Oct 1, 2018

White House directs FBI to interview anyone necessary in Kavanaugh probe

Photo: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

The White House has directed the FBI to interview any witness it deems relevant to the investigation of sexual assault allegations against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh as long as the probe is wrapped up by Friday, reports the New York Times.

Why it matters: During a press conference today, President Trump said that he wants a "comprehensive" investigation, but that he will ultimately defer to Senate Republicans to determine the scope. He also tweeted on Saturday that the FBI should interview "whoever they deem appropriate," contradicting an earlier NBC News report that the White House had created a list of potential witnesses for the FBI.

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The downsides of remote work

Data: Reproduced from Prudential/Morning Consult "Pulse of the American Worker Survey"; Chart: Axios Visuals

The coronavirus pandemic has forced a large-scale experiment in working from home. It has gone well enough that many companies are expanding their remote work expectations for the foreseeable future, and remote employees want to continue to work that way.

Yes, but: The downsides of remote work — less casual interaction with colleagues, an over-reliance on Zoom, lack of in-person collaboration and longer hours — could over time diminish the short-term gains.

Go deeper (2 min. read)Arrow7 mins ago - Economy & Business

Hong Kong's economic future hangs in the balance

Illustration: Sarah Grillo/Axios

As Beijing forces a sweeping national security law on Hong Kong, the once semi-autonomous city's status as one of Asia's largest financial hubs is at risk.

Why it matters: Political freedoms and strong rule of law helped make Hong Kong a thriving center for international banking and finance. But China's leaders may be betting that top firms in Hong Kong will trade some political freedoms for the economic prosperity Beijing can offer.

Go deeper (3 min. read)Arrow13 mins ago - Economy & Business

Why space is good politics for Trump

Illustration: Sarah Grillo/Axios

President Trump's exuberance around today's scheduled SpaceX launch — including his decision to travel to Florida to watch — goes beyond a personal fascination with astronauts, rockets, and how to make money and wield power in the next frontier.

The bottom line: There's a presidential election in November, and the U.S. space program enjoys wide support across party lines. It's good politics for Trump, at least for now.

Go deeper (2 min. read)Arrow23 mins ago - Science