theroot--2020-07-16--The Tuskegee Airmen Are Mixed on Having an NFL Team Named After Them: 'I Am Not Sure They Are Worthy

The Tuskegee Airmen Are Mixed on Having an NFL Team Named After Them: 'I Am Not Sure They Are Worthy'

As someone who ’ s never had a professional football team named after them , I would imagine that it ’ d be quite the honor , but if you were to ask the surviving members of the Tuskegee Airmen the same thing , you might be surprised by their answers .
Washington ’ s NFL team recently announced that they will be using a new name and logo moving forward — a nd that ’ s not due to any sense of altruism or seeing the error of their ways .
I t ’ s because corporate sponsors—namely FedEx @ @ @ @ @ @ @ team ’ s hand .
So what is a billion-dollar NFL franchise suffering from an identity crisis to do ?
Get a new name , of course .
And one possible name making the rounds , thanks in part to Washington ’ s franchise quarterback Dwayne Haskins , is the Washington Red Tails .
That name comes from the painted planes that the Tuskegee Airmen flew during World War II .
But does Washington ’ s NFL team deserve such a distinction ?
Time Magazine went straight to the surviving Tuskegee pilots and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Lt. Col. Harold Brown , 95 , told Time .
“ Thinking about it sort of selfishly in terms of our own legacy , we are running out of pilots .
Waiting a few years , that would be the end of us .
I don ’ t know of a better way to keep that name alive than to put it on a name right behind ‘ Washington.
’ ” There are only nine surviving Tuskegee pilots , so Brown ’ s concerns are warranted .
“ It would be the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in view of what ’ s going on in the country , ” he added .
“ You know where my vote goes.
” Tuskegee Airmen Inc. , a non-profit organization that honors the accomplishments of Black veterans who served in and supported the Army Air Corps during WWII , released a statement expressing that they “ would be honored and pleased to work with ” Washington ’ s team “ during and after the process should this name be adopted.
” But not everyone is on board with the idea , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sure they are worthy of the Red Tail name , ” Lt. Col. James Harvey , 97 , told Time .
“ They don ’ t win that many games plus a lot of the players have a [ … ] poor attitude .
But , it is not my call .
Just the way I feel at this point in time.
” Other names in the running include the Lincolns , Presidents , Redhawks , Warriors and Generals , but the Red Tails is easily the most alluring—and popular .
Twitter has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to change its name and logo and a poll conducted by Yahoo Sports revealed that of 92,000 voters , Red Tails was the resounding favorite .
A decision on the name is expected to come soon .
And while I ’ m in favor of the team becoming the Washington Red Tails , the rich history of the Tuskegee Airmen should be honored and the change shouldn ’ t solely be a means to atone for Washington ’ s previous name .

As someone who’s never had a professional football team named after them, I would imagine that it’d be quite the honor, but if you were to ask the surviving members of the Tuskegee Airmen the same thing, you might be surprised by their answers.
Washington’s NFL team recently announced that they will be using a new name and logo moving forward — a nd that’s not due to any sense of altruism or seeing the error of their ways. I t’s because corporate sponsors—namely FedEx, Nike, PepsiCo and others—forced the team’s hand.
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So what is a billion-dollar NFL franchise suffering from an identity crisis to do? Get a new name, of course. And one possible name making the rounds, thanks in part to Washington’s franchise quarterback Dwayne Haskins, is the Washington Red Tails. That name comes from the painted planes that the Tuskegee Airmen flew during World War II. But does Washington’s NFL team deserve such a distinction? Time Magazine went straight to the surviving Tuskegee pilots and got the answers.
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“Absolutely,” Lt. Col. Harold Brown, 95, told Time. “Thinking about it sort of selfishly in terms of our own legacy, we are running out of pilots. Waiting a few years, that would be the end of us. I don’t know of a better way to keep that name alive than to put it on a name right behind ‘Washington.’”
There are only nine surviving Tuskegee pilots, so Brown’s concerns are warranted.
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“It would be the most appropriate time to do it, in view of what’s going on in the country,” he added. “You know where my vote goes.”
Tuskegee Airmen Inc., a non-profit organization that honors the accomplishments of Black veterans who served in and supported the Army Air Corps during WWII, released a statement expressing that they “would be honored and pleased to work with” Washington’s team “during and after the process should this name be adopted.”
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But not everyone is on board with the idea, and understandably so.
“I am not sure they are worthy of the Red Tail name,” Lt. Col. James Harvey, 97, told Time. “They don’t win that many games plus a lot of the players have a […] poor attitude. But, it is not my call. Just the way I feel at this point in time.”
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Other names in the running include the Lincolns, Presidents, Redhawks, Warriors and Generals, but the Red Tails is easily the most alluring—and popular. Twitter has been buzzing since Washington announced its intention to change its name and logo and a poll conducted by Yahoo Sports revealed that of 92,000 voters, Red Tails was the resounding favorite.
A decision on the name is expected to come soon. And while I’m in favor of the team becoming the Washington Red Tails, the rich history of the Tuskegee Airmen should be honored and the change shouldn’t solely be a means to atone for Washington’s previous name.


theroot--2020-07-16--'I'm Incredibly Thankful to be Alive': Megan Thee Stallion Clarifies Previous Reports, Says She Suff

'I'm Incredibly Thankful to be Alive': Megan Thee Stallion Clarifies Previous Reports, Says She Suffered Gunshot Wounds

Megan Thee Stallion has spoken up and given her own version of what went down this past weekend with Tory Lanez and the house party incident that ended up with Tory being arrested and Meg taken to the hospital for a foot injury .
On Wednesday , the “ Savage ” rapper took to Instagram to clear up some misconceptions in regards to rumors and previous reports that she had been arrested along with Tory .
“ The narrative that is being reported about Sunday morning ’ s events are [ sic ] inaccurate and I ’ d like to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ began .
“ On Sunday morning , I suffered gunshot wounds , as a result of a crime that was committed against me and done with the intention to physically harm me.
” Meg didn ’ t specify the shooter or give further details as to what went down that led to the escalation ( as I ’ m sure this is now a legal matter ) , but she did confirm that she was not arrested and said she was taken to the hospital so that the bullets could be removed via @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incident with police at the scene , which happened outside of Kylie Jenner ’ s home following a pool party ( Warning : the video within the link contains some graphic footage involving the injury , including blood ) .
Per TMZ , an LAPD spokesperson told them , “ At the time Megan Thee [ Stallion ] was with police she did not report that she was the victim of any crime .
And the LAPD has not received any additional information at this time.
” “ I ’ m incredibly grateful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expected to make a full recovery , but it was important for me to clarify the details about this traumatic night , ” Meg continued in her IG statement .
“ I ’ m currently focused on my recovery , so I can return back to my life and back to making music as soon as possible.
” We ’ re hoping that Megan has a healthy recovery and that she finds some peace .

Tonja Renée Stidhum on The Grapevine, shared by Tonja Renée Stidhum to The Root

Megan Thee Stallion has spoken up and given her own version of what went down this past weekend with Tory Lanez and the house party incident that ended up with Tory being arrested and Meg taken to the hospital for a foot injury.
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On Wednesday, the “Savage” rapper took to Instagram to clear up some misconceptions in regards to rumors and previous reports that she had been arrested along with Tory.
“The narrative that is being reported about Sunday morning’s events are [sic] inaccurate and I’d like to set the record straight,” Meg began. “On Sunday morning, I suffered gunshot wounds, as a result of a crime that was committed against me and done with the intention to physically harm me.”
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Meg didn’t specify the shooter or give further details as to what went down that led to the escalation (as I’m sure this is now a legal matter), but she did confirm that she was not arrested and said she was taken to the hospital so that the bullets could be removed via surgery.
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TMZ obtained footage of the incident with police at the scene, which happened outside of Kylie Jenner’s home following a pool party (Warning: the video within the link contains some graphic footage involving the injury, including blood).
Per TMZ, an LAPD spokesperson told them, “At the time Megan Thee [Stallion] was with police she did not report that she was the victim of any crime. And the LAPD has not received any additional information at this time.”
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“I’m incredibly grateful to be alive and I’m expected to make a full recovery, but it was important for me to clarify the details about this traumatic night,” Meg continued in her IG statement. “I’m currently focused on my recovery, so I can return back to my life and back to making music as soon as possible.”
We’re hoping that Megan has a healthy recovery and that she finds some peace.


theroot--2020-07-16--Stock Up With 24 Bottles of Hand Sanitizer for $34

If you still can ’ t get your hands on some much-needed sanitizer , it ’ s time to stock @ @ @ @ @ hand sanitizer in packs of 12 and 24 for $ 24 and $ 34 , @ @ @ @ @ a lot of hand sanitizer , but if you ’ re living in the viral @ @ @ @ @ America , you ’ ll need it .
These 10oz bottles are filled with 72 @ @ @ @ @ germ-killing agent , plus vitamin E and aloe to soothe your paws .

Quentyn Kennemer on Kinja Deals, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

Bellapierre Hand Sanitizer (12 or 24 Pack) | $24-$34 | SideDeal
If you still can’t get your hands on some much-needed sanitizer, it’s time to stock up. Meh has Bellapierre hand sanitizer in packs of 12 and 24 for $24 and $34, respectively. That’s a lot of hand sanitizer, but if you’re living in the viral mosh pit formally known as America, you’ll need it. These 10oz bottles are filled with 72% alcohol for the active germ-killing agent, plus vitamin E and aloe to soothe your paws.
This deal was originally published by Quentyn Kennemer on 7/16/2020 and updated with new information on 7/31/2020.


theroot--2020-07-16--The Michelle Obama Podcast Will be Available on Spotify Later This Month

Michelle Obama ’ s first podcast as part of her exclusive Spotify partnership officially has a release date .
The aptly titled The Michelle Obama Podcast will be available for the streaming service ’ s users on July 29 .
According to Variety , this is Obama ’ s first project from Higher Ground Audio , her media company with her husband Barack , and the first project rolling out in their deal with Spotify .
It was announced in June 2019 that the dynamic duo and the streaming giant would be teaming up for a multiyear partnership .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lady ’ s conversations with friends , family and allies , focusing on “ the relationships that shape us , from siblings and close friends to partners , parents and mentors to our relationship with ourselves and our health , ” the companies say , per Variety .
The show ’ s guests include Michelle ’ s mother Marian Robinson , her older brother Craig Robinson , Senior Advisor to former President Obama Valerie Jarrett , comedian and late-night host Conan O ’ Brien , and more .
“ My hope is that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ explore meaningful topics together and sort through so many of the questions we ’ re all trying to answer in our own lives , ” Obama said in a statement regarding her forthcoming project .
“ Perhaps most of all , I hope this podcast will help listeners open up new conversations—and hard conversations—with the people who matter most to them .
That ’ s how we can build more understanding and empathy for one another.
” Over the past several months , Spotify acquired four podcast companies for a total of $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Parcast and Anchor .
It was reported last year by Vox that it had plans to garner $ 500 million in podcast acquisitions .
In a blog post from 2019 , Spotify ’ s CEO Daniel Ek said that the streaming service is “ building a platform that provides a meaningful opportunity for creators , excites and engages our users , ” and has plans to become a leader in the podcasting realm , which he predicted would be incredibly important for media companies to tap into .

J'na Jefferson on The Grapevine, shared by J'na Jefferson to The Root

Michelle Obama’s first podcast as part of her exclusive Spotify partnership officially has a release date. The aptly titled The Michelle Obama Podcast will be available for the streaming service’s users on July 29.
According to Variety, this is Obama’s first project from Higher Ground Audio, her media company with her husband Barack, and the first project rolling out in their deal with Spotify. It was announced in June 2019 that the dynamic duo and the streaming giant would be teaming up for a multiyear partnership.
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“The series will feature the former First Lady’s conversations with friends, family and allies, focusing on “the relationships that shape us, from siblings and close friends to partners, parents and mentors to our relationship with ourselves and our health,” the companies say, per Variety. The show’s guests include Michelle’s mother Marian Robinson, her older brother Craig Robinson, Senior Advisor to former President Obama Valerie Jarrett, comedian and late-night host Conan O’Brien, and more.
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“My hope is that this series can be a place to explore meaningful topics together and sort through so many of the questions we’re all trying to answer in our own lives,” Obama said in a statement regarding her forthcoming project. “Perhaps most of all, I hope this podcast will help listeners open up new conversations—and hard conversations—with the people who matter most to them. That’s how we can build more understanding and empathy for one another.”
Over the past several months, Spotify acquired four podcast companies for a total of $600 million: The Ringer, Gimlet, Parcast and Anchor. It was reported last year by Vox that it had plans to garner $500 million in podcast acquisitions. In a blog post from 2019, Spotify’s CEO Daniel Ek said that the streaming service is “building a platform that provides a meaningful opportunity for creators, excites and engages our users,” and has plans to become a leader in the podcasting realm, which he predicted would be incredibly important for media companies to tap into.


theroot--2020-07-16--In the Midwest, a Candidate Makes Her Case for Voting Down the Ballot

When you think about Missouri , you think of Middle America , a section of the country that lacks national media exposure—a red state that a lot of folks don ’ t believe can be flipped .
Consequently , we dismiss a lot of the upstarts who could generate the traction of an Ayanna Pressley , Rashida Tlaib or Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez .
Phyllis Hardwick , who is running for state representative out of Kansas City ’ s 19th District , is hoping to change those dynamics with her race .
She is running on many of the same values of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ believes that the type of revolutions around policing and healthcare that are taking Washington , D.C. , to task must be done locally first .
She told me during a phone interview that she embraces the “ defund the police ” movement ’ s policies of reallocating resources from the departments to social services , but , in Kansas City , local officials do not even control policing .
It is managed by the state .
She wants to be at least one elected official in Jefferson City , the state ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police departments to city control so that local people are empowered to hold officers accountable .
And divestment is one of her aims .
“ We ’ ve continuously disinvested in social services , both proactive and reactive , ” Hardwick , 32 , stressed .
“ We disinvest from the proactive ones , like after school care programs at community centers .
And then we disinvested in the reactive ones like drug abuse , support , mental health , and the like .
So the fact that you have police that struggle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to things that they were never equipped or prepared to do , it absolutely makes sense to try to figure out how we can better tailor support elsewhere so that we actually can hold police accountable to kind of what they ’ re expected to , which is [ to ] respond to violent crime.
” Hardwick is also dealing with the same type of establishment politics that folks like The Squad , Charles Booker in Kentucky , Jamaal Bowman in New York and other progressives face .
In the aforementioned cases , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Caucus , rallied around the incumbent .
In Kansas City , respected Black organizations , like Freedom Inc. , are backing Hardwick ’ s white opponent , state Rep. Ingrid Burnett .
“ I think that is something that we just don ’ t talk about enough , ” Hardwick said of her frustration with local Black leadership ’ s devotion to incumbency .
“ We haven ’ t really investigated what the implicit bias is for incumbents .
My district is nearly 57 percent people of color and never had a person @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ re running , people always will tell you , ‘ You wait your turn , ’ which comes with its own set of biases .
Frankly , at the end of the day , we ’ re never going to get to a point where we have leadership and elected officials that represent the actual rank and file members of the democratic party if we continuously don ’ t allow primaries to be an opportunity to make sure that we ’ re picking someone who ’ s best positioned to represent the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ challenges will be getting people to vote far enough down the ballot to see her name .
All incumbents have this issue .
It ’ s especially true in midterms which , statistically , produce lower turnout than presidential years , making 2020 especially advantageous for candidates like Hardwick hoping to capitalize on national momentum from the presidential election .
She has earned a number of national endorsements , including # VOTEPROCHOICE and Working Families Party , while locally , she has the backing of Our Revolution , Madam America and Moms Demand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Criminal Justice reform policy at Working Families Party , said his organization is using national excitement for left-leaning candidates at the top of the ticket to galvanize support for like-minded candidates at the local level .
Just as important , investing in people like Hardwick will help prime them for top-ticket , national elections in the future .
“ Over these last four years , the ratio of African Americans and people of color elected officials have increased markedly , ” he said .
“ I think that ’ s because of all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the top of the ballot .
The people are just giving ( people like Hardwick ) [ the ] opportunity to actually run .
And two years ago , black women really burned it up and I think that trend is continuing on in 2020.
” In recent years , local and national reporting has seen residents more excited to vote down the ballot , something that Christopher Scott , director of campaigns at Collective Pac said his organization will take advantage of .
“ Everything else was at the state level for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scott , whose organization is also endorsing Hardwick , said .
“ So when you ’ re looking at what it takes to really motivate black folks , down-ballot is a huge part of that conversation in actually getting these folks motivated to make them feel like they have that connection .
Because a lot of times , they know their local person better than they know anybody that is running out the top of the ticket.
” One thing Hardwick wants you to know is that Missouri may not be blue or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t mean it can ’ t be eventually .
She distinguishes between , say , labeling Missourians as progressives personally versus them being progressive on the issues .
For example , she cites how most residents , in 2018 , voted for a minimum wage increase of $ 7.85 to $ 12 by 2023 .
Residents also voted down a Republican-lead right-to-work via a referendum in 2016 that sought to undermine labor unions .
They also passed Amendment 1 , or the “ Clean Missouri ” proposal , “ that limits the power @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and creates a new redistricting process , ” according to the Missourian .
“ So we put the issues in front of the people , they ’ re actually in agreement that we need to get to a more just and equitable society , ” Hardwick said .
“ But yeah , in the Midwest , if you get caught in the labels and that ’ s why people were quick to rush to label the squad a certain type of way because it ’ s a target they can respond to when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ far more difficult conversation to have because most people agree.
” Kansas City-based political consultant Cecilia Belser-Patton said that Hardwick is much more optimistic about Missouri voters ’ progressivism than she is , but added that if anyone could lead the state towards a purple tread , it would be her .
“ She has a lot of hustle about her , ” Belser-Patton said .
“ She has a fearless quality about her .
I believe that she is able to reach across the aisle , which I think is important to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ collaborate when needed and really engage in communication and I ’ ve seen that with her .
She ’ s committed to Kansas City and our state .
Those qualities will help her.
” Originally from the Southside of Chicago , Hardwick moved to the state to attend the University of Missouri-Columbia in 2005 and began a teaching career in the Kansas City Public schools , where she taught grade levels K to eighth with the exception of second grade .
She eventually married a man from Kansas City and decided to stay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the community connections she developed .
If anything symbolizes Hardwick ’ s run for state house , it is the belief that Missouri is ready not just for a blue wave , but for radical change .
Booker lost his U.S. Senate primary by a hair , but it shattered the nation ’ s stereotypes about who is viable to win over white people in a very white state .
She wants to pull Missouri into purple status , like Georgia .
But to do that , it starts with the belief @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t hyper-conservative , Trump-loving people they are assumed to be .
“ I think we ’ re actually shifting back to where Missouri could be so that we ’ re actually not having to go through a referendum in order for us to get common-sense bills passed , ” she said .
“ Just 10 years ago , Obama came to Missouri the last week of his election because it was a purple state and it was in play .
And now , 10 years later , we ’ re in a Republican @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to believe that ’ s because that ’ s where the Missouri voter is .
”

When you think about Missouri, you think of Middle America, a section of the country that lacks national media exposure—a red state that a lot of folks don’t believe can be flipped. Consequently, we dismiss a lot of the upstarts who could generate the traction of an Ayanna Pressley, Rashida Tlaib or Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
Phyllis Hardwick, who is running for state representative out of Kansas City’s 19th District, is hoping to change those dynamics with her race. She is running on many of the same values of the three aforementioned members of Congress and believes that the type of revolutions around policing and healthcare that are taking Washington, D.C., to task must be done locally first. She told me during a phone interview that she embraces the “defund the police” movement’s policies of reallocating resources from the departments to social services, but, in Kansas City, local officials do not even control policing. It is managed by the state.
Advertisement
She wants to be at least one elected official in Jefferson City, the state’s capital, who would fight to return police departments to city control so that local people are empowered to hold officers accountable. And divestment is one of her aims.
“We’ve continuously disinvested in social services, both proactive and reactive,” Hardwick, 32, stressed. “We disinvest from the proactive ones, like after school care programs at community centers. And then we disinvested in the reactive ones like drug abuse, support, mental health, and the like. So the fact that you have police that struggle with doing safe traffic stops, responding to things that they were never equipped or prepared to do, it absolutely makes sense to try to figure out how we can better tailor support elsewhere so that we actually can hold police accountable to kind of what they’re expected to, which is [to] respond to violent crime.”
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Hardwick is also dealing with the same type of establishment politics that folks like The Squad, Charles Booker in Kentucky, Jamaal Bowman in New York and other progressives face. In the aforementioned cases, the establishment, including the Black Congressional Caucus, rallied around the incumbent. In Kansas City, respected Black organizations, like Freedom Inc., are backing Hardwick’s white opponent, state Rep. Ingrid Burnett.
“I think that is something that we just don’t talk about enough,” Hardwick said of her frustration with local Black leadership’s devotion to incumbency. “We haven’t really investigated what the implicit bias is for incumbents. My district is nearly 57 percent people of color and never had a person of color represent it. When you’re running, people always will tell you, ‘You wait your turn,’ which comes with its own set of biases. Frankly, at the end of the day, we’re never going to get to a point where we have leadership and elected officials that represent the actual rank and file members of the democratic party if we continuously don’t allow primaries to be an opportunity to make sure that we’re picking someone who’s best positioned to represent the people.”
Advertisement
One of Hardwick’s challenges will be getting people to vote far enough down the ballot to see her name. All incumbents have this issue. It’s especially true in midterms which, statistically, produce lower turnout than presidential years, making 2020 especially advantageous for candidates like Hardwick hoping to capitalize on national momentum from the presidential election.
She has earned a number of national endorsements, including #VOTEPROCHOICE and Working Families Party, while locally, she has the backing of Our Revolution, Madam America and Moms Demand Action.
Advertisement
Delvone Michael, who heads Criminal Justice reform policy at Working Families Party, said his organization is using national excitement for left-leaning candidates at the top of the ticket to galvanize support for like-minded candidates at the local level. Just as important, investing in people like Hardwick will help prime them for top-ticket, national elections in the future.
“Over these last four years, the ratio of African Americans and people of color elected officials have increased markedly,” he said. “I think that’s because of all the tumult and all the craziness at the top of the ballot. The people are just giving (people like Hardwick) [the] opportunity to actually run. And two years ago, black women really burned it up and I think that trend is continuing on in 2020.”
Advertisement
In recent years, local and national reporting has seen residents more excited to vote down the ballot, something that Christopher Scott, director of campaigns at Collective Pac said his organization will take advantage of.
“Everything else was at the state level for the state legislator and lower,” Scott, whose organization is also endorsing Hardwick, said. “So when you’re looking at what it takes to really motivate black folks, down-ballot is a huge part of that conversation in actually getting these folks motivated to make them feel like they have that connection. Because a lot of times, they know their local person better than they know anybody that is running out the top of the ticket.”
Advertisement
One thing Hardwick wants you to know is that Missouri may not be blue or even purple, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be eventually. She distinguishes between, say, labeling Missourians as progressives personally versus them being progressive on the issues. For example, she cites how most residents, in 2018, voted for a minimum wage increase of $7.85 to $12 by 2023. Residents also voted down a Republican-lead right-to-work via a referendum in 2016 that sought to undermine labor unions. They also passed Amendment 1, or the “Clean Missouri” proposal, “that limits the power of lobbyists, reduce campaign finance contributions and creates a new redistricting process,” according to the Missourian.
“So we put the issues in front of the people, they’re actually in agreement that we need to get to a more just and equitable society,” Hardwick said. “But yeah, in the Midwest, if you get caught in the labels and that’s why people were quick to rush to label the squad a certain type of way because it’s a target they can respond to when people respond to the issue is a far more difficult conversation to have because most people agree.”
Advertisement
Kansas City-based political consultant Cecilia Belser-Patton said that Hardwick is much more optimistic about Missouri voters’ progressivism than she is, but added that if anyone could lead the state towards a purple tread, it would be her.
“She has a lot of hustle about her,” Belser-Patton said. “She has a fearless quality about her. I believe that she is able to reach across the aisle, which I think is important to hold one’s views and still collaborate when needed and really engage in communication and I’ve seen that with her. She’s committed to Kansas City and our state. Those qualities will help her.”
Advertisement
Originally from the Southside of Chicago, Hardwick moved to the state to attend the University of Missouri-Columbia in 2005 and began a teaching career in the Kansas City Public schools, where she taught grade levels K to eighth with the exception of second grade. She eventually married a man from Kansas City and decided to stay because of the low cost of living and the community connections she developed.
If anything symbolizes Hardwick’s run for state house, it is the belief that Missouri is ready not just for a blue wave, but for radical change. Booker lost his U.S. Senate primary by a hair, but it shattered the nation’s stereotypes about who is viable to win over white people in a very white state. She wants to pull Missouri into purple status, like Georgia. But to do that, it starts with the belief that people in her state aren’t hyper-conservative, Trump-loving people they are assumed to be.
Advertisement
“I think we’re actually shifting back to where Missouri could be so that we’re actually not having to go through a referendum in order for us to get common-sense bills passed,” she said. “Just 10 years ago, Obama came to Missouri the last week of his election because it was a purple state and it was in play. And now, 10 years later, we’re in a Republican [super majority]. I refuse to believe that’s because that’s where the Missouri voter is.”


theroot--2020-07-16--Pennsylvania Approves Police Reform Bill Requiring Employment Records From Officers Seeking New Jobs

The state of Pennsylvania is taking baby steps towards weeding out the “ bad apples ” —in a bunch that ’ s more spoiled throughout than people want to admit — plaguing police departments by requiring officers applying for new positions to reveal previous employment records .
And I know what you ’ re thinking : How was this not already a thing ?
CNN reports that on Tuesday , Gov .
Tom Wolf signed two police reforms bills into law .
One of those bills mandates mental health evaluations for officers as well as training on the use of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
the .
hell .
is this a new requirement ? )
, and community and cultural justice .
The other bill will likely make it that much more difficult for officers with problematic records to receive promotions or to return to the force after losing their jobs due to infractions—a thing that happens a lot apparently .
Before the bills were signed , Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro acknowledged in a press conference that what ’ s being done isn ’ t enough , but it ’ s a start .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Black lives matter , ” Shapiro said , CNN reports .
“ But saying it ... that ’ s just not enough .
We must listen and we must take action .
And today will be a down payment on the types of reforms we need to deliver on here in Pennsylvania.
” Shapiro also said he believes that by creating a new database exposing disciplinary actions and complaints against police officers “ we start to rebuild the trust that has been lost over decades with bad behavior and injustice.
” Wolf echoed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ still , still not enough to halt the systemic racism and oppression that still exists throughout our Commonwealth.
” “ Systemic racism is a complex issue , ” he said .
“ It has existed for centuries and , in so many ways , it ’ s ingrained in our society .
And I ’ m not going to downplay the challenges that we all face in eradicating it , but we have to find a way to eradicate it .
We need to end racism.
” One of the cases Shapiro @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that of Antwon Rose Jr. , a Black 17-year-old who was gunned down while unarmed by former Pittsburgh police officer Michael Rosfeld in 2018 after Rose fled a traffic stop .
In March 2019 , Rosfeld was found not guilty of criminal homicide , but in November , Rose ’ s family settled a wrongful death lawsuit against the officer and East Pittsburgh for $ 2 million , according to CNN .
According to Shapiro , Rosfeld had a long history of alleged misconduct .

The state of Pennsylvania is taking baby steps towards weeding out the “bad apples” —in a bunch that’s more spoiled throughout than people want to admit — plaguing police departments by requiring officers applying for new positions to reveal previous employment records. And I know what you’re thinking: How was this not already a thing?
CNN reports that on Tuesday, Gov. Tom Wolf signed two police reforms bills into law. One of those bills mandates mental health evaluations for officers as well as training on the use of force, de-escalation (again, how. the. hell. is this a new requirement?), and community and cultural justice. The other bill will likely make it that much more difficult for officers with problematic records to receive promotions or to return to the force after losing their jobs due to infractions—a thing that happens a lot apparently.
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From CNN:
One law will require officers to turn over all previous employment records when applying for new roles in law enforcement. It will require police agencies to explain why officers with past offenses were hired and it mandates creation of a database where departments can document disciplinary actions.
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Before the bills were signed, Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro acknowledged in a press conference that what’s being done isn’t enough, but it’s a start.
“Let me say this very clearly: Black lives matter,” Shapiro said, CNN reports. “But saying it...that’s just not enough. We must listen and we must take action. And today will be a down payment on the types of reforms we need to deliver on here in Pennsylvania.”
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Shapiro also said he believes that by creating a new database exposing disciplinary actions and complaints against police officers “we start to rebuild the trust that has been lost over decades with bad behavior and injustice.”
Wolf echoed similar sentiments saying that the laws are “still, still not enough to halt the systemic racism and oppression that still exists throughout our Commonwealth.”
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“Systemic racism is a complex issue,” he said. “It has existed for centuries and, in so many ways, it’s ingrained in our society. And I’m not going to downplay the challenges that we all face in eradicating it, but we have to find a way to eradicate it. We need to end racism.”
One of the cases Shapiro cited in pushing for these bills was that of Antwon Rose Jr., a Black 17-year-old who was gunned down while unarmed by former Pittsburgh police officer Michael Rosfeld in 2018 after Rose fled a traffic stop. In March 2019, Rosfeld was found not guilty of criminal homicide, but in November, Rose’s family settled a wrongful death lawsuit against the officer and East Pittsburgh for $2 million, according to CNN. According to Shapiro, Rosfeld had a long history of alleged misconduct.


theroot--2020-07-15--Meet the Oral Sex Simulator That One Reviewer Said Was "10/10 For Me!"

As our period of social distancing and quarantine isolation drags on , we ’ ll be bringing you a series of sex toy reviews to help you make the best buying decisions to keep your solo sex life buzzing along , or to spice things up for couples ( or thruples or etc , etc , etc . )
who may be experiencing some boredom in the bedroom .
On deck today is the Womanizer Liberty from Bellesa .
The Womanizer Liberty is a clitoral stimulator that ’ s designed to mimic the experience of having oral sex performed on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in function to the uber-popular Satisfyer Pro 2 , which was reviewed here recently , but it ’ s smaller and better designed , making for a more versatile experience .
SPOILER ALERT : In testing , we liked the Womanizer Liberty even more than the Satisfyer , which we quite liked !
To quote one of the testers , the Womanizer Liberty was a “ 10/10 for me !
” The Womanizer Liberty retails for $ 99 , but Inventory readers can get 20 % off by using the code INVENTORY .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ sex simulator ; it ’ s only intended for external use , so unlike blended toys like rabbits , it doesn ’ t offer penetration or G-spot stimulation .
But if you prefer to orgasm from clitoral stimulation alone , want something to mimic the feeling of having oral sex performed on you , with or without a partner , or want a toy for times when you can ’ t use something insertable , for example , while using menstrual products like tampons , this will be a great sex toy for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Liberty does its thing through a patented “ Pleasure Air Technology ” —it uses a combination of suction and massaging airwaves to stimulate the clitoris and other external parts .
It has six intensity levels that are controlled by easy-to-use buttons on the unit ’ s handle .
Unlike the Satisfyer , Liberty is lightweight and compact , making it a much better candidate for both couples play and for travel—one of the design features I liked best was its magnetic cover , which keeps the toy closed for hygienic storage and transportation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ easy : The silicone cap is removable and can be washed with regular soap and water , or with any toy cleaner that is safe to use on silicone .
Liberty is waterproof and rechargeable ; the only true flaw with this toy , and it ’ s not a dealbreaker by any stretch of the imagination , is that the charging cord is short , and the magnetic attachment isn ’ t strong enough—combined with a lack of a charging indicator light , you could easily end up with a dead toy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ retails for $ 99 , but Inventory readers can get 20 % off by using the code INVENTORY .
Who Is Liberty Womanizer For ?
Just like Satisfyer Pro 2 , Liberty Womanizer is designed to stimulate the clit in the way a tongue would—it mimics the experience of having oral sex performed on you .
Unlike Satisfyer , however , Womanizer offers a bit more versatility of use : You can explore other areas with it and , more importantly , its design makes it much , much more conducive to use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that said , Womanizer and other similar oral sex simulators are not insertable toys and should only be used externally .
The Womanizer Liberty retails for $ 99 , but Inventory readers can get 20 % off by using the code INVENTORY .
Once again , I assembled The Test Vaginas ( The T.V.s ) to help bring you this review .
We had A LOT to say about the Womanizer Liberty , so let ’ s get right to it .
The Test Vaginas ’ names have been changed for privacy reasons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seeking your Womanizer Liberty thoughts !
Teresa : Love the sucky !
Love the compact size !
Love the case !
10/10 for me !
Dina : Oh yes !
It lays in a shell ?
?
?
Yep !
Really liked her ( him ? )
Teresa : The staple looking one .
Dina : Great size , pretty quiet I think ?
Fun , easy settings .
All around great for personal use !
Teresa : Yes very quiet—LOVE that .
Jolie : I recently tested a toy that was like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ AGREE on the quietness factor being a huge point in Liberty ’ s favor .
Dina : It ’ s also nice and simple , like , it ’ s not trying too hard and gets the job done—while also being kinda cute !
I see this as a great first-timer toy .
Don ’ t you think ?
?
?
Like someone ’ s first sex toy ?
Teresa : Yes !
I like the light [ Ed : The interior of the suction-y bit lights up when the toy is turned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ glow-in-the-dark light ] —it makes navigating in the dark easy lol—and it has just the right amount of intensity options .
Jolie : Okay , so we agree that this is a great “ Baby ’ s First Sex Toy ” but what about couples play ?
We didn ’ t at all like the Satisfyer for couples , but can you see using Liberty for couples use , or do you think it ’ s a solo-only toy ?
Teresa : Yes to couples use !
It ’ s small enough to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to fuck up for dudes who are clueless ( lol ) ( sorry ) .
It ’ s also easy to hold and doesn ’ t really slip around , plus it ’ s so non-threatening looking—like , you don ’ t have to full-on mount it , etc .
Dina : I don ’ t see it being incorporated during sex .
Jolie : Oh my God are we fighting ?
Dina : It ’ s only big enough to hold one side while only one person uses it .
Jolie : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use ” I mean one partner using it on the other—you know that right ?
?
?
Not , like , both people using it .
Jolie : Does that change your mind at all ?
Dina : Maybe ?
I see , like , boring sex couples using something like this to help out the person in the relationship who can ’ t get their girl to orgasm ?
Teresa : I feel like it ’ s perfect for doggy style or spooning sex .
Teresa : It would be great for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it up .
Dina : Yeah this is for the boring sex couples I think .
I stand by that .
Dina : I think fun couples would want a more fun looking toy ... that also sticks something up someone ’ s ass !
Jolie : Oh my God hahaha !
!
!
( I ’ ve got some of those on deck for testing ) .

Jolie Kerr on The Inventory, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

As our period of social distancing and quarantine isolation drags on, we’ll be bringing you a series of sex toy reviews to help you make the best buying decisions to keep your solo sex life buzzing along, or to spice things up for couples (or thruples or etc, etc, etc.) who may be experiencing some boredom in the bedroom. On deck today is the Womanizer Liberty from Bellesa.
The Womanizer Liberty is a clitoral stimulator that’s designed to mimic the experience of having oral sex performed on you. It’s very similar in function to the uber-popular Satisfyer Pro 2, which was reviewed here recently, but it’s smaller and better designed, making for a more versatile experience.
SPOILER ALERT: In testing, we liked the Womanizer Liberty even more than the Satisfyer, which we quite liked! To quote one of the testers, the Womanizer Liberty was a “10/10 for me!”
The Womanizer Liberty retails for $99, but Inventory readers can get 20% off by using the code INVENTORY.
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The Details
The Womanizer Liberty is a vaginal oral sex simulator; it’s only intended for external use, so unlike blended toys like rabbits, it doesn’t offer penetration or G-spot stimulation. But if you prefer to orgasm from clitoral stimulation alone, want something to mimic the feeling of having oral sex performed on you, with or without a partner, or want a toy for times when you can’t use something insertable, for example, while using menstrual products like tampons, this will be a great sex toy for you.
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Here are some specs: Liberty does its thing through a patented “Pleasure Air Technology”—it uses a combination of suction and massaging airwaves to stimulate the clitoris and other external parts. It has six intensity levels that are controlled by easy-to-use buttons on the unit’s handle.
Unlike the Satisfyer, Liberty is lightweight and compact, making it a much better candidate for both couples play and for travel—one of the design features I liked best was its magnetic cover, which keeps the toy closed for hygienic storage and transportation. Cleanup, also, is very easy: The silicone cap is removable and can be washed with regular soap and water, or with any toy cleaner that is safe to use on silicone.
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Liberty is waterproof and rechargeable; the only true flaw with this toy, and it’s not a dealbreaker by any stretch of the imagination, is that the charging cord is short, and the magnetic attachment isn’t strong enough—combined with a lack of a charging indicator light, you could easily end up with a dead toy come go time.
The Womanizer Liberty retails for $99, but Inventory readers can get 20% off by using the code INVENTORY.
Who Is Liberty Womanizer For?
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Just like Satisfyer Pro 2, Liberty Womanizer is designed to stimulate the clit in the way a tongue would—it mimics the experience of having oral sex performed on you. Unlike Satisfyer, however, Womanizer offers a bit more versatility of use: You can explore other areas with it and, more importantly, its design makes it much, much more conducive to use during couples or group play.
With that said, Womanizer and other similar oral sex simulators are not insertable toys and should only be used externally.
The Womanizer Liberty retails for $99, but Inventory readers can get 20% off by using the code INVENTORY.
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What the Test Vaginas Thought
Once again, I assembled The Test Vaginas (The T.V.s) to help bring you this review. We had A LOT to say about the Womanizer Liberty, so let’s get right to it.
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The Test Vaginas’ names have been changed for privacy reasons.
Jolie: Hi hello I am seeking your Womanizer Liberty thoughts!
Teresa: Love the sucky! Love the compact size! Love the case! 10/10 for me!
Dina: Oh yes! It lays in a shell??? Yep! Really liked her (him?)
Teresa: The staple looking one.
Dina: Great size, pretty quiet I think? Fun, easy settings. All around great for personal use!
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Teresa: Yes very quiet—LOVE that.
Jolie: I recently tested a toy that was like banging an outboard motor, so HARD AGREE on the quietness factor being a huge point in Liberty’s favor.
Dina: It’s also nice and simple, like, it’s not trying too hard and gets the job done—while also being kinda cute! I see this as a great first-timer toy. Don’t you think??? Like someone’s first sex toy?
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Teresa: Yes! I like the light [Ed: The interior of the suction-y bit lights up when the toy is turned on, giving off a sort of glow-in-the-dark light]—it makes navigating in the dark easy lol—and it has just the right amount of intensity options.
Jolie: Okay, so we agree that this is a great “Baby’s First Sex Toy” but what about couples play? We didn’t at all like the Satisfyer for couples, but can you see using Liberty for couples use, or do you think it’s a solo-only toy?
Teresa: Yes to couples use! It’s small enough to fit in between you and also hard to fuck up for dudes who are clueless (lol)(sorry). It’s also easy to hold and doesn’t really slip around, plus it’s so non-threatening looking—like, you don’t have to full-on mount it, etc.
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Dina: I don’t see it being incorporated during sex.
Teresa: Yeah I disagree. Can def. be incorporated.
Jolie: Oh my God are we fighting?
Dina: It’s only big enough to hold one side while only one person uses it.
Teresa: Hold one side?
Jolie: Wait. When I say “couples use” I mean one partner using it on the other—you know that right??? Not, like, both people using it.
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Dina: 😂
Jolie: Does that change your mind at all?
Dina: Maybe? I see, like, boring sex couples using something like this to help out the person in the relationship who can’t get their girl to orgasm?
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Teresa: I feel like it’s perfect for doggy style or spooning sex.
Jolie: Yes!!
Dina: Yes^
Jolie: Crying.
Teresa: It would be great for less adventurous couples who need to spice it up.
Dina: Yeah this is for the boring sex couples I think. I stand by that.
Jolie: Fair enough.
Dina: I think fun couples would want a more fun looking toy ... that also sticks something up someone’s ass!
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Jolie: Oh my God hahaha!!! (I’ve got some of those on deck for testing).


theroot--2020-07-15--The Family of George Floyd Files Wrongful Death Lawsuit Against Minneapolis Police

The death of George Floyd has had an undeniable ripple effect across the world .
It ’ s been almost two months since the horrific video of his death hit the internet and people are still on the streets , protesting in his name .
While the officers involved in Floyd ’ s death have all been arrested and are currently facing charges , a civil suit has been filed by Floyd ’ s family against the city for his death .
According to NBC News , the civil suit , filed by Benjamin Crump , one of the attorneys @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the officers used “ unjustified , excessive , and illegal , and deadly use of force.
” Crump has said that the suit is intended to continue the “ important conversation ” on the “ pandemic of police brutality.
” The 40-page document contains a list of multiple violent arrests that have occurred in Minneapolis over the years and argues that city officials have allowed police misconduct to go unabated for too long .
“ It was the knee of the entire Minneapolis Police Department on the neck of George Floyd that killed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ The city of Minneapolis has a history of policies and procedures and deliberate indifference when it comes to the treatment of arrestees , especially Black men , that cries out for training and discipline.
” While the suit doesn ’ t list the amount of money the plaintiffs are seeking , Crump has said that the amount should be large enough to make it “ financially prohibitive ” for police to “ kill marginalized people and Black people in the future in America.
” “ George Floyd ’ s death is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said in a statement on Wednesday afternoon , following the lawsuit ’ s filing .
“ The city is reviewing the civil lawsuit filed by his family and will be responding to it .
Criminal charges are pending against four Minneapolis police officers and it ’ s very important that the criminal case proceed without interference.
” Eric Nelson , Chauvin ’ s lawyer , and Thomas Plunkett , an attorney for Kueng , declined comment on the lawsuit .
Emails and phone messages seeking comment from Thao and Lane were not immediately @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , former Minneapolis police officers Derek Chauvin , Tou Thao , Thomas Lane and J. Alexander Kueng responded to a call about Floyd allegedly using a counterfeit $ 20 bill .
The arrest resulted in Floyd being handcuffed , taken to the ground and ended with Chauvin placing his knee on Floyd ’ s neck for over eight minutes , resulting in his death .
All four men were fired from the Minneapolis Police Department .
On June 3 , all four men were arrested with Chauvin being charged with second-degree murder and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and abetting murder .

The death of George Floyd has had an undeniable ripple effect across the world. It’s been almost two months since the horrific video of his death hit the internet and people are still on the streets, protesting in his name. While the officers involved in Floyd’s death have all been arrested and are currently facing charges, a civil suit has been filed by Floyd’s family against the city for his death.
According to NBC News, the civil suit, filed by Benjamin Crump, one of the attorneys for the Floyd family, alleges that the officers used “unjustified, excessive, and illegal, and deadly use of force.” Crump has said that the suit is intended to continue the “important conversation” on the “pandemic of police brutality.” The 40-page document contains a list of multiple violent arrests that have occurred in Minneapolis over the years and argues that city officials have allowed police misconduct to go unabated for too long.
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“It was the knee of the entire Minneapolis Police Department on the neck of George Floyd that killed him,” Crump told reporters. “The city of Minneapolis has a history of policies and procedures and deliberate indifference when it comes to the treatment of arrestees, especially Black men, that cries out for training and discipline.” While the suit doesn’t list the amount of money the plaintiffs are seeking, Crump has said that the amount should be large enough to make it “financially prohibitive” for police to “kill marginalized people and Black people in the future in America.”
From NBC News:
“George Floyd’s death is a tragedy,” City Attorney Erik Nilsson said in a statement on Wednesday afternoon, following the lawsuit’s filing. “The city is reviewing the civil lawsuit filed by his family and will be responding to it. Criminal charges are pending against four Minneapolis police officers and it’s very important that the criminal case proceed without interference.” Eric Nelson, Chauvin’s lawyer, and Thomas Plunkett, an attorney for Kueng, declined comment on the lawsuit. Emails and phone messages seeking comment from Thao and Lane were not immediately returned on Wednesday.
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On May 25, former Minneapolis police officers Derek Chauvin, Tou Thao, Thomas Lane and J. Alexander Kueng responded to a call about Floyd allegedly using a counterfeit $20 bill. The arrest resulted in Floyd being handcuffed, taken to the ground and ended with Chauvin placing his knee on Floyd’s neck for over eight minutes, resulting in his death. All four men were fired from the Minneapolis Police Department. On June 3, all four men were arrested with Chauvin being charged with second-degree murder and the other officers receiving charges of aiding and abetting murder.


theroot--2020-07-16--Make a Pair of Indoor Crocs Your Next Comfort Purchase

Up to 60 % off Select Crocs Shoes | Crocs We ’ ve all made at least a few jokes at the expense of Crocs , the goofy looking , holey clogs that can ’ t help but look a bit dorky .
It ’ s true , they are silly , and it ’ s an endeavor finding an outfit that won ’ t be totally mucked up by your unflattering kicks .
Even so , don ’ t worry about the weird stares you might get or the way your friends might roast you because , reader , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ d never been a believer in Crocs , and mostly just made jokes at their expense to pretend I had some vague sense of fashion .
That changed last year when my girlfriend suggested we get a pair to give us something quick to slip on whenever we needed to take the dogs out .
I got a pair of yellow Classic Clogs—why not embrace the goofiness ?
I was reluctant , with the fear of being the secret joke of the neighborhood , but we still gave them a shot .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ because they ’ ve become my favorite pair of shoes , if a bit of a guilty pleasure .
Last year I mostly wore them on quick walks around the neighborhood with the pups , and running short errands in the vicinity .
Since quarantine has kept me mostly cooped up inside , though , I haven ’ t been able to rock my trusty pair too much .
With staying inside comes not wearing shoes very often , unless you want dirty floors , but it also leaves your feet feeling pretty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t start wearing my Crocs inside intentionally ; a couple of months ago I went out for a walk with family ( before the Arizona heat became unbearable ) , and forgot to pop my Crocs off after heading inside .
It wasn ’ t a magical experience , and it didn ’ t change my life , but for the first time since April , I wasn ’ t acutely aware of the hard floor every time I stepped down .
I ’ d been planning on getting a pair of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I realized that a fresh pair of Crocs would do the trick while potentially being a bit cooler , I shelved the added labor of hunting down the perfect pair of slippers .
Instead , I just copped a clean pair of Crocs .
Selecting the right pair isn ’ t as simple as you ’ d think , though .
Sure , there ’ s the standard Swiss-cheese design that ’ s still waiting for its day to shine .
There ’ s plenty of other options , like these ones that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with no holes , and even sandals .
None of them really get past the dorkiness of the Crocs brand , but once you get over people caring ( who ’ s going to see them when you ’ re still in quarantine ? )
all you ’ ll be able to think about is how comfy they are .
Crocs aren ’ t exactly cheap , but neither is a good pair of slippers , and these will probably be more comfortable in warmer environments .
Plus , it can be fun @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while unflattering when paired with your favorite fits , might add a bit of pizzazz to your quarantine attire .
And , let ’ s face it , your feet deserve a break .

Jordan McMahon on The Inventory, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

Up to 60% off Select Crocs Shoes | Crocs
We’ve all made at least a few jokes at the expense of Crocs, the goofy looking, holey clogs that can’t help but look a bit dorky. It’s true, they are silly, and it’s an endeavor finding an outfit that won’t be totally mucked up by your unflattering kicks. Even so, don’t worry about the weird stares you might get or the way your friends might roast you because, reader, Crocs are comfy as hell.
I’d never been a believer in Crocs, and mostly just made jokes at their expense to pretend I had some vague sense of fashion. That changed last year when my girlfriend suggested we get a pair to give us something quick to slip on whenever we needed to take the dogs out. I got a pair of yellow Classic Clogs—why not embrace the goofiness? I was reluctant, with the fear of being the secret joke of the neighborhood, but we still gave them a shot. I’m glad I did, because they’ve become my favorite pair of shoes, if a bit of a guilty pleasure.
Last year I mostly wore them on quick walks around the neighborhood with the pups, and running short errands in the vicinity. Since quarantine has kept me mostly cooped up inside, though, I haven’t been able to rock my trusty pair too much. With staying inside comes not wearing shoes very often, unless you want dirty floors, but it also leaves your feet feeling pretty sore after too long.
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I didn’t start wearing my Crocs inside intentionally; a couple of months ago I went out for a walk with family (before the Arizona heat became unbearable), and forgot to pop my Crocs off after heading inside. It wasn’t a magical experience, and it didn’t change my life, but for the first time since April, I wasn’t acutely aware of the hard floor every time I stepped down.
I’d been planning on getting a pair of slippers before that discovery, but once I realized that a fresh pair of Crocs would do the trick while potentially being a bit cooler, I shelved the added labor of hunting down the perfect pair of slippers. Instead, I just copped a clean pair of Crocs.
Selecting the right pair isn’t as simple as you’d think, though. Sure, there’s the standard Swiss-cheese design that’s still waiting for its day to shine. There’s plenty of other options, like these ones that look more like classic slip-ons, clogs with no holes, and even sandals. None of them really get past the dorkiness of the Crocs brand, but once you get over people caring (who’s going to see them when you’re still in quarantine?) all you’ll be able to think about is how comfy they are.
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Crocs aren’t exactly cheap, but neither is a good pair of slippers, and these will probably be more comfortable in warmer environments. Plus, it can be fun picking out a neat color that, while unflattering when paired with your favorite fits, might add a bit of pizzazz to your quarantine attire. And, let’s face it, your feet deserve a break.
This story was originally published by Jordan McMahon on 07/16/2020 and updated by Gabe Carey with new information on 11/22/2020.


theroot--2020-07-16--Senate Democrats Pandemic Relief Bill Includes the $350 Billion 'Economic Justice Act' for Communiti

Senate Democrats Pandemic Relief Bill Includes the $350 Billion 'Economic Justice Act' for Communities of Color

Given the sheer amount of fuckery popping off on a daily basis , it ’ s almost easy to forget that we ’ re currently in the midst of a pandemic that is decimating both public health and the economy .
Almost .
While the p resident and certain GOP governors try to deny and downplay the severity of the virus , it ’ s only getting worse in large segments of the country .
As case numbers increase and millions file for unemployment , Senate Democrats are proposing another relief bill to assist Americans who are overwhelmingly struggling right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bill drafted by Senate Democrats includes the $ 350 billion “ Economic Justice Act , ” a proposal meant to provide relief to communities of color .
The money is meant to be “ an important down-payment ” to answer for systemic racism and the “ historic underinvestment in communities of color.
” The D emocrats argue that the money will help relieve these communities of the “ severe burden ” that ’ s been placed upon them as a result of the pandemic .
“ Long before the pandemic , long before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s protests , structural inequalities have persisted in health care and housing , the economy and education .
Covid-19 has only magnified these injustices and we must confront them with lasting , meaningful solutions that tear down economic and social barriers , and reinvest in historically underserved communities , ” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a statement .
The proposal comes as Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell plans to unveil Senate Republicans ’ next relief bill as early as next week , setting up a clash with Democrats over a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the impacts of pandemic .
Both the Republicans and Democrats in the Senate are drafting two separate bills and have not been in contact with each other during the process .
McConnell ’ s bill is said to include funds meant to help schools reopen , protections for hospitals and businesses against lawsuits related to the virus , another round of direct payments and more money for testing .
The Democrats ’ proposal also includes money for schools , in addition to increased protections for those on unemployment , and the Economic Justice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ funded by repurposing $ 200 billion that was intended to provide relief to large businesses from the CARES act passed at the start of the pandemic .
The proposal would see $ 115 billion going towards affordable housing , education and high-speed internet access .
Additionally , $ 40 billion would go towards community healthcare , $ 25 billion towards rent relief and $ 15 billion for Medicaid expansion .

Given the sheer amount of fuckery popping off on a daily basis, it’s almost easy to forget that we’re currently in the midst of a pandemic that is decimating both public health and the economy. Almost. While the p resident and certain GOP governors try to deny and downplay the severity of the virus, it’s only getting worse in large segments of the country. As case numbers increase and millions file for unemployment, Senate Democrats are proposing another relief bill to assist Americans who are overwhelmingly struggling right now.
NBC News reports that a bill drafted by Senate Democrats includes the $350 billion “Economic Justice Act,” a proposal meant to provide relief to communities of color . The money is meant to be “an important down-payment” to answer for systemic racism and the “historic underinvestment in communities of color.” The D emocrats argue that the money will help relieve these communities of the “severe burden” that’s been placed upon them as a result of the pandemic.
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From NBC News:
“Long before the pandemic, long before this recession, long before this year’s protests, structural inequalities have persisted in health care and housing, the economy and education. Covid-19 has only magnified these injustices and we must confront them with lasting, meaningful solutions that tear down economic and social barriers, and reinvest in historically underserved communities,” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a statement. The proposal comes as Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell plans to unveil Senate Republicans’ next relief bill as early as next week, setting up a clash with Democrats over a path forward as the economy still feels the impacts of pandemic.
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Both the Republicans and Democrats in the Senate are drafting two separate bills and have not been in contact with each other during the process. McConnell’s bill is said to include funds meant to help schools reopen, protections for hospitals and businesses against lawsuits related to the virus, another round of direct payments and more money for testing. The Democrats’ proposal also includes money for schools, in addition to increased protections for those on unemployment, and the Economic Justice Act.
The act would predominantly be funded by repurposing $200 billion that was intended to provide relief to large businesses from the CARES act passed at the start of the pandemic. The proposal would see $115 billion going towards affordable housing, education and high-speed internet access. Additionally, $40 billion would go towards community healthcare, $25 billion towards rent relief and $15 billion for Medicaid expansion.


theroot--2020-07-16--Take Up to 70% off Designer Brands at Nordstrom Right Now

The best Nordstrom sales for July 2020 are here .
Nordstrom always has loads of amazing deals on its website , and right now the retailer is focused on designer sales .
You can save up to 70 % off a wide array of products from brands such as Fendi , Jimmy Choo , Givenchy , Fear of God , and many others .
There are thousands of items for sale between the Women ’ s Designer Sale and Men ’ s Designer Sale , so be sure to have a look .
We ’ ve also picked several other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rack , as well , including standout picks from Nike , Kate Spade New York , and Topshop .
Nordstrom Rack has a few different styles of this cool , vintage-looking Nike women ’ s hoodie .
It ’ s a loose-fit 60/40 cotton/polyester blend available in black/sail ( above ) , along with pink , navy , and grey .
Each is available for 25 % off right now .
• None Buy it now for $ 45 This Lacoste Sirocco V king-sized comforter set strikes a bold look with grey and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
You ’ ll get a comforter and two shams here , and it ’ s marked down a whopping 70 % from the original $ 350 price point .
• None Buy it now for $ 105 Save 75 % on this handsome Kate Spade New York leather satchel , with a grey/white pairing , dual rolled top handles , and a top zip enclosure .
There ’ s a detachable shoulder strap included , as well , and right now it ’ s marked down from $ 369 .
• None @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a clean pair of kicks from Nordstrom Rack right now with these Nike Court Vision women ’ s low tops .
They ’ re white with reflective iridescent swoosh logos and tags , and they ’ re 25 % right now with a bunch of sizes currently available .
• None Buy it now for $ 58 These straight-leg Levi ’ s 501 jeans are straight out of the ‘ 90s—or at least the style is .
They ’ re newly-made , of course , but you can get them for a song @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 62 % off the normal price with a good array of sizes still in stock as of this writing .
• None Buy it now for $ 34 We ’ re not sure we can do this Alexander McQueen dress justice with a description , so let ’ s defer to Nordstrom : “ Lavish ruffles cascading from the hip of this impeccably fitted sheath show off their fuchsia face with every twist and turn.
” It ’ s wild !
And while the price is intense , the dress has been marked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ price of $ 1,990 .
• None Buy it now for $ 796 Noon Goons has a bunch of apparel across Nordstrom ’ s designer sale right now , including this navy Industry Jacket .
The twill jacket has a raw-edged brand patch on the right arm , and it ’ s oversized to make it layer-friendly .
Save 70 % on it at Nordstrom .
• None Buy it now for $ 33 Magicsuit swimwear is designed to be slimming and flattering , and right now Nordstrom is taking $ 66 off @ @ @ @ @ @ @ polka dots .
It has a deep v-neck and a ruched waist , and is marked down significantly from the $ 164 list price .
• None Buy it now for $ 98 If you ’ re keen on a colorful look but want it in skirt form , Alice + Olivia ’ s Arden Colorblock pleated skirt is a bright and alluring option .
The line-drawn pleats really draw your eye on this polyester skirt , which is meant to be dry-cleaned .
It ’ s 55 % off right now .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 198 Mom jeans have incredibly become stylish ( your perspective may vary ) , and now mom jean shorts are the next logical step .
Available in light blue , these Topshop mom shorts are $ 14 off .
• None Buy it now for $ 44

Molly Horan and Andrew Hayward on Roundups, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

Featured Deal: Coach Marlow Leather Crossbody Bag | $195
The best Nordstrom sales of September 2021 are here.
G et price matching on select styles from top brands, including AllSaints, Theory, Paige, and Rag & Bone with an ultimate discount of up to 25% off.
To expedite your online shopping process, Kinja Deals has compiled a list of its favorite products for both men and women.
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Looking for a new blouse to go back to the office in? Try this flowy Nordstrom V-Neck Tank Top. It’s a versatile tank that comes in a variety of colors. Note that the dipped neckline is cut in the front and the back.
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The Kut From the Kloth Donna High Waist Ankle Skinny Jeans is a sleek skinny jeean that can be dressed up or down depending on where you’re going. With a five-pocket style, this product also comes with a zip fly button closure . It’s made from cotton, recycled polyester, as well as rayon and spandex.
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Get the perfect jacket for summer nights by cashing in on the BlankNYC Faux Leather Jacket with Removable Hood. This counterculture chic product can block out chilly weather while also looking fashionable. And as a bonus, you can feel good that an animal wasn’t hard to make this cute fashion item.
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There’s a reason why Ray-Ban’s Wayfarer style is a classic! Not only are they effortlessly cool, but they go with a wide range of styles. The crystal lenses offer 100% UV protection and can be dressed up or down, suiting wherever you’re going.
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Make sure the guy in your life is looking slick with the Ted Baker London Tortila Slim Fit Tipped Pocket Polo. Made of modal and cotton, this polo is super soft but isn’t so delicate that it can’t be machine washed! Its short-sleeve style makes it a great option for the summer. Note that this shirt is considered an extra slim fit.
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Ready to hit the town for the last days of warm weather? Try this BP. Babydoll Crinkle Camisole. This product is made from a great textured knit and is available in a rust orange color. It has adjustable straps and is nine inches in length from the center front .
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Tired of denim? Switch it up with the Peter Millar Ultimate Sateen Five-Pocket Pants. It’s made from a blend of cotton and modal, so it could be a great summer alternative to jeans. This pair has a classic cut and is comfortable for sitting for extended periods of time.
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Who doesn’t love a chino? With a clean and versatile cut, the Treasure & Bond Ballard Slim Fit Chino Pants are easy to love. They’re tapered below the knee to give you a great silhouette. Plus, when you shop from Treasure & Bond, Nordstrom will donate 2.5% of its net sales to organizations that empower youth experiencing homelessness.
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T his Rag & Bone Retro Runner Sneaker features a vintage style that has a serrated tread for a refined look. Feel good knowing that the upper is made from 100% post consumer plastic bottles, so you can reduce your carbon footprint . The removable EVA footbed is cushioned and has arch support.
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I don’t know about you, but I am seriously feeling Coach’s handbag game! Like the Marlow Leather Crossbody Bag. Available in yellow and black, this purse will add the perfect dash of style to your going-out look. It has dual interior compartments, one zip pocket, and eight card slots. And this purse is made from calf leather, so it will always feel super soft.
This story was originally published by Molly Horan on 04/01/2020 and updated with new information by Juliana Clark on 09/01/2021.


theroot--2020-07-16--Investigaton Launched Against Louisville Mayor Over Handling of Breonna Taylor's Case

Four months ago , Breonna Taylor was killed in her own home by Louisville Metro Police while sleeping .
Despite calls for justice only growing louder and louder as time has passed , only one of the officers involved in Taylor ’ s death has faced any kind of consequence .
The outrage only intensified after David McAtee was shot and killed by law enforcement during a protest over Taylor ’ s death .
Now , an investigation into how Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer has handled the case is set to be launched .
On Monday , an order to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government Oversight and Audit Committee ( GOA ) of the Louisville Metro Council , “ into the action and inaction of the Fischer Administration , ” according to a press release from the city , CNN reports .
While there is currently no set timeline for the investigation as it has not officially started yet , the GOA plans to subpoena both Louisville Metro Police Department Chief Steve Conrad and current Chief Robert Schroeder .
Conrad was fired from his position shortly after the death of McAtee .
The investigation will look into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leading up to Taylor ’ s death , documents related to Taylor and McAtee ’ s death , the training protocols and systems utilized by the LMPD , and the use of no-knock warrants .
The investigation will also examine the city ’ s response to the protests , including why police used tear gas at a peaceful protest and who ordered the police and the Kentucky National Guard to 26th and Broadway on the evening McAtee died .
Once the investigation concludes , the committee has the ability to recommend what actions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ full council .
As the investigation is still in its early stages , the committee doesn ’ t know what those actions may entail .
I think firing the officers involved and denying them pension would be a good first step , but hey , what do I know ?
“ State law gives the Metro Council the power to remove any Metro Officer from office , that includes the mayor but it has to be for misconduct or criminal activity , ” the committee told CNN .
“ This applies to boards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government departments as well .
But such action requires a majority approval vote from the Metro Council following the presentation of a report or results from an investigation .
The Council also has the power of the purse when it comes to funding all government agencies including LMPD .
Again , I will point out the committee has to investigate first.
” After months of little to no action being taken , I ’ m really hoping this investigation results in something finally being done .
The LMPD displayed a criminal level of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life as a result .
The fact that justice has still not been delivered for Breonna Taylor only makes this tragedy more insulting .

Four months ago, Breonna Taylor was killed in her own home by Louisville Metro Police while sleeping. Despite calls for justice only growing louder and louder as time has passed, only one of the officers involved in Taylor’s death has faced any kind of consequence. The outrage only intensified after David McAtee was shot and killed by law enforcement during a protest over Taylor’s death. Now, an investigation into how Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer has handled the case is set to be launched.
On Monday, an order to launch the investigation was filed by the Government Oversight and Audit Committee (GOA) of the Louisville Metro Council, “into the action and inaction of the Fischer Administration,” according to a press release from the city, CNN reports. While there is currently no set timeline for the investigation as it has not officially started yet, the GOA plans to subpoena both Louisville Metro Police Department Chief Steve Conrad and current Chief Robert Schroeder. Conrad was fired from his position shortly after the death of McAtee.
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The investigation will look into the actions taken by the police department leading up to Taylor’s death, documents related to Taylor and McAtee’s death, the training protocols and systems utilized by the LMPD, and the use of no-knock warrants. The investigation will also examine the city’s response to the protests, including why police used tear gas at a peaceful protest and who ordered the police and the Kentucky National Guard to 26th and Broadway on the evening McAtee died.
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Once the investigation concludes, the committee has the ability to recommend what actions they believe should be taken to the full council. As the investigation is still in its early stages, the committee doesn’t know what those actions may entail. I think firing the officers involved and denying them pension would be a good first step, but hey, what do I know?
From CNN:
“State law gives the Metro Council the power to remove any Metro Officer from office, that includes the mayor but it has to be for misconduct or criminal activity,” the committee told CNN. “This applies to boards and commissions and the directors of Metro Government departments as well. But such action requires a majority approval vote from the Metro Council following the presentation of a report or results from an investigation. The Council also has the power of the purse when it comes to funding all government agencies including LMPD. Again, I will point out the committee has to investigate first.”
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After months of little to no action being taken, I’m really hoping this investigation results in something finally being done. The LMPD displayed a criminal level of incompetence and an innocent woman lost her life as a result. The fact that justice has still not been delivered for Breonna Taylor only makes this tragedy more insulting.


theroot--2020-07-16--Supreme Court Strikes Major Blow to Voting Rights, Won’t Change Florida Voting Rules for Felons

In 2018 , Florida voters made a momentous decision : restoring the right to vote for those convicted of a felony , so long as they ’ ve fulfilled their prison time , parole or probation .
But since then , the state of Florida has introduced what has been deemed as a modern-day voting tax for released felons , mandating that they pay back any legal fees or restitution they owe before they ’ re allowed in the voting booth .
On Thursday , the Supreme Court upheld those restrictions , striking a major blow against an estimated 774,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to voice their political will until their debts are paid .
The Court ’ s decision , made via an unsigned order , will mean the restriction will likely be in place until November , reports CNN .
Three out of four members of the court ’ s left wing , Justices Sonia Sotomayor , Ruth Bader Ginsburg , and Elena Kagan dissented .
“ This Court ’ s order prevents thousands of otherwise eligible voters from participating in Florida ’ s primary election simply because they are poor , ” wrote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ law as a “ voter paywall.
” As USA Today notes , most states restore felons ’ right to vote once they fulfill their prison time , including their parole or probation .
While many states have additional requirements , Florida is “ among 11 states with the most restrictive rules , ” the paper writes , citing the National Conference of state legislatures .
The financial restrictions were imposed by Florida ’ s GOP-majority legislature in 2019 .
But there was no system put in place to help those affected find out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confusion , reports The Washington Post .
This “ administrative nightmare ” was part of U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle ’ s ruling against the state this past May .
Hinkle found that requiring felons to pay fines and fees before voting amounted to an unconstitutional poll tax .
Sean Morales-Doyle of the Brennan Center for Justice told the Associated Press the high court ’ s decision “ doesn ’ t mean we ’ ve lost—it ’ s just a stay.
” The Center is among several groups representing the plaintiffs .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likely discourage political participation because “ there will be a lot of people who are unsure about their eligibility to vote ... and will be unable to figure out if they are eligible.
” About 85,000 felons have registered to vote since Amendment 4 went into effect at the start of last year .
The amendment , which passed with nearly 65 percent of the vote in 2018 , excludes felons who have been convicted of murder or felony sexual assault .
As the Post notes , it ’ s unclear if the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s presidential election , when the state is expected to be up for grabs .
The issue will go before an appeals court again on August 18—the same day as the state ’ s primary election .

In 2018, Florida voters made a momentous decision: restoring the right to vote for those convicted of a felony, so long as they’ve fulfilled their prison time, parole or probation. But since then, the state of Florida has introduced what has been deemed as a modern-day voting tax for released felons, mandating that they pay back any legal fees or restitution they owe before they’re allowed in the voting booth.
On Thursday, the Supreme Court upheld those restrictions, striking a major blow against an estimated 774,000 disenfranchised felons, who will not be able to voice their political will until their debts are paid. The Court’s decision, made via an unsigned order, will mean the restriction will likely be in place until November, reports CNN.
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Three out of four members of the court’s left wing, Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Elena Kagan dissented.
“This Court’s order prevents thousands of otherwise eligible voters from participating in Florida’s primary election simply because they are poor,” wrote Sotomayor, who referred to the Florida law as a “voter paywall.”
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“This Court’s inaction continues a trend of condoning (disenfranchisement),” she added.
As USA Today notes, most states restore felons’ right to vote once they fulfill their prison time, including their parole or probation. While many states have additional requirements, Florida is “among 11 states with the most restrictive rules,” the paper writes, citing the National Conference of state legislatures.
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The financial restrictions were imposed by Florida’s GOP-majority legislature in 2019. But there was no system put in place to help those affected find out whether they owed money, causing greater confusion, reports The Washington Post.
This “administrative nightmare” was part of U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle’s ruling against the state this past May. Hinkle found that requiring felons to pay fines and fees before voting amounted to an unconstitutional poll tax.
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Sean Morales-Doyle of the Brennan Center for Justice told the Associated Press the high court’s decision “doesn’t mean we’ve lost—it’s just a stay.” The Center is among several groups representing the plaintiffs.
But, he cautioned, the ruling will likely discourage political participation because “there will be a lot of people who are unsure about their eligibility to vote...and will be unable to figure out if they are eligible.”
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About 85,000 felons have registered to vote since Amendment 4 went into effect at the start of last year. The amendment, which passed with nearly 65 percent of the vote in 2018, excludes felons who have been convicted of murder or felony sexual assault.
As the Post notes, it’s unclear if the issue will be resolved by November’s presidential election, when the state is expected to be up for grabs. The issue will go before an appeals court again on August 18—the same day as the state’s primary election.


theroot--2020-07-16--CDC Removes Then Restores COVID-19 Hospitalization Data to Its Website

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently removed data on hospital capacity for medical facilities across the country from its website .
Since COVID-19 hospitalizations have often been used to speculate on how well the health care system can handle the coronavirus outbreak , a lot of people expressed their displeasure over the data being removed and even suggested that the removal of data is a political move by the Trump administration to “ hide their failures.
” Eventually , that data was restored to the site .
On Wednesday , ProPublica noticed that the CDC ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which was seen as a good barometer of whether hospitals in certain states had enough beds to deal with surges in COVID-19 cases .
The data showed that more than 70 % of intensive care unit beds in some states , including Texas and Arizona , were filled .
That had been viewed by some experts as a benchmark for safely reopening businesses .
This week , federal officials instructed hospitals to stop reporting data to the CDC and instead report it using a portal created by the U.S. Department of Health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the CDC ’ s data system was antiquated , and that HHS wanted to use this information to help make real-time decisions about testing and shipments of personal protective equipment .
On Thursday morning , when ProPublica confirmed that the information had not been restored to the CDC website up to that point , members of Congress and a former CDC director weighed in to call for more transparency .
It appears that a lot of people were not buying the explanation that the HHS needs the data for their own decision making @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CDC shouldn ’ t be the department that receives the information .
This could have something to do with the number of times Trump has appeared to be at odds with the CDC , or maybe it was Vice President Mike Pence ’ s declaration that “ To be very clear , we don ’ t want CDC guidance to be a reason why people don ’ t reopen their schools.
” Either way , a lot of officials took to Twitter to call the president out .
Even former CDC D irector @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ We ’ re in the middle of the worst pandemic in 100 years .
More than 137,000 Americans have died .
Covid is exploding in Arizona , Texas , South Carolina , Florida , and other states .
And the administration has chosen to sideline the CDC .
Where did this data go ?
” Around noon Thursday , the data had been restored to the CDC website .
According to CNBC , HHS spokesman Michael Caputo said in a statement that it was his department instructed the CDC to restore the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , HHS is committed to being transparent with the American public about the information it is collecting on the coronavirus , ” Caputo said .
“ Therefore , HHS has directed CDC to re-establish the coronavirus dashboards it withdrew from the public on Wednesday.
” On Wednesday , Pence defended the decision to have hospitals send data to HHS instead of the CDC saying , “ This is about making the system better , ” Pence said .
“ CDC will be a part of that , part of the reporting of that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that information .
And just as importantly , policymakers that are making decisions about where those critical resources go will have better real time information .
”

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently removed data on hospital capacity for medical facilities across the country from its website. Since COVID-19 hospitalizations have often been used to speculate on how well the health care system can handle the coronavirus outbreak, a lot of people expressed their displeasure over the data being removed and even suggested that the removal of data is a political move by the Trump administration to “hide their failures.” Eventually, that data was restored to the site.
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From ProPublica:
On Wednesday, ProPublica noticed that the CDC’s website had stopped displaying hospital capacity information, which was seen as a good barometer of whether hospitals in certain states had enough beds to deal with surges in COVID-19 cases. The data showed that more than 70% of intensive care unit beds in some states, including Texas and Arizona, were filled. That had been viewed by some experts as a benchmark for safely reopening businesses. This week, federal officials instructed hospitals to stop reporting data to the CDC and instead report it using a portal created by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. They said that the CDC’s data system was antiquated, and that HHS wanted to use this information to help make real-time decisions about testing and shipments of personal protective equipment. On Thursday morning, when ProPublica confirmed that the information had not been restored to the CDC website up to that point, members of Congress and a former CDC director weighed in to call for more transparency.
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It appears that a lot of people were not buying the explanation that the HHS needs the data for their own decision making and that’s the reason the CDC shouldn’t be the department that receives the information. This could have something to do with the number of times Trump has appeared to be at odds with the CDC, or maybe it was Vice President Mike Pence’s declaration that “To be very clear, we don’t want CDC guidance to be a reason why people don’t reopen their schools.”
Either way, a lot of officials took to Twitter to call the president out.
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Even former CDC D irector Dr. Tom Frieden weighed in tweeting, “We’re in the middle of the worst pandemic in 100 years. More than 137,000 Americans have died. Covid is exploding in Arizona, Texas, South Carolina, Florida, and other states. And the administration has chosen to sideline the CDC. Where did this data go?”
Around noon Thursday, the data had been restored to the CDC website.
According to CNBC, HHS spokesman Michael Caputo said in a statement that it was his department instructed the CDC to restore the data to its site.
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“Yes, HHS is committed to being transparent with the American public about the information it is collecting on the coronavirus,” Caputo said. “Therefore, HHS has directed CDC to re-establish the coronavirus dashboards it withdrew from the public on Wednesday.”
On Wednesday, Pence defended the decision to have hospitals send data to HHS instead of the CDC saying, “This is about making the system better,” Pence said. “CDC will be a part of that, part of the reporting of that, and the American people will have that information. And just as importantly, policymakers that are making decisions about where those critical resources go will have better real time information.”