theroot--2020-12-08--The Jurors Who Sentenced Brandon Bernard Say He Shouldn't Die. He's Still Scheduled to Be Executed

Five out of nine surviving jurors who condemned Brandon Bernard to death at the age of 18 say they regret their decision .
So , too , does the prosecutor who tried him , saying now that she finds it “ morally , ethically and legally ” wrong to execute him .
But last Wednesday , an appeals judge ruled that the execution of Bernard , now 40 , should proceed as scheduled for this week .
Unless Trump pardons him or commutes his sentence , Bernard will be among a slew of executions the administration is trying to rush @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Oath of Office next year .
Bernard , who is Black , was 18 when he was convicted of kidnapping and murdering two youth ministers in Fort Hood , Texas , in 1999 .
His co-defendant , Christopher Vialva , was the first Black inmate killed by the federal government on Sept. 22 , after it resumed executions earlier this year , reports the HuffPost .
Bernard ’ s case stands out because of his youth at the time he was sentenced to death , his role as an accomplice and the wave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people who once believed he should be killed for his crimes .
During his teenage years , Bernard was viewed as family-oriented , churchgoing and respectful .
He had no violent criminal record , though he appeared susceptible to the whims of his friends because of his desire to support them , reports the HuffPost .
On June 20 , 1999 , three of Bernard ’ s friends , Vialva , Christopher Lewis and Tony Sparks came up with a plan to get some quick cash by asking a passing driver for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the unsuspecting good Samaritan , and taking their cash , ATM card and PIN number .
Bernard wasn ’ t in on the plan until the next day , when the group got a larger gun to better intimidate potential victims .
Using Bernard ’ s car , the group of five cruised a couple of supermarkets looking for someone , before Bernard and another friend , Terry Brown , ended up parting ways to play video games at a laundromat .
When they tried to reconnect with their friends , they found @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up going home .
What they weren ’ t aware of was that their friends had been picked up by two youth ministers , Todd and Stacie Bagley , and had , for the most part , executed their plan—taking their cash and valuables , as well as withdrawing money from their ATM card .
They also locked the Bagleys in the trunk of their own car .
When Bernard ’ s friends called him , they needed a car to leave the scene of the crime .
Bernard joined up with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as Vialva , concerned that his fingerprints were all over the Bagley ’ s car , ended up shooting both Todd and Stacie Bagley in the head .
According to the boys ’ testimony , Vialva directed Bernard and Brown to pour lighter fluid on the car , the Bagleys still in the trunk , with Bernard reportedly lighting the car on fire .
Because the crime was committed in Fort Hood , the case became a federal one .
Because Bernard and Vialva were the only legal adults involved in the heinous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the government seeking death sentences for both .
Although Lewis , Sparks and Brown were “ equally culpable ” in the crime , Bernard ’ s lawyers point out , they were given lesser sentences upon their conviction .
Lewis and Brown have since completed their sentences .
The only thing differentiating Bernard from his friends who were given 20-year-sentences is his age , his defenders say .
Bernard ’ s friends , family and lawyers note that Bernard expressed remorse for his crime immediately after it happened , and has spent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ He is not by any measure the offender for whom the average person contemplates the death penalty , ” wrote his lawyers in Bernard ’ s clemency petition .
“ Brandon Bernard is someone who should not be on Death Row , and would not be if the system had not misfired.
” Bernard ’ s case hinges , like so many death row inmates , on the competency of his trial attorneys at the time , as well as the quality of the evidence presented .
His current lawyers have also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from jurors at the time of his trial—that Bernard was on the “ lowest rung ” of the gang—that could have convinced at least one juror to disagree with handing down a death sentence , reports Newsweek .
Additionally , jurors were under the impression that Stacie Bagley may have been alive at the time the car was set on fire .
But in fact , other experts had concluded that both Stacie and Todd were dead by the time Bernard set fire to their car .
Since the trial , a majority @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saying they regret giving Bernard the death penalty .
“ While the evidence proved that Brandon Bernard is guilty beyond any doubt , it also clearly showed that Brandon Bernard was not the ringleader behind these offenses , but a follower , ” wrote the juror foreperson on a website campaign to save Bernard ’ s life .
“ I am praying the President commutes Brandon Bernard ’ s death sentence.
” “ I thought about writing a letter to the court expressing my belief that a life sentence was the appropriate punishment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be put to death , ” another juror wrote .
“ I had no idea where to start , so I never did .
I am grateful to have this opportunity to clear my conscience by speaking what has always been in my heart .
I hope that my speaking up can help Mr. Bernard have his death sentence commuted to a life sentence.
” Even Angela Moore , who prosecuted the case against Bernard , reversed course , penning an op-ed in The Indianapolis Star last month arguing against his execution @ @ @ @ @ @ @ youth at the time as a reason he shouldn ’ t have received the death penalty , adding that racial bias likely worked against him in his sentencing .
“ I read the entire trial record .
I worked on that brief for months .
And I just think it ’ s wrong to execute him , ” Moore , who now opposes the death penalty , said in a recent interview .
“ It ’ s just wrong .
Morally , ethically and legally.
” Bernard ’ s fate now lies in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ federal executions this past July , in the middle of a pandemic , killing eight federal inmates so far this year .
The administration is now rushing to try to kill five more people , including Bernard , during Trump ’ s lame duck period , fully aware that Biden opposes the death penalty ( Huffpost notes that the last time an outgoing administration carried out a federal execution after losing an election was in 1889 ) .
He is scheduled to die by lethal injection at the U.S. Penitentiary in Terre Haute @ @ @ @ @ @

Five out of nine surviving jurors who condemned Brandon Bernard to death at the age of 18 say they regret their decision. So, too, does the prosecutor who tried him, saying now that she finds it “morally, ethically and legally” wrong to execute him. But last Wednesday, an appeals judge ruled that the execution of Bernard, now 40, should proceed as scheduled for this week.
Unless Trump pardons him or commutes his sentence, Bernard will be among a slew of executions the administration is trying to rush through before President-elect Joe Biden takes the Oath of Office next year.
Advertisement
Bernard, who is Black, was 18 when he was convicted of kidnapping and murdering two youth ministers in Fort Hood, Texas, in 1999. His co-defendant, Christopher Vialva, was the first Black inmate killed by the federal government on Sept. 22, after it resumed executions earlier this year, reports the HuffPost.
Bernard’s case stands out because of his youth at the time he was sentenced to death, his role as an accomplice and the wave of support he’s received from people who once believed he should be killed for his crimes.
Advertisement Advertisement
During his teenage years, Bernard was viewed as family-oriented, churchgoing and respectful. He had no violent criminal record, though he appeared susceptible to the whims of his friends because of his desire to support them, reports the HuffPost.
On June 20, 1999, three of Bernard’s friends, Vialva, Christopher Lewis and Tony Sparks came up with a plan to get some quick cash by asking a passing driver for a ride, pulling out a gun on the unsuspecting good Samaritan, and taking their cash, ATM card and PIN number. Bernard wasn’t in on the plan until the next day, when the group got a larger gun to better intimidate potential victims. Using Bernard’s car, the group of five cruised a couple of supermarkets looking for someone, before Bernard and another friend, Terry Brown, ended up parting ways to play video games at a laundromat. When they tried to reconnect with their friends, they found they were gone, and each ended up going home.
Advertisement
What they weren’t aware of was that their friends had been picked up by two youth ministers, Todd and Stacie Bagley, and had, for the most part, executed their plan—taking their cash and valuables, as well as withdrawing money from their ATM card. They also locked the Bagleys in the trunk of their own car.
When Bernard’s friends called him, they needed a car to leave the scene of the crime. Bernard joined up with the three boys—Vialva, Brown and Lewis—bearing witness as Vialva, concerned that his fingerprints were all over the Bagley’s car, ended up shooting both Todd and Stacie Bagley in the head. According to the boys’ testimony, Vialva directed Bernard and Brown to pour lighter fluid on the car, the Bagleys still in the trunk, with Bernard reportedly lighting the car on fire. Because the crime was committed in Fort Hood, the case became a federal one.
Advertisement
Because Bernard and Vialva were the only legal adults involved in the heinous killing, they were tried together, with the government seeking death sentences for both. Although Lewis, Sparks and Brown were “equally culpable” in the crime, Bernard’s lawyers point out, they were given lesser sentences upon their conviction. Lewis and Brown have since completed their sentences.
The only thing differentiating Bernard from his friends who were given 20-year-sentences is his age, his defenders say. Bernard’s friends, family and lawyers note that Bernard expressed remorse for his crime immediately after it happened, and has spent decades trying to right his wrongs.
Advertisement
“He is not by any measure the offender for whom the average person contemplates the death penalty,” wrote his lawyers in Bernard’s clemency petition. “Brandon Bernard is someone who should not be on Death Row, and would not be if the system had not misfired.”
Bernard’s case hinges, like so many death row inmates, on the competency of his trial attorneys at the time, as well as the quality of the evidence presented. His current lawyers have also argued that important expert evidence was withheld from jurors at the time of his trial—that Bernard was on the “lowest rung” of the gang—that could have convinced at least one juror to disagree with handing down a death sentence, reports Newsweek.
Advertisement
Additionally, jurors were under the impression that Stacie Bagley may have been alive at the time the car was set on fire. But in fact, other experts had concluded that both Stacie and Todd were dead by the time Bernard set fire to their car.
Since the trial, a majority of the surviving jurors have stepped forward saying they regret giving Bernard the death penalty.
Advertisement
“While the evidence proved that Brandon Bernard is guilty beyond any doubt, it also clearly showed that Brandon Bernard was not the ringleader behind these offenses, but a follower,” wrote the juror foreperson on a website campaign to save Bernard’s life. “I am praying the President commutes Brandon Bernard’s death sentence.”
“I thought about writing a letter to the court expressing my belief that a life sentence was the appropriate punishment and that Mr. Bernard did not deserve to be put to death,” another juror wrote.
Advertisement
“I had no idea where to start, so I never did. I am grateful to have this opportunity to clear my conscience by speaking what has always been in my heart. I hope that my speaking up can help Mr. Bernard have his death sentence commuted to a life sentence.”
Even Angela Moore, who prosecuted the case against Bernard, reversed course, penning an op-ed in The Indianapolis Star last month arguing against his execution. She pointed to Bernard’s youth at the time as a reason he shouldn’t have received the death penalty, adding that racial bias likely worked against him in his sentencing.
Advertisement
“I read the entire trial record. I worked on that brief for months. And I just think it’s wrong to execute him,” Moore, who now opposes the death penalty, said in a recent interview. “It’s just wrong. Morally, ethically and legally.”
Bernard’s fate now lies in the hands of a president who resumed federal executions this past July, in the middle of a pandemic, killing eight federal inmates so far this year. The administration is now rushing to try to kill five more people, including Bernard, during Trump’s lame duck period, fully aware that Biden opposes the death penalty (Huffpost notes that the last time an outgoing administration carried out a federal execution after losing an election was in 1889).
Advertisement
He is scheduled to die by lethal injection at the U.S. Penitentiary in Terre Haute, Ind. on Thursday.


theroot--2020-12-08--Wrapping Paper Roll Call: Everything's Better Together

True Confession Time : I am deeply missing my partner this holiday season .
Having committed to a long-distance relationship well before the pandemic hit , the events of 2020—which have necessitated us spending far more time apart than together—presented a whole new set of challenges .
So , suffice to say that those of you griping about the abundance of time you ’ ve been spending with your significant other can kindly STFU .
The pandemic may have made for some strange bedfellows ( “ love the one you ’ re with ” has taken on an entirely new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like love on lockdown has over-familiarized you with your partner , consider the alternative , count your blessings , and don ’ t take them for granted .
Instead , use all the information and overexposure you ’ ve experienced over the course of this crazy year to give them something truly special this season .
“ I ’ m the better gift-giver , ” The Root ’ s Stephen Crockett recently told me with characteristic modesty while his wife Leslie was out of earshot , laughingly adding , “ I am the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Of course , Leslie , with whom Stephen has been coupled for a decade and shares two adorable toddlers , saw things a bit ... differently .
( “ Was he in here lying ?
” she asked when she joined our Zoom call . )
But what the couple wholeheartedly agreed upon was that giving gifts—mutual , spontaneous , and thoughtful—are a regular part of their relationship ; one that arguably makes them pay closer attention to each other on the daily .
“ The gift-gifting thing has taken on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Stephen .
“ We are completely about trying to surprise each other with stuff—or you know , get something that the person had mentioned a long time ago , but never brought up again .
And so , because of that , I ’ m always listening for cues ... it ’ s like a fun , trying-to-catch-each-other-with-a-surprise thing.
” “ I try to be really thoughtful about it , ” said Leslie .
“ I feel like he buys gifts more often , on an ongoing basis , [ whereas ] I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to really go big , and so usually , it ’ s something he won ’ t buy himself.
” “ Mine aren ’ t [ thoughtful ] , ” Stephen laughs , noting that since having children , his focus has shifted to treating Leslie to more “ fly mom ” accouterments she no longer indulges in ( which we find pretty thoughtful , to be honest ) .
“ I want you to think ‘ I can have that bag and take care of my kids , ’ not that something @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take care of yourself in a way that feels loving , ” he continued .
In recent months , he ’ s purchased Leslie coveted but relatively affordable luxury bags .
“ And right now , with the pandemic , if that bag makes you feel good , then let ’ s get the bag !
” he adds .
Obviously , the effects of the pandemic have forced a lot of sacrifices , and not all of us are able to splurge this year ( and if a four-page-letter full of your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ afford this year , remember that it ’ ll last forever ) .
But if you have the means to treat your special someone to something special this year , Stephen has helped us curate a range of gifts to let them know that when it comes to love , in the immortal words of Luther Vandross , all this time spent together is “ never too much.
” “ When it comes to women there are really only two teams : Beyhive or Rihanna Navy , ” Stephen surmised .
“ Your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ luckily they both have product lines that hit all price points .
You don ’ t have to break the bank getting them something from Savage x Fenty , ” he continues , “ and who are we kidding—the Beyhive isn ’ t going to be mad if they get intimates from Rihanna ’ s collection and Rihanna ’ s Navy won ’ t ship you out for grabbing these dope Adidas x Ivy Park Ultra Boosts.
” It ’ s hard to go wrong with jewelry , and the pure golden offerings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ options for him , her , and them .
And if all these months on lockdown have convinced you that they are , in fact , the one , did we mention that they make wedding rings , too ?
That said , if you ’ re suddenly inspired to make a lasting commitment this holiday , it ’ s not too late to break out of the box with an engagement ring as remarkable and unique as she is .
Jeweler Valerie Madison offers traditional settings ( and custom options ) but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ engagement rings ... perfect for an incomparable love .
“ If your wife is anything like mine she loves bags .
All bags .
She ’ s not even a super fancy bag lover , she ’ s just a bag lover , ” said Stephen .
“ One way that I found to make her happy and not to break the bank is fly-ass bags from dope designers on the come-up , because there is one thing my wife loves more than bags and that ’ s a good story.
” With @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but still remain accessible to luxury lovers , Telfar and Brandon Blackwood are two Black designers to watch ; both have wisely moved to a preorder format ( meaning they won ’ t get here by Christmas unless you ’ re shopping the consignment market ) , but by joining their mailing lists , you can give your S.O .
something more to look forward to in 2021 .
Women aren ’ t the only ones who love bags , and Status Co. Leather Studio ’ s full-grain leather bags and accessories are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or them—you can even coordinate .
What ’ s more , the label also offers belts , journals and even home-goods ( think Moroccan poufs ! )
for every other leather lover in your life .
“ One thing I give my wife at least once every year is art , ” said Stephen .
“ I usually buy from Black galleries that feature up-and-coming artists or even established artists with affordable pieces .
My favorite spot this year is the Chicago-based aRRTicles Gallery , where I picked up a dope ( The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ poster ... errr ... for my wife , ” he laughed , adding .
“ It ’ s hers , but she ’ s got to hang it in the house and I get the benefits from it.
” During this pandemic , two main groups have emerged : the “ Get Tight , Get Right Gang ” and the “ Let It Go League.
” Frankly , we believe in the best of both worlds—like having a cheat day .
But regardless of which crew you belong to , we urge you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ partners ) for their comfort-eating , especially in a moment when we all need comfort ( hey , not everyone blows off steam with exercise ) .
So , how about gifting your sweetheart a crate of sweetness from NFL husband-and-wife team Jeff and Marrisa Allen ?
If cooking at home is their passion , break the mold of traditional gifts by treating them to a “ grown-up ” but still very affordable ( we ’ re talking Target and Amazon ) set of cookware from this famous-in-her-own-right basketball wife .
If the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with love , let them know you appreciate them—with a heart on each lid .
“ My wife is well into her 30s so she doesn ’ t like phrases like ‘ turn up ’ or ‘ lit ’ to describe how she drinks but when she drinks she totally ‘ turns up ’ and gets ‘ lit , ’ ” joked Stephen .
“ Because she ’ s a Howard graduate and Kamala Harris is on her way to the White House she believes herself to be super sophisticated , and nothing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rosé by the McBride Sisters , who just so happen to own the largest African-American-owned wine business in the U.S. Just don ’ t hand it your wife and say , ‘ Happy holidays .
Take this to the head.
’ ” If you ’ re both wine lovers ( or want to be ) , how about leaning into the romance with an Anniversary of Love trio from Amour Genéve— ” amour ” is love in French , after all .
Distinguishing this label from your everyday varietals is their signature , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unconventional but enchanting blue color naturally through a unique fermentation process .
Last time we checked , lockdown isn ’ t ending anytime soon , so how about making it more luxurious for them ?
Harlem , N.Y. designer Junny Ann Hibbert makes gorgeous kaftan and kimonos that merge the ease of Japan ’ s national dress ( kimono translates to “ thing to wear ” ) with the cultural richness of African patterns .
While her custom creations are an investment , they ’ re also reversible and unisex ( and she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one to wear at home now ; they ’ ll make it a moment when we ’ re all back on the scene later .
If there ’ s anything we ’ re hoping for more of this holiday season , it ’ s sleep—how about leveling up the experience for them with a set on bonafide linens ?
The dense , high-quality weaves from Linoto come in a full spectrum of colors and cross-dyes , making this bedding as gorgeous as it is sumptuous .
Might they fancy a bedtime story ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ this year doesn ’ t mean you can ’ t still bring the heat .
If the lockdown has dimmed the spark in your sex life , reading to each other aloud from this classic anthology of erotica—with contributions from Alice Walker , Ntozake Shange , Chester Himes , Audre Lorde and many more incredible Black wordsmiths—will definitely get you back in the mood .
If you think they ’ d enjoy a little ... extra with their erotica , this Oakland-based shop has got a full array of sensual goods for their—and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time at home ?
Plenty of opportunities to experiment with something new ... they might be into it .
Speaking of something new , if it ’ s new skills that turn your lover on , an annual pass to MasterClass is the gift that shows you love them for their mind , too .
Luminaries like Samuel Jackson , Sheila E. , Alicia Keys , Robin Roberts , RuPaul , Walter Mosley and many more have all contributed content to this ever-growing platform of online classes , and with a current holiday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of one , you can drop yourself a little knowledge , too .
“ And if all else fails , you can never go wrong with clothes , ” Stephen advised before quickly adding : “ Let me take that back , you can totally go wrong with clothes , but you can ’ t go wrong with anything from Philadelphia Printworks .
Owned by Philadelphia printmaker Maryam Pugh , the social justice imprint is fly AF .
Get her a Paris Is Burning or an Assata is Welcome Here sweatshirt , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And nothing says ‘ I love you ’ more than a patch that reads , ‘ Fuck it up , Sis .
’ ”

Maiysha Kai on The Glow Up, shared by Maiysha Kai to The Root

True Confession Time: I am deeply missing my partner this holiday season. Having committed to a long-distance relationship well before the pandemic hit, the events of 2020—which have necessitated us spending far more time apart than together—presented a whole new set of challenges. So, suffice to say that those of you griping about the abundance of time you’ve been spending with your significant other can kindly STFU. The pandemic may have made for some strange bedfellows (“love the one you’re with” has taken on an entirely new meaning), but if you feel like love on lockdown has over-familiarized you with your partner, consider the alternative, count your blessings, and don’t take them for granted. Instead, use all the information and overexposure you’ve experienced over the course of this crazy year to give them something truly special this season.
“I’m the better gift-giver,” The Root’s Stephen Crockett recently told me with characteristic modesty while his wife Leslie was out of earshot, laughingly adding, “I am the better spouse...I basically do everything.”
Advertisement
Of course, Leslie, with whom Stephen has been coupled for a decade and shares two adorable toddlers, saw things a bit...differently. (“Was he in here lying?” she asked when she joined our Zoom call.) But what the couple wholeheartedly agreed upon was that giving gifts—mutual, spontaneous, and thoughtful—are a regular part of their relationship; one that arguably makes them pay closer attention to each other on the daily.
“The gift-gifting thing has taken on a whole ‘nother dimension,” says Stephen. “We are completely about trying to surprise each other with stuff—or you know, get something that the person had mentioned a long time ago, but never brought up again. And so, because of that, I’m always listening for cues...it’s like a fun, trying-to-catch-each-other-with-a-surprise thing.”
Advertisement Advertisement
“I try to be really thoughtful about it,” said Leslie. “I feel like he buys gifts more often, on an ongoing basis, [whereas] I use holidays, birthdays, etc. to really go big, and so usually, it’s something he won’t buy himself.”
“Mine aren’t [thoughtful],” Stephen laughs, noting that since having children, his focus has shifted to treating Leslie to more “fly mom” accouterments she no longer indulges in (which we find pretty thoughtful, to be honest). “I want you to think ‘I can have that bag and take care of my kids,’ not that something has to be sacrificed in order to take care of yourself in a way that feels loving,” he continued. In recent months, he’s purchased Leslie coveted but relatively affordable luxury bags. “And right now, with the pandemic, if that bag makes you feel good, then let’s get the bag!” he adds.
Advertisement
Obviously, the effects of the pandemic have forced a lot of sacrifices, and not all of us are able to splurge this year (and if a four-page-letter full of your love and appreciation is all you can afford this year, remember that it’ll last forever). But if you have the means to treat your special someone to something special this year, Stephen has helped us curate a range of gifts to let them know that when it comes to love, in the immortal words of Luther Vandross, all this time spent together is “never too much.”
“When it comes to women there are really only two teams: Beyhive or Rihanna Navy,” Stephen surmised. “Your spouse is probably one of them and luckily they both have product lines that hit all price points. You don’t have to break the bank getting them something from Savage x Fenty,” he continues, “and who are we kidding—the Beyhive isn’t going to be mad if they get intimates from Rihanna’s collection and Rihanna’s Navy won’t ship you out for grabbing these dope Adidas x Ivy Park Ultra Boosts.”
Advertisement
It’s hard to go wrong with jewelry, and the pure golden offerings from the husband-and-wife team at Auvere include options for him, her, and them. And if all these months on lockdown have convinced you that they are, in fact, the one, did we mention that they make wedding rings, too?
Advertisement
That said, if you’re suddenly inspired to make a lasting commitment this holiday, it’s not too late to break out of the box with an engagement ring as remarkable and unique as she is. Jeweler Valerie Madison offers traditional settings (and custom options) but the standouts are her “alternative” engagement rings...perfect for an incomparable love.
Advertisement
“If your wife is anything like mine she loves bags. All bags. She’s not even a super fancy bag lover, she’s just a bag lover,” said Stephen. “One way that I found to make her happy and not to break the bank is fly-ass bags from dope designers on the come-up, because there is one thing my wife loves more than bags and that’s a good story.” With bags that hit the zeitgeist in 2020 but still remain accessible to luxury lovers, Telfar and Brandon Blackwood are two Black designers to watch; both have wisely moved to a preorder format (meaning they won’t get here by Christmas unless you’re shopping the consignment market), but by joining their mailing lists, you can give your S.O. something more to look forward to in 2021.
Advertisement
Women aren’t the only ones who love bags, and Status Co. Leather Studio’s full-grain leather bags and accessories are gorgeous handcrafted investments for him, her or them—you can even coordinate. What’s more, the label also offers belts, journals and even home-goods (think Moroccan poufs!) for every other leather lover in your life.
Advertisement
“One thing I give my wife at least once every year is art,” said Stephen. “I usually buy from Black galleries that feature up-and-coming artists or even established artists with affordable pieces. My favorite spot this year is the Chicago-based aRRTicles Gallery, where I picked up a dope (The Root 100 2020 honoree) Hebru Brantley poster...errr...for my wife,” he laughed, adding. “It’s hers, but she’s got to hang it in the house and I get the benefits from it.”
Advertisement
During this pandemic, two main groups have emerged: the “Get Tight, Get Right Gang” and the “Let It Go League.” Frankly, we believe in the best of both worlds—like having a cheat day. But regardless of which crew you belong to, we urge you never to shame your partner (or partners) for their comfort-eating, especially in a moment when we all need comfort (hey, not everyone blows off steam with exercise). So, how about gifting your sweetheart a crate of sweetness from NFL husband-and-wife team Jeff and Marrisa Allen?
Advertisement
If cooking at home is their passion, break the mold of traditional gifts by treating them to a “grown-up” but still very affordable (we’re talking Target and Amazon) set of cookware from this famous-in-her-own-right basketball wife. If the love of your life makes every meal with love, let them know you appreciate them—with a heart on each lid.
Advertisement
“My wife is well into her 30s so she doesn’t like phrases like ‘turn up’ or ‘lit’ to describe how she drinks but when she drinks she totally ‘turns up’ and gets ‘lit,’” joked Stephen. “Because she’s a Howard graduate and Kamala Harris is on her way to the White House she believes herself to be super sophisticated, and nothing says ‘I see you’ like rosé by the McBride Sisters, who just so happen to own the largest African-American-owned wine business in the U.S. Just don’t hand it your wife and say, ‘Happy holidays. Take this to the head.’”
Advertisement
If you’re both wine lovers (or want to be), how about leaning into the romance with an Anniversary of Love trio from Amour Genéve—”amour” is love in French, after all. Distinguishing this label from your everyday varietals is their signature, eponymous wine, which comes by its unconventional but enchanting blue color naturally through a unique fermentation process.
Advertisement
Last time we checked, lockdown isn’t ending anytime soon, so how about making it more luxurious for them? Harlem, N.Y. designer Junny Ann Hibbert makes gorgeous kaftan and kimonos that merge the ease of Japan’s national dress (kimono translates to “thing to wear”) with the cultural richness of African patterns. While her custom creations are an investment, they’re also reversible and unisex (and she makes masks, too)—gift them one to wear at home now; they’ll make it a moment when we’re all back on the scene later.
Advertisement
If there’s anything we’re hoping for more of this holiday season, it’s sleep—how about leveling up the experience for them with a set on bonafide linens? The dense, high-quality weaves from Linoto come in a full spectrum of colors and cross-dyes, making this bedding as gorgeous as it is sumptuous.
Advertisement
Might they fancy a bedtime story? Just because your budget may be low this year doesn’t mean you can’t still bring the heat. If the lockdown has dimmed the spark in your sex life, reading to each other aloud from this classic anthology of erotica—with contributions from Alice Walker, Ntozake Shange, Chester Himes, Audre Lorde and many more incredible Black wordsmiths—will definitely get you back in the mood.
Advertisement
If you think they’d enjoy a little...extra with their erotica, this Oakland-based shop has got a full array of sensual goods for their—and your—pleasure. The upside to all this time at home? Plenty of opportunities to experiment with something new...they might be into it.
Advertisement
Speaking of something new, if it’s new skills that turn your lover on, an annual pass to MasterClass is the gift that shows you love them for their mind, too. Luminaries like Samuel Jackson, Sheila E., Alicia Keys, Robin Roberts, RuPaul, Walter Mosley and many more have all contributed content to this ever-growing platform of online classes, and with a current holiday special offering two memberships for the price of one, you can drop yourself a little knowledge, too.
Advertisement
“And if all else fails, you can never go wrong with clothes,” Stephen advised before quickly adding: “Let me take that back, you can totally go wrong with clothes, but you can’t go wrong with anything from Philadelphia Printworks. Owned by Philadelphia printmaker Maryam Pugh, the social justice imprint is fly AF. Get her a Paris Is Burning or an Assata is Welcome Here sweatshirt, and watch how blissful your marriage becomes. And nothing says ‘I love you’ more than a patch that reads, ‘Fuck it up, Sis.’”


theroot--2020-12-08--New Los Angeles District Attorney Announces Plans to End Cash Bail, Office Will No Longer Seek the D

New Los Angeles District Attorney Announces Plans to End Cash Bail, Office Will No Longer Seek the Death Penalty

Newly elected Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón announced plans to enact sweeping reforms— including ending cash bail and the death penalty—while being sworn in on Tuesday .
According to CNN , Gascón ’ s plan to immediately end cash bail for specific crimes could see hundreds of currently incarcerated people released as soon as tomorrow .
While these releases would be a part of a new pretrial release policy , Gascón also announced that his office would begin working towards ending bail in the whole county starting Jan.1 , 2021 .
“ The money bail system is as unsafe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
“ The rich can be dangerous while the poor impose zero threat to society.
” The amount of money a person has in their bank account does not determine the danger they pose to their community , he added .
While bail advocates have long said that cash bail requirements often criminalize the poor , ending the practice may not have widespread support among Californians .
Proposition 25 , a ballot measure that would eliminate cash bail , failed among California voters last month .
An unofficial tally from California ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ percent of voters went against the measure .
Predictably , the cops weren ’ t about this move , because when are they ever about anything that treats people like humans ?
“ As homicides , shooting victims , and shots fired into occupied homes soar in Los Angeles , it ’ s disturbing that Gascón ’ s first act in office is to explore every avenue possible to release from jail those responsible for this bloodshed , ” the Los Angeles Police Protective League said in a statement .
“ Victims and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ criminals and gang members gained an ally in the prosecutor ’ s office.
” Why are they acting like this is available exclusively to alleged murderers ?
There is a litany of non-violent crimes that a person could be incarcerated for .
Gascón himself even said that the policy mainly extends to people incarcerated on misdemeanor or non-violent , non-serious felony offenses , so why are they talking about bloodshed ?
Cops are just so damn extra about any attempt at creating a more equitable justice system .
They are the biggest group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by far , and I say this as a man who ’ s attended many anime conventions .
Gascón also announced that his office will no longer be seeking the death penalty in cases , and will work to ensure those currently on death row will be resentenced to life in prison .
“ The death penalty does not make us safer , ” Gascón said .
“ It ’ s racist , morally untenable , irreversible , and expensive .
And today , it ’ s off the table.
” He also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ longer charge children as adults , calling the practice “ traumatic ” and “ dehumanizing.
” One of the more notable pledges Gascón made was to reopen multiple police use of force cases stemming from as far back as 2012 , with plans to commission a “ Use of Force Board , ” composed of community members , civil attorneys and experts on policing to assist him with the endeavor .
“ I recognize that these are big changes , but they are changes that will enable us to actually affect the truly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sworn in .
Gascón beat eight-year incumbent Jackie Lacey during last month ’ s elections .

Newly elected Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón announced plans to enact sweeping reforms— including ending cash bail and the death penalty—while being sworn in on Tuesday.
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According to CNN, Gascón’s plan to immediately end cash bail for specific crimes could see hundreds of currently incarcerated people released as soon as tomorrow. While these releases would be a part of a new pretrial release policy, Gascón also announced that his office would begin working towards ending bail in the whole county starting Jan.1, 2021.
“The money bail system is as unsafe as it is unjust,” Gascón said. “The rich can be dangerous while the poor impose zero threat to society.” The amount of money a person has in their bank account does not determine the danger they pose to their community, he added.
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While bail advocates have long said that cash bail requirements often criminalize the poor, ending the practice may not have widespread support among Californians. Proposition 25, a ballot measure that would eliminate cash bail, failed among California voters last month. An unofficial tally from California’s secretary of state revealed that 56 percent of voters went against the measure.
Predictably, the cops weren’t about this move, because when are they ever about anything that treats people like humans?
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“As homicides, shooting victims, and shots fired into occupied homes soar in Los Angeles, it’s disturbing that Gascón’s first act in office is to explore every avenue possible to release from jail those responsible for this bloodshed,” the Los Angeles Police Protective League said in a statement. “Victims and law-abiding residents lost a voice today while criminals and gang members gained an ally in the prosecutor’s office.”
Why are they acting like this is available exclusively to alleged murderers? There is a litany of non-violent crimes that a person could be incarcerated for. Gascón himself even said that the policy mainly extends to people incarcerated on misdemeanor or non-violent, non-serious felony offenses, so why are they talking about bloodshed?
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Cops are just so damn extra about any attempt at creating a more equitable justice system. They are the biggest group of weirdos I’ve ever seen by far, and I say this as a man who’s attended many anime conventions.
Gascón also announced that his office will no longer be seeking the death penalty in cases, and will work to ensure those currently on death row will be resentenced to life in prison. “The death penalty does not make us safer,” Gascón said. “It’s racist, morally untenable, irreversible, and expensive. And today, it’s off the table.” He also announced that his office will also no longer charge children as adults, calling the practice “traumatic” and “dehumanizing.”
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One of the more notable pledges Gascón made was to reopen multiple police use of force cases stemming from as far back as 2012, with plans to commission a “Use of Force Board,” composed of community members, civil attorneys and experts on policing to assist him with the endeavor.
“I recognize that these are big changes, but they are changes that will enable us to actually affect the truly vulnerable,” Gascón said while being sworn in. Gascón beat eight-year incumbent Jackie Lacey during last month’s elections.


theroot--2020-12-08--The Real Race Card: The White Identity Politics of Georgia's Senate Race

If America were truly colorblind , could it see whiteness ?
Both races in Georgia ’ s heated Senate runoffs are essentially tied and many are wondering which metrics Georgia voters will use to cast the votes that will decide which political party controls America ’ s most exclusive legislative body .
In case you haven ’ t noticed , Sens .
David Perdue ( R-Ga. ) and Kelly Loeffler ( R-Ga. ) are white .
Conversely , Loeffler ’ s opponent , Rev .
Raphael Warnock is Black while Jon Ossoff , who is looking to unseat Perdue , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
For a world-class race-baiter like myself , it would be easy to lob accusations of white privilege and insist that Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue wouldn ’ t have a chance in hell of being elected into the legislature ’ s upper chamber if they were not white .
Normally , I would eschew the trite commentary regurgitated by the punditry class and examine the racial aspects of the contest because it ’ s literally why The Root exists .
However , after hearing the incessant pleas to end my fascination with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ succumb to the wishes of white America .
I ’ m hanging up my race-baiting rod and reel .
No longer shall I point out the racism perpetuated by racists .
Moving forward , I will not inject my racial biases into political coverage .
Instead , I shall talk about ... well , I haven ’ t quite figured that part out yet ; perhaps you might be able to help me out .
Instead of focusing on this race through the prism of identity politics , perhaps we can examine the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have an actual racist bone in its body .
Will Georgia voters cast their ballots according to political ideology , economic factors or even conservative values ?
Or is this race about whiteness ?
Black candidates have never had the privilege of playing this game .
For a Black person to be successful in the arena of politics , an arcane concept called “ democracy ” means Black candidates must appeal to white voters .
I haven ’ t seen a survey , but I would guess that 99 percent of Georgia ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a white person in an election .
Meanwhile , Georgia ’ s white voters have never elected a Black senator , governor or presidential candidate .
Identity politics is one of the Republican Party ’ s oldest tools .
Of course , when the GOP engages in this practice , it is euphemistically called “ economic anxiety , ” “ appealing to the working class , ” “ populism ” or “ making America great again.
” When politicians blame Obama for high taxes , the existence of racism and the Falcons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Super Bowl , you can rest assured they ’ re warming up for a heated game of “ Amirite , white people ?
” In the Georgia races , Loeffler has seized upon Warnock ’ s sermons to cast him as a “ radical , ” anti-white and a hater of Israel .
Meanwhile , Perdue ’ s campaign has dog-whistled about Ossoff ’ s Jewish heritage in campaign ads and has once hinted that Perdue wished Barack Obama would die soon .
Ultimately , identity politicians are betting that voters of no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ personal values or even experience .
But does it work ?
While Warnock has never held an elected office , he gained prominence in Georgia ’ s political scene advocating for Medicare expansion and voting rights , including serving as the chairman of the nonpartisan New Georgia Project .
Ossoff , on the other hand , has five years of experience as a national security congressional staffer and held a top-secret clearance .
Perdue has represented Georgia in the Senate since 2014 .
That ’ s it .
He hasn ’ t passed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years ( unless you count naming a Columbus , Ga. , post office ) .
Perdue chose to highlight his political positions by ducking the most recent Senate debate against Ossoff .
The fact that Loeffler was appointed to the Senate having never served in an elected position or in any capacity in public service has nothing to do with white privilege .
Although Loeffler doesn ’ t technically have a political record , I ’ m sure there are examples of Black people who received political appointments after handing out more than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one political party .
Hold up , let me find it .
Ossoff and Warnock support Medicaid expansion , common-sense gun reform , COVID stimulus and taxing the wealthy , which could concern Georgians who are worried about socialism and big government .
Small-government conservatives would probably reject a candidate whose family receives millions in welfare , as Loeffler ’ s has done for decades .
Everyone knows that Georgians don ’ t appreciate government handouts like the tax break Perdue tried to deliver for his wealthy friends .
Kelly Loeffler and David @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , fought against expanding healthcare to the poor and publicly support Trump ’ s efforts to give every American COVID-19 by refusing to wear masks at campaign events .
There ’ s just one problem with the GOP ’ s warnings about Warnock and Perdue ’ s liberal agenda : The vast majority of Georgians like these policies .
According to a Journal-Constitution poll , 71 percent of Georgia voters are in favor of Medicare expansion and 83 percent oppose open gun laws .
Fifty-five percent of Georgians support Warnock and Ossoff ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ percent favor a tax increase on wealthy individuals .
In fact , 8 out of 10 Georgians favor some form of a tax increase to specifically help children , rural communities and low-income families .
A large number of Georgians believe their votes should be counted .
Perhaps , instead of policy issues , Georgia voters are considering the candidates ’ shared values .
Georgia is a socially conservative state that touts Christian morals , including honesty and hard work .
Warnock , Perdue and Ossoff were born and raised in Georgia .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the fields , ” she was born and raised on a multimillion-dollar farm that was passed down from her grandparents .
Perdue went on to become a business mogul while Loeffler also became a business mogul , by marrying a business mogul , who made her CEO of a subsidiary of his company before financing her political career .
Aside from being two of the wealthiest members of the Senate , Loeffler and Perdue are considered two of the most brazenly corrupt politicians in America .
Ossoff is a child of Jewish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the public .
In high school , he interned for Congressman John Lewis and worked as an investigative journalist exposing human rights violations around the world .
Meanwhile , Warnock worked his way through college and has literally spent his life serving God .
Of course , Warnock and Ossoff ’ s religious values may not count because their Gods are not American .
If Kelly Loeffler or David Perdue ’ s campaigns are successful , it won ’ t be because Georgians support their political ideologies .
If this race were about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be a runaway .
If Georgia voters were choosing their next senator on the basis of hard work , education , accomplishments , faith , integrity , economic policy , social agenda , or relatability , the preacher and the journalist would triumph easily over the Real Housewife of King ’ s Landing and Sen. Ramsay Bolton There is only one logical reason that could possibly explain why the Georgia race is so close and everyone knows what that reason is :

If America were truly colorblind, could it see whiteness?
Both races in Georgia’s heated Senate runoffs are essentially tied and many are wondering which metrics Georgia voters will use to cast the votes that will decide which political party controls America’s most exclusive legislative body. In case you haven’t noticed, Sens. David Perdue (R-Ga.) and Kelly Loeffler (R-Ga.) are white. Conversely, Loeffler’s opponent, Rev. Raphael Warnock is Black while Jon Ossoff, who is looking to unseat Perdue, is Jewish.
But does that matter?
For a world-class race-baiter like myself, it would be easy to lob accusations of white privilege and insist that Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue wouldn’t have a chance in hell of being elected into the legislature’s upper chamber if they were not white. Normally, I would eschew the trite commentary regurgitated by the punditry class and examine the racial aspects of the contest because it’s literally why The Root exists.
Advertisement
However, after hearing the incessant pleas to end my fascination with white supremacy, I finally decided to succumb to the wishes of white America. I’m hanging up my race-baiting rod and reel. No longer shall I point out the racism perpetuated by racists. Moving forward, I will not inject my racial biases into political coverage. Instead, I shall talk about...well, I haven’t quite figured that part out yet; perhaps you might be able to help me out.
Instead of focusing on this race through the prism of identity politics, perhaps we can examine the candidates as if America didn’t have an actual racist bone in its body. Will Georgia voters cast their ballots according to political ideology, economic factors or even conservative values?
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Or is this race about whiteness?
What Is Identity Politics?
Identity Politics: politics in which groups of people having a particular racial, religious, ethnic, social, or cultural identity tend to promote their own specific interests or concerns without regard to the interests or concerns of any larger political group
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Black candidates have never had the privilege of playing this game. For a Black person to be successful in the arena of politics, an arcane concept called “democracy” means Black candidates must appeal to white voters.
I haven’t seen a survey, but I would guess that 99 percent of Georgia’s Black voters—regardless of party affiliation—have voted for a white person in an election. Meanwhile, Georgia’s white voters have never elected a Black senator, governor or presidential candidate.
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Identity politics is one of the Republican Party’s oldest tools. Of course, when the GOP engages in this practice, it is euphemistically called “economic anxiety,” “appealing to the working class,” “populism” or “making America great again.” When politicians blame Obama for high taxes, the existence of racism and the Falcons blowing a 25-point fourth-quarter lead in the Super Bowl, you can rest assured they’re warming up for a heated game of “Amirite, white people?”
In the Georgia races, Loeffler has seized upon Warnock’s sermons to cast him as a “radical,” anti-white and a hater of Israel. Meanwhile, Perdue’s campaign has dog-whistled about Ossoff’s Jewish heritage in campaign ads and has once hinted that Perdue wished Barack Obama would die soon.
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This is identity politics.
Ultimately, identity politicians are betting that voters of no color value whiteness more than policy, personal values or even experience.
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But does it work?
Political Experience
While Warnock has never held an elected office, he gained prominence in Georgia’s political scene advocating for Medicare expansion and voting rights, including serving as the chairman of the nonpartisan New Georgia Project. Ossoff, on the other hand, has five years of experience as a national security congressional staffer and held a top-secret clearance.
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Perdue has represented Georgia in the Senate since 2014. That’s it. He hasn’t passed a significant piece of legislation in six years (unless you count naming a Columbus, Ga., post office). Perdue chose to highlight his political positions by ducking the most recent Senate debate against Ossoff.
The fact that Loeffler was appointed to the Senate having never served in an elected position or in any capacity in public service has nothing to do with white privilege. Although Loeffler doesn’t technically have a political record, I’m sure there are examples of Black people who received political appointments after handing out more than $3 million in political donations to one political party. Hold up, let me find it.
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Still looking.
Political Positions
Ossoff and Warnock support Medicaid expansion, common-sense gun reform, COVID stimulus and taxing the wealthy, which could concern Georgians who are worried about socialism and big government.
Advertisement
Small-government conservatives would probably reject a candidate whose family receives millions in welfare, as Loeffler’s has done for decades. Everyone knows that Georgians don’t appreciate government handouts like the tax break Perdue tried to deliver for his wealthy friends. Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue both believe in the death penalty, fought against expanding healthcare to the poor and publicly support Trump’s efforts to give every American COVID-19 by refusing to wear masks at campaign events.
They call that “pro-life.”
There’s just one problem with the GOP’s warnings about Warnock and Perdue’s liberal agenda:
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The vast majority of Georgians like these policies.
According to a Journal-Constitution poll, 71 percent of Georgia voters are in favor of Medicare expansion and 83 percent oppose open gun laws. Fifty-five percent of Georgians support Warnock and Ossoff’s pro-choice stance on abortion and 61 percent favor a tax increase on wealthy individuals. In fact, 8 out of 10 Georgians favor some form of a tax increase to specifically help children, rural communities and low-income families.
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Damn socialists.
A large number of Georgians believe their votes should be counted.
Georgia Values
Perhaps, instead of policy issues, Georgia voters are considering the candidates’ shared values. Georgia is a socially conservative state that touts Christian morals, including honesty and hard work.
Advertisement
Warnock, Perdue and Ossoff were born and raised in Georgia. While Kelly Loeffler insists she “worked in the fields,” she was born and raised on a multimillion-dollar farm that was passed down from her grandparents. Perdue went on to become a business mogul while Loeffler also became a business mogul, by marrying a business mogul, who made her CEO of a subsidiary of his company before financing her political career.
Aside from being two of the wealthiest members of the Senate, Loeffler and Perdue are considered two of the most brazenly corrupt politicians in America. Ossoff is a child of Jewish immigrants and dedicated his time to serving the public. In high school, he interned for Congressman John Lewis and worked as an investigative journalist exposing human rights violations around the world. Meanwhile, Warnock worked his way through college and has literally spent his life serving God.
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Of course, Warnock and Ossoff’s religious values may not count because their Gods are not white American.
If Kelly Loeffler or David Perdue’s campaigns are successful, it won’t be because Georgians support their political ideologies. If this race were about experience or moral values, it would be a runaway. If Georgia voters were choosing their next senator on the basis of hard work, education, accomplishments, faith, integrity, economic policy, social agenda, or relatability, the preacher and the journalist would triumph easily over the Real Housewife of King’s Landing and Sen. Ramsay Bolton
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There is only one logical reason that could possibly explain why the Georgia race is so close and everyone knows what that reason is:
This is Obama’s fault.


theroot--2020-12-08--The 10 Best Deals of December 8, 2020

The 10 Best Deals of December 8, 2020

It ’ s December 8 , and we at Kinja Deals are here to bring you the top 10 deals of the day .
Prepare for the holidays with this gingerbread house kit .
Drown out your in-laws this season with Sony WH-1000XM4 noise-canceling headphones .
And snag the Aukey 1080p 1.5 '' dash cam because safety is always in style regardless of the season .
And if you ’ re still craving more deals , take a peek at Tuesday ’ s best deals overall .
Are you the friend constantly asking if anyone has a charger ?
Or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could plug your phone in somewhere ?
The second option is probably not on the table now so what better way to solve the problem than by grabbing these two Power Banks for $ 30 .
I ’ ve had Mophie products before and really like them .
This two-pack is a great value so whether it ’ s you who needs these or a friend no one should be without power again .
I personally like to have one at all times so having two means I can swap out each day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is out and about with me .
Lightweight and is available in two color options ( blue and deep blue still available ) you ’ ll get up to 34 hours of extra power on the go .
Charge up to two devices at once with the lightning cable for an iPhone and a USB-C port .
You and can juice up a phone and/or a tablet or wireless headphones at the same time if need be .
This pack comes with two guide books so if you are gifting one the recipient @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
If you ’ ve read a few of our pieces on SideDeal before and you like what you ’ ve seen they offer a $ 5 monthly fee to get free shipping on all of your orders no matter how many .
Otherwise , it ’ s a flat rate of $ 8 .
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari .
Had a long week.
?
Same .
Why not kick it with some CBD goods to bring your weekend relaxation to another level ?
We will even help you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % off all products with the code KINJA50 .
If you ’ re not sure where to start , we recommend checking out Cornbread Hemp ’ s CBD oil .
It claims this is the strongest CBD oil you can find that is also USDA certified whole plant organic .
And if you ’ re stressed out from the holidays , you can grab a Holiday Survival Kit , only $ 53 after discount that can chill you the hell out so you can spend time with family , together or apart .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ original stuff ( which has 25MG CBD per milliliter ) for $ 32 after discount .
If you want even more CBD goodness packed into every drop , the extra strength version is available with 50MG per milliliter in a larger bottle for $ 82 after discount .
Cornbread Hemp ships to all 50 states and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee if you ’ re not happy with their products , making this purchase the least stressful thing about your weekend .
This deal was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher .
I may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ charging docks , but I do know a good , affordable product when I see one .
For just $ 21 with the code KINJAWDI , you can charge your iPhone , headphones , and Apple Watch all at once with an Aukey 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Dock .
You ’ ll be able to power up your phone to 10W , and your Apple Watch and headphones up to 5W .
It ’ s backed by a USB-C wire to seamlessly and quickly boost your battery overnight .
What are you waiting for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ignacia Fulcher .
You ’ re probably not traveling anytime soon , but one day , you will again .
When the day finally comes where you can get on a train or airplane again , you ’ ll want to be prepared for any long trip you have planned .
That ’ s where something like a gaming laptop comes in handy .
Right now , you can grab a Dell G3 $ 300 off , taking it down to $ 700 .
As far as laptops go , this one has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It runs an Intel Core i5 processor and GeForce GTX 1650 Ti graphics card .
The 16.5 '' full HD screen features a 120 Hz refresh rate , so there ’ s a fair amount of power here for graphics hounds .
It ’ s also VR ready , which is less useful for portable reasons , unless you want to break out a Vive on an Amtrak .
All things considered , it ’ s a solid entry level price point for anyone looking to add some more versatility to their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ originally published by Giovanni Colantonio .
If you missed the last few towel deals we covered you ’ re in luck , but this one is going fast too .
Use the code FRIEND and grab a Tommy Hilfiger Cotton Bath Towel for only $ 7 .
That ’ s over 60 % off the original price .
Because this is such a great deal there are only three colors left in the 30 '' x 54 '' size .
But if these are just extras then you might not mind them coming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
These are uber soft and super absorbent , basically , the two things you look for in a big fluffy bath towel .
They ’ re 100 % cotton and machine washable .
This deal is expected to run until December 22 unless they run out first .
By the looks of things that ’ s highly likely so if you want them buy now .
This deal was originally posted by Sheilah Villari .
For many , working from home this year has been a tricky adjustment .
Among the many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your housemates will make as you try to focus on your work .
Asking to keep the noise down might work , but it can also cause some tension , and it ’ s never any fun .
Spare yourself the trouble with the Sony WH-1000XM4 noise-canceling headphones .
Typically they ’ d cost you $ 350 , but they ’ re down to about $ 280 today .
I ’ ve been testing them for the past couple days , and the noise-cancellation is a joy when your neighbors have a symphony @ @ @ @ @ @ @ review , Gizmodo ’ s Andrew Liszewski says they provide the best noise-canceling experience , and you can easily switch between two paired devices , so you can toggle from a laptop to a phone before getting started on a home workout or heading out for a walk .
This deal was originally published by Jordan McMahon .
We ’ ve been talking about a lot of games over the past month , but there ’ s one that got a little lost in all the next-gen hype .
Devil May Cry V @ @ @ @ @ @ @ best console launch game we saw this November , Demon ’ s Souls be damned .
The expanded version of 2019 's excellent action game , which features a motorcycle sword and a magical cowboy hat , improves on the original by adding Vergil as a playable character and optimizing it for new consoles .
If you missed out on it and are looking for something to play on your Xbox Series X or PlayStation 5 , you can grab it for $ 27 on Amazon .
You ’ ll need to click @ @ @ @ @ @ @ apply the discount and then you ’ ll see the savings at checkout .
This deal was originally published by Giovanni Colantonio .
Listen up , so called gamers .
I see many of you out there claiming to be the ultimate game God .
You say you have 400 hours in Stellaris or that your K/D is sitting pretty at 15.0 in Call of Duty : Black Ops Cold War .
That don ’ t impress-a me much .
A TRUE gamer doesn ’ t need any of those meaningless accolades .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ is one thing : stuff that lights up .
Yeah , that ’ s right .
If your PC can ’ t flag down an airplane , are you really a gamer ?
Think about that , casual .
In the meantime , check out this Logitech Lightsync gaming mouse , which is on sale for $ 15 at Amazon .
It ’ s a precise mouse with all sorts of sensitivity customization options , but let ’ s cut to the chase : the sucker lights up .
You can select between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make sure your mouse can be better seen from space .
If you want to be considered a real gamer in God ’ s eyes , $ 15 is a small price to pay for entry to those great RGB gates .
This deal was originally published by Giovanni Colantonio .
I know dash cams are popular for a number of reasons but never really understood exactly how useful they are until I saw one in action .
A few months ago a biker hit my pal ’ s car head-on while he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ footage was unpleasant it helped him and the police see exactly where the guy came from and how he cut across lanes of traffic and just didn ’ t even seen that the light was red and traffic was stopped .
You can grab this Aukey 1080p 1.5 '' Dash Cam and protect you and those around you no matter where you travel .
Just clip the coupon and use the code 5B8SV2PD .
The size allows you to be discreet about the positioning as this will fit perfectly behind the rear mirror @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still produces sharp video and is about to capture a wide dynamic range of angles even at night .
There is an emergency recording ability to it ’ ll automatically record any accidents and make sure they aren ’ t overwritten .
It does this by using loop recording so unused footage is discarded first .
There is an Aukey hardwire kit you can purchase if you want all-day monitoring .
Other than that it ’ s easy to install and operate .
This will ship free for Prime members .
This deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If you plan on staying home for the holidays , as you should be , maybe you need a festive activity to keep up the yuletide cheer alive .
A Gingerbread House is as traditional as it comes and can be fun at any age .
This one from Bed Bath & Beyond is just $ 10 unless you sign up for their membership then it ’ s just $ 8 .
This is a great way to pass the time inside since so much outside is still closed or has major restrictions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ constructing this fine Gingerbread cottage .
I like that it lists a 9-month shelf life so if for some reason you get wily in spring and want to make an Easter gingerbread mansion be my guest .
This house will be about 12 '' long and 10 '' high so plenty of real estate to work with .
Your decorating options are candy lights , large gumballs , mini jellies , and lots of edible multicolor beads .
There ’ s premixed frosting with two different tips to help you keep it all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as you want and add your favorite treats or candies to it to really make it your own .
Free shipping on all orders over $ 19 .
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari .

Juliana Clark on Kinja Deals, shared by Ignacia to The Root

Tuesday’s Best Deals | Kinja Deals
It’s December 8, and we at Kinja Deals are here to bring you the top 10 deals of the day. Prepare for the holidays with this gingerbread house kit. Drown out your in-laws this season with Sony WH-1000XM4 noise-canceling headphones. And snag the Aukey 1080p 1.5" dash cam because safety is always in style regardless of the season.
And if you’re still craving more deals, take a peek at Tuesday’s best deals overall.
#1: Mophie 10,000mah powerstation
Are you the friend constantly asking if anyone has a charger? Or pre-pandemic were you asking bartenders if you could plug your phone in somewhere? The second option is probably not on the table now so what better way to solve the problem than by grabbing these two Power Banks for $30.
I’ve had Mophie products before and really like them. This two-pack is a great value so whether it’s you who needs these or a friend no one should be without power again. I personally like to have one at all times so having two means I can swap out each day. Have one charging while the other is out and about with me. Lightweight and is available in two color options (blue and deep blue still available) you’ll get up to 34 hours of extra power on the go. Charge up to two devices at once with the lightning cable for an iPhone and a USB-C port. You and can juice up a phone and/or a tablet or wireless headphones at the same time if need be. This pack comes with two guide books so if you are gifting one the recipient won’t be without a manual.
If you’ve read a few of our pieces on SideDeal before and you like what you’ve seen they offer a $5 monthly fee to get free shipping on all of your orders no matter how many. Otherwise, it’s a flat rate of $8.
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari.
#2: Cornbread hemp cbd
Had a long week.? Same. Why not kick it with some CBD goods to bring your weekend relaxation to another level? We will even help you out with an exclusive offer of 50% off all products with the code KINJA50.
If you’re not sure where to start, we recommend checking out Cornbread Hemp’s CBD oil. It claims this is the strongest CBD oil you can find that is also USDA certified whole plant organic.
And if you’re stressed out from the holidays, you can grab a Holiday Survival Kit, only $53 after discount that can chill you the hell out so you can spend time with family, together or apart.
You can get a bottle of the original stuff (which has 25MG CBD per milliliter) for $32 after discount. If you want even more CBD goodness packed into every drop, the extra strength version is available with 50MG per milliliter in a larger bottle for $82 after discount.
Cornbread Hemp ships to all 50 states and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee if you’re not happy with their products, making this purchase the least stressful thing about your weekend.
This deal was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher.
#3: Aukey 3-in-1 charging deck
I may be new when it comes to wireless charging docks, but I do know a good, affordable product when I see one. For just $21 with the code KINJAWDI, you can charge your iPhone, headphones, and Apple Watch all at once with an Aukey 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Dock. You’ll be able to power up your phone to 10W, and your Apple Watch and headphones up to 5W. It’s backed by a USB-C wire to seamlessly and quickly boost your battery overnight. What are you waiting for?
This deal was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher.
#4: Dell g3 gaming laptop
You’re probably not traveling anytime soon, but one day, you will again. When the day finally comes where you can get on a train or airplane again, you’ll want to be prepared for any long trip you have planned. That’s where something like a gaming laptop comes in handy. Right now, you can grab a Dell G3 $300 off, taking it down to $700. As far as laptops go, this one has some solid features for its price tag. It runs an Intel Core i5 processor and GeForce GTX 1650 Ti graphics card. The 16.5" full HD screen features a 120 Hz refresh rate, so there’s a fair amount of power here for graphics hounds. It’s also VR ready, which is less useful for portable reasons, unless you want to break out a Vive on an Amtrak. All things considered, it’s a solid entry level price point for anyone looking to add some more versatility to their PC gaming lives.
This deal was originally published by Giovanni Colantonio.
#5: Tommy Hilfiger cotton bath towels
If you missed the last few towel deals we covered you’re in luck, but this one is going fast too. Use the code FRIEND and grab a Tommy Hilfiger Cotton Bath Towel for only $7. That’s over 60% off the original price.
Because this is such a great deal there are only three colors left in the 30" x 54" size. But if these are just extras then you might not mind them coming in red, blue, or black. These are uber soft and super absorbent, basically, the two things you look for in a big fluffy bath towel. They’re 100% cotton and machine washable. This deal is expected to run until December 22 unless they run out first. By the looks of things that’s highly likely so if you want them buy now.
Macy’s is now offering free shipping.
Save $5 Tommy Hilfiger Cotton Bath Towels Super-soft absorbent cotton with the embroidered logo.
Rejuvenate your bathroom with the cool shades of this Tommy Hilfiger collection. Buy for $13 at Macy's Use the promo code FRIEND
This deal was originally posted by Sheilah Villari.
#6: Sony wh1000xm4 headphones
For many, working from home this year has been a tricky adjustment. Among the many frustrations and inconveniences are the many noises your housemates will make as you try to focus on your work. Asking to keep the noise down might work, but it can also cause some tension, and it’s never any fun. Spare yourself the trouble with the Sony WH-1000XM4 noise-canceling headphones. Typically they’d cost you $350, but they’re down to about $280 today. I’ve been testing them for the past couple days, and the noise-cancellation is a joy when your neighbors have a symphony of dogs on standby.
In his review, Gizmodo’s Andrew Liszewski says they provide the best noise-canceling experience, and you can easily switch between two paired devices, so you can toggle from a laptop to a phone before getting started on a home workout or heading out for a walk.
This deal was originally published by Jordan McMahon.
#7: Devil may cry V
We’ve been talking about a lot of games over the past month, but there’s one that got a little lost in all the next-gen hype. Devil May Cry V: Special Edition may honestly be the best console launch game we saw this November, Demon’s Souls be damned. The expanded version of 2019's excellent action game, which features a motorcycle sword and a magical cowboy hat, improves on the original by adding Vergil as a playable character and optimizing it for new consoles. If you missed out on it and are looking for something to play on your Xbox Series X or PlayStation 5, you can grab it for $27 on Amazon. You’ll need to click the coupon button underneath the price to apply the discount and then you’ll see the savings at checkout.
This deal was originally published by Giovanni Colantonio.
#8: Logitech gaming mouse
Listen up, so called gamers. I see many of you out there claiming to be the ultimate game God. You say you have 400 hours in Stellaris or that your K/D is sitting pretty at 15.0 in Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War. That don’t impress-a me much. A TRUE gamer doesn’t need any of those meaningless accolades. All it takes to be a gamer is one thing: stuff that lights up. Yeah, that’s right. If your PC can’t flag down an airplane, are you really a gamer? Think about that, casual. In the meantime, check out this Logitech Lightsync gaming mouse, which is on sale for $15 at Amazon. It’s a precise mouse with all sorts of sensitivity customization options, but let’s cut to the chase: the sucker lights up. You can select between different color presets and animation options to make sure your mouse can be better seen from space. If you want to be considered a real gamer in God’s eyes, $15 is a small price to pay for entry to those great RGB gates.
This deal was originally published by Giovanni Colantonio.
#9: aukey dash cam
I know dash cams are popular for a number of reasons but never really understood exactly how useful they are until I saw one in action. A few months ago a biker hit my pal’s car head-on while he was at a stoplight. While the footage was unpleasant it helped him and the police see exactly where the guy came from and how he cut across lanes of traffic and just didn’t even seen that the light was red and traffic was stopped. You can grab this Aukey 1080p 1.5" Dash Cam and protect you and those around you no matter where you travel. Just clip the coupon and use the code 5B8SV2PD.
The size allows you to be discreet about the positioning as this will fit perfectly behind the rear mirror. But given its size, it still produces sharp video and is about to capture a wide dynamic range of angles even at night. There is an emergency recording ability to it’ll automatically record any accidents and make sure they aren’t overwritten. It does this by using loop recording so unused footage is discarded first. There is an Aukey hardwire kit you can purchase if you want all-day monitoring. Other than that it’s easy to install and operate.
This will ship free for Prime members.
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari.
#10: Gingerbread house kit
If you plan on staying home for the holidays, as you should be, maybe you need a festive activity to keep up the yuletide cheer alive. A Gingerbread House is as traditional as it comes and can be fun at any age. This one from Bed Bath & Beyond is just $10 unless you sign up for their membership then it’s just $8.
This is a great way to pass the time inside since so much outside is still closed or has major restrictions. Spend a cozy afternoon decorating and constructing this fine Gingerbread cottage. I like that it lists a 9-month shelf life so if for some reason you get wily in spring and want to make an Easter gingerbread mansion be my guest. This house will be about 12" long and 10" high so plenty of real estate to work with. Your decorating options are candy lights, large gumballs, mini jellies, and lots of edible multicolor beads. There’s premixed frosting with two different tips to help you keep it all together. Obviously, be as creative as you want and add your favorite treats or candies to it to really make it your own.
Free shipping on all orders over $19.
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari.


theroot--2020-12-08--Oh Hey, Jackée! Days of Our Lives Adds Jackée Harry to Its Iconic Series

Emmy-award winning actress and director Jackée Harry has been tapped to star in a new role in the long-running NBC soap Days of Our Lives .
During an appearance on the Today Show , Harry expressed her excitement on joining the show : I am going to be joining the cast of a big , big soap opera on NBC , Days of Our Lives .
She ’ s fabulous .
You know I play the fabulous woman you know , It ’ s a brand-new storyline with African Americans .
And they ’ ve been at the forefront of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of diversity on Days of Our Lives .
I don ’ t want to give away the storyline but I have a daughter and , you know , ain ’ t nothing but trouble in River City .
But I ’ m told I ’ ll be fabulous .
Per a press release sent to The Root , Harry will “ play the role of a new character , Paulina , who comes to Salem to reconnect with her family .
New to town , the successful and outspoken Paulina will be connected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fictitious Midwestern town of Salem , Days of Our Lives follows the Bradys , Hortons , and DiMeras families with their multilayered storylines filled to the brim with romance , adventure , mystery , comedy and drama .
Viewers can catch Harry as she makes her debut as Paulina on Days in March 2021 on NBC .
But if you ’ re like me and can ’ t wait to see what sort of funny flair she ’ s gon na bring , look no further than her Twitter feed to help tide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ apparently had this account since 2011 , her timeline over the last few months has been particularly hilarious , due in large part to Harry ’ s various and arguably out-of-pocket musings .
Don ’ t believe me ?
See for yourself : Between Jackée and Dionne Warwick , I don ’ t know whether I want to dust off my Fashions By Lisa original and go scouting for suitors or dial 1-800-YOU-HUSSY and judge all my neighbors for not socially distancing .
( Both , you say ?
I should do both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re absolutely right . )
While you help me make up my mind and while we wait for her Days debut , be sure to catch Harry ’ s new original movie , A Christmas For Mary , which airs tonight at 9 ET only on OWN .

Shanelle Genai on The Grapevine, shared by Shanelle Genai to The Root

Emmy-award winning actress and director Jackée Harry has been tapped to star in a new role in the long-running NBC soap Days of Our Lives. During an appearance on the Today Show, Harry expressed her excitement on joining the show:
I am going to be joining the cast of a big, big soap opera on NBC, Days of Our Lives. She’s fabulous. You know I play the fabulous woman you know, It’s a brand-new storyline with African Americans. And they’ve been at the forefront of hiring minorities; they have a lot of diversity on Days of Our Lives. I don’t want to give away the storyline but I have a daughter and, you know, ain’t nothing but trouble in River City. But I’m told I’ll be fabulous.
Per a press release sent to The Root, Harry will “play the role of a new character, Paulina, who comes to Salem to reconnect with her family. New to town, the successful and outspoken Paulina will be connected to the Carvers.” Set in the fictitious Midwestern town of Salem, Days of Our Lives follows the Bradys, Hortons, and DiMeras families with their multilayered storylines filled to the brim with romance, adventure, mystery, comedy and drama. Viewers can catch Harry as she makes her debut as Paulina on Days in March 2021 on NBC. But if you’re like me and can’t wait to see what sort of funny flair she’s gonna bring, look no further than her Twitter feed to help tide you over. Though she’s apparently had this account since 2011, her timeline over the last few months has been particularly hilarious, due in large part to Harry’s various and arguably out-of-pocket musings. Don’t believe me? See for yourself:
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Between Jackée and Dionne Warwick, I don’t know whether I want to dust off my Fashions By Lisa original and go scouting for suitors or dial 1-800-YOU-HUSSY and judge all my neighbors for not socially distancing. (Both, you say? I should do both? Both are good, you’re absolutely right.) While you help me make up my mind and while we wait for her Days debut, be sure to catch Harry’s new original movie, A Christmas For Mary, which airs tonight at 9 ET only on OWN.


theroot--2020-12-08--Activists Are Primed to Fight GOP Voter Suppression Tactics In Georgia's Runoff

A report in September revealed that nearly 200,000 people have been purged from the voter rolls in Georgia , and investigative journalist Greg Palast , Black Voters Matter and other activist organizations are trying to make sure those folks have a right to cast their ballots in the Jan. 5 runoff , which will determine who controls the U.S. Senate .
Palast , whose investigative work ( pdf ) serves as key evidence of the lawsuit , told The Root that the state of Georgia illegally took people off the rolls and that he and his fellow plaintiffs expect a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ state ’ s decision .
The lawsuit is also challenging the state ’ s “ use it or lose it laws , ” which take voters off the rolls if they have not voted in several elections or if a resident has mail returned .
The secretary of state , the lawsuit alleges , assumes people have moved if they haven ’ t had contact with an election official in three years , voted in the “ next two federal elections ” or if mail is returned .
Palast added that some of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not know about the state ’ s actions , including some Republicans .
At the heart of the lawsuit is the argument that the state used unlicensed vendors to determine who no longer is eligible to vote .
By Georgia law , if you move away from your district , you are no longer eligible to vote .
Residents usually fill out change of address cards at the post office to verify the move .
Under the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 , no citizen can be removed from voter rolls unless @ @ @ @ @ @ @ changed their registered jurisdiction or other reasons outlined in the act .
The problem is that the state , the lawsuit claims , did not use a vendor licensed by the United States Postal Service to determine if the people they pulled off the rolls actually moved .
According to Palast , there are 18 eligible vendors the USPS uses to determine correct mailing addresses , none of which Georgia ’ s secretary of state used .
Palast hired several USPS vendors to verify the state ’ s list and found most of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Palast says the state hired “ some guy who lives on a golf course in Nebraska ” to verify the state ’ s list .
After an extensive investigation , Palast and the ACLU of Georgia published their findings in September that revealed , of the 313 , 243 people the state took off the rolls , 198,351 still resided at their addresses .
That is an error rate of 63.3 percent , according to Palast ’ s findings .
The ACLU of Georgia presented these findings to Secretary of State Brad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rejected their findings .
He said he gave Raffensberger 90 days to review their findings before filing the lawsuit challenging the state to restore those voters back to the rolls .
Palast believes the state purged these voters because the GOP believes higher turnouts don ’ t favor them .
“ When maintaining the voter rolls becomes a mass purge of voters you don ’ t like , then it ’ s just Jim Crow , ” he said .
“ It ’ s changing white sheets for spreadsheets.
” Lawyers working on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ civil rights experts in America , including Fred Grey , whose client list includes Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. , Claudette Colvin and Rosa Parks , who were charged with disorderly conduct for refusing to sit at the back of the bus , as well as Tricia “ CK ” Hoffler and Barbara Arnwine .
Palast said he and the other plaintiffs are confident the judge will rule in their favor Thursday .
“ This stuff is highly technical , ” he said .
“ They never thought they would get caught.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Georgia is collaborating with the Lawyer Committee , Coalition for the People ’ s Agenda and other groups to ensure voters are protected during the runoff and encourages anyone who runs into issues to call the Election Protection Hotline at 1-800-OUR VOTE .
They are also recruiting and training poll workers and expect to deploy 2,000 of them to work for the counties on the day of the runoff .
Republicans are already playing voter suppression games in Cobb County , the state ’ s third-largest county , by opening fewer than half @ @ @ @ @ @ @ low staff numbers , local officials said keeping all the stations open is too heavy a burden for their office .
“ It was not our desire to reduce the number of early voting locations for the runoff , but unfortunately it became a necessity , ” Janine Eveler , the Cobb County director of elections , said in a statement , the Times reports .
She said that the county lost some managers to holidays , a continuing workload from the November elections and the pandemic .
“ We are at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are tired or just unwilling to work so hard , especially during this time of year.
” Biden won the county by more than 14 percentage points .
Andrea Young , head of the ACLU of Georgia , sees the voter suppression tactics Republicans are playing akin to changing the rules of an NFL game .
“ It ’ s kind of like being in the middle of a football game and somebody says , ‘ Oh no .
It takes 20 yards to get a first down .
Not ten.
’ So @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rules in the middle of the game , ” she told The Root .
“ We ’ re constantly fighting that at the same time we ’ re trying to make people understand this is not over .
I am telling folks there is no better Christmas present you can give your loved ones than your vote in this runoff.
” While the lawyers are handling the legal battle , LaTosha Brown , co-founder of Black Voters Matter , is in the streets organizing people to turn out again , as she believes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ state ’ s voter suppression efforts .
Keep in mind that Gov .
Brian Kemp , as secretary of state , stole the 2018 gubernatorial election from Stacey Abrams , so he has no incentive to ensure the integrity of the 2020 election .
Much of Black Voters Matter ’ s work focuses on educating voters around poll watching and ensuring they understand how to protect themselves against any form of voter intimidation and disinformation .
But when asked what she feels is driving the GOP ’ s voter suppression tactics , Brown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plain .
“ The majority of white people in this country do not believe in democracy , ” she told The Root .
“ Democracy has been used as a frame to justify white control of everybody else in this country and globally .
The idea of democracy has been used as a talking point to validate a government of superiority , of American exceptionalism .
The actual value of democracy , the majority of white America does not believe in it.
” Since the 1990s , Democrats have won just one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mother Jones .
But this year is different because activist groups with millions in cash to boot have engaged the state ’ s growing majority-minority population for at least four years and saw progress in 2018 and victory in 2020 with Biden winning the state .
Also , civil rights groups have learned from 2018 , challenging state signature match laws with some success .
Basically , it is harder for Republicans to cheat now because activists are aware of their tricks and have defenses and offenses ready for them .
Then , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Senators David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler have called on Raffensberger to step down after refusing to entertain President Trump ’ s bogus claims of voter irregularities .
Trump is maligning Kemp for refusing to overturn the election results , which he doesn ’ t have the power to do anyway .
Besides the momentum of Biden winning the state , the Democratic candidates are giving voters hope , Brown said .
Warnock , pastor of the very church in which Dr. King preached , carries a lot of weight with Black voters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in our communities .
Then there is the state ’ s poor management of the pandemic and its blatant attempts at voter suppression that Brown believes will energize people to defy the Republican leadership .
Above all , Brown believes Georgia is in play and state Republicans know the days of getting away with blatant voter suppression unchallenged will not go unnoticed and without a fight .
“ You can ’ t let them get no edge , ” she said .
“ They got ta know that anything they do will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the environment so that they will be always watched and held accountable .
”

A report in September revealed that nearly 200,000 people have been purged from the voter rolls in Georgia, and investigative journalist Greg Palast, Black Voters Matter and other activist organizations are trying to make sure those folks have a right to cast their ballots in the Jan. 5 runoff, which will determine who controls the U.S. Senate.
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Palast, whose investigative work (pdf) serves as key evidence of the lawsuit, told The Root that the state of Georgia illegally took people off the rolls and that he and his fellow plaintiffs expect a federal judge on Thursday to reverse the state’s decision. The lawsuit is also challenging the state’s “use it or lose it laws,” which take voters off the rolls if they have not voted in several elections or if a resident has mail returned. The secretary of state, the lawsuit alleges, assumes people have moved if they haven’t had contact with an election official in three years, voted in the “next two federal elections” or if mail is returned.
Palast added that some of the people on the purge list did not know about the state’s actions, including some Republicans. At the heart of the lawsuit is the argument that the state used unlicensed vendors to determine who no longer is eligible to vote.
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By Georgia law, if you move away from your district, you are no longer eligible to vote. Residents usually fill out change of address cards at the post office to verify the move. Under the National Voter Registration Act of 1993, no citizen can be removed from voter rolls unless there is reasonable evidence that the person changed their registered jurisdiction or other reasons outlined in the act. The problem is that the state, the lawsuit claims, did not use a vendor licensed by the United States Postal Service to determine if the people they pulled off the rolls actually moved. According to Palast, there are 18 eligible vendors the USPS uses to determine correct mailing addresses, none of which Georgia’s secretary of state used. Palast hired several USPS vendors to verify the state’s list and found most of the people did not move.
Comparatively, Palast says the state hired “some guy who lives on a golf course in Nebraska” to verify the state’s list.
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After an extensive investigation, Palast and the ACLU of Georgia published their findings in September that revealed, of the 313, 243 people the state took off the rolls, 198,351 still resided at their addresses. That is an error rate of 63.3 percent, according to Palast’s findings. The ACLU of Georgia presented these findings to Secretary of State Brad Raffensberger, who, Palast said, rejected their findings. He said he gave Raffensberger 90 days to review their findings before filing the lawsuit challenging the state to restore those voters back to the rolls. Palast believes the state purged these voters because the GOP believes higher turnouts don’t favor them.
“When maintaining the voter rolls becomes a mass purge of voters you don’t like, then it’s just Jim Crow,” he said. “It’s changing white sheets for spreadsheets.”
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Lawyers working on behalf of the plaintiffs are the best civil rights experts in America, including Fred Grey, whose client list includes Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Claudette Colvin and Rosa Parks, who were charged with disorderly conduct for refusing to sit at the back of the bus, as well as Tricia “CK” Hoffler and Barbara Arnwine.
Palast said he and the other plaintiffs are confident the judge will rule in their favor Thursday. “This stuff is highly technical,” he said. “They never thought they would get caught.”
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Beyond the lawsuit, the ACLU of Georgia is collaborating with the Lawyer Committee, Coalition for the People’s Agenda and other groups to ensure voters are protected during the runoff and encourages anyone who runs into issues to call the Election Protection Hotline at 1-800-OUR VOTE. They are also recruiting and training poll workers and expect to deploy 2,000 of them to work for the counties on the day of the runoff.
Republicans are already playing voter suppression games in Cobb County, the state’s third-largest county, by opening fewer than half of the early voting locations. Citing low staff numbers, local officials said keeping all the stations open is too heavy a burden for their office.
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“It was not our desire to reduce the number of early voting locations for the runoff, but unfortunately it became a necessity,” Janine Eveler, the Cobb County director of elections, said in a statement, the Times reports. She said that the county lost some managers to holidays, a continuing workload from the November elections and the pandemic. “We are at the end of the election cycle and many are tired or just unwilling to work so hard, especially during this time of year.”
Biden won the county by more than 14 percentage points.
Andrea Young, head of the ACLU of Georgia, sees the voter suppression tactics Republicans are playing akin to changing the rules of an NFL game.
Advertisement
“It’s kind of like being in the middle of a football game and somebody says, ‘Oh no. It takes 20 yards to get a first down. Not ten.’ So they’re trying to change the rules in the middle of the game,” she told The Root. “We’re constantly fighting that at the same time we’re trying to make people understand this is not over. I am telling folks there is no better Christmas present you can give your loved ones than your vote in this runoff.”
While the lawyers are handling the legal battle, LaTosha Brown, co-founder of Black Voters Matter, is in the streets organizing people to turn out again, as she believes an overperformance is required to overcome the state’s voter suppression efforts. Keep in mind that Gov. Brian Kemp, as secretary of state, stole the 2018 gubernatorial election from Stacey Abrams, so he has no incentive to ensure the integrity of the 2020 election.
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Much of Black Voters Matter’s work focuses on educating voters around poll watching and ensuring they understand how to protect themselves against any form of voter intimidation and disinformation. But when asked what she feels is driving the GOP’s voter suppression tactics, Brown hesitated for a moment before making it plain.
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“The majority of white people in this country do not believe in democracy,” she told The Root. “Democracy has been used as a frame to justify white control of everybody else in this country and globally. The idea of democracy has been used as a talking point to validate a government of superiority, of American exceptionalism. The actual value of democracy, the majority of white America does not believe in it.”
Since the 1990s, Democrats have won just one of seven runoffs in Georgia, according to Mother Jones. But this year is different because activist groups with millions in cash to boot have engaged the state’s growing majority-minority population for at least four years and saw progress in 2018 and victory in 2020 with Biden winning the state. Also, civil rights groups have learned from 2018, challenging state signature match laws with some success. Basically, it is harder for Republicans to cheat now because activists are aware of their tricks and have defenses and offenses ready for them.
Advertisement
Then, there is the infighting with state Republicans. Senators David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler have called on Raffensberger to step down after refusing to entertain President Trump’s bogus claims of voter irregularities. Trump is maligning Kemp for refusing to overturn the election results, which he doesn’t have the power to do anyway.
Besides the momentum of Biden winning the state, the Democratic candidates are giving voters hope, Brown said. Warnock, pastor of the very church in which Dr. King preached, carries a lot of weight with Black voters because of the cultural importance ministers have in our communities. Then there is the state’s poor management of the pandemic and its blatant attempts at voter suppression that Brown believes will energize people to defy the Republican leadership.
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Above all, Brown believes Georgia is in play and state Republicans know the days of getting away with blatant voter suppression unchallenged will not go unnoticed and without a fight.
“You can’t let them get no edge,” she said. “They gotta know that anything they do will be fought. You have to build up the environment so that they will be always watched and held accountable.”