President Obama Campaigns for Hillary at UNC-Chapel Hill

President Barack Obama campaigned on the campus of the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill where he spoke in support of Hillary Clinton and Democratic Senate candidate Deborah Ross. Obama argued that it is not only important to elect Clinton president, but to put down ballot Democrats in office as well. Obama spoke about Clinton’s focus on the middle class, creating jobs, and raising the minimum wage. During his speech, Obama attacked Donald Trump for his hateful rhetoric, but he argued that ut is spreading and North Carolina Senator Richard Burr is a prime example. Burr joked about a “bullseye” being placed on Clinton. Obama slammed his comments saying, “You don’t talk about violence against public officials, even in a joke. This is becoming normal. This is the red meat they’re throwing their audiences, and it’s not normal, and it’s not who North Carolina is.” He concluded his speech by urging everyone to vote. A video from the event is below.

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News Source: The News & Observer, The Washington Post

Number of Prominent Republicans and Independents Backing Hillary Clinton Grows

Hillary for America and Together for America released a list of Republicans and Independents who are supporting Hillary Clinton over Donald Trump for president. Their release is below.

Following Hillary Clinton’s successful debate on Monday night, Together for America announced today that the ranks of Republicans and Independents who are stepping forward to back Hillary Clinton for President are growing. An additional 40 prominent leaders — including several senior administration officials and congressional staff, officials from the national security community, business leaders, and more than 10 prominent elected officials from battleground states — are all stepping forward to put country ahead of party.

Today’s announcement includes: three former Members of Congress: Sherwood Boehlert (NY), Claudine Schneider (RI), and John Schwarz (MI); former administration officials, including a Deputy Under Secretary of Transportation for President Ford, Solicitor General of the United States under President Reagan, chief White House ethics lawyer under President George W. Bush, Director of Presidential Personnel for President Reagan, and others; national security officials like the former Director of the White House Situation Room for President Bush on 9/11 and Legal Advisor to the National Security Council; and political leaders including Finance Co-Chair of Florida Governor Rick Scott’s 2014 campaign, a New York City Budget Director under Mayor Giuliani, a former Chairman of Veteran and Military Families Advisory Board for Mitt Romney’s 2012 campaign, a former senior advisor to the McCain for President Campaign, a former Attorney General of Arizona, and many others.

The list comes on the heels of yesterday’s announcement that former Republican Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, U.S. Senator John Warner of Virginia, is supporting the Clinton-Kaine ticket. In August, Together for America launched with an initial 50 endorsements.

John Podesta, Chair of Hillary for America

“At the first debate, which was viewed by 84 million Americans, Hillary Clinton strengthened her support with voters in that debate because she offered a vision of an America rooted in the belief that we are stronger together, while Donald Trump was unprepared, had nothing to offer on straightforward policy questions, and once again, showed that he had lacked the knowledge, values, and temperament to be president. Watching that debate made clear how unique this election is. The growing group of Republicans and Independents who are backing Hillary is a testament to how important the choice is in this election — it’s really not about Republicans or Democrats, it’s about what country we will be, it’s about our children’s future and which candidate can bring people together to get things done, which candidate is fit to serve the office of President and Commander in Chief. People know that Hillary has a successful track record of working across the aisle, of bringing people together to get solutions and solve problems and that’s why she continues to attract support from all parties. Today, Together for America is announcing that the ranks of Republicans and Independents who are stepping forward to back Hillary Clinton for president is growing, an additional 40 prominent leaders, including several senior administration officials in Republican administrations and congressional staff, officials from the national security community, business leaders and more than 10 prominent Republican-elected officials from battleground states are all stepping forward to put country ahead of party.”

These endorsements send a strong signal to Republican and Independent voters that respected leaders are putting country over political party in this election.

Sherwood Boehlert, Former U.S. Congressman from New York (1983-2007)

“I have seen firsthand Hillary’s commitment to helping people, and how hard she works to deliver what she’s promised. As a Senator, she worked across party lines to get things done, including helping bring jobs to the rust belt communities of upstate New York. She’s smart, she’s informed, she’s responsive, and she’s responsible. She has the right temperament for the job. The choice in this election is obvious.”

Claudine Schneider, Former U.S. Congresswoman (1981-1991) and first woman elected to major political office in Rhode Island

“The debate this week made crystal clear that only one candidate in this race is prepared, qualified, and temperamentally fit to be President of the United States. Hillary Clinton can work across the aisle and bring people together to get things done. Her life has been one of public service: representing Americans’ interests, and working cooperatively to build consensus for solutions. I was proud to be elected as part of the Reagan Revolution, to work with President Reagan, and to be a Republican my entire adult life. But when it comes to this election, I have to put my country ahead of my party, and that means voting for Hillary Clinton.”

Deborah Loewer, Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy (Ret.), and former Director of The White House Situation Room (2001-2003)

“My support of Clinton is derived from the hard lessons learned during my years of service to our country. I served as The Military Assistant to the Secretary of Defense at the Pentagon. I commanded the USS CAMDEN, the USS MOUNT BAKER and all of the U.S. Navy’s mine warfare assets. I deployed to every region on the globe — including the Persian Gulf and the Asia Pacific — in support of our nation’s security. I watched and listened and firmly believe Clinton understands not only how to deploy our forces, but also, how to bring them safely home when the mission is done.”

Nicholas Rostow, Former Special Assistant to Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush for National Security Affairs and Legal Advisor to the National Security Council under Colin Powell and Brent Scowcroft (1987-1993); Counsel and Deputy Staff Director of the Cox Committee (House Select Committee on U.S. National Security and Military/Commercial Concerns with the People’s Republic of China) (1998-1999); Staff Director of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence (1999-2000); General Counsel and Senior Policy Advisor to the U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations (2001-2005)

“George Washington exhorted his fellow citizens to put the country above party or parochial interest. His message is especially compelling this year. Though I have served in three Republican administrations, I shall vote for Mrs. Clinton. Of the candidates with a realistic chance of winning, she alone has the competence to be President.

“Competence is important. Foreign and domestic crises — including economic collapse, major terrorism, some new cyber harm, and increased tensions with Russia or China — are foreseeable. Mr. Trump has not in any way demonstrated a capacity to preserve and protect the American republic. He has shown no respect for the essential work of government, the democratic system, or the Constitution. Of the two principal candidates, Hillary Clinton is by far the safer bet to guide the ship of state in the choppy seas ahead. This is not a year for protest votes. The vote must be for Secretary Clinton.”

The full list of Republicans and Independents newly participating in Together for America is below. The previous list is available here.

• John Elizabeth Alemán, Miami Beach Commissioner
• Jacob Avneri, Nevada Republican; Retired businessman; Stepfather of a U.S. Soldier who was killed in action in Afghanistan
• Stuart Bernstein, Former U.S. Ambassador to the Kingdom of Denmark for President George W. Bush
• Sherwood Boehlert, Former U.S. Congressman from New York (1983-2007)
• Phil Brady, Special Assistant to Vice President George H.W. Bush (1985-1988); Deputy Counsel to President Ronald Reagan (1988-1989); General Counsel U.S. Department of Transportation (1989-1991); Assistant to the President and Staff Secretary to President George H.W. Bush (1991-1993); member of the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library Board
• Michael Browne, Former Deputy Under Secretary of Transportation under President Gerald Ford and Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner in two Republican administrations
• Warren Chase, Palm Beach Gardens, former Naval officer and Vietnam veteran; Republican candidate for Congress; Two-term Reagan appointee; 2012 member of Governor Romney’s Defense Policy Working Group
• James Clad, Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for President George W. Bush
• Tim Clancy, Former Chief of Staff, Rep. Sherwood Boehlert
• Anita Daly, New York Republican; former Saratoga County Supervisor for 22 years
• Howard Denis, Former Maryland State Senator (1977-1995); former Montgomery County Council member (2000-2006); and five-time delegate to the Republican National Convention
• Douglas Durst, Chairman of the Durst Organization
• Miguel “Mike” Fernandez, Jeb Bush, major supporter; Lifelong Republican; Republican Finance Co-Chairman Florida Governor’s 2014; Chairman MBF Healthcare Partners; former Chairman Simply Healthcare; former Chairman CarePlus Health Plans
• Charles Fried, Solicitor General of the United States under President Ronald Reagan (1985-1989) and Beneficial Professor of Law at Harvard Law School
• Diedra Garcia, Colorado Republican and former CEO of the Denver Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
• Carlos Gonzalez, New Hampshire Republican State Representative
• Marty Haynie, Comptroller of Orange County, Florida
• Saif Ishoof, Florida Republican and Community Leader
• Abe Lackman, NYC’s Budget Director under Mayor Giuliani; Secretary of the NYS Senate Finance Committee and special advisor to Joseph L. Bruno, the NYS Senate Majority Leader
• Mark P. Lagon, D, Former U.S. Ambassador-At-Large to Combat Trafficking in Persons (2007-2009); Centennial Fellow, School of Foreign Service, Georgetown University
• Deborah Loewer, Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy (Ret.), and former Director of The White House Situation Room (2001-2003)
• David Maddux, Colorado Republican; Navy Veteran; Project Manager in Denver
• Rosario Marin, Former U.S. Treasurer (2001-2003)
• Jack McGregor, Former Pennsylvania State Senator from Pittsburgh and the founder of the National Hockey League’s Pittsburgh Penguins
• Helen Migchelbrink, Colorado Republican and Engineer in Fort Collins
• David Nierenberg, President of Nierenberg Investment Management Company; one of eight original national finance chairs of Romney for President (2006-2012)
• Richard Painter, Walter Richey Professor of Corporate Law at the University of Minnesota Law School and former associate counsel to the president and chief White House ethics lawyer under President George W. Bush
• Mark Pasquerilla, Chairman and CEO of Crown American and a former At-Large Delegate to the 2004 and 2008 Republican National Conventions
• William A. Pierce, Former Deputy Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of Health and Human Services (2001-2005) and former press secretary for Congresswoman Olympia Snowe (R-ME) and Congressman William Thomas (R-CA)
• Nicholas Rostow, Former Special Assistant to Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush for National Security Affairs and Legal Advisor to the National Security Council under Colin Powell and Brent Scowcroft (1987-1993); Counsel and Deputy Staff Director of the Cox Committee (House Select Committee on U.S. National Security and Military/Commercial Concerns with the People’s Republic of China) (1998-1999); Staff Director of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence (1999-2000); General Counsel and Senior Policy Advisor to the U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations (2001-2005)
• Scott Rutter, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army (Ret.); former Chairman of the National Advisory Board: Veterans and Military Families, Romney for President
• Mark Salter, Former chief of staff to Senator John McCain and senior advisor to the McCain for President campaign
• Claudine Schneider, Former U.S. Congresswoman (1981-1991) and first woman elected to major political office in Rhode Island
• John J.H. Schwarz, D., Former U.S. Congressman from Michigan (2005-2007)
• Rick Stoddard, Colorado Republican and Banker in Denver
• Martin Torrey, Commander, U.S. Navy (Ret.)
• Robert H. Tuttle, Former Assistant to the President and former Director of Presidential Personnel for President Ronald Reagan; U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom for President George W. Bush
• Roger Wallace, Co-Chair of the Woodrow Wilson Center’s Mexico Institute Advisory Board and member of the Council on Foreign Relations; former Deputy Undersecretary for International Trade at the U.S. Department of Commerce (1989-1991); former Chair of the Inter-American Foundation (2003-2009); and former Deputy to the National Co-Chair of the 1980 Reagan Bush Campaign
• Lezlee Westine,Former White House Director of Public Liaison under and Deputy Assistant to President George W. Bush
• Grant Woods, Arizona Attorney General (1991-1999)

The individuals listed herein have endorsed in their personal capacity and this does not reflect the endorsement of any organization, corporation or entity with which they are affiliated. Titles and affiliations of each individual are provided for identification purposes only. While all the individuals herein are newly involved with Together for America, some have previously made public pronouncements about their support for Hillary Clinton since our last Together for America announcement.

Additional comments are available below:

John Elizabeth Alemán, Miami Beach Commissioner

“In Miami Beach, we cannot support a candidate who believes climate change is a hoax. Donald Trump refuses to accept the science that points to this imminent concern, which jeopardizes our national security. Hillary Clinton will be a president who makes America the world’s clean energy superpower and will take affirmative action on climate change. That’s why, in this election, I will vote for Hillary Clinton.”

Jacob Avneri, Nevada Republican; Retired businessman; Stepfather of a U.S. Soldier who was killed in action in Afghanistan

“As someone who lost a stepson in Afghanistan, I was deeply offended by the remarks that Trump has made against the men and women in our armed forces and against Gold Star parents. It also pains me to hear the disparaging and divisive comments Trump has made against Latinos, like my wife and step kids. Trump does not respect that Americans are born equal, and the way he has run his campaign makes me afraid for the future of our country should he become president. Secretary Clinton, for all her faults, has demonstrated a lifetime of concern for all Americans and will make an effective leader and role model for all. Even though I have been a lifelong Republican, I will be putting my country ahead of my party this election — I will proudly cast my vote for Secretary Clinton in November.”

Michael Browne, Former Deputy Under Secretary of Transportation under President Gerald Ford and Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner in two Republican administrations

“As a Marine Corps veteran who volunteered to fight in the Vietnam War, I am dismayed by Donald Trump’s approach to the military and to veterans. He loves to talk aggressively about war and militaristic actions. Yet, he dodged the draft during the Vietnam War by obtaining 5 deferments to avoid serving his country, including the excuse of heel spurs, which then magically disappeared. He has insulted John McCain, an American hero, because he was a prisoner of war and insulted the parents of an American hero who died serving his country in Iraq because they are Muslim. Such a man should not be Commander in Chief.”

Warren Chase, Palm Beach Gardens, former Naval officer and Vietnam veteran; Republican candidate for Congress; Two-term Reagan appointee; 2012 member of Governor Romney’s Defense Policy Working Group

“By temperament and by long experience, Hillary Clinton is very clearly prepared to serve as our Commander in Chief. We live in a dangerous world with multiple, complicated threats to our national security. Hillary knows what must be done to protect our freedom in these uncertain times. She will listen to our allies and work with them because she understands that we are stronger together.”

James Clad, Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for President George W. Bush

“Secretary Clinton has demonstrated her skills as Secretary of State, especially but by no means exclusively in helping other Asian countries counter Chinese bullying in the western Pacific. For Republicans and Democrats alike, everything in national security requires clarity and steadiness, whether managing nuclear weapons or balancing great power rivalries. Never losing sight of the national interest is key — a discipline which Secretary Clinton possesses in full measure. Our adversaries must never hear flippancy or ignorance in America’s voice. They should never take satisfaction from an incompetent president. Giving an incoherent amateur the keys to the White House this November will doom us to second or third class status. In my career, I’ve seen close-up what happens when American reliability falters. It’s not pretty, for us or for the world. There is no choice: In razor sharp contrast to her opponent, Secretary Clinton is ready, steady and prepared. With a proven preference for bipartisanship, she must win this election.”

Anita Daly, New York Republican; former Saratoga County Supervisor for 22 years

“As a lifelong Republican, with 22 years of elected service in a predominantly Republican county, I am supporting Hillary for President. As a wife, mother and grandmother, I view this presidential election as a choice between known and unknown leadership qualities and not at all about party affiliation. Simply put, Hillary Clinton is prepared to be President.”

Douglas Durst, Chairman of the Durst Organization

“As a New York City developer, I have had a front-row seat to the curious career of Donald Trump. He morphed from a builder to a showman to an aspiring statesman. I have seen nothing in the forty years I have known Donald to qualify him to be President of the United States. Hillary Clinton, on the other hand, is a tested public servant with a steady hand and head that is ready to lead.”

Miguel “Mike” Fernandez, Jeb Bush, major supporter; Lifelong Republican; Republican Finance Co-Chairman Florida Governor’s 2014; Chairman, MBF Healthcare Partners; former Chairman, Simply Healthcare; former Chairman, CarePlus Health Plans

“I have arrived at this difficult moment. A moment that may define leaders and followers. I harbor no illusion that Hillary Clinton is perfect; none of us is. I do not see eye to eye on some issues with the former Senator from New York. However, Clinton is, without doubt, a vastly superior choice to Donald Trump. She is not impulsive, a dangerous quality in any position, but rather she is deliberate, intelligent, and experienced; and she has the humility to accept that she does not have all the answers. She has delegated effectively over the decades in public service. These attributes will serve her well as president.”

Charles Fried, Solicitor General of the United States under President Ronald Reagan (1985-1989) and Beneficial Professor of Law at Harvard Law School

“Respect for our country, its Constitution, its history and traditions, just a sense of common decency, require that we not allow Donald Trump to be elected president of the United States. To invoke party loyalty, to dwell on one’s reservations about Hillary Clinton, to contemplate not voting at all, or the silly and self-defeating gesture of voting for the Libertarian or Green Party candidate, would be a frivolous failure of the most urgent present duty of patriotism. I support and shall vote for Hillary Clinton. Any other course risks complicity in a national catastrophe.”

Carlos Gonzalez, New Hampshire Republican State Representative

“Whether as a new law school graduate, First Lady of Arkansas, First Lady of the U.S., Senator, or Secretary of State, Hillary has spent her career taking on the hard challenges and delivering for children, women, families, and our country. No matter the odds, she has been a champion for those who have been forgotten or left behind. Unlike Donald Trump, who continues to run a campaign fueled by divisive rhetoric, Hillary has squared her focus on policies that would actually make a real difference for families and businesses across New Hampshire. I know Hillary will help bring us together and work across the aisle to solve our biggest challenges and create opportunities for every American to succeed.”

Marty Haynie, Comptroller of Orange County, Florida

“With more than 15 years experience as a CPA in private industry, I was elected as the chief financial officer in one of Florida’s largest counties, where I have served for 28 years. I know the difference between private business and public service. It seems that Donald Trump does not. His arrogant refusal to release his tax returns is just one example of his utter lack of respect for the public, and his expectation that he can continue to make his own rules. For this and so many other reasons, I am proud to support Hillary Clinton for president.”

Saif Ishoof, Florida Republican and Community Leader

“In South Florida and across the nation, Americans are looking for a President who will bring us together to tackle the big challenges we face. With his divisive rhetoric and reckless policies, Donald Trump has proven himself unworthy and unfit to be in the Oval Office. Well before her time in the public eye, Hillary Clinton has dedicated her life to serving the American public. That’s why I’m proud to stand with Hillary Clinton.”

Mark P. Lagon, Ph.D, Former U.S. Ambassador-At-Large to Combat Trafficking in Persons (2007-2009); Centennial Fellow at the School of Foreign Service, Georgetown University

“I endorse Hillary Clinton for President because she will strongly promote U.S. leadership, strong bonds with democratic allies, and freer governance worldwide. The election of Donald Trump would be a calamity for America and for a stable and prosperous world. Hillary Clinton exhibits the distinctive qualities to be a strong President. Her deep experience and commitment to human rights and the U.S. as a unique positive force in the world deserve the backing of Republicans and Democrats alike.”

David Maddux, Colorado Republican; Navy Veteran; Project Manager in Denver

“I have always called myself an Eisenhower Republican. Ike would be horrified by where his party is today, as exemplified by Trump. Ralph Carr understood that we all should be equally, without exception, protected by our Constitution. This is now the time for us to be like Mr. Carr, to place our feet and votes and our hearts in a place where country comes before party, and decency comes before complacency. And for me that place, and my vote, will be with Secretary Clinton.”

Jack McGregor, Former Pennsylvania State Senator from Pittsburgh and the founder of the National Hockey League’s Pittsburgh Penguins

“I’ve been involved in Republican presidential campaigns for more than 60 years. It took the selection of Donald J. Trump to drive me out of my party. My old political heroes and mentors like Ike, Bill Scranton, John Sherman Cooper, my father and both grandfathers must be turning in their graves about my change in party registration. But I’m confident that every one of those honorable and dignified men would be repulsed by Donald Trump and saddened by what has become of their Republican Party. This is serious stuff, and I won’t waste my vote on a protest candidate. Since the future of our country may depend on preventing Donald Trump from becoming president, I’m with her this November, and I urge other Republicans to join me.”

David Nierenberg, President of Nierenberg Investment Management Company; one of eight original national finance chairs of Romney for President (2006-2012)

“I have decided to endorse and support Hillary Clinton for president, even though almost everybody else I will vote for this November will be a real Republican. Hillary Clinton knows her stuff. She is emotionally mature and centered. She respects and enjoys working with people from all backgrounds. She has the diplomatic skills needed to break the gridlock in Washington and lead our country well. America needs a steady hand on the tiller.”

Richard Painter, S. Walter Richey Professor of Corporate Law at the University of Minnesota Law School; and former associate counsel to the president and chief White House ethics lawyer under President George W. Bush

“Clinton’s campaign rhetoric echoes that of her husband and Barack Obama, two Democratic presidents who oversaw significant economic growth. It is not always the pro-business and pro-economic liberty message that Republicans want to hear, but investors and business owners know what we’ll get from Hillary and we can plan for the future. Trump, by contrast, is volatile and unpredictable — a businessperson’s and investor’s worst nightmare.”

Mark Pasquerilla, Chairman and CEO of Crown American and a former At-Large Delegate to the 2004 and 2008 Republican National Conventions

“I could not be more disappointed in my party’s choice of nominee. I served as a former Pennsylvania At-Large Delegate for the 2004 and 2008 Republican National Conventions and my father ran for Pennsylvania state treasurer on the same ticket as President Richard Nixon. I cannot stand by as Donald Trump hate mongers and bullies hard-working Americans around. Our country needs a president who will treat everyone with the respect they deserve and that’s why Hillary Clinton will have my vote on November 8.”

William A. Pierce, Former Deputy Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of Health and Human Services (2001-2005) and former press secretary for Congresswoman Olympia Snowe (R-ME) and for Congressman William Thomas (R-CA)

“Our choice this election could not be more clear — Hillary Clinton is a strong and clear supporter of American democracy interests at home and abroad and has a clear and coherent policy agenda for addressing the challenges facing the U.S. and the world. Donald Trump is a danger to our democracy.”

Scott Rutter, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army (Ret.); former Chairman of the National Advisory Board: Veterans and Military Families, Romney for President

“Secretary Clinton is dedicated and committed to supporting Veterans and their families. I have witnessed this firsthand. I would not be ‘with her’ if I didn’t think she was the best candidate to be our next President and Commander-in-Chief.”

Rick Stoddard, Colorado Republican and Banker in Denver

“I didn’t leave the Republican party, the party left me. It’s time for all Republicans and independents in Colorado to put country before party and vote for Secretary Clinton. Trump is too dangerous and too unfit to hold our nation’s highest office.”

Robert H. Tuttle, Former Assistant to the President and former Director of Presidential Personnel for President Ronald Reagan; U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom for President George W. Bush

“The Republican nominee for president has no government experience and has done nothing in his career to demonstrate that he is competent to be president. He has made repeated misstatements and inaccurate statements. He has insulted minorities, women, a war hero and Gold Star parents. He is unqualified and unfit to be president. I have never voted for a Democrat but I will vote for Secretary Clinton.”

Lezlee Westine, Former White House Director of Public Liaison under and Deputy Assistant to President George W. Bush

“Our nation faces a unique set of challenges that require steady and experienced leadership. That is why I am personally supporting Hillary Clinton. She has the expertise and commitment to American values to grow the economy, create jobs and protect America at home and abroad.”

Grant Woods, Arizona Attorney General (1991-1999)

“Hillary Clinton is one of the most qualified nominees to ever run for President. Donald Trump is the least qualified ever. The stakes are too high to stand on the sideline. I stand with Hillary Clinton for President.”

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Career Ambassadors for Clinton-Kaine

In recent weeks, a growing number of Republican and Democrat public officials have come forward supporting Hillary Clinton and Tim Kaine. Earlier this month, 75 diplomats signed a letter of support for the Clinton-Kaine ticket, and that number has now grown to 149. Over 90 of the former ambassadors were appointed by Republican presidents. A copy of the letter and the list of the 149 are below:

• STATEMENT BY FORMER CAREER AMBASSADORS AND SENIOR STATE DEPARTMENT OFFICIALS

  As of September 23, 2016

  The undersigned have each previously served the people of the United States as career diplomats in our nation’s Foreign and Civil Services.  We have each had the privilege of being nominated by the President, and confirmed by the United States Senate, to represent our nation abroad and at the highest levels of our foreign policy and security organizations.

• Together, we have represented the United States as ambassadors in over 55 countries or international organizations. We have hundreds of years of combined service.
• As career officers, we have served every President since Harry Truman, and have proudly represented every President since Richard Nixon as ambassadors or senior State Department officials in Senate-confirmed positions. We have served Republican and Democratic Presidents with pride and enthusiasm.
• None of us will vote for Donald J. Trump.
• Each of us endorses Hillary Clinton and Tim Kaine. Because the stakes in this election are so high, this is the first time many of us have publicly endorsed a candidate for President.

Very simply, this election is different from any election we can recall.  One of the candidates — Donald J. Trump — is entirely unqualified to serve as President and Commander-in-Chief.  He is ignorant of the complex nature of the challenges facing our country, from Russia to China to ISIS to nuclear proliferation to refugees to drugs, but he has expressed no interest in being educated.

Indeed he has recently demonstrated he entirely misunderstands and disrespects the role of the very officials who could educate him: the senior career officers of our intelligence services and of our military services (whom he has characterized as “rubble”).

In his frequent statements about foreign countries and their citizens, from our closest friends to our most problematic competitors, Mr. Trump has expressed the most ignorant stereotypes of those countries; has inflamed their people; and has insulted our allies and comforted our enemies.

Shockingly, he has even offered praise and admiration for Vladimir Putin, the leader of Russia whose international activities and reported intrusions into our democratic political process have been among the most damaging actions taken by any foreign leader since the end of World War Two.

We fear the damage that such ineptitude could cause in our closest relationships as well as the succor it might offer our enemies.

By contrast, Hillary Clinton’s handling of foreign affairs has consistently sought to advance fundamental US interests with a deep grounding in the work of the many tens of thousands of career officers on whom our national security depends.  Not every one of us has agreed with every decision she made (and the same would be true of every one of her predecessors), but we have profound respect for her skills, dedication, intelligence, and diplomacy.

In this election there is only one team to represent our nation and lead our career foreign policy and security professionals in a manner befitting our role as the world’s sole superpower.  Hillary Clinton and Tim Kaine are the candidates we support.

Signatories

1. Morton Abramowitz – Ambassador to Turkey (1989-1991) Assistant Secretary of State for Intelligence and Research (1985-1989), and Ambassador to Thailand (1978-1981)
2. Frank Almaguer – Ambassador to Honduras (1999-2002)
3. Diego Asencio – Ambassador to Brazil (1983-1986), Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs (1980-1983), Ambassador to Colombia (1977-1980)
4. Robert L. Barry – Ambassador to Indonesia (1992-1995), and Bulgaria (1981-1984)
5. Robert M. Beecroft – Ambassador and Head of Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (2001-2004)
6. Rand Beers – Secretary of Homeland Security (2013), Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security (2013), Under Secretary of Homeland Security for National Protection and Programs (2009-2014)
7. Eric Benjaminson – Ambassador to Gabon and to Sao Tome & Principe (2010-2013)
8. John R. Beyrle – Ambassador to Russia (2008-2012), and Bulgaria (2005-2008)
9. James D. Bindenagel – Ambassador to Germany (1996-1997)
10. Robert O. Blake – Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs (2009-2013), Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Republic of Maldives (2006-2009), Indonesia (2014-present)
11. Richard Boucher – Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs (2006-2009), Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs (2001-2005), and Ambassador to Cyprus (1993-1996)
12. Charles Richard Bowers – Ambassador to Bolivia (1991-1994)
13. Robert A. Bradtke – Ambassador to Croatia (2006-2009)
14. Aurelia E. Brazeal – Ambassador to Ethiopia (2002-2005), Kenya (1993-1996), Federated States of Micronesia (1990-1993)
15. Peter Bridges – Ambassador to Somalia (1984-1986)
16. Sue K. Brown – Ambassador to Montenegro (2011-2014)
17. Susan Burk – Special Representative of the President for Nuclear Nonproliferation (2009-2012)
18. Peter Burleigh – Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Republic of Maldives (1995-1997)
19. Nicholas Burns – Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs (2005-2008), Ambassador to NATO (2001-2005), and Greece (1997-2001)
20. Prudence Bushnell – Ambassador to Guatemala (1999-2002), and Kenya (1996-1999)
21. Patricia Butenis – Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Republic of Maldives (2009-2012) and Bangladesh (2006-2007)
22. Johnnie Carson – Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs (2009-2013), Ambassador to Kenya (1999-2003), Zimbabwe (1995-1997), Uganda (1991-1994)
23. Phillip Carter III – Ambassador to Cote d’Ivoire (2010-2013), and Guinea (2007-2008)
24. Carey Cavanaugh – Ambassador/Special Negotiator for Nagorno-Karabakh and New Independent States Regional Conflicts (2000-2001)
25. Wendy Chamberlin – Ambassador to Pakistan (2001-2002) and Laos (1996-1999)
26. Asif Chaudhry – Ambassador to Moldova (2008)
27. Peter Chaveas – Ambassador to Sierra Leone (2001-2004), and Malawi (1994-1997)
28. Elinor Greer Constable – Assistant Secretary of State for Oceans, Environment, Science and Technology (1993-1995), and Ambassador to Kenya (1986-1989)
29. Marion Creekmore, Jr. – Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Republic of Maldives (1989-1992)
30. Ryan Crocker – Ambassador to Lebanon (1990-1993), Kuwait (1994-1997), Syria (1998-2001), Pakistan (2004-2007), Iraq (2007-2009), Afghanistan (2011-2012)
31. James B. Cunningham – Ambassador to Afghanistan (2012-2014), Israel (2008-2011), United Nations (2001)
32. Walter L. Cutler – Ambassador to Saudi Arabia (1984-1987, 1988-1989), Tunisia (1982-1984), Ambassador-Designate to the Islamic Republic of Iran (1979), and Ambassador to Zaire (1975-1979)
33. Jeffrey Davidow – Ambassador to Mexico (1998-2002), Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs (1996-1998), Ambassador to Venezuela (1993-1996), Zambia (1988-1990)
34. Scott H. DeLisi – Ambassador to Uganda (2012-2015), Nepal (2010-2012), and Eritrea (2004-2007)
35. Robert S. Dillon – Ambassador to Lebanon (1981-1983)
36. John R. Dinger – Ambassador to Mongolia (2000-2003)
37. William A. Eaton – Ambassador to Panama (2005-2008), and Assistant Secretary of State for Administration (2001-2005)
38. Wesley W. Egan – Ambassador to Jordan (1994-1998), and Guinea-Bissau (1983-1985)
39. Robert J. Einhorn – Assistant Secretary of State for Nonproliferation (1999-2001)
40. Nancy Ely-Raphel – Ambassador to Slovenia (1998-2001)
41. Gregory W. Engle – Ambassador to Togo (2003-2005)
42. Kenneth J. Fairfax – Ambassador to Kazakhstan (2011-2013)
43. Robert W. Farrand – Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, and the Solomon Islands (1990-1993)
44. Judith R. Fergin – Ambassador to Timor-Leste (2010-2013)
45. Robert P. Finn – Ambassador to Afghanistan (2002-2003), Tajikistan (1999-2001)
46. David J. Fischer – Ambassador to the Republic of Seychelles (1982-1985)
47. Robert Fitts – Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, and the Solomon Islands (2003- 2006)
48. Robert S. Gelbard – Ambassador to Indonesia (1999-2001), Assistant Secretary of State for International Narcotics Matters (1993-1997), Ambassador to Bolivia (1988-1991)
49. Edward “Skip” Gnehm – Ambassador to Jordan (2001-2004), Australia (2000-2001), Kuwait (1991-1994)
50. Christopher E. Goldthwait – Ambassador to Chad (1999-2004)
51. Gordon Gray – Ambassador to Tunisia (2009-2012)
52. Marc Grossman – Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs (2001-2005), Ambassador to Turkey (1995-1997), Assistant Secretary of State for European and Canadian Affairs (1997-2000)
53. Michael E. Guest – Ambassador to Romania (2001-2004)
54. John R. Hamilton – Ambassador to Guatemala (2003-2005), and Peru (1999-2002)
55. Douglas A. Hartwick – Ambassador to Laos (2001-2004)
56. Maura Harty – Ambassador to Paraguay (1997-1999), Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs (2002-2008)
57. Patricia McMahon Hawkins – Ambassador to Togo (2008-2011)
58. Christopher R. Hill – Ambassador to Iraq (2009-2010), Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs (2005-2009), Ambassador to South Korea (2004-2005), Poland (2000-2004), and Macedonia (1996-1999)
59. Karl W. Hofmann – Ambassador to Togo (2000-2002)
60. Genta H. Holmes – Ambassador to Australia (1997-2000), Director General of the Foreign Service (1992-1995), and Ambassador to Namibia (1990-1992)
61. Thomas C. Hubbard – Ambassador to the Republic of Korea (2001-2004) and the Philippines (1996-2000)
62. Franklin Huddle – Ambassador to Tajikistan (2001-2003)
63. Vicki J. Huddleston – Ambassador to Mali (2002-2005), and Madagascar (1995-1997)
64. Edmund J. Hull – Ambassador to Yemen (2001-2004)
65. Cameron R. Hume – Ambassador to Indonesia (2007-2010), Sudan (2005-2007), South Africa (2001-2004), Algeria (1997-2000)
66. Ravic R. Huso – Ambassador to Laos (2007-2010)
67. William H. Itoh – Ambassador to Thailand (1995-1999)
68. Dennis Jett – Ambassador to Peru (1996-1999) and Mozambique (1993-1996)
69. Linda Jewell – Ambassador to Ecuador (2005-2008)
70. Elizabeth Jones – Assistant Secretary of State for Europe and Eurasia (2001-2005), Ambassador to Kazakhstan (1995-1998)
71. Richard D. Kauzlarich – Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina (1997-1999), and Azerbaijan (1994-1997)
72. James Keith – Ambassador to Malaysia (2007-2010)
73. Laura E. Kennedy – Ambassador to the Conference on Disarmament, Geneva (2010-2013), and Ambassador to Turkmenistan (2001-2003)
74. Thomas C. Krajeski – Ambassador to the Republic of Yemen (2004-2007), Kingdom of Bahrain (2011-2014)
75. Daniel C. Kurtzer – Ambassador to Israel (2001-2005), Egypt (1998-2001)
76. Alphonse F. La Porta – Ambassador to Mongolia (1997-2000)
77. Chris LaFleur – Ambassador to Malaysia (2005-2007)
78. Edward Gibson Lanpher – Ambassador to Zimbabwe (1991-1995)
79. Joyce E. Leader – Ambassador to Guinea (1999-2000)
80. Michael Lemmon – Ambassador to Armenia (1998-2001)
81. Winston Lord – Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs (1993-1997), and Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China (1985-1989)
82. James G. Lowenstein – Ambassador to Luxembourg (1977-1981)
83. William H. Luers – Ambassador to Czechoslovakia (1983-1986), and Venezuela (1978-1982)
84. John F. Maisto – Ambassador to the Organization of American States (2003-2006), Venezuela (1997-2000), and Nicaragua (1993-1996)
85. Edward Marks – Ambassador to Cape Verde (1977-1980), and Guinea-Bissau (1977-1980)
86. Niels Marquardt – Ambassador to Madagascar and Comoros (2007-2010), Equatorial Guinea (2004-2006), and Cameroon (2004-2007)
87. Marshall McCallie – Ambassador to Namibia (1993-1996)
88. Jackson McDonald – Ambassador to Guinea (2004-2007), The Gambia (2001-2004)
89. Stephen G. McFarland – Ambassador to Guatemala (2008-2011)
90. Christopher J. McMullen – Ambassador to Angola (2010-2013)
91. Michael W. Michalak – Ambassador to Vietnam (2007-2011)
92. William B. Milam – Ambassador to Bangladesh (1990-1993), and Pakistan (1998-2001)
93. Richard M. Miles – Ambassador to Georgia (2002-2005), Bulgaria (1999-2002), and Azerbaijan (1992-1993)
94. Thomas J. Miller – Ambassador to Greece (2001-2004), Bosnia and Herzegovina (1999-2001)
95. William Green Miller – Ambassador to Ukraine (1993-1998)
96. Mark C. Minton – Ambassador to Mongolia (2006-2009)
97. William T. Monroe – Ambassador to Bahrain (2004-2007)
98. Thomas M. T. Niles – Assistant Secretary of State for European and Canadian Affairs (1991-1993), Ambassador to Greece (1993-1997), European Union (1989-1991), and Canada (1985-1989)
99. Maurice S. Parker – Ambassador to Swaziland (2007-2009)
100. Mark Robert Parris – Ambassador to Turkey (1997-2000)
101. Lynn Pascoe – Ambassador to Indonesia (2004-2007), and Malaysia (1998-2001)
102. Robert Pearson – Ambassador to Turkey (2000-2003)
103. Vernon D. Penner – Ambassador to the Republic of Cabo Verde (1986-1990)
104. Rudolf V. Perina – Ambassador/Special Negotiator for Nagorno-Karabakh and Newly-Independent States Regional Conflicts (2001-2004), and Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova (1998-2001)
105. June Carter Perry – Ambassador to Sierra Leone (2007-2010), and Lesotho (2004-2007)
106. Donald K. Petterson – Ambassador to Sudan (1992-1995), Tanzania (1986-1989), and Somalia (1978-1982)
107. Thomas R. Pickering – Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs (1997-2000), Ambassador to Russia (1993-1996), India (1992-1993), United Nations (1989-1992), Israel (1985-1988), El Salvador (1983-1985), Nigeria (1981-1983), Assistant Secretary of State for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs (1978-1981), Ambassador to Jordan (1974- 1978)
108. Steven Pifer – Ambassador to Ukraine (1998-2000)
109. Joan M. Plaisted – Ambassador to the Republic of the Marshall Islands and Kiribati (1995-2000)
110. Nicholas Platt – Ambassador to Pakistan (1991-1992), Philippines (1987-1991), Zambia (1982- 1985)
111. Nancy Powell – Ambassador to India (2012-2014), Nepal (2007-2010), Pakistan (2002-2004), Ghana (2001-2002), Uganda (1997-1999)
112. Phyllis M. Powers – Ambassador to Nicaragua (2012-2015), and Panama (2010-2012)
113. Charles L. “Jack” Pritchard – Ambassador/Special Envoy for Negotiations with the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (2001-2003)
114. Jon R. Purnell – Ambassador to Uzbekistan (2004-2007)
115. Robin L. Raphel – Ambassador to Tunisia (1997-2000), Assistant Secretary of State for South Asian Affairs (1993-1997)
116. Elizabeth Raspolic – Ambassador to Gabon (1995-1998)
117. Charles A. Ray – Ambassador to Zimbabwe (2009-2012), Cambodia (2002-2005)
118. Robert G. Rich – Ambassador to Belize (1987-1990)
119. Thomas B. Robertson – Ambassador to Slovenia (2004-2007)
120. Peter F. Romero – Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs (2001), and Ambassador to Ecuador (1993-1996)
121. William A. Rugh – Ambassador to the United Arab Emirate (1992-2995), and Yemen (1984-1987)
122. Howard B. Schaffer – Ambassador to Bangladesh (1984-1987)
123. Teresita C. Schaffer – Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Republic of Maldives (1992-1995)
124. James F. Schumaker – OSCE Project Coordinator in Ukraine (2005-2008)
125. Ints M. Silins – Ambassador to Latvia (1992-1995)
126. Thomas W. Simons, Jr. – Ambassador to Pakistan (1996-1998) and Poland (1990-1993)
127. Donald Steinberg – Ambassador to Angola (1995-1998)
128. Kathleen Stephens – Ambassador to the Republic of Korea (2008-2011)
129. John Todd Stewart – Ambassador to Moldova (1995-1998)
130. Gordon L. Streeb – Ambassador to Zambia (1990-1993)
131. Curtis Struble – Ambassador to Peru (2004-2007)
132. Patrick Nickolas Theros – Ambassador to Qatar (1995-1998)
133. Victor L. Tomseth – Ambassador to Laos (1993-1996)
134. Nicholas Veliotes – Ambassador to Egypt (1984-1986), Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern and South Asian Affairs (1981-1984), and Ambassador to Jordan (1978-1981)
135. Edward S. Walker, Jr. – Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs (2000-2001), Ambassador to Israel (1997-1999), Egypt (1994-1997), United Arab Emirates (1989-1992)
136. Lannon Walker – Ambassador to Cote d’Ivoire (1995-1998), Nigeria (1989-1992), Senegal (1985-1988)
137. James D. Walsh – Ambassador to Argentina (2000-2003)
138. Alexander F. Watson – Ambassador to Peru (1986-1989), Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs (1993-1996)
139. Linda E. Watt – Ambassador to Panama (2002-2005)
140. Pamela A. White – Ambassador to Haiti (2012-2015), and The Gambia (2010-2012)
141. Ashley Wills – Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Republic of Maldives (2000-2003)
142. Joseph C. Wilson – Ambassador to Gabon and to Sao Tome and Principe (1992-1995)
143. Andrew J. Winter – Ambassador to The Gambia (1993-1995)
144. Frank G. Wisner – Ambassador to India (1994-1997), Under Secretary of Defense for Policy (1993-1994), Under Secretary of State for International Security Affairs (1992-1993), Ambassador to the Philippines (1991-1992), Egypt (1986-1991), and Zambia (1979-1982)
145. Kenneth Yalowitz – Ambassador to Georgia (1998-2001) and Belarus (1994-1997)
146. John M. Yates – Ambassador to Republics of Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea (1998-2001), Republic of Benin (1995-1998), Republic of Cape Verde (1983-1986)
147. Mary Carlin Yates – Ambassador to Ghana (2002-2005), and Burundi (1999-2002)
148. Johnny Young – Ambassador to Slovenia (2001-2004), Kingdom of Bahrain (1997-2001), Togo (1994-1997), Sierra Leone (1989-1992)
149. Stephen M. Young – Ambassador to Kyrgyz Republic (2003-2005)

For all the latest, follow our Scheduled Events page and follow Clinton on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram. Also, be sure to subscribe to the campaign’s official Podcast, With Her.

News Source: Ambassadors for Clinton

Campaign Events held in support of Clinton in PA, OH, and NH

Today, a number of politicians and celebrities campaigned in support of Hillary Clinton while she prepares for Monday’s night’s debate with Republican Donald Trump. Chelsea Clinton began at an event at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown in Pennsylvania. Chelsea spoke about her mother’s career saying, “I’m supporting her because she’s the most qualified person for the job.” Chelsea discussed a number of Hillary’s key platform points, including her plans to reduce the debt of students and ensure future generations of students can graduate from college debt-free.

Chelsea then traveled to Youngstown, Ohio where she was joined by actress Sally Field. At the event, Chelsea and Field spoke about why they are supporting Hillary and urged Ohioans to register to vote. Field said that she is a long time supporter of Hillary and will continue to work to ensure she is elected. Chelsea echoed that sentiment, and spoke about a number of Hillary’s proposals and how they differ from Trump’s. “Various analyst say that his tax plans would raise taxes on tens of millions of working class families, including millions of single mothers. I don’t think that’s a family value whether you’re standing here in Youngstown or anywhere across the country,” she said. A video from the Johnstown event is available on CSPAN.

In New Hampshire, Senator Elizabeth Warren spoke at a series of events across the state. She spoke at canvass events in Nashua and Manchester before speaking at an organizing event in Durham. At each of the events, Warren fired up supporters and volunteers by speaking about the importance of the election. Warren went after Trump calling him a “pathological liar” and attacked his hateful campaign. She said, “We’re here to say hate is not OK. We build a stronger America together. That’s what this is about.” In addition to Clinton, Warren also pledged her support for New Hampshire Governor Maggie Hassan who is seeking a seat in the US Senate. Videos from today’s event will be added when/if available.

Members from the cast of West Wing were also on the campaign trail today in Ohio. Actors Richard Schiff, Allison Janney, Bradley Whitford, Dulé Hill, Joshua Malina, and Mary McCormack attended events in Boardman, Garfield Heights, Sandusky, Toledo. At each of the events, the actors took turns speaking to supporters and volunteers urging them to support Hillary and to register to vote by Ohio’s October 11 deadline. The cast members will remain in Ohio on Sunday for events in Columbus and Dayton.

For all the latest, follow our Scheduled Events page and follow Clinton on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram. Also, be sure to subscribe to the campaign’s official Podcast, With Her.

News Source: The Daily Item, The Tribune-Democrat, Trib Today, WKBN, Boston Globe, Boston Herald, ABC News, WKYC

Hillary Clinton Meets with Bipartisan Group of National Security Officials

On Friday, Hillary Clinton convened a group of bipartisan National Security experts to discuss a number of global issues. The key focus of the group’s discussion was defeating ISIS and combating terrorism. Following the meeting, Clinton held a press briefing during which she spoke about the importance of Republicans and Democrats working together on issues of national security. She also criticized Donald Trump saying that the experts she has spoken with are “chilled” by what Trump has said and proposed. A video of Clinton’s remarks is below as is a release from Hillary for America about the meeting, including list of those who attended.

Hillary Clinton today brought together a bipartisan group of distinguished national security officials to discuss the challenges our next commander-in-chief will face. Today’s conversation, which focused largely on defeating ISIS and the global network of terrorism, gave Clinton the opportunity to discuss these crucial issues with a wide range of experts with different background and diverse perspectives – something she has always been deeply committed to and will continue to seek as president.

Clinton said, “We won’t always see eye to eye, but when it comes to questions of war, peace and the safety of our country, we can’t let party affiliations stand between us. We need to put partisanship aside and work together for the good of all of us. I know we can do it. I have seen it happen under both Republican and Democratic presidents. That will be my goal if I am elected this fall.”

…

Clinton added, “National security experts on both sides of the aisle are chilled by what they’re hearing from the Republican nominee. That may be the number one reason why this election is the most important in our lifetime. So I’m not waiting until November, I’m bringing Democrats and Republicans together now because I plan to get right down to work on Day One. The stakes are too high, and the issues too serious for anything less than that level of preparedness. Americans should be able to count on their president and Commander-in-Chief to provide rational, confident and even keeled leadership, especially in tumultuous times like these so I’m very grateful to the men and women that I met with today — experts with a broad range of understanding and willingness to share their insights– and I look forward to receiving their advice in the days and weeks ahead.”

Today’s conversation included a wide range of experts, including nonpartisan military leaders as well as top national security officials who served under both Democratic and Republican administrations.

Working Session Participants:

• General John Allen, USMC (ret.), former Special Envoy for the Global Coalition to Counter ISIS, former Commander of the International Security Assistance Force and U.S. Forces Afghanistan (via videoconference)
• Rand Beers, former Deputy Homeland Security Advisor and former Acting Secretary of Homeland Security
• Daniel Benjamin, Former Ambassador-at-large and Coordinator for Counterterrorism at the U.S. Department of State
• Ambassador Reuben Brigety, Former U.S. Ambassador to the AU, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs
• Secretary Michael Chertoff, former Secretary of Homeland Security
• Richard Fontaine, former foreign policy advisor to Senator John McCain
• Chris Fussell, former Aide-de-Camp to then-Lieutenant General Stanley McChrystal at the Joint Special Operations Command, former Navy Seal
• Kathleen Hicks, former Principal Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Policy, former Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Strategy, Plans, and Forces
• Juliette Kayyem, former Assistant Secretary for Intergovernmental Affairs at the Department of Homeland Security
• Michael Morell, former Acting Director and Deputy Director of the CIA
• Secretary Janet Napolitano, former Secretary of Homeland Security (via videoconference)
• Matt Olsen, former Director of the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC)
• General David Petraeus, USA (ret.), former Director of the CIA, former Commander of the International Security Assistance Force and U.S. Forces Afghanistan (via videoconference)
• Admiral James Stavridis, USN (ret.), former Supreme Allied Commander of NATO (via videoconference)
• Vikram Singh, Former Deputy Assistant secretary of Defense for South and Southeast Asia
• Michael Vickers, former Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence

This morning, the campaign also rolled out an updated list of 110 retired generals and admirals who have endorsed Hillary Clinton as the only candidate in this race prepared to be commander-in-chief, 15 of whom came out in the 48 hours after the Commander-In-Chief Forum.

Clinton is honored by the overwhelming support of those who have served our country and looks forward to continuing these important national security discussions with bipartisan leaders in the coming months. In a new Hillary for America television ad released today, Hillary Clinton makes the case that the “Only Way” we solve problems is bringing people together like she did today.

For all the latest, follow our Scheduled Events page and follow Clinton on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram. Also, be sure to subscribe to the campaign’s official Podcast, With Her.

News Source: The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, CNN

Hillary for America Statement on Trump’s Misleading Ad

Hillary for America responded to Donald Trump’s latest ad with a point-by-point memo. A copy of the release is below.

Hillary for America Statement on Trump’s Misleading Ad

Today, in response to Donald Trump’s new divisive and misleading campaign ad, HFA Deputy Communications Director Christina Reynolds offered the following statement:

“From his divisive rhetoric to his erratic efforts to alienate our allies to his dangerous plans, Donald Trump has made our country less safe already. He is temperamentally unfit and unqualified to be commander in chief. No misleading ad can change the fact that Hillary Clinton is the only candidate with the experience and judgment to lead the country and keep our families safe.”

Transcript	Record
V/O: In Hillary Clinton’s America, the system stays rigged against Americans.	POLITIFACT FOUND TRUMP’S CLAIM THAT THE ELECTION WAS “RIGGED” TO BE “PANTS ON FIRE” Politifact: Voter Fraud Is Extremely Rare, And Experts Say Attempts To “Buy” An Election Cannot Be Replicated On A National Scale. “Trump has repeatedly claimed that the U.S. election system is rigged. He has cited examples of voter fraud, which is extremely rare, often unintentional and not on a scale large enough to affect a national election. While there are isolated examples of bought local elections, experts say it cannot be replicated on a national scale. While it is possible to tamper with electronic voting machines, there is no evidence deliberate malfeasance has altered any election. We rate Trump’s claim Pants on Fire.” [Politifact, 8/15/16] Politifact: “You’re More Likely To Get Struck By Lightning Than To Find Voter Fraud.” “News 21 found just 150 alleged cases of double voting, 56 cases of noncitizens voting, and 10 cases of voter impersonation across all elections from 2000 to 2011. Many of these never led to charges, while others were acquitted or dismissed. Justin Levitt, a professor at Loyola Law School and an expert on voter fraud, found an even smaller number: 31 credible incidents out of more than 1 billion votes cast from 2000 to 2014. Put it in another way: You’re more likely to get struck by lightning than to find voter fraud. When voter fraud does occur, it’s not always intentional. Multiple studies have traced known cases not to willful deception but to clerical errors or confusion.” [Politifact, 8/15/16] TRUMP HAS BEEN EXCORIATED BY LEGAL EXPERTS AND EDITORIAL BOARDS FOR HIS FALSE SUGGESTIONS THAT THE ELECTION WILL BE “RIGGED” HEADLINE: “Trump’s Accusation Of Voter Fraud In PA Is Offensive” [Editorial, Philadelphia Inquirer, 8/19/16] HEADLINE: “Trump ‘Rigging’ Claim Is Reckless” [Editorial, Columbus Dispatch, 8/7/16] HEADLINE: “The Election Isn’t Rigged Against Trump; It’s Rigged In His Favor”[Editorial, Newark Star-Ledger, 8/8/16] HEADLINE: “If You’re Worried About Rigged Elections, Look At Trump’s Tactics First” [Richard Hasen, Los Angeles Times, 8/16/16] Election Law Expert Richard Hasen: “If Anyone Is Trying To Rig The Vote, It’s Trump.” “Maybe Trump is bluffing too, but his words are dangerous and his actions are irresponsible. By claiming the vote is rigged, he undermines the public’s confidence in the election results. And by exhorting his supporters to show up at the polls to look for rigging in “certain sections” of battleground states, he is encouraging behavior that could prevent eligible voters from casting their ballots. If anyone is trying to rig the vote, it’s Trump.” [Richard Hasen, Los Angeles Times, 8/16/16] •    Election Law Expert Richard Hasen: “But If There’s A Threat To The Integrity Of The Election, It’s Coming From Trump Himself.” [Richard Hasen, Los Angeles Times, 8/16/16] TRUMP HAS REPEATEDLY CLAIMED A RIGGED SYSTEM WHERE NONE EXISTED Politifact: Trump Complained About Caucus Rules Put In Place When The Race Had 17 Candidates, And “There Is No Evidence The Rules Were Designed To Favor A Specific Candidate, Nor That The Context Was Fixed Or “Rigged.”” “After Ted Cruz swept all 34 delegates at the Colorado Republican convention, Trump branded the state GOP’s caucus system “rigged” and “crooked.” […] The delegate selection process is dominated by party activists and insiders, and this year’s caucuses were hampered — at best — by confusion and technical glitches. But Trump is complaining about rules that were put in place in August, when the Republican presidential race was clogged with 17 candidates. There is no evidence the rules were designed to favor a specific candidate, nor that the context was fixed or “rigged.” Trump chose to skip the convention and focus on New York instead. We rated his claim False.” [Politifact, 4/20/16] Politifact: Trump Said Clinton Was Trying To “Rig The Debates,” But “Neither Clinton Nor Her Party Were Involved In Setting Up The Dates For The General-Election Debates.” “Trump said that Clinton and her party “are trying to rig the debates” so that NFL games drain away viewers. However, neither Clinton nor her party were involved in setting up the dates for the general-election debates, as they were during the primary debates. Instead, that task falls to a bipartisan commission that has no connection to either the campaigns or the parties. In fact, the debate dates were chosen seven months before the NFL schedule was even released, making scheduling conflicts almost unavoidable — not the work of one campaign or party. We rate Trump’s statement Pants on Fire.” [Politifact, 8/1/16]
V/O: Syrian refugees flood in	TRUMP’S CLAIM THERE WAS NO SYSTEM TO VET REFUGEES FROM SYRIA WAS FALSE PolitiFact: Donald Trump’s Claim There Was “No System” To Vet Middle Eastern Refugees Was False. “Trump said there is ‘no system to vet’ refugees from the Middle East. While there are concerns about information gaps, a system does exist and has existed since 1980. It involves multiple federal intelligence and security agencies as well as the United Nations. Refugee vetting typically takes one to two years and includes numerous rounds of security checks. We rate Trump’s claim False.” [PolitiFact, 6/13/16] CNN Fact Check: “There Is A Vetting System In Place” To Screen Refugees.“However, Trump continued saying that there is no way to screen those immigrants. There is a vetting system in place, which begins with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, according to the White House. This group collects identification documents, performs an initial assessment, and interviews applicants to confirm refugee status and the need for resettlement. They then refer strong candidates for resettlement to the United States.” [CNN Fact Check, 6/22/16] FactCheck.org Rated Donald Trump’s Claim That “There’s No Way To Screen Syrian Refugees” As False.  “While criticizing Hillary Clinton’s support for admitting more Syrian refugees to the U.S., Trump said that “there’s no way to screen” those refugees to determine “who they are or where they come from.” That’s false. All refugees admitted to the U.S. go through an extensive vetting process that involves multiple federal agencies and can take up to 24 months to complete. The current process for admitting a refugee to the U.S. is very lengthy. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, or sometimes a U.S. embassy, refers a qualified refugee for resettlement in the U.S. After that, there’s an initial multistep security clearance, including the collection of the refugee’s personal data and background information. That is followed by an in-person interview abroad with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, which has to approve the application. The security clearance involves checking the refugee’s name and fingerprints against several government databases. That’s followed by a medical screening and a pairing with one of the voluntary agencies in the U.S. that sponsors refugees. And, finally, there’s another security clearance to check for any new information. That completes the process.”  [Factcheck.org, 7/22/16] Vox Rated Donald Trump’s Claim That “There’s No Way To Screen These Refugees” As False. “Trump says: ‘There’s no way to screen these refugees in order to find out who they are or where they come from.’ In fact: It takes approximately two years to approve a refugee to settle in the US. Most of that time is spent screening the refugee. The process for screening Syrian refugees is so stringent (for example, a refugee who’d once given “a sandwich or a cigarette” to a Syrian rebel soldier would have been banned until last year) that the government rarely let in any before fall 2015. And it’s still not on pace to meet its goal of admitting 10,000 refugees this year because it’s being so careful with the screening process. Ruling: False” [Vox, 7/22/16] AP Fact Checker: “Trump Persists In Making The Bogus Claim That The U.S. Doesn’t Screen Refugees.” “TRUMP: ‘My opponent has called for a radical 550 percent increase in Syrian (refugees). … She proposes this despite the fact that there’s no way to screen these refugees in order to find out who they are or where they come from. I only want to admit individuals into our country who will support our values and love our people.’ THE FACTS: Trump persists in making the bogus claim that the U.S. doesn’t screen refugees. The administration both screens them and knows where they are from. The Department of Homeland Security leads the process, which involves rigorous background checks. Processing of a refugee can take 18 months to two years, and usually longer for those coming from Syria. Refugees are also subject to in-person interviews and fingerprint and other biometric screening.” [AP Fact Check, 7/22/16] Washington Post Fact Checker: Trump Falsely Claimed  “There’s ‘No Way To Screen’  Refugees.” Donald Trump Claim: “My opponent, in Syria — think of this, think of this, this is not believable but this is what’s happening. A 550 percentage increase in Syrian refugees on top of the existing massive refugee flows coming into our country already under the leadership of President Obama. She proposes this despite the fact that there’s no way to screen these refugees in order to find out who they are or where they come from.” “Trump gets it right on the “550” percentage, but falsely claims there’s “no way to screen” refugees. […] The process of vetting refugees starts with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and then continues with checks by U.S. intelligence and security agencies. It takes one to two years, or longer in some cases.” [Washington Post Fact Checker, 7/22/16] CNN Fact Check Rated Trump’s Claim That There “‘No Way To Screen These Refugees” As “False.” “Where he goes awry is in the second half, when Trump says there’s ‘no way to screen these refugees.’ Several government and law enforcement agencies are engaged in the process of screening refugees. Refugees that come to the U.S. undergo several screenings, such as biographic checks, in-person interviews, fingerprinting and medical screenings — all of which involve multiple federal intelligence and security agencies. Syrian refugees in particular go through additional screening, called the Syria Enhanced Review process, which uses information collected from the UN refugee agency to determine whether an applicant needs to go through a fraud or national security unit. […] The effectiveness of these procedures may be a matter of debate, but to say that there is “no way to screen” refugees is false.” [CNN, 7/22/16] NPR Fact Check: The Claim That There’s “No Way” To Screen Syrian Refugees Has Been Rated False. “‘She proposes this despite the fact that there’s no way to screen these refugees in order to find out who they are or where they come from.’ PolitiFact ranked the claim about the lack of a vetting system false.” [NPR, 7/21/16] THE U.S. HAS AN EXTENSIVE SCREENING PROCESS FOR REFUGEES CNN Fact Check: Refugees Are Screened Through Process That Includes The National Counterterrorism Center, FBI, DHS, And The State Department Before Entering The United States, Then They Must Apply For Green Card. “The Resettlement Support Center compiles a file on each refugee and then the security checks begin. The National Counterterrorism Center, FBI, Department of Homeland Security and the State Department are all involved in these security checks. Before arrival in the United States, refugees are interviewed, fingerprinted and given medical screenings, among other security checks.  Finally, they arrive in the United States, go through U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s National Targeting Center and then must apply for a green card within a year of arrival, which triggers another set of security procedures.” [CNN Fact Check, 6/22/16] Jeff Stein: Contrary To Trump’s False Claim That U.S.-Bound Refugees Were Not Screened, U.S. Citizenship And Immigration Services Conducted An “Extensive” And “Onerous” Screening Process. “Trump: ‘There’s no screening for refugees coming to the US We’re not screening people. So why don’t we have an effective screening system? We don’t. We’re being laughed at all over the world. The burden is on Hillary Clinton to tell us why we should admit anyone into our country who supports violence of any kind against gay and lesbian Americans.’ The truth: Trump is wrong: There is an extensive, onerous screening process for refugees who come to America. You can see so yourself here.” Vox’s Jeff Stein linked to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ Refugee Processing and Security Screening website. [Jeff Stein, Vox, 6/13/16] NBC News: Hillary Clinton Supported Accepting Syrian Refugees But There Were “Significant Screening Measures” In Place. “Trump claim: ‘In fact, Hillary Clinton supports a radical 550% increase in Syrian refugees coming into the United States, and that’s an increase over President Obama’s already very high number. Under her plan, we would admit hundreds of thousands of refugees from the most dangerous countries on Earth – with no way to screen who they are or what they believe.’ The facts: Clinton does support a 550% increase over the existing number of Syrian refugees she’d allow — that much is true — but there are significant screening measures. Refugees are subject to the highest level of security checks of any visitors to the U.S., and the process historically takes up to 16-24 months. It involves the United Nations, National Counterterrorism Center, FBI, Department of Homeland Security, and State Department. ‘It would be a cruel irony indeed if ISIS can force families from their homes and then also prevent them from finding new ones,’ she said in a December speech. ‘So after rigorous screening, we should welcome families fleeing Syria.’” [NBC News, 6/22/16] PolitiFact: U.S. Screening Process For Refugees Has Been In Place For Over 30 Years. “Blaming the Orlando massacre on the country’s ‘failed immigration system,’ Donald Trump equated refugee admission to a ‘better, bigger, more horrible version of the legendary Trojan horse.’ […] This is an exaggeration, and one we’ve heard before. While Trump has a point that the system isn’t foolproof, there is a system. It has been in place for over three decades and was retooled after 9/11…The vetting begins with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugee, which determines who counts as a refugee, who should be resettled (about 1 percent) and which countries would take them. This alone can take four to 10 months. If the UNHCR refers refugees to the United States, they then face scrutiny from federal intelligence and security agencies.” [PolitiFact, 6/13/16] Vanity Fair: Hillary Clinton Plan Had “Extremely Strict Security Measures In Place To Vet Refugees Looking To Resettle In The US.” “Trump leaned heavily into post-Orlando anxiety when he slammed Clinton’s plan to increase the number of Syrian refugees by 550 percent. ‘Under her plan, we would admit hundreds of thousands of refugees from the most dangerous countries on Earth—with no way to screen who they are or what they believe,’ he said. While he’s correct about the percentage increase, at least, NBC points out that there would, in fact, be extremely strict security measures in place to vet refugees looking to re-settle in the U.S. The process takes anywhere between 16 to 24 months, involves no less than five governmental agencies cross-checking several databases, and can be halted or reset for numerous reasons. In short, this is definitely a way to screen refugees, as opposed to ‘no way.’” [Vanity Fair, 6/22/16] ABC News: The Claim That “There Is No Way To Screen Syrian Refugees” Is “False,” As The U.S. “Employs A Thorough, Multi-Stage Vetting Process.” “Claim: There is no way to screen Syrian refugees. Rating: False. While intelligence gaps abroad means there’s a degree of risk in resettling refugees from Syria and elsewhere, the U.S. employs a thorough, multi-stage vetting process. […] As flagged in an earlier fact check, the typical vetting process for resettling refugees in the U.S. comprises a series of hurdles, the first of which is to meet the legal definition of a ‘refugee’ (roughly 1 percent of applicants is deemed eligible), which can take up to 10 months.” [ABC News,7/22/16]
V/O: Illegal immigrants convicted of committing crimes get to stay	CLINTON WOULD MAKE IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT “HUMANE, TARGETED, AND EFFECTIVE” AND DEPORT THOSE “INDIVIDUALS WHO POSE A VIOLENT THREAT TO PUBLIC SAFETY” As President, Clinton Would Make Immigration Enforcement “Humane, Targeted, And Effective” And Deport Those “Individuals Who Pose A Violent Threat To Public Safety.” “As President, Hillary will: Enforce immigration laws humanely. Immigration enforcement must be humane, targeted, and effective. Hillary will focus resources on detaining and deporting those individuals who pose a violent threat to public safety, and ensure refugees who seek asylum in the U.S. have a fair chance to tell their stories.” [Hillary for America, accessed 8/15/16] TRUMP’S CLAIMS ON IMMIGRANTS COMMITTING CRIMES HAVE BEEN FOUND TO BE FALSE ABC News: There Was “No Law Enforcement Data To Support” Trump’s Claim That Hundreds Of Recent Immigrants And Their Children Were Convicted Of Terrorism. “Although he was right about Clinton’s desire to bring in more Syrian refugees, Trump quickly strayed from the truth by arguing that many of them are convicted terrorists. ‘Already hundreds of recent immigrants and their children have been convicted of terrorist activity inside the United States. The father of the Orlando shooter was a Taliban supporter from Afghanistan, one of the most repressive anti-gay and anti-woman regimes on earth,’ Trump said today. There is no law enforcement data to support the claim that “hundreds of recent immigrants have been convicted of terrorist” activities.” [ABC News, 6/22/16] Washington Post Fact Checker: “We’re Not Sure Exactly Where Trump Is Getting This Information” That Hundreds Of Migrants And Their Children Had Been Convicted Of Terrorist Activity, “But He Is Still Not Accurate.” “‘Already hundreds of recent immigrants and their children have been convicted of terrorist activity inside the United States.’ This is a revised Trump talking point on migrants convicted of terrorist activity, to include migrants ‘and their children.’ (We previously awarded him Four Pinocchios for claiming that ‘scores’ of ‘recent migrants’ were charged with terrorism.) We’re not sure exactly where Trump is getting this information, but he is still not accurate.” [Fact Checker, Washington Post, 6/23/16]
V/O: Collecting Social Security benefits, skipping the line	UNDOCUMENTED IMMIGRANTS CONTRIBUTE TO SOCIAL SECURITY Undocumented Immigrants Have Contributed $12 Billion To Social Security. “Thus, our projections suggest that the presence of unauthorized workers in the United States has, on average, a positive effect on the financial status of the Social Security program. For the year 2010,1 we estimate that the excess of tax revenue paid to the Trust Funds over benefits paid from these funds based on earnings of unauthorized workers is about $12 billion.” [Social Security Administration, April 2013] Politifact: “It’s Important To Note That Illegal Immigrants Pay An Estimated $12 Billion In Payroll Taxes To Social Security And Don’t Receive Benefits.” “Trump said, “The annual cost of free tax credits alone paid to illegal immigrants quadrupled to $4.2 billion in 2011.” Based on an audit by the Treasury Inspector General, the claim leaves out some context. Trump conflates “illegal immigrants” with “unauthorized workers,” a group composed largely of undocumented immigrants but also legal immigrants and others. The $4.2 billion refers to the amount given in tax credit refunds for children, the large majority of whom are U.S. citizens. And the actual year is 2009, not 2011 (that was the year the report was published). Also, it’s important to note that illegal immigrants pay an estimated $12 billion in payroll taxes to Social Security and don’t receive benefits. So Trump is leaving out a significant part of the picture when it comes to taxes and undocumented workers.” [Politifact, 8/18/15] CLINTON SUPPORTS A PATHWAY TO CITIZENSHIP As President, Clinton Would Introduce Comprehensive Immigration Reform With A Pathway To Full And Equal Citizenship. “Introduce comprehensive immigration reform. Hillary will introduce comprehensive immigration reform with a pathway to full and equal citizenship within her first 100 days in office. It will treat every person with dignity, fix the family visa backlog, uphold the rule of law, protect our borders and national security, and bring millions of hardworking people into the formal economy.” [Hillary for America, accessed 8/19/16] Clinton On Immigration: “I Believe They Do Have to Meet Certain Standards…To Be On A Path To Citizenship.” “I think we have to look at all of these issues. Comprehensive immigration reform with a path to citizenship would deal with a lot of these concerns, not just the 11 million people here: how we would regularize them, what kind of steps they’d have to go through. Because I believe they do have to meet certain standards if they’re going to be on a path to citizenship.” [Vox, 6/22/16] TRUMP AD CITES CENTER FOR IMMIGRATION STUDIES TRUMP HAS BEEN ADVISED BY THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE CENTER FOR IMMIGRATION STUDIES Donald Trump Met With Mark Krikorian And His Campaign Referred To Him As One Of The Top Foreign Policy And National Security Experts In The Country.“‘Today, Mr. Trump convened a meeting of some of the top foreign policy and national security experts in the country to discuss how to win the war against Radical Islamic Terrorism. The participants talked about improving immigration screening and standards to keep out radicals, working with moderate Muslims to foster reforms, and partnering with friendly regimes in the Middle East to stamp out ISIS. This is a stark contrast to Hillary Clinton who wants to bring in 620,000 refugees with no way to screen them, who refuses to say radical Islam, and who bears direct responsibility for the rise of ISIS with her disastrous interventions overseas.’ – Stephen Miller, National Policy DirectorPlease view the list of particpants of the Roundtable on Defeating Radical Islamic Terrorism below: […] 13) Mark Krikorian” [Donald Trump Press Release, 8/17/16] MARK KRIKORIAN HAS SERVED AS THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE CENTER FOR IMMIGRATION STUDIES SINCE 1995 Mark Krikorian Has Served As The Executive Director Of The Center For Immigration Studies Since 1995. “Mark Krikorian, a nationally recognized expert on immigration issues, has served as Executive Director of the Center for Immigration Studies (CIS) since 1995. The Center, an independent, non-partisan research organization in Washington, D.C., examines and critiques the impact of immigration on the United States. Animated by a pro-immigrant, low-immigration vision which seeks fewer immigrants but a warmer welcome for those admitted, the Center was established in 1985 to respond to the need for reliable, fact-based research in the immigration area.” [Center for Immigration Studies, accessed 8/17/16] THE CENTER FOR IMMIGRATION STUDIES “HAS BEEN EXPLICITLY TIED TO WHITE NATIONALISM” HEADLINE: “Anti-Immigrant Center For Immigration Studies Continues To Associate With White Nationalists” [Southern Poverty Law Center, 10/9/15] Southern Poverty Law Center: “Since Its Founding In 1985, CIS Has Been Explicitly Tied To White Nationalism.” “Since its founding in 1985, CIS has been explicitly tied to white nationalism. Its founder, white nationalist John Tanton was responsible for establishing the organized anti-immigrant movement, and, over the past 20 years, the group has been unable to cut these racist ties. [Southern Poverty Law Center, 10/9/15]
V/O: Our border open	MANY INDEPENDENT FACT CHECKS HAVE FOUND CLINTON’S PLAN WOULD NOT CREATE OPEN BORDERS AP Fact Check: “It’s Not True That Clinton’s Plan Would Create Open Borders.”“TRUMP: “She has pledged to grant mass amnesty and in her first 100 days, end virtually all immigration enforcement, and thus create totally open borders in the United States.” THE FACTS: It’s not true that Clinton’s plan would create open borders. Her plan does call for a pathway to citizenship that would allow people currently in the country illegally to stay, but only after going through a series of steps to become a citizen. On enforcement, Clinton has called for focusing on “detaining and deporting those individuals who pose a violent threat to public safety,” but not ending enforcement outright.” [Associated Press, 6/23/16] Politifact: Trump’s Claim That Clinton Supported Totally Open Borders Was “False” And “A Huge Distortion Of Clinton’s Proposals.” “Trump said Clinton’s immigration platform would “create totally open borders.” This is a huge distortion of Clinton’s proposals. Clinton has praised work already done to secure the border, and she said she supported a 2013 bill that would have invested billions more in border security while creating a path to citizenship for some undocumented immigrants. Her plan calls for protecting the border and targeting deportation to criminals and security threats. Her plan would make it easier for many undocumented immigrants to avoid deportation, but that’s not the same as ending all enforcement. We rate this claim False.” [Politifact, 6/23/16] Factcheck.Org: Clinton’s Immigration Policies Were “Far Short Of Advocating For Open Borders.” “At a campaign stop in November, Clinton was even more explicit. “We need to secure our borders, I’m for it, I voted for it, I believe in it, and we also need to deal with the families, the workers who are here, who have made contributions, and their children,” Clinton said in New Hampshire in November. “We can do more to secure our border and we should do more to deal with the 11 or 12 million people who are here, get them out of the shadows.” That’s far short of advocating for open borders.” [FactCheck.org, 7/19/16] Politifact: “Rudy Giuliani Wrongly Says Hillary Clinton Is For Open Borders”[Politifact, 7/18/16] Washington Post Fact Check: Giuliani Repeating Trump’s Claim That Clinton Supported Open Borders “Doesn’t Make It Any More Correct.” “Trump has made the same claim about Clinton recently, but Giuliani repeating it doesn’t make it any more correct. Giuliani exaggerates Clinton’s stance on border security and immigration enforcement. Clinton has said she would expand Obama’s executive actions on immigration, and has advocated comprehensive immigration reform including a pathway to citizenship. But she also has supported enhanced border security. And her immigration proposal includes “humane, targeted and effective” enforcement and focusing immigration resources on detaining and deporting those “who pose a threat to public safety.”” [Washington Post, 7/19/16]
V/O: It’s more of the same, but worse	CLINTON HAS SAID SHE WOULD DEFEND OBAMA’S EXECUTIVE ACTIONS TO KEEP FAMILIES TOGETHER As President, Clinton Will Defend DACA And DAPA And “Do Everything Possible Under The Law To Protect Families.” “As president, Hillary will… Defend President Obama’s executive actions—known as DACA and DAPA—against partisan attacks. The Supreme Court’s deadlocked decision on DAPA was a heartbreaking reminder of how high the stakes are in this election. Hillary believes DAPA is squarely within the president’s authority and won’t stop fighting until we see it through. … Do everything possible under the law to protect families. If Congress keeps failing to act on comprehensive immigration reform, Hillary will enact a simple system for those with sympathetic cases—such as parents of DREAMers, those with a history of service and contribution to their communities, or those who experience extreme labor violations—to make their case and be eligible for deferred action.” [Hillary for America, accessed 8/15/16]
V/O: Donald Trump’s America is secure.	NATIONAL SECURITY EXPERTS SAY TRUMP WOULD MAKE AMERICA LESS SAFE, AND HAS ALREADY Former CIA Director Hayden Agreed Trump Had Become A “Recruiting Sergeant” For ISIS And Al Qaeda And His Comments “Have Already Made Americans Less Safe.” “Former CIA chief Michael Hayden said in a new interview that he agrees that Donald Trump has become a ‘recruiting sergeant’ for terrorists groups such as the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) and al Qaeda. ‘When Mr. Trump says some of the things that he has said — ‘they all hate us,’ ‘we shouldn’t let any of those people in our country’ — what he does is underscore and underpin the fundamentals of [the ISIS] narrative of undying enmity,’ Hayden told Al Jazeera English’s ‘Upfront.’ Trump’s statements ‘have already made Americans less safe,’ Hayden said in the interview, which will air April 1.” [The Hill, 3/29/16] Graham: “Donald Trump’s Foreign Policy Is Isolationism. It Will Lead To Another 9/11.” GRAHAM: “But there’s a civil war going on in the Republican Party, obviously. John and I are very close friends, but he’s embracing Donald Trump, and I am not. Why? Because I believe Donald Trump’s foreign policy is isolationism. It will lead to another 9/11.” [CBS, Face The Nation, 5/1/16] Bob Gates On Trump: “I Have No Idea What His Policy Would Be In Terms Of Dealing With ISIS. I Worry A Little Bit About His Admiration For Vladimir Putin.”JOHN DICKERSON: We began by asking him for his thoughts on Donald Trump. FMR. SEC. BOB GATES: Well, I have some real issues with things he’s said about national security policy. And some concerns. I think there are some contradictions. You can’t have a trade war with China and then turn around and ask them to help you on North Korea. I have no idea what his policy would be in terms of dealing with ISIS. I worry a little bit about his admiration for Vladimir Putin. […] I guess one of the things that makes it challenging for me is that he seems to think that he has all the answers. And that he doesn’t need any advice from staff or anybody else. And that he knows more about these things than anybody else. And doesn’t really feel the need to surround himself with informed advisors. You know, I worked for some very different presidents of those eight. People would say, ‘How could you work for both Barack Obama and George W. Bush.’ I remind them, ‘Well, I worked for Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan.’ The difference is, each one of those presidents, as strong minded as each of them was, understood he did not have all the answers and surrounded himself with experienced, thoughtful people who would give good advice and they were willing to listen. [CBS, Face The Nation, 5/15/16] HEADLINE: “50 G.O.P. Officials Warn Donald Trump Would Put Nation’s Security ‘At Risk’” [New York Times, 8/8/16] •    Fifty Senior Republican National Security Officials Signed A Letter Declaring Trump “Would Be The Most Reckless President In American History.” “Fifty of the nation’s most senior Republican national security officials, many of them former top aides or cabinet members for President George W. Bush, have signed a letter declaring that Donald J. Trump ‘lacks the character, values and experience’ to be president and ‘would put at risk our country’s national security and well-being.’ Mr. Trump, the officials warn, ‘would be the most reckless president in American history.’” [New York Times, 8/8/16] •    The Experts Wrote That Trump “Lacks The Temperament To Be President” And Has “Dangerous Qualities” For Someone Who Would Command The Nuclear Arsenal. “In the new letter, the group warns Trump ‘lacks the temperament to be President.’ ‘He is unable or unwilling to separate truth from falsehood. He does not encourage conflicting views. He lacks self-control and acts impetuously. He cannot tolerate personal criticism. He has alarmed our closest allies with his erratic behavior,’ the letter claims. ‘All of these are dangerous qualities in an individual who aspires to be President and Commander-in-Chief, with command of the U.S. nuclear arsenal.’” [CNN, 8/8/16] 121 Republican National Security Experts Wrote An Open Letter Saying They Would Not Support Trump For President. “We the undersigned, members of the Republican national security community, represent a broad spectrum of opinion on America’s role in the world and what is necessary to keep us safe and prosperous. We have disagreed with one another on many issues, including the Iraq war and intervention in Syria. But we are united in our opposition to a Donald Trump presidency. Recognizing as we do, the conditions in American politics that have contributed to his popularity, we nonetheless are obligated to state our core objections clearly: His vision of American influence and power in the world is wildly inconsistent and unmoored in principle. He swings from isolationism to military adventurism within the space of one sentence. His advocacy for aggressively waging trade wars is a recipe for economic disaster in a globally connected world. […] He is fundamentally dishonest. Evidence of this includes his attempts to deny positions he has unquestionably taken in the past, including on the 2003 Iraq war and the 2011 Libyan conflict. We accept that views evolve over time, but this is simply misrepresentation. […] Mr. Trump’s own statements lead us to conclude that as president, he would use the authority of his office to act in ways that make America less safe, and which would diminish our standing in the world. Furthermore, his expansive view of how presidential power should be wielded against his detractors poses a distinct threat to civil liberty in the United States. Therefore, as committed and loyal Republicans, we are unable to support a Party ticket with Mr. Trump at its head. We commit ourselves to working energetically to prevent the election of someone so utterly unfitted to the office.” [War On The Rocks, 3/2/16] UNDER TRUMP’S PLANS, THE ECONOMY WOULD LOSE NEARLY 3.5 MILLION JOBS AND FALL INTO A “LENGTHY RECESSION” Moody’s Analytics: Under Trump’s Policies, The Economy Would Lose Nearly 3.5 Million Jobs And Fall Into A “Lengthy Recession.” “This paper assesses the macroeconomic consequences of presidential candidate Donald Trump’s proposed economic policies. These include his policies on taxes and government spending, immigration, and international trade. […] The U.S. economy will weaken significantly if Mr. Trump’s economic policies are fully implemented as he has proposed. The economy will suffer a recession that begins in early 2018 and extends into 2020 (see Table 1). During this downturn, real GDP will decline peak to trough by close to 2.4%. This would be an unusually lengthy recession—even longer than the Great Recession—although the severity of the decline in economic activity would be more consistent with a typical recession suffered since World War II. Employment will continue to decline and unemployment will rise into the next presidential term, with the unemployment rate peaking at 7.4% in summer 2021. […] By the end of his presidency, there are close to 3.5 million fewer jobs and the unemployment rate rises to as high as 7%, compared with below 5% today. During Mr. Trump’s presidency, the average American household’s after-inflation income will stagnate, and stock prices and real house values will decline.” [Moody’s Analytics, 6/17/16]
V/O: Terrorists and dangerous criminals kept out, the border secure, our families safe.	TRUMP’S BORDER WALL PROPOSAL WAS RIDICULED AS IMPRACTICAL, UNNECESSARY, AND INEFFECTIVE Rick Perry Agreed Trump’s Proposed Border Wall Could Not Be Built: “It’s A Technological Wall, It’s A Digital Wall… There Are Some That Hear This Is Going To Be 1,200 Miles From Brownsville To El Paso, 30-Foot High, And Listen, I Know You Can’t Do That.” “Donald Trump’s proposal to build a wall along the expanse of the United States’ border with Mexico is not going to happen, as far as former Texas Gov. Rick Perry is concerned. At least not in the physical sense. ‘I’m for Donald Trump, and he says we’re going to build a wall, the Mexicans are gonna pay for it,’ Perry told Snapchat’s Peter Hamby on ‘Good Luck America.’   Hamby remarked, ‘It’s not going to happen.’ ‘Well, it’s not,’ Perry said, explaining, ‘It’s a wall, but it’s a technological wall, it’s a digital wall.’ Perry, who is supporting Trump, commented, ‘There are some that hear this is going to be 1,200 miles from Brownsville to El Paso, 30-foot high, and listen, I know you can’t do that.’” [Politico, 7/11/16] Politico: “Almost No One In The Rio Grande Valley—Including The Border Patrol Itself—Thinks ‘The Wall’ Is A Good Idea. The Wall, From Their Viewpoint, Is An Expensive, Pointless Boondoggle.” “Given the union’s strong support for Trump, you might be surprised to discover that many Border Patrol agents have one small policy difference with the candidate: Almost no one in the Rio Grande Valley—including the Border Patrol itself—thinks ‘The Wall’ is a good idea. The Wall, from their viewpoint, is an expensive, pointless boondoggle, and wouldn’t solve the main problems with border security.” [Politico Magazine, 7/18/16] Security Experts Were More Concerned With The United States’ Northern Border From A Terrorism Perspective Than The Southern Border That Would Be Addressed By Trump’s Border Wall. “Trump’s Wall also belies another complicated reality: Security experts and CBP officials say that from a terrorism perspective, they’re more concerned about the northern border, which is much more loosely patrolled and has virtually no fencing, even as Canada struggles with its own homegrown radicalization problems. While there’s plenty of human and narcotics smuggling across the U.S.-Mexico border, and nearly 90 percent of the Border Patrol is focused on the southern border, no terrorist has ever used it to enter the United States illegally. For all the heated political rhetoric about ISIL sneaking over from Mexico, all domestic terror attacks have been carried out by people who flew into the United States on commercial airliners or by terrorists who were legally in the country—and would-be terrorists have been stopped sneaking across only one of the U.S. land borders: the northern one.” [Politico Magazine, 7/18/16]
V/O: Change that makes America safe again. Donald Trump for president.   DONALD TRUMP: I’m Donald Trump, and I approve this message.

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Memo: Trump Unfit To Be Commander In Chief

Today, Jake Sullivan, Hillary for America Senior Policy Advisor, released the following memo outlining the campaign’s arguments as to why they believe Donald Trump is unfit to be president. The full release and video are below.

To: Interested Parties
From: Jake Sullivan, Hillary For America Senior Policy Adviser
Re: Trump Unfit To Be Commander In Chief
Date: Monday, August 15, 2016

This is not a normal election. Simply put, Donald Trump is unfit to be our commander in chief. This isn’t overcranked campaign rhetoric – national security experts across the political spectrum are issuing the same warning.

Trump is erratic. He’s thin-skinned. He’s vindictive. He praises dictators and displays a strange affinity for Putin. He trash talks America and threatens to abandon our allies. He uses dangerous rhetoric and proposes dangerous policies that play into the hands of terrorists. He talks casually about nuclear weapons. He knows nothing about foreign policy and he has no interest in learning.

Last week, we got yet another clear and alarming reminder of his lack of fitness for the job.  Reading off the talking points of Vladimir Putin and our other adversaries, Trump falsely claimed that Barack Obama founded ISIS. The world noticed. Just days later, the leader of Hezbollah – a terrorist organization that seeks Israel’s destruction – approvingly quoted Trump’s comments.

Hillary Clinton is uniquely qualified and prepared to assume the role of commander in chief. And Donald Trump is uniquely unqualified. She has serious plans to make our country more secure, and a record of leadership to back it up. He has neither. She is proud to call herself an American and of her work as a public servant. He calls America a third-world country.

The choice is clear. It’s not a choice between a Democrat and a Republican, but between a responsible leader who will keep us safe, and a volatile man who threatens our security.

Background:

Arrogance And Ignorance: A Dangerous Combination

When it comes to foreign policy – just like everything else – Donald Trump is convinced he knows more than anyone in the room. Asked who he consults to help shape his views, Trump explained that he mostly just relies on himself because he has “a very good brain.” His lack of interest in learning from others is reflected in his lack of knowledge of basic facts on foreign affairs:

• Donald Trump on who he speaks to on foreign policy: “I’m speaking with myself, number one, because I have a very good brain and I’ve said a lot of things.”

• Donald Trump on foreign policy experts: “Honestly, most of them are no good.”

• Donald Trump: “I know more about ISIS than the generals do. Believe me.”

• Washington Examiner: Trump says he has a secret plan to beat the Islamic State

• USA Today: Trump attributes Russia knowledge to hosting Miss Universe pageant there

• Boston Globe Editorial: “Not only did Trump not know the basics of the US nuclear triad (the Pentagon’s land, sea, and air contingent of nuclear forces)…”

• Times of Israel: Trump can’t differentiate between Hamas, Hezbollah

• Washington Post: Trump’s top example of foreign experience: A Scottish golf course losing millions

• Donald Trump: “Don’t tell me [torture] doesn’t work — torture works. (It doesn’t.)

• Weekly Standard: Trump Confuses Iran’s Quds Forces and Kurds Fighting ISIS

Proposals Trump Has Made Would Make Us Less Safe

Donald Trump has offered a lot of rhetoric but very few actual proposals. The few plans he has put forth – like his Muslim ban – are out of step with our values and our common sense. From suggesting we should abandon our allies to calling for bringing back torture, Trump’s policies would make us less safe. Some align with Vladimir Putin’s interests and not with American interests; others play into ISIS’ hands:

• Donald Trump: Donald J. Trump is calling for a total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States until our country’s representatives can figure out what is going on.

• Donald Trump: “It’s really rather amazing, maybe Syria should be a free zone for ISIS, let them fight and then you pick up the remnants.”

• Vox: Donald Trump: make America great again by letting more countries have nukes

• Donald Trump: “We don’t really need NATO in its current form. NATO is obsolete… if we have to walk, we walk.”

• BBC: Trump says US may abandon automatic protections for NATO countries

• Politico: Trump calls Geneva Conventions ‘the problem’

• Donald Trump: “The other thing with the terrorists is you have to take out their families”

• Donald Trump: “Don’t tell me it doesn’t work — torture works… Waterboarding is fine, but it’s not nearly tough enough, ok?”

• Donald Trump: “The case could be made, that let [Japan] protect themselves against North Korea. They’d probably wipe them out pretty quick….Good luck, folks, enjoy yourself. If they fight, that would be terrible, right? But if they do, they do.

• AP: Donald Trump encourages Russian hackers to spy on Hillary Clinton

• Politico: Trump changed views on Ukraine after hiring Manafort

• New York Times: “It is not clear that Mr. Manafort’s work in Ukraine ended with his work with Mr. Trump’s campaign. A communications aide for Mr. Lyovochkin, who financed Mr. Manafort’s work, declined to say whether he was still on retainer or how much he had been paid.”

• Mother Jones: Is Donald Trump’s Campaign Manager Still on the Payroll of a Ukrainian Political Leader?

• New York Times: “Handwritten ledgers show $12.7 million in undisclosed cash payments designated for Mr. Manafort from Mr. Yanukovych’s pro-Russian political party from 2007 to 2012, according to Ukraine’s newly formed National Anti-Corruption Bureau. Investigators assert that the disbursements were part of an illegal off-the-books system whose recipients also included election officials.”

• New York Times: “A separate deal also funneled Russian-linked oligarchic money into Ukraine… Mr. Deripaska agreed to pay a 2 percent annual management fee to Mr. Manafort and his partners, and put $100 million into the fund…”

Dangerous Rhetoric: Trump Praises Dictators, Bashes America And Our Leaders, Stokes Islamophobia

The Trump *candidacy* alone is undermining our national security.  He is the nominee representing one of America’s two major political parties.  His words matter.  Whether he’s praising dictators, channeling the talking points of our enemies, attacking American leaders and those who have sacrificed the most for our country, or stoking Islamophobia, those words are doing harm to our friends and emboldening our adversaries:

• Donald Trump: “You’ve got to give [Kim Jong Un] credit. How many young guys — he was like 26 or 25 when his father died — take over these tough generals…. It’s incredible. He wiped out the uncle. He wiped out this one, that one.”

• NBC News: Trump Calls Tiananmen Square Protests a ‘Riot,’ Defends Calling Crackdown ‘Strong’

• Donald Trump: “I will tell you in terms of leadership [Putin] is getting an ‘A,’ and our president is not doing so well.”

• Washington Post: Donald Trump praises Saddam Hussein for killing terrorists ‘so good’

• Huffington Post: Trump Once Praised Tyrants For Not Being Politically Correct

• International Business Times: Donald Trump: US becoming a ‘third-world country’

• Washington Post: The 100-plus times Donald Trump assured us that America is a laughingstock

• New York Times: Donald Trump Calls Obama ‘Founder of ISIS’ and Says It Honors Him

• ABC News: Hezbollah Leader Echoes Trump That Obama, Clinton Founded ISIS

• Donald Trump: “We don’t even really know who the leader [of ISIS] is.” (We do.)

• Donald Trump: “Our military is a disaster.”

• Washington Post’s Jennifer Rubin: Trump insults Gold Star mom, freaks out U.S. allies

• Donald Trump: “[John McCain’s] not a war hero. He was a war hero because he was captured. I like people who weren’t captured, ok? I hate to tell you.”

• BuzzFeed: Trump: I Don’t Regret McCain Comments, My Poll Numbers Went Up

• Donald Trump on our generals: “Well, they don’t know much, because they’re not winning.”

• Washington Post: Donald Trump says he ‘always wanted to get the Purple Heart’

• Reuters: Trump’s Anti-Muslim Rhetoric Is Fueling More Islamophobic Incidents

• Washington Post’s David Ignatius: Trump’s Islamophobia propels the Islamic State

Independent and Republican Experts Agree: Trump Is Uniquely Dangerous

When all of this is taken together, it paints a striking picture: Donald Trump isn’t a normal presidential nominee. He is a uniquely dangerous candidate. The result? Foreign policy experts across the board – from lifelong Republicans to apolitical national security officials – are speaking out to say they cannot accept the prospect of a Trump presidency:

• New York Times (8/8/16): 50 G.O.P. Officials Warn Donald Trump Would Put Nation’s Security ‘at Risk’: “He does not encourage conflicting views. He lacks self-control and acts impetuously. He cannot tolerate personal criticism. He has alarmed our closest allies with his erratic behavior. All of these are dangerous qualities in an individual who aspires to be president and commander in chief, with command of the U.S. nuclear arsenal.”

• Washington Post (8/8/16): Former GOP national security officials: Trump would be ‘most reckless’ American president in history

• Washington Post (8/4/16): Republicans are among a new list of foreign policy experts denouncing Trump: “We find Trump’s comments to be reckless, dangerous, and extremely unwise.  They contradict a core, bipartisan principle found in every U.S. administration — that our security in North America is indivisible with our democratic allies in Europe.”

• Washington Post (3/3/16): Trump is ‘fundamentally dishonest,’ say GOP national security leaders in open letter: “[Trump’s] vision of American influence and power in the world is wildly inconsistent and unmoored in principle. He swings from isolationism to military adventurism within the space of one sentence.”

• Former Acting CIA Director Mike Morell: In sharp contrast to Mrs. Clinton, Mr. Trump has no experience on national security. Even more important, the character traits he has exhibited during the primary season suggest he would be a poor, even dangerous, commander in chief…. In the intelligence business, we would say that Mr. Putin had recruited Mr. Trump as an unwitting agent of the Russian Federation.”

• GOP Rep. Adam Kinzinger: “I’m an American before I’m a Republican. I’m saying for me personally, how can I support that? Because he’s crossed so many red lines that a commander in chief or a candidate for commander in chief should never cross.”

• GOP Rep. Richard Hanna: “[Trump’s] unhinged. It’s difficult to imagine why anyone could support him. He comes across as a demagogue. He comes across as a guy who, frankly, Putin has made a fool of.”

• ABC News: Gen. John Allen Says Donald Trump Could Cause ‘Civil Military Crisis’: “What we do have to do, George, is listen to what he’s been saying about our military,” Allen said. “He’s called it a disaster. He says our military can’t win anymore. That’s a direct insult to every single man and woman who’s wearing the uniform today.”

• Defense One: Former Bush Officials — Negroponte and Donley — Endorse Clinton. Former Air Force Secretary Michael Donley: “Her deep experience in public service, even temperament, willingness to listen to others and unifying message stands in stark contrast with Donald Trump, who has sown divisiveness at home, confused our allies abroad and shown repeatedly that he lacks the temperament, judgment, character and common decency the American people deserve and should expect in their leadership.”

• PoliticsUSA: Former Reagan/Bush Ambassador Calls Trump Incompetent As Republicans Flock To Clinton: “The Republican nominee for President has no government experience and has done nothing in his career to demonstrate that he is competent to be President. He has made repeated misstatements and inaccurate statements. He has insulted minorities, women, a war hero and Gold Star parents. He is unqualified and unfit to be President.”

• Republican foreign policy expert Max Boot: “Trump is an ignorant demagogue who traffics in racist and misogynistic slurs and crazy conspiracy theories. He champions protectionism and isolationism — the policies that brought us the Great Depression and World War II.”

• Former CIA Director Michael Hayden: “The jihadist narrative is that there is undying enmity between Islam and the modern world so when Trump says they all hate us, he’s using their narrative … he’s feeding their recruitment video.”
• Senior Romney Adviser and foreign policy expert, Gabriel Schoenfeld: Donald Trump’s rhetoric is helping ISIS — and vice versa

For all the latest, follow our Scheduled Events page and follow Clinton on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram. Also, be sure to subscribe to the campaign’s official Podcast, With Her.

HFA Statements on Trump Campaign Chair Pro-Kremlin Ties

Hillary for America released two statements following reports that the campaign chair for Donald Trump, Paul Manafort, has ties to pro-Putin elements in Ukraine. Manafort was named in an investigation by Ukrainian authorities. The report sites off the books records of payments to Manafort. The investigation is on-going. HFA Senior Policy Advisor Robby Mook released a statement calling Manafort’s actions into question. A copy of the statement is below.

“On the eve of what the Trump campaign has billed as a major foreign policy speech, we have learned of more troubling connections between Donald Trump’s team and pro-Kremlin elements in Ukraine.  Given the pro-Putin policy stances adopted by Donald Trump and the recent Russian government hacking and disclosure of Democratic Party records, Donald Trump has a responsibility to disclose campaign chair Paul Manafort’s and all other campaign employees’ and advisers’ ties to Russian or pro-Kremlin entities, including whether any of Trump’s employees or advisers are currently representing and or being paid by them.”

As more details were released, the campaign released a second, extended statement from Mook. The statement includes a number of questions for Trump’s campaign as well as a list of members of Trump’s team with Russian Connections. The full statement is below.

“Facing another news story detailing Trump’s team’s ties to Russia and on the day of his foreign policy address, Trump’s campaign manager’s statement raised more questions than it addressed. This is a serious matter and there are real concerns about the pro-Kremlin interests engaged with the Trump team. As someone running to lead American policy and national security, Donald Trump owes the American public answers.”

1. Between Trump’s campaign chair Paul Manafort and many other allies and surrogates, Trump should disclose the details of any ties to Russian or pro-Kremlin entities. Which of Trump’s employees or advisers are currently representing and/or being paid by these pro-Russia entities?  How did these employees or advisers influence the numerous pro-Putin policy stances already adopted by the campaign?

2. Multiple sources have disputed Manafort’s claims on the RNC platform, confirming that the pro-Russia changes were made at the behest of the Trump campaign. Will Trump investigate how the change was made and which of his advisers advocated for it?

3. Given Paul Manafort’s history of potentially skirting the Foreign Agent Registration Act and the allegations in the story, will Trump investigate whether his own campaign chair violated FARA and/or whether the reported payments violated the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act?

4. According to the Washington Post, Trump’s Foreign Policy Adviser Carter Page’s “background in Russia has raised questions about potential conflicts of interest.” Page, who has investments in Russian energy giant Gazprom, has been highly critical of U.S. and European economic sanctions placed on Russia and recently broke precedent by giving a speech critical of U.S. policy while in Moscow. What pro-Kremlin policies has Page advocated with Trump?

5. After recent Russian government hacking and disclosure of Democratic Party records, it was revealed that long-time Trump confidante Roger Stone was in communication with Julian Assange, leader of Wikileaks and source of key leaked information. In light of WikiLeaks reported ties to Russia, will Donald Trump disclose details of information shared between him and Roger Stone on Assange and the hack of US citizens?

Trump Campaign Aides’ Ties To Russia

• Campaign chairman Paul Manafort – Worked for pro-Putin lackey, propelling him to win the Ukrainian presidency. Did extensive business with Russian and Ukrainian oligarchs, including one who made billions from sweetheart deals Putin gave him on Russian oil. Pro-Kremlin Ukrainian leaders and the Trump campaign have refused to answer whether Manafort is still on a Ukrainian party’s payroll.
• Foreign policy adviser Carter Page – Built a career on deals with Russia and its state-run gas company, and remains invested in it. Expressed excitement at the possibility of lifting sanctions. Gave a speech in Moscow this July criticizing the U.S. and calling for closer business coordination with Russia, and was rumored to have met with top Kremlin officials.
• Military adviser Gen. Michael Flynn – Has come under scrutiny for attending Kremlin propaganda outlet RT’s 10th anniversary gala where he sat two seats from Putin. Told Michael Isikoff he was paid for his speech in Russia, but he was paid by his “speakers’ bureau,” which is merely an intermediary.
• Recently departed adviser Michael Caputo – Was sent to Moscow while working for the State Department, but became “friendly with senior Kremlin officials” and State broke ties with him. He went on to earn a contract with the “Russian conglomerate Gazprom Media to improve Putin’s image in the United States.”
• Foreign policy adviser Richard Burt – Sits on the Senior Advisory Board of Alfa Bank, Russia’s largest privately owned bank, and on the Board of Directors of the U.S.-Russia Business Council, which lobbies against U.S. sanctions on Russia. Burt has “expressed skepticism of the relevance of NATO.”
• Economic adviser & fundraiser Howard Lorber – Traveled with Donald Trump to Moscow in the late 90s seeking a real estate deal. Trump once bragged to a Russian politician, “Howard has major investments in Russia.”
• Trump adviser & surrogate Boris Epshteyn – Moscow-born investment banker who served as the moderator for a 2013 at the “Invest In Moscow!” Conference in New York. Has echoed Kremlin talking points as a Trump surrogate on TV, claiming that Russia did not seize Crimea.
• Trump Adviser Rick Gates – Longtime partner of Manafort’s who has been involved with the same Pro-Putin Russian and Ukrainian oligarchs as Manafort.

For all the latest, follow our Scheduled Events page and follow Clinton on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram. Also, be sure to subscribe to the campaign’s official Podcast, With Her.

News Source: CNN

Hillary Clinton Endorsed by Bipartisan Business Leaders

Today, Hillary Clinton received the endorsement of a unified list of business leaders, many of whom have identified with the Republican Party. Several of the business leaders released statements explaining that they supported Clinton because of her vast experience and her vision for the future of the United States economy. A list of the business leaders is below:

• Miki Agrawal, Founder and CEO of Thinx
• Dan Akerson, Former Chairman and CEO of General Motors
• Richard Anderson, Executive Chairman, Delta Air Lines, Inc.
• Stewart Bainum Jr., Chairman of Choice Hotels International
• James Bell, Former Interim CEO of Boeing; Former Corporate President and CFO of Boeing
• Marc Benioff, Chairman and CEO of Salesforce
• Nathan Blecharczyk, Co-Founder and CTO of Airbnb
• Jeff Brotman, Co-Founder and Chairman of Costco Wholesale Corporation
• Warren E. Buffett, Chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, Inc.
• Robert Burt, Retired Chairman, CEO FMC Corporation; Former Chairman Business Roundtable
• Ron Busby, President and CEO of the U.S. Black Chambers
• Brook Byers, Partner, Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers
• Peter Chernin, CEO, The Chernin Group
• Brian Chesky, Co-Founder and CEO of Airbnb
• Jim Cicconi, Senior Executive Vice President, AT&T Services, Inc.
• David Crane, Former CEO of NRG Energy, Inc.
• Erroll Davis, Retired Chancellor, University System of Georgia
• Barry Diller, Chairman and Senior Executive of IAC and Expedia
• John Doerr, Partner at Kleiner, Perkins, Caufield, and Byers
• Margot Dorfman, President and CEO of U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce
• Candy Ergen, Co-Founder, DISH Network
• Joe Gebbia, Co-Founder and CPO of Airbnb
• Reed Hastings, Founder and CEO of Netflix
• Reid Hoffman, Partner at Greylock
• Drew Houston, Founder and CEO of Dropbox
• George Hume, President and CEO of Basic American Foods
• Irwin Jacobs, Founding Chairman and CEO Emeritus of Qualcomm
• Paul Jacobs, Executive Chairman, Qualcomm
• Leila Janah, Founder and CEO of Sama and Laxmi
• Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Chairman and CEO, Magic Johnson Enterprises
• Robert Johnson, Chairman, The RLJ Companies and Founder of Black Entertainment Television
• Andrea Jung, CEO of Grameen America, and Former CEO of Avon
• Lynn Jurich, CEO and Co-Founder of Sunrun
• David Karp, Founder and CEO of Tumblr
• Ellen Kullman, Former Chair and CEO of DuPont
• Debra Lee, Chairman and CEO of Black Entertainment Television
• Ted Leonsis, Founder and CEO of Monumental Sports & Entertainment
• Aaron Levie, Co-Founder and CEO of Box
• Peter Lowy, CEO of Westfield
• Monica Lozano, Former Chairman and CEO, U.S. Hispanic Media
• Rob Marcus, Former Chairman and CEO Time Warner Cable Inc.
• William L. McComb, CEO (retired) of Liz Claiborne & Fifth and Pacific Companies, Inc.
• Rebecca Minkoff, Founder of Rebecca Minkoff
• Hamid R. Moghadam, Chairman and CEO of Prologis
• James J. Murren, Chairman and CEO, MGM Resorts International and Chairman, MGM Growth Properties
• Charles Phillips, CEO of Infor
• Mark Pincus, Co-Founder of Zynga
• Laura M. Ricketts, Co-Owner, Chicago Cubs
• Gary Rodkin, CEO (retired) of ConAgra Foods
• Sheryl Sandberg, Chief Operating Officer of Facebook
• Eric Schmidt, Executive Chairman of Alphabet
• Jim Sinegal, Co-Founder, Director and former CEO of Costco
• Jeremy Stoppelman, CEO and Co-Founder, Yelp
• Walter Ulloa, Chairman and CEO, Entravision Communications
  Corporation
• Wendell P. Weeks, Chairman of the Board, CEO and President, Corning Incorporated
• Anne Wojcicki, CEO and Co-Founder, 23andme

For all the latest, follow our Scheduled Events page and follow Clinton on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

News Source: Fortune

Bill Clinton Campaigns in Flushing

On Tuesday, Bill Clinton was in New York City where he spoke at an organizing event in Flushing, Queens. Bill spoke about a variety of Hillary Clinton’s platform points including immigration reform, heath care, criminal justice reform, and supporting small businesses. On the topic of small businesses, he said, “New York City’s economy is diversifying … We doubled the number of small business loans to women and to minorities. That’s what Hillary wants to do again.” He then asked voters to support Hillary in New York’s upcoming primary, which will be held on April 19.

In the evening, Bill attended a gala hosted by Emily’s List. During the event, he spoke about Hillary’s plans and criticized the Republicans and their policies. He called out Donald Trumps proposals to ban Muslims from entering the country and building a wall that Mexico will pay for. He said that neither plan will work and it doesn’t get to the root of the problem. Bill stressed the importance of working with Silicon Valley companies to fight terrorism because while it may be possible to keep people from crossing the border, “you cannot keep the social media out.” A video from today’s events will be added when/if available.

Meanwhile, Chelsea Clinton attended a fundraiser in Brooklyn, New York. A second fundraiser was held on behalf of Hillary for America in New York City. It was hosted by Entrepreneurs for Hillary and featured a conversation with the Kitchen co-founder Kimbal Musk. The event was hosted by Laetitia and Richard Garriott de Cayeux.

For all the latest, follow our revamped Scheduled Events page and follow Clinton on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

News Source: Politicio, The New York Daily News