westernjournal--2020-09-25--Tim Graham: Biden’s Been Ditching His Press Pool at 9 or 10 AM and Nobody’s Saying a Word

Why is Joe Biden always putting a “ lid ” on his campaign ?
If you ’ re not familiar with the press lingo , a “ lid ” is a note to your press pool that you plan no further public events on your schedule .
Biden tends to put a “ lid ” on it at 9 or 10 in the morning , saying his press corps has nothing to cover .
On Sept. 23 , they called a “ lid ” at 9:30 a.m. — the ninth time they ’ ve done it this month .
Is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Biden denied that , saying he ’ s just getting ready to prepare .
Since March , Biden has barely done any campaigning , trying to make a virtue out of the fact that he ’ s not going anywhere or saying much of anything during the coronavirus pandemic .
Biden ’ s staff would claim that while Trump endangers his voters by having rallies , their candidate is leading by example .
He ’ s not leading by example .
He ’ s lidding by example .
Guess what ?
The liberal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ claim to keep democracy from “ dying in darkness , ” don ’ t care one whit .
I popped into the Nexis search engine to find out how many times Brian Stelter ’ s army at CNN has raged against Biden ’ s “ lid.
” In the last month , there are two scripts that contain the words “ Biden ” and “ lid.
” Neither was about a Biden story .
One was CNN ’ s White House shrieker Jim Acosta still obsessing over the Lafayette Square protesters cleared out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strike a pose in front of St. John ’ s Episcopal Church .
Apparently , someone in the military wanted to use a heat ray on protesters , but it was never used .
How this nonstarter is “ news ” is anyone ’ s guess .
Acosta used the L-word as he told Don Lemon : “ I don ’ t think this is the last we ’ ve heard from this whistleblower .
He is , I mean , he is doing something patriotic here , Don .
He is blowing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what are some pretty ridiculous tactics , harsh and un-American tactics on our fellow citizens.
” Actually , no — these tactics were not used .
ABC , CBS , NBC , PBS ?
Is there something wrong with the search engine ?
These networks all send cage fighters into the Trump and McEnany briefings , but they ’ re docile little lambs on the “ lid.
” The Washington Post ?
No stories with “ Biden ” and “ lid , ” and media specialists like Erik Wemple and Paul Farhi haven @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had nothing .
What about NPR ?
Nope , media reporter David Folkenflik was napping like a Biden , although one weekend anchor promised “ breaking news on the canning lid shortage.
” RELATED : Tim Graham : The Media Uses Dangerous Trump Conspiracy Theories To Turn Out Democrats The New York Times ?
“ Biden ” and “ lid ” drew no stories .
At least Mark Leibovich of The Times reported on Sept. 22 describing Biden ’ s “ tightly restricted bubble , ” that his “ pandemic-era campaign appearances can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eerie and almost entirely fan-free.
” He noted pro-Trump protesters hold signs saying “ Hidin ’ Biden.
” But the story was loaded with Biden fans supporting his , er , restraint .
It ’ s not like Biden ’ s press corps is known for asking him the tough questions .
On Sept. 23 , he traveled to North Carolina , and reporters asked him softballs like , “ What gives you the sense that you can win ?
” Let ’ s bet that if Biden loses , all this extremely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ media will complain that Biden was a bad candidate who didn ’ t campaign and venture outside the bubble enough .
As usual , they ’ ll assign exactly zero blame to their own pusillanimous silence .
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 .
We are committed to truth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Read our editorial standards .

Why is Joe Biden always putting a “lid” on his campaign?
If you’re not familiar with the press lingo, a “lid” is a note to your press pool that you plan no further public events on your schedule. Biden tends to put a “lid” on it at 9 or 10 in the morning, saying his press corps has nothing to cover.
On Sept. 23, they called a “lid” at 9:30 a.m. — the ninth time they’ve done it this month. Is it due to never-ending debate prep? Biden denied that, saying he’s just getting ready to prepare.
Since March, Biden has barely done any campaigning, trying to make a virtue out of the fact that he’s not going anywhere or saying much of anything during the coronavirus pandemic.
Biden’s staff would claim that while Trump endangers his voters by having rallies, their candidate is leading by example.
He’s not leading by example. He’s lidding by example.
Guess what? The liberal media, those energetic watchdogs who bombastically claim to keep democracy from “dying in darkness,” don’t care one whit.
I popped into the Nexis search engine to find out how many times Brian Stelter’s army at CNN has raged against Biden’s “lid.” In the last month, there are two scripts that contain the words “Biden” and “lid.” Neither was about a Biden story.
One was CNN’s White House shrieker Jim Acosta still obsessing over the Lafayette Square protesters cleared out on June 1 so President Trump could strike a pose in front of St. John’s Episcopal Church. Apparently, someone in the military wanted to use a heat ray on protesters, but it was never used. How this nonstarter is “news” is anyone’s guess.
Do you think the media needs to start reporting on Biden's schedule? Yes No
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Acosta used the L-word as he told Don Lemon: “I don’t think this is the last we’ve heard from this whistleblower. He is, I mean, he is doing something patriotic here, Don. He is blowing the lid off of our government using what are some pretty ridiculous tactics, harsh and un-American tactics on our fellow citizens.”
Actually, no — these tactics were not used.
ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS? Is there something wrong with the search engine? These networks all send cage fighters into the Trump and McEnany briefings, but they’re docile little lambs on the “lid.”
The Washington Post? No stories with “Biden” and “lid,” and media specialists like Erik Wemple and Paul Farhi haven’t touched it. USA Today had nothing.
What about NPR? Nope, media reporter David Folkenflik was napping like a Biden, although one weekend anchor promised “breaking news on the canning lid shortage.”
The New York Times? “Biden” and “lid” drew no stories. At least Mark Leibovich of The Times reported on Sept. 22 describing Biden’s “tightly restricted bubble,” that his “pandemic-era campaign appearances can resemble the pandemic-era NFL — quiet, eerie and almost entirely fan-free.”
He noted pro-Trump protesters hold signs saying “Hidin’ Biden.” But the story was loaded with Biden fans supporting his, er, restraint.
It’s not like Biden’s press corps is known for asking him the tough questions.
On Sept. 23, he traveled to North Carolina, and reporters asked him softballs like, “What gives you the sense that you can win?”
Let’s bet that if Biden loses, all this extremely cooperative behavior will be upended. The media will complain that Biden was a bad candidate who didn’t campaign and venture outside the bubble enough.
As usual, they’ll assign exactly zero blame to their own pusillanimous silence.
© 2020 CREATORS.COM
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--2020-09-25--Video: Dem Official Charged with Mail Ballot Fraud in Plot To Steal Primary Election

Pelosi Makes No Sense : Trump 'Is Trying To Have the Constitution of the United States Swallow Clorox '

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


westernjournal--2020-09-26--Texas AG Busts ‘Organized Mail Ballot Fraud,’ 134 Felony Charges Announced

Four people have been arrested on a Texas-sized stack of felony charges after allegedly trying to rig a 2018 election through manipulating votes cast by mail .
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on Thursday announced that Gregg County Commissioner Shannon Brown and three others will face 134 felony charges in connection with a ballot harvesting operation that took place during a Democratic primary election , according to a news release on Paxton ’ s official website .
The indictment against the four people charged said that the effort targeted young voters who did not know what was taking place .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ for mail-in ballots claiming that the voters in question were disabled when they were not .
Brown won her election by five votes with 787 mail-in ballots cast out of 2,089 votes cast overall , Fox News reported .
The 134 felony charges include engaging in organized election fraud , illegal voting , fraudulent use of an application for a mail-in ballot , unlawful possession of a mail-in ballot , tampering with a governmental record and election fraud .
Coming at a time when President Donald Trump is warning Americans about the potential @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ballots to registered voters , Paxton said the case is concerning .
“ It is an unfortunate reality that elections can be stolen outright by mail ballot fraud , ” he said .
“ Election fraud , particularly an organized mail ballot fraud scheme orchestrated by political operatives , is an affront to democracy and results in voter disenfranchisement and corruption at the highest level.
” The Texas AG said there is an inherent danger in voting by mail .
“ Mail ballots are vulnerable to diversion , coercion , and influence by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ demonstrates my commitment to ensuring Texas has the most secure elections in the country , and I thank the Gregg County Sheriff and District Attorney for their continued partnership .
Those who try to manipulate the outcome of elections in Texas must be held accountable , ” he said .
On Thursday , White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany explained to the media that jumping into mass mail-in voting is a mistake .
“ To move the entire country to mass mail-in voting , all at once , and have an entirely new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a few short months is an untenable and an unworkable proposition , and one that has shown to not work well at all , especially when you look at the disenfranchisement , which I think is really troubling when it comes to mass mail-in voting , ” she said , according to a White House media pool report .
McEnany said too many problems have emerged to be ignored .
“ There were 100,000 ballots rejected in California .
In New York City , one in five mail-in ballots were rejected .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said , ‘ It ’ s nuts .
That is just way too high , ’ when one in five voters , because of mass mail-in voting , have their ballots thrown out , ” she said .
RELATED : Dem Official Charged with Mail Ballot Fraud in Plot To Steal Primary Election “ The president has always made the distinction that absentee ballots — where you go through a process , where you request a ballot and you mail that in — that is a system that works , ” McEnany said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mass-mail out to voter rolls , which are not kept and maintained — where , in Los Angeles County , for instance , you have 120 percent of the county enrolled — that system is untenable .
It doesn ’ t work .
It leads to what we saw in Nevada , where there were ballots languishing in trash cans and pinned to apartment boards.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Four people have been arrested on a Texas-sized stack of felony charges after allegedly trying to rig a 2018 election through manipulating votes cast by mail.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on Thursday announced that Gregg County Commissioner Shannon Brown and three others will face 134 felony charges in connection with a ballot harvesting operation that took place during a Democratic primary election, according to a news release on Paxton’s official website.
The indictment against the four people charged said that the effort targeted young voters who did not know what was taking place. The four are charged with marking applications for mail-in ballots claiming that the voters in question were disabled when they were not.
Brown won her election by five votes with 787 mail-in ballots cast out of 2,089 votes cast overall, Fox News reported.
The 134 felony charges include engaging in organized election fraud, illegal voting, fraudulent use of an application for a mail-in ballot, unlawful possession of a mail-in ballot, tampering with a governmental record and election fraud.
Coming at a time when President Donald Trump is warning Americans about the potential for fraud in states that are mass-mailing ballots to registered voters, Paxton said the case is concerning.
“It is an unfortunate reality that elections can be stolen outright by mail ballot fraud,” he said.
“Election fraud, particularly an organized mail ballot fraud scheme orchestrated by political operatives, is an affront to democracy and results in voter disenfranchisement and corruption at the highest level.”
Will voting by mail lead to fraud in November? 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% (2035 Votes) No: 3% (57 Votes)
The Texas AG said there is an inherent danger in voting by mail.
“Mail ballots are vulnerable to diversion, coercion, and influence by organized vote harvesting schemes. This case demonstrates my commitment to ensuring Texas has the most secure elections in the country, and I thank the Gregg County Sheriff and District Attorney for their continued partnership. Those who try to manipulate the outcome of elections in Texas must be held accountable,” he said.
On Thursday, White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany explained to the media that jumping into mass mail-in voting is a mistake.
“To move the entire country to mass mail-in voting, all at once, and have an entirely new system, and do that in just a few short months is an untenable and an unworkable proposition, and one that has shown to not work well at all, especially when you look at the disenfranchisement, which I think is really troubling when it comes to mass mail-in voting,” she said, according to a White House media pool report.
McEnany said too many problems have emerged to be ignored.
“There were 100,000 ballots rejected in California. In New York City, one in five mail-in ballots were rejected. And as a former DOJ voting rights official said, ‘It’s nuts. That is just way too high,’ when one in five voters, because of mass mail-in voting, have their ballots thrown out,” she said.
The Unsolicited Mail In Ballot Scam is a major threat to our Democracy, & the Democrats know it. Almost all recent elections using this system, even though much smaller & with far fewer Ballots to count, have ended up being a disaster. Large numbers of missing Ballots & Fraud! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 12, 2020
“The president has always made the distinction that absentee ballots — where you go through a process, where you request a ballot and you mail that in — that is a system that works,” McEnany said.
“But a system where you mass-mail out to voter rolls, which are not kept and maintained — where, in Los Angeles County, for instance, you have 120 percent of the county enrolled — that system is untenable. It doesn’t work. It leads to what we saw in Nevada, where there were ballots languishing in trash cans and pinned to apartment boards.”
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westernjournal--2020-09-26--Trump Rolls Out $500 Billion ‘Platinum Plan’ for Black Americans

On Friday , President Donald Trump unveiled a nearly $ 500 billion plan for his second term — a proposal that he called a “ Platinum Plan ” for black communities .
The Trump campaign said the plan will increase access to capital in black communities by almost $ 500 billion , create 500,000 new black-owned businesses and bring three million new jobs for the black community .
Opportunity , security , prosperity and fairness are the four pillars of the plan , Fox News reported .
The plan vows to “ prosecute the KKK and ANTIFA as terrorist organizations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” as well .
The proposal pledges to raise standards to which police are held , including an increase in diversity training .
It also says that the federal government will work to close failing schools and use school choice to increase educational opportunities for black children .
The plan says that it will “ defend religious liberty and African American churches that lift the conscience of our nation.
” “ I will always put Americans first , and that includes black Americans , ” Trump said in Atlanta as he unveiled the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Together we will fulfill our contract with black America and we will pass the Platinum Plan into law , and we ’ ll do it quickly and easily.
” In announcing his proposal , Trump said that he will build on his record of getting results for black Americans .
“ I did more for the black community in 47 months than Joe Biden did in 47 years , ” Trump said , according to the Capitol Beat News Service .
“ Our movement is welcoming millions of black Americans back into the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Douglass and Abraham Lincoln , ” he added .
He said that the election is pivotal for black Americans .
“ Racial justice begins with Joe Biden ’ s retirement from public life , ” Trump said , according to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution .
Some at Trump ’ s Atlanta event said the president has earned support from black voters .
” He has given African-Americans a fresh start , ” Andrea Smith told The AJC .
“ We have been taken for granted for so long by the Democratic Party .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Rena-Marie Moore , 32 , a real estate broker , said that Trump has already helped black Americans .
“ The president didn ’ t get much support in 2016 , ” Moore said .
“ But he still did so much for our people .
That just shows his character .
And he is going to do more.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

On Friday, President Donald Trump unveiled a nearly $500 billion plan for his second term — a proposal that he called a “Platinum Plan” for black communities.
The Trump campaign said the plan will increase access to capital in black communities by almost $500 billion, create 500,000 new black-owned businesses and bring three million new jobs for the black community.
Opportunity, security, prosperity and fairness are the four pillars of the plan, Fox News reported.
Trump’s plan also proposes making Juneteenth a national holiday.
I was honored to be back in Georgia with a truly incredible organization—BLACK VOICES FOR TRUMP, where I announced a brand new plan to deliver more opportunity, more security, more fairness, and more prosperity to black communities. #ThePlatinumPlan https://t.co/wBqUTUOVR6 — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 25, 2020
The plan vows to “prosecute the KKK and ANTIFA as terrorist organizations and make lynching a national hate crime” as well.
The proposal pledges to raise standards to which police are held, including an increase in diversity training.
It also says that the federal government will work to close failing schools and use school choice to increase educational opportunities for black children.
platinum-plan-two-sider-v5.pdf by Raheem Kassam
The plan says that it will “defend religious liberty and African American churches that lift the conscience of our nation.”
“I will always put Americans first, and that includes black Americans,” Trump said in Atlanta as he unveiled the plan, according to WTTG-TV.
“Together we will fulfill our contract with black America and we will pass the Platinum Plan into law, and we’ll do it quickly and easily.”
The plan drew support on Twitter:
I want to make my words crystal clear: President Trump’s Platinum Plan for Black Americans is the boldest plan ever by any Presidential candidate. READ IT!! You are a fool to vote for @JoeBiden and @SenKamalaHarris . #VoteTrump2020ToSaveAmerica @realDonaldTrump @seanhannity — TheLeoTerrell (@TheLeoTerrell) September 25, 2020
So to my Black independent voters, What is the current rationale for not Supporting Trump now? We didn’t even get a black-focused initiative with a monetary amount attached to it by Obama.https://t.co/hNzRf2QNkl — M͓̽a͓̽l͓̽c͓̽o͓̽l͓̽m͓̽ ͓̽F͓̽l͓̽e͓̽X (@Malcolm_fleX48) September 25, 2020
Trump just announced his Platinum Plan to save Black America: -designate KKK as a terrorist org
-designate Antifa as a terrorist org
-$500 billion for black communities
-make lynching a nation hate crime Say he’s a racist now. I dare you. How come Obama didn’t do that? — David Leatherwood (@brokebackUSA) September 25, 2020
In announcing his proposal, Trump said that he will build on his record of getting results for black Americans.
“I did more for the black community in 47 months than Joe Biden did in 47 years,” Trump said, according to the Capitol Beat News Service.
“Our movement is welcoming millions of black Americans back into the Republican Party, the party of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln,” he added.
He said that the election is pivotal for black Americans.
“Racial justice begins with Joe Biden’s retirement from public life,” Trump said, according to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Will black voters abandon the Democratic Party en masse this November? 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: 86% (1453 Votes) No: 14% (229 Votes)
Some at Trump’s Atlanta event said the president has earned support from black voters.
”He has given African-Americans a fresh start,” Andrea Smith told The AJC. “We have been taken for granted for so long by the Democratic Party. But he is building a community of respect.”
Rena-Marie Moore, 32, a real estate broker, said that Trump has already helped black Americans.
“The president didn’t get much support in 2016,” Moore said.
“But he still did so much for our people. That just shows his character. And he is going to do more.”
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westernjournal--2020-09-26--Business Abuses PPP, Donates Millions to Proposal That Would Devastate AZ Economy

Invest in Education , the campaign pushing Arizona voters to support a ballot measure that would translate to a massive tax increase , is being funded by an organization that has received at least $ 1 million in Paycheck Protection Program funds .
If passed , the ballot initiative , known as Proposition 208 , would dramatically raise income taxes for many Arizonans in order to fund public schools .
The PPP was designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their workers on the payroll .
Yet despite being the recipient of PPP funding , at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to donate millions to Invest in Ed during the second quarter of 2020 .
Critics of the public education system such as Corey DeAngelis , director of school choice at the libertarian Reason Foundation and an adjunct scholar at the Cato Institute , point out that increases in funding don ’ t help educational quality improve .
Rather , they only serve to protect a government monopoly over the education of children who can ’ t afford to go to school elsewhere .
DeAngelis spoke to The Western Journal via email about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ed ” perpetuate .
“ Pouring more money into systems that do not have strong incentives to spend that money wisely is unlikely to solve the problem , ” he said .
“ Arizona should fund students instead of institutions by expanding education savings accounts so that providers of educational services have real incentives to cater to the needs of individual families.
” “ We already do this with so many other taxpayer-funded initiatives such as Pell Grants , Pre-K programs , and food stamps : the money goes to individual families and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the providers that best meet their needs — we should do the same thing with K-12 education and fund students instead of systems .
“ After all , education funding is supposed to be meant for educating children , not protecting a government monopoly.
” What makes this proposal particularly troubling is the fact that one of Invest in Ed ’ s biggest backers has received as much as $ 2 million in PPP loans since April , while at the same time continuing to support a ballot measure that would add @ @ @ @ @ @ @ businesses , including — potentially — businesses that took out PPP loans just to avoid layoffs .
A nonprofit called the Stand for Children Leadership Center — which describes itself as “ a 501 ( c ) ( 3 ) nonprofit leadership development and training organization ” that “ train [ s ] ordinary people to be effective citizen leaders capable of solving problems facing children ” — has been the beneficiary of between $ 1 million and $ 2 million in PPP loans from the government , Treasury Department records show .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , although the exact date or dates that the Stand for Children Leadership Center received its money from the government remain unclear .
Since the start of April , however , Stand for Children Inc. — an advocacy group that exists under the same umbrella as the Stand for Children Leadership Center — has contributed at least $ 3,353,463.08 to Invest in Ed , according to a second-quarter campaign finance report .
RELATED : New Pro-America School Curriculum , 1776 Unites , Released in Response to 1619 Project 's 'Diabolical ' Message It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ California and New York as one of the worst states in the country when it comes to taxes , ” according to the Goldwater Institute , a free market public policy research and litigation organization .
“ Proposition 208 is a tax on the most volatile portion of the income tax ; it ’ s where business profits and capital gains live , ” Sean McCarthy , a senior research analyst for the Arizona Tax Research Association , noted in an Op-Ed for Chamber Business News .
“ In the first full year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 32 % !
This tax bracket actually declined in revenues in four out of seven years after 2006 !
‘ How can schools budget with this unstable revenue source when it grows 20 % in one year and declines 5 % in the next ?
It ’ s no wonder you won ’ t find this tax policy in any other state — it ’ s an irresponsible way to fund schools.
” When it comes to this specific proposition and its supporters , it ’ s important to understand that there is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It ’ s well within the realm of possibility that many of the Arizona businesses that Prop 208 ’ s tax increases could harm have been , or still are , in need of PPP loans in order to keep their staff on payroll .
Still , money meant for small businesses has been used by an organization pushing a proposition that could destroy those struggling businesses .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Invest in Education, the campaign pushing Arizona voters to support a ballot measure that would translate to a massive tax increase, is being funded by an organization that has received at least $1 million in Paycheck Protection Program funds.
If passed, the ballot initiative, known as Proposition 208, would dramatically raise income taxes for many Arizonans in order to fund public schools.
The PPP was designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their workers on the payroll. Yet despite being the recipient of PPP funding, at least one organization apparently had enough money to donate millions to Invest in Ed during the second quarter of 2020.
Critics of the public education system such as Corey DeAngelis, director of school choice at the libertarian Reason Foundation and an adjunct scholar at the Cato Institute, point out that increases in funding don’t help educational quality improve.
Rather, they only serve to protect a government monopoly over the education of children who can’t afford to go to school elsewhere.
DeAngelis spoke to The Western Journal via email about the problems that campaigns like “Invest in Ed” perpetuate.
“Pouring more money into systems that do not have strong incentives to spend that money wisely is unlikely to solve the problem,” he said. “Arizona should fund students instead of institutions by expanding education savings accounts so that providers of educational services have real incentives to cater to the needs of individual families.”
“We already do this with so many other taxpayer-funded initiatives such as Pell Grants, Pre-K programs, and food stamps: the money goes to individual families and families are able to take those dollars to the providers that best meet their needs — we should do the same thing with K-12 education and fund students instead of systems.
“After all, education funding is supposed to be meant for educating children, not protecting a government monopoly.”
Should organizations that receive money from the PPP be able to donate to campaigns pushing ballot initiatives? 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: 0% (0 Votes) No: 100% (254 Votes)
What makes this proposal particularly troubling is the fact that one of Invest in Ed’s biggest backers has received as much as $2 million in PPP loans since April, while at the same time continuing to support a ballot measure that would add a massive tax burden to many private businesses, including — potentially — businesses that took out PPP loans just to avoid layoffs.
A nonprofit called the Stand for Children Leadership Center — which describes itself as “a 501(c)(3) nonprofit leadership development and training organization” that “train[s] ordinary people to be effective citizen leaders capable of solving problems facing children” — has been the beneficiary of between $1 million and $2 million in PPP loans from the government, Treasury Department records show.
PPP loans were first distributed in April, although the exact date or dates that the Stand for Children Leadership Center received its money from the government remain unclear.
Since the start of April, however, Stand for Children Inc. — an advocacy group that exists under the same umbrella as the Stand for Children Leadership Center — has contributed at least $3,353,463.08 to Invest in Ed, according to a second-quarter campaign finance report.
Prop 208 has plenty of critics.
It would “put Arizona on par with California and New York as one of the worst states in the country when it comes to taxes,” according to the Goldwater Institute, a free market public policy research and litigation organization.
“Proposition 208 is a tax on the most volatile portion of the income tax; it’s where business profits and capital gains live,” Sean McCarthy, a senior research analyst for the Arizona Tax Research Association, noted in an Op-Ed for Chamber Business News.
“In the first full year of the recession this tax source dropped 32%! This tax bracket actually declined in revenues in four out of seven years after 2006!
‘How can schools budget with this unstable revenue source when it grows 20% in one year and declines 5% in the next? It’s no wonder you won’t find this tax policy in any other state — it’s an irresponsible way to fund schools.”
When it comes to this specific proposition and its supporters, it’s important to understand that there is a limited supply of PPP funds.
It’s well within the realm of possibility that many of the Arizona businesses that Prop 208’s tax increases could harm have been, or still are, in need of PPP loans in order to keep their staff on payroll.
Still, money meant for small businesses has been used by an organization pushing a proposition that could destroy those struggling businesses.
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westernjournal--2020-09-25--Dem Attorney General Pushes To Nix NYPD Traffic Stops

New York ’ s Democratic attorney general on Friday recommended the New York Police Department get out of the business of routine traffic enforcement , a radical change she said would prevent encounters like one last year in the Bronx that ended with an officer fatally shooting a motorist .
Attorney General Letitia James , who acts as a special prosecutor appointed to investigate certain police killings , argued that traffic stops for minor infractions often end in violence and that Allan Feliz ’ s death last October after he was pulled over for a seat belt violation “ further @ @ @ @ @ @ @ James ’ office concluded that the NYPD ’ s use of deadly force was justified but that the sequence of events leading to Feliz ’ s death would not have happened if police hadn ’ t stopped him in the first place .
Messages seeking comment were left with the police department .
Feliz initially complied when an officer asked him to get out of his car , but then jumped back in and tried to flee , James ’ office said in a report on his death that included the recommendation about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rivera then fired a stun gun at Feliz and climbed into the car as Feliz shifted the vehicle into gear and began moving .
Rivera shot Feliz once in the chest , killing him .
James ’ office concluded Rivera was justified in shooting Feliz in part because he feared the vehicle ’ s movement was endangering another officer standing nearby , the report said .
“ The officer ’ s alleged justification is a fairy tale , ” according to Robert Vilensky , a lawyer for the Feliz family , which is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which they say was moving was at best moving 2 mph .
That wouldn ’ t knock over a fly .
If police officers are to remain involved in traffic enforcement , James ’ office said , the police department should drop a policy that encourages officers to arrest any motorist who is found to have an open warrant .
Instead , the report said , drivers with open warrants should be arrested only with a supervisor ’ s approval if an officer has reasonable cause to believe they are a danger to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unlikely that the incident involving Mr. Feliz … would have escalated in the manner it did in the absence of this automatic arrest policy , ” James ’ office wrote .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

New York’s Democratic attorney general on Friday recommended the New York Police Department get out of the business of routine traffic enforcement, a radical change she said would prevent encounters like one last year in the Bronx that ended with an officer fatally shooting a motorist.
Attorney General Letitia James, who acts as a special prosecutor appointed to investigate certain police killings, argued that traffic stops for minor infractions often end in violence and that Allan Feliz’s death last October after he was pulled over for a seat belt violation “further underscores the need for this change.”
James’ office concluded that the NYPD’s use of deadly force was justified but that the sequence of events leading to Feliz’s death would not have happened if police hadn’t stopped him in the first place.
Messages seeking comment were left with the police department.
Feliz initially complied when an officer asked him to get out of his car, but then jumped back in and tried to flee, James’ office said in a report on his death that included the recommendation about traffic stop duties.
Sgt. Jonathan Rivera then fired a stun gun at Feliz and climbed into the car as Feliz shifted the vehicle into gear and began moving. Rivera shot Feliz once in the chest, killing him.
James’ office concluded Rivera was justified in shooting Feliz in part because he feared the vehicle’s movement was endangering another officer standing nearby, the report said.
“The officer’s alleged justification is a fairy tale,” according to Robert Vilensky, a lawyer for the Feliz family, which is suing the NYPD. “The car which they say was moving was at best moving 2 mph. That wouldn’t knock over a fly.
If police officers are to remain involved in traffic enforcement, James’ office said, the police department should drop a policy that encourages officers to arrest any motorist who is found to have an open warrant.
Do you agree with James' recommendation? Yes No
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Instead, the report said, drivers with open warrants should be arrested only with a supervisor’s approval if an officer has reasonable cause to believe they are a danger to the community.
“It is highly unlikely that the incident involving Mr. Feliz … would have escalated in the manner it did in the absence of this automatic arrest policy,” James’ office wrote.
[jwplayer RfVv3U78]
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--2020-09-26--Dad Recreates ‘Toy Story’ Scene To Send Age 4 Son Back to School

Sean Donnelly is a 32-year-old father from Loughborough , England , who — like many fathers have in the last month — recently saw his son head off to his first day of school .
A truck driver by trade , Donnelly has also proved he has a penchant for photography , setting up and snapping an adorable moment with his son , 4-year-old Vinny .
In an ode to a Pixar classic , “ Toy Story ” character toys are lined up along the floor , facing the open front door .
Outside , Vinny waves and then turns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Good luck Vinny , on your first day at BIG school !
” Donnelly shared on Facebook on Aug. 26 , along with two photos .
“ You have a bright future ahead of you mate , I ’ m incredibly proud to be your Dad.
” The scene hails from the third installment of “ Toy Story ” — though in that film Andy ’ s heading for college and not his first day of school .
Regardless , the picture is cute and struck a chord with many viewers .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Toy Story 3 where Andy leaves his toys behind when we did the traditional back to school photo , ” Donnelly told the U.K. Daily Mail .
Donnelly ’ s partner , Charlotte , posted the images on a group where it reportedly went viral ; people seemed to connect with it on a deep , personal level .
“ Lots of people found it emotional and [ said ] that it made them cry , ” Donnelly said .
“ I tried to make it look dark inside where the toys were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I wanted it to look like his future was bright , that sort of thing .
It ’ s been quite tough for all children really this year.
” He also acknowledged that this transition to school will be tough for his son , who has spent much of lockdown by his mother ’ s side .
His older sister , Darcy , will be able to keep him company along the way , though .
“ It ’ s a weird situation to be in and just starting school for Vinny @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Donnelly explained .
“ He will certainly be out of his comfort zone for a while .
Fortunately , he is loving it so far.
” As for the adorable photo , Donnelly has plans to incorporate it into the home decor .
RELATED : Here 's How the Pandemic Has Changed How We Eat “ It ’ s great to have a positive image for him to have , ” he said .
“ His mum and I are really proud but he isn ’ t that fussed.
” The photo taps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experienced .
That feeling was what made the scene in the movie so powerful and it ’ s what makes Donnelly ’ s version so relatable .
“ I think that story connected with the pictured is one people can identify with too , ” Donnelly said .
“ If you have got kids you kind of know that feeling.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Sean Donnelly is a 32-year-old father from Loughborough, England, who — like many fathers have in the last month — recently saw his son head off to his first day of school.
A truck driver by trade, Donnelly has also proved he has a penchant for photography, setting up and snapping an adorable moment with his son, 4-year-old Vinny.
In an ode to a Pixar classic, “Toy Story” character toys are lined up along the floor, facing the open front door. Outside, Vinny waves and then turns to head off to school.
“Good luck Vinny, on your first day at BIG school!” Donnelly shared on Facebook on Aug. 26, along with two photos. “You have a bright future ahead of you mate, I’m incredibly proud to be your Dad.”
The scene hails from the third installment of “Toy Story” — though in that film Andy’s heading for college and not his first day of school. Regardless, the picture is cute and struck a chord with many viewers.
“We decided to recreate the moment in Toy Story 3 where Andy leaves his toys behind when we did the traditional back to school photo,” Donnelly told the U.K. Daily Mail.
Donnelly’s partner, Charlotte, posted the images on a group where it reportedly went viral; people seemed to connect with it on a deep, personal level.
“Lots of people found it emotional and [said] that it made them cry,” Donnelly said. “I tried to make it look dark inside where the toys were and light outside where he was.”
“I wanted it to look like his future was bright, that sort of thing. It’s been quite tough for all children really this year.”
He also acknowledged that this transition to school will be tough for his son, who has spent much of lockdown by his mother’s side. His older sister, Darcy, will be able to keep him company along the way, though.
“It’s a weird situation to be in and just starting school for Vinny has been strange for him,” Donnelly explained. “He will certainly be out of his comfort zone for a while. Fortunately, he is loving it so far.”
As for the adorable photo, Donnelly has plans to incorporate it into the home decor.
“It’s great to have a positive image for him to have,” he said. “His mum and I are really proud but he isn’t that fussed.”
The photo taps into a feeling that many parents have experienced. That feeling was what made the scene in the movie so powerful and it’s what makes Donnelly’s version so relatable.
“I think that story connected with the pictured is one people can identify with too,” Donnelly said. “If you have got kids you kind of know that feeling.”
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westernjournal--2020-09-26--Watch: Man Rides Horse Down Highway in Chicago, Later Arrested

A man dubbed Chicago ’ s “ Dreadhead Cowboy ” allegedly galloped into the waiting arms of police Monday after apparently deciding to ride his horse on the city ’ s Dan Ryan Expressway in the middle of rush hour .
Adam Hollingsworth , 33 , faces charges of obstructing traffic , as well as “ reckless conduct , disobeying a police officer , [ and ] criminal trespass to state supported property , ” the Chicago Sun-Times Wire reported , citing Illinois State Police .
He is also being charged with felony aggravated animal cruelty , according to The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a cruel manner toward his horse , but acknowledged this week that he may have ridden her for too long .
Over the past few months , Hollingsworth has been a common sight at protests and other events in Chicago , The New York Times reported .
TRENDING : With Only Days To Go Until Debate , Pelosi Gives Biden an Out : 'Why Bother ? '
The owner of four horses , he has enjoyed a certain notoriety and standing .
“ You could be the brokest guy in the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ horse in a black community and everyone thinks you ’ re rich , ” he told The Times for an article published in July .
A participant in multiple protests after the death of George Floyd , Hollingsworth had pitched a planned protest to state and local police involving the expressway , according to state police .
His idea was rejected as dangerous .
But the Sun-Times Wire reported that on Monday , he took his horse and rode down the expressway , streaming himself on Facebook Live as he yelled , “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kids lives matter !
” Democratic Mayor Lori Lightfoot , who has supported other protests in the city , said this one was different .
“ There is a right way and a wrong way to call attention to issues of great importance and this stunt was decidedly the very wrong way , ” she said in a statement .
Lightfoot ’ s disparaging comments were a far cry from her partnership with Hollingsworth , who she dubbed the “ Census Cowboy , ” to boost the city ’ s census count .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Backs in NFL History Has Died “ I ’ m happy to report , ” Lightfoot said at a July news conference , reaching under the lectern and pulling out a green cowboy hat , “ I ’ m calling out the Census Cowboy.
” “ So , if you see the Census Cowboy coming to your neighborhood , that ’ s not a good thing , ” she said .
“ That means you got to step up and do your part and make sure that you fill out the census .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ communities across Chicago that have the lowest census response rate .
And it ’ s time to giddy-up .
Let ’ s do this , Chicago.
” On Monday , Hollingsworth ’ s ride did not last very long .
Police received a call at about 4:30 p.m. that someone was “ riding a horse at 47th Street , ” the Chicago Tribune reported .
State police said that when officers showed up , they “ saw Hollingsworth riding down the interstate , surrounded by motorcycles and vehicles in local lanes , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ refused to get off the highway , and was later ordered off the horse and arrested .
Darron Luster , 55 , of Chicago , a supporter of Hollingsworth , sought to “ forcefully gain control of the horse ” after Hollingsworth ’ s arrest , state police said .
“ Luster refused to release the horse and was arrested for obstructing and resisting arrest , ” the Tribune reported .
Police said the horse was bleeding from one hoof and had sustained an injury to another hoof .
Authorities also said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and temporarily gave the animal to Chicago Animal Care and Control , though it was later taken to a horse rescue in the area , according to WLS-TV .
Some said Hollingsworth was right to take drastic action to draw attention to the plight of children in Chicago .
“ He felt like it was necessary to make a big scene , ” Joshua Hatchett , a friend of Hollingsworth , told WMAQ-TV .
“ Sometimes you got ta create a little ruckus to get your voice across.
” Eugene Burnett , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ motorcycle escort , also expressed support for Hollingsworth .
“ We don ’ t harm or bother anybody , ” he said .
“ Don ’ t get in the way .
Do something for the kids !
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

A man dubbed Chicago’s “Dreadhead Cowboy” allegedly galloped into the waiting arms of police Monday after apparently deciding to ride his horse on the city’s Dan Ryan Expressway in the middle of rush hour.
Adam Hollingsworth, 33, faces charges of obstructing traffic, as well as “reckless conduct, disobeying a police officer, [and] criminal trespass to state supported property,” the Chicago Sun-Times Wire reported, citing Illinois State Police.
He is also being charged with felony aggravated animal cruelty, according to The Associated Press. He has denied acting in a cruel manner toward his horse, but acknowledged this week that he may have ridden her for too long.
Over the past few months, Hollingsworth has been a common sight at protests and other events in Chicago, The New York Times reported.
CHICAGO COWBOY: Video shows a man on a horse snarling traffic this evening on the Dan Ryan Expressway on the South Side. https://t.co/Yi7iO6AFCO **Video: Vashon Jordan Jr./@vashon_photo pic.twitter.com/nbHOnSqvc7 — FOX 32 News (@fox32news) September 21, 2020
The owner of four horses, he has enjoyed a certain notoriety and standing.
“You could be the brokest guy in the world, but you pull up on a horse in a black community and everyone thinks you’re rich,” he told The Times for an article published in July.
A participant in multiple protests after the death of George Floyd, Hollingsworth had pitched a planned protest to state and local police involving the expressway, according to state police.
His idea was rejected as dangerous.
But the Sun-Times Wire reported that on Monday, he took his horse and rode down the expressway, streaming himself on Facebook Live as he yelled, “I shut down the Dan Ryan! Kids lives matter!”
Democratic Mayor Lori Lightfoot, who has supported other protests in the city, said this one was different.
“There is a right way and a wrong way to call attention to issues of great importance and this stunt was decidedly the very wrong way,” she said in a statement.
Lightfoot’s disparaging comments were a far cry from her partnership with Hollingsworth, who she dubbed the “Census Cowboy,” to boost the city’s census count.
“I’m happy to report,” Lightfoot said at a July news conference, reaching under the lectern and pulling out a green cowboy hat, “I’m calling out the Census Cowboy.”
“So, if you see the Census Cowboy coming to your neighborhood, that’s not a good thing,” she said. “That means you got to step up and do your part and make sure that you fill out the census. He’s going to the 10 communities across Chicago that have the lowest census response rate. And it’s time to giddy-up. Let’s do this, Chicago.”
On Monday, Hollingsworth’s ride did not last very long. Police received a call at about 4:30 p.m. that someone was “riding a horse at 47th Street,” the Chicago Tribune reported.
State police said that when officers showed up, they “saw Hollingsworth riding down the interstate, surrounded by motorcycles and vehicles in local lanes,” according to the Tribune. He allegedly refused to get off the highway, and was later ordered off the horse and arrested.
The Setup vs. The Shot pic.twitter.com/enmvz7qGF9 — Vashon ✶ (@vashon_photo) September 21, 2020
Darron Luster, 55, of Chicago, a supporter of Hollingsworth, sought to “forcefully gain control of the horse” after Hollingsworth’s arrest, state police said.
“Luster refused to release the horse and was arrested for obstructing and resisting arrest,” the Tribune reported.
Was this protest a form of animal abuse? 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: 67% (106 Votes) No: 33% (52 Votes)
Police said the horse was bleeding from one hoof and had sustained an injury to another hoof. Authorities also said the horse had sores from the saddle, and temporarily gave the animal to Chicago Animal Care and Control, though it was later taken to a horse rescue in the area, according to WLS-TV.
Some said Hollingsworth was right to take drastic action to draw attention to the plight of children in Chicago.
“He felt like it was necessary to make a big scene,” Joshua Hatchett, a friend of Hollingsworth, told WMAQ-TV. “Sometimes you gotta create a little ruckus to get your voice across.”
Eugene Burnett, who was part of the rider’s motorcycle escort, also expressed support for Hollingsworth.
“We don’t harm or bother anybody,” he said. “Don’t get in the way. Do something for the kids!”
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westernjournal--2020-09-26--Florida Sheriff Uses Helpful Visual Aid To Educate Reporters on Difference Between Riots and Protest

Florida Sheriff Uses Helpful Visual Aid To Educate Reporters on Difference Between Riots and Protests

It ’ s hard to erase the image of MSNBC ’ s Ali Velshi telling viewers that the Minneapolis riots were “ not generally speaking unruly ” as an out-of-control fire raged in the background .
Since the May 25 death of George Floyd , many on the left have been unwilling to acknowledge the violence that has swept the country .
They ’ ve provided cover for the rioters , and in some cases , they ’ ve even cheered on the looters .
On Monday , Florida Republican Gov .
Ron DeSantis held a news conference in Winter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the “ Combating Violence , Disorder and Looting and Law Enforcement Protection Act.
” TRENDING : Historically Black University Humiliates Biden After He Claims To Have 'Started Out ' There The legislation is intended to defund cities that defund police and to establish what DeSantis referred to as “ clear and predictable penalties ” for those who participate in violent assemblies .
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd addressed reporters gathered at the event to deliver a message of his own .
Lest there be no confusion , the no-nonsense sheriff used visual aids @ @ @ @ @ @ @ riots and protests .
Judd began by praising DeSantis ’ efforts to crack down on lawlessness .
“ And in this state , there ’ s a 49-year low crime rate .
That doesn ’ t just happen , ” he told reporters .
“ It doesn ’ t happen when you listen to a handful of people who think we ought to let criminals out of jail .
“ I can tell you folks , so that there ’ s no misunderstanding today , this is a peaceful protest , ” Judd @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appeared to be a peaceful Black Lives Matter protest on the podium .
Placing the second photo , which showed a raging fire , next to the first one , he explained : “ This is a riot .
We can tell the difference .
The governor can tell the difference .
Our law enforcement officers can tell the difference.
” Presenting reporters with two new photos — one of a peaceful protest , and one of a person with his hands full of apparently looted goods — the sheriff continued : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get that , let me show you something .
This is a peaceful protest .
This is looting .
“ If you loot , the next thing you can try to steal is something off of your food tray at the county jail .
Because you ’ re going to jail .
That ’ s a guarantee .
And we ’ re going to enjoy taking you down there.
” He went on to introduce a third pair of pictures .
RELATED : Dem Lawmaker Faces Up to 5 Years in Prison for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are slow learners , ” Judd said , eliciting chuckles from the officials standing next to him .
“ This is peaceful protest , ” he said , referring to the first photo .
“ This is violence , ” he added in reference to an image of a man trying to damage a car .
“ It ’ s not acceptable .
I truly believe in our God-given right , in our constitutional right , to speak openly and freely , to address our government .
That ’ s important .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Donald Trump appeared on the national stage as a viable presidential candidate , the establishment media coalesced against him .
Suddenly , it became acceptable for journalists to not only “ tweak ” the truth , which they ’ d always done , but to lie and in some cases to create their own versions of events .
The establishment media has collectively abdicated their responsibility to report the news .
Instead , they see their job as shaping the news to support the liberal agenda , and they call on Americans to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our own eyes .
It ’ s refreshing to see Sheriff Judd call them out on it .
“ I ’ ve also watched across this country when law enforcement officers who put their life on the line were told to stand down , allow them to burn the precinct , allow them to rob and loot , ” he said .
“ You have no idea , Governor , and [ Republican Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives Chris Sprowls ] , and [ Republican President of the Florida Senate Wilton @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of you just being here and saying , ‘ We ’ re going to introduce this legislation.
’ But just being here and saying that you support us.
” Judd went on to offer more praise for law enforcement .
“ The men and women of law enforcement that write you a ticket today will stand in front of a bullet for you tonight .
The men and women of law enforcement , who you throw a brick at today , will jump in a river to keep you from drowning tonight , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you to remember that .
We ’ re not the enemies .
We ’ re your friend .
We ’ re your friend when you don ’ t have any friends .
We ’ re the ones that make a positive difference in your life when nobody else will help .
We ’ re the ones that every time you dial 911 , we respond.
” Kudos to this decent man who is unafraid to speak the truth .
This is not the first time Judd has spoken out boldly against violence .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ take their criminal conduct into the neighborhoods , ” he issued a clear warning to rioters and looters .
Judd put potential perpetrators on notice at a June 1 news conference , saying , “ We are going to hunt you down and lock you up if you engage in any criminal conduct , ” according to CBS News .
“ I would tell them , if you value your life , you probably shouldn ’ t do that in Polk County , ” Judd said .
“ Because the people of Polk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I encourage them to own guns , and they ’ re going to be in their homes tonight with their guns loaded .
And if you try to break into their homes to steal , to set fires , I ’ m highly recommending they blow you back out of the house with their guns .
So , leave the community alone.
” If I were a rioter or a looter , I would take this man at his word .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our @ @ @ @ @ @ @

It’s hard to erase the image of MSNBC’s Ali Velshi telling viewers that the Minneapolis riots were “not generally speaking unruly” as an out-of-control fire raged in the background.
MSNBC reporter just now: “I want to be clear on how I characterize this. This is mostly a protest. It is not generally speaking unruly.” The guy is literally standing in front of a burning building in the middle of a riot. pic.twitter.com/IzCV6On4sF — Kelb Hull (@CalebJHull) May 29, 2020
Since the May 25 death of George Floyd, many on the left have been unwilling to acknowledge the violence that has swept the country. They’ve provided cover for the rioters, and in some cases, they’ve even cheered on the looters.
On Monday, Florida Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis held a news conference in Winter Haven to announce a new bill entitled the “Combating Violence, Disorder and Looting and Law Enforcement Protection Act.”
The legislation is intended to defund cities that defund police and to establish what DeSantis referred to as “clear and predictable penalties” for those who participate in violent assemblies.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd addressed reporters gathered at the event to deliver a message of his own. Lest there be no confusion, the no-nonsense sheriff used visual aids to educate reporters on the difference between riots and protests.
Judd began by praising DeSantis’ efforts to crack down on lawlessness.
“And in this state, there’s a 49-year low crime rate. That doesn’t just happen,” he told reporters. “It doesn’t happen when you listen to a handful of people who think we ought to let criminals out of jail.
Can we construe the establishment media's silence on the persistent rioting and looting as tacit support? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 96% (1794 Votes) No: 4% (72 Votes)
“I can tell you folks, so that there’s no misunderstanding today, this is a peaceful protest,” Judd added, placing a photograph of what appeared to be a peaceful Black Lives Matter protest on the podium.
Placing the second photo, which showed a raging fire, next to the first one, he explained: “This is a riot. We can tell the difference. The governor can tell the difference. Our law enforcement officers can tell the difference.”
Presenting reporters with two new photos — one of a peaceful protest, and one of a person with his hands full of apparently looted goods — the sheriff continued: “In the event you didn’t get that, let me show you something. This is a peaceful protest. This is looting.
“If you loot, the next thing you can try to steal is something off of your food tray at the county jail. Because you’re going to jail. That’s a guarantee. And we’re going to enjoy taking you down there.”
He went on to introduce a third pair of pictures.
“Some people are slow learners,” Judd said, eliciting chuckles from the officials standing next to him.
“This is peaceful protest,” he said, referring to the first photo.
“This is violence,” he added in reference to an image of a man trying to damage a car. “It’s not acceptable. I truly believe in our God-given right, in our constitutional right, to speak openly and freely, to address our government. That’s important. We listen every day.”
From the moment Donald Trump appeared on the national stage as a viable presidential candidate, the establishment media coalesced against him. Suddenly, it became acceptable for journalists to not only “tweak” the truth, which they’d always done, but to lie and in some cases to create their own versions of events.
The establishment media has collectively abdicated their responsibility to report the news. Instead, they see their job as shaping the news to support the liberal agenda, and they call on Americans to ignore what we can plainly see with our own eyes.
It’s refreshing to see Sheriff Judd call them out on it.
And the sheriff wasn’t finished.
“I’ve also watched across this country when law enforcement officers who put their life on the line were told to stand down, allow them to burn the precinct, allow them to rob and loot,” he said. “You have no idea, Governor, and [Republican Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives Chris Sprowls], and [Republican President of the Florida Senate Wilton Simpson], how proud we are of you just being here and saying, ‘We’re going to introduce this legislation.’ But just being here and saying that you support us.”
Judd went on to offer more praise for law enforcement.
“The men and women of law enforcement that write you a ticket today will stand in front of a bullet for you tonight. The men and women of law enforcement, who you throw a brick at today, will jump in a river to keep you from drowning tonight,” he said.
“I want you to remember that. We’re not the enemies. We’re your friend. We’re your friend when you don’t have any friends. We’re the ones that make a positive difference in your life when nobody else will help. We’re the ones that every time you dial 911, we respond.”
Kudos to this decent man who is unafraid to speak the truth.
This is not the first time Judd has spoken out boldly against violence.
After hearing that agitators planned “to take their criminal conduct into the neighborhoods,” he issued a clear warning to rioters and looters.
Judd put potential perpetrators on notice at a June 1 news conference, saying, “We are going to hunt you down and lock you up if you engage in any criminal conduct,” according to CBS News.
“I would tell them, if you value your life, you probably shouldn’t do that in Polk County,” Judd said.
“Because the people of Polk County like guns, they have guns, I encourage them to own guns, and they’re going to be in their homes tonight with their guns loaded. And if you try to break into their homes to steal, to set fires, I’m highly recommending they blow you back out of the house with their guns. So, leave the community alone.”
“The people in Polk County like guns, they have guns, I encourage them to own guns… And if you try to break into their homes to steal, to set fires, I’m highly recommending they blow you back out of the house with their guns.” STORY: https://t.co/NjG4Frlphy pic.twitter.com/KH0g3X0POC — FOX 13 Tampa Bay (@FOX13News) June 1, 2020
If I were a rioter or a looter, I would take this man at his word.
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westernjournal--2020-09-26--Survey: Majority of Teen Students Believe Online Learning ‘Worse’ Than In-Person

Most teens have significant concerns about online learning , according to a new Common Sense Media/SurveyMonkey Poll .
Common Sense Media asked 890 teenage students in the United States questions pertaining to online learning and the reopening of schools .
“ A majority of teens ( 59 % ) say that online learning is worse than in-person schooling , with 19 percent characterizing it as ‘ much worse , ' ” the report said .
In comparison , 21 percent said “ they ’ re about the same , ” 10 percent said “ online learning is better ” and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much better.
” Large shares of teens across multiple ethnic groups agreed that online learning is “ worse.
” TRENDING : Historically Black University Humiliates Biden After He Claims To Have 'Started Out ' There Forty-five percent “ of Black teens consider online learning to be worse than in-person schooling , compared to 60 % of White teens , 64 % of Hispanic teens , and 62 % of Asian teens or teens of other races/ethnicities , ” according to the report from Common Sense Media , whose parent organization , Common Sense @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nonprofit organization dedicated to helping kids thrive in a rapidly changing world.
” Forty-two percent of those surveyed said they would prefer their school to stay fully remote , while 37 percent percent favor a hybrid model of learning ( partly remote and partly in person ) , and 19 percent want their school to return to meeting “ full in person.
” Moreover , 66 percent of students who want to stay fully remote believe “ coronavirus is too big of a threat , ” the report said .
The online survey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 13 and 17 was conducted from Aug. 20 to Aug. 27 , with a “ modeled error estimate ” of +/- 5.5 percentage points .
Other major concerns expressed in the survey include unreliable internet , access to educational resources and emotional distress .
Now , there are legitimate concerns when it comes to reopening schools , and school districts should understand that there is not a one-size-fits-all solution .
Although the survey was conducted among teens , parents of small children likely have a multitude of fears as well .
While some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the virus , others are wondering who can watch their child while they are at work .
Many school districts are doing the best they can to accommodate everyone ’ s concerns , but the needs of single parents and households where both parents work non-remote jobs are consistently getting ignored .
The response from the California state government on the issue has been minimal , as only a small fraction of California ’ s public elementary schools have been given a waiver to reopen .
RELATED : Business Abuses PPP , Donates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Economy Despite constantly claiming to care about those in need , California Democrats have neglected the fact that many parents of low-income families will be forced to miss work due to online learning .
According to a study conducted by the Los Angeles Times , affluent school districts in Southern California have fared better in comparison to their counterparts with large numbers of low-income students .
California has some of the highest coronavirus numbers in the United States , thanks in large part to large metropolitan areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in education and other areas , as well — has left Californians confused and angered .
Students and teachers are facing unprecedented new challenges amid the pandemic , and the solutions have oftentimes been far from perfect .
Local school districts need to be collaborating with parents , students , teachers and public health officials in order to determine the best solutions .
When state and national governments try to make the call on what local entities should do — as Democratic California Gov .
Gavin Newsom did in essentially closing down most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in-person learning — it rarely ends well .
Generally speaking , the best choice for most schools is to reopen with social distancing guidelines in place , and also to offer an option for students to stay fully remote if they please .
That way , those who are worried about the virus can stay home , while the rest can safely return to normal life .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Most teens have significant concerns about online learning, according to a new Common Sense Media/SurveyMonkey Poll.
Common Sense Media asked 890 teenage students in the United States questions pertaining to online learning and the reopening of schools.
“A majority of teens (59%) say that online learning is worse than in-person schooling, with 19 percent characterizing it as ‘much worse,'” the report said.
In comparison, 21 percent said “they’re about the same,” 10 percent said “online learning is better” and 9 percent said “online learning is much better.”
Large shares of teens across multiple ethnic groups agreed that online learning is “worse.”
Forty-five percent “of Black teens consider online learning to be worse than in-person schooling, compared to 60% of White teens, 64% of Hispanic teens, and 62% of Asian teens or teens of other races/ethnicities,” according to the report from Common Sense Media, whose parent organization, Common Sense, describes itself as “an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to helping kids thrive in a rapidly changing world.”
Forty-two percent of those surveyed said they would prefer their school to stay fully remote, while 37 percent percent favor a hybrid model of learning (partly remote and partly in person), and 19 percent want their school to return to meeting “full in person.”
Moreover, 66 percent of students who want to stay fully remote believe “coronavirus is too big of a threat,” the report said.
The online survey of 890 teens between the ages of 13 and 17 was conducted from Aug. 20 to Aug. 27, with a “modeled error estimate” of +/- 5.5 percentage points.
Is it time for most schools across the nation to fully resume in-person classes? 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% (65 Votes) No: 6% (4 Votes)
Other major concerns expressed in the survey include unreliable internet, access to educational resources and emotional distress.
Now, there are legitimate concerns when it comes to reopening schools, and school districts should understand that there is not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Although the survey was conducted among teens, parents of small children likely have a multitude of fears as well. While some parents are worried about the spread of the virus, others are wondering who can watch their child while they are at work.
Many school districts are doing the best they can to accommodate everyone’s concerns, but the needs of single parents and households where both parents work non-remote jobs are consistently getting ignored.
The response from the California state government on the issue has been minimal, as only a small fraction of California’s public elementary schools have been given a waiver to reopen.
Despite constantly claiming to care about those in need, California Democrats have neglected the fact that many parents of low-income families will be forced to miss work due to online learning.
According to a study conducted by the Los Angeles Times, affluent school districts in Southern California have fared better in comparison to their counterparts with large numbers of low-income students.
California has some of the highest coronavirus numbers in the United States, thanks in large part to large metropolitan areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco, but the inconsistent reopening strategy — in education and other areas, as well — has left Californians confused and angered.
Students and teachers are facing unprecedented new challenges amid the pandemic, and the solutions have oftentimes been far from perfect.
Local school districts need to be collaborating with parents, students, teachers and public health officials in order to determine the best solutions.
When state and national governments try to make the call on what local entities should do — as Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom did in essentially closing down most of his state’s schools for in-person learning — it rarely ends well.
Generally speaking, the best choice for most schools is to reopen with social distancing guidelines in place, and also to offer an option for students to stay fully remote if they please. That way, those who are worried about the virus can stay home, while the rest can safely return to normal life.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
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* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-09-26--Dems Should Heed JFK’s Counsel and Reject Any Anti-Catholic Bigotry Toward Amy Coney Barrett

With what is promising to be a bruising nomination battle around President Donald Trump ’ s pick of Amy Coney Barrett to replace Ruth Bader Ginsburg on the Supreme Court , Democrats would do well to heed the counsel of the nation ’ s only Catholic president , John F. Kennedy .
During Barrett ’ s confirmation hearing after she was nominated to the 7th U.S .
Circuit Court of Appeals in 2017 , both Democratic Sens .
Dianne Feinstein of California and Dick Durbin of Illinois made an issue of her Catholic faith .
“ The dogma lives loudly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ and that ’ s of concern when you come to big issues that large numbers of people have fought for years in this country.
” Durbin pressed Barrett regarding whether she considered herself an “ orthodox Catholic ” in reference to a 1998 legal article she co-wrote .
“ I am a Catholic , Senator Durbin .
I don ’ t — well , orthodox Catholic , we kind of — as I said , in that article , we just kind of used that as a proxy .
It is not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a term currently in use , ” Barrett answered .
“ But if you ’ re asking whether I take my faith seriously and I ’ m a faithful Catholic , I am , although I would stress that my personal church affiliation or my religious belief would not bear in the discharge of my duties as a judge , ” she added .
That should really be the end of the discussion if Feinstein or Durbin had any grounds to raise the issue at all .
Article VI , clause three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and judicial officers , both of the United States and of the several states , shall be bound by oath or affirmation , to support this Constitution ; but no religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust under the United States.
” That means as long as a judicial nominee swears to uphold the Constitution , that person ’ s religious convictions are irrelevant .
Kennedy faced this question of divided loyalties when he ran in 1960 to be the first Catholic president of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accepted the invitation of the Greater Houston Ministerial Association , a group of Protestant ministers , to address their concerns about how his church membership might influence the decisions he would make as president .
RELATED : Reuters Sets Up Amy Coney Barrett as Extremist , Links Her to Group Ex-Member Calls a 'Cult' “ I believe in an America that is officially neither Catholic , Protestant nor Jewish ; where no public official either requests or accepts instructions on public policy from the Pope , the National Council of Churches or any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ liberty is so indivisible that an act against one church is treated as an act against all , ” Kennedy said .
“ For while this year it may be a Catholic against whom the finger of suspicion is pointed , in other years it has been , and may someday be again , a Jew or a Quaker or a Unitarian or a Baptist , ” he continued .
“ It was Virginia ’ s harassment of Baptist preachers , for example , that helped lead to [ Thomas ] Jefferson ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I may be the victim , but tomorrow it may be you — until the whole fabric of our harmonious society is ripped at a time of great national peril.
” Kennedy went on to argue tolerance in matters of religion is at the heart of the American experiment in liberty .
“ [ T ] his is the kind of America for which our forefathers died when they fled here to escape religious test oaths that denied office to members of less favored churches ; when they fought for the Constitution , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Statute of Religious Freedom , ” he said .
Later in his address , Kennedy stated that he had no intention of disavowing his views or his church in order to win the election , because it really should not be the issue .
“ For contrary to common newspaper usage , I am not the Catholic candidate for president , ” he said .
“ I am the Democratic Party ’ s candidate for president , who happens also to be a Catholic .
I do not speak for my church on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not speak for me.
” Amy Coney Barrett is not the Catholic nominee to be the next Supreme Court justice .
She is Trump ’ s nominee who happens to be a Catholic .
Sens .
Feinstein , Durbin and any other Democrat who raises the issue of Barrett ’ s faith would do well to remember the wise words of JFK .
There is no room for religious bigotry in the halls of Congress .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards @

With what is promising to be a bruising nomination battle around President Donald Trump’s pick of Amy Coney Barrett to replace Ruth Bader Ginsburg on the Supreme Court, Democrats would do well to heed the counsel of the nation’s only Catholic president, John F. Kennedy.
During Barrett’s confirmation hearing after she was nominated to the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in 2017, both Democratic Sens. Dianne Feinstein of California and Dick Durbin of Illinois made an issue of her Catholic faith.
“The dogma lives loudly within you,” Feinstein said, “and that’s of concern when you come to big issues that large numbers of people have fought for years in this country.”
Flashback — Dianne Feinstein to Amy Coney Barrett about ACB’s Catholic faith: “When you read your speeches, the conclusion one draws is that the dogma lives loudly within you — and that’s of concern.”pic.twitter.com/aMGjVQRmcS — JERRY DUNLEAVY (@JerryDunleavy) September 19, 2020
Durbin pressed Barrett regarding whether she considered herself an “orthodox Catholic” in reference to a 1998 legal article she co-wrote.
“I am a Catholic, Senator Durbin. I don’t — well, orthodox Catholic, we kind of — as I said, in that article, we just kind of used that as a proxy. It is not, to my knowledge, you know, a term currently in use,” Barrett answered.
“But if you’re asking whether I take my faith seriously and I’m a faithful Catholic, I am, although I would stress that my personal church affiliation or my religious belief would not bear in the discharge of my duties as a judge,” she added.
Questioning Amy Coney Barrett’s faith, here’s a second clip from her 2017 confirmation hearing, featuring IL Senator Dick Durbin.pic.twitter.com/zJkX3VixuM — Jason Calvi (@JasonCalvi) September 21, 2020
That should really be the end of the discussion if Feinstein or Durbin had any grounds to raise the issue at all.
Article VI, clause three of the Constitution provides “all executive and judicial officers, both of the United States and of the several states, shall be bound by oath or affirmation, to support this Constitution; but no religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust under the United States.”
That means as long as a judicial nominee swears to uphold the Constitution, that person’s religious convictions are irrelevant.
Kennedy faced this question of divided loyalties when he ran in 1960 to be the first Catholic president of the United States.
The Democratic presidential nominee accepted the invitation of the Greater Houston Ministerial Association, a group of Protestant ministers, to address their concerns about how his church membership might influence the decisions he would make as president.
“I believe in an America that is officially neither Catholic, Protestant nor Jewish; where no public official either requests or accepts instructions on public policy from the Pope, the National Council of Churches or any other ecclesiastical source … and where religious liberty is so indivisible that an act against one church is treated as an act against all,” Kennedy said.
On 9/12/1960, JFK told the Greater Houston Ministerial Association: “I believe in an America that is officially neither Catholic, Protestant nor Jewish;…and where religious liberty is so indivisible that an act against one church is treated as an act against all….” (1/8) pic.twitter.com/RXr4orbEBd — Carrie Severino (@JCNSeverino) September 24, 2020
“For while this year it may be a Catholic against whom the finger of suspicion is pointed, in other years it has been, and may someday be again, a Jew or a Quaker or a Unitarian or a Baptist,” he continued.
“It was Virginia’s harassment of Baptist preachers, for example, that helped lead to [Thomas] Jefferson’s statute of religious freedom. Today I may be the victim, but tomorrow it may be you — until the whole fabric of our harmonious society is ripped at a time of great national peril.”
Do you support the choice of Amy Coney Barrett for the Supreme Court? Yes No
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Kennedy went on to argue tolerance in matters of religion is at the heart of the American experiment in liberty.
“[T]his is the kind of America for which our forefathers died when they fled here to escape religious test oaths that denied office to members of less favored churches; when they fought for the Constitution, the Bill of Rights and the Virginia Statute of Religious Freedom,” he said.
Later in his address, Kennedy stated that he had no intention of disavowing his views or his church in order to win the election, because it really should not be the issue.
“For contrary to common newspaper usage, I am not the Catholic candidate for president,” he said.
“I am the Democratic Party’s candidate for president, who happens also to be a Catholic. I do not speak for my church on public matters, and the church does not speak for me.”
“…[C]ontrary to common newspaper usage, I am not the Catholic candidate for president. I am the Democratic Party’s candidate for president, who happens also to be a Catholic. I do not speak for my church on public matters, and the church does not speak for me.” (7/8) pic.twitter.com/JRZZcGv7HW — Carrie Severino (@JCNSeverino) September 24, 2020
Amy Coney Barrett is not the Catholic nominee to be the next Supreme Court justice. She is Trump’s nominee who happens to be a Catholic.
Sens. Feinstein, Durbin and any other Democrat who raises the issue of Barrett’s faith would do well to remember the wise words of JFK.
There is no room for religious bigotry in the halls of Congress.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
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* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-09-26--A Look at Judge Amy Coney Barrett’s Opinions in Hot-Button Cases

Judge Amy Coney Barrett , President Donald Trump ’ s nominee for the Supreme Court , has been on the 7th U.S .
Circuit Court of Appeals since 2017 .
Here are summaries of some of her notable opinions : Barrett has twice joined dissenting opinions asking for decisions blocking pro-life laws to be thrown out and reheard by the full appeals court .
Last year , after a three-judge panel blocked an Indiana law that would make it harder for minors to get abortions without their parents being notified , Barrett voted to have the case reheard by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Supreme Court threw out the panel ’ s ruling and ordered a new look at the case .
TRENDING : Historically Black University Humiliates Biden After He Claims To Have 'Started Out ' There In 2018 , a three-judge panel ruled that Indiana laws requiring funerals for fetal remains after an abortion or miscarriage and banning abortions because of the sex , race or developmental disability of a fetus were unconstitutional .
Barrett was among four judges who wanted the full court to weigh in and suggested that the laws , signed by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ constitutional .
Supreme Court abortion decisions “ hold that , until a fetus is viable , a woman is entitled to decide whether to bear a child .
But there is a difference between ‘ I don ’ t want a child ’ and ‘ I want a child , but only a male ’ or ‘ I want only children whose genes predict success in life , ’ ” Judge Frank Easterbrook wrote for the dissenting judges .
Barrett also joined the part of the opinion on the fetal remains law .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ how animals ’ remains must be handled , ” Judge Frank Easterbrook wrote for the dissenters .
“ The panel has held invalid a statute that would be sustained had it concerned the remains of cats or gerbils.
” Last year , the Supreme Court reinstated the fetal remains law , but not the ban on abortions for race , sex and developmental disabilities .
In a dissent in the 2019 gun rights case of Kanter v. Barr , Barrett argued that a conviction for a nonviolent felony — in this case , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disqualify someone from owning a gun .
The two judges in the majority agreed with arguments that the defendant , Rickey Kanter , could not own a gun under federal or Wisconsin law because of his criminal conviction .
RELATED : Dems Should Heed JFK 's Counsel and Reject Any Anti-Catholic Bigotry Toward Amy Coney Barrett Barrett wrote in her dissent that “ while both Wisconsin and the United States have an unquestionably strong interest in protecting the public from gun violence , they have failed to show , by either logic or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that interest.
” She said that her colleagues were treating the Second Amendment as a “ second-class right , subject to an entirely different body of rules than the other Bill of Rights guarantees.
” Barrett quoted from a 2010 opinion by Justice Samuel Alito that extended gun rights .
Barrett wrote a unanimous three-judge panel decision in 2019 making it easier for men alleged to have committed sexual assaults on college campuses to challenge the proceedings against them .
The case involved allegations by a female student at Purdue University that her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two were identified in court documents as John and Jane Doe .
John Doe sued in federal court claiming sex discrimination after Purdue suspended him for a year and took away his Navy ROTC scholarship .
Barrett concluded Purdue ’ s process was unfair and allowed his lawsuit to continue .
“ The case against him boiled down to a ‘ he said/she said ’ — Purdue had to decide whether to believe John or Jane , ” Barrett wrote .
The judge criticized the university official who ended up siding with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ believing Jane is perplexing , given that she never talked to Jane .
Indeed , Jane did not even submit a statement in her own words , ” Barrett wrote .
Barrett dissented in June when her colleagues on a 7th circuit panel put on hold in Chicago the Trump administration policy that could jeopardize permanent resident status for immigrants who use food stamps , Medicaid and housing vouchers .
She wrote that existing immigration law and Clinton-era welfare reform had already limited public assistance to noncitizens .
The administration was using leeway @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wrote .
Barrett dissented in the case of a Wisconsin man who admitted that he fatally shot his wife seven times but argued that he had been provoked , making his crime second-degree homicide instead of first-degree homicide , which carries a higher penalty .
A federal judge reviewed the provocation claim in a pretrial hearing without prosecutors present and without allowing the lawyer of defendant Scott Schmidt to speak .
The judge rejected Schmidt ’ s claim of provocation , and he was convicted of first-degree homicide and sentenced to life in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ panel overturned that decision , saying that Schmidt had been denied his Sixth Amendment right to counsel .
Barrett , in her dissent , disagreed that the pretrial hearing in which the judge questioned Schmidt about his provocation claim was a situation that required Schmidt ’ s lawyer and said the Supreme Court has never extended the right to counsel outside an adversarial proceeding .
The Supreme Court ’ s “ ’ critical stage ’ precedent deals exclusively with adversarial confrontations between the defendant and an agent of the state , ” she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the right to counsel should extend to a hearing like the one the judge conducted in Schmidt ’ s case .
But [ federal law ] precludes us from disturbing a state court ’ s judgment on the ground that a state court decided an open question differently than we would — or , for that matter , differently than we think the [ Supreme ] Court would.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Judge Amy Coney Barrett, President Donald Trump’s nominee for the Supreme Court, has been on the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals since 2017. Here are summaries of some of her notable opinions:
ABORTION
Barrett has twice joined dissenting opinions asking for decisions blocking pro-life laws to be thrown out and reheard by the full appeals court.
Last year, after a three-judge panel blocked an Indiana law that would make it harder for minors to get abortions without their parents being notified, Barrett voted to have the case reheard by the full court.
In July, the Supreme Court threw out the panel’s ruling and ordered a new look at the case.
In 2018, a three-judge panel ruled that Indiana laws requiring funerals for fetal remains after an abortion or miscarriage and banning abortions because of the sex, race or developmental disability of a fetus were unconstitutional.
Barrett was among four judges who wanted the full court to weigh in and suggested that the laws, signed by then-Gov. Mike Pence, could be constitutional.
Supreme Court abortion decisions “hold that, until a fetus is viable, a woman is entitled to decide whether to bear a child. But there is a difference between ‘I don’t want a child’ and ‘I want a child, but only a male’ or ‘I want only children whose genes predict success in life,’” Judge Frank Easterbrook wrote for the dissenting judges.
Barrett also joined the part of the opinion on the fetal remains law.
Do you support the nomination of Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court? Yes No
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“Many states have laws that prescribe how animals’ remains must be handled,” Judge Frank Easterbrook wrote for the dissenters. “The panel has held invalid a statute that would be sustained had it concerned the remains of cats or gerbils.”
Last year, the Supreme Court reinstated the fetal remains law, but not the ban on abortions for race, sex and developmental disabilities.
GUNS
In a dissent in the 2019 gun rights case of Kanter v. Barr, Barrett argued that a conviction for a nonviolent felony — in this case, mail fraud — shouldn’t automatically disqualify someone from owning a gun.
The two judges in the majority agreed with arguments that the defendant, Rickey Kanter, could not own a gun under federal or Wisconsin law because of his criminal conviction.
Barrett wrote in her dissent that “while both Wisconsin and the United States have an unquestionably strong interest in protecting the public from gun violence, they have failed to show, by either logic or data, that disarming Kanter substantially advances that interest.”
She said that her colleagues were treating the Second Amendment as a “second-class right, subject to an entirely different body of rules than the other Bill of Rights guarantees.” Barrett quoted from a 2010 opinion by Justice Samuel Alito that extended gun rights.
CAMPUS SEXUAL ASSAULT
Barrett wrote a unanimous three-judge panel decision in 2019 making it easier for men alleged to have committed sexual assaults on college campuses to challenge the proceedings against them.
The case involved allegations by a female student at Purdue University that her boyfriend had sexually assaulted her. The two were identified in court documents as John and Jane Doe.
John Doe sued in federal court claiming sex discrimination after Purdue suspended him for a year and took away his Navy ROTC scholarship. Barrett concluded Purdue’s process was unfair and allowed his lawsuit to continue.
“The case against him boiled down to a ‘he said/she said’ — Purdue had to decide whether to believe John or Jane,” Barrett wrote.
The judge criticized the university official who ended up siding with the female student.
“Her basis for believing Jane is perplexing, given that she never talked to Jane. Indeed, Jane did not even submit a statement in her own words,” Barrett wrote.
IMMIGRATION
Barrett dissented in June when her colleagues on a 7th circuit panel put on hold in Chicago the Trump administration policy that could jeopardize permanent resident status for immigrants who use food stamps, Medicaid and housing vouchers.
She wrote that existing immigration law and Clinton-era welfare reform had already limited public assistance to noncitizens. The administration was using leeway those laws had given it, Barrett wrote.
ACCESS TO A LAWYER
Barrett dissented in the case of a Wisconsin man who admitted that he fatally shot his wife seven times but argued that he had been provoked, making his crime second-degree homicide instead of first-degree homicide, which carries a higher penalty.
A federal judge reviewed the provocation claim in a pretrial hearing without prosecutors present and without allowing the lawyer of defendant Scott Schmidt to speak. The judge rejected Schmidt’s claim of provocation, and he was convicted of first-degree homicide and sentenced to life in prison.
However, a 7th Circuit panel overturned that decision, saying that Schmidt had been denied his Sixth Amendment right to counsel.
Barrett, in her dissent, disagreed that the pretrial hearing in which the judge questioned Schmidt about his provocation claim was a situation that required Schmidt’s lawyer and said the Supreme Court has never extended the right to counsel outside an adversarial proceeding.
The Supreme Court’s “’critical stage’ precedent deals exclusively with adversarial confrontations between the defendant and an agent of the state,” she said.
She added: “Perhaps the right to counsel should extend to a hearing like the one the judge conducted in Schmidt’s case. But [federal law] precludes us from disturbing a state court’s judgment on the ground that a state court decided an open question differently than we would — or, for that matter, differently than we think the [Supreme] Court would.”
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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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