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The leaders of the House Intelligence Committee said Wednesday that they had seen no evidence to support President Donald Trumps claim that he was wiretapped by President Obama before he took office.

We dont have any evidence that that took place," Rep. Devin Nunes, R-Calif., the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, said at a news conference with Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., the top Democrat on the panel.

I have seen no evidence that supports the claim that President Trump made, Schiff said.

In a series of tweets a few weekends ago, Trump accused President Barack Obama of wiretapping him and he urged Congress to investigate the claim.

FBI Director James Comey will testify before the committee at a public hearing Monday and will be questioned about Trump's claim, the lawmakers said.

The panel is conducting an investigation into Russias interference in the 2016 presidential campaign, including whether the FBI and intelligence agencies collected information into contacts between Trump associates and Russian government officials.

Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., on Wednesday threatened to subpoena Comey for information about whether the agency received a federal warrant to conduct surveillance on Trump, his campaign or his Manhattan headquarters.

If the FBI does not provide an answer, Graham said, Congress would need to establish a special House-Senate committee to examine Russias influence on the 2016 election.

Original post:
House leaders dispute Trump's claim Obama wiretapped him; Comey to testify - Chicago Tribune

Former President Barack Obama seems to be enjoying his time since leaving the White House, but Hillary Clinton's loss has left the Democratic Party and progressives in general without a leader -- putting closer scrutiny on what role the popular former president will play in the future of American politics.

While only the closest members of Obama's inner circle understand what such a return to politics will look like, some say he is taking notes from his wife, Michelle Obama.

According to Vox, which interviewed six current and former Obama aides, the former president plans to take relatively neutral political steps moving forward. He'll channel his wife's approach to the role of first lady as his model, focusing primarily on nonpartisan solutions to America's issues.

RELATED: The Obamas post-presidency

16 PHOTOS

The Obamas post-presidency

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NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 24: (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE) The 44th President of The United States Barack Obama, poses backstage at The Roundabout Theatre Company's production of 'Arthur Miller's The Price' on Broadway at The American Airlines Theatre on February 24, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Bruce Glikas/FilmMagic)

Former U.S. President Barack Obama sits on a boat during a kite surfing outing with British businessman Richard Branson during his holiday on Branson's Moskito island, in the British Virgin Islands, in a picture handed out by Virgin on February 7, 2017. Jack Brockway/Virgin Handout via REUTERS FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY

THIS IMAGE IS BINNED Former U.S. President Barack Obama tries his hand at kite surfing during a holiday with British businessman Richard Branson on his island Moskito, in the British Virgin Islands, in a picture handed out by Virgin on February 7, 2017. Jack Brockway/Virgin Handout via REUTERS FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY

Former U.S. President Barack Obama and British businessman Richard Branson sit on a boat during Obama's holiday on Branson's Moskito island, in the British Virgin Islands, in a picture handed out by Virgin on February 7, 2017. Jack Brockway/Virgin Handout via REUTERS FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY

NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 08: Malia Obama is seen arriving at The Weinstein Company on February 8, 2017 in New York, New York. (Photo by Alessio Botticelli/GC Images)

UNSPCIFIED, BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS - FEBRUARY 1: In this undated image Former President Barack Obama takes a break from learning to kitesurf at Richard Branson's Necker Island retreat on February 1, 2017 in the British Virgin Islands. Former President Obama and his wife Michelle have been on an extended vacation since leaving office on January 20. (Photo by Jack Brockway/Getty Images)

NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 24: Malia Obama is seen walking in Soho on February 24, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Raymond Hall/GC Images)

NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 24: Malia Obama is seen walking in Soho on February 24, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Raymond Hall/GC Images)

NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 24: (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE) Director Terry Kinney and The 44th President of The United States Barack Obama chat backstage at The Roundabout Theatre Company's production of 'Arthur Miller's The Price' on Broadway at The American Airlines Theatre on February 24, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Bruce Glikas/FilmMagic)

NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 24: (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE) (L-R) Malia Obama, The 44th President of The United States Barack Obama, Danny DeVito, Mark Ruffalo, Jessica Hecht and Tony Shalhoub pose backstage at The Roundabout Theatre Company's production of 'Arthur Miller's The Price' on Broadway at The American Airlines Theatre on February 24, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Bruce Glikas/FilmMagic)

NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 24: Malia Ann Obama is seen out in Manhattan with friend on February 24, 2017 in New York, New York. (Photo by Josiah Kamau/BuzzFoto via Getty Images)

NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 24: Malia Ann Obama is seen out in Manhattan with friend on February 24, 2017 in New York, New York. (Photo by Josiah Kamau/BuzzFoto via Getty Images)

NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 24: Malia Obama seen out in Manhattan on February 24, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Robert Kamau/GC Images)

NEW YORK, NY - MARCH 10: Michelle Obama leaves Upland restaurant on March 10, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by James Devaney/GC Images)

NEW YORK, NY - MARCH 10: Barack Obama leaves Upland restaurant on March 10, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by James Devaney/GC Images)

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Most former presidents in recent history have transitioned from one of the most political positions in the world into post-political role. Bill Clinton and both Bushes stepped out of the limelight and quietly focused on relatively noncontroversial charitable efforts. They also typically refrain from speaking ill of their successors, regardless of party -- a favor that is typically returned.

SEE ALSO: President Trump deviates from presidential code

Recent reports suggest that Obama directed his administration to be as helpful as possible in aiding then president-elect Trump and his team with the transition to help ensure a smooth transfer of power.

Obama stayed relatively quiet even when Trump claimed he had Trump Tower wiretapped during the 2016 campaign, having an aide release a statement, but otherwise removing himself from the political fray.

But as the former president begins to wield his post-presidential influence to help solve problems facing the nation and the world, he is expected to lean on techniques Michelle used during her time as first lady.

SEE ALSO: Illinois' attempt to honor Barack Obama met with death threats

Michelle Obama was typically popular, but faced her fair share of critics when she became first lady. Over the years, she worked to improve education for girls and generate nutrition programs. She developed her initiatives without billions in federal funding and without having to win a Senate majority.

But not everyone believes Obama's approach will be non-political.

RELATED: 44 iconic photos of Barack Obama's presidency

43 PHOTOS

44 iconic photos of Barack Obama's presidency

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Barack Obama takes a moment to reflect before walking on stage to take the oath of office.

Photo Credit: The White House

Barack Obama and the First Lady share a tender moment during the Inaugural Ball on Jan. 20, 2009.

Photo Credit: The White House

Obama enters the Oval Office on the first day of his presidency.

Photo Credit: The White House

President Obama reads a letter left in his desk by George W. Bush, a White House tradition welcoming the new President.

Photo Credit: The White House

Obama tours the grounds of his new home for the next 8 years.

Photo Credit: The White House

Barack Obama meets with senior advisors in his third week as president.

Photo Credit: The White House

President Obama settles in for his first flight aboard Air Force One.

Photo Credit: The White House

The 44thPresident of the United States gives his first State of the Union address on February 24, 2009.

Photo Credit: The White House

Mr. & Mrs. Obama walk hand in hand towards the helicopter that will take them on their first trip to Camp David.

Photo Credit: The White House

Michelle Obama shakes hands with Queen Elizabeth at the Buckingham palace during their trip for the G20 summit.

Photo Credit: The White House

POTUS shows some love for his troops while visiting Camp Victory in Iraq on April 7, 2009.

Photo Credit: The White House

The Obamas share a laugh while eating a snack after an event.

Photo Credit: The White House

Obama and Biden take in some fresh air with some golf on the White House green.

Photo Credit: The White House

President Obama explores the Pyramids of Giza during a trip to Egypt on June 4, 2009.

Photo Credit: The White House

POTUS walks through his first G8 Summit in Italy.

Photo Credit: The White House

Barack Obama takes in the beauty of the Grand Canyon.

Photo Credit: The White House

President Obama enjoys himself during an interview with David Letterman on Sept 21, 2009.

Photo Credit: The White House

The Obama's welcome children to enjoyHalloween fun at the White House.

Photo Credit: The White House

President Obama and the First Lady take their first portrait in front of the official White House Christmas tree.

Obama sits in his personalized chair during a meeting.

Photo Credit: The White House

The Obama's bust a move during the Governors' Ball.

Photo Credit: The White House

Obama takes a moment to catch up on some important documents while on the go.

Photo credit: The White House

The President takes calls at all hours leading up to the vote on healthcare reform.

Photo credit: The White House

Obama and Biden applaud the passing of the Affordable Care Act.

Photo Credit: The White House

White House Photographer Pete Souza had this to say about capturing this photo: "The sun was setting as the Presidential motorcade arrived back at Miami International Airport. I ran to get in front of Air Force One so I could use the beautiful sky as the background when the President boarded the plane."

Photo Credit: The White House

The Obamas lip-sync to a group of acappella singers during a holiday visit.

Photo Credit: The White House

A rare moment in the Situation Room of the White House.

Photo Credit: The White House

The President greets soldiers after a surprise all night flight to Afghanistan.

Photo Credit: The White House

The Obama family admires Rio's infamous Christ the Redeemer statue while In Brazil on March 20, 2011.

Photo Credit: The White House

Barack Obama approaches the Marine One helicopter.

Photo Credit: The White House

President Obama watches the screen like a hawk during the real time mission to capture Osama bin Laden.

Photo Credit: The White House

The White House photographer Pete Souza writes"The President was ready to announce the news about the mission against Osama bin Laden and was putting the finishing touches on his statement in the Outer Oval Office. As he did so, the networks broke in with bulletins confirming that bin Laden had been killed and a photograph of him appeared on the television screen in the background near the Vice President and Press Secretary Jay Carney."

Photo Credit: The White House

Souza says "One of the most memorable moments of the year was when the President hugged Rep. Gabrielle Giffords as he walked onto the floor of the House Chamber at the U.S. Capitol to deliver his annual State of the Union address."

See original here:
Obama takes notes from Michelle Obama's time as first lady for political plans post-presidency - AOL

In his final year in office, former President Barack Obamas administration spent a record $36.2 million defending itself from Freedom of Information Act lawsuits, according to a new Associated Press analysis.

When the money is broken down, the AP found that the biggest chunks were spent by the Justice Department ($12 million), the Department of Homeland Security ($6.3 million) and the Pentagon ($4.8 million).

The Obama administration also deniedaccess to requested documents and information more than any previous administration. The AP report revealedthat Obamasgovernment set a record for times federal employees told citizens, journalists and others that, despite searching, they couldnt find a single page of files that were requested.

Thenews wire also concluded that the Obama administrationset the record for outright denial of access to files by refusing to quickly consider requests described as newsworthy.

The AP offered this critique of Obamas oft-repeated promise to be the most transparent administration in history:

The figures reflect the final struggles of the Obama administration during the 2016 election to meet President Barack Obamas pledge that it was the most transparent administration in history, despite wide recognition of serious problems coping with requests under the information law. It received a record 788,769 requests for files last year and spent a record $478 million answering them and employed 4,263 full-time FOIA employees across more than 100 federal departments and agencies. That was higher by 142 such employees the previous year.

While control of the executive branch has changed parties, it does not necessarily mean more transparency is on the way.

President Donald Trump has not spoken much about government transparency. And last week,several journalists criticized Secretary of State Rex Tillerson for deciding to travel to Asia this week without a press pool to document his stops in Japan, South Korea and China.

CNNs Jake Tapper described the decision as insulting to any American who is looking for anything but a state-run version of events.

The Washington, D.C., bureau chiefs at CNN, the Washington Post, Fox News, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, NPR and otherswrote in a letter to Tillersons staff that they were deeply concerned about the secretary of state choosing to ditch the media.

The rest is here:
Obama admin spent record amount of money fighting FOIA lawsuits - TheBlaze.com

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Posted: Mar 15, 2017 11:13 AM

A free and independent press is criticalfor America to prosper.

Our press is pretty free as far as I know but lacks fairness.

As my colleague, Fox News Radios Todd Starnes, points out, Newsrooms are the least diverse place in America.

The mainstream media views each new day under President Donald Trump as another day to de-legitimize his presidency and cut him down as a human being.

The best example of this washow the press changed their coverage in real time on the night of November 8, 2016 when their favored candidate, Hillary Clinton, lost in an electoral upset to the one theyd mocked since his ride down the escalatorin Trump Tower.

For the past eight years the press didnt cover certain stories even though they were occurring but with Trump in the Oval Office, the mainstream media has suddenly jumped up their game in holding the administration accountable.

The media is still on a witch hunt for dirt on Trump. No surprise, thats part of the medias job, but we see a huge double standard in how theyre covering Trump compared to how they covered the Obama years.

NBC released the 2005 Access Hollywood tapes right before the election, and Trumps poll numbers predictably plummeted. Then on Tuesday night, Rachel Maddow had a countdown to Trumps tax returnsget this, from 2005 and totaling only two pages. Instead of pointing to facts, she led with questions and speculations questioning Trumps legitimacy as president.

None of this should come as a surprise from the same media that overlooked President Obamas many gaffes one being that he campaigned in all 57 states and failed to look into his unknown past.

The mainstream media is giving it their all to make the Trump-Russia connection, with MSNBC making baseless claims almost 24/7. Yet, they ignored Obamas 30-year history with questionable characters like his mentor and card-carrying Communist member, Frank Marshall Davis, then-Pastor Jeremiah Wright who famously said, God d**n America, and domestic terrorists Bill Ayers and Bernadine Dohrn. Although Obama acknowledged them in his memoir, the media discredited their ties to him as right-wing conspiracy theories.

This is extremely frustrating, and it should anger all Americans, because regardless of politics, we deserve better.

Weve heard a lot about the rising anti-Semitism since the election, damage done to Jewish cemeteries and threats against Jewish community centers and schools. This is horrible, news-worthy material.

But it isnt something new under Trump its been going on for some time now.

In fact, there were more than 7,000 anti-Semitic incidents under Obama, but they were largely ignored, according to journalist Seth J. Frantzman.

Then theres the attack on Secretary Ben Carson for comparing slaves to immigrants a similar comment was made by Obama just last year!

Not to get redundant here, but Senator Marco Rubio was attacked for telling Americans they have to prioritize healthcare if they want it the same argument Obama made to pass Obamacare.

The latest schooling of the media occurred when they feigned outrage at President Trumps latest prosecutor purge,backing off only when they learned Clinton and Obama did the same thing.

In a similar fashion, Trump revealed he wanted to make massive cuts to the federal government, gutting waste anywhere possible. The media acted like this was the first time its been done before, but President Clinton and Speaker Gingrich did a similar thing in the '90s.

The press has a job to do inform the American public, but as of late, the mainstream media has been too busy lying or ignoring crucial facts in their stories to further their propaganda.

The media wants to make you think President Trump is illegitimate and corrupt even though his actions havent been outside the mainstream, especially when compared to his radical predecessor, Obama.

Its just one story after another. Trump acts. The media cries wolf. At some point, the mainstream media has to have a come-to-Jesus-moment or were in for some sort of breaking point.

To paraphrase George Orwell, we need to call on the media to do a revolutionary act in a time of universal fake news, report the facts.

See original here:
The Mainstream Media Was AWOL During the Obama Years - Townhall

Former President Barack Obamatook a break from hitting Broadway with his daughter Malia, showing off his more relaxed style andwelcoming rounds of applause on the sidewalkto escape to Hawaii for (another) warm weather getaway.

While the Obamas spent plenty of time in the Aloha State during their eight years in the White House they traveledthere every December into January for the holidays this is Obamas first post-presidency trip tothe state where he was born.

And while hes there, hes partaking in one of his favorite activities: golf.

Obama wore a white polo and blue shorts for the occasion, as well as a wide smile (which has been present on his face since pretty much the exact moment he left office.)

FROM COINAGE: This Is How Much It Would Cost to Paint the White House (And More Crazy Facts)

Obamas time on the golf course during his eight years in office was criticized by current President Donald Trump. However, since the 45th president was sworn into office in January, Trump himself has taken several golfing trips.

The Obamas have been getting a lot of sun time in since leaving the White House.After now-President Trumps inauguration, they flew directly to Palm Springs, and then took a trip to Richard Bransons private island in the British Virgin Islands, where he was spotted grinning widely while indulging in water sports including kite surfing.

See more here:
Former President Barack Obama Grins While Golfing in His Home State of Hawaii - PEOPLE.com