Power Grab

Inside Trump's efforts to control the RNC. [For the best experience, read in browser.]( March 4, 2024 Good morning. We'll start with politics, where we've got the surprising results of the Washington, D.C. primary — and a look at [why Donald Trump's legal bills are causing concern]( within the GOP. Then, we unpack why the latest NYT/Siena College poll could spell trouble for President Biden. Later on, we’re breaking down [the CDC’s new Covid guidelines](, [foods to help you sleep](, and [what we’re reading this week](. Here we go!   In the News [Donald Trump looking down]( Getty Images Power Grab Donald Trump’s facing a criminal trial in New York City later this month — and staring down over half a billion dollars in legal debt. Now, some within the GOP are worried the former president will use the Republican National Committee to cover his bills — which could have a disastrous impact on the party. “Trump is going to bankrupt the RNC,” Jennifer Nassour, a former party chair and surrogate of Nikki Haley’s presidential campaign, tells us. “I think it’s completely unethical and I cannot imagine that this does not border on fraud,” she says. We've got more on Trump's attempts to overhaul the RNC and [why his moves are raising alarm](. [READ MORE]( PASS THIS STORY ALONG: mailto:?subject=Check%20out%20this%20story%20from%20Wake-Up%20Call%21&body=https%3A%2F%2Fkatiecouric.com%2Fnews%2Fpolitics-and-policy%2Fdonald-trump-rnc-legal-bills%2F   Road to 2024 [Nikki Haley]( Nikki Haley at a campaign rally in Portland, Maine on March 3. (Getty Images) Nikki Haley got her first victory in the 2024 presidential primary race, defeating Donald Trump in Washington, D.C. The former U.N. ambassador and South Carolina governor received nearly 63% of votes, earning her all 19 delegates. The win comes at a crucial time, with Trump expected to sweep Super Tuesday. Earlier on Sunday, during an appearance on "Meet the Press," Haley dodged questions about whether she would endorse Trump if he were to receive the Republican nomination.   More Stories [Caitlin Clark celebrating]( Caitlin Clark celebrates after her record-breaking shot during Sunday's game against the Ohio State Buckeyes. (Getty Images) Nothing but net: Caitlin Clark is now the all-time top scorer in both women’s and men’s NCAA Division I basketball. The University of Iowa star broke the women’s record two weeks ago and last night surpassed “Pistol Pete” Maravich’s record of 3,667 career points, which stood for more than 50 years. Meanwhile, another legend hit a pretty big milestone over the weekend too: LeBron James became the first player in the NBA to reach 40,000 points. One to watch: The Supreme Court is expected to issue rulings today — one of which could be a big deal for Donald Trump. The court heard a case last month about [Colorado's efforts to kick Trump off its state primary ballot]( for violating a portion of the 14th Amendment that bars those who’ve “engaged in insurrection” from serving in government. If a decision does come down, it will be just before Colorado and others vote tomorrow on Super Tuesday. Israel-Hamas War: Israel backed out of talks in Cairo aimed at reaching a cease-fire and exchanging hostages. The nation decided not to attend after Hamas reportedly refused to provide a list of the remaining living hostages. On Sunday, Vice President Harris called for an "immediate cease-fire" at an event in Selma, Ala. She urged Hamas to agree to a six-week pause in fighting and pressed Israel to do more to allow aid into Gaza.   By the Numbers The latest poll conducted by the New York Times and Siena College is out — and it does not look good for President Biden. Here are the key takeaways: Head to head: Donald Trump is polling 5 points ahead of Joe Biden among registered voters, although his lead is slightly smaller (48 to 44%) among likely voters. Approval rating: The share of voters who “strongly disapprove” of Biden’s performance has reached 47% — the highest it's ever been during his presidency. The age-old question: Among voters who backed Biden in 2020, 61% said they now think he’s “just too old” to be effective.   Must-Reads [Hands holding positive home covid test]( The New Normal After weeks of speculation, the CDC has officially rolled out new Covid guidelines. Here's what you need to know if you test positive. [Read More »]( [Woman holding a blue balloon with a sad face on it]( 5 Things You Can't Miss From a Best Picture contender coming to Hulu to a very special bonus episode of my podcast, here's what to tune into this week. [Read More »]( [Drawing of a head in profile surrounded by computer apps with squiggle for brain]( Work Smarter, Not Harder Google’s productivity advisor shares her tips to help you stay on top of your inbox, make the most of your mornings, and more. [Read More »](   Extra Credit Midnight snack: It's Sleep Awareness Month, and if you've been struggling to catch those ZZZs, it might be time to look in your fridge — not your medicine cabinet. Here are some [foods that can help you sleep]( and ones to avoid. Supplemental viewing: When you've devoured our picks for what to watch and read this week, turn your attention to [what's new on Netflix this month](. Pucker up: Want a bold lip without the stickiness of a gloss or drying feel of a lipstick? [This velvety smooth tint]( offers lightweight color, and the brand is a Gen Z favorite.   A Shoe-In [Black Steve Madden loafers, Black ankle booties, and white pumps on teal background]( KCM When it comes to footwear, you don't have to sacrifice comfort for style. We rounded up a bunch of [cute and walkable dress shoes](, including [the chic loafers]( that I've been getting a ton of mileage out of. [SEE MORE STYLES](   [Know it all, and help your friends catch up, too. Share Wake-Up Call and you'll earn some superb swag.]( Thanks for reading Wake-Up Call and being part of our community! If you've got questions or comments, drop us a line at info@katiecouric.com. See you tomorrow! [Alternate text] Update your preferences or [unsubscribe]( If you buy something through this email, KCM may earn a commission. Katie Couric Media, 75 Varick St, Ste 12, New York, NY - 10013-1917 Copyright © 2023 Katie Couric Media, All rights reserved.