Transcripts For MSNBCW MSNBC Live With Craig Melvin 20170207

Multiple touchdowns. Thats something were working on confirming. Can you see there, the early indications that there was damage to not only power lines but some of the structures there. Damage there to houses. Craig . We also just saw one of what i would imagine will be a string of Emergency Responders heading to the scene there. Cal perry, do stand by for us, if you can. Mike steele, the Communications Director for the Louisiana Governors Office of Homeland Security. He is in baton rouge right now. He joins me now on the phone. Mike, what more can you tell us right now about the size and scope of these twisters . Well, this started right around daybreak this morning. It popped up in several different areas all at the same time. Its been a crazy morning for us here trying to monitor everything thats going on. There were several warnings all across the southeast corner of the state. We were tracking everything as it happened, but as you guys are showing, some of the damage to new orleans east. You know, a lot of it is still ongoing right now. Were just beginning to get a lot of the pictures and a lot of the information about the damage because it was so widespread and happening so fast. Whos in danger right now . Whos in the path of these tornadoes . Well, there are still alerts. Even while i was on hold with you guys, there are still alerts coming across my phone for different regions of the state. We want everybody to stay aware of whats going on. The fact is, you know, you dont know exactly where the next problem spots going to pop up. So, people need to stay away, listen to the media, listen to the National Weather service. We have an alert fm out that also helps people receive information. We strongly encourage them to take advantage of the technology thats out there. I know youre showing new orleans here but its important to realize that we still have a lot of people in temporary homes all around the baton rouge area especially. You know, manufactured homes through fema. Some people are still in personal rvs after the august flooding. So, you know, for those people, they may not be used to going through these type of systems in that temporary type housing setup. So, again, we just cant stress the urgency to stress that people stay aware of whats going on. Also, stay off the roads. The emergency crews are just starting to reach a lot of these places. You know, more people on the roads would just complicate that work. Mike, can you stand by for me just a second here . These images were getting, these are live pictures. Roofs just ripped from the homes. Several of these homes appear to be decimated in this particular neighborhood. We see a woman being helped away. Lets listen in to our local reporter. Mike, i want to talk to you coming out of this. This is wdsu in new orleans. Reporter you can see this woman walking with that firefighter. Well come back to that. Whats interesting this way is if you look through here, straight back, you can see the damage that was done. Were on bundy. Its our understanding it reaches all the way to reed as bundy runs parallel to reed in new orleans east. So, this is not something that anybody wants to see, wants to deal with. But theyre going to be for weeks, if not months. You know, the most tragic thing about all of this, when you see tornado damage like this, this is an area that got about 10 feet of water in katrina, so they already dealt with a major blow almost 12 years ago and now theyre dealing with trying to pick up the pieces once again. Okay. Were going to keep a close eye here on the situation on the ground. This is our local affiliate wdsu. They are reporting on the left side of your screen. On the right side of your screen you can see the line of storms moving east. Mike steele, the Communications Director with department of Homeland Security there in louisiana, Still Standing by on the phone with me. Mike, as we watch these images start to come in, you were just telling us you were giving us those warngs that you always give when we see storms like this for folks to shelter in place, to stay off the roads, things like that. If you are under a tornado watch or warning right now and you are in your home and you cant go anywhere, what should you do inside your house, mike . Well, you know, the general rule is get to an interior room, you know, someplace, maybe a bathroom thats in the middle of your home. You know, we have a pretty severe tornado outbreak especially for louisiana standards in february of last year. There was one home in particular where a family did the perfect thing. They knew that the threat for tornadoes was there. They heard the warnings as they came across their cell phones and tvs and other electronics. They heard the storms actually approaching. They moved to a bathroom in the center of that home and that one room was basically the only thing left standing in that room as the storm passed over. So, you know, you never know, again, where exactly these problems are going to pop up as these storms move across state like this. But, you know, there are examples of how you can dot right thing and protect your family. You said that these twisters started at daybreak, they started to pop up then. Did you guys have a pretty good heads up . Was there plenty of advance notice that went out to residents in the area . Well, you know, there were some notices that started coming across last night that the potential was there, but until the storms actually start developing, you know, its tough to pinpoint with these types of storms. Its not sometimes its easier, you know, with a tropical event because you know maybe a five or sixarea parish is going to get hit really hard. With these its just a matter of determining where the storms are going to pop up. So, until you see where theyre hitting and where the damage will be, you know, sometimes its a tough call. All you can tell people to do is be prepared and understand that that threat is there. But we well have the governor over here later today. Hes on his way over to the Emergency Operation center here at our office. And we stand by, you know, with any level of support that the locals may need to help us get through this event. Cal perry standing by. Cal, give me one second here. Really quickly here, mike, again, stay with us as long as you can, any reports of fatalities so far . Injuries, no. We know of a couple of injuries in the livingston area. There were a number of Tornado Warnings, you know, where the systems look like the potential for tornadoes were there but there werent necessarily confirmed tornadoes touching the ground. We still have a lot of information to go through, a lot of sites to look at. Our regional coordinators are in contact with the locals. We should have more information as the day goes on. Cal perry, i understand youve gotten some more information from the National Weather service. What can you tell us . Want to help you and mr. Steele getting information out to people in the greater new orleans area. There are two new tornado threats just now by the National Weather service. One they said is moving forwards the west bank. Again, for people not familiar with the new orleans. Thats actually in the eastern part of the city. A second one, a tornado threat, continuing north of livingston, louisiana. Again, we have the possibility here of multiple tornadoes existing within one storm. Very quickly, again, on the left side of your screen, that is the neighborhood of new orleans east. That is where we are seeing the pictures of the most damage. Thats also where were receiving reports on social media that there was the most damage in the city from these tornadoes. Brian lagarde is on the phone right now, director of project nola. Youre there in new orleans, as i understand it. What can you tell us . What are you seeing around you right now . Well, the weathers bad out here. Regrettably weve had a tornado touch down in new orleans east. We have emergency units that have responded to the area. However, efforts are being hampered by downed power lines and flipped vehicles. We have 911 reports of people trapped in houses, trapped in cars, some in Critical Condition. Units are trying to work their way into the heaviest hit areas, so please keep us in your thoughts and prayers. You have people who are trapped in their homes, people who are trapped in vehicles in Critical Condition. Where are these folks, again, for folks not familiar with the new orleans area . Walk us through that. New orleans east, its going to be the east part of the city between the city of new orleans and slidell. So, part of the metro its part of the city of new orleans. More the eastern side of the city. And these emergency the i10 area. The i10 area . Yes, sir. These emergency workers trying to get to these folks who are trapped, if you have downed power lines and flipped cars, what are these emergency workers left to do . Well, theyre going to have to cut their way through and get in. Weve been through it before with katrina. Our emergency staff is very capable of being able to take any type of situation. So, im sure there are people in the area who are lending a hand as well as we saw during hurricane katrina. So, just trying to get to the people who need help. Hospitals are on standby to start receiving people with injuries. And all we can really go by so far is whats coming through and whats being dispatched and whats going through 911, dispatched over the air. And officers are trying to make their way to those in need. Watches and warnings continue to be in place, as we understand it. Yes, sir. Where are the trouble spots right now . Where are you watching most closely . Actually, im foek focusing my attention on new orleans east, the emergency response. I do understand there is still troubling weather in the area. But i wouldnt be qualified to answer where its moved onto. I believe its moving east. Hopefully, you know, not near any populated areas. As we watch these images continue to come in. This is a woman we saw a short time ago being helped away by some firefighters. We have seen a number of homes with their roofs just peeled back. Getting another, unfortunately, first very close look here at just the randomness of Mother Nature up. See one house thats completely decimated. Then another house, perhaps across the street, that looks to be completely intact. This is a part of the country, as you know, brian, that has had to deal with its fair share of Severe Weather over the years. How are you guys equipped to respond to situations like this . Well, people in new orleans, were very resilient. So, its its one of the things when you live down here youre more or less prepared for. Tornadoes is something normally we dont have to worry about. Hurricanes we get a good advanced heads up. This was a surprise to us all, to start receiving the alerts. We really dont get many tornadoes down here. From what were seeing, people are rallying and the politician and Emergency Services are ral lid up in new orleans east and trying to make their way through to the people who need help. All right. For our viewers and listeners right now, again, left side of your screen, the damage in the wake of what appears to be several tornadoes that have touched down in and around new orleans. On the right side of your screen, where that storm appears to be headed next. Weve talked to a number of folks on the ground there, in the new orleans area, who tell us that there are people who are trapped either in their homes or vehicles. A number of cars have been flipped, downed power lines as well. There are some reported injuries and there are at least two new threats as well in the area. We are keeping a very close eye on the situation in new orleans, louisiana, right now. Were going to take a quick break here on msnbc. When when we come back, more on this. Also a little bit more on what went down on the hill just a few moments ago. Betsy devos confirmed, courtesy of mike pence, Vice President mike pence there with the tiebreaking vote. What this means Going Forward right after this. If you have moderate to severe Rheumatoid Arthritis like me, and youre talking to your rheumatologist about a medication. This is humira. This is humira helping to relieve my pain. And protect my joints from further damage. Humira has been clinically studied for over 18 years. Humira works by targeting and helping to. Block a specific source. Of inflammation that contributes to ra symptoms. Its proven to help relieve pain and. Stop further joint damage in many adults. Humira can lower your ability to fight infections, including tuberculosis. Serious, sometimes fatal infections and cancers, including lymphoma, have happened, as have blood, liver, and nervous system problems, serious allergic reactions, and new or worsening heart failure. Before treatment, get tested for tb. Tell your doctor if youve been to areas. Where certain fungal infections are common and if youve had tb, hepatitis b, are prone to infections, or have flulike symptoms or sores. Dont start humira if you have an infection. Talk to your doctor and visit humira. Com this is humira at work. Mobility is very important to me. Thats why i use e trade mobile. Its on all my mobile devices, so it suits my mobile lifestyle. And it keeps my investments fully mobile. Even when im on the move. Sign up at etrade. Com and get up to six hundred dollars. Nosy neighbor with a glad bag, full of trash. What happens next . Nothing. Only glad has febreze to neutralize odors for 5 days. Guaranteed. Even the most perceptive noses wont notice the trash. Be happy. Its glad. We continue to follow the situation very closely in and around new orleans. This is the scene after a number of tornadoes appear to have touched down. This is east new orleans. Chris warren with the Weather Channel joins me now. Chris, we see this, that graphic, of where the line of storms appears to be heading next. Who should be looking out right now . Well, right now it is new orleans, craig. And downtown new orleans, the french quarter, the whole deal right here, the red outlined area. This is a Tornado Warning. This means either a tornado in progress or imminent based on radar. To give you a little perspective of what were looking at. This is the Mississippi River right there. And the worst part of the storm at this moment is right here. Its going right into downtown new orleans. Were talking about the financial area eventually into the french quarter. Then off close to lake pontchartrain. In the new orleans area also in louisiana, can you see theres another one. There are two active Tornado Warnings right now were following very closely. And the tornado threat is there. You have to remember theres a lot of lightning associated with this, very heavy rain. Severe thunderstorm warnings as well. With that, theres the potential for damaging winds. When winds bring down trees, that can be deadly as well. So, there are multiple threats that we are tracking and have been tracking throughout this morning. We are now into the afternoon hours and will be again tonight. This is the threat area. Anywhere in orange or red, theres a chance for thunderstorms. But its this red area right here where theres the best chance for some of the strongest storms. Im going to time it out for you now, craig. This is a look at where the storms are going to be based on one computer model. Going through the day, heres three, four, five, now into six and seven, into the florida panhandle, parts of alabama, mississippi through the afternoon hours. And then eventually its not going to be until tomorrow morning we see Significant Movement with these storms out of the region and that threat will be down. Today looks like a dangerous day. Already several reports of tornadoes. Two warnings in effect. Any watches, any tornado watches and the difference between the two . I laost your audio. Well try to get that fixed. At least three tornadoes have touched down in and around new orleans proper. You are looking at the aftereffects here. Several homes destroyed in this particular neighborhood. Were still trying to get a good read on precisely where this neighborhood is. We know its in the eastern part of new orleans. We heard from a number of emergency workers a short time ago on our air who said at this point, no fatalities to report, but there are reports of a number of injuries. There have been a few emergency workers not able to get to folks who are either trapped in their homes or trapped in a vehicle. But this is the scene on the streets, on many of the streets, in and around new orleans. Well keep a very close eye on whats happening there, down in the bayou. Lets go to capitol hill. A few moments ago, President Trumps education secretary nominee squeaked by. There had been talks other republicans might follow suit. That did not happen. It ended up being up to Vice President mike pence to break the tie. Now the battle moves to three more nominees, justice, treasury and hhs. All eyes on senator Jeff Sessions next as the attorney general. Kasie hunt covering all of these confirmation hearings for us on the hill. Lets start with betsy devos and what we saw play out. Again, roughly 30, 40 minutes ago, kasie. Reporter betsy devos, she, of course, is a billionaire. She and her husband have been longtime activists in michigan around education in particular. And she became extremely controversial after she had a very rough ride in her hearing to become education secretary. A lot of concerns that she didnt seem to know from from democrats that she didnt seem to know, for example, how Public Schools help educate kids with disabilities, where that money comes from. You had a surprising senators murkowski and collins from alaska and maine, two republicans coming out, saying they werent going to support her. That set the stage for high drama today with a 5050 vote. Vice president mike pence coming up here to capitol hill to cast that tiebreaking vote. Hes then, of course, been kind of back and forth in the hallways here, having some meetings with other members of congress, with the Emergency Responders<\/a> heading to the scene there. Cal perry, do stand by for us, if you can. Mike steele, the Communications Director<\/a> for the Louisiana Governors Office<\/a> of Homeland Security<\/a>. He is in baton rouge right now. He joins me now on the phone. Mike, what more can you tell us right now about the size and scope of these twisters . Well, this started right around daybreak this morning. It popped up in several different areas all at the same time. Its been a crazy morning for us here trying to monitor everything thats going on. There were several warnings all across the southeast corner of the state. We were tracking everything as it happened, but as you guys are showing, some of the damage to new orleans east. You know, a lot of it is still ongoing right now. Were just beginning to get a lot of the pictures and a lot of the information about the damage because it was so widespread and happening so fast. Whos in danger right now . Whos in the path of these tornadoes . Well, there are still alerts. Even while i was on hold with you guys, there are still alerts coming across my phone for different regions of the state. We want everybody to stay aware of whats going on. The fact is, you know, you dont know exactly where the next problem spots going to pop up. So, people need to stay away, listen to the media, listen to the National Weather<\/a> service. We have an alert fm out that also helps people receive information. We strongly encourage them to take advantage of the technology thats out there. I know youre showing new orleans here but its important to realize that we still have a lot of people in temporary homes all around the baton rouge area especially. You know, manufactured homes through fema. Some people are still in personal rvs after the august flooding. So, you know, for those people, they may not be used to going through these type of systems in that temporary type housing setup. So, again, we just cant stress the urgency to stress that people stay aware of whats going on. Also, stay off the roads. The emergency crews are just starting to reach a lot of these places. You know, more people on the roads would just complicate that work. Mike, can you stand by for me just a second here . These images were getting, these are live pictures. Roofs just ripped from the homes. Several of these homes appear to be decimated in this particular neighborhood. We see a woman being helped away. Lets listen in to our local reporter. Mike, i want to talk to you coming out of this. This is wdsu in new orleans. Reporter you can see this woman walking with that firefighter. Well come back to that. Whats interesting this way is if you look through here, straight back, you can see the damage that was done. Were on bundy. Its our understanding it reaches all the way to reed as bundy runs parallel to reed in new orleans east. So, this is not something that anybody wants to see, wants to deal with. But theyre going to be for weeks, if not months. You know, the most tragic thing about all of this, when you see tornado damage like this, this is an area that got about 10 feet of water in katrina, so they already dealt with a major blow almost 12 years ago and now theyre dealing with trying to pick up the pieces once again. Okay. Were going to keep a close eye here on the situation on the ground. This is our local affiliate wdsu. They are reporting on the left side of your screen. On the right side of your screen you can see the line of storms moving east. Mike steele, the Communications Director<\/a> with department of Homeland Security<\/a> there in louisiana, Still Standing<\/a> by on the phone with me. Mike, as we watch these images start to come in, you were just telling us you were giving us those warngs that you always give when we see storms like this for folks to shelter in place, to stay off the roads, things like that. If you are under a tornado watch or warning right now and you are in your home and you cant go anywhere, what should you do inside your house, mike . Well, you know, the general rule is get to an interior room, you know, someplace, maybe a bathroom thats in the middle of your home. You know, we have a pretty severe tornado outbreak especially for louisiana standards in february of last year. There was one home in particular where a family did the perfect thing. They knew that the threat for tornadoes was there. They heard the warnings as they came across their cell phones and tvs and other electronics. They heard the storms actually approaching. They moved to a bathroom in the center of that home and that one room was basically the only thing left standing in that room as the storm passed over. So, you know, you never know, again, where exactly these problems are going to pop up as these storms move across state like this. But, you know, there are examples of how you can dot right thing and protect your family. You said that these twisters started at daybreak, they started to pop up then. Did you guys have a pretty good heads up . Was there plenty of advance notice that went out to residents in the area . Well, you know, there were some notices that started coming across last night that the potential was there, but until the storms actually start developing, you know, its tough to pinpoint with these types of storms. Its not sometimes its easier, you know, with a tropical event because you know maybe a five or sixarea parish is going to get hit really hard. With these its just a matter of determining where the storms are going to pop up. So, until you see where theyre hitting and where the damage will be, you know, sometimes its a tough call. All you can tell people to do is be prepared and understand that that threat is there. But we well have the governor over here later today. Hes on his way over to the Emergency Operation<\/a> center here at our office. And we stand by, you know, with any level of support that the locals may need to help us get through this event. Cal perry standing by. Cal, give me one second here. Really quickly here, mike, again, stay with us as long as you can, any reports of fatalities so far . Injuries, no. We know of a couple of injuries in the livingston area. There were a number of Tornado Warning<\/a>s, you know, where the systems look like the potential for tornadoes were there but there werent necessarily confirmed tornadoes touching the ground. We still have a lot of information to go through, a lot of sites to look at. Our regional coordinators are in contact with the locals. We should have more information as the day goes on. Cal perry, i understand youve gotten some more information from the National Weather<\/a> service. What can you tell us . Want to help you and mr. Steele getting information out to people in the greater new orleans area. There are two new tornado threats just now by the National Weather<\/a> service. One they said is moving forwards the west bank. Again, for people not familiar with the new orleans. Thats actually in the eastern part of the city. A second one, a tornado threat, continuing north of livingston, louisiana. Again, we have the possibility here of multiple tornadoes existing within one storm. Very quickly, again, on the left side of your screen, that is the neighborhood of new orleans east. That is where we are seeing the pictures of the most damage. Thats also where were receiving reports on social media that there was the most damage in the city from these tornadoes. Brian lagarde is on the phone right now, director of project nola. Youre there in new orleans, as i understand it. What can you tell us . What are you seeing around you right now . Well, the weathers bad out here. Regrettably weve had a tornado touch down in new orleans east. We have emergency units that have responded to the area. However, efforts are being hampered by downed power lines and flipped vehicles. We have 911 reports of people trapped in houses, trapped in cars, some in Critical Condition<\/a>. Units are trying to work their way into the heaviest hit areas, so please keep us in your thoughts and prayers. You have people who are trapped in their homes, people who are trapped in vehicles in Critical Condition<\/a>. Where are these folks, again, for folks not familiar with the new orleans area . Walk us through that. New orleans east, its going to be the east part of the city between the city of new orleans and slidell. So, part of the metro its part of the city of new orleans. More the eastern side of the city. And these emergency the i10 area. The i10 area . Yes, sir. These emergency workers trying to get to these folks who are trapped, if you have downed power lines and flipped cars, what are these emergency workers left to do . Well, theyre going to have to cut their way through and get in. Weve been through it before with katrina. Our emergency staff is very capable of being able to take any type of situation. So, im sure there are people in the area who are lending a hand as well as we saw during hurricane katrina. So, just trying to get to the people who need help. Hospitals are on standby to start receiving people with injuries. And all we can really go by so far is whats coming through and whats being dispatched and whats going through 911, dispatched over the air. And officers are trying to make their way to those in need. Watches and warnings continue to be in place, as we understand it. Yes, sir. Where are the trouble spots right now . Where are you watching most closely . Actually, im foek focusing my attention on new orleans east, the emergency response. I do understand there is still troubling weather in the area. But i wouldnt be qualified to answer where its moved onto. I believe its moving east. Hopefully, you know, not near any populated areas. As we watch these images continue to come in. This is a woman we saw a short time ago being helped away by some firefighters. We have seen a number of homes with their roofs just peeled back. Getting another, unfortunately, first very close look here at just the randomness of Mother Nature<\/a> up. See one house thats completely decimated. Then another house, perhaps across the street, that looks to be completely intact. This is a part of the country, as you know, brian, that has had to deal with its fair share of Severe Weather<\/a> over the years. How are you guys equipped to respond to situations like this . Well, people in new orleans, were very resilient. So, its its one of the things when you live down here youre more or less prepared for. Tornadoes is something normally we dont have to worry about. Hurricanes we get a good advanced heads up. This was a surprise to us all, to start receiving the alerts. We really dont get many tornadoes down here. From what were seeing, people are rallying and the politician and Emergency Services<\/a> are ral lid up in new orleans east and trying to make their way through to the people who need help. All right. For our viewers and listeners right now, again, left side of your screen, the damage in the wake of what appears to be several tornadoes that have touched down in and around new orleans. On the right side of your screen, where that storm appears to be headed next. Weve talked to a number of folks on the ground there, in the new orleans area, who tell us that there are people who are trapped either in their homes or vehicles. A number of cars have been flipped, downed power lines as well. There are some reported injuries and there are at least two new threats as well in the area. We are keeping a very close eye on the situation in new orleans, louisiana, right now. Were going to take a quick break here on msnbc. When when we come back, more on this. Also a little bit more on what went down on the hill just a few moments ago. Betsy devos confirmed, courtesy of mike pence, Vice President<\/a> mike pence there with the tiebreaking vote. What this means Going Forward<\/a> right after this. If you have moderate to severe Rheumatoid Arthritis<\/a> like me, and youre talking to your rheumatologist about a medication. This is humira. This is humira helping to relieve my pain. And protect my joints from further damage. Humira has been clinically studied for over 18 years. Humira works by targeting and helping to. Block a specific source. Of inflammation that contributes to ra symptoms. Its proven to help relieve pain and. Stop further joint damage in many adults. Humira can lower your ability to fight infections, including tuberculosis. Serious, sometimes fatal infections and cancers, including lymphoma, have happened, as have blood, liver, and nervous system problems, serious allergic reactions, and new or worsening heart failure. Before treatment, get tested for tb. Tell your doctor if youve been to areas. Where certain fungal infections are common and if youve had tb, hepatitis b, are prone to infections, or have flulike symptoms or sores. Dont start humira if you have an infection. Talk to your doctor and visit humira. Com this is humira at work. Mobility is very important to me. Thats why i use e trade mobile. Its on all my mobile devices, so it suits my mobile lifestyle. And it keeps my investments fully mobile. Even when im on the move. Sign up at etrade. Com and get up to six hundred dollars. Nosy neighbor with a glad bag, full of trash. What happens next . Nothing. Only glad has febreze to neutralize odors for 5 days. Guaranteed. Even the most perceptive noses wont notice the trash. Be happy. Its glad. We continue to follow the situation very closely in and around new orleans. This is the scene after a number of tornadoes appear to have touched down. This is east new orleans. Chris warren with the Weather Channel<\/a> joins me now. Chris, we see this, that graphic, of where the line of storms appears to be heading next. Who should be looking out right now . Well, right now it is new orleans, craig. And downtown new orleans, the french quarter, the whole deal right here, the red outlined area. This is a Tornado Warning<\/a>. This means either a tornado in progress or imminent based on radar. To give you a little perspective of what were looking at. This is the Mississippi River<\/a> right there. And the worst part of the storm at this moment is right here. Its going right into downtown new orleans. Were talking about the financial area eventually into the french quarter. Then off close to lake pontchartrain. In the new orleans area also in louisiana, can you see theres another one. There are two active Tornado Warning<\/a>s right now were following very closely. And the tornado threat is there. You have to remember theres a lot of lightning associated with this, very heavy rain. Severe thunderstorm warnings as well. With that, theres the potential for damaging winds. When winds bring down trees, that can be deadly as well. So, there are multiple threats that we are tracking and have been tracking throughout this morning. We are now into the afternoon hours and will be again tonight. This is the threat area. Anywhere in orange or red, theres a chance for thunderstorms. But its this red area right here where theres the best chance for some of the strongest storms. Im going to time it out for you now, craig. This is a look at where the storms are going to be based on one computer model. Going through the day, heres three, four, five, now into six and seven, into the florida panhandle, parts of alabama, mississippi through the afternoon hours. And then eventually its not going to be until tomorrow morning we see Significant Movement<\/a> with these storms out of the region and that threat will be down. Today looks like a dangerous day. Already several reports of tornadoes. Two warnings in effect. Any watches, any tornado watches and the difference between the two . I laost your audio. Well try to get that fixed. At least three tornadoes have touched down in and around new orleans proper. You are looking at the aftereffects here. Several homes destroyed in this particular neighborhood. Were still trying to get a good read on precisely where this neighborhood is. We know its in the eastern part of new orleans. We heard from a number of emergency workers a short time ago on our air who said at this point, no fatalities to report, but there are reports of a number of injuries. There have been a few emergency workers not able to get to folks who are either trapped in their homes or trapped in a vehicle. But this is the scene on the streets, on many of the streets, in and around new orleans. Well keep a very close eye on whats happening there, down in the bayou. Lets go to capitol hill. A few moments ago, President Trump<\/a>s education secretary nominee squeaked by. There had been talks other republicans might follow suit. That did not happen. It ended up being up to Vice President<\/a> mike pence to break the tie. Now the battle moves to three more nominees, justice, treasury and hhs. All eyes on senator Jeff Sessions<\/a> next as the attorney general. Kasie hunt covering all of these confirmation hearings for us on the hill. Lets start with betsy devos and what we saw play out. Again, roughly 30, 40 minutes ago, kasie. Reporter betsy devos, she, of course, is a billionaire. She and her husband have been longtime activists in michigan around education in particular. And she became extremely controversial after she had a very rough ride in her hearing to become education secretary. A lot of concerns that she didnt seem to know from from democrats that she didnt seem to know, for example, how Public Schools<\/a> help educate kids with disabilities, where that money comes from. You had a surprising senators murkowski and collins from alaska and maine, two republicans coming out, saying they werent going to support her. That set the stage for high drama today with a 5050 vote. Vice president mike pence coming up here to capitol hill to cast that tiebreaking vote. Hes then, of course, been kind of back and forth in the hallways here, having some meetings with other members of congress, with the House Republicans<\/a> study conference and otherwise. Hes a key liaison for the Trump Administration<\/a>. Democrats are still trying to obstruct the rest of these nominees as well under intense pressure from their base. I would separate betsy devos a little bit. I think there were some unique issues around her reelated to te fact that education touches everybody. Now youll see partisan politics playing out with Jeff Sessions<\/a>, the attorney general nominee, as well as tom price at hhs, and Steve Mnuchin<\/a> to head the treasury department. Those are the next three were expecting. If democrats keep Holding Things<\/a> up, we could see late night votes on thursday night, saturday mornings. Thats pretty rare here in the senate. Of course, once were through that, theres also attention being paid to the Supreme Court<\/a> nomination. Judge gorsuch has been up on capitol hill here today. We should see him meet with some democrats this week that tells you they want to make sure they dont need to use the socalled nuclear option, change the rules and convince eight democrats to vote for him, then hell sail through. Of course, a long fight ahead in that regard as well. Kasie hunt for us on the hill, updating us on President Trump<\/a>s cabinet nominees. Were also just a few minutes away from the White House Press<\/a> briefing. Sean spicer expected to take to the podium here. Were told 1 45, give or take five or ten minutes. Kristen welker is standing by at the white house. I might imagine he would start with betsy devos there. Reporter i wouldnt be surprised if that happened, craig. He will certainly get some questions about the historic tiebreaking vote we saw today on the senate floor with Vice President<\/a> mike pence breaking that 5050 margin that you saw in order to confirm betsy devos. No reaction yet from the white house, but necessity are pointing us to a tweet from the Vice President<\/a> , who wrote today, todays vote to confirm education secretary betsydevos was a chance for every child to have a world class education. Now it shifts to Jeff Sessions<\/a>. I was in the roosevelt with him earlier today when he was meeting with various sheriffs from all across the country. And he called ol congress to confirm senator sessions to the post of attorney general. Stressed the need for that position as he face this is tough fight over the travel ban hes trying to instate. I asked him how far he was willing to take that fight. He said he would take it through the systems. I asked him if he would go all the way to the Supreme Court<\/a>. He said it could but he hoped that didnt happen. In his words, he said its a matter of common sense. You see the white house digging in on that front on the travel ban and also on the nominees. The white house trying to turn up the heat on the capitol hill to get the president s picks through the nominating process. We heard from Homeland Security<\/a> secretary john kelly this morning as well. He appeared to be falling on the sword a bit for the administration with regards to the implementation of this travel ban. What did he say . Reporter thats right. He effectively said ultimately it falls on his shoulders. Look, again, this is something that the white house is digging in on. And the president s strategy is to get this executive order through the court system, through the legal system. I pressed him on all of this. Take a listen to what he had to say, craig. Were going to take it through the system. Its very important. Is it going to go to the Supreme Court<\/a>, you think . Could be. Hopefully it doesnt happen. Its common sense. Some things are law, which im in favor of. Some things are common sense. This is common sense. Reporter whats significant about the exchanges that the white house is signaling that they arent changing strategy. They have no plans to rip up that executive order to try to get this through congress, through a legislative process. They to want see this executive order upheld ultimately, potentially by the Supreme Court<\/a>. And they dont seem to be indicating a real change in language to the executive order, so it will have yet another test tonight when that higher Court Hears Arguments<\/a> on both sides, craig. Ninth Circuit Court<\/a> of appeals expected to hear those arguments via telephone, Conference Call<\/a> at 6 00. Kristen, thank you. That press briefing set to start roughly 20 minutes from now. When it happens, well take you back there. We continue to follow this breaking news in new orleans, though. The latest on that tornado damage. A number of folks still living in. Harms way this afternoon. Well go back to new orleans right after this. Fun in art class. 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These types of plans have no networks, so you get to choose any doctor who accepts medicare patients. Rates are competitive, and theyre the only plans of their kind endorsed by aarp. Remember these plans let you apply all year round. So call today. Because nows the perfect time to learn more. Go long. Will your business be ready when growth presents itself . American express open cards can help you take on a new job, or fill a big order or expand your office and take on whatever comes next. Find out how American Express<\/a> cards and services can help prepare you for growth at open. Com. Lets get back to new orleans where tornados touched down. Were joined by meteorologist with the National Weather<\/a> service. We know there are areas under a Tornado Warning<\/a> right now. Where are these areas . Okay. The areas weve had tornadoes reported have been new orleans east. We had a tornado around 11 15 this morning and we had two other confirmed tornadoes. One was over the donaldsonville sunshine brindge, louisiana are. Thats southeast of baton rouge. We also had another tornado confirmed near the killion, louisiana, area, just to the west of lake moorpa, that did a track to the madisonville area where it weakened over that area. How many tornados so far . Weve had three confirmed tornadoes and a couple of possible tornados as well. Now we have an ongoing warning for the central and also northeastern livingston, southeastern helena parish in effect until 1 00 p. M. Central standard time. Were telling folks who live in that area, the area under a Tornado Warning<\/a> right now, were telling these folks what . Were telling folks to seek shelter because weve had a pretty big event of confirmed tornadoes, so with the atmosphere, the way we have it, its very likely these are being confirmed, a lot of them. So, i would take it serious. Take shelter. Looks like later in the afternoon things start to quite down a little bit. As for now, weve had a little quieter were having less Warnings Issued<\/a> but still going to be a couple. I would take shelter until 1 00, until that expires. There could be a few more issued later, but it looks like the worst was probably around the late morning up until the lunchtime hours. As weve been having this conversation, weve been showing our viewers the extent of some of this damage. Its really hard to look at here. You see homes that have had their roofs just peeled off. Some of these houses appear to be ripped from their foundations as well. The damage appears to be quite widespread so far. We also see on the right side of our screen a tornado watch in effect until 2 00 Central Standard<\/a> time. Where is the tornado watch . Where are these watches in effect for . The watch is pretty much in effect all along pretty much from east of the chafawia river over to alabama mississippi border. Theres a new watch just issued out of our coverage area. Mobile takes care of that area. Its for the florida pan hejdz through the gulf coast there. To be clear, the difference between a tornado watch and a Tornado Warning<\/a>. Tornado watch means conditions are favorable. Its basically a forecast saying to be have your guard up, your watch, and that there could be tornadoes occurring over the next several hours, depending on how long the watches are out. Usually theyre averaging five to six hours on a nontropical event like this. That means youll want to have your guard out. Then a warning means there is a tornado either spotted or radar indicated by a meteorologist by reading the radar. But then, you know, within their local area. A warning is definitely more of a seek shelter type thing, whereas a watch s pay attention. Have your noaa Weather Radio<\/a> or smartphone device or local tv, something, be ready for to seek a sturdier interior room. New orleans proper, we just heard from a meteorologist with the Weather Channel<\/a>, new orleans proper, the parts of new orleans that a lot of folks might be familiar w bourbon street, the french quarter, those areas right now are under a Tornado Warning<\/a>, correct . Yes. Most of that most of that right now is to the east of there, though. And the damage earlier was well east of there. It was in the new orleans east area, which is sort of a suburb development that was built like in the 70s, 80s. Its not Historic Homes<\/a> but widely populated densely populated area. Sad to say, as that was one of the woergs hit areas during the hurricane katrina. Some of those areas that were east of new orleans. That were built after, you know, the original city was built up on higher ground, obviously, but, yes, its kind of today earlier the tornadoes that formed were mostly along the lake and track the pretty much to the eastsoutheast and stayed north of the downtown and quarter. There were some pretty good outflow winds with the storm earlier. As far as the damaging tornado, the worst was in the eastern side of new orleans known as new orleans east. Those winds you just mentioned, of course, power lines come down, trees come down onto those power lines. We are just starting to get some information regarding Power Outages<\/a> in that area. Ascension parish roughly 2300 homes without power. In orleans parish, 1500 homes. Jefferson parish, 1500 homes without power as well. Were starting to get reports of thousands of folks in and around new orleans have lost their power as a result of this storm. Were seeing, again, more pictures of the damage in this particular neighborhood. This is, as you pointed out, new orleans east. We also heard from an emergency worker or several emergency workers at the top of the hour about some of the difficulties they are having getting responders to people who are trapped either in vehicles or trapped in their homes as a result of these storms. Michael, i know its early and i know a lot of this requires you to actually get into these neighborhoods to assess the damage. But based on some of the preliminary sxikts early reporting, any idea how strong these tornadoes were on that e1 to e5 scale . Yeah. Tomorrow probably be out there to assess the damage but looks like theres a potential. We cant confirm this but a potential it could have been a good ef2 or stronger. I would you know, i would be safe to say its a possibility of an ef2. We wont be able to confirm that until we go out tomorrow and do surveys. Any structural damage like we saw with some of the brick buildings, that takes usually a pretty good tornado. Its not your typical Southeast Louisiana<\/a> ef0s we get. Its quite a bit stronger. One of the strongest ive seen around here in a long time. Michael with the National Weather<\/a> service. Stand by if you can. Cal perry is also standing by. We should remind folks who are watching and listening, the White House Briefing<\/a>, that daily briefing, set to happen roughly eight, nine minutes from now. Were told sean spicer will take to the podium there. Lots to talk about there. Of course, the Betsy Devos Confirmation<\/a> that happened here less than an hour ago with the help of Vice President<\/a> mike pence. We also imagine mr. Spicer might spend some time talking about that saturday night live spoof from this weekend as well. All eyes on the White House Briefing<\/a> room. Cal perry, let me bring you in. I know youve been doing what you do so diligently, scouring social media, looking for some pictures or additional reporting from folks on the ground who live in these areas. What have you been able to find out . One of the things authorities are putting out there and want the media to put out, as you look at these pictures on the lefthand side of the screen, theres a secondhand danger that exists and it exists when you look at the poir lines down on the ground. It exists when you see those water pipes that are broken. Where you see water pipes broken, the Fire Department<\/a> is going to assume there are gas lines that are also broken. They want people to stay, you know, sheltered from the storm but also to make sure theyre staying now out of these neighborhoods where First Responders<\/a> need to get to. One of the reasons we dont have a good causalities figure right now is its still early. Can you see the extensive damage. You heard the National Weather<\/a> service talking about an ef2, potentially, tornado. Thats a tornado that has winds up to 85 miles an hour. That will damage these houses you see damaged. Not lost on anyone, this neighborhood, new orleans east, in the lower ninth ward, took a lot of damage in hurricane katrina. People who live in this area have seen this kind of damage before. They know how to deal with it. The question right now at this hour, getting First Responders<\/a> to the scene of where these houses have been damaged, avoiding the downed power lines and gas leaks. Thats a major concern authorities have. We heard a short time ago a number of these Emergency Responders<\/a> were already encountering difficulties getting to effected areas because of the downed power lines. Folks who are, in the words of one of the gentleman we talked to at the top of the hour, there are folks who are folks in Critical Condition<\/a> who are trapped. And Emergency Responders<\/a> have not been able to get to all of those folks just yet. Raphael miranda, a meteorologist with our nbc affiliate here in new york city. I know you guys have been following these storms very closely as well. Where do they appear to be headed right now . Still very active situation. Were tracking these storms and the a Tornado Warning<\/a> remains in effect for the new orleans area. We have two Tornado Warning<\/a>s, those red polygones in effect. They are for radarindicated trrns. They havent been spotted on the ground. The potential for more tornadoes right now in basically the same area as where weve seen the storms already this afternoon, just east of new orleans now and also across southern Southeastern Louisiana<\/a> and a very active line of storms now pushing into portions of mississippi and eventually the alabama gulf coast. This is all tracking towards the east over the next several hours. And the entire pink box here, thats our tornado watch. The potential for more tornadoes to form. Again, most of the activity were seeing is shift east of new orleans over the next couple of hours. I want to show you the reports weve seen already. All of these red circles are tornado reports that weve seen throughout the day. And the blue dots are hail reports. Weve also seen the potential for large, damaging hail as these storms roll through. Lots of energy and moisture for these storms to work with. Potentially explosive situation. Now this is the tornado report for the one in east new orleans. Again, several reports of that tornado seen touch down and the media is reporting as weve been seeing, building damage. The threat is not over. In fact, the threat shifts to the east. Places like mobile, alabama and the florida panhandle. Anywhere under this orangecolored circle here, thats where the enhanced risk for Severe Weather<\/a>. Thats the best setup for more severe storms and the severe storms that could produce tornadoes. As we head over the next few hours, were talking about portions of mississippi gulf coast into alabama. Then eventually into florida. I think as time goes on, these storms will weaken but not until later on this evening and tonight. Thanks for that. Lets go now to the White House Press<\/a> briefing room. Sean spicer has taken to the podium. The president is aware and reaching out to state and local officials throughout the day. Yesterday evening the president confirmed with fema administrators recommendation to approve governor bryants request to add government assistance to major disaster declaration in mississippi. Her the governors request, public assistance will be added for three counties, forest, lamar and perry. Yesterday the president had an amazing day at Macdill Air Force<\/a> base where he met with leaders of both special Operations Command<\/a> and central command, and then had lunch with enlisted Service Members<\/a> thanking them for their service and hearing the ideas that were on their mind. The president announced his intent to make historical historic Financial Investment<\/a> in the armed forces of the United States<\/a>, showing the entire world that america has the back of all those who stand in defense of freedom. As he has said many times before, the armed forces are at the very center of our fight against radical islamic terrorism and we must protect those who protect us. The president kicked off today with a listening session of county sheriffs from around the country. The president welcomed leaders from National Sheriffs<\/a> association to the white house and pledged to work closely with all members of Law Enforcement<\/a> to keep the American People<\/a> safe. He assured the sheriffs that the Trump Administration<\/a> will make every effort to stop drugs and crime from flowing into the country, put an end to the opioid epidemic, secure the borders, to keep terrorists out and strengthen the bonds between state, local and federal Law Enforcement<\/a> agencies. The sheriffs thanked the president for what they described as, quote, unprecedented level of support for Law Enforcement<\/a> and offered their fullbacking of his Border Security<\/a> and immigration policies. They expressed how encouraged theyve been by the proLaw Enforcement<\/a> atmosphere that has swept the country in the wake of the president s victory. They also presented a letter on behalf of the National Sheriffs<\/a> association thanking the president for his, quote, recent show of support for Law Enforcement<\/a>. Specifically on immigration and Border Security<\/a> issues, end quote. And commending the president s two executive orders for taking, quote, significant steps to enhancing public safety. The group engaged in a wideranging discussion about the issues facing Law Enforcement<\/a>, which the sheriff said was an opportunity they hadnt been given under the previous administration. The sheriffs closed the meeting by thanking the president for defending the rule of law and the president took them in the oval office to honor them and show his appreciation for the outstanding work they do to keep our community safe. A list of attendees is available for those interested. After that the president held another listening session on how best to fix the va. Its a top priority for the president and this administration to ensure veterans get the care they need when and where they need it. Tragically, many of our veterans are being failed by a system that does not work. This administration will reform and modernize the va under the leadership of dr. Shulkin, creating a culture of accountability that puts our veterans first. The president we will komd the group to the roosevelt room and to improve Health Care Access<\/a> and quality for our heroic veterans. Miss tiffany smile y wife of a veteran blinded by an ied, detailed her familys difficulty with the Va Health Care<\/a> system and offered suggestions as to how it improved. Ike and laura engaged in a wideranging discussion on reforming the va so the needs of veterans come first. The experts discussed private Sector Solutions<\/a> and innovations that could be used to improve the va. The president praised the secretary designee for his commitment to veterans and thanked the group for their willingness to serve and do best for our veterans. The plan to meet on a regular basis to discuss their collective efforts to improve the va and its health care system. Also this afternoon the Vice President<\/a> had a big day on capitol hill where he cast an historic deciding vote for secretary of education betsy devos. The president believes strongly our nations success depends on education of our students and betsy devos has devoted nearly three decades of her time and talent to promoting educational opportunity. As secretary, she will ensure that every student has access to a good school, whether its public, private, parochial, charter or any other kind. The fact we had to get to the point where the Vice President<\/a> had to be pulled in to overcome the democrats historic log jam with the president s qualified nominee is another glaring reminder of the unprecedented obstruction that Senate Democrats<\/a> have engaged in throughout this process. The American People<\/a> sent a strong message when they elected President Trump<\/a> in november. Theyre fed up with business as usual in washington. Democrats in the senate should expect that voters will remember how they stood in the way of the president enacting an agenda that put him into office. Last week i noted the president had a fair amount of cabinetlevel appointees awaiting a full vote by the senate. Were looking forward to seeing more of the president s pick to lead agencies and departments confirmed in the upcoming week. Despite these childish tactics of democrats in the senate who would rather keep the failed status quo than allowing the president s people in place. Also on the hill today, judge gorsuch continues a fuel week of meeting with democratic and republican senators. Yesterday he met with senator tester and feinstein. The president is looking forward to a full hearing for the judge followed by an up or down vote on this incredibly qualified nominee. At this moment, the president is meeting with congressman Jason Chaffetz<\/a> to discuss how to Work Together<\/a> to enact his reform agenda. Later this afternoon the president will meet with secretary of state tillerson. The president was obviously pleased to welcome and confirm swear in secretary tillerson in the Oval Office Last<\/a> week and hes pleased the secretary is now able to bring his unique skill set and deep insights into the important work of the state department. Following his discussion with secretary tillerson the president will have calls with Prime Minister<\/a> of spain and president erdogan of turkey. Well have readouts of those calls when completed. This evening the president will host young officers from the United States<\/a> Army Special Forces<\/a> in oval office. President said yesterday, members of our military and their families are our nations heroes. Its one of his Top Priorities<\/a> to ensure men and women of our armed forces have tools, equipment and resources need to do their missions successfully. The president is looking forward to conveying his gratitude to these young, brave captains. The ninth Circuit Court<\/a> will hold oral arguments per its order from yesterday. I want to quickly run down what we can expect to happen tonight. A career attorney from the department of justice will present an argument in defense of the president s order. To be clear, all thats at issue tonight is the hearing is an interrim decision is whether the president s order is enforced or not until the case is heard on the actual merits of the order. Its a simple status quo vaersz antistatus quo decision. This is just like the case in boston. Once we were able to explain our position, the court lifted the order and held the president s executive order could take effect. As identive stated before, u. Se gives the president Constitutional Authority<\/a> for this executive order. It says, quote, whenever the president it says quote whenever the president finds in a the entry of any aliens or any class of aliens into the United States<\/a> could be detrimental to the interests of the United States<\/a> he may by proclamation and for such period as he shall deem necessary suspend the entry of all aliens or any class of aliens as immigrants or nonimmigrants or impose on the entry of aliens any restrictions which he may deem appropriate. We look forward to a final decision on the merits this soon. Looking ahead i know a few have been asking about Prime Minister<\/a> abes visit. He will visit on the 10th of february. The president has also invited him down the mara lago and the two leaders will travel there over the weekend. This is a testment to the importance the United States<\/a> places on the bilateral relationship and strength of our aeye lance and the deep economic ties between the United States<\/a> and japan. Needless to say the president is looking very much forward to welcoming the new England Patriots<\/a> to the white house to celebrate their fifth world championship. It was obviously a spectacular game game. Lastly we have our eyes on kabul. Kabul today following the tragic suicide bombing that killed at least 19 afghan civilians and wounded 14. Just this morning general flynn spoke with the Afghan National<\/a> security adviser to reaffirm our continued support for afghanistan and for our strategic partnership. We condemn this cowardly attackn the strongest possible terms and we commend the Afghan Security<\/a> forces for their rapid response. We also affirm our support the Afghan Government<\/a> as they work to defend their people and against enemies of peace. With that ill take your questions. David jackson. Sean, the list of 78 terrorist attacks that you released. It looked lying it had been prepared well in advance. I mean was at that already on hand when President Trump<\/a> made his comments . Did you do it afterwards . Why did you release it. We had been getting questions as to what the president s remark were. We wanted to be clear there were many currents between 2014 and 2016. It was too often that we were seeing attacks not getting the spectacular attention they zerchl i think it undermines the understanding of the threat that we face around this country. The reason the president is acting in so many of the ways he has with executive order and otherwise the discussions that he had down at centcom and so comyesterday is because he cares about making sure we dont have attacks in this country. That we are protected ahead of the curve. I think we need to remind people that earth is a dangerous place. That ice sis trying to do us harm and that the president s commitment is to keep this country safe. Part of this is to make sure that the American People<\/a> are reminded how prevalent some of these attacks are and how much time they have or have not gotten. More importantly, to make sure they understand the unwavering commitment the president and the actions he will take. Was the list put together after his comments . Yes. On the call with the turkish president later today does he plan to discuss safe zones and does the president expect, they to help create those zones. I think we will have a read outan that. I dont want to get ahead of the calls. Alexis, real clear politics. Two questions. Two republicans voted against betsy devos. Did the president reach out to either of them . Will he not forget what republicans did in that particular nominee situation . I think look, the president has been clear its not republicans that have stood in the way of this nomination of all of these qualified individuals. Its been democrats that have stalled over and over again. Not attending hearings, trying to use every delay tactic possible. Its those people that have a problem. And thats the mess thaj the party has missed on the democratic side, which and i dont think that i wouldnt paint it with a broad bush because i think its Senate Democrats<\/a> frankly that havent gotten the message. Has he reached out to them. Our team has been in contact with the entire senate team to make sure they understand and they have had visits as requested. We have had Constant Contact<\/a> with the senate, the member of the senate, their staffs. Meetings with their teams to make the nominees available to them. I think the broader issue again, with all due respect i think its interesting we are focusing on the two republicans votes when he look at the spectrum of antics of the democrats, the tactics they have done over and over again to delay, not show up to hearings. Filibuster to the extent that they can. Run the clock out. Its not the republicans that have a problem of its the democrats who continue the do that. The president he is a remark the Affordable Care<\/a> act in his interview on sunday. Because he indicated in his response if that interview that he thought the repeal and replace was going to take longer, perhaps into 2018, can you clarify whether he is frustrated about this, what he is doing about the timing . Because of course voters who isnt him here were anticipating this might move faster. You saw speaker ryans comments earlier today. I think we can have this done legislatively sooner rather than later but the implements of the pieces may take longer. It is a big bill that the democrats passed. As you recall, they told us we could read it after they passed it. We are now going through this to make sure we do it in a responsible way. To make sure that health care which is so vital to so Many Americans<\/a> and their families is preserved hill we put a new system in place that lowers cost and increases accessibility. But the president i think is very encouraged by the commitment and work thats going on on the hill to make sure we get this thing replaced as soon as possible. Fred lucas, fred. Thanks, sean. Yeah. I was going to follow up related to that. [ inaudible ]. Tinker about with the margins and repair it it is a collapse in the law. Do you agree that . That you cant build on whats already there . You have to get rid of the entire i think what we are focused on is the end solution. We have been clear that the president is going to repeal and replace it. What americans will get at the end of this is a Health Care Solution<\/a> that as ive said before over and over again is going to give them a lower cost Health Solution<\/a> are more options. Thats what they were promised in the first place. I think the president being able to approach in in the businesslike manner that he has done so successfully in the past is going to make sure he negotiates prices that we look at the business like practices force Competition Among<\/a> other things that will help lower costs overall and provide competiti competition. Does the president have concerns about the act is that adam zubin is the acting secretary in terms of kblekting sanks. No, we implemted them without a hitch. The president over the weekend went on twitter and called him a socalled judges. In the comment that will be presented this morning, is he prepared to accept an adverse rulings by the ninth Circuit Court<\/a> of appeals. I just read the u. S. Code on that. I dont think there is any other way that you can interpret that, that the president has the discretion to do whats necessary to keep this country safe. I think thats his concern frankly right now, is that when the law is such as it is, that anyone could interpret that any other way, i think he feels confident, just like in the ruling in boston that were going to prevail on this in the merits of the case because it is done so in a very lawful way. Catherine . Will the administration take a position on the israeli legislation to legalize thousands of west bank settlements. Last week you said building the settlements may not be helpful. I dont want to get too far ahead of this, prime netanyahu will be here on the 15th. That will be obviously a topic of discussion. Right now i dont want to get ahead of that. Charlie sperry. Sean . Charlie, yeah. Just a quick question. Any response to the calls for impeachment by represent Maxine Waters<\/a> . No. Hunter walker i mean i would say, look, i think, look, it is the president is doing everything he can to move this country forward. I think whether its the democrats in the senate who are trying to stall these nominees or the political stunts on the house side, the bottom line is i think by and large you see the support that the president is receiving for his policies throughout the country. And its because i think people recognize a that business as usual is over and that the president s commitment to both keeping this country safe, growthing the economy and creating jobs is something that is welcomed by all americans regardless of party. I think when you see stuff like that i think it really just shows they really missed the message that voters sent this past november. Hunter walker. Thank you sean. Cnn reportedly declined to interview Kellyanne Conway<\/a> on sunday because of questions about her credibility. Is the white house willing to offer alternative represent testifies to networks who refuse to work with certain spokespeople . My understanding is they walked that back. Kellyanne is a trusted aide of the president. I think any characterization otherwise is insulting. If they choose not to work with someone thats up to them. We will continue to put out key leaders in this administration including kellyanne that can articulate the president s policies and agenda. Katie pavlich. President trump planned to ask the senate to expedite the swift firing of bad va employees. I think the plan is to make sure we are providing the best care. 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