thehuffingtonpost--2020-12-13--University Of Florida Basketball Player In 'Critical But Stable' Condition After Collapse

Mark Brown via Getty Images Keyontae Johnson of the University of Florida Gators collapsed during a game against Florida State University on Saturday .
Keyontae Johnson , a star forward for the University of Florida men ’ s basketball team who collapsed during a game against Florida State University on Saturday , remains in critical but stable condition at a Tallahassee hospital , his team announced Sunday .
“ Keyontae received terrific care on site by the FSU staff and at Tallahassee Memorial , which has worked in consultation with UF health , ” University of Florida athletic director Scott @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the basketball program ’ s Twitter account .
The tweet said Johnson ’ s parents are with him at the hospital , adding that head coach Mike White and Florida ’ s associate athletic director for sports health , Dan Werner , are still in Tallahassee as well .
Johnson , a junior , is among several University of Florida men ’ s basketball players who tested positive for COVID-19 over the summer , The Associated Press reported .
The disease is known to cause prolonged health issues , including myocarditis , inflammation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As of Sunday morning , neither health officials nor representatives for Johnson had shared a cause for his collapse , which occurred early in the first half of Saturday ’ s game .
Johnson collapsed as he and his teammates emerged from a huddle during a timeout called nearly five minutes into the competition .
He ’ d thrown down an alley-oop in transition on the previous play .
In frightening footage from the game , Johnson can be seen falling to his knees and hitting his head on the ground just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Immediately , Johnson ’ s teammates screamed and motioned for emergency medical attention as he lay motionless on the floor .
Players and staff on the court and sidelines for both teams were visibly distraught , some crying and gathering for prayer .
Florida State coach Leonard Hamilton , who communicated with White through administration intermediaries as the incident unfolded , said after the game that he told officials in charge he was going to leave the decision about whether to continue playing to his opposing coach .
“ Whatever decision he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hamilton said .
Despite canceling March Madness earlier this year due to the coronavirus , the NCAA has partnered with schools to sanction fall sports even with the nation presently in a more precarious health condition than it was in March .
The NCAA does not track the total number of coronavirus cases among its athletes , but at least 6,629 athletes have reportedly contracted the virus , according to The New York Times .
In November , the University of Florida basketball team was forced to pull out of a tournament when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the virus .
Amid concerns of a potential outbreak , the University of Florida paused basketball activities for one week .
College athletics schedules have been haphazard throughout the year .
Outbreaks and state restrictions barring large gatherings around the country have led some schools to start seasons and games late or cancel them entirely .
The ethical concerns over unpaid athletes risking their health to support an organization ― the NCAA ― and other high-earning institutions have loomed over games since players threatened to boycott the season to secure better health protocols @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus cases and deaths across the U.S. have kept the debate front-of-mind , and Hall of Fame Duke basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski reignited the discussion this week when he questioned whether games should continue .
“ I would just like for the safety , the mental and physical health of players and staff to assess where we ’ re at , ” Krzyzewski said after Duke lost a game on Tuesday .

Keyontae Johnson of the University of Florida Gators collapsed during a game against Florida State University on Saturday. Mark Brown via Getty Images
Keyontae Johnson, a star forward for the University of Florida men’s basketball team who collapsed during a game against Florida State University on Saturday, remains in critical but stable condition at a Tallahassee hospital, his team announced Sunday.
“Keyontae received terrific care on site by the FSU staff and at Tallahassee Memorial, which has worked in consultation with UF health,” University of Florida athletic director Scott Stricklin said in a statement posted on the basketball program’s Twitter account. The tweet said Johnson’s parents are with him at the hospital, adding that head coach Mike White and Florida’s associate athletic director for sports health, Dan Werner, are still in Tallahassee as well.
Advertisement
Johnson, a junior, is among several University of Florida men’s basketball players who tested positive for COVID-19 over the summer, The Associated Press reported. The disease is known to cause prolonged health issues, including myocarditis, inflammation of the heart’s muscle tissue. As of Sunday morning, neither health officials nor representatives for Johnson had shared a cause for his collapse, which occurred early in the first half of Saturday’s game.
Johnson collapsed as he and his teammates emerged from a huddle during a timeout called nearly five minutes into the competition. He’d thrown down an alley-oop in transition on the previous play. In frightening footage from the game, Johnson can be seen falling to his knees and hitting his head on the ground just as he and his teammates reach half-court. Immediately, Johnson’s teammates screamed and motioned for emergency medical attention as he lay motionless on the floor. Players and staff on the court and sidelines for both teams were visibly distraught, some crying and gathering for prayer.
After EMTs wheeled Johnson away on a stretcher, the game continued.
Florida State coach Leonard Hamilton, who communicated with White through administration intermediaries as the incident unfolded, said after the game that he told officials in charge he was going to leave the decision about whether to continue playing to his opposing coach. “Whatever decision he made was fine with me,” Hamilton said.
Advertisement
White “let his players make the call,” according to the AP. He posted a tweet asking for prayers on Saturday.
Please keep praying for @Keyontae and his family. We all love him. — Mike White (@MikeWhiteUF) December 12, 2020
Despite canceling March Madness earlier this year due to the coronavirus, the NCAA has partnered with schools to sanction fall sports even with the nation presently in a more precarious health condition than it was in March. The NCAA does not track the total number of coronavirus cases among its athletes, but at least 6,629 athletes have reportedly contracted the virus, according to The New York Times.
In November, the University of Florida basketball team was forced to pull out of a tournament when someone in the program tested positive for the virus. Amid concerns of a potential outbreak, the University of Florida paused basketball activities for one week.
College athletics schedules have been haphazard throughout the year. Outbreaks and state restrictions barring large gatherings around the country have led some schools to start seasons and games late or cancel them entirely. The ethical concerns over unpaid athletes risking their health to support an organization ― the NCAA ― and other high-earning institutions have loomed over games since players threatened to boycott the season to secure better health protocols and compensation earlier this year. Rising coronavirus cases and deaths across the U.S. have kept the debate front-of-mind, and Hall of Fame Duke basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski reignited the discussion this week when he questioned whether games should continue.
Advertisement
“I would just like for the safety, the mental and physical health of players and staff to assess where we’re at,” Krzyzewski said after Duke lost a game on Tuesday.


thehuffingtonpost--2020-12-13--CDC Head Approves Coronavirus Vaccine Administration As First Shipments Go Out

The head of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention approved Pfizer ’ s coronavirus vaccine for Americans 16 and older , with the news breaking on the same day that the pharmaceutical company began to roll out its first nationwide shipments .
CDC Director Robert Redfield on Saturday officially approved an endorsement made by the CDC ’ s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices , it was widely reported Sunday .
Redfield said in a statement reported by CNBC that it was a moment of pride to sign off on the panel ’ s recommendation .
Boxes containing the Pfizer-BioNTech @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the Pfizer Global Supply Kalamazoo manufacturing plant in Portage , Mich. , on Sunday .
“ As COVID-19 cases continue to surge throughout the U.S. , CDC ’ s recommendation comes at a critical time .
Initial COVID-19 vaccination is set to start as early as Monday , and this is the next step in our efforts to protect Americans , reduce the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic , and help restore some normalcy to our lives and our country , ” he said .
Redfield ’ s approval came the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vaccine left a Pfizer facility in Michigan for distribution centers across the country .
It also followed the Food and Drug Administration officially approving the drug late Friday night for emergency use .
Health care workers and residents at long-term care facilities are expected to receive the first shots .
Each state determines who will get priority , though many governors and state health agencies were waiting for the CDC panel ’ s recommendations before determining which groups will go first , Politico reported .
Moderna , which reported that its COVID-19 vaccine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to receive FDA authorization this month .

LOADING ERROR LOADING
The head of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention approved Pfizer’s coronavirus vaccine for Americans 16 and older, with the news breaking on the same day that the pharmaceutical company began to roll out its first nationwide shipments.
CDC Director Robert Redfield on Saturday officially approved an endorsement made by the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, it was widely reported Sunday.
Advertisement
Redfield said in a statement reported by CNBC that it was a moment of pride to sign off on the panel’s recommendation.
Boxes containing the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine are prepared to be shipped at the Pfizer Global Supply Kalamazoo manufacturing plant in Portage, Mich., on Sunday. ASSOCIATED PRESS
“As COVID-19 cases continue to surge throughout the U.S., CDC’s recommendation comes at a critical time. Initial COVID-19 vaccination is set to start as early as Monday, and this is the next step in our efforts to protect Americans, reduce the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and help restore some normalcy to our lives and our country,” he said.
Redfield’s approval came the same day that the first shipments of the vaccine left a Pfizer facility in Michigan for distribution centers across the country. It also followed the Food and Drug Administration officially approving the drug late Friday night for emergency use.
Advertisement
Health care workers and residents at long-term care facilities are expected to receive the first shots. Each state determines who will get priority, though many governors and state health agencies were waiting for the CDC panel’s recommendations before determining which groups will go first, Politico reported.
A clinical trial found that the vaccine is 95% effective with generally mild side effects.
Moderna, which reported that its COVID-19 vaccine is 94.5% effective, is expected to receive FDA authorization this month.


thehuffingtonpost--2020-12-13--First Shipments Of COVID-19 Vaccine Hit The Road

KALAMAZOO , Michigan ( AP ) — The first trucks carrying a COVID-19 vaccine for widespread use in the United States pulled out of a Michigan manufacturing facility Sunday , with the shots that are critical to stopping the nation ’ s coronavirus outbreak destined to reach states a day later .
Shipments of the Pfizer vaccine will set in motion the biggest vaccination effort in American history at a critical juncture of the pandemic that has killed 1.6 million and sickened 71 million worldwide .
Initially , about 3 million doses were expected to be sent out , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nursing home residents as infections , hospitalizations and deaths soar in the U.S. With numbers likely to get worse over the holidays , the vaccine is offering a bright spot in the fight against the pandemic that ’ s killed nearly 300,000 Americans .
Federal officials say the first shipments of Pfizer ’ s vaccine will be staggered , arriving in 145 distribution centers Monday , with an additional 425 sites getting shipments Tuesday , and the remaining 66 on Wednesday .
The vaccine , co-developed by German partner BioNTech , is being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s adult population .
Pennsylvania health care giant UPMC has chosen staff who are critical to operating its facilities as among those getting the first round of vaccinations , said Dr. Graham Snyder , who led the center ’ s vaccine task force .
“ It ’ s very exciting .
I will be thrilled , that moment when we administer our first dose , ” Snyder said Saturday .
“ That will clearly be a watershed moment for us.
” Snyder said the UPMC system estimates that half its employees are willing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s offered to them .
The vaccine is heading to hospitals and other sites that can store it at extremely low temperatures — about 94 degrees below zero .
Pfizer is using containers with dry ice and GPS-enabled sensors to ensure each shipment stays colder than the weather in Antarctica .
“ I would say there ’ s enthusiasm , ” Kemmerly said Saturday .
“ There ’ s that thought that maybe they don ’ t have to be so afraid to come to work if they can be vaccinated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ensure there is enough vaccine to give people the two doses needed for full protection against COVID-19 .
That means the government is holding back 3 million doses to give those vaccinated in the first round a second shot a few weeks later .
The Food and Drug Administration authorized emergency use of the vaccine Friday , saying it is highly protective and presents no major safety issues .
While U.S. regulators worked for months to emphasize the rigor and independence of their review , they faced political pressure until the final stages @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out could undermine vaccination efforts in a country with deeply ingrained skepticism about vaccines .
The head of the FDA said the agency ’ s decision was based on science , not politics , despite a White House threat to fire him if the vaccine wasn ’ t approved before Saturday .
While the vaccine was determined to be safe , regulators in the U.K. are investigating several severe allergic reactions .
The FDA ’ s instructions tell providers not give it to those with a known history of severe allergic reactions to @ @ @ @ @

LOADING ERROR LOADING
KALAMAZOO, Michigan (AP) — The first trucks carrying a COVID-19 vaccine for widespread use in the United States pulled out of a Michigan manufacturing facility Sunday, with the shots that are critical to stopping the nation’s coronavirus outbreak destined to reach states a day later.
Shipments of the Pfizer vaccine will set in motion the biggest vaccination effort in American history at a critical juncture of the pandemic that has killed 1.6 million and sickened 71 million worldwide.
Advertisement
Initially, about 3 million doses were expected to be sent out, and the priority is health care workers and nursing home residents as infections, hospitalizations and deaths soar in the U.S. With numbers likely to get worse over the holidays, the vaccine is offering a bright spot in the fight against the pandemic that’s killed nearly 300,000 Americans.
Boxes containing the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine are prepared to be shipped at the Pfizer Global Supply Kalamazoo manufacturing plant in Portage, Mich., Sunday, Dec. 13, 2020. (AP Photo/Morry Gash, Pool) ASSOCIATED PRESS
Federal officials say the first shipments of Pfizer’s vaccine will be staggered, arriving in 145 distribution centers Monday, with an additional 425 sites getting shipments Tuesday, and the remaining 66 on Wednesday. The vaccine, co-developed by German partner BioNTech, is being doled out based on each state’s adult population.
Pennsylvania health care giant UPMC has chosen staff who are critical to operating its facilities as among those getting the first round of vaccinations, said Dr. Graham Snyder, who led the center’s vaccine task force.
Advertisement
“It’s very exciting. I will be thrilled, that moment when we administer our first dose,” Snyder said Saturday. “That will clearly be a watershed moment for us.”
Snyder said the UPMC system estimates that half its employees are willing to get the vaccine as soon as it’s offered to them.
The vaccine is heading to hospitals and other sites that can store it at extremely low temperatures — about 94 degrees below zero. Pfizer is using containers with dry ice and GPS-enabled sensors to ensure each shipment stays colder than the weather in Antarctica.
Doses should be delivered to all vaccination sites identified by states, such as local pharmacies, within three weeks, federal officials said.
The 40-hospital Oschner Health System in Louisiana and Mississippi expects to receive more than 9,000 doses in the coming days, said Dr. Sandra Kemmerly, medical director of hospital quality.
Advertisement
Employees approved for the first round are getting texts and emails directing them to schedule their initial injection, she said.
“I would say there’s enthusiasm,” Kemmerly said Saturday. “There’s that thought that maybe they don’t have to be so afraid to come to work if they can be vaccinated and be immune.”
The rollout will ensure there is enough vaccine to give people the two doses needed for full protection against COVID-19. That means the government is holding back 3 million doses to give those vaccinated in the first round a second shot a few weeks later.
The Food and Drug Administration authorized emergency use of the vaccine Friday, saying it is highly protective and presents no major safety issues. While U.S. regulators worked for months to emphasize the rigor and independence of their review, they faced political pressure until the final stages.
Concerns that a shot was rushed out could undermine vaccination efforts in a country with deeply ingrained skepticism about vaccines. The head of the FDA said the agency’s decision was based on science, not politics, despite a White House threat to fire him if the vaccine wasn’t approved before Saturday.
Advertisement
While the vaccine was determined to be safe, regulators in the U.K. are investigating several severe allergic reactions. The FDA’s instructions tell providers not give it to those with a known history of severe allergic reactions to any of its ingredients.


thehuffingtonpost--2020-12-13--'SNL' Rona Family Of COVID-19 Viruses Grateful To Trump For Keeping Them Around

In an updated twist on the alien Coneheads , “ Saturday Night Live ” introduced fans to the “ Rona family ” of COVID-19 viruses all home for the holidays .
The family was exhausted from their world — and university — travels .
There ’ s Mom ( Cecily Strong ) , Dad ( Beck Bennett ) , a daughter ( Lauren Holt ) with a fiance she ’ s been “ mutating with , ” and a ne ’ er-do-well son ( Timothee Chalamet ) , who was a failure in New Zealand .
Grandma is the Spanish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — Oral and Genital — who tend to show up during times of stress .
Clearly , their sympathies lie with the Republicans .
Mom and Dad love President Donald Trump because he “ introduced us to everyone he knows.
” Bennett ’ s character pointed out : “ We wouldn ’ t still be here without Trump.
” Some viewers loved it , but others on Twitter weren ’ t laughing about a virus killing thousands of Americans every day .
`` Maybe now is n't a good time . ''
- @ @ @ @ @ @ @ maaaybe not a good time at all .
— JoelyGabs ( @ joelygabs ) December 13 , 2020 Were the # SNL writers high when they came up with the Rona Christmas sketch ?
— Jonathan Jewel ( @ jonathanjewel ) December 13 , 2020 Check it out in the video above .

In an updated twist on the alien Coneheads, “Saturday Night Live” introduced fans to the “Rona family” of COVID-19 viruses all home for the holidays. The family was exhausted from their world — and university — travels.
There’s Mom (Cecily Strong), Dad (Beck Bennett), a daughter (Lauren Holt) with a fiance she’s been “mutating with,” and a ne’er-do-well son (Timothee Chalamet), who was a failure in New Zealand. Grandma is the Spanish flu.
Advertisement
Their neighbors are the Herpes — Oral and Genital — who tend to show up during times of stress.
Clearly, their sympathies lie with the Republicans. Mom and Dad love President Donald Trump because he “introduced us to everyone he knows.” Bennett’s character pointed out: “We wouldn’t still be here without Trump.”
Some viewers loved it, but others on Twitter weren’t laughing about a virus killing thousands of Americans every day.
"Maybe now isn't a good time." - covid. Yeah maybe so #snl maaaybe not a good time at all. — JoelyGabs (@joelygabs) December 13, 2020
Were the #SNL writers high when they came up with the Rona Christmas sketch? — Jonathan Jewel (@jonathanjewel) December 13, 2020
Advertisement


thehuffingtonpost--2020-12-13--Alex Jones Vows Biden 'Will Be Removed One Way Or Another' At Pro-Trump Rally

Conspiracy theorist Alex Jones denounced President-elect Joe Biden ’ s White House victory before a crowd of Donald Trump supporters on Saturday , declaring that “ we will never recognize ” Biden and that he “ will be removed one way or another.
” “ We will never back down to the satanic pedophile globalist new world order and their walking-dead reanimated corpse Joe Biden .
And we will never recognize him , ” the far- right radio host shouted from a stage at the second so-called Million MAGA March in Washington .
He added : “ So I don @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the White House in 38 days , but I sure know this : Joe Biden is a globalist , and Joe Biden will be removed one way or another.
” Jones ’ comments appeared to echo the far-right conspiracy theory QAnon , which alleges without evidence that Satan-worshipping pedophiles are plotting against Trump .
His use of the word “ globalist ” also raised concerns about anti-Semitism , as the term has been increasingly used in xenophobic and anti-Semitic contexts .
David Weissman , who is involved with the anti-Trump Republican group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ highlighting Jones ’ choice of language and warning that his speech appeared to be a call for violence .
“ This antisemitic trope should also be considered a threat , and Alex Jones should be arrested for incitement , ” Weissman tweeted , echoing similar tweets that tagged the FBI .
Trump still refuses to concede the election , claiming without evidence that the election was stolen from him .
“ We ’ re going to continue to go forward , ” he said of his unsuccessful attempts to reverse the election ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fox & Friends ” that aired Sunday morning .
Trump ’ s remarks followed the Friday action by the Supreme Court , which became the latest court to dismiss a lawsuit by his campaign alleging widespread voter fraud .

LOADING ERROR LOADING
Conspiracy theorist Alex Jones denounced President-elect Joe Biden’s White House victory before a crowd of Donald Trump supporters on Saturday, declaring that “we will never recognize” Biden and that he “will be removed one way or another.”
“We will never back down to the satanic pedophile globalist new world order and their walking-dead reanimated corpse Joe Biden. And we will never recognize him,” the far-right radio host shouted from a stage at the second so-called Million MAGA March in Washington. He added: “So I don’t know who’s going to the White House in 38 days, but I sure know this: Joe Biden is a globalist, and Joe Biden will be removed one way or another.”
Advertisement
Alex Jones at the pro-Trump march in Washington, DC: "Joe Biden is a globalist, and Joe Biden will be removed, one way or another!" pic.twitter.com/ujIc7XZcLb — Zachary Petrizzo (@ZTPetrizzo) December 12, 2020
Jones’ comments appeared to echo the far-right conspiracy theory QAnon, which alleges without evidence that Satan-worshipping pedophiles are plotting against Trump. His use of the word “globalist” also raised concerns about anti-Semitism, as the term has been increasingly used in xenophobic and anti-Semitic contexts.
David Weissman, who is involved with the anti-Trump Republican group The Lincoln Project, was among those highlighting Jones’ choice of language and warning that his speech appeared to be a call for violence.
“This antisemitic trope should also be considered a threat, and Alex Jones should be arrested for incitement,” Weissman tweeted, echoing similar tweets that tagged the FBI.
Advertisement
Far-right conspiracy theorist Alex Jones joins supporters of President Donald Trump at a rally in Washington Saturday. The Washington Post via Getty Images
Trump still refuses to concede the election, claiming without evidence that the election was stolen from him.
“We’re going to continue to go forward,” he said of his unsuccessful attempts to reverse the election’s result in an interview with “Fox & Friends” that aired Sunday morning.


thehuffingtonpost--2020-12-13--Former Cuomo Aide Accuses N.Y. Governor Of Sexual Harassment

A former adviser to New York Gov .
Andrew Cuomo accused him of sexually harassing her “ for years ” while she worked in his administration .
Lindsey Boylan , who is running for Manhattan borough president , made her allegations on Twitter Sunday morning and claimed that she wasn ’ t the only woman to have been victimized .
“ Many saw it , and watched , ” she said in a Twitter thread .
“ I could never anticipate what to expect : would I be grilled on my work ( which was very good ) or harassed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be both in the same conversation ?
” Yes , @ NYGovCuomo sexually harassed me for years .
Many saw it , and watched .
I could never anticipate what to expect : would I be grilled on my work ( which was very good ) or harassed about my looks .
Or would it be both in the same conversation ?
This was the way for years .
— Lindsey Boylan ( @ LindseyBoylan ) December 13 , 2020 Cuomo ’ s press secretary , Caitlin Girouard , denied the allegations against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Sunday .
“ There is simply no truth to these claims , ” she said .
Boylan worked for the Cuomo administration from March 2015 to October 2018 .
She served as deputy secretary for economic development and as a special adviser to the governor , according to her LinkedIn profile .
“ I ’ m angry to be put in this situation at all .
That because I am a woman , I can work hard my whole life to better myself and help others and yet still fall victim as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ silently , ” she wrote .
“ I hate that some men , like @ NYGovCuomo abuse their power.
” Boylan , who did not provide any corroborating evidence of the misconduct , said in comments posted to Twitter that she has no interest in speaking with journalists about her allegations .
Lindsey Boylan accused New York Gov .
Andrew Cuomo of sexually harassing her for years when she worked in his administration as an adviser .
“ I am about validating the experience of countless women and making sure abuse stops , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allegations came after she tweeted last week that working for Cuomo was the “ most toxic team environment ” and that people were “ deathly afraid of him.
” “ I ’ ve had many jobs .
Waitressing at Friendly ’ s as a teenager was an infinitely more respectful environment .
Even when I had bad customers who tipped poorly , ” she tweeted .
“ If people weren ’ t deathly afraid of him , they ’ d be saying the same thing and you ’ d already know the stories @ @

LOADING ERROR LOADING
A former adviser to New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo accused him of sexually harassing her “for years” while she worked in his administration.
Lindsey Boylan, who is running for Manhattan borough president, made her allegations on Twitter Sunday morning and claimed that she wasn’t the only woman to have been victimized.
Advertisement
“Many saw it, and watched,” she said in a Twitter thread. “I could never anticipate what to expect: would I be grilled on my work (which was very good) or harassed about my looks. Or would it be both in the same conversation?”
Yes, @NYGovCuomo sexually harassed me for years. Many saw it, and watched.
I could never anticipate what to expect: would I be grilled on my work (which was very good) or harassed about my looks. Or would it be both in the same conversation? This was the way for years. — Lindsey Boylan (@LindseyBoylan) December 13, 2020
Cuomo’s press secretary, Caitlin Girouard, denied the allegations against the governor in a statement to HuffPost on Sunday. “There is simply no truth to these claims,” she said.
Boylan worked for the Cuomo administration from March 2015 to October 2018. She served as deputy secretary with the state’s economic development agency, Empire State Development, and then as a special adviser to the governor, according to her LinkedIn profile.
Advertisement
Boylan, who did not immediately provide any corroborating evidence on the sexual harassment allegations against Cuomo, said in comments posted to Twitter that she has no interest in speaking with journalists about her allegations. She did not respond to requests for comment from HuffPost or reportedly from several other news outlets.
“I am about validating the experience of countless women and making sure abuse stops,” she said.
Lindsey Boylan accused New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo of sexually harassing her for years when she worked in his administration as an adviser. Mike Coppola via Getty Images
Boylan’s allegations came after she tweeted last week that working for Cuomo was the “most toxic team environment” and that people were “deathly afraid of him.”
“I’ve had many jobs. Waitressing at Friendly’s as a teenager was an infinitely more respectful environment. Even when I had bad customers who tipped poorly,” she tweeted. “If people weren’t deathly afraid of him, they’d be saying the same thing and you’d already know the stories.”
Internal documents obtained by HuffPost, also reported by the Associated Press, indicate that Boylan resigned from her position with Empire State Development in 2018 after several co-workers accused her of abusive behavior. Complaints to Human Resources against her alleged bullying, yelling and treating staff “like children.” Two employees asked to file their complaints anonymously due to “a significant fear of retaliation,” the report states.
Advertisement
Boylan offered to resign during an “employment counseling” session at which the complaints were raised, according to an internal memo. Several days later, during a phone conversation with administration lawyer Alphonso David, Boylan admitted to having made mistakes but asked if she could rescind her resignation, according to a memorandum of the call.
Boylan reportedly worked for the Cuomo administration from March 2015 to October 2018. Gov. Cuomo is seen delivering a COVID-19 update in November. ASSOCIATED PRESS
A former worker at Empire State Development, who spoke with HuffPost on the condition of anonymity, said she personally witnessed Boylan yelling at staff and threatening to fire workers. “Some of the words she used were just not acceptable, and it could be heard throughout the whole entire floor,” the source said. “I don’t think she has any footing to speak about toxicity or any kind of harassment when that is what she did to many people.”


thehuffingtonpost--2020-12-13--Suspected Russian Hackers Spied On U.S. Treasury Emails: Report

WASHINGTON ( Reuters ) - Hackers believed to be working for Russia have been monitoring internal email traffic at the U.S. Treasury Department and an agency that decides internet and telecommunications policy , according to people familiar with the matter .
There is concern within the U.S. intelligence community that the hackers who targeted Treasury and the Commerce Department ’ s National Telecommunications and Information Administration used a similar tool to break into other government agencies , according to four people briefed on the matter .
The people did not say which other agencies .
Three of the people familiar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ believed to be behind the attack .
Two of the people said that the breaches are connected to a broad campaign that also involved the recently disclosed hack on FireEye , a major U.S. cybersecurity company with government and commercial contracts .
“ The United States government is aware of these reports and we are taking all necessary steps to identify and remedy any possible issues related to this situation , ” said National Security Council spokesman John Ullyot .
The hack is so serious it led to a National Security Council meeting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said one of the people familiar with the matter .
The Commerce Department confirmed there was a breach at one of its agencies in a statement .
“ We have asked the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the FBI to investigate , and we can not comment further at this time.
” The breach presents a major challenge to the incoming administration of President-elect Joe Biden as officials investigate what information was stolen and try to ascertain what it will be used for .
It is not uncommon for large scale cyber @ @ @ @ @ @ @ complete .
“ This is a much bigger story than one single agency , ” said one of the people familiar with the matter .
“ This is a huge cyber espionage campaign targeting the U.S. government and its interests.
” Hackers broke into the NTIA ’ s office software , Microsoft ’ s Office 365 .
Staff emails at the agency were monitored by the hackers for months , sources said .
A Microsoft spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment .
Neither did a spokesman for the Treasury @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sophisticated ” and have been able to trick the Microsoft platform ’ s authentication controls , according to a person familiar with the incident , who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not allowed to speak to the press .
“ This is a nation state , ” said a different person briefed on the matter .
The full scope of the breach is unclear .
The investigation is still its early stages and involves a range of federal agencies , including the FBI , according to three of the people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency said they have been “ working closely with our agency partners regarding recently discovered activity on government networks .
CISA is providing technical assistance to affected entities as they work to identify and mitigate any potential compromises.
” The FBI and U.S. National Security Agency did not immediately respond to a request for comment .
There is some indication that the email compromise at NTIA dates back to this summer , although it was only recently discovered , according to a senior U.S. official .

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Hackers believed to be working for Russia have been monitoring internal email traffic at the U.S. Treasury Department and an agency that decides internet and telecommunications policy, according to people familiar with the matter.
There is concern within the U.S. intelligence community that the hackers who targeted Treasury and the Commerce Department’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration used a similar tool to break into other government agencies, according to four people briefed on the matter. The people did not say which other agencies.
Three of the people familiar with the investigation said Russia is currently believed to be behind the attack.
Two of the people said that the breaches are connected to a broad campaign that also involved the recently disclosed hack on FireEye, a major U.S. cybersecurity company with government and commercial contracts.
“The United States government is aware of these reports and we are taking all necessary steps to identify and remedy any possible issues related to this situation,” said National Security Council spokesman John Ullyot.
The hack is so serious it led to a National Security Council meeting at the White House on Saturday, said one of the people familiar with the matter.
The Commerce Department confirmed there was a breach at one of its agencies in a statement. “We have asked the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the FBI to investigate, and we cannot comment further at this time.”
The breach presents a major challenge to the incoming administration of President-elect Joe Biden as officials investigate what information was stolen and try to ascertain what it will be used for. It is not uncommon for large scale cyber investigations to take months or years to complete.
“This is a much bigger story than one single agency,” said one of the people familiar with the matter. “This is a huge cyber espionage campaign targeting the U.S. government and its interests.”
Hackers broke into the NTIA’s office software, Microsoft’s Office 365. Staff emails at the agency were monitored by the hackers for months, sources said.
A Microsoft spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Neither did a spokesman for the Treasury Department.
The hackers are “highly sophisticated” and have been able to trick the Microsoft platform’s authentication controls, according to a person familiar with the incident, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not allowed to speak to the press.
“This is a nation state,” said a different person briefed on the matter.
The full scope of the breach is unclear. The investigation is still its early stages and involves a range of federal agencies, including the FBI, according to three of the people familiar with the matter.
A spokesperson for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency said they have been “working closely with our agency partners regarding recently discovered activity on government networks. CISA is providing technical assistance to affected entities as they work to identify and mitigate any potential compromises.”
The FBI and U.S. National Security Agency did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
There is some indication that the email compromise at NTIA dates back to this summer, although it was only recently discovered, according to a senior U.S. official.
(Reporting by Christopher Bing, Jack Stubbs and Joseph Menn; Editing by Chris Sanders and Daniel Wallis)


thehuffingtonpost--2020-12-13--Cleveland Will No Longer Call Baseball Team The Indians: Reports

Cleveland ’ s Major League Baseball franchise will reportedly drop its Indian moniker in the coming days , the latest team to heed fans ’ and tribal communities ’ request to leave behind a term long considered racist .
The New York Times first reported Sunday that Cleveland would announce plans for the team ’ s next generation as soon as this week , although it ’ s unclear what exactly that means aside from dropping the term in the near future .
The Times added that the team could keep the Indians name on uniforms for the 2021 season @ @ @ @ @ @ @ logical challenge to convert more than a century of iconography into a new era .
EXCLUSIVE : For the past 105 years , the team was called the Indians .
That will be no more as Cleveland has decided to change its name .
Announcement from team could come as early as this week .
w/ @ DavidWaldstein https : //t.co/Nnw2nAoKcJ — Michael S. Schmidt ( @ nytmike ) December 14 , 2020 The team has been known as the Indians since 1915 , but critics have lambasted the choice for decades , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adjacent imagery are harmful to indigenous people .
Cleveland had begun phasing out logos that included a cartoon mascot called Chief Wahoo this year .
“ We are committed to making a positive impact in our community and embrace our responsibility to advance social justice and equality , ” the team said in July .
“ Our organization fully recognizes our team name is among the most visible ways in which we connect with the community.
” Also in July , Washington ’ s National Football League team said it would no longer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and racist name that had also drawn intense criticism from fans and Native American activists .
The franchise has been known as the Washington Football Team this year .
“ The decision to use ‘ Washington Football Team ’ for this season allows the franchise the ability to undertake an in-depth branding process to properly include player , alumni , fan , community , and sponsor input , ” the team said at the time .
Other teams have so far resisted calls to follow the teams ’ lead , including the Chicago @ @ @ @ @ @

LOADING ERROR LOADING
Cleveland’s Major League Baseball franchise will reportedly drop its Indian moniker in the coming days, the latest team to heed fans’ and tribal communities’ request to leave behind a term long considered racist.
The New York Times first reported Sunday that Cleveland would announce plans for the team’s next generation as soon as this week, although it’s unclear what exactly that means aside from dropping the term in the near future. The Times added that the team could keep the Indians name on uniforms for the 2021 season as the franchise figures out the massive logistical challenge to convert more than a century of iconography into a new era.
Advertisement
ESPN later confirmed the report.
EXCLUSIVE: For the past 105 years, the team was called the Indians. That will be no more as Cleveland has decided to change its name. Announcement from team could come as early as this week. w/@DavidWaldstein https://t.co/Nnw2nAoKcJ — Michael S. Schmidt (@nytmike) December 14, 2020
The team has been known as the Indians since 1915, but critics have lambasted the choice for decades, saying the use of such terms and adjacent imagery are harmful to indigenous people. Cleveland had begun phasing out logos that included a cartoon mascot called Chief Wahoo this year.
“We are committed to making a positive impact in our community and embrace our responsibility to advance social justice and equality,” the team said in July. “Our organization fully recognizes our team name is among the most visible ways in which we connect with the community.”
Advertisement
Also in July, Washington’s National Football League team said it would no longer be called the Redskins, a derogatory and racist name that had also drawn intense criticism from fans and Native American activists. The franchise has been known as the Washington Football Team this year.
“The decision to use ‘Washington Football Team’ for this season allows the franchise the ability to undertake an in-depth branding process to properly include player, alumni, fan, community, and sponsor input,” the team said at the time.


thehuffingtonpost--2020-12-13--John le Carré, Master Author Of Spy Craft And Cold War Intrigue, Dead At 89

John le Carré , the novelist of espionage , spy craft and intrigue whose cloak-and-dagger tales of the Cold War ensnared a generation of readers , died Saturday .
He was 89 .
“ John le Carré was an undisputed giant of English literature , ” Jonny Geller , head of the talent agency The Curtis Brown Group , wrote on Twitter .
“ He defined the Cold War era and fearlessly spoke truth to power in the decades that followed.
” He added : “ I have lost a mentor , an inspiration and most importantly , a friend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ again.
” Le Carré was born David Cornwell in 1931 and began his career working for the British intelligence service before he started to write complex tales of his own .
They included “ Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy ” and “ The Spy Who Came In From the Cold.
” His books often featured characters stuck in a moral gray area between right and wrong at the height of international tensions , far from the swashbuckling tales of men of mystery and martinis in the James Bond era .
“ I realized that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be branded as the spy turned writer , rather than as a writer who , like scores of his kind , had done a stint in the secret world and written about it , ” the author wrote in 2013 .
“ I was the British spy who had come out of the woodwork and told it how it really was , and anything I said to the contrary only enforced the myth .
And since I was writing for a public hooked on Bond and desperate for the antidote , the myth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1963 ’ s “ The Spy Who Came In From the Cold , ” called by some the “ best spy story ” they had ever read .
The book featured a main character disillusioned with the intelligence service , with no clear lines between the good and the bad .
Le Carré wrote the book at a time when he and his colleagues feared impending nuclear war , with the idea , “ a plague on both your houses , ” he told the BBC in 2000 .
“ I was never @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and long before I even entered the secret world , I had an instinct towards fiction that made me a dubious fact-gatherer , ” le Carré wrote in 2013 .
“ I was never at personal risk in my secret work ; I was frequently bored stiff by it.
” Le Carré ’ s works continued to be published until last year and were turned into award-winning films , although le Carré refused to have them entered for literary prizes .

LOADING ERROR LOADING
John le Carré, the novelist of espionage, spy craft and intrigue whose cloak-and-dagger tales of the Cold War ensnared a generation of readers, died Saturday. He was 89.
His family and literary agent confirmed the news.
“John le Carré was an undisputed giant of English literature,” Jonny Geller, head of the talent agency The Curtis Brown Group, wrote on Twitter. “He defined the Cold War era and fearlessly spoke truth to power in the decades that followed.”
Advertisement
He added: “I have lost a mentor, an inspiration and most importantly, a friend. We will not see his like again.”
John le Carré, the novelist of espionage, spy craft and intrigue whose cloak-and-dagger tales of the Cold War ensnared a generation of readers, died Saturday. He was 89. TT News Agency / Reuters
Le Carré was born David Cornwell in 1931 and began his career working for the British intelligence service before he started to write complex tales of his own. They included “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” and “The Spy Who Came In From the Cold.”
His books often featured characters stuck in a moral gray area between right and wrong at the height of international tensions, far from the swashbuckling tales of men of mystery and martinis in the James Bond era.
Advertisement
“I realized that now and forever more I was to be branded as the spy turned writer, rather than as a writer who, like scores of his kind, had done a stint in the secret world and written about it,” the author wrote in 2013. “I was the British spy who had come out of the woodwork and told it how it really was, and anything I said to the contrary only enforced the myth. And since I was writing for a public hooked on Bond and desperate for the antidote, the myth stuck.”
His first major bestseller was 1963’s “The Spy Who Came In From the Cold,” called by some the “best spy story” they had ever read. The book featured a main character disillusioned with the intelligence service, with no clear lines between the good and the bad. Le Carré wrote the book at a time when he and his colleagues feared impending nuclear war, with the idea, “a plague on both your houses,” he told the BBC in 2000.
“I was never a mastermind, or a mini-mind, and long before I even entered the secret world, I had an instinct towards fiction that made me a dubious fact-gatherer,” le Carré wrote in 2013. “I was never at personal risk in my secret work; I was frequently bored stiff by it.”
Le Carré’s works continued to be published until last year and were turned into award-winning films, although le Carré refused to have them entered for literary prizes.
Advertisement


thehuffingtonpost--2020-12-13--Police Fatally Shoot Man Who Opened Fire At Historic Manhattan Cathedral

Officers struck the suspect at least once in the head and killed him after he fired multiple shots , NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea said at a press conference .
The man was then transported to nearby hospital Mount Sinai Morningside .
There were no injuries to police or attendees .
The church on Sunday hosted its annual Christmas concert event called “ Carols for the Community.
” Shea said the event was smaller than previous years due to the COVID-19 pandemic , though City Councilman Mark Levine tweeted that approximately 400 people attended .
The event featured masked members of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the front steps .
The commissioner said that caroling ended at around 3:45 p.m .
ET , at which point shots rang out from the suspect at the top of the church ’ s steps .
The gunfire sent attendees , who were starting to walk away , running down the street screaming and dropping to the sidewalk .
“ It was just beautiful , and then at the end , this person started shooting .
Everybody is in shock , ” cathedral spokeswoman Lisa Schubert told The New York Times .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of people .
There were hundreds of people here and he shot at least 20 times.
” Body camera footage showed that “ these steps were almost empty , ” Shea said .
“ The music had stopped playing , no one was playing instruments , but there were people in the immediate area lingering around .
What we ’ re getting preliminarily is not known to the individuals that were playing the instruments.
” “ He made his way up , ” he continued .
“ People were invited into the church @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s when he sort of appeared.
” A photo taken by Reuters shows the suspect was wearing a white hat and a protective mask printed with what appeared to be the Dominican Republic flag .
The man was also holding a gun in each of his hands , as shown in the photo .
Police won ’ t yet say in what direction the suspect was firing bullets , but the church said in a statement that the man “ set off a round of gunfire into the air from our front @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the motive is not yet known , multiple witnesses told them that the shooter was yelling for officers to kill him .
Levine also alleged on Twitter that the suspect “ began shooting indiscriminately in the air ” and “ yelling that he wanted to be killed.
” The commissioner said that one police officer and one detective both were serving as security for the event at the time of the shooting , and immediately “ engaged ” the suspect .
A sergeant who was at Mount Sinai Morningside also immediately responded .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a total of 15 shots .
Police said they recovered two semiautomatic firearms from the scene .
They also recovered what they believe to be the suspect ’ s bag , which had a full can of gasoline , rope , wire , multiple knives , a bible and tape .
Officers have “ a tentative idea ” of who the suspect is , with Shea saying they “ have a name , that person has a lengthy criminal history , but until we have it verified by fingerprints we ’ re not @ @ @ @ @ @

LOADING ERROR LOADING
New York City police said Sunday they shot a man dead after he opened fire at Manhattan’s St. John the Divine Cathedral, the largest cathedral in North America.
Officers struck the suspect at least once in the head and killed him after he fired multiple shots, NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea said at a press conference. The man was then transported to nearby hospital Mount Sinai Morningside. There were no injuries to police or attendees.
Advertisement
Watch as @NYPDShea updates the media on a police involved shooting that took place earlier today at the Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine. pic.twitter.com/8JMgP3WoBk — NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) December 13, 2020
The church on Sunday hosted its annual Christmas concert event called “Carols for the Community.” Shea said the event was smaller than previous years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, though City Councilman Mark Levine tweeted that approximately 400 people attended. The event featured masked members of the church choir standing socially distanced on the front steps.
The commissioner said that caroling ended at around 3:45 p.m. ET, at which point shots rang out from the suspect at the top of the church’s steps. The gunfire sent attendees, who were starting to walk away, running down the street screaming and dropping to the sidewalk.
People run after a man opened fire outside the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine in the Manhattan borough of New York City on December 13, 2020. Jeenah Moon / Reuters
Advertisement
“It was just beautiful, and then at the end, this person started shooting. Everybody is in shock,” cathedral spokeswoman Lisa Schubert told The New York Times. “The shooter could have killed a lot of people. There were hundreds of people here and he shot at least 20 times.”
Cowards will not silence us. Hate cannot win. Here’s my favorite hymn, sung from the steps of St. John the Divine, minutes before an active shooter opened fire from right where we had been standing. pic.twitter.com/QrnG6hYKwZ — Shayoni Mitra (@ShayoniMitra) December 13, 2020
Body camera footage showed that “these steps were almost empty,” Shea said. “The music had stopped playing, no one was playing instruments, but there were people in the immediate area lingering around. What we’re getting preliminarily is not known to the individuals that were playing the instruments.”
“He made his way up,” he continued. “People were invited into the church after the music ended, and that’s when he sort of appeared.”
A man wearing a protective mask points his guns outside the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine in the Manhattan borough of New York City on December 13, 2020. Jeenah Moon / Reuters
Advertisement
A photo taken by Reuters shows the suspect was wearing a white hat and a protective mask printed with what appeared to be the Dominican Republic flag. The man was also holding a gun in each of his hands, as shown in the photo.
Police won’t yet say in what direction the suspect was firing bullets, but the church said in a statement that the man “set off a round of gunfire into the air from our front steps.”
Police also said that while the motive is not yet known, multiple witnesses told them that the shooter was yelling for officers to kill him. Levine also alleged on Twitter that the suspect “began shooting indiscriminately in the air” and “yelling that he wanted to be killed.”
“Painful reminder of the challenges we face in dealing with mental health and easy gun access in our city,” Levine tweeted.
Here on scene of shooting at Cathedral of St. John the Divine. The incident occurred during a Christmas service with approx 400 people. Suspect has died. No other injuries.
Painful reminder of the challenges we face in dealing with mental health and easy gun access in our city. pic.twitter.com/c0vD0NKaFJ — Mark D. Levine (@MarkLevineNYC) December 13, 2020
Advertisement
The commissioner said that one police officer and one detective both were serving as security for the event at the time of the shooting, and immediately “engaged” the suspect. A sergeant who was at Mount Sinai Morningside also immediately responded. All three members of law enforcement fired a total of 15 shots.
“It is by the grace of God today that we don’t have anyone struck,” Shea said.
Police said they recovered two semiautomatic firearms from the scene. They also recovered what they believe to be the suspect’s bag, which had a full can of gasoline, rope, wire, multiple knives, a bible and tape.
The suspect is also believed to be the owner of a bag found nearby that had a full container of gasoline, rope, wire, and multiple knives. pic.twitter.com/0srfLxB8S9 — NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) December 13, 2020
Officers have “a tentative idea” of who the suspect is, with Shea saying they “have a name, that person has a lengthy criminal history, but until we have it verified by fingerprints we’re not gonna release anything.”
Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer said two of her aides were at the Christmas concert when the shooting occurred but were not hurt.
Advertisement
“We don’t have a lot of information but our gratitude goes out to first responders,” Brewer tweeted.
The church released a statement also expressing gratitude to first responders, “and our prayers are with all those afflicted by this event.”
“It is horrible that our choir’s gift to New York City, a much-needed afternoon of song and unity, was cut short by this shocking act of violence,” the church said. “We will remain strong, together, and serve as a safe space for prayer, meditation and celebration during the upcoming holiday season.”


thehuffingtonpost--2020-12-13--Police Investigate Burning Of D.C. Churches’ Black Lives Matter Signs As Hate Crimes

Someone tore down banners supporting the anti-racism movement from at least three churches Saturday night as thousands of maskless “ Stop the Steal ” protesters marched through the nation ’ s capital , falsely claiming that the election was stolen from Trump .
The Metropolitan Police Department said Sunday that it ’ s “ aware of these incidents ” and encouraged anyone with information to call 202-727-9099 or text 50411 .
“ We take these offenses seriously , and we are currently investigating them as a possible hate crimes , ” the department said in a statement to HuffPost .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Proud Boys far-right extremist group , turned violent when proponents clashed with counterprotesters in the streets , resulting in at least four people being stabbed .
More than 100 city police officers were deployed into the crowd , with some using chemical spray as they attempted to separate people , The Washington Post reported .
Police arrested 33 people during the overnight unrest , the department said .
Pro-Trump demonstrators tore down a Black Lives Matter sign and set it on fire at Asbury United Methodist Church , the oldest Black @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its original site , church officials said Sunday .
“ We are a resilient people who have trusted in God through slavery and the Underground Railroad , Jim Crow and the Civil Rights Movement , and now we face an apparent rise in white supremacy , ” the Rev .
Ianther M. Mills , a senior pastor at Asbury United Methodist Church , said in a statement Sunday .
“ Sadly , we must point out that if this was a marauding group of men of color going through the streets , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ followed and arrested , ” Mills said in his statement .
“ We are especially alarmed that this violence is not being denounced at the highest levels of our nation and instead the leaders of this movement are being invited to the White House.
” “ Stop the Steal ” protests erupted Saturday in several cities across the country , including Atlanta and St. Paul , Minnesota .
At least one person was shot during clashes between Trump supporters and counterprotesters in Olympia , Washington .
Trump appeared to encourage the demonstrations , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of misinformation and lies about the election .
The White House did not immediately respond to HuffPost ’ s request for comment about the violence that unfolded during Saturday ’ s unrest .
Election officials nationwide , including several Republicans , have declared the elections this year fair and devoid of widespread irregularities .
Nonetheless , Trump and his allies have continued to falsely claim the process was “ rigged .
”

LOADING ERROR LOADING
Police are investigating as possible hate crimes the destruction of Black Lives Matter signs at churches in Washington during violent pro-Donald Trump demonstrations Saturday, officials announced Sunday.
Someone tore down banners supporting the anti-racism movement from at least three churches Saturday night as thousands of maskless “Stop the Steal” protesters marched through the nation’s capital, falsely claiming that the election was stolen from Trump.
Advertisement
The Metropolitan Police Department said Sunday that it’s “aware of these incidents” and encouraged anyone with information to call 202-727-9099 or text 50411.
“We take these offenses seriously, and we are currently investigating them as a possible hate crimes,” the department said in a statement to HuffPost.
The pro-Trump demonstrations, which included members of the Proud Boys far-right extremist group, turned violent when proponents clashed with counterprotesters in the streets, resulting in at least four people being stabbed.
More than 100 city police officers were deployed into the crowd, with some using chemical spray as they attempted to separate people, The Washington Post reported. Police arrested 33 people during the overnight unrest, the department said.
Advertisement
Proud Boys and other white supremacists burn a Black Lives Matter sign from the Asbury United Methodist Church in D.C. while dousing it with lighter fluid to intensify the flames. This public act is intended to terrorize and send a message to Black people. pic.twitter.com/0YNsTDaVqF — Kristen Clarke (@KristenClarkeJD) December 13, 2020
Pro-Trump demonstrators tore down a Black Lives Matter sign and set it on fire at Asbury United Methodist Church, the oldest Black church in Washington that still sits on its original site, church officials said Sunday.
Rallygoers that night also reportedly tore down Black Lives Matter signs at nearby Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church and Luther Place Memorial Church.
“We are a resilient people who have trusted in God through slavery and the Underground Railroad, Jim Crow and the Civil Rights Movement, and now we face an apparent rise in white supremacy,” the Rev. Ianther M. Mills, a senior pastor at Asbury United Methodist Church, said in a statement Sunday.
The destruction on Saturday was “reminiscent of cross burnings,” Mills said.
“Sadly, we must point out that if this was a marauding group of men of color going through the streets, and destroying property, they would have been followed and arrested,” Mills said in his statement. “We are especially alarmed that this violence is not being denounced at the highest levels of our nation and instead the leaders of this movement are being invited to the White House.”
Advertisement
“Stop the Steal” protests erupted Saturday in several cities across the country, including Atlanta and St. Paul, Minnesota. At least one person was shot during clashes between Trump supporters and counterprotesters in Olympia, Washington.
Trump appeared to encourage the demonstrations, which were fueled by his relentless peddling of misinformation and lies about the election.
“MOST CORRUPT ELECTION IN U.S. HISTORY!” Trump tweeted Sunday.
The White House did not immediately respond to HuffPost’s request for comment about the violence that unfolded during Saturday’s unrest.
Election officials nationwide, including several Republicans, have declared the elections this year fair and devoid of widespread irregularities. Nonetheless, Trump and his allies have continued to falsely claim the process was “rigged.”
Advertisement
Democrats and some Republican lawmakers have urged Trump to concede and stop his divisive rhetoric, warning that his comments could lead to violence.
“It has to stop,” Gabriel Sterling, a Republican and the voting implementation manager in the Georgia secretary of state’s office, said in a news conference on Dec. 1. “Mr. President, you have not condemned these actions or this language.”


thehuffingtonpost--2020-12-14--Everything We Know About COVID-19's Impact On The Brain

As researchers have learned more about COVID-19 and its impact on the body , they have begun to recognize that the well-documented pulmonary effects of the virus are just the tip of the iceberg .
Increasingly , doctors and scientists are focused on how COVID-19 impacts the brain in big and small ways — none of them good .
As one neuroscientist said in the journal Nature : “ The neurological symptoms are only becoming more and more scary.
” Experts are still digging into the neurological impact of COVID-19 , and there are perhaps more questions than answers at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the biggest findings to date : Neurological injuries from COVID-19 may actually be pretty common .
Those injuries run the gamut in severity , from temporary confusion to seizures and stroke .
And they can occur without the virus appearing to directly enter the brain or the nervous system , suggesting many neurological injuries associated with COVID-19 are a secondary effect of becoming really sick with the virus , which can lead to problems like oxygen loss and blood clots .
To that end , the researchers behind the NYU study have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treat patients with serious COVID-19 must be aggressive in getting oxygen levels stable .
If they can not , the brain may pay a steep price .
Severe effects , like inflammation of the brain , are possible .
Though rare , cases of encephalitis , or inflammation of the brain , have been documented among infected individuals .
Experts say that ’ s not altogether surprising , given that encephalitis is often caused by viral infections .
But it is serious , as encephalitis can be life-threatening .
But in a troubling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ develop encephalitis without demonstrating other more well-known symptoms .
For example , in a case report that looked at roughly 40 people in the U.K. who developed neurological issues related to COVID-19 , several patients who had encephalitis actually had pretty mild respiratory issues .
COVID-19 has been linked to chronic cognitive deficits .
One important note : The study was not subject to peer review .
But it is not the only research to link ongoing cognitive decline with COVID-19 , even in people considered to be recovered from the virus .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in China who had COVID-19 and had recovered from the virus , the patients showed persistent issues with sustained attention , or the ability to focus on one task for a period of time without getting distracted .
COVID-19 can certainly cause milder neurological symptoms , such as headaches and dizziness .
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now includes headaches on its short list of some of the most common symptoms associated with the virus .
SARS-CoV-2 might enter the brain through the nose .
The virus may enter the brain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brain may be hurt when a person ’ s immune system goes into overdrive .
The brain may be hurt by general chaos in the body ( including low oxygen levels ) .
Or the brain may suffer as a result of blood clotting .
A small German study of 33 people who died from COVID-19 , published at the end of November in the journal Nature Neuroscience , found that more than half of the patients had evidence of SARS-CoV-2 in their noses and their brains , prompting researchers to conclude the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the brain — through the olfactory tract .
That might help explain why loss of smell and taste are a common symptom of COVID-19 , although that is far from settled and a matter of ongoing debate among researchers .

Jolygon via Getty Images There's still a lot medical experts don't know about COVID-19 and its effects on the brain, but there's some data that suggests the virus can cause neurological issues.
As researchers have learned more about COVID-19 and its impact on the body, they have begun to recognize that the well-documented pulmonary effects of the virus are just the tip of the iceberg.
Increasingly, doctors and scientists are focused on how COVID-19 impacts the brain in big and small ways — none of them good. As one neuroscientist said in the journal Nature: “The neurological symptoms are only becoming more and more scary.”
Advertisement
Experts are still digging into the neurological impact of COVID-19, and there are perhaps more questions than answers at this point. But here are some of the biggest findings to date:
Neurological injuries from COVID-19 may actually be pretty common.
While the coronavirus-brain connection was once thought to be pretty rare, it now seems that may not be the case.
Research published in October by a team with New York University suggests that SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, leads to neurological injuries in roughly 1 out of every 7 people infected.
Those injuries run the gamut in severity, from temporary confusion to seizures and stroke. And they can occur without the virus appearing to directly enter the brain or the nervous system, suggesting many neurological injuries associated with COVID-19 are a secondary effect of becoming really sick with the virus, which can lead to problems like oxygen loss and blood clots.
Advertisement
To that end, the researchers behind the NYU study have argued their findings show that doctors who treat patients with serious COVID-19 must be aggressive in getting oxygen levels stable. If they cannot, the brain may pay a steep price.
Severe effects, like inflammation of the brain, are possible.
Though rare, cases of encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain, have been documented among infected individuals. Experts say that’s not altogether surprising, given that encephalitis is often caused by viral infections. But it is serious, as encephalitis can be life-threatening.
It is not yet clear why certain people who have COVID-19 appear to develop this type of serious brain swelling.
But in a troubling development, it appears that some individuals develop encephalitis without demonstrating other more well-known symptoms. For example, in a case report that looked at roughly 40 people in the U.K. who developed neurological issues related to COVID-19, several patients who had encephalitis actually had pretty mild respiratory issues.
“This was the brain being hit as their main disease,” a neuroscientist behind the case study told the journal Nature.
Advertisement
COVID-19 has been linked to chronic cognitive deficits.
A preliminary study published in late October suggests that people who are infected with COVID-19 may have cognitive issues that last for months, particularly if they fall severely ill and require hospitalization.
By analyzing scores on a widely available cognitive test, researchers found that COVID-19 aged some patients’ brains by roughly 10 years.
“People who had recovered, including those no longer reporting symptoms, exhibited significant cognitive deficits,” the authors of the study wrote in a report of their findings.
One important note: The study was not subject to peer review. But it is not the only research to link ongoing cognitive decline with COVID-19, even in people considered to be recovered from the virus.
In a small study of 29 people in China who had COVID-19 and had recovered from the virus, the patients showed persistent issues with sustained attention, or the ability to focus on one task for a period of time without getting distracted.
Advertisement
COVID-19 symptoms can include neurological issues.
COVID-19 can certainly cause milder neurological symptoms, such as headaches and dizziness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now includes headaches on its short list of some of the most common symptoms associated with the virus.
Some COVID-19 survivors may develop a mental health disorder.
Research also suggests that 1 in 5 patients might develop a mental illness for the first time within three months of getting infected with the virus. This could include anxiety, depression or insomnia.
At this point, it is unclear exactly what the link is, but experts have long known that physical and mental health are closely intertwined.
SARS-CoV-2 might enter the brain through the nose.
Again, doctors and researchers aren’t yet clear on how the coronavirus reaches the brain, but as experts with Johns Hopkins Medicine explain, they have generally zeroed in on four primary possibilities.
The virus may enter the brain directly and cause severe infection. The brain may be hurt when a person’s immune system goes into overdrive. The brain may be hurt by general chaos in the body (including low oxygen levels). Or the brain may suffer as a result of blood clotting.
Advertisement
That first possibility — that SARS-CoV-2 can cross into the central nervous system and brain — is among the most unsettling. But there is some new evidence suggesting it’s true.
A small German study of 33 people who died from COVID-19, published at the end of November in the journal Nature Neuroscience, found that more than half of the patients had evidence of SARS-CoV-2 in their noses and their brains, prompting researchers to conclude the virus could invade the nervous system — and the brain — through the olfactory tract. That might help explain why loss of smell and taste are a common symptom of COVID-19, although that is far from settled and a matter of ongoing debate among researchers.
While COVID-19 invading the brain through our noses might sound like the stuff of nightmares, there is still much research to be done in order for experts to truly understand how the virus affects the central nervous system. In the meantime, preventive measures continue to be essential. Wear masks, keep your distance and wash your hands.


thehuffingtonpost--2020-12-14--Is It Bad To Drink Coffee On An Empty Stomach?

Maybe you start your day by rolling out of bed and shuffling straight to the kitchen for a cup of coffee .
Or perhaps you practice intermittent fasting , so you ’ re in the habit of having black coffee before you eat anything else .
But is it bad to drink your morning brew before you have something in your stomach ?
While many people drink coffee before breakfast with no issues whatsoever , others have reported increased gastrointestinal upset or jitteriness if they don ’ t eat something first .
That said , it ’ s important to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coffee on an empty stomach , as we all tolerate what we eat and drink differently .
If you feel fine after , then there ’ s no need to stop .
But if you experience discomfort , you may want to adjust your habits .
“ When it comes to nutrition , there is really no one-size-fits-all approach , ” said Stefani Sassos , registered dietitian for the Good Housekeeping Institute .
“ No one knows your body better than you do .
Tolerance to coffee , and really any other beverages @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If You Have Digestive Problems Coffee stimulates the production of acid in the stomach , which can be irritating to some , including those who deal with heartburn and reflux .
For certain people , the discomfort may be more noticeable on an empty stomach .
If that ’ s the case for you , registered dietitian Maya Feller of Maya Feller Nutrition recommends pairing your cup of joe with foods that calm stomach acidity .
Coffee also increases contractions of the muscles in your colon , which is why it helps some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a benefit , for some with preexisting gastrointestinal conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or those prone to diarrhea , it could make their symptoms worse .
Caffeine , a stimulant , is thought to play some role in the laxative effect of coffee .
But other compounds in the beverage are likely responsible , too .
That ’ s why even the decaffeinated variety can increase gut motility .
( And having milk or cream with your coffee could be upsetting your stomach if you have a dairy sensitivity . )
Know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , though .
So having a meal or snack with your coffee may not eliminate the urge to run to the bathroom , as one gastroenterologist told Health.com .
However , you may want to avoid having coffee with whatever foods tend to trigger your GI symptoms .
Again , the key is to pay attention to how you feel .
If you routinely experience discomfort when drinking coffee on an empty stomach and eating something with it doesn ’ t help , then you might consider cutting back on it .
If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s stimulant effects can mimic or heighten common anxiety symptoms such as nervousness , restlessness , trouble sleeping and rapid heart rate — particularly when consumed in larger doses .
People with anxiety disorders may experience jitteriness from smaller amounts of caffeine than those not prone to anxiety .
Up to 400 milligrams per day is thought to be safe for most healthy adults , but anxious individuals might get the jitters from 200 mg. ( For reference , one 8-ounce cup of coffee brewed at home contains about 100 milligrams of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with your first cup of joe reduce those jitters ?
“ Theoretically , the latter would decrease any effects of caffeine , but this may vary by an individual ’ s sensitivity to caffeine , ” she said , noting that the caffeine dose in such experiments is generally larger than the amount found in a single cup of coffee .
If you feel extra edgy after your cup of joe , see if having a meal or snack with your morning beverage makes a difference .
The dip in blood sugar you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a while can also contribute to feelings of anxiousness .
You might also think about decreasing your caffeine intake .
“ People susceptible to caffeine-induced anxiety may therefore benefit with eating something first , but why not reach for decaf instead or at least reduce the amount of coffee consumed ?
” Cornelis said .
But It ’ s Possible Your Symptoms Have Nothing To Do With Coffee “ Get curious about what you ’ re feeling — it may have to do with the food , the coffee or something else @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hint : It often has nothing to do with the food and more to do with something else going on in your life — like stress , sleep or anxiety .
Experimenting with different foods and noting your enjoyment levels and how you feel during and after eating them can help you learn more about what works best for you .
”

LOADING ERROR LOADING
Maybe you start your day by rolling out of bed and shuffling straight to the kitchen for a cup of coffee. Or perhaps you practice intermittent fasting, so you’re in the habit of having black coffee before you eat anything else.
But is it bad to drink your morning brew before you have something in your stomach? While many people drink coffee before breakfast with no issues whatsoever, others have reported increased gastrointestinal upset or jitteriness if they don’t eat something first.
Advertisement
“While coffee intake and the body’s response varies from person to person, some people may be especially sensitive to caffeine, perhaps more so on an empty stomach,” registered dietitian Alissa Rumsey — author of “Unapologetic Eating” — told HuffPost.
Research that specifically addresses the effects of coffee on an empty stomach is limited. And a strong link between coffee consumption and digestion issues, in general, has not been established.
Delmaine Donson via Getty Images Those sensitive to coffee and caffeine may notice it irritates their stomach more if they don't eat something first.
That said, it’s important to listen to how your body responds to coffee on an empty stomach, as we all tolerate what we eat and drink differently. If you feel fine after, then there’s no need to stop. But if you experience discomfort, you may want to adjust your habits.
Advertisement
“When it comes to nutrition, there is really no one-size-fits-all approach,” said Stefani Sassos, registered dietitian for the Good Housekeeping Institute. “No one knows your body better than you do. Tolerance to coffee, and really any other beverages or foods, is very individual.”
We talked to experts about the potential downsides of drinking coffee on an empty stomach and what to do if it’s triggering unpleasant symptoms for you.
If You Have Digestive Problems
Coffee stimulates the production of acid in the stomach, which can be irritating to some, including those who deal with heartburn and reflux. For certain people, the discomfort may be more noticeable on an empty stomach. If that’s the case for you, registered dietitian Maya Feller of Maya Feller Nutrition recommends pairing your cup of joe with foods that calm stomach acidity.
“These include ripe bananas, oatmeal, eggs, non-citrus fruits, and whole-grain toast,” she said. “Be mindful of added sugars and synthetic creamers when enjoying your coffee, as they are known triggers for reflux and heartburn in some individuals.”
Coffee also increases contractions of the muscles in your colon, which is why it helps some people poop. While many regard that as a benefit, for some with preexisting gastrointestinal conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or those prone to diarrhea, it could make their symptoms worse. Caffeine, a stimulant, is thought to play some role in the laxative effect of coffee. But other compounds in the beverage are likely responsible, too. That’s why even the decaffeinated variety can increase gut motility. (And having milk or cream with your coffee could be upsetting your stomach if you have a dairy sensitivity.)
Advertisement
PeopleImages via Getty Images Even decaf can have a laxative effect in some people because of certain compounds found in coffee.
Know that eating also stimulates your digestive tract, though. So having a meal or snack with your coffee may not eliminate the urge to run to the bathroom, as one gastroenterologist told Health.com. However, you may want to avoid having coffee with whatever foods tend to trigger your GI symptoms.
Again, the key is to pay attention to how you feel. If you routinely experience discomfort when drinking coffee on an empty stomach and eating something with it doesn’t help, then you might consider cutting back on it.
“Oftentimes, the dose or quantity matters when it comes to foods or beverages and gastrointestinal tolerance,” Sassos said. “You may tolerate one cup of coffee just fine, but three cups causes severe discomfort. Listen to your body and adjust accordingly.”
If You Deal With Jitters Or Anxiety
Caffeine’s stimulant effects can mimic or heighten common anxiety symptoms such as nervousness, restlessness, trouble sleeping and rapid heart rate — particularly when consumed in larger doses. People with anxiety disorders may experience jitteriness from smaller amounts of caffeine than those not prone to anxiety. Up to 400 milligrams per day is thought to be safe for most healthy adults, but anxious individuals might get the jitters from 200 mg. (For reference, one 8-ounce cup of coffee brewed at home contains about 100 milligrams of caffeine.) So would eating something with your first cup of joe reduce those jitters?
Advertisement
According to Marilyn Cornelis — a caffeine researcher and associate professor in the department of preventive medicine at Northwestern University — some scientific research suggests that consuming pure caffeine (i.e. not via coffee) with food “increases the time in which caffeine reaches peak levels in the blood and also decreases the peak concentration.”
“Theoretically, the latter would decrease any effects of caffeine, but this may vary by an individual’s sensitivity to caffeine,” she said, noting that the caffeine dose in such experiments is generally larger than the amount found in a single cup of coffee.
Johner Images via Getty Images People with anxiety may be more sensitive to the effects of caffeine.
If you feel extra edgy after your cup of joe, see if having a meal or snack with your morning beverage makes a difference. The dip in blood sugar you experience when you haven’t eaten in a while can also contribute to feelings of anxiousness.
You might also think about decreasing your caffeine intake. “People susceptible to caffeine-induced anxiety may therefore benefit with eating something first, but why not reach for decaf instead or at least reduce the amount of coffee consumed?” Cornelis said.
Advertisement
But It’s Possible Your Symptoms Have Nothing To Do With Coffee
Yes, it’s important to take note of any discomfort you feel after drinking coffee with or without food — or anything else you consume, for that matter. But as Rumsey pointed out, sometimes it’s not what we eat that’s responsible for our symptoms.


thehuffingtonpost--2020-12-14--UK Health Service Apologizes For Making Santa Desperately Ill With COVID-19 In PSA

The public service announcement , which was yanked from YouTube , featured a gravely ill man with a white beard being rushed into the emergency room of an NHS hospital .
He ’ s clearly in distress and cared for by a crew of caring professionals .
The video , entitled “ The Gift , ” was produced for the NHS Charities Together organization , which raises funds for nonprofits that support the health system .
The PSA was intended to attract donations and as a homage to health care workers and volunteers who toil amid the pandemic to save @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Christmas .
“ Give back to those who give everything ” is the tagline of the video .
The ad initially drew some praise , with The Daily Mail calling it “ touching ” and “ heartwarming , ” but the newspaper also described it as the “ nightmare before Christmas.
” People commenting on social media were disturbed by the images of a seriously ill Santa and concerned about the video ’ s impact on children : This utterly shameful Ad MUST be taken down immediately , how dare you mess with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ SHAME ON YOU .
https : //t.co/gXDb5MhpEJ — Tonia Buxton ( @ ToniaBuxton ) December 10 , 2020 This holiday season , give your children the gift of shrieking , bedwetting paranoia by showing them the NHS film about how SANTA CLAUS IS GOING TO DIE IF PEOPLE REFUSE TO MINDLESSLY FOLLOW ORDERS !
pic.twitter.com/MeFVHI60c6 — Consent Factory ( @ consent_factory ) December 12 , 2020 After a building storm of criticism , the spot was scrubbed last week .
Officials apologized for the video and said it wasn ’ t “ aimed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shown on TV.
” “ We are sorry to the parents of any young children who have been upset by watching the ad and to the young children themselves , ” the officials stated .
“ They were not the intended audience for it .
”

The public service announcement, which was yanked from YouTube, featured a gravely ill man with a white beard being rushed into the emergency room of an NHS hospital. He’s clearly in distress and cared for by a crew of caring professionals.
Advertisement
The mystery man eventually bounces back to (apparent) sleigh-riding recovery, and his nurse discovers he’s St. Nick.
The video, entitled “The Gift,” was produced for the NHS Charities Together organization, which raises funds for nonprofits that support the health system. The PSA was intended to attract donations and as a homage to health care workers and volunteers who toil amid the pandemic to save — in this case — Santa and Christmas.
“Give back to those who give everything” is the tagline of the video.
The ad initially drew some praise, with The Daily Mail calling it “touching” and “heartwarming,” but the newspaper also described it as the “nightmare before Christmas.”
People commenting on social media were disturbed by the images of a seriously ill Santa and concerned about the video’s impact on children:
Advertisement
This utterly shameful Ad MUST be taken down immediately, how dare you mess with the mental health of of our children SHAME ON YOU. https://t.co/gXDb5MhpEJ — Tonia Buxton (@ToniaBuxton) December 10, 2020
This holiday season, give your children the gift of shrieking, bedwetting paranoia by showing them the NHS film about how SANTA CLAUS IS GOING TO DIE IF PEOPLE REFUSE TO MINDLESSLY FOLLOW ORDERS! pic.twitter.com/MeFVHI60c6 — Consent Factory (@consent_factory) December 12, 2020
After a building storm of criticism, the spot was scrubbed last week. Officials apologized for the video and said it wasn’t “aimed at children and hasn’t been shown on TV.”
“We are sorry to the parents of any young children who have been upset by watching the ad and to the young children themselves,” the officials stated. “They were not the intended audience for it.”


thehuffingtonpost--2020-12-14--Trump Says He's Nixing Plan For Early Vaccinations At The White House

WASHINGTON ( AP ) — President Donald Trump said Sunday that he was reversing an administration directive to vaccinate top government officials against COVID-19 , while public distribution of the shot is limited to front-line health workers , and people in nursing homes and long-term care facilities .
Trump made the announcement hours after his administration confirmed that senior U.S. officials , including some White House aides who work in close proximity to Trump and Vice President Mike Pence , would be offered coronavirus vaccines as soon as this week under federal continuity of government plans .
“ People working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vaccine somewhat later in the program , unless specifically necessary , ” Trump said in a tweet .
“ I have asked that this adjustment be made .
I am not scheduled to take the vaccine , but look forward to doing so at the appropriate time.
” It was not immediately clear what the scale of the vaccination program was supposed to be , according to two people briefed on the matter , or what effect Trump ’ s tweet would have on the government ’ s efforts to protect top leadership @ @ @ @ @ @ @ receive the vaccine early drew criticism on social media .
Trump and his aides have consistently flouted the COVID-19 guidelines issued by his own administration , including hosting large holiday parties with maskless attendees this December .
Officials said earlier Sunday that doses of the newly approved vaccine from Pfizer would be made available to those who work in close quarters with the nation ’ s top leaders .
They said the move was meant to prevent more COVID-19 spread in the White House and other critical facilities .
Trump was hospitalized with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Senior officials across all three branches of government will receive vaccinations pursuant to continuity of government protocols established in executive policy , ” National Security Council spokesperson John Ulyot had said .
“ The American people should have confidence that they are receiving the same safe and effective vaccine as senior officials of the United States government on the advice of public health professionals and national security leadership.
” The two people briefed on the matter spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that top U.S. officials would get early access to the vaccine .
The move to vaccinate top U.S. officials would be consistent with the rollout of rapid testing machines for the coronavirus , which were similarly controlled by the federal government with kits reserved to protect the White House complex and other critical facilities .
According to guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , there is not yet enough information to determine whether those who have had COVID-19 should also get the vaccine .
Pence has not come down with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been discussing when and how he should receive the vaccine as the administration looks to boost public confidence in the shot .
Aides to President-elect Joe Biden have been discussing when and how he should receive the vaccine and have been working to establish plans to boost virus safeguards in the West Wing to keep the 78-year-old Democrat healthy .
According to a Capitol Hill official , lawmakers have not been informed how many doses would be made available to them , adding it would be premature to speculate who might receive them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discuss it publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity .

LOADING ERROR LOADING
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump said Sunday that he was reversing an administration directive to vaccinate top government officials against COVID-19, while public distribution of the shot is limited to front-line health workers, and people in nursing homes and long-term care facilities.
Trump made the announcement hours after his administration confirmed that senior U.S. officials, including some White House aides who work in close proximity to Trump and Vice President Mike Pence, would be offered coronavirus vaccines as soon as this week under federal continuity of government plans.
Advertisement
“People working in the White House should receive the vaccine somewhat later in the program, unless specifically necessary,” Trump said in a tweet. “I have asked that this adjustment be made. I am not scheduled to take the vaccine, but look forward to doing so at the appropriate time.”
It was not immediately clear what the scale of the vaccination program was supposed to be, according to two people briefed on the matter, or what effect Trump’s tweet would have on the government’s efforts to protect top leadership.
News that White House staff would receive the vaccine early drew criticism on social media. Trump and his aides have consistently flouted the COVID-19 guidelines issued by his own administration, including hosting large holiday parties with maskless attendees this December.
Officials said earlier Sunday that doses of the newly approved vaccine from Pfizer would be made available to those who work in close quarters with the nation’s top leaders. They said the move was meant to prevent more COVID-19 spread in the White House and other critical facilities. Trump was hospitalized with the virus for three days in October.
Advertisement
“Senior officials across all three branches of government will receive vaccinations pursuant to continuity of government protocols established in executive policy,” National Security Council spokesperson John Ulyot had said. “The American people should have confidence that they are receiving the same safe and effective vaccine as senior officials of the United States government on the advice of public health professionals and national security leadership.”
The two people briefed on the matter spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly. The New York Times first reported that top U.S. officials would get early access to the vaccine.
The move to vaccinate top U.S. officials would be consistent with the rollout of rapid testing machines for the coronavirus, which were similarly controlled by the federal government with kits reserved to protect the White House complex and other critical facilities.
According to guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is not yet enough information to determine whether those who have had COVID-19 should also get the vaccine.
Pence has not come down with the virus, and his aides have been discussing when and how he should receive the vaccine as the administration looks to boost public confidence in the shot.
Advertisement
The Pfizer vaccine requires two doses administered three weeks apart, meaning Trump administration officials would receive the final shot just weeks before leaving office.
Aides to President-elect Joe Biden have been discussing when and how he should receive the vaccine and have been working to establish plans to boost virus safeguards in the West Wing to keep the 78-year-old Democrat healthy.
According to a Capitol Hill official, lawmakers have not been informed how many doses would be made available to them, adding it would be premature to speculate who might receive them. The official was not authorized to discuss it publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity.
___
Associated Press writer Lisa Mascaro contributed to this report from Washington.