thedailycaller--2020-05-16--‘We Cleaned Up The Mess’: Kayleigh McEnany Explains Why The White House Threw Out Obama Administrati

‘We Cleaned Up The Mess’: Kayleigh McEnany Explains Why The White House Threw Out Obama Administration’s Pandemic Plan

White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany laid out the White House ’ s reasoning for replacing the Obama administration ’ s pandemic response plan during Friday ’ s press briefing .
“ Some have erroneously suggested that the Trump administration threw out the pandemic response playbook left by the Obama-Biden administration , ” McEnany said at the opening of the briefing .
“ What the critics fail to note however is that this thin packet of paper was replaced by two detailed robust pandemic response reports commissioned by the Trump administration.
” ( RELATED : EXCLUSIVE : Roger Stone Has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added , “ In 2018 the Trump administration issued our pandemic crisis action plan … Further from August 13th to the 16th , the Trump administration conducted the crimson contagion 2019 functional exercise .
This was a pandemic simulation to test the nation ’ s ability to respond to a large-scale outbreak.
” “ We refilled that stockpile and we got the N95 masks out , ventilators another good example , not a single American died for the lack of a ventilator , ” the press secretary later told a reporter , “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the mess that was very clearly left by President Obama.
” ( RELATED : Kayleigh McEnany Explains Why Republicans Are So Mad About Obamagate ) The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the United States reached 1,435,945 Friday and the number of deaths reached 86,637 , according to the Washington Post .
Florida and Georgia are among the few states who have already begun the process of reopening their economies as other states , such as California , plan to remain in lockdown into at least June .
A Trump administration official told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Democrats in Washington and many in the mainstream media have tried to paint the narrative that President Trump and his administration failed to prepare for the coronavirus pandemic , and consistently the evidence shows that under the President ’ s leadership we ’ ve responded quickly and effectively to bend the curve , save lives , and care for Americans everywhere.
” ( RELATED : California City To Allow Reopenings , Declares Itself A ‘ Sanctuary City ’ For Business ) Recently , the White House has been critical of the Obama administration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s White House , including Former Vice President Joe Biden , had requested the unmasking of former national security adviser Michael Flynn .
Now the White House is also bringing focus on the prior administration ’ s preparation for a possible pandemic .

White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany laid out the White House’s reasoning for replacing the Obama administration’s pandemic response plan during Friday’s press briefing.
“Some have erroneously suggested that the Trump administration threw out the pandemic response playbook left by the Obama-Biden administration,” McEnany said at the opening of the briefing. “What the critics fail to note however is that this thin packet of paper was replaced by two detailed robust pandemic response reports commissioned by the Trump administration.” (RELATED: EXCLUSIVE: Roger Stone Has A Message For President Trump)
WATCH:
She added, “In 2018 the Trump administration issued our pandemic crisis action plan … Further from August 13th to the 16th, the Trump administration conducted the crimson contagion 2019 functional exercise. This was a pandemic simulation to test the nation’s ability to respond to a large-scale outbreak.”
“We refilled that stockpile and we got the N95 masks out, ventilators another good example, not a single American died for the lack of a ventilator,” the press secretary later told a reporter, “We have delivered. We cleaned up the mess that was very clearly left by President Obama.” (RELATED: Kayleigh McEnany Explains Why Republicans Are So Mad About Obamagate)
The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the United States reached 1,435,945 Friday and the number of deaths reached 86,637, according to the Washington Post. Florida and Georgia are among the few states who have already begun the process of reopening their economies as other states, such as California, plan to remain in lockdown into at least June.
A Trump administration official told the Daily Caller, “Consistently the Democrats in Washington and many in the mainstream media have tried to paint the narrative that President Trump and his administration failed to prepare for the coronavirus pandemic, and consistently the evidence shows that under the President’s leadership we’ve responded quickly and effectively to bend the curve, save lives, and care for Americans everywhere.” (RELATED:California City To Allow Reopenings, Declares Itself A ‘Sanctuary City’ For Business)
Recently, the White House has been critical of the Obama administration after a revelation that members in Obama’s White House, including Former Vice President Joe Biden, had requested the unmasking of former national security adviser Michael Flynn. Now the White House is also bringing focus on the prior administration’s preparation for a possible pandemic.


thedailycaller--2020-05-16--Prisoner Released Amid COVID-19 Arrested For Murder of 21-Year-Old Woman

A man recently released from prison in Colorado was arrested Friday for the accused murder of a 21-year-old woman by the name of Heather Perry .
The alleged murderer , Cornelius Haney , was released early as authorities tried to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 through the prison system , according to NBC affiliate 9News .
An executive order signed by Democratic Colorado Gov .
Jared Polis in March was the impetus for Haney ’ s release from state prison , according to a spokesperson for the Colorado Department of Corrections ’ comment to 9News Denver .
Before his release @ @ @ @ @ @ @ serving a seven-year sentence after pleading guilty to a felony robbery charge in 2016 , however his extensive criminal history dates back to 1998 .
( RELATED : California Prison Inmates Caught Infecting Themselves With Coronavirus In Hopes Of Early Release ) Haney was released early on April 15 .
His original sentence would have ended in August .
This comes as many parolees who have been released due to coronavirus have been arrested for new crimes .
Over 100 inmates who were released from Rikers Island in new York due to coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

A man recently released from prison in Colorado was arrested Friday for the accused murder of a 21-year-old woman by the name of Heather Perry.
The alleged murderer, Cornelius Haney, was released early as authorities tried to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 through the prison system, according to NBC affiliate 9News.
BREAKING: Cornelius Haney, released in April from a Colorado prison due to COVID-19, arrested for murder of 21-year-old woman in Denver pic.twitter.com/4yNSJsiltI — Breaking911 (@Breaking911) May 15, 2020
An executive order signed by Democratic Colorado Gov. Jared Polis in March was the impetus for Haney’s release from state prison, according to a spokesperson for the Colorado Department of Corrections’ comment to 9News Denver.
Before his release, Haney was in the middle of serving a seven-year sentence after pleading guilty to a felony robbery charge in 2016, however his extensive criminal history dates back to 1998. (RELATED: California Prison Inmates Caught Infecting Themselves With Coronavirus In Hopes Of Early Release)
Haney was released early on April 15. His original sentence would have ended in August.
This comes as many parolees who have been released due to coronavirus have been arrested for new crimes. Over 100 inmates who were released from Rikers Island in new York due to coronavirus concerns have been arrested again sicne March.


thedailycaller--2020-05-15--EXCLUSIVE: Kimberly Guilfoyle Goes After Stacy Abrams For Backing Joe Biden

Donald Trump Jr. and his girlfriend Kimberly Guilfoyle joined the Daily Caller ’ s Stephanie Hamill for a wide ranging interview on the 2020 election , the news regarding the unmasking of former national security adviser Michael Flynn and the effort to reopen the country amid the coronavirus pandemic .
In this video , Guilfoyle goes after former Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams and her support for the presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden because of the recent sexual assault claims against him .
( RELATED : EXCLUSIVE : Don Jr. Says He Wants To Apologize To Mike Flynn .
Here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ went from me too , to me who ?
” said Guilfoyle .
“ She doesn ’ t care , she ’ s like ‘ Oh Joe Biden , whatever it takes . '
” Abrams recently appeared in a virtual town hall with Biden , her name has also been floated as a potential vice president pick for Biden .
The views and opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the author and do not reflect the official position of The Daily Caller .
Check out TheDC ’ s fantastic videos @ @ @ @ @ @ @ avoid missing out .
NOW CHECK OUT The Daily Caller ’ s most popular shows : Would You Rather Date A Trump Supporter or MS-13 Gang Member ?
New Details About The ‘ Muslim Extremist ’ Compound In New Mexico Democrats ’ New Campaign Message : ‘ Drain The Swamp ’

Donald Trump Jr. and his girlfriend Kimberly Guilfoyle joined the Daily Caller’s Stephanie Hamill for a wide ranging interview on the 2020 election, the news regarding the unmasking of former national security adviser Michael Flynn and the effort to reopen the country amid the coronavirus pandemic.
In this video, Guilfoyle goes after former Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams and her support for the presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden because of the recent sexual assault claims against him. (RELATED: EXCLUSIVE: Don Jr. Says He Wants To Apologize To Mike Flynn. Here’s Why.)
“She went from me too, to me who?” said Guilfoyle. “She doesn’t care, she’s like ‘Oh Joe Biden, whatever it takes.'”
Abrams recently appeared in a virtual town hall with Biden, her name has also been floated as a potential vice president pick for Biden.
WATCH:
The views and opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the author and do not reflect the official position of The Daily Caller.
Check out TheDC’s fantastic videos and subscribe to our YouTube channel to avoid missing out.
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NOW CHECK OUT The Daily Caller’s most popular shows:
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Inside The Daily Caller’s Exclusive Oval Office Interview With President Donald Trump
Would You Rather Date A Trump Supporter or MS-13 Gang Member?
New Details About The ‘Muslim Extremist’ Compound In New Mexico
‘Trophy Culture’ Hijacks New Jersey High School Cheer Squad
Fact Checking White House ‘Truth Seekers’ On North Korea
Democrats’ New Campaign Message: ‘Drain The Swamp’
‘Fake News’ Defends Brutal MS-13 Gang


thedailycaller--2020-05-15--Resurfaced Clip Shows MSNBC’s Joe Scarborough Joking With Don Imus About Dead Intern

A clip unearthed by Media Research Center shows MSNBC ’ s Joe Scarborough joking about his dead intern to radio personality Don Imus in 2003 .
Florida intern Lori Klausutis died at age 28 from an apparent head injury back in 2001 when Scarborough worked as a Republican Florida congressman .
Klausutis was found dead at her desk and had an undiagnosed heart condition .
Her death was ruled accidental , but it has sparked many conspiracy theories .
MRC ’ s unearthed clip is dated May 29 , 2003 and appears to show Scarborough laughing along with Imus about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t be afraid to be funny , because you are funny .
You know , I ask you why you won Congress , you said you ’ d had sex with the intern and then you had to kill her , that ’ s pretty risky to say , ” Imus is seen saying .
Scarborough has often battled President Donald Trump on the subject , as Trump has repeatedly brought up the former congressman ’ s dead intern .
The president ’ s tweets about Klausutis include him calling for an investigation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has chastised the president for his comments about Klausutis , even calling them “ extraordinarily cruel ” during a segment on May 4 .
Despite this , Scarborough appeared to laugh off her death just two years after the fact .
( RELATED : Who Is The Dead Aide Behind Trump ’ s Tweet At Joe Scarborough ? )
Another clip unearthed from MRC appears to show Imus ’ show joking about Scarborough telling them he killed his intern .
Joe Scarborough did not immediately respond to a request for comment from the @ @ @ @ @ @

A clip unearthed by Media Research Center shows MSNBC’s Joe Scarborough joking about his dead intern to radio personality Don Imus in 2003.
Florida intern Lori Klausutis died at age 28 from an apparent head injury back in 2001 when Scarborough worked as a Republican Florida congressman. Klausutis was found dead at her desk and had an undiagnosed heart condition. Her death was ruled accidental, but it has sparked many conspiracy theories.
MRC’s unearthed clip is dated May 29, 2003 and appears to show Scarborough laughing along with Imus about killing the intern.
“Don’t be afraid to be funny, because you are funny. You know, I ask you why you won Congress, you said you’d had sex with the intern and then you had to kill her, that’s pretty risky to say,” Imus is seen saying.
“Exactly, what’re you gonna do,” Scarborough is heard replying, laughing.
WATCH:
Scarborough has often battled President Donald Trump on the subject, as Trump has repeatedly brought up the former congressman’s dead intern. The president’s tweets about Klausutis include him calling for an investigation into the incident.
The MSNBC host has chastised the president for his comments about Klausutis, even calling them “extraordinarily cruel” during a segment on May 4. Despite this, Scarborough appeared to laugh off her death just two years after the fact. (RELATED: Who Is The Dead Aide Behind Trump’s Tweet At Joe Scarborough?)
Another clip unearthed from MRC appears to show Imus’ show joking about Scarborough telling them he killed his intern.
WATCH:
Joe Scarborough did not immediately respond to a request for comment from the Daily Caller about the clip.


thedailycaller--2020-05-15--F-22 Fighter Jet Crashes On Routine Mission In Florida

An F-22 fighter jet crashed Friday about 12 miles northeast of Eglin Air Force Base in Flordia during a routine training mission .
The pilot ejected from the aircraft safely and is reportedly in stable condition .
According to authorities , the crash occurred around 9:15 am , and the pilot — whose name has not been released — was quickly taken to the 96th Medical Group hospital on the base for evaluation .
The crash site has been located and secured by first responders as investigations begin , according to Tyndall Air Force Base spokesman Don Arias .
( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Been Buried Alone — But St. Louis Had Other Ideas ) The F-22 Raptor in question was assigned to the 43rd Fighter Squadron currently housed at Eglin Air Force Base , and a part of the 325th Fighter Wing .
The plane involved in the incident was not a part of the nearby scheduled morning flyover over the Bay and Gulf counties to honor hospital staff and coronavirus frontline workers , but the squadron was nonetheless recalled upon knowledge of the incident .
( RELATED : Trump To Receive Official Space Force Flag @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ )

An F-22 fighter jet crashed Friday about 12 miles northeast of Eglin Air Force Base in Flordia during a routine training mission. The pilot ejected from the aircraft safely and is reportedly in stable condition.
According to authorities, the crash occurred around 9:15 am, and the pilot — whose name has not been released — was quickly taken to the 96th Medical Group hospital on the base for evaluation. The crash site has been located and secured by first responders as investigations begin, according to Tyndall Air Force Base spokesman Don Arias. (RELATED: Air Force Veteran Would Have Been Buried Alone — But St. Louis Had Other Ideas)
My office is in communication with officials at Eglin Air Force Base regarding the F-22 crash in Northwest Florida today. I’ve been informed the pilot safely ejected from the aircraft and was recovered a short time later.https://t.co/Z7D4xq1cBU — Rep. Matt Gaetz (@RepMattGaetz) May 15, 2020
The F-22 Raptor in question was assigned to the 43rd Fighter Squadron currently housed at Eglin Air Force Base, and a part of the 325th Fighter Wing.
The plane involved in the incident was not a part of the nearby scheduled morning flyover over the Bay and Gulf counties to honor hospital staff and coronavirus frontline workers, but the squadron was nonetheless recalled upon knowledge of the incident. (RELATED: Trump To Receive Official Space Force Flag And Declare New ‘Armed Forces Day’)


thedailycaller--2020-05-15--California City To Allow Reopenings, Declares Itself A ‘Sanctuary City’ For Business

The central California city of Atwater has declared itself a “ sanctuary city ” for businesses .
The Friday resolution passed by the Atwater City Council allows business owners to open , openly defying Democratic California Gov .
Gavin Newsom ’ s coronavirus-related stay-at-home order .
The resolution affirms “ the city ’ s commitment ” to “ fundamental ” human rights .
Churches and other nonprofits are included in the resolution , according to ABC30 ’ s Vanessa Vasconcelos .
“ A resolution of the city council of the city of Atwater affirming the city ’ s commitment to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and property , and declaring the city of Atwater a sanctuary city for all businesses , ” the resolution read .
( RELATED : Los Angeles County Intends To Extend Stay-At-Home Order For 3 Months .
What Does It Mean For Sports ? )
A statewide shelter-in-place order has been in effect since March 19 , with gradual easements happening this month .
While some counties were reportedly approved to move to “ Phase 2 ” of the state ’ s reopening plan , which would allow some non-essential lower-risk business to reopen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not included .
Meanwhile , many Californians are flocking to other states to escape government-imposed lockdown measures .

The central California city of Atwater has declared itself a “sanctuary city” for businesses.
The Friday resolution passed by the Atwater City Council allows business owners to open, openly defying Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s coronavirus-related stay-at-home order.
The resolution affirms “the city’s commitment” to “fundamental” human rights. Churches and other nonprofits are included in the resolution, according to ABC30’s Vanessa Vasconcelos.
#BREAKING City of Atwater declares itself “Sanctuary City” for all businesses. Non profits like churches are covered in this resolution. @ABC30 pic.twitter.com/DQGjqhkZwa — Vanessa Vasconcelos (@VanessaABC30) May 15, 2020
“A resolution of the city council of the city of Atwater affirming the city’s commitment to fundamental rights of life, liberty, and property, and declaring the city of Atwater a sanctuary city for all businesses,” the resolution read. (RELATED: Los Angeles County Intends To Extend Stay-At-Home Order For 3 Months. What Does It Mean For Sports?)
A statewide shelter-in-place order has been in effect since March 19, with gradual easements happening this month. While some counties were reportedly approved to move to “Phase 2” of the state’s reopening plan, which would allow some non-essential lower-risk business to reopen, Atwater’s Merced County was not included.
Meanwhile, many Californians are flocking to other states to escape government-imposed lockdown measures.


thedailycaller--2020-05-15--Report: Draft Spots Might Improve For Hiring Minority Coaches

The National Football League will reportedly look at a resolution this coming Tuesday at the owners ’ virtual meeting that would give teams draft spots for hiring minority coaches .
A source who spoke to NFL.com on the condition of anonymity Friday said one of the resolutions will be to look at removing the rule that prevents clubs to block its assistant coaches from interviewing for coordinator positions with other clubs .
( RELATED : REPORT : Coachella Potentially Rescheduled To October Due To Coronavirus Fears ) The other resolution would incentivize teams to hire minorities as head coaches and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ slots , multiple sources told NFL.com .
( RELATED : Here Are The Members Of Congress Self-Quarantining After Meeting Person With Coronavirus At CPAC ) According to the report , here ’ s how it would work : If a team hires a minority head coach , that team , in the draft preceding the coach ’ s second season , would move up six spots from where it is slotted to pick in the third round .
A team would jump 10 spots under the same scenario for hiring a person of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a position more commonly known as general manager .
If a team were to fill both positions with diverse candidates in the same year , that club could jump 16 spots — six for the coach , 10 for the GM — and potentially move from the top of the third round to the middle of the second round .
In addition , draft spots would be given to teams that lost a minority assistant to a coordinator job ( a fifth-round pick ) and if that person left to become a head @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) .
One more thing the owners will reportedly look at is a possible change to the existing Rooney Rule , which requires a team to interview at least one minority candidate for coach and GM openings , per USA Today .
That change would be to double the number of minority candidates that must be interviewed for head coach vacancies .

The National Football League will reportedly look at a resolution this coming Tuesday at the owners’ virtual meeting that would give teams draft spots for hiring minority coaches.
A source who spoke to NFL.com on the condition of anonymity Friday said one of the resolutions will be to look at removing the rule that prevents clubs to block its assistant coaches from interviewing for coordinator positions with other clubs. (RELATED: REPORT: Coachella Potentially Rescheduled To October Due To Coronavirus Fears)
NFL owners reportedly will weigh a proposal that would incentivize hiring minority coaches and GMs by providing draft compensation.https://t.co/B2RAlJbCL7 — USA TODAY NFL (@usatodaynfl) May 15, 2020
The other resolution would incentivize teams to hire minorities as head coaches and GM’s by gifting them draft slots, multiple sources told NFL.com. (RELATED: Here Are The Members Of Congress Self-Quarantining After Meeting Person With Coronavirus At CPAC)
According to the report, here’s how it would work:
If a team hires a minority head coach, that team, in the draft preceding the coach’s second season, would move up six spots from where it is slotted to pick in the third round. A team would jump 10 spots under the same scenario for hiring a person of color as its primary football executive, a position more commonly known as general manager. If a team were to fill both positions with diverse candidates in the same year, that club could jump 16 spots — six for the coach, 10 for the GM — and potentially move from the top of the third round to the middle of the second round.
In addition, draft spots would be given to teams that lost a minority assistant to a coordinator job (a fifth-round pick) and if that person left to become a head coach or GM (a third-round pick).
One more thing the owners will reportedly look at is a possible change to the existing Rooney Rule, which requires a team to interview at least one minority candidate for coach and GM openings, per USA Today. That change would be to double the number of minority candidates that must be interviewed for head coach vacancies.


thedailycaller--2020-05-15--‘You’ve Got To Flip It On Them’: Greg Gutfeld Offers Advice To Those Who Just Want To Get Back To Wo

‘You’ve Got To Flip It On Them’: Greg Gutfeld Offers Advice To Those Who Just Want To Get Back To Work

Greg Gutfeld offered a piece of advice Friday to those who just want to get back to work and are facing accusations that they ’ re endangering others .
Gutfeld was responding on “ The Five ” to updates from different states around the country that have started to reopen from lockdowns designed to control the spread of coronavirus .
( RELATED : Greg Gutfeld ’ s Only Beef With CNN Debate Is Don Lemon ’ s ‘ Biased Questions ’ ) Juan Williams noted that , as the weather began to warm up , it was going to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he also noted that being outside and active might actually work in favor of slowing the spread .
“ Dana is talking about beaches .
The weather is getting better .
There ’ s going to be more people outside , and I think if people , if they are outside and keeping a social distance , I think there ’ s a better shot at avoiding trouble than when we are indoors kind of huddled with the virus around .
What do you think ?
” Williams asked .
Gutfeld agreed that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help , but then pivoted to offer advice to those who were being accused of endangering others because they want their cities and states to reopen .
“ As for people who continue to accuse others of murder when they want to go outside and feed their families , flip the script .
When they accuse you of wanting death , say to them , ‘ Well , you want more spousal abuse , ' ” he said .
“ Domestic violence has been surging as these restrictions linger , right ?
So @ @ @ @ @ @ @ die , well , you want spouses to get beaten up .
Obviously that ’ s absurd .
But it ’ s analogous .
That ’ s what the media is doing to people who just want to get back to work .
You ’ ve got to flip it on them .
Piece of advice from Greg.
” “ We appreciate it .
Thank you , thank you , ” Williams replied .

Greg Gutfeld offered a piece of advice Friday to those who just want to get back to work and are facing accusations that they’re endangering others.
Gutfeld was responding on “The Five” to updates from different states around the country that have started to reopen from lockdowns designed to control the spread of coronavirus. (RELATED: Greg Gutfeld’s Only Beef With CNN Debate Is Don Lemon’s ‘Biased Questions’)
WATCH:
Juan Williams noted that, as the weather began to warm up, it was going to be harder to keep people inside — but he also noted that being outside and active might actually work in favor of slowing the spread.
“Dana is talking about beaches. The weather is getting better. There’s going to be more people outside, and I think if people, if they are outside and keeping a social distance, I think there’s a better shot at avoiding trouble than when we are indoors kind of huddled with the virus around. What do you think?” Williams asked.
Gutfeld agreed that the ability to spend time outside might help, but then pivoted to offer advice to those who were being accused of endangering others because they want their cities and states to reopen.
“As for people who continue to accuse others of murder when they want to go outside and feed their families, flip the script. When they accuse you of wanting death, say to them, ‘Well, you want more spousal abuse,'” he said. “Domestic violence has been surging as these restrictions linger, right? So if they say you want people to die, well, you want spouses to get beaten up. Obviously that’s absurd. But it’s analogous. That’s what the media is doing to people who just want to get back to work. You’ve got to flip it on them. Piece of advice from Greg.”
“We appreciate it. Thank you, thank you,” Williams replied.


thedailycaller--2020-05-15--FACT CHECK: Were These Trees Cut Down To ‘Make Way For 5G’?

An image shared on Facebook purportedly shows trees that were cut down on a residential street to “ make way for 5G.
” There is no indication that the trees were cut down to “ make way for 5G.
” The trees were reportedly cut down because some were old , sick or crooked , and they have since been replaced .
The U.K. Department for Digital , Culture , Media and Sport notes in a 5G planning report that 5G signals can be impeded by some objects , including hedges and trees .
5G networks , which have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ connectivity and download speeds for smartphone users .
The Facebook post shows a residential street lined with tree stumps , claiming someone “ chopped 150 year old trees down to make way for 5G how sick is that.
” There is , however , no evidence that the pictured trees were cut down for that reason .
The Daily Caller News Foundation conducted a reverse image search and found the photo in an article from the Flemish newspaper Het Nieuwsblad .
That article describes how the trees were cut down in Baron Descampslaan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Leuven , because they needed to be replaced .
Belgian politician Carl Devlies said they needed to be replaced because “ some trees were sick , others were crooked , and still others were showing signs of aging , ” according to a translation of the article .
Hannelore Smitz , the author of the article , told Reuters that he obtained the photo from a resident who was concerned about why the trees had been cut down .
The local government has since replaced the trees , according to Reuters .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Killed By Coronavirus Or 5G Networks In Italy ? )
5G is not mentioned at any point in the article , and no media reports could be found to corroborate the Facebook post ’ s claim .
Social media is replete with conspiracy theories related to 5G technology , including those that erroneously link its emergence to the spread of the new coronavirus .
Content created by The Daily Caller News Foundation is available without charge to any eligible news publisher that can provide a large audience .
For licensing opportunities of our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protected ] .

An image shared on Facebook purportedly shows trees that were cut down on a residential street to “make way for 5G.”
Verdict: False
There is no indication that the trees were cut down to “make way for 5G.” The trees were reportedly cut down because some were old, sick or crooked, and they have since been replaced.
Fact Check:
The U.K. Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport notes in a 5G planning report that 5G signals can be impeded by some objects, including hedges and trees. 5G networks, which have been implemented in numerous countries, provide faster connectivity and download speeds for smartphone users.
The Facebook post shows a residential street lined with tree stumps, claiming someone “chopped 150 year old trees down to make way for 5G how sick is that.” There is, however, no evidence that the pictured trees were cut down for that reason.
The Daily Caller News Foundation conducted a reverse image search and found the photo in an article from the Flemish newspaper Het Nieuwsblad. That article describes how the trees were cut down in Baron Descampslaan, a neighborhood in the Belgian city of Leuven, because they needed to be replaced. Belgian politician Carl Devlies said they needed to be replaced because “some trees were sick, others were crooked, and still others were showing signs of aging,” according to a translation of the article.
Hannelore Smitz, the author of the article, told Reuters that he obtained the photo from a resident who was concerned about why the trees had been cut down. The local government has since replaced the trees, according to Reuters. (RELATED: Were Thousands Of Birds Killed By Coronavirus Or 5G Networks In Italy?)
5G is not mentioned at any point in the article, and no media reports could be found to corroborate the Facebook post’s claim. Social media is replete with conspiracy theories related to 5G technology, including those that erroneously link its emergence to the spread of the new coronavirus.
All content created by the Daily Caller News Foundation, an independent and nonpartisan newswire service, is available without charge to any legitimate news publisher that can provide a large audience. All republished articles must include our logo, our reporter’s byline and their DCNF affiliation. For any questions about our guidelines or partnering with us, please contact [email protected].


thedailycaller--2020-05-15--Unmasking: What Is It And Who Usually Does It?

Documents released Wednesday revealed that numerous Obama administration officials had made unmasking requests regarding information about former national security advisor Michael Flynn .
Thirty-nine government officials submitted unmasking requests between Nov. 8 , 2016 and Jan. 31 , 2017 , government records indicate .
These officials include former Vice President Joe Biden , former CIA director John Brennan and former director of national intelligence James Clapper .
Given the news , some Americans may be wondering : what , exactly , is unmasking ?
Is it common for administration officials outside of traditional national security structures to file such a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two former intelligence officials and asked them just that .
“ Essentially , it ’ s like getting your phone bill , and when you get a phone bill you have a number and you know that you dialed that number but there ’ s no name attached to that number , ” retired army intelligence officer Tony Shaffer explained .
“ Basically , what unmasking is is taking that number and placing the name or location next to it .
That ’ s what unmasking is.
” Unmasking is actually fairly common @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hoffman noted .
Hoffman said that based on his experience , “ the focus is not to target a U.S. citizen , ” adding that “ collection is against foreign targets of interest.
” ( RELATED : Here Is Everything You Need To Know About ‘ Unmasking ’ And Michael Flynn , All In One Place ) He also stressed that while unmasking is lawful , leaking is not .
“ When a U.S. citizen is caught up in the collection , often there is no need to know who the person is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But especially when the U.S. citizen is in contact with a nefarious person like a terrorist or Russian intelligence officer , there is value to warning the American he is at risk.
” “ And sometimes it is important to let the American know how a foreign enemy – especially common in Russia ’ s case – might be twisting their words and lying about what was said.
” Hoffman also said that although “ unmasking … sounds awfully nefarious , ” it ’ s “ just learning the identify of the U.S. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reason to do it.
” According to Hoffman , unmasking is difficult to do .
He said “ the controls are extraordinarily rigorous from a legal standpoint ” and that he knows from firsthand experience there are many regulations and requirements in order to be granted the request .
“ That ’ s why we have all this data now about who learned the identity of Michael Flynn , ” Hoffman said .
Shaffer told the Daily Caller that it used to be uncommon for administration officials to make unmasking requests .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ limited to primarily career personnel with no direct access … to political appointees.
” “ This is a huge departure from the old days .
In the old days , you had a huge restriction , especially regarding the limitations to political appointees , ” according to Shaffer .
“ Back in those days , I was an operative , I was not an appointee … there were internal restrictions trying to highly limit access to anyone who was a political appointee.
” Shaffer also said unmasking requests are made under a “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ call is talking to an intelligence officer.
” He reiterated that it used to be “ highly restrictive.
” “ The unmasking authority has been generally contained to probably , back in the days when I was doing this sort of work , was probably and I ’ m not kidding , ten people in Washington .
It was highly restrictive , ” Shaffer noted .
Hoffman , however , told the Daily Caller that this question didn ’ t necessarily matter in the scheme of things .
He said it depends on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that “ it doesn ’ t matter how common or uncommon it is.
” “ Someone in contact with the Russian ambassador , having these discussions , is blocked out , ” Hoffman said .
“ They may have thought that it might be Michael Flynn or not , they might not have known , but they wanted to be sure it was him and not somebody else .
And at issue , the Russians of course knew the details of these conversations , how they were reporting them , what they were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to U.S. policymakers.
” “ The Trump administration also unmasks individuals in accordance with the law and government regulations .
Director of FBI , the vice president , the president – they have a need to know when it comes to our relationships with key criteria countries like China and Russia .
”

Documents released Wednesday revealed that numerous Obama administration officials had made unmasking requests regarding information about former national security advisor Michael Flynn.
Thirty-nine government officials submitted unmasking requests between Nov. 8, 2016 and Jan. 31, 2017, government records indicate. These officials include former Vice President Joe Biden, former CIA director John Brennan and former director of national intelligence James Clapper.
Given the news, some Americans may be wondering: what, exactly, is unmasking? Is it common for administration officials outside of traditional national security structures to file such a request? The Daily Caller spoke to two former intelligence officials and asked them just that.
“Essentially, it’s like getting your phone bill, and when you get a phone bill you have a number and you know that you dialed that number but there’s no name attached to that number,” retired army intelligence officer Tony Shaffer explained. “Basically, what unmasking is is taking that number and placing the name or location next to it. That’s what unmasking is.”
Unmasking is actually fairly common, former CIA chief of station Daniel Hoffman noted. Hoffman said that based on his experience, “the focus is not to target a U.S. citizen,” adding that “collection is against foreign targets of interest.”(RELATED: Here Is Everything You Need To Know About ‘Unmasking’ And Michael Flynn, All In One Place)
He also stressed that while unmasking is lawful, leaking is not.
“When a U.S. citizen is caught up in the collection, often there is no need to know who the person is,” according to Hoffman. “But especially when the U.S. citizen is in contact with a nefarious person like a terrorist or Russian intelligence officer, there is value to warning the American he is at risk.”
“And sometimes it is important to let the American know how a foreign enemy – especially common in Russia’s case – might be twisting their words and lying about what was said.”
Hoffman also said that although “unmasking … sounds awfully nefarious,” it’s “just learning the identify of the U.S. person involved when you have a legitimate reason to do it.”
According to Hoffman, unmasking is difficult to do. He said “the controls are extraordinarily rigorous from a legal standpoint” and that he knows from firsthand experience there are many regulations and requirements in order to be granted the request.
“That’s why we have all this data now about who learned the identity of Michael Flynn,” Hoffman said.
Shaffer told the Daily Caller that it used to be uncommon for administration officials to make unmasking requests. He said that unmasking requests were typically “limited to primarily career personnel with no direct access … to political appointees.”
“This is a huge departure from the old days. In the old days, you had a huge restriction, especially regarding the limitations to political appointees,” according to Shaffer. “Back in those days, I was an operative, I was not an appointee … there were internal restrictions trying to highly limit access to anyone who was a political appointee.”
Shaffer also said unmasking requests are made under a “presumption that the individual on the phone call is talking to an intelligence officer.” He reiterated that it used to be “highly restrictive.”
“The unmasking authority has been generally contained to probably, back in the days when I was doing this sort of work, was probably and I’m not kidding, ten people in Washington. It was highly restrictive,” Shaffer noted.
Hoffman, however, told the Daily Caller that this question didn’t necessarily matter in the scheme of things. He said it depends on “the situation at hand” and that “it doesn’t matter how common or uncommon it is.”
“Someone in contact with the Russian ambassador, having these discussions, is blocked out,” Hoffman said. “They may have thought that it might be Michael Flynn or not, they might not have known, but they wanted to be sure it was him and not somebody else. And at issue, the Russians of course knew the details of these conversations, how they were reporting them, what they were saying about them would be of interest to U.S. policymakers.”
“The Trump administration also unmasks individuals in accordance with the law and government regulations. Director of FBI, the vice president, the president – they have a need to know when it comes to our relationships with key criteria countries like China and Russia.”


thedailycaller--2020-05-15--Juan Williams Defends Biden Gaffes By Turning The Spotlight On Trump

Juan Williams defended former Vice President Joe Biden and his propensity for verbal gaffes by turning the attack on President Donald Trump .
Williams made the comments during a Friday segment of “ The Five ” on Fox News.
” ( RELATED : ‘ Sickening !
’ : Juan Williams Says Flynn Dismissal Is ‘ Politicization Of Law ’ To Save Trump ) Williams was responding to Biden ’ s Thursday night interview with MSNBC ’ s Lawrence O ’ Donnell , during which the former vice president mixed up the coronavirus death totals with the job losses , told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they believed his sexual-assault accuser Tara Reade and attempted to converse with a prerecorded question .
“ On the gaffes thing , I don ’ t think it was Biden .
Hang on .
I don ’ t think it was Biden who said that his father was born in Germany , ” Williams said , pivoting to attack Trump .
“ I think that was Donald Trump .
I don ’ t think it was Biden who said oh , yeah , George Washington captured the airports during The Revolutionary War .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ So I wonder where is this coming from ?
” “ I worked for a president that had a few gaffes too , ” Dana Perino cut in , referencing her own time as press secretary in the George W. Bush White House and adding , “ He wasn ’ t considered someone who couldn ’ t answer basic questions .
”

Juan Williams defended former Vice President Joe Biden and his propensity for verbal gaffes by turning the attack on President Donald Trump.
Williams made the comments during a Friday segment of “The Five” on Fox News.” (RELATED: ‘Sickening!’: Juan Williams Says Flynn Dismissal Is ‘Politicization Of Law’ To Save Trump)
WATCH:
Williams was responding to Biden’s Thursday night interview with MSNBC’s Lawrence O’Donnell, during which the former vice president mixed up the coronavirus death totals with the job losses, told voters not to vote for him if they believed his sexual-assault accuser Tara Reade and attempted to converse with a prerecorded question.
“On the gaffes thing, I don’t think it was Biden. Hang on. I don’t think it was Biden who said that his father was born in Germany,” Williams said, pivoting to attack Trump. “I think that was Donald Trump. I don’t think it was Biden who said oh, yeah, George Washington captured the airports during The Revolutionary War. I think that was Donald Trump. So I wonder where is this coming from?”
“I worked for a president that had a few gaffes too,” Dana Perino cut in, referencing her own time as press secretary in the George W. Bush White House and adding, “He wasn’t considered someone who couldn’t answer basic questions.”


thedailycaller--2020-05-15--‘We Have To Put Food On The Table’: Brooklyn Business Owner Calls On Leaders To Allow Reopening

A New York small business owner is pleading with state leaders , including Democratic Gov .
Andrew Cuomo , to listen to people like her whose livelihoods have been abruptly and indefinitely paused because of the coronavirus pandemic .
Simcha Minkowitz , a Brooklyn resident and owner of Amor Fine Jewelry , told the Daily Caller that local businesses are suffering with little recourse during Cuomo ’ s shutdown of “ nonessential ” businesses .
Her business , which sells jewelry for special occasions like weddings and other milestones , has been closed for almost three months , she said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her business initially out of concern for others , but as time went on and nonessential businesses were ordered to remain closed , she has grown frustrated with the unfair and “ hypocritical ” treatment small businesses have faced .
All workers in nonessential businesses across New York State were ordered to stay home beginning March 22 in an effort to curb the spread of coronavirus .
Jewelry stores were among the types of businesses that were required to close .
( RELATED : ‘ This Is My Dream ’ : Michigan Music @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Whitmer For Putting Him Out Of Business ) “ We all did it happily because that ’ s what you do for one another , ” she said .
“ But it came to a point where right now it ’ s hard for me to look around , to pass a 7/11 where you can go in and get a slurpee and toilet paper .
I see so many people in Target [ shopping for nonessential items . ]
” “ I have a jewelry store so a lot of people are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Well , it ’ s essential to me , because I have to support my family and we gave our hard earned money to this store .
It ’ s like Marie Antoinette , let them eat cake .
You don ’ t understand people having to work to put bread and food on their table.
” Minkowitz recorded a short video of herself expressing the struggles she and other business owners who were forced to close are now facing , which has since gone viral after she shared it in a group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I put the video on there and it went crazy .
This resonated with the heart of America .
I don ’ t think it ’ s being reported , and I don ’ t think the stories are being told , ” she added .
“ It ’ s sad because the big chain stores are raking in millions .
The hypocrisy makes no sense .
The little guys are getting hurt and the big guys are reaping the rewards.
” She also highlighted the economic consequences of the shutdowns that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and that may result in an exacerbated mental health crisis due to mass unemployment .
Nearly three million people filed unemployment claims during the week of May 4 , bringing total unemployment claims to 36 million in a two-month tally , the New York Times reported Thursday .
Small businesses across the country that are facing economic ruin are able to seek some relief from initiatives like the CARES Act , which contains $ 376 billion in relief for workers and small businesses .
For her jewelry store , Minkowitz was grateful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loan she received , but she said she ’ d rather be working “ every day and honestly.
” But for many , government funding isn ’ t a large enough lifeline to carry small businesses through prolonged periods of no revenue .
The challenges can feel insurmountable — Minkowitz said she recently spoke to friends who were close to someone who died from suicide after his business closed .
The soaring unemployment rate caused by the pandemic combined with isolating at home creates the “ perfect storm ” for an increased risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CNBC .
“ We ’ re going to go bankrupt , and there ’ s going to be people committing suicide , ” she said .
“ Our country already has a terrible mental health crisis.
” Minkowitz has been trying to keep her business afloat by selling jewelry online and even doing FaceTime appointments .
“ We ’ ve been doing whatever we can to keep our businesses afloat .
But it ’ s maybe one sale a day , maybe not even that .
This week I haven ’ t had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that her voice and the voices of other small business owners will be heard by leaders before it ’ s too late for many to salvage their livelihoods .
She ’ s happy to follow the social distancing and sanitation guidelines to keep her customers safe while shopping , she added , but many small businesses haven ’ t been given the same options as big businesses .
“ My parents didn ’ t have money growing up .
They worked really hard for everything I ’ ve ever had , so I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I have now , ” she continued .
“ So I know the challenges that entrepreneurs go through .
There ’ s nobody there for them .
They give sweat and blood , and they ’ re the life of America .
”

A New York small business owner is pleading with state leaders, including Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo, to listen to people like her whose livelihoods have been abruptly and indefinitely paused because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Simcha Minkowitz, a Brooklyn resident and owner of Amor Fine Jewelry, told the Daily Caller that local businesses are suffering with little recourse during Cuomo’s shutdown of “nonessential” businesses.
Her business, which sells jewelry for special occasions like weddings and other milestones, has been closed for almost three months, she said. Minkowitz was happy to close down her business initially out of concern for others, but as time went on and nonessential businesses were ordered to remain closed, she has grown frustrated with the unfair and “hypocritical” treatment small businesses have faced.
All workers in nonessential businesses across New York State were ordered to stay home beginning March 22 in an effort to curb the spread of coronavirus. Jewelry stores were among the types of businesses that were required to close. (RELATED: ‘This Is My Dream’: Michigan Music Store Owner Weeps, Blames Gov. Whitmer For Putting Him Out Of Business)
“We all did it happily because that’s what you do for one another,” she said. “But it came to a point where right now it’s hard for me to look around, to pass a 7/11 where you can go in and get a slurpee and toilet paper. I see so many people in Target [shopping for nonessential items.]”
“I have a jewelry store so a lot of people are saying it’s not essential. Well, it’s essential to me, because I have to support my family and we gave our hard earned money to this store. It’s like Marie Antoinette, let them eat cake. You don’t understand people having to work to put bread and food on their table.”
Minkowitz recorded a short video of herself expressing the struggles she and other business owners who were forced to close are now facing, which has since gone viral after she shared it in a group chat with other retail business owners.
A frustrated Brooklyn business owner asks why she and her husband can’t be trusted like the big box stores can. Let’s remember how this this is impacting entrepreneurs who want to feed their families. pic.twitter.com/JRNLQvZmT1 — Tova Herskovitz (@tovaherskovitz) May 15, 2020
“I put the video on there and it went crazy. This resonated with the heart of America. I don’t think it’s being reported, and I don’t think the stories are being told,” she added.
“It’s sad because the big chain stores are raking in millions. The hypocrisy makes no sense. The little guys are getting hurt and the big guys are reaping the rewards.”
She also highlighted the economic consequences of the shutdowns that many Americans will have trouble rebounding from, and that may result in an exacerbated mental health crisis due to mass unemployment.
Nearly three million people filed unemployment claims during the week of May 4, bringing total unemployment claims to 36 million in a two-month tally, the New York Times reported Thursday. Small businesses across the country that are facing economic ruin are able to seek some relief from initiatives like the CARES Act, which contains $376 billion in relief for workers and small businesses.
For her jewelry store, Minkowitz was grateful for the Paycheck Protection (PPP) loan she received, but she said she’d rather be working “every day and honestly.”
But for many, government funding isn’t a large enough lifeline to carry small businesses through prolonged periods of no revenue. The challenges can feel insurmountable — Minkowitz said she recently spoke to friends who were close to someone who died from suicide after his business closed.
The soaring unemployment rate caused by the pandemic combined with isolating at home creates the “perfect storm” for an increased risk of suicide, experts said according to CNBC.
“We’re going to go bankrupt, and there’s going to be people committing suicide,” she said. “Our country already has a terrible mental health crisis.”
The unemployment rate in the US will peak at 25%, rivaling the worst period of the Great Depression, Goldman Sachs warns. https://t.co/rIRJ8KBq3n — CNN (@CNN) May 13, 2020
Minkowitz has been trying to keep her business afloat by selling jewelry online and even doing FaceTime appointments.
“We’ve been doing whatever we can to keep our businesses afloat. But it’s maybe one sale a day, maybe not even that. This week I haven’t had any sales.”
She’s hoping that her voice and the voices of other small business owners will be heard by leaders before it’s too late for many to salvage their livelihoods. She’s happy to follow the social distancing and sanitation guidelines to keep her customers safe while shopping, she added, but many small businesses haven’t been given the same options as big businesses.
“My parents didn’t have money growing up. They worked really hard for everything I’ve ever had, so I’m so grateful for everything that I have now,” she continued.
“So I know the challenges that entrepreneurs go through. There’s nobody there for them. They give sweat and blood, and they’re the life of America.”


thedailycaller--2020-05-15--Corey Lewandowski Is Back With Another EXCLUSIVE Message For Daily Caller Patriots

Corey Lewandowski , President Donald Trump ’ s 2016 campaign manager , joined Daily Caller ’ s senior White House correspondent Christian Datoc for another interview , during which he delivered and exclusive message for Daily Caller Patriots .
During the full interview , Lewandowski , who currently serves as a senior advisor to the Trump 2020 campaign , had a lot to say about not only the future for the Trump campaign .
He also shared his opinion on former Vice President Joe Biden ’ s performance in the race to the presidency thus far .
Make sure to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Patriots Only videos on YouTube , and — if you haven ’ t already — go subscribe to our channel .
In the meantime , let us know in the comments what YOU want to hear discussed in our upcoming videos .
Take advantage of your subscription .
This is your chance to become part of the conversation and help us shape all of our future coverage .
Also make sure you go and follow us on all of our social media pages : And don ’ t forget to subscribe to @ @ @ @

Corey Lewandowski, President Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign manager, joined Daily Caller’s senior White House correspondent Christian Datoc for another interview, during which he delivered and exclusive message for Daily Caller Patriots.


thedailycaller--2020-05-15--Ivanka Joins Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan To Launch USDA Food Box Program During Pandemic

Ivanka Trump joined Republican Maryland Gov .
Larry Hogan Friday to launch the U.S. Department of Agriculture ’ s ( USDA ) Farmers to Families Food Box Program to help suppliers during the pandemic .
The first daughter , Hogan and Agriculture Sec .
Sonny Perdue kicked off the program during a tour at the Coastal Sunbelt Produce in Laurel , per Fox 45 News in Baltimore .
While wearing masks , the three announced the $ 3 billion program that aims to send “ fresh produce , meat and dairy direct from farmers to families ” during the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ RELATED : REPORT : Coachella Potentially Rescheduled To October Due To Coronavirus Fears ) “ Today I joined @ IvankaTrump and @ SecretarySonny for a tour of @ Coastal_Sunbelt in Laurel and the launch of the Farmers to Families Food Box Program , which is providing much-needed assistance to farmers , suppliers , food banks , and families , ” Hogan tweeted , along with a picture from the day ’ s event .
( RELATED : Congress Pushing To Get An Additional Coronavirus Bill Passed Before Recess ) According to the report @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Agricultural Marketing Service is partnering with national , regional , and local suppliers , whose workforce has been significantly impacted by the closure of restaurants , hotels and other food service businesses , to purchase up to $ 3 billion in fresh produce , dairy and meat products .
Ivanka later shared several pictures from the visit on her Instagram and captioned the post , “ Farmers feed America !
The $ 3 Billion Farmers to Families Food Box Program launched today will ensure that food that might have gone to waste @ @ @ @ @ @ @ !
” “ Fresh produce/meat will be packed into boxes [ and ] delivered to food banks + non-profits nationwide , ” she added .

Ivanka Trump joined Republican Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan Friday to launch the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Farmers to Families Food Box Program to help suppliers during the pandemic.
The first daughter, Hogan and Agriculture Sec. Sonny Perdue kicked off the program during a tour at the Coastal Sunbelt Produce in Laurel, per Fox 45 News in Baltimore.
While wearing masks, the three announced the $3 billion program that aims to send “fresh produce, meat and dairy direct from farmers to families” during the coronavirus outbreak, according to Perdue. (RELATED: REPORT: Coachella Potentially Rescheduled To October Due To Coronavirus Fears)
Just outside DC, I visited @Coastal_Sunbelt w/ @IvankaTrump & @GovLarryHogan to see @USDA’s innovative food boxes being assembled to be sent to those in need. We’re sending fresh produce, meat and dairy direct from farmers to families. pic.twitter.com/BG2dUtsk75 — Sec. Sonny Perdue (@SecretarySonny) May 15, 2020
“Today I joined @IvankaTrump and @SecretarySonny for a tour of @Coastal_Sunbelt in Laurel and the launch of the Farmers to Families Food Box Program, which is providing much-needed assistance to farmers, suppliers, food banks, and families,” Hogan tweeted, along with a picture from the day’s event.(RELATED: Congress Pushing To Get An Additional Coronavirus Bill Passed Before Recess)
Today I joined @IvankaTrump and @SecretarySonny for a tour of @Coastal_Sunbelt in Laurel and the launch of the Farmers to Families Food Box Program, which is providing much-needed assistance to farmers, suppliers, food banks, and families. My remarks: https://t.co/dfyRczRjLW pic.twitter.com/WewYjrkQjD — Governor Larry Hogan (@GovLarryHogan) May 15, 2020
According to the report:
Through this program, USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service is partnering with national, regional, and local suppliers, whose workforce has been significantly impacted by the closure of restaurants, hotels and other food service businesses, to purchase up to $3 billion in fresh produce, dairy and meat products.
Ivanka later shared several pictures from the visit on her Instagram and captioned the post, “Farmers feed America! The $3 Billion Farmers to Families Food Box Program launched today will ensure that food that might have gone to waste will now go to those in need!”
“Fresh produce/meat will be packed into boxes [and] delivered to food banks + non-profits nationwide,” she added.


thedailycaller--2020-05-15--Japan Is Taking Major Steps To Decrease Its Economic Dependence On China

Amidst the coronavirus pandemic , Japan is moving to reduce economic ties with China and bolster its military capabilities .
Last month , Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe ’ s cabinet introduced an emergency economic stimulus package that included an earmark for $ 2.2 billion to help Japanese companies move their production out of China .
The overwhelming bulk of the funds will be used to support Japanese companies relocating back home , although some of it will also go to firms who want to shift their production to Southeast Asia .
A similar proposal has been floated in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ administration .
White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow has suggested incentivizing American companies to leave China by offering to fully cover their moving costs .
( Japan ’ s Deputy Prime Minister Says The WHO Should Change Name To The China Health Organization ) As in the United States , the coronavirus pandemic has pushed Japan to begin reconsidering its economic relationship with China , who has long been its biggest trading partner .
When China instituted a national lockdown due to coronavirus , Japan was suddenly faced with major shortages of medical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which it primarily imports from China .
The Abe government has vowed to never again repeat that experience .
In an interview with Nikkei Asian Review , Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga argued that the coronavirus pandemic had exposed the dangers of Japan being overly dependent on China for essential goods .
“ We need to end heavy reliance on a single country for a particular product or material , ” he said .
“ For things that are essential to our everyday life , we need to bring production back to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ manufacturing over several countries.
” Besides paying Japanese firms to shift their supply chains out of China , the Abe government has also partnered with 400 companies to boost domestic production of medical supplies .
( RELATED : Japan , Inc. Was The Overture To China The Hegemon , And Both Resisted The Free-Trade Dogma ) Beijing has watched Japan ’ s recent moves with concern , fearing that they could be the start of a mass exit by foreign companies out of China .
Just one day after the Abe government ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warned senior Communist Party officials that as a result of the coronavirus pandemic , “ unstable and uncertain factors are notably increasing.
” Trade is not the only area where Japan is preparing to offer greater pushback to China .
Notwithstanding the coronavirus pandemic , Japan is moving ahead with plans to strengthen its military .
On March 27 , the Japanese parliament voted to approve a $ 48.6 billion defense budget , the country ’ s largest since World War II .
Although Japan ’ s military spending has since that conflict @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Abe government in recent years has increased defense expenditures to counter threats from China and North Korea .
Japan ’ s latest military budget includes earmarks for advanced weapons systems , such as hypersonic anti-ship missiles , which could potentially be used against Chinese aircraft carriers .
Although relations between Japan and China have long been uneasy , Abe spent much of his premiership trying to improve relations with Beijing .
These efforts culminated in his first official visit to China in October 2018 , during which the two countries signed $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a $ 30 billion credit swap agreement between their central banks .
Abe touted the results of this trip as evidence that Japan and China had entered “ a new era ” in their relationship .
The two countries were expected to take another major step forward in early April , when Xi was supposed to become the first Chinese leader to make a state visit to Japan since 2008 .
As a result of the coronavirus outbreak , however , the visit was postponed and a new date has yet to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s visit to Japan is rescheduled , it will almost certainly occur under far less friendly circumstances .

Amidst the coronavirus pandemic, Japan is moving to reduce economic ties with China and bolster its military capabilities.


thedailycaller--2020-05-15--Here Are The New Members VP Mike Pence Added To The Coronavirus Task Force

Vice President Mike Pence added five members to the White House Coronavirus Task Force on Friday , further bolstering a group that was rumored to be winding down last week .
President Donald Trump now says the task force will continue on “ indefinitely , ” despite previously saying Dr. Deborah Birx and Dr. Anthony Fauci would maintain their current roles , but the task force would be officially phased out .
( RELATED : Democratic Witness In House Coronavirus Hearing Pleaded Guilty In 2019 Sex Abuse Case ) The five members include Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue , Labor Secretary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Director Francis Collins , and two additional members of the Food and Drug administration and the Health Resources and Services administration .
“ Thanks to President Trump ’ s leadership and the efforts of the American people , we ’ ve saved lives , Slowed the Spread , and states are Opening Up Again , ” Pence said in a statement .
“ The new members of the White House Coronavirus Task Force will add expertise in the fields of vaccines and therapeutics as well as worker safety as the Task Force renews @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work.
” The task force continues to coordinate reopening procedures with state governments .
Dozens of states have begun the process of reopening , which will happen in three phases .
Phase one allows restaurants , gyms and entertainment centers to reopen at reduced capacity and with an emphasis on social distancing .
Fauci has said that Americans will be able to attend major sporting events by the third phase , albeit with stadiums at reduced capacity .

Vice President Mike Pence added five members to the White House Coronavirus Task Force on Friday, further bolstering a group that was rumored to be winding down last week.
President Donald Trump now says the task force will continue on “indefinitely,” despite previously saying Dr. Deborah Birx and Dr. Anthony Fauci would maintain their current roles, but the task force would be officially phased out.(RELATED: Democratic Witness In House Coronavirus Hearing Pleaded Guilty In 2019 Sex Abuse Case)
The five members include Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, Labor Secretary Eugene Scalia, National Institutes of Health Director Francis Collins, and two additional members of the Food and Drug administration and the Health Resources and Services administration.
“Thanks to President Trump’s leadership and the efforts of the American people, we’ve saved lives, Slowed the Spread, and states are Opening Up Again,” Pence said in a statement. “The new members of the White House Coronavirus Task Force will add expertise in the fields of vaccines and therapeutics as well as worker safety as the Task Force renews its focus on getting Americans back to work.”
VP Pence added 5 new people to the Coronavirus task force:
-Sec of Ag Perdue
-Sec of Labor Scalia
-NIH Director Dr Collins
-FDA Director of the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Dr Marks
-Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration,Thomas Engels — Meridith McGraw (@meridithmcgraw) May 15, 2020
The task force continues to coordinate reopening procedures with state governments. Dozens of states have begun the process of reopening, which will happen in three phases. Phase one allows restaurants, gyms and entertainment centers to reopen at reduced capacity and with an emphasis on social distancing.
Fauci has said that Americans will be able to attend major sporting events by the third phase, albeit with stadiums at reduced capacity.


thedailycaller--2020-05-15--EXCLUSIVE: Roger Stone Has A Message For President Trump

Former Trump adviser Roger Stone sat down with the Daily Caller and offered a message to President Donald Trump about @ @ @ @ @ I could have played the role of Michael Cohen , but I chose not to @ @ @ @ @ “ I refused to lie , which is why I ’ m facing 40 months @ @ @ @ @ else Stone had to say in this exclusive interview , and chime in with your @ @ @ @ @ pardon in the comments section below .
NOW CHECK OUT The Daily Caller ’ s @ @ @ @ @ Jordan Wants To Hold The Russian Collusion Investigators Accountable Journalist Tells Harrowing Story Of Being @ @ @

Former Trump adviser Roger Stone sat down with the Daily Caller and offered a message to President Donald Trump about a potential pardon.
“I could have played the role of Michael Cohen, but I chose not to,” Stone said. “I refused to lie, which is why I’m facing 40 months in prison.”
See what else Stone had to say in this exclusive interview, and chime in with your thoughts about a possible Stone pardon in the comments section below.
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thedailycaller--2020-05-16--State Department Inspector General Is Fired, Was Investigated For Mishandling Sensitive Information

President Donald Trump fired Steve Linick , the State Department ’ s inspector general , on Friday night , sources told the Daily Caller News Foundation .
Trump notified House Speaker Nancy Pelosi that he was removing Linick from office , effective in 30 days .
He said in the letter that “ it is vital that I have the fullest confidence in the appointees serving as Inspectors General.
” “ That is no longer the case with regard to this Inspector General.
” Two sources familiar with Linick ’ s ouster told the DCNF that while they were not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ watchdog was fired , he was under investigation last year by the Department of Defense ’ s inspector general for mishandling sensitive material .
The sources spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter .
Linick , who has served as the State Department ’ s watchdog since Sept. 30 , 2013 , gained national attention last year when he arranged an impromptu briefing for lawmakers in which he turned over a batch of documents that Rudy Giuliani provided to the State Department regarding issues in Ukraine .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and other documents that Giuliani passed to Sec .
of State Mike Pompeo through an intermediary regarding Joe Biden and his son ’ s activities in Ukraine .
Lawmakers , including Democrats , expressed confusion about the purpose of the briefing .
Maryland Rep. Jamie Raskin said at the time that the briefing “ raises more questions than it answers.
” The State Department and Defense Department inspectors general offices did not immediately respond to requests for comment .
Linick ’ s office has conducted several investigations critical of the State Department during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ released on Nov. 2 , 2019 accused Brian Hook , the State Department ’ s special envoy for Iran , of ordering the firing of a State Department employee for political reasons .
Linick ’ s office also investigated a meeting that State Department officials held in October 2016 with Christopher Steele , the former British spy who accused Donald Trump and his associates of conspiring with the Russian government .
Republican senators criticized Linick for failing to interview several participants in the meeting to find out why they met with Steele , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Clinton campaign and Democratic National Committee .
Trump last month fired Michael Atkinson as inspector general for the intelligence community .
Atkinson handled a whistleblower complaint that led to the impeachment hearings against Trump over his July 25 , 2019 phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky .
Content created by The Daily Caller News Foundation is available without charge to any eligible news publisher that can provide a large audience .
For licensing opportunities of our original content , please contact licensing @ dailycallernewsfoundation.org .

President Donald Trump fired Steve Linick, the State Department’s inspector general, on Friday night, sources told the Daily Caller News Foundation.
Trump notified House Speaker Nancy Pelosi that he was removing Linick from office, effective in 30 days. He said in the letter that “it is vital that I have the fullest confidence in the appointees serving as Inspectors General.”
“That is no longer the case with regard to this Inspector General.”
Two sources familiar with Linick’s ouster told the DCNF that while they were not certain of the precise reason that the watchdog was fired, he was under investigation last year by the Department of Defense’s inspector general for mishandling sensitive material.
The sources spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter.
Linick, who has served as the State Department’s watchdog since Sept. 30, 2013, gained national attention last year when he arranged an impromptu briefing for lawmakers in which he turned over a batch of documents that Rudy Giuliani provided to the State Department regarding issues in Ukraine.
The packet of documents included news articles and other documents that Giuliani passed to Sec. of State Mike Pompeo through an intermediary regarding Joe Biden and his son’s activities in Ukraine.
Lawmakers, including Democrats, expressed confusion about the purpose of the briefing.
Maryland Rep. Jamie Raskin said at the time that the briefing “raises more questions than it answers.”
The State Department and Defense Department inspectors general offices did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Linick’s office has conducted several investigations critical of the State Department during Trump’s tenure. A report released on Nov. 2, 2019 accused Brian Hook, the State Department’s special envoy for Iran, of ordering the firing of a State Department employee for political reasons.
Linick’s office also investigated a meeting that State Department officials held in October 2016 with Christopher Steele, the former British spy who accused Donald Trump and his associates of conspiring with the Russian government.
Republican senators criticized Linick for failing to interview several participants in the meeting to find out why they met with Steele, who was working on behalf of the Clinton campaign and Democratic National Committee.
Trump last month fired Michael Atkinson as inspector general for the intelligence community. Atkinson handled a whistleblower complaint that led to the impeachment hearings against Trump over his July 25, 2019 phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
All content created by the Daily Caller News Foundation, an independent and nonpartisan newswire service, is available without charge to any legitimate news publisher that can provide a large audience. All republished articles must include our logo, our reporter’s byline and their DCNF affiliation. For any questions about our guidelines or partnering with us, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org.


thedailycaller--2020-05-16--Report: Trump Says US Will Resume Funding WHO — At Same Level As China

The Trump administration will shortly resume funding to the World Health Organization ( WHO ) , but it will be at the same level as China , according to a Fox News report released Friday on “ Tucker Carlson Tonight.
” “ This is a Fox News alert , ” said Carlson , “ The Trump administration is on the brink of resuming U.S. funding of the World Health Organization .
Last month , the administration cut off U.S. funding at the president ’ s direction .
That amounts to about $ 400 million a year.
” Carlson read from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Donald Trump and obtained by Fox News .
“ Despite all of these shortcomings , I believe the World Health Organization still has tremendous potential , and want to see the WHO live up to this potential , particularly now during this global crisis .
That is why I have decided the United States will continue to partner and work with the WHO and agree to pay up to what China pays in assessed contributions.
” Trump froze U.S. funding to the organization , whihc is part of the United Nations , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Of China Sends Out Official Missive On US Coronavirus ‘ Lies ’ ) Carlson reminded viewers that Trump has been extremely critical of the WHO and how it “ badly mishandled and lied ” about the growth of the disease .
Carlson also noted that the WHO delayed calling the coronavirus a pandemic at the direction of China .
The Fox News host and co-founder of the Daily Caller noted that if the U.S. funds WHO to the same extent as China , “ we won ’ t have the influence ” but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of what the U.S. treasury previously provided .
Carlson ’ s guest , Dr. Marc Siegel , urged Trump to demand changes at WHO before restoring any funding to the organization .
“ So I have a message for President Trump tonight too .
Please don ’ t sign anything that restores funding to the World Health Organization before there is a huge overhaul of the World Health Organization.
” ( RELATED : Top WHO Official Won Election With China ’ s Help .
Now He ’ s Running Interference For China On @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talking about the worker bees .
I ’ m not talking about the scientists , I ’ m not talking about people that toil hard , ” Siegel said .
“ I am talking about from the top , ” adding that there are other senior managers within the organization who owe their positions of power to China , including the assistant director , who Siegel says “ was an official , a public health official , for China for 30 years.
” Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has blamed China for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 .
Chinese state media has called Pompeo a “ degenerate ” and “ evil ” man who is “ spitting poison .
”

The Trump administration will shortly resume funding to the World Health Organization (WHO), but it will be at the same level as China, according to a Fox News report released Friday on “Tucker Carlson Tonight.”
“This is a Fox News alert,” said Carlson, “The Trump administration is on the brink of resuming U.S. funding of the World Health Organization. Last month, the administration cut off U.S. funding at the president’s direction. That amounts to about $400 million a year.”
Carlson read from a draft letter reportedly written by President Donald Trump and obtained by Fox News.
“Despite all of these shortcomings, I believe the World Health Organization still has tremendous potential, and want to see the WHO live up to this potential, particularly now during this global crisis. That is why I have decided the United States will continue to partner and work with the WHO and agree to pay up to what China pays in assessed contributions.”
Trump froze U.S. funding to the organization, whihc is part of the United Nations, in mid-April. (RELATED: Communist Party Of China Sends Out Official Missive On US Coronavirus ‘Lies’)
Carlson reminded viewers that Trump has been extremely critical of the WHO and how it “badly mishandled and lied” about the growth of the disease. Carlson also noted that the WHO delayed calling the coronavirus a pandemic at the direction of China.
The Fox News host and co-founder of the Daily Caller noted that if the U.S. funds WHO to the same extent as China, “we won’t have the influence” but will be providing “about one-tenth” of what the U.S. treasury previously provided.
Carlson’s guest, Dr. Marc Siegel, urged Trump to demand changes at WHO before restoring any funding to the organization.
“So I have a message for President Trump tonight too. Please don’t sign anything that restores funding to the World Health Organization before there is a huge overhaul of the World Health Organization.” (RELATED: Top WHO Official Won Election With China’s Help. Now He’s Running Interference For China On Coronavirus)
“I’m not talking about the worker bees. I’m not talking about the scientists, I’m not talking about people that toil hard,” Siegel said. “I am talking about from the top,” adding that there are other senior managers within the organization who owe their positions of power to China, including the assistant director, who Siegel says “was an official, a public health official, for China for 30 years.”
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has blamed China for the global “suffering” caused by the COVID-19. Chinese state media has called Pompeo a “degenerate” and “evil” man who is “spitting poison.”


thedailycaller--2020-05-16--House Passes $3 Trillion Coronavirus Relief Package

The vote was 208-199 .
14 Democrats voted “ nay.
” A single Republican , New York Rep. Peter King , voted for the package .
This is the largest bill in congressional history .
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and House Democrats introduced Tuesday the text of their $ 3 trillion coronavirus relief package .
The package includes $ 1 trillion for state and local governments and another direct payment of $ 1,200 to individuals .
The bill also expands aid for the unemployed , those with college debt and the United States Postal Service .
Senate Majority @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their $ 3 trillion coronavirus package just hours before their vote , calling it a “ parade of absurdities.
” McConnell sent a tweet saying “ The Democrats ’ supposed coronavirus bill includes taxpayer-funded studies to measure “ diversity and inclusion ” in the cannabis industry .
It ’ s a parade of absurdities that can hardly be taken seriously , ” and then posted a clip of his appearance Thursday night on Fox News where he had also gone after Democrats ’ proposed package .
The bill also includes a massive tax @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reports and the text , the “ Heroes Act ” gives $ 100,000 on average to people who make more than $ 1 million a year .
The House Democrats ’ 1,815-page package repeals the $ 10,000 state and local tax deduction ( SALT ) cap , which allows taxpayers in high-tax states to deduct local tax payments on federal tax returns .
A full repeal of SALT would give tax refunds to an estimated 13 million American households — most of which earn at least $ 100,000 a year , according to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ estimated that a repeal of SALT would reduce federal revenues by around $ 77 billion a year , with those making over $ 1 million a year receiving about $ 40 billion .
This comes as Democratic leadership canceled the House of Representatives ’ plans to return to Washington , D.C. on April 28 , just one day after Democrats made the announcement .
According to Democratic Maryland Rep. Steny Hoyer , the Capitol physician advised them not to return amid a rise in coronavirus cases in the Washington area .
( McConnell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ After New Guidance — House Will Remain Out Of Session ) “ We made a judgment that we will not come back next week but that we hope to come back very soon , ” Hoyer said .
( RELATED : House Cancels Plan To Return Next Week One Day After Making Announcement ) House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy criticized Democrats on Monday for refusing to return to the Capitol in order to pass coronavirus legislation as businesses and workers across the U.S continue to be affected by the virus .

The House of Representatives passed a $3 trillion coronavirus relief package Friday night.
The vote was 208-199. 14 Democrats voted “nay.” A single Republican, New York Rep. Peter King, voted for the package. This is the largest bill in congressional history.
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and House Democrats introduced Tuesday the text of their $3 trillion coronavirus relief package. The package includes $1 trillion for state and local governments and another direct payment of $1,200 to individuals. The bill also expands aid for the unemployed, those with college debt and the United States Postal Service.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell slammed House Democrats and their $3 trillion coronavirus package just hours before their vote, calling it a “parade of absurdities.”
McConnell sent a tweet saying “The Democrats’ supposed coronavirus bill includes taxpayer-funded studies to measure “diversity and inclusion” in the cannabis industry. It’s a parade of absurdities that can hardly be taken seriously,” and then posted a clip of his appearance Thursday night on Fox News where he had also gone after Democrats’ proposed package.
The bill also includes a massive tax break for the rich.
According to reports and the text, the “Heroes Act” gives $100,000 on average to people who make more than $1 million a year. The House Democrats’ 1,815-page package repeals the $10,000 state and local tax deduction (SALT) cap, which allows taxpayers in high-tax states to deduct local tax payments on federal tax returns.
A full repeal of SALT would give tax refunds to an estimated 13 million American households — most of which earn at least $100,000 a year, according to the New York Times. It is estimated that a repeal of SALT would reduce federal revenues by around $77 billion a year, with those making over $1 million a year receiving about $40 billion.
This comes as Democratic leadership canceled the House of Representatives’ plans to return to Washington, D.C. on April 28, just one day after Democrats made the announcement. According to Democratic Maryland Rep. Steny Hoyer, the Capitol physician advised them not to return amid a rise in coronavirus cases in the Washington area. (McConnell Says Senate Will Be In Session Monday After New Guidance — House Will Remain Out Of Session)
“We made a judgment that we will not come back next week but that we hope to come back very soon,” Hoyer said. (RELATED: House Cancels Plan To Return Next Week One Day After Making Announcement)
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy criticized Democrats on Monday for refusing to return to the Capitol in order to pass coronavirus legislation as businesses and workers across the U.S continue to be affected by the virus.


thedailycaller--2020-05-16--EXCLUSIVE: Scientists, Economists Urge Trump To Bring On Statistician To Avoid Getting Duped By Bad

EXCLUSIVE: Scientists, Economists Urge Trump To Bring On Statistician To Avoid Getting Duped By Bad Health Models

• 70 scientists and economists are urging President Donald Trump to include professional statisticians on the White House ’ s coronavirus task force to prevent the team ’ s researchers from being led astray by bad COVID models .
• The academics are also worried that the White House ’ s task force is leading the president ’ s administration astray , in particular on the importance of flattening the virus ’ s curve , which they say is important because it buys time to create therapeutics .
Such policies should not be sold as a permanent solution , they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is planning the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation ( IHME ) models , which projected on April 1 that 262,029 hospital beds would be needed on the peak date of the coronavirus .
Dozens of scientists , economists and medical experts are urging President Donald Trump to add a professional statistician to his coronavirus task team because they worry the models his administration are relying upon could potentially lead his administration astray .
A slate of academics provided the Trump administration with a letter Tuesday listing several ideas the president could use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic response .
They believe adding an expert statistician to the COVID-19 task team could help Trump avoid relying on poor models that don ’ t reflect the real world .
“ Having an expert statistician as a key part of the President ’ s team is an urgent matter , ” they wrote in a letter obtained by the Daily Caller News Foundation .
“ Such an immediate addition will reduce the chances of being misled by speculative computer models and other data.
” The letter ’ s signees cite two articles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get it wrong without a statistician ’ s help .
They cite an April 23 Daily Signal article from retired epidemiologist James Enstrom who says in the piece that “ all other COVID-19 models are grounded in important assumptions about which there is currently little knowledge.
” Enstrom , one of the letter ’ s signees , also suggests that “ some deaths are being classified as COVID-19 deaths even when COVID-19 is not the underlying cause.
” Enstrom also mentions the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation ( IHME ) , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beds would be needed on the peak date of the coronavirus ’ s spread in the United States .
The researchers behind the IHME model eventually dropped that projected number down by 58 percent to 140,823 on April 6 .
The letter was sent to Trump administration officials Tuesday , John Droz , a physicist who authored the memo , told the DCNF .
“ We support the President and wanted to give him several constructive suggestions going forward — and these are evidently somewhat different from what he is hearing from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Statistician Stanley Young , climatologist Patrick Michael , and immunologist Jonathan Bernstein are among the 70 scientists and academics who signed the letter asking the administration to strengthen the task force .
Michaels worked as a senior fellow in environmental studies at the Cato Institute until 2019 , and Bernstein is a clinical immunologist at Bernstein Allergy Group in Ohio .
Young , for his part , is a member of the Environmental Protection Agency ’ s Science Advisory Board and recently made waves after he criticized an April 4 Harvard University study @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus deaths .
“ The paper is written in a way that strongly implies cause and effect , ” he told the Washington Examiner in April , referring to the research .
Young and the other academic ’ s also provide other potential pieces of advice for the administration , including emphasizing the importance of flattening the curve , a policy designed to slow the spread of coronavirus such that it flattens out the number of cases over time .
In addition , they want the Trump administration to refrain from imposing “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to stagger when they reopen .
( RELATED : Death Tolls Jump In Cities Hit Hardest By Coronavirus As COVID Fears Lead People To Forgo Hospital Visits : CDC Data ) The pandemic has killed more than 85,000 people in the United States thus far .
“ The main benefit is that it will enable higher efficacy COVID-19 therapies to come online ( which will happen considerably sooner than vaccines will ) , ” the letter explains , noting that flattening the curve is not a permanent solution .
“ The public needs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this rationale for short-term flattening.
” They also want Trump ’ s task force to keep better track of COVID-19 complications and deaths .
( RELATED : Researchers , Lawmakers Cry Foul After Harvard Quietly Edits Study Suggesting Pollution Leads To More COVID Deaths ) “ It would be informative if deaths related to lock-downs , higher prices , reduced incomes was kept track of , ” they write , adding that it is not helpful when medical professionals sometimes lump deaths from other consequences into the coronavirus category .
Misstating such deaths @ @ @ @ @ @ @ argue .
Neither the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention nor the White House ’ s COVID team have responded to the DCNF ’ s request for comment regarding the letter .
Recent reports suggest coronavirus death tolls are much higher than official numbers suggest .
Data from the CDC show total deaths are nearly 50 % higher in states slammed by the coronavirus pandemic .
Death numbers in New York , Maryland , New Jersey , Michigan , Massachusetts , Illinois and Colorado leaped between March 8 and April 11 , data @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how the pandemic is causing an increase in deaths , perhaps as a result of people forgoing hospital visits for what would otherwise be treatable conditions .
The New York Times initially reported on the data on April 28 , suggesting that the CDC ’ s findings show that coronavirus death tolls are likely higher than official counts .
Content created by The Daily Caller News Foundation is available without charge to any eligible news publisher that can provide a large audience .
For licensing opportunities of our original content , please contact @ @ @ @

70 scientists and economists are urging President Donald Trump to include professional statisticians on the White House’s coronavirus task force to prevent the team’s researchers from being led astray by bad COVID models.
The academics are also worried that the White House’s task force is leading the president’s administration astray, in particular on the importance of flattening the virus’s curve, which they say is important because it buys time to create therapeutics. Such policies should not be sold as a permanent solution, they argue.
One of the scientists is planning the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) models, which projected on April 1 that 262,029 hospital beds would be needed on the peak date of the coronavirus.
Dozens of scientists, economists and medical experts are urging President Donald Trump to add a professional statistician to his coronavirus task team because they worry the models his administration are relying upon could potentially lead his administration astray.
A slate of academics provided the Trump administration with a letter Tuesday listing several ideas the president could use to help boost his team’s pandemic response. They believe adding an expert statistician to the COVID-19 task team could help Trump avoid relying on poor models that don’t reflect the real world.
“Having an expert statistician as a key part of the President’s team is an urgent matter,” they wrote in a letter obtained by the Daily Caller News Foundation. “Such an immediate addition will reduce the chances of being misled by speculative computer models and other data.”
The letter’s signees cite two articles to help explain why they think models get it wrong without a statistician’s help.
They cite an April 23 Daily Signal article from retired epidemiologist James Enstrom who says in the piece that “all other COVID-19 models are grounded in important assumptions about which there is currently little knowledge.” Enstrom, one of the letter’s signees, also suggests that “some deaths are being classified as COVID-19 deaths even when COVID-19 is not the underlying cause.”
Enstrom also mentions the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), which projected on April 1 that 262,029 hospital beds would be needed on the peak date of the coronavirus’s spread in the United States. The researchers behind the IHME model eventually dropped that projected number down by 58 percent to 140,823 on April 6.
The letter was sent to Trump administration officials Tuesday, John Droz, a physicist who authored the memo, told the DCNF. “We support the President and wanted to give him several constructive suggestions going forward — and these are evidently somewhat different from what he is hearing from the Coronavirus Team,” Droz said.
Statistician Stanley Young, climatologist Patrick Michael, and immunologist Jonathan Bernstein are among the 70 scientists and academics who signed the letter asking the administration to strengthen the task force. Michaels worked as a senior fellow in environmental studies at the Cato Institute until 2019, and Bernstein is a clinical immunologist at Bernstein Allergy Group in Ohio.
Young, for his part, is a member of the Environmental Protection Agency’s Science Advisory Board and recently made waves after he criticized an April 4 Harvard University study drawing an association between particulate matters and coronavirus deaths. “The paper is written in a way that strongly implies cause and effect,” he told the Washington Examiner in April, referring to the research.
Young and the other academic’s also provide other potential pieces of advice for the administration, including emphasizing the importance of flattening the curve, a policy designed to slow the spread of coronavirus such that it flattens out the number of cases over time.
In addition, they want the Trump administration to refrain from imposing “one-size-fits-all mandates” and instead allow states to stagger when they reopen. (RELATED: Death Tolls Jump In Cities Hit Hardest By Coronavirus As COVID Fears Lead People To Forgo Hospital Visits: CDC Data)
The pandemic has killed more than 85,000 people in the United States thus far.
“The main benefit is that it will enable higher efficacy COVID-19 therapies to come online (which will happen considerably sooner than vaccines will),” the letter explains, noting that flattening the curve is not a permanent solution. “The public needs to be much better advised as to this rationale for short-term flattening.”
They also want Trump’s task force to keep better track of COVID-19 complications and deaths. (RELATED: Researchers, Lawmakers Cry Foul After Harvard Quietly Edits Study Suggesting Pollution Leads To More COVID Deaths)
“It would be informative if deaths related to lock-downs, higher prices, reduced incomes was kept track of,” they write, adding that it is not helpful when medical professionals sometimes lump deaths from other consequences into the coronavirus category. Misstating such deaths can make for bad policy, they argue.
Neither the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention nor the White House’s COVID team have responded to the DCNF’s request for comment regarding the letter.
Recent reports suggest coronavirus death tolls are much higher than official numbers suggest.
Data from the CDC show total deaths are nearly 50% higher in states slammed by the coronavirus pandemic. Death numbers in New York, Maryland, New Jersey, Michigan, Massachusetts, Illinois and Colorado leaped between March 8 and April 11, data show.
The data appear to illustrate how the pandemic is causing an increase in deaths, perhaps as a result of people forgoing hospital visits for what would otherwise be treatable conditions. The New York Times initially reported on the data on April 28, suggesting that the CDC’s findings show that coronavirus death tolls are likely higher than official counts.
All content created by the Daily Caller News Foundation, an independent and nonpartisan newswire service, is available without charge to any legitimate news publisher that can provide a large audience. All republished articles must include our logo, our reporter’s byline and their DCNF affiliation. For any questions about our guidelines or partnering with us, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org.