westernjournal--2020-07-02--Biden Vows To End Trump Tax Cuts That Helped Millions of Working-Class Americans

It ’ s not an official slogan for former Vice President Joe Biden ’ s campaign , but it would be a fitting one after the Democrats ’ presumptive presidential nominee vowed to raise taxes Monday .
Democrats love to talk about raising taxes , and why not ?
It ’ s free money for them to use on social experiments and to give away by the cargo plane-load to the country ’ s adversaries .
But Biden took a serious tone about taxes on Monday when he told his donors during a virtual call that he would do away @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reported .
“ I ’ m going to get rid of the bulk of Trump ’ s $ 2 trillion tax cut , ” he said , “ and a lot of you may not like that but I ’ m going to close loopholes like capital gains and stepped-up basis.
” Trump cut the corporate tax rate to 21 percent down from 35 percent in 2017 to spark an economy that broke the ceiling after being stifled by eight years of Obama and Biden ’ s feckless leadership on the economy .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ elected , he will raise that rate to 28 percent in order to raise $ 1.3 trillion over the next ten years .
Nobody was described as a “ lying dog face ” during the conversation , which is good , but Biden did add , “ We have to think as big as the challenge we face .
But this is America , there is nothing we can not do if we do it together.
” “ But I think the country is ready , ” he said .
American families are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Party played coy about a coronavirus that has left the American economy a shell of its former self .
To be fair , the virus itself hasn ’ t left millions of Americans unemployed .
It ’ s just left many of them dead .
It is Biden ’ s fellow Democrats sitting in governors ’ mansions who have kept their economies muzzled with an iron fist .
One can only speculate as to why .
RELATED : Official Resolution Calls for Democratic Party To Change Name Over Racist Past Our once-robust economy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ large part to the Trump tax cuts .
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 has been lining Americans ’ pockets for two and a half years .
The Heritage Foundation praised the Trump tax cuts in December , on their second anniversary , for simplifying tax codes , giving both businesses and individuals a break and for making American companies globally competitive again .
“ Using IRS data , The Heritage Foundation found that average households in every congressional district were projected to benefit from a tax cut in 2018 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ lower employer withholding and thus bigger paychecks , ” the conservative think tank noted .
“ The average American was projected to get a $ 1,400 tax cut in 2018 and $ 2,900 for a family of four.
” The Trump tax cuts additionally led to higher wages in the country and increased confidence for investors .
The economy , amid a chaotic social environment , asinine rhetoric from Democrats and shutdowns of businesses is still trying to come back from where it was in March , when minority unemployment was at an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ That speaks volumes about the legacy of the 2017 tax cuts and how job creators and investors still believe they can thrive when unrestrained by an overburdensome government .
If Biden is elected in November , you could be grappling with living in a country that has a revised history and social workers responding to homicide and robbery calls .
You ’ ll also likely be disarmed to a degree when mobs come after what little you have left after Beto O ’ Rourke comes after your guns .
But at least you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thieves to steal .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Make America Pay Again.
It’s not an official slogan for former Vice President Joe Biden’s campaign, but it would be a fitting one after the Democrats’ presumptive presidential nominee vowed to raise taxes Monday.
Democrats love to talk about raising taxes, and why not?
It’s free money for them to use on social experiments and to give away by the cargo plane-load to the country’s adversaries.
But Biden took a serious tone about taxes on Monday when he told his donors during a virtual call that he would do away with the Trump tax cuts, CNBC reported.
“I’m going to get rid of the bulk of Trump’s $2 trillion tax cut,” he said, “and a lot of you may not like that but I’m going to close loopholes like capital gains and stepped-up basis.”
Trump cut the corporate tax rate to 21 percent down from 35 percent in 2017 to spark an economy that broke the ceiling after being stifled by eight years of Obama and Biden’s feckless leadership on the economy.
Biden told the donors that, if elected, he will raise that rate to 28 percent in order to raise $1.3 trillion over the next ten years.
Nobody was described as a “lying dog face” during the conversation, which is good, but Biden did add, “We have to think as big as the challenge we face. But this is America, there is nothing we cannot do if we do it together.”
Do you think President Trump will be re-elected? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 98% (616 Votes) No: 2% (15 Votes)
“But I think the country is ready,” he said.
American families are already struggling enough after the Chinese Communist Party played coy about a coronavirus that has left the American economy a shell of its former self.
To be fair, the virus itself hasn’t left millions of Americans unemployed. It’s just left many of them dead.
It is Biden’s fellow Democrats sitting in governors’ mansions who have kept their economies muzzled with an iron fist.
One can only speculate as to why.
Our once-robust economy, though, could be credited in large part to the Trump tax cuts.
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 has been lining Americans’ pockets for two and a half years.
The Heritage Foundation praised the Trump tax cuts in December, on their second anniversary, for simplifying tax codes, giving both businesses and individuals a break and for making American companies globally competitive again.
“Using IRS data, The Heritage Foundation found that average households in every congressional district were projected to benefit from a tax cut in 2018. Most Americans received their tax cut through lower employer withholding and thus bigger paychecks,” the conservative think tank noted.
“The average American was projected to get a $1,400 tax cut in 2018 and $2,900 for a family of four.”
The Trump tax cuts additionally led to higher wages in the country and increased confidence for investors.
The economy, amid a chaotic social environment, asinine rhetoric from Democrats and shutdowns of businesses is still trying to come back from where it was in March, when minority unemployment was at an all-time low and business was booming.
That speaks volumes about the legacy of the 2017 tax cuts and how job creators and investors still believe they can thrive when unrestrained by an overburdensome government.
If Biden is elected in November, you could be grappling with living in a country that has a revised history and social workers responding to homicide and robbery calls.
You’ll also likely be disarmed to a degree when mobs come after what little you have left after Beto O’Rourke comes after your guns.
But at least you’ll have less money for the thieves to steal.
That’s a silver lining.
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westernjournal--2020-07-02--Virginia Dems Propose Stripping Protection from Cops as Mob Grows Even More Violent

State lawmakers in Virginia are proposing the removal of a powerful legal protection for police officers , a change that would allow those who assault a cop to walk away with a much lighter charge .
Virginia state Senate Democrats announced the proposal Friday as part of a list of potential reforms to the commonwealth ’ s criminal justice system , the Virginia Mercury reported .
The agenda ’ s announcement came on the same day rioters assaulted officers protecting a Robert E. Lee monument in Richmond during a violent clash that saw six arrests .
The aggressive protesters peppered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ hard objects ” at responding officers , the Richmond Police claimed .
TRENDING : DNC Calls Mt .
Rushmore Independence Day Celebration ‘ White Supremacy ’ Rally , Tries To Take It Back One of the individuals allegedly firing paintballs was arrested for assaulting a law enforcement officer , the same charge that Democrats in the state Senate are now seeking to protect violent rioters from .
Along with weakening a charge designed to protect cops , firemen , and EMTs , the sweeping reform agenda proposes removing several other protections from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Police Reform and Criminal Justice Equity Plan ” also includes measures to alter courtrooms and the prison system .
Citing the deaths of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd , lawmakers proposed prohibiting no-knock warrants and chokeholds and requiring officers to exhaust all other means before shooting a suspect .
The agenda would also prevent officers from firing at moving vehicles .
Despite the uncomfortable level of violence police in Virginia and nationwide are now facing , cops in the commonwealth are now finding themselves being held accountable for months-old incidents .
One Alexandria @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a suspect before forcing him to the ground in January , is now in the process of being fired from the department as he faces an assault charge .
According to The Associated Press , the officer ’ s supervisors were also disciplined for not investigating the encounter quickly enough .
RELATED : Cops Get Called on Kids Playing Basketball , Police Show Up To Join the Game While bad police officers need to be held accountable for their misdeeds , the punishment can not be a general stripping of legal protection from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assault law as it currently stands , criminals have little to gain and much to lose by assaulting police officers and other first responders .
With this protection removed , members of the mob would no longer have to fear a felony for simply assaulting a cop .
As rioters are openly calling for violence against law enforcement officers , it ’ s clear that this is the worst time possible for Virginia Democrats ’ progressive criminal justice experiment .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
@ @ @ @ @

State lawmakers in Virginia are proposing the removal of a powerful legal protection for police officers, a change that would allow those who assault a cop to walk away with a much lighter charge.
Virginia state Senate Democrats announced the proposal Friday as part of a list of potential reforms to the commonwealth’s criminal justice system, the Virginia Mercury reported.
The agenda’s announcement came on the same day rioters assaulted officers protecting a Robert E. Lee monument in Richmond during a violent clash that saw six arrests.
The aggressive protesters peppered cops with paintballs Friday night before throwing “hard objects” at responding officers, the Richmond Police claimed.
OVERNIGHT UPDATE: 6 arrests made pic.twitter.com/ehhoTDJSiU — Richmond Police (@RichmondPolice) June 27, 2020
One of the individuals allegedly firing paintballs was arrested for assaulting a law enforcement officer, the same charge that Democrats in the state Senate are now seeking to protect violent rioters from.
Along with weakening a charge designed to protect cops, firemen, and EMTs, the sweeping reform agenda proposes removing several other protections from police officers.
State Democrats’ “Police Reform and Criminal Justice Equity Plan” also includes measures to alter courtrooms and the prison system.
Should assaulting a cop be a felony? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 98% (627 Votes) No: 2% (10 Votes)
Citing the deaths of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd, lawmakers proposed prohibiting no-knock warrants and chokeholds and requiring officers to exhaust all other means before shooting a suspect.
The agenda would also prevent officers from firing at moving vehicles.
Despite the uncomfortable level of violence police in Virginia and nationwide are now facing, cops in the commonwealth are now finding themselves being held accountable for months-old incidents.
One Alexandria, Virginia, officer, who arrested a suspect before forcing him to the ground in January, is now in the process of being fired from the department as he faces an assault charge.
According to The Associated Press, the officer’s supervisors were also disciplined for not investigating the encounter quickly enough.
While bad police officers need to be held accountable for their misdeeds, the punishment cannot be a general stripping of legal protection from every cop.
Under Virginia’s assault law as it currently stands, criminals have little to gain and much to lose by assaulting police officers and other first responders.
With this protection removed, members of the mob would no longer have to fear a felony for simply assaulting a cop.
As rioters are openly calling for violence against law enforcement officers, it’s clear that this is the worst time possible for Virginia Democrats’ progressive criminal justice experiment.
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westernjournal--2020-07-01--After GOP Gov Appeals, Fed Court Halts Ruling Allowing FL Felons To Vote

A federal appellate court has halted a lower court ruling that gave Florida felons the right to vote .
In May , a federal judge in Tallahassee ruled that Florida law can ’ t stop an estimated 774,000 felons from voting because they can ’ t pay back any legal fees and restitution they owe .
The ruling by U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle called the law a “ pay-to-vote system.
” But Republican Gov .
Ron DeSantis immediately appealed that ruling to the Atlanta-based 11th U.S .
Circuit Court of Appeals , requesting a stay of Hinkle ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the full appeals court .
The appellate court , in an order issued Wednesday , granted both requests .
The court gave no timeline as to when it would hear the case .
“ Today ’ s decision is a setback , ” according to Paul Smith , vice president of Campaign Legal Center , which is representing felons seeking access to the ballot box under Amendment 4 , a measure that sought to return voting rights to released felons .
“ The district court ’ s decision to block Florida ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ precedent , ” he added .
“ We are hopeful that the court of appeals will follow suit and confirm once and for all that wealth can not determine a person ’ s eligibility to vote.
” The governor ’ s spokeswoman , Helen Ferre , said there would be no comment on the litigation until it is settled .
Under Amendment 4 , felons who have completed their sentences would have voting rights restored .
But the legal dispute arose after state lawmakers moved to define what it means to complete a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , lawmakers stipulated that all legal financial obligations , including unpaid fines and restitution , would also have to be settled before a felon could be eligible to vote .
Amendment 4 permanently bars convicted murderers and rapists from voting , regardless of financial debts .
The stay , if it extends into the fall , could influence the election outcome in November .
Florida ’ s felons represent a significant bloc in a state well known for razor-thin election margins .
Hinkle ’ s ruling said state elections officials were ill-prepared to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ registration applications that could arrive ahead of the state ’ s August primary and the November presidential vote .
RELATED : Hundreds of George W. Bush Alumni Turn Their Backs on GOP , Make Move To Help Biden We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

A federal appellate court has halted a lower court ruling that gave Florida felons the right to vote.
In May, a federal judge in Tallahassee ruled that Florida law can’t stop an estimated 774,000 felons from voting because they can’t pay back any legal fees and restitution they owe.
The ruling by U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle called the law a “pay-to-vote system.”
But Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis immediately appealed that ruling to the Atlanta-based 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, requesting a stay of Hinkle’s ruling and a review of the case by the full appeals court.
The appellate court, in an order issued Wednesday, granted both requests. The court gave no timeline as to when it would hear the case.
“Today’s decision is a setback,” according to Paul Smith, vice president of Campaign Legal Center, which is representing felons seeking access to the ballot box under Amendment 4, a measure that sought to return voting rights to released felons.
“The district court’s decision to block Florida’s pay-to-vote system followed clear Supreme Court precedent,” he added.
“We are hopeful that the court of appeals will follow suit and confirm once and for all that wealth cannot determine a person’s eligibility to vote.”
The governor’s spokeswoman, Helen Ferre, said there would be no comment on the litigation until it is settled.
Do you believe felons should have the right to vote? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 3% (2 Votes) No: 97% (72 Votes)
Under Amendment 4, felons who have completed their sentences would have voting rights restored.
But the legal dispute arose after state lawmakers moved to define what it means to complete a sentence. In addition to time served, lawmakers stipulated that all legal financial obligations, including unpaid fines and restitution, would also have to be settled before a felon could be eligible to vote.
Amendment 4 permanently bars convicted murderers and rapists from voting, regardless of financial debts.
The stay, if it extends into the fall, could influence the election outcome in November. Florida’s felons represent a significant bloc in a state well known for razor-thin election margins.
Hinkle’s ruling said state elections officials were ill-prepared to review the hundreds of thousands of voter registration applications that could arrive ahead of the state’s August primary and the November presidential vote.
[jwplayer FRiLTHL4]
The Western Journal has reviewed this Associated Press story and may have altered it prior to publication to ensure that it meets our editorial standards.
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westernjournal--2020-07-03--Now Even the WHO Is Saying You Shouldn’t Wear a Mask in Public All the Time

As political forces in the United States push for strict mask mandates to fight the spread of the coronavirus , new guidance issued by the World Health Organization undermines the left ’ s claim that people must be forced to wear the protective equipment in public .
The WHO posted the updated recommendations in a Wednesday tweet .
This most recent change , which outlines when people should not wear a mask in public , follows months of inconsistent information from the group about face coverings .
“ People should NOT wear masks when exercising , ” the WHO ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may reduce the ability to breathe comfortably.
” When wet with sweat , the organization explained , masks become more difficult to breathe through .
It said unmasked people should keep a distance of “ at least one meter ” from others while exercising .
TRENDING : DNC Calls Mt .
Rushmore Independence Day Celebration 'White Supremacy ' Rally , Tries To Take It Back In other words , the globe ’ s top health organization is OK with maskless people being about 3 feet apart in public — something that is now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Of course , Democratic leaders can ’ t shoulder all the blame for this one , no matter how much we want them to .
World and local leaders could only make decisions based on the information they have , and for many of them , some of this expert knowledge came from the WHO ’ s disastrously inconsistent guidelines .
“ If you are healthy , ” the organization wrote in February , “ you only need to wear a mask if you are taking care of a person with suspected [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that protective masks are an important piece of the puzzle in smashing the spread of the virus .
In late May , more than two months after the WHO declared a global pandemic , it was still recommending that only the sick and those taking care of the infected should wear masks .
As hotspots formed around the world and domestic cases neared 2 million in early June , the WHO issued an apparent reversal of its previous position .
“ In light of evolving evidence , ” WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that governments should encourage the general public to wear masks where there is widespread transmission and physical distancing is difficult , such as on public transport , in shops or in other confined or crowded environments.
” Considering the organization ’ s flip-flopping on the issue of masks , there ’ s no telling where “ evolving evidence ” will lead us in the future .
If there ’ s one that has become apparent during this pandemic , it ’ s that the WHO failed the world with its ineptitude and favoritism @ @ @ @ @ @ @ global health group is unable to make a consistent recommendation on the seemingly simple subject of face coverings .
It appears as though the WHO isn ’ t quite the corps of experts and policymakers Democrats seem to think it is .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

As political forces in the United States push for strict mask mandates to fight the spread of the coronavirus, new guidance issued by the World Health Organization undermines the left’s claim that people must be forced to wear the protective equipment in public.
The WHO posted the updated recommendations in a Wednesday tweet.
This most recent change, which outlines when people should not wear a mask in public, follows months of inconsistent information from the group about face coverings.
“People should NOT wear masks when exercising,” the WHO’s update reads, “as masks may reduce the ability to breathe comfortably.”
When wet with sweat, the organization explained, masks become more difficult to breathe through. It said unmasked people should keep a distance of “at least one meter” from others while exercising.
Q: Can people wear masks while exercising?
A: People should NOT wear masks when exercising as masks may reduce the ability to breathe comfortably. More ➡ https://t.co/TdKoGmWrIr#COVID19 #coronavirus #KnowTheFacts pic.twitter.com/vDtg0khRzY — World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) July 1, 2020
In other words, the globe’s top health organization is OK with maskless people being about 3 feet apart in public — something that is now against the law in Washington state.
Of course, Democratic leaders can’t shoulder all the blame for this one, no matter how much we want them to.
Do you wear a mask in public? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 33% (710 Votes) No: 67% (1417 Votes)
World and local leaders could only make decisions based on the information they have, and for many of them, some of this expert knowledge came from the WHO’s disastrously inconsistent guidelines.
“If you are healthy,” the organization wrote in February, “you only need to wear a mask if you are taking care of a person with suspected [COVID-19] infection.”
We now know that protective masks are an important piece of the puzzle in smashing the spread of the virus.
In late May, more than two months after the WHO declared a global pandemic, it was still recommending that only the sick and those taking care of the infected should wear masks.
As hotspots formed around the world and domestic cases neared 2 million in early June, the WHO issued an apparent reversal of its previous position.
“In light of evolving evidence,” WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said last month, “WHO advises that governments should encourage the general public to wear masks where there is widespread transmission and physical distancing is difficult, such as on public transport, in shops or in other confined or crowded environments.”
Considering the organization’s flip-flopping on the issue of masks, there’s no telling where “evolving evidence” will lead us in the future.
If there’s one that has become apparent during this pandemic, it’s that the WHO failed the world with its ineptitude and favoritism toward China.
Even now, the global health group is unable to make a consistent recommendation on the seemingly simple subject of face coverings.
It appears as though the WHO isn’t quite the corps of experts and policymakers Democrats seem to think it is.
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westernjournal--2020-07-02--Rep. Schiff’s Anti-Trump Crusade Backfires, Report Says His Staff Knew of Russian Bounty Plan Months

Rep. Schiff’s Anti-Trump Crusade Backfires, Report Says His Staff Knew of Russian Bounty Plan Months Ago

A new report raises serious questions regarding what House Intelligence Committee Chairman Rep. Adam Schiff knew about bounties allegedly paid by Russia to Taliban-linked terrorists for killing American soldiers , and when he knew it .
The report from The Federalist is based on anonymous “ intelligence sources , ” and The Western Journal is unable to independently verify the outlet ’ s sourcing or the accuracy of those sources ’ claims .
However , we are providing this commentary due to the pertinence of the report and the past reliability of one of its authors , Mollie Hemingway .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff for Schiff were briefed all the way back in February on intelligence about a Russian military intelligence unit covertly offering the bounties to militants .
But the California Democrat “ took no action in response , ” the outlet reported , citing those sources .
The New York Times was the first outlet to report on the bounties , and notably , the outlet claimed President Donald Trump had been briefed on the matter .
“ American intelligence officials have concluded that a Russian military intelligence unit secretly offered bounties to Taliban-linked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — including targeting American troops — amid the peace talks to end the long-running war there , according to officials briefed on the matter , ” The Times reported last week .
TRENDING : DNC Calls Mt .
Rushmore Independence Day Celebration 'White Supremacy ' Rally , Tries To Take It Back “ The intelligence finding was briefed to President Trump , and the White House ’ s National Security Council discussed the problem at an interagency meeting in late March.
” But the Trump administration has strongly pushed back on the claim @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the allegations in recent press articles have not been verified or substantiated by the Intelligence Community , President Trump had not been briefed on the items .
Nevertheless , the Administration , including the National Security Council staff , have been preparing should the situation warrant action , ” National Security Advisor Robert O ’ Brien said in a statement .
During a news conference on Tuesday , Schiff attacked the president for his alleged failure to “ get to the bottom ” of the matter , and claimed intelligence officials may be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he doesn ’ t want to hear.
” “ I find it inexplicable in light of these very public allegations that the president hasn ’ t come before the country and assured the American people that he will get to the bottom of whether Russians are putting a bounty on the heads of American troops and that he will do everything in his power to make sure that we protect American troops , ” he said .
“ There may be a reluctance to brief the president on things he doesn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be more true with respect to [ Vladimir ] Putin and Putin ’ s Russia than with respect to any other subject matter.
” The problem with this narrative ?
If The Federalist ’ s reporting is accurate , then the congressman ’ s own staff knew about the alleged bounties months ago , yet Schiff did nothing .
Schiff is now being forced to run for cover regarding his staff ’ s alleged knowledge of the matter .
RELATED : In Joke Sure To Delight Conservatives , Schiff Indicates Move to Canada @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a spokesman for the congressman on the intelligence committee , did not respond to a request for comment by The Federalist .
When asked by a reporter on Tuesday if he had any prior knowledge of the alleged bounties before The New York Times report came out , Schiff replied : “ I can ’ t comment on specifics.
” Schiff is attacking Trump , claiming he hasn ’ t done enough to address to respond to the allegations .
Yet if The Federalist ’ s report is true , and his staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ winter , then why did Schiff not disclose the information to Congress or conduct hearings ?
The California Democrat has spent much of Trump ’ s presidency trying to bring him down on false Russian collusion stories .
In the past , he has claimed to have evidence that the 2016 Trump campaign was in cahoots with the Kremlin to steal the election , and to this day , that evidence has never surfaced .
What has surfaced , however , is an allegation that Schiff did exactly what he is accusing Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a reported Russian plan to kill Americans and doing nothing about it .
This is just another notch in the belt of Schiff ’ s lengthy history of letting his hatred for Trump be the only factor guiding his decisions .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

A new report raises serious questions regarding what House Intelligence Committee Chairman Rep. Adam Schiff knew about bounties allegedly paid by Russia to Taliban-linked terrorists for killing American soldiers, and when he knew it.
The report from The Federalist is based on anonymous “intelligence sources,” and The Western Journal is unable to independently verify the outlet’s sourcing or the accuracy of those sources’ claims. However, we are providing this commentary due to the pertinence of the report and the past reliability of one of its authors, Mollie Hemingway.
Sources told the outlet that top committee staff for Schiff were briefed all the way back in February on intelligence about a Russian military intelligence unit covertly offering the bounties to militants. But the California Democrat “took no action in response,” the outlet reported, citing those sources.
The New York Times was the first outlet to report on the bounties, and notably, the outlet claimed President Donald Trump had been briefed on the matter.
“American intelligence officials have concluded that a Russian military intelligence unit secretly offered bounties to Taliban-linked militants for killing coalition forces in Afghanistan — including targeting American troops — amid the peace talks to end the long-running war there, according to officials briefed on the matter,” The Times reported last week.
“The intelligence finding was briefed to President Trump, and the White House’s National Security Council discussed the problem at an interagency meeting in late March.”
But the Trump administration has strongly pushed back on the claim that Trump was briefed.
Intel just reported to me that they did not find this info credible, and therefore did not report it to me or @VP. Possibly another fabricated Russia Hoax, maybe by the Fake News @nytimesbooks, wanting to make Republicans look bad!!! https://t.co/cowOmP7T1S — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 29, 2020
“Because the allegations in recent press articles have not been verified or substantiated by the Intelligence Community, President Trump had not been briefed on the items. Nevertheless, the Administration, including the National Security Council staff, have been preparing should the situation warrant action,” National Security Advisor Robert O’Brien said in a statement.
Do you believe Schiff knew about the reported bounties in February? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 96% (3297 Votes) No: 4% (153 Votes)
During a news conference on Tuesday, Schiff attacked the president for his alleged failure to “get to the bottom” of the matter, and claimed intelligence officials may be reluctant to brief Trump “on things he doesn’t want to hear.”
“I find it inexplicable in light of these very public allegations that the president hasn’t come before the country and assured the American people that he will get to the bottom of whether Russians are putting a bounty on the heads of American troops and that he will do everything in his power to make sure that we protect American troops,” he said.
“There may be a reluctance to brief the president on things he doesn’t want to hear, and that may be more true with respect to [Vladimir] Putin and Putin’s Russia than with respect to any other subject matter.”
But there’s a serious problem with that narrative, if The Federalist’s reporting is accurate:
The congressman’s own staff knew about the alleged bounties months ago, yet Schiff did nothing.
Schiff is now being forced to run for cover regarding his staff’s alleged knowledge of the matter.
Patrick Boland, a spokesman for the congressman on the intelligence committee, did not respond to a request for comment by The Federalist.
When asked by a reporter on Tuesday if he had any prior knowledge of the alleged bounties before The New York Times report came out, Schiff replied: “I can’t comment on specifics.”
That sure sounds like politician-speak for “Yes, but I don’t want to tell you about it.”
Schiff is attacking Trump, claiming he hasn’t done enough to address to respond to the allegations.
Yet if The Federalist’s report is true, and his staff was indeed briefed on the matter last winter, then why did Schiff not disclose the information to Congress or conduct hearings?
The California Democrat has spent much of Trump’s presidency trying to bring him down on false Russian collusion stories.
In the past, he has claimed to have evidence that the 2016 Trump campaign was in cahoots with the Kremlin to steal the election, and to this day, that evidence has never surfaced.
What has surfaced, however, is an allegation that Schiff did exactly what he is accusing Trump of doing right now — learning about a reported Russian plan to kill Americans and doing nothing about it.
This is just another notch in the belt of Schiff’s lengthy history of letting his hatred for Trump be the only factor guiding his decisions.
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westernjournal--2020-07-02--As BLM Reveals Its Radical Agenda, Major UK Organization Begins Distancing Itself

The BBC and other U.K. companies appear to be distancing themselves from the Black Lives Matter movement .
For instance , officials at BBC have reportedly told their reporters not to wear BLM badges .
“ The BBC can not be seen to support any kind of cause over another , and Black Lives Matter is certainly a campaign , ” an anonymous senior source at the BBC told The Daily Telegraph .
“ Therefore we wouldn ’ t want anyone on-screen to be wearing visual symbols of support .
Our presenters and guests can discuss Black Lives Matter , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in depth .
We ’ re not impartial about racism .
But wearing badges on screen — as with any other campaign — would be a step too far.
” A BBC spokesperson from told The Independent that there ’ s been no change of policy at the network .
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Rushmore Independence Day Celebration 'White Supremacy ' Rally , Tries To Take It Back “ It is long established that BBC broadcasters and journalists don ’ t tend to wear campaign insignia and badges , and absolutely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” the spokesperson said .
Other organizations in the UK have also begun to distance themselves from the BLM movement .
Despite issuing a lengthy statement expressing solidarity with the “ moral cause and campaign ” that is Black Lives Matter , Sky Sports started allowing its pundits to decide whether or not to wear BLM badges ahead of the network ’ s Tuesday night soccer coverage , according to the Daily Mail .
Notably , commentators Patrice Evra , Jamie Redknapp and Gary Neville all decided to ditch their badges , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chief executive Richard Masters attempted to make a “ clear distinction between a moral cause and a political movement or agenda.
” “ Whilst there might be difficulties sometimes dividing the two , our position is clear : Politics no , moral causes yes , when agreed .
As I said we ’ re living in special times at the moment , ” Masters said this week during a hearing before Parliament ’ s Digital , Culture , Media and Sport Committee The U.K. arm of Black Lives Matter has come under fire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PALESTINE , ” along with its suggestion that “ mainstream British politics is gagged ” when it comes to debating the Israel-Palestine issue .
RELATED : Larry Elder 's Must-See New Film Tells the True History of Black America and Dismantles the BLM Narrative Marie van der Zyl , president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews , criticized BLM U.K. ’ s stance in an interview with Jewish News , saying it was “ beyond disappointing ” that a “ supposedly anti-racist organization has leaned into the antisemitic trope that British @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of debating Israel , a claim particularly preposterous because Israel is one of the most-discussed foreign policy issues in this country.
” In the U.S. , Black Lives Matters leaders have never been particularly shy about expressing the group ’ s political goals .
In a 2015 interview , BLM co-founder Patrisse Cullors identified herself and fellow co-founder Alicia Garza as “ trained Marxists.
” “ We actually do have an ideological frame , ” Cullors said .
“ Myself and Alicia , in particular , are trained organizers .
“ We are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on ideological theories and I think that what we really try to do is build a movement that could be utilized by many , many black folk.
” And on June 24 , the president of Black Lives Matter of Greater New York , Hawk Newsome , told Fox News indicated the group intends to “ burn down this system.
” “ I said if this country doesn ’ t give us what we want , then we will burn down this system and replace it .
All right ?
” Newsome said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ figuratively , I could be speaking literally .
It ’ s a matter of interpretation.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The BBC and other U.K. companies appear to be distancing themselves from the Black Lives Matter movement.
For instance, officials at BBC have reportedly told their reporters not to wear BLM badges.
“The BBC cannot be seen to support any kind of cause over another, and Black Lives Matter is certainly a campaign,” an anonymous senior source at the BBC told The Daily Telegraph.
“Therefore we wouldn’t want anyone on-screen to be wearing visual symbols of support. Our presenters and guests can discuss Black Lives Matter, and we’ve reported on it in depth. We’re not impartial about racism. But wearing badges on screen — as with any other campaign — would be a step too far.”
A BBC spokesperson from told The Independent that there’s been no change of policy at the network.
“It is long established that BBC broadcasters and journalists don’t tend to wear campaign insignia and badges, and absolutely nothing about that principle has changed,” the spokesperson said.
Other organizations in the UK have also begun to distance themselves from the BLM movement.
Despite issuing a lengthy statement expressing solidarity with the “moral cause and campaign” that is Black Lives Matter, Sky Sports started allowing its pundits to decide whether or not to wear BLM badges ahead of the network’s Tuesday night soccer coverage, according to the Daily Mail.
Notably, commentators Patrice Evra, Jamie Redknapp and Gary Neville all decided to ditch their badges, the outlet reported.
Is Black Lives Matter a political movement? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 94% (551 Votes) No: 6% (35 Votes)
Meanwhile, Premier League chief executive Richard Masters attempted to make a “clear distinction between a moral cause and a political movement or agenda.”
“Whilst there might be difficulties sometimes dividing the two, our position is clear: Politics no, moral causes yes, when agreed. As I said we’re living in special times at the moment,” Masters said this week during a hearing before Parliament’s Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee
The U.K. arm of Black Lives Matter has come under fire for its recent call to “FREE PALESTINE,” along with its suggestion that “mainstream British politics is gagged” when it comes to debating the Israel-Palestine issue.
As Israel moves forward with the annexation of the West Bank, and mainstream British politics is gagged of the right to critique Zionism, and Israel’s settler colonial pursuits, we loudly and clearly stand beside our Palestinian comrades. FREE PALESTINE. — #BlackLivesMatterUK (@ukblm) June 28, 2020
Marie van der Zyl, president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, criticized BLM U.K.’s stance in an interview with Jewish News, saying it was “beyond disappointing” that a “supposedly anti-racist organization has leaned into the antisemitic trope that British politics is ‘gagged’ in terms of debating Israel, a claim particularly preposterous because Israel is one of the most-discussed foreign policy issues in this country.”
In the U.S., Black Lives Matters leaders have never been particularly shy about expressing the group’s political goals.
In a 2015 interview, BLM co-founder Patrisse Cullors identified herself and fellow co-founder Alicia Garza as “trained Marxists.”
“We actually do have an ideological frame,” Cullors said. “Myself and Alicia, in particular, are trained organizers.
“We are trained Marxists. We are super versed on ideological theories and I think that what we really try to do is build a movement that could be utilized by many, many black folk.”
And on June 24, the president of Black Lives Matter of Greater New York, Hawk Newsome, told Fox News indicated the group intends to “burn down this system.”
“I said if this country doesn’t give us what we want, then we will burn down this system and replace it. All right?” Newsome said.
“And I could be speaking figuratively, I could be speaking literally. It’s a matter of interpretation.”
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westernjournal--2020-07-02--Watch: McEnany Ties ABC Reporter in Knots, Makes Him School Himself on BLM

Since being hired as the face of the Trump administration ’ s response to the country ’ s activist media in April , the 32-year-old has shown she is a natural at exposing far-left reporters for their bias .
She ’ s also quite good at letting them set themselves up , only to watch them fall miserably .
As the old adage goes , never interfere with an enemy while he ’ s in the process of destroying himself .
Always quick on her feet , McEnany let ABC ’ s Chief White House Correspondent Jonathan Karl roundly destroy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ White House media briefing .
TRENDING : DNC Calls Mt .
Rushmore Independence Day Celebration 'White Supremacy ' Rally , Tries To Take It Back It was glorious , to say the least .
President Donald Trump on Wednesday noted on Twitter that New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio is allocating funds “ to paint a big , expensive , yellow Black Lives Matter sign on Fifth Avenue.
” Trump likened the gesture to “ denigrating this luxury Avenue , ” and stated it was a “ symbol of hate ” that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ already embattled NYPD .
“ Maybe our GREAT Police , who have been neutralized and scorned by a mayor who hates & disrespects them , won ’ t let this symbol of hate be affixed to New York ’ s greatest street .
Spend this money fighting crime instead !
” Trump tweeted .
To many people , Black Lives Matter is a symbol of hate and intolerance .
Many of those same people realize that one can recognize the dignity of the lives of black people while simultaneously taking issue with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use the phrase in order to suppress dissent .
But in a society which has canceled nuance , you knew the media would go there .
You can ’ t criticize Black Lives Matter without stating that black lives don ’ t matter , right ?
Wrong , as McEnany let Karl point out to himself .
“ Why is the president calling Black Lives Matter a symbol of hate ?
” Karl asked McEnany .
Noting that the group commonly uses anti-police language , McEnany schooled Karl .
“ Well what the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , when you look at some of the things that have been chanted by Black Lives Matter like ‘ pigs in a blanket , fry ’ em like bacon , ’ that is not an acceptable phrase to paint on our streets , ” McEnany stated .
“ He agrees that all black lives matter including those of officer David Dorn , Patrick Underwood , two officers whose lives were tragically taken amid these riots.
” “ All black lives do matter , ” she continued .
“ He agrees with that sentiment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agree with is an organization that chants ‘ pigs in a blanket , fry ’ em like bacon ’ about our police officers , our valiant heroes who are out on the street protecting us each and every day.
” But the ABC News correspondent wasn ’ t finished attempting to smear the president as some sort of white supremacist .
“ Americans of all races have protested in all 50 states around that phrase , black lives matter , and the president is here calling it a symbol of hate ?
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the organization , ” McEnany said .
McEnany reminded Karl that one prominent Black Lives Matter leader told Fox News just last week the group is willing to embrace violence .
“ He ’ s not talking about the organization in his tweet , ” Karl argued .
“ He says the words , black lives matter.
” “ What ’ s the name of the organization again ?
” McEnany asked him .
“ There you go , you just answered my question , ” McEnany said to end the exchange @ @ @ @ @ @ @ social worker , because Karl was absolutely obliterated in front of his peers .
His surefire approach to catch the president labeling the media ’ s darling group of Marxist revolutionaries as a hate group was sure to score a cheap political point — or so he thought .
But with McEnany occupying the podium , Karl failed .
Karl set a trap that was meant to corner the Trump administration ’ s stance on leftist political groups as being biased against black Americans .
Instead , he got stuck in his own @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany makes a challenging job look easy.
Since being hired as the face of the Trump administration’s response to the country’s activist media in April, the 32-year-old has shown she is a natural at exposing far-left reporters for their bias.
She’s also quite good at letting them set themselves up, only to watch them fall miserably.
As the old adage goes, never interfere with an enemy while he’s in the process of destroying himself.
Always quick on her feet, McEnany let ABC’s Chief White House Correspondent Jonathan Karl roundly destroy his own argument during Wednesday’s White House media briefing.
It was glorious, to say the least.
President Donald Trump on Wednesday noted on Twitter that New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio is allocating funds “to paint a big, expensive, yellow Black Lives Matter sign on Fifth Avenue.” Trump likened the gesture to “denigrating this luxury Avenue,” and stated it was a “symbol of hate” that would do little more than antagonize an already embattled NYPD.
“Maybe our GREAT Police, who have been neutralized and scorned by a mayor who hates & disrespects them, won’t let this symbol of hate be affixed to New York’s greatest street. Spend this money fighting crime instead!” Trump tweeted.
….horrible BLM chant, “Pigs In A Blanket, Fry ‘Em Like Bacon”. Maybe our GREAT Police, who have been neutralized and scorned by a mayor who hates & disrespects them, won’t let this symbol of hate be affixed to New York’s greatest street. Spend this money fighting crime instead! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 1, 2020
To many people, Black Lives Matter is a symbol of hate and intolerance.
Many of those same people realize that one can recognize the dignity of the lives of black people while simultaneously taking issue with the political motives and actions of those who use the phrase in order to suppress dissent.
But in a society which has canceled nuance, you knew the media would go there.
You can’t criticize Black Lives Matter without stating that black lives don’t matter, right?
Wrong, as McEnany let Karl point out to himself.
Reporter Jon Karl: “Americans of all races have protested in all 50 states around that phrase, #BlackLivesMatter and the president is here calling it a symbol of hate?” Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany: “He is talking about the organization…”pic.twitter.com/LHaxkdaYot — Elma Aksalic (@ElmaAksalic) July 1, 2020
“Why is the president calling Black Lives Matter a symbol of hate?” Karl asked McEnany.
Noting that the group commonly uses anti-police language, McEnany schooled Karl.
“Well what the president was noting is that that symbol, when you look at some of the things that have been chanted by Black Lives Matter like ‘pigs in a blanket, fry ’em like bacon,’ that is not an acceptable phrase to paint on our streets,” McEnany stated. “He agrees that all black lives matter including those of officer David Dorn, Patrick Underwood, two officers whose lives were tragically taken amid these riots.”
“All black lives do matter,” she continued. “He agrees with that sentiment, but what he doesn’t agree with is an organization that chants ‘pigs in a blanket, fry ’em like bacon’ about our police officers, our valiant heroes who are out on the street protecting us each and every day.”
But the ABC News correspondent wasn’t finished attempting to smear the president as some sort of white supremacist.
“Americans of all races have protested in all 50 states around that phrase, black lives matter, and the president is here calling it a symbol of hate?” Karl asked.
“He is talking about the organization,” McEnany said.
McEnany reminded Karl that one prominent Black Lives Matter leader told Fox News just last week the group is willing to embrace violence.
“He’s not talking about the organization in his tweet,” Karl argued. “He says the words, black lives matter.”
Would you describe the Black Lives Matter organization as a hate group? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 99% (1061 Votes) No: 1% (7 Votes)
“What’s the name of the organization again?” McEnany asked him.
“Black Lives Matter,” Karl retorted.
“There you go, you just answered my question,” McEnany said to end the exchange.
Checkmate. Mic drop. McEnany moved on, and left Karl flabbergasted.
Someone should have called an unarmed social worker, because Karl was absolutely obliterated in front of his peers.
His surefire approach to catch the president labeling the media’s darling group of Marxist revolutionaries as a hate group was sure to score a cheap political point — or so he thought.
But with McEnany occupying the podium, Karl failed.
Karl set a trap that was meant to corner the Trump administration’s stance on leftist political groups as being biased against black Americans.
Instead, he got stuck in his own trap.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
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* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-07-02--Op-Ed: What the 4th of July Means to Israel

Summer has officially begun , and July Fourth is almost here .
This time of year , I am transported back to my childhood in Chicago , where I was privileged to be born and raised .
Independence Day brings back fond memories of picnicking outside and watching fireworks light up the summer sky .
My father , Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein , always spoke about how lucky we were , especially as Jews , to live in the U.S. , where we were free to practice our faith and be part of one of the greatest countries in the history @ @ @ @ @ @ @ live in Israel , America ’ s Independence Day has taken on additional significance to me .
I celebrate America for the extraordinary country that she is and because of the wonderful friend that she has been to Israel .
Since the moment the modern state of Israel was founded , America has been her greatest friend and ally – not only in sentiment but also through meaningful action .
TRENDING : DNC Calls Mt .
Rushmore Independence Day Celebration 'White Supremacy ' Rally , Tries To Take It Back When you think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that this close friendship has endured for so long in a world that is constantly changing .
I have no doubt that this is because the friendship between Israel and America is not based on politics alone , but on our shared commitment to democratic values and biblical principles .
Like any relationship , the friendship between Americans and Israelis has had its ups and downs .
Yet our connection has never been severed .
It has transcended challenges and changes through more than seven decades .
What unites us has proven to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ might disagree upon .
In 1948 , President Harry Truman was the first world leader to recognize the state of Israel , and in 2017 President Donald Trump was the first world leader to recognize Jerusalem as the undivided capital of Israel .
Over the years , America has consistently spoken up in the international community on behalf of Israel , often as a lone voice , shielding Israel from harmful lies and protecting Israel ’ s right to exist .
Israel , in turn , is America ’ s greatest ally in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a loyal friend .
Israel is on the front lines , fighting our common enemies and defending our common way of life .
As our Prime Minister , Benjamin Netanyahu , expressed , “ Israel represents everything that [ America represents ] in the most dangerous and volatile place in the Middle East.
” Here in Israel , we have learned that when faced with difficult times and uncertainty , nothing beats having a good friend .
The Book of Ecclesiastes tells us , “ Two are better than one , because they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : If either of them falls down , one can help the other up ” ( 4:9-10 ) .
RELATED : Department of Homeland Security Announces Extra Measures To Protect Monuments on July 4 Weekend We are blessed to have each other as friends as the world faces unprecedented challenges .
Even as the winds of change blow harshly at times , the U.S.-Israel bond is a source of encouragement and strength to us all .
So as we celebrate America this weekend , I hope that you will join me in giving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ great countries .
We , in Israel , are praying for our friends in America just as you have always prayed for us .
And I pray that this sacred friendship continues to grow no matter what lies ahead .
May God bless America , may God bless Israel and may He bring peace and healing to the world .
The views expressed in this opinion article are those of their author and are not necessarily either shared or endorsed by the owners of this website .
We are committed to truth and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Read our editorial standards .

Summer has officially begun, and July Fourth is almost here.
This time of year, I am transported back to my childhood in Chicago, where I was privileged to be born and raised.
Independence Day brings back fond memories of picnicking outside and watching fireworks light up the summer sky. My father, Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, always spoke about how lucky we were, especially as Jews, to live in the U.S., where we were free to practice our faith and be part of one of the greatest countries in the history of the world.
Now that I live in Israel, America’s Independence Day has taken on additional significance to me.
I celebrate America for the extraordinary country that she is and because of the wonderful friend that she has been to Israel. Since the moment the modern state of Israel was founded, America has been her greatest friend and ally – not only in sentiment but also through meaningful action.
When you think about it, it is pretty amazing that this close friendship has endured for so long in a world that is constantly changing. I have no doubt that this is because the friendship between Israel and America is not based on politics alone, but on our shared commitment to democratic values and biblical principles.
Like any relationship, the friendship between Americans and Israelis has had its ups and downs. Yet our connection has never been severed.
It has transcended challenges and changes through more than seven decades. What unites us has proven to be far more powerful than anything we might disagree upon.
In 1948, President Harry Truman was the first world leader to recognize the state of Israel, and in 2017 President Donald Trump was the first world leader to recognize Jerusalem as the undivided capital of Israel.
Do you think America has a strong relationship with Israel? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 99% (105 Votes) No: 1% (1 Votes)
Over the years, America has consistently spoken up in the international community on behalf of Israel, often as a lone voice, shielding Israel from harmful lies and protecting Israel’s right to exist.
Israel, in turn, is America’s greatest ally in the Middle East and has proven herself a loyal friend.
Israel is on the front lines, fighting our common enemies and defending our common way of life. As our Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, expressed, “Israel represents everything that [America represents] in the most dangerous and volatile place in the Middle East.”
Here in Israel, we have learned that when faced with difficult times and uncertainty, nothing beats having a good friend.
The Book of Ecclesiastes tells us, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up” (4:9-10).
We are blessed to have each other as friends as the world faces unprecedented challenges. Even as the winds of change blow harshly at times, the U.S.-Israel bond is a source of encouragement and strength to us all.
So as we celebrate America this weekend, I hope that you will join me in giving thanks for the friendship between our two great countries. We, in Israel, are praying for our friends in America just as you have always prayed for us. And I pray that this sacred friendship continues to grow no matter what lies ahead.
May God bless America, may God bless Israel and may He bring peace and healing to the world.
The views expressed in this opinion article are those of their author and are not necessarily either shared or endorsed by the owners of this website. If you are interested in contributing an Op-Ed to The Western Journal, you can learn about our submission guidelines and process here.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-07-02--Protesters Claim Cops Shot Unarmed Man in Back – but Here’s Video of What Really Happened

Lately , it seems protest mobs are just waiting to pounce any time a police officer fires his weapon , always ready to instantly vilify the officer while canonizing the suspected criminal .
Such was the case after San Diego police shot Leonardo Hurtado Ibarra on Saturday , sparking anti-police protests in the area , according to The San Diego Union-Tribune .
The two officers involved in the shooting were driving in the city Saturday evening when they spotted Ibarra , whose face tattoos fit the description of a suspect in a robbery days prior , as he emerged from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ibarra on foot , but when he spotted the police , the suspect dropped the parcels in his hand and reached into his waistband for a revolver , which he pointed at officers as he attempted to flee .
The officers then opened fire .
Police cuffed the wounded suspect and administered first aid , but Ibarra ultimately died from his injuries Monday , according to KNSD-TV .
TRENDING : DNC Calls Mt .
Rushmore Independence Day Celebration 'White Supremacy ' Rally , Tries To Take It Back Almost immediately , the virtue-signaling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ authorities to release all information to the public .
“ I join with my Council colleague , and the community in asking for police transparency , ” San Diego City Councilmember Monica Montgomery wrote .
The Democrat shared fellow Councilmember Chris Ward ’ s tweet Saturday urging the San Diego Police Department to be “ forthcoming with this incident.
” The department had released a still image from one of the surveillance cameras and a photo of the suspect ’ s revolver lying in camo-patterned fabric it was bundled in , but protestors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ armed only with the usual narratives and assumptions without any facts .
Some reportedly chanted “ Hands up , don ’ t shoot , ” alluding to the police killing of Michael Brown in 2014 as he surrendered ( which has since been debunked ) .
And in the now-usual way , demonstrators knelt on the concrete and lit votive candles in a makeshift shrine to Ibarra as some held signs and crowded the sidewalk near the scene at the Justice 4 Leo rally Sunday .
“ We ’ re out here because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t have a right to kill anybody , ” San Diego State University student Simran Jain said .
“ And they act like this is something that was necessary , but even if everything that they said was true , even if he had a gun , even if he was guilty , none of that should really matter , ” she said .
RELATED : Sean Hannity Overcome with Emotion During Interview with Dad of Teen Killed in CHOP Instead , Jain thought “ police should have been able to de-escalate ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and she went on to say she found reports that the gun was planted “ completely believable considering all these crimes that police have committed on record.
” “ I ’ m tired of black , brown , any kind of color you can say , tired of them getting mistreated , harrassed , and cops getting away with it , ” a woman identified only as Vanessa said .
Brian Krohne , with his toddler daughter , Esther , seated on his shoulders , held a sign that said “ Defund the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fist symbol .
“ We need to defund the police department because they ’ re not the best response that we can have as a city .
Use that money to fund other of the agencies that can de-escalate situations without violence , ” Krohne said .
WARNING : The following video contains graphic language that some viewers will find offensive .
But despite the insinuations that Ibarra was unarmed , amid all the talk about “ de-escalation ” and painting the suspect as a victim , footage released just the day after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fact armed and attempting to shoot at police officers .
The San Diego Police Department compiled footage from both officers ’ body cameras , a streetlight camera , stills from a security camera , and enhanced footage that all corroborated that fact .
The most compelling was the audio accompanying Officer No .
1 ’ s body camera .
As the suspect continued to walk away from the officer , he clearly told Ibarra “ stop ” at least three times , and said , “ Let me see your hands ” as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his waistband , pulling out the gun .
The same can be heard in the footage from Officer No .
2 , who approached Ibarra from the side and also said , “ Hey , let me see your hands ” — to no avail .
Both cameras showed that only after the suspect failed to comply and pulled a weapon did they open fire on the suspect , and they quickly administered first aid .
WARNING : The following video contains graphic violence that some viewers will find disturbing .
The department @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the footage clearly showing that there was indeed a weapon and that reasoning with the suspect was impossible , which destroys protesters ’ claims .
The whole incident unfolded in mere seconds , and the officers made the instantaneous but correct decision to take down the suspect who was ready to kill or be killed .
Sure , it would be nice if there were some way to rationalize with a man about to fire a gun , or if there were some expert who could “ de-escalate ” a situation where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but all of the wishful thinking and pontificating from protesters won ’ t make it so .
Ibarra didn ’ t die because of police brutality or for the color of his skin ; he died because he ignored police commands and attempted to fire at officers .
Because of Ibarra ’ s actions that day , someone was likely to die .
Had one of the officers been killed instead of Ibarra , how many of those protesters would be holding a vigil ?
We are committed to truth and accuracy in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ editorial standards .

Lately, it seems protest mobs are just waiting to pounce any time a police officer fires his weapon, always ready to instantly vilify the officer while canonizing the suspected criminal.
Such was the case after San Diego police shot Leonardo Hurtado Ibarra on Saturday, sparking anti-police protests in the area, according to The San Diego Union-Tribune.
The two officers involved in the shooting were driving in the city Saturday evening when they spotted Ibarra, whose face tattoos fit the description of a suspect in a robbery days prior, as he emerged from a building.
They attempted to approach Ibarra on foot, but when he spotted the police, the suspect dropped the parcels in his hand and reached into his waistband for a revolver, which he pointed at officers as he attempted to flee. The officers then opened fire.
Police cuffed the wounded suspect and administered first aid, but Ibarra ultimately died from his injuries Monday, according to KNSD-TV.
Almost immediately, the virtue-signaling began with skeptical local politicians clamoring for authorities to release all information to the public.
“I join with my Council colleague, and the community in asking for police transparency,” San Diego City Councilmember Monica Montgomery wrote.
The Democrat shared fellow Councilmember Chris Ward’s tweet Saturday urging the San Diego Police Department to be “forthcoming with this incident.”
I join with my Council colleague, and the community in asking for police transparency. https://t.co/VZbNpFz3Cq — Councilmember Monica Montgomery (@CD4Monica) June 28, 2020
The department had released a still image from one of the surveillance cameras and a photo of the suspect’s revolver lying in camo-patterned fabric it was bundled in, but protestors were already out on the street, armed only with the usual narratives and assumptions without any facts.
Some reportedly chanted “Hands up, don’t shoot,” alluding to the police killing of Michael Brown in 2014 as he surrendered (which has since been debunked).
And in the now-usual way, demonstrators knelt on the concrete and lit votive candles in a makeshift shrine to Ibarra as some held signs and crowded the sidewalk near the scene at the Justice 4 Leo rally Sunday.
“We’re out here because somebody died and the police don’t have a right to kill anybody,” San Diego State University student Simran Jain said.
“And they act like this is something that was necessary, but even if everything that they said was true, even if he had a gun, even if he was guilty, none of that should really matter,” she said.
Instead, Jain thought “police should have been able to de-escalate; that is literally their job,” and she went on to say she found reports that the gun was planted “completely believable considering all these crimes that police have committed on record.”
“I’m tired of black, brown, any kind of color you can say, tired of them getting mistreated, harrassed, and cops getting away with it,” a woman identified only as Vanessa said.
Brian Krohne, with his toddler daughter, Esther, seated on his shoulders, held a sign that said “Defund the Police” with the Black Lives Matter fist symbol.
“We need to defund the police department because they’re not the best response that we can have as a city. Use that money to fund other of the agencies that can de-escalate situations without violence,” Krohne said.
WARNING: The following video contains graphic language that some viewers will find offensive.
But despite the insinuations that Ibarra was unarmed, amid all the talk about “de-escalation” and painting the suspect as a victim, footage released just the day after the incident showed that Ibarra was in fact armed and attempting to shoot at police officers.
The San Diego Police Department compiled footage from both officers’ body cameras, a streetlight camera, stills from a security camera, and enhanced footage that all corroborated that fact.
The most compelling was the audio accompanying Officer No. 1’s body camera. As the suspect continued to walk away from the officer, he clearly told Ibarra “stop” at least three times, and said, “Let me see your hands” as the suspect ignored him and reached into his waistband, pulling out the gun.
The same can be heard in the footage from Officer No. 2, who approached Ibarra from the side and also said, “Hey, let me see your hands” — to no avail.
Both cameras showed that only after the suspect failed to comply and pulled a weapon did they open fire on the suspect, and they quickly administered first aid.
WARNING: The following video contains graphic violence that some viewers will find disturbing.
The department could not have been more transparent, with the footage clearly showing that there was indeed a weapon and that reasoning with the suspect was impossible, which destroys protesters’ claims.
The whole incident unfolded in mere seconds, and the officers made the instantaneous but correct decision to take down the suspect who was ready to kill or be killed.
Do you think these police officers did anything wrong? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 1% (41 Votes) No: 99% (2934 Votes)
Sure, it would be nice if there were some way to rationalize with a man about to fire a gun, or if there were some expert who could “de-escalate” a situation where a suspect is pointing a gun, but all of the wishful thinking and pontificating from protesters won’t make it so.
Ibarra didn’t die because of police brutality or for the color of his skin; he died because he ignored police commands and attempted to fire at officers.
Because of Ibarra’s actions that day, someone was likely to die.
Had one of the officers been killed instead of Ibarra, how many of those protesters would be holding a vigil?
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westernjournal--2020-07-02--Senate Democrat Embarrasses Himself by Blocking Anti-Mob Violence Resolution

The American public just got its clearest look yet at the Democratic Party of 2020 , and it wasn ’ t a picture anyone wanted to see .
In a move that might have been stunning only a few months ago , Senate Democrats blocked a proposed resolution condemning the kind of mob violence the country has witnessed since the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis in May .
The resolution was introduced by Sen. Mike Lee of Utah and started with words that not too long ago every school child in America would have agreed with .
TRENDING : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Celebration 'White Supremacy ' Rally , Tries To Take It Back “ Whereas the United States of America was founded in 1776 on universal principles of freedom , justice , and human equality … ” It ended with a declaration that it is the “ sense of the Senate ” that : • “ [ T ] he rising tide of vandalism , mob violence , and the mob mentality that feeds it—including its cruel and intolerant ‘ cancel culture ’ — should be condemned by all Americans ; • “ [ P @ @ @ @ @ @ @ different in kind ; • “ [ P ] hysical assault and property destruction are not forms of political speech but violent crimes whose perpetrators should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law ; • “ [ T ] he innocent law enforcement officers , public officials , and private citizens who suffer the mob ’ s violence and endure its scorn while protecting our communities from them deserve the thanks and appreciation of every American.
” Who could disagree with any of those points ?
According to the Deseret News @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bob Menendez took the floor to say the wording about the nation ’ s founding “ reeked of white supremacy.
” He also wanted to add a sentence specifically saying the president should not incite violence .
Now , an impartial observer might think Menendez , who at one time was indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of bribery and corruption , would be embarrassed to come out opposing any kind of resolution favoring law enforcement .
But he let it faze him no more than his corrupt reputation fazed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2018 .
Because Lee ’ s resolution sought a unanimous agreement , the objections killed it .
RELATED : Ted Cruz Takes Ilhan Omar to School After She Picks Fight Over Columbus Statue Still , Lee , who is known for taking on Democratic sacred cows , was having none of the carping .
“ This is a statement that says mob violence is bad , ” Lee said , according to the Deseret News .
“ Democrats can ’ t say mob violence is bad without simultaneously taking a jab at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Things got worse for Menendez and his party when Lee accurately described the Democrats ’ position .
“ You can ’ t really oppose this , it seems to me , without being on the side of the mobs , of mob violence , of mob mentality , of cruelty and intolerance and terror , ” he said .
“ These mobs are not progressive .
These mobs are not enlightened .
These mobs are not edgy .
They ’ re not hip .
They ’ re dimwitted , phony , drama addicts.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ one can oppose this without being comfortable with those things.
” That brought an objection from Menendez , who asked Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas , who was chairing the debate , whether Lee was violating a part of Senate ’ s Rule 19 that prohibits senators from using the Senate floor to impugn their colleagues ’ motives .
Check it out here .
The Lee quote about “ intolerance and terror ” starts about the 2:30 mark of the video in the tweet , but the whole thing is well worth watching @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out that mob violence is dangerous to our nation is not contrary to Rule 19 or any other rule of the Senate , ” he said .
Menendez then claimed that Democrats don ’ t support mob violence , so Lee was violating Senate procedure .
Again , Cruz had the answer ready : “ The senator is more than entitled to express his views in the course of debate , ” he said after chuckling .
“ But other senators will likewise express their views in the course of debate.
” As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ force to comment on the resolution on social media , but plenty of conservatives were watching , too .
One of Lee ’ s strongest points came about the 5:10 mark in the video in the Cruz tweet , when the Utah senator attacked the ideology behind today ’ s mob of largely white woke supporters of Black Lives Matter as the product of an intellectual infrastructure paid for by the federal government .
From radicalized higher education to local and state lawmakers pushing a liberal agenda on law enforcement or transgender issues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have accepted The New York Times “ 1619 Project ” aimed at destroying American history , it ’ s time , Lee said , “ to remove their snouts from the federal trough.
” “ Colleges and universities that punish free speech and discriminate against conservative and religious students , city councils who defund their police departments and refuse to protect public safety , states that force doctors to mutilate confused children without their parents ’ consent , school districts that embrace the ahistorical nonsense of ‘ The 1619 Project … “ All @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The whole garbage fire that is the so-called ‘ woke ideology ’ depends on federal money .
“ The mob hates America on America ’ s dime .
It ’ s time to cut off their allowance.
” If there is a better description of the Democratic Party and its mindless adherents than that , it ’ s tough to find .
Democrats have been showing the country what they really stand for since long before President Donald Trump took office , but the past three years have made it clearer than ever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blocked a vote on a resolution condemning rioting and looting .
On Thursday , when Democratic senators blocked a resolution that simply condemned the mob violence that has wracked the country , cost untold hundreds of millions in property damage and wiped away countless jobs , the picture was complete .
It ’ s not a picture of a major political party any American should want to see .
But seeing it now , before the November election , might just ensure voters keep Trump in the White House another four years .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s dime needs to learn the party ’ s over .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The American public just got its clearest look yet at the Democratic Party of 2020, and it wasn’t a picture anyone wanted to see.
In a move that might have been stunning only a few months ago, Senate Democrats blocked a proposed resolution condemning the kind of mob violence the country has witnessed since the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis in May.
The GOP ad just made itself! Watch as Dem senators object to Sen. Mike Lee’s resolution condemning mob violence! @GOPChairwoman @parscale @Scavino45 get ur done ✅ https://t.co/R43axonsz1 — RickyRay- 1 of 100 million Trump Trolls (@RickyRayinGA) July 2, 2020
The resolution was introduced by Sen. Mike Lee of Utah and started with words that not too long ago every school child in America would have agreed with.
“Whereas the United States of America was founded in 1776 on universal principles of freedom, justice, and human equality …”
It ended with a declaration that it is the “sense of the Senate” that:
“[T]he rising tide of vandalism, mob violence, and the mob mentality that feeds it—including its cruel and intolerant ‘cancel culture’ — should be condemned by all Americans;
“[P]eaceful demonstrations and mob violence are different in kind;
“[P]hysical assault and property destruction are not forms of political speech but violent crimes whose perpetrators should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law;
“[T]he innocent law enforcement officers, public officials, and private citizens who suffer the mob’s violence and endure its scorn while protecting our communities from them deserve the thanks and appreciation of every American.”
Who could disagree with any of those points?
Do you agree with Mike Lee? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 96% (496 Votes) No: 4% (23 Votes)
A Democrat, of course.
According to the Deseret News, the mendacious New Jersey Democrat Sen. Bob Menendez took the floor to say the wording about the nation’s founding “reeked of white supremacy.”
He also wanted to add a sentence specifically saying the president should not incite violence.
Now, an impartial observer might think Menendez, who at one time was indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of bribery and corruption, would be embarrassed to come out opposing any kind of resolution favoring law enforcement. But he let it faze him no more than his corrupt reputation fazed the New Jersey voters who re-elected him in 2018.
Because Lee’s resolution sought a unanimous agreement, the objections killed it.
Still, Lee, who is known for taking on Democratic sacred cows, was having none of the carping.
“This is a statement that says mob violence is bad,” Lee said, according to the Deseret News. “Democrats can’t say mob violence is bad without simultaneously taking a jab at the president of the United States?”
Things got worse for Menendez and his party when Lee accurately described the Democrats’ position.
“You can’t really oppose this, it seems to me, without being on the side of the mobs, of mob violence, of mob mentality, of cruelty and intolerance and terror,” he said.
“These mobs are not progressive. These mobs are not enlightened. These mobs are not edgy. They’re not hip. They’re dimwitted, phony, drama addicts.”
“I don’t think one can oppose this without being comfortable with those things.”
That brought an objection from Menendez, who asked Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas, who was chairing the debate, whether Lee was violating a part of Senate’s Rule 19 that prohibits senators from using the Senate floor to impugn their colleagues’ motives.
Check it out here. The Lee quote about “intolerance and terror” starts about the 2:30 mark of the video in the tweet, but the whole thing is well worth watching:
WATCH: Democrats just blocked @SenMikeLee’s resolution to condemn mob violence. As our cities burn, as our children are being shot in the street, Democrats have chosen once again to stand with violent anarchists instead of innocent Americans. pic.twitter.com/Pwpxnu2Gtj — Senator Ted Cruz (@SenTedCruz) July 2, 2020
The response was classic Cruz:
“The chair concludes that pointing out that mob violence is dangerous to our nation is not contrary to Rule 19 or any other rule of the Senate,” he said.
Menendez then claimed that Democrats don’t support mob violence, so Lee was violating Senate procedure.
Again, Cruz had the answer ready:
“The senator is more than entitled to express his views in the course of debate,” he said after chuckling. “But other senators will likewise express their views in the course of debate.”
As usual, bottom-crawling liberals were out in force to comment on the resolution on social media, but plenty of conservatives were watching, too.
Bravo to my friend @SenMikeLee for his courage to call out the mob and stand up for the police. Senate Democrats tried to shut down his speech, but he’s speaking for us. https://t.co/SCqwB9Tmfl — Jim DeMint (@JimDeMint) July 2, 2020
Well said. It’s time for more Republican politicians to stand up for law and order. This moment also shows the hypocrisy of the Democrats who only care about right and wrong when it politically suits them. Democrats have dropped all pretence of civility so fight fire with fire. — Red Warrior (@RedWarrior4) July 2, 2020
Dems ARE the mob! As long as mayors governors, members of Congress, politicians, lawyers, judges&AGs actively or passively promote lawlessness, insurrection&rebellion there is no justice.Start by charging THESE with high crimes & society may once again believe in the rule of law. — Regina Hansen (@ReginaH02097414) July 2, 2020
Bravo, Senator Mike Lee. Finally someone has stood before congress and placed the blame where it belongs. The mobs!#DefundTheMobs — Katherine ???♂??♂??♂??♂??♂ (@WomenForKAG) July 2, 2020
One of Lee’s strongest points came about the 5:10 mark in the video in the Cruz tweet, when the Utah senator attacked the ideology behind today’s mob of largely white woke supporters of Black Lives Matter as the product of an intellectual infrastructure paid for by the federal government.
From radicalized higher education to local and state lawmakers pushing a liberal agenda on law enforcement or transgender issues, to primary and secondary schooling that have accepted The New York Times “1619 Project” aimed at destroying American history, it’s time, Lee said, “to remove their snouts from the federal trough.”
“Colleges and universities that punish free speech and discriminate against conservative and religious students, city councils who defund their police departments and refuse to protect public safety, states that force doctors to mutilate confused children without their parents’ consent, school districts that embrace the ahistorical nonsense of ‘The 1619 Project …
“All of the above and much more. The whole garbage fire that is the so-called ‘woke ideology’ depends on federal money.
“The mob hates America on America’s dime. It’s time to cut off their allowance.”
If there is a better description of the Democratic Party and its mindless adherents than that, it’s tough to find.
Democrats have been showing the country what they really stand for since long before President Donald Trump took office, but the past three years have made it clearer than ever.
Only last week House Democrats even blocked a vote on a resolution condemning rioting and looting.
On Thursday, when Democratic senators blocked a resolution that simply condemned the mob violence that has wracked the country, cost untold hundreds of millions in property damage and wiped away countless jobs, the picture was complete.
It’s not a picture of a major political party any American should want to see. But seeing it now, before the November election, might just ensure voters keep Trump in the White House another four years.
The mob that hates America on America’s dime needs to learn the party’s over.
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westernjournal--2020-07-02--The Law Just Caught Up with Suspected ‘Ringleader’ of Andrew Jackson Statue Attack

A man described as the leader of a group of demonstrators who attempted to take down a statue of former President Andrew Jackson last month has been arrested .
Citing federal law enforcement officials who called him the “ ringleader ” of the attack , Fox News reported that Jason Charter was arrested Thursday morning , and is being charged with destruction of federal property .
Charter was identified and arrested at his home by a joint task force of officers from both the FBI and U.S. Park Police .
Anonymous law enforcement sources told Fox that Charter is connected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anti-fascist ” protesters commonly known as antifa , and that he was present on June 22 when a group of rioters attempted to topple the Jackson statue in Washington , D.C. ’ s Lafayette Park .
Four other men have already been charged in relation to the attack on the monument .
TRENDING : DNC Calls Mt .
Rushmore Independence Day Celebration 'White Supremacy ' Rally , Tries To Take It Back The attack was coordinated , one federal law enforcement official told Fox .
“ They were very organized , ” the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top of the statue and directing people .
… They had acid , chisels , straps and a human chain preventing police from getting to the statue.
” The FBI apparently identified Charter by using videos taken by local news outlets .
The bureau further alleged that Charter was involved in the destruction of a monument honoring Confederate General Albert Pike , according to ABC News .
Charter was “ standing over the toppled Pike Statue , pouring an unknown liquid onto the statue , ” the criminal complaint against him reads .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ away from the statue , and squatting down behind the statue where his hands are not visible .
Seconds later , the statue catches fire .
Charter is seen standing over the flames as it burns.
” With regard to the incident involving the statue of Jackson , the FBI ’ s complaint added : “ Charter is additionally seen wearing a red set of ski goggles and a yellow ventilator mask .
Charter ’ s face is clearly visible at different times during each incident.
” Charter is further accused of assaulting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 26 where a group called for the toppling of a statue of former President Abraham Lincoln at Washington ’ s Lincoln Park .
Fox News reported Charter was slated to appear in front of a U.S. District Court judge virtually in Washington on Thursday .
Roughly 200 people were involved in attempting to topple the Jackson statue on June 22 , according to WTOP .
George Washington University student Connor Judd , 20 , was identified by authorities using local media and police body camera footage .
Judd , who is from D.C. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ property , along with three other men .
According to the Justice Department , Lee Michael Cantrell , 47 , of Virginia ; Ryan Lane , 37 , of Maryland ; and Graham Lloyd , 37 , of Maine , are also being charged for the Lafayette Park incident .
“ The FBI respects the peaceful exercise of First Amendment rights , but we will not allow opportunists to hijack peaceful protests to incite violence and destruction of property , ” James A. Dawson , special agent in charge of the FBI Washington @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said in a statement .
“ We will continue to work with our partners to enforce federal laws prohibiting damage to government facilities and property.
” President Donald Trump signed an executive order last week vowing to charge those who are attacking monuments to the fullest extent of the law .
“ They ’ re tearing down statues , desecrating monuments , and purging dissenters .
It ’ s not the behavior of a peaceful political movement ; it ’ s the behavior of totalitarians and tyrants and people that don ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a statement .
The White House noted in a media release that current law “ authorizes a penalty of up to 10 years imprisonment for the willful injury of Federal property.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

A man described as the leader of a group of demonstrators who attempted to take down a statue of former President Andrew Jackson last month has been arrested.
Citing federal law enforcement officials who called him the “ringleader” of the attack, Fox News reported that Jason Charter was arrested Thursday morning, and is being charged with destruction of federal property.
Charter was identified and arrested at his home by a joint task force of officers from both the FBI and U.S. Park Police.
Anonymous law enforcement sources told Fox that Charter is connected to the left-wing coalition of so-called “anti-fascist” protesters commonly known as antifa, and that he was present on June 22 when a group of rioters attempted to topple the Jackson statue in Washington, D.C.’s Lafayette Park.
Four other men have already been charged in relation to the attack on the monument.
The attack was coordinated, one federal law enforcement official told Fox.
“They were very organized,” the official said. “Charter was on top of the statue and directing people. … They had acid, chisels, straps and a human chain preventing police from getting to the statue.”
The FBI apparently identified Charter by using videos taken by local news outlets.
Do you think people who attack monuments should face the maximum of 10 years in prison? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 100% (871 Votes) No: 0% (4 Votes)
The bureau further alleged that Charter was involved in the destruction of a monument honoring Confederate General Albert Pike, according to ABC News.
Charter was “standing over the toppled Pike Statue, pouring an unknown liquid onto the statue,” the criminal complaint against him reads.
“He is then observed waving others away from the statue, and squatting down behind the statue where his hands are not visible. Seconds later, the statue catches fire. Charter is seen standing over the flames as it burns.”
With regard to the incident involving the statue of Jackson, the FBI’s complaint added: “Charter is additionally seen wearing a red set of ski goggles and a yellow ventilator mask. Charter’s face is clearly visible at different times during each incident.”
BREAKING: Feds charge Washington DC man with destruction of Albert Pike statue last month.. $250,000 damage, per US Attorney’s office pic.twitter.com/9tKXxwQkHm — Scott MacFarlane (@MacFarlaneNews) July 2, 2020
Charter is further accused of assaulting a person at a demonstration on June 26 where a group called for the toppling of a statue of former President Abraham Lincoln at Washington’s Lincoln Park.
Fox News reported Charter was slated to appear in front of a U.S. District Court judge virtually in Washington on Thursday.
Roughly 200 people were involved in attempting to topple the Jackson statue on June 22, according to WTOP.
George Washington University student Connor Judd, 20, was identified by authorities using local media and police body camera footage.
Judd, who is from D.C., is charged with destruction of federal property, along with three other men.
According to the Justice Department, Lee Michael Cantrell, 47, of Virginia; Ryan Lane, 37, of Maryland; and Graham Lloyd, 37, of Maine, are also being charged for the Lafayette Park incident.
Four Men Charged in Federal Court for Attempting to Tear Down Statue of Andrew Jackson in Lafayette Square Amid Protests https://t.co/bGGyPzaH5S — U.S. Attorney DC (@USAO_DC) June 28, 2020
“The FBI respects the peaceful exercise of First Amendment rights, but we will not allow opportunists to hijack peaceful protests to incite violence and destruction of property,” James A. Dawson, special agent in charge of the FBI Washington Field Office’s Criminal Division, said in a statement. “We will continue to work with our partners to enforce federal laws prohibiting damage to government facilities and property.”
President Donald Trump signed an executive order last week vowing to charge those who are attacking monuments to the fullest extent of the law.
“They’re tearing down statues, desecrating monuments, and purging dissenters. It’s not the behavior of a peaceful political movement; it’s the behavior of totalitarians and tyrants and people that don’t love our country,” Trump said in a statement.
The White House noted in a media release that current law “authorizes a penalty of up to 10 years imprisonment for the willful injury of Federal property.”
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.