westernjournal--2020-07-28--Leftist Protesters Target DHS Secretary’s Home, Shout ‘Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf?’

When did the left lose its last shred of sanity ?
Portland , Oregon , has become a smoldering war zone after more than 60 straight days of protests in the city , forcing President Donald Trump to finally send in law enforcement from the U.S .
Marshals Service and the Department of Homeland Security , among other federal agencies .
Instead of applauding the attempt at restoring law and order , stories began circulating about innocent protestors being pulled into unmarked cars by “ secret police ” in violation of their Constitutional rights .
That narrative has somehow gained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including the siege at the Mark O. Hatfield U.S .
Courthouse in Portland where Trump sent in federal agents to defend federal property .
Somehow , stopping the criminals has made leftists angry , provoking them to protest at the home of acting DHS Secretary Chad Wolf .
TRENDING : Seattle Radio Host Gives Narrative-Busting Account of What 's Happening in City : 'Evil People' It isn ’ t clear if Wolf ’ s home address was unlawfully publicized , although some of his neighbors apparently participated as protestors , according to The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 30 protestors descended on Wolf ’ s quiet Alexandria , Virginia , neighborhood shouting Black Lives Matter slogans and “ Who ’ s afraid of the big bad Wolf ?
We ’ re not afraid of the big bad Wolf.
” That ’ s right — they ’ re not incensed by mortar fireworks being detonated near a federal courthouse , or about the federal agents possibly permanently blinded by lasers the rioters are using , or even the fact that local officials stood idly by while it happened — they ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with stopping them .
The intellectually bankrupt and morally repugnant mindset these riot-sympathizers possess is evident in their own words , spoken on the suburban streets near Wolf ’ s private residence ( which itself is a provocative tactic rather than protesting at DHS headquarters ) .
In a video tweeted by journalist Julio Rosas , one protestor wearing a mask and speaking into a megaphone began her speech decrying how law enforcement is “ tear-gassing mothers and fathers and sisters and brothers and children and people of color in Portland , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lucky that we have progressive leaders who are never going to be progressive enough , let ’ s be honest , ” she said , oblivious to the fact that the progressives in charge of those cities created the mess with their impotence .
She was annoyed that folks were asked to be polite and not dress like Sean Spicer at their neighborhood Halloween party where he would also be in attendance back when he was the White House press secretary , oblivious to such an embarrassing expression of “ white privilege ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with high-ranking government officials .
RELATED : Portland City Commissioner Demands Mayor Give Her Control of Police So Cops Do n't Stop Rioters “ We must make social consequences for these men and women , ” the protestor continued .
“ We must make it uncomfortable for them.
” “ We will not be good Germans .
We will not be the people who sat by and watched our neighbors commit these atrocities and said nothing because their kids were home , or because they were polite , ” she said , referring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the people committing the actual atrocities DHS is trying to stop .
“ I ’ m here because I ’ m not going to be quiet while this man who isn ’ t even home because , according to him , we are an angry mob who probably needs tear-gassing , ” she said to cheers from the rest of the group .
“ We are not an angry mob , are we ?
We are angry neighbors , ” she said .
“ This man lives here quietly and is able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do something about that , ” the protestor said and promised “ social consequences , political consequences.
” This narrative that places federal law enforcement as the aggressors and the actual violent , lawless protestors as the victims is convoluted and delusional .
Wolf explained the uniquely catastrophic situation unfolding nightly in Portland to Fox News ’ Maria Bartiromo during his appearance on “ Sunday Morning Futures.
” “ What we have in Portland is , every night , again , between midnight and 5:00 a.m. , you have anywhere from 2,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ individuals targeting federal property , the federal courthouse there in Portland and federal law enforcement officers , ” Wolf said .
“ They are arriving every night , using city streets and city parks , ” he continued .
“ They ’ re coming armed with rocks , bottles , basketball bats , power tools , commercial-grade fireworks , eliciting that violence , and targeting their violence on federal courthouse and federal law enforcement officers.
” “ We see city leadership there has fostered an environment that allows these criminals to do this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ untouched , ” he said .
“ Portland looks like Baghdad , ” Bartiromo said , with rioters hurling bricks at police , despite phony reports of “ peaceful protesting ” from leaders in city , state , and national government .
“ I would say to you , that we have over 70 arrests , ” Wolf said , addressing those who claim these protests are not violent .
“ We have over 188 individual injuries .
We ’ ve got over a dozen times it has been declared a riot that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , violent activity , ” Wolf said .
“ We ’ ve got dozens of pictures , photos , videos , some of which we released , that say the complete opposite.
” The left is out of its collective mind and out of control .
They have allowed their own cities to burn , permitting violence , destruction and anarchy to reign for two months solid in cities such as Portland .
But now that the feds are actually attempting to do something about it , leftists are caterwauling about the supposed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler himself has had to weather the slings and arrows as the revolution eats its own , but local law enforcement has done little to stop any of it .
These cities can not continue to descend into bedlam night after night , but the Democratic Party must think it is politically expedient to allow it .
Judging from the protestors who were happy to align with the chaos and destruction , apparently it is — and that ’ s the worst part of this whole shameful mess .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

When did the left lose its last shred of sanity?
Portland, Oregon, has become a smoldering war zone after more than 60 straight days of protests in the city, forcing President Donald Trump to finally send in law enforcement from the U.S. Marshals Service and the Department of Homeland Security, among other federal agencies.
Instead of applauding the attempt at restoring law and order, stories began circulating about innocent protestors being pulled into unmarked cars by “secret police” in violation of their Constitutional rights.
That narrative has somehow gained traction despite the ongoing violent unrest, including the siege at the Mark O. Hatfield U.S. Courthouse in Portland where Trump sent in federal agents to defend federal property.
Somehow, stopping the criminals has made leftists angry, provoking them to protest at the home of acting DHS Secretary Chad Wolf.
It isn’t clear if Wolf’s home address was unlawfully publicized, although some of his neighbors apparently participated as protestors, according to The Washington Post.
On Sunday, about 30 protestors descended on Wolf’s quiet Alexandria, Virginia, neighborhood shouting Black Lives Matter slogans and “Who’s afraid of the big bad Wolf? We’re not afraid of the big bad Wolf.”
That’s right — they’re not incensed by mortar fireworks being detonated near a federal courthouse, or about the federal agents possibly permanently blinded by lasers the rioters are using, or even the fact that local officials stood idly by while it happened — they’re outraged at one of the men charged with stopping them.
The intellectually bankrupt and morally repugnant mindset these riot-sympathizers possess is evident in their own words, spoken on the suburban streets near Wolf’s private residence (which itself is a provocative tactic rather than protesting at DHS headquarters).
Do you think Department of Homeland Security Acting Secretary Chad Wolf is being unfairly targeted for trying to stop the nightly riots in Portland? 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% (340 Votes) No: 2% (6 Votes)
In a video tweeted by journalist Julio Rosas, one protestor wearing a mask and speaking into a megaphone began her speech decrying how law enforcement is “tear-gassing mothers and fathers and sisters and brothers and children and people of color in Portland, and Albuquerque and everywhere.”
“We are lucky that we have progressive leaders who are never going to be progressive enough, let’s be honest,” she said, oblivious to the fact that the progressives in charge of those cities created the mess with their impotence.
She was annoyed that folks were asked to be polite and not dress like Sean Spicer at their neighborhood Halloween party where he would also be in attendance back when he was the White House press secretary, oblivious to such an embarrassing expression of “white privilege” that comes with sharing a posh neighborhood with high-ranking government officials.
Protesters have gathered outside the home of Chad Wolf, acting secretary of Homeland Security. They are here to protest against DHS sending federal agents to Portland after rioters continue to target the federal courthouse in the city. pic.twitter.com/SeWSElO2KY — Julio Rosas (@Julio_Rosas11) July 26, 2020
“We must make social consequences for these men and women,” the protestor continued. “We must make it uncomfortable for them.”
“We will not be good Germans. We will not be the people who sat by and watched our neighbors commit these atrocities and said nothing because their kids were home, or because they were polite,” she said, referring to Wolf and law enforcement, not the people committing the actual atrocities DHS is trying to stop.
“I’m here because I’m not going to be quiet while this man who isn’t even home because, according to him, we are an angry mob who probably needs tear-gassing,” she said to cheers from the rest of the group.
“We are not an angry mob, are we? We are angry neighbors,” she said.
“This man lives here quietly and is able to live just like us and we need to do something about that,” the protestor said and promised “social consequences, political consequences.”
One speaker at the protest outside of Sec. Chad Wolf’s home complains how there’s no financial, career, and legal consequences for people like him. Says there must be social/political consequences: “[Wolf] lives here quietly…and we need to do something about that.” pic.twitter.com/b47dUrKFrB — Julio Rosas (@Julio_Rosas11) July 26, 2020
This narrative that places federal law enforcement as the aggressors and the actual violent, lawless protestors as the victims is convoluted and delusional.
Wolf explained the uniquely catastrophic situation unfolding nightly in Portland to Fox News’ Maria Bartiromo during his appearance on “Sunday Morning Futures.”
“What we have in Portland is, every night, again, between midnight and 5:00 a.m., you have anywhere from 2,000, 3,000, upwards to 4,000 violent individuals targeting federal property, the federal courthouse there in Portland and federal law enforcement officers,” Wolf said.
“They are arriving every night, using city streets and city parks,” he continued. “They’re coming armed with rocks, bottles, basketball bats, power tools, commercial-grade fireworks, eliciting that violence, and targeting their violence on federal courthouse and federal law enforcement officers.”
“We see city leadership there has fostered an environment that allows these criminals to do this throughout the night, untouched, absolutely untouched,” he said.
“Portland looks like Baghdad,” Bartiromo said, with rioters hurling bricks at police, despite phony reports of “peaceful protesting” from leaders in city, state, and national government.
“I would say to you, that we have over 70 arrests,” Wolf said, addressing those who claim these protests are not violent. “We have over 188 individual injuries. We’ve got over a dozen times it has been declared a riot that says otherwise.”
“This is violent, violent activity,” Wolf said. “We’ve got dozens of pictures, photos, videos, some of which we released, that say the complete opposite.”
The left is out of its collective mind and out of control.
They have allowed their own cities to burn, permitting violence, destruction and anarchy to reign for two months solid in cities such as Portland.
But now that the feds are actually attempting to do something about it, leftists are caterwauling about the supposed assault on their rights.
Even Democratic Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler himself has had to weather the slings and arrows as the revolution eats its own, but local law enforcement has done little to stop any of it.
These cities cannot continue to descend into bedlam night after night, but the Democratic Party must think it is politically expedient to allow it.
Judging from the protestors who were happy to align with the chaos and destruction, apparently it is — and that’s the worst part of this whole shameful mess.
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--2020-07-28--Study: 111,000 Children Will Starve to Death Because of Economic Shutdowns

The cure is becoming worse than the disease .
While public health organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization have applauded the many restrictive COVID-19 lockdowns that are preventing the disease ’ s spread , they have failed to point out the tremendous cost that such policies carry with them .
A new report from the United Nations published in the medical journal The Lancet estimates well over 100,000 children will starve to death in 2020 due to the economic fallout from the economic restrictions of the U.S. and other Western nations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ estimates anywhere from 111,193 to 178,510 children younger than 5 years old will die from starvation this year thanks to the lockdowns .
“ Estimates from the International Food Policy Research Institute suggest that because of the pandemic an additional 140 million people will be thrown into living in extreme poverty on less than US $ 1.90 per day in 2020 .
According to the World Food Programme , the number of people in [ low-income and middle-income countries ] facing acute food insecurity will nearly double to 265 million by the end @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
TRENDING : Seattle Radio Host Gives Narrative-Busting Account of What 's Happening in City : 'Evil People' “ We estimate there would be 128,605 ( ranging from 111,193 to 178,510 for best and worst case scenarios ) additional deaths in children younger than 5 years during 2020 , with an estimated 52 % of these deaths in sub-Saharan Africa.
” Starvation is far from the only problem impoverished children are facing in 2020 .
The Associated Press has reported that 550,000 additional children each month are suffering from wasting , which is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such as “ spindly limbs and distended bellies.
” Economic experts have warned for quite some time that the costs of economic shutdowns could far outweigh the benefits of saving a few lives from COVID-19-caused deaths .
Back in April , World Food Program Executive Director David Beasley warned that a looming “ hunger pandemic ” caused by the fallout of economic shutdowns would likely bring “ the worst humanitarian crisis since World War II.
” Beasley ’ s organization predicted that an additional 130 million people could be on the brink of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the world ’ s response to the virus .
The agency also reported that 300,000 people could die due to starvation every day over a three month period , meaning shutdown-related deaths would far surpass the novel coronavirus ’ total death count .
Charles N. Steel , an associate professor and Herman A .
And Suzanne S. Dettwiler Chair in Economics at Hillsdale College , spoke to The Western Journal in May about the many dire costs a shutdown would bring about , many of which have not been acknowledged by pro-shutdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a serious problem , and that worsens with multiple months .
The COVID lock downs are creating serious problems .
They are causing high rates of unemployment ad threaten high rates of business failures .
I think that if the lock downs don ’ t end soon , they ’ ll cause far more damage and death than the virus , ” Steel told The Western Journal in an email .
RELATED : Twitter Targets Another GOP Official for Sharing Hydroxychloroquine Video “ It ’ s well known that an increase in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mortality .
With unemployment comes rising rates of death from heart attacks , stroke , suicide , and drug and alcohol abuse .
Other contributing problems include increased rates of depression , divorce , domestic violence , and other crime .
Several estimates have suggested that unemployment from the U.S. lock downs could will result in over 70,000 excess deaths from suicide and drug abuse alone.
” Between starvation , suicide and drug overdoses , among other causes of death , a growing mountain of evidence is suggesting that shutdowns are incredibly dangerous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deaths and infections should be done by any means necessary , the evidence suggests that the restrictive measures countries such as the U.S. are taking will result in more harm than the disease itself .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The cure is becoming worse than the disease.
While public health organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization have applauded the many restrictive COVID-19 lockdowns that are preventing the disease’s spread, they have failed to point out the tremendous cost that such policies carry with them.
A new report from the United Nations published in the medical journal The Lancet estimates well over 100,000 children will starve to death in 2020 due to the economic fallout from the economic restrictions of the U.S. and other Western nations.
The study, published Monday, estimates anywhere from 111,193 to 178,510 children younger than 5 years old will die from starvation this year thanks to the lockdowns.
“Estimates from the International Food Policy Research Institute suggest that because of the pandemic an additional 140 million people will be thrown into living in extreme poverty on less than US $1.90 per day in 2020. According to the World Food Programme, the number of people in [low-income and middle-income countries] facing acute food insecurity will nearly double to 265 million by the end of 2020,” the study reported.
“We estimate there would be 128,605 (ranging from 111,193 to 178,510 for best and worst case scenarios) additional deaths in children younger than 5 years during 2020, with an estimated 52% of these deaths in sub-Saharan Africa.”
Starvation is far from the only problem impoverished children are facing in 2020.
The Associated Press has reported that 550,000 additional children each month are suffering from wasting, which is a severe form of malnutrition with symptoms such as “spindly limbs and distended bellies.”
Economic experts have warned for quite some time that the costs of economic shutdowns could far outweigh the benefits of saving a few lives from COVID-19-caused deaths.
Should the economic shutdowns be lifted? 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% (1382 Votes) No: 2% (35 Votes)
Back in April, World Food Program Executive Director David Beasley warned that a looming “hunger pandemic” caused by the fallout of economic shutdowns would likely bring “the worst humanitarian crisis since World War II.”
Beasley’s organization predicted that an additional 130 million people could be on the brink of starvation by the end of 2020 because of the world’s response to the virus.
The agency also reported that 300,000 people could die due to starvation every day over a three month period, meaning shutdown-related deaths would far surpass the novel coronavirus’ total death count.
Charles N. Steel, an associate professor and Herman A. And Suzanne S. Dettwiler Chair in Economics at Hillsdale College, spoke to The Western Journal in May about the many dire costs a shutdown would bring about, many of which have not been acknowledged by pro-shutdown proponents.
“A month is usually a serious problem, and that worsens with multiple months. The COVID lock downs are creating serious problems. They are causing high rates of unemployment ad threaten high rates of business failures. I think that if the lock downs don’t end soon, they’ll cause far more damage and death than the virus,” Steel told The Western Journal in an email.
“It’s well known that an increase in the unemployment rate leads to an increase in mortality. With unemployment comes rising rates of death from heart attacks, stroke, suicide, and drug and alcohol abuse. Other contributing problems include increased rates of depression, divorce, domestic violence, and other crime. Several estimates have suggested that unemployment from the U.S. lock downs could will result in over 70,000 excess deaths from suicide and drug abuse alone.”
Between starvation, suicide and drug overdoses, among other causes of death, a growing mountain of evidence is suggesting that shutdowns are incredibly dangerous.
While many believe that limiting COVID-19 deaths and infections should be done by any means necessary, the evidence suggests that the restrictive measures countries such as the U.S. are taking will result in more harm than the disease itself.
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--2020-07-28--PGA Tour Champion Camilo Villegas’ Daughter Dead at 22 Months Old

On Oct. 3 , 2018 , four-time PGA Tour winner Camilo Villegas shared some exciting news on his Instagram .
“ Officially a Dad , ” he wrote .
“ Mom … and Mia doing great and I simply can ’ t stop smiling… Welcome to this world and this Family Mia.
” In March , Villegas and his wife Maria started noticing odd behavior from Mia .
Of course , babies are growing so fast that acting out of sorts is pretty common — but the difference they noticed in Mia set off alarms .
TRENDING : Seattle Radio @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Happening in City : 'Evil People' “ She always went to the gym with me ; it was one of our bonding spots , ” Villegas told the PGA Tour ’ s official website .
“ She was always like a little monkey , climbing on everything .
“ But then one day , I noticed she had not been climbing on anything .
She had also been crying a little more than normal at night .
She had been teething , so we took her to the pediatrician , thinking it was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , bad feelings crossed my mind , ” he said .
“ I had heard bad stories here and there .
So , I told my wife about that concerns .
She told me not to think like that.
” On March 14 , the family went to Nicklaus Children ’ s Hospital in Miami to get more tests and scans done .
The results were heartbreaking : Mia had cancerous tumors on her spine and brain .
Mia had surgery to remove the tumors — but shortly after , it became clear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to go away .
“ After the surgery , when it was time to remove the stitches , they learned the growth had become pretty aggressive , ” Villegas recounted .
“ We were told we needed to start treatment right away , so they kept us there .
Physically , though , she wasn ’ t ready to get the kind of chemo doctors were hoping for.
” Villegas also said that Mia still showed an interest in playing , despite the alternative rounds of chemotherapy they were embarking upon .
At @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did not want people to be sad for them .
Jay Monahan , the PGA Tour ’ s commissioner , released a statement on behalf of the organization , according to Fox News .
“ The PGA Tour is deeply saddened having lost a member of our family , Mia Villegas , ” he said .
“ We grieve with Camilo and Maria and our thoughts and prayers are with the Villegas family.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

On Oct. 3, 2018, four-time PGA Tour winner Camilo Villegas shared some exciting news on his Instagram.
“Officially a Dad,” he wrote. “Mom … and Mia doing great and I simply can’t stop smiling… Welcome to this world and this Family Mia.”
In March, Villegas and his wife Maria started noticing odd behavior from Mia.
Of course, babies are growing so fast that acting out of sorts is pretty common — but the difference they noticed in Mia set off alarms.
“She always went to the gym with me; it was one of our bonding spots,” Villegas told the PGA Tour’s official website.
“She was always like a little monkey, climbing on everything.
“But then one day, I noticed she had not been climbing on anything. She had also been crying a little more than normal at night. She had been teething, so we took her to the pediatrician, thinking it was that.”
“I’ll admit, bad feelings crossed my mind,” he said. “I had heard bad stories here and there. So, I told my wife about that concerns. She told me not to think like that.”
On March 14, the family went to Nicklaus Children’s Hospital in Miami to get more tests and scans done.
The results were heartbreaking: Mia had cancerous tumors on her spine and brain.
Mia had surgery to remove the tumors — but shortly after, it became clear that the tumors weren’t going to go away.
“After the surgery, when it was time to remove the stitches, they learned the growth had become pretty aggressive,” Villegas recounted.
“We were told we needed to start treatment right away, so they kept us there. Physically, though, she wasn’t ready to get the kind of chemo doctors were hoping for.”
Villegas also said that Mia still showed an interest in playing, despite the alternative rounds of chemotherapy they were embarking upon. At the time, he reassured fans they did not want people to be sad for them.
On Sunday, 22-month-old Mia passed away.
Jay Monahan, the PGA Tour’s commissioner, released a statement on behalf of the organization, according to Fox News.
“The PGA Tour is deeply saddened having lost a member of our family, Mia Villegas,” he said.
“We grieve with Camilo and Maria and our thoughts and prayers are with the Villegas family.”
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--2020-07-28--Barr Asks the One Question Democrats Don’t Want To Hear During Contentious Hearing

Democrats might not be so anxious to talk to Bill Barr for a while .
The attorney general faced down hours of pontificating liberals on Tuesday , stolidly slapping back efforts to smear both his own performance and the Trump administration while repeatedly taking the fight to Democrats intent on trying to put him on the defensive .
And when he was offered the chance to do a little pontificating of his own , he made the most of it .
The House Judiciary Committee hearing was chaired by Rep. Jerrold Nadler of New York , a viciously vindictive man @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with now-President Donald Trump goes back decades .
( As The Washington Post reported , they first butted heads over a Trump real estate project in Manhattan in 1985 . )
For the most part , the day was made up of a series of open attacks by Democratic lawmakers eager to score points with an avidly watching Twitter audience , but Barr stayed largely on the offensive .
TRENDING : Seattle Radio Host Gives Narrative-Busting Account of What 's Happening in City : 'Evil People' For instance , Nadler tried to accuse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of federal agents to the United States courthouse in Portland , Oregon , just to arouse Trump ’ s political base , according to The Daily Wire .
But when Nadler turned a question over to Republican Rep. Steve Chabot of Ohio , Barr took it to the Democrats — and their street thugs rioting in American cities — by asking questions every sane American can relate to .
Chabot set Barr up with a softball lob , asking the attorney general if it ’ s the Trump administration ’ s responsibility “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and that federal property is secure and safe and protected .
Is that correct ?
” In his response , Barr noted that the federal government is responsible for enforcing federal law throughout the country — “ every square foot of the country , ” in fact .
But then he got to the part about federal property , and that ’ s where the rubber hit the road .
Calling U.S. courthouses “ the heart of federal property , ” he said , “ we have the obligation to protect federal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ specifically have been given that obligation.
” Anyone with even a passing knowledge of current events knows that one particular piece of federal property , the Mark O. Hatfield Courthouse in Portland , Oregon , has been under nightly siege by anarchists for going on two months now .
Trump ’ s decision to send federal agents to protect the courthouse in early July has become a flashpoint for liberal lawmakers who accuse him of fomenting unrest ( apparently , they ’ re hoping Americans forget there was rioting before the federal agents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are under attack , ” Barr said .
“ Since when is it OK to try to burn down a federal court ?
” RELATED : Nadler Takes Off His Mask To Blast House Members for Not Wearing Masks Apparently realizing that the events in the Northwest might be too difficult for some of his Democratic listeners to comprehend , Barr brought the example closer to the Capitol — the E. Barrett Prettyman United States Courthouse , home of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia .
“ If someone went @ @ @ @ @ @ @ here , that beautiful courthouse we have right at the bottom of the hill , and started breaking windows and firing industrial-grade fireworks in to start a fire , throw kerosene balloons in and start fires in the court , is that OK ?
” His voice rose as his glance seemed to take in the Democrats on the panel .
“ No , ” he answered his own question .
“ The U.S .
Marshals have a duty to stop that and defend the courthouse , and that ’ s what we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ political party that allies itself with the kind of trash that ’ s staging nightly violence in Portland these days could take exception to Barr ’ s response .
But Barr ’ s ability to give unflinching responses like that is probably why Judiciary Committee Democrats spent more time enjoying the sound of their own voices making accusatory statements than letting the attorney general of the United States address the American people .
If nothing else , since being confirmed in February 2019 to his second stint as attorney general , Barr has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fighting back when Democrats go on the attack .
His performance on Tuesday was no exception , as Democrats repeatedly interrupted his answers in an attempt to score their own political points .
That last one puts it perfectly .
“ Muzzling their opponent ” is the one thing Democrats have become adept at during the Trump years , but when it comes to William Barr , that strategy is a dismal failure .
Crazed and senseless as Democrats sometimes seem , there isn ’ t one in elected office who ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ explain to American voters why it ’ s OK for the proletariat of Portland to continually attack and try to destroy a federal courthouse paid for American taxpayers dollars , forcing it to be protected by federal agents likewise paid for by taxpayer dollars .
In the Twitter world , liberals appear to be going crazy claiming victory over Barr .
But Democrats who were actually there have to know better .
After this performance , they might not be so anxious to call the attorney general back to Capitol Hill .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Democrats might not be so anxious to talk to Bill Barr for a while.
The attorney general faced down hours of pontificating liberals on Tuesday, stolidly slapping back efforts to smear both his own performance and the Trump administration while repeatedly taking the fight to Democrats intent on trying to put him on the defensive.
And when he was offered the chance to do a little pontificating of his own, he made the most of it.
The House Judiciary Committee hearing was chaired by Rep. Jerrold Nadler of New York, a viciously vindictive man whose history of personal and professional clashes with now-President Donald Trump goes back decades. (As The Washington Post reported, they first butted heads over a Trump real estate project in Manhattan in 1985.)
For the most part, the day was made up of a series of open attacks by Democratic lawmakers eager to score points with an avidly watching Twitter audience, but Barr stayed largely on the offensive.
For instance, Nadler tried to accuse Barr of orchestrating events like the deployment of federal agents to the United States courthouse in Portland, Oregon, just to arouse Trump’s political base, according to The Daily Wire.
But when Nadler turned a question over to Republican Rep. Steve Chabot of Ohio, Barr took it to the Democrats — and their street thugs rioting in American cities — by asking questions every sane American can relate to.
Chabot set Barr up with a softball lob, asking the attorney general if it’s the Trump administration’s responsibility “to see that federal laws are upheld, and that federal property is secure and safe and protected. Is that correct?”
Do you think Attorney General Barr embarrassed Democrats with his Capitol Hill appearance? 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: 97% (4542 Votes) No: 3% (133 Votes)
In his response, Barr noted that the federal government is responsible for enforcing federal law throughout the country — “every square foot of the country,” in fact. But then he got to the part about federal property, and that’s where the rubber hit the road.
Calling U.S. courthouses “the heart of federal property,” he said, “we have the obligation to protect federal courts, and the U.S. Marshals specifically have been given that obligation.”
Anyone with even a passing knowledge of current events knows that one particular piece of federal property, the Mark O. Hatfield Courthouse in Portland, Oregon, has been under nightly siege by anarchists for going on two months now.
Trump’s decision to send federal agents to protect the courthouse in early July has become a flashpoint for liberal lawmakers who accuse him of fomenting unrest (apparently, they’re hoping Americans forget there was rioting before the federal agents were dispatched).
“Federal courts are under attack,” Barr said. “Since when is it OK to try to burn down a federal court?”
[jwplayer UwGezVXr]
Apparently realizing that the events in the Northwest might be too difficult for some of his Democratic listeners to comprehend, Barr brought the example closer to the Capitol — the E. Barrett Prettyman United States Courthouse, home of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia.
“If someone went down the street to the Prettyman court here, that beautiful courthouse we have right at the bottom of the hill, and started breaking windows and firing industrial-grade fireworks in to start a fire, throw kerosene balloons in and start fires in the court, is that OK?”
His voice rose as his glance seemed to take in the Democrats on the panel.
“Is that OK, now?”
“No,” he answered his own question. “The U.S. Marshals have a duty to stop that and defend the courthouse, and that’s what we are doing in Portland.”
Only a political party that allies itself with the kind of trash that’s staging nightly violence in Portland these days could take exception to Barr’s response.
But Barr’s ability to give unflinching responses like that is probably why Judiciary Committee Democrats spent more time enjoying the sound of their own voices making accusatory statements than letting the attorney general of the United States address the American people.
If nothing else, since being confirmed in February 2019 to his second stint as attorney general, Barr has proven he’s not afraid of fighting back when Democrats go on the attack.
His performance on Tuesday was no exception, as Democrats repeatedly interrupted his answers in an attempt to score their own political points.
And Twitter users noticed:
Barr has to feel like something of a bad-ass that the only way Democrats think they have even a hope of surviving this “hearing” is to prohibit him from uttering a single word. — Mollie (@MZHemingway) July 28, 2020
I believe the Dems. have really shot themselves in the foot with this one sided hearing. Why are they fearful of hearing what Attorney General Barr has to say. Regardless of what side of the aisle you’re on I don’t know how anyone could call it a fair hearing. — Purnell E. Johnson, Sr., JD (@Elsworth1216) July 28, 2020
THE ONLY WAY DEMS CAN LOGICALLY WIN AN ARGUEMENT IS BY MUZZLING THEIR OPPONENT. — Joe Conservative (@FreedomRank2017) July 28, 2020
That last one puts it perfectly.
“Muzzling their opponent” is the one thing Democrats have become adept at during the Trump years, but when it comes to William Barr, that strategy is a dismal failure.
Crazed and senseless as Democrats sometimes seem, there isn’t one in elected office who’s likely to try to stand up and explain to American voters why it’s OK for the proletariat of Portland to continually attack and try to destroy a federal courthouse paid for American taxpayers dollars, forcing it to be protected by federal agents likewise paid for by taxpayer dollars.
In the Twitter world, liberals appear to be going crazy claiming victory over Barr.
But Democrats who were actually there have to know better.
After this performance, they might not be so anxious to call the attorney general back to Capitol Hill.
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--2020-07-28--Sheriff’s Office Announces Cause of Death of Prominent Conservative Professor

Police have released details about the death of a prominent conservative professor who taught at the University of North Carolina Wilmington .
Professor Mike Adams died inside his home last week in what the New Hanover County Sheriff ’ s Office has described as a suicide , the Raleigh-based News & Observer reported Monday .
Adams , 55 , was known for his online presence and for weighing in on current events while espousing conservative viewpoints .
The sheriff ’ s office said in a news release that he died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound , WECT-TV reported .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the medical examiner and it was ascertained that Mr. Adams committed suicide with a single gunshot wound to the head , ” police added .
TRENDING : Seattle Radio Host Gives Narrative-Busting Account of What 's Happening in City : 'Evil People' Authorities said Adams was alone at the time of his death .
Adams , who taught criminology and sociology at the school , was set to retire this coming week after a controversy surrounding his social media posts and years of expressing conservative views .
The professor was a fierce conservative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ liberal takeover of academia .
Adams was targeted recently after he posted a flurry of tweets about his state ’ s handling of the coronavirus pandemic .
The professor was particularly critical of lockdown measures instituted by Democratic North Carolina Gov .
Roy Cooper .
“ This evening I ate pizza and drank beer with six guys at a six seat table top .
I almost felt like a free man who was not living in the slave state of North Carolina , ” he tweeted May 29 .
“ Massa Cooper , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added .
The 55-year-old soon found himself the target of a campaign to have him removed from his position .
The university attempted to sever his employment and deny him tenure .
But he won a legal battle against the school , which agreed to pay him a sum of $ 504,702.76 if he would retire on Aug. 1 .
UNC Wilmington Chancellor Jose Sartarelli said in a June statement that the school was parting ways with Adams .
“ Over the past several weeks , many of you have inquired about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dr. Mike Adams , in light of the public attention generated by comments he made on his personal social media channels , ” Sartarelli said .
“ We can now share the update that after a discussion with Chancellor Sartarelli , Dr. Adams has decided to retire from UNCW , effective August 1 , 2020 .
We will have no further comment on this matter at this time , but we plan to share an update later this week regarding how we hope to move forward as a university community.
” On Thursday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home out of concern after not hearing from him for a number of days and phoned police , saying that Adams had been acting in an “ erratic ” manner .
The friend told police Adams had been “ under a lot of stress , ” according to The News & Observer .
Adams was honored by those who knew him last week as a tireless defender of conservative causes , especially for his stances against abortion and in favor of free speech .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ standards .

Police have released details about the death of a prominent conservative professor who taught at the University of North Carolina Wilmington.
Professor Mike Adams died inside his home last week in what the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office has described as a suicide, the Raleigh-based News & Observer reported Monday.
Adams, 55, was known for his online presence and for weighing in on current events while espousing conservative viewpoints.
The sheriff’s office said in a news release that he died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, WECT-TV reported.
“Detectives began their investigation in partnership with the medical examiner and it was ascertained that Mr. Adams committed suicide with a single gunshot wound to the head,” police added.
Authorities said Adams was alone at the time of his death.
Adams, who taught criminology and sociology at the school, was set to retire this coming week after a controversy surrounding his social media posts and years of expressing conservative views.
The professor was a fierce conservative who challenged what he viewed as a liberal takeover of academia.
Adams was targeted recently after he posted a flurry of tweets about his state’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic.
Do you think action should be taken to make universities more tolerant of conservative voices? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 100% (1455 Votes) No: 0% (7 Votes)
The professor was particularly critical of lockdown measures instituted by Democratic North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper.
“This evening I ate pizza and drank beer with six guys at a six seat table top. I almost felt like a free man who was not living in the slave state of North Carolina,” he tweeted May 29.
“Massa Cooper, let my people go!” he added.
This evening I ate pizza and drank beer with six guys at a six seat table top. I almost felt like a free man who was not living in the slave state of North Carolina. Massa Cooper, let my people go! — Mike S. Adams (@MikeSAdams) May 29, 2020
Adams constantly challenged liberal viewpoints on social media:
Rioters don’t care about social issues. They are thugs looking for an opportunity to break the law with impunity. — Mike S. Adams (@MikeSAdams) May 29, 2020
The violent outrage of white liberals taking to the streets is brought to you by your local university. None of this would be possible without the encouragement of academic extremists who have hijacked the system of higher education. — Mike S. Adams (@MikeSAdams) June 1, 2020
Abortion intentionally kills an innocent human being. — Mike S. Adams (@MikeSAdams) June 4, 2020
The 55-year-old soon found himself the target of a campaign to have him removed from his position.
The university attempted to sever his employment and deny him tenure. But he won a legal battle against the school, which agreed to pay him a sum of $504,702.76 if he would retire on Aug. 1.
UNC Wilmington Chancellor Jose Sartarelli said in a June statement that the school was parting ways with Adams.
“Over the past several weeks, many of you have inquired about the status of a UNCW faculty member, Dr. Mike Adams, in light of the public attention generated by comments he made on his personal social media channels,” Sartarelli said.
“We can now share the update that after a discussion with Chancellor Sartarelli, Dr. Adams has decided to retire from UNCW, effective August 1, 2020. We will have no further comment on this matter at this time, but we plan to share an update later this week regarding how we hope to move forward as a university community.”
On Thursday, a friend of Adams visited his home out of concern after not hearing from him for a number of days and phoned police, saying that Adams had been acting in an “erratic” manner.
The friend told police Adams had been “under a lot of stress,” according to The News & Observer.
Adams was honored by those who knew him last week as a tireless defender of conservative causes, especially for his stances against abortion and in favor of free speech.
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--2020-07-28--Jordan Forces Reality Check for Dems, Shows Portland Violence at Barr Hearing

Ohio Rep. Jim Jordan , the ranking Republican on the House Judiciary Committee , directly countered the notion that what is happening nightly in Portland can rightly be called a “ peaceful protest ” by showing a compilation video of the ongoing violence there and around the country .
On Sunday , when Judiciary Committee Chairman Rep. Jerry Nadler of New York was confronted about the violence in Portland by committed by antifa , the lawmaker claimed “ that ’ s a myth that ’ s being spread only in Washington , D.C. ” Austen Fletcher , who questioned Nadler @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if he truly believed the violence was a myth .
TRENDING : Seattle Radio Host Gives Narrative-Busting Account of What 's Happening in City : 'Evil People' On Tuesday , during Attorney General William Barr ’ s hearing before the Judiciary Committee , Jordan made it even easier for Nadler and other Democrats on the panel by showing a seven-minute video of the riotous conditions in Portland and other locations .
The Republican introduced the video by saying to Barr , “ I want to thank you for defending law enforcement , for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ‘ defund the police ’ policy … is , and standing up for the rule of law.
” Jordan then aired the compilation production featuring various media personalities and Democratic political figures like former President Barack Obama , former National Security Advisor Susan Rice and Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden describing what is happening as “ peaceful ” protests .
Besides the ongoing attempts to burn down the Mark O. Hatfield U.S .
Courthouse in Portland , other scenes of police officers being run over , bashed with a cane in New York @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chicago were included in the video , which ended up being aired on MSNBC , since the liberal media outlet was already covering the hearing live .
WARNING : The video below contains scenes of violence that some viewers may find offensive : When the video concluded , Nadler responded by claiming that Jordan had not followed the committee ’ s audio-visual policy by failing to provide 48 hours for review of the compilation .
The Washington Times reported that Barr was asked later in the hearing if he thought Democrats would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ building .
RELATED : Barr Asks the One Question Democrats Do n't Want To Hear During Contentious Hearing The attorney general went on to defend the Justice Department ’ s response to the nightly attacks on the federal courthouse in Portland .
“ Federal courts are under attack , ” Barr said .
“ Since when is it OK to try to burn down a federal court ?
” “ The U.S .
Marshals have a duty to stop that and defend the courthouse and that ’ s what we are doing in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defending the courthouse .
We ’ re not out looking for trouble , ” he added .
“ Even where there are these kinds of riots occurring , we haven ’ t had to put in the kind of reinforcements that we have in Portland because the state and local law enforcement does their job and won ’ t allow rioters to come and just physically assault the courthouse , ” Barr further said .
Democrats and their media allies may continue to describe what ’ s happening in Portland and other places @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it harder for them to do so with any level of credibility .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Ohio Rep. Jim Jordan, the ranking Republican on the House Judiciary Committee, directly countered the notion that what is happening nightly in Portland can rightly be called a “peaceful protest” by showing a compilation video of the ongoing violence there and around the country.
On Sunday, when Judiciary Committee Chairman Rep. Jerry Nadler of New York was confronted about the violence in Portland by committed by antifa, the lawmaker claimed “that’s a myth that’s being spread only in Washington, D.C.”
I ran into Jerry Nadler in DC and asked him to disavow the Antifa violence/rioting in Portland. His response? “THATS A MYTH” pic.twitter.com/veImyE2rju — Essential Fleccas ?? (@fleccas) July 27, 2020
Austen Fletcher, who questioned Nadler, encouraged the lawmaker to look online if he truly believed the violence was a myth.
On Tuesday, during Attorney General William Barr’s hearing before the Judiciary Committee, Jordan made it even easier for Nadler and other Democrats on the panel by showing a seven-minute video of the riotous conditions in Portland and other locations.
The Republican introduced the video by saying to Barr, “I want to thank you for defending law enforcement, for pointing out what a crazy idea this ‘defund the police’ policy … is, and standing up for the rule of law.”
Jordan then aired the compilation production featuring various media personalities and Democratic political figures like former President Barack Obama, former National Security Advisor Susan Rice and Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden describing what is happening as “peaceful” protests.
Besides the ongoing attempts to burn down the Mark O. Hatfield U.S. Courthouse in Portland, other scenes of police officers being run over, bashed with a cane in New York and having fireworks launched at them in Chicago were included in the video, which ended up being aired on MSNBC, since the liberal media outlet was already covering the hearing live.
WARNING: The video below contains scenes of violence that some viewers may find offensive:
The theme was clear mayhem.
When the video concluded, Nadler responded by claiming that Jordan had not followed the committee’s audio-visual policy by failing to provide 48 hours for review of the compilation.
The Washington Times reported that Barr was asked later in the hearing if he thought Democrats would be outraged if rioters attacked the U.S Capitol building.
Do you think Democrats are in effect approving of the violence by not speaking out against it? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 100% (453 Votes) No: 0% (0 Votes)
“This body? I’m not sure,” Barr responded.
The attorney general went on to defend the Justice Department’s response to the nightly attacks on the federal courthouse in Portland.
“Federal courts are under attack,” Barr said. “Since when is it OK to try to burn down a federal court?”
“The U.S. Marshals have a duty to stop that and defend the courthouse and that’s what we are doing in Portland. We are at the courthouse defending the courthouse. We’re not out looking for trouble,” he added.
Attorney General Barr: “Federal courts are under attack. Since when is it ok to try and burn down a federal court? … The U.S. Marshals have a duty to stop that and defend the courthouse—and that’s what we’re doing in Portland.” Democrats remain silent! pic.twitter.com/tkwgByLsrb — Trump War Room – Text TRUMP to 88022 (@TrumpWarRoom) July 28, 2020
“Even where there are these kinds of riots occurring, we haven’t had to put in the kind of reinforcements that we have in Portland because the state and local law enforcement does their job and won’t allow rioters to come and just physically assault the courthouse,” Barr further said.
“In Portland that’s not the case.”
Democrats and their media allies may continue to describe what’s happening in Portland and other places as peaceful protests, but Jordan made it harder for them to do so with any level of credibility.
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--2020-07-28--Couple Allegedly Maced by Unhinged Woman for Having Picnic While Not Wearing Masks

Welcome to the second half of the year 2020 , where up is down , right is wrong , leftists believe violating all traditional mores equates to peaceful activity and minding one ’ s own business in a public park can lead to trouble .
If you are in or near San Diego , you might consider wearing one , for you run the risk of being attacked for not being a polite and submissive subject of government mandates and groupthink .
That ’ s what happened to a couple in the Southern California city last week when they were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for not wearing masks while sitting in a dog park with a puppy and enjoying lunch .
Ash O ’ Brien and her husband were enjoying a snack at Dusty Rhodes Dog Park in the community of Ocean Beach .
TRENDING : Seattle Radio Host Gives Narrative-Busting Account of What 's Happening in City : 'Evil People' Being that the couple was outside at a picnic table , alone with a puppy and eating food , they thought it was appropriate to remove their face coverings .
Their decision to remove their masks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them with pepper spray , O ’ Brien told KGTV .
Apparently Dusty Rhodes Dog Park is a food-free zone and that rule is enforced , as is California ’ s mask mandate , through vigilantism .
“ If we knew there was a no food policy , we wouldn ’ t have brought it into the park , ” O ’ Brien told KGTV .
Masks might or might not help to contain the spread of the coronavirus , but pepper spray carries an airborne sting that can irritate the skin and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ The lady who maced [ O ’ Brien ’ s husband ] automatically started saying stuff about us not wearing a mask when we were social distancing ; there was no one near us , ” O ’ Brien said .
The woman allegedly walked away after becoming dissatisfied over seeing uncovered faces , but returned for the quick assault .
“ She just came up without saying anything and just stuck the mace can right in front of my face , ” O ’ Brien recounted .
“ My husband @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in front of her and was like , ‘ hey calm down please don ’ t do this , ’ and then she grabbed him and just starting macing him , she used the entire can on him , ” she said .
RELATED : Nadler Takes Off His Mask To Blast House Members for Not Wearing Masks Part of the encounter was recorded : O ’ Brien said she felt the sting on her arms , while her husband took a direct hit to the face and neck .
The couple went @ @ @ @ @ @ @ husband was treated .
“ People don ’ t need to be getting assaulted for not wearing a mask in a public outdoor area , ” O ’ Brien said .
She shared the uncut video on her Facebook page : According to California ’ s mask mandate , which makes no mention of the Dusty Rhodes Dog Park food ban , the couple had followed public health directives correctly .
“ Persons who are engaged in outdoor work or recreation such as swimming , walking , hiking , bicycling , or running @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and when they are able to maintain a distance of at least six feet from others ” are exempt from wearing masks .
It appears as though the alleged mask vigilante misinterpreted the rules .
You get a sense watching the video that the woman might have overreacted a bit .
Most people would consider pepper-spraying someone an extreme act in any situation .
But in today ’ s horrible , no-good , toxic and hyper-political social climate , an assault such as the one reported at the Dusty Rhodes Dog Park @ @ @ @ @ @ @ choose to wear masks because they believe in their efficiency , while others reluctantly do so in an attempt to be polite neighbors who follow the rules .
There is also a crowd among us that demands complete compliance to all public messaging , and some of these folks truly believe their wearing of facial coverings at all times transforms them into masked crusaders .
Anxiety is their virtue , and the absence of terror in your heart is a sign that you are a free spirit that must be shamed into conformity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Beach was not rooted in mental illness , one can conclude that the alleged attack occurred over a perception that the couple had failed to comply with something larger than a mask mandate .
The couple was assaulted for defying a mob mentality that every man , woman and child must remain in lockstep as society collectively shelters in place to await orders .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Welcome to the second half of the year 2020, where up is down, right is wrong, leftists believe violating all traditional mores equates to peaceful activity and minding one’s own business in a public park can lead to trouble.
Did you bring a mask?
If you are in or near San Diego, you might consider wearing one, for you run the risk of being attacked for not being a polite and submissive subject of government mandates and groupthink.
That’s what happened to a couple in the Southern California city last week when they were assaulted, according to a report, for not wearing masks while sitting in a dog park with a puppy and enjoying lunch.
Ash O’Brien and her husband were enjoying a snack at Dusty Rhodes Dog Park in the community of Ocean Beach.
Being that the couple was outside at a picnic table, alone with a puppy and eating food, they thought it was appropriate to remove their face coverings.
Their decision to remove their masks and eat led a woman to attack them with pepper spray, O’Brien told KGTV.
Apparently Dusty Rhodes Dog Park is a food-free zone and that rule is enforced, as is California’s mask mandate, through vigilantism.
“If we knew there was a no food policy, we wouldn’t have brought it into the park,” O’Brien told KGTV.
Do you wear a mask or face covering when you are out in public? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 34% (513 Votes) No: 66% (976 Votes)
Masks might or might not help to contain the spread of the coronavirus, but pepper spray carries an airborne sting that can irritate the skin and eyes, as the couple found out.
“The lady who maced [O’Brien’s husband] automatically started saying stuff about us not wearing a mask when we were social distancing; there was no one near us,” O’Brien said.
The woman allegedly walked away after becoming dissatisfied over seeing uncovered faces, but returned for the quick assault.
“She just came up without saying anything and just stuck the mace can right in front of my face,” O’Brien recounted.
“My husband, being a good guy, walked in front of her and was like, ‘hey calm down please don’t do this,’ and then she grabbed him and just starting macing him, she used the entire can on him,” she said.
Part of the encounter was recorded:
O’Brien said she felt the sting on her arms, while her husband took a direct hit to the face and neck.
The couple went to a nearby hospital, where the husband was treated.
“People don’t need to be getting assaulted for not wearing a mask in a public outdoor area,” O’Brien said.
She shared the uncut video on her Facebook page:
Police took a report for misdemeanor battery.
According to California’s mask mandate, which makes no mention of the Dusty Rhodes Dog Park food ban, the couple had followed public health directives correctly.
“Persons who are engaged in outdoor work or recreation such as swimming, walking, hiking, bicycling, or running, when alone or with household members, and when they are able to maintain a distance of at least six feet from others” are exempt from wearing masks.
It appears as though the alleged mask vigilante misinterpreted the rules.
You get a sense watching the video that the woman might have overreacted a bit.
Most people would consider pepper-spraying someone an extreme act in any situation.
But in today’s horrible, no-good, toxic and hyper-political social climate, an assault such as the one reported at the Dusty Rhodes Dog Park is to be expected.
Some folks choose to wear masks because they believe in their efficiency, while others reluctantly do so in an attempt to be polite neighbors who follow the rules.
There is also a crowd among us that demands complete compliance to all public messaging, and some of these folks truly believe their wearing of facial coverings at all times transforms them into masked crusaders.
Anxiety is their virtue, and the absence of terror in your heart is a sign that you are a free spirit that must be shamed into conformity.
Assuming the reported assault in Ocean Beach was not rooted in mental illness, one can conclude that the alleged attack occurred over a perception that the couple had failed to comply with something larger than a mask mandate.
The couple was assaulted for defying a mob mentality that every man, woman and child must remain in lockstep as society collectively shelters in place to await orders.
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--2020-07-28--Twitter Targets Another GOP Official for Sharing Hydroxychloroquine Video

Twitter has restricted the account of Dr. Kelli Ward , chairwoman of the Arizona GOP .
On Tuesday , Ward was temporarily restricted from tweeting on her account after she shared a video of physicians from the controversial group America ’ s Frontline Doctors pushing back against criticism of the antimalarial drug hydroxychloroquine as a means of fighting the novel coronavirus .
In addition to the video , Ward also tweeted about censorship of information when it comes to COVID-19 .
TRENDING : Seattle Radio Host Gives Narrative-Busting Account of What 's Happening in City : 'Evil People' “ You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subsequently believe in # BigTech & # FakeNews approved physicians regarding # COVID19 .
ANY DISSENT ( or any thought outside what is approved ) will be punished !
” she wrote .
Later in the day , the Republican Party of Arizona released a statement regarding Twitter ’ s suspension and the censorship of Ward and the doctors ’ message .
“ Big tech giants have proven time and time again that they care little about our First Amendment rights , and instead value monolithic , manufactured consensus above all else , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Greg Safsten wrote .
“ While Democrat politicians and dishonest news journalists wasted three years pushing the debunked Russia collusion narrative , legitimate election interference can be seen right here in America , due to the arbitrary and draconian policies enforced by Silicon Valley.
” Safsten finished by calling out the timing of Twitter ’ s suspension .
With only a week to go until Arizona ’ s primary election , Safsten said the suspension of Ward ’ s account limited her “ ability to reach her more than 80,000 Twitter followers , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ ability to communicate with voters , encourage Arizonans to get out [ to ] vote.
” Ward ’ s was not the first account to be restricted .
Earlier on Tuesday , Donald Trump Jr. ’ s Twitter account was also temporarily restricted for sharing the doctors ’ message .
RELATED : Dems Now Accusing GOP of Being Mass Murderers , Kelli Ward Has Brilliant Response Both Facebook and Twitter have been scrubbing their platforms of anything promoting the physicians ’ pro-hydroxychloroquine message .
When The New York Times tech columnist Kevin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Facebook , Facebook spokesman Andy Stone tweeted it had been removed “ for sharing false information about cures and treatments for COVID-19.
” For over a month , various social media giants have worked to censor coronavirus information they deem to be false .
In a June interview with CNN , YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki announced that YouTube would remove any content that contradicted the World Health Organization ’ s coronavirus guidance , despite the fact that multiple experts have noted the WHO ’ s pro-China bias may have made greatly impeded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic .
“ Anything that would go against World Health Organization recommendations would be a violation of our policy and so ‘ remove ’ is another really important part of our policy , ” Wojcicki said .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Twitter has restricted the account of Dr. Kelli Ward, chairwoman of the Arizona GOP.
On Tuesday, Ward was temporarily restricted from tweeting on her account after she shared a video of physicians from the controversial group America’s Frontline Doctors pushing back against criticism of the antimalarial drug hydroxychloroquine as a means of fighting the novel coronavirus.
#BIGTECH CENSORSHIP: @Twitter has suspended the account of @AZGOP Chairwoman @kelliwardaz — one week before Arizona’s August 4th Primary — for tweeting a #COVID19 video featuring doctors discussing the benefits of using #Hydroxychloroquine as a prophylaxis. Election interference! pic.twitter.com/j7EclhCxVg — Arizona Republican Party (@AZGOP) July 28, 2020
In addition to the video, Ward also tweeted about censorship of information when it comes to COVID-19.
“You are ONLY free to hear from & subsequently believe in #BigTech & #FakeNews approved physicians regarding #COVID19. ANY DISSENT (or any thought outside what is approved) will be punished!” she wrote.
ATTENTION SUBJECTS! You are ONLY free to hear from & subsequently believe in #BigTech & #FakeNews approved physicians regarding #COVID19. ANY DISSENT (or any thought outside what is approved) will be punished! https://t.co/FC77QLVuxV — Dr. Kelli Ward ?? (@kelliwardaz) July 28, 2020
Later in the day, the Republican Party of Arizona released a statement regarding Twitter’s suspension and the censorship of Ward and the doctors’ message.
“Big tech giants have proven time and time again that they care little about our First Amendment rights, and instead value monolithic, manufactured consensus above all else,” Republican Party of Arizona Executive Director Greg Safsten wrote.
“While Democrat politicians and dishonest news journalists wasted three years pushing the debunked Russia collusion narrative, legitimate election interference can be seen right here in America, due to the arbitrary and draconian policies enforced by Silicon Valley.”
Safsten finished by calling out the timing of Twitter’s suspension.
With only a week to go until Arizona’s primary election, Safsten said the suspension of Ward’s account limited her “ability to reach her more than 80,000 Twitter followers,” hindering the Arizona Republican’s “ability to communicate with voters, encourage Arizonans to get out [to] vote.”
Ward’s was not the first account to be restricted.
Earlier on Tuesday, Donald Trump Jr.’s Twitter account was also temporarily restricted for sharing the doctors’ message.
BREAKING: @Twitter & @jack have suspended @DonaldJTrumpJr for posting a viral video of medical doctors talking about Hydroxychloroquine. Big Tech is the biggest threat to free expression in America today & they’re continuing to engage in open election interference – full stop. pic.twitter.com/7dJbauq43O — Andrew Surabian (@Surabees) July 28, 2020
Both Facebook and Twitter have been scrubbing their platforms of anything promoting the physicians’ pro-hydroxychloroquine message.
When The New York Times tech columnist Kevin Roose questioned the video’s disappearance from Facebook, Facebook spokesman Andy Stone tweeted it had been removed “for sharing false information about cures and treatments for COVID-19.”
Yes, we removed it for sharing false information about cures and treatments for COVID-19. — Andy Stone (@andymstone) July 28, 2020
For over a month, various social media giants have worked to censor coronavirus information they deem to be false.
Should social media companies decide which health experts the public should hear from? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 1% (3 Votes) No: 99% (327 Votes)
In a June interview with CNN, YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki announced that YouTube would remove any content that contradicted the World Health Organization’s coronavirus guidance, despite the fact that multiple experts have noted the WHO’s pro-China bias may have made greatly impeded the world’s response to the pandemic.
“Anything that would go against World Health Organization recommendations would be a violation of our policy and so ‘remove’ is another really important part of our policy,” Wojcicki 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--2020-07-28--NYPD: Over 300 Police Vehicles Damaged by Rioters, Costing $1 Million

The New York City Police Department said 303 law enforcement vehicles have been damaged since George Floyd ’ s death on May 25 , resulting in nearly $ 1 million in damage .
A total of 14 cruisers were set ablaze and totaled with another seven still being repaired , according to the Associated Press .
The remainder of the damaged cars has since been redeployed on New York City ’ s streets , which continue to be roiled by protests and riots following the death of Floyd .
A man was caught on video on Saturday using a sign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police van ’ s window , according to the AP .
TRENDING : Seattle Radio Host Gives Narrative-Busting Account of What 's Happening in City : 'Evil People' Protesters continue to gather in New York City en masse , and a large group of demonstrators overtook a Manhattan freeway on Sunday .
An estimated 300 NYPD officers were injured between May 25 and June 8 during the onset of the unrest , the New York Post reported .
Shootings were up 130 % in the city for the month of June , according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ City Mayor Bill de Blasio signed two proposals that stripped the NYPD of over $ 1 billion in funding and disbanded a plainclothes anti-crime unit , according to The Wall Street Journal .
A version of this article appeared on The Daily Caller News Foundation website .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The New York City Police Department said 303 law enforcement vehicles have been damaged since George Floyd’s death on May 25, resulting in nearly $1 million in damage.
A total of 14 cruisers were set ablaze and totaled with another seven still being repaired, according to the Associated Press.
The remainder of the damaged cars has since been redeployed on New York City’s streets, which continue to be roiled by protests and riots following the death of Floyd.
A man was caught on video on Saturday using a sign as an instrument to break an NYPD police van’s window, according to the AP.
A July 25 tweet shows a sign reading “ARTISTS FOR GEORGE” stuck through a police vehicle’s windshield.
An NYPD van got redecorated with some artwork earlier tonite during the #AllOutNYC march. pic.twitter.com/fmzJ8sbUGr — Ash J (@AshAgony) July 26, 2020
Protesters continue to gather in New York City en masse, and a large group of demonstrators overtook a Manhattan freeway on Sunday.
An estimated 300 NYPD officers were injured between May 25 and June 8 during the onset of the unrest, the New York Post reported.
Do you support cuts to police budgets? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 3% (1 Votes) No: 97% (34 Votes)
Shootings were up 130% in the city for the month of June, according to the NYPD.
Democratic New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio signed two proposals that stripped the NYPD of over $1 billion in funding and disbanded a plainclothes anti-crime unit, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Content created by The Daily Caller News Foundation is available without charge to any eligible news publisher that can provide a large audience. For licensing opportunities of their original content, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org.
A version of this article appeared on The Daily Caller News Foundation website.
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--2020-07-28--Declassified Docs Reveal FBI Pushed To Include ‘Unvetted’ Steele Accusations in Report

Documents declassified on Tuesday detail an intense debate between the CIA and FBI in late 2016 over the handling of information from Christopher Steele , with one CIA official telling the Senate Intelligence Committee that the former British spy ’ s allegations about Russian collusion in the 2016 election were “ very unvetted.
” Despite the CIA ’ s concerns about Steele ’ s allegations , the FBI successfully lobbied to include his information in an Intelligence Community Assessment regarding Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election .
The bureau also continued using information from Steele to conduct surveillance against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Investigators have since debunked several of Steele ’ s allegations .
The newly declassified information is from a Senate Intelligence Committee report released on April 21 that detailed the creation of an ICA released on Jan. 6 , 2017 .
TRENDING : Seattle Radio Host Gives Narrative-Busting Account of What 's Happening in City : 'Evil People' According to the Senate report , FBI investigators informed CIA analysts on Dec. 20 , 2016 , that the bureau wanted to include information from Steele in the ICA .
James Comey and Andrew McCabe , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ respectively , negotiated with their counterparts at the CIA and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence to include Steele ’ s information , saying that it was relevant to the question of Russian interference in the 2016 election .
But CIA officials and analysts told the Senate panel that they had deep reservations about the dossier , according to the declassified materials .
“ We would have never included that report in a CIA-only assessment because the source was so indirect .
And we made sure we indicated we didn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and if it had been a CIA-only product we wouldn ’ t have included it at all , ” the CIA ’ s deputy director of analysis told the Senate panel .
Steele ’ s information wound up being included as a two-page annex to the ICA .
According to the Senate report , an assistant director for an intelligence agency said that while she concurred with parts of the annex dealing with Russia ’ s election-related efforts , allegations regarding collusion involving members of the Trump campaign were uncorroborated .
“ I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ information coming from [ redacted ] sources that would corroborate any of that , ” the official told the Senate panel , adding that Steele ’ s Trump-related information was “ very unvetted.
” A CIA analyst told the committee on July 18 , 2017 , that the agency had “ a bitter argument ” with the FBI over whether to put the information in the annex .
John Brennan , the CIA director at the time , said that the CIA “ pushed back ” against Comey ’ s requests to include @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the ICA .
RELATED : Upcoming Strzok Book To Launch New Attack on Trump The CIA eventually agreed with Comey to include the information in the annex .
Brennan said that a deputy director of analysis “ was very concerned about polluting the ICA with this material.
” A version of this article appeared on The Daily Caller News Foundation website .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Documents declassified on Tuesday detail an intense debate between the CIA and FBI in late 2016 over the handling of information from Christopher Steele, with one CIA official telling the Senate Intelligence Committee that the former British spy’s allegations about Russian collusion in the 2016 election were “very unvetted.”
Despite the CIA’s concerns about Steele’s allegations, the FBI successfully lobbied to include his information in an Intelligence Community Assessment regarding Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election.
The bureau also continued using information from Steele to conduct surveillance against former Trump campaign aide Carter Page.
Investigators have since debunked several of Steele’s allegations.
The newly declassified information is from a Senate Intelligence Committee report released on April 21 that detailed the creation of an ICA released on Jan. 6, 2017.
According to the Senate report, FBI investigators informed CIA analysts on Dec. 20, 2016, that the bureau wanted to include information from Steele in the ICA.
James Comey and Andrew McCabe, the FBI director and deputy director, respectively, negotiated with their counterparts at the CIA and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence to include Steele’s information, saying that it was relevant to the question of Russian interference in the 2016 election.
But CIA officials and analysts told the Senate panel that they had deep reservations about the dossier, according to the declassified materials.
“We would have never included that report in a CIA-only assessment because the source was so indirect. And we made sure we indicated we didn’t use it in our analysis, and if it had been a CIA-only product we wouldn’t have included it at all,” the CIA’s deputy director of analysis told the Senate panel.
Should Steele's allegations have been included in the ICA? 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: 20% (38 Votes) No: 80% (152 Votes)
Steele’s information wound up being included as a two-page annex to the ICA.
According to the Senate report, an assistant director for an intelligence agency said that while she concurred with parts of the annex dealing with Russia’s election-related efforts, allegations regarding collusion involving members of the Trump campaign were uncorroborated.
“I can tell you that there is no information coming from [redacted] sources that would corroborate any of that,” the official told the Senate panel, adding that Steele’s Trump-related information was “very unvetted.”
A CIA analyst told the committee on July 18, 2017, that the agency had “a bitter argument” with the FBI over whether to put the information in the annex.
John Brennan, the CIA director at the time, said that the CIA “pushed back” against Comey’s requests to include Steele’s information in the body of the ICA.
The CIA eventually agreed with Comey to include the information in the annex.
Brennan said that a deputy director of analysis “was very concerned about polluting the ICA with this material.”
Content created by The Daily Caller News Foundation is available without charge to any eligible news publisher that can provide a large audience. For licensing opportunities of their original content, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org.
A version of this article appeared on The Daily Caller News Foundation website.
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--2020-07-28--Massive National Teachers Union Threatens Strike If It Doesn’t Get Its Way on School Reopening

The president of the American Federation of Teachers said that “ nothing is off the table ” — including a labor strike — when it comes to ensuring its demands are met regarding the reopening of the nation ’ s schools .
“ Just as we have done with our healthcare workers , we will fight on all fronts for the safety of our students and their educators , ” Randi Weingarten , president of the nation ’ s second-largest teachers union , said Tuesday , according to an ATF news release .
“ But if the authorities don ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ don ’ t protect the safety and health of those we represent and those we serve , nothing is off the table — not advocacy or protests , negotiations , grievances or lawsuits , or , if necessary as a last resort , safety strikes.
” Weingarten made the remarks during a keynote speech at the union ’ s biennial convention .
She also unveiled a resolution passed by the AFT ’ s executive council that said the organization would back “ safety strikes as a last resort ” in the event of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ faulty implementation of plans ” to reopen schools .
TRENDING : Seattle Radio Host Gives Narrative-Busting Account of What 's Happening in City : 'Evil People' The resolution outlined six standards for schools to meet in order to reopen , including effective surveillance of COVID-19 in the area .
The district and schools also must have developed and funded proper safeguards such as maintaining 6 feet apart , face coverings and “ well-stocked ” hand-washing stations .
The resolution blamed what it called the Trump administration ’ s “ willful denial and lack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ rampage across the United States and specifically called out President Donald Trump and Education Secretary Betsy DeVos .
“ Before the virus ’ resurgence , and before Trump ’ s and DeVos ’ reckless ‘ open or else ’ threats , 76 percent of AFT members said they were comfortable returning to school buildings if the proper safeguards were in place , ” Weingarten said .
“ Now they ’ re afraid and angry .
Many are quitting , retiring or writing their wills .
Parents are afraid and angry , too.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases , is expected to discuss the reopening of schools during an AFT town hall meeting with Weingarten on Tuesday evening , the union said on its website .
Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates and Dr. Robert Redfield , director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , are among those who have spoken out in favor of reopening schools in the fall .
Last month , the American Academy of Pediatrics issued a report in which it said it “ strongly advocates that all policy considerations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a goal of having students physically present in school.
” “ The importance of in-person learning is well-documented , and there is already evidence of the negative impacts on children because of school closures in the spring of 2020 , ” the pediatricians said .
“ Lengthy time away from school and associated interruption of supportive services often results in social isolation , making it difficult for schools to identify and address important learning deficits as well as child and adolescent physical or sexual abuse , substance use , depression , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ turn , places children and adolescents at considerable risk of morbidity and , in some cases , mortality .
Beyond the educational impact and social impact of school closures , there has been substantial impact on food security and physical activity for children and families.
” The AFT president ’ s speech comes while Democrats and Republicans are debating the next coronavirus relief bill .
Republicans in the Senate have proposed allocating $ 105 billion for states to use to support their schools , The New York Times reported .
House Majority Leader @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for over $ 100 billion in education relief in the next bill .
Weingarten said the funds proposed by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell were “ inadequate given the expenses schools will face to reopen safely.
” “ It also falls dramatically short by ignoring what schools actually need to reopen safely and , instead , prioritizes the president ’ s political agenda , tying the funding to in-person instruction and pushing for private school vouchers , ” she said .
Weingarten added that the resolution does not give protection to people on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The president of the American Federation of Teachers said that “nothing is off the table” — including a labor strike — when it comes to ensuring its demands are met regarding the reopening of the nation’s schools.
“Just as we have done with our healthcare workers, we will fight on all fronts for the safety of our students and their educators,” Randi Weingarten, president of the nation’s second-largest teachers union, said Tuesday, according to an ATF news release.
“But if the authorities don’t get it right, and they don’t protect the safety and health of those we represent and those we serve, nothing is off the table — not advocacy or protests, negotiations, grievances or lawsuits, or, if necessary as a last resort, safety strikes.”
Weingarten made the remarks during a keynote speech at the union’s biennial convention.
She also unveiled a resolution passed by the AFT’s executive council that said the organization would back “safety strikes as a last resort” in the event of “unsafe and unsound plans or the faulty implementation of plans” to reopen schools.
The resolution outlined six standards for schools to meet in order to reopen, including effective surveillance of COVID-19 in the area.
The district and schools also must have developed and funded proper safeguards such as maintaining 6 feet apart, face coverings and “well-stocked” hand-washing stations.
The resolution blamed what it called the Trump administration’s “willful denial and lack of national planning” for the virus’ rampage across the United States and specifically called out President Donald Trump and Education Secretary Betsy DeVos.
“Before the virus’ resurgence, and before Trump’s and DeVos’ reckless ‘open or else’ threats, 76 percent of AFT members said they were comfortable returning to school buildings if the proper safeguards were in place,” Weingarten said.
Do you think schools should reopen for in-person instruction in the fall? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 94% (128 Votes) No: 6% (8 Votes)
“Now they’re afraid and angry. Many are quitting, retiring or writing their wills. Parents are afraid and angry, too.”
Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, is expected to discuss the reopening of schools during an AFT town hall meeting with Weingarten on Tuesday evening, the union said on its website.
Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates and Dr. Robert Redfield, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, are among those who have spoken out in favor of reopening schools in the fall.
Last month, the American Academy of Pediatrics issued a report in which it said it “strongly advocates that all policy considerations for the coming school year should start with a goal of having students physically present in school.”
“The importance of in-person learning is well-documented, and there is already evidence of the negative impacts on children because of school closures in the spring of 2020,” the pediatricians said. “Lengthy time away from school and associated interruption of supportive services often results in social isolation, making it difficult for schools to identify and address important learning deficits as well as child and adolescent physical or sexual abuse, substance use, depression, and suicidal ideation.
“This, in turn, places children and adolescents at considerable risk of morbidity and, in some cases, mortality. Beyond the educational impact and social impact of school closures, there has been substantial impact on food security and physical activity for children and families.”
The AFT president’s speech comes while Democrats and Republicans are debating the next coronavirus relief bill.
Republicans in the Senate have proposed allocating $105 billion for states to use to support their schools, The New York Times reported.
House Majority Leader Nancy Pelosi has said she will push for over $100 billion in education relief in the next bill.
Weingarten said the funds proposed by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell were “inadequate given the expenses schools will face to reopen safely.”
“It also falls dramatically short by ignoring what schools actually need to reopen safely and, instead, prioritizes the president’s political agenda, tying the funding to in-person instruction and pushing for private school vouchers,” she said.
Weingarten added that the resolution does not give protection to people on the frontlines of the coronavirus fight.
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.