1 White House Condemns Intel Leaks
White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany is condemning what she calls irresponsible leaks to news organizations. Opening a White House briefing, McEnany actually singled out the “New York Times” for criticism – as it was their report involving President Trump’s purported knowledge about Russian bounties on American soldiers. McEnany said leaks damage the nation's ability to collect intelligence and on that note, insisted that the President was never briefed on what she labeled "alleged intelligence" that "remains unverified." Along the way, McEnany also rejected speculation about whether the President absorbs his daily intelligence reports. She said Trump "does read" and also "consumes intelligence verbally." She called Trump the "most informed person on the planet” when it comes to threats against the U.S. McEnany insisted that Trump's top priority is protecting American forces and "acts in defense of American troops" with "deliberate action."
2 Lawmakers In Both Parties Concerned About Russian Bounty Reports
While President Trump is calling reports about Russia’s bounty on American soldiers “another fabricated Russia Hoax,” members of Congress aren’t so sure about that. This, as the so-called “Gang of Eight” is set to be officially briefed on those intel reports today by the White House. A limited briefing took place yesterday, and afterwards? Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle say they’re disturbed. Congresswoman Liz Cheney says any threat by Russia against U.S. forces should be met with a swift and deadly response. House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer offered, “Nothing in the briefing that we have just received led me to believe it is a hoax.” But Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell is taking it further – saying that Russia’s behavior should keep them out of the upcoming G-7 meeting. Taking a significant break from Trump on the subject, when McConnell was asked if Russia should be let back into the economic group, McConnell told reporters, "Absolutely not."
3 San Antonio Mayor Issues Public Health Emergency Order
San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg has issued a Public Health Emergency Order that includes pre-screening health & safety requirements for businesses & prohibits indoor/outdoor gatherings of 100 or more people. The move is being taken as COVID-19 cases continue to surge in the community. The new orders go into effect on Thursday at Noon and remain in place indefinitely The orders call for commercial entities providing goods or services directly to the public to provide pre-screenings and temperature checks for all employees and guests, in addition to wearing masks when in work areas where employees cannot socially-distance at more than six feet. The order also prohibits social and family gatherings to no more than 10 people.