The major news is this: Trump is determined to get his way on healthcare. Yesterday, he signed an Executive Order allowing the sale of cheaper policies with fewer benefits, potentially sending premiums soaring and insurance companies fleeing the ACA’s online marketplaces. It would scrap subsidies for insurance companies to help pay for themedical costs of low-income people. Open enrollment for the ACA begins in just two weeks. Trump will also announce today that he doesn’t plan to certify Iran’s compliance with the nuclear agreement negotiated by former President Barack Obama. During his interview with Sean Hannity, Trump sat and talked through the nightly playing of "Retreat" as the American flag was lowered on a Pennsylvania Air National Guard base. He appeared outright confused by the longstanding military tradition on Wednesday night. But he’s such a champion of the military and standing for the flag. It may be Friday the 13th, but it’s the news coming out of the WH that’s making us feel nervous. We’re kicking off the weekend with this...
- Obama Foundation Summit adds speakers.
- Congresswoman Grace Meng (D-NY) wants Governors to provide products to incarcerated women. Period.
- Kevin de León leaning toward challenging Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA).
- Only POC drops out of IL gov race.
- Congresswomen Maxine Waters (D-CA) and Nydia Velázquez (D-NY) give it to HUD Secretary Dr. Ben Carson straight, no chaser.
- Facebook COO tells CBC members there will be a Black board member -- but when?
- Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-CA) and Congressman G.K. Butterfield (D-NC) head to Silicon Valley to talk diversity in tech.
- Apple Diversity Chief offers an interesting take on what diversity means.
- DACA extension likely if Congress fails to act.
- Congressmen Ami Bera (D-CA) and Darren Soto (D-FL) head to India.
- Former AG Loretta Lynch expected to meet with congressional committees investigating Russia.
- Staffer for Congressman Al Green (D-TX) heads to nonprofit.
- NBC News is opening a bureau in San Juan and also hires new WH correspondent.
- Essence and People en Español magazines downgraded to cut costs.
- Tamron Hall talk show is still a go.
- Obama alumna named to Step Up national board.
- Coalition of groups in Chicago push for community benefits agreement with Obama foundation.
- Senate ramps up efforts to stop drug company patent transfers to tribes.
- Black man beaten in Charlottesville turns himself in to authorities.