thetennesseestar--2020-12-10--Virginia Police Advocate: Breonna’s Law Too Broad, but Not All Bad

Governor Ralph Northam ceremonially signed “ Breonna ’ s Law ” on Monday .
The law bans no-knock warrants and is named after Breonna Taylor , a Kentucky resident who was killed in her home in March by police .
It also bans night-time search warrants without authorization by a judge or magistrate .
But Virginia police advocates say the law is too broad — a wholesale ban on a law enforcement tool that they say is already rarely used .
“ To have zero exceptions puts our community in danger .
What most people don ’ t understand is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the officer DID knock and announce .
This new bill would not have altered that tragic situation with her being caught in the crossfire , ” Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police ( VACP ) President Maggie DeBoard told The Virginia Star .
DeBoard is also the Chief of Police in Herndon , Virginia .
“ Our citizens and our law enforcement officers deserve better .
We hope to work with the General Assembly to make these critical adjustments in the 2021 session , ” DeBoard said in a press release .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reforms like this one , which will make our communities safer and our criminal justice system more fair and equitable , ” Northam said in a press release .
“ While nothing can bring back Breonna Taylor , and so many others , we honor them when we change laws , when we act to right long-standing wrongs , and when we do the work to make sure more names do not follow theirs.
” VACP Executive Director Dana Schrad said , “ No-knock warrants are a rarity in Virginia to start with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to address those exigent situations where a life is in danger or evidence is being destroyed.
” “ The majority of search warrants are conducted at night due to the criminal activity being conducted and the need to safely approach a residence when few people are outside , to allow LEOs [ Law Enforcement Officers ] to stage without being targeted and to minimize physical or armed encounters with citizens , ” DeBoard said .
“ Outside of administrative search warrants , it is estimated that 90 percent are served during darkness .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ officers were shot at during daytime hours while trying to serve a search warrant.
” DeBoard said the new law only allows night-time search warrants if a judge approves them , a process that could delay necessary police action .
However , she said the VACP does support asking magistrates to approve night-time warrants .
“ The current language requires the signing of an affidavit by a magistrate , then make reasonable efforts to try and find a judge .
If unsuccessful , go back to the magistrate and put additional language in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ find a judge .
This could create significant delays .
We find this could not only compromise safety , but is also not operationally efficient and unnecessary , ” DeBoard said .
DeBoard instead suggested that only magistrate authorization be required .
“ Magistrates already rule on whether an LEO has sufficient probable cause to search ( the most crucial point of law to make ) , so we expect they could also rule as to whether an LEO has shown good cause to search outside of daytime hours , ” she said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adding that an LEO put that justification into a search warrant affidavit for the magistrate to rule on before it is issued.
” DeBoard said the law would also insert red tape into searches for missing persons .
“ The current bill also does not account for the service of other administrative search warrants at night that are often needed such as cell phone searches , gun shot residue on the hands of a suspect in custody , DNA swabs , vehicle searches , etc , ” DeBoard said .
“ When looking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these searches would need to be conducted as soon as possible and certainly without unnecessary administrative delays.
” But DeBoard isn ’ t calling for a wholesale repeal of the law , and she supports adding oversight into the warrant process .
She concluded , “ As a result , we highly suggested changes to the bill to alleviate the burden of a judge ’ s authorization for nighttime searches , which will eliminate critical delays in service , streamline the administrative process , but still require LEOs to justify the service of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Eric Burk is a reporter at The Virginia Star and the Star News Digital Network .
Email tips to [ email protected ]


thetennesseestar--2020-12-10--Trump Campaign’s Georgia Lawsuit Goes Public, Alleges Nearly 453,000 Fraudulent Votes Cast

The Trump campaign ’ s lawsuit in Georgia became public yesterday , alleging nearly 453,000 fraudulent votes were cast .
The lawsuit claimed that thousands of voters and the named defendants broke Georgia ’ s Election Code .
It quoted Georgia Supreme Court precedent indicating that plaintiffs only had to show enough irregular ballots to cast doubt on the election results – not how voters would ’ ve voted normally .
President Donald Trump and Republican Party of Georgia Chairman David Shafer joined as plaintiffs .
The defendants are Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger ; Georgia State Election board members @ @ @ @ @ @ @ directors .
Included counties were Fulton , Cobb , DeKalb , Gwinnett , Chatham , Cherokee , Clayton , Forsyth , Henry , Richmond , Houston , Floyd , Pickens , Bartow , and Hancock .
Throughout the filing , the plaintiffs alleged that multiple types of fraudulent votes were cast .
Purported fraudulent votes included around 2,560 felons , 66,247 underaged voters , 2,423 unregistered voters , 4,926 individuals who ’ d registered to vote in another state after the Georgia registration date , 395 double voters , 15,700 individuals who ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prior to Election Day , 40,279 individuals who ’ d moved to a different county and voted without re-registering for that county , 1,043 individuals with a postal office box residential address , 98 late-registrants , 10,315 dead voters , 305,701 individuals who applied for absentee ballots more than 180 days before the election , 92 individuals who somehow voted absentee prior to requesting an absentee ballot , 13 unregistered individuals who voted absentee , 2,664 individuals who received absentee ballots more than 180 days before the election , 50 individuals who voted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 2 individuals who voted despite rejected absentee ballot applications , 217 individuals who voted the same day they applied for and received absentee ballots .
Altogether , the number of alleged fraudulent votes amounts to nearly 453,000 votes .
Since the latest recount brought down Democratic candidate Joe Biden ’ s lead by about 1,000 votes , the contested votes amounts to just over 38 times Biden ’ s lead .
The lawsuit also alleged that Raffensperger sent unsolicited absentee ballot applications .
Further , it contested that Raffensperger lacked authority exercised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ argued unlawfully modified the election law ’ s absentee ballot processing standards .
Additionally , it alleged that the consent decree violated Election Code by allowing election officials to match absentee ballot envelope signatures to applications , rather than the required voter file .
Additionally , the lawsuit questioned the lowered rejection rates for absentee ballots in this election compared to the 2016 and 2018 general elections .
“ [ T ] he percentage of rejected ballots fell to .34 percent in 2020 from 2.9 percent in 2016 and 3.46 percent in 2018 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the number of ballots returned to the state for processing , ” the lawsuit says .
The lawsuit included several county-level incidents .
It cited allegations against Fulton County , in which several workers reportedly continued to count ballots after poll watchers and the press were purportedly instructed to leave .
It also alleged that , despite massive outside funding , the named counties didn ’ t conduct proper training or election procedures .
Plaintiffs also alleged that Raffensperger ’ s continued refusal to audit absentee ballot signatures violated the law .
While @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the entire compilation of documents presented totaled 1585 pages outlining evidence of voter fraud .
The lawsuit contested that the election results are “ null and void.
” Trump and Shafer submitted a large request for relief : a decertification of the results , a full investigation into all the claims , and ultimately a new Presidential Election in the state .
Corinne Murdock is a reporter at The Georgia Star News and the Star News Network .
Follow her latest on Twitter , or email tips to [ email protected ] .

A 17-year-old student allegedly opened fire Friday at a high school in Santa Fe, Texas, killing 10 people and wounding another 10, authorities said.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott said police found explosive devices, including a Molotov cocktail, at the suspected shooter’s home and a vehicle, as well as around the Santa Fe High School where the shooting took place.
Law enforcement officials said the suspect, Dimitrios Pagourtzis, a junior at the school, was being held without bond on a capital murder charge.
Abbott said the suspect originally intended to commit suicide following the shooting but told law enforcement officials after he was arrested that he didn’t have the courage to go through with killing himself.
The governor said two guns were used in the attack — a shotgun and a .38-caliber revolver. He said the suspect’s father legally owned both guns.It was not clear whether the father knew his son had taken the weapons.
Abbott said there were “one or two” other people of interest being interviewed about the shooting.
Galveston County Sheriff Henry Trochesset said, “Injured students and staff have been transported to local hospitals.” He also said an officer from the Santa Fe Independent School District was among those shot.
U.S. President Donald Trump described the shooting as an “absolutely horrific attack,” one of many that have “been going on too long in this country.” Trump told the victims and their families that “we’re with you in this tragic hour and we will be with you forever.” He vowed to get guns “out of the hands of those who pose a threat to themselves and to others.”
An unidentified male student described fleeing the school during an interview with KHOU-TV in Houston. He said that after he heard three shots, “we all took off in the back, and I tried to get into the trees. I didn’t want to be in sight. I heard four more shots, and then we jumped the fence to somebody’s house.”
An unidentified female student said tearfully on cable channel CNN, “Nobody should have to go through this. Nobody should have to feel that pain.”
Facebook post
Pagourtzis had posted an image on Facebook of himself wearing a “Born to Kill” shirt, but the motive for Friday’s attack wasn’t known.
Abbott saidthat unlike previous school shootings, “there were not those types of warning signs” about the Santa Fe suspect. The governor saidthe early investigation had found no prior criminal history for Pagourtzis.
“The red-flag warnings were either nonexistent or very imperceptible,” Abbott said, though he acknowledged Pagourtzis’ posting of the photo on Facebook.
That same Facebook profile described Pagourtzis as planning to enter the U.S. Marine Corps next year, but the Marine Corps told The Associated Press it had reviewed its records and had found no one by that name as either a recruit or a person in their delayed entry pool.
Classmates described Pagourtzis as quiet and an avid video game player who routinely wore a black trench coat and black boots to class. He had played football on the school’s junior varsity squad and danced as part of a church group. Those who know him expressed shock he might be involved in the killings.
Calls for action
The latest incident came about three months after a shooter with a semiautomatic rifle killed 17 students and school staff members at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. It was the third-deadliest school shooting in American history.
The Democratic leader of the U.S. House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, said urgent action was needed to prevent gun violence.
“Congress must show as much courage as they have, and act now to ensure that no other community or family must endure the unthinkable horror of gun violence. Our children deserve real leadership: a vote to prevent gun violence now.”
Republican House Speaker Paul Ryan of Wisconsin said Congress must implement reforms that lawmakers recently passed “to make schools safer and keep deadly weapons away from those who should not have them.”
“Our hearts are filled with grief over this horrific loss of life,” he added.
Santa Fe is located in southeastern Texas between the cities of Houston and Galveston.
– – –
Some information for this report came from Associated Press.
VOA News


thetennesseestar--2020-12-10--Heather Mitchell Is Running for the Virginia House of Delegates’ Second District Seat in Special Ele

Heather Mitchell Is Running for the Virginia House of Delegates’ Second District Seat in Special Election

Following Del .
Jennifer Carroll Foy ( D-Prince William ) resignation from the legislature , Northern Virginia resident Heather Mitchell is running as a Republican candidate in the upcoming special election for the House of Delegates 2nd District .
After Rich Anderson , Republican Party of Virginia Chairman , said multiple people were considering runs for the seat , Mitchell confirmed her bid in an interview with The Virginia Star .
“ I am running for the second district because I feel that the second district has been ignored , ” Mitchell said .
“ We have not had adequate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” She added : “ I have a keen understanding of the district .
I have knocked on thousands of doors up and down the entire second district.
” Mitchell , who is the proud spouse of an active-duty Marine , moved to Stafford , Virginia with her family in 2014 , and has since then become politically active and involved with the community , she said .
She has worked on several political campaigns as a volunteer and staff member , including for U.S. Representative Rob Wittman ( R-VA-01 ) as well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) and Emily Brewer ( R-Suffolk ) , and as a senior aide to the former chair of the Prince William County Board of Supervisors , she said .
“ What I bring is almost a layman ’ s point of view .
I am the mother of three children and I am your everyday person , ” Mitchell told The Star .
“ Political power has never been high on my list of achievements .
I am interested in giving back to my community that has been so gracious in accepting me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Mitchell ran against Carroll Foy and lost the 2nd District election in 2019 , receiving 39 percent of the vote , according to Ballotpedia .
The 2nd District House seat only became available after Carroll Foy announced Tuesday morning that she was stepping down to focus on her run for Virginia governor in 2021 .
Carroll Foy ’ s resignation takes effect on Saturday and allows her to fundraise , something lawmakers are barred from doing during regular sessions under state law .
Carroll Foy ’ s decision means that someone will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ General Assembly begins its session in mid-January .
Hours later on Tuesday , Governor Ralph Northam announced that he had called for a special election to take place on January 5 , 2021 , less than a month away .
Virginia Democrats are working on plans to select their nominee for the election by Saturday or Sunday , likely through a party primary , according to the Washington Post .
In terms of Democratic candidates , Del .
Lamont Bagby ( D-Henrico ) told The Star that he ’ s heard Candi King @ @ @ @ @ @ @ community leader , is looking to run and , according to the PW Perspective , activist Rozia Henson has also announced a bid .
So far , Mitchell is the only Republican candidate to acknowledge a run , but the last day for hopefuls to file for the special election is December 14 .
Mitchell said she has not put out an official press release yet and is still in the process of finishing up the necessary paperwork to file .
“ I will be the conduit for the constituents of the 2nd @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I am open to have a conversation with anybody regardless of political affiliation and I ’ m looking forward to it.
” Jacob Taylor is a reporter at The Virginia Star and the Star News Digital Network .
Follow Jacob on Twitter .
Email tips to [ email protected ]


thetennesseestar--2020-12-10--Eighteen States File Brief at the Supreme Court in Support of Texas Lawsuit Challenging 2020 Electio

Eighteen States File Brief at the Supreme Court in Support of Texas Lawsuit Challenging 2020 Election

Seventeen U.S. states filed a brief at the U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday supporting the Texas lawsuit challenging the 2020 election results .
[ Arizona has now filed a brief in support of the lawsuit bringing the number of states to 18 .
Seen update below ] .
“ In the context of a Presidential election , state actions implicate a uniquely important national interest , because the impact of the votes cast in each State is affected by the votes cast for the various candidates in other States , ” the brief states .
“ For the President and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are the only elected officials who represent all the voters in the Nation.
” As American Greatness ’ Julie Kelly reported on Tuesday , the Texas lawsuit “ accuses four states currently ‘ won ’ by Joe Biden of using the COVID-19 pandemic as an excuse to violate the Electors Clause and the 14th Amendment.
” The state of Texas is asking the court to extend the December 14 , 2020 deadline to certify each state ’ s electoral slate .
The suit also asks the court to declare that the four states—Pennsylvania @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ administered the 2020 presidential election in violation of the Electors Clause and the Fourteenth Amendment ” and to block the Electoral College votes of those states .
“ This is the big one , ” President Trump said of the Texas suit .
In a tweet this morning , Missouri ’ s Attorney General Eric Schmitt said that he would lead the effort in support of the Texas lawsuit .
The 17 states joining the Texas lawsuit are Missouri , Alabama , Arkansas , Florida , Indiana , Kansas , Louisiana , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dakota , Oklahoma , South Carolina , South Dakota , Tennessee , Utah , and West Virginia .
Late Wednesday afternoon , the Trump Campaign put out a statement saying that the president himself will intervene in the case .
“ Donald J. Trump , in his personal capacity as candidate for re-election as President of the United States , today moved to intervene in the Texas v. Pennsylvania , et .
al .
action at the United States Supreme Court , ” the campaign said in a press release .
“ The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ candidate are affected by the Defendant States ’ failure to follow and enforce state election laws during the 2020 election.
” The president has asked John C. Eastman , Counsel of Record for President Trump , to represent him .
“ I ’ m honored that the President asked me to represent him in this matter , ” said Eastman .
“ I think his intervention in this case strengthens an already very strong original action by the state of Texas.
” Jenna Ellis , Senior Legal Adviser to the Trump 2020 Campaign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ President Trump is fully committed to ensuring election integrity and fulfilling his oath to defend and protect the United States Constitution against state officials ’ misconduct and violations of law that irredeemably compromised this election .
We look forward to the Supreme Court resolving these important issues of election integrity that ultimately affect all Americans , and providing a remedy to the corruption that occurred.
” Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich on Wednesday filed a brief with the Supreme Court , saying “ our filing ensures Arizona ’ s interests are protected ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ President Trump voiced his support for the effort on Twitter .
“ Wow !
At least 17 States have joined Texas in the extraordinary case against the greatest Election Fraud in the history of the United States .
Thank you !
” the president tweeted .
Jordan Sekulow , the Executive Director at the American Center for Law & Justice , joined Newsmax Wednesday to explain what is happening with the Texas lawsuit .


thetennesseestar--2020-12-10--Clinton Associate Wrote Anti-Trump Dossier in 2016 Claiming He Had Russian FSB Source

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thetennesseestar--2020-12-11--106 GOP Members, Including Five from Tennessee, Soon to be Six, File Amicus Brief in Texas SCOTUS El

106 GOP Members, Including Five from Tennessee, Soon to be Six, File Amicus Brief in Texas SCOTUS Election Lawsuit

A total of 106 House Republicans on Thursday filed an amicus brief with the U.S. Supreme Court in support of the plaintiffs in Texas v. Pennsylvania , et al , including Tennessee ’ s U.S .
Representatives Mark Green , Tim Burchett , Chuck Fleischmann , David Kustoff , and John Rose , with U.S. Rep. Mike Johnson ( R-LA-04 ) taking the lead .
U.S. Rep. Mark Green ( R-TN-07 ) tweeted , “ 100+ House Republicans and I have filed a brief urging the Supreme Court to hear the Texas case .
The election for the presidency of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not get right.
” U.S. Rep. John Rose ( R-TN-06 ) tweeted , “ We must protect the integrity of our elections , so I joined @ RepMikeJohnson in sending a joint amicus brief to # SCOTUS in support of the petitioners in the case of TX v. PA. ” U.S. Rep. Scott DesJarlais ( R-TN-04 ) on Thursday night posted on his Facebook page , “ I agreed to sign the amicus brief draft yesterday , but was inadvertently omitted from the final draft today .
I still staunchly and firmly support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us were left off and the filing will be amended with our names added.
” Eighteen U.S. states filed a brief at the U.S. Supreme Court supporting the Texas lawsuit challenging the 2020 election results , American Greatness reported .
The Texas lawsuit is available here .
Joining the 105 congressmen was U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks ( R-AL-05 ) , who last week called for an investigation into attempts to register illegal voters in Georgia .
The amicus brief says , in part : As members of the federal legislature , Amici seek @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legislatures in establishing the manner by which Presidential Electors are appointed to ensure the Electoral College selects the candidate for President of the United States that was chosen by counting only lawful votes .
This brief amicus curiae presents the concern of amici as Members of Congress , shared by untold millions ( sic ) of their constituents , that the unconstitutional irregularities involved in the 2020 presidential election cast doubt upon its outcome and the integrity of the American system of elections .
Amici respectfully aver that the broad scope and impact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ states necessitate careful and timely review by this Court .
On the merits , this amicus brief defends the constitutional authority of state legislatures as the only bodies duly authorized to establish the manner by which presidential electors are appointed , one of the central issues in the pending litigation .
As members of the federal legislature , these amici seek to protect the constitutional role of state legislatures in determining the manner by which states choose their electors .
The Framers of the United States Constitution provided that presidential electors be appointed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Legislature [ s ] .
” Art .
II , § 1 , cl .
2 .
The legislature of every Defendant state had established detailed rules by which that state ’ s appointment of presidential electors should have been conducted .
However , in the months before the 2020 election , those rules were deliberately changed by both state and non-state actors .
The clear authority of those state legislatures to determine the rules for appointing electors was usurped at various times by governors , secretaries of state , election officials @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and private parties .
Jason M. Reynolds has more than 20 years ’ experience as a journalist at outlets of all sizes .

Richmond Police arrested 11 people during a protest outside the Richmond City Justice Center on Tuesday.
The group was gathered outside of the Justice Center to protest conditions in the Richmond jail after COVID-19 outbreak among 100 inmates and staff was reported.
Richmond police officers arrived outside of the Justice Center to help the Richmond Sheriff’s office deal with the group protesters who had moved from the public sidewalk onto Justice Center grounds during the demonstration, causing a security concern, according to the Richmond police description of the incident,
Just before 7 p.m., a man on a bicycle attempted to block a tow truck trying removing a vehicle that had been illegally parked in front of the Justice Center. When a Richmond police officer arrived at the scene, the man tried to flee on his bike and was then stopped by the officer. Other protesters witnessed this and attempted to stop the arrest, leading to those people being arrested as well, according to the police account.
A video of the incident was captured and published to the RVA Magazine Instagram account. That video is below.
A flyer on social media for the protest read: “Our comrades on the inside are facing retaliation from officers for simply requesting adequate medical attention. These conditions are inhumane. We stand in solidarity with those who have been kidnapped, convicted and caged.”
On Wednesday, Richmond police released the names and charges for the 11 protesters arrested.
Their names and charges are as follows:
Stephen Roach Obstruction of Justice Impeding the flow of traffic
Benjamine Skromine Obstruction of Justice Impeding the flow of traffic
Gabrielle Brost Hoffman Obstruction of Justice
Aditya Mohan Obstruction of Justice
Rachel Fidlow Obstruction of Justice
Andre Rosson Obstruction of Justice
Alex Oxford Obstruction of Justice with Force
Jonathan Miranda Disorderly Conduct
Susanna Keating Disorderly Conduct
Mollie Luck Disorderly Conduct
Carmen Day Disorderly Conduct
– – –
Jacob Taylor is a reporter at The Virginia Star and the Star News Digital Network. Follow Jacob on Twitter. Email tips to [email protected]
Photo “Richmond City Justice Center Protest” by RVA Mag.


thetennesseestar--2020-12-11--Commentary: A Reminder About Us

Commentary: A Reminder About Us

In his splendid little book American Exceptionalism , Charles Murray reminds us it was foreigners who took the lead in claiming Americans are different : The people who came to America were different from their neighbors who stayed behind—more self-reliant , more resourceful , more willing to face great challenges in order to seize the opportunities life in America offered .
America was different because Americans were different .
Most of us have a sense of that difference , I think , and when we travel to foreign lands we are often reminded of it .
Everyone who has traveled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a characteristic one from the American novelist John Updike : Once , in Kenya , I was in a safari van that broke down .
The driver , a black African , and the English passengers in the van sat back waiting in the dusty heat for the notified authorities to send a repairman to us .
The Americans in the van , including me , though I know little about engines , insisted on popping the hood and trying to fix the machine themselves .
.
.
the Americans were happily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to dynamic auto mechanics .
They felt equal to the task .
For it to work , the American Idea—government by , for , and of the people under the Constitution—requires American citizens who have that certain something that sets Americans apart .
Today , the brazen attempt to steal the presidential election raises a question : will Americans sit in the back of the van waiting for the notified authorities to rescue them from this breakdown in America ’ s constitutional order ?
Or will they pop the hood and set about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ equal to the task ?
On the question of whether the American people are still the exceptional people of the exceptional nation , Charles Murray hedges : You can ’ t blame him for hedging .
In general , America ’ s elite has , as they like to say , moved on .
By and large , America ’ s elite prefers an unexceptional America , one that can be more easily governed by them and more easily inserted into the transnational global order they are planning .
Barack Obama spoke for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who take him as their focal point—the New York Times , the professoriate , Hollywood , the Big Tech Masters of the Universe , and all the rest—when he dismissed the idea of an exceptional America with these words : Plainly , he doesn ’ t believe in America , the exceptional nation , at all .
Many of the people who occupy America ’ s commanding heights share Obama ’ s scorn for the idea of an exceptional America .
They consider themselves to be citizens of the post-American world .
That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is their heart ’ s desire and they believe it is inevitable .
Because they believe it is inevitable , they feel justified in doing whatever will hurry it along , including stealing this election .
And they want the rest of us to shut up about them stealing this election and just “ move on.
” But although the ruling elite has moved on , many Americans remain firmly rooted in the American Idea .
Will enough Americans recognize that the Democrats believe their century-long effort to get rid of the American @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ultimate victory—and will enough Americans make every effort to make sure that does not happen ?
We ’ ll soon know the answer .
I ’ m betting on America the exceptional and its exceptional people , but whether your gut tells you we are going to win or that the best we can hope for is to go down fighting , I urge you to get in the fight .
We can all do our part to make every effort to light a fire under Republican officials , demanding that they fight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need to get real and put up the kind of all-out political fight that can save them from political extinction , and save the Constitution while they are at it .
You know what you can do to help .
Do it , I beseech you .


thetennesseestar--2020-12-11--FDA Advisory Panel Approves Pfizer Coronavirus Vaccine, Clearing Way for Final Authorization and Dis

FDA Advisory Panel Approves Pfizer Coronavirus Vaccine, Clearing Way for Final Authorization and Distribution

The FDA ’ s vaccine advisory panel voted 17-4 to approve Pfizer ’ s coronavirus vaccine for use , clearing the way for its approval and distribution nationwide .
After scouring over Pfizer ’ s data during the multi-hour meeting Thursday , the panel ensured that it was safe for the hundreds of million Americans expected to receive it in the coming months and voted to recommend approval .
Though the panel ’ s decision is merely an advisory one , the FDA is expected to heed its recommendation and approve Pfizer ’ s vaccine as early as Friday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ clinical trial data Tuesday touting the vaccine ’ s safety and effectiveness , a sign that it is prepared to swiftly grant emergency authorization following the panel ’ s recommendation .
Distribution could begin within 24 hours of the FDA authorization , and vaccinations could begin as soon as next week .
Pfizer said that insulated containers containing its vaccine could be shipped “ within hours ” of being granted approval , and is standing by to distribute millions of doses from its plant outside Kalamazoo , Michigan , the Detroit Free Press @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meeting was live-streamed in hopes that full transparency would increase public confidence in an eventual vaccine .
Confidence in possible coronavirus vaccines hit a low-point in late summer but has steadily increased throughout the fall , with 63 % of Americans surveyed in November saying that they would receive a vaccine once available to them .
Earlier in December , the United Kingdom and Canada authorized Pfizer ’ s vaccine for emergency use , and on Tuesday the U.K. became the first country to embark on its mass vaccination campaign in an effort @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health officials in the U.K. reported some temporary allergic reactions to the vaccine , they reaffirmed that it was safe and encouraged everybody with a history of severe allergies to receive it once available .
Pfizer and BioNTech ’ s vaccine will likely secure governmental approval only 11 months after the drug makers began working on it , shattering all records relating to vaccine development , authorization and distribution .
Pfizer released the results of its clinical trials showing its vaccine to be over 90 % effective in November , reporting that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ though some trial participants reported experiencing minor , temporary side effects .
In the United States the virus ’ s surge has exacerbated the need for a vaccine , public health officials say , as the country has seen record case counts , hospitalizations and deaths in recent days .
The virus has infected nearly 15.5 million Americans to date and killed over 290,000 , according to a Johns Hopkins University database .
Andrew Trunsky is a reporter for the Daily Caller News Foundation .


thetennesseestar--2020-12-11--Host Leahy and Carol Swain Discuss Illegal Georgia Absentee Drop Boxes and the Great Coronavirus Res

Host Leahy and Carol Swain Discuss Illegal Georgia Absentee Drop Boxes and the Great Coronavirus Reset

Live from Music Row Thursday morning on The Tennessee Star Report with Michael Patrick Leahy – broadcast on Nashville ’ s Talk Radio 98.3 and 1510 WLAC weekdays from 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. – host Leahy welcomed all-star panelist , Dr. Carol Swain , to the studio to weigh in on Georgia ’ s absentee ballot voting drop boxes and how the “ emergency rule ” proclaimed in the state enabled its creation to aid what she coined as , the great coronavirus reset .
Leahy : That is former congresswoman Claudia Tenney from upstate New York .
She @ @ @ @ @ @ @ margin in New York ’ s 22nd Congressional District .
That ’ s 11 Upstate New York counties , one of which is Madison County where I used to live in as a kid .
And she was narrowly defeated in 2018 by this Anthony Brindisi by like 1000 votes .
She ran again against him again in 2020 .
At the moment they are separated by 12 votes .
Swain : Have they called all those races ?
Because at one time there were eight congressional races where Republicans were ahead but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : As best I can tell this is the only one that has not been called in the country .
There ’ s one in Iowa where the Republican had a lead by 10 votes , but that one has been certified even though there ’ s apparently a recount brewing there .
Swain : Well the thing about it is that if she were a Democrat they would have called it .
Leahy : Yes .
But the important thing is the point that she makes there which is the same point @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It ’ s a stunningly good point .
What happened is that federal election law in every state can only be established by state legislatures .
And what she is saying is that the governor who is going around the state legislature provided this labyrinthian process to get more absentee ballots in .
This is a huge massive voter fraud perpetrated by Democrat executive officials , elected officials , bureaucrats , and the Democratic party .
And then this nonprofit that was funded by Mark Zuckerberg called the Center for Technology and Civic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ getting more absentee ballots out there so more fraud can take place .
And to do so without a legitimate chain of custody in many instances .
Swain : Well , the problem with those Zuckerberg funded mailboxes is they were something that people could drop envelopes in without it going through the postal service .
And I assumed someone picked them up and delivered them .
And so there was really is my understanding no way to know when they were put in there or if people added to them or subtracted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in .
Leahy : You know , it ’ s funny you mention that , ( Swain chuckles ) because we have a story at The Georgia Star News that was published at midnight .
I ’ ll read it .
It ’ s right on point with what you ’ re talking about .
It ’ s a long headline but just listen to it .
Listen to the first couple of paragraphs .
With Georgia Run-Off Elections Less Than a Month Away Neither the State Nor the Counties Have Produced Chain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Placed in Drop Boxes for the November 3 Election .
A little stunning , isn ’ t it ?
Swain : I mean , the whole idea of drop boxes , we use those to return library books not to vote .
Leahy : Absolutely .
And again it gets back to this .
Swain : And they have a better chain of custody .
( Leahy laughs ) Someone from the library opens up the box takes the books and then they will log it in .
That ’ s a clear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
So this is what ’ s interesting about this .
And this again is related to the argument made in the Texas brief before the Supreme Court .
Absentee ballot drop boxes , the way that works is this is these are like a postal box that they put out all around the county .
And what ’ s supposed to happen is an unbiased collection team of two people that picks up the ballots and then transfers them to the county registrar or their designee at the county offices .
Now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is an election code rule that says when you obtain those ballots , you take them out of the dropbox .
You got to write your name down on it , the number of ballots you got , and the date and the time you picked them up .
And then you supposed to immediately transport them to the registrar designee and they ’ re supposed to say well we got it and sign it .
That ’ s what ’ s supposed to happen according to the election code rule and not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ When did they in Georgia rule ?
Do you know ?
Leahy : I ’ ll get to that in just a moment .
In Wisconsin , they have no formal chain of custody .
They are not tracking it in Wisconsin .
Swain : So you mean that Black Lives Matter and Antifa volunteers can sign up and get trained and pick up the ballots ?
Swain : Well , we want to be inclusive , you know , and one of the problems that seemed to have happened in Michigan is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ organization , they made it a jobs program .
So they hired a lot of people that didn ’ t have a clue what they were doing .
Leahy : And they trained them and paid them .
Swain : It ’ s like they paid the protesters .
It ’ s still more of the same people .
Same idea .
Leahy : The people that picked up these ballots from drop boxes were paid for and trained by not the state or the county governments but by paid for and trained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ , Mark Zuckerberg ’ s funded Center for Technology and Civic Life .
But back to Georgia .
This is back to the whole point of how Democrats cheated and violated the law .
Swain : They have been cheating ever since they ’ ve been Democrats .
Leahy : This is the most massive widespread organizing organized cheating in American political history .
Swain : It ’ s the most sophisticated .
And it was Joe Biden himself said that they had created the most elaborate voter fraud operation in American @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ m paraphrasing .
Leahy : No no .
We ’ ve got that clip .
Leahy : We ’ ll play it .
Joey will find it for the next hour .
Let ’ s go back to how this happened .
So there ’ s no law in Georgia and 41 other states .
There ’ s no law passed by the state legislature allowing for absentee ballot drop boxes .
Swain : I know .
And it ’ s ridiculous .
and I feel so sorry for those people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A lot of them are elderly people and how they were treated .
Leahy : The way that absentee ballot drop boxes came about in Georgia is the state election board passed an ’ emergency rule ’ in July of 2020 authorizing it .
But guess what ?
Under an emergency rule , they don ’ t have to follow the typical 30-day notice for the rules .
So they kind of snuck it in there .
This is a massive voter fraud perpetrated by the Democratic Party .
Listen to the second @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5:00 – 8:00 a.m. to the Tennessee Star Report with Michael Patrick Leahy on Talk Radio 98.3 FM WLAC 1510 .
Listen online at iHeart Radio .


thetennesseestar--2020-12-11--CDC Predicts Up to 362,000 People Could Die from COVID-19 by January

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) predicted that up to 362,000 could die from COVID-19 by Jan. 2 , their website said Wednesday .
The CDC ’ s forecast projected 12,600 to 23,400 people will die of coronavirus “ over the next four weeks , ” according to the website .
The forecast projected 332,000 to 362,000 total virus deaths by Jan. 2 .
The U.S. recorded a daily record of over 3,000 deaths from the virus , according to The Washington Post .
The record happened as two vaccine candidates are getting closer to passing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regulation barriers .
Over 106,000 people were hospitalized for the virus , which sets a new record , the Post reported .
The CDC advised Americans “ to stay at home and not travel ” during the holidays as they had previously done regarding Thanksgiving , Dr. Henry Walke , director of the Division of Preparedness and Emerging Infections ( DPEI ) in the National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases , said in a briefing on Dec.2 .
“ We do have recommendations out related if people do travel , how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we ’ re also releasing guidance related to consider testing before and after travel , ” Walke said in the briefing .
There are 289,531 reported coronavirus deaths in the U.S. , according to The New York Times .
On Dec.9 , 3,055 died from the virus .
The CDC didn ’ t immediately respond to the Daily Caller News Foundation ’ s request for comment .
Mary Rose Corkery is a reporter for the Daily Caller News Foundation .


thetennesseestar--2020-12-11--‘Intentional Erasure’: Black Lives Matter Fractures Over Power as Chapters Split from Network

Black Lives Matter has fractured in recent weeks as local chapters allege national leaders have withheld funding while shifting the direction of the movement .
The Black Lives Matter ( BLM ) movement was founded on the premise of empowering local chapters and activists on the ground , but in recent months those leaders have complained national leadership is centralizing power , according to Politico .
Ten local chapters of the BLM Global Network Foundation announced Nov. 30 that they would sever ties with national leadership in a statement entitled “ It is Time for Accountability.
” “ There ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dickerson , the leader of Black Lives Matter Oklahoma City , told Politico .
“ People assume that that money is distributed to local chapters , ” Dickerson said .
“ That is not the case .
People also assume that when actions are made , that national [ leadership ] has the support and agreement from this collective that what they ’ re saying is representative of us .
And that ’ s certainly not the case.
” The ten BLM chapters who signed onto the Nov. 30 statement took issue with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ political action committee and of a separate entity , BLM Grassroots , which was intended to support local chapters .
They argued decisions weren ’ t made democratically .
“ We didn ’ t have an opportunity to agree to discuss .
Nothing , ” Yahné Ndgo , the Black Lives Matter Philadelphia leader , told Politico .
“ So then we ask questions , and we are told no answers.
” The chapters also objected to Patrisse Cullors , who co-founded the organization , being appointed BLM Global Network Foundation executive director @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when they saw reports that Cullors was focused on meeting with President-elect Joe Biden .
“ What [ supporters ] see is national folks talking about trying to get a meeting with Biden , while kids are literally outside of my door asking for food , ” said April Goggans , the leader of Black Lives Matter D.C. , according to Politico .
BLM Global Network Foundation invited chapters to apply for multi-year grants worth up to $ 500,000 , according to Politico .
But few chapters actually qualified for the grants increasing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the best of our knowledge , most chapters have received little to no financial support from BLMGN since the launch in 2013 , ” the Nov. 30 statement said .
Meanwhile , BLM Global Network spent $ 4.5 million on consultants , travel and compensation for its staff from July 2017 through June 2019 while only providing $ 328,000 to its local autonomous BLM chapters , The Daily Caller News Foundation reported in June .
In the weeks following the death of George Floyd , BLM Global Network Foundation and other racial justice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to The New York Times .
Floyd died in police custody after a Minneapolis police officer kneeled on his neck .
Thomas Catenacci is a reporter for the Daily Caller News Foundation .


thetennesseestar--2020-12-11--Carol Swain on Joe Biden’s Admission of Extensive and Inclusive Voter Fraud and Rep. Cynthia Johnson

Carol Swain on Joe Biden’s Admission of Extensive and Inclusive Voter Fraud and Rep. Cynthia Johnson’s Threat to Trumpers

Live from Music Row Thursday morning on The Tennessee Star Report with Michael Patrick Leahy – broadcast on Nashville ’ s Talk Radio 98.3 and 1510 WLAC weekdays from 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. – host Leahy welcomed all-star panelist , Dr. Carol Swain , to the studio who weighed in on Joe Biden ’ s admission to extensive and inclusive voter fraud , Michigan Rep. Johnson ’ s threat , and the potential for legislators to be intimidated .
Leahy : Michael Patrick Leahy here and all-star panelist Carol Swain in the studio .
Carol , I have some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has provided an argument to the Supreme Court as to why they should not take up the Texas challenge to the cheating that took place in Georgia , Wisconsin , Pennsylvania , and Michigan .
And we have it directly here and here ’ s the audio of what he said .
Leahy : Oops !
Did he tell the Supreme Court that ?
Swain : I don ’ t know about that .
( Leahy laughs ) But I think that ’ s a fascinating confession because it was extensive and inclusive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ areas .
High tech people .
Swain : Yes .
The most inclusive voter fraud operation in American history .
And so sometimes the truth bites someone .
It ’ s almost like a God joke .
Leahy : He couldn ’ t help himself .
Swain : He opened up his mouth and he spoke the truth .
He knew .
And if you go back to President Obama in 2012 there were concerns about how he won that election .
And we go back to 1960 .
Democrats have been cheating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s more comprehensive and more integrated with the mainstream media and Big Tech this time around .
Swain : And when Republicans try to emulate them they usually get caught .
Leahy : Well they are not quite as good at cheating because they ’ re honest people .
By the way , a state representative in Michigan .
Swain : Let me tell you how they get in trouble .
Leahy : How do they get in trouble ?
Swain : They hire Democratic operatives .
There ’ s one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sides .
And those Democratic operatives tend to do things that are unethical .
Leahy : A state representative in Michigan has a message for Trump supporters .
It ’ s state Representative Cynthia Johnson .
Here ’ s what she said last night .
Leahy : Carol , that sounds like a threat to me .
Swain : That is chilling .
And I watched her during the Michigan hearings and she was like a character from Saturday Night Live .
I don ’ t believe I ’ ve ever been so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ might ask why was I embarrassed ?
Well , she happens to be Black .
And as a Black person , she was the only Black on that panel .
The only Black person .
She ’ s a woman and she behaved like a fool .
She ’ s an idiot .
Swain : She ’ s an idiot .
But I mean she ’ s obviously encouraging you know , she speaking to Antifa and she ’ s speaking to the radicals , and Black Lives Matter .
She ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what to do .
And they do know how to do it because we suffered how many months was it ?
Five months or six months of them trying to destroy our country ?
And right now they ’ re holding people hostage .
And how they ’ re holding them hostage is if the Supreme Court takes up this case that they should and this election gets thrown into the House of Representatives .
Leahy : Here is what the case is arguing .
But you ’ re getting to the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Supreme Court to tell the state legislators in Georgia in Wisconsin , Michigan , and Pennsylvania to pick the electors because they have the constitutional right to do so .
That ’ s what they ’ re asking .
But your point is , hmmm , would these state legislators get intimidated by Antifa ?
Swain : But it still goes back to the Electoral College and whether you know , the states will have one vote .
I think that they are trying to set up a situation where people are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the country if Joe Biden isn ’ t declared President .
And Joe Biden by going out there and pretending to be president .
I ’ m president-elect .
I ’ m setting up my cabinet .
He keeps doing that , you know , and it ’ s really a lie until it ’ s official .
Leahy : You are exactly right .
And that ’ s the point that Phill Kline and the folks at the Amistad Project of the Thomas More Society have made .
The only constitutional deadline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inauguration day .
Swain : Well , I mean , I hope our country is saved .
And right now it ’ s headed in the wrong direction and it ’ s about to be destroyed .
Leahy : But the Supreme Court has not ruled yet .
Swain : Well , I ’ m praying for the justices individually and I hope everyone else will too .
Listen to the full third hour here : Tune in weekdays from 5:00 – 8:00 a.m. to the Tennessee Star Report with Michael Patrick Leahy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Listen online at iHeart Radio .
Photo “ Joe Biden ” by Joe Biden .
Background Photo “ Vote Sign ” by Lorie Shaull .
CC BY-SA 2.0 .


thetennesseestar--2020-12-11--Portland Autonomous Zone Is ‘Stockpiling Weapons’, Has Armed Patrols, Police Say

Portland ’ s autonomous zone , which is moving into its third day , has been “ stockpiling weapons ” and has instituted armed patrols to defend the walled-in city occupation , authorities said .
Since the encampment began , rioters have increased fortifications around city streets , assaulted residents , and law enforcement has noticed the presence of “ armed sentries ” patrolling intersections , according to a press release from the Portland Police Bureau ( PPB ) .
The autonomous zone , which has been dubbed “ Red House on Mississippi ” formed after city officials attempted to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s , a black and indigenous family , The Oregonian reported .
“ We want a peaceful and safe resolution to the occupation of public space on North Mississippi Avenue , ” PPB Chief Chuck Lovell said in the release .
“ We are greatly concerned about the fortification of barricades , stockpiling of weapons , armed sentries , attacks on journalists and threats to kill officers in graffiti in this public space.
” “ Our goal is for this to resolve peacefully to increase safety for all involved .
I encourage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Demonstration Liaison Officers so we can discuss a peaceful outcome.
” The department also indicated that traffic in addition to emergency services are being stalled by the blockade , and residents within the walls have been trapped by the vigilante group .
The encampment began after law enforcement attempted to secure the Kinney home for the new owner , but police quickly vacated the area after violent demonstrators forced them out , according to The Oregonian .
The Kinney ’ s son , who pleaded guilty to a 2002 felony hit-and-run that killed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ financially and led to the foreclosure , the local outlet reported .
Two members of the Kinney family were arrested for trespassing during PPB ’ s initial visit , according to The Oregonian .
“ I am authorizing the Portland Police to use all lawful means to end the illegal occupation on North Mississippi Avenue and to hold those violating our community ’ s laws accountable , ” Democratic Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler wrote in a Tuesday tweet .
“ There will be no autonomous zone in Portland.
” Wheeler authorized “ all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continues to implement his September ban on tear gas for the city police department , a spokesman told the Daily Caller News Foundation in a separate report .
“ Portland Police do not want a confrontation , but will act to enforce the law and use of force if necessary to clear this private and public land , ” PPB wrote in the release .
Jake Dima is a reporter for the Daily Caller News Foundation .
Photo “ Portland Autonomous Zone ” by KGW News .


thetennesseestar--2020-12-11--YouTube to Remove Videos Challenging 2020 Election, but ‘Russia Collusion’ Videos Left Uncensored


thetennesseestar--2020-12-11--Commentary: Modest and Benevolent Leaders or Maniacs Drunk on Power?

It is not surprising that the political class tried to cancel Thanksgiving and wants to jettison Christmas this year .
Americans have been made to live with all kinds of impositions in 2020 , putatively for our protection , with no sign they ’ re going away anytime soon .
Instead , the rules have increased relentlessly in number and severity .
These encroachments have been presented to the public as modest demands made by benevolent leaders .
“ Just wear a mask , ” they say .
But the people in charge are not benevolent and their demands are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ began , they demanded a brief “ pause ” to get hospitals under control .
That turned into an indefinite and arbitrary “ lockdown.
” Now , they say that Americans must get vaccinated before normality is possible , if normality is even on the table .
Some speak of a “ Great Reset.
” The coronavirus is not a hardship to be endured with practicality , but an “ opportunity ” to revolutionize everything .
This is not how modest , benevolent leaders speak .
But these are not modest or benevolent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ power .
It ’ s instructive to think of Dr. Anthony Fauci in the mode that most Americans are actually familiar with him : as a television character .
On TV , Fauci plays the selfless and modest public servant , whose decisions , importantly , are nevertheless based on an unquestionable authority , the authority of “ science.
” It ’ s a part he has apparently played well , because many seem to believe that Fauci and the “ expert ” class to which he belongs are gods .
Their commands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ matter how illogical or destructive .
But for those with common sense , the Black Lives Matter uprisings of the summer were a point of no return .
People who lost their livelihoods , who were prohibited from grieving loved ones and being with them in their final moments on this earth , were told by our modest , benevolent leaders that all their loss meant nothing .
It was suddenly fine to be outside , breathing one on top of the other , so long as one ’ s face was covered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But even that was not the determining factor .
One also had to be a political agitator working to advance certain interests .
Civil rights were allowed for some , but not for others .
“ Nonessential ” activity : verboten .
These distinctions are not scientific .
They are prime facie absurd .
But our leaders have not been embarrassed by any of this .
Neither have they been embarrassed when they are found not to be living by their own rules .
Covered in the vestments of scientific authority , they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ caused profound social , economic , spiritual , and psychological suffering , but the course they have set is , they say , beyond reproof .
As Fauci put it , science is lamentably getting “ lumped into politics , ” resulting in “ divisiveness.
” But Fauci , despite his affectations to the contrary , is necessarily engaged in politics .
His decisions have impacted people ’ s lives and are naturally “ divisive.
” What he wants is power without responsibility .
California had “ no choice ” but to lock @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grandiose talk is having its effect .
In Los Angeles , Mayor Eric Garcetti has threatened to cut off utilities to those in violation of his COVID restrictions .
Our political class , while corrupt , is obviously not going to chasten itself .
Only the public can do that .
But many have accepted our leaders as they want to be seen : as good and wise people who should be free to pursue the common good as they see fit , without the bothersome limitations of public dissent or private rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ the rules ” scrupulously , chances are you have received a disapproving look , a reprimand , from a stranger sometime this year .
As law-abiding business owners are crushed and treated like criminals , as churches are shuttered during Christmastime and children are kept out of school , isolated from their friends , a great part of the country has responded with shrugs and applause .
It doesn ’ t seem to occur to them that our leaders are people , not deities , with their own limitations and selfish designs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comprise them , are prone to corruption .
At best they can aspire to aiming imperfectly at the public good .
At worst they degenerate into despotism .
These truths about politics and human nature used to be obvious .
A firm understanding of them was the start of our political science .
When a people degenerates far enough , the particular designs of ambitious despots don ’ t matter .
They can simply let fear , laziness , self-righteousness , and credulity do their work .
Do Americans still have the spirit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government , or not ?
These indiginites will never end until the people decide that they must .
Matthew Boose is a Mt .
Vernon fellow of the Center for American Greatness and a staff writer and weekly columnist at the Conservative Institute .
His writing has also appeared in the Daily Caller .
Follow him on Twitter @ matt_boose .


thetennesseestar--2020-12-11--Vice President Pence Hosts Defend the Majority Rally in Augusta, Stumping for Senators Perdue and Lo

Vice President Pence Hosts Defend the Majority Rally in Augusta, Stumping for Senators Perdue and Loeffler

Vice President Mike Pence hosted a “ Defend the Majority ” rally in Augusta , Georgia , gathering a crowd of 500 on a Thursday .
The vice president stumped for incumbent Republican senators Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue in their bid to win re-election in the upcoming runoff election .
The rally occurred at Augusta Regional Airport in the early afternoon .
Perdue was in attendance though Loeffler was absent – the latter senator was attending the funeral of her campaign staffer .
The crowd was exuberant , waving campaign signs and flags as they cheered .
Augusta local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that she came to stand up for the two senators and the president .
“ I came to fight for democracy , [ to ] stop the steal , [ to ] support Loeffler and Perdue , ” stated Burr .
“ We ’ re angry because we feel like our democracy and our country aren ’ t being supported .
And so , we want to make sure every legal vote is counted and to make sure that we get it right , now and going forward.
” Burr added that everyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feel about the general election ’ s integrity .
After a prayer , Republican Party of Georgia Chairman David Shafer addressed the crowd .
The chairman promised that the Republican Party is taking action to improve election security for the upcoming runoff election .
“ We filed suit against our own Secretary of State , ” Shafer said in response to cheers from the crowd .
“ We have recruited 4,000 poll watchers for the upcoming runoff elections .
We ’ re going to make sure we have eyes on every part of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ let them steal it [ the election ] again.
” Then , Congressman Rick Allen ( R-GA-12 ) shared that he ’ d signed onto the state of Texas ’ amicus brief petition .
He explained that he did so out of concern with the post-election allegations of voter fraud and irregularities .
“ What happened in Georgia – it ’ s got to stop , ” stated Allen .
“ I don ’ t know about you , but I am sick and tired of these limousine liberals from California deciding who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ senators in the state of Georgia .
Ossoff and Warnock could not raise a dime in the state of Georgia .
Y ’ all , this money is coming from California and New York – that is dead wrong !
” Following the congressman , Secretary of Agriculture and former Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue , cousin to Senator Perdue , took the stage briefly to encourage the crowd to vote .
The former governor ’ s election marked Georgia ’ s first Republican governor in over 130 years .
After , Senator Perdue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his address on the implications of the upcoming runoff election .
Perdue emphasized the progressive policies from Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez ( D-NY-14 ) and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer ( D-NY ) .
“ This is the most serious situation we ’ ve had in American politics in my lifetime that I can remember , ” he said .
“ And when you look at what the alternatives are right now , you just have to look at what they have said .
It ’ s in the Democratic [ Party ] platform @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make it up , you don ’ t have to listen to me – go read about it online.
” Perdue warned that losing the Senate majority would jeopardize American freedoms .
An energetic Pence jogged off the plan – as he took the stage , he continued pumping his fist , clapping and waving to the crowd .
Both Pence and President Donald Trump appeared in Valdosta last Saturday – just five days prior .
The vice president ’ s main point was for Georgians and Americans to hold the line in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Senate and challenge the election results .
He laid out the party ’ s platform as the side of Constitutional freedoms .
“ The fight is on !
” declared Pence .
“ You know , the support of the people all across Georgia and all across this country – it ’ s amazing .
This president , and our team , received more than 74 million votes across America – 10 million more votes than four years ago.
” The vice president also announced that 18 states joined the state @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Michigan , Pennsylvania , Wisconsin , and Arizona .
“ President Donald Trump deserves his day in court – the Supreme Court .
And all I can say is God Bless Texas .
Men and women of Georgia I ’ ll tell you : as our election contest continues here in Georgia and in states across the country , I ’ ll make you a promise : we ’ re going to keep fighting until every legal vote is counted , ” he said .
“ We ’ re going to keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out .
And we will never stop fighting to make America great again !
That ’ s why President Trump and I need David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler back in a Republican majority in the United States Senate.
” The vice president listed some of the accomplishments of the president and the two incumbent senators , including Loeffler ’ s role in implementing sweeping veteran healthcare reform .
Pence reminded the crowd of President Trump ’ s successful takeover of the last of ISIS territory and their leader without any American casualties , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ terrorist Qasem Soleimani .
The vice president added that the president upheld a promise to move the American embassy to Jerusalem – a promise unfulfilled by four previous presidents .
Pence noted that both Loeffler and Perdue were there “ every step of the way.
” Concerning the pandemic ’ s impact , Pence offered hope to the crowd : he asserted that their administration had overseen the creation of 7 million jobs , including 350,000 in Georgia , and the creation of a COVID-19 vaccine .
Pence finished his speech by calling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them that they could have confidence in their vote , because Republican leaders were taking action to ensure the integrity of the runoff election .
“ In these challenging times in the life of our nation , Georgia : stay in the fight .
Stay in the fight for integrity in our elections .
Stay in the fight to defend the Republican majority in the Senate .
And stay in the fight until the polls close on January 5th and we send David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler back to Washington , D.C. Stay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – that ’ s what ’ s on the line.
” After the rally , The Star News interviewed a mother-daughter duo who attended the rally .
The mother , Melinda Ball , asserted that her daughter inspired her dedication to supporting conservative candidates and fair elections at the rally .
“ I want to do anything I can to try and support the cause .
This is so important – it makes a difference , ” she said .
“ My daughter is the reason why I am here today .
That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I grew up in a free world where I had freedom , I had liberty , and I want that same world for my daughter .
That is what is important , and that is what is up for grabs here in this election coming up.
” Ball also asserted that she believed the election is far from over , expressing confidence in Georgia ’ s ability to turn out for the two incumbent senators .
“ The presidential election is not over yet .
Trump is still fighting for us , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ swing state .
And , second of all , Trump is still our president and he ’ s going to be our president for the next four years , ” Ball said .
“ The state of Georgia is going to draw the line , and they ’ re going to elect these senators , and we ’ re going to have our protectors against socialism .
And that is what we need , because the bottom line is socialism just does not work .
Take a look at Venezuela , look at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to other countries where socialism has taken over – it does not work .
History does repeat itself .
We ’ re going to stop it right here in the state of Georgia.
” When asked if she felt disappointed that Perdue didn ’ t address the voter fraud allegations , Ball stated that she wasn ’ t .
“ Not necessarily .
We know what ’ s going on .
What ’ s more important is that he gets his voice out there and gets his voice heard so he can be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at The Georgia Star News and the Star News Network .
Follow her latest on Twitter , or email tips to [ email protected ] .
Photo “ Mike Pence ” by 11Alive .


thetennesseestar--2020-12-11--New Jobless Claims Climb to 853,000, Economists Expected 730,000

The number of Americans filing new unemployment claims increased to 853,000 last week as the economy continued to suffer the @ @ @ @ @ pandemic , according to the Department of Labor .
The Bureau of Labor and Statistics @ @ @ @ @ Thursday represented a large increase of new jobless claims compared to the week ending Nov. @ @ @ @ @ were 712,000 new jobless claims reported .
New jobless claims had stayed below 800,000 for @ @ @ @ @ to the report .
Economists expected Thursday ’ s jobless claims number to come in @ @ @ @ @ .
New jobless claims fell below 1 million in the first week of August , @ @ @ @ @ the weekly claims had fallen below 1 million since March .
Roughly 19 million Americans @ @ @ @ @ , according to the BLS report Thursday .
Thomas Catenacci is a reporter for the @ @ @ @ @ Photo “ Unemployment Insurance Claims Office ” by Bytemarks .
CC BY 2.0 .


thetennesseestar--2020-12-11--Carol Swain on Tennessee Joining States in Texas Election Lawsuit and Takes a Call From Listener Kyl

Carol Swain on Tennessee Joining States in Texas Election Lawsuit and Takes a Call From Listener Kyle

Live from Music Row Thursday morning on The Tennessee Star Report with Michael Patrick Leahy – broadcast on Nashville ’ s Talk Radio 98.3 and 1510 WLAC weekdays from 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. – host Leahy welcomed all-star panelist , Dr. Carol Swain , to the studio to discuss Tennessee joining the Texas lawsuit and take a call from an brilliant listener named Kyle .
Leahy : It ’ s Thursday , December 10 and the Electoral College is supposed to meet on Monday in the 50 state capitals .
And we are joined in studio by our very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Professor , former Princeton Professor , former Mayoral candidate , and an all-around outstanding American , Carol Swain .
Good morning , Carol .
Swain : Good morning .
You left out Dr. Carol Swain .
That ’ s ok. ( Laughs ) Swain : But that ’ s okay .
I ’ m not into titles .
( Laughs ) Leahy : You know , I hear this all the time Carol .
Our listeners are very very interested in hearing about you and hearing about what you ’ re doing and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think matters .
There ’ s a connection that our listeners have with you .
So I salute you for being able to reach all of our listeners in that way .
Swain : I think they know that I care about them and I care about America .
and everything I do , you know , it ’ s really not about me .
And even you know , I would say this about you and all of us in the public eye .
We may think our lives about us , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
And everything we do if you ’ re in the public eye , it impacts a lot of people .
So you can do good or you can do evil .
Leahy : Well and you and I , we try to do good .
That ’ s our intention .
Swain : We do and we ’ re often on the losing side .
Swain : But in the big scheme of things in the whole universe for all eternity we are on the winning side .
Leahy : You know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I am just stunned at how outstanding this lawsuit filed by Texas in the Supreme Court is in suing the states of Georgia , Michigan , Pennsylvania , and Wisconsin because there ’ s widespread evidence of dramatic cheating in those states in the presidential election .
That lawsuit by the way has now been joined by 17 other States , including Tennessee .
Swain : I ’ m very proud of Governor Lee and Slatery for making that decision because they ’ re not always made the right decisions for Tennessee .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Not only that Carol they made them and it ’ s a timely decision .
And so I have been critical of the governor and of Attorney General Slatery at times .
But I must say this is an outstanding decision that they ’ ve made .
Swain : Well , I mean , they listened to the voters of Tennessee because a lot of us did call .
We expressed our opinions .
Americans are beginning to wonder if their opinions matter .
But they did in Tennessee this week .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ are thinking of the separation of powers and the Constitution as they ’ re considering whether or not to take this case there is an argument that could be made not to take the case because Texas and these other 17 states theoretically don ’ t have standing .
I don ’ t think that ’ s a strong argument .
But nonetheless .
Swain : What do you mean they don ’ t have standing ?
I thought the fact that the states suing States and the original jurisdiction would automatically give @ @ @ @ @ @ @ here ’ s the thing .
The precedent is that the court does not have to take up these cases between states .
Leahy : No .
The precedent to have discretion .
I want to read from an article that has been written by Margot Cleveland who is a former law clerk for a federal appellate judge at The Federalist .
Here ’ s what she says about standing .
Leahy : It ’ s right on point .
Texas has standing to sue .
Merely alleging the defendant states violated the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must also establish that it has standing to sue meaning it has been injured in a way entitling it to stand and to seek redress .
In its motion to leave is the motion for leave .
Texas argues at great length that it has two endings and presents three separate basis for it .
First , Texas claims the right to present the constitutional claims of its citizens who have the right to demand that all states abide by the constitutionally set of rules in appointing presidential electors .
Second , Texas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ injury as states premise on the structure of the Constitution .
Whereas a House represents the people proportionally and the Senate represents the states .
Thus while Americans likely care more about who is elected president , the states have a distinct interest in who is elected vice-president and thus who can cast the tie-breaking vote in the Senate Texas argues .
Finally , Texas argues that it has standing to sue as a representative of the state ’ s electors .
These electors , Texas argues , suffer a legislative injury whenever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ majority .
Those are strong arguments for standing .
Swain : I would say that they are .
And I think the case was brilliant .
And it ’ s like a law professor ’ s dream because it ’ s laid out in such a way that it could be a historical case .
And Ted Cruz , you know , we know him and Senator Cruz , and I ’ ve been critical of him at times .
I ’ ve supported him at times but this may be his moment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Supreme Court , and this case is decided on behalf of the American people because we should have some kind of standing .
I think that it will be a game-changer for him .
And I would love to see him on the Supreme Court .
Leahy : Well , that ’ s interesting .
We ’ ll get to Ted Cruz in a minute .
We want to go to a caller though .
Kyle wants to talk about the Supreme Court and original jurisdiction .
Good morning Kyle you ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Patrick Leahy and Carol Swain .
Kyle : So I wanted to make a point about original jurisdiction and also add to it a little bit of the standing that you were just talking about .
Leahy : By the way Kyle let me ask , are you an attorney ?
Swain : No he stayed at a Holiday Inn Express once .
Leahy : You are not an attorney .
Have you stayed at a Holiday Inn Express ?
Swain : So he can speak .
( Chuckles ) Kyle : So @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a union all join in a contract with our elections .
And that contract is to follow the Constitution in those elections .
If one state breaks that contract then of course the other states in that contract would have standing .
Leahy : This is the core of the issue isn ’ t it ?
Seventy four million Trump voters believe that four or five states have cheated .
Swain : And I don ’ t believe it ’ s just Trump voters .
I think the American people do too .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ my second and more importantly is the point about our original jurisdiction .
So usually a case will be brought to the Supreme Court on appeal .
And so the lower courts would have a record of the evidentiary hearing .
In this case , since it ’ s an original jurisdiction case the Supreme Court actually is allowed to admit the evidence .
So all the evidence that we have been seeing of videos , affidavits , and all of that is admissible in this case for in the Supreme Court if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a very important point because I would imagine that just the evidence that was shown in the state hearing wasn ’ t the Trump team ’ s best evidence .
You wouldn ’ t show your best evidence until you got into a court and had an evidentiary hearing .
So I wouldn ’ t be surprised if the Supreme Court took this case up .
We ’ ve seen damning evidence of fraud or you know statutes being broken in the Supreme Court .
And that ’ s my only point @ @ @ @ @ @ @ phone .
Leahy : Kyle , hang on .
I have a question for you .
When you stayed at that Holiday Inn Express , there must have been a law school class going on at the time .
Swain : No .
He ’ s a political scientist or something like that .
Swain : He ’ s just brilliant .
He ’ s smarter than all of us .
Leahy : How do you know this ?
You make a compelling argument that you would expect a constitutional lawyer to make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you do that ?
Kyle : Well , I have a deep passion for the way our country was founded .
I have a deep passion for justice and reasoned argument .
And so I don ’ t listen to the news .
I look directly at the Supreme Court website and I follow lawyers who have presented arguments to the Supreme Court .
And I look at their advice and then I also compare that to you know , the everyday work I do with the government .
How local ordinances in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ m working , how those are interpreted .
And then I try to apply that to the functionality of the Supreme Court or law in general .
Swain : Kyle how old are you ?
Swain : Well , I mean , I ’ m sure you ’ re great at your job , but you do have a brilliant mind .
Leahy : You need to go to law school and become a constitutional lawyer part-time .
Swain : And teach students because they need help .
Leahy : Kyle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ smart our listeners are .
Swain : They certainly are .
Leahy : That was a great argument .
Hats off to Kyle for that argument .
Listen to the full second hour here : Tune in weekdays from 5:00 – 8:00 a.m. to the Tennessee Star Report with Michael Patrick Leahy on Talk Radio 98.3 FM WLAC 1510 .
Listen online at iHeart Radio .


thetennesseestar--2020-12-11--Jeff Webb Joins Human Events Publication as Co-Publisher and Senior News Editor

Jeff Webb is the new co-publisher and senior news editor of Human Events , the digital publishing platform announced Thursday .
Webb and his team will take on the responsibility of building a daily news platform alongside the publication ’ s already established opinion page , Human Events said .
Webb , founder of Varsity Brands , tweeted , “ I have an incredible team around me and we ’ re ready to build another exceptional organization .
We look forward to bringing the truth to the American people.
” Will Chamberlain , principal of Parallel Media and owner of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ am thrilled to have someone of Jeff Webb ’ s proven business capability join me in shaping and building the Human Events brand .
Jeff is one of America ’ s premiere entrepreneurs and is a remarkable visionary and leader .
He and his team have a track record of building successful enterprises that make a difference in people ’ s lives .
I am confident he will help us do that here at Human Events.
” Human Events dates back to 1944 when it was founded by a group headed by a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is best known for being Ronald Reagan ’ s “ favorite magazine.
” Human Events was acquired in 2019 by Chamberlain , an attorney and conservative political pundit .
Chamberlain has cultivated a significant following on social media where his views and analysis can be found daily .
He also hosts a weekly show on Periscope .
Webb said , “ I am excited by the opportunity to join forces with a brand as well respected as is Human Events and to work side by side with someone of Will Chamberlain ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forward to bringing the truth to the American people.
” Plans for the combined operation include a free daily news & opinion e-letter to which readers can subscribe and an enhanced paid membership offering that will provide for member forums and events , along with other “ members-only ” perks .
Webb and Chamberlain also plan to make themselves available to subscribers with a live interactive weekly program .
Over the past two years , Webb has become increasingly outspoken in the areas of politics and public policy and has been both a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opinion pieces on a variety of important issues .
Webb , of Memphis , appeared on a July 28 episode of The Tennessee Star Report with Michael Patrick Leahy – broadcast on Nashville ’ s Talk Radio 98.3 and 1510 WLAC weekdays from 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. – reflected on where he grew up in Northern Dallas and his time while in attendance at the University of Oklahoma .
He said he is a Mormon .
This past summer he endorsed Dr. Manny Sethi for the Senate .
Jason M. Reynolds has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a journalist at outlets of all sizes .


thetennesseestar--2020-12-11--Ballot Transfer Forms Show 78 Percent of 89,000 Absentee Ballots from Drop Boxes in Cobb County, Geo

Ballot Transfer Forms Show 78 Percent of 89,000 Absentee Ballots from Drop Boxes in Cobb County, Georgia Were Not Transported to Registrar ‘Immediately’ As Election Code Rule Requires

An analysis of ballot transfer forms from Cobb County reveals that 78 percent of the more than 89,000 absentee ballots from drop box locations , required to be “ immediately transported ” to the county registrar according to Emergency Rule of the State Election Board for Absentee Voting , took more than one hour to be transferred to election officials .
State Election Board Emergency Rule 183-1-14-0.8-.14 relative to securing absentee ballot drop boxes was adopted by the State Election Board at the July 1 , 2020 , meeting .
In addition to other prescriptive requirements for securing the absentee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at 16 locations throughout Cobb County , the rule also addresses the collection and transport of the ballots from each drop box location to the custody of the registrar .
“ The ballots from the drop box shall be immediately transported to the county registrar and processed and stored in the same manner as absentee ballots returned by mail are processed and stored , ” the rule mandates .
As previously reported , the total time between the collection of absentee ballots from a drop box and transfer to the registrar took as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , when documented as actually transferred on the same day .
More notably , there were at least 6 separate instances involving a total of more than 1,800 ballots that ballots were not officially transferred to the registrar until the next day .
There was also one collection of 227 drop box absentee ballots was transferred 2 days later and another collection of 274 ballots was transferred three days later to the registrar .
The absentee ballot transfer forms are a critical piece of the chain of custody for absentee ballots placed in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ details contained in the 460 ballot transfers on 253 forms over five separate files provided by Cobb County Elections and Registration were analyzed for whether the absentee ballots from drop boxes were transferred from the two-person collection team to the county registrar within one hour .
The one-hour cut off is a very generous standard , in that even the farthest of the 16 absentee ballot drop box locations , according to Google maps and directions is well less than that standard .
One hour is also generous when compared to the State @ @ @ @ @ @ @ immediately transported.
” The definition for immediately being “ without delay or intervention ; at once ; instantly , ” according to thefreedictionary.com .
More than 70,000 of the 89,000 absentee ballots collected from drop boxes – or over 78 percent – were signed for by the registrar more than one hour after being collected by a two-person collection team .
Most of the delayed absentee ballots occurred during the early voting period of September 18 to November 2 and during the day on election day , November 3 .
All of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or right after the closing of voting at 7:00 p.m. on election day , November 3 , were transferred from the collection teams to the registrar in less than one hour .
In fact , the range of time for drop box absentee ballot collections to transfer to the registrar on election night ranged from a low of eight minutes to a high of 50 minutes across the 16 drop box ballot locations based on transfer forms that could actually be analyzed .
Three of the 16 drop box absentee ballot forms from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to incomplete information : – one election night drop box absentee ballot transfer form had no recorded transfer time to the registrar – one showed an incomplete transfer time of 7:3 ( incomplete minutes ) – one showed an incomplete collection time of 7 ( no minutes ) The rule also requires that “ The county registrar of a designee thereof shall sign the ballot transfer form upon receipt of the ballots from the collection team.
” Yet , there were instances where there was no signature or name of the registrar on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the drop box absentee ballots were surrendered by the collections team .
Since they were not in compliance with the State Election Board Emergency Rule , ballot transfers that were missing a signature by the registrar , missing the collection time by the collections team or missing the transfer time to the registrar were also included as being outside of the one-hour standard for the purposes of the analysis .
If the standard set on election night for the time between the collection of absentee ballots from the drop boxes and transfer to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ instead of the more generous one-hour standard , greater than 90 percent of the transfers would have been in violation of the State Election Board Emergency Rule .
Using the time between drop box collections and transfer to the registrar established on election night as the standard in the analysis , however , would raise additional questions about compliance with the State Election Board Emergency Rule for ballots to be “ immediately transported , ” since some election night transfers took longer than the transfers made during early voting .
When contacted by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Star News , Director of Cobb County Elections and Registration Janine Eveler apparently took issue with the report .
Eveler responded via email to a citizen who had received additional details from the editor about the numbers/dates/times found in the open records request and asked for an explanation for the “ HUGE ” time gaps pointing out that “ one was 2 days !
!
!
!
” Eveler said , “ If the reporter had bothered to contact us to explain the anomalies , we could have quickly cleared it up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the drop boxes is a deputy registrar .
The transfer form is documenting the retrieval of ballots by one group of registrars and the turning over those ballots to another group of registrars at the absentee processing center .
At the East Cobb Government Center , where you see a day or two between those two transactions , the ballots were removed from the drop box and securely stored inside the government building where that box is located , until they were retrieved the next day on the way back to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very popular and the drop box fills up quickly , so this is the way we prevent it from filling up overnight .
The conclusion made by the publication that there were violations of the State Election Board Rule is factually untrue .
A registered voter in Cobb County expressed their extreme concern “ about the lack of chain of command of the voter boxes.
” The voter attached a sampling of some of the transfer forms and pointed out “ many of which have blanks where there was no check off or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ These ballot boxes were very loosely managed and our trust in this process is very low .
If you are unable to have someone watch these boxes 24/7 then consideration must be given to remove them as an acceptable part of the process and not allow them in the runoff.
” “ As the Director of Cobb Elections- your action on this issue is imperative , ” the voter told Eveler .
Eveler responded to the concerned voter , “ This article is factually inaccurate .
The reporter never contacted our office @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Eveler failed to backup her claim with any specifics that the article was “ factually inaccurate.
” Cobb County is the only county in the metropolitan Atlanta area that has responded to The Star News ’ Open Records Request in a timely manner .
Laura Baigert is a senior reporter at The Tennessee Star .


thetennesseestar--2020-12-11--Virginia Governor Watch 2021: Updates on Cox, Hanger, and Carter

It ’ s been just a little more than ones month since the 2020 general election , but Virginia ’ s gubernatorial campaigns are in full swing , with old scandals surfacing for Democrats and a new war over the nomination process brewing in the Republican Party .
But that ’ s not enough gubernatorial news for one week – so here is some more… On Wednesday , Carrico announced that he was no longer planning to run for governor , and that he was endorsing Cox .
“ Though I believe that I could lead the Commonwealth with integrity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Republican nomination for Governor in 2021 .
I have prayed for wisdom in this decision , and the demands of my full-time job and family will not allow me to run , ” Carrico said in a press release .
“ The Democratic Party is waging a relentless war on law enforcement .
We need leaders to stop the insane attacks on law and order before it is too late .
Kirk Cox is exactly the kind of leader Virginia needs , and I am proud to endorse him today.
” Carrico @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he helped unveil Cox ’ s “ Partnership for A Safe Virginia.
” Cox said , “ The top priority of our partnership is a new plan we are announcing today to commit $ 50 million to end salary compression and raise pay for state troopers and sheriff ’ s deputies.
” “ At a time when Democrats are talking about defunding the police , we are going to prioritize public safety , treat our law enforcement officers as the essential heroes they are , and fully fund their needs as a core @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
Senator Emmett Hanger ( R-Augusta ) Still Considering Joining the Fun Over in Augusta , State Senator Emmett Hanger is mulling his options .
Hanger has represented Virginia ’ s 24th Senate district since 1996 , and is a member of the finance committee , where he served as co-chair until the Democrats won the majority for the 2020 session , according to Ballotpedia .
He previously served in the House of Delegates from 1983-1992 .
In November , Hanger told The Virginia Star that he was evaluating a run for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drama around the choice to hold a nominating convention didn ’ t scare the Senator off – not yet , anyway .
“ I ’ m very encouraged to jump into the mix and see if I can influence the outcome , ” Hanger told The Richmond Times-Dispatch .
Meanwhile , outspoken socialist Lee Carter filed paperwork on Monday to run in the 2021 Democratic gubernatorial primary , according to a tweet from the Virginia Public Access Project .
Carter was elected to the House of Delegates in 2017 ; his platform included @ @ @ @ @ @ @ energy , reducing the use of cars , and limiting corporate power , according to Ballotpedia .
Carter will also be up for re-election for his House seat in 2021 .
On Twitter , Carter declared , “ With divided government in DC , 2021 will be the year for VA to go big .
I ’ ll fight for real COVID aid , an end to mass incarceration , to rebuild rural communities , and a lot more.
” Carter said that he filed to keep his options open , according to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ basing his decision on whether or not he “ hears discussion from other candidates about making big , transformative change to our political system and to our economy to make sure we have an economy that works for the rest of us.
” Carter told The Times , “ It ’ s got to work for all eight-and-a-half million Virginians , and I ’ m just not hearing proposals for that kind of change from anyone on the gubernatorial stage right now.
” Eric Burk is a reporter at The Virginia Star and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tips to [ email protected ] .
Photo “ Virginia Executive Mansion ” by Leonard Woody .
CC BY 3.0 .


thetennesseestar--2020-12-11--Minnesota Hospitality Industry Plea with Legislature for ‘Fighting Chance’

It ’ s been 19 days after the second forced closure of many businesses of 2020 , and hospitality businesses are on the brink of bankruptcy if aid doesn ’ t come soon .
For JD Fratzke of Purpose Driven Restaurant Group in St. Paul , it ’ s the second time he ’ s been laid off this year .
“ No one understands the importance of distancing , cleanliness , and sanitation in a public environment as well as we do , ” Fratzke said in a video .
“ We ’ ve been practicing it as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The science of this crisis is undeniable .
We ’ re not asking to be given a pass on community health .
“ What we are asking for is a fighting chance for restaurants to remain the seams that hold together the fabric of our communities , ” Fratzke said .
“ To be the people and places that provide fellowship , celebration , and common ground to the people of Minnesota .
We want to be here to help and to heal — that ’ s all we want to do right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ re fighting for our Minnesota hospitality family , ” he continued .
“ We are running on fumes .
When this is all over , we want to be here to provide the places of fellowship and flavor that will celebrate an end to these months of pain and madness , ” Fratzke said .
“ But Minnesota , without your help , we won ’ t be.
” Fratzke asked for a comprehensive aid package , including grants and interest-free loans to independent hospitality operations , tax holidays and extensions for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supplemental unemployment benefits to furloughed hospitality workers .
Fratzke is one of more than 30 people employed in the hospitality industry who made similar videos .
Over half of the state ’ s restaurants and 30 % of the its hotels face permanent closure , according to a recent Minneapolis Federal Reserve Bank and Hospitality Minnesota survey .
The industry supports one in 10 jobs in the state but has hemorrhaged 80,000 jobs in 2020 with another projected 70,000 lost jobs without further aid , said Liz Rammer , president and CEO of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we are hearing about how our state ’ s hospitality businesses have done everything the state asked and made tremendous sacrifices through being shut down twice to protect the public ’ s health , ” Rammer said .
“ They are at the breaking point and can ’ t wait any longer for help .
For too many , the bills for rent , utilities , insurance , taxes and other obligations are overdue and they ’ ve run out of options .
The state must act now to help save this industry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Wayzeta Brew Works announced its permanent closure , citing Gov .
Tim Walz ’ s shutdowns and restrictions “ during our most profitable part of the year ” without a sustainable relief package .
“ Until the governor and others making the decisions around shutdowns and restrictions are personally financially affected by those decisions , those decisions will continue to cause unnecessary financial hardship , ” the company said .
House Speaker Melissa Hortman , DFL-Brooklyn Park said it is “ her sincere hope ” something will be ready to pass on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are going through , for many of them , the toughest time in their entire existence , ” Hortman said Tuesday .
“ And we know families are hanging on.
” Hortman said they need federal action .
“ The level of need that our businesses have , the level of need that workers have , can only be met in any significant way with the resources of the federal government , ” Hortman said .
Lawmakers are meeting Wednesday evening to discuss further details , and there ’ s a Senate hearing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ McClallen is a staff writer covering Michigan and Minnesota for The Center Square .
A graduate of Hillsdale College , his work has appeared on Forbes.com and FEE.org .
Previously , he worked as a financial analyst at Pepsi .


thetennesseestar--2020-12-11--Ohio Gov. DeWine Extends Overnight Curfew Until January 2

Ohio Gov .
Mike DeWine announced on Thursday that he would be extending the state ’ s overnight curfew until January 2 , 2021 , to help curb the spread of the coronavirus .
The curfew — set for 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. — was originally set to expire on Thursday and bars everything except for trips for food , supplies and medical needs , as well as work travel .
“ We believe the curfew , along with mask-wearing , have had an impact , and the next 21 days are extremely critical , ” DeWine said in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must all do everything we can to slow down the virus.
” Ohio has seen a recent spike in COVID-19 confirmed cases , with some days in December topping more than 10,000 new cases in a day , according to data from The Covid Tracking Project .
Hospitalizations resulting from the virus have also been steadily climbing .
The governor was slammed online after he announced that Ohio had issued a variance to the order that allowed fans to still watch several football games in person .
“ To be frank , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the spectators who will be at the games and who will be following the safety protocols , but from other fans who may have the urge to gather with friends to watch these games inside w/out following mask/distancing protocols , ” DeWine said on Twitter .
Some called the governor on the perceived double standard .
Reactions to the curfew have been mixed from Ohio business owners , with many simply expressing gratitude that it was not a lockdown .
“ Especially when you ’ re already struggling , every little bit hurts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ owner Scott Elssowrth told WKBN last week .
Others , including industry leaders , said they understood the need for the curfew .
“ Like everyone , we find the increase in COVID cases troubling , and we understand the need for this precautionary measure , ” said David Miller , the president and COO of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants in Columbus , told The Columbus Dispatch in November .
“ We will continue do our part to reduce the spread of COVID-19 , and we appreciate the governor ’ s approach because it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the jobs of our associates.
” Although it is unclear how much restaurants and bars can expect to lose , Ohio ’ s casinos and racinos saw a drop of more than 17 percent in revenue in November , according to Cinncinnati.com .
The first curfew began on November 19 .
Ohio also saw more than 35,000 new unemployment insurance claims , up more than 7,000 from the previous week — in itself a jump from the roughly 6,500 jump from the week prior .
DeWine said that the pandemic has caused some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know that these decisions have impacted Ohioans in a lot of different ways .
But , I also know that Ohioans can get through this if we work together and do what we need to do in these next three weeks , ” DeWine said on Twitter .
“ We can protect each other .
You and your families deserve to have some normalcy in your lives , and there are things that each one of us can do to help all of us live safely with the virus.
” – – – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ohio Star .
Follow her on Twitter at @ JordynPair .