Mar 9, 2017

Ben Sasse wrote a Wikileaks-themed open letter to Jeff Sessions

Nati Harnik / AP

During today's White House press briefing, Sean Spicer referred any questions about the president's position regarding the prosecution and detention of Julian Assange to the Department of Justice.

Now Ben Sasse, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Oversight, has taken that advice quite literally in an open letter to Attorney General Jeff Sessions:

"Does the Department of Justice believe Julian Assange has broken the law and is the Department aggressively pursuing his detention and prosecution?Frankly, it is amazing that I even have to ask this question of the Administration in light of the Intelligence Community's formal assessment that Mr. Assange's website is a known outlet for foreign propaganda and in light of Mr. Assange's history of recklessly endangering the lives of Americans through his illegal disclosures. Nevertheless, because Mr. Spicer referred this matter to DOJ, I am now asking you."

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15 states broke single-day coronavirus records this week

Data: Compiled from state health departments by Axios; Map: Danielle Alberti/Axios

At least 15 states broke their single-day novel coronavirus infection records this week, according to state health department data reviewed by Axios.

The big picture: The number of coronavirus cases increased in the vast majority of states over the last week, and decreased in only two states plus the District of Columbia, Axios' Andrew Withershoop and Caitlin Owens report.

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46 mins ago - Health

In photos: America celebrates July 4 during global pandemic

Photo: Francine Orr/Los Angeles Times/Getty Images

The U.S. has already celebrated Easter, graduations and so much more during the coronavirus pandemic, and now it can add July 4 to the list.

The state of play: Axios' Stef Kight writes public parades and fireworks displays around much of the country are being canceled to prevent mass gatherings where the virus could spread. Hot-dog contests and concerts will play to empty stands and virtual audiences — all while American pride treads an all-time low.

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