an official trip to Israel.

It's often said that the Democrats' deep Hollywood connections give them the upper hand in the showbiz side of politics. They put on a well-honed production last week, culminating with Biden's emotional pledge to be an "ally of the light" after what he called the "darkness" of Trump's first term.

Trump, though, also has years of experience in television, quite apart from his decades as a celebrity property developer. So, reports that he has brought in two of the producers on his old reality TV show "The Apprentice" to help out come as no surprise.

- God, jobs and guns -

For all his bullishness, Trump faces an uphill struggle against Biden, who is tapping into massive unhappiness with the president's handling of the pandemic, unrest over racial inequality and fear of longterm economic damage from the coronavirus shutdown.

Beyond bread and butter issues, Trump's abrasive style, his habit of insulting people he doesn't like in public, his demonization of journalists, and almost total inability to talk to Democratic leaders has left the country divided and exhausted.

After the Democrats used their convention to promise national healing, Trump sought to turn the issue on its head, accusing his opponents of being the ones going negative.

"They spent four straight days attacking America as racist and a horrible country that must be redeemed," he said Friday. "Where Joe Biden sees American darkness, I see American greatness."

Asked by Fox News in an interview aired Sunday what to expect at the convention, Trump said "something that is going to be very uplifting and positive."

Trump's number one message is that the economy, reeling from the shock of the nationwide shutdown earlier this year, will come back soon.

He told Fox News he will be promising tax cuts and "the best economy ever."

But the sunny tone is likely to get heavy competition from Trump's other favorite themes -- his often outlandish claims that Democrats want to take away Americans' firearms, unleash anarchy in the streets, encourage mass illegal immigration, and even repress religious freedom.

Earlier this month, Trump told a crowd that Biden will "hurt the Bible, hurt God" -- a statement that quickly drew outrage and ridicule.

Asked by Fox News whether a kinder, gentler kind of Trump might be seen in a second term, the president said: "I'd like it to be calm, too."

But "I have to fight back," he said. "If I don't fight back strong, I would be sitting here right now."

President Donald Trump will draw on all his showman's instincts at the Republican convention starting Monday to get Americans to look beyond his handling of the coronavirus crisis and return him to the White House for a second term.

President Donald Trump will draw on all his showman's instincts at the Republican convention starting Monday to get Americans to look beyond his handling of the coronavirus crisis and return him to the White House for a second term. Facing anger over the pandemic and ensuing economic turmoil, Trump badly trails his Democratic opponent Joe Biden in the polls. But the Republican insists he can replicate his surprise 2016 win -- and hopes the convention, where he will be nominated to seek reelection November 3, will launch the comeback. Due to COVID-19, the convention will be largely online, the same as the Democrats' unprecedented convention last week. But technical aspects will be only the start of the tradition-wrecking changes brought to the Trump party. Unlike standard conventions, where the candidate stays mostly out of the way until the last night, Trump is expected to be in the limelight all four days. His family, which has had an unusual amount of influence and access at the White House during his tumultuous first term, will also be omnipresent. There'll be First Lady Melania Trump's speech in the Rose Garden on Tuesday and addresses by the president's children, including right-wing firebrand son Don Jr, daughter-advisor Ivanka and daughter-in-law Lara Trump. On Monday, the convention kicks off with Republican delegates meeting in Charlotte, North Carolina, to hear Trump speak. Trump's climactic speech on Thursday, which the Republicans hope to follow with fireworks, will be delivered at the White House itself -- a show of power trampling over the custom of separating political campaigns from the office of president. In yet another move raising eyebrows, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, a big Trump supporter, will make a speech on his behalf while conducting an official trip to Israel. It's often said that the Democrats' deep Hollywood connections give them the upper hand in the showbiz side of politics. They put on a well-honed production last week, culminating with Biden's emotional pledge to be an "ally of the light" after what he called the "darkness" of Trump's first term. Trump, though, also has years of experience in television, quite apart from his decades as a celebrity property developer. So, reports that he has brought in two of the producers on his old reality TV show "The Apprentice" to help out come as no surprise. - God, jobs and guns - For all his bullishness, Trump faces an uphill struggle against Biden, who is tapping into massive unhappiness with the president's handling of the pandemic, unrest over racial inequality and fear of longterm economic damage from the coronavirus shutdown. Beyond bread and butter issues, Trump's abrasive style, his habit of insulting people he doesn't like in public, his demonization of journalists, and almost total inability to talk to Democratic leaders has left the country divided and exhausted. After the Democrats used their convention to promise national healing, Trump sought to turn the issue on its head, accusing his opponents of being the ones going negative. "They spent four straight days attacking America as racist and a horrible country that must be redeemed," he said Friday. "Where Joe Biden sees American darkness, I see American greatness." Asked by Fox News in an interview aired Sunday what to expect at the convention, Trump said "something that is going to be very uplifting and positive." Trump's number one message is that the economy, reeling from the shock of the nationwide shutdown earlier this year, will come back soon. He told Fox News he will be promising tax cuts and "the best economy ever." But the sunny tone is likely to get heavy competition from Trump's other favorite themes -- his often outlandish claims that Democrats want to take away Americans' firearms, unleash anarchy in the streets, encourage mass illegal immigration, and even repress religious freedom. Earlier this month, Trump told a crowd that Biden will "hurt the Bible, hurt God" -- a statement that quickly drew outrage and ridicule. Asked by Fox News whether a kinder, gentler kind of Trump might be seen in a second term, the president said: "I'd like it to be calm, too." But "I have to fight back," he said. "If I don't fight back strong, I would be sitting here right now."

Showman Trump hopes Republican convention will change America's tune

Donald Trump loves recounting how everyone told him he wouldn't win in 2016, but he now has his work cut out to prove the doubters wrong a second time on November 3.

- Not a popular man -

Pollsters are more wary than four years ago, not least because this time the variables are off the chart.

Election season got into gear just as the coronavirus pandemic began sweeping through the United States, so far killing more than 170,000 people and pushing the previously booming economy off a cliff.

This has also been a summer of mass protests against racism, as the US faces a historic reckoning over racial injustice and police brutality.

And due to coronavirus restrictions, the challenger Joe Biden has barely been out of his Delaware home.

Despite the volatility, there is broad agreement that Trump has no chance of winning the popular vote, just like in 2016.

The Democrats' strongholds of California and New York alone give them millions of extra votes. Also, Trump is a historically unpopular president, with approval ratings jammed in the low 40s.

American University politics professor David Barker rates Trump's chances of a popular vote win at "maybe 1:100."

But US presidents are chosen via the state-by-state electoral college, not overall national tallies.

And in 2016, Hillary Clinton won nearly three million more votes than Trump, yet still lost the electoral college by a whopping margin. The Democrat got just 227 delegates to 304 delegates for Trump.

- Can he turn the tide? -

Trump often claims to have private polls showing him headed for a second term.

"Right now we're leading in so many polls that they refuse to put out," he said again Thursday.

The latest average of public, national polls from fivethirtyeight.com, however, has Trump down at about 43 percent to Biden's 51 percent.

The Economist's model, updated daily, currently gives Biden an 88 percent chance of winning the presidency, while Trump has just 12 percent. Its electoral college counter predicts a Biden landslide of 343 to Trump's 195, with only 270 required to win.

Republicans talk optimistically about a steep economic recovery in the next two months and maybe a dramatically early release of a coronavirus vaccine.

Others muse over the possibility of Biden self-sabotaging. He is renowned for awkward gaffes and has so far faced almost no difficult questioning from journalists.

An even less predictable factor is outside interference or a so-called "October surprise," like the Russian plot to destabilize Clinton's 2016 campaign and offer help to the Trump camp.

Allan Lichtman, an American University history professor whose "13 Keys to the White House" prediction method has worked accurately in every election since 1984 -- including 2016 -- says none of this can save Trump.

"A bolt from the blue is always possible, but it has not changed a prediction before," said Lichtman, whose "keys" look at structural political considerations, not polls.

"Even an improving economy is unlikely to change a key. We have an election-year recession and growth has been so negative that one more quarter is incredibly unlikely to reverse the call," he said.

- Roadmap -

Trump's campaign generals look at the map and still see numerous routes where an upset win here or there would put their man safely over the top.

Trump's collection of safe states alone is far from enough to reach the needed 270 electoral college votes.

So, as nearly always, the election will come down to voters in a handful of big swing states and maybe a scattering of smaller ones.

"We all need to win either Wisconsin or Michigan or Pennsylvania to win this thing again," Trump campaign manager Bill Stepien told reporters.

"If we win any of these three states and the states the president won in 2016, Joe Biden stays in his basement."

Barker says Trump really needs to keep hold of pretty much all the swing states that secured his 2016 win -- Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Florida, North Carolina and Ohio.

"He could lose one of any of those states and be fine, but not two."

In current polling, however, Biden leads in all those battlegrounds and even threatens in places like Texas where Trump won easily in 2016.

Asked to characterize Trump's path through the mounting electoral minefields, Barker answered: "narrow."

Donald Trump loves recounting how everyone told him he wouldn't win in 2016, but he now has his work cut out to prove the doubters wrong a second time on November 3.

Donald Trump loves recounting how everyone told him he wouldn't win in 2016, but he now has his work cut out to prove the doubters wrong a second time on November 3. - Not a popular man - Pollsters are more wary than four years ago, not least because this time the variables are off the chart. Election season got into gear just as the coronavirus pandemic began sweeping through the United States, so far killing more than 170,000 people and pushing the previously booming economy off a cliff. This has also been a summer of mass protests against racism, as the US faces a historic reckoning over racial injustice and police brutality. And due to coronavirus restrictions, the challenger Joe Biden has barely been out of his Delaware home. Despite the volatility, there is broad agreement that Trump has no chance of winning the popular vote, just like in 2016. The Democrats' strongholds of California and New York alone give them millions of extra votes. Also, Trump is a historically unpopular president, with approval ratings jammed in the low 40s. American University politics professor David Barker rates Trump's chances of a popular vote win at "maybe 1:100." But US presidents are chosen via the state-by-state electoral college, not overall national tallies. And in 2016, Hillary Clinton won nearly three million more votes than Trump, yet still lost the electoral college by a whopping margin. The Democrat got just 227 delegates to 304 delegates for Trump. - Can he turn the tide? - Trump often claims to have private polls showing him headed for a second term. "Right now we're leading in so many polls that they refuse to put out," he said again Thursday. The latest average of public, national polls from fivethirtyeight.com, however, has Trump down at about 43 percent to Biden's 51 percent. The Economist's model, updated daily, currently gives Biden an 88 percent chance of winning the presidency, while Trump has just 12 percent. Its electoral college counter predicts a Biden landslide of 343 to Trump's 195, with only 270 required to win. Republicans talk optimistically about a steep economic recovery in the next two months and maybe a dramatically early release of a coronavirus vaccine. Others muse over the possibility of Biden self-sabotaging. He is renowned for awkward gaffes and has so far faced almost no difficult questioning from journalists. An even less predictable factor is outside interference or a so-called "October surprise," like the Russian plot to destabilize Clinton's 2016 campaign and offer help to the Trump camp. Allan Lichtman, an American University history professor whose "13 Keys to the White House" prediction method has worked accurately in every election since 1984 -- including 2016 -- says none of this can save Trump. "A bolt from the blue is always possible, but it has not changed a prediction before," said Lichtman, whose "keys" look at structural political considerations, not polls. "Even an improving economy is unlikely to change a key. We have an election-year recession and growth has been so negative that one more quarter is incredibly unlikely to reverse the call," he said. - Roadmap - Trump's campaign generals look at the map and still see numerous routes where an upset win here or there would put their man safely over the top. Trump's collection of safe states alone is far from enough to reach the needed 270 electoral college votes. So, as nearly always, the election will come down to voters in a handful of big swing states and maybe a scattering of smaller ones. "We all need to win either Wisconsin or Michigan or Pennsylvania to win this thing again," Trump campaign manager Bill Stepien told reporters. "If we win any of these three states and the states the president won in 2016, Joe Biden stays in his basement." Barker says Trump really needs to keep hold of pretty much all the swing states that secured his 2016 win -- Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Florida, North Carolina and Ohio. "He could lose one of any of those states and be fine, but not two." In current polling, however, Biden leads in all those battlegrounds and even threatens in places like Texas where Trump won easily in 2016. Asked to characterize Trump's path through the mounting electoral minefields, Barker answered: "narrow."

Can Trump thread the electoral college needle again? It'll be tough

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