Smiths case . Plus, americans in iran, out of prison and now under house arrest. The rare move marking a bright spot in u. S. Iran relations. The new details were learning about the tentative deal to free them and what iran is getting in return. And senator joe manchin says hes seriously thinking about leaving his party as he weighs his own political future. Why manchin might be stepping away from the democrats and what it could mean for the Balance Of Power on capitol hill. Good morning and welcome to Way Too Early on this friday, august 11th. Im jonathan lemire. Thanks for starting your day with us. And well begin with breaking and tragic news out of hawaii where wildfires continue to ravage the Island Of Maui. At least 55 people are now confirmed dead, and that number is only expected to rise. Four major fires are currently burning across the island. Theyre being fueled by dry conditions and strong winds caused by a passing hurricane. The fires have destroyed Historic Buildings and
you ve said many times you re not like the democrats today or the national democratic party. you re not like the national republican party. why not just say you know what, i m going to be an independent? you thought about that? absolutely. absolutely. are you going to do it? well, i m thinking seriously what s the best for me, i have to have peace of mind basically. the brand has become so brand. the d brand, and our brand. so you re thinking seriously about becoming an independent? i would think very seriously about that. i ve been thinking about that for quite some time. i haven t made any decisions whatsoever on any of my political direction. i want to make sure my voice is truly an independent voice. of course the margins in the senate are razor thin and manchin s defection could change the balance of power and let s recall manchin likely the only democrat who can could win that state, one of the deepest red in the country. we ll keep you posted as he continues to g