The Fraud Squad

“I think we have to understand where the problem exists, how deep it goes and then suggest some remedies to it.” In a series of tweets and statements to the press, the White House has indicated plans to move forward with a broad investigation into the widespread voter fraud that doesn’t exist.

+ Related: Steve Bannon is registered to vote in two states. So is Steven Mnuchin.

+ If the voter fraud claims and actions are based on entirely invented data, it’s worth wondering if other policy decisions are as well. Is the perceived need for a wall based on real need? (The number of illegal immigrants from Mexico has been declining in recent years). Do we really have a problem with Syrian refugees? Only 14,333 of them have been resettled in the US.

+ Reminder: Many people are more than satisfied with the message coming from the president. According to one poll, “49 percent of those who watched or heard about” the Inaugural speech said it was excellent or good.

+ With all the other things going on, who really cares how many people were at the Inauguration? Well, the president, for one. Here, WaPo takes an interesting look at what Trump voters said when asked to compare his inauguration crowd with Obama’s.

+ Related: Scientists are planning to run for office.