<p>Global equity markets slumped and investors piled into safer gold and the Japanese yen on Friday after U.S. President Donald Trump and his wife tested positive for the coronavirus, adding to market uncertainty just 32 days before U.S. elections.</p>

<p>Trump’s bombshell announcement sparked a risk-off mood among investors already concerned about an elusive coronavirus relief package aimed at bolstering a U.S. economy that has lost steam, as seen by slowing jobs growth in September payrolls data.</p>

<p>Gold headed toward its best week in nearly two months even as it pared early gains, while the Japanese yen made its sharpest advance in more than a month. But the benchmark 10-year U.S. Treasury note rose mildly, entrenched in a narrow trading range it has held for three weeks.</p>

<p>How voters feel about the pandemic on voting day could determine the election’s outcome and that is highly unusual, said Michael Arone, chief investment strategist for the U.S. SPDR business at State Street Global Advisors in Boston.</p>

<p>“Today’s news demonstrates a bit of a weakness in terms of the Trump re-election campaign,” he said. “The range of outcomes has expanded and some of the more extreme outcomes have increased in probability and markets certainly don’t like that.”</p>

<p>Trump is experiencing mild symptoms but will keep working after testing positive, administration officials said.</p>

<p>Stocks on Wall Street mostly fell but regional indexes in Europe ended slightly higher after an initial sell-off on the Trump news. The FTSEurofirst 300 index rose 0.22% to 1,405.35 and the STOXX Europe 600 added 0.25% to 362.69.</p>

<p>MSCI’s benchmark for global equity markets fell 0.5% to 565.15, while its emerging markets index fell 0.26%.</p>

<p>On Wall Street, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.08%, while the S&amp;P 500 lost 0.61% and the Nasdaq Composite dropped 1.99%.</p>

<p>How long the risk-aversion will last depends on the extent of the infection within the White House, said Francois Savary, chief investment officer at Swiss wealth manager Prime Partners.</p>

<p>“It will weigh on the market today and early next week but will not induce a long-lasting correction if the infection is contained to Trump,” he said.</p>

<p>As for stock market shocks, the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on Nov. 22, 1963, caused the S&amp;P 500 to plunge nearly 3% and the New York Stock Exchange shut two hours before its regular closing time. But the losses were confined to a single day and the market recovered within two days.</p>

<p>The Labor Department’s closely watched employment report on Friday was the last before the Nov. 3 presidential election.</p>

<p>September’s employment gains were the smallest since the jobs recovery started in May and left the U.S. labor market a long way from recouping the 22.2 million jobs lost in March and April, indicating slower growth heading into the fourth quarter.</p>

<p>U.S. nonfarm payrolls increased by 661,000 jobs last month, below consensus expectations of 850,000, leading to mostly negative reaction by economists.</p>

<p>But both Arone and Steven Ricchiuto, U.S. chief economist at Mizuho Securities USA in New York, said the loss of government jobs, mostly seasonal in education, pulled numbers lower while the private sector’s gains were above overall expectations.</p>

<p>“The net result is the seasonal factors pulled down the state and local portion, very, very dramatically, in particular in the in education area,” Ricchiuto said. “The private sector component, however, continues to improve at a healthy pace.”</p>

<p>The government lost more than 200,000 jobs, Arone said.</p>

<p>“Those job losses on the government side are real, don’t get me wrong. But overall the private sector seems to be hanging in there pretty well,” he said.</p>

<h2>BETS ARE OFF</h2>

<p>With the election now more uncertain, online gambling site Betfair on Friday suspended betting on the outcome of the Nov. 3 vote.</p>

<p>The news from the White House triggered a rise in the dollar and the yen. The dollar index rose 0.103%, with the euro down 0.28% to $1.1714.</p>

<p>The Japanese yen strengthened 0.15% versus the greenback at 105.37 per dollar.</p>

<p>The Australian dollar, which serves as a liquid proxy for risk assets, was down 0.23%.</p>

<p>Germany’s benchmark 10-year bond was down around 0.7 basis point at -0.536%.</p>

<p>Crude prices fell 4% on Trump’s positive test for COVID-19, roiling risky assets, and as rising global crude output threatens to overwhelm the oil market’s weak recovery.</p>

<p>Brent crude futures settled down $1.66 at $39.27 a barrel. U.S. crude futures fell $1.67 to settle at $37.05 a barrel.</p>

<p>Gold pared early gains to turn lower as stocks pared losses.</p>

<p>“If more members of the U.S. government’s senior leadership are diagnosed positive, gold could be set for an extended rally,” said Jeffrey Halley, a senior market analyst at OANDA.</p>

<p>Spot gold prices fell 0.17% to $1,901.77 an ounce. U.S. gold futures settled down 0.5% at $1,907.60.</p>


Global equity markets slumped and investors piled into safer gold and the Japanese yen on Friday after U.S. President Donald Trump and his wife tested positive for the coronavirus, adding to market uncertainty just 32 days before U.

Global equity markets slumped and investors piled into safer gold and the Japanese yen on Friday after U.S. President Donald Trump and his wife tested positive for the coronavirus, adding to market uncertainty just 32 days before U.S. elections. Trump’s bombshell announcement sparked a risk-off mood among investors already concerned about an elusive coronavirus relief package aimed at bolstering a U.S. economy that has lost steam, as seen by slowing jobs growth in September payrolls data. Gold headed toward its best week in nearly two months even as it pared early gains, while the Japanese yen made its sharpest advance in more than a month. But the benchmark 10-year U.S. Treasury note rose mildly, entrenched in a narrow trading range it has held for three weeks. How voters feel about the pandemic on voting day could determine the election’s outcome and that is highly unusual, said Michael Arone, chief investment strategist for the U.S. SPDR business at State Street Global Advisors in Boston. “Today’s news demonstrates a bit of a weakness in terms of the Trump re-election campaign,” he said. “The range of outcomes has expanded and some of the more extreme outcomes have increased in probability and markets certainly don’t like that.” Trump is experiencing mild symptoms but will keep working after testing positive, administration officials said. Stocks on Wall Street mostly fell but regional indexes in Europe ended slightly higher after an initial sell-off on the Trump news. The FTSEurofirst 300 index rose 0.22% to 1,405.35 and the STOXX Europe 600 added 0.25% to 362.69. MSCI’s benchmark for global equity markets fell 0.5% to 565.15, while its emerging markets index fell 0.26%. On Wall Street, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.08%, while the S&P 500 lost 0.61% and the Nasdaq Composite dropped 1.99%. How long the risk-aversion will last depends on the extent of the infection within the White House, said Francois Savary, chief investment officer at Swiss wealth manager Prime Partners. “It will weigh on the market today and early next week but will not induce a long-lasting correction if the infection is contained to Trump,” he said. As for stock market shocks, the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on Nov. 22, 1963, caused the S&P 500 to plunge nearly 3% and the New York Stock Exchange shut two hours before its regular closing time. But the losses were confined to a single day and the market recovered within two days. The Labor Department’s closely watched employment report on Friday was the last before the Nov. 3 presidential election. September’s employment gains were the smallest since the jobs recovery started in May and left the U.S. labor market a long way from recouping the 22.2 million jobs lost in March and April, indicating slower growth heading into the fourth quarter. U.S. nonfarm payrolls increased by 661,000 jobs last month, below consensus expectations of 850,000, leading to mostly negative reaction by economists. But both Arone and Steven Ricchiuto, U.S. chief economist at Mizuho Securities USA in New York, said the loss of government jobs, mostly seasonal in education, pulled numbers lower while the private sector’s gains were above overall expectations. “The net result is the seasonal factors pulled down the state and local portion, very, very dramatically, in particular in the in education area,” Ricchiuto said. “The private sector component, however, continues to improve at a healthy pace.” The government lost more than 200,000 jobs, Arone said. “Those job losses on the government side are real, don’t get me wrong. But overall the private sector seems to be hanging in there pretty well,” he said. BETS ARE OFF With the election now more uncertain, online gambling site Betfair on Friday suspended betting on the outcome of the Nov. 3 vote. The news from the White House triggered a rise in the dollar and the yen. The dollar index rose 0.103%, with the euro down 0.28% to $1.1714. The Japanese yen strengthened 0.15% versus the greenback at 105.37 per dollar. The Australian dollar, which serves as a liquid proxy for risk assets, was down 0.23%. Germany’s benchmark 10-year bond was down around 0.7 basis point at -0.536%. Crude prices fell 4% on Trump’s positive test for COVID-19, roiling risky assets, and as rising global crude output threatens to overwhelm the oil market’s weak recovery. Brent crude futures settled down $1.66 at $39.27 a barrel. U.S. crude futures fell $1.67 to settle at $37.05 a barrel. Gold pared early gains to turn lower as stocks pared losses. “If more members of the U.S. government’s senior leadership are diagnosed positive, gold could be set for an extended rally,” said Jeffrey Halley, a senior market analyst at OANDA. Spot gold prices fell 0.17% to $1,901.77 an ounce. U.S. gold futures settled down 0.5% at $1,907.60.

Stocks fall, dollar gains after Trump gets coronavirus

<p>A new recording from US President Donald Trump's April 13 interview with journalist Bob Woodward has emerged that shows him saying he wasn't concerned about contracting the novel coronavirus.</p>

<p>The irony is Trump now is hospitalised with COVID-19 in the military hospital, upending the upcoming presidential election. And his Democratic challenger Joe Biden, who he used to mock for being too cautious about the virus, is now on a campaign trail.</p>

<p>CNN on Friday obtained a new audio recording from Woodward's April 13 interview with Trump that sheds new light on the president's mindset. While Trump admitted to Woodward the virus is a "plague" that "rips you apart," he dismissed concerns about his own health.</p>

<p>"You're risking getting it, of course," said Woodward. "The way you move around and have those briefings and deal with people. Are you worried about that?"</p>

<p>"No, I'm not. I don't know why I'm not. I'm not," the President responded.</p>

<p>"Why?" Woodward asked.</p>

<p>"I don't know," Trump said. "I'm just not."</p>

<p>Trump has often been criticised for his mishandling and downplaying of the pandemic. He also has contradicted or undermined the recommendations from experts in his own administration. And he has repeatedly said that the end of the virus' spread was just around the corner.</p>

<p>The president's rosy assessment of the public-health crisis had not diminished even in the hours leading up to announcing his positive test results early Friday morning. In prerecorded remarks for Thursday night's Al Smith charity dinner, Trump proclaimed that the "end of the pandemic is in sight."</p>

<p>According to a previous report by CNN, Trump told Woodward a story about a meeting of about 10 people in the Oval Office where someone in the room sneezed.</p>

<p>"You know, just a sneeze, the entire room bailed out, OK? Including me, by the way," Trump said.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Biden has the proverbial last laugh.</p>

<p>At a rally in Michigan, he said, "This is not a matter of politics. It's a bracing reminder to all of us that we have to take this virus seriously. It's not going away automatically."</p>

<p>Biden urged all Americans to follow scientific guidelines, including wearing masks, washing hands frequently and staying 6 feet (1.83 m) apart. Health officials, including the head of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Robert Redfield, have said masks are a crucial tool for slowing the spread of the virus.</p>

<p>"Be patriotic," Biden said. "It's not about being a tough guy. It`s about doing your part."</p>


A new recording from US President Donald Trump's April 13 interview with journalist Bob Woodward has emerged that shows him saying he wasn't concerned about contracting the novel coronavirus.

A new recording from US President Donald Trump's April 13 interview with journalist Bob Woodward has emerged that shows him saying he wasn't concerned about contracting the novel coronavirus. The irony is Trump now is hospitalised with COVID-19 in the military hospital, upending the upcoming presidential election. And his Democratic challenger Joe Biden, who he used to mock for being too cautious about the virus, is now on a campaign trail. CNN on Friday obtained a new audio recording from Woodward's April 13 interview with Trump that sheds new light on the president's mindset. While Trump admitted to Woodward the virus is a "plague" that "rips you apart," he dismissed concerns about his own health. "You're risking getting it, of course," said Woodward. "The way you move around and have those briefings and deal with people. Are you worried about that?" "No, I'm not. I don't know why I'm not. I'm not," the President responded. "Why?" Woodward asked. "I don't know," Trump said. "I'm just not." Trump has often been criticised for his mishandling and downplaying of the pandemic. He also has contradicted or undermined the recommendations from experts in his own administration. And he has repeatedly said that the end of the virus' spread was just around the corner. The president's rosy assessment of the public-health crisis had not diminished even in the hours leading up to announcing his positive test results early Friday morning. In prerecorded remarks for Thursday night's Al Smith charity dinner, Trump proclaimed that the "end of the pandemic is in sight." According to a previous report by CNN, Trump told Woodward a story about a meeting of about 10 people in the Oval Office where someone in the room sneezed. "You know, just a sneeze, the entire room bailed out, OK? Including me, by the way," Trump said. Meanwhile, Biden has the proverbial last laugh. At a rally in Michigan, he said, "This is not a matter of politics. It's a bracing reminder to all of us that we have to take this virus seriously. It's not going away automatically." Biden urged all Americans to follow scientific guidelines, including wearing masks, washing hands frequently and staying 6 feet (1.83 m) apart. Health officials, including the head of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Robert Redfield, have said masks are a crucial tool for slowing the spread of the virus. "Be patriotic," Biden said. "It's not about being a tough guy. It`s about doing your part."

Trump once said he wasn't concerned about contracting coronavirus

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-airlifted-to-military-hospital-for-covid-treatment-releases-video-message-332132">Trump airlifted to military hospital for COVID treatment; releases video message</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/10/03/162933-donald-trump-1.jpg?itok=ja0igzYl" /></p>

<p>Trump will be staying at the hospital for the "next few days" and will undergo treatment for COVID-19, the White House reported.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-to-investigate-use-of-its-tech-in-armenia-azerbaijan-clash-332133">Canada to investigate use of its tech in Armenia-Azerbaijan clash</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/13/154384-justin-trudeau.jpg?itok=IqXBItC3" /></p>

<p>Earlier in October 2019, Canada had announced a freeze on issuing of export permits of military shipments to Turkey.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-deploys-military-to-block-migrant-caravan-blames-us-election-332138">Mexico deploys military to block migrant caravan; blames US election</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/01/19/124774-untitled-design-2.jpg?itok=8Qt3LLyb" /></p>

<p>'It seems very strange to us. It's very strange that this caravan leaves on the eve of the election in the United States,' the Mexican President said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wh-coronavirus-protocol-not-likely-to-change-despite-trump-testing-positive-332137">WH coronavirus protocol not likely to change despite Trump testing positive</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/09/18/160405-trump-new-reu.jpg?itok=mommmTsq" /></p>

<p>Reports say masks will still not be mandatory at the White House, describing them as "a personal choice". And this is despite overwhelming evidence that they help to stop the spread.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-quarantine-for-us-vice-president-pence-next-in-line-to-trump-332140"><strong>No quarantine for US Vice-President Pence, next in line to Trump</strong></a></p>

<p>US President Donald Trump's testing positive for the coronavirus has cast a spotlight on Vice-President Mike Pence.</p>

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Trump airlifted to military hospital for COVID treatment; releases video message Trump will be staying at the hospital for the "next few days" and will undergo treatment for COVID-19, the White House reported.

Trump airlifted to military hospital for COVID treatment; releases video message Trump will be staying at the hospital for the "next few days" and will undergo treatment for COVID-19, the White House reported. Canada to investigate use of its tech in Armenia-Azerbaijan clash Earlier in October 2019, Canada had announced a freeze on issuing of export permits of military shipments to Turkey. Mexico deploys military to block migrant caravan; blames US election 'It seems very strange to us. It's very strange that this caravan leaves on the eve of the election in the United States,' the Mexican President said. WH coronavirus protocol not likely to change despite Trump testing positive Reports say masks will still not be mandatory at the White House, describing them as "a personal choice". And this is despite overwhelming evidence that they help to stop the spread. No quarantine for US Vice-President Pence, next in line to Trump US President Donald Trump's testing positive for the coronavirus has cast a spotlight on Vice-President Mike Pence. ×

Morning news brief: Armenia-Azerbaijan clash, no quarantine for Pence and more

Joe Biden and his wife have tested negative for the coronavirus, his primary care doctor confirmed on Friday.

Joe Biden and wife tests negative for coronavirus: Shared stage with Donald Trump

<p>US President Donald Trump's testing positive for the coronavirus has cast a spotlight on Vice-President Mike Pence. A Christian conservative former lawmaker who has been one of the few constants in the Republican president's tumultuous administration, he tested negative for COVID-19.</p>

<p>Pence is scheduled to debate his Democratic rival, Joe Biden's running mate Senator Kamala Harris on Wednesday in Utah. A source at the Commission on Presidential Debates, which oversees the events, said there were no plans to scrap the debate after Trump's positive test.</p>

<p>"This morning, Vice President Pence and the Second Lady tested negative for COVID-19. Vice President Pence remains in good health and wishes the Trumps well in their recovery," spokesman Devin O'Malley said on Twitter.</p>

<p>Pence does not need to quarantine, because he is not considered a close contact with any individuals who have tested positive, including Trump, Pence's doctor Jesse Schonau said in a statement. "Vice President Pence remains in good health and is free to go about his normal activities," he said.</p>

<p>Pence, who was last seen publically with Trump on Monday at a Rose Garden news conference on coronavirus testing, would take over as acting president should Trump become incapacitated while undergoing medical treatment. That has happened three times in US history.</p>

<p>Then-president George W Bush temporarily transferred power to vice-president Dick Cheney twice, for a few hours each in 2002 and 2007, while undergoing colonoscopies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vice-President George HW Bush was acting president for nearly eight hours in 1985 while President Ronald Reagan had a pre-cancerous lesion removed.</p>

<p>The White House said Trump is "not incapacitated" and is working in isolation while experiencing mild symptoms.</p>

<p>Pence filled in for Trump Friday on a conference call with governors about the coronavirus pandemic, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo told 1010 WINS radio. Pence also stood in for Trump on a call with state leaders to discuss support for vulnerable seniors.</p>

<p>Speaker Nancy Pelosi is next in line of succession after Pence. She was tested Friday for COVID-19 and the results were negative, her spokesman said.</p>

<p>Harris tested negative on Thursday as part of her campaign's routine screening for the virus.</p>

<p>Pence has played a largely behind-the-scenes role in Trump's White House, although he is known to have presidential ambitions of his own.</p>

<p>His deference has endeared him to Trump, helping Pence survive in a White House with near-constant turnover among top officials. But he has sometimes been ridiculed for his public obsequiousness to his boss. Earlier this year Trump put Pence in charge of the US response to the coronavirus pandemic, a brief that has not gone well. The nation's death toll from the virus is over 207,000.</p>


US President Donald Trump's testing positive for the coronavirus has cast a spotlight on Vice-President Mike Pence. A Christian conservative former lawmaker who has been one of the few constants in the Republican president's tumultuous administration, he tested negative for COVID-19.

US President Donald Trump's testing positive for the coronavirus has cast a spotlight on Vice-President Mike Pence. A Christian conservative former lawmaker who has been one of the few constants in the Republican president's tumultuous administration, he tested negative for COVID-19. Pence is scheduled to debate his Democratic rival, Joe Biden's running mate Senator Kamala Harris on Wednesday in Utah. A source at the Commission on Presidential Debates, which oversees the events, said there were no plans to scrap the debate after Trump's positive test. "This morning, Vice President Pence and the Second Lady tested negative for COVID-19. Vice President Pence remains in good health and wishes the Trumps well in their recovery," spokesman Devin O'Malley said on Twitter. Pence does not need to quarantine, because he is not considered a close contact with any individuals who have tested positive, including Trump, Pence's doctor Jesse Schonau said in a statement. "Vice President Pence remains in good health and is free to go about his normal activities," he said. Pence, who was last seen publically with Trump on Monday at a Rose Garden news conference on coronavirus testing, would take over as acting president should Trump become incapacitated while undergoing medical treatment. That has happened three times in US history. Then-president George W Bush temporarily transferred power to vice-president Dick Cheney twice, for a few hours each in 2002 and 2007, while undergoing colonoscopies. Vice-President George HW Bush was acting president for nearly eight hours in 1985 while President Ronald Reagan had a pre-cancerous lesion removed. The White House said Trump is "not incapacitated" and is working in isolation while experiencing mild symptoms. Pence filled in for Trump Friday on a conference call with governors about the coronavirus pandemic, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo told 1010 WINS radio. Pence also stood in for Trump on a call with state leaders to discuss support for vulnerable seniors. Speaker Nancy Pelosi is next in line of succession after Pence. She was tested Friday for COVID-19 and the results were negative, her spokesman said. Harris tested negative on Thursday as part of her campaign's routine screening for the virus. Pence has played a largely behind-the-scenes role in Trump's White House, although he is known to have presidential ambitions of his own. His deference has endeared him to Trump, helping Pence survive in a White House with near-constant turnover among top officials. But he has sometimes been ridiculed for his public obsequiousness to his boss. Earlier this year Trump put Pence in charge of the US response to the coronavirus pandemic, a brief that has not gone well. The nation's death toll from the virus is over 207,000.

No quarantine for US Vice-President Pence, next in line to Trump

<p>In the run up to the November 3 presidential election, US President Donald Trump mocked Democratic challenger Joe Biden for months for his cautious approach to the coronavirus.</p>

<p>As Biden remained isolated in his Delaware home in the early months of the virus crisis, Trump called him "Sleepy Joe" and said he was "hiding" in his basement -- a charge that his supporters lapped up and repeated ad infinitum.</p>

<p>During Tuesday's chaotic presidential debate, Trump mocked Biden for wearing a mask at his events, even when he is far away from other people.</p>

<p>But on Friday, it was Trump who was forced to remain in his home, quarantining after his positive diagnosis. His doctor said he was "fatigued" but in "good spirits."</p>

<p>Trump's diagnosis is likely to reinforce Biden's message about the president's failed response to the disease, which has killed more than 200,000 people in the United States, and undermine Trump's argument that the end of the pandemic is in sight. Polls show voters trust Biden to handle the coronavirus more than Trump.</p>

<p>The vice-president and his wife had also taken a coronavirus test -- whose result came out negative.</p>

<p>Biden then had the proverbial last laugh. He had the campaign stage of Michigan to himself a month before Election Day.</p>

<p>He on Friday said that Trump's coronavirus diagnosis showed the importance of taking the pandemic seriously, telling Americans that wearing masks is more important than being a "tough guy."</p>

<p>The remarks served as an implicit criticism of the Republican president. Trump has played down the deadliness of the virus for months, frequently eschews masks and has held huge campaign rallies with little social distancing.</p>

<p>At a union hall in Grand Rapids, Biden said he and his wife, Jill Biden, were praying that Trump and the first lady, Melania Trump, had a swift and full recovery. He delivered the entire speech while wearing a blue medical mask, a departure from prior events where he typically took off his mask before speaking.</p>

<p>"This is not a matter of politics," Biden said. "It's a bracing reminder to all of us that we have to take this virus seriously. It's not going away automatically."</p>

<p>Biden urged all Americans to follow scientific guidelines, including wearing masks, washing hands frequently and staying 6 feet (1.83 m) apart. Health officials, including the head of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Robert Redfield, have said masks are a crucial tool for slowing the spread of the virus.</p>

<p>"Be patriotic," Biden said. "It's not about being a tough guy. It`s about doing your part."</p>

<p>Michigan, which Trump narrowly won over Democrat Hillary Clinton in 2016 but where Biden has led in most state polls, is a vital swing state in the election.</p>

<p>Biden leads Trump in national opinion polls, although surveys in the battleground states that will decide the contest show a closer race. A Reuters/Ipsos poll last month showed Biden leading Trump by 5 percentage points among likely voters in Michigan.</p>

<p>With only 32 days to go before Election Day, Trump's campaign team announced Friday that his events would either be virtual or postponed until further notice.</p>

<p>Biden's running mate, Senator Kamala Harris, was to appear in Nevada on Friday. The 50-year-old, who did not attend Tuesday's debate, has so far tested negative.</p>

<p>"This virus is still very much active across our country, please continue to wear a mask and maintain social distancing," she tweeted.</p>

<p>She is set to debate Vice-President Mike Pence on October 7.</p>

<p>The next presidential debate between Trump and Biden is scheduled for October 15, but it was not clear if that would take place.</p>

<p>It is, certainly, too soon to predict how Trump's diagnosis could impact the race for the White House, a tumultuous campaign already upended several times by history-making events.</p>

<p><em><strong>(with inputs)</strong></em></p>


In the run up to the November 3 presidential election, US President Donald Trump mocked Democratic challenger Joe Biden for months for his cautious approach to the coronavirus.

In the run up to the November 3 presidential election, US President Donald Trump mocked Democratic challenger Joe Biden for months for his cautious approach to the coronavirus. As Biden remained isolated in his Delaware home in the early months of the virus crisis, Trump called him "Sleepy Joe" and said he was "hiding" in his basement -- a charge that his supporters lapped up and repeated ad infinitum. During Tuesday's chaotic presidential debate, Trump mocked Biden for wearing a mask at his events, even when he is far away from other people. But on Friday, it was Trump who was forced to remain in his home, quarantining after his positive diagnosis. His doctor said he was "fatigued" but in "good spirits." Trump's diagnosis is likely to reinforce Biden's message about the president's failed response to the disease, which has killed more than 200,000 people in the United States, and undermine Trump's argument that the end of the pandemic is in sight. Polls show voters trust Biden to handle the coronavirus more than Trump. The vice-president and his wife had also taken a coronavirus test -- whose result came out negative. Biden then had the proverbial last laugh. He had the campaign stage of Michigan to himself a month before Election Day. He on Friday said that Trump's coronavirus diagnosis showed the importance of taking the pandemic seriously, telling Americans that wearing masks is more important than being a "tough guy." The remarks served as an implicit criticism of the Republican president. Trump has played down the deadliness of the virus for months, frequently eschews masks and has held huge campaign rallies with little social distancing. At a union hall in Grand Rapids, Biden said he and his wife, Jill Biden, were praying that Trump and the first lady, Melania Trump, had a swift and full recovery. He delivered the entire speech while wearing a blue medical mask, a departure from prior events where he typically took off his mask before speaking. "This is not a matter of politics," Biden said. "It's a bracing reminder to all of us that we have to take this virus seriously. It's not going away automatically." Biden urged all Americans to follow scientific guidelines, including wearing masks, washing hands frequently and staying 6 feet (1.83 m) apart. Health officials, including the head of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Robert Redfield, have said masks are a crucial tool for slowing the spread of the virus. "Be patriotic," Biden said. "It's not about being a tough guy. It`s about doing your part." Michigan, which Trump narrowly won over Democrat Hillary Clinton in 2016 but where Biden has led in most state polls, is a vital swing state in the election. Biden leads Trump in national opinion polls, although surveys in the battleground states that will decide the contest show a closer race. A Reuters/Ipsos poll last month showed Biden leading Trump by 5 percentage points among likely voters in Michigan. With only 32 days to go before Election Day, Trump's campaign team announced Friday that his events would either be virtual or postponed until further notice. Biden's running mate, Senator Kamala Harris, was to appear in Nevada on Friday. The 50-year-old, who did not attend Tuesday's debate, has so far tested negative. "This virus is still very much active across our country, please continue to wear a mask and maintain social distancing," she tweeted. She is set to debate Vice-President Mike Pence on October 7. The next presidential debate between Trump and Biden is scheduled for October 15, but it was not clear if that would take place. It is, certainly, too soon to predict how Trump's diagnosis could impact the race for the White House, a tumultuous campaign already upended several times by history-making events. (with inputs)

Biden, once mocked by Trump, now has the proverbial last laugh

<p>The Mexican&nbsp;President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrado has ordered for the national army to be deployed along its southern border to put a stop to the incoming migrant caravan.</p>

<p>This decision was announced as&nbsp;thousands of mostly Honduran migrants were traveling through Guatemala, heading for the United States via Mexico.</p>

<p>Obrado has balmed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/us-election">US election</a>&nbsp;for this sudden movement.&nbsp;"It seems very strange to us. It's very strange that this caravan leaves on the eve of the election in the United States," he told reporters.</p>

<p>"It has to do with the election in the United States. I don't have all the elements but I think there are indications that it was put together for this purpose," Lopez Obrador added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-us-bound-migrants-surge-into-guatemala-331883"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Thousands of US-bound migrants surge into Guatemala</strong></a></p>

<p>These migrants were mainly young men and were seen across the border from Honduras into Guatemala. The area is under strict regulations right now due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Majority&nbsp;of these migrants were spotted without a face mask.</p>

<p>Asking the migrants to "respect the immigration law",&nbsp;Francisco Garduno, the head of the Mexican migration authority, told reporters that the migrants are "not going to cross". However, he also assured that the government wants to avoid any confrontation and solve the mater peacefully.</p>

<p>Hundreds of military and immigration personnel have been deployed across the border on an emergency basis.</p>

<p>Some migrants returned to their country after the Guatemalan government ordered them to be detained and deported.</p>

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<p>The surge in migrants travelling across the border came after the&nbsp;US President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;threatened steep tariffs on Mexico if it fails to restrict the flow of undocumented migrants travelling into the US. Mexico, however, deployed nearly 26,000 troops across the border as a response to the threat.</p>

<p>Trump's administration on Thursday announced the US will admit a record low of 15,000 refugees in the coming year.</p>


The Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrado has ordered for the national army to be deployed along its southern border to put a stop to the incoming migrant caravan.

The Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrado has ordered for the national army to be deployed along its southern border to put a stop to the incoming migrant caravan. This decision was announced as thousands of mostly Honduran migrants were traveling through Guatemala, heading for the United States via Mexico. Obrado has balmed the US election for this sudden movement. "It seems very strange to us. It's very strange that this caravan leaves on the eve of the election in the United States," he told reporters. "It has to do with the election in the United States. I don't have all the elements but I think there are indications that it was put together for this purpose," Lopez Obrador added. Also read: Thousands of US-bound migrants surge into Guatemala These migrants were mainly young men and were seen across the border from Honduras into Guatemala. The area is under strict regulations right now due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Majority of these migrants were spotted without a face mask. Asking the migrants to "respect the immigration law", Francisco Garduno, the head of the Mexican migration authority, told reporters that the migrants are "not going to cross". However, he also assured that the government wants to avoid any confrontation and solve the mater peacefully. Hundreds of military and immigration personnel have been deployed across the border on an emergency basis. Some migrants returned to their country after the Guatemalan government ordered them to be detained and deported. × The surge in migrants travelling across the border came after the US President Donald Trump threatened steep tariffs on Mexico if it fails to restrict the flow of undocumented migrants travelling into the US. Mexico, however, deployed nearly 26,000 troops across the border as a response to the threat. Trump's administration on Thursday announced the US will admit a record low of 15,000 refugees in the coming year.

Mexico deploys military to block migrant caravan; blames US election

<p>Just two short days before Donald Trump tested positive for the coronavirus, several of my New York Times colleagues published a story about the early days of the pandemic, and the strong global public health consensus at the time that open borders and free movement of peoples should not be suspended, even in the face of a swiftly spreading virus.</p>

<p>“The policy of unobstructed travel was never based on hard science,” the story notes. “It was a political decision, recast as health advice,” that for a public-health community committed to cosmopolitan ideals had become “an article of faith.”</p>

<p>The story was a reminder of a point I’ve tried to make in these pages before: For all of our president’s conspicuous failures in combating the virus that he is now battling — God willing, successfully — himself, it’s not at all obvious that a different president, one who just listened to the science&nbsp;and followed the experts, would have taken the strong early steps that might have actually suppressed the virus and prevented it from becoming endemic on our shores. By the time the experts had caught up to the realities of COVID-19, by the time they were ready to endorse the travel restrictions that their faith catechized against and the mask-wearing that they initially dismissed, a certain scale of disaster was probably already guaranteed.</p>

<p>Many people don’t like this argument because it’s seen as a way of letting Trump off the hook. But there’s another way of looking at it, which is that while Trump’s early failures weren’t necessarily worse than our hypothetical “just listen to the experts” president, they were arguably more culpable and tragic — precisely because Trump himself was not&nbsp;a believer in what one expert quoted in my colleagues’ story calls “the religion of global health.”</p>

<p>Instead, he had a worldview that the cosmopolitan community considered archaic and dangerous — a worldview that emphasized national borders, played up foreign threats and treated travel bans and immigration restrictions as essential tools of state. He also had certain personal tendencies, like his famous germaphobia, that would presumably have made him favorable to masking and social distancing at a time when the expert of experts, Dr. Anthony Fauci, was still dismissing mask wearing and telling healthy Americans that it was safe to take a cruise.</p>

<p>In other words, Trump, much more than a typical president, was ideologically and personally well-positioned to get out ahead of the experts, to break early with their church-of-cosmopolitanism assumptions and to set an example of extreme caution long before that became the official wisdom — even to “own the libs,” if you will, by taking steps that would have been denounced as authoritarianism in late February and then recognized as wisdom by late March.</p>

<p>He did take one step in that direction, imposing the travel ban on China that he now boasts about, at a time when the church of public health considered it a useless act of xenophobia. But the restrictions he imposed weren’t particularly comprehensive, and from then on he was late to every other opportunity where early or draconian action might have made a difference — heeding the conservatives who minimized the virus rather than the right-wing faction (including figures like Peter Navarro in his own White House) that sounded the alarm early and choosing to make himself the face, quite literally, of a more insouciant approach.</p>

<p>In other words, given a series of crucial choices — whether to heed his nationalist and protectionist impulses or his “don’t spook the stock market” biases, whether to listen to his germaphobia or his apparent fear of looking unmanly in a mask — he consistently chose wrongly when he could have chosen wisely. He went by his own choices&nbsp;from being a president who had an unique historical opportunity to vindicate his professed worldview to a president who is now infected with the very virus that is dooming his reelection bid.</p>

<p>One of the tics of Twitter in this strange and deadly year is a tendency to anthropomorphize the year itself (“Oh, 2020, what else do you have in store for us?”) or to make jokes about the TV writer’s room that’s supposedly responsible for our series of unfortunate events.</p>

<p>Many of the people making those jokes don’t believe that history really has an Author. But I do. And the aspects of our circumstances that seem ridiculously scripted to the atheist are, for religious believers, a reason to meditate on what is being revealed, how we’re being tested and what lessons and examples we can draw from watching tragedies unfold.</p>

<p>Our president does not, to put it mildly, resemble the tragic heroes familiar from Aeschylus or Shakespeare. But he has a little more in common with some of the flawed, arrogant, appetitive figures from the Hebrew Bible — figures who are given opportunities to do something important in spite of their flaws, who are placed at crucial turning points in history notwithstanding their weaknesses and sins and who have the capacity to achieve things that amaze the wise and powerful.</p>

<p>In Trump’s arc in 2020, it’s possible to see a more tragic version of these kind of biblical narratives, in which Providence grants a flawed old sinner a unique chance at heroism, even greatness — and he chooses badly, and lets it pass him by.</p>

<p>The president’s coronavirus diagnosis bends that tragic arc a little further. The idea that an illness and speedy recovery might help him win reelection on a wave of sympathy seems — well, let’s just call it unlikely. Rather, his illness just seems to emphasize that we’re inside the falling action of the play, the working out of choices and themes that were established months ago.</p>

<p>You can’t pray to a writer’s room, but you can pray to God. And so we should pray for the president’s swift recovery, that all those infected around him recover soon as well, and that the falling action of 2020’s drama would spare as many lives as possible.</p>

<p>But to pray is also — inherently — to behave as though life isn’t just one accident after another, as though narrative lines in history actually exist, as though our choices are woven into patterns and not just left to unspool randomly. And the president’s affliction, in this sense, is woven intimately into the larger story of 2020 and his administration’s rendezvous with pestilence — a story whose might-have-beens could have redeemed his vices, but whose realities have sealed his presidency’s transformation from a dark farce into a tragedy.</p>


Just two short days before Donald Trump tested positive for the coronavirus, several of my New York Times colleagues published a story about the early days of the pandemic, and the strong global public health consensus at the time that open borders and free movement of peoples should not be suspended, even in the face of a swiftly spreading virus.

Just two short days before Donald Trump tested positive for the coronavirus, several of my New York Times colleagues published a story about the early days of the pandemic, and the strong global public health consensus at the time that open borders and free movement of peoples should not be suspended, even in the face of a swiftly spreading virus. “The policy of unobstructed travel was never based on hard science,” the story notes. “It was a political decision, recast as health advice,” that for a public-health community committed to cosmopolitan ideals had become “an article of faith.” The story was a reminder of a point I’ve tried to make in these pages before: For all of our president’s conspicuous failures in combating the virus that he is now battling — God willing, successfully — himself, it’s not at all obvious that a different president, one who just listened to the science and followed the experts, would have taken the strong early steps that might have actually suppressed the virus and prevented it from becoming endemic on our shores. By the time the experts had caught up to the realities of COVID-19, by the time they were ready to endorse the travel restrictions that their faith catechized against and the mask-wearing that they initially dismissed, a certain scale of disaster was probably already guaranteed. Many people don’t like this argument because it’s seen as a way of letting Trump off the hook. But there’s another way of looking at it, which is that while Trump’s early failures weren’t necessarily worse than our hypothetical “just listen to the experts” president, they were arguably more culpable and tragic — precisely because Trump himself was not a believer in what one expert quoted in my colleagues’ story calls “the religion of global health.” Instead, he had a worldview that the cosmopolitan community considered archaic and dangerous — a worldview that emphasized national borders, played up foreign threats and treated travel bans and immigration restrictions as essential tools of state. He also had certain personal tendencies, like his famous germaphobia, that would presumably have made him favorable to masking and social distancing at a time when the expert of experts, Dr. Anthony Fauci, was still dismissing mask wearing and telling healthy Americans that it was safe to take a cruise. In other words, Trump, much more than a typical president, was ideologically and personally well-positioned to get out ahead of the experts, to break early with their church-of-cosmopolitanism assumptions and to set an example of extreme caution long before that became the official wisdom — even to “own the libs,” if you will, by taking steps that would have been denounced as authoritarianism in late February and then recognized as wisdom by late March. He did take one step in that direction, imposing the travel ban on China that he now boasts about, at a time when the church of public health considered it a useless act of xenophobia. But the restrictions he imposed weren’t particularly comprehensive, and from then on he was late to every other opportunity where early or draconian action might have made a difference — heeding the conservatives who minimized the virus rather than the right-wing faction (including figures like Peter Navarro in his own White House) that sounded the alarm early and choosing to make himself the face, quite literally, of a more insouciant approach. In other words, given a series of crucial choices — whether to heed his nationalist and protectionist impulses or his “don’t spook the stock market” biases, whether to listen to his germaphobia or his apparent fear of looking unmanly in a mask — he consistently chose wrongly when he could have chosen wisely. He went by his own choices from being a president who had an unique historical opportunity to vindicate his professed worldview to a president who is now infected with the very virus that is dooming his reelection bid. One of the tics of Twitter in this strange and deadly year is a tendency to anthropomorphize the year itself (“Oh, 2020, what else do you have in store for us?”) or to make jokes about the TV writer’s room that’s supposedly responsible for our series of unfortunate events. Many of the people making those jokes don’t believe that history really has an Author. But I do. And the aspects of our circumstances that seem ridiculously scripted to the atheist are, for religious believers, a reason to meditate on what is being revealed, how we’re being tested and what lessons and examples we can draw from watching tragedies unfold. Our president does not, to put it mildly, resemble the tragic heroes familiar from Aeschylus or Shakespeare. But he has a little more in common with some of the flawed, arrogant, appetitive figures from the Hebrew Bible — figures who are given opportunities to do something important in spite of their flaws, who are placed at crucial turning points in history notwithstanding their weaknesses and sins and who have the capacity to achieve things that amaze the wise and powerful. In Trump’s arc in 2020, it’s possible to see a more tragic version of these kind of biblical narratives, in which Providence grants a flawed old sinner a unique chance at heroism, even greatness — and he chooses badly, and lets it pass him by. The president’s coronavirus diagnosis bends that tragic arc a little further. The idea that an illness and speedy recovery might help him win reelection on a wave of sympathy seems — well, let’s just call it unlikely. Rather, his illness just seems to emphasize that we’re inside the falling action of the play, the working out of choices and themes that were established months ago. You can’t pray to a writer’s room, but you can pray to God. And so we should pray for the president’s swift recovery, that all those infected around him recover soon as well, and that the falling action of 2020’s drama would spare as many lives as possible. But to pray is also — inherently — to behave as though life isn’t just one accident after another, as though narrative lines in history actually exist, as though our choices are woven into patterns and not just left to unspool randomly. And the president’s affliction, in this sense, is woven intimately into the larger story of 2020 and his administration’s rendezvous with pestilence — a story whose might-have-beens could have redeemed his vices, but whose realities have sealed his presidency’s transformation from a dark farce into a tragedy.

The tragedy of Donald Trump

<p>News of President Donald Trump`s COVID-19 diagnosis has upended the U.S. presidential election campaign entering its final month and roiled stock markets, raising questions about succession and prompting White House aides to insist that Trump would keep a busy, if modified, schedule.</p>

<p>Hope Hicks, a close advisor to the president who often traveled with him on the Air Force One and Marine One presidential aircraft, had tested positive for the disease caused by the novel coronavirus on Thursday.</p>

<p>After Trump tweeted he and his wife, Melania, tested positive for COVID-19 early Friday morning, Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel, who has had frequent contact with Trump, said she tested positive for the virus and was quarantined at home in Michigan.</p>

<p>Trump and some other Republicans have eschewed social distancing, mask wearing and other protocols health officials recommend to stop the spread of the virus.</p>

<p>Here are other White House and Trump campaign personnel who have tested positive for COVID-19 in recent months:</p>

<p>--&nbsp;Kellyanne Conway, a former counselor to&nbsp;Trump, on Friday said she had tested positive for COVID-19. "My symptoms are mild (light cough) and I`m feeling fine. I have begun a quarantine process in consultation with physicians," Conway tweeted.</p>

<p>-- U.S. National Security Adviser Robert O`Brien in late July. Before Trump`s infection, O`Brien was the highest-ranking administration official to test positive for the virus. O`Brien had mild COVID symptoms and returned to work on Aug. 4.</p>

<p>-- Katie Miller, spokeswoman to Mike Pence, wife of Stephen Miller, a Trump senior adviser, in early May, forcing Pence to slightly delay a Pence trip to Iowa.</p>

<p>-- Kimberly Guilfoyle, senior adviser to Trump campaign and girlfriend to Donald Trump Jr.</p>

<p>-- Tom Phillipson, the former acting chairman of the White House Council of Economic Advisers in early June. He told the Wall Street Journal of his infection after recovering and leaving the White House in late June</p>

<p>-- A member of the U.S. Navy who served as a personal valet to Trump tested positive in early May. The infection prompted daily tests for those working at the White House.</p>

<p>-- A U.S. Marine assigned to Trump`s helicopter squadron tested positive for the coronavirus in late July. The squadron transports Trump and other top officials from the White House aboard the Marine One helicopter.</p>

<p>-- A worker in a White House complex cafeteria tested positive in late July. The cafeteria is located in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, where some White House officials, including Vice President Mike Pence, have offices.</p>


News of President Donald Trump`s COVID-19 diagnosis has upended the U.S. presidential election campaign entering its final month and roiled stock markets, raising questions about succession and prompting White House aides to insist that Trump would keep a busy, if modified, schedule.

News of President Donald Trump`s COVID-19 diagnosis has upended the U.S. presidential election campaign entering its final month and roiled stock markets, raising questions about succession and prompting White House aides to insist that Trump would keep a busy, if modified, schedule. Hope Hicks, a close advisor to the president who often traveled with him on the Air Force One and Marine One presidential aircraft, had tested positive for the disease caused by the novel coronavirus on Thursday. After Trump tweeted he and his wife, Melania, tested positive for COVID-19 early Friday morning, Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel, who has had frequent contact with Trump, said she tested positive for the virus and was quarantined at home in Michigan. Trump and some other Republicans have eschewed social distancing, mask wearing and other protocols health officials recommend to stop the spread of the virus. Here are other White House and Trump campaign personnel who have tested positive for COVID-19 in recent months: -- Kellyanne Conway, a former counselor to Trump, on Friday said she had tested positive for COVID-19. "My symptoms are mild (light cough) and I`m feeling fine. I have begun a quarantine process in consultation with physicians," Conway tweeted. -- U.S. National Security Adviser Robert O`Brien in late July. Before Trump`s infection, O`Brien was the highest-ranking administration official to test positive for the virus. O`Brien had mild COVID symptoms and returned to work on Aug. 4. -- Katie Miller, spokeswoman to Mike Pence, wife of Stephen Miller, a Trump senior adviser, in early May, forcing Pence to slightly delay a Pence trip to Iowa. -- Kimberly Guilfoyle, senior adviser to Trump campaign and girlfriend to Donald Trump Jr. -- Tom Phillipson, the former acting chairman of the White House Council of Economic Advisers in early June. He told the Wall Street Journal of his infection after recovering and leaving the White House in late June -- A member of the U.S. Navy who served as a personal valet to Trump tested positive in early May. The infection prompted daily tests for those working at the White House. -- A U.S. Marine assigned to Trump`s helicopter squadron tested positive for the coronavirus in late July. The squadron transports Trump and other top officials from the White House aboard the Marine One helicopter. -- A worker in a White House complex cafeteria tested positive in late July. The cafeteria is located in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, where some White House officials, including Vice President Mike Pence, have offices.

Here's a list of Trump WH, campaign staff who have tested positive for COVID-19

<p>A famous Youtuber&nbsp;David Dobrik decided to use his status of internet influencer for the right reasons and took it upon himself to urge Amercans to register to vote in the upcoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/us-election">US election</a>.</p>

<p>Dobrik has more than 5.5 million followers on Twitter, 14.3 million followers on Instagram and nearly 8.06 million YouTube subscribers. He is known for heading several giveaways of big and famous brands.</p>

<p>This time, he decided to start a Tesla giveaway for a cause. He posted a video on his TikTok account and uploaded a post on Instagram as well as Twitter where he promised to give Tesla cars to the people who register to vote in the upcoming&nbsp;<strong>US elections.</strong></p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CFu4_mKMYYm/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Hi!! HeadCount and I are giving away 5 Teslas to you guys!! All you have to do is share this to your story, tag a friend in the comments and make sure you’re good to vote at my link in bio!! Winners will be announced Monday. Good luck!! @headcountorg No purchase or reg necessary. Exclusions apply. Terms and conditions here:http://bit.ly/345p93f #join2020vote #GoodToVote</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/daviddobrik/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> DAVID DOBRIK</a> (@daviddobrik) on <time datetime="2020-09-29T19:45:31+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Sep 29, 2020 at 12:45pm PDT</time></p>
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<p>He started the campaign with HeadCount organisation. Dobrik's posts blew up on the internet and people started registering to vote with the help of the details provided. As a result of this wild spread of the post, within 24 hours, over 100,000 Americans had registered to vote, and counting as&nbsp;the contest is open till Sunday.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In 24 hours, over 100,000 Americans have registered to vote through our Tesla giveaway led by YouTube creator <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidDobrik?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DavidDobrik</a>. It's extra inspiring to know that David is a "Dreamer" (DACA recipient) who can't vote in the U.S, but has used his platform to help others. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoodToVote?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoodToVote</a> <a href="https://t.co/1g9OXiYtlY">pic.twitter.com/1g9OXiYtlY</a></p>
— HeadCount (@HeadCountOrg) <a href="https://twitter.com/HeadCountOrg/status/1311706873150799872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>To win the Tesla cars, his followers had to like the Instagram post, share it on their story and tag a friend’s handle in the comments section and make sure they register to vote through HeadCount organisation.</p>

<p>The interesting thing about this specific campaign is that Dobrick, himself, is not registered to vote. The influencer was&nbsp;born in Slovakia and was brought over to the US in his early childhood. This makes him a DACA recipient, or Dreamer.</p>

<p>The US elections are scheduled for November 03 with the&nbsp;US President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;re-running for the post against Democratic rival&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>.</p>


A famous Youtuber David Dobrik decided to use his status of internet influencer for the right reasons and took it upon himself to urge Amercans to register to vote in the upcoming US election.

A famous Youtuber David Dobrik decided to use his status of internet influencer for the right reasons and took it upon himself to urge Amercans to register to vote in the upcoming US election. Dobrik has more than 5.5 million followers on Twitter, 14.3 million followers on Instagram and nearly 8.06 million YouTube subscribers. He is known for heading several giveaways of big and famous brands. This time, he decided to start a Tesla giveaway for a cause. He posted a video on his TikTok account and uploaded a post on Instagram as well as Twitter where he promised to give Tesla cars to the people who register to vote in the upcoming US elections. View this post on Instagram Hi!! HeadCount and I are giving away 5 Teslas to you guys!! All you have to do is share this to your story, tag a friend in the comments and make sure you’re good to vote at my link in bio!! Winners will be announced Monday. Good luck!! @headcountorg No purchase or reg necessary. Exclusions apply. Terms and conditions here:http://bit.ly/345p93f #join2020vote #GoodToVote A post shared by DAVID DOBRIK (@daviddobrik) on Sep 29, 2020 at 12:45pm PDT × He started the campaign with HeadCount organisation. Dobrik's posts blew up on the internet and people started registering to vote with the help of the details provided. As a result of this wild spread of the post, within 24 hours, over 100,000 Americans had registered to vote, and counting as the contest is open till Sunday. In 24 hours, over 100,000 Americans have registered to vote through our Tesla giveaway led by YouTube creator @DavidDobrik. It's extra inspiring to know that David is a "Dreamer" (DACA recipient) who can't vote in the U.S, but has used his platform to help others. #GoodToVote pic.twitter.com/1g9OXiYtlY — HeadCount (@HeadCountOrg) October 1, 2020 × To win the Tesla cars, his followers had to like the Instagram post, share it on their story and tag a friend’s handle in the comments section and make sure they register to vote through HeadCount organisation. The interesting thing about this specific campaign is that Dobrick, himself, is not registered to vote. The influencer was born in Slovakia and was brought over to the US in his early childhood. This makes him a DACA recipient, or Dreamer. The US elections are scheduled for November 03 with the US President Donald Trump re-running for the post against Democratic rival Joe Biden.

US election 2020: Youtuber helps register 100,000 American voters by Tesla giveaway

A rise in unemployment claims has stalled New York City’s economic recovery in past weeks. Small businesses, particularly restaurants, saw more activity. But persistently high levels of unemployment continue to threaten the economic recovery. Susan M. Tehrani reports from the heart of New York City.

US Election 2020: Ground reports from New York City

After downplaying risks, mocking masks & holding huge rallies, Donald Trump &Melania Trump, test positive for COVID-19. With just days to election, this news has pushed the politics & govt into a historic state of flux. Joe Biden, Kamala Harris & Vice President Mike Pence test negative. What next?

US Election 2020: Trump COVID-19 positive: What next?

The Trump campaign declares war on Commission of Presidential Debates over modification of rules for upcoming Presidential Debate 2020. Donald Trump declares himself winner of 1st debate. White House backs Trump over different moderator & candidate. Will the President adhere to new rules?

US Election 2020: The ultra-aggressive cross talk fallout

Is Donald Trump's bad temper benefiting Joe Biden? After first round of chaotic debate between President Donald Trump and Joe Biden. The US debate organizers are considering to change the rules to avoid any unruly behavior. Watch report.

US Election 2020: Is Trump's bad temper benefiting Biden?

US President Donald Trump and First lady Melania Trump tested positive for Novel Coronavirus ahead of US Election 2020. Trump gets infected after close aide Hope Hicks tested positive. The world reacts with shock, sympathy & mockery, Watch the full report to know more.

U.S. Election 2020 New York Direct EP6 | US President & First lady contract Novel Coronavirus

The first presidential debate between President Donald Trump & Democrat nominee Joe Biden was more of a yelling match than a structured exchange of ideas. Watch the report to know more.

US Election 2020: First debate of the most polarised election; WION-VOA Co-Production

<p>Senators of the Republican Party said on Friday that they will continue to press forward the confirmation process of Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett in spite of President Trump having been infected with coronavirus. The Judiciary Committee hearings are due to begin on October 3. Amy Coney Barrett has been nominated by Donald Trump for US Supreme Court.</p>

<p>Mitch McConnel, Senate majority leader, said that the Senate would proceed with Barrett's confirmation.</p>

<p>"I think we can move forward. Our biggest enemy, obviously, is ... the coronavirus, keeping everybody healthy and well and in place to do our job," McConnell told radio talk show host Hugh Hewitt.</p>

<p>"Full steam ahead," an aide to Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham told Reuters when asked if the schedule for hearings due to begin on Oct. 12 could change.</p>

<p>Graham spoke to Trump on Friday morning and said the first thing the president asked about was the Senate`s plan for Barrett`s confirmation, the aide added.</p>

<p>Barrett, who was last with Trump on Saturday, has tested negative for the coronavirus and is following government guidelines on social distancing and other best practices, according to a White House official.</p>

<p>Republican Party has 53-47 majority in the Senate.</p>

<p><strong>Why the hurry</strong></p>

<p>Amy Coney Barrett is known for her conservative views. Republican Party's vote base is conservative Americans. If Amy Coney Barrett gets confirmed on the Supreme Court, the conservative judges will have 6-3 majority over judges who are more liberal.</p>

<p>Moreover, the republican party is trying hard to confirm Amy Coney Barrett before November 3 US Presidential Elections.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-has-the-coronavirus-what-risks-does-he-face-332026">Trump has the coronavirus. What risks does he face?</a></strong><br />
<br />
In 2000, US Supreme Court had to resolve US Presidential Elections after the votes had been cast and counted. Republican Party's George Bush was declared winner of the election.</p>

<p>It is being said that by confirming Amy Coney Barrett in Supreme Court, Republicans envisage a possible advantage if Supreme Court needs to get involved to resolve US Elections 2020.</p>

<p><strong>What options do Democrats have?</strong></p>

<p>At the moment very few. Although two Republican Senators have said that they will not support Trump's nominee, another defection from the Republican camp would bring the Senate strength during the vote to 50-50. Vice-President Mike Pence can then exercise casting vote in favour of Amy Coney Barrett.</p>

<p>Biden and his vice presidential running mate Kamala Harris, a member of the Judiciary Committee, blasted Trump's choice of Barrett, focusing in particular on the threat they said she would pose to healthcare for millions of Americans.</p>

<p>Biden noted that even as Trump's administration is seeking to strike down Obamacare in a case the Supreme Court is due to hear on Nov. 10, Barrett has a "written track record" criticizing a pivotal 2012 ruling authored by Chief Justice John Roberts preserving the healthcare law formally known as the Affordable Care Act. If quickly confirmed, Barrett could be on the bench to hear that case.</p>

<p>Democrats also fretted that Barrett could help overturn the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade decision that legalized abortion nationwide, a goal of religious conservatives.</p>

<p><strong>(With Reuters inputs)</strong></p>


Senators of the Republican Party said on Friday that they will continue to press forward the confirmation process of Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett in spite of President Trump having been infected with coronavirus.

Senators of the Republican Party said on Friday that they will continue to press forward the confirmation process of Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett in spite of President Trump having been infected with coronavirus. The Judiciary Committee hearings are due to begin on October 3. Amy Coney Barrett has been nominated by Donald Trump for US Supreme Court. Mitch McConnel, Senate majority leader, said that the Senate would proceed with Barrett's confirmation. "I think we can move forward. Our biggest enemy, obviously, is ... the coronavirus, keeping everybody healthy and well and in place to do our job," McConnell told radio talk show host Hugh Hewitt. "Full steam ahead," an aide to Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham told Reuters when asked if the schedule for hearings due to begin on Oct. 12 could change. Graham spoke to Trump on Friday morning and said the first thing the president asked about was the Senate`s plan for Barrett`s confirmation, the aide added. Barrett, who was last with Trump on Saturday, has tested negative for the coronavirus and is following government guidelines on social distancing and other best practices, according to a White House official. Republican Party has 53-47 majority in the Senate. Why the hurry Amy Coney Barrett is known for her conservative views. Republican Party's vote base is conservative Americans. If Amy Coney Barrett gets confirmed on the Supreme Court, the conservative judges will have 6-3 majority over judges who are more liberal. Moreover, the republican party is trying hard to confirm Amy Coney Barrett before November 3 US Presidential Elections. Also Read | Trump has the coronavirus. What risks does he face? In 2000, US Supreme Court had to resolve US Presidential Elections after the votes had been cast and counted. Republican Party's George Bush was declared winner of the election. It is being said that by confirming Amy Coney Barrett in Supreme Court, Republicans envisage a possible advantage if Supreme Court needs to get involved to resolve US Elections 2020. What options do Democrats have? At the moment very few. Although two Republican Senators have said that they will not support Trump's nominee, another defection from the Republican camp would bring the Senate strength during the vote to 50-50. Vice-President Mike Pence can then exercise casting vote in favour of Amy Coney Barrett. Biden and his vice presidential running mate Kamala Harris, a member of the Judiciary Committee, blasted Trump's choice of Barrett, focusing in particular on the threat they said she would pose to healthcare for millions of Americans. Biden noted that even as Trump's administration is seeking to strike down Obamacare in a case the Supreme Court is due to hear on Nov. 10, Barrett has a "written track record" criticizing a pivotal 2012 ruling authored by Chief Justice John Roberts preserving the healthcare law formally known as the Affordable Care Act. If quickly confirmed, Barrett could be on the bench to hear that case. Democrats also fretted that Barrett could help overturn the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade decision that legalized abortion nationwide, a goal of religious conservatives. (With Reuters inputs)

Republicans to push Barrett's confirmation despite Trump's positive COVID-19 test

<p>A federal judge has blocked the enforcement of the H-1B visa ban issued by US President Donald Trump in June this year.</p>

<p>The ruling places an immediate hold on a series of visa restrictions that prevent manufacturers from filling crucial, hard-to-fill jobs to support economic recovery, growth and innovation when most needed.</p>

<p>The order was issued on Thursday by District Judge Jeffrey White of Northern District of California. He said the president exceeded his constitutional authority.</p>

<p>The lawsuit against the Department of Commerce and Department of Homeland Security was filed by companies represented by National Association of Manufacturers, US Chamber of Commerce, National Retail Federation and TechNet.</p>

<p>In June, Trump had issued an executive order that had put temporary bar on issuing of new H-1B and other foreign visas including H-2B, J and L visas, till the end of the year.</p>

<p>The president had argued that the United States needs to save and protect jobs for its domestic work force at a time when millions of them lost their jobs due to coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>A number of IT companies and other US firms, and those representing them had voiced their opposition to the temporary ban.</p>

<p>Manufacturers went to court to challenge the administration's ban on certain visas because the restrictions both undermined the industry at a critical time and conflicted with the law.</p>

<p>"Congress's delegation of authority in the immigration context"does not afford the president unbridled authority to set domestic policy regarding employment of nonimmigrant foreigners.&nbsp;<br />
Such a finding would render the president's Article II powers all but superfluous," Judge White wrote in his 25 pager order.</p>

<p>The judge noted that the text of Article I and more than two centuries of legislative practice and judicial precedent make clear, the Constitution vests Congress, not the President, with the power to set immigration policy.</p>

<p>If the fact that immigrants come from other countries inherently made their admission foreign relations subject to the President's Article II power, then all of this law would be superfluous, the judge said.</p>

<p>"Indeed, there must be some measure of constraint on the presidential authority in the domestic sphere in order not to render the executive an entirely monarchical power in the immigration context, an area within clear legislative prerogative.</p>

<p>Such unrestricted authority would be contrary to Congress' explicit delegation of powers in foreign affairs and national security," White said.</p>

<p>The ruling by Judge White is in contrast with a order passed by District Judge Amit Mehta of the District of Columbia in August who ruled that he does not has the power to enjoin the ban while the litigation is under way.</p>

<p><strong>LEGISLATION PASSED</strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, an influential American lawmaker has introduced a legislation in the House of Representatives to overhaul the H-1B visa system to prevent the firing of domestic workers.</p>

<p>Introduced on Thursday by Congressman Mo Brooks from Alabama, the American Jobs First Act seeks to sops employers from hiring foreign H-1B workers if they have recently, or plan to, furlough their US workers.</p>

<p>It also requires employers to pay their H-1B workers more than the American workers to ensure foreign labour is only used when absolutely necessary.</p>

<p>The American Jobs First Act suspends the F-1 OPT program, which grants all foreign students extendable work permits and exacerbates job market competition among American graduates.</p>

<p>Further it ends the diversity visa lottery programme, which fails to serve US interests by issuing 50,000 green cards to foreigners from around the world regardless of their qualifications.</p>

<p>American Jobs First Act will bring much needed reform and oversight to the H-1B visa program to ensure that US workers are no longer disadvantaged in their own country, Congressman Brooks said.</p>

<p>To end the allure of cheap foreign labour, the bill will require employers to pay any H-1B workers a minimum amount of USD 110,000.</p>

<p>The legislation also ends the visa lottery that hands out 50,000 green cards, with work permits, based on a randomised computer drawing.</p>

<p><em><strong>(with inputs from agencies)</strong></em></p>


A federal judge has blocked the enforcement of the H-1B visa ban issued by US President Donald Trump in June this year. The ruling places an immediate hold on a series of visa restrictions that prevent manufacturers from filling crucial, hard-to-fill jobs to support economic recovery, growth and innovation when most needed.

A federal judge has blocked the enforcement of the H-1B visa ban issued by US President Donald Trump in June this year. The ruling places an immediate hold on a series of visa restrictions that prevent manufacturers from filling crucial, hard-to-fill jobs to support economic recovery, growth and innovation when most needed. The order was issued on Thursday by District Judge Jeffrey White of Northern District of California. He said the president exceeded his constitutional authority. The lawsuit against the Department of Commerce and Department of Homeland Security was filed by companies represented by National Association of Manufacturers, US Chamber of Commerce, National Retail Federation and TechNet. In June, Trump had issued an executive order that had put temporary bar on issuing of new H-1B and other foreign visas including H-2B, J and L visas, till the end of the year. The president had argued that the United States needs to save and protect jobs for its domestic work force at a time when millions of them lost their jobs due to coronavirus pandemic. A number of IT companies and other US firms, and those representing them had voiced their opposition to the temporary ban. Manufacturers went to court to challenge the administration's ban on certain visas because the restrictions both undermined the industry at a critical time and conflicted with the law. "Congress's delegation of authority in the immigration context"does not afford the president unbridled authority to set domestic policy regarding employment of nonimmigrant foreigners. Such a finding would render the president's Article II powers all but superfluous," Judge White wrote in his 25 pager order. The judge noted that the text of Article I and more than two centuries of legislative practice and judicial precedent make clear, the Constitution vests Congress, not the President, with the power to set immigration policy. If the fact that immigrants come from other countries inherently made their admission foreign relations subject to the President's Article II power, then all of this law would be superfluous, the judge said. "Indeed, there must be some measure of constraint on the presidential authority in the domestic sphere in order not to render the executive an entirely monarchical power in the immigration context, an area within clear legislative prerogative. Such unrestricted authority would be contrary to Congress' explicit delegation of powers in foreign affairs and national security," White said. The ruling by Judge White is in contrast with a order passed by District Judge Amit Mehta of the District of Columbia in August who ruled that he does not has the power to enjoin the ban while the litigation is under way. LEGISLATION PASSED Meanwhile, an influential American lawmaker has introduced a legislation in the House of Representatives to overhaul the H-1B visa system to prevent the firing of domestic workers. Introduced on Thursday by Congressman Mo Brooks from Alabama, the American Jobs First Act seeks to sops employers from hiring foreign H-1B workers if they have recently, or plan to, furlough their US workers. It also requires employers to pay their H-1B workers more than the American workers to ensure foreign labour is only used when absolutely necessary. The American Jobs First Act suspends the F-1 OPT program, which grants all foreign students extendable work permits and exacerbates job market competition among American graduates. Further it ends the diversity visa lottery programme, which fails to serve US interests by issuing 50,000 green cards to foreigners from around the world regardless of their qualifications. American Jobs First Act will bring much needed reform and oversight to the H-1B visa program to ensure that US workers are no longer disadvantaged in their own country, Congressman Brooks said. To end the allure of cheap foreign labour, the bill will require employers to pay any H-1B workers a minimum amount of USD 110,000. The legislation also ends the visa lottery that hands out 50,000 green cards, with work permits, based on a randomised computer drawing. (with inputs from agencies)

US judge blocks Trump's H-1B visa ban; legislation introduced to overhaul system

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-undergoes-covid-test-after-close-aide-hope-hicks-tests-positive-for-covid-19-331850">Donald Trump undergoes COVID test after close aide Hope Hicks tests positive for COVID-19</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/10/02/162744-donald-trump-with-his-aide-hope-hicks.jpg?itok=veIoqj6c" /></p>

<p>Hicks was also seen aboard the Marine One along with Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, Dan Scavino and Nicholas Luna.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armenia-azerbaijan-clashes-rage-as-macron-denounces-jihadist-deployment-331858">Armenia-Azerbaijan clashes rage as Macron denounces 'jihadist' deployment</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/10/02/162756-armenia-azerbaijan-clashes-rage.jpg?itok=JLaLt1Z3" /></p>

<p>The West and Moscow renewed calls to halt several days of fighting over the disputed Nagorny Karabakh region that has left more than 130 dead and threatened to draw in regional powers Turkey and Russia.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-blocks-trumps-h-1b-visa-ban-331848">US judge blocks Trump's H-1B visa ban</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/09/14/159841-trumppp.jpg?itok=2cz8Mdis" /></p>

<p>The ruling places an immediate hold on a series of visa restrictions that prevent manufacturers from filling crucial, hard-to-fill jobs to support economic recovery, growth and innovation when most needed.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-imposes-sanctions-on-belarus-lukashenko-not-on-the-list-331862">EU imposes sanctions on Belarus; Lukashenko not on the list</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/04/152996-untitled-design-14.jpg?itok=6fjZnxSi" /></p>

<p>The EU came to a decision on Friday after Cyprus dropped its opposition over demands that the bloc also punish Turkey for tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-former-cia-director-leon-panetta-the-man-who-got-osama-bin-laden-331844">WION Exclusive: Former CIA Director Leon Panetta, the man who got Osama Bin Laden</a></p>

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Donald Trump undergoes COVID test after close aide Hope Hicks tests positive for COVID-19 Hicks was also seen aboard the Marine One along with Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, Dan Scavino and Nicholas Luna.

Donald Trump undergoes COVID test after close aide Hope Hicks tests positive for COVID-19 Hicks was also seen aboard the Marine One along with Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, Dan Scavino and Nicholas Luna. Armenia-Azerbaijan clashes rage as Macron denounces 'jihadist' deployment The West and Moscow renewed calls to halt several days of fighting over the disputed Nagorny Karabakh region that has left more than 130 dead and threatened to draw in regional powers Turkey and Russia. US judge blocks Trump's H-1B visa ban The ruling places an immediate hold on a series of visa restrictions that prevent manufacturers from filling crucial, hard-to-fill jobs to support economic recovery, growth and innovation when most needed. EU imposes sanctions on Belarus; Lukashenko not on the list The EU came to a decision on Friday after Cyprus dropped its opposition over demands that the bloc also punish Turkey for tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean. WION Exclusive: Former CIA Director Leon Panetta, the man who got Osama Bin Laden ×

Morning news brief: Judge blocks H-1B visa ban, EU sanctions on Belarus and more

How bad was the U.S. Presidential debate? So bad that Americans are looking for ways to apply for Canadian citizenship. Some want to move to 'Canda'. WION's Palki has the details.

Gravitas: Presidential Debate Impact? Americans want to move to 'Canda'

<p>This year the famous and traditional&nbsp;Alfred E. Smith Memorial Dinner, an annual Catholic event that is known for giving the opponents a chance to keep politics aside for a night.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The dinner, which is arranged by the Catholic Church in New York, usually includes a guest list of the big names from the country and aims to raise money for the charity while having a hearty laugh.</p>

<p>However, this year's dinner shifted online due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, and the air was a little grim due to the ongoing feud between the two candidates.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2020-trump-says-will-not-allow-debate-rules-to-change-331845"><strong>Also read|&nbsp;US election 2020: Trump says will not 'allow' debate rules to change</strong></a></p>

<p>The US President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;and his Democratic rival&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;addressed the dinner virtually and mainly stuck to talking about politics, rather than sharing anecdotes like in the past.</p>

<p>Talking about how "these are difficult times",<strong>&nbsp;Biden </strong>mainly talked about the grim situation in the country caused by the novel coronavirus and blamed&nbsp;<strong>Trump&nbsp;</strong>for the loss of&nbsp;more than 200,000 Americans.</p>

<p>"I know there is disappointment that the dinner tonight couldn't continue as normal, for us to sit together and put politics aside for the night," Biden said.</p>

<p>However,&nbsp;<strong>Trump</strong>, who is infamous for downplaying coronavirus and claiming — then denying — that the pandemic will end soon, did just the same yet again and said that end of the pandemic "is in sight".&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> thanks New Yorkers at the Al Smith Dinner for the "grit, tenacity, courage, and selflessness" needed to combat the Coronavirus <a href="https://t.co/L40V48Po8C">pic.twitter.com/L40V48Po8C</a></p>
— Team Trump (Text VOTE to 88022) (@TeamTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/TeamTrump/status/1311812722586247171?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>He also reminded the attendees that he once offered monetary help to the Catholic schools. "It was my great honor to help the Catholic church with its schools. They needed hundreds of millions of dollars nationwide and I got it for 'em, nobody else, I got it for 'em. I hope you remember that on November 3rd," he said.</p>

<p>To lighten up the mood of the otherwise grim dinner,&nbsp;Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan joked about a smooth transition of the&nbsp;microphone from <strong>Biden</strong> to <strong>Trump</strong>. "See Mr. President, that wasn't so hard was it?," he laughed.</p>


This year the famous and traditional Alfred E. Smith Memorial Dinner, an annual Catholic event that is known for giving the opponents a chance to keep politics aside for a night.

This year the famous and traditional Alfred E. Smith Memorial Dinner, an annual Catholic event that is known for giving the opponents a chance to keep politics aside for a night. The dinner, which is arranged by the Catholic Church in New York, usually includes a guest list of the big names from the country and aims to raise money for the charity while having a hearty laugh. However, this year's dinner shifted online due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, and the air was a little grim due to the ongoing feud between the two candidates. Also read| US election 2020: Trump says will not 'allow' debate rules to change The US President Donald Trump and his Democratic rival Joe Biden addressed the dinner virtually and mainly stuck to talking about politics, rather than sharing anecdotes like in the past. Talking about how "these are difficult times", Biden mainly talked about the grim situation in the country caused by the novel coronavirus and blamed Trump for the loss of more than 200,000 Americans. "I know there is disappointment that the dinner tonight couldn't continue as normal, for us to sit together and put politics aside for the night," Biden said. However, Trump, who is infamous for downplaying coronavirus and claiming — then denying — that the pandemic will end soon, did just the same yet again and said that end of the pandemic "is in sight". President @realDonaldTrump thanks New Yorkers at the Al Smith Dinner for the "grit, tenacity, courage, and selflessness" needed to combat the Coronavirus pic.twitter.com/L40V48Po8C — Team Trump (Text VOTE to 88022) (@TeamTrump) October 1, 2020 × He also reminded the attendees that he once offered monetary help to the Catholic schools. "It was my great honor to help the Catholic church with its schools. They needed hundreds of millions of dollars nationwide and I got it for 'em, nobody else, I got it for 'em. I hope you remember that on November 3rd," he said. To lighten up the mood of the otherwise grim dinner, Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan joked about a smooth transition of the microphone from Biden to Trump. "See Mr. President, that wasn't so hard was it?," he laughed.

Donald Trump claims 'end of pandemic in sight' at Al Smith Dinner before US election 2020

<p>The US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;and his Democratic rival <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;participated in the first presidential debate on September 29 with <strong>Chris Wallace</strong> as the moderator.</p>

<p>However, the debate did not go as planned with&nbsp;<strong>Donald Trump&nbsp;</strong>constantly interrupting&nbsp;<strong>Biden&nbsp;</strong>while&nbsp;<strong>Chris Wallace&nbsp;</strong>tried to take control of the situation. Additionally,&nbsp;<strong>Biden&nbsp;</strong>resorted to name-calling and ask the President to "shut up".</p>

<p>After the debate, a long debate was sparked worldwide on whether or not this could have been handled in a better way.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-2020-debate-commission-promises-orderly-debate-next-time-331621"><strong>Also read|&nbsp;US elections 2020: Debate Commission promises 'orderly' debate next time</strong></a></p>

<p>Considering the same, the Debate Commission announced that would be making changed for the next debate. "Last night's debate made clear that additional structure should be added to the format of the remaining debates to ensure a more orderly discussion of the issues," the Commission on Presidential Debates said in a statement.</p>

<p>However,&nbsp;<strong>Trump</strong>, who has declared himself to be a winner, took to Twitter to oppose any changes and said he would not 'allow' any such thing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Why would I allow the Debate Commission to change the rules for the second and third Debates when I easily won last time?," he tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Why would I allow the Debate Commission to change the rules for the second and third Debates when I easily won last time?</p>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1311731462589292544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Since the end of the debate,&nbsp;<strong>Trump&nbsp;</strong>has been chest-beating claiming the won and using unidentified polls to prove his point. However, majority of the US media has disagreed with him and declared&nbsp;<strong>Biden </strong>to be the frontrunner — in debate and election polls.</p>

<p><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>

<p>The White House&nbsp;spokeswoman Kayleigh McEnany, too, has also claimed that the only changes that will be 'allowed' by the President for the next debate will be&nbsp;"changing the moderator and a change in the Democratic nominee."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moderator-of-us-elections-debate-snaps-at-trump-for-speaking-out-of-time-331319"><strong>Also read|&nbsp;Moderator of US elections debate snaps at Trump for speaking out of time</strong></a></p>

<p>"He doesn't want rules that cover for a certain candidate's inability to perform well."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Wallace has also expressed his frustration about the debate. Calling it a probable equivalent of a "beautiful, delicious cake", he said "I felt like I had gotten together all of the ingredients. Then, frankly, the president put his foot in it. And that was frustrating."</p>

<p><strong>Biden</strong>&nbsp;proposed taking questions from the audience instead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have an opportunity to respond to the questions from the people in the audience," he told reporters.</p>

<p>"I think it's appropriate that when a person, a constituent, some considering how they’re going to vote this year, when they ask a question, of whomever they ask that question, gets an opportunity to answer it fully."</p>

<p>The second presidential debate, which will be in a town hall format with audience members putting questions, is scheduled for October 15 in Miami. The third is set for October 22 in Nashville.</p>


The US President Donald Trump and his Democratic rival Joe Biden participated in the first presidential debate on September 29 with Chris Wallace as the moderator.

The US President Donald Trump and his Democratic rival Joe Biden participated in the first presidential debate on September 29 with Chris Wallace as the moderator. However, the debate did not go as planned with Donald Trump constantly interrupting Biden while Chris Wallace tried to take control of the situation. Additionally, Biden resorted to name-calling and ask the President to "shut up". After the debate, a long debate was sparked worldwide on whether or not this could have been handled in a better way. Also read| US elections 2020: Debate Commission promises 'orderly' debate next time Considering the same, the Debate Commission announced that would be making changed for the next debate. "Last night's debate made clear that additional structure should be added to the format of the remaining debates to ensure a more orderly discussion of the issues," the Commission on Presidential Debates said in a statement. However, Trump, who has declared himself to be a winner, took to Twitter to oppose any changes and said he would not 'allow' any such thing. "Why would I allow the Debate Commission to change the rules for the second and third Debates when I easily won last time?," he tweeted. Why would I allow the Debate Commission to change the rules for the second and third Debates when I easily won last time? — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 1, 2020 × Since the end of the debate, Trump has been chest-beating claiming the won and using unidentified polls to prove his point. However, majority of the US media has disagreed with him and declared Biden to be the frontrunner — in debate and election polls. The White House spokeswoman Kayleigh McEnany, too, has also claimed that the only changes that will be 'allowed' by the President for the next debate will be "changing the moderator and a change in the Democratic nominee." Also read| Moderator of US elections debate snaps at Trump for speaking out of time "He doesn't want rules that cover for a certain candidate's inability to perform well." Meanwhile, Wallace has also expressed his frustration about the debate. Calling it a probable equivalent of a "beautiful, delicious cake", he said "I felt like I had gotten together all of the ingredients. Then, frankly, the president put his foot in it. And that was frustrating." Biden proposed taking questions from the audience instead. "We have an opportunity to respond to the questions from the people in the audience," he told reporters. "I think it's appropriate that when a person, a constituent, some considering how they’re going to vote this year, when they ask a question, of whomever they ask that question, gets an opportunity to answer it fully." The second presidential debate, which will be in a town hall format with audience members putting questions, is scheduled for October 15 in Miami. The third is set for October 22 in Nashville.

US election 2020: Trump says will not 'allow' debate rules to change

<p>United States President Donald Trump and his wife, Melania, have&nbsp;tested positive for the novel&nbsp;coronavirus.</p>

<p>Trump said in a tweet early Friday:&nbsp;"Tonight, @FLOTUS and I tested positive for COVID-19. We will begin our quarantine and recovery process immediately. We will get through this TOGETHER!"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Tonight, <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FLOTUS</a> and I tested positive for COVID-19. We will begin our quarantine and recovery process immediately. We will get through this TOGETHER!</p>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1311892190680014849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Melania Trump tweeted, "As too many Americans have done this year, @potus &amp; I are quarantining at home after testing positive for COVID-19. We are feeling good &amp; I have postponed all upcoming engagements. Please be sure you are staying safe &amp; we will all get through this together."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As too many Americans have done this year, <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@potus</a> &amp; I are quarantining at home after testing positive for COVID-19. We are feeling good &amp; I have postponed all upcoming engagements. Please be sure you are staying safe &amp; we will all get through this together.</p>
— Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS/status/1311900591174680581?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Trump and his wife had&nbsp;begun a quarantine process after Hope Hicks, a top advisor and trusted aide, tested positive for the coronavirus. Hicks travels regularly with the president on Air Force One and, along with other senior aides, accompanied him to Ohio for the presidential debate on Tuesday and to Minnesota for a campaign event on Wednesday.</p>

<p>US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said&nbsp;he has tested negative for the virus.</p>

<p>In consequence, The White House has dropped a Florida campaign trip from Trump's schedule on Friday. He had been due to hold a campaign event at Sanford airport in Florida on Friday evening but his new schedule just lists a midday phone call on "Covid-19 support to vulnerable seniors."</p>

<p>Trump will, however, continue to perform his duties as the president of America.</p>

<p>Trump's physician Dr Sean Conley said in a statement, "They are both well at this time and they plan to remain home at the White House during their convalesence. I expect the president to continue carrying out his duties without disruption while recovering."</p>

<p>The president, who is tested regularly for COVID-19, has kept up a rigorous travel schedule across the country in recent weeks, holding rallies with thousands of people in the run-up to the November&nbsp;3 election, despite warnings from public health professionals against having events with large crowds.</p>

<p>Trump has come under sharp criticism for his response to the coronavirus pandemic that has killed more than 200,000 people in the United States alone. The president has, however, touted his management of the crisis as one of the best in the world.</p>

<p>Trump's positive test caps a months-long response to the virus, the seriousness of which he has consistently underplayed. Earlier on Thursday night, the president predicted that the end of the pandemic was in sight.</p>

<p>The development alters the presidential race dramatically.</p>

<p><strong>BEST WISHES POUR IN</strong></p>

<p>Apart from China, all world leaders wished Trump a rapid recovery.</p>

<p>India's prime minister Narendra Modi, to this end, took to Twitter to wish Trump good health.</p>

<p>He tweeted, "Wishing my friend @POTUS @realDonaldTrump and @FLOTUS a quick recovery and good health."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wishing my friend <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FLOTUS</a> a quick recovery and good health. <a href="https://t.co/f3AOOHLpaQ">https://t.co/f3AOOHLpaQ</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1311905372504879105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>India's president Ram Nath Kovid also extended his best wishes.</p>

<p>"I wish President Donald Trump @POTUS @realDonaldTrump and First Lady Melania Trump @FLOTUS a speedy recovery. Our prayers and best wishes are with you during this time," he tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I wish President Donald Trump <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> and First Lady Melania Trump <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FLOTUS</a> a speedy recovery. Our prayers and best wishes are with you during this time.</p>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1311932684269056000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The British government also wished Trump a speedy recovery.</p>

<p>"All of us want to send our best wishes to President Trump, the first lady and the Trump family and wish them a speedy recovery," Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick told Sky.</p>

<p>Russia also wished&nbsp;US President Donald Trump a "speedy recovery". "Of course we wish President Trump a speedy and easy recovery," President Vladimir Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists.</p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday sent his US&nbsp;counterpart&nbsp;a telegram to wish him a swift recovery, news agencies reported, citing the Kremlin.</p>

<p>"I am certain that your inherent vitality, good spirits and optimism will help you cope with this dangerous virus," Putin's telegram said, according to the Interfax news agency.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-slams-trump-in-first-reaction-as-us-president-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-331974"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;China slams Trump in first reaction as US president tests positive for coronavirus</strong></a></p>

<p>British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who had his own brush with death from Covid-19 this year, on Friday also wished him and First Lady Melania Trump.</p>

<p>"My best wishes to President Trump and the First Lady. Hope they both have a speedy recovery from coronavirus," Johnson tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My best wishes to President Trump and the First Lady. Hope they both have a speedy recovery from coronavirus.</p>
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson/status/1311938117872619520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the head of the World Health Organisation, in a tweet, wished the couple "a full and speedy recovery". Trump is pulling the United States out of the WHO, accusing it of mishandling the coronavirus pandemic and being too close to China.</p>

<p>EU chief Charles Michel tweeted, "Wishing @realDonaldTrump and @FLOTUS a speedy recovery. Covid-19 is a battle we all continue to fight. Everyday. No matter where we live."</p>

<p>German Chancellor Angela Merkel also wished Trump. "I send Donald and Melania Trump all my good wishes," her spokesman Steffen Seibert tweeted on her behalf.</p>

<p>"I hope that they recover well from their corona infection and will be quite healthy again soon."</p>

<p>"Our good wishes for speedy recovery to our Friends @realDonaldTrump and @FLOTUS. #Poland and #USA will get through the hardships and succeed in fighting #COVID19," Polish President Andrzej Duda tweeted.</p>

<p>Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan also tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wishing President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump speedy recovery from COVID-19.</p>
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1311919067964506112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p><em><strong>(with inputs)</strong></em></p>


United States President Donald Trump and his wife, Melania, have tested positive for the novel coronavirus. Trump said in a tweet early Friday: "Tonight, @FLOTUS and I tested positive for COVID-19.

United States President Donald Trump and his wife, Melania, have tested positive for the novel coronavirus. Trump said in a tweet early Friday: "Tonight, @FLOTUS and I tested positive for COVID-19. We will begin our quarantine and recovery process immediately. We will get through this TOGETHER!" Tonight, @FLOTUS and I tested positive for COVID-19. We will begin our quarantine and recovery process immediately. We will get through this TOGETHER! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 2, 2020 × Melania Trump tweeted, "As too many Americans have done this year, @potus & I are quarantining at home after testing positive for COVID-19. We are feeling good & I have postponed all upcoming engagements. Please be sure you are staying safe & we will all get through this together." As too many Americans have done this year, @potus & I are quarantining at home after testing positive for COVID-19. We are feeling good & I have postponed all upcoming engagements. Please be sure you are staying safe & we will all get through this together. — Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) October 2, 2020 × Trump and his wife had begun a quarantine process after Hope Hicks, a top advisor and trusted aide, tested positive for the coronavirus. Hicks travels regularly with the president on Air Force One and, along with other senior aides, accompanied him to Ohio for the presidential debate on Tuesday and to Minnesota for a campaign event on Wednesday. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said he has tested negative for the virus. In consequence, The White House has dropped a Florida campaign trip from Trump's schedule on Friday. He had been due to hold a campaign event at Sanford airport in Florida on Friday evening but his new schedule just lists a midday phone call on "Covid-19 support to vulnerable seniors." Trump will, however, continue to perform his duties as the president of America. Trump's physician Dr Sean Conley said in a statement, "They are both well at this time and they plan to remain home at the White House during their convalesence. I expect the president to continue carrying out his duties without disruption while recovering." The president, who is tested regularly for COVID-19, has kept up a rigorous travel schedule across the country in recent weeks, holding rallies with thousands of people in the run-up to the November 3 election, despite warnings from public health professionals against having events with large crowds. Trump has come under sharp criticism for his response to the coronavirus pandemic that has killed more than 200,000 people in the United States alone. The president has, however, touted his management of the crisis as one of the best in the world. Trump's positive test caps a months-long response to the virus, the seriousness of which he has consistently underplayed. Earlier on Thursday night, the president predicted that the end of the pandemic was in sight. The development alters the presidential race dramatically. BEST WISHES POUR IN Apart from China, all world leaders wished Trump a rapid recovery. India's prime minister Narendra Modi, to this end, took to Twitter to wish Trump good health. He tweeted, "Wishing my friend @POTUS @realDonaldTrump and @FLOTUS a quick recovery and good health." Wishing my friend @POTUS @realDonaldTrump and @FLOTUS a quick recovery and good health. https://t.co/f3AOOHLpaQ — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 2, 2020 × India's president Ram Nath Kovid also extended his best wishes. "I wish President Donald Trump @POTUS @realDonaldTrump and First Lady Melania Trump @FLOTUS a speedy recovery. Our prayers and best wishes are with you during this time," he tweeted. I wish President Donald Trump @POTUS @realDonaldTrump and First Lady Melania Trump @FLOTUS a speedy recovery. Our prayers and best wishes are with you during this time. — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) October 2, 2020 × The British government also wished Trump a speedy recovery. "All of us want to send our best wishes to President Trump, the first lady and the Trump family and wish them a speedy recovery," Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick told Sky. Russia also wished US President Donald Trump a "speedy recovery". "Of course we wish President Trump a speedy and easy recovery," President Vladimir Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday sent his US counterpart a telegram to wish him a swift recovery, news agencies reported, citing the Kremlin. "I am certain that your inherent vitality, good spirits and optimism will help you cope with this dangerous virus," Putin's telegram said, according to the Interfax news agency. Also read | China slams Trump in first reaction as US president tests positive for coronavirus British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who had his own brush with death from Covid-19 this year, on Friday also wished him and First Lady Melania Trump. "My best wishes to President Trump and the First Lady. Hope they both have a speedy recovery from coronavirus," Johnson tweeted. My best wishes to President Trump and the First Lady. Hope they both have a speedy recovery from coronavirus. — Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) October 2, 2020 × Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the head of the World Health Organisation, in a tweet, wished the couple "a full and speedy recovery". Trump is pulling the United States out of the WHO, accusing it of mishandling the coronavirus pandemic and being too close to China. EU chief Charles Michel tweeted, "Wishing @realDonaldTrump and @FLOTUS a speedy recovery. Covid-19 is a battle we all continue to fight. Everyday. No matter where we live." German Chancellor Angela Merkel also wished Trump. "I send Donald and Melania Trump all my good wishes," her spokesman Steffen Seibert tweeted on her behalf. "I hope that they recover well from their corona infection and will be quite healthy again soon." "Our good wishes for speedy recovery to our Friends @realDonaldTrump and @FLOTUS. #Poland and #USA will get through the hardships and succeed in fighting #COVID19," Polish President Andrzej Duda tweeted. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan also tweeted. Wishing President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump speedy recovery from COVID-19. — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) October 2, 2020 × (with inputs)

Trump and wife Melania test positive for coronavirus; world leaders wish speedy recovery

In a heat of exchange with the White House Secretary said that Trump has denounced white supremacy. Kayleigh Mcenany defended Trump's stand on white supremacy. Watch report.

US Election 2020: Trump refused to condemn white supremacy

<p>The Republican governor of Texas has announced that voters will only have one place per county to drop off mail-in ballots across the vast US state.</p>

<p>The action by Governor Greg Abbott, a Trump supporter, restricts access to the common practice of mail-in voting that is expected to become much more popular due to the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>"These enhanced security protocols will ensure greater transparency and will help stop attempts at illegal voting," Abbott said in a statement Thursday.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-and-wife-melania-test-positive-for-coronavirus-world-leaders-wish-speedy-recovery-331890"><strong>ALso read:&nbsp;Trump and wife Melania test positive for coronavirus; world leaders wish speedy recovery</strong></a></p>

<p>Texas has some of the most populous counties in the country. More than 2.3 million voters live in Harris County, which includes Houston, but 11 of its 12 drop-off points are scheduled to close under the governor's order.</p>

<p>"This isn't security, it's suppression," senior county official Lina Hidalgo, a Democrat, said on Twitter.</p>

<p>"Mail ballot voters shouldn't have to drive 30 miles to drop off their ballot or rely on a mail system that's facing cutbacks."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Harris County is bigger than the state of Rhode Island, and we're supposed to have 1 site? This isn't security, it's suppression. Mail ballot voters shouldn't have to drive 30 miles to drop off their ballot, or rely on a mail system that’s facing cutbacks. <a href="https://t.co/IeKwzdB0Hb">https://t.co/IeKwzdB0Hb</a></p>
— Lina Hidalgo (@LinaHidalgoTX) <a href="https://twitter.com/LinaHidalgoTX/status/1311753527174270984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Abbott's move is in line with views expressed by President Donald Trump, who frequently claims without evidence that postal ballots are a source of massive vote fraud.</p>

<p>Mail-in votes can be dropped off at dedicated ballot boxes as an alternative to using the under-pressure postal service.</p>

<p>The practice is seen as safer for the elderly and others at higher risk from Covid-19 if they go to a polling station.</p>

<p>Apart from isolated incidents, no serious study has reported major fraud related to postal ballots in a US election.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Voting by mail was widespread during the 2016 presidential race, where nearly a quarter of the votes (33 million) were mailed in.</p>


The Republican governor of Texas has announced that voters will only have one place per county to drop off mail-in ballots across the vast US state. The action by Governor Greg Abbott, a Trump supporter, restricts access to the common practice of mail-in voting that is expected to become much more popular due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Republican governor of Texas has announced that voters will only have one place per county to drop off mail-in ballots across the vast US state. The action by Governor Greg Abbott, a Trump supporter, restricts access to the common practice of mail-in voting that is expected to become much more popular due to the coronavirus pandemic. "These enhanced security protocols will ensure greater transparency and will help stop attempts at illegal voting," Abbott said in a statement Thursday. ALso read: Trump and wife Melania test positive for coronavirus; world leaders wish speedy recovery Texas has some of the most populous counties in the country. More than 2.3 million voters live in Harris County, which includes Houston, but 11 of its 12 drop-off points are scheduled to close under the governor's order. "This isn't security, it's suppression," senior county official Lina Hidalgo, a Democrat, said on Twitter. "Mail ballot voters shouldn't have to drive 30 miles to drop off their ballot or rely on a mail system that's facing cutbacks." Harris County is bigger than the state of Rhode Island, and we're supposed to have 1 site? This isn't security, it's suppression. Mail ballot voters shouldn't have to drive 30 miles to drop off their ballot, or rely on a mail system that’s facing cutbacks. https://t.co/IeKwzdB0Hb — Lina Hidalgo (@LinaHidalgoTX) October 1, 2020 × Abbott's move is in line with views expressed by President Donald Trump, who frequently claims without evidence that postal ballots are a source of massive vote fraud. Mail-in votes can be dropped off at dedicated ballot boxes as an alternative to using the under-pressure postal service. The practice is seen as safer for the elderly and others at higher risk from Covid-19 if they go to a polling station. Apart from isolated incidents, no serious study has reported major fraud related to postal ballots in a US election. Voting by mail was widespread during the 2016 presidential race, where nearly a quarter of the votes (33 million) were mailed in.

US election 2020: Texas governor cuts number of ballot drop-off points

<p>Like two US presidents before him, Donald Trump could temporarily hand over power to his vice president should he become incapacitated, for example while undergoing a medical procedure as treatment for the coronavirus.</p>

<p>Trump said on Friday that he had tested positive for COVID-19 and was going into quarantine to begin the recovery process immediately.</p>

<p>Under Section 3 of the US Constitution's 25th Amendment, adopted in 1967 following the 1963 assassination of President John Kennedy, Trump could declare in writing his inability to discharge his duties.</p>

<p>Vice President Mike Pence would become acting president, although Trump would remain in office. The president would regain his powers by declaring in writing that he is again ready to discharge them.</p>

<p>The 25th Amendment's Section 4 also offers a path to stripping a president of power if, for instance, his Cabinet believes he has become incapacitated, but this has never been invoked.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-and-wife-melania-test-positive-for-coronavirus-world-leaders-wish-speedy-recovery-331890"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Trump and wife Melania test positive for coronavirus; world leaders wish speedy recovery</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>SECTION 3 PRECEDENTS</strong></p>

<p>- On July 13, 1985, President Ronald Reagan elected to have a precancerous lesion removed after it was discovered during a colonoscopy. He signed a letter that, while not specifically invoking Section 3, said he was mindful of its provisions. Vice President George H.W. Bush was acting president for nearly eight hours, from 11:28 a.m. until 7:22 p.m., when Reagan issued a letter declaring himself able to resume his duties.</p>

<p>- On June 29, 2002, President George W. Bush invoked Section 3, temporarily transferring his powers to Vice President Dick Cheney before undergoing a colonoscopy. Cheney was acting president from 7:09 a.m. to 9:24 a.m.</p>

<p>- On July 21, 2007, Bush again invoked Section 3 before another colonoscopy. Cheney was acting president from 7:16 a.m. to 9:21 a.m.</p>

<p><strong>SECTION 4</strong></p>

<p>Under Section 4, the vice president and a majority of either Cabinet officials or “such other body as Congress may by law provide” can inform leaders in the two houses of Congress that the president “is unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office”.</p>

<p>In such a case, the vice president takes over as acting president. The president resumes office after informing the same two congressional leaders “that no inability exists” unless the Cabinet officials or other body declare otherwise. Congress then must assemble within 48 hours to decide the issue.</p>

<p>If two-thirds of the members of the House of Representatives and of the Senate vote in their respective chambers that the president is unable to discharge the duties of office, the vice president remains acting president until after the next scheduled presidential election decides the next White House occupant. Otherwise, the president resumes office.</p>


Like two US presidents before him, Donald Trump could temporarily hand over power to his vice president should he become incapacitated, for example while undergoing a medical procedure as treatment for the coronavirus.

Like two US presidents before him, Donald Trump could temporarily hand over power to his vice president should he become incapacitated, for example while undergoing a medical procedure as treatment for the coronavirus. Trump said on Friday that he had tested positive for COVID-19 and was going into quarantine to begin the recovery process immediately. Under Section 3 of the US Constitution's 25th Amendment, adopted in 1967 following the 1963 assassination of President John Kennedy, Trump could declare in writing his inability to discharge his duties. Vice President Mike Pence would become acting president, although Trump would remain in office. The president would regain his powers by declaring in writing that he is again ready to discharge them. The 25th Amendment's Section 4 also offers a path to stripping a president of power if, for instance, his Cabinet believes he has become incapacitated, but this has never been invoked. Also read | Trump and wife Melania test positive for coronavirus; world leaders wish speedy recovery SECTION 3 PRECEDENTS - On July 13, 1985, President Ronald Reagan elected to have a precancerous lesion removed after it was discovered during a colonoscopy. He signed a letter that, while not specifically invoking Section 3, said he was mindful of its provisions. Vice President George H.W. Bush was acting president for nearly eight hours, from 11:28 a.m. until 7:22 p.m., when Reagan issued a letter declaring himself able to resume his duties. - On June 29, 2002, President George W. Bush invoked Section 3, temporarily transferring his powers to Vice President Dick Cheney before undergoing a colonoscopy. Cheney was acting president from 7:09 a.m. to 9:24 a.m. - On July 21, 2007, Bush again invoked Section 3 before another colonoscopy. Cheney was acting president from 7:16 a.m. to 9:21 a.m. SECTION 4 Under Section 4, the vice president and a majority of either Cabinet officials or “such other body as Congress may by law provide” can inform leaders in the two houses of Congress that the president “is unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office”. In such a case, the vice president takes over as acting president. The president resumes office after informing the same two congressional leaders “that no inability exists” unless the Cabinet officials or other body declare otherwise. Congress then must assemble within 48 hours to decide the issue. If two-thirds of the members of the House of Representatives and of the Senate vote in their respective chambers that the president is unable to discharge the duties of office, the vice president remains acting president until after the next scheduled presidential election decides the next White House occupant. Otherwise, the president resumes office.

How Mike Pence could temporarily assume control if Trump becomes incapacitated

<p>United States President Donald Trump and Democratic challenger Joe Biden will campaign on Wednesday in three US states that will play a key role in the November election.</p>

<p>However, the morning after their first presidential debate was marked by interruptions and recriminations, the two leaders took to Twitter for some more chaos. They traded barbs, in a show of their own vulnerabilities -- that can be in the November 3 presidential election.</p>

<p>And why not? Trump deflected an opportunity to condemn white supremacists and again refused to say if he would accept the election results in Tuesday night's first 2020 debate, two moments that could give Biden fresh ammunition.</p>

<p>And Biden did not miss the chance to highlight this.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">There’s no other way to put it: the President of the United States refused to disavow white supremacists on the debate stage last night. <a href="https://t.co/Q3VZTW1vUV">pic.twitter.com/Q3VZTW1vUV</a></p>
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1311268302950260737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The chaotic part of the Twitter tirade was a video clip from the debate -- superimposed by the sound of a crying baby. Anybody can guess the sound was superimposed on Trump's voice.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Had enough? <a href="https://t.co/4W5OSoRzXI">pic.twitter.com/4W5OSoRzXI</a></p>
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1311278369296719872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Trump presented his own verdict of the debate. He said, "Nobody wants Sleepy Joe as a leader, including the Radical Left (which he lost last night!). He disrespected Bernie, effectively calling him a loser!"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Nobody wants Sleepy Joe as a leader, including the Radical Left (which he lost last night!). He disrespected Bernie, effectively calling him a loser!</p>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1311297684540620801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>And continued, "Biden wants to Pack the Supreme Court, thereby ruining it. Also, he wants no fracking, killing our Energy business, and JOBS. Second Amendment is DEAD if Biden gets in! Is that what you want from a leader? He will destroy our Country! VOTE NOW USA."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Biden wants to Pack the Supreme Court, thereby ruining it. Also, he wants no fracking, killing our Energy business, and JOBS. Second Amendment is DEAD if Biden gets in! Is that what you want from a leader? He will destroy our Country! VOTE NOW USA.</p>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1311308087593242624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>And continued some more: "Biden REFUSED to use the term, LAW &amp; ORDER! There go the Suburbs."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Biden REFUSED to use the term, LAW &amp; ORDER! There go the Suburbs.</p>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1311310383781679107?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Not only this,&nbsp;Biden branded Trump's debate performance a "national embarrassment" for not addressing concerns of everyday Americans and failing to clearly denounce white supremacist groups.</p>

<p>"Maybe I should not say this, but the president of the United States conducted himself the way he did -- I think it was a national embarrassment," Biden said during a stop in Alliance, Ohio as part of a train tour through swing state Ohio and neighboring battleground Pennsylvania.</p>

<p>During the showdown, Trump declined to make a clear and forceful denunciation of white supremacist groups or the far-right, male-only Proud Boys, instead giving a shout-out to the militia group by saying they should "stand back and stand by," and that the real problem is "far-left" extremists.</p>

<p>In Alliance, Biden assailed the president's remarks.</p>

<p>"My message to the Proud Boys and every other white supremacist group is: cease and desist," Biden said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"That's not who we are. This is not who we are as Americans."</p>

<p>The former vice president, appearing invigorated after what could be described as an assertive debate performance where he stood his ground, criticized Trump for failing to speak directly to the American people about their plight during the Covid-19 crisis.</p>

<p>"Does your president have any idea or understand what you're going through? And if he does, does he care about you?" Biden asked.</p>

<p>"Or does he just ignore you, look down on you, lie to you?"</p>

<p>Trump's debate performance was "all about him," Biden added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He didn't speak to you or your concerns for the American people even once."</p>

<p><strong>INVESTORS IN FEAR</strong></p>

<p>The chaotic encounter also rattled investors by fuelling fears of a contested election result that could lead to a messy transfer of power if Trump refuses to accept a loss, with US stock futures down in pre-market trading.</p>

<p>The first of three televised matchups represented one of Trump's few remaining chances to change the trajectory of a race that most national opinion polls show him losing, as the majority of Americans disapprove of the Republican president's handling of both the coronavirus pandemic and protests over racial injustice.</p>

<p>Already more than 1.3 million voters in 15 states have cast early ballots ahead of the November 3 Election Day, according to the US Elections Project at the University of Florida.</p>

<p>Trump, 74, will spend the day in Minnesota – one of the few states his campaign is targeting that voted Democratic in 2016 – with a fundraiser in the afternoon before a rally in Duluth.</p>

<p>Biden, 77, and his wife, Jill, will embark on an all-day train tour through a half-dozen cities in eastern Ohio and western Pennsylvania, including counties that Trump won four years ago on the strength of working-class white voters.</p>

<p>Tuesday's debate, marked by Trump's constant interjections and Biden's angry rejoinders, however, appeared unlikely to significantly alter the campaign's dynamics.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2020-biden-calls-trump-a-clown-as-candidates-spar-in-first-presidential-debate-331321"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Biden calls Trump a 'clown' as candidates spar in first presidential debate</strong></a></p>

<p>Biden has held a modest but steady lead in national voter surveys for months amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, although polls in the battleground states show a closer contest.</p>

<p><strong>OF WHITE SUPREMACISTS</strong></p>

<p>During a segment on race relations, debate moderator Chris Wallace asked Trump whether he would denounce white supremacists and call on them not to add to the violence that has occurred amid protests in some US cities.</p>

<p>Rather than offer a forceful rebuke, Trump called on a group of right-wing activists known as the Proud Boys, to "stand back and stand by," raising concerns about what he would urge them to do. He also attacked left-wing agitators known as antifa, drawing criticism from some social justice leaders.</p>

<p>Trump also declined to say he would accept the election results, repeating his unfounded assertion that widespread voting by mail would lead to massive fraud. Experts have said such fraud is extremely rare in the United States.</p>


United States President Donald Trump and Democratic challenger Joe Biden will campaign on Wednesday in three US states that will play a key role in the November election.

United States President Donald Trump and Democratic challenger Joe Biden will campaign on Wednesday in three US states that will play a key role in the November election. However, the morning after their first presidential debate was marked by interruptions and recriminations, the two leaders took to Twitter for some more chaos. They traded barbs, in a show of their own vulnerabilities -- that can be in the November 3 presidential election. And why not? Trump deflected an opportunity to condemn white supremacists and again refused to say if he would accept the election results in Tuesday night's first 2020 debate, two moments that could give Biden fresh ammunition. And Biden did not miss the chance to highlight this. There’s no other way to put it: the President of the United States refused to disavow white supremacists on the debate stage last night. pic.twitter.com/Q3VZTW1vUV — Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) September 30, 2020 × The chaotic part of the Twitter tirade was a video clip from the debate -- superimposed by the sound of a crying baby. Anybody can guess the sound was superimposed on Trump's voice. Had enough? pic.twitter.com/4W5OSoRzXI — Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) September 30, 2020 × Trump presented his own verdict of the debate. He said, "Nobody wants Sleepy Joe as a leader, including the Radical Left (which he lost last night!). He disrespected Bernie, effectively calling him a loser!" Nobody wants Sleepy Joe as a leader, including the Radical Left (which he lost last night!). He disrespected Bernie, effectively calling him a loser! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 30, 2020 × And continued, "Biden wants to Pack the Supreme Court, thereby ruining it. Also, he wants no fracking, killing our Energy business, and JOBS. Second Amendment is DEAD if Biden gets in! Is that what you want from a leader? He will destroy our Country! VOTE NOW USA." Biden wants to Pack the Supreme Court, thereby ruining it. Also, he wants no fracking, killing our Energy business, and JOBS. Second Amendment is DEAD if Biden gets in! Is that what you want from a leader? He will destroy our Country! VOTE NOW USA. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 30, 2020 × And continued some more: "Biden REFUSED to use the term, LAW & ORDER! There go the Suburbs." Biden REFUSED to use the term, LAW & ORDER! There go the Suburbs. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 30, 2020 × Not only this, Biden branded Trump's debate performance a "national embarrassment" for not addressing concerns of everyday Americans and failing to clearly denounce white supremacist groups. "Maybe I should not say this, but the president of the United States conducted himself the way he did -- I think it was a national embarrassment," Biden said during a stop in Alliance, Ohio as part of a train tour through swing state Ohio and neighboring battleground Pennsylvania. During the showdown, Trump declined to make a clear and forceful denunciation of white supremacist groups or the far-right, male-only Proud Boys, instead giving a shout-out to the militia group by saying they should "stand back and stand by," and that the real problem is "far-left" extremists. In Alliance, Biden assailed the president's remarks. "My message to the Proud Boys and every other white supremacist group is: cease and desist," Biden said. "That's not who we are. This is not who we are as Americans." The former vice president, appearing invigorated after what could be described as an assertive debate performance where he stood his ground, criticized Trump for failing to speak directly to the American people about their plight during the Covid-19 crisis. "Does your president have any idea or understand what you're going through? And if he does, does he care about you?" Biden asked. "Or does he just ignore you, look down on you, lie to you?" Trump's debate performance was "all about him," Biden added. "He didn't speak to you or your concerns for the American people even once." INVESTORS IN FEAR The chaotic encounter also rattled investors by fuelling fears of a contested election result that could lead to a messy transfer of power if Trump refuses to accept a loss, with US stock futures down in pre-market trading. The first of three televised matchups represented one of Trump's few remaining chances to change the trajectory of a race that most national opinion polls show him losing, as the majority of Americans disapprove of the Republican president's handling of both the coronavirus pandemic and protests over racial injustice. Already more than 1.3 million voters in 15 states have cast early ballots ahead of the November 3 Election Day, according to the US Elections Project at the University of Florida. Trump, 74, will spend the day in Minnesota – one of the few states his campaign is targeting that voted Democratic in 2016 – with a fundraiser in the afternoon before a rally in Duluth. Biden, 77, and his wife, Jill, will embark on an all-day train tour through a half-dozen cities in eastern Ohio and western Pennsylvania, including counties that Trump won four years ago on the strength of working-class white voters. Tuesday's debate, marked by Trump's constant interjections and Biden's angry rejoinders, however, appeared unlikely to significantly alter the campaign's dynamics. Also read | Biden calls Trump a 'clown' as candidates spar in first presidential debate Biden has held a modest but steady lead in national voter surveys for months amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, although polls in the battleground states show a closer contest. OF WHITE SUPREMACISTS During a segment on race relations, debate moderator Chris Wallace asked Trump whether he would denounce white supremacists and call on them not to add to the violence that has occurred amid protests in some US cities. Rather than offer a forceful rebuke, Trump called on a group of right-wing activists known as the Proud Boys, to "stand back and stand by," raising concerns about what he would urge them to do. He also attacked left-wing agitators known as antifa, drawing criticism from some social justice leaders. Trump also declined to say he would accept the election results, repeating his unfounded assertion that widespread voting by mail would lead to massive fraud. Experts have said such fraud is extremely rare in the United States.

After an unruly first debate, Trump and Biden take to campaign trail and more chaos

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-backtracks-on-proud-boys-biden-calls-debate-national-embarrassment-331595">Trump backtracks on Proud Boys; Biden calls debate 'national embarrassment'</a><br />
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<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/10/01/162559-trump-biden-and-proud-boys.jpg?itok=y4GHkFMW" /></p>

<p>On Wednesday, during the first national presidential debate, the US President &nbsp;Donald Trump not only missed an opportunity to condemn the white supremacist groups, but rather told them to "stand by".</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-accuses-pompeo-of-playing-politics-pope-francies-refuses-to-meet-him-331608">Vatican accuses Pompeo of playing politics, Pope Francies refuses to meet him</a><br />
<br />
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/09/29/162294-pompeo11.jpg?itok=lWvNrD_q" /></p>

<p>“Yes, he asked. But the pope had already said clearly that political figures are not received in election periods. That is the reason,” Vatican diplomat Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin said, according to Reuters Wednesday.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/real-coronavirus-death-toll-certainly-higher-than-official-1-million-count-who-331592">Real coronavirus death toll 'certainly higher' than official 1 million count: WHO</a><br />
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<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/10/01/162558-untitled-design.jpg?itok=NqKhTZ1A" /></p>

<p>The actual number of deaths due to COVID-19 is "certainly higher" than 1 million, Director-General of World Health Organisation (WHO) Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Wednesday said.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-election-2020-major-takeaways-of-1st-presidential-debate-331584/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-pandemic-israel-passes-new-law-to-restrict-protests-331607/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


Trump backtracks on Proud Boys; Biden calls debate 'national embarrassment' On Wednesday, during the first national presidential debate, the US President Donald Trump not only missed an opportunity to condemn the white supremacist groups, but rather told them to "stand by".

Trump backtracks on Proud Boys; Biden calls debate 'national embarrassment' On Wednesday, during the first national presidential debate, the US President Donald Trump not only missed an opportunity to condemn the white supremacist groups, but rather told them to "stand by". Vatican accuses Pompeo of playing politics, Pope Francies refuses to meet him “Yes, he asked. But the pope had already said clearly that political figures are not received in election periods. That is the reason,” Vatican diplomat Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin said, according to Reuters Wednesday. Real coronavirus death toll 'certainly higher' than official 1 million count: WHO The actual number of deaths due to COVID-19 is "certainly higher" than 1 million, Director-General of World Health Organisation (WHO) Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Wednesday said.

Morning news brief: Trump backtracks on Proud Boys, Covid toll and more

Anthony Scaramucci served as Trump's Communications Director. He now says that Trump will be humiliated in this election. WION's Palki Sharma brings you an exclusive conversation.

Gravitas: Former insider says Trump will be humiliated in this election

Nearly 100,000 voters in New York have received defective absentee ballots. Has Donald Trump received fresh ammo to raise more doubts over the election process in the US? WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: US Election: Nearly 100,000 voters in New York get defective ballots

<p>On Wednesday, during the first national presidential debate, the US President &nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwihr5ry7o_sAhWawzgGHb0eDLAQFjAAegQIBRAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw0AfO9799mZXkwQdiR-a7m_">Donald Trump</a> not only missed an opportunity to condemn the white supremacist groups, but rather told them to "stand by".</p>

<p>This comment was immediately taken to the social media and while some criticised the President sending out message to the group, some — mainly from the group itself — rejoiced on being mentioned in the presidential debate and took it as a message from <strong>Trump</strong>.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-misses-opportunity-to-condemn-white-supremacists-group-proud-boys-331376"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Trump misses opportunity to condemn white supremacists group Proud Boys</strong></a></p>

<p>Afetr the comments, the only African-American Republican in the US Senate,&nbsp;Senator Tim Scott, said, "White supremacy should be denounced at every turn. I think the president misspoke, and he needs to correct it," he said.</p>

<p>"If he doesn't correct it, I guess he didn't misspeak," Scott added.</p>

<p>However, upon seeing the major backlash on social media and local media on this comment, <strong>Trump</strong>, later, backtracked on his statement and, once again pretending to not know who they are, said,&nbsp;"I don't know who Proud Boys are but whoever they are they have to stand down."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2020-trump-defends-supreme-court-pick-barrett-331308"><strong>Also read|&nbsp;US election 2020: Trump defends Supreme Court pick Barrett</strong></a></p>

<p>"Stand down, let law enforcement do their work," he said. "Whoever they are, stand down," he continued.</p>

<p>By the time <strong>Trump</strong> corrected his statement, his Democratic rival &nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiZ9JHp7o_sAhW9yjgGHfB6D5oQFjABegQICRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2uWmb1SVt292OTp_JacPPr">Joe Biden</a> had already used to opportunity to gain an upper hand.&nbsp;"My message to the Proud Boys and every other white supremacist group is: cease and desist," <strong>Biden</strong> said. "That's not who we are. This is not who we are as Americans."</p>

<p>After the debate, <strong>Biden</strong> started on a tour of Ohio and Pennsylvania — two important states in the election. While campaigning, he was repeatedly asked if he thought the 90-minute debate went well, considering there was constant interruption from <strong>Trump</strong> and name calling from <strong>Biden</strong> — such as<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2020-biden-calls-trump-a-clown-as-candidates-spar-in-first-presidential-debate-331321"> clown</a>, Putin's puppy and a direct put-down where <strong>Biden</strong> told <strong>Trum</strong>p to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-2020-shut-up-man-biden-accuses-trump-of-lying-331313">shut up</a>. To save his face from the blame of name-calling, <strong>Biden</strong> quickly shifted the blame to <strong>Trump</strong> and said, "The president of the United States conducted himself the way he did -- I think it was a national embarrassment."</p>


On Wednesday, during the first national presidential debate, the US President Donald Trump not only missed an opportunity to condemn the white supremacist groups, but rather told them to "stand by".

On Wednesday, during the first national presidential debate, the US President Donald Trump not only missed an opportunity to condemn the white supremacist groups, but rather told them to "stand by". This comment was immediately taken to the social media and while some criticised the President sending out message to the group, some — mainly from the group itself — rejoiced on being mentioned in the presidential debate and took it as a message from Trump. Also read: Trump misses opportunity to condemn white supremacists group Proud Boys Afetr the comments, the only African-American Republican in the US Senate, Senator Tim Scott, said, "White supremacy should be denounced at every turn. I think the president misspoke, and he needs to correct it," he said. "If he doesn't correct it, I guess he didn't misspeak," Scott added. However, upon seeing the major backlash on social media and local media on this comment, Trump, later, backtracked on his statement and, once again pretending to not know who they are, said, "I don't know who Proud Boys are but whoever they are they have to stand down." Also read| US election 2020: Trump defends Supreme Court pick Barrett "Stand down, let law enforcement do their work," he said. "Whoever they are, stand down," he continued. By the time Trump corrected his statement, his Democratic rival Joe Biden had already used to opportunity to gain an upper hand. "My message to the Proud Boys and every other white supremacist group is: cease and desist," Biden said. "That's not who we are. This is not who we are as Americans." After the debate, Biden started on a tour of Ohio and Pennsylvania — two important states in the election. While campaigning, he was repeatedly asked if he thought the 90-minute debate went well, considering there was constant interruption from Trump and name calling from Biden — such as clown, Putin's puppy and a direct put-down where Biden told Trump to shut up. To save his face from the blame of name-calling, Biden quickly shifted the blame to Trump and said, "The president of the United States conducted himself the way he did -- I think it was a national embarrassment."

Trump backtracks on Proud Boys; Biden calls debate 'national embarrassment'

us-election-2020

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us election-2020

Stocks fall, dollar gains after Trump gets coronavirus

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Mexico deploys military to block migrant caravan; blames US election

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US election 2020: Youtuber helps register 100,000 American voters by Tesla giveaway

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US Election 2020: The ultra-aggressive cross talk fallout

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US Election 2020: First debate of the most polarised election; WION-VOA Co-Production

Republicans to push Barrett's confirmation despite Trump's positive COVID-19 test

US judge blocks Trump's H-1B visa ban; legislation introduced to overhaul system

Morning news brief: Judge blocks H-1B visa ban, EU sanctions on Belarus and more

Gravitas: Presidential Debate Impact? Americans want to move to 'Canda'

Donald Trump claims 'end of pandemic in sight' at Al Smith Dinner before US election 2020

US election 2020: Trump says will not 'allow' debate rules to change

Trump and wife Melania test positive for coronavirus; world leaders wish speedy recovery