Republican President Donald Trump and Democratic rival Joe Biden battled fiercely over the integrity of November's election in a chaotic first debate marked by personal insults, name calling and Trump's repeated interruptions.

US Election 2020 | First Presidential Debate: Segment 6: Election Integrity

The reopening of the U.S. economy in the wake of the COVID pandemic dominated much of the discussion about the overall economy during the first U.S. presidential debate between President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden.

US Election 2020 | First Presidential Debate: Segment 2: Coronavirus Pandemic

US presidential debates 2020 - The United States presidential election is inching closer every minute, and the fierce battle between incumbent Republican Donald Trump and the Democrat rival Joe Biden is picking up pace.

Recently, Trump demanded a drug test from “sleepy Joe Biden”, claiming there is no other explanation for Biden to appear the way he does at all events. Naturally, Trump also offered to get himself tested for any drug consumption. But, it looks like none of that is on the cards.&nbsp;

US presidential debates: "No drug tests"

No drug tests have been conducted or will be conducted before the first debate between the two leaders kicks off on Tuesday. Additionally, no handshakes will be permitted, and the candidates will directly dive into the debate.

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On Monday, Trump claimed that Biden has refused to undergo drug testing. “Joe Biden just announced that he will not agree to a drug test,”&nbsp;Trump had tweeted. He topped with a classic Trump remark - “Gee! I wonder why?”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/us-elections-2020-biden-compares-trump-to-nazi-goebbels-ready-for-personal-attacks-330560" hreflang="en">US elections 2020: Biden compares Trump to Nazi Goebbels; ready for personal attacks</a>

A lot of the Trump campaigning has surrounded Joe Biden’s alleged drug consumption. Trump has repeatedly touted Biden as physically and mentally unfit for the presidency.&nbsp; Trump’s allies have also claimed that Biden is performing well because of performance enhancing drugs.

“He’s almost - no. I have no comment,” Biden had said while referring to the viability of a drug test.

In fact, Biden’s official campaign told Politico, “If the president thinks his best case is made in urine, he can have at it.”

The debate is set to be moderated by Fox News’ Chris Wallace.

US presidential debates: Six major points of contention

According to the Commission on Presidential Debate, six major topics will be touched upon during the first debate - COVID-19, economy, race and violence, the Supreme Court, the track records of both the candidates, and the integrity of the elections.

The debate will begin at 9 PM US Eastern Time Tuesday/6.30 AM IST Wednesday, and will last for approximately 1.5 hours.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/us-elections-2020-trump-mocks-joe-biden-for-staying-indoors-330381" hreflang="en">US elections 2020: Trump mocks Joe Biden for 'staying indoors'</a>

Both the contenders will make their cases at the Case Western Reserve University and Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio.

The 90-minute debate will have no breaks for commercials, and will have six 15-minute segments each. No opening statements will be made, with the first question going to President Trump.

Given the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic, the podiums will be placed farther apart than usual, with no hand-shaking in place. CNN reported that only 60-70 people are expected to be in the live audience.

US presidential debates 2020 - The United States presidential election is inching closer every minute, and the fierce battle between incumbent Republican Donald Trump and the Democrat rival Joe Biden is picking up pace.

US presidential debates 2020 - The United States presidential election is inching closer every minute, and the fierce battle between incumbent Republican Donald Trump and the Democrat rival Joe Biden is picking up pace. Recently, Trump demanded a drug test from “sleepy Joe Biden”, claiming there is no other explanation for Biden to appear the way he does at all events. Naturally, Trump also offered to get himself tested for any drug consumption. But, it looks like none of that is on the cards. US presidential debates: "No drug tests" No drug tests have been conducted or will be conducted before the first debate between the two leaders kicks off on Tuesday. Additionally, no handshakes will be permitted, and the candidates will directly dive into the debate. On Monday, Trump claimed that Biden has refused to undergo drug testing. “Joe Biden just announced that he will not agree to a drug test,” Trump had tweeted. He topped with a classic Trump remark - “Gee! I wonder why?” Also read: US elections 2020: Biden compares Trump to Nazi Goebbels; ready for personal attacks A lot of the Trump campaigning has surrounded Joe Biden’s alleged drug consumption. Trump has repeatedly touted Biden as physically and mentally unfit for the presidency. Trump’s allies have also claimed that Biden is performing well because of performance enhancing drugs. “He’s almost - no. I have no comment,” Biden had said while referring to the viability of a drug test. In fact, Biden’s official campaign told Politico, “If the president thinks his best case is made in urine, he can have at it.” The debate is set to be moderated by Fox News’ Chris Wallace. US presidential debates: Six major points of contention According to the Commission on Presidential Debate, six major topics will be touched upon during the first debate - COVID-19, economy, race and violence, the Supreme Court, the track records of both the candidates, and the integrity of the elections. The debate will begin at 9 PM US Eastern Time Tuesday/6.30 AM IST Wednesday, and will last for approximately 1.5 hours. Also read: US elections 2020: Trump mocks Joe Biden for 'staying indoors' Both the contenders will make their cases at the Case Western Reserve University and Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio. The 90-minute debate will have no breaks for commercials, and will have six 15-minute segments each. No opening statements will be made, with the first question going to President Trump. Given the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic, the podiums will be placed farther apart than usual, with no hand-shaking in place. CNN reported that only 60-70 people are expected to be in the live audience.

Handshakes? Drug tests? What to expect from the first round of US presidential debates

Upcoming borat sequel release date - ‘Borat’ sequel is ready to release with Sacha Baron Cohen leading the film as he reprises his role as the central character.&nbsp;

Titled ‘Borat: Gift of Pornographic Monkey to Vice Premiere Mikhael Pence to Make Benefit Recently Diminished Nation of Kazakhstan’, the film is a follow-up to the hit 2006 comedy. What’s more, is that the film has even bagged a place with OTT streaming channel, Amazon Prime, just in time for the US election.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Upcoming borat sequel release date -&nbsp;It hits Amazon Prime this October.&nbsp;

The teaser of Sacha Baron Cohen’s film has released as it arrives just in time for the first debate. What’s the big deal around the teaser release date? Sacha Baron Cohen has been extremely vocal against the Trump administration and against the hate speech proliferating unchecked on Facebook and other social media outlets. Infact, his 2018 Showtime show ‘Who Is America?’ famously skewered Trump’s supporters and staunch conservative allies like former sheriff Joe Arpaio, Shaun McCutcheon, David Clarke, and Corey Lewandoski, among others.&nbsp;

The Hollywood actor was even spotted at a Trump rally earlier this year.

Watch the teaser for ‘Borat: Gift of Pornographic Monkey to Vice Premiere Mikhael Pence to Make Benefit Recently Diminished Nation of Kazakhstan’ here:

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Congratulation to great friend of the Kazakh people <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> for winning debate today! Impressive and amazing result for a strong premier who always put America and Kazakhstan first! <a href="https://t.co/qLljQ8b5UU">pic.twitter.com/qLljQ8b5UU</a>
— Republic of Kazakhstan 🇰🇿 (@KazakhstanGovt) <a href="https://twitter.com/KazakhstanGovt/status/1311096859142664193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Upcoming borat sequel release date - ‘Borat’ sequel is ready to release with Sacha Baron Cohen leading the film as he reprises his role as the central character.

Upcoming borat sequel release date - ‘Borat’ sequel is ready to release with Sacha Baron Cohen leading the film as he reprises his role as the central character. Titled ‘Borat: Gift of Pornographic Monkey to Vice Premiere Mikhael Pence to Make Benefit Recently Diminished Nation of Kazakhstan’, the film is a follow-up to the hit 2006 comedy. What’s more, is that the film has even bagged a place with OTT streaming channel, Amazon Prime, just in time for the US election. Upcoming borat sequel release date - It hits Amazon Prime this October. The teaser of Sacha Baron Cohen’s film has released as it arrives just in time for the first debate. What’s the big deal around the teaser release date? Sacha Baron Cohen has been extremely vocal against the Trump administration and against the hate speech proliferating unchecked on Facebook and other social media outlets. Infact, his 2018 Showtime show ‘Who Is America?’ famously skewered Trump’s supporters and staunch conservative allies like former sheriff Joe Arpaio, Shaun McCutcheon, David Clarke, and Corey Lewandoski, among others. The Hollywood actor was even spotted at a Trump rally earlier this year. Watch the teaser for ‘Borat: Gift of Pornographic Monkey to Vice Premiere Mikhael Pence to Make Benefit Recently Diminished Nation of Kazakhstan’ here: Congratulation to great friend of the Kazakh people @realDonaldTrump for winning debate today! Impressive and amazing result for a strong premier who always put America and Kazakhstan first! pic.twitter.com/qLljQ8b5UU — Republic of Kazakhstan 🇰🇿 (@KazakhstanGovt) September 30, 2020 ×

Sacha Baron Cohen starrer 'Borat' sequel teaser lands just in time for US Election

Donald Trump defies friendship with PM Modi - During the first presidential debate for the upcoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/us-election">US elections</a>, the&nbsp;US President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwihr5ry7o_sAhWawzgGHb0eDLAQFjAAegQIBRAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw0AfO9799mZXkwQdiR-a7m_">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;backtracked on his friendship with India and accused the Asian country of misquoting the data related to novel <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>.

Trump&nbsp;has always claimed to be a dear friend of the India Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi</a>. However, that has not stopped him from accusing the Modi-led government of hiding the coronavirus-related data.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-this-will-end-badly-for-us-elections-result-331339">Also read|&nbsp;Trump says 'this will end badly' for US elections result</a>

While hoping to woo the voters watching the heated debate and to put his Democratic rival&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiZ9JHp7o_sAhW9yjgGHfB6D5oQFjABegQICRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2uWmb1SVt292OTp_JacPPr">Joe Biden</a>, he launched an attack on China, Russia and India, and alleged the governments of not revealing the actual numbers of people who have lost their lives to the novel coronavirus.

"When you talk about numbers you don't know how many people died in China, you don't know how many people died in Russia, you don't know how many people died in India," Trump said.

"They don't exactly give you a straight count," he continued the allegation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-weeks-away-from-vaccine-trump-during-debate-against-biden-331333">Also read|&nbsp;US 'weeks away from vaccine': Trump during debate against Biden</a>

The accusation was made when the moderator&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moderator-of-us-elections-debate-snaps-at-trump-for-speaking-out-of-time-331319">Chris Wallace</a>&nbsp;asked the two leaders about the 'serious' matter of coronavirus, highlighting that millions of people have been affected and nearly 200,000 people have lost their lives.

While&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;blamed the US President for a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2020-donald-trump-admits-downplaying-seriousness-of-covid-19-326412">careless approach</a> and mishandling the pandemic,&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;blamed China for spreading the virus and claimed that "millions" could have lost their lives to the virus if he had not acted the way he did.

While the comment on China was expected by&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;as he has often called 'coronavirus' as 'China virus' and 'Wuhan virus', the attack on India was a surprise for many, especially a month&nbsp;after Trump's election campaign had released a video message claiming "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/america-loves-india-trump-campaign-releases-commercial-for-indian-americans-322504">America loves India</a>".

Donald Trump defies friendship with PM Modi - During the first presidential debate for the upcoming US elections, the US President Donald Trump backtracked on his friendship with India and accused the Asian country of misquoting the data related to novel coronavirus.

Donald Trump defies friendship with PM Modi - During the first presidential debate for the upcoming US elections, the US President Donald Trump backtracked on his friendship with India and accused the Asian country of misquoting the data related to novel coronavirus. Trump has always claimed to be a dear friend of the India Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, that has not stopped him from accusing the Modi-led government of hiding the coronavirus-related data. Also read| Trump says 'this will end badly' for US elections result While hoping to woo the voters watching the heated debate and to put his Democratic rival Joe Biden, he launched an attack on China, Russia and India, and alleged the governments of not revealing the actual numbers of people who have lost their lives to the novel coronavirus. "When you talk about numbers you don't know how many people died in China, you don't know how many people died in Russia, you don't know how many people died in India," Trump said. "They don't exactly give you a straight count," he continued the allegation. Also read| US 'weeks away from vaccine': Trump during debate against Biden The accusation was made when the moderator Chris Wallace asked the two leaders about the 'serious' matter of coronavirus, highlighting that millions of people have been affected and nearly 200,000 people have lost their lives. While Biden blamed the US President for a careless approach and mishandling the pandemic, Trump blamed China for spreading the virus and claimed that "millions" could have lost their lives to the virus if he had not acted the way he did. While the comment on China was expected by Trump as he has often called 'coronavirus' as 'China virus' and 'Wuhan virus', the attack on India was a surprise for many, especially a month after Trump's election campaign had released a video message claiming "America loves India".

US Elections 2020: Trump defies friendship with PM Modi; questions India's COVID data

The first presidential debate, also dubbed as "Super bowl" of American democracy will begin shortly. Donald Trump frames the debate as a test for Joe Biden's mental acuity. This report sums up the campaign war ahead of the live debate.

U.S. Election 2020: Trump & Biden pre-debate campaign clash

Clocks around the world have been put on a countdown to 9 PM ET & 6:30 AM IST for the first Presidential Debate 2020. Festivities have begun on social media ahead of the live debate. Tweeter wrestle out narratives & judge candidates.

U.S. Election 2020: Festivities begin on twitter for big debate night

As US President Donald Trump and Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden get ready to face each other in the TV debate ahead of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-things-to-watch-in-the-first-trump-biden-debate-330979">US elections</a>, China's People’s Daily said that it will be about the "China threat", warning that the two politicians should not make "China problem to create drama".&nbsp;

Watch:

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"Some US politicians in office have shockingly expressed their hopes for clashes. They have put up a show to shift the focus and make conflicts that the country faces look like an external issue,” it said.

China's state-run daily added: “This is not only unhelpful in solving the systemic risks that the US society is facing, but also creates destruction in the arena of international relations.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2020-trump-and-biden-meet-in-ohio-for-first-presidential-debate-331092">Also Read:&nbsp;US election 2020: Trump and Biden meet in Ohio for first presidential debate</a>

Trump and his Democratic rival Joe Biden are set to meet in Cleveland, Ohio on Tuesday for a TV&nbsp;debate with the US elections set to held on November 3.&nbsp;

“China will not give up its own benefits to play the game of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/us-election">US elections</a>; US politicians should stop dragging China in their domestic issues,” China's state-run daily said.

It will be the first of the three televised debate between the two heavyweights with all eyes set on the match-up amid the coronavirus pandemic sweeping the country.&nbsp;

The debate will be hosted by Chris Wallace, 72, from Fox News who is known to be a straight talker who recently fact-checked a false Trump claim about mortality rates from the COVID-19 with the statement, "it's not true, sir."

Trump already started a debate of sorts even before the opening round, saying: "Willing to bet that he won't ask Biden tough questions."&nbsp;

"He'll ask me tough questions, and it'll show, it'll be unfair," Trump said, adding, "He'll be controlled by the radical left."

As US President Donald Trump and Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden get ready to face each other in the TV debate ahead of the US elections, China's People’s Daily said that it will be about the "China threat", warning that the two politicians should not make "China problem to create drama".

As US President Donald Trump and Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden get ready to face each other in the TV debate ahead of the US elections, China's People’s Daily said that it will be about the "China threat", warning that the two politicians should not make "China problem to create drama". Watch: "Some US politicians in office have shockingly expressed their hopes for clashes. They have put up a show to shift the focus and make conflicts that the country faces look like an external issue,” it said. China's state-run daily added: “This is not only unhelpful in solving the systemic risks that the US society is facing, but also creates destruction in the arena of international relations.” Also Read: US election 2020: Trump and Biden meet in Ohio for first presidential debate Trump and his Democratic rival Joe Biden are set to meet in Cleveland, Ohio on Tuesday for a TV debate with the US elections set to held on November 3. “China will not give up its own benefits to play the game of the US elections; US politicians should stop dragging China in their domestic issues,” China's state-run daily said. It will be the first of the three televised debate between the two heavyweights with all eyes set on the match-up amid the coronavirus pandemic sweeping the country. The debate will be hosted by Chris Wallace, 72, from Fox News who is known to be a straight talker who recently fact-checked a false Trump claim about mortality rates from the COVID-19 with the statement, "it's not true, sir." Trump already started a debate of sorts even before the opening round, saying: "Willing to bet that he won't ask Biden tough questions." "He'll ask me tough questions, and it'll show, it'll be unfair," Trump said, adding, "He'll be controlled by the radical left."

Don't create China problem to create drama, warns China daily ahead of Trump-Biden US election debate

President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden square off on Tuesday in their first presidential debate. With five weeks to go until the November 3 general election, the stakes are high.

US Election 2020: Less than 24 hours to first presidential debate

A little over a month is left when the United States will elect its president and at this stage, all eyes have set upon probably the most-anticipated events: the presidential debates.&nbsp;

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump </a>and his Democratic rival <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden </a>will set the ball rolling on Tuesday, which will likely to have audiences only surpassed by Super Bowl championship.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-2020-biden-compares-trump-to-nazi-goebbels-ready-for-personal-attacks-330560">US elections 2020: Biden compares Trump to Nazi Goebbels; ready for personal attacks</a>

The debates are undoubtedly important for deciding the fate of Biden and Trump, but, over the years we have seen that winning these presidential face-off doesn't always translate into winning the election.&nbsp;

In 2016, Hillary Clinton was the winner of all three debates, but she ultimately lost the election to Trump.&nbsp;

Similarly, Democrat John Kerry performed better than George W. Bush in 2004 debates but was unable to win the election.&nbsp;

John Koch, a professor specialised in debates at Vanderbilt University, describes these debates as important not because they influence the voters, but as "it's the only time we see both candidates together and the two major parties ostensibly debating, outside of Congress", as quoted by news agency AFP.

Also, when the face-off will begin, there will be rehearsed performances by Biden and Trump, which makes these events less relevant, but still significant.&nbsp;

A Pew Research study found that only 10 per cent of voters finalised their voting choices after or during the debates in 2016.&nbsp;

A little over a month is left when the United States will elect its president and at this stage, all eyes have set upon probably the most-anticipated events: the presidential debates.

A little over a month is left when the United States will elect its president and at this stage, all eyes have set upon probably the most-anticipated events: the presidential debates. US President Donald Trump and his Democratic rival Joe Biden will set the ball rolling on Tuesday, which will likely to have audiences only surpassed by Super Bowl championship. Also read | US elections 2020: Biden compares Trump to Nazi Goebbels; ready for personal attacks The debates are undoubtedly important for deciding the fate of Biden and Trump, but, over the years we have seen that winning these presidential face-off doesn't always translate into winning the election. In 2016, Hillary Clinton was the winner of all three debates, but she ultimately lost the election to Trump. Similarly, Democrat John Kerry performed better than George W. Bush in 2004 debates but was unable to win the election. John Koch, a professor specialised in debates at Vanderbilt University, describes these debates as important not because they influence the voters, but as "it's the only time we see both candidates together and the two major parties ostensibly debating, outside of Congress", as quoted by news agency AFP. Also, when the face-off will begin, there will be rehearsed performances by Biden and Trump, which makes these events less relevant, but still significant. A Pew Research study found that only 10 per cent of voters finalised their voting choices after or during the debates in 2016.

US: One-liners, rehearsed performances and mammoth audiences expected as Biden, Trump gear up for debates

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump's </a>former campaign manager Brad Parscale was hospitalised after his wife claimed that he was threatening to self-harm, reports said.&nbsp;

Parscale, an outspoken individual, was replaced as manager in July when Trump's popularity for the upcoming election was declining rapidly.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-one-liners-rehearsed-performances-and-mammoth-audiences-expected-as-biden-trump-gear-up-for-debates-330793">US: One-liners, rehearsed performances and mammoth audiences expected as Biden, Trump gear up for debates</a>

The Fort Lauderdale, Florida, police department confirmed that that the Parscale was detained after they got a report from his wife.

Cops were sent to a home "in reference to an armed male attempting suicide," DeAnna Greenlaw, Fort Lauderdale police officer told CNN on Sunday, as quoted by news agency AFP.

Greenlaw added that his wife said Parscale had access to "multiple firearms" inside the house and was threatening to self-harm.&nbsp;

The department said they "developed a rapport" and "safely negotiated" with him to leave the home.&nbsp;

He was temporarily detained under a law that allows taking such a measure for someone affected by mental illness.

Trump campaign communications director Tim Murtaugh blamed Democrats and RINOs (Republican In Name Only) for triggering him to do such an act.&nbsp;

"Brad Parscale is a member of our family and we all love him. We are ready to support him and his family in any way possible," said Murtaugh to the South Florida Sun Sentinel newspaper.

"The disgusting, personal attacks from Democrats and disgruntled RINOs have gone too far, and they should be ashamed of themselves for what they've done to this man and his family.” 
&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump's former campaign manager Brad Parscale was hospitalised after his wife claimed that he was threatening to self-harm, reports said. Parscale, an outspoken individual, was replaced as manager in July when Trump's popularity for the upcoming election was declining rapidly.

US President Donald Trump's former campaign manager Brad Parscale was hospitalised after his wife claimed that he was threatening to self-harm, reports said. Parscale, an outspoken individual, was replaced as manager in July when Trump's popularity for the upcoming election was declining rapidly. Also read | US: One-liners, rehearsed performances and mammoth audiences expected as Biden, Trump gear up for debates The Fort Lauderdale, Florida, police department confirmed that that the Parscale was detained after they got a report from his wife. Cops were sent to a home "in reference to an armed male attempting suicide," DeAnna Greenlaw, Fort Lauderdale police officer told CNN on Sunday, as quoted by news agency AFP. Greenlaw added that his wife said Parscale had access to "multiple firearms" inside the house and was threatening to self-harm. The department said they "developed a rapport" and "safely negotiated" with him to leave the home. He was temporarily detained under a law that allows taking such a measure for someone affected by mental illness. Trump campaign communications director Tim Murtaugh blamed Democrats and RINOs (Republican In Name Only) for triggering him to do such an act. "Brad Parscale is a member of our family and we all love him. We are ready to support him and his family in any way possible," said Murtaugh to the South Florida Sun Sentinel newspaper. "The disgusting, personal attacks from Democrats and disgruntled RINOs have gone too far, and they should be ashamed of themselves for what they've done to this man and his family.”

Donald Trump's former campaign manager hospitalised after threats to self-harm

Democratic Party's US presidential nominee Joe Biden made his displeasure clear over Trump administration's haste to appoint Amy Coney Barrett to Supreme Court. In his address to the media, he said that this move by Donald Trump defied "every precedent, every expectation". In his strongly-worded statement, Biden underlined the much talked about 'doubletalk' of the Republican Party.

"Never before in our has a Supreme Court justice been nominated and installed while the presidential election is already underway," said Biden.

In 2016, Republican Party had refused to hold a hearing for a judge former US President Barack Obama wanted to nominate for the Supreme Court. The GOP had argued that such a step could not be taken in an election year.

But now, the Republican Party is rapidly closing its rank to ensure that Senate confirms Amy Coney Barrett's nomination.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/republican-party-races-against-time-to-confirm-amy-coney-barrett-on-us-supreme-court-330701">Republican Party races against time to confirm Amy Coney Barrett on US Supreme Court</a>

"There's no mystery about what is happening here, President Trump is trying to throw out the affordable care act He has been trying to do that for last 4 years," said Joe Biden.

Affordable Care Act or 'Obamacare' is the act brought into effect by Barack Obama administration. The act enabled millions of financially weak Americans to avail affordable healthcare. Republican Party is fiercely against the act. If the act is repealed, millions of Americans will lose access to healthcare.

Biden said that there were "written" records showing how Amy Coney Barrett was against Obamacare.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-wants-drug-test-for-joe-biden-before-us-presidential-debates-2020-330721">Donald Trump wants drug test for Joe Biden before US presidential debates 2020</a>

Democratic Party has very few options left to block confirmation of Barrett. Republicans control the Senate 53-47.

At the end of his media address. Joe Biden urged all Senators to "take off blinders", keep aside the politics and bring USA back from the brink. Biden did not take questions after his address. 
&nbsp;

Democratic Party's US presidential nominee Joe Biden made his displeasure clear over Trump administration's haste to appoint Amy Coney Barrett to Supreme Court. In his address to the media, he said that this move by Donald Trump defied "every precedent, every expectation".

Democratic Party's US presidential nominee Joe Biden made his displeasure clear over Trump administration's haste to appoint Amy Coney Barrett to Supreme Court. In his address to the media, he said that this move by Donald Trump defied "every precedent, every expectation". In his strongly-worded statement, Biden underlined the much talked about 'doubletalk' of the Republican Party. "Never before in our has a Supreme Court justice been nominated and installed while the presidential election is already underway," said Biden. In 2016, Republican Party had refused to hold a hearing for a judge former US President Barack Obama wanted to nominate for the Supreme Court. The GOP had argued that such a step could not be taken in an election year. But now, the Republican Party is rapidly closing its rank to ensure that Senate confirms Amy Coney Barrett's nomination. Also Read | Republican Party races against time to confirm Amy Coney Barrett on US Supreme Court "There's no mystery about what is happening here, President Trump is trying to throw out the affordable care act He has been trying to do that for last 4 years," said Joe Biden. Affordable Care Act or 'Obamacare' is the act brought into effect by Barack Obama administration. The act enabled millions of financially weak Americans to avail affordable healthcare. Republican Party is fiercely against the act. If the act is repealed, millions of Americans will lose access to healthcare. Biden said that there were "written" records showing how Amy Coney Barrett was against Obamacare. Also Read: Donald Trump wants drug test for Joe Biden before US presidential debates 2020 Democratic Party has very few options left to block confirmation of Barrett. Republicans control the Senate 53-47. At the end of his media address. Joe Biden urged all Senators to "take off blinders", keep aside the politics and bring USA back from the brink. Biden did not take questions after his address.

Joe Biden strongly opposes Amy Coney Barrett's nomination to US Supreme Court

In the race to win the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/us-election">US elections</a>, the US President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;has often mocked his Democratic opponent&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;for staying indoors, wearing the mask and more. He has often compared Biden&nbsp;to a lazy man and&nbsp;called him 'Sleepy Joe'.

While these comparisons and mockery can be described as naive and childish antics,&nbsp;Joe Biden&nbsp;has taken this game to another level by comparing&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;to the Nazi propaganda chief&nbsp;Joseph Goebbels.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-2020-trump-mocks-joe-biden-for-staying-indoors-330381">Also read|&nbsp;US elections 2020: Trump mocks Joe Biden for 'staying indoors'</a>

Talking to a host of a local news network during an interview,&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;alleged&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;of constantly lying, and continuing the lie enough to make it a valid point. "He's sort of like Goebbels," Biden said. "You say the lie long enough, keep repeating it, repeating it, repeating it, it becomes common knowledge."

The comparison is not one that has often been made during the course of election campaign.&nbsp;

Biden&nbsp;belives the upcoming&nbsp;Presidential debate is going to be difficult but he is prepared for all kinds of personal attacks and lies from&nbsp;Trump.&nbsp;"My guess is, it's going to be just straight attack. They're going to be mostly personal. That's the only thing he knows how to do," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-election-winner-might-not-be-known-for-months-330460">Also read|&nbsp;Trump says US election winner might not be known for months</a>

This will be the first televised debate between the two opponents who have been campaigning all over the country in completely different styles. The debate will take place on September 29 in Cleveland, Ohio. This will be the first of three debates before the US elections&nbsp;that are scheduled for November 03.

While&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;has always giggled and accused&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;of not being a smart person — often <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2020-trump-accuses-biden-of-using-performance-enhancing-drugs-327148">name calling him and making fun of his speeches</a> —&nbsp;Biden,&nbsp;too, threw the same jab back at&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;"He doesn't know how to debate the facts. He's not that smart.". However,&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;&nbsp;had more reasons to make this comment rather than simply mocking&nbsp;Trump's oratory skills. "He doesn't know much about foreign policy, he doesn't know much about domestic policy. He doesn't know much about the detail."

Biden&nbsp;also said he is prepared for personal attacks from&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;as he predicts&nbsp;"it'll be mostly personal attacks and lies; but I think the American people are on to him."&nbsp;

However,&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;claims he is ready to give strong and real reasons about&nbsp;"why I think he's failed and why I think the answers I have to proceed will help the American people and the American economy, and make us safer internationally."

In the race to win the US elections, the US President Donald Trump has often mocked his Democratic opponent Joe Biden for staying indoors, wearing the mask and more.

In the race to win the US elections, the US President Donald Trump has often mocked his Democratic opponent Joe Biden for staying indoors, wearing the mask and more. He has often compared Biden to a lazy man and called him 'Sleepy Joe'. While these comparisons and mockery can be described as naive and childish antics, Joe Biden has taken this game to another level by comparing Trump to the Nazi propaganda chief Joseph Goebbels. Also read| US elections 2020: Trump mocks Joe Biden for 'staying indoors' Talking to a host of a local news network during an interview, Biden alleged Trump of constantly lying, and continuing the lie enough to make it a valid point. "He's sort of like Goebbels," Biden said. "You say the lie long enough, keep repeating it, repeating it, repeating it, it becomes common knowledge." The comparison is not one that has often been made during the course of election campaign. Biden belives the upcoming Presidential debate is going to be difficult but he is prepared for all kinds of personal attacks and lies from Trump. "My guess is, it's going to be just straight attack. They're going to be mostly personal. That's the only thing he knows how to do," he said. Also read| Trump says US election winner might not be known for months This will be the first televised debate between the two opponents who have been campaigning all over the country in completely different styles. The debate will take place on September 29 in Cleveland, Ohio. This will be the first of three debates before the US elections that are scheduled for November 03. While Trump has always giggled and accused Biden of not being a smart person — often name calling him and making fun of his speeches — Biden, too, threw the same jab back at Trump "He doesn't know how to debate the facts. He's not that smart.". However, Biden had more reasons to make this comment rather than simply mocking Trump's oratory skills. "He doesn't know much about foreign policy, he doesn't know much about domestic policy. He doesn't know much about the detail." Biden also said he is prepared for personal attacks from Trump as he predicts "it'll be mostly personal attacks and lies; but I think the American people are on to him." However, Biden claims he is ready to give strong and real reasons about "why I think he's failed and why I think the answers I have to proceed will help the American people and the American economy, and make us safer internationally."

US elections 2020: Biden compares Trump to Nazi Goebbels; ready for personal attacks

American presidential campaigns have a history of producing memorable television ads. As the countdown begins for US Election 2020, we look back at some of the best and worst political ads to hit the small screen.

US Election 2020: Ad wars ; Wion Wideangle

Alphabet Inc`s&nbsp;Google will block election ads on its platform after the U.S. election on Nov. 3, a company spokeswoman said on Friday.

Axios, which first reported&nbsp;the news, said Google mailed advertisers saying they will not be able to run ads "referencing candidates, the election, or its outcome, given that an unprecedented amount of votes will be counted after election day this year."

Social media companies have been facing growing pressure to stop carrying ads that spread false information and could steer election results.

Facebook Inc&nbsp;also said it would stop accepting new political ads in the week before the election and would reject ads that seek to claim victory before the results of the election are declared.

Twitter Inc&nbsp;banned political ads last year, while Google has previously limited the ways election advertisers could micro-target voters.

Google`s new policy will target ads that are explicitly election-related as well as any other types of ads that reference federal or state elections, or ads that run based on targeting election-related search queries, the Axios report said.

Alphabet Inc`s Google will block election ads on its platform after the U.S. election on Nov. 3, a company spokeswoman said on Friday. Axios, which first reported the news, said Google mailed advertisers saying they will not be able to run ads "referencing candidates, the election, or its outcome, given that an unprecedented amount of votes will be counted after election day this year.

Alphabet Inc`s Google will block election ads on its platform after the U.S. election on Nov. 3, a company spokeswoman said on Friday. Axios, which first reported the news, said Google mailed advertisers saying they will not be able to run ads "referencing candidates, the election, or its outcome, given that an unprecedented amount of votes will be counted after election day this year." Social media companies have been facing growing pressure to stop carrying ads that spread false information and could steer election results. Facebook Inc also said it would stop accepting new political ads in the week before the election and would reject ads that seek to claim victory before the results of the election are declared. Twitter Inc banned political ads last year, while Google has previously limited the ways election advertisers could micro-target voters. Google`s new policy will target ads that are explicitly election-related as well as any other types of ads that reference federal or state elections, or ads that run based on targeting election-related search queries, the Axios report said.

Google to block election ads after US presidential election

Only 37 more days to go for US Election 2020, watch the report to know how the US Presidential election takes place.

Universal suffrage adopted to elect the US President

If you forget the secrecy envelope — simply dropping your ballot in the ordinary return envelope — your ballot will be deemed a “naked ballot.”

US Election 2020: Why Pennsylvania's naked ballot is a problem for election officials

US President Donald Trump has offered to mediate in the India-China standoff. The U.S. electoral battle has entered its final six-week stretch. Republicans are split over Trump's refusal to accept the results. Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you the story.

Gravitas: Can Trump solve India-China standoff?

A recent survey has revealed that there are several factors that makes US President Donald Trump closer to Indian-Americans than his Democratic rival Joe Biden.

US Election 2020: What are the choices that voters face in key states?

President Trump’s refusal to commit to a peaceful transition of power is tied to his criticism and false statements about voting by mail

US Election 2020: Trump says mail-in ballots ‘big scam’

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and other top Republicans on Thursday repudiated President Donald Trump's refusal to commit to a peaceful transfer of power, assuring American voters the lawmakers would accept the outcome of November's election.

US Election 2020 New York Direct: White House counters Trump's statements

With the US Elections just some five weeks away, the race for the White House is not the only key decision American voters will make. Just a handful of tight races around the country will determine if Republicans hold on to their 53-seat majority in the 100-seat U.S. Senate – a dynamic that will have far-reaching consequences for the country’s political agenda over the next two years. VOA’s Congressional Correspondent Katherine Gypson reports on the choices facing voters in several key states.

US Election 2020: Race to the US Senate | WION-VOA Co-Production

US President Donald Trump may soon have a lake named after him following proposals to christen a contested Balkan reservoir in his honour. He already has golf clubs and hotels named after him.

The lake in question is a 24-kilometre stretch of water straddling the border of former war foes Serbia and Kosovo, who both claim ownership and have different names for it.

Three quarters of the reservoir lies in Kosovo, while the rest is in Serbia. But the dispute is not just a quarrel about the name.

A huge banner appeared Thursday on Kosovo's side of the reservoir reading "Lake Trump", while another hung over a bridge thanked Trump for "bringing peace" following recent US-brokered agreements between Kosovo and Serbia.

The tussle over ownership of the lake -- called Ujman in Kosovo and Gazivode in Serbia -- is one of many disputes still haunting the neighbours 20 years after they broke apart in war.

After the banners emerged, Kosovo's Prime Minister Avdullah Hoti wrote on Twitter that he "welcomed" the proposal to rename the body of water "Lake Trump" in honour of the "historic economic normalization agreement" signed at the White House in early September.

The agreements, which analysts said were light on substance despite Trump's insistence on their "historic" nature, included a commitment to a feasibility study for "sharing" the lake.

According to Trump advisor Richard Grenell, who led talks on the agreements, the idea of Lake Trump was originally a joke.

"There was this incredible fight about the name so I kind of jokingly said... well, I'm going to keep referring to it as Lake Trump", Grenell said in an interview with a US talk show.

"And both leaders jumped at it and said -– I’m OK with Lake Trump, let's call it Lake Trump", he added.

The said lake is the crucial source of drinking water for more than a third of Kosovo's 1.8 million population, and a cooling source for the coal plants that produce almost all of Kosovo's electricity.

Serbia, which still does not recognise its former province's independence, considers the lake its property.

Locals in the surrounding area, a northern part of Kosovo home mainly to ethnic Serbs, were unclear of who was behind the naming initiative.

 
&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump may soon have a lake named after him following proposals to christen a contested Balkan reservoir in his honour. He already has golf clubs and hotels named after him.

US President Donald Trump may soon have a lake named after him following proposals to christen a contested Balkan reservoir in his honour. He already has golf clubs and hotels named after him. The lake in question is a 24-kilometre stretch of water straddling the border of former war foes Serbia and Kosovo, who both claim ownership and have different names for it. Three quarters of the reservoir lies in Kosovo, while the rest is in Serbia. But the dispute is not just a quarrel about the name. A huge banner appeared Thursday on Kosovo's side of the reservoir reading "Lake Trump", while another hung over a bridge thanked Trump for "bringing peace" following recent US-brokered agreements between Kosovo and Serbia. The tussle over ownership of the lake -- called Ujman in Kosovo and Gazivode in Serbia -- is one of many disputes still haunting the neighbours 20 years after they broke apart in war. After the banners emerged, Kosovo's Prime Minister Avdullah Hoti wrote on Twitter that he "welcomed" the proposal to rename the body of water "Lake Trump" in honour of the "historic economic normalization agreement" signed at the White House in early September. The agreements, which analysts said were light on substance despite Trump's insistence on their "historic" nature, included a commitment to a feasibility study for "sharing" the lake. According to Trump advisor Richard Grenell, who led talks on the agreements, the idea of Lake Trump was originally a joke. "There was this incredible fight about the name so I kind of jokingly said... well, I'm going to keep referring to it as Lake Trump", Grenell said in an interview with a US talk show. "And both leaders jumped at it and said -– I’m OK with Lake Trump, let's call it Lake Trump", he added. The said lake is the crucial source of drinking water for more than a third of Kosovo's 1.8 million population, and a cooling source for the coal plants that produce almost all of Kosovo's electricity. Serbia, which still does not recognise its former province's independence, considers the lake its property. Locals in the surrounding area, a northern part of Kosovo home mainly to ethnic Serbs, were unclear of who was behind the naming initiative.

Lake Trump? Disputed reservoir could be named after US president

Russian President&nbsp;Vladimir Putin on Friday called for agreement between his country and&nbsp;the United States to guarantee not to engage in cyber-meddling in each other's elections.

"(I propose)... exchanging guarantees of non-interference in each other's internal affairs, including electoral processes, including using information and communication technologies and high-tech methods," he said.

Putin statement comes&nbsp;ahead of the US&nbsp;presidential election on November&nbsp;3 when the relations between the two countries&nbsp;are at post-Cold War lows as the election looms.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebook-suspends-fake-russian-accounts-warns-of-us-election-hack-and-leak-threat-330151">Facebook suspends fake Russian accounts, warns of US election hack-and-leak threat</a>

US&nbsp;intelligence agencies have concluded that Russia interfered in the 2016 US&nbsp;presidential election with the aim of tilting it in Donald Trump's favour, including by hacking into the campaign of his rival Hillary Clinton. Moscow denies that charge.

Trump is currently campaigning for re-election against Democrat Joe Biden.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-hackers-targeted-us-conservative-think-tanks-says-microsoft-160628">Russian hackers targeted US conservative think tanks, says Microsoft</a>

"One of the main strategic challenges of our time is the risk of a large-scale confrontation in the digital sphere," Putin said in the Kremlin statement.

"We would like to once again appeal to the United States with a proposal to approve a comprehensive program of practical measures to reset our relations in the use of information and communication technologies (ICT)."

He proposed the two countries reach an agreement to prevent major cyberspace incidents, something he compared to a 1972 US-Soviet treaty reached at the height of the Cold War to prevent incidents at sea and in the air from escalating.

He also called for the two countries to fully restore communication lines between their respective agencies to discuss key international information on security issues.

Russia has denied it is attempting to interfere in the 2020 US&nbsp;campaign, despite evidence to the contrary.

Microsoft said two weeks ago that hackers linked to Russia, China and Iran were trying to spy on people tied to both Trump and Biden. Russia and China dismissed the allegations.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday called for agreement between his country and the United States to guarantee not to engage in cyber-meddling in each other's elections.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday called for agreement between his country and the United States to guarantee not to engage in cyber-meddling in each other's elections. "(I propose)... exchanging guarantees of non-interference in each other's internal affairs, including electoral processes, including using information and communication technologies and high-tech methods," he said. Putin statement comes ahead of the US presidential election on November 3 when the relations between the two countries are at post-Cold War lows as the election looms. Also read: Facebook suspends fake Russian accounts, warns of US election hack-and-leak threat US intelligence agencies have concluded that Russia interfered in the 2016 US presidential election with the aim of tilting it in Donald Trump's favour, including by hacking into the campaign of his rival Hillary Clinton. Moscow denies that charge. Trump is currently campaigning for re-election against Democrat Joe Biden. Also read: Russian hackers targeted US conservative think tanks, says Microsoft "One of the main strategic challenges of our time is the risk of a large-scale confrontation in the digital sphere," Putin said in the Kremlin statement. "We would like to once again appeal to the United States with a proposal to approve a comprehensive program of practical measures to reset our relations in the use of information and communication technologies (ICT)." He proposed the two countries reach an agreement to prevent major cyberspace incidents, something he compared to a 1972 US-Soviet treaty reached at the height of the Cold War to prevent incidents at sea and in the air from escalating. He also called for the two countries to fully restore communication lines between their respective agencies to discuss key international information on security issues. Russia has denied it is attempting to interfere in the 2020 US campaign, despite evidence to the contrary. Microsoft said two weeks ago that hackers linked to Russia, China and Iran were trying to spy on people tied to both Trump and Biden. Russia and China dismissed the allegations.

Putin calls for agreement with US not to meddle in each other's elections

The critics of Facebook Inc on Friday launched a rival oversight board to review the company's content moderation practices.

The new group -- "Real Facebook Oversight Board" -- includes the architects of an advertising boycott against the company. It counts among its initial members the heads of three US civil rights groups, the former president of Estonia and the former head of election integrity at Facebook.

The announcement comes a day after Facebook's officially-mandated Oversight Board said it would start work in mid-late October, nearly a year behind schedule.

That delay means the official Facebook-funded board is unlikely to review cases related to the US election.

The rival board will hold its first general meeting next week, it said in a statement, and focus squarely on election topics, including voter suppression, election security and misinformation.

Facebook "responds to criticism with bad faith statements and cosmetic changes," said board member Roger McNamee, an early investor in Facebook who turned critical of its leaders over their handling of misuse of the platform in the 2016 election.

"The Real Oversight Board will act as a watchdog, helping policymakers and consumers defend against a renegade platform."

Members plan to broadcast their meetings in weekly shows on Facebook Live, according to the statement.

The group said it was being funded by Luminate, a philanthropy backed by The Omidyar Group, but did not disclose a funding amount.

Facebook has committed $130 million to its project, which it said would cover operational costs for at least six years.

The critics of Facebook Inc on Friday launched a rival oversight board to review the company's content moderation practices. The new group -- "Real Facebook Oversight Board" -- includes the architects of an advertising boycott against the company.

The critics of Facebook Inc on Friday launched a rival oversight board to review the company's content moderation practices. The new group -- "Real Facebook Oversight Board" -- includes the architects of an advertising boycott against the company. It counts among its initial members the heads of three US civil rights groups, the former president of Estonia and the former head of election integrity at Facebook. The announcement comes a day after Facebook's officially-mandated Oversight Board said it would start work in mid-late October, nearly a year behind schedule. That delay means the official Facebook-funded board is unlikely to review cases related to the US election. The rival board will hold its first general meeting next week, it said in a statement, and focus squarely on election topics, including voter suppression, election security and misinformation. Facebook "responds to criticism with bad faith statements and cosmetic changes," said board member Roger McNamee, an early investor in Facebook who turned critical of its leaders over their handling of misuse of the platform in the 2016 election. "The Real Oversight Board will act as a watchdog, helping policymakers and consumers defend against a renegade platform." Members plan to broadcast their meetings in weekly shows on Facebook Live, according to the statement. The group said it was being funded by Luminate, a philanthropy backed by The Omidyar Group, but did not disclose a funding amount. Facebook has committed $130 million to its project, which it said would cover operational costs for at least six years.

Rival oversight board launched by Facebook critics, to act as watchdog

Spectators chanted 'vote him out' at President Donald Trump as he visited the Supreme Court to pay his respects to the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Trump said that he could hardly hear the chants.

Donald Trump booed as he pays respect to Ginsburg at court

US Senate majority Leader McConnell assured that the results of the presidential elections would be implemented in an orderly way. The statement came after just a day President Donald Trump refused to guarantee smooth transfer of power if he loses the election.

US Election 2020: Republicans split with Trump on peaceful transfer of power

Facebook Inc said on Thursday it has dismantled three networks of fake accounts which could be used by Russia's intelligence services to leak hacked documents as part of efforts to disrupt the upcoming U.S. election.

The company said the accounts, which it suspended for using fake identities and other types of "coordinated inauthentic behaviour," were linked to Russian intelligence and people associated with a St. Petersburg-based organisation accused by U.S. officials of working to sway the 2016 presidential vote.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/how-to-fix-facebook-an-appeal-to-mark-zuckerberg-329130">How to fix Facebook: An appeal to Mark Zuckerberg</a>

The Russian foreign ministry did not respond to a request for comment after normal working hours in Moscow. Russia has repeatedly denied allegations of election meddling and says it does not interfere in the domestic politics of other countries.

Nathaniel Gleicher, Facebook's head of cybersecurity policy, said there was no immediate evidence that hacked documents were about to be leaked, but by suspending the accounts Facebook hoped to prevent them being used in any subsequent operation.

"Our team watches for the threats and trends that we need to be ready for, and one that we are very aware of ... is a hack-and-leak operation, particularly in the next 6-8 weeks," he told Reuters.

"We want to make sure that the accounts are down to prevent their ability to pivot them to facilitate a hack-and-leak around the U.S. election."

Facebook said the networks were small with only a handful of accounts on its website and photo-sharing service Instagram, some of which posed as independent media outlets and think tanks. The accounts had a combined total of around 97,000 followers.

While some of the activity did target audiences in Britain and the United States, the networks were predominantly focused on countries in the Middle East and bordering Russia, such as Syria, Turkey, Ukraine and Belarus, Facebook said.

Twitter Inc said it had worked with Facebook to identify and remove 350 accounts operated by state-linked organisations in Russia.

Both companies said one of the networks had been identified following a tip from the FBI, which warned on Tuesday that foreign actors and cybercriminals were likely to spread disinformation about the results of the Nov. 3 election.

The warnings follow an alert by Microsoft Corp earlier this month that hackers linked to Russia, China, and Iran are trying to spy on people tied to both U.S. President Donald Trump and his Democratic challenger, Joe Biden.

Graham Brookie, director of the Atlantic Council's Digital Forensic Research Lab, worked with Facebook to analyse the suspended accounts. He said the activity showed Russia was continuing efforts to exacerbate political tensions in the United States and elsewhere.

"That doesn't dismiss the fact that the scale and scope of domestic disinformation is far greater than what any foreign adversary could do," he said. "But Russia's efforts remain an extremely serious national security vulnerability." 
&nbsp;

Facebook Inc said on Thursday it has dismantled three networks of fake accounts which could be used by Russia's intelligence services to leak hacked documents as part of efforts to disrupt the upcoming U.

Facebook Inc said on Thursday it has dismantled three networks of fake accounts which could be used by Russia's intelligence services to leak hacked documents as part of efforts to disrupt the upcoming U.S. election. The company said the accounts, which it suspended for using fake identities and other types of "coordinated inauthentic behaviour," were linked to Russian intelligence and people associated with a St. Petersburg-based organisation accused by U.S. officials of working to sway the 2016 presidential vote. Also read | How to fix Facebook: An appeal to Mark Zuckerberg The Russian foreign ministry did not respond to a request for comment after normal working hours in Moscow. Russia has repeatedly denied allegations of election meddling and says it does not interfere in the domestic politics of other countries. Nathaniel Gleicher, Facebook's head of cybersecurity policy, said there was no immediate evidence that hacked documents were about to be leaked, but by suspending the accounts Facebook hoped to prevent them being used in any subsequent operation. "Our team watches for the threats and trends that we need to be ready for, and one that we are very aware of ... is a hack-and-leak operation, particularly in the next 6-8 weeks," he told Reuters. "We want to make sure that the accounts are down to prevent their ability to pivot them to facilitate a hack-and-leak around the U.S. election." Facebook said the networks were small with only a handful of accounts on its website and photo-sharing service Instagram, some of which posed as independent media outlets and think tanks. The accounts had a combined total of around 97,000 followers. While some of the activity did target audiences in Britain and the United States, the networks were predominantly focused on countries in the Middle East and bordering Russia, such as Syria, Turkey, Ukraine and Belarus, Facebook said. Twitter Inc said it had worked with Facebook to identify and remove 350 accounts operated by state-linked organisations in Russia. Both companies said one of the networks had been identified following a tip from the FBI, which warned on Tuesday that foreign actors and cybercriminals were likely to spread disinformation about the results of the Nov. 3 election. The warnings follow an alert by Microsoft Corp earlier this month that hackers linked to Russia, China, and Iran are trying to spy on people tied to both U.S. President Donald Trump and his Democratic challenger, Joe Biden. Graham Brookie, director of the Atlantic Council's Digital Forensic Research Lab, worked with Facebook to analyse the suspended accounts. He said the activity showed Russia was continuing efforts to exacerbate political tensions in the United States and elsewhere. "That doesn't dismiss the fact that the scale and scope of domestic disinformation is far greater than what any foreign adversary could do," he said. "But Russia's efforts remain an extremely serious national security vulnerability."

Facebook suspends fake Russian accounts, warns of U.S. election hack-and-leak threat

In U.S. Election Dialogues, watch conversations with experts and representatives of both sides of the political divide.

Watch: U.S. Election Dialogues

US President Donald Trump's campaign swings through Pennsylvania. U.S President Donald Trump mocked his election rival for wearing a face mask on Tuesday (September 22), alleging that it was covering up his cosmetic surgery work. "What the hell did he spend all that money on the plastic surgery if he's gonna cover it up with a mask?" Trump asked a crowd of supporters at an election rally in Pennsylvania.

US Election 2020 New York Direct: Trump's campaign swings through Pennsylvania

US President Donald Trump was hit with a half-million-dollar lawsuit for allegedly stealing his niece's inheritance, court documents revealed on Thursday.

"Mary Trump was a teenager who inherited Interests of extraordinary value upon the premature death of her father. Her aunt and uncles - who called Mary 'honeybunch' - promised to watch over her Interests for her benefit. Instead, they swindled her. They conspired with her trustee, maneuvered to steal her money, and lied to her about it," the lawsuit said.&nbsp;

"Plaintiff Mary L. Trump hereby demands a trial by jury (and) compensatory damages in excess of $500,000."

The lawsuit also retraces some of the allegations Mary Trump, a clinical psychologist, made in her book about the president entitled, "Too Much and Never Enough: How My Family Created the World's Most Dangerous Man," which was published in July.

Mary Trump accused the president and the other defendants of moving to "squeeze" her out as they maneuvered to take control of the estate of her grandfather Fred Trump, the father of Donald Trump, who died in 1999.

Mary Trump and her brother, Fred Trump III, inherited various real estate business interests when her father, Fred Trump Jr, died in 1981 at 42 after a struggle with alcoholism. Mary Trump was 16 at the time.

Jay Sekulow, a lawyer for Trump, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Donald Trump was hit with a half-million-dollar lawsuit for allegedly stealing his niece's inheritance, court documents revealed on Thursday. "Mary Trump was a teenager who inherited Interests of extraordinary value upon the premature death of her father.

US President Donald Trump was hit with a half-million-dollar lawsuit for allegedly stealing his niece's inheritance, court documents revealed on Thursday. "Mary Trump was a teenager who inherited Interests of extraordinary value upon the premature death of her father. Her aunt and uncles - who called Mary 'honeybunch' - promised to watch over her Interests for her benefit. Instead, they swindled her. They conspired with her trustee, maneuvered to steal her money, and lied to her about it," the lawsuit said. "Plaintiff Mary L. Trump hereby demands a trial by jury (and) compensatory damages in excess of $500,000." The lawsuit also retraces some of the allegations Mary Trump, a clinical psychologist, made in her book about the president entitled, "Too Much and Never Enough: How My Family Created the World's Most Dangerous Man," which was published in July. Mary Trump accused the president and the other defendants of moving to "squeeze" her out as they maneuvered to take control of the estate of her grandfather Fred Trump, the father of Donald Trump, who died in 1999. Mary Trump and her brother, Fred Trump III, inherited various real estate business interests when her father, Fred Trump Jr, died in 1981 at 42 after a struggle with alcoholism. Mary Trump was 16 at the time. Jay Sekulow, a lawyer for Trump, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump's niece sues him and two of his siblings over fraud allegations

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US elections 2020: Biden compares Trump to Nazi Goebbels; ready for personal attacks

US elections 2020: Biden compares Trump to Nazi Goebbels; ready for personal attacks

US Election 2020: Ad wars ; Wion Wideangle

Google to block election ads after US presidential election

Universal suffrage adopted to elect the US President

US Election 2020: Why Pennsylvania's naked ballot is a problem for election officials

Gravitas: Can Trump solve India-China standoff?

US Election 2020: What are the choices that voters face in key states?

US Election 2020: Trump says mail-in ballots ‘big scam’

US Election 2020 New York Direct: White House counters Trump's statements

US Election 2020: Race to the US Senate | WION-VOA Co-Production

Lake Trump? Disputed reservoir could be named after US president