westernjournal--2020-03-05--Restaurant’s ‘Giving Board’ Lets Customers Serve Each Other: ‘Just Take It, No Judgment’

A small community restaurant in Georgia is making national headlines over a heartwarming donation-based giving board that offers food and drinks to customers in need of a little help .
Stoney ’ s Family Restaurant in Clarkesville , Georgia , has been in the community for 55 years .
People come for delicious southern food served with a warm smile from restaurant staff who work to make the store feel like a slice of home .
“ We stick together , we ’ re a strong community , ” cashier Ruby Evans told WXIA-TV .
“ We are looking out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tangible ways the community looks out for one another is through the restaurant ’ s giving board which is displayed inside the establishment .
TRENDING : Calif. Man with Coronavirus Says It 's Easier Than a Cold , Shows Trump Was Right About Not Panicking Pinned to the giving board are slips of paper that represent food or drinks that have already been paid for by other customers so that a customer in need can have a meal , no questions asked .
“ One cup of coffee , ” “ five dollars @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plate , ” are just a few examples of what a customer might find written on a piece of paper .
Evans said that many people will donate a full meal , while others will offer up a drink or a few dollars to make a meal more affordable .
The restaurant has even started accepting donations over the phone and by mail .
She said that while donations have been easily obtained , customers have felt somewhat reluctant to accept the gift of a free menu item .
“ A lot of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ m like , ‘ That ’ s what it ’ s there for !
Just take it , no judgment , ' ” Evans said .
Stoney ’ s wrote on Facebook that the board is there to help anyone who is having a bad day , week , or even years of life .
“ In fact , if you are uncomfortable , you don ’ t even have to take the ticket down … just kinda nod your head toward the board when ordering to let the girls up front @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be said … and as always , thank you all for being the best community EVER !
!
!
!
” restaurant staff wrote .
RELATED : Hunters Donate an Astounding 348,535 Pounds of Meat to Local Food Banks and Food Pantries Stoney ’ s giving board program inspired the staff of the second-hand thrift store next door to start up a giving board of their own , offering warm wintery items like hats and coats to customers in need .
“ Everybody gets down on their luck , and just having that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ change your entire world , ” thrift store owner Alexia Dodson said .
The goal is simply to make people feel full and loved , “ to put a smile on someone ’ s face and a hot meal in someone ’ s tummy , ” Stoney ’ s Family Restaurant said .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

A small community restaurant in Georgia is making national headlines over a heartwarming donation-based giving board that offers food and drinks to customers in need of a little help.
Stoney’s Family Restaurant in Clarkesville, Georgia, has been in the community for 55 years.
People come for delicious southern food served with a warm smile from restaurant staff who work to make the store feel like a slice of home.
“We stick together, we’re a strong community,” cashier Ruby Evans told WXIA-TV. “We are looking out for each other.”
One of the tangible ways the community looks out for one another is through the restaurant’s giving board which is displayed inside the establishment.
Pinned to the giving board are slips of paper that represent food or drinks that have already been paid for by other customers so that a customer in need can have a meal, no questions asked.
“One cup of coffee,” “five dollars,” or perhaps, “breakfast plate,” are just a few examples of what a customer might find written on a piece of paper.
Evans said that many people will donate a full meal, while others will offer up a drink or a few dollars to make a meal more affordable. The restaurant has even started accepting donations over the phone and by mail.
She said that while donations have been easily obtained, customers have felt somewhat reluctant to accept the gift of a free menu item.
“A lot of people are really hesitant, and I’m like, ‘That’s what it’s there for! Just take it, no judgment,'” Evans said.
Stoney’s wrote on Facebook that the board is there to help anyone who is having a bad day, week, or even years of life.
“In fact, if you are uncomfortable, you don’t even have to take the ticket down … just kinda nod your head toward the board when ordering to let the girls up front know and not a single word will be said … and as always, thank you all for being the best community EVER!!!!” restaurant staff wrote.
Stoney’s giving board program inspired the staff of the second-hand thrift store next door to start up a giving board of their own, offering warm wintery items like hats and coats to customers in need.
“Everybody gets down on their luck, and just having that little support to pick you up can change your entire world,” thrift store owner Alexia Dodson said.
The goal is simply to make people feel full and loved, “to put a smile on someone’s face and a hot meal in someone’s tummy,” Stoney’s Family Restaurant said.
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westernjournal--2020-03-05--Warren Voters Accuse Own Party of Sexism After Devastating Super Tuesday Defeat

Sen. Elizabeth Warren ’ s presidential campaign was running on fumes , especially after her lackluster showing on Super Tuesday , and finally sputtered to a halt Thursday .
The Massachusetts Democrat ’ s performance was particularly dismal given the fact that she failed to capture a victory even in her home state .
Some of her strongest supporters have identified the force that is to blame : TRENDING : Calif. Man with Coronavirus Says It 's Easier Than a Cold , Shows Trump Was Right About Not Panicking But wait — was this not the party that selected a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nominee who went on to earn millions of votes ?
It doesn ’ t matter .
For Warren supporters , the plan is to just blame the general sexism of both parties .
The “ blame sexism ” theme was used throughout Warren ’ s campaign , but it didn ’ t work very well .
This sexism claims from Warren ’ s supporters are just another iteration of the Democratic Party ’ s attempt to identify all disagreement as bigotry .
This strategy has failed other candidates who have dropped out presidential @ @ @ @ @ @ @ California and Cory Booker of New Jersey .
As Matt Welch at Reason noted , they “ banked on identity politics as an electoral winner , ” which was ultimately a tactical mistake .
Could it be that that the identity politics game has lost some resonance ?
Perhaps voters are reacting to Warren ’ s actions and statements rather than the fact that she is a woman .
After all , she has demonstrated a streak of dishonesty .
The lies piled up along the campaign trail as she claimed she sent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fired because she was pregnant and was told by Sen. Bernie Sanders that a woman could not win the election .
However , according to some in the media , merely identifying her lies qualifies as sexism .
One of her most memorable episodes of dishonesty demonstrates another problem with Warren : She has shown incredibly bad judgment .
She claimed to be of Native American descent and then , at the goading of President Donald Trump , took a DNA test to prove it .
After the test showed her claims to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the results .
Trump laid a trap and the senator walked right into it .
Warren attempted to backtrack on the issue of her heritage , but the damage was done .
The president was armed with plenty of material to last through a campaign season .
There were plenty of concerns about Warren that had nothing to do with gender .
Primary voters saw that , and they went another way .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The patriarchy strikes again.
Sen. Elizabeth Warren’s presidential campaign was running on fumes, especially after her lackluster showing on Super Tuesday, and finally sputtered to a halt Thursday.
The Massachusetts Democrat’s performance was particularly dismal given the fact that she failed to capture a victory even in her home state.
Some of her strongest supporters have identified the force that is to blame:
Sexism.
If Warren were a man, this would have been over long ago. This is all so damn stupid. — Geraldine (@everywhereist) March 4, 2020
So basically a woman, Elizabeth Warren, cleaned up the Democrats’ ungodly mess that was Mike Bloomberg and a man swooped in to claim all the credit — Will Bunch ? (@Will_Bunch) March 4, 2020
But wait — was this not the party that selected a female nominee in 2016? A female nominee who went on to earn millions of votes?
Is sexism to blame for Warren's defeat? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 2% (54 Votes) No: 98% (2187 Votes)
It doesn’t matter. For Warren supporters, the plan is to just blame the general sexism of both parties.
The “blame sexism” theme was used throughout Warren’s campaign, but it didn’t work very well.
This sexism claims from Warren’s supporters are just another iteration of the Democratic Party’s attempt to identify all disagreement as bigotry.
This strategy has failed other candidates who have dropped out presidential primaries, Sens. Kamala Harris of California and Cory Booker of New Jersey. As Matt Welch at Reason noted, they “banked on identity politics as an electoral winner,” which was ultimately a tactical mistake.
Could it be that that the identity politics game has lost some resonance? Perhaps voters are reacting to Warren’s actions and statements rather than the fact that she is a woman. After all, she has demonstrated a streak of dishonesty.
The lies piled up along the campaign trail as she claimed she sent her kids to public school, was fired because she was pregnant and was told by Sen. Bernie Sanders that a woman could not win the election.
However, according to some in the media, merely identifying her lies qualifies as sexism.
One of her most memorable episodes of dishonesty demonstrates another problem with Warren: She has shown incredibly bad judgment.
She claimed to be of Native American descent and then, at the goading of President Donald Trump, took a DNA test to prove it. After the test showed her claims to be questionable, Warren proceeded to broadcast the results.
Trump laid a trap and the senator walked right into it.
Warren attempted to backtrack on the issue of her heritage, but the damage was done. The president was armed with plenty of material to last through a campaign season.
Pocahontas (the bad version), sometimes referred to as Elizabeth Warren, is getting slammed. She took a bogus DNA test and it showed that she may be 1/1024, far less than the average American. Now Cherokee Nation denies her, “DNA test is useless.” Even they don’t want her. Phony! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 16, 2018
There were plenty of concerns about Warren that had nothing to do with gender. Primary voters saw that, and they went another way.
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westernjournal--2020-03-05--NBA Player Tells TV Reporter After Career Game: ‘My Faith in Jesus Is What Keeps Me Going’

Boston Celtics player Semi Ojeleye gave all the glory to God after having a career night Wednesday against the Cleveland Cavaliers .
The third-year power forward came off the bench and scored 22 points in 30 minutes , helping to lift the Celtics to victory in a nail-biter of a game at the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland , Ohio .
The Celtics , who were hoping to rely on the 25-year-old before the contest , won the game 112-106 — ending a two-game skid against the Houston Rockets and the Brooklyn Nets .
With teammates Gordon Hayward , Jaylen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ according to Celtics Blog , Ojeleye flourished .
After the victory and his career night , an elated Ojeleye praised his teammate Jayson Tatum , before explaining to a TV reporter that his faith drives him in both good times and bad .
TRENDING : Calif. Man with Coronavirus Says It 's Easier Than a Cold , Shows Trump Was Right About Not Panicking “ I thank God .
My faith in Jesus is what keeps me going .
And I thank God for nights like this and when it ’ s not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it , ” Ojeleye said .
Despite averaging only 3.1 points per game this season , Ojeleye went 8-for-11 on field goals against the Cavs , and added two assists , six rebounds and a block in the game , according to ESPN .
Teammate Marcus Smart heaped praise on Ojeleye after the victory .
“ We knew Semi could do that on a daily basis for us , ” teammate Marcus Smart said , according to NBA.com .
“ Every day he ’ s getting his shots up .
He ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warmups and everything .
It was just all about his opportunity tonight .
He got his opportunity and he took advantage of it.
” Celtics head coach Brad Stevens also applauded Ojeleye for his gritty performance .
RELATED : Vanessa Bryant 's Tear-Jerking Posts for Late Daughter : 'Mommy Is Still and Will Always Be So Proud of You' “ He ’ s a great worker , he ’ s a great teammate .
When everything is not going your way , he ’ s a guy that you know is in everybody @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that that ’ s huge when you start talking about team .
And you also know he can not play one night and be effective in his role the next.
” While Ojeleye is not particularly active on Twitter , he has previously used the platform to share his faith .
During his rookie season in 2018 , Ojeleye used Twitter numerous time to witness to his followers : On Jan. 1 , 2018 , the former SMU Mustang and Kansas native declared that 2018 would be the “ Year of the Lord.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ reads : “ Lord , give me the grace to be the man of God that You created me to be *Mark11:22* ” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
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Boston Celtics player Semi Ojeleye gave all the glory to God after having a career night Wednesday against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
The third-year power forward came off the bench and scored 22 points in 30 minutes, helping to lift the Celtics to victory in a nail-biter of a game at the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio.
The Celtics, who were hoping to rely on the 25-year-old before the contest, won the game 112-106 — ending a two-game skid against the Houston Rockets and the Brooklyn Nets.
With teammates Gordon Hayward, Jaylen Brown and Kemba Walker all unavailable, according to Celtics Blog, Ojeleye flourished.
After the victory and his career night, an elated Ojeleye praised his teammate Jayson Tatum, before explaining to a TV reporter that his faith drives him in both good times and bad.
“I thank God. My faith in Jesus is what keeps me going. And I thank God for nights like this and when it’s not like this I still thank him for it,” Ojeleye said.
“I thank God. My faith in Jesus is what keeps me going. I thank God for nights like this and when it’s not like this I still thank Him for it.”
— Celtics @Semi after his career-high 22 points in Boston’s win over Cleveland
pic.twitter.com/EHxDOSs9z5 — Jason Romano (@JasonRomano) March 5, 2020
Despite averaging only 3.1 points per game this season, Ojeleye went 8-for-11 on field goals against the Cavs, and added two assists, six rebounds and a block in the game, according to ESPN.
Highlights from Semi Ojeleye’s career high 22 point night against the Cleveland Cavaliers pic.twitter.com/hCS1Vtrv5q — Semi Swolejeleye (@SemiSwolejeleye) March 5, 2020
Teammate Marcus Smart heaped praise on Ojeleye after the victory.
“We knew Semi could do that on a daily basis for us,” teammate Marcus Smart said, according to NBA.com.
“Every day he’s getting his shots up. He’s knocking down those shots in practice, warmups and everything. It was just all about his opportunity tonight. He got his opportunity and he took advantage of it.”
Celtics head coach Brad Stevens also applauded Ojeleye for his gritty performance.
Do you think Ojeleye is bold for sharing his faith in public? Yes No
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“He’s the best,” Stevens said.
“He’s a great worker, he’s a great teammate. When everything is not going your way, he’s a guy that you know is in everybody’s corner, and I think that that’s huge when you start talking about team. And you also know he can not play one night and be effective in his role the next.”
While Ojeleye is not particularly active on Twitter, he has previously used the platform to share his faith.
During his rookie season in 2018, Ojeleye used Twitter numerous time to witness to his followers:
The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand. Psalms 37:23-24 — Semi Ojeleye (@semi) January 2, 2018
Rely on God’s unfailing love today — Semi Ojeleye (@semi) January 5, 2018
Here now is my final conclusion: Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone’s duty. God will judge us for everything we do, including every secret thing, whether good or bad Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 — Semi Ojeleye (@semi) January 13, 2018
Here now is my final conclusion: Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone’s duty. God will judge us for everything we do, including every secret thing, whether good or bad Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 — Semi Ojeleye (@semi) January 13, 2018
Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors James 1:2-3 — Semi Ojeleye (@semi) January 21, 2018
On Jan. 1, 2018, the former SMU Mustang and Kansas native declared that 2018 would be the “Year of the Lord.”
Year of the Lord #2018 — Semi Ojeleye (@semi) January 1, 2018
Ojeleye’s Twitter bio simply reads: “Lord, give me the grace to be the man of God that You created me to be *Mark11:22*”
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westernjournal--2020-03-05--Decade-Old Biden Footage Compared with Recent Clips Shows the Unmistakable Difference

Although it ’ s difficult to tell exactly what has changed , there ’ s an unmistakable difference between past footage of former Vice President Joe Biden and video taken during his ongoing presidential campaign .
In past footage , Biden appears how he has most of his public life — as the cool , smooth-talking politician that helped propel him to some of the highest elected positions in the nation .
For many , their image of Biden is anchored in this time .
Video from a 2007 broadcast shows Biden explaining his position in a cool and clear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t agree with what he ’ s saying , it ’ s plain to see that he used to have a way with crowds .
At one point in the video , his quick wit even has his fellow candidates laughing .
TRENDING : Calif. Man with Coronavirus Says It 's Easier Than a Cold , Shows Trump Was Right About Not Panicking For younger voters who don ’ t have much prior knowledge of Biden , it may be shocking to see the politician speak in clear and complete sentences in past @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his current campaign for the Oval Office , it ’ s hard to believe Joe Biden is the man now being filmed .
Now , 13 years later and in his late 70s , Biden struggles at times with remembering the names of people interviewing him and even what states he ’ s in .
The sheer number of gaffes is remarkable , and a compilation of the missteps is the only way to truly grasp the scale and diversity of the candidate ’ s mistakes .
It ’ s impossible for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going on with Biden .
One possibility is that two terms as vice president have taken their toll on the politician , a problem that is only made worse by a grueling 2020 campaign .
The campaign trail is unquestionably tough , with flights , long bus rides and constant public appearances causing stress that would wear on even the most vigorous people .
RELATED : Bernie Bros Resort to Conspiracy Theory To Explain Away Disastrous Super Tuesday For Biden , it appears the constant grind leading up to Election Day is affecting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ president is no longer the cool , quick-witted man who walked into the national spotlight more than ten years ago .
It ’ s unclear whether the worst of his gaffes , like a claim that he was arrested in a rebellion against apartheid in South Africa , are simply lies or something Biden believed actually happened .
With the Democratic 2020 candidates now whittled down to a few outlandish people , it appears leftist voters have the unenviable choice of deciding between avowed socialist Bernie Sanders and the increasingly incoherent Joe Biden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Although it’s difficult to tell exactly what has changed, there’s an unmistakable difference between past footage of former Vice President Joe Biden and video taken during his ongoing presidential campaign.
In past footage, Biden appears how he has most of his public life — as the cool, smooth-talking politician that helped propel him to some of the highest elected positions in the nation.
For many, their image of Biden is anchored in this time.
Video from a 2007 broadcast shows Biden explaining his position in a cool and clear way. Even if you don’t agree with what he’s saying, it’s plain to see that he used to have a way with crowds.
At one point in the video, his quick wit even has his fellow candidates laughing.
For younger voters who don’t have much prior knowledge of Biden, it may be shocking to see the politician speak in clear and complete sentences in past video.
Compared with footage taken during his current campaign for the Oval Office, it’s hard to believe Joe Biden is the man now being filmed.
Now, 13 years later and in his late 70s, Biden struggles at times with remembering the names of people interviewing him and even what states he’s in.
The sheer number of gaffes is remarkable, and a compilation of the missteps is the only way to truly grasp the scale and diversity of the candidate’s mistakes.
Joe Biden is an extremely risky choice to run against a bully like Donald Trump. Be real. pic.twitter.com/HjVWr5aBQZ — Walker Bragman (@WalkerBragman) March 2, 2020
It’s impossible for the public to accurately tell what’s going on with Biden.
One possibility is that two terms as vice president have taken their toll on the politician, a problem that is only made worse by a grueling 2020 campaign.
The campaign trail is unquestionably tough, with flights, long bus rides and constant public appearances causing stress that would wear on even the most vigorous people.
For Biden, it appears the constant grind leading up to Election Day is affecting the aging politician.
Should Biden undergo a mental health evaluation? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 99% (1531 Votes) No: 1% (20 Votes)
The former vice president is no longer the cool, quick-witted man who walked into the national spotlight more than ten years ago.
It’s unclear whether the worst of his gaffes, like a claim that he was arrested in a rebellion against apartheid in South Africa, are simply lies or something Biden believed actually happened.
With the Democratic 2020 candidates now whittled down to a few outlandish people, it appears leftist voters have the unenviable choice of deciding between avowed socialist Bernie Sanders and the increasingly incoherent Joe Biden.
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westernjournal--2020-03-05--Mike Weinberger: The Presidential Debates Need a New Format

Although the presidential election is still nine months away , it ’ s not too early to think about the debate format .
These things require planning and you can ’ t put them together in a month or two .
One thing is certain : The format of the past , organized by the “ Commission on Presidential Debates , ” made a mess of things .
President Trump should refuse to participate in any “ debates ” it sponsors unless it adopts a new format .
The existing format gives too much power to so-called “ journalists ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the president .
They mistreat him , ask biased questions , use fake news and even interrupt the president in mid-sentence .
In fact , they have gone further than that .
They cheat .
Former interim Democratic National Chair Donna Brazile , for example , admitted that in 2016 she leaked town hall questions to Hillary Clinton .
She said it was “ a mistake I will forever regret.
” Regret is nice , Donna , but the point is , we should never have to chance such mistreatment again .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allow so-called “ journalists ” to control the live give and take of these important events .
TRENDING : Calif. Man with Coronavirus Says It 's Easier Than a Cold , Shows Trump Was Right About Not Panicking So here is my suggestion for a new format that is absolutely fair and unbiased .
The Committee on Presidential Debates can adopt it , or the president can simply refuse to participate in any “ debate ” that does not follow this new format , whoever the sponsor is .
Instead of a panel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ each candidate should submit five written questions , the day before the event , to be asked of the other .
The Democratic candidate asks five questions of the president , and the president ’ s team does likewise for his opponent .
A “ Timekeeper-Judge ” should simply read the questions and give both sides an equal amount of time to answer each question , both their own and their opponent ’ s .
For example , after the Democratic candidate ’ s question is read , the president gets four minutes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a half minutes a yellow light at his podium should go on and after four minutes it should turn red .
Four seconds later his mic should automatically go off .
Then the Democratic Candidate would also get four minutes to explain how he would handle the same topic .
In effect , he would be saying : “ OK , that ’ s how you would handle the issue ; now here is my position on the same topic.
” The same timing procedure should be used when he answers the topic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ both candidates get an equal amount of time which can not be altered by so-called moderators or journalists .
Since each question will be answered twice , once by the author and once by his opponent , it will take at least eight minutes to handle each question , four minutes from each side .
If there are ten questions , that will come to eighty minutes of discussion .
So the whole event will take about an hour and a half , including a brief explanation about this new format .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be influenced by so-called “ moderators ” and “ journalists.
” They have proven that they are not up to the task .
Just take a look at the Iowa Democratic debate if you want overwhelming proof .
Of course , this is only a suggestion and it can certainly be improved upon .
But one thing is for certain .
It would be naive , counterproductive and foolish for the president ’ s team to agree to the same format used in the past .
It would relying on the establishment to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ president , and we know that will not happen .
Just as the Mueller investigation was biased , the House impeachment process was biased and the president ’ s press coverage is biased , the debate format of the past is also biased .
My advice to the president is this : Do not accept it .
Insist on a new and fair format .
You hold all the cards .
Use them .
The views expressed in this opinion article are those of their author and are not necessarily either shared or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Although the presidential election is still nine months away, it’s not too early to think about the debate format. These things require planning and you can’t put them together in a month or two.
One thing is certain: The format of the past, organized by the “Commission on Presidential Debates,” made a mess of things. President Trump should refuse to participate in any “debates” it sponsors unless it adopts a new format.
The existing format gives too much power to so-called “journalists” who overwhelmingly disapprove of and even hate the president. They mistreat him, ask biased questions, use fake news and even interrupt the president in mid-sentence.
In fact, they have gone further than that. They cheat. Former interim Democratic National Chair Donna Brazile, for example, admitted that in 2016 she leaked town hall questions to Hillary Clinton. She said it was “a mistake I will forever regret.”
Regret is nice, Donna, but the point is, we should never have to chance such mistreatment again. And it is equally foolish and suicidal to allow so-called “journalists” to control the live give and take of these important events.
So here is my suggestion for a new format that is absolutely fair and unbiased. The Committee on Presidential Debates can adopt it, or the president can simply refuse to participate in any “debate” that does not follow this new format, whoever the sponsor is.
Instead of a panel of “journalists” asking questions, each candidate should submit five written questions, the day before the event, to be asked of the other. The Democratic candidate asks five questions of the president, and the president’s team does likewise for his opponent.
A “Timekeeper-Judge” should simply read the questions and give both sides an equal amount of time to answer each question, both their own and their opponent’s.
For example, after the Democratic candidate’s question is read, the president gets four minutes to answer it. After three and a half minutes a yellow light at his podium should go on and after four minutes it should turn red. Four seconds later his mic should automatically go off.
Do you think the presidential debates need a new format? 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% (51 Votes) No: 4% (2 Votes)
Then the Democratic Candidate would also get four minutes to explain how he would handle the same topic. In effect, he would be saying: “OK, that’s how you would handle the issue; now here is my position on the same topic.”
The same timing procedure should be used when he answers the topic in his own question. This way both candidates get an equal amount of time which cannot be altered by so-called moderators or journalists.
Since each question will be answered twice, once by the author and once by his opponent, it will take at least eight minutes to handle each question, four minutes from each side. If there are ten questions, that will come to eighty minutes of discussion. So the whole event will take about an hour and a half, including a brief explanation about this new format.
This is perfectly fair and it cannot be influenced by so-called “moderators” and “journalists.” They have proven that they are not up to the task. Just take a look at the Iowa Democratic debate if you want overwhelming proof.
Of course, this is only a suggestion and it can certainly be improved upon. But one thing is for certain. It would be naive, counterproductive and foolish for the president’s team to agree to the same format used in the past. It would be relying on the establishment to be fair to an “outsider” president, and we know that will not happen.
Just as the Mueller investigation was biased, the House impeachment process was biased and the president’s press coverage is biased, the debate format of the past is also biased.
My advice to the president is this: Do not accept it. Insist on a new and fair format. You hold all the cards. Use them.
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--2020-03-05--Schumer Admits ‘I Should Not Have Used the Words I Used Yesterday,’ But Blames Republicans

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer conceded he exercised poor word choice when he called out Justices Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh on the steps of the Supreme Court Wednesday , but went on to blame Republicans for “ manufacturing outrage ” over his comments .
Speaking at a rally for abortion rights supporters as the Supreme Court heard a case regarding the issue , Schumer turned toward the courtroom and said , “ I want to tell you Gorsuch .
I want to tell you Kavanaugh .
You have released the whirlwind and you will pay the price .
You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if you go forward with these awful decisions.
” The condemnation of Schumer ’ s comments was swift , including from Chief Justice John Roberts .
TRENDING : Calif. Man with Coronavirus Says It 's Easier Than a Cold , Shows Trump Was Right About Not Panicking “ Senator Schumer referred to two Members of the Court by name and said he wanted to tell them that ‘ You have released the whirlwind , and you will pay the price .
You will not know what hit you if you go forward with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said in a statement .
“ Justices know that criticism comes with the territory , but threatening statements of this sort from the highest levels of government are not only inappropriate , they are dangerous .
All members of the court will continue to do their job , without fear or favor , from whatever quarter.
” American Bar Association president Judy Perry Martinez was also “ deeply troubled ” by Schumer ’ s words .
“ Whatever one thinks about the merits of an issue before a court , there is no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allegorical , ” she said in a statement .
“ Personal attacks on judges by any elected officials , including the President , are simply inappropriate .
Such comments challenge the reputation of the third , co-equal branch of our government ; the independence of the judiciary ; and the personal safety of judicial officers .
They are never acceptable.
” In a Wednesday tweet , liberal Harvard Law School constitutional law professor Laurence Tribe also sided with Roberts and called for Schumer to apologize .
“ These remarks by @ SenSchumer were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chief Justice Roberts was right to call him on his comments .
I hope the Senator , whom I ’ ve long admired and consider a friend , apologizes and takes back his implicit threat .
It ’ s beneath him and his office.
” Wednesday evening , Schumer ’ s spokesman Justin Goodman issued a statement saying the senator meant that Republicans would pay a “ political price ” for putting Gorsuch and Kavanaugh on the court , The Hill reported .
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell was not buying that explanation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ morning , “ There is nothing to call this except a threat , and there is absolutely no question to whom , to whom it was directed.
” “ Contrary to what the Democratic leader has since tried to claim , he very very clearly was not addressing Republican lawmakers or anyone else , ” McConnell added .
“ The minority leader of the United States Senate threatened two associate justices of the U.S. Supreme Court , period .
There ’ s no other way to interpret that , ” he said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thursday morning stating McConnell made a “ glaring omission ” by not mentioning the minority leader ’ s remarks came in the context of the Supreme Court case potentially impacting women ’ s ability to obtain abortions .
“ Now I should not have used the words I used yesterday , ” Schumer said from the Senate floor .
“ They didn ’ t come out the way I intended to.
” “ My point was that there would be political consequences , political consequences for President ( Donald ) Trump and Senate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the newly confirmed justices , stripped away a woman ’ s right to choose , ” he continued .
Schumer then accused Republicans of manufacturing outrage and distorting his comments .
“ Of course I didn ’ t intend to suggest anything other than political and public opinion consequences for the Supreme Court , and it is a gross distortion to imply otherwise .
I ’ m from Brooklyn .
We speak in strong language , ” the senator said .
“ I shouldn ’ t have used the words I did , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a threat .
I never , never would do such a thing .
And Leader McConnell knows that .
And Republicans who are busy manufacturing outrage over these comments know that , too.
” GOP Sen. Josh Hawley announced on Wednesday he would be introducing a motion to censure Schumer for his controversial comments .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer conceded he exercised poor word choice when he called out Justices Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh on the steps of the Supreme Court Wednesday, but went on to blame Republicans for “manufacturing outrage” over his comments.
Speaking at a rally for abortion rights supporters as the Supreme Court heard a case regarding the issue, Schumer turned toward the courtroom and said, “I want to tell you Gorsuch. I want to tell you Kavanaugh. You have released the whirlwind and you will pay the price. You won’t know what hit you if you go forward with these awful decisions.”
WATCH: Democrat Senator Chuck Schumer threatens U.S. Supreme Court Justices Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh. “You have released the whirlwind and you will pay the price! You won’t know what hit you if you go forward with these awful decisions!”pic.twitter.com/e1qKzocJDj — Steve Guest (@SteveGuest) March 4, 2020
The condemnation of Schumer’s comments was swift, including from Chief Justice John Roberts.
“Senator Schumer referred to two Members of the Court by name and said he wanted to tell them that ‘You have released the whirlwind, and you will pay the price. You will not know what hit you if you go forward with these awful decisions,’” Roberts said in a statement.
“Justices know that criticism comes with the territory, but threatening statements of this sort from the highest levels of government are not only inappropriate, they are dangerous. All members of the court will continue to do their job, without fear or favor, from whatever quarter.”
American Bar Association president Judy Perry Martinez was also “deeply troubled” by Schumer’s words.
“Whatever one thinks about the merits of an issue before a court, there is no place for threats — whether real or allegorical,” she said in a statement. “Personal attacks on judges by any elected officials, including the President, are simply inappropriate. Such comments challenge the reputation of the third, co-equal branch of our government; the independence of the judiciary; and the personal safety of judicial officers. They are never acceptable.”
Do you think Schumer threatened Justices Gorsuch and Kavanaugh? Yes No
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In a Wednesday tweet, liberal Harvard Law School constitutional law professor Laurence Tribe also sided with Roberts and called for Schumer to apologize.
“These remarks by @SenSchumer were inexcusable,” Tribe wrote. “Chief Justice Roberts was right to call him on his comments. I hope the Senator, whom I’ve long admired and consider a friend, apologizes and takes back his implicit threat. It’s beneath him and his office.”
Wednesday evening, Schumer’s spokesman Justin Goodman issued a statement saying the senator meant that Republicans would pay a “political price” for putting Gorsuch and Kavanaugh on the court, The Hill reported.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell was not buying that explanation, saying from the Senate floor Thursday morning, “There is nothing to call this except a threat, and there is absolutely no question to whom, to whom it was directed.”
“Contrary to what the Democratic leader has since tried to claim, he very very clearly was not addressing Republican lawmakers or anyone else,” McConnell added.
“The minority leader of the United States Senate threatened two associate justices of the U.S. Supreme Court, period. There’s no other way to interpret that,” he said.
On the Senate floor, @senatemajldr Mitch McConnell calls out @SenSchumer for his attacks on Supreme Court Justices Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh: “The minority leader of the United States Senate threatened two associate justices of the U.S. Supreme Court, period.” pic.twitter.com/8UpSLNk0x1 — Townhall.com (@townhallcom) March 5, 2020
Schumer responded to the controversy later on Thursday morning stating McConnell made a “glaring omission” by not mentioning the minority leader’s remarks came in the context of the Supreme Court case potentially impacting women’s ability to obtain abortions.
“Now I should not have used the words I used yesterday,” Schumer said from the Senate floor. “They didn’t come out the way I intended to.”
“My point was that there would be political consequences, political consequences for President (Donald) Trump and Senate Republicans if the Supreme Court, with the newly confirmed justices, stripped away a woman’s right to choose,” he continued.
Schumer then accused Republicans of manufacturing outrage and distorting his comments.
“Of course I didn’t intend to suggest anything other than political and public opinion consequences for the Supreme Court, and it is a gross distortion to imply otherwise. I’m from Brooklyn. We speak in strong language,” the senator said.
.@SenSchumer: “I shouldn’t have used the words I did but in no way was I making a threat. I never, never would do such a thing and Leader McConnell knows that. And Republicans who are busy manufacturing outrage over these comments know that too.”pic.twitter.com/4o5n0wCooY — Daily Caller (@DailyCaller) March 5, 2020
“I shouldn’t have used the words I did, but in no way was I making a threat. I never, never would do such a thing. And Leader McConnell knows that. And Republicans who are busy manufacturing outrage over these comments know that, too.”
GOP Sen. Josh Hawley announced on Wednesday he would be introducing a motion to censure Schumer for his controversial comments.
CORRECTION, March 6, 2020: An earlier version of this story incorrectly referred to Mitch McConnell as the Senate minority leader.
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westernjournal--2020-03-05--Retired General ‘Shocked and Overwhelmed’ After Trump Names Him Medal of Freedom Winner

President Donald Trump will award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to retired four-star general and Fox News contributor Jack Keane .
Keane , who is a senior strategic analyst for the network , was informed of the honor in a phone call with Trump “ a number of months ago , ” he told “ The Guy Benson Show ” on Fox News Radio .
“ I was , to be frank about it , shocked and overwhelmed by it .
No one expects an honor like this , and I frankly I told him ‘ I don ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ honest with you , ’ ” he said .
According to Keane , Trump responded , “ You know , someone told me that you were going to say that.
” TRENDING : Calif. Man with Coronavirus Says It 's Easier Than a Cold , Shows Trump Was Right About Not Panicking “ I ’ m no different than anybody else out there , ” Keane added , according to Fox News .
“ You know , I have a lot of love in my life and a lot of purpose and meaning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a soldier and then trying to also advocate for the security of the country as a retired general officer and foreign policy and national security analyst , ” he said .
“ So , it ’ s overwhelming , to be honest with you , ” Keane concluded .
A White House news release stated that Keane will receive the nation ’ s highest civilian honor sometime next week .
“ This prestigious award is the Nation ’ s highest civilian honor , which may be awarded by the President to individuals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the security or national interests of the United States , to world peace , or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors , ” the release stated .
“ General Jack Keane is a retired four-star general , former Vice Chief of Staff of the United States Army , and a well-respected foreign policy and national security expert .
General Keane has devoted his life to keeping America safe and strong , and he has earned many awards , including two Defense Distinguished Service Medals , five Legions of Merit , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Silver Star , the Bronze Star , and the Ronald Reagan Peace through Strength Award.
” General Keane served as an infantry paratrooper during the Vietnam War and was decorated for valor .
He later commanded the 101st Airborne Division and the 18th Airborne Corps .
During his 37-year career in public service , Keane was ultimately appointed as Army vice chief of staff and was in the Pentagon during the Sept. 11 terror attacks , according to congressional documents .
Keane later wrote , “ I was in the Pentagon on 9/11 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Headquarters ( among the 125 people killed in the Pentagon and the 59 passengers who died on Flight 77 ) .
” The decorated veteran officially retired in 2003 , but has continued to advise senior government officials on strategies in both Iraq and Afghanistan .
Keane , who is an expert on military and foreign policy matters , praised Trump ’ s decision to use a drone strike to eliminate Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani in January .
“ This death of Soleimani has shook this regime the way nothing has in 41 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , is personally shook by it , stunned and surprised that it actually happened , ” Keane told Fox News .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

President Donald Trump will award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to retired four-star general and Fox News contributor Jack Keane.
Keane, who is a senior strategic analyst for the network, was informed of the honor in a phone call with Trump “a number of months ago,” he told “The Guy Benson Show” on Fox News Radio.
Gen. Keane told Benson the phone call was unexpected.
“I was, to be frank about it, shocked and overwhelmed by it. No one expects an honor like this, and I frankly I told him ‘I don’t think I deserve it, to be honest with you,’” he said.
According to Keane, Trump responded, “You know, someone told me that you were going to say that.”
“I’m no different than anybody else out there,” Keane added, according to Fox News.
“You know, I have a lot of love in my life and a lot of purpose and meaning associated with trying to protect this country as a soldier and then trying to also advocate for the security of the country as a retired general officer and foreign policy and national security analyst,” he said.
“So, it’s overwhelming, to be honest with you,” Keane concluded.
Do you support President Trump's approach to foreign policy? Yes No
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A White House news release stated that Keane will receive the nation’s highest civilian honor sometime next week.
“This prestigious award is the Nation’s highest civilian honor, which may be awarded by the President to individuals who have made especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors,” the release stated.
“General Jack Keane is a retired four-star general, former Vice Chief of Staff of the United States Army, and a well-respected foreign policy and national security expert. General Keane has devoted his life to keeping America safe and strong, and he has earned many awards, including two Defense Distinguished Service Medals, five Legions of Merit, two Army Distinguished Service Medals, the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, and the Ronald Reagan Peace through Strength Award.”
General Keane served as an infantry paratrooper during the Vietnam War and was decorated for valor. He later commanded the 101st Airborne Division and the 18th Airborne Corps.
During his 37-year career in public service, Keane was ultimately appointed as Army vice chief of staff and was in the Pentagon during the Sept. 11 terror attacks, according to congressional documents.
Keane later wrote, “I was in the Pentagon on 9/11 and lost 85 teammates from the Army Headquarters (among the 125 people killed in the Pentagon and the 59 passengers who died on Flight 77).”
The decorated veteran officially retired in 2003, but has continued to advise senior government officials on strategies in both Iraq and Afghanistan.
Keane, who is an expert on military and foreign policy matters, praised Trump’s decision to use a drone strike to eliminate Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani in January.
“This death of Soleimani has shook this regime the way nothing has in 41 years. Khamenei himself, I believe, is personally shook by it, stunned and surprised that it actually happened,” Keane told Fox News.
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westernjournal--2020-03-05--The DNC Debate Rule Change That Finished Off Tulsi Shows Why They Can Never Be Trusted

When American Samoa came up after Super Tuesday , it usually had to do with it being the epitaph on Michael Bloomberg ’ s $ 500 million night of futility .
After spending half a billion dollars on an idiosyncratic bid to inundate America with advertisements and start his campaign on Super Tuesday , Bloomberg didn ’ t even reach the delegate threshold in plenty of the states he spent grotesque amounts of money in .
He did , though , score one win — American Samoa .
However , there was another curiosity about the American overseas territory : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a delegate , her first .
This , in and of itself , isn ’ t huge news .
The issue for the Democratic National Committee is that , according to reports , they ’ ve been inviting everyone with a delegate to recent debates .
TRENDING : Calif. Man with Coronavirus Says It 's Easier Than a Cold , Shows Trump Was Right About Not Panicking “ Candidates who had at least one pledged delegate automatically qualified for the debates that took place in New Hampshire , Nevada , and South Carolina @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reported Wednesday .
We ’ ve seen Tulsi Gabbard on Democratic debate stages before .
Quite frankly , she can be one of the few reasons to actually tune in — which is why the Democrats quickly decided to make sure everyone knew that the rules for the next debate would be significantly changed .
That ’ s DNC communications director Xochitl Hinojosa , tweeting Tuesday night ( after it became clear Gabbard would have a delegate ) that the “ have a delegate , have a podium ” rule was likely to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meant Gabbard , least favorite candidate of Hillary Clinton and the woman who more or less ended Kamala Harris ’ run , would be on stage at this late date .
By the way , there isn ’ t a while lot to sneeze at when it comes to a single delegate .
RELATED : Warren 's Rough Night Made Even Worse as Tulsi Gabbard Piles on the Insults Billionaire tartan-tie enthusiast Tom Steyer didn ’ t even get one and was regularly on debate stages .
Amy Klobuchar only got seven , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a few more from Minnesota on Super Tuesday .
( If her home state weren ’ t on the roster , however , she should have been prepared to stay at seven . )
“ Hinojosa did not elaborate on what the new requirements will be , but if Gabbard fails to secure more delegates in next week ’ s primaries , she could be left out of the next debate in Arizona on March 15 , ” Fox News said .
Response to this wasn ’ t , shall we say , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the responses to a tweet like this are going to be negative .
However , I ’ ve never quite seen a partisan tweet with as few defenders as this one .
After scrolling through a deluge of responses , I only found two responses in favor , this being the only substantive one : Except this is hardly an academic experiment .
What does this undermine ?
The DNC loosened the debate requirements with the tacit goal of letting Mike Bloomberg on stage after taking significant criticism for tightening them to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ longer appearing in debates .
( They also refused to conduct additional polling , as per Andrew Yang ’ s request , to see if any other candidates like Pacific-islander Gabbard , Sen. Cory Booker or Julián Castro could qualify after failing to do so for a December event in Los Angeles . )
This seems to have worked out well for Bloomberg .
With Elizabeth Warren ’ s Thursday morning exit from the race , there are three candidates remaining in the Democratic race : former Vice President Joe Biden , Vermont @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Gabbard doesn ’ t have the pull of either Biden or Bernie .
In fact , it ’ s safe to say only two of them have chances , and it ’ s the old , white men .
That said , a third candidate who ’ s had a significant media draw , even if she doesn ’ t have flashy numbers , isn ’ t exactly a stretch .
Gabbard ’ s strange mix of policy proposals may not strike you as particularly interesting or salable .
In fact , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comes from her refusal to vote yes on impeachment , her war of words with Hillary and her legendary “ Stop !
Stop !
She ’ s already dead !
” interaction with Kamala Harris .
That said , given the length of these debates and the fact we ’ ve had clown-car symposiums before , the idea there ’ s no room for a third candidate on stage is absurd .
This is why nobody with any sense can trust the DNC .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ standards .

When American Samoa came up after Super Tuesday, it usually had to do with it being the epitaph on Michael Bloomberg’s $500 million night of futility.
After spending half a billion dollars on an idiosyncratic bid to inundate America with advertisements and start his campaign on Super Tuesday, Bloomberg didn’t even reach the delegate threshold in plenty of the states he spent grotesque amounts of money in.
He did, though, score one win — American Samoa.
However, there was another curiosity about the American overseas territory: It also gave Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard a delegate, her first.
This, in and of itself, isn’t huge news. The issue for the Democratic National Committee is that, according to reports, they’ve been inviting everyone with a delegate to recent debates.
If Tulsi Gabbard gets a delegate out of American Samoa, as it appears she has done, she will likely qualify for the next Democratic debate. We don’t have new debate rules yet, but party has been inviting any candidate who gets a delegate. — Dave Weigel (@daveweigel) March 4, 2020
“Candidates who had at least one pledged delegate automatically qualified for the debates that took place in New Hampshire, Nevada, and South Carolina earlier this year,” Fox News reported Wednesday.
We’ve seen Tulsi Gabbard on Democratic debate stages before.
Quite frankly, she can be one of the few reasons to actually tune in — which is why the Democrats quickly decided to make sure everyone knew that the rules for the next debate would be significantly changed.
We have two more debates– of course the threshold will go up. By the time we have the March debate, almost 2,000 delegates will be allocated. The threshold will reflect where we are in the race, as it always has. — Xochitl Hinojosa (@XochitlHinojosa) March 4, 2020
Of course.
That’s DNC communications director Xochitl Hinojosa, tweeting Tuesday night (after it became clear Gabbard would have a delegate) that the “have a delegate, have a podium” rule was likely to be changed because the former rules now meant Gabbard, least favorite candidate of Hillary Clinton and the woman who more or less ended Kamala Harris’ run, would be on stage at this late date.
By the way, there isn’t a while lot to sneeze at when it comes to a single delegate.
Do you think Tulsi Gabbard should be on the debate stage? Yes No
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Billionaire tartan-tie enthusiast Tom Steyer didn’t even get one and was regularly on debate stages.
Amy Klobuchar only got seven , although she likely would have gotten quite a few more from Minnesota on Super Tuesday. (If her home state weren’t on the roster, however, she should have been prepared to stay at seven.)
“Hinojosa did not elaborate on what the new requirements will be, but if Gabbard fails to secure more delegates in next week’s primaries, she could be left out of the next debate in Arizona on March 15,” Fox News said.
Response to this wasn’t, shall we say, universally positive:
God forbid Tulsi gets back on the debate, right? — ?Vote Tulsi Gabbard!??? (@fernandez2126) March 4, 2020
The people of American Samoa already don’t get to have electoral college representation, don’t you dare marginalize them further by keeping their second choice candidate from the debate stage. — Swarley (@SwarleyHorse) March 4, 2020
The people of American Samoa already don’t get to have electoral college representation, don’t you dare marginalize them further by keeping their second choice candidate from the debate stage. — Swarley (@SwarleyHorse) March 4, 2020
I understand most of the responses to a tweet like this are going to be negative.
However, I’ve never quite seen a partisan tweet with as few defenders as this one. After scrolling through a deluge of responses, I only found two responses in favor, this being the only substantive one:
Democracy is serious business, not a fancy academic experiment. Allowing her on the stage only undermines it. She needs to be kicked off the stage. — ?Devin Nunes’ Perfidious Russki Malefactor Cow? (@AmericaPlsAwake) March 4, 2020
Except this is hardly an academic experiment.
What does this undermine?
The DNC loosened the debate requirements with the tacit goal of letting Mike Bloomberg on stage after taking significant criticism for tightening them to the point where candidates of color were no longer appearing in debates.
(They also refused to conduct additional polling, as per Andrew Yang’s request, to see if any other candidates like Pacific-islander Gabbard, Sen. Cory Booker or Julián Castro could qualify after failing to do so for a December event in Los Angeles.) This seems to have worked out well for Bloomberg.
With Elizabeth Warren’s Thursday morning exit from the race, there are three candidates remaining in the Democratic race: former Vice President Joe Biden, Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders and Gabbard.
No, Gabbard doesn’t have the pull of either Biden or Bernie.
In fact, it’s safe to say only two of them have chances, and it’s the old, white men. That said, a third candidate who’s had a significant media draw, even if she doesn’t have flashy numbers, isn’t exactly a stretch.
Gabbard’s strange mix of policy proposals may not strike you as particularly interesting or salable. In fact, much of her popularity on the right comes from her refusal to vote yes on impeachment, her war of words with Hillary and her legendary “Stop! Stop! She’s already dead!” interaction with Kamala Harris.
That said, given the length of these debates and the fact we’ve had clown-car symposiums before, the idea there’s no room for a third candidate on stage is absurd. This is why nobody with any sense can trust the DNC.
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westernjournal--2020-03-05--Ariz. House Stands Up for Female Athletes, Passes Bill Banning Trans Competitors

In a small but important win for sanity and common sense , the Arizona House of Representatives passed a bill that would ban males who identify as female from competing against girls and women in scholastic athletics .
The language of House Bill 2706 , dubbed the Save Women ’ s Sports Act , requires that “ an interscholastic or intramural athletic team or sport that is sponsored by an educational institution in this state must be expressly designated as one of the following based on biological sex : males , men or boys ; females , women or girls @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bill goes on to specifically affirm that “ athletic teams or sports designated for females , women or girls may not be open to students of the male sex.
” Currently , athletes are only required to appeal to the Arizona Interscholastic Association , which oversees school athletics , with their “ transgender story ” and “ letters of support ” to compete as whichever gender they choose .
By contrast , the GOP backed Save Women ’ s Sports Act requires genetic proof of a competitor ’ s sex .
TRENDING : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Easier Than a Cold , Shows Trump Was Right About Not Panicking In a vote cast strictly along party lines , the bill passed 31-29 and goes to the state Senate for the next leg of its contentious battle .
Republican Rep. Nancy Barto proposed the bill in part because of a lawsuit brought by the Alliance Defending Freedom , a nonprofit organization based in Scottsdale , Arizona , on behalf of three female student-athletes , according to USA Today .
The Connecticut high school runners contend they were unfairly deprived of scholarship @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to compete against boys .
Barto responded Wednesday to an outpouring of gratitude over the bill ’ s passage , calling it a “ group effort.
” “ This is about nothing more than keeping a level playing field for Womens sports !
” she tweeted .
“ On to the Senate !
” Rep. Kirsten Engel , a Democrat in the Arizona House , called the vote “ shameful ” and said the bill would injure “ vulnerable ” transgender youths — forgetting , of course , about the girls who potentially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Somehow , in the hierarchy of the oppressed , transgenders enjoy higher status than the girls they are unfairly competing against .
Girls are deprived of titles , scholarships and a fair playing field because they are forced to compete with males who are stronger , faster and larger .
They have these advantages because they were built that way regardless of what gender they identify with today .
The Save Women ’ s Sports Act does nothing more than enshrine into law what previously was taken for granted as common sense @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Founding Fathers included in the Declaration of Independence certain self-evident truths , with the understanding that some things don ’ t require justification as they just “ are.
” America today needs the Arizona legislature and others to protect the obvious fact that male and female athletes are biologically different .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

In a small but important win for sanity and common sense, the Arizona House of Representatives passed a bill that would ban males who identify as female from competing against girls and women in scholastic athletics.
The language of House Bill 2706, dubbed the Save Women’s Sports Act, requires that “an interscholastic or intramural athletic team or sport that is sponsored by an educational institution in this state must be expressly designated as one of the following based on biological sex: males, men or boys; females, women or girls; coed or mixed sex.”
The bill goes on to specifically affirm that “athletic teams or sports designated for females, women or girls may not be open to students of the male sex.”
Currently, athletes are only required to appeal to the Arizona Interscholastic Association, which oversees school athletics, with their “transgender story” and “letters of support” to compete as whichever gender they choose.
By contrast, the GOP backed Save Women’s Sports Act requires genetic proof of a competitor’s sex.
In a vote cast strictly along party lines, the bill passed 31-29 and goes to the state Senate for the next leg of its contentious battle.
Republican Rep. Nancy Barto proposed the bill in part because of a lawsuit brought by the Alliance Defending Freedom, a nonprofit organization based in Scottsdale, Arizona, on behalf of three female student-athletes, according to USA Today.
Should boys who identify as female be barred from competing against girls? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 98% (659 Votes) No: 2% (11 Votes)
The Connecticut high school runners contend they were unfairly deprived of scholarship and other opportunities because they were forced to compete against boys.
Barto responded Wednesday to an outpouring of gratitude over the bill’s passage, calling it a “group effort.”
“This is about nothing more than keeping a level playing field for Womens sports!” she tweeted. “On to the Senate!”
Group effort staying on point. This is about nothing more than keeping a level playing field for Womens sports! On to the Senate! https://t.co/GM0CBsc35T — Nancy Barto (@NancyBarto) March 4, 2020
Rep. Kirsten Engel, a Democrat in the Arizona House, called the vote “shameful” and said the bill would injure “vulnerable” transgender youths — forgetting, of course, about the girls who potentially face literal injury from their transgender competitors.
The vote tonight was shameful. Political points for Republicans at the cost of our most vulnerable kids, our transgender youth. I’m not proud of my State today. https://t.co/FhtWHHekRE — Rep. Kirsten Engel (@EngelForArizona) March 4, 2020
Somehow, in the hierarchy of the oppressed, transgenders enjoy higher status than the girls they are unfairly competing against.
Girls are deprived of titles, scholarships and a fair playing field because they are forced to compete with males who are stronger, faster and larger. They have these advantages because they were built that way regardless of what gender they identify with today.
The Save Women’s Sports Act does nothing more than enshrine into law what previously was taken for granted as common sense.
Almost 250 years ago, the Founding Fathers included in the Declaration of Independence certain self-evident truths, with the understanding that some things don’t require justification as they just “are.”
America today needs the Arizona legislature and others to protect the obvious fact that male and female athletes are biologically different.
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westernjournal--2020-03-05--Pentagon Insider Arrested on Espionage Charges for Allegedly Feeding Classified Info to Terror Group

A government contractor based in Iraq has been charged with espionage and accused of trying to funnel highly classified material to the terrorist organization Hezbollah .
Mariam Taha Thompson , 61 , formerly of Rochester , Minnesota , was charged with transmitting highly sensitive classified information to a foreign national connected to Hezbollah , according to a Justice Department statement .
An affidavit filed in support of a criminal complaint said that a search of Thompson ’ s living quarters , while she was stationed in Erbil , Iraq , found that she had documents with the names of active @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also the name of a Hezbollah target who she was trying to warn .
Thompson held a Top Secret security clearance .
“ By compromising the identities of these human assets , Thompson placed the lives of the human assets and U.S. military personnel in grave danger , ” the release said .
“ While in a war zone , the defendant allegedly gave sensitive national defense information , including the names of individuals helping the United States , to a Lebanese national located overseas , ” Assistant Attorney General for National Security @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Calif. Man with Coronavirus Says It 's Easier Than a Cold , Shows Trump Was Right About Not Panicking “ If true , this conduct is a disgrace , especially for someone serving as a contractor with the United States military .
This betrayal of country and colleagues will be punished , ” Demers said .
“ The conduct alleged in this complaint is a grave threat to national security , placed lives at risk , and represents a betrayal of our armed forces .
The charges we ’ ve filed today should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would consider disclosing classified national defense information to a terrorist organization , ” U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Shea for the District of Columbia said .
Thompson was arrested on Feb. 27 .
She made her initial court appearance on Wednesday .
The investigation into Thompson began in late December , when officials noted changes in Thompson ’ s activity on the Erbil base ’ s computer network .
The changes took place after the storming of the American embassy in Baghdad .
“ During a six-week period between December 30 , 2019 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accessed dozens of files concerning human intelligence sources , including true names , personal identification data , background information , and photographs of the human assets , as well as operational cables detailing information the assets provided to the United States government , ” the Justice Department statement said .
When a search of Thompson ’ s quarters was conducted on Feb. 19 , a handwritten note in Arabic was found stashed under Thompson ’ s mattress .
The note included classified information that identified human assets of the U.S. government as well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Hezbollah .
It included the real names of the assets and warned that their phones should be monitored .
The statement said that Thompson worked with “ a co-conspirator , in whom she had a romantic interest , ” saying that the individual had a relative within the Lebanese government as well as connections to Hezbollah .
RELATED : 'It 's Happening in Your State ' : Pompeo Warns of Nefarious Chinese Infiltration “ Thompson also provided information to her co-conspirator identifying another human asset and the information the asset had provided @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as providing information regarding the techniques the human assets were using to gather information on behalf of the United States , ” the statement said .
In the affidavit filed to support the charges , Thompson is quoted as having told investigators that she would memorize classified information that she viewed , then write it down .
She would then use the video feature of a messaging app on her phone to transmit the information .
If Thompson is convicted of the charges against her , she could face a maximum sentence of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

A government contractor based in Iraq has been charged with espionage and accused of trying to funnel highly classified material to the terrorist organization Hezbollah.
Mariam Taha Thompson, 61, formerly of Rochester, Minnesota, was charged with transmitting highly sensitive classified information to a foreign national connected to Hezbollah, according to a Justice Department statement.
An affidavit filed in support of a criminal complaint said that a search of Thompson’s living quarters, while she was stationed in Erbil, Iraq, found that she had documents with the names of active human assets of the U.S. government and also the name of a Hezbollah target who she was trying to warn. Thompson held a Top Secret security clearance.
“By compromising the identities of these human assets, Thompson placed the lives of the human assets and U.S. military personnel in grave danger,” the release said.
“While in a war zone, the defendant allegedly gave sensitive national defense information, including the names of individuals helping the United States, to a Lebanese national located overseas,” Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers said.
“If true, this conduct is a disgrace, especially for someone serving as a contractor with the United States military. This betrayal of country and colleagues will be punished,” Demers said.
“The conduct alleged in this complaint is a grave threat to national security, placed lives at risk, and represents a betrayal of our armed forces. The charges we’ve filed today should serve as a warning to anyone who would consider disclosing classified national defense information to a terrorist organization,” U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Shea for the District of Columbia said.
Thompson was arrested on Feb. 27. She made her initial court appearance on Wednesday.
The investigation into Thompson began in late December, when officials noted changes in Thompson’s activity on the Erbil base’s computer network. The changes took place after the storming of the American embassy in Baghdad.
Does this sound like treason to you? Yes No
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“During a six-week period between December 30, 2019, and February 10, 2020, Thompson accessed dozens of files concerning human intelligence sources, including true names, personal identification data, background information, and photographs of the human assets, as well as operational cables detailing information the assets provided to the United States government,” the Justice Department statement said.
When a search of Thompson’s quarters was conducted on Feb. 19, a handwritten note in Arabic was found stashed under Thompson’s mattress.
The note included classified information that identified human assets of the U.S. government as well as a warning to an individual linked to Hezbollah.
It included the real names of the assets and warned that their phones should be monitored.
The statement said that Thompson worked with “a co-conspirator, in whom she had a romantic interest,” saying that the individual had a relative within the Lebanese government as well as connections to Hezbollah.
“Thompson also provided information to her co-conspirator identifying another human asset and the information the asset had provided to the United States, as well as providing information regarding the techniques the human assets were using to gather information on behalf of the United States,” the statement said.
In the affidavit filed to support the charges, Thompson is quoted as having told investigators that she would memorize classified information that she viewed, then write it down. She would then use the video feature of a messaging app on her phone to transmit the information.
If Thompson is convicted of the charges against her, she could face a maximum sentence of life in prison.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
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westernjournal--2020-03-05--Bernie Bros Resort to Conspiracy Theory To Explain Away Disastrous Super Tuesday

If I were in the dad joke mood , I could say that I guess Bernie Sanders ’ Super Tuesday wasn ’ t so super .
If I were trying to play myself off as a knowing millennial engaging in winking hipster irony , I ’ d still say it and pass it off as a dad joke .
Whichever I chose ( you be the judge ) , the point is that Bernie underperformed on the biggest delegate day of the primary season .
The underwhelming performance — combined with Joe Biden ’ s phoenix-like regeneration from the ashes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pledged delegates .
The great thing about the Democratic primary process is that it kind of depends on who you ask as to what the pledged delegate count is .
Going by CNN ’ s count , Biden has 509 and Bernie has 449 .
The New York Times estimates it will all end up with Biden having 670 delegates and Sanders 589 .
I ’ m under the impression California is using the same vote-counting methods used by our nascent republic during the election of 1788 , meaning this is probably subject @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Coronavirus Says It 's Easier Than a Cold , Shows Trump Was Right About Not Panicking So , what ’ s behind the resurrection of Biden ’ s desiccated political corpse ?
Some credit it to his convincing win in South Carolina combined with the endorsement of Democratic House Majority Whip James Clyburn , an African-American and the most powerful Democratic politician in the state ; the loss underscored how little support the Vermont senator has with black voters over 30 .
Some pointed to the dual withdrawal/endorsements by former South Bend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar ; the latter is credited with helping him win a state where the only candidate who registered significant support before Klobuchar ’ s withdrawal was Sanders .
Some just credited Democratic voters with coming to their senses after three contests where an unelectable socialist took control of the field .
Not the Bernie Bros , though .
Partisans of the crunchy socialist independent instead turned to conspiracy theories both mild and wild about why Sanders lost .
Carlos Maza , formerly of Vox Media , is one of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him as the man who was behind the de-platforming of Steven Crowder on YouTube .
He thinks this is all a result of the media treating Biden ’ s victory in South Carolina in a misleading way .
“ It ’ s easy to blame Warren for this , but the bigger culprit is cable news , which treated South Carolina like a major unexpected comeback for Biden and likely had a huge impact on last-minute voters worried about electability , ” Maza tweeted after Tuesday ended in tears : RELATED : Warren @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Devastating Super Tuesday Defeat This would only be a point if we didn ’ t consider the fact Sanders was the frontrunner only because the media treated an anomalous result — the Nevada caucuses — as a sign the Democratic electorate had suddenly and irrevocably shifted .
The fact that a ) the caucus format seems to benefit Sanders , as evidenced by his performance in Minnesota in 2016 ( caucus format ) vs. his performance there in 2020 ( primary format ) and b ) it didn ’ t erase that Sanders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Iowa and New Hampshire .
By Maza ’ s conspiratorial logic , the media would also be responsible for the fact that Sanders was viewed as the frontrunner before a primary where he clearly didn ’ t have the infrastructure among African-American voters to post a decent result .
Speaking of blaming Warren , there was comedian Sarah Silverman who — like so many others — secretly believes Sen. Elizabeth Warren is a covert agent of the moderates because she ’ s siphoning progressive votes from where they really belong — the Bernie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a chance to win ?
Honestly , Warren is like an electable Sanders .
That said , delegates are awarded proportionally in the Democratic primaries .
Assume for a moment that , given a three-person race , Warren and Sanders split the progressive/socialist vote .
That still means both would likely meet the 15 percent threshold to get delegates if that vote had enough power to get near the 50 percent mark .
If they don ’ t , there ’ s no one left to beat Biden , anyway .
And Marianne @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you bet your dark psychic energy that she was .
“ Jake Tapper referred to the ‘ resurrection ’ of Joe Biden ’ s campaign .
This was not a resurrection ; it was a coup .
Russiagate was not a coup .
Mueller was not a coup .
Impeachment was not a coup .
What happened [ on Super Tuesday ] was a coup .
And we will push it back , ” she said .
Presumably , this push-back will occur on the Battlefield of Love , where Williamson said she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Democratic debate appearances .
Right .
Much like Napoleon returning from exile Elba and assembling his troops for a decisive showdown with the Duke of Wellington at what would end up being Waterloo , this , uh , won ’ t end well .
Then there was author Matt Stoller , who was a bit more apocalyptic about things : I ’ m presuming that he typed this out on his iPhone as “ Gim me Shelter ” played at top volume through his AirPods , tears of rage falling on the screen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were sullen and not caught on video .
Cenk Uygur ’ s meltdown on “ The Young Turks ” wasn ’ t sullen and was , of course , caught on video : I don ’ t argue with Uygur that Biden ’ s “ mental faculties are under question , ” but I ’ d advise him to watch this again and see what he thinks .
Just saying .
So beyond the powers of Democratic establishment , secret moderate Elizabeth Warren , a media which is so in the tank for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was sure to win this thing as late as Friday and a Super Tuesday coup , what else could explain this ?
Maybe it was the fact that this was always how Bernie was going to perform outside of the first three primaries and we simply overestimated the McGovern-like powers of the youth vote to carry a radical to the nomination .
Sanders lost pretty much everything big .
In every Southern state he invested heavily in he still lost by significant margins .
He only won in one of the big contests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that he had a serious lead in Texas like other pundits did , and I was clearly right — although he still kept it close , considering Latinos are one of his strong constituencies .
In the other big contest , California is still waiting for the horse-drawn carriages to get the ballots from Southern California to Sacramento to be counted , but the estimates show Sanders won ’ t go over the top .
Whatever the case , he was supposed to have a lead in delegates coming out of Super Tuesday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ yes , the media seemed inordinately happy about it , with every one of them broadly smiling as they talked about “ … a result no one expected.
” Again , this guy was as good as the nominee on Friday .
He tumbled back down to earth because he couldn ’ t make inroads among black voters who aren ’ t millennials or members of Generation Z .
It wasn ’ t a coup .
It wasn ’ t Warren .
It wasn ’ t the media .
It wasn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reckoning with mass death.
” It was a terminally poxed candidate who , after a brief flirtation with him , everyone suddenly realized was terminally poxed .
Or , perhaps this changes .
The favorite has changed how many times since the summer ?
Remember when Kamala was a favorite to be the nominee ?
Warren ?
Bloomberg ?
That last one was just a few weeks ago , just before he got up on a Vegas debate stage and Elizabeth Warren treated him like Ivan Drago treated Apollo Creed .
Conspiracy theories @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think that there ’ s someone pulling the levers behind the scenes and that this is all the result of bad actors in the media or the Democratic Party or , I don ’ t know , dark psychic energy .
It isn ’ t .
We simply ascribed too much to Bernie ’ s convincing Nevada win , along with convincing-ish performances Iowa and New Hampshire , and not enough to the fact that his base remains limited .
If you ’ re a Bernie Bro ( or Bro-ette ) and don @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out , I ’ d get used to it .
These things can change rapidly , as the primary season has shown — but the next few rounds of elections are coming rapidly , too , and perhaps too rapidly for the kind of changes Bernie needs to win the nomination .
The simplest explanation , alas , won ’ t do for the Bernie partisans , who will forever believe conspiracies are afoot , depriving their candidate of what should rightfully be his .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ editorial standards .

If I were in the dad joke mood, I could say that I guess Bernie Sanders’ Super Tuesday wasn’t so super. If I were trying to play myself off as a knowing millennial engaging in winking hipster irony, I’d still say it and pass it off as a dad joke.
Whichever I chose (you be the judge), the point is that Bernie underperformed on the biggest delegate day of the primary season. The underwhelming performance — combined with Joe Biden’s phoenix-like regeneration from the ashes — means that Bernie is behind in pledged delegates.
The great thing about the Democratic primary process is that it kind of depends on who you ask as to what the pledged delegate count is.
Going by CNN’s count, Biden has 509 and Bernie has 449. The New York Times estimates it will all end up with Biden having 670 delegates and Sanders 589.
I’m under the impression California is using the same vote-counting methods used by our nascent republic during the election of 1788, meaning this is probably subject to change.
So, what’s behind the resurrection of Biden’s desiccated political corpse?
Some credit it to his convincing win in South Carolina combined with the endorsement of Democratic House Majority Whip James Clyburn, an African-American and the most powerful Democratic politician in the state; the loss underscored how little support the Vermont senator has with black voters over 30.
Some pointed to the dual withdrawal/endorsements by former South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg and Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar; the latter is credited with helping him win a state where the only candidate who registered significant support before Klobuchar’s withdrawal was Sanders.
Some just credited Democratic voters with coming to their senses after three contests where an unelectable socialist took control of the field.
Do you think Bernie Sanders will win the Democratic nomination? Yes No
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Not the Bernie Bros, though. Partisans of the crunchy socialist independent instead turned to conspiracy theories both mild and wild about why Sanders lost.
Carlos Maza, formerly of Vox Media, is one of the milder conspiracy theorists. You may remember him as the man who was behind the de-platforming of Steven Crowder on YouTube. He thinks this is all a result of the media treating Biden’s victory in South Carolina in a misleading way.
“It’s easy to blame Warren for this, but the bigger culprit is cable news, which treated South Carolina like a major unexpected comeback for Biden and likely had a huge impact on last-minute voters worried about electability,” Maza tweeted after Tuesday ended in tears:
It’s easy to blame Warren for this, but the bigger culprit is cable news, which treated South Carolina like a major unexpected comeback for Biden and likely had a huge impact on last-minute voters worried about electability. — Carlos Maza ? (@gaywonk) March 4, 2020
This would only be a point if we didn’t consider the fact Sanders was the frontrunner only because the media treated an anomalous result — the Nevada caucuses — as a sign the Democratic electorate had suddenly and irrevocably shifted.
The fact that a) the caucus format seems to benefit Sanders, as evidenced by his performance in Minnesota in 2016 (caucus format) vs. his performance there in 2020 (primary format) and b) it didn’t erase that Sanders had slightly underperformed polling expectations in both Iowa and New Hampshire.
By Maza’s conspiratorial logic, the media would also be responsible for the fact that Sanders was viewed as the frontrunner before a primary where he clearly didn’t have the infrastructure among African-American voters to post a decent result.
Speaking of blaming Warren, there was comedian Sarah Silverman who — like so many others — secretly believes Sen. Elizabeth Warren is a covert agent of the moderates because she’s siphoning progressive votes from where they really belong — the Bernie camp:
Imagine if Warren got behind Bernie to make sure progress won? I LOVE her but, as of yesterday it would seem she is handing the nomination to Biden by splitting the progressive vote. Is it on purpose? Forgive me -I’m truly jus trying to understand – does she have a chance to win? https://t.co/3x9iS7bl0O — Sarah Silverman (@SarahKSilverman) March 5, 2020
Firstly, does Sanders have a chance to win? Honestly, Warren is like an electable Sanders. That said, delegates are awarded proportionally in the Democratic primaries.
Assume for a moment that, given a three-person race, Warren and Sanders split the progressive/socialist vote.
That still means both would likely meet the 15 percent threshold to get delegates if that vote had enough power to get near the 50 percent mark. If they don’t, there’s no one left to beat Biden, anyway.
And Marianne Williamson was involved in this, because you bet your dark psychic energy that she was.
“Jake Tapper referred to the ‘resurrection’ of Joe Biden’s campaign. This was not a resurrection; it was a coup. Russiagate was not a coup. Mueller was not a coup. Impeachment was not a coup. What happened [on Super Tuesday] was a coup. And we will push it back,” she said.
Williamson deleted her crazy tweet about tonight, so here it is if you’re wondering (or are Bernie’s campaign and want something to attach to the email telling her that her services are no longer required): pic.twitter.com/s6HP8g8J3v — (((Yair Rosenberg))) (@Yair_Rosenberg) March 4, 2020
Presumably, this push-back will occur on the Battlefield of Love, where Williamson said she would do battle with Trump during her Democratic debate appearances. Right.
Much like Napoleon returning from exile Elba and assembling his troops for a decisive showdown with the Duke of Wellington at what would end up being Waterloo, this, uh, won’t end well.
Then there was author Matt Stoller, who was a bit more apocalyptic about things:
I saw @AOC win her low turnout primary, but other than that I can’t think of a single win against the Democratic establishment in fifteen years. Democratic voters do what Wall Street wants them to do and they are basically fine with the status quo. — Matt Stoller (@matthewstoller) March 4, 2020
This is likely the last primary before we start reckoning with mass death. What is coming will change politics in ways that are hard to imagine. — Matt Stoller (@matthewstoller) March 4, 2020
I’m presuming that he typed this out on his iPhone as “Gimme Shelter” played at top volume through his AirPods, tears of rage falling on the screen.
At least these tweets of rage were sullen and not caught on video. Cenk Uygur’s meltdown on “The Young Turks” wasn’t sullen and was, of course, caught on video:
I don’t argue with Uygur that Biden’s “mental faculties are under question,” but I’d advise him to watch this again and see what he thinks. Just saying.
So beyond the powers of Democratic establishment, secret moderate Elizabeth Warren, a media which is so in the tank for Biden they were telling us how Bernie was sure to win this thing as late as Friday and a Super Tuesday coup, what else could explain this?
Maybe it was the fact that this was always how Bernie was going to perform outside of the first three primaries and we simply overestimated the McGovern-like powers of the youth vote to carry a radical to the nomination.
Sanders lost pretty much everything big. In every Southern state he invested heavily in he still lost by significant margins. He only won in one of the big contests of the night.
I never bought that he had a serious lead in Texas like other pundits did, and I was clearly right — although he still kept it close, considering Latinos are one of his strong constituencies.
In the other big contest, California is still waiting for the horse-drawn carriages to get the ballots from Southern California to Sacramento to be counted, but the estimates show Sanders won’t go over the top.
Whatever the case, he was supposed to have a lead in delegates coming out of Super Tuesday. He didn’t. And yes, the media seemed inordinately happy about it, with every one of them broadly smiling as they talked about “… a result no one expected.”
Again, this guy was as good as the nominee on Friday. He tumbled back down to earth because he couldn’t make inroads among black voters who aren’t millennials or members of Generation Z.
It wasn’t a coup. It wasn’t Warren. It wasn’t the media. It wasn’t “the last primary before we start reckoning with mass death.” It was a terminally poxed candidate who, after a brief flirtation with him, everyone suddenly realized was terminally poxed.
Or, perhaps this changes. The favorite has changed how many times since the summer? Remember when Kamala was a favorite to be the nominee? Warren? Bloomberg? That last one was just a few weeks ago, just before he got up on a Vegas debate stage and Elizabeth Warren treated him like Ivan Drago treated Apollo Creed.
Conspiracy theories are perversely comforting. They let us think that there’s someone pulling the levers behind the scenes and that this is all the result of bad actors in the media or the Democratic Party or, I don’t know, dark psychic energy. It isn’t.
We simply ascribed too much to Bernie’s convincing Nevada win, along with convincing-ish performances Iowa and New Hampshire, and not enough to the fact that his base remains limited.
If you’re a Bernie Bro (or Bro-ette) and don’t particularly like how this turned out, I’d get used to it.
These things can change rapidly, as the primary season has shown — but the next few rounds of elections are coming rapidly, too, and perhaps too rapidly for the kind of changes Bernie needs to win the nomination.
The simplest explanation, alas, won’t do for the Bernie partisans, who will forever believe conspiracies are afoot, depriving their candidate of what should rightfully be his.
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