westernjournal--2020-07-12--Built as a Massive Church Decades Before Islam, Famous Turkish Monument Will Be Converted into a Mos

Built as a Massive Church Decades Before Islam, Famous Turkish Monument Will Be Converted into a Mosque

In what one critic called “ an open challenge to the entire civilized world , ” Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday ordered that the world famous Hagia Sophia in Istanbul be used as a mosque .
The Hagia Sophia that stands today is the third by that name , according to History.com .
The first was begun as a Christian basilica in the reign of Byzantine Emperor Constantius in 360 A.D .
The structure was burned to the ground in 404 A.D. and rebuilt in 415 A.D. under Emperor Theodosios II .
The current structure was built during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 537 A.D and thus is nearly 1,500 years old .
After the fall of Constantinople in 1453 , the Hagia Sophia became a mosque until 1934 , when it was converted into a museum .
Islam was founded by the prophet Muhammad at approximately the start of the seventh century .
Erdogan said the mosque will hold its first prayers on July 24 .
He acted after a Turkish court threw out the ruling that converted the holy site into a museum , according to NBC .
“ I underline that we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a mosque by preserving its character of humanity ’ s common cultural heritage , ” he said in a televised address to the nation , according to the network .
“ Like all of our other mosques , the doors of Hagia Sophia will be open to all , locals or foreigners , Muslims and non-Muslims.
” Some said the plan meshed with Erdogan ’ s design of making Turkey a largely Muslim country while preserving its traditional separation of church and state .
“ Mehmet the Conqueror took the holy city with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sophia to be a mosque , ” Ozlem Kaya , 52 , a resident of Istanbul , told NBC .
“ With Erdogan , Turkey will be a more powerful country in the near future .
There is no need to be secular anymore.
” Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni called Ergodan ’ s decision “ an open challenge to the entire civilized world that recognizes the unique value and universality of the monument , ” according to Politico .
“ Hagia Sophia , located in Istanbul , is a monument to all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she said .
“ We are disappointed by the decision by the Government of Turkey to change the status of the Hagia Sophia .
This building is an important part of the ‘ Historic Sites of Istanbul ’ UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its rich multicultural history , ” she said , according to NBC .
“ We understand the Turkish Government remains committed to maintaining access to the Hagia Sophia for all visitors , and look forward to hearing its plans for continued stewardship of the Hagia Sophia to ensure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” she said .
Erdogan , who said the action was within Turkey ’ s rights , announced the action on Twitter .
Cyprus “ strongly condemns Turkey ’ s actions on Hagia Sophia in its effort to distract domestic opinion and calls on Turkey to respect its international obligations , ” Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides tweeted .
Patriarch Bartholomew , head of the Orthodox Christian Church , said on his Facebook page that conversion to a mosque brings confrontation and conflict , not unity .
“ The conversion of Hagia Sophia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Christians around the world , and Hagia Sophia , which , due to its sacredness , is a vital center where East is embraced with the West , will fracture these two worlds , more so at a time when the afflicted and suffered mankind , due to the deadly pandemic of the new coronavirus , is in need of unity and common orientation , ” he wrote .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

In what one critic called “an open challenge to the entire civilized world,” Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday ordered that the world famous Hagia Sophia in Istanbul be used as a mosque.
The Hagia Sophia that stands today is the third by that name, according to History.com. The first was begun as a Christian basilica in the reign of Byzantine Emperor Constantius in 360 A.D. The structure was burned to the ground in 404 A.D. and rebuilt in 415 A.D. under Emperor Theodosios II. The current structure was built during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in 537 A.D and thus is nearly 1,500 years old.
After the fall of Constantinople in 1453, the Hagia Sophia became a mosque until 1934, when it was converted into a museum.
Islam was founded by the prophet Muhammad at approximately the start of the seventh century.
Erdogan said the mosque will hold its first prayers on July 24. He acted after a Turkish court threw out the ruling that converted the holy site into a museum, according to NBC.
“I underline that we will open Hagia Sophia to worship as a mosque by preserving its character of humanity’s common cultural heritage,” he said in a televised address to the nation, according to the network. “Like all of our other mosques, the doors of Hagia Sophia will be open to all, locals or foreigners, Muslims and non-Muslims.”
Some said the plan meshed with Erdogan’s design of making Turkey a largely Muslim country while preserving its traditional separation of church and state.
“Mehmet the Conqueror took the holy city with his sword; he always wanted Hagia Sophia to be a mosque,” Ozlem Kaya, 52, a resident of Istanbul, told NBC. “With Erdogan, Turkey will be a more powerful country in the near future. There is no need to be secular anymore.”
Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni called Ergodan’s decision “an open challenge to the entire civilized world that recognizes the unique value and universality of the monument,” according to Politico.
Is it a mistake to turn the structure into a mosque? 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: 95% (111 Votes) No: 5% (6 Votes)
“Hagia Sophia, located in Istanbul, is a monument to all mankind, regardless of religion,” she said.
State Department spokesperson Morgan Ortagus voiced concerns at the change.
“We are disappointed by the decision by the Government of Turkey to change the status of the Hagia Sophia. This building is an important part of the ‘Historic Sites of Istanbul’ UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its rich multicultural history,” she said, according to NBC.
“We understand the Turkish Government remains committed to maintaining access to the Hagia Sophia for all visitors, and look forward to hearing its plans for continued stewardship of the Hagia Sophia to ensure it remains accessible without impediment for all,” she said.
Erdogan, who said the action was within Turkey’s rights, announced the action on Twitter.
President Erdogan signs the decree to re-open #HagiaSophia as a mosque. In the decree, #Erdogan referers to the court decision and transfers the property to Diyanet, the directorate of religious affairs as a mosque to be opened for prayers pic.twitter.com/m4DAwoqJwH — Kartikeya Sharma (@kartikeya_1975) July 10, 2020
Criticism flowed immediately.
Greek FM @NikosDendias briefed fellow ministers in the @EPP on Turkey’s decision to convert Hagia Sophia into a mosque. @cultureGR Lina Mendoni, is “a blatant provocation to the entire civilized world, a world that recognizes the unique value and universality of this monument.”⬇ https://t.co/dIBLBDWP0K — Embassy of Greece in the US?? (@GreeceInUSA) July 10, 2020
Cyprus “strongly condemns Turkey’s actions on Hagia Sophia in its effort to distract domestic opinion and calls on Turkey to respect its international obligations,” Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides tweeted.
(3/3) #Cyprus strongly condemns #Turkey’s actions on #HagiaSophia in its effort to distract domestic opinion, and calls on #Turkey to respect its international obligations. — NikosChristodoulides (@Christodulides) July 10, 2020
Patriarch Bartholomew, head of the Orthodox Christian Church, said on his Facebook page that conversion to a mosque brings confrontation and conflict, not unity.
“The conversion of Hagia Sophia into a mosque will disappoint millions of Christians around the world, and Hagia Sophia, which, due to its sacredness, is a vital center where East is embraced with the West, will fracture these two worlds, more so at a time when the afflicted and suffered mankind, due to the deadly pandemic of the new coronavirus, is in need of unity and common orientation,” he wrote.
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westernjournal--2020-07-13--Actress Kelly Preston, wife of Actor John Travolta, Dead at Age 57

Kelly Preston , who played dramatic and comic foil to actors ranging from Tom Cruise in “ Jerry Maguire ” to Arnold Schwarzenegger in “ Twins , ” died Sunday , husband John Travolta announced .
She was 57 .
Travolta wrote in an Instagram post that his wife of 28 years died after a two-year battle with breast cancer .
“ It is with a very heavy heart that I inform you that my beautiful wife Kelly has lost her two-year battle with breast cancer , ” Travolta wrote .
“ She fought a courageous fight with the love @ @ @ @ @ @ @ couple had three children together .
“ Shocked by this sad news , ” Maria Shriver wrote on Twitter .
“ Kelly was such a bright loving soul , a talented actress , and a loving mom and wife .
My heart breaks for her family who have already known such sadness and grief.
” Preston had a lengthy acting career in movies and television , starring opposite Kevin Costner in the 1999 film “ For the Love of the Game.
” In 2003 , she starred in “ What a Girl Wants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ live-action adaptation of “ The Cat in the Hat.
” The following year she appeared in the music video for Maroon 5′s “ She Will Be Loved.
” Russell Crowe tweeted that he met Preston “ first in late ‘ 92 I think , ” adding , “ In 1995 we auditioned together for Breaking Up , Salma Hayek got that gig.
” Crowe said he hadn ’ t seen Preston much , “ but when I did , she was always the same sparkly eyed gem.
” She occasionally appeared in films @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the box-office bomb “ Battlefield Earth ” in 2000 .
Preston and Travolta were married at a midnight ceremony in Paris in 1991 while the couple were expecting their first son , Jett .
In January 2009 , Jett Travolta , 16 , died after a seizure at the family ’ s vacation home in the Bahamas .
The death touched off a court case after an ambulance driver and his attorney were accused of trying to extort $ 25 million from the actors in exchange for not releasing sensitive information about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ testified during a criminal trial that ended in a mistrial and was prepared to testify a second time , but decided to stop pursuing the case and it was dismissed .
He cited the severe strain the proceedings and his son ’ s death had caused the family .
Both Preston and Travolta returned to acting , with Preston ’ s first role back in the Nicholas Sparks adaptation , “ The Last Song , ” which starred Miley Cyrus and her future husband , Liam Hemsworth .
They had two other children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ son Benjamin in 2010 .
Ella wrote on Instagram Sunday : “ I have never met anyone as courageous , strong , beautiful and loving as you .
Anyone who is lucky enough to have known you or to have ever been in your presence will agree that you have a glow and a light that never ceases to shine and that makes anyone around you feel instantly happy.
” They last starred together in the 2018 film “ Gotti , ” with Travolta playing John Gotti and Preston playing the crime boss @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kelly ’ s love and life will always be remembered , ” Travolta wrote on Instagram .
“ I will be taking some time to be there for my children who have lost their mother , so forgive me in advance if you don ’ t hear from us for a while .
But please know that I will feel your outpouring of love in the weeks and months ahead as we heal.
” Preston ’ s death was first reported by People magazine .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ editorial standards .

Kelly Preston, who played dramatic and comic foil to actors ranging from Tom Cruise in “Jerry Maguire” to Arnold Schwarzenegger in “Twins,” died Sunday, husband John Travolta announced. She was 57.
Travolta wrote in an Instagram post that his wife of 28 years died after a two-year battle with breast cancer.
“It is with a very heavy heart that I inform you that my beautiful wife Kelly has lost her two-year battle with breast cancer,” Travolta wrote.
“She fought a courageous fight with the love and support of so many.”
The couple had three children together.
“Shocked by this sad news,” Maria Shriver wrote on Twitter.
Shocked by this sad news. Kelly was such a bright loving soul, a talented actress, and a loving mom and wife. My heart breaks for her family who have already known such sadness and grief. Join me in sending them love and strength. #RIP #KellyPreston https://t.co/DndcfOtlOn — Maria Shriver (@mariashriver) July 13, 2020
“Kelly was such a bright loving soul, a talented actress, and a loving mom and wife. My heart breaks for her family who have already known such sadness and grief.”
Preston had a lengthy acting career in movies and television, starring opposite Kevin Costner in the 1999 film “For the Love of the Game.”
In 2003, she starred in “What a Girl Wants” and as the mom in the live-action adaptation of “The Cat in the Hat.” The following year she appeared in the music video for Maroon 5′s “She Will Be Loved.”
Russell Crowe tweeted that he met Preston “first in late ‘92 I think,” adding, “In 1995 we auditioned together for Breaking Up, Salma Hayek got that gig.” Crowe said he hadn’t seen Preston much, “but when I did, she was always the same sparkly eyed gem.”
She occasionally appeared in films with her husband, as they did in the box-office bomb “Battlefield Earth” in 2000.
Preston and Travolta were married at a midnight ceremony in Paris in 1991 while the couple were expecting their first son, Jett.
In January 2009, Jett Travolta, 16, died after a seizure at the family’s vacation home in the Bahamas. The death touched off a court case after an ambulance driver and his attorney were accused of trying to extort $25 million from the actors in exchange for not releasing sensitive information about their son’s death.
Travolta testified during a criminal trial that ended in a mistrial and was prepared to testify a second time, but decided to stop pursuing the case and it was dismissed. He cited the severe strain the proceedings and his son’s death had caused the family.
Both Preston and Travolta returned to acting, with Preston’s first role back in the Nicholas Sparks adaptation, “The Last Song,” which starred Miley Cyrus and her future husband, Liam Hemsworth.
They had two other children, daughter Ella Bleu in 2000 and son Benjamin in 2010.
Ella wrote on Instagram Sunday: “I have never met anyone as courageous, strong, beautiful and loving as you. Anyone who is lucky enough to have known you or to have ever been in your presence will agree that you have a glow and a light that never ceases to shine and that makes anyone around you feel instantly happy.”
Travolta and Preston met while filming 1988′s “The Experts.”
They last starred together in the 2018 film “Gotti,” with Travolta playing John Gotti and Preston playing the crime boss’s wife, Victoria.
“Kelly’s love and life will always be remembered,” Travolta wrote on Instagram. “I will be taking some time to be there for my children who have lost their mother, so forgive me in advance if you don’t hear from us for a while. But please know that I will feel your outpouring of love in the weeks and months ahead as we heal.”
Preston’s death was first reported by People magazine.
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--2020-07-13--Video: NFL Legend Joins Las Vegas Raiders in Amazing Role: ‘It’s Pretty Special’

‘ I have a responsibility to look after these guys in this town .
And I accept that responsibility.
’ @ @ @ @ @

Bradley Cooper's latest role has not gone down well with everyone, particularly with regard to his use of a prosthetic nose.


westernjournal--2020-07-13--Video: Report: NASCAR Might Ban Political Messages After ‘Black Lives Matter’ and ‘Trump 2020’ Paint

Video: Report: NASCAR Might Ban Political Messages After ‘Black Lives Matter’ and ‘Trump 2020’ Paint Jobs

It looks like NASCAR got tired of being under the microscope .
STORY : http : //w-j.co/s/Q3Njk


westernjournal--2020-07-13--Video: Amid NFL Controversy, Packers Star Shares Notorious Anti-Semite’s Conspiratorial Content

Smith is not the first NFL star caught sharing content from Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan this week .
@ @ @ @ @


westernjournal--2020-07-13--Video: CNN Floats 5 New Designs for the Mississippi Flag

The state will be deciding on a new flag soon .
STORY : http : //w-j.co/s/Y0NDU


westernjournal--2020-07-13--POTUS Praises Air Force Veteran Who Painted His Entire Yard as Trump 2020 Banner

At a time when publicly supporting President Donald Trump often results in boycotts and threats of expulsion from college , one Trump supporter in Ohio has gone above and beyond to make his support for America ’ s 45th President perfectly clear .
According to the Port Clinton News Herald , J.R. Majewski , an Air Force veteran living in Bay Township , Ohio , used roughly 120 gallons of paint to create a 19,000-square-foot Trump banner across his entire triangular front lawn .
The environmentalists can relax , since Majewski used “ a biodegradable , chalk-based paint that will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not the first time the veteran used his front lawn to display his patriotism .
Last summer , the Ohio resident painted an enormous American flag on the yard in an effort to show support for his fellow veterans .
Despite the current politically polarizing times in America , Majewski said he had received “ nothing but positive feedback , ” for his Trump 2020 banner .
And one person giving him “ positive feedback ” was the president himself , who took note of the display on Twitter : In his tweet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fantastic Ohio neighbors , ” implying that they are part of the “ Big Silent Majority ” that will push him over the finish line in his re-election bid .
The president definitely has a reason to be excited about all of this enthusiasm in Ohio , which is one of the states he must win if he wants a second term in the White House .
Currently , the battle to win Ohio ’ s 18 electoral votes in the 2020 presidential election looks like a close one .
The RealClearPolitics polling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump tied with his Democratic challenger Joe Biden .
However , polls also show a huge gap in enthusiasm between Biden voters and Trump voters .
The passion for the president among residents in Ohio like Majewski serves as a real-life example of this phenomenon .
RELATED : Goya Boycott Backfires as Conservatives Flock To Support the Hispanic Company US News and World Report highlighted the enthusiasm gap last month .
The article pointed to a June SSRS for CNN poll of 1,259 respondents that found “ 7 in 10 Trump voters are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they support Trump , with 27 % saying their decision is a vote against Biden.
” On the other hand , the poll found that only “ 37 % of Biden voters ” planned to “ cast a pro-Biden vote , ” compared to 60 percent who said “ they are casting their ballot against Trump.
” The article noted that in previous elections , the candidate who generated the most enthusiasm won — and if that ’ s the case , the president has plenty to be excited about .
From the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Ohio to a boat parade in the critical swing state of Florida — where hundreds of Trump supporters took to the water to put their support for POTUS on display for all to see — it ’ s clear which candidate ’ s supporters have the most enthusiasm .
As for those who might not share Majewski ’ s enthusiasm , he means them no disrespect .
He sent out a tweet highlighting a sign on his gigantic lawn display that reads , “ YES I Support TRUMP and YES we can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t. ” The President is lucky to have loyal supporters and campaign surrogates , including MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell , who he recently tapped to run his re-election campaign in the state of Minnesota .
Perhaps he should consider giving a similar role to Majewski in Ohio .
After all , it is average American patriots like Majewski , not the elites , that will pave the way to a second Trump term .
If the elites weren ’ t worried about the prospect of four more years of Donald Trump , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to censor pro-Trump voices on social media .
As for Majewski , he hopes to keep his giant Trump banner on his lawn through the November election , but lacks the financial resources to do so .
For this reason , he has created a GoFundMe campaign to help with the “ purchase of environmentally , non-VOC , organic field paint , application of the paint , and lawn maintenance of the flag.
” And as the donations come in , it looks safe to say that any of Majewski ’ s liberal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ banner for the foreseeable future .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

At a time when publicly supporting President Donald Trump often results in boycotts and threats of expulsion from college, one Trump supporter in Ohio has gone above and beyond to make his support for America’s 45th President perfectly clear.
According to the Port Clinton News Herald, J.R. Majewski, an Air Force veteran living in Bay Township, Ohio, used roughly 120 gallons of paint to create a 19,000-square-foot Trump banner across his entire triangular front lawn.
The environmentalists can relax, since Majewski used “a biodegradable, chalk-based paint that will not harm the environment.”
This was not the first time the veteran used his front lawn to display his patriotism. Last summer, the Ohio resident painted an enormous American flag on the yard in an effort to show support for his fellow veterans.
Despite the current politically polarizing times in America, Majewski said he had received “nothing but positive feedback,” for his Trump 2020 banner.
And one person giving him “positive feedback” was the president himself, who took note of the display on Twitter:
Thank you to J.R. Majewski, a great Air Force Veteran and Trump Supporter who did a beautiful job of turning his lawn into a giant Trump Sign. Thanks also to your fantastic Ohio neighbors. We are making record progress on JOBS, etc. Big Silent Majority!!! @foxandfriends — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 12, 2020
In his tweet, Trump thanked Majewski and his “fantastic Ohio neighbors,” implying that they are part of the “Big Silent Majority” that will push him over the finish line in his re-election bid.
The president definitely has a reason to be excited about all of this enthusiasm in Ohio, which is one of the states he must win if he wants a second term in the White House.
Currently, the battle to win Ohio’s 18 electoral votes in the 2020 presidential election looks like a close one. The RealClearPolitics polling average for the Buckeye State shows President Trump tied with his Democratic challenger Joe Biden.
However, polls also show a huge gap in enthusiasm between Biden voters and Trump voters. The passion for the president among residents in Ohio like Majewski serves as a real-life example of this phenomenon.
Do you think President Trump's massive enthusiasm edge will be enough to get him 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% (1381 Votes) No: 2% (33 Votes)
US News and World Report highlighted the enthusiasm gap last month. The article pointed to a June SSRS for CNN poll of 1,259 respondents that found “7 in 10 Trump voters are voting to reelect the president primarily because they support Trump, with 27% saying their decision is a vote against Biden.”
On the other hand, the poll found that only “37% of Biden voters” planned to “cast a pro-Biden vote,” compared to 60 percent who said “they are casting their ballot against Trump.”
The article noted that in previous elections, the candidate who generated the most enthusiasm won — and if that’s the case, the president has plenty to be excited about.
From the show of support he received from Majewski in Ohio to a boat parade in the critical swing state of Florida — where hundreds of Trump supporters took to the water to put their support for POTUS on display for all to see — it’s clear which candidate’s supporters have the most enthusiasm.
As for those who might not share Majewski’s enthusiasm, he means them no disrespect.
He sent out a tweet highlighting a sign on his gigantic lawn display that reads, “YES I Support TRUMP and YES we can still be friends even if you don’t.”
YES I support TRUMP and YES we can still be friends even if you dont pic.twitter.com/Z8efA9kDdg — JR Majewski (@jr_majewski) July 12, 2020
The President is lucky to have loyal supporters and campaign surrogates, including MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell, who he recently tapped to run his re-election campaign in the state of Minnesota. Perhaps he should consider giving a similar role to Majewski in Ohio.
After all, it is average American patriots like Majewski, not the elites, that will pave the way to a second Trump term. If the elites weren’t worried about the prospect of four more years of Donald Trump, they wouldn’t feel the need to censor pro-Trump voices on social media.
As for Majewski, he hopes to keep his giant Trump banner on his lawn through the November election, but lacks the financial resources to do so. For this reason, he has created a GoFundMe campaign to help with the “purchase of environmentally, non-VOC, organic field paint, application of the paint, and lawn maintenance of the flag.”
And as the donations come in, it looks safe to say that any of Majewski’s liberal neighbors will be triggered by his Trump banner for the foreseeable future.
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westernjournal--2020-07-13--Sowell: If Biden Is Elected He Could Push the US Past ‘Point of No Return,’ Like Roman Empire

Renowned academic and author Thomas Sowell contends if Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden were to win the presidency , it may well push the United States past the “ point of no return.
” On his Fox News program “ Life , Liberty & Levin ” Sunday night , host Mark Levin asked Sowell , a senior fellow with the Hoover Institution , to speak about the current unrest and general direction of the country .
“ I must say even though I ’ m regarded as pessimistic , I was never pessimistic enough to think that things would degenerate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , where adult human beings are talking about getting rid of the police … at a time when murder rates have been skyrocketing over what they were just a year ago , ” Sowell responded .
“ It just seems such utter madness , ” he continued , “ and what is frightening is how many people in responsible positions are caving in to every demand that is made , repeating any kind of nonsense that you ’ re supposed to repeat.
” “ I do believe that we may well reach a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
“ I hope of course that will never happen , but there is such a thing as a point of no return .
“ The Roman Empire overcame many problems in its long history , but eventually it reached a point where it simply could no longer continue on .
And much of that was from within , not just the barbarians attacking from outside.
” The comparison to the Roman Empire appeared to resonate with Levin , who pointed to an exchange of letters between former presidents Thomas Jefferson and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they discussed the fall of Rome .
Levin paraphrased Jefferson ’ s argument to Adams that what ultimately caused Rome to fall was that the people lost their virtue .
“ [ No ] government can continue good but under the controul of the people : and their people were so demoralised and depraved as to be incapable of exercising a wholsome controul , ” Jefferson wrote in December 1819 .
The drafter of the Declaration of Independence believed Rome could have been saved by reforming the people ’ s way of thinking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even Cicero or Cato could have pulled off the necessary instruction .
Levin argued that the lawless conduct happening in the streets offers proof at least some Americans lack virtue , but few in places of influence are willing to address it .
“ And what we hear in the academia , what we see on media , and what we hear from the Democrats and so forth , there ’ s no kind of government that can protect us from ourselves .
Isn ’ t that correct ?
” asked the conservative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Witt Blasts White , Liberal BLM Activists for Using Black People as Props Sowell agreed , replying , “ There are so many people who are just caving in.
” Levin next questioned Sowell on what he thought about the charge from Black Lives Matter and others that the United States is systemically racist .
“ It really has no meaning that can be specified and tested in the way that one tests hypotheses , ” the former college professor answered , adding the phrase reminds him of propaganda tactics employed by Joseph @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and ’ 40s .
“ People will believe any lie , if it ’ s repeated long enough and loud enough , and that ’ s what we ’ re getting , ” said Sowell , who just released his latest book , “ Charter Schools and Their Enemies.
” Levin then turned to the subject of this November ’ s election , likening it in importance to the 1860 and 1864 elections during the Civil War .
“ We ’ re talking about the 1776 project versus the 1619 Project , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tied into the 1619 Project and many of the Republicans are trying to defend the founding and 1776 project , ” Levin said .
The 1776 initiative , led by African-Americans scholars , supports the United States ’ founding ideals as right and true .
They contend — as Dr. Martin Luther King , Jr. did — that racism is contrary to the Declaration of Independence : “ We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal.
” The 1619 Project holds that America was founded in racism and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Great Britain was to protect slavery , though the institution was not outlawed in England until over a half-century later in 1833 .
Also working against that narrative was most of the states north of the Mason-Dixon line voted to abolish slavery by the end of the Revolutionary War in 1783 , and all northern states did by 1804 .
Sowell agreed with Levin that the upcoming election is very consequential to the future of the United States .
“ If the election goes to [ Joe ] Biden , ” he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good chance that the Democrats will then control the two branches of Congress and the White House , and considering the kinds of things that they ’ re proposing , that could well be the point of no return for this country.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Renowned academic and author Thomas Sowell contends if Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden were to win the presidency, it may well push the United States past the “point of no return.”
On his Fox News program “Life, Liberty & Levin” Sunday night, host Mark Levin asked Sowell, a senior fellow with the Hoover Institution, to speak about the current unrest and general direction of the country.
“I must say even though I’m regarded as pessimistic, I was never pessimistic enough to think that things would degenerate to the point where they are now, where adult human beings are talking about getting rid of the police … at a time when murder rates have been skyrocketing over what they were just a year ago,” Sowell responded.
“It just seems such utter madness,” he continued, “and what is frightening is how many people in responsible positions are caving in to every demand that is made, repeating any kind of nonsense that you’re supposed to repeat.”
“I do believe that we may well reach a point of no return,” Sowell said. “I hope of course that will never happen, but there is such a thing as a point of no return.
“The Roman Empire overcame many problems in its long history, but eventually it reached a point where it simply could no longer continue on. And much of that was from within, not just the barbarians attacking from outside.”
The comparison to the Roman Empire appeared to resonate with Levin, who pointed to an exchange of letters between former presidents Thomas Jefferson and John Adams in 1819, in which they discussed the fall of Rome.
The Roman Empire lasted for approximately 500 years.
If Joe Biden wins and Democrats control Congress, will they take the U.S. beyond the point of no return? 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% (1377 Votes) No: 2% (22 Votes)
Levin paraphrased Jefferson’s argument to Adams that what ultimately caused Rome to fall was that the people lost their virtue.
“[No] government can continue good but under the controul of the people: and their people were so demoralised and depraved as to be incapable of exercising a wholsome controul,” Jefferson wrote in December 1819.
The drafter of the Declaration of Independence believed Rome could have been saved by reforming the people’s way of thinking, but confessed he did not think even Cicero or Cato could have pulled off the necessary instruction.
Levin argued that the lawless conduct happening in the streets offers proof at least some Americans lack virtue, but few in places of influence are willing to address it.
“And what we hear in the academia, what we see on media, and what we hear from the Democrats and so forth, there’s no kind of government that can protect us from ourselves. Isn’t that correct?” asked the conservative commentator.
Sowell agreed, replying, “There are so many people who are just caving in.”
No nation ever protested its way from poverty to prosperity or got there through rhetoric or bureaucracies. — Thomas Sowell (@ThomasSowell) July 13, 2020
Levin next questioned Sowell on what he thought about the charge from Black Lives Matter and others that the United States is systemically racist.
“It really has no meaning that can be specified and tested in the way that one tests hypotheses,” the former college professor answered, adding the phrase reminds him of propaganda tactics employed by Joseph Goebbels in Nazi Germany in the 1930s and ’40s.
“People will believe any lie, if it’s repeated long enough and loud enough, and that’s what we’re getting,” said Sowell, who just released his latest book, “Charter Schools and Their Enemies.”
Levin then turned to the subject of this November’s election, likening it in importance to the 1860 and 1864 elections during the Civil War.
“We’re talking about the 1776 project versus the 1619 Project, and you can see where the Democrats have tied into the 1619 Project and many of the Republicans are trying to defend the founding and 1776 project,” Levin said.
The 1776 initiative, led by African-Americans scholars, supports the United States’ founding ideals as right and true. They contend — as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. did — that racism is contrary to the Declaration of Independence: “We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal.”
The 1619 Project holds that America was founded in racism and a main reason the colonies declared independence from Great Britain was to protect slavery, though the institution was not outlawed in England until over a half-century later in 1833.
Also working against that narrative was most of the states north of the Mason-Dixon line voted to abolish slavery by the end of the Revolutionary War in 1783, and all northern states did by 1804.
Sowell agreed with Levin that the upcoming election is very consequential to the future of the United States.
“If the election goes to [Joe] Biden,” he said, “there’s a good chance that the Democrats will then control the two branches of Congress and the White House, and considering the kinds of things that they’re proposing, that could well be the point of no return for this country.”
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westernjournal--2020-07-13--Video: Dan Bongino Slams Black Lives Matter Liberals Who Attacked Daughter of Murdered Cop

It was the day her father was murdered , and liberals didn ’ t care .
STORY : http : @


westernjournal--2020-07-13--Video: NBC Disaster: COVID Patient It Followed for Weeks Has Tested Negative for Virus 5 Times

Ghislaine Maxwell Hopped Across US for the Past Year , a COVID Mask Helping Her Blend in Undetected : Report


westernjournal--2020-07-13--State and Local Governments Ponder Massive Tax Hikes in Response to COVID Budget Hit

Shutdowns of business amid the coronavirus pandemic have left many American families financially destitute , and now elected officials across the country are considering tax hikes in order to fill budget shortfalls as government , too , is feeling the strain .
Since March , when state and local officials nationwide enacted strict measures to restrict contact between people and thus throttled commerce , millions of Americans have lost their jobs .
The shutdowns were sure to have far-reaching effects , as those who were not earning and spending money could not pay the taxes that funded state and municipal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many of these civic leaders intend to shore up their budgets by raising taxes on people who might be finally returning to work , and are doing little to cut government excess in order to avoid passing the buck .
The Dallas City Council , for example , voted six weeks ago to raise property taxes by 3.5 percent .
KXAS-TV reported the citizens of Dallas might be getting off easy , as the council did not exercise an option to increase property taxes up by as much as 8 percent .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taxes came as the city found itself with a $ 25 million budget hole , which will be plugged by taxing those who have already sacrificed so much in the name of public health .
Budgetary deficits , though , are not limited to Dallas .
In Chicago , for example , Mayor Lori Lightfoot is seeking a way to make up for a $ 700 million budget shortfall .
WMAQ-TV reported that leaders in Chicago , like those in Dallas , intend to make some of that lost tax revenue back by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s hospitality sector essentially shuttered and big events canceled and thus not available to bring revenue to Chicago , the city government will seek to make up the budget shortfall through increased taxes .
“ While this budget shortfall is grim , what would have been worse is if we had seen more people die … if we hadn ’ t sheltered in place , ” Lightfoot said , per WMAQ .
In other areas of the country where the consumption of goods and services had at one point ground to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up the loss in tax revenue by targeting the pockets of citizens who had no say in how leaders were , in some cases , arguably overzealous in their mandates to close businesses amid the pandemic .
In Seattle , which has seen its business community devastated by closures in the name of public health , even amid mass public protests , the City Council recently approved a measure to take in $ 7 million in annual payroll taxes .
RELATED : First Federal Execution in 17 Years Blocked Mere Hours Before Scheduled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ JumpStart Seattle ” tax will require businesses to pay up to 2.4 percent on local employees who earn more than $ 150,000 .
Meanwhile , in New Jersey , Gov .
Phil Murphy and Democrats in the state legislature are seeking to borrow $ 10 billion to help make up for a $ 20 billion budget deficit .
State Republicans intend to fight the loan , but Murphy says it is the only way the Garden State can avoid raising property taxes , according to NJ.com .
“ I think everybody recognizes the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as it is , ” Murphy , a Democrat , said .
“ We know we don ’ t have a choice , even with federal cash , even with revenues.
” Murphy also did not rule out raising taxes on his citizens .
The Washington Post reported that Murphy said “ everything is on the table ” with regard to shoring up the state ’ s budget .
In neighboring New York , Senate Bill S8277 has been proposed to make the state ’ s billionaires make up for the state ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ target anyone worth more than $ 1 billion and would view capital gains as income while also taxing unrealized capital gains .
SB S8277 would essentially redistribute that wealth to citizens who do not qualify for unemployment or other relief programs .
The New York bill , described as the “ billionaire mark to market tax act , ” would establish “ a billionaire mark to market tax taxing residents with $ 1 billion dollars or more in net assets and directs revenue from such tax into a worker bailout fund ; establishes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ excluded from wage protection programs access to unemployment benefits.
” While many state and local governments are turning to citizens for a bailout , one Southwest Texas city has taken that idea off the table .
El Paso , like other cities , is feeling the strain of economic downturn because of business closures amid the pandemic , but City Manager Tommy Gonzalez said the city will not pass the buck on to embattled families and businesses , KFOX-TV reported .
“ No increase in the tax rate , ” Gonzalez told the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we need to go slower and give our citizens a break and give our businesses a break .
We think if they recover it will help the citizens recover as well.
” He said the city would find a solution that seeks to work for everyone .
“ We are tightening our belts also , ” Gonzalez said .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Shutdowns of business amid the coronavirus pandemic have left many American families financially destitute, and now elected officials across the country are considering tax hikes in order to fill budget shortfalls as government, too, is feeling the strain.
Since March, when state and local officials nationwide enacted strict measures to restrict contact between people and thus throttled commerce, millions of Americans have lost their jobs.
The shutdowns were sure to have far-reaching effects, as those who were not earning and spending money could not pay the taxes that funded state and municipal programs.
According to numerous reports, many of these civic leaders intend to shore up their budgets by raising taxes on people who might be finally returning to work, and are doing little to cut government excess in order to avoid passing the buck.
The Dallas City Council, for example, voted six weeks ago to raise property taxes by 3.5 percent.
KXAS-TV reported the citizens of Dallas might be getting off easy, as the council did not exercise an option to increase property taxes up by as much as 8 percent.
The outlet reported the decision to raise property taxes came as the city found itself with a $25 million budget hole, which will be plugged by taxing those who have already sacrificed so much in the name of public health.
Budgetary deficits, though, are not limited to Dallas.
In Chicago, for example, Mayor Lori Lightfoot is seeking a way to make up for a $700 million budget shortfall.
Do you think citizens should foot the bill for the decisions made by government to shut down the economy? 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: 2% (19 Votes) No: 98% (1036 Votes)
WMAQ-TV reported that leaders in Chicago, like those in Dallas, intend to make some of that lost tax revenue back by raising property taxes.
With the city’s hospitality sector essentially shuttered and big events canceled and thus not available to bring revenue to Chicago, the city government will seek to make up the budget shortfall through increased taxes.
“While this budget shortfall is grim, what would have been worse is if we had seen more people die … if we hadn’t sheltered in place,” Lightfoot said, per WMAQ.
In other areas of the country where the consumption of goods and services had at one point ground to a near halt, leaders intend to make up the loss in tax revenue by targeting the pockets of citizens who had no say in how leaders were, in some cases, arguably overzealous in their mandates to close businesses amid the pandemic.
In Seattle, which has seen its business community devastated by closures in the name of public health, even amid mass public protests, the City Council recently approved a measure to take in $7 million in annual payroll taxes.
Blaming the coronavirus, the “JumpStart Seattle” tax will require businesses to pay up to 2.4 percent on local employees who earn more than $150,000.
Meanwhile, in New Jersey, Gov. Phil Murphy and Democrats in the state legislature are seeking to borrow $10 billion to help make up for a $20 billion budget deficit.
State Republicans intend to fight the loan, but Murphy says it is the only way the Garden State can avoid raising property taxes, according to NJ.com.
“I think everybody recognizes the need for the borrowing, as painful as it is,” Murphy, a Democrat, said. “We know we don’t have a choice, even with federal cash, even with revenues.”
Murphy also did not rule out raising taxes on his citizens.
The Washington Post reported that Murphy said “everything is on the table” with regard to shoring up the state’s budget.
In neighboring New York, Senate Bill S8277 has been proposed to make the state’s billionaires make up for the state’s budget deficit.
The bill would target anyone worth more than $1 billion and would view capital gains as income while also taxing unrealized capital gains.
SB S8277 would essentially redistribute that wealth to citizens who do not qualify for unemployment or other relief programs.
The New York bill, described as the “billionaire mark to market tax act,” would establish “a billionaire mark to market tax taxing residents with $1 billion dollars or more in net assets and directs revenue from such tax into a worker bailout fund; establishes a worker bailout program providing workers traditionally excluded from wage protection programs access to unemployment benefits.”
While many state and local governments are turning to citizens for a bailout, one Southwest Texas city has taken that idea off the table.
El Paso, like other cities, is feeling the strain of economic downturn because of business closures amid the pandemic, but City Manager Tommy Gonzalez said the city will not pass the buck on to embattled families and businesses, KFOX-TV reported.
“No increase in the tax rate,” Gonzalez told the outlet. “We really feel like we need to go slower and give our citizens a break and give our businesses a break. We think if they recover it will help the citizens recover as well.”
He said the city would find a solution that seeks to work for everyone.
“We are tightening our belts also,” Gonzalez said.
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--2020-07-13--Video: Cop Hate Reaches South Texas as Two Officers Are Murdered in Brazen Ambush

With more than ten years on the force between them , these officers will be missed .
STORY : http @ @


westernjournal--2020-07-13--Video: Second GOP Senator Joins Mitt Romney in Denouncing Trump After Pardon of Roger Stone

Trump ’ s decision is causing backlash from the left and even some from his own party .
STORY : @ @ @


westernjournal--2020-07-13--Video: New Leftist Militant Group Running Rampant in Portland


westernjournal--2020-07-13--Video: Body of Missing ‘Glee’ Star Has Reportedly Been Discovered

Her body has reportedly been found by authorities after her 4-year-old son was discovered alone on a boat .
STORY @ @ @ @


westernjournal--2020-07-13--Video: China Retaliates, Sanctions Sens. Cruz and Rubio Over Human Rights Criticism


westernjournal--2020-07-13--Teachers Union Holds Schools Hostage Until Police Are Defunded, Charter Schools Shut Down

The United Teachers Los Angeles has released a list of demands that it argues must be met before schools can reopen in America ’ s second-largest city .
While some of the proposals might seem reasonable in light of the coronavirus pandemic , others sound like they were crafted by New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez .
Members of the Los Angeles Unified School District ’ s teachers union apparently have adapted Rahm Emanuel ’ s phrase “ never let a good crisis go to waste ” as their slogan .
At the very least , the policy paper put together @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its insane demands illustrates just how political teachers unions have become .
The 35,000-member teachers union sees the coronavirus as a perfect opportunity to demand the enactment of a far-left agenda that it supported long before COVID-19 arrived in America .
According to the political activists at the helm of UTLA , “ The Safe and Equitable Conditions for Starting LAUSD in 2020-21 ” include the defunding of police , a federal bailout of LA schools and the abolition of charter schools .
While the document acknowledged that “ the CARES and HEROES @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it complained that the district still needed more money .
In addition , the section on the desired “ Federal Support ” for reopening LAUSD schools included a demand for “ Medicare for All.
” As for the section on “ State Support , ” the document calls on the state of California to implement a “ millionaire ’ s tax ” and a “ wealth tax.
” While the teachers seem quite confident that the massive redistribution of wealth would result in much-desired revenue , they failed to take into account the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ state the second the higher taxes were imposed .
UTLA Conditions by The Western Journal on Scribd The most ridiculous demands came in the section on “ Local Support.
” Calling on local leaders to “ defund police , ” the brains behind the left-wing wish list urged elected officials to “ shift the astronomical amount of money devoted to policing , to education and other essential needs such as housing and public health.
” Apparently , the people behind the UTLA paper aren ’ t bothered by the fact that homicides in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the first week of June as anti-law enforcement sentiment first swept through major American cities .
This shouldn ’ t come as much of a shock .
Last month , Cecily Myart-Cruz , the union ’ s president , described the police as a symbol of “ white supremacy ” that needed to be dismantled .
Not surprisingly , the document had few kind words for charter schools , which teachers unions see as an enormous threat to their monopolistic power .
RELATED : After Proving Themselves Incapable of Policing at City Level @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's Law Enforcement UTLA said it wants a “ charter moratorium , ” but this radical list of demands should make Los Angeles parents who do not subscribe to the dictates of cultural marxism want to send their children to charter schools more than ever .
No document filled with left-wing demands would be complete without a call for “ Financial Support for Undocumented Students and Families.
” It looks like President Donald Trump had it right when he declared that “ the Democrats don ’ t want to open schools in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should make Americans eternally grateful for the 2018 Janus decision in which the Supreme Court ruled that “ public employees will no longer be required to pay involuntary agency fees to special-interest groups.
” Nothing epitomizes the phrase “ special-interest group ” like a teachers union , which uses those agency fees to fund far-left groups such as the Center for American Progress and Media Matters .
The release of the UTLA demands comes just weeks before school is set to resume in Los Angeles on Aug. 18 .
Education Secretary Betsy DeVos @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s governors that at the beginning of the next school year , “ School must reopen , they must be fully operational.
” For the most part , she is right .
Schools should reopen in the fall .
However , in a place like Los Angeles , where advancing a political agenda is more important to the teachers than educating the next generation , parents should seriously consider homeschooling or sending their children to a charter or private school .
Only then will liberal activists moonlighting as teachers in Los Angeles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the message that many Americans do not support the push among some schools to reject “ objectivity ” in favor of indoctrinating America ’ s students with left-wing propaganda .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The United Teachers Los Angeles has released a list of demands that it argues must be met before schools can reopen in America’s second-largest city.
While some of the proposals might seem reasonable in light of the coronavirus pandemic, others sound like they were crafted by New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
Members of the Los Angeles Unified School District’s teachers union apparently have adapted Rahm Emanuel’s phrase “never let a good crisis go to waste” as their slogan.
At the very least, the policy paper put together by the United Teachers Los Angeles containing its insane demands illustrates just how political teachers unions have become.
The 35,000-member teachers union sees the coronavirus as a perfect opportunity to demand the enactment of a far-left agenda that it supported long before COVID-19 arrived in America.
According to the political activists at the helm of UTLA, “The Safe and Equitable Conditions for Starting LAUSD in 2020-21” include the defunding of police, a federal bailout of LA schools and the abolition of charter schools.
While the document acknowledged that “the CARES and HEROES Acts provided funding for K-12,” it complained that the district still needed more money. In addition, the section on the desired “Federal Support” for reopening LAUSD schools included a demand for “Medicare for All.”
As for the section on “State Support,” the document calls on the state of California to implement a “millionaire’s tax” and a “wealth tax.”
While the teachers seem quite confident that the massive redistribution of wealth would result in much-desired revenue, they failed to take into account the fact that many millionaires would flee the state the second the higher taxes were imposed.
UTLA Conditions by The Western Journal on Scribd
The most ridiculous demands came in the section on “Local Support.” Calling on local leaders to “defund police,” the brains behind the left-wing wish list urged elected officials to “shift the astronomical amount of money devoted to policing, to education and other essential needs such as housing and public health.”
Apparently, the people behind the UTLA paper aren’t bothered by the fact that homicides in their city rose by 250 percent in the first week of June as anti-law enforcement sentiment first swept through major American cities.
This shouldn’t come as much of a shock. Last month, Cecily Myart-Cruz, the union’s president, described the police as a symbol of “white supremacy” that needed to be dismantled.
Not surprisingly, the document had few kind words for charter schools, which teachers unions see as an enormous threat to their monopolistic power.
UTLA said it wants a “charter moratorium,” but this radical list of demands should make Los Angeles parents who do not subscribe to the dictates of cultural marxism want to send their children to charter schools more than ever.
No document filled with left-wing demands would be complete without a call for “Financial Support for Undocumented Students and Families.”
It looks like President Donald Trump had it right when he declared that “the Democrats don’t want to open schools in the Fall for political reasons.”
Corrupt Joe Biden and the Democrats don’t want to open schools in the Fall for political reasons, not for health reasons! They think it will help them in November. Wrong, the people get it! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 6, 2020
This document should make Americans eternally grateful for the 2018 Janus decision in which the Supreme Court ruled that “public employees will no longer be required to pay involuntary agency fees to special-interest groups.”
Nothing epitomizes the phrase “special-interest group” like a teachers union, which uses those agency fees to fund far-left groups such as the Center for American Progress and Media Matters.
Does the embrace of left-wing activism by teachers unions make you more likely to support charter schools? 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: 95% (1114 Votes) No: 5% (58 Votes)
The release of the UTLA demands comes just weeks before school is set to resume in Los Angeles on Aug. 18.
Education Secretary Betsy DeVos has made it clear to the nation’s governors that at the beginning of the next school year, “School must reopen, they must be fully operational.”
For the most part, she is right. Schools should reopen in the fall.
However, in a place like Los Angeles, where advancing a political agenda is more important to the teachers than educating the next generation, parents should seriously consider homeschooling or sending their children to a charter or private school.
Only then will liberal activists moonlighting as teachers in Los Angeles and other parts of the country get the message that many Americans do not support the push among some schools to reject “objectivity” in favor of indoctrinating America’s students with left-wing propaganda.
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--2020-07-13--Report: Ex-DHS Secretary Intentionally Weakened Legal Case for Ending DACA

A former acting secretary of homeland security has admitted intentionally omitting critical information from a memo she wrote ending the Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals program because she did not agree with President Donald Trump ’ s approach and was miffed her opinion was listened to .
Elaine Duke , who served the president as his acting homeland security chief for about four months , made her claim in an interview with The New York Times published Friday .
Duke had more than 20 years with the federal government when she was appointed , according to PBS .
The fit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2017 had far-reaching repercussions .
In the June 18 Supreme Court ruling that blocked — at least temporarily — Trump ’ s effort to end DACA , the majority of justices said that no policy rationale was given for ending the program , which was created by former President Barack Obama .
Duke , whose interview with The Times was filled with criticisms of Trump , ironically noted one of them in an interview revealing how she sabotaged his action to end DACA “ President Trump believes that he can ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ That has affected his ability to get counsel from diverse groups of people.
” As Duke recalled the scene , she was summoned to an August 2017 meeting with then-Attorney General Jeff Sessions , adviser Stephen Miller and other White House officials in what she expected was a discussion session about DACA .
She described the meeting to the Times as “ an ambush ” than that “ the room was stacked.
” In fact , she said , the decision that DACA was illegal had been made , which she disliked .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ She did not disagree , but she chafed at being cut out of the real decision-making.
” “ What was missing for me is really that process of discussing it , ” she said .
“ It is a grave decision not only from a legal standpoint but from the effect it will have on not just 700,000 people but 700,000 people plus their families.
” As The Times described it : “ Ms .
Duke ’ s most lasting legacy is likely to be the memo she signed — under pressure — @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not to cite any specific policy reasons was at the heart of the Supreme Court ’ s ruling , which said the Trump administration had failed to substantively consider the implications of terminating the program ’ s protections and benefits .
RELATED : Trump Not Giving Up on Ending DACA , Says Another Attempt Coming 'Shortly' “ Ms .
Duke said she did not include policy reasons in the memo because she did not agree with the ideas being pushed by Mr. Miller and Mr .
Sessions : that DACA amounted to an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new waves of illegal immigration.
” According to The Times , Duke agreed that DACA “ isn ’ t a legal program , ” but she said she “ hopes that Congress can find a hoped that Republicans and Democrats in Congress would eventually find a way to allow the undocumented immigrants covered by the program to live and work permanently in the United States.
” In an article published Nov. 12 of last year , when the DACA arguments were going before the Supreme Court , The Times was more explicit : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ memo ending the program did not make the case that President Barack Obama had gotten the policy wrong — that DACA recipients were not deserving of protection or that allowing them to stay in the country would create problems that the government wanted to avoid .
Instead , Ms. Duke , a career civil servant who volunteered with an immigrant aid group in her free time , relied solely on an assertion by Mr .
Sessions that it was unlawful.
” That was not enough to win the Supreme Court over .
Having @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Times she hopes that Congress “ would eventually find a way to allow the undocumented immigrants covered by the program to live and work permanently in the United States.
” In response to The Times article , White House spokesman Judd Deere said Trump “ has kept his promise to the American people to reduce illegal immigration , secure the border , lower the crime rate and maintain law and order .
He has never wavered in his highest obligation to the American people : their safety and security.
” Duke told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s approach after Hurricane Maria struck Puerto Rico .
“ The president ’ s initial ideas were more of as a businessman , you know , ” she said .
“ Can we outsource the electricity ?
Can we can we sell the island ?
You know , or divest of that asset ?
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

A former acting secretary of homeland security has admitted intentionally omitting critical information from a memo she wrote ending the Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals program because she did not agree with President Donald Trump’s approach and was miffed her opinion wasn’t listened to.
Elaine Duke, who served the president as his acting homeland security chief for about four months, made her claim in an interview with The New York Times published Friday. Duke had more than 20 years with the federal government when she was appointed, according to PBS.
The fit of pique Duke described that took place in 2017 had far-reaching repercussions. In the June 18 Supreme Court ruling that blocked — at least temporarily — Trump’s effort to end DACA, the majority of justices said that no policy rationale was given for ending the program, which was created by former President Barack Obama.
Duke, whose interview with The Times was filled with criticisms of Trump, ironically noted one of them in an interview revealing how she sabotaged his action to end DACA
“President Trump believes that he can’t trust,” Duke said. “That has affected his ability to get counsel from diverse groups of people.”
Elaine Duke is the latest former top White House security official to denounce Trump’s handling of the job. https://t.co/VMvAAAqrZV — USA TODAY (@USATODAY) July 13, 2020
As Duke recalled the scene, she was summoned to an August 2017 meeting with then-Attorney General Jeff Sessions, adviser Stephen Miller and other White House officials in what she expected was a discussion session about DACA.
She described the meeting to the Times as “an ambush” than that “the room was stacked.”
Is this proof that the Deep State exists? 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% (3738 Votes) No: 1% (24 Votes)
In fact, she said, the decision that DACA was illegal had been made, which she disliked. As the Times phrased it, “She did not disagree, but she chafed at being cut out of the real decision-making.”
“What was missing for me is really that process of discussing it,” she said.
“It is a grave decision not only from a legal standpoint but from the effect it will have on not just 700,000 people but 700,000 people plus their families.”
As The Times described it :
“Ms. Duke’s most lasting legacy is likely to be the memo she signed — under pressure — to end that program. Her decision not to cite any specific policy reasons was at the heart of the Supreme Court’s ruling, which said the Trump administration had failed to substantively consider the implications of terminating the program’s protections and benefits.
“Ms. Duke said she did not include policy reasons in the memo because she did not agree with the ideas being pushed by Mr. Miller and Mr. Sessions: that DACA amounted to an undeserved amnesty and that it would encourage new waves of illegal immigration.”
According to The Times, Duke agreed that DACA “isn’t a legal program,” but she said she “hopes that Congress can find a hoped that Republicans and Democrats in Congress would eventually find a way to allow the undocumented immigrants covered by the program to live and work permanently in the United States.”
In an article published Nov. 12 of last year, when the DACA arguments were going before the Supreme Court, The Times was more explicit:
“Ms. Duke’s bare-bones memo ending the program did not make the case that President Barack Obama had gotten the policy wrong — that DACA recipients were not deserving of protection or that allowing them to stay in the country would create problems that the government wanted to avoid. Instead, Ms. Duke, a career civil servant who volunteered with an immigrant aid group in her free time, relied solely on an assertion by Mr. Sessions that it was unlawful.”
That was not enough to win the Supreme Court over.
Having soured on the president, Duke told the Times she hopes that Congress “would eventually find a way to allow the undocumented immigrants covered by the program to live and work permanently in the United States.”
Duke’s comments produced a buzz on Twitter.
#ElaineDuke acting Homeland Security Secretary July-Dec 2017
Told The New York Times “She had deliberately sabotaged DACA paperwork” Treason ?
Criminal at work ?
Sabotage of #GOP ?@GOPChairwoman @POTUS @VP @KellyannePolls Career Politicians Hurt USA ??needs Term Limits pic.twitter.com/1vWspJwnHt — Que (@que_peace) July 13, 2020
Elaine Duke, former Acting Secretary of Homeland Security, sabotaged the recent DACA decision from SCOTUS. She was recommended to her position by John Kelly. #DrainTheSwamp https://t.co/FTHshER0Nk — Teacher for Trump (@MAGAeducator) July 13, 2020
In response to The Times article, White House spokesman Judd Deere said Trump “has kept his promise to the American people to reduce illegal immigration, secure the border, lower the crime rate and maintain law and order. He has never wavered in his highest obligation to the American people: their safety and security.”
Duke told The Times that she disliked Trump’s approach after Hurricane Maria struck Puerto Rico.
“The president’s initial ideas were more of as a businessman, you know,” she said. “Can we outsource the electricity? Can we can we sell the island? You know, or divest of that asset?”
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--2020-07-13--Cal Thomas: Like the Apostle Paul, Roger Stone Says He’s Given Up His Old Life for New Life in Chris

Cal Thomas: Like the Apostle Paul, Roger Stone Says He’s Given Up His Old Life for New Life in Christ

President Donald Trump ’ s decision to commute the prison sentence of longtime friend and political adviser Roger Stone just days before Stone was to begin a 40-month prison sentence — he and the president say he was falsely accused — reminded me of another man who was as loyal to his president and who did go to prison .
Charles Colson , described by detractors as Richard Nixon ’ s “ hatchet man , ” went to federal prison after pleading guilty to obstruction of justice for attempting to defame Pentagon Papers defendant Daniel Ellsberg in the Watergate affair @ @ @ @ @ @ @ different , Stone has proclaimed a life-changing experience identical to Colson ’ s .
In an interview with the Washington Examiner three months ago , Stone said evangelist Franklin Graham had been counseling him and urged him to “ put my faith in God , and confess my sins , acknowledge Jesus Christ in my life .
And I have done that.
” As was Colson ’ s experience , many skeptics and political opponents will deride Stone ’ s announcement .
While some have used religion to keep out of prison , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ early , the faith of others has proved to be genuine .
Time always tells .
Stone acknowledged that some will be skeptical , even cynical , when he told the Examiner , “ I ’ m aware of the fact there are skeptics who are going to say ‘ Stone is posturing .
Stone is maneuvering for public sympathy , ’ and so on .
But that ’ s just not the case .
And He , God , knows what ’ s in my heart.
” In an increasingly secular-progressive culture @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is considered sport , many may find Stone ’ s professed conversion hard to accept .
The list of his sins is long and very public , including those of a personal nature ( he and his wife had been regular visitors to a notorious Washington , D.C. , sex club ) .
Scripture tells us , however , that God ’ s mercy knows no limits and that Jesus came to save all who have sinned “ and fallen short of the glory of God , ” as the Apostle Paul writes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of his era prior to his own conversion .
Even some critics of Colson came to grudgingly accept his faith as genuine , largely because of the Prison Fellowship ministry he founded and how he became an advocate for prisoners , ex-inmates and their families without seeking credit for himself .
Spiritual transformations can also influence others , including opponents .
Former Republican strategist Lee Atwater announced his own conversion after being diagnosed with a brain tumor .
He issued a statement apologizing to political opposites he had harmed and adding : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people instead of taking advantage of them .
I don ’ t hate anyone anymore .
For the first time in my life I don ’ t hate somebody .
I have nothing but good feelings toward people .
I ’ ve found Jesus Christ — It ’ s that simple .
He ’ s made a difference.
” In his book “ Born Again , ” Colson writes about meeting with a small breakfast group that included Iowa Democratic Sen. Harold Hughes , a fierce Nixon opponent .
He quotes Hughes : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is to hate .
For years there were men towards whom I felt consuming bitterness .
I wasn ’ t hurting them , only myself .
By hating I was shutting Christ ’ s love out of my life .
One of the men I hated most was Chuck Colson , but now that we share a commitment together in Christ , I love him as my brother .
I would trust him with my life , my family , with everything I have.
” RELATED : Fred Weinberg : Judge in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Problems with Federal Court System Find me a power in Washington or anywhere else that can produce results like that .
Roger Stone says he is now plugged into that higher power .
Readers may email Cal Thomas at tcaeditors @ tribpub.com .
Look for Cal Thomas ’ new book “ America ’ s Expiration Date : The Fall of Empires and Superpowers and the Future of the United States ” ( HarperCollins/Zondervan ) .
The views expressed in this opinion article are those of their author and are not necessarily either shared @ @ @ @ @ @ @ website .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

President Donald Trump’s decision to commute the prison sentence of longtime friend and political adviser Roger Stone just days before Stone was to begin a 40-month prison sentence — he and the president say he was falsely accused — reminded me of another man who was as loyal to his president and who did go to prison.
Charles Colson, described by detractors as Richard Nixon’s “hatchet man,” went to federal prison after pleading guilty to obstruction of justice for attempting to defame Pentagon Papers defendant Daniel Ellsberg in the Watergate affair.
While the cases and outcomes are different, Stone has proclaimed a life-changing experience identical to Colson’s.
In an interview with the Washington Examiner three months ago, Stone said evangelist Franklin Graham had been counseling him and urged him to “put my faith in God, and confess my sins, acknowledge Jesus Christ in my life. And I have done that.”
As was Colson’s experience, many skeptics and political opponents will deride Stone’s announcement. While some have used religion to keep out of prison, receive a lighter sentence or be paroled early, the faith of others has proved to be genuine. Time always tells.
Stone acknowledged that some will be skeptical, even cynical, when he told the Examiner, “I’m aware of the fact there are skeptics who are going to say ‘Stone is posturing. Stone is maneuvering for public sympathy,’ and so on. But that’s just not the case. And He, God, knows what’s in my heart.”
In an increasingly secular-progressive culture where destroying one’s political enemies is considered sport, many may find Stone’s professed conversion hard to accept. The list of his sins is long and very public, including those of a personal nature (he and his wife had been regular visitors to a notorious Washington, D.C., sex club).
Scripture tells us, however, that God’s mercy knows no limits and that Jesus came to save all who have sinned “and fallen short of the glory of God,” as the Apostle Paul writes. Paul was the Stone and Colson of his era prior to his own conversion.
Even some critics of Colson came to grudgingly accept his faith as genuine, largely because of the Prison Fellowship ministry he founded and how he became an advocate for prisoners, ex-inmates and their families without seeking credit for himself.
Spiritual transformations can also influence others, including opponents.
Former Republican strategist Lee Atwater announced his own conversion after being diagnosed with a brain tumor. He issued a statement apologizing to political opposites he had harmed and adding:
“I should have been trying to help people instead of taking advantage of them. I don’t hate anyone anymore. For the first time in my life I don’t hate somebody. I have nothing but good feelings toward people. I’ve found Jesus Christ — It’s that simple. He’s made a difference.”
In his book “Born Again,” Colson writes about meeting with a small breakfast group that included Iowa Democratic Sen. Harold Hughes, a fierce Nixon opponent.
He quotes Hughes: “I’ve learned how wrong it is to hate. For years there were men towards whom I felt consuming bitterness. I wasn’t hurting them, only myself. By hating I was shutting Christ’s love out of my life. One of the men I hated most was Chuck Colson, but now that we share a commitment together in Christ, I love him as my brother. I would trust him with my life, my family, with everything I have.”
Find me a power in Washington or anywhere else that can produce results like that.
Roger Stone says he is now plugged into that higher power.
Scripture calls Him the “cornerstone.”
Readers may email Cal Thomas at tcaeditors@tribpub.com. Look for Cal Thomas’ new book “America’s Expiration Date: The Fall of Empires and Superpowers and the Future of the United States” (HarperCollins/Zondervan).
© 2020 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.
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.
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westernjournal--2020-07-13--California Primary Highlights Drawbacks in Mail-In Voting After State Rejects 100K Ballots

More than 100,000 mail-in ballots were rejected by California election officials during the March presidential primary , according to data obtained by The Associated Press .
California is one of a number of states increasing mail-in balloting , ostensibly to avoid crowds at polling places amid the coronavirus pandemic .
President Donald Trump is among those questioning the integrity of vote-by-mail elections , while supporters claim they are just as reliable as polling places .
Of course , polling places have workers who can try to ensure each vote is cast by the right person and who can assist those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A voter doesn ’ t have support at home , and so problems can arise .
The California secretary of state ’ s election data obtained by the AP showed 102,428 mail-in ballots were disqualified in the state ’ s 58 counties , about 1.5 percent of the nearly 7 million mail-in ballots returned .
That percentage is the highest in a primary since 2014 , and the overall number is the highest in a statewide election since 2010 .
Two years ago , the national average of rejected mail ballots in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and in the 2016 presidential election year it was 1 percent , according to a U.S. Election Assistance Commission study .
The most common problem , by far , in California was missing the deadline for the ballot to be mailed and arrive .
To count in the election , ballots must be postmarked on or before Election Day and received within three days afterward .
Statewide , 70,330 ballots missed those marks .
Another 27,525 either didn ’ t have a signature or had a signature that didn ’ t match @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Kim Alexander , president of the nonprofit California Voter Foundation , called the uncounted figure discouraging .
“ The only thing worse than people not voting is people attempting to vote and having their ballot uncounted , ” she said .
The tally of nullified votes “ can make a difference in a close contest , ” Alexander said .
The data didn ’ t break down the uncounted ballots by party registration .
While the overall number was large in March , if it ’ s the same in November it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ race — Trump lost the solidly blue state to Democrat Hillary Clinton in 2016 by 4.3 million votes .
But there are expected to be at least several tightly contested U.S. House races where a relatively few votes could tip the balance .
In 2018 , Democrat T.J. Cox upset Republican David Valadao by fewer than 1,000 votes in a Central Valley district .
They have a rematch in November .
Local races sometimes are decided by a handful of votes .
California traditionally has offered mail-in voting only to those who request @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grown to represent more than half of all cast ballots .
Purportedly in response to the coronavirus outbreak , Democratic Gov .
Gavin Newsom in June signed a law requiring county election officials to mail a ballot to all the state ’ s nearly 21 million registered voters for the November election .
In preparation for November , the state is launching a ballot-tracking tool that will quickly alert voters if they need to take action , such as adding a missing signature .
Another change : The state is extending the window @ @ @ @ @ @ @ days after Election Day .
Trump has called mail-in voting “ a terrible thing ” prone to abuse , warning that “ you get thousands and thousands of people sitting in somebody ’ s living room , signing ballots all over the place.
” Just last month , four men were indicted in Paterson , New Jersey , on vote-tampering charges involving mail-in ballots in a municipal election .
Attorney General Gurbir Grewal announced the charges against 1st Ward Councilman Michael Jackson , 3rd Ward Councilman-Elect Alex Mendez , Shelim Khalique and Abu @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allegedly committed fraud in the May 12 special election .
With the COVID-19 pandemic prompting many state officials to pursue near-universal mail-in voting , Republicans and Democrats have disagreed about the safety and security of votes traveling through the U.S .
Postal Service .
Alex Padilla , California ’ s Democratic secretary of state , claims there is “ no safer … way to exercise your right to vote than from the safety and convenience of your own home.
” Research by Alexander ’ s group has found that an average of nearly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ voided in statewide elections between 2010 and 2018 .
However , over that time , the rate of disqualification has improved , dropping from over 140,000 ballots , or 2.9 percent in the 2010 general election , to 84,825 ballots , or 1 percent , in 2018 .
Last March , the highest rejection rate in California was in San Francisco , where 9,407 ballots , or nearly 5 percent of the total , were set aside , mostly because they did not arrive on time .
By contrast , in rural Plumas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 8,207 mail-in ballots received were accepted .
In Los Angeles County , nearly 2,800 ballots were nullified because the voter forgot to sign it and then couldn ’ t be found to fix the error .
More than 1,000 ballots were disqualified in Fresno County because the signature didn ’ t match the one on file with election officials .
The same problem nixed over 1,300 ballots in San Diego County — and over 14,000 statewide .
In some of those cases , voting experts say , a family member might have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which is illegal .
In more than 800 instances , envelopes were returned to election officials without the marked ballot inside .
Orange County Registrar of Voters Neal Kelley said ultimately a voter has the responsibility to fill out the ballot correctly and get it in the mail on time .
Sometimes , “ it ’ s just a product of voters forgetting , ” Kelley said .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

More than 100,000 mail-in ballots were rejected by California election officials during the March presidential primary, according to data obtained by The Associated Press.
California is one of a number of states increasing mail-in balloting, ostensibly to avoid crowds at polling places amid the coronavirus pandemic.
President Donald Trump is among those questioning the integrity of vote-by-mail elections, while supporters claim they are just as reliable as polling places.
Of course, polling places have workers who can try to ensure each vote is cast by the right person and who can assist those who have questions about filling out ballots.
A voter doesn’t have support at home, and so problems can arise.
The California secretary of state’s election data obtained by the AP showed 102,428 mail-in ballots were disqualified in the state’s 58 counties, about 1.5 percent of the nearly 7 million mail-in ballots returned. That percentage is the highest in a primary since 2014, and the overall number is the highest in a statewide election since 2010.
Two years ago, the national average of rejected mail ballots in the general election was about 1.4 percent, and in the 2016 presidential election year it was 1 percent, according to a U.S. Election Assistance Commission study.
The most common problem, by far, in California was missing the deadline for the ballot to be mailed and arrive. To count in the election, ballots must be postmarked on or before Election Day and received within three days afterward. Statewide, 70,330 ballots missed those marks.
Another 27,525 either didn’t have a signature or had a signature that didn’t match the one on record for the voter.
Do you think mail-in ballots are more susceptible to fraud than in-person ballots? 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% (540 Votes) No: 1% (4 Votes)
Kim Alexander, president of the nonprofit California Voter Foundation, called the uncounted figure discouraging.
“The only thing worse than people not voting is people attempting to vote and having their ballot uncounted,” she said.
The tally of nullified votes “can make a difference in a close contest,” Alexander said.
The data didn’t break down the uncounted ballots by party registration.
While the overall number was large in March, if it’s the same in November it’s unlikely to affect the presidential race — Trump lost the solidly blue state to Democrat Hillary Clinton in 2016 by 4.3 million votes.
But there are expected to be at least several tightly contested U.S. House races where a relatively few votes could tip the balance. In 2018, Democrat T.J. Cox upset Republican David Valadao by fewer than 1,000 votes in a Central Valley district. They have a rematch in November.
Local races sometimes are decided by a handful of votes.
California traditionally has offered mail-in voting only to those who request ballots. Over time the number has grown to represent more than half of all cast ballots.
Purportedly in response to the coronavirus outbreak, Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom in June signed a law requiring county election officials to mail a ballot to all the state’s nearly 21 million registered voters for the November election.
In preparation for November, the state is launching a ballot-tracking tool that will quickly alert voters if they need to take action, such as adding a missing signature. Another change: The state is extending the window for mail ballots to arrive to 17 days after Election Day.
Trump has called mail-in voting “a terrible thing” prone to abuse, warning that “you get thousands and thousands of people sitting in somebody’s living room, signing ballots all over the place.”
Just last month, four men were indicted in Paterson, New Jersey, on vote-tampering charges involving mail-in ballots in a municipal election.
Attorney General Gurbir Grewal announced the charges against 1st Ward Councilman Michael Jackson, 3rd Ward Councilman-Elect Alex Mendez, Shelim Khalique and Abu Razyen on June 25 after the four allegedly committed fraud in the May 12 special election.
With the COVID-19 pandemic prompting many state officials to pursue near-universal mail-in voting, Republicans and Democrats have disagreed about the safety and security of votes traveling through the U.S. Postal Service.
Alex Padilla, California’s Democratic secretary of state, claims there is “no safer … way to exercise your right to vote than from the safety and convenience of your own home.”
Research by Alexander’s group has found that an average of nearly two of every 100 mail-in ballots were voided in statewide elections between 2010 and 2018. However, over that time, the rate of disqualification has improved, dropping from over 140,000 ballots, or 2.9 percent in the 2010 general election, to 84,825 ballots, or 1 percent, in 2018.
Last March, the highest rejection rate in California was in San Francisco, where 9,407 ballots, or nearly 5 percent of the total, were set aside, mostly because they did not arrive on time.
By contrast, in rural Plumas County northeast of Sacramento, all of the 8,207 mail-in ballots received were accepted.
In Los Angeles County, nearly 2,800 ballots were nullified because the voter forgot to sign it and then couldn’t be found to fix the error.
Statewide, that mistake spiked nearly 13,000 ballots.
More than 1,000 ballots were disqualified in Fresno County because the signature didn’t match the one on file with election officials. The same problem nixed over 1,300 ballots in San Diego County — and over 14,000 statewide.
In some of those cases, voting experts say, a family member might have signed for others in the household, which is illegal.
In more than 800 instances, envelopes were returned to election officials without the marked ballot inside.
Orange County Registrar of Voters Neal Kelley said ultimately a voter has the responsibility to fill out the ballot correctly and get it in the mail on time.
Sometimes, “it’s just a product of voters forgetting,” Kelley said.
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.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
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westernjournal--2020-07-13--Report: NASCAR Might Ban Political Messages After ‘Black Lives Matter’ and ‘Trump 2020’ Paint Jobs

Amid an increasingly politically divided landscape across sports and culture , NASCAR officials are considering banning political statements from cars , according to a report .
Sports Business Daily reported Friday that conversations about banning such displays are in the “ early stages , ” but they are being held in the wake of the sport becoming a magnet for political controversies in recent weeks .
“ The paint schemes are sold by teams and NASCAR merely approves them , but social media chatter in recent months has shown that many people blame the sanctioning body for allowing political paint @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Adam Stern with Sports Business Daily wrote .
“ It is not yet clear how much teams could push back on this , but they do rely on sponsorship for roughly 75 % of their annual revenue .
However , industry execs , including those from teams , are getting increasingly uneasy about how much the sport has been politicized , so there could be newfound acceptance of this topic.
” Stern said sources told him racing ’ s governing body is “ frustrated by the increasing polarization and controversies surrounding the sport @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discussions about whether to ban political paint schemes in the future.
” Bubba Wallace , NASCAR ’ s only black driver , drove a car with a “ Black Lives Matter ” paint scheme last month at Martinsville .
ESPN reported LaJoie was sponsored by the pro-Trump Patriots of America PAC .
“ With an estimated 75 million NASCAR fans out there , I was surprised that about 15 million of those fans are not registered voters , ” LaJoie said , according to ESPN .
“ I will give my best effort @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , through our team efforts on and off the track .
When they see the car , hopefully it makes them race to the polls in November.
” But the controversy surrounding the sport in the weeks since the May 25 death of George Floyd in police custody has gone far beyond paint schemes .
NASCAR signaled last month , at least to some fans , that it was siding with the radical leftist Black Lives Matter movement when it banned Confederate battle flags at events and facilities .
“ The presence of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contrary to our commitment to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all fans , our competitors and our industry .
Bringing people together around a love for racing and the community that it creates is what makes our fans and sport special .
The display of the confederate flag will be prohibited from all NASCAR events and properties , ” NASCAR said .
NASCAR also mishandled a controversy last month surrounding a supposed noose found in Wallace ’ s garage at Talladega .
An FBI investigation determined that the noose was , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rope that had been there for months .
Some fans felt NASCAR officials were quick to jump to a conclusion on the garage door pull .
“ Late this afternoon , NASCAR was made aware that a noose was found in the garage stall of the 43 team , ” NASCAR said in a statement at the time the controversy began .
“ We are angry and outraged and can not state strongly enough how seriously we take this heinous act .
We have launched an immediate investigation and will do everything we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) responsible and eliminate them from the sport .
As we have stated unequivocally , there is no place for racism in NASCAR and this act only strengthens our resolve to make the sport open and welcoming to all.
” President Donald Trump was among those who had harsh words for both Wallace and NASCAR .
The divisiveness of politics being injected into racing and sports overall has NASCAR executives considering a policy of political neutrality .
“ The talks are in the early stages , and what will be the ultimate outcome @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be implemented if it was adopted , are all currently unclear , ” Stern reported .
“ It also is unclear what NASCAR would define as political .
This move likely would get major attention and show that the sport is taking active steps to try to be more politically neutral than ever before.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Amid an increasingly politically divided landscape across sports and culture, NASCAR officials are considering banning political statements from cars, according to a report.
Sports Business Daily reported Friday that conversations about banning such displays are in the “early stages,” but they are being held in the wake of the sport becoming a magnet for political controversies in recent weeks.
“The paint schemes are sold by teams and NASCAR merely approves them, but social media chatter in recent months has shown that many people blame the sanctioning body for allowing political paint schemes they do not like,” Adam Stern with Sports Business Daily wrote.
“It is not yet clear how much teams could push back on this, but they do rely on sponsorship for roughly 75% of their annual revenue. However, industry execs, including those from teams, are getting increasingly uneasy about how much the sport has been politicized, so there could be newfound acceptance of this topic.”
Stern said sources told him racing’s governing body is “frustrated by the increasing polarization and controversies surrounding the sport, and it is now holding internal discussions about whether to ban political paint schemes in the future.”
Bubba Wallace, NASCAR’s only black driver, drove a car with a “Black Lives Matter” paint scheme last month at Martinsville.
Driver Corey LaJoie later unveiled a “Trump 2020” paint scheme.
NEWS: Patriots of America PAC partners with GFR, for nine races in 2020 season. @CoreyLaJoie will debut this patriotic red, white, and blue scheme at @IMS this Sunday. pic.twitter.com/BojiLaYIxD — Go Fas Racing (@GoFasRacing32) July 1, 2020
ESPN reported LaJoie was sponsored by the pro-Trump Patriots of America PAC.
“With an estimated 75 million NASCAR fans out there, I was surprised that about 15 million of those fans are not registered voters,” LaJoie said, according to ESPN.
“I will give my best effort to get NASCAR fans registered to vote, through our team efforts on and off the track. When they see the car, hopefully it makes them race to the polls in November.”
Do you think NASCAR should ban political messages on cars? 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: 48% (479 Votes) No: 52% (512 Votes)
But the controversy surrounding the sport in the weeks since the May 25 death of George Floyd in police custody has gone far beyond paint schemes.
NASCAR signaled last month, at least to some fans, that it was siding with the radical leftist Black Lives Matter movement when it banned Confederate battle flags at events and facilities.
“The presence of the confederate flag at NASCAR events runs contrary to our commitment to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all fans, our competitors and our industry. Bringing people together around a love for racing and the community that it creates is what makes our fans and sport special. The display of the confederate flag will be prohibited from all NASCAR events and properties,” NASCAR said.
NASCAR also mishandled a controversy last month surrounding a supposed noose found in Wallace’s garage at Talladega.
Whoa. NASCAR drivers march in solidarity behind Bubba Wallace after a noose was found in his stall.pic.twitter.com/A2bTfaGJnT — Brian Tyler Cohen (@briantylercohen) June 22, 2020
An FBI investigation determined that the noose was, in fact, a garage door pull rope that had been there for months.
Some fans felt NASCAR officials were quick to jump to a conclusion on the garage door pull.
“Late this afternoon, NASCAR was made aware that a noose was found in the garage stall of the 43 team,” NASCAR said in a statement at the time the controversy began. “We are angry and outraged and cannot state strongly enough how seriously we take this heinous act. We have launched an immediate investigation and will do everything we can to identify the person(s) responsible and eliminate them from the sport. As we have stated unequivocally, there is no place for racism in NASCAR and this act only strengthens our resolve to make the sport open and welcoming to all.”
President Donald Trump was among those who had harsh words for both Wallace and NASCAR.
Has @BubbaWallace apologized to all of those great NASCAR drivers & officials who came to his aid, stood by his side, & were willing to sacrifice everything for him, only to find out that the whole thing was just another HOAX? That & Flag decision has caused lowest ratings EVER! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 6, 2020
The divisiveness of politics being injected into racing and sports overall has NASCAR executives considering a policy of political neutrality.
“The talks are in the early stages, and what will be the ultimate outcome, and when such a move would be implemented if it was adopted, are all currently unclear,” Stern reported.
“It also is unclear what NASCAR would define as political. This move likely would get major attention and show that the sport is taking active steps to try to be more politically neutral than ever before.”
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
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* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.