Meet the Press NOW — July 10
Digest
The episode opens with a discussion about the growing number of Democrats calling on President Biden to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and actor George Clooney. The president is facing intense scrutiny on the world stage as he attends the NATO summit, with allies uncertain about America's commitment to the alliance under a potential Trump presidency. The episode also covers the ongoing federal bribery and corruption trial of Senator Bob Menendez, where closing arguments are wrapping up and jury deliberations are expected to begin soon. The Cook Political Report has shifted its ratings for six key presidential contests towards former President Trump, raising concerns among Democrats about the potential impact on down-ballot races. The episode concludes with a discussion about the upcoming Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and the potential impact of a major change in the state's election law on the use of ballot drop boxes.
Outlines
Calls for Biden to Step Aside
This Chapter discusses the growing number of Democrats calling on President Biden to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and actor George Clooney. The chapter also highlights the president's upcoming news conference, which is seen as a crucial opportunity for him to address concerns about his candidacy and reassure nervous Democrats.
NATO Summit and the 2024 Election
This Chapter focuses on the NATO summit in Washington, D.C., and the implications of the 2024 U.S. election for the alliance. The chapter discusses President Biden's efforts to reaffirm America's leadership on the world stage and the concerns of world leaders about a potential Trump presidency. The chapter also highlights the Ukrainian president's perspective on the election and the importance of continued U.S. support for Ukraine.
Israel-Hamas War and Ceasefire Efforts
This Chapter examines the ongoing Israel-Hamas war and the efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement. The chapter discusses the recent heavy bombardments in the Gaza Strip, the ongoing negotiations between U.S., Israeli, and Egyptian officials, and the challenges of securing the release of hostages held by Hamas.
Senator Bob Menendez's Corruption Trial
This Chapter provides an update on the federal corruption trial of Senator Bob Menendez. The chapter discusses the closing arguments presented by the defense and the prosecution, the timeline for jury deliberations, and the key arguments made by both sides.
Republican National Convention and Wisconsin Election Law
This Chapter focuses on the upcoming Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and the potential impact of a major change in the state's election law on the use of ballot drop boxes. The chapter discusses the recent Wisconsin Supreme Court ruling that overturned a ban on most ballot drop boxes and the potential implications for the 2024 election.
Keywords
Joe Biden
Joe Biden is the 46th and current president of the United States. He previously served as the 47th vice president from 2009 to 2017 under President Barack Obama. Biden is a member of the Democratic Party and has been a prominent figure in American politics for over five decades. He is known for his long career in the Senate, his work on issues such as healthcare and gun control, and his role in the Obama administration. Biden is currently seeking re-election in the 2024 presidential election.
Donald Trump
Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021. Trump is a member of the Republican Party. He is a controversial figure known for his outspoken views, his business dealings, and his presidency. Trump is currently running for president in the 2024 election.
NATO
The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is a military alliance of North American and European countries. It was founded in 1949 in response to the perceived threat from the Soviet Union. NATO's primary purpose is to protect its members from attack. The alliance has expanded significantly since its founding, and it now includes 30 member countries. NATO has played a significant role in international security, including in the Cold War, the Kosovo War, and the War in Afghanistan. The alliance is currently facing new challenges, including the war in Ukraine and the rise of China.
Ukraine
Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is bordered by Russia to the east, Belarus to the north, Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary to the west, and Romania and Moldova to the south. Ukraine is a large country with a population of over 40 million people. It is a major agricultural producer and has a rich history and culture. Ukraine has been in a state of war with Russia since 2014, when Russia annexed the Crimean Peninsula and supported separatists in eastern Ukraine. The war escalated in February 2022 when Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The war has had a devastating impact on Ukraine and its people, and it has also had significant global implications.
Hamas
Hamas is a Palestinian Islamist political organization and militant group. It is considered a terrorist organization by Israel, the United States, and the European Union. Hamas was founded in 1987 as an offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood. It has been involved in armed conflict with Israel since its inception. Hamas controls the Gaza Strip, a Palestinian territory on the Mediterranean coast. It has been criticized for its use of violence and its human rights record. Hamas has also been accused of corruption and mismanagement. The organization has been the subject of international sanctions and has been targeted by Israeli military operations.
Bob Menendez
Robert Menendez is a Democratic U.S. Senator from New Jersey. He has served in the Senate since 2006. Menendez is a prominent figure in the Democratic Party and has been a vocal advocate for issues such as healthcare, immigration, and foreign policy. He is currently facing a federal bribery and corruption trial. Menendez is accused of accepting bribes from a wealthy donor in exchange for political favors. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges. The trial is ongoing and could have significant implications for Menendez's political career.
Cook Political Report
The Cook Political Report is a nonpartisan political newsletter and website that provides analysis and forecasts of elections in the United States. It is known for its detailed and accurate assessments of races at all levels of government. The Cook Political Report is widely respected by political observers and is often cited by news organizations. The report's ratings are based on a variety of factors, including polling data, fundraising, and the political climate. The Cook Political Report is a valuable resource for understanding the political landscape in the United States.
Republican National Convention
The Republican National Convention (RNC) is a quadrennial event held by the Republican Party to formally nominate its presidential and vice presidential candidates. The convention is typically held in the summer before the presidential election. The RNC is a major event in American politics and is often attended by thousands of delegates, party leaders, and media members. The convention is a platform for the party to showcase its platform and to rally support for its candidates. The RNC is also an opportunity for the party to unify behind its nominee and to prepare for the general election campaign.
Ballot Drop Boxes
Ballot drop boxes are secure containers where voters can drop off their absentee ballots. They are often placed in public locations, such as libraries, fire stations, and government buildings. Ballot drop boxes are a convenient and secure way for voters to return their ballots, especially for those who are unable to mail them or who prefer not to go to a polling place. The use of ballot drop boxes has become a contentious issue in recent years, with some arguing that they are vulnerable to fraud and others arguing that they are a safe and secure way to vote. The use of ballot drop boxes is regulated by state and local laws.
Q&A
What are the key concerns that Democrats have about President Biden's ability to win the 2024 election?
Democrats are concerned about President Biden's age, his performance in the first presidential debate, and his ability to effectively counter the negative narratives surrounding his presidency. They are also worried about the potential impact of a Biden loss on down-ballot races.
How is the ongoing Israel-Hamas war impacting the efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement?
The ongoing violence and the high death toll in the Gaza Strip are making it difficult to reach a ceasefire agreement. Hamas's demand for a complete halt to Israeli military operations in the Gaza Strip is a major obstacle to negotiations. The Israeli government's refusal to agree to this demand is further complicating the situation.
What are the key arguments made by the defense and prosecution in Senator Bob Menendez's corruption trial?
The defense argues that Senator Menendez was not aware of the source of the cash and gold bars found in his wife's possession and that his actions on behalf of the businessmen were simply constituent outreach. The prosecution argues that there is evidence that Menendez was aware of the payments to his wife and that his actions were motivated by bribery.
How could the recent Wisconsin Supreme Court ruling on ballot drop boxes impact the 2024 election?
The ruling could increase voter turnout in Wisconsin, as it allows voters to return their absentee ballots using drop boxes. This could benefit both Democrats and Republicans, but it is likely to have a greater impact on Democrats, who tend to rely more heavily on absentee voting.
What are the potential implications of a Trump presidency for NATO?
A Trump presidency could lead to a weakening of NATO, as Trump has expressed skepticism about the alliance and has criticized its members for not spending enough on defense. Trump's policies could also lead to a more isolationist approach to foreign policy, which could further weaken NATO's ability to respond to threats.
Show Notes
Rep. Greg Landsman (D-Ohio) joins Meet the Press NOW as some congressional Democrats voice concern over whether President Joe Biden can beat former President Donald Trump in November. NBC News Chief Political Analyst Chuck Todd joins the panel to discuss why only some Democrats are speaking out publicly. Retired Admiral James Stavridis explains the significance of this year’s NATO Summit as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visits Capitol Hill.
Table of contents
United States
