**Trump Defends Peaceful 2020 Transition Amid Scrutiny; NC Governor Candidate Sues CNN**

Former President Donald Trump faced pointed questions about the 2020 election during an interview at the Economic Club of Chicago. Trump was specifically asked by Bloomberg News editor-in-chief John Micklethwait whether he would commit to a peaceful transfer of power if he loses the upcoming election. Trump deflected, insisting that the 2020 transition was peaceful despite the violence at the Capitol on January 6, 2021. “You had a peaceful transfer of power,” Trump declared. His statement drew a lukewarm response from the audience, while Micklethwait pressed on, comparing the tumultuous handover unfavorably to the likes of Venezuela.

In other political news, North Carolina’s Republican candidate for governor, Mark Robinson, has launched a defamation lawsuit against CNN. The lawsuit, filed in Wake County Superior Court, accuses CNN of publishing a reckless report alleging Robinson made lewd and offensive posts on a pornography website. The news network indicated Robinson’s data, including his email and personal details, were compromised by previous data breaches. Robinson announced the lawsuit at a press conference in Raleigh, seeking to rebuke the allegations that have distanced him from many Republican allies, including Trump.

Meanwhile, Georgia recorded over 200,000 votes on the first day of early in-person voting, setting a new state record. This pivotal swing state continues to see high voter engagement, reflective of its critical role in the upcoming election. Despite the surge in voting, it remains uncertain how the numbers will impact overall results, with polls showing a tight race where Trump maintains a narrow lead.

Senator Raphael Warnock, addressing voters in Georgia, warned against re-electing Trump, urging Black men, a key demographic for Democrats, to fully participate in the election. He highlighted Trump's potential governance as dangerous for communities of color. “You need to vote like your life depends on it—it does,” Warnock asserted, emphasizing the importance of turning out to vote and retaining Democratic support.

This election period has seen intensified efforts from both parties, with Democrats underscoring the critical nuances of Trump’s influence and Republicans facing internal controversies such as Robinson’s legal battles. As early voting continues and Election Day approaches, both sides are gearing up for what promises to be a closely watched and highly contentious election.