The Treasury Department last month imposed sanctions on four people linked to Russia for attempting to influence the presidential election, including a Ukrainian parliamentarian named Andriy Derkach, who has worked with Donald Trump’s consigliere Rudy Giuliani to smear Joe Biden. According to the Treasury, Derkach has been “an active Russian agent for over a decade, maintaining close connections with the Russian intelligence services.”

The Treasury said Derkach had worked covertly to cultivate “false and unsubstantiated narratives concerning U.S. officials in the upcoming 2020 presidential election” — an obvious reference to Biden. Derkach had released “edited audiotapes and other unsupported information” and managed to push his “unsubstantiated narratives” into Western media.

According to The Washington Post, U.S. intelligence agencies warned the White House last year that Giuliani, then searching in Ukraine for dirt about Biden and his son Hunter, was the target of a Russian influence operation. “The Russians have been cultivating Rudy Giuliani as an asset for over a year,” Chris Murphy, a Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, told me. “Any information proffered by Rudy Giuliani is likely compromised.”

That, of course, did not stop The New York Post from publishing a series of breathless articles about Hunter Biden purportedly based on a hard drive that fell into Giuliani’s hands. Some of the stories — like one about Hunter’s anguished texts to his father from rehab — seem intended to wound Joe Biden by humiliating his child. Others were meant to resurrect the discredited accusation that Joe Biden pressed for the firing of a Ukrainian prosecutor to help Burisma, an energy company that had Hunter Biden on its board.

So far, the Hunter Biden laptop affair is a farcical retread of the Russian hack-and-leak operation that helped torpedo Hillary Clinton’s presidential aspirations in 2016. Now, as then, the Trump campaign appears to be hoping that the media will dribble out stolen private messages over the final weeks of the campaign, creating an illusion of scandal where none exists. And now, as then, someone in Trump’s inner circle is working directly with someone who is, at least according to the U.S. government, a Russian agent.

Since The New York Post began publishing its Hunter Biden articles, there’s been an escalating chorus of conservative whining about the mainstream media’s refusal to pick up its reporting. “Media avoiding The Post’s Hunter Biden stories as much as Joe,” says the headline on a self-pitying Post column.

Most reputable reporters aren’t taking the bait; Giuliani’s trove is just too sketchy. As The New York Times reported, the journalist who wrote one of The Post’s big Hunter Biden stories refused to put his byline on it out of concerns about the credibility of the underlying information. Mediaite reported that Giuliani initially offered the data to Fox News, but “the news division chose not to run the story unless or until the sourcing and veracity of the emails could be properly vetted.”

The provenance of the alleged hard drive is murky, and the FBI is reportedly investigating whether it’s linked to a foreign disinformation campaign. Giuliani claims his lawyer got it from a Delaware computer repair shop owner, John Paul Mac Isaac, who says someone he thinks was Hunter Biden dropped off three laptops and never picked them up. Mac Isaac gave a halting interview to several journalists last week; The Daily Beast published the audio, so you can hear for yourself as his story shifts over the course of an hour.

If there’s an important story here, it’s almost certainly about Giuliani’s dirty tricks, not any wrongdoing by Joe Biden. Reporting on disinformation is complicated, because it’s hard to write about it without amplifying it. Still, this episode distills just how far Trump has dragged the country down in four years.

In 2016, the public didn’t know that Paul Manafort, Trump’s former campaign chairman, was passing polling data to someone tied to the Russian intelligence directorate — such a revelation would have been devastating. Giuliani’s relationship with Derkach, by contrast, is out in the open.

Last week, Giuliani told The Daily Beast he thinks there’s only a 50% chance that his Ukrainian collaborator is really a Russian spy, and that it wouldn’t matter to him if his Hunter Biden material was linked to Russian hacking. This barely made a ripple. “It’s collusion in broad daylight,” said Murphy.

Giuliani probably can’t sabotage Biden the way WikiLeaks sabotaged Clinton. The Clinton leak was damaging because many voters already believed there was something sinister about her hidden emails. Burisma never stuck to Biden in the same way, so there’s less payoff in forcing it back into the news.

But Giuliani’s tactics aren’t any less foul for being ineffective. It’s hardly surprising that the president’s bottom-feeding lawyer has shown himself open to working with Russian intelligence. It’s striking, though, that no one expects better.

The Treasury Department last month imposed sanctions on four people linked to Russia for attempting to influence the presidential election, including a Ukrainian parliamentarian named Andriy Derkach, who has worked with Donald Trump’s consigliere Rudy Giuliani to smear Joe Biden.

The Treasury Department last month imposed sanctions on four people linked to Russia for attempting to influence the presidential election, including a Ukrainian parliamentarian named Andriy Derkach, who has worked with Donald Trump’s consigliere Rudy Giuliani to smear Joe Biden. According to the Treasury, Derkach has been “an active Russian agent for over a decade, maintaining close connections with the Russian intelligence services.” The Treasury said Derkach had worked covertly to cultivate “false and unsubstantiated narratives concerning U.S. officials in the upcoming 2020 presidential election” — an obvious reference to Biden. Derkach had released “edited audiotapes and other unsupported information” and managed to push his “unsubstantiated narratives” into Western media. According to The Washington Post, U.S. intelligence agencies warned the White House last year that Giuliani, then searching in Ukraine for dirt about Biden and his son Hunter, was the target of a Russian influence operation. “The Russians have been cultivating Rudy Giuliani as an asset for over a year,” Chris Murphy, a Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, told me. “Any information proffered by Rudy Giuliani is likely compromised.” That, of course, did not stop The New York Post from publishing a series of breathless articles about Hunter Biden purportedly based on a hard drive that fell into Giuliani’s hands. Some of the stories — like one about Hunter’s anguished texts to his father from rehab — seem intended to wound Joe Biden by humiliating his child. Others were meant to resurrect the discredited accusation that Joe Biden pressed for the firing of a Ukrainian prosecutor to help Burisma, an energy company that had Hunter Biden on its board. So far, the Hunter Biden laptop affair is a farcical retread of the Russian hack-and-leak operation that helped torpedo Hillary Clinton’s presidential aspirations in 2016. Now, as then, the Trump campaign appears to be hoping that the media will dribble out stolen private messages over the final weeks of the campaign, creating an illusion of scandal where none exists. And now, as then, someone in Trump’s inner circle is working directly with someone who is, at least according to the U.S. government, a Russian agent. Since The New York Post began publishing its Hunter Biden articles, there’s been an escalating chorus of conservative whining about the mainstream media’s refusal to pick up its reporting. “Media avoiding The Post’s Hunter Biden stories as much as Joe,” says the headline on a self-pitying Post column. Most reputable reporters aren’t taking the bait; Giuliani’s trove is just too sketchy. As The New York Times reported, the journalist who wrote one of The Post’s big Hunter Biden stories refused to put his byline on it out of concerns about the credibility of the underlying information. Mediaite reported that Giuliani initially offered the data to Fox News, but “the news division chose not to run the story unless or until the sourcing and veracity of the emails could be properly vetted.” The provenance of the alleged hard drive is murky, and the FBI is reportedly investigating whether it’s linked to a foreign disinformation campaign. Giuliani claims his lawyer got it from a Delaware computer repair shop owner, John Paul Mac Isaac, who says someone he thinks was Hunter Biden dropped off three laptops and never picked them up. Mac Isaac gave a halting interview to several journalists last week; The Daily Beast published the audio, so you can hear for yourself as his story shifts over the course of an hour. If there’s an important story here, it’s almost certainly about Giuliani’s dirty tricks, not any wrongdoing by Joe Biden. Reporting on disinformation is complicated, because it’s hard to write about it without amplifying it. Still, this episode distills just how far Trump has dragged the country down in four years. In 2016, the public didn’t know that Paul Manafort, Trump’s former campaign chairman, was passing polling data to someone tied to the Russian intelligence directorate — such a revelation would have been devastating. Giuliani’s relationship with Derkach, by contrast, is out in the open. Last week, Giuliani told The Daily Beast he thinks there’s only a 50% chance that his Ukrainian collaborator is really a Russian spy, and that it wouldn’t matter to him if his Hunter Biden material was linked to Russian hacking. This barely made a ripple. “It’s collusion in broad daylight,” said Murphy. Giuliani probably can’t sabotage Biden the way WikiLeaks sabotaged Clinton. The Clinton leak was damaging because many voters already believed there was something sinister about her hidden emails. Burisma never stuck to Biden in the same way, so there’s less payoff in forcing it back into the news. But Giuliani’s tactics aren’t any less foul for being ineffective. It’s hardly surprising that the president’s bottom-feeding lawyer has shown himself open to working with Russian intelligence. It’s striking, though, that no one expects better.

Is the Trump campaign colluding with Russia again?

The Democrats supporters found an IRONIC spot for the BIDEN-HARRIS campaign logo in Chicago. The United Steelworkers Union projected the bat light with gigantic Blue letters onto Donald Trump's properties. WION reports

'Biden-Harris' projected on Trump properties | U.S. Election 2020 New York Direct

Kamala Harris is back on the campaign trail with & immediately goes viral for her light dance at the Florida rally. Vice President Mike Pence rallied in Maine. WION brings you the highlights of both campaigns.

Four more years of time for a change? U.S. Election 2020 New York Direct

With 14 days to US Election 2020, Donald Trump visits the key swing state of Arizona for the sixth time. The President makes his poll pitch to what he calls as 'The Suburban Housewives of America'. WION reports

Poll pitch for the 'The Suburban Housewives' | U.S. Election 2020 New York Direct

Donald Trump's personal warfare against Dr Anthony Fauci has taken over his campaign addresses. The attacks continue as America registers rising COVID-19 cases & deaths. WION reports

Personal warfare takes over election rallies | U.S. Election 2020 New York Direct

For the second & FINAL Presidential Debate on October 22, Donald Trump & Joe Biden will have their microphones muted during the LIVE verbal battle. But the silent treatment will last only during the opening remarks of each segment. WION reports

Last Trump & Biden showdown on LIVE TV; U.S. Election 2020 New York Direct

Joe Biden holds a 9-point lead over President Donald Trump amid widespread public alarm about the trajectory of the coronavirus pandemic and demand among voters for large-scale government action to right the economy, according to a national poll of likely voters conducted by The New York Times and Siena College.

With just two weeks left in the campaign, Trump does not hold an edge on any of the most pressing issues at stake in the election, leaving him with little room for a political recovery absent a calamitous misstep by Biden, the Democratic nominee, in the coming days. The president has even lost his longstanding advantage on economic matters: Voters are now evenly split on whether they have more trust in him or Biden to manage the economy.

On all other subjects tested in the poll, voters preferred Biden over Trump by modest or wide margins. Biden, the former vice president, is favored over Trump to lead on the coronavirus pandemic by 12 points, and voters trust Biden over Trump to choose Supreme Court justices and to maintain law and order by 6-point margins. Americans see Biden as more capable of uniting the country by nearly 20 points.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-mics-to-be-muted-in-next-us-presidential-debate-between-trump-and-biden-to-stop-interruptions-336543" hreflang="en">US elections: Mics to be muted in presidential debate to stop interruptions</a>

Overall, Biden is backed by 50% of likely voters, the poll showed, compared with 41% for Trump and 3% divided among other candidates.Most of all, the survey makes clear that crucial constituencies are poised to reject Trump because they cannot abide his conduct, including 56% of women and 53% of white voters with college degrees who said they had a very unfavorable impression of Trump — an extraordinary level of antipathy toward an incumbent president.

His diminished standing on economic matters and law and order is a damaging setback for the president, who for much of the general election has staked his fortunes on persuading Americans that a Biden administration will leave them impoverished and unsafe. But that argument has not managed to move the electorate in his direction.

Nor, according to the poll, have Trump’s efforts to tarnish Biden’s personal image and make him unacceptable to swing voters. Fifty-three percent of voters said they viewed Biden in somewhat or very favorable terms, compared with 43% who said the same of Trump.

A majority of voters said they saw Trump unfavorably, with 48% viewing him very unfavorably.

The margin of sampling error for the poll, which was conducted from Oct. 15 to 18, was 3.4 percentage points.

Part of the shift away from Trump on the economy may stem from voters’ urgent hunger for new relief spending from the federal government — which Trump has nominally endorsed but which he has not sought actively to extract from congressional Republicans.

Seven in 10 voters, including more than half of Republicans, said they wanted to see a new multitrillion-dollar stimulus program that includes government support for citizens and emergency help for state and local governments. There is also widespread public support for a $2 trillion renewable energy and infrastructure package that Biden has proposed as a form of economic stimulus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2020-trump-and-biden-finally-agree-on-something-as-november-3-nears-336482" hreflang="en">US election 2020: Trump and Biden finally agree on something as Nov 3 nears</a>

Michael Zemaitis, an independent voter in Minnesota, said that he did not have complete confidence in Biden but that he saw him as a clearly superior option to Trump when it came to the pandemic and the economy.

“I guess I would say I have 70% confidence in him,” said Zemaitis, 49, who said he believed a Democratic administration would better handle the coronavirus pandemic. “Once that is dealt with, the economy will fall back into line.”

Voters have also been unpersuaded by Trump’s insistence, in defiance of public facts, that the coronavirus is receding as a problem. A slim majority of voters said they believed that the worst of the pandemic was yet to come, compared with 37% who said the worst was over.

But many voters also seem to be separating their personal well-being from their views on the state of the country. About half said that they were personally better off than they were four years ago, compared with 32% who said they were worse off. However, a clear majority of voters — 55% — said the country as a whole was doing worse than in 2016.

Trump retains a few important bastions of support, most notably among white voters without college degrees, who continue to favor him over Biden by 23 percentage points. But that lead is far narrower than the advantage Trump held among less-educated whites in 2016, when those voters preferred him over Hillary Clinton by 37 points.

Biden is on track to win with the overwhelming support of women, people of color and whites with college degrees. If women alone voted, the election would be a landslide of epic proportions: Biden is ahead of Trump among female voters by 23 points, 58% to 35%. And unlike four years ago, the Democratic nominee is leading Trump among white women by a formidable margin, 52% to 43%.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-prepared-are-these-7-battlegrounds-for-the-election-a-readiness-report-336489" hreflang="en">How prepared are these 7 battlegrounds for the election? A readiness report</a>

Kathryn Jorgensen, 51, a registered Republican in Brookfield, Wisconsin, said that she did not vote for Trump in 2016 and would not do so this year. Trump, she said, has been “so divisive” throughout his tenure as president.

“The important thing is bringing the country back together and addressing the divisions affecting people like racial equity,” Jorgensen said.

A rare spot of welcome news for Republicans came on the subject of Judge Amy Coney Barrett’s nomination to the Supreme Court: While more voters said they would like to see Biden choose future justices, rather than Trump, a plurality of voters also said that the Senate should vote on Barrett’s nomination before the election.

Voters were about evenly split on Barrett as a nominee, indicating that the Supreme Court fight had not given a clear electoral advantage to either party. But a sizable number of voters — about 1 in 7 — gave no opinion, suggesting the court fight had not become an all-consuming issue. Forty-four percent of voters supported Barrett’s nomination, 42% opposed it, and the remainder declined to take a position.

If Biden win the election, it remains to be seen whether he will be a compelling enough president to meld a broad array of anti-Trump constituencies into a sturdy governing alliance.

Cassandra Williams, 21, of Greenville, North Carolina, said she saw Biden as a flawed candidate who might nevertheless be sufficient for the moment. A college student majoring in chemistry, Williams said she hoped he would focus on the coronavirus and climate change at the outset of his presidency.

“If his opponent wasn’t President Trump, he would be a subpar candidate,” said Williams, who supported Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont in the Democratic primary race.

The poll shows that Trump is facing widespread rebuke because he has not met the great challenge of his presidency.

Voters remain deeply concerned about the virus, with 51% of those sampled saying they feared the worst of COVID-19 was still to come, and just 37% saying they believed the worst was over. Among voters over 65, a bloc that has drifted away from Trump, the difference was even starker: Fifty-six percent said they worried the worst was still to come, and only 29% said the opposite.

Even more striking was the disconnect between Trump’s cavalier approach toward wearing a mask to guard against the virus and the broad support to mandate the practice in public.

Voters supported mandatory mask-wearing, 59% to 39% overall, and among women support for a mandate grew to 70%. Among voters over 65, 68% favored it, and even about 30% of Republicans said they backed a nationwide requirement.

There was also hesitation on taking an eventual vaccine for the coronavirus, with 33% saying they would definitely or probably not take a vaccine after it was approved by the FDA.

Joe Biden holds a 9-point lead over President Donald Trump amid widespread public alarm about the trajectory of the coronavirus pandemic and demand among voters for large-scale government action to right the economy, according to a national poll of likely voters conducted by The New York Times and Siena College.

Joe Biden holds a 9-point lead over President Donald Trump amid widespread public alarm about the trajectory of the coronavirus pandemic and demand among voters for large-scale government action to right the economy, according to a national poll of likely voters conducted by The New York Times and Siena College. With just two weeks left in the campaign, Trump does not hold an edge on any of the most pressing issues at stake in the election, leaving him with little room for a political recovery absent a calamitous misstep by Biden, the Democratic nominee, in the coming days. The president has even lost his longstanding advantage on economic matters: Voters are now evenly split on whether they have more trust in him or Biden to manage the economy. On all other subjects tested in the poll, voters preferred Biden over Trump by modest or wide margins. Biden, the former vice president, is favored over Trump to lead on the coronavirus pandemic by 12 points, and voters trust Biden over Trump to choose Supreme Court justices and to maintain law and order by 6-point margins. Americans see Biden as more capable of uniting the country by nearly 20 points. Also read: US elections: Mics to be muted in presidential debate to stop interruptions Overall, Biden is backed by 50% of likely voters, the poll showed, compared with 41% for Trump and 3% divided among other candidates.Most of all, the survey makes clear that crucial constituencies are poised to reject Trump because they cannot abide his conduct, including 56% of women and 53% of white voters with college degrees who said they had a very unfavorable impression of Trump — an extraordinary level of antipathy toward an incumbent president. His diminished standing on economic matters and law and order is a damaging setback for the president, who for much of the general election has staked his fortunes on persuading Americans that a Biden administration will leave them impoverished and unsafe. But that argument has not managed to move the electorate in his direction. Nor, according to the poll, have Trump’s efforts to tarnish Biden’s personal image and make him unacceptable to swing voters. Fifty-three percent of voters said they viewed Biden in somewhat or very favorable terms, compared with 43% who said the same of Trump. A majority of voters said they saw Trump unfavorably, with 48% viewing him very unfavorably. The margin of sampling error for the poll, which was conducted from Oct. 15 to 18, was 3.4 percentage points. Part of the shift away from Trump on the economy may stem from voters’ urgent hunger for new relief spending from the federal government — which Trump has nominally endorsed but which he has not sought actively to extract from congressional Republicans. Seven in 10 voters, including more than half of Republicans, said they wanted to see a new multitrillion-dollar stimulus program that includes government support for citizens and emergency help for state and local governments. There is also widespread public support for a $2 trillion renewable energy and infrastructure package that Biden has proposed as a form of economic stimulus. Also read: US election 2020: Trump and Biden finally agree on something as Nov 3 nears Michael Zemaitis, an independent voter in Minnesota, said that he did not have complete confidence in Biden but that he saw him as a clearly superior option to Trump when it came to the pandemic and the economy. “I guess I would say I have 70% confidence in him,” said Zemaitis, 49, who said he believed a Democratic administration would better handle the coronavirus pandemic. “Once that is dealt with, the economy will fall back into line.” Voters have also been unpersuaded by Trump’s insistence, in defiance of public facts, that the coronavirus is receding as a problem. A slim majority of voters said they believed that the worst of the pandemic was yet to come, compared with 37% who said the worst was over. But many voters also seem to be separating their personal well-being from their views on the state of the country. About half said that they were personally better off than they were four years ago, compared with 32% who said they were worse off. However, a clear majority of voters — 55% — said the country as a whole was doing worse than in 2016. Trump retains a few important bastions of support, most notably among white voters without college degrees, who continue to favor him over Biden by 23 percentage points. But that lead is far narrower than the advantage Trump held among less-educated whites in 2016, when those voters preferred him over Hillary Clinton by 37 points. Biden is on track to win with the overwhelming support of women, people of color and whites with college degrees. If women alone voted, the election would be a landslide of epic proportions: Biden is ahead of Trump among female voters by 23 points, 58% to 35%. And unlike four years ago, the Democratic nominee is leading Trump among white women by a formidable margin, 52% to 43%. Also read: How prepared are these 7 battlegrounds for the election? A readiness report Kathryn Jorgensen, 51, a registered Republican in Brookfield, Wisconsin, said that she did not vote for Trump in 2016 and would not do so this year. Trump, she said, has been “so divisive” throughout his tenure as president. “The important thing is bringing the country back together and addressing the divisions affecting people like racial equity,” Jorgensen said. A rare spot of welcome news for Republicans came on the subject of Judge Amy Coney Barrett’s nomination to the Supreme Court: While more voters said they would like to see Biden choose future justices, rather than Trump, a plurality of voters also said that the Senate should vote on Barrett’s nomination before the election. Voters were about evenly split on Barrett as a nominee, indicating that the Supreme Court fight had not given a clear electoral advantage to either party. But a sizable number of voters — about 1 in 7 — gave no opinion, suggesting the court fight had not become an all-consuming issue. Forty-four percent of voters supported Barrett’s nomination, 42% opposed it, and the remainder declined to take a position. If Biden win the election, it remains to be seen whether he will be a compelling enough president to meld a broad array of anti-Trump constituencies into a sturdy governing alliance. Cassandra Williams, 21, of Greenville, North Carolina, said she saw Biden as a flawed candidate who might nevertheless be sufficient for the moment. A college student majoring in chemistry, Williams said she hoped he would focus on the coronavirus and climate change at the outset of his presidency. “If his opponent wasn’t President Trump, he would be a subpar candidate,” said Williams, who supported Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont in the Democratic primary race. The poll shows that Trump is facing widespread rebuke because he has not met the great challenge of his presidency. Voters remain deeply concerned about the virus, with 51% of those sampled saying they feared the worst of COVID-19 was still to come, and just 37% saying they believed the worst was over. Among voters over 65, a bloc that has drifted away from Trump, the difference was even starker: Fifty-six percent said they worried the worst was still to come, and only 29% said the opposite. Even more striking was the disconnect between Trump’s cavalier approach toward wearing a mask to guard against the virus and the broad support to mandate the practice in public. Voters supported mandatory mask-wearing, 59% to 39% overall, and among women support for a mandate grew to 70%. Among voters over 65, 68% favored it, and even about 30% of Republicans said they backed a nationwide requirement. There was also hesitation on taking an eventual vaccine for the coronavirus, with 33% saying they would definitely or probably not take a vaccine after it was approved by the FDA.

Voters prefer Biden over Trump on almost all major issues, poll shows

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-pm-prayut-recalls-parliament-amid-nationwide-anti-government-protests-336539">Thai PM Prayut recalls Parliament amid nationwide anti-government protests</a>

<img alt="Thai protests" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb3e9350-3a5a-403c-8770-162da4f7a261" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ThaiP.jpg" />

Protesters defied the government decree which prohibited gatherings of more than four people as they raised three-finger salute borrowed from the "Hunger Games" movies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-really-close-to-a-tsunami-says-belgiums-health-minister-amid-surge-in-coronavirus-cases-336541">We are really close to a tsunami, says Belgium's health minister amid surge in coronavirus cases</a>

<img alt="Coronavirus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="79bc4484-5e18-4cb8-8283-9fa130a1fbe7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Euro2.jpg" />

According to reports, Belgium has one of the highest per capita rate of COVID-19 infection in the world registering 222,253 cases which has doubled in a week.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-mikes-to-be-muted-in-next-us-presidential-debate-between-trump-and-biden-to-stop-interruptions-336543">US elections: Mikes to be muted in next US presidential debate to stop interruptions</a>

<img alt="Trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f1612479-a45c-46bf-bdb8-959ddb02bc9b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/DonaldTT.jpg" />

Each candidate will be allotted two minutes to answer the moderator's questions and the other contender's mic will be shut off at that time.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-delist-sudan-from-state-terrorism-sponsors-list-after-payment-to-victims-336542">US to delist Sudan from state terrorism sponsors list after payment to victims</a>

<img alt="Sudan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="86d75f90-0362-45d9-8e9f-330b5ae0d5ff" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Sudan1.jpg" />

The move is being considered a landmark boost for the civilian-backed government as it turns the page on the nation's decades as an international pariah.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-france-beheading-a-clash-between-secularism-and-islam-336536">Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: France Beheading - A clash between secularism and Islam</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-france-beheading-a-clash-between-secularism-and-islam-336536/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Thai PM Prayut recalls Parliament amid nationwide anti-government protests Protesters defied the government decree which prohibited gatherings of more than four people as they raised three-finger salute borrowed from the "Hunger Games" movies.

Thai PM Prayut recalls Parliament amid nationwide anti-government protests Protesters defied the government decree which prohibited gatherings of more than four people as they raised three-finger salute borrowed from the "Hunger Games" movies. We are really close to a tsunami, says Belgium's health minister amid surge in coronavirus cases According to reports, Belgium has one of the highest per capita rate of COVID-19 infection in the world registering 222,253 cases which has doubled in a week. US elections: Mikes to be muted in next US presidential debate to stop interruptions Each candidate will be allotted two minutes to answer the moderator's questions and the other contender's mic will be shut off at that time. US to delist Sudan from state terrorism sponsors list after payment to victims The move is being considered a landmark boost for the civilian-backed government as it turns the page on the nation's decades as an international pariah. Watch: Gravitas: France Beheading - A clash between secularism and Islam

Morning news brief: Thai PM recalls Parliament amid protests, mics to be muted in US presidential debate & more

Hindu groups in the United States have sought an apology from Senator Kamala Harris' niece for tweeting an image, which depicted the Democratic vice presidential nominee as Goddess Durga.

In the now deleted tweet, a screenshot of which is now being posted by users, Meena Harris says: "I am actually speechless, other than to say that the first day of Navaratri was LIT."

In the image, Kamala Harris, depicted as Goddess Durga, was seen killing US President Donald Trump -- depicted as buffalo demon ''Mahishasura''.&nbsp;

The image also showed Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden as a lion, the ''vahana'' (vehicle) of the goddess.

<img alt="Kamala Harris as Maa Durga" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="878f948b-efc4-4f39-b30b-54af1be03709" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kamala%20Harris%20as%20Maa%20Durga.jpg" />

"Your tweeting a caricature of the feminine divine, Maa Durga, with faces superimposed, deeply aggrieved many Hindus globally," Suhag A Shukla of the Hindu American-Foundation said in a tweet on Monday.

HAF, which represents the Hindu American community, has issued a guideline for commercial use of images relating to the religion.

Rishi Bhutada of the Hindu American Political Action Committee said the "offensive" picture was not created by Meena Harris herself. It had been circulating on WhatsApp prior to her tweet and the Biden campaign confirmed to him that the image was not created by it.

Ajay Shah, convener of American Hindus Against Defamation, said in a statement the image has offended and outraged the religious community.

"If you think you are going to win Hindu votes by mocking us, think again. This image is highly offensive and insulting to Hindus. Our Divinities are NOT cultural curios for you to mock and trivialise. And you delete without an apology?" noted author Shefali Vaidya said in a tweet.

Over the weekend, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris had greeted Hindu-American community on Navratri and wished for victory of good over evil once again.

Twitter users also did not concur with the image.

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Deeply offended with this image...Kamala Harris as MAA DURGA! May bhavani forgive her for this uddandata.
— Bitto (@reclusiveIndian) <a href="https://twitter.com/reclusiveIndian/status/1317697938924032005?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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NRI <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Baamans?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Baamans</a> see Durga in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kamala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kamala</a> Harris 🤦🏾‍♀️...... <a href="https://t.co/vcnHhmpMW1">pic.twitter.com/vcnHhmpMW1</a>
— Kishore Haridas Meleth (@HaridasKishore) <a href="https://twitter.com/HaridasKishore/status/1318385572776300545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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So much for liberal freedom of expression. <a href="https://twitter.com/meenaharris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MeenaHarris</a> 
 
The great sister of <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KamalaHarris</a> uploads an offensive image showing Hindu Goddess Durga as her sister and when we take action he deletes and blocks me. Not unexpected of such odd day Indian &amp; Even Day Black for vote bank. <a href="https://t.co/yIQiSLc4vy">pic.twitter.com/yIQiSLc4vy</a>
— arun (@arunpudur) <a href="https://twitter.com/arunpudur/status/1317719166091145218?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Whole life who never acknowledged her roots from India, all of a sudden, she not just became Indian but dared to offend Hindus by morphing herself as Mother Durga...?? Deeply offended. Just deleting the tweet was not enough <a href="https://twitter.com/meenaharris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@meenaharris</a> .. you owe us an apology as well. <a href="https://t.co/YVlNA1oEtc">pic.twitter.com/YVlNA1oEtc</a>
— Mini Razdan (@mini_razdan10) <a href="https://twitter.com/mini_razdan10/status/1317897533205729280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Mocking our goddess and crying for our people 🙃will give you nothing for sure. hypocriate !!Completely disgusting 
You want to take milk from mocking our goddess, karma will work on the election for sure.
— Saumya mishra (@Saumyamiishra) <a href="https://twitter.com/Saumyamiishra/status/1317703920177864704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Hindu groups in the United States have sought an apology from Senator Kamala Harris' niece for tweeting an image, which depicted the Democratic vice presidential nominee as Goddess Durga.

Hindu groups in the United States have sought an apology from Senator Kamala Harris' niece for tweeting an image, which depicted the Democratic vice presidential nominee as Goddess Durga. In the now deleted tweet, a screenshot of which is now being posted by users, Meena Harris says: "I am actually speechless, other than to say that the first day of Navaratri was LIT." In the image, Kamala Harris, depicted as Goddess Durga, was seen killing US President Donald Trump -- depicted as buffalo demon ''Mahishasura''. The image also showed Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden as a lion, the ''vahana'' (vehicle) of the goddess. "Your tweeting a caricature of the feminine divine, Maa Durga, with faces superimposed, deeply aggrieved many Hindus globally," Suhag A Shukla of the Hindu American-Foundation said in a tweet on Monday. HAF, which represents the Hindu American community, has issued a guideline for commercial use of images relating to the religion. Rishi Bhutada of the Hindu American Political Action Committee said the "offensive" picture was not created by Meena Harris herself. It had been circulating on WhatsApp prior to her tweet and the Biden campaign confirmed to him that the image was not created by it. Ajay Shah, convener of American Hindus Against Defamation, said in a statement the image has offended and outraged the religious community. "If you think you are going to win Hindu votes by mocking us, think again. This image is highly offensive and insulting to Hindus. Our Divinities are NOT cultural curios for you to mock and trivialise. And you delete without an apology?" noted author Shefali Vaidya said in a tweet. Over the weekend, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris had greeted Hindu-American community on Navratri and wished for victory of good over evil once again. Twitter users also did not concur with the image. Deeply offended with this image...Kamala Harris as MAA DURGA! May bhavani forgive her for this uddandata. — Bitto (@reclusiveIndian) October 18, 2020 × NRI #Baamans see Durga in #Kamala Harris 🤦🏾‍♀️...... pic.twitter.com/vcnHhmpMW1 — Kishore Haridas Meleth (@HaridasKishore) October 20, 2020 × So much for liberal freedom of expression. @MeenaHarris The great sister of @KamalaHarris uploads an offensive image showing Hindu Goddess Durga as her sister and when we take action he deletes and blocks me. Not unexpected of such odd day Indian & Even Day Black for vote bank. pic.twitter.com/yIQiSLc4vy — arun (@arunpudur) October 18, 2020 × Whole life who never acknowledged her roots from India, all of a sudden, she not just became Indian but dared to offend Hindus by morphing herself as Mother Durga...?? Deeply offended. Just deleting the tweet was not enough @meenaharris .. you owe us an apology as well. pic.twitter.com/YVlNA1oEtc — Mini Razdan (@mini_razdan10) October 18, 2020 × Mocking our goddess and crying for our people 🙃will give you nothing for sure. hypocriate !!Completely disgusting You want to take milk from mocking our goddess, karma will work on the election for sure. — Saumya mishra (@Saumyamiishra) October 18, 2020 ×

Kamala Harris' niece slammed for tweeting image depicting aunt as Durga

The final presidential debate between Donald Trump & his Democratic rival Joe Biden will feature a 'mute button' to allow each candidate to speak uninterrupted.

US Election 2020: Final Trump-Biden Presidential debate will feature 'mute button'

Early voting has begun in Florida, a 'battleground' state, which could decide the outcome of the November 03, Presidential election.

US Election 2020: Early voting underway in 'battleground' Florida

US President Donald Trump lashed out at the government's top infectious disease expert that is Dr Anthony Fauci, referring to Fauci & other health officials as 'idiots'.

US Election 2020: Trump lashes out at NIAID Director Dr Anthony Fauci

US President Donald Trump Monday called coronavirus expert Anthony Fauci a "disaster", trying to reassure campaign workers he still has a path to victory on November 3 election.

Fauci, a key member of the White House coronavirus task force, has increasingly become a focus for the president's rancour as he bids to shape the messaging on the much-criticised federal response to the pandemic. &nbsp;

Trump took his frustration out on Fauci midway through a call intended to buck up his national team of campaign workers amid a spate of stories suggesting a campaign in turmoil.

"People are saying, 'Whatever -- just leave us alone.' They're tired of it. People are tired of hearing Fauci and all these idiots," the president said, according to several US media outlets.&nbsp;

"Fauci is a disaster. If I listened to him, we’d have 500,000 deaths," Trump said -- on a call with campaign workers which the campaign allowed reporters to join, adding Americans were fed up with pandemic restrictions.

"Fauci is a nice guy. He’s been here for 500 years," Trump sarcastically added.

Trump and Fauci, a member of his coronavirus task force, have been at odds over how best to handle a pandemic that has killed more than 219,000 people in the United States and weakened the former's re-election bid.

Fauci has openly complained about being cited in a Trump re-election campaign advertisement. He also said he wasn't surprised Trump himself contracted the virus.

Trump's rallies include many supporters not wearing masks and standing shoulder to shoulder at odds with the guidance of Fauci and other public health experts.

In stark contrast, Fauci is one of the most respected scientists in the United States and has served under Republican and Democratic presidents. He has been director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases since 1984.

Trump suggested he had avoided firing Fauci because of the negative blowback he would receive.

At various points during the pandemic response, Fauci has clarified or corrected Trump's public comments on the development of Covid-19 treatments and vaccines.&nbsp;

The tone between them has sometimes turned tense, as in April when Trump retweeted a post that contained the hashtag #FireFauci -- before reassuring the American people that "Tony" was doing a great job.&nbsp;

With nearly two weeks to go until Election Day, Democrat Joe Biden holds a lead in national opinion polls and in many battleground states where the election is likely to be decided.

(with inputs)

US President Donald Trump Monday called coronavirus expert Anthony Fauci a "disaster", trying to reassure campaign workers he still has a path to victory on November 3 election.

US President Donald Trump Monday called coronavirus expert Anthony Fauci a "disaster", trying to reassure campaign workers he still has a path to victory on November 3 election. Fauci, a key member of the White House coronavirus task force, has increasingly become a focus for the president's rancour as he bids to shape the messaging on the much-criticised federal response to the pandemic. Trump took his frustration out on Fauci midway through a call intended to buck up his national team of campaign workers amid a spate of stories suggesting a campaign in turmoil. "People are saying, 'Whatever -- just leave us alone.' They're tired of it. People are tired of hearing Fauci and all these idiots," the president said, according to several US media outlets. "Fauci is a disaster. If I listened to him, we’d have 500,000 deaths," Trump said -- on a call with campaign workers which the campaign allowed reporters to join, adding Americans were fed up with pandemic restrictions. "Fauci is a nice guy. He’s been here for 500 years," Trump sarcastically added. Trump and Fauci, a member of his coronavirus task force, have been at odds over how best to handle a pandemic that has killed more than 219,000 people in the United States and weakened the former's re-election bid. Fauci has openly complained about being cited in a Trump re-election campaign advertisement. He also said he wasn't surprised Trump himself contracted the virus. Trump's rallies include many supporters not wearing masks and standing shoulder to shoulder at odds with the guidance of Fauci and other public health experts. In stark contrast, Fauci is one of the most respected scientists in the United States and has served under Republican and Democratic presidents. He has been director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases since 1984. Trump suggested he had avoided firing Fauci because of the negative blowback he would receive. At various points during the pandemic response, Fauci has clarified or corrected Trump's public comments on the development of Covid-19 treatments and vaccines. The tone between them has sometimes turned tense, as in April when Trump retweeted a post that contained the hashtag #FireFauci -- before reassuring the American people that "Tony" was doing a great job. With nearly two weeks to go until Election Day, Democrat Joe Biden holds a lead in national opinion polls and in many battleground states where the election is likely to be decided. (with inputs)

Trump calls coronavirus expert Anthony Fauci a 'disaster'

Donald Trump Jr has said that his father's relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi is "incredible".&nbsp;

"I think the relationship of my father President Donald Trump and PM Modi is incredible. It has been an honour to watch. And I love that they have a great and powerful relationship that will benefit both of our countries going into the future," he said.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-us-alliance-on-life-support-after-four-years-of-trump-336408">Also read | EU-US alliance 'on life support' after four years of Trump</a> 
 
Forty-two-year-old Donald Trump Jr is leading the re-election campaign of his 74-year-old father. The presidential elections in the US are slated to be held on November 3. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2020-donald-trumps-daughter-in-law-lara-slammed-on-twitter-following-tv-interview-336373">Also read | Donald Trump's daughter-in-law Lara slammed on Twitter following TV interview</a>

"We have to understand the threat of China and no one knows that probably better than Indian-Americans," Trump Jr, told a select group of supporters from the community at the event in Long Island, New York.

In his book "Liberal Privilege", he has documented allegations of corruption against 77-year-old Joe Biden's family, particularly against his son Hunter Biden.

"When you look at our opponents in this race... you think the Chinese gave Hunter Biden USD 1.5 billion ... because he was a great businessman, or because they knew the Bidens could be bought, and therefore soft on China," he said.

Trump Jr was referring to the latest allegations of corruption against the Biden family as revealed by The New York Post.

"Therefore, (Joe Biden is) bad for India," he said in his address at the meet and greet event along with Kimberly Guilfoyle, who is leading the fund-raising efforts of Trump's re-election campaign.

Praising Indian-Americans, Trump Jr said that the community is near and dear to his heart. "I understand the community pretty well," he said.

The Indian community is hard working, family oriented and education oriented, Trump Jr said.

Indian-Americans, he said, have been looking at what the Democrats have been pushing or what the they have been ignoring for the last six months.

In his remarks, Trump Jr recollected the Ahmedabad address of his father Donald Trump during his trip to India early this year.

"When I saw the enthusiasm of my father with Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi ...you know, I used to think that Trump rallies were pretty big in America but that was the biggest Trump rally probably ever ... in India," Trump Jr said.

(With inputs from PTI)

Donald Trump Jr has said that his father's relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi is "incredible". "I think the relationship of my father President Donald Trump and PM Modi is incredible.

Donald Trump Jr has said that his father's relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi is "incredible". "I think the relationship of my father President Donald Trump and PM Modi is incredible. It has been an honour to watch. And I love that they have a great and powerful relationship that will benefit both of our countries going into the future," he said. Also read | EU-US alliance 'on life support' after four years of Trump Forty-two-year-old Donald Trump Jr is leading the re-election campaign of his 74-year-old father. The presidential elections in the US are slated to be held on November 3. Also read | Donald Trump's daughter-in-law Lara slammed on Twitter following TV interview "We have to understand the threat of China and no one knows that probably better than Indian-Americans," Trump Jr, told a select group of supporters from the community at the event in Long Island, New York. In his book "Liberal Privilege", he has documented allegations of corruption against 77-year-old Joe Biden's family, particularly against his son Hunter Biden. "When you look at our opponents in this race... you think the Chinese gave Hunter Biden USD 1.5 billion ... because he was a great businessman, or because they knew the Bidens could be bought, and therefore soft on China," he said. Trump Jr was referring to the latest allegations of corruption against the Biden family as revealed by The New York Post. "Therefore, (Joe Biden is) bad for India," he said in his address at the meet and greet event along with Kimberly Guilfoyle, who is leading the fund-raising efforts of Trump's re-election campaign. Praising Indian-Americans, Trump Jr said that the community is near and dear to his heart. "I understand the community pretty well," he said. The Indian community is hard working, family oriented and education oriented, Trump Jr said. Indian-Americans, he said, have been looking at what the Democrats have been pushing or what the they have been ignoring for the last six months. In his remarks, Trump Jr recollected the Ahmedabad address of his father Donald Trump during his trip to India early this year. "When I saw the enthusiasm of my father with Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi ...you know, I used to think that Trump rallies were pretty big in America but that was the biggest Trump rally probably ever ... in India," Trump Jr said. (With inputs from PTI)

My father's relationship with PM Modi is incredible: Donald Trump Jr

Donald Trump is trending for his trademark dance moves on his favourite exit song. Netizens are not only taking the Trump Dance Challenge but are also giving tutorials. WION reports.

Can you do the #TrumpDanceChallenge? U.S. Election 2020 New York Direct

The U.S. witnessed another historic women's march over the weekend against SCOTUS nominee Amy Coney Barrett. Pro-choice & LGBTQ rights activists called out the Trump Administration over Supreme Court battle. WION reports

Who will American women vote for? U.S. Election 2020 New York Direct

Donald Trump & Governor Gretchen Whitmer crossed verbal swords on interviews, at rallies & on twitter. The governor of Michigan called out Trump for inciting 'domestic terrorism' while trump supporters chanted 'LOCK HER UP' at Michigan rally. WION reports

Election showdown features Michigan governor ; U.S. Election 2020 New York Direct

With early voting reporting record turnout, Joe Biden made a campaign visit in the red state of North Carolina with his teen grand daughter Finnegan. The vice Presidential nominee Kamala Harris will be joining him soon. Can Joe Biden swing North Carolina this time?

Can Joe Biden win North Carolina? U.S. Election 2020 New York Direct

With just 15 days to USElection2020, Donald Trump is spending most of his time flitting from rally to rally, revving up his mostly MASKLESS crowds. This weekend, Trump travelled to Nevada, Wisconsin & Michigan. WION reports.

A political joy ride of rallies; U.S. Election 2020 New York Direct

Democrats across the country are beginning to believe.

They are daring to believe that the national nightmare could be coming to an end, that Donald Trump will not only not be reelected, but that Democrats could also flip the Senate.

But, this is a hope, a possibility, that they are refusing to give voice to.

They are still stung by the shock of 2016. They believed the polls that said Hillary Clinton would win. Their faith in all polling remains shaken.

They tell themselves, “Take nothing for granted.” Allowing themselves to even entertain the notion that they are ahead is a threat to enthusiasm. Some may feel like they are behind, even though they aren’t.

But, the fact remains: If Election Day were today and access to the ballot was unencumbered and undisturbed, it is most likely that Joe Biden would become our next president.

Donald Trump and his campaign see the same data that the rest of us do, and campaigns also have internal data that they don’t make public. Trump sees himself behind and sees that calendar winding down. And, no matter what he’s done in the last few months, the race has barely changed.

This is why Donald Trump is attempting to undermine the legitimacy of the election, doing everything he can to suppress the vote, and refusing to commit to a peaceful transfer of power. Because he doesn’t believe that he can win.

It is clear that he is consumed by the prospect of losing.

As he told the crowd at a rally in Macon, Georgia, on Friday: “Running against the worst candidate in the history of presidential politics puts pressure on me. Could you imagine if I lose? My whole life, what am I going to do? I’m going to say I lost to the worst candidate in the history of politics. I’m not going to feel so good. Maybe I’ll have to leave the country. I don’t know.”

Not only can we imagine him losing, it is clear that he can as well. In fact, Trump has repeated some version of the passage at rallies for the last few days.

And Trump isn’t even trying to make a case for a second term. He isn’t laying out a vision and a plan. He is simply demonizing Biden and painting the darkest possible vision of an America where he loses as Biden wins.

The following lines come from speeches Trump has delivered in just the last few days:

“If he wins, the radical left will be running the country, and they’re addicted to power, and God help us if they ever got it, because we would never have the same country again.”

“If he wins, there will be nothing but bedlam all over the place.”

“If Biden wins, China wins, all these other countries win.”

“If he wins, the radical left will be running the country. He won’t be running the country. The radical left will take over.”

“If Biden wins, your borders are gone, which means your health care is gone, the middle class is gone, and your safety is gone.”

“If Sleepy Joe Biden and the Democrat Socialists are elected, every citizen in America will be subjected to their extreme ideology, possessed by this Marxist madness.”

It is a sign to me that he fully expects his reelection bid to fail. It means that Democrats’ optimism about the election outcome is well placed. This man is panicking. He made it clear when he said at a campaign rally in Michigan on Saturday:

“And you know then they say, they’re taking away … Me, I’m taking away their freedom. Then they say, ‘If you lose, will you have a friendly transition?’ I say, ‘I want a fair election.’ Then they say, ‘Will you have a fair … We want a fair and friendly transition.’ I said, ‘Really? Well, when I won, you spied on my campaign, we caught you trying to overthrow the president of the United States. You’re crooked as hell. And we caught you, and let’s see what happens to them. But you’re crooked as hell.’ And to me, that didn’t exactly look like a friendly transition.”

The postelection drama threatens to be a disaster that could truly test America’s institutions and indeed our democracy itself. But, we’ll just have to deal with that when we get to it.

Now, we are witnessing something else that we must not overlook: a rejection of hate, division and dishonesty. We are witnessing America acknowledging that character matters.

I dare not make election predictions because to do so is folly. There are still two weeks remaining in this campaign. Anything could happen. But, the situation for Trump continues to be dire and time is running out.

I’m allowing myself to believe.

Democrats across the country are beginning to believe. They are daring to believe that the national nightmare could be coming to an end, that Donald Trump will not only not be reelected, but that Democrats could also flip the Senate.

Democrats across the country are beginning to believe. They are daring to believe that the national nightmare could be coming to an end, that Donald Trump will not only not be reelected, but that Democrats could also flip the Senate. But, this is a hope, a possibility, that they are refusing to give voice to. They are still stung by the shock of 2016. They believed the polls that said Hillary Clinton would win. Their faith in all polling remains shaken. They tell themselves, “Take nothing for granted.” Allowing themselves to even entertain the notion that they are ahead is a threat to enthusiasm. Some may feel like they are behind, even though they aren’t. But, the fact remains: If Election Day were today and access to the ballot was unencumbered and undisturbed, it is most likely that Joe Biden would become our next president. Donald Trump and his campaign see the same data that the rest of us do, and campaigns also have internal data that they don’t make public. Trump sees himself behind and sees that calendar winding down. And, no matter what he’s done in the last few months, the race has barely changed. This is why Donald Trump is attempting to undermine the legitimacy of the election, doing everything he can to suppress the vote, and refusing to commit to a peaceful transfer of power. Because he doesn’t believe that he can win. It is clear that he is consumed by the prospect of losing. As he told the crowd at a rally in Macon, Georgia, on Friday: “Running against the worst candidate in the history of presidential politics puts pressure on me. Could you imagine if I lose? My whole life, what am I going to do? I’m going to say I lost to the worst candidate in the history of politics. I’m not going to feel so good. Maybe I’ll have to leave the country. I don’t know.” Not only can we imagine him losing, it is clear that he can as well. In fact, Trump has repeated some version of the passage at rallies for the last few days. And Trump isn’t even trying to make a case for a second term. He isn’t laying out a vision and a plan. He is simply demonizing Biden and painting the darkest possible vision of an America where he loses as Biden wins. The following lines come from speeches Trump has delivered in just the last few days: “If he wins, the radical left will be running the country, and they’re addicted to power, and God help us if they ever got it, because we would never have the same country again.” “If he wins, there will be nothing but bedlam all over the place.” “If Biden wins, China wins, all these other countries win.” “If he wins, the radical left will be running the country. He won’t be running the country. The radical left will take over.” “If Biden wins, your borders are gone, which means your health care is gone, the middle class is gone, and your safety is gone.” “If Sleepy Joe Biden and the Democrat Socialists are elected, every citizen in America will be subjected to their extreme ideology, possessed by this Marxist madness.” It is a sign to me that he fully expects his reelection bid to fail. It means that Democrats’ optimism about the election outcome is well placed. This man is panicking. He made it clear when he said at a campaign rally in Michigan on Saturday: “And you know then they say, they’re taking away … Me, I’m taking away their freedom. Then they say, ‘If you lose, will you have a friendly transition?’ I say, ‘I want a fair election.’ Then they say, ‘Will you have a fair … We want a fair and friendly transition.’ I said, ‘Really? Well, when I won, you spied on my campaign, we caught you trying to overthrow the president of the United States. You’re crooked as hell. And we caught you, and let’s see what happens to them. But you’re crooked as hell.’ And to me, that didn’t exactly look like a friendly transition.” The postelection drama threatens to be a disaster that could truly test America’s institutions and indeed our democracy itself. But, we’ll just have to deal with that when we get to it. Now, we are witnessing something else that we must not overlook: a rejection of hate, division and dishonesty. We are witnessing America acknowledging that character matters. I dare not make election predictions because to do so is folly. There are still two weeks remaining in this campaign. Anything could happen. But, the situation for Trump continues to be dire and time is running out. I’m allowing myself to believe.

Democrats dare to believe

As soon as President Donald Trump was released from the hospital after being treated for the coronavirus, he and his allies began counting down the days until he could return to the campaign trail. By reviving his beloved rallies, they thought, he could both prove to voters that he was healthy enough to be reelected and zero in on Joe Biden’s vulnerabilities.

That is not what has happened.

In the week since he restarted in-person campaigning, Trump has continued to prove he is his own biggest impediment by drawing more attention to himself each day than to Biden.

The president is blurting out snippets of his inner monologue by musing about how embarrassing it would be to lose to Biden — and how he would never return to whatever state he happens to be in if its voters do not help reelect him.

He is highlighting his difficulties with key constituencies, like women and older voters, by wondering out loud why they have forsaken him, rather than offering a message to bring more of them back into his camp.

And perhaps most damaging, to him and other Republicans on the ballot, he is further alienating these voters and others by continuing to minimize the pandemic and attacking women in positions of power.

A new low point came Saturday, when Trump held a rally in Muskegon, Michigan, where he demanded that Gov. Gretchen Whitmer reopen the state and then said “lock them all up” after his supporters chanted “lock her up!”

It was a stunningly reckless comment from a president whose own FBI this month arrested 14 men who it said had been plotting to kidnap Whitmer, a Democrat, and were captured on video with an array of weapons allegedly planning the crime. Trump has assailed Whitmer for months, disregarding her solid approval ratings with independent voters and women, two groups he is purportedly trying to court.

Michigan Republicans, already struggling to avoid an electoral debacle in a state that has been returning to its Democratic roots in elections since Trump’s narrow victory in 2016, were again forced to answer for the president’s penchant for targeting high-profile women there.

“She was literally just targeted,” Lee Chatfield, speaker of the Michigan House and a leading state Republican, said of Whitmer. “Let’s debate differences. Let’s win elections. But not that.”

In a sign of how reluctant Republicans are to criticize Trump, though, Chatfield lamented the audience’s chant but noted that the president himself had not repeated “lock her up” (ignoring that he did say “lock them all up” in response to the audience).

Later, Chatfield and other Republicans seized on an “8645” pin that was visible during an appearance by Whitmer on NBC’s “Meet the Press” on Sunday, apparently a reference to “86-ing,” or ejecting, the 45th president, Trump. Some Republicans claimed that the term “86” had a more violent intent, and Chatfield tweeted that by displaying the pin, Whitmer had “encouraged more hate.”

The condemnation of the pin, though, only illustrated how eager Republicans are to find anything, no matter how far a stretch, to obscure attention from Trump’s language.

A few hours after his appearance in Michigan, Trump went to Janesville, Wisconsin, and similarly showed no hint of sensitivity to local circumstances. As he did with Whitmer, he demanded that the state’s Democratic governor, Tony Evers, reopen Wisconsin and proclaimed that the country is “rounding the corner” on the virus — never mind that Wisconsin is experiencing a coronavirus spike and hit a record high in new cases last week.

Not surprisingly, the subsequent coverage of the president’s swing to the two crucial Midwestern states focused on the virus and his attack on Whitmer, who on “Meet the Press” accused Trump of “inspiring and incentivizing and inciting” the sort of “domestic terrorism” that threatened her.

Trump’s inflammatory style also encourages his own supporters, as was on vivid display in Muskegon when crowd members reprised the 2016 mantra about Hillary Clinton for their own governor, ignoring the alleged kidnapping plot against her.

But it is not just the crowds who seem to be taking their cues from the president.

On Friday, Sen. David Perdue of Georgia, a wealthy former business executive who has a home in affluent Sea Island, Georgia, took the microphone at a Trump rally in Macon, Georgia, and sought to rile up the red-hatted audience. He suggested he did not know how to pronounce the name of Sen. Kamala Harris, the Democratic vice-presidential nominee, with whom he has served in the Senate for more than three years.

“Kamala? Kamala? Kamala-mala-mala?” he said. “I don’t know. Whatever.”

Democrats pounced, Republicans were put on the defensive and Perdue’s opponent, Jon Ossoff, raised more than $1.8 million as of Sunday evening.

Trump’s staff has sought to mitigate his self-destructive tendencies. It is clear when he is speaking from a teleprompter at rallies, and as discursive as his speeches are, he will deliver many of his attack lines on Biden as written.

But at nearly every event, the president overwhelms his critique of the former vice president.

With Republicans desperate to reframe the election as a choice on policy differences, Trump, with his rhetorical outbursts, is effectively ensuring that the campaign remains a referendum on his conduct. That is what alarms GOP candidates and strategists, who fear that even the Supreme Court nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barrett is no match for Trump’s daily exercise in self-sabotage.

Returning to South Carolina triumphantly Friday after he shepherded Barrett through her Judiciary Committee hearings, Sen. Lindsey Graham held a rally-cum-news-conference that amounted to a victory lap. Locked in an unexpectedly close race for reelection against a Democrat, Jaime Harrison, who is raising record-breaking sums of money, Graham said he thought Trump would help him in the conservative-leaning state.

But as he stepped into an SUV to leave, he acknowledged the undeniable.

“He can be a handful,” Graham said of Trump. “He can get in the way of his own success.”

A number of senior Republican strategists believe the president’s behavior will all but assure his own defeat and is likely to hand Democrats control of the Senate. And every time he criticizes a Republican lawmaker — as he did last week with Sens. Ben Sasse of Nebraska and Susan Collins of Maine — they worry it will compound their losses.

But with just over two weeks until the election, a number of party leaders have given up trying to nudge Trump toward better behavior. Sen. John Cornyn of Texas, who is facing an unusually competitive reelection race in part because of Trump’s divisiveness, said it was not worth trying — and reached for an evocative comparison.

“Like a lot of women who get married and think they’re going to change their spouse, and that doesn’t usually work out very well,” Cornyn said of Trump in an interview with The Fort Worth Star-Telegram.

As soon as President Donald Trump was released from the hospital after being treated for the coronavirus, he and his allies began counting down the days until he could return to the campaign trail.

As soon as President Donald Trump was released from the hospital after being treated for the coronavirus, he and his allies began counting down the days until he could return to the campaign trail. By reviving his beloved rallies, they thought, he could both prove to voters that he was healthy enough to be reelected and zero in on Joe Biden’s vulnerabilities. That is not what has happened. In the week since he restarted in-person campaigning, Trump has continued to prove he is his own biggest impediment by drawing more attention to himself each day than to Biden. The president is blurting out snippets of his inner monologue by musing about how embarrassing it would be to lose to Biden — and how he would never return to whatever state he happens to be in if its voters do not help reelect him. He is highlighting his difficulties with key constituencies, like women and older voters, by wondering out loud why they have forsaken him, rather than offering a message to bring more of them back into his camp. And perhaps most damaging, to him and other Republicans on the ballot, he is further alienating these voters and others by continuing to minimize the pandemic and attacking women in positions of power. A new low point came Saturday, when Trump held a rally in Muskegon, Michigan, where he demanded that Gov. Gretchen Whitmer reopen the state and then said “lock them all up” after his supporters chanted “lock her up!” It was a stunningly reckless comment from a president whose own FBI this month arrested 14 men who it said had been plotting to kidnap Whitmer, a Democrat, and were captured on video with an array of weapons allegedly planning the crime. Trump has assailed Whitmer for months, disregarding her solid approval ratings with independent voters and women, two groups he is purportedly trying to court. Michigan Republicans, already struggling to avoid an electoral debacle in a state that has been returning to its Democratic roots in elections since Trump’s narrow victory in 2016, were again forced to answer for the president’s penchant for targeting high-profile women there. “She was literally just targeted,” Lee Chatfield, speaker of the Michigan House and a leading state Republican, said of Whitmer. “Let’s debate differences. Let’s win elections. But not that.” In a sign of how reluctant Republicans are to criticize Trump, though, Chatfield lamented the audience’s chant but noted that the president himself had not repeated “lock her up” (ignoring that he did say “lock them all up” in response to the audience). Later, Chatfield and other Republicans seized on an “8645” pin that was visible during an appearance by Whitmer on NBC’s “Meet the Press” on Sunday, apparently a reference to “86-ing,” or ejecting, the 45th president, Trump. Some Republicans claimed that the term “86” had a more violent intent, and Chatfield tweeted that by displaying the pin, Whitmer had “encouraged more hate.” The condemnation of the pin, though, only illustrated how eager Republicans are to find anything, no matter how far a stretch, to obscure attention from Trump’s language. A few hours after his appearance in Michigan, Trump went to Janesville, Wisconsin, and similarly showed no hint of sensitivity to local circumstances. As he did with Whitmer, he demanded that the state’s Democratic governor, Tony Evers, reopen Wisconsin and proclaimed that the country is “rounding the corner” on the virus — never mind that Wisconsin is experiencing a coronavirus spike and hit a record high in new cases last week. Not surprisingly, the subsequent coverage of the president’s swing to the two crucial Midwestern states focused on the virus and his attack on Whitmer, who on “Meet the Press” accused Trump of “inspiring and incentivizing and inciting” the sort of “domestic terrorism” that threatened her. Trump’s inflammatory style also encourages his own supporters, as was on vivid display in Muskegon when crowd members reprised the 2016 mantra about Hillary Clinton for their own governor, ignoring the alleged kidnapping plot against her. But it is not just the crowds who seem to be taking their cues from the president. On Friday, Sen. David Perdue of Georgia, a wealthy former business executive who has a home in affluent Sea Island, Georgia, took the microphone at a Trump rally in Macon, Georgia, and sought to rile up the red-hatted audience. He suggested he did not know how to pronounce the name of Sen. Kamala Harris, the Democratic vice-presidential nominee, with whom he has served in the Senate for more than three years. “Kamala? Kamala? Kamala-mala-mala?” he said. “I don’t know. Whatever.” Democrats pounced, Republicans were put on the defensive and Perdue’s opponent, Jon Ossoff, raised more than $1.8 million as of Sunday evening. Trump’s staff has sought to mitigate his self-destructive tendencies. It is clear when he is speaking from a teleprompter at rallies, and as discursive as his speeches are, he will deliver many of his attack lines on Biden as written. But at nearly every event, the president overwhelms his critique of the former vice president. With Republicans desperate to reframe the election as a choice on policy differences, Trump, with his rhetorical outbursts, is effectively ensuring that the campaign remains a referendum on his conduct. That is what alarms GOP candidates and strategists, who fear that even the Supreme Court nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barrett is no match for Trump’s daily exercise in self-sabotage. Returning to South Carolina triumphantly Friday after he shepherded Barrett through her Judiciary Committee hearings, Sen. Lindsey Graham held a rally-cum-news-conference that amounted to a victory lap. Locked in an unexpectedly close race for reelection against a Democrat, Jaime Harrison, who is raising record-breaking sums of money, Graham said he thought Trump would help him in the conservative-leaning state. But as he stepped into an SUV to leave, he acknowledged the undeniable. “He can be a handful,” Graham said of Trump. “He can get in the way of his own success.” A number of senior Republican strategists believe the president’s behavior will all but assure his own defeat and is likely to hand Democrats control of the Senate. And every time he criticizes a Republican lawmaker — as he did last week with Sens. Ben Sasse of Nebraska and Susan Collins of Maine — they worry it will compound their losses. But with just over two weeks until the election, a number of party leaders have given up trying to nudge Trump toward better behavior. Sen. John Cornyn of Texas, who is facing an unusually competitive reelection race in part because of Trump’s divisiveness, said it was not worth trying — and reached for an evocative comparison. “Like a lot of women who get married and think they’re going to change their spouse, and that doesn’t usually work out very well,” Cornyn said of Trump in an interview with The Fort Worth Star-Telegram.

‘Lock them all up’: Trump’s Whitmer attack fits a damaging pattern

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/churches-burnt-as-chile-protest-anniversary-turns-violent-336293">Churches burnt as Chile protest anniversary turns violent</a>

<img alt="Churches burnt in Chile" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b58c587-5bdc-4f95-abab-e47f231308a0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Church1.jpg" />

The demonstration comes just a week before the country votes in a referendum to replace the constitution.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-announces-new-restrictions-amid-coronavirus-surge-in-europe-336284">Italy announces new restrictions amid coronavirus surge in Europe</a>

<img alt="Coronavirus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="19a933f9-e1a8-494b-bf07-93f446bb4a6e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Euro1.jpg" />

The Italian government has limited the number of people at restaurants to six per table with bars ordered to close at 6pm.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-bahrain-formalise-diplomatic-ties-336286">Israel, Bahrain formalise diplomatic ties</a>

<img alt="Israel-Bahrain" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="361aa4d2-e88c-44da-a770-763b99b558ff" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Israel2.jpg" />

 
Israel's foreign ministry said that the two nations had agreed to establish peaceful diplomatic relations and cooperate in the fields of the civil aviation, economy, communications, finance and agriculture.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-donald-trump-claims-his-campaign-is-doing-very-very-well-336290">US election: Donald Trump claims his campaign is doing 'very, very well'</a>

<img alt="Donald Trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f10a11b5-97fc-4d3f-96dc-ac34344ed2b9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Donne1.jpg" />

Trump, scrambling to make up lost ground, is on a furious multi-state barnstorming tour, hopping on Sunday from Nevada to California and then back to Nevada for a day of rallies.

Watch:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/thousands-gather-in-paris-to-pay-tribute-to-the-teacher-beheaded-in-france-336295">Thousands gather in Paris to pay tribute to the teacher beheaded in France</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/thousands-gather-in-paris-to-pay-tribute-to-the-teacher-beheaded-in-france-336295/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Churches burnt as Chile protest anniversary turns violent The demonstration comes just a week before the country votes in a referendum to replace the constitution.

Churches burnt as Chile protest anniversary turns violent The demonstration comes just a week before the country votes in a referendum to replace the constitution. Italy announces new restrictions amid coronavirus surge in Europe The Italian government has limited the number of people at restaurants to six per table with bars ordered to close at 6pm. Israel, Bahrain formalise diplomatic ties Israel's foreign ministry said that the two nations had agreed to establish peaceful diplomatic relations and cooperate in the fields of the civil aviation, economy, communications, finance and agriculture. US election: Donald Trump claims his campaign is doing 'very, very well' Trump, scrambling to make up lost ground, is on a furious multi-state barnstorming tour, hopping on Sunday from Nevada to California and then back to Nevada for a day of rallies. Watch: Thousands gather in Paris to pay tribute to the teacher beheaded in France

Morning news brief: Churches burnt in Chile, Italy announces new COVID-19 restrictions & more

In just 15 days from now, United States will seal it's fate for the next 4 years. President Donald Trump and Democrat Presidential nominee Joe Biden have hit the campaigning round running.

US Election 2020: Candidates' campaigning round starts, visit to churches ahead of polls

Donald Trump's daughter-in-law Lara Trump was slammed severely on Twitter after her heated television interview on Sunday with #LaraLied doing rounds on the social media platform.&nbsp;

Trump campaign's senior adviser's interview with CNN's Jake Tapper ended abruptly and during their interaction she defended Trump's comments on the Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, saying he was "having fun".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2020-key-states-that-will-likely-decide-fate-of-donald-trump-and-joe-biden-336311">US election 2020: Key states that will likely decide fate of Trump and Biden</a>

"It’s a fun, light atmosphere. Of course he wasn’t encouraging people to threaten this woman. That’s ridiculous," Lara said.&nbsp;

Earlier, in a rally in Michigan on Saturday, the US president asked Whitmer to loosen up the restrictions and his supporters at the rally chanted "lock her up".

Lara was also confronted on mocking the stuttering of Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden.

Earlier, at an event in Iowa in January, Lara said: "Every time he comes on stage or they turn to him, I'm like, 'Joe, can you get it out? Let’s get the words out, Joe.' You kinda feel bad for him."

"How do you think it makes little kids with stutters feel when they see you make a comment like that?" the interviewer asked Lara on Sunday.&nbsp;

"First and foremost, I had no idea that Joe Biden ever suffered from a stutter," the campaign adviser to Preisdent Trump said.&nbsp;

"I think what we see on stage with Joe Biden, Jake, is very clearly a cognitive decline."

Lara's comments didn't go down well with the netizens.

Here are some of the posts on Lara's interview.&nbsp;

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Imagine being so low on the evolutionary ladder as a female, that breeding with Eric Trump was your best option. 
 
Lara Trump is trash.
— Alex Cole (@acnewsitics) <a href="https://twitter.com/acnewsitics/status/1317829252830490626?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Lara Trump is just as bad as Eric.
— Scott Dworkin (@funder) <a href="https://twitter.com/funder/status/1317823524434739203?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaraLied?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaraLied</a> 
Jake confronted her and finally cut her mic.
— Beth L Harwell (@BethHarwellLCSW) <a href="https://twitter.com/BethHarwellLCSW/status/1317825738263941121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Donald Trump's daughter-in-law Lara Trump was slammed severely on Twitter after her heated television interview on Sunday with #LaraLied doing rounds on the social media platform.

Donald Trump's daughter-in-law Lara Trump was slammed severely on Twitter after her heated television interview on Sunday with #LaraLied doing rounds on the social media platform. Trump campaign's senior adviser's interview with CNN's Jake Tapper ended abruptly and during their interaction she defended Trump's comments on the Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, saying he was "having fun". Also read | US election 2020: Key states that will likely decide fate of Trump and Biden "It’s a fun, light atmosphere. Of course he wasn’t encouraging people to threaten this woman. That’s ridiculous," Lara said. Earlier, in a rally in Michigan on Saturday, the US president asked Whitmer to loosen up the restrictions and his supporters at the rally chanted "lock her up". Lara was also confronted on mocking the stuttering of Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden. Earlier, at an event in Iowa in January, Lara said: "Every time he comes on stage or they turn to him, I'm like, 'Joe, can you get it out? Let’s get the words out, Joe.' You kinda feel bad for him." "How do you think it makes little kids with stutters feel when they see you make a comment like that?" the interviewer asked Lara on Sunday. "First and foremost, I had no idea that Joe Biden ever suffered from a stutter," the campaign adviser to Preisdent Trump said. "I think what we see on stage with Joe Biden, Jake, is very clearly a cognitive decline." Lara's comments didn't go down well with the netizens. Here are some of the posts on Lara's interview. Imagine being so low on the evolutionary ladder as a female, that breeding with Eric Trump was your best option. Lara Trump is trash. — Alex Cole (@acnewsitics) October 18, 2020 × Lara Trump is just as bad as Eric. — Scott Dworkin (@funder) October 18, 2020 × #LaraLied Jake confronted her and finally cut her mic. — Beth L Harwell (@BethHarwellLCSW) October 18, 2020 ×

Donald Trump's daughter-in-law Lara slammed on Twitter following TV interview

US Election 2020 Key States : Whenever there is any <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/us-election">presidential election </a>in the United States, battleground or swing states come into fore as these states cannot be termed as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/democratic-party">Democratic </a>or <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/republican-party">Republican</a>.

In the 2016 US Election, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump </a>won six of these states, Florida, Pennsylvania, Michigan, North Carolina, Wisconsin and Arizona.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-he-doesnt-win-donald-trump-will-be-back-in-2024-steve-bannon-336275">If he doesn't win, Donald Trump will be back in 2024: Steve Bannon</a>

However, polls suggest that Trump is trailing in all these states, even though margins are narrow in some.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-and-trump-say-theyre-fighting-for-americas-soul-what-does-that-mean-336269">Biden and Trump say they’re fighting for America’s ‘soul.’ What does that mean?</a>

Let's look at US election 2020 key states&nbsp;that will decide the fate of Trump and Democratic contender <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>.

<h2>US Election 2020 Key States&nbsp;</h2>

Pennsylvania

It is a state where Biden was born, and a region that has seen decades of industrial decline.&nbsp;

Trump supporters are campaigning heavily in this state, with campaign team even going door-to-door in the suburbs to lure the voters.&nbsp;

Biden's big support will be big cities of the states, while Trump is expecting support from the state's rural west and conservative central areas.

Pennsylvania's suburbs and northeast will be crucial to decide which way the state is leading.&nbsp;

According to an average of state polls by the website RealClearPolitics (RCP), Biden leads Trump by 5.6 percentage points in the state.&nbsp;

US Election 2020 Key States:&nbsp;Michigan

Trump managed to narrowly win this state in 2016.

Michigan, also known as the Great Lakes states, is concerned about the state of the economy due to coronavirus pandemic and Trump's response to the crisis.

Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer has continually clashed with Trump over issues related to coronavirus and the strict lockdowns in the state have angered conservatives.&nbsp;

Recently, a group of right-wing members was also arrested by the FBI for plotting to kidnap Whitmer.

RCP says Biden is ahead in Michigan with 7.2 percentage points.&nbsp;

US Election 2020 Key States:&nbsp;Wisconsin

The 2016 Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton paid the price for not campaigning in the state in the last election.&nbsp;

To not repeat such a mistake this time, Democrats held their national convention in Wisconsin though the event was made online due to coronavirus crisis.&nbsp;

Both Trump and Biden and their Vice Presidential candidates Mike Pence and Kamala Harris have campaigned in the state.

Biden is leading in Wisconsin by 6.3 percentage points, according to RCP.&nbsp;

Florida

It is largest of all the swing states and a large number of retired individuals reside here.&nbsp;

The state's massive Latino voters will be crucial and polls suggest the support for Democrats has declined from the 2016 levels.&nbsp;

However, Florida's senior citizen voters are also moving away from Trump because of his handling of the pandemic.&nbsp;

Many experts say Florida is a Trump firewall; if he loses here, he will lose the presidency.

With a margin of 1.4 percentage points, Biden is leading in Florida too, as per RCP.

North Carolina

The state went with Trump last time but only with a margin of three points and both parties are wary of this. &nbsp;

It has a popular Democrat as the governor who has garnered a lot of praise for his balanced approach to the crisis.&nbsp;

Republicans held their convention here, though the event was majorly online.

According to RCP, Biden is ahead in North Carolina by 2.7 points.&nbsp;

Arizona

The state has been a Republican bastion for decades, but as the number of Latino community rose and with the arrival of liberals from California, the state's electorate can go either way.

Conservative voters praise Trump's efforts to control immigration and promise to build a wall at the Mexican border.&nbsp;

However, by heavily criticising state's late senator John McCain, who still is admired a lot in Arizona, Trump has hurt his prospects.

Cindy McCain, the late senator's widow, has also endorsed Biden for the presidency.&nbsp;

Biden leads Trump by 4 points in the state, says RCP.&nbsp;

Iowa

With a lead of almost 10 points, Trump won Iowa comfortably four years ago, but the race looks tighter this time around.&nbsp;

Currently, Biden is leading with 1.2 points in Iowa, as per RCP.&nbsp;

Georgia

Since 1992, no Democratic candidate has been able to win Georgia in the presidential race, but a lot has changed in recent years with a rise in Democratic support.

As per RCP, Biden is leading the race with 1.2 points.&nbsp;

US Election 2020 Key States:&nbsp;Ohio

Ohio has 18 electoral college voters, which is a major attraction for both the parties.&nbsp;

Trump beat Clinton by 8.1 points in the 2016 election, but polls show a tighter race this year.&nbsp;

With a narrow margin of 0.6, Biden is ahead in Ohio, says RCP.&nbsp;

US Election 2020 Key States : Whenever there is any presidential election in the United States, battleground or swing states come into fore as these states cannot be termed as Democratic or Republican.

US Election 2020 Key States : Whenever there is any presidential election in the United States, battleground or swing states come into fore as these states cannot be termed as Democratic or Republican. In the 2016 US Election, Donald Trump won six of these states, Florida, Pennsylvania, Michigan, North Carolina, Wisconsin and Arizona. Also read | If he doesn't win, Donald Trump will be back in 2024: Steve Bannon However, polls suggest that Trump is trailing in all these states, even though margins are narrow in some. Also read | Biden and Trump say they’re fighting for America’s ‘soul.’ What does that mean? Let's look at US election 2020 key states that will decide the fate of Trump and Democratic contender Joe Biden. US Election 2020 Key States Pennsylvania It is a state where Biden was born, and a region that has seen decades of industrial decline. Trump supporters are campaigning heavily in this state, with campaign team even going door-to-door in the suburbs to lure the voters. Biden's big support will be big cities of the states, while Trump is expecting support from the state's rural west and conservative central areas. Pennsylvania's suburbs and northeast will be crucial to decide which way the state is leading. According to an average of state polls by the website RealClearPolitics (RCP), Biden leads Trump by 5.6 percentage points in the state. US Election 2020 Key States: Michigan Trump managed to narrowly win this state in 2016. Michigan, also known as the Great Lakes states, is concerned about the state of the economy due to coronavirus pandemic and Trump's response to the crisis. Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer has continually clashed with Trump over issues related to coronavirus and the strict lockdowns in the state have angered conservatives. Recently, a group of right-wing members was also arrested by the FBI for plotting to kidnap Whitmer. RCP says Biden is ahead in Michigan with 7.2 percentage points. US Election 2020 Key States: Wisconsin The 2016 Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton paid the price for not campaigning in the state in the last election. To not repeat such a mistake this time, Democrats held their national convention in Wisconsin though the event was made online due to coronavirus crisis. Both Trump and Biden and their Vice Presidential candidates Mike Pence and Kamala Harris have campaigned in the state. Biden is leading in Wisconsin by 6.3 percentage points, according to RCP. Florida It is largest of all the swing states and a large number of retired individuals reside here. The state's massive Latino voters will be crucial and polls suggest the support for Democrats has declined from the 2016 levels. However, Florida's senior citizen voters are also moving away from Trump because of his handling of the pandemic. Many experts say Florida is a Trump firewall; if he loses here, he will lose the presidency. With a margin of 1.4 percentage points, Biden is leading in Florida too, as per RCP. North Carolina The state went with Trump last time but only with a margin of three points and both parties are wary of this. It has a popular Democrat as the governor who has garnered a lot of praise for his balanced approach to the crisis. Republicans held their convention here, though the event was majorly online. According to RCP, Biden is ahead in North Carolina by 2.7 points. Arizona The state has been a Republican bastion for decades, but as the number of Latino community rose and with the arrival of liberals from California, the state's electorate can go either way. Conservative voters praise Trump's efforts to control immigration and promise to build a wall at the Mexican border. However, by heavily criticising state's late senator John McCain, who still is admired a lot in Arizona, Trump has hurt his prospects. Cindy McCain, the late senator's widow, has also endorsed Biden for the presidency. Biden leads Trump by 4 points in the state, says RCP. Iowa With a lead of almost 10 points, Trump won Iowa comfortably four years ago, but the race looks tighter this time around. Currently, Biden is leading with 1.2 points in Iowa, as per RCP. Georgia Since 1992, no Democratic candidate has been able to win Georgia in the presidential race, but a lot has changed in recent years with a rise in Democratic support. As per RCP, Biden is leading the race with 1.2 points. US Election 2020 Key States: Ohio Ohio has 18 electoral college voters, which is a major attraction for both the parties. Trump beat Clinton by 8.1 points in the 2016 election, but polls show a tighter race this year. With a narrow margin of 0.6, Biden is ahead in Ohio, says RCP.

US election 2020: Key states that will likely decide fate of Donald Trump and Joe Biden

Former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/the-white-house">White House</a> Chief Strategist, Steve Bannon, is back in the news a few weeks before the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/us-election">US election</a> and has made claims regarding the President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a> and the former Vice President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>.

Bannon's first claim was that everything found on Joe Biden's son, Hunter Biden's hard drive/laptop is true and he accused Biden of being a "stone cold liar".

"Joe Biden has lied about this for years," Bannon told Sky News in an interview Sunday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-and-trump-say-theyre-fighting-for-americas-soul-what-does-that-mean-336269">Also read|&nbsp;Biden and Trump say they’re fighting for America’s ‘soul.’ What does that mean?</a>

Detailing further, he said, "What Fox did, which was very interesting on that issue but also on the Chinese – they actually went to the people on the emails and contacted them. What was so stunning is that they reported last night that one, the guys on the emails said absolutely the meetings happened. This is not off of some Russia intelligence operation. That emails correct, the meanings correct and, by the way, that 10 per cent of the equity is Joe Biden's."

He also offered proof about the hard drive being Hunter Biden's, and claimed that the Biden's lawyers have tried contacting Bannon and the repair shop&nbsp;multiple times. "We have the emails from the Lawyer, if we need to release them, we'll release them," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-may-have-to-leave-country-donald-trump-says-about-losing-to-biden-in-us-election-336195">Also read|&nbsp;'I may have to leave country': Donald Trump says about losing to Biden in US election</a>

"The stunning thing about these emails… is that Biden has basically said to the American people, 'I knew nothing about it.' Now we actually see they had meetings set up.

"That sets the predicate that Joe Biden has lied consistently over the last couple years to the American people. He lied on the debate stage with President Trump," he said.

Trump&nbsp;immediately took to Twitter to criticise his opponent, calling him a corrupt politician. "Joe Biden is a corrupt politician, and everybody knows it. Now you have the proof, perhaps like never was had before on a major politician. Laptop plus. This is the second biggest political scandal in our history!," he tweeted.

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Joe Biden is a corrupt politician, and everybody knows it. Now you have the proof, perhaps like never was had before on a major politician. Laptop plus. This is the second biggest political scandal in our history!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1317852810302558208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Bannon also made the prediction of&nbsp;the upcoming&nbsp;US elections&nbsp;claiming that "Trump will win on election day".

'I'll make this prediction right now: if for any reason the election is stolen from or in some sort of way Joe Biden is declared the winner, Trump will announce he's going to run for re-election in 2024," Bannon said.

He also predicted that the election result may go to Supreme Court or may&nbsp;be conferred to the House of Representative in January, adding a warning that the results will not be "settled any time soon".

Former White House Chief Strategist, Steve Bannon, is back in the news a few weeks before the US election and has made claims regarding the President Donald Trump and the former Vice President Joe Biden.

Former White House Chief Strategist, Steve Bannon, is back in the news a few weeks before the US election and has made claims regarding the President Donald Trump and the former Vice President Joe Biden. Bannon's first claim was that everything found on Joe Biden's son, Hunter Biden's hard drive/laptop is true and he accused Biden of being a "stone cold liar". "Joe Biden has lied about this for years," Bannon told Sky News in an interview Sunday. Also read| Biden and Trump say they’re fighting for America’s ‘soul.’ What does that mean? Detailing further, he said, "What Fox did, which was very interesting on that issue but also on the Chinese – they actually went to the people on the emails and contacted them. What was so stunning is that they reported last night that one, the guys on the emails said absolutely the meetings happened. This is not off of some Russia intelligence operation. That emails correct, the meanings correct and, by the way, that 10 per cent of the equity is Joe Biden's." He also offered proof about the hard drive being Hunter Biden's, and claimed that the Biden's lawyers have tried contacting Bannon and the repair shop multiple times. "We have the emails from the Lawyer, if we need to release them, we'll release them," he said. Also read| 'I may have to leave country': Donald Trump says about losing to Biden in US election "The stunning thing about these emails… is that Biden has basically said to the American people, 'I knew nothing about it.' Now we actually see they had meetings set up. "That sets the predicate that Joe Biden has lied consistently over the last couple years to the American people. He lied on the debate stage with President Trump," he said. Trump immediately took to Twitter to criticise his opponent, calling him a corrupt politician. "Joe Biden is a corrupt politician, and everybody knows it. Now you have the proof, perhaps like never was had before on a major politician. Laptop plus. This is the second biggest political scandal in our history!," he tweeted. Joe Biden is a corrupt politician, and everybody knows it. Now you have the proof, perhaps like never was had before on a major politician. Laptop plus. This is the second biggest political scandal in our history! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 18, 2020 × Bannon also made the prediction of the upcoming US elections claiming that "Trump will win on election day". 'I'll make this prediction right now: if for any reason the election is stolen from or in some sort of way Joe Biden is declared the winner, Trump will announce he's going to run for re-election in 2024," Bannon said. He also predicted that the election result may go to Supreme Court or may be conferred to the House of Representative in January, adding a warning that the results will not be "settled any time soon".

If he doesn't win, Donald Trump will be back in 2024: Steve Bannon

Democratic vice-presidential nominee Kamala Harris on Monday said the black Americans are dying from COVID-19 at 2x the rate of white Americans.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-harris-wish-hindu-americans-on-the-occasion-of-navratri-336070">Also read | Biden, Harris wish Hindu-Americans on the occasion of Navratri</a> 
 
In a tweet she said that "black Americans are dying from COVID-19 at 2x the rate of white Americans. This pandemic has further reinforced historical inequities in our nation—and it is clear that confronting these disparities is not a priority for this administration."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Black Americans are dying from COVID-19 at 2x the rate of white Americans. 
 
This pandemic has further reinforced historical inequities in our nation—and it is clear that confronting these disparities is not a priority for this administration.
— Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris/status/1317640291898241038?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In recent past, Kamala Harris has been attacking the Trump administration's handling of healthcare for people with pre-existing conditions.

(With inputs from agencies)

Democratic vice-presidential nominee Kamala Harris on Monday said the black Americans are dying from COVID-19 at 2x the rate of white Americans. Also read | Biden, Harris wish Hindu-Americans on the occasion of Navratri In a tweet she said that "black Americans are dying from COVID-19 at 2x the rate of white Americans.

Democratic vice-presidential nominee Kamala Harris on Monday said the black Americans are dying from COVID-19 at 2x the rate of white Americans. Also read | Biden, Harris wish Hindu-Americans on the occasion of Navratri In a tweet she said that "black Americans are dying from COVID-19 at 2x the rate of white Americans. This pandemic has further reinforced historical inequities in our nation—and it is clear that confronting these disparities is not a priority for this administration." Black Americans are dying from COVID-19 at 2x the rate of white Americans. This pandemic has further reinforced historical inequities in our nation—and it is clear that confronting these disparities is not a priority for this administration. — Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) October 18, 2020 In recent past, Kamala Harris has been attacking the Trump administration's handling of healthcare for people with pre-existing conditions. (With inputs from agencies)

Black Americans are dying from Covid-19 at double the rate of white Americans: Kamala Harris

Facebook’s vice president Nick Clegg has said that the social media giant rejected a total of 2.2 million ads on Facebook and Instagram and withdrawn 120,000 posts for attempting to “obstruct voting” in the upcoming US presidential election. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-fumes-as-facebook-twitter-limit-reach-of-smoking-gun-article-on-biden-and-his-son-335344">Also read | Trump fumes as Facebook, Twitter limit reach of 'smoking gun' article on Biden and his son</a> 
 
Earlier in September, the social network site had said it would block new political ads in late October, among other measures, to reduce misinformation and interference.

Facebook had said that it will also remove misinformation about the pandemic and voting as well as any premature posts from candidates declaring victory.

Facebook has been increasing its efforts to avoid a repeat of events leading up to the 2016 US presidential election, won by Donald Trump, when its network was used for attempts at voter manipulation, carried out from Russia.

There were similar problems ahead of Britain's 2016 referendum on leaving the European Union.

"Thirty-five thousand employees take care of the security of our platforms and contribute for elections," said Clegg, who is vice president of global affairs and communications at Facebook.

"We have established partnerships with 70 specialised media, including five in France, on the verification of information", he added.

In 2016, while he was still deputy prime minister, Clegg complained to the Journal du Dimanche that Facebook had not identified or suppressed a single foreign network interfering in the US election.

On Wednesday President Trump rebuked Facebook and Twitter for blocking links to a New York Post article purporting to expose corrupt dealings by election rival Joe Biden and his son Hunter in Ukraine. 
 
The story had raised&nbsp;allegations against Hunter Biden and his actions that involved Joe Biden.

"So terrible that Facebook and Twitter took down the story of “Smoking Gun” emails related to Sleepy Joe Biden and his son, Hunter, in the @NYPost. It is only the beginning for them. There is nothing worse than a corrupt politician. REPEAL SECTION 230!!!" tweeted Trump.

(With inputs from agencies)

Facebook’s vice president Nick Clegg has said that the social media giant rejected a total of 2.2 million ads on Facebook and Instagram and withdrawn 120,000 posts for attempting to “obstruct voting” in the upcoming US presidential election.

Facebook’s vice president Nick Clegg has said that the social media giant rejected a total of 2.2 million ads on Facebook and Instagram and withdrawn 120,000 posts for attempting to “obstruct voting” in the upcoming US presidential election. Also read | Trump fumes as Facebook, Twitter limit reach of 'smoking gun' article on Biden and his son Earlier in September, the social network site had said it would block new political ads in late October, among other measures, to reduce misinformation and interference. Facebook had said that it will also remove misinformation about the pandemic and voting as well as any premature posts from candidates declaring victory. Facebook has been increasing its efforts to avoid a repeat of events leading up to the 2016 US presidential election, won by Donald Trump, when its network was used for attempts at voter manipulation, carried out from Russia. There were similar problems ahead of Britain's 2016 referendum on leaving the European Union. "Thirty-five thousand employees take care of the security of our platforms and contribute for elections," said Clegg, who is vice president of global affairs and communications at Facebook. "We have established partnerships with 70 specialised media, including five in France, on the verification of information", he added. In 2016, while he was still deputy prime minister, Clegg complained to the Journal du Dimanche that Facebook had not identified or suppressed a single foreign network interfering in the US election. On Wednesday President Trump rebuked Facebook and Twitter for blocking links to a New York Post article purporting to expose corrupt dealings by election rival Joe Biden and his son Hunter in Ukraine. The story had raised allegations against Hunter Biden and his actions that involved Joe Biden. "So terrible that Facebook and Twitter took down the story of “Smoking Gun” emails related to Sleepy Joe Biden and his son, Hunter, in the @NYPost. It is only the beginning for them. There is nothing worse than a corrupt politician. REPEAL SECTION 230!!!" tweeted Trump. (With inputs from agencies)

Rejected 2.2 million advertisements seeking to obstruct voting in US election: Facebook

US Election 2020: During an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/us-election">election</a> rally in Georgia, the US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;said his Democratic opponent and former Vice President Joe Biden is the 'worst candidate' in the history of the United States.

Donald Trump has usually indulged in passing comments about and on Joe&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;and has often doubted&nbsp;Joe&nbsp;Biden's&nbsp;skills and capability to run a nation. Often calling him 'Sleepy Joe', he has also gone to the limit of accusing&nbsp;Joe&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;of taking 'performance enhancement drugs' and has passed indirect comments hinting that&nbsp;Joe&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;may not be mentally stable.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-sets-fundraising-record-with-383-mn-in-september-336026">Also read:&nbsp;Biden sets fundraising record with $383 mn in September</a>

However, what was different in this election rally was that&nbsp;Donald Trump&nbsp;talked about losing the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/us-election">US election</a> — a fear he has talked about probably for the second time.

Talking to his supporters,&nbsp;Donald Trump&nbsp;said that&nbsp;Joe&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;is the worst candidate in the history of the US elections, and it would be a shame to lose to him. He also said that contesting against the former Vice President puts a lot of pressure on him as he is now running against&nbsp;the "worst candidate in the history of politics" and will not even know what to do with himself if he lost to&nbsp;Joe&nbsp;Biden.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-trump-golf-course-in-scotland-gets-go-ahead-despite-environmental-fears-336118">Also read:&nbsp;New Trump golf course in Scotland gets go ahead despite environmental fears&nbsp;</a>

So much so,&nbsp;Donald Trump&nbsp;also said that he would be so embarrassed of losing to Joe&nbsp;Biden, that he may have to leave the country.

However, the comment was laughed about on social media as majority of the opinion polls have shown that&nbsp;Donald Trump&nbsp;is trailing behind the "worst candidate" in majority of the states.s states joked about not coming back.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Promise? <a href="https://t.co/Wbl86i8uYo">pic.twitter.com/Wbl86i8uYo</a>
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1317554725596942336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Biden,&nbsp;meanwhile, posted a video on his Twitter mocking&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;by compiling several clips from his election rallies where&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;had at variou

The elections are scheduled for November 03, but some of the states have already started early voting with more than 20 million Americans having already locked their votes.&nbsp;

US Election 2020: During an election rally in Georgia, the US President Donald Trump said his Democratic opponent and former Vice President Joe Biden is the 'worst candidate' in the history of the United States.

US Election 2020: During an election rally in Georgia, the US President Donald Trump said his Democratic opponent and former Vice President Joe Biden is the 'worst candidate' in the history of the United States. Donald Trump has usually indulged in passing comments about and on Joe Biden and has often doubted Joe Biden's skills and capability to run a nation. Often calling him 'Sleepy Joe', he has also gone to the limit of accusing Joe Biden of taking 'performance enhancement drugs' and has passed indirect comments hinting that Joe Biden may not be mentally stable. Also read: Biden sets fundraising record with $383 mn in September However, what was different in this election rally was that Donald Trump talked about losing the US election — a fear he has talked about probably for the second time. Talking to his supporters, Donald Trump said that Joe Biden is the worst candidate in the history of the US elections, and it would be a shame to lose to him. He also said that contesting against the former Vice President puts a lot of pressure on him as he is now running against the "worst candidate in the history of politics" and will not even know what to do with himself if he lost to Joe Biden. Also read: New Trump golf course in Scotland gets go ahead despite environmental fears So much so, Donald Trump also said that he would be so embarrassed of losing to Joe Biden, that he may have to leave the country. However, the comment was laughed about on social media as majority of the opinion polls have shown that Donald Trump is trailing behind the "worst candidate" in majority of the states.s states joked about not coming back. Promise? pic.twitter.com/Wbl86i8uYo — Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) October 17, 2020 × Biden, meanwhile, posted a video on his Twitter mocking Trump by compiling several clips from his election rallies where Trump had at variou The elections are scheduled for November 03, but some of the states have already started early voting with more than 20 million Americans having already locked their votes.

'I may have to leave country': Donald Trump says about losing to Biden in US election

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Sunday differences remain with President Donald Trump's administration on a wide-ranging coronavirus relief package. She is, however, optimistic that legislation could be pushed through before Election Day.

Pelosi said she wanted a bill passed before the US presidential election between Republican Trump and Democrat Joe Biden but acknowledged an agreement would have to come within 48 hours for that to happen.

"I'm optimistic because, again, we've been back and forth on all of this," Pelosi said in an interview with ABC's "This Week."

"They took out 55% of the language that we had there for testing and tracing. And the tracing part is so important because communities of color had been disproportionately affected by this," Pelosi said on ABC.

"We don't have agreement on the language yet. But I'm hopeful."

However, with her negotiating partner, Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin, in the Middle East until Tuesday, a deal appears to be a long shot.

The White House proposed a $1.8 trillion stimulus last week to help Americans struggling with the economic ravages of the coronavirus pandemic. Pelosi said the offer fell short in a range of areas including tax credits for poor people, aid to state and local governments, worker protections and rent help. She has stuck to her demand for a $2.2 trillion aid and stimulus package.

The Republicans who control the Senate, however, are loath to pass another giant relief bill. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said the Senate would vote next week on relief measures totaling more than $500 billion to target specific areas of need. Democrats have rejected so-called skinny bills with pared-down funding, saying much more is needed.

After Mnuchin said last week the White House broadly accepted Democrats' language on testing, it was clear the devil was in the details.

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Sunday differences remain with President Donald Trump's administration on a wide-ranging coronavirus relief package. She is, however, optimistic that legislation could be pushed through before Election Day.

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Sunday differences remain with President Donald Trump's administration on a wide-ranging coronavirus relief package. She is, however, optimistic that legislation could be pushed through before Election Day. Pelosi said she wanted a bill passed before the US presidential election between Republican Trump and Democrat Joe Biden but acknowledged an agreement would have to come within 48 hours for that to happen. "I'm optimistic because, again, we've been back and forth on all of this," Pelosi said in an interview with ABC's "This Week." "They took out 55% of the language that we had there for testing and tracing. And the tracing part is so important because communities of color had been disproportionately affected by this," Pelosi said on ABC. "We don't have agreement on the language yet. But I'm hopeful." However, with her negotiating partner, Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin, in the Middle East until Tuesday, a deal appears to be a long shot. The White House proposed a $1.8 trillion stimulus last week to help Americans struggling with the economic ravages of the coronavirus pandemic. Pelosi said the offer fell short in a range of areas including tax credits for poor people, aid to state and local governments, worker protections and rent help. She has stuck to her demand for a $2.2 trillion aid and stimulus package. The Republicans who control the Senate, however, are loath to pass another giant relief bill. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said the Senate would vote next week on relief measures totaling more than $500 billion to target specific areas of need. Democrats have rejected so-called skinny bills with pared-down funding, saying much more is needed. After Mnuchin said last week the White House broadly accepted Democrats' language on testing, it was clear the devil was in the details.

Pelosi sets 48-hour deadline to approve stimulus deal before US election

It is a phrase that has been constantly invoked by Democratic and Republican leaders. It has become the clearest symbol of the mood of the country, and what people feel is at stake in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/us-election?page=1">November</a>. Everyone, it seems, is fighting for it.

“This campaign isn’t just about winning votes. It’s about winning the heart and, yes, the soul of America,” Joe Biden said in August at the Democratic National Convention, not long after the phrase “battle for the soul of America” appeared at the top of his campaign website, right next to his name.

Picking up on this, a recent Trump campaign ad spliced videos of Democrats invoking “the soul” of America, followed by images of clashes between protesters and police and the words “Save America’s Soul,” with a request to text “SOUL” to make a campaign contribution.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-may-have-to-leave-country-donald-trump-says-about-losing-to-biden-in-us-election-336195">Also read|&nbsp;'I may have to leave country': Donald Trump says about losing to Biden in US election</a>

That the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/us-election?page=1">election</a> has become a referendum on the soul of the nation, suggests that in an increasingly secular country, voting has become a reflection of one’s individual morality — and that the outcome hinges in part on spiritual and philosophical questions that transcend politics: What, exactly, is the soul of the nation? What is the state of it? And what would it mean to save it?

The answers go beyond a campaign slogan, beyond politics and November, to the identity and future of the American experiment itself, especially now, with a pandemic that has wearied the country’s spirit.

“When I think of soul of the nation,” Joy Harjo, the U.S. poet laureate and a Muscogee (Creek) Nation member, said, “I think of the process of becoming, and what it is we want to become. That is where it gets tricky, and that is where I think we have reached a stalemate right now. What do people want to become?”

Harjo said the country’s soul was “at a crucial point.”

“It is like everything is broken at once,” she said. “We are at a point of great wounding, where everyone is standing and looking within themselves and each other.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-sets-fundraising-record-with-383-mn-in-september-336026">Also read|&nbsp;Biden sets fundraising record with $383 mn in September</a>

In Carlsbad, California, Marlo Tucker, the state director for Concerned Women for America, has been meeting regularly to pray with a group of a dozen or so women about the future of the country. The group has been working with other conservative Christian women to register voters.

“It really comes down to what do you stand for, and what do you not stand for,” she said.

“I know this is a Christian nation, the Founding Fathers were influenced by the biblical values,” she said. “People are confused, they are influenced by this sensationalism, they are angry, they are frustrated. They are searching for hope again in government, they are searching for leaders who actually care for their problems.”

Framing an entire campaign explicitly around a moral imperative — with language so rooted in Christianity — has been a standard part of the Republican playbook for decades. But it is a more unusual move for Democrats, who typically attract a more religiously diverse coalition.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-trump-golf-course-in-scotland-gets-go-ahead-despite-environmental-fears-336118">Also read|&nbsp;New Trump golf course in Scotland gets go ahead despite environmental fears&nbsp;</a>

The soul, and the soul of the body politic, is an ancient philosophical and theological concept, one of the deepest ways humans have understood their individual identity, and their life together.

In biblical Hebrew the words translated as soul, nefesh and neshama, come from a root meaning “to breathe.” The Genesis story describes God breathing into the nostrils of man, making him human.

The meaning echoes through today, in a pandemic that attacks the respiratory system and in police violence against Black people crying out, “I can’t breathe.”

Homeric poets saw the soul as the thing humans risk in battle, or the thing that distinguishes life from death. Plato wrote of Socrates exploring the connection between the soul and the republic in creating the virtue of justice. For St. Augustine, who wrote “The City of God,” the city could be judged by what it loves.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/why-trumps-supporters-loved-him-336262">Also read|&nbsp;Why Trump’s supporters loved him</a>

The soul of the nation is “a very ancient trope that is revived when all sorts of cultural ideas are in flux,” Eric Gregory, professor of religion at Princeton University, said. “It reveals something about the current political conversation, in times of crisis and change, a corruption of sickness.”

Often we stress systems and institutions, he said, but in the Trump era there has been a return to ancient concepts about the welfare of the city, where politics is about right relationships. “In ancient politics the health of society had a lot to do with the virtue of the ruler,” Gregory said.

In the United States, the question of who could define the soul of the nation was fraught from the start, from the forced displacement of native people to the enslavement of Africans.

And the state of the soul of the nation has often been tied to the country’s oppression of Black people. Abolitionists like Frederick Douglass fought for an “invincible abhorrence of the whole system of slaveholding” to be “fixed in the soul of the nation.” Lyndon B. Johnson said the country found its “soul of honor” on the fields of Gettysburg. When the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and other civil rights leaders formed what is now the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in 1957, they made their founding motto “to save the soul of America.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-and-biden-to-court-early-voters-as-us-campaign-gathers-steam-336224">Also read|&nbsp;Trump and Biden to court early voters as US campaign gathers steam</a>

This year President Donald Trump has positioned himself as the defender of a threatened Christian America under siege. “In America, we don’t turn to government to restore our souls, we put our faith in Almighty God,” he said at the Republican National Convention. Franklin Graham, one of his evangelical supporters, wrote last year that this age is “a battle for the soul of the nation,” as the original “moral and spiritual framework, which has held our nation together for 243 years, is now unraveling.”

For Biden, the soul of the nation came into focus after the deadly white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, three years ago. “We have to show the world America is still a beacon of light,” he wrote at the time.

From the start, his campaign message has been one of broader morality, versus specific policy or ideology. When Biden says this is a battle for the soul of the nation, he is not using it religiously but as a synonym for character, said presidential historian Jon Meacham, who has spoken often with Biden about the soul.

“People hear it as light versus dark, service versus selfishness, Trump versus the rest of the world,” he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/avengers-team-to-reunite-for-joe-biden-virtual-campaign-hosted-by-russo-brothers-336208">Also read|&nbsp;'Avengers' team to reunite for Joe Biden virtual campaign hosted by Russo Brothers</a>

“My sense is, it is much less about an Elizabeth Warren 10-point plan, or a Bernie Sanders revolution than it is a restoration of a politics that is more familiar and not so agitating,” he said. Voters “just want somebody to run the damn thing with a modicum of efficiency and sanity.”

But even amid the lofty questions of the soul, voters have problems they want solved, and systems they want changed.

North of Boston, Andrew DeFranza, executive director of Harborlight Community Partners, an organization that develops affordable housing, reflected on the disastrous impact of the coronavirus pandemic for many people, from essential workers to people with disabilities. The country’s soul is disoriented, adversarial and tired, he said.

“I don’t think Group A is going to beat Group B and everything is going to be fine,” he said of the election. “We are eager to see political leaders at every level regardless of party demonstrate concrete, actionable plans to address these issues of inequity around health and race, and to do so in a way that is concrete and has outcomes to which they can be accountable.”

In East Harlem, Dorlimar Lebrón Malavé leads First Spanish United Methodist Church, a congregation that serves many immigrants and Puerto Rican families.

“Does this country even have a soul?” she asked. “For me, I think the soul of this country has been lost for a long time.”

Though the current moment seems so dystopian, she said, it felt like a new spirit was emerging. She remembered the creation story in Genesis.

“From a religious standpoint, God created out of chaos. There wasn’t something that was existing before and was reformed,” she said. “When people talk about reforming police, there is no reforming police, there is an opportunity to abolish it and to create something new, from scratch.”

Lebrón Malavé sighed when she thought of Biden’s emphasis on restoring the soul with little concrete discussion of policies.

“People want to hear that there is something left to fight for because it is so hard for us to imagine what it would have to be like to dismantle the whole thing,” she said. “He is appealing to a particular mindset of people who were not taught to fathom a possibility of a new world outside of what we already know.”

For others, the soul is where it all begins.

In Kenosha, Wisconsin, not long after a police officer shot a Black man, Jacob Blake, leaving him paralyzed, a group of interfaith clergy held a prayer service in a parking lot, under a clear blue sky.

“The soul of Kenosha is at stake,” Patrick Roberts of First Baptist Church said to the gathering.

He shared his rare experience of being a Black pastor of a majority-white congregation. Sunday morning remains one of the most segregated hours in the country, he said, and healing the soul of the community would require more than simply a social program or a jobs program for the unemployed.

You would know the soul was healed, he said, when a person of any race could walk anywhere in Kenosha and feel safe.

Later, in an interview, he reflected on Biden’s campaign promise.

“We don’t know the policies he will come up with,” he said. “I think he is just talking on basic terms, getting back to terms of human decency, interaction that is respectable, regardless of your income, your ideology, your color.”

“For me,” he said, “that is good enough.”

It is a phrase that has been constantly invoked by Democratic and Republican leaders. It has become the clearest symbol of the mood of the country, and what people feel is at stake in November.

It is a phrase that has been constantly invoked by Democratic and Republican leaders. It has become the clearest symbol of the mood of the country, and what people feel is at stake in November. Everyone, it seems, is fighting for it. “This campaign isn’t just about winning votes. It’s about winning the heart and, yes, the soul of America,” Joe Biden said in August at the Democratic National Convention, not long after the phrase “battle for the soul of America” appeared at the top of his campaign website, right next to his name. Picking up on this, a recent Trump campaign ad spliced videos of Democrats invoking “the soul” of America, followed by images of clashes between protesters and police and the words “Save America’s Soul,” with a request to text “SOUL” to make a campaign contribution. Also read| 'I may have to leave country': Donald Trump says about losing to Biden in US election That the election has become a referendum on the soul of the nation, suggests that in an increasingly secular country, voting has become a reflection of one’s individual morality — and that the outcome hinges in part on spiritual and philosophical questions that transcend politics: What, exactly, is the soul of the nation? What is the state of it? And what would it mean to save it? The answers go beyond a campaign slogan, beyond politics and November, to the identity and future of the American experiment itself, especially now, with a pandemic that has wearied the country’s spirit. “When I think of soul of the nation,” Joy Harjo, the U.S. poet laureate and a Muscogee (Creek) Nation member, said, “I think of the process of becoming, and what it is we want to become. That is where it gets tricky, and that is where I think we have reached a stalemate right now. What do people want to become?” Harjo said the country’s soul was “at a crucial point.” “It is like everything is broken at once,” she said. “We are at a point of great wounding, where everyone is standing and looking within themselves and each other.” Also read| Biden sets fundraising record with $383 mn in September In Carlsbad, California, Marlo Tucker, the state director for Concerned Women for America, has been meeting regularly to pray with a group of a dozen or so women about the future of the country. The group has been working with other conservative Christian women to register voters. “It really comes down to what do you stand for, and what do you not stand for,” she said. “I know this is a Christian nation, the Founding Fathers were influenced by the biblical values,” she said. “People are confused, they are influenced by this sensationalism, they are angry, they are frustrated. They are searching for hope again in government, they are searching for leaders who actually care for their problems.” Framing an entire campaign explicitly around a moral imperative — with language so rooted in Christianity — has been a standard part of the Republican playbook for decades. But it is a more unusual move for Democrats, who typically attract a more religiously diverse coalition. Also read| New Trump golf course in Scotland gets go ahead despite environmental fears The soul, and the soul of the body politic, is an ancient philosophical and theological concept, one of the deepest ways humans have understood their individual identity, and their life together. In biblical Hebrew the words translated as soul, nefesh and neshama, come from a root meaning “to breathe.” The Genesis story describes God breathing into the nostrils of man, making him human. The meaning echoes through today, in a pandemic that attacks the respiratory system and in police violence against Black people crying out, “I can’t breathe.” Homeric poets saw the soul as the thing humans risk in battle, or the thing that distinguishes life from death. Plato wrote of Socrates exploring the connection between the soul and the republic in creating the virtue of justice. For St. Augustine, who wrote “The City of God,” the city could be judged by what it loves. Also read| Why Trump’s supporters loved him The soul of the nation is “a very ancient trope that is revived when all sorts of cultural ideas are in flux,” Eric Gregory, professor of religion at Princeton University, said. “It reveals something about the current political conversation, in times of crisis and change, a corruption of sickness.” Often we stress systems and institutions, he said, but in the Trump era there has been a return to ancient concepts about the welfare of the city, where politics is about right relationships. “In ancient politics the health of society had a lot to do with the virtue of the ruler,” Gregory said. In the United States, the question of who could define the soul of the nation was fraught from the start, from the forced displacement of native people to the enslavement of Africans. And the state of the soul of the nation has often been tied to the country’s oppression of Black people. Abolitionists like Frederick Douglass fought for an “invincible abhorrence of the whole system of slaveholding” to be “fixed in the soul of the nation.” Lyndon B. Johnson said the country found its “soul of honor” on the fields of Gettysburg. When the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and other civil rights leaders formed what is now the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in 1957, they made their founding motto “to save the soul of America.” Also read| Trump and Biden to court early voters as US campaign gathers steam This year President Donald Trump has positioned himself as the defender of a threatened Christian America under siege. “In America, we don’t turn to government to restore our souls, we put our faith in Almighty God,” he said at the Republican National Convention. Franklin Graham, one of his evangelical supporters, wrote last year that this age is “a battle for the soul of the nation,” as the original “moral and spiritual framework, which has held our nation together for 243 years, is now unraveling.” For Biden, the soul of the nation came into focus after the deadly white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, three years ago. “We have to show the world America is still a beacon of light,” he wrote at the time. From the start, his campaign message has been one of broader morality, versus specific policy or ideology. When Biden says this is a battle for the soul of the nation, he is not using it religiously but as a synonym for character, said presidential historian Jon Meacham, who has spoken often with Biden about the soul. “People hear it as light versus dark, service versus selfishness, Trump versus the rest of the world,” he said. Also read| 'Avengers' team to reunite for Joe Biden virtual campaign hosted by Russo Brothers “My sense is, it is much less about an Elizabeth Warren 10-point plan, or a Bernie Sanders revolution than it is a restoration of a politics that is more familiar and not so agitating,” he said. Voters “just want somebody to run the damn thing with a modicum of efficiency and sanity.” But even amid the lofty questions of the soul, voters have problems they want solved, and systems they want changed. North of Boston, Andrew DeFranza, executive director of Harborlight Community Partners, an organization that develops affordable housing, reflected on the disastrous impact of the coronavirus pandemic for many people, from essential workers to people with disabilities. The country’s soul is disoriented, adversarial and tired, he said. “I don’t think Group A is going to beat Group B and everything is going to be fine,” he said of the election. “We are eager to see political leaders at every level regardless of party demonstrate concrete, actionable plans to address these issues of inequity around health and race, and to do so in a way that is concrete and has outcomes to which they can be accountable.” In East Harlem, Dorlimar Lebrón Malavé leads First Spanish United Methodist Church, a congregation that serves many immigrants and Puerto Rican families. “Does this country even have a soul?” she asked. “For me, I think the soul of this country has been lost for a long time.” Though the current moment seems so dystopian, she said, it felt like a new spirit was emerging. She remembered the creation story in Genesis. “From a religious standpoint, God created out of chaos. There wasn’t something that was existing before and was reformed,” she said. “When people talk about reforming police, there is no reforming police, there is an opportunity to abolish it and to create something new, from scratch.” Lebrón Malavé sighed when she thought of Biden’s emphasis on restoring the soul with little concrete discussion of policies. “People want to hear that there is something left to fight for because it is so hard for us to imagine what it would have to be like to dismantle the whole thing,” she said. “He is appealing to a particular mindset of people who were not taught to fathom a possibility of a new world outside of what we already know.” For others, the soul is where it all begins. In Kenosha, Wisconsin, not long after a police officer shot a Black man, Jacob Blake, leaving him paralyzed, a group of interfaith clergy held a prayer service in a parking lot, under a clear blue sky. “The soul of Kenosha is at stake,” Patrick Roberts of First Baptist Church said to the gathering. He shared his rare experience of being a Black pastor of a majority-white congregation. Sunday morning remains one of the most segregated hours in the country, he said, and healing the soul of the community would require more than simply a social program or a jobs program for the unemployed. You would know the soul was healed, he said, when a person of any race could walk anywhere in Kenosha and feel safe. Later, in an interview, he reflected on Biden’s campaign promise. “We don’t know the policies he will come up with,” he said. “I think he is just talking on basic terms, getting back to terms of human decency, interaction that is respectable, regardless of your income, your ideology, your color.” “For me,” he said, “that is good enough.”

Biden and Trump say they’re fighting for America’s ‘soul.’ What does that mean?

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