westernjournal--2020-10-26--Democrats’ Narrative Busted: Vladimir Putin Comes to the Bidens’ Defense

Now , this is the kind of character witness a Democrat should love .
Russian President Vladimir Putin , no doubt still amazed that his opinion carries such weight with the American liberal sphere , decided to weigh in on the case of Hunter Biden and his suspicious business dealings in Eastern Europe .
And for Putin , the effective successor of the Soviet dictators of decades past , Hunter hasn ’ t done anything wrong .
Or at least nothing “ criminal.
” In an interview with Reuters , Putin apparently tried to downplay growing accusations that former Vice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been making himself a wealthy man by peddling his father ’ s influence on a global basis .
TRENDING : Big Tech CEO Emails All 10 Million Customers Warning a Vote for Trump Is a 'Vote Against Democracy' A laptop that apparently belonged to Hunter that showed up at a Wilmington , Delaware , computer repair shop is revealing troves of deeply disquieting information about the Biden family ’ s business dealings in Ukraine and China .
But they ’ re obviously only troubling for Americans , and those who care about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of freedom in a world of manipulative dictatorships .
( In other words , Democrats and the mainstream media aren ’ t interested . )
The revelations make the Bidens look more like a crime family than a potential first family , but Putin has no problem with that , apparently .
“ Yes , in Ukraine [ Hunter Biden ] had or maybe still has a business , I don ’ t know .
It doesn ’ t concern us .
It concerns the Americans and the Ukrainians , ” Putin said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well , yes , he had at least one company , which he practically headed up , and judging from everything he made good money .
“ I don ’ t see anything criminal about this , at least we don ’ t know anything about this [ being criminal ] .
” Let ’ s first accept that President Putin ’ s idea of “ criminal ” might be considerably different from that of the average voter in Pennsylvania or Wisconsin .
This is the Russian leader , after all , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brazen act of aggression in 2014 when he annexed the Crimea area of Ukraine in 2014 – an act the spineless Obama-Biden administration opposed with targeted sanctions that were aimed , as CBS reported , at “ two dozen members of Putin ’ s inner circle and a major bank supporting them.
” To the shock of no one , wrist slaps like that did nothing to change Russia ’ s mind , and the country has been waging intermittent war against Ukraine ’ s eastern border ever since .
RELATED : Joe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ String of Lies About Hunter Biden Controversy As the country was reminded during President Donald Trump ’ s surreal impeachment , the Obama-Biden administration refused to send lethal aid to the Ukraine government , an error Trump corrected .
In other words , Putin is a man who clearly doesn ’ t consider it “ criminal ” to use force and the threat of military force to steal a vast landmass in the middle of Europe with a population of more than 2 million .
Compared to that , Hunter ’ s landing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at a salary of at least $ 50,000 a month for a little influence peddling is pretty small potatoes — almost laughable , probably , to a criminal of Putin ’ s caliber .
Yet , here ’ s how NBC News played the story — as though it somehow made the Bidens look good and Trump look bad .
“ The Russian president took the time to knock down what he made clear he regarded as false allegations from Trump about the Bidens.
” He “ took the time ” out of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clear things up with the media about the mean things Trump has said about the Bidens .
The whole event , including coverage by NBC and other media outlets , doesn ’ t just make a mockery of the Democrats ’ and mainstream media ’ s storyline of the past four years — the storyline that painted Trump as a puppet of the Kremlin .
It obliterates it .
Not everyone was falling for the mainstream media ’ s take , though .
Now , to be clear , no sane person — @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whether Vladimir Putin considers the actions of the son of the former vice president to have been “ criminal.
” Putin himself is too much of an international criminal , a dictator ruling a country that has been a global enemy of the United States for more than a century .
What matters here is how the mainstream media and far too many social media commenters are taking it , as a sign of validation that Russia is already somehow worried about a Biden victory .
This the same Joe Biden who was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , remember ?
( He lies about it now . )
The attack that became the Obama administration ’ s argument that it wasn ’ t the wet-rag weak sister it looked like for eight years while Putin changed the face of Eastern Europe , a murderous Muslim “ caliphate ” was established in the Middle East , and Iran rolled the U.S. — the country it calls “ the Great Satan ” for $ 400 million delivered by air in secret .
In other words , Biden was the timid wing of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by a coward when it came to protecting American foreign interests .
There is nothing land-grabbers like Vladimir Putin , China ’ s Xi Jinping or the murderous mullahs of Tehran would love more than to see the American Oval Office occupied again by a feckless Democrat without the moral or intellectual strength to defend his country and the Western World .
And if that means a character reference for Hunter Biden , it ’ s a small price to pay .
It ’ s just the kind of reference a 21st-century Democrat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Now, this is the kind of character witness a Democrat should love.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, no doubt still amazed that his opinion carries such weight with the American liberal sphere, decided to weigh in on the case of Hunter Biden and his suspicious business dealings in Eastern Europe.
And for Putin, the effective successor of the Soviet dictators of decades past, Hunter hasn’t done anything wrong.
Or at least nothing “criminal.”
In an interview with Reuters, Putin apparently tried to downplay growing accusations that former Vice President Joe Biden’s son had been making himself a wealthy man by peddling his father’s influence on a global basis.
A laptop that apparently belonged to Hunter that showed up at a Wilmington, Delaware, computer repair shop is revealing troves of deeply disquieting information about the Biden family’s business dealings in Ukraine and China.
But they’re obviously only troubling for Americans, and those who care about the country’s role as a bulwark of freedom in a world of manipulative dictatorships. (In other words, Democrats and the mainstream media aren’t interested.)
The revelations make the Bidens look more like a crime family than a potential first family, but Putin has no problem with that, apparently.
“Yes, in Ukraine [Hunter Biden] had or maybe still has a business, I don’t know. It doesn’t concern us. It concerns the Americans and the Ukrainians,” Putin said, according to Reuters.
Do you think Putin is playing with the anti-Trump American media? Yes No
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“But well, yes, he had at least one company, which he practically headed up, and judging from everything he made good money.
“I don’t see anything criminal about this, at least we don’t know anything about this [being criminal].”
Let’s first accept that President Putin’s idea of “criminal” might be considerably different from that of the average voter in Pennsylvania or Wisconsin.
This is the Russian leader, after all, who redrew the map of Europe in a brazen act of aggression in 2014 when he annexed the Crimea area of Ukraine in 2014 – an act the spineless Obama-Biden administration opposed with targeted sanctions that were aimed, as CBS reported, at “two dozen members of Putin’s inner circle and a major bank supporting them.”
To the shock of no one, wrist slaps like that did nothing to change Russia’s mind, and the country has been waging intermittent war against Ukraine’s eastern border ever since.
As the country was reminded during President Donald Trump’s surreal impeachment, the Obama-Biden administration refused to send lethal aid to the Ukraine government, an error Trump corrected.
In other words, Putin is a man who clearly doesn’t consider it “criminal” to use force and the threat of military force to steal a vast landmass in the middle of Europe with a population of more than 2 million.
Compared to that, Hunter’s landing a job with a Ukraine energy company at a salary of at least $50,000 a month for a little influence peddling is pretty small potatoes — almost laughable, probably, to a criminal of Putin’s caliber.
Yet, here’s how NBC News played the story — as though it somehow made the Bidens look good and Trump look bad.
Russian President Putin says he saw nothing criminal in Hunter Biden’s past business ties with Ukraine or Russia, marking out his disagreement with one of President Trump’s attack lines in the U.S. presidential election. https://t.co/ZYjCaHfz17 — NBC News (@NBCNews) October 26, 2020
Note this fawning subhead NBC News employed:
“The Russian president took the time to knock down what he made clear he regarded as false allegations from Trump about the Bidens.”
He “took the time” out of his busy day running a dictatorship to clear things up with the media about the mean things Trump has said about the Bidens.
The whole event, including coverage by NBC and other media outlets, doesn’t just make a mockery of the Democrats’ and mainstream media’s storyline of the past four years — the storyline that painted Trump as a puppet of the Kremlin. It obliterates it.
Not everyone was falling for the mainstream media’s take, though.
Love it, now the MSM believes every word from Russia. Cracks me up — Robin DeLong ???? (@Buckeye4Ever45) October 26, 2020
Well if Putin said it then case closed. No further investigation needed. Well done @NBCNews.??♂ — Daniel Hellman (@danhellman) October 26, 2020
And we are supposed to believe this? ??? — Paula Jean (@PaulaJean0407) October 26, 2020
Now, to be clear, no sane person — not even a liberal — seriously cares whether Vladimir Putin considers the actions of the son of the former vice president to have been “criminal.”
Putin himself is too much of an international criminal, a dictator ruling a country that has been a global enemy of the United States for more than a century.
What matters here is how the mainstream media and far too many social media commenters are taking it, as a sign of validation that Russia is already somehow worried about a Biden victory.
This the same Joe Biden who was against the attack on Osama bin Laden, remember? (He lies about it now.)
The attack that became the Obama administration’s argument that it wasn’t the wet-rag weak sister it looked like for eight years while Putin changed the face of Eastern Europe, a murderous Muslim “caliphate” was established in the Middle East, and Iran rolled the U.S. — the country it calls “the Great Satan” for $400 million delivered by air in secret.
In other words, Biden was the timid wing of an administration that was already too headed by a coward when it came to protecting American foreign interests.
There is nothing land-grabbers like Vladimir Putin, China’s Xi Jinping or the murderous mullahs of Tehran would love more than to see the American Oval Office occupied again by a feckless Democrat without the moral or intellectual strength to defend his country and the Western World.
And if that means a character reference for Hunter Biden, it’s a small price to pay.
It’s just the kind of reference a 21st-century Democrat would love.
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westernjournal--2020-10-26--Mike Huckabee: This Year’s Election Will Test if Big Tech Billionaires Can Steal an Election

For four years you ’ ve heard the left and the very partisan press tell you how the Russians interfered in the 2016 elections .
Recent documents released reveal the true meddling happened at the hands of Hillary Clinton ’ s campaign , aided and abetted by high level officials at the FBI , CIA and yes , the White House under President Obama and Vice President Joe Biden .
But this year , a different attempt to rig the election by lies , disinformation and censorship is happening under deceit from Big Tech social media giants like Facebook , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In a move so brazen that it ’ s earned its founder , Jack Dorsey , an invitation to come testify to the Senate Judiciary Committee , Twitter locked out the Trump campaign ’ s account and that of White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany for daring to mention a front-page article in the New York Post , the fourth-largest circulated newspaper in America , because it painted Joe Biden and his wayward son , Hunter , in a negative light .
My own Twitter account was blocked from posting a link @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said it refused to allow the story because not all of it was verified .
TRENDING : Big Tech CEO Emails All 10 Million Customers Warning a Vote for Trump Is a 'Vote Against Democracy' The same Twitter censors allow vicious and unverified comments not just about the president , but even about me and my family .
To assist a campaign with something of value is to be subject to the campaign finance laws , and Twitter and Facebook ’ s actions are thinly disguised campaign contributions to Joe Biden and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ past time for Congress to act and pursue antitrust regulation against these companies who have long ceased to be market-driven social media platforms and have become monopolistic utilities .
The damage they are inflicting on free speech and a fair political debate are worse than anything the Russians have ever done .
If you haven ’ t seen the documentary “ The Social Dilemma , ” you should .
I promise you will not be allowing your young teenager to be on social media without heavy restrictions if at all .
Silicon Valley @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can ’ t see , and they have decided you can ’ t see negative information about how then-Vice President Joe Biden used his position to obtain his son Hunter lucrative contracts with Ukraine , Russia and Communist China .
Not little contracts , but multimillion-dollar deals that Hunter Biden wasn ’ t qualified to obtain other than by the fact his father was the vice president .
You know how much time the major networks gave to this story the day it broke ?
Not one second .
Nothing .
What would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s son had been named Eric Trump ?
The election this year is a test of whether our elections can be stolen by Big Tech billionaires who only allow you to get information they want you to have .
RELATED : Bob Ehrlich : The Mainstream Media Is Now Employing Boulders in Order To Tip the Election for Biden If we allow this kind of heavy-handed influence peddling and the overt censorship of news unfavorable to the left and full-throttle fake news to destroy President Trump , Vice President Pence , Supreme @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for that matter you , we will end up with a government we won ’ t recognize .
I have friends who will vote for Joe Biden because they don ’ t like Donald Trump ’ s personality .
There are parts of it I can ’ t personally identify with , but I ’ m not voting for him to be room mother and bring cupcakes to school .
I want someone who isn ’ t afraid to stand up to China rather than get his son a cushy cash deal with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ D.C. swamp rats rather than feed them cheese ; and someone who won ’ t use the power of the federal fiefdom to fill his pockets and cover the tracks of corrupt creatures of the swamp .
The views expressed in this opinion article are those of their author and are not necessarily either shared or endorsed by the owners of this website .
If you are interested in contributing an Op-Ed to The Western Journal , you can learn about our submission guidelines and process here .
We are committed to truth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Read our editorial standards .

For four years you’ve heard the left and the very partisan press tell you how the Russians interfered in the 2016 elections.
Recent documents released reveal the true meddling happened at the hands of Hillary Clinton’s campaign, aided and abetted by high level officials at the FBI, CIA and yes, the White House under President Obama and Vice President Joe Biden.
But this year, a different attempt to rig the election by lies, disinformation and censorship is happening under deceit from Big Tech social media giants like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Google and Instagram.
In a move so brazen that it’s earned its founder, Jack Dorsey, an invitation to come testify to the Senate Judiciary Committee, Twitter locked out the Trump campaign’s account and that of White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany for daring to mention a front-page article in the New York Post, the fourth-largest circulated newspaper in America, because it painted Joe Biden and his wayward son, Hunter, in a negative light.
My own Twitter account was blocked from posting a link to the story. Twitter lied and said it refused to allow the story because not all of it was verified.
The same Twitter censors allow vicious and unverified comments not just about the president, but even about me and my family.
To assist a campaign with something of value is to be subject to the campaign finance laws, and Twitter and Facebook’s actions are thinly disguised campaign contributions to Joe Biden and the Democratic National Committee.
It’s past time for Congress to act and pursue antitrust regulation against these companies who have long ceased to be market-driven social media platforms and have become monopolistic utilities.
The damage they are inflicting on free speech and a fair political debate are worse than anything the Russians have ever done. If you haven’t seen the documentary “The Social Dilemma,” you should.
Do you think Big Tech is trying to steal the election? 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% (236 Votes) No: 1% (3 Votes)
I promise you will not be allowing your young teenager to be on social media without heavy restrictions if at all.
Silicon Valley billionaires now decide what you can and can’t see, and they have decided you can’t see negative information about how then-Vice President Joe Biden used his position to obtain his son Hunter lucrative contracts with Ukraine, Russia and Communist China.
Not little contracts, but multimillion-dollar deals that Hunter Biden wasn’t qualified to obtain other than by the fact his father was the vice president. You know how much time the major networks gave to this story the day it broke? Not one second. Nothing.
What would have been the coverage if the politician’s son had been named Eric Trump?
The election this year is a test of whether our elections can be stolen by Big Tech billionaires who only allow you to get information they want you to have.
If we allow this kind of heavy-handed influence peddling and the overt censorship of news unfavorable to the left and full-throttle fake news to destroy President Trump, Vice President Pence, Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett, or for that matter you, we will end up with a government we won’t recognize.
I have friends who will vote for Joe Biden because they don’t like Donald Trump’s personality. There are parts of it I can’t personally identify with, but I’m not voting for him to be room mother and bring cupcakes to school.
I want someone who isn’t afraid to stand up to China rather than get his son a cushy cash deal with China; someone who will fight the D.C. swamp rats rather than feed them cheese; and someone who won’t use the power of the federal fiefdom to fill his pockets and cover the tracks of corrupt creatures of the swamp.
The views expressed in this opinion article are those of their author and are not necessarily either shared or endorsed by the owners of this website. If you are interested in contributing an Op-Ed to The Western Journal, you can learn about our submission guidelines and process here.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
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westernjournal--2020-10-26--Trump Overtakes Biden in New National Poll 1 Week Before Election, Statistical Tie

A new poll shows President Donald Trump leading Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden by 1 point nationally in the final week of the 2020 election , which essentially makes the race a tossup .
A Rasmussen Reports presidential tracking poll released Monday found that Trump was ahead of Biden nationally , 48 percent to 47 percent .
Two percent remained undecided .
Furthermore , according to Rasmussen , the president ’ s approval sits at a relatively healthy 52 percent .
TRENDING : Big Tech CEO Emails All 10 Million Customers Warning a Vote for Trump Is a 'Vote Against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with President Trump just barely ahead in Rasmussen Reports ’ first daily White House Watch survey , ” the pollster said .
Rasmussen surveyed 1,500 likely voters Oct. 21-22 and 25 via telephone and online .
The poll has reported a margin of error of plus or minus 2.5 points .
The Rasmussen poll certainly differs from other national polls , most of which still show Biden with a healthy lead with only eight days until the Nov. 3 election .
The Real Clear Politics average , for example , shows the Democrat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ polls included in the RCP average have Biden up by double digits .
The Quinnipiac , CNBC/Change Research and SurveyUSA polls each show him dominating Trump by 10 points , while the USC Dornsife poll has him up by a whopping 12 points .
All four were all completed within the last week .
Rasmussen is the only pollster that shows Trump with a lead in the RCP average , although it is within the survey ’ s margin of error , meaning it ’ s a statistical tie .
But here is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Rasmussen had the president down to Biden by 12 points just a few weeks ago .
On Wednesday , the tracking poll showed the Democratic nominee up by 3 points , 49 percent to 46 percent .
Rasmussen noted a trend : “ Two weeks ago , Biden had a 12-point lead .
A week ago , he was ahead by eight .
This is the first time in a month that Biden ’ s support has fallen below 50 % .
” RELATED : Battleground State Poll : Trump and Biden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Monday poll shows Trump with a 1-point lead following a scandalous week for Biden and a robust final debate that saw the president pick him apart , exposing his radicalism on American energy with a calm and measured demeanor .
While most mainstream pollsters are finding Biden with a seemingly insurmountable lead , Rasmussen was among them just weeks ago .
Now it is finding a close race .
It ’ s worth noting that Rasmussen pollster celebrated victory in 2016 , noting its “ final poll was the closest among all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ win the popular vote ” in that year ’ s presidential election .
In October 2016 , the RCP average showed then-Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton up by 3.3 points at this same stage in that election .
Rasmussen had Clinton up by just 1.7 points , and she eventually won the popular vote by 2.1 points while losing the Electoral College .
The pollster doesn ’ t need to argue with anyone about its credibility .
We will soon know who has been most accurate in looking at this year ’ s race @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump making unprecedented inroads with black voters down the stretch .
The recent Rasmussen findings are great news if you ’ re in Trump ’ s corner , but they shouldn ’ t be cause for celebration for the president or his supporters .
They should be taken as a message that this race is far from over and that going out and voting , and encouraging others to do the same , is more important than ever .
We don ’ t know what each camp ’ s internal polling is showing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thing .
Taking any premature victory laps could cost Trump crucial votes in an election that will likely come down to the wire .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

A new poll shows President Donald Trump leading Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden by 1 point nationally in the final week of the 2020 election, which essentially makes the race a tossup.
A Rasmussen Reports presidential tracking poll released Monday found that Trump was ahead of Biden nationally, 48 percent to 47 percent. Two percent remained undecided.
Trending: Trump tops Biden, 48%-47%, at 52% approval https://t.co/9jB9JSKC1H — Rasmussen Reports (@Rasmussen_Poll) October 26, 2020
Furthermore, according to Rasmussen, the president’s approval sits at a relatively healthy 52 percent.
“It’s neck-and-neck, with President Trump just barely ahead in Rasmussen Reports’ first daily White House Watch survey,” the pollster said.
Rasmussen surveyed 1,500 likely voters Oct. 21-22 and 25 via telephone and online. The poll has reported a margin of error of plus or minus 2.5 points.
The Rasmussen poll certainly differs from other national polls, most of which still show Biden with a healthy lead with only eight days until the Nov. 3 election.
The RealClearPolitics average, for example, shows the Democrat up by 7.9 points.
Do you think President Donald Trump will be re-elected? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 99% (4719 Votes) No: 1% (55 Votes)
Four major polls included in the RCP average have Biden up by double digits. The Quinnipiac, CNBC/Change Research and SurveyUSA polls each show him dominating Trump by 10 points, while the USC Dornsife poll has him up by a whopping 12 points. All four were all completed within the last week.
Rasmussen is the only pollster that shows Trump with a lead in the RCP average, although it is within the survey’s margin of error, meaning the poll shows that the race is essentially tied.
But here is one nugget of information that is noteworthy: Rasmussen had the president down to Biden by 12 points just a few weeks ago.
On Wednesday, the tracking poll showed the Democratic nominee up by 3 points, 49 percent to 46 percent.
Rasmussen noted a trend: “Two weeks ago, Biden had a 12-point lead. A week ago, he was ahead by eight. This is the first time in a month that Biden’s support has fallen below 50%.”
Now, the Monday poll shows Trump with a 1-point lead following a scandalous week for Biden and a robust final debate that saw the president pick him apart, exposing his radicalism on American energy with a calm and measured demeanor.
While most mainstream pollsters are finding Biden with a seemingly insurmountable lead, Rasmussen was among them just weeks ago.
Now it is finding a close race.
It’s worth noting that Rasmussen pollster celebrated victory in 2016, noting its “final poll was the closest among all pollsters who correctly picked Hillary Clinton to win the popular vote” in that year’s presidential election.
In October 2016, the RCP average showed then-Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton up by 3.3 points at this same stage in that election.
Rasmussen had Clinton up by just 1.7 points, and she eventually won the popular vote by 2.1 points while losing the Electoral College.
The pollster doesn’t need to argue with anyone about its credibility.
We will soon know who has been most accurate in looking at this year’s race.
The pollster already showed last week Trump making unprecedented inroads with black voters down the stretch.
Morning Reader Data Points: National Daily Black Likely Voter Job Approval For @POTUS – October 19-23, 2020 Mon 10/19 – 25%
Tue 10/20 – 24%
Wed 10/21 – 31%
Thu 10/22 – 37%
Fri 10/23 – 46% — Rasmussen Reports (@Rasmussen_Poll) October 23, 2020
The recent Rasmussen findings are great news if you’re in Trump’s corner, but they shouldn’t be cause for celebration for the president or his supporters.
They should be taken as a message that this race is far from over and that going out and voting, and encouraging others to do the same, is more important than ever.
We don’t know what each camp’s internal polling is showing, but the president is in this thing.
Taking any premature victory laps could cost Trump crucial votes in an election that will likely come down to the wire.
UPDATE, Oct. 27, 2020: This article and its headline previously stated that the Rasmussen poll shows the race between Trump and Biden is a “statistical tie.” In fact, according to The Associated Press Stylebook 2019, using such a term to describe a poll “is inaccurate if there is any difference between the candidates.” According to the AP guidance, “for very close races that aren’t exact ties, the phrase ‘essentially tied’ is acceptable.” We have thus removed all references to a “statistical tie” and noted that the poll shows the race is “essentially” tied.
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westernjournal--2020-10-26--Joe Biden Snaps at Reporter, Spouts Off String of Lies About Hunter Biden Controversy

Americans got a glimpse this weekend at just why the Democratic presidential campaign has kept Joe Biden in the basement .
And it was a bad one .
Following the Democratic nominee ’ s ramshackle debate performance Thursday , when President Donald Trump needled him repeatedly about the burgeoning scandal around his son Hunter Biden ’ s shady business dealings , a news reporter started to ask Biden a question about it directly .
TRENDING : Big Tech CEO Emails All 10 Million Customers Warning a Vote for Trump Is a 'Vote Against Democracy' As Breitbart reported , the question @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for WYOU-TV in Biden ’ s hometown of Scranton , Pennsylvania .
“ Questions and controversy continue today about Hunter Biden , your son , ” Mehalshick began .
“ Hunter , ” “ Biden ” and “ controversy ” are clearly three words the former vice president dislikes hearing in the same sentence .
He didn ’ t let Mehalshick get any further before leaping in to cut him off with a string of attacks on Trump and twisting of the truth .
“ There is no controversy about my son , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a laptop computer that was apparently once owned by his son that has been making headlines in the more honest news outlets of the country .
“ It ’ s a flat lie because the president has nothing else to run on .
If you noticed , while the American people are talking about what ’ s happening to their families , he has no plan and at the debate , he has no plan , ” Biden said .
“ Everything from The Wall Street Journal , every other major news @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saying is simply not true about my son , but it ’ s classic Trump , ” responded Biden .
Actually , it was Biden speaking the “ flat lie ” – claiming that there is no “ controversy ” when there plainly is one .
And it was Biden lying by implication when he claimed that The Wall Street Journal had cleared him of any wrongdoing .
RELATED : Battleground State Poll : Trump and Biden Virtually Tied Among Likely Voters What he was apparently referring to was a Friday report in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a news conference held by a former Hunter Biden business associate .
At the Thursday news conference , according to The Journal , former Hunter Biden partner Anthony Bobulinski “ said he took part in a meeting with Hunter , Joe Biden and Joe Biden ’ s brother James Biden in Los Angeles in 2017 when they discussed ‘ the Biden family business plans with the Chinese , of which [ Joe Biden ] was plainly familiar at least at a high level.
’ ” That ’ s an explosive revelation by any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recovered from the laptop .
One email , discussing a business venture between the Bidens and the now-bankrupt Chinese energy giant CEFC China Energy Co. , is particularly relevant .
In dividing up the ownership of the company , it includes the line “ 10 held by H for the big guy ?
” The “ H ” is for Hunter Biden , Bobulinski said , according to The Journal .
The “ big guy ” was a reference to Joe Biden , Bobulinski said .
So , if the point of Joe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hometown reporter was to claim that The Wall Street Journal had found no reason to suspect misbehavior on his part , the paper ’ s report was at best ambivalent .
The key sentence was : “ Corporate records reviewed by The Wall Street Journal show no role for Joe Biden.
” ( Emphasis added . )
Of course , searchable corporate records would “ show no role for Joe Biden ” — there ’ s too much chance they might end up incriminating someone some day .
According to the email , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keeping the “ big guy ” a suitable distance away .
( It ’ s how all great crime families are organized . )
Some Wall Street Journal editors were very kind to the Biden campaign by putting that bit of irrelevancy into the headline — more evidence that even The Journal has become increasingly identical to its more obviously liberal counterparts over the Trump years , outside of its consistently admirable editorial section .
But it still can ’ t obscure reality completely .
No serious person would consider Biden ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ denied there was any controversy around his son – a man with a well-documented drug problem and a well-documented history of holding incredibly well-paying jobs with no qualification other than being named , among other things .
No controversy around Hunter ?
The man is nothing but controversy — it ’ s his natural habitat .
Second , sheer dint of repetition has robbed Biden ’ s attacks against Trump of much of their sting .
( Repetition might be all Biden is mentally capable of at this point . )
Yes , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been struck by a deadly pandemic – as has the world .
To claim that Trump has “ no plan ” for dealing with it is to deny reality .
Trump is dealing with it .
He ’ s dealt with it since February and before .
And while there has been a regrettable loss of life , there is literally no way of arguing that anything Joe Biden or any other Democrat could have or would have done that would have changed that .
Trump is also preparing to lead the country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one that humiliated Democratic governments of the past by overturning their regulations and slashing their taxes to build an economy that directly benefited the very groups — particularly black Americans — that Democrats claim to care about .
Biden offers only a “ bleak winter ” and a national mask mandate .
Finally , Biden ’ s statement included the implicit acknowledgment that the mainstream media and Big Tech have been running cover for him .
Since the New York Post reminded the country of what journalism looked like on Oct. 15 when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the “ major ” news outlets Biden referred to have spent their time either diligently ignoring a story the American people have a right to know , or attacking the messenger .
No American with any sense is fooled by the mainstream media ’ s openly subservient coverage of the Democratic candidate .
Even liberals can see it for what it is , they ’ re just happy it ’ s on their side ( like a football player with a hometown referee . )
The real lesson from Biden ’ s weekend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ septuagenarian would look like if he were ever faced with one-tenth the hostility Trump faces from the media every day .
A cadaverous shell of his former self , Biden isn ’ t a man fit to face even mild questions from the media , which means he ’ s nowhere near the man to face down the hard cases of Beijing , Moscow and Tehran with anything like the strength the American people require of their president .
His outburst on Saturday – a combination of lies , half-truths and a wandering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ logic – is a perfect of example of what Americans need to see more of before the Nov. 3 election .
It ’ s no wonder the Democratic presidential campaign keeps Biden in a basement .
It ’ s where he belongs .
And when this election is decided with another four years of a pro-America , pro-liberty and pro-job growth Trump administration , let ’ s hope Biden stays there .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Americans got a glimpse this weekend at just why the Democratic presidential campaign has kept Joe Biden in the basement.
And it was a bad one.
Following the Democratic nominee’s ramshackle debate performance Thursday, when President Donald Trump needled him repeatedly about the burgeoning scandal around his son Hunter Biden’s shady business dealings, a news reporter started to ask Biden a question about it directly.
And Biden snapped.
Interviewer: “Questions and controversy continue today about Hunter Biden, your son-“ Biden: “There is no controversy about my son. That’s a hell of a lie. That’s a flat lie because the president has nothing to run on… it’s classic Trump.” pic.twitter.com/MQQGvddrHO — Andrew Solender (@AndrewSolender) October 24, 2020
As Breitbart reported, the question came from Andy Mehalshick, a reporter for WYOU-TV in Biden’s hometown of Scranton, Pennsylvania.
“Questions and controversy continue today about Hunter Biden, your son,” Mehalshick began.
“Hunter,” “Biden” and “controversy” are clearly three words the former vice president dislikes hearing in the same sentence. He didn’t let Mehalshick get any further before leaping in to cut him off with a string of attacks on Trump and twisting of the truth.
Do you think the American people see through Joe Biden? Yes No
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“There is no controversy about my son,” Biden said, ignoring the reality of a laptop computer that was apparently once owned by his son that has been making headlines in the more honest news outlets of the country.
“It’s a flat lie because the president has nothing else to run on. If you noticed, while the American people are talking about what’s happening to their families, he has no plan and at the debate, he has no plan,” Biden said.
“Everything from The Wall Street Journal, every other major news outlet has said what he’s saying is simply not true about my son, but it’s classic Trump,” responded Biden.
Actually, it was Biden speaking the “flat lie” – claiming that there is no “controversy” when there plainly is one.
And it was Biden lying by implication when he claimed that The Wall Street Journal had cleared him of any wrongdoing.
What he was apparently referring to was a Friday report in The Journal (subscription required) about a news conference held by a former Hunter Biden business associate.
At the Thursday news conference, according to The Journal, former Hunter Biden partner Anthony Bobulinski “said he took part in a meeting with Hunter, Joe Biden and Joe Biden’s brother James Biden in Los Angeles in 2017 when they discussed ‘the Biden family business plans with the Chinese, of which [Joe Biden] was plainly familiar at least at a high level.’”
That’s an explosive revelation by any measure, especially in light of emails recovered from the laptop. One email, discussing a business venture between the Bidens and the now-bankrupt Chinese energy giant CEFC China Energy Co., is particularly relevant. In dividing up the ownership of the company, it includes the line “10 held by H for the big guy?”
The “H” is for Hunter Biden, Bobulinski said, according to The Journal. The “big guy” was a reference to Joe Biden, Bobulinski said.
So, if the point of Joe Biden’s waspish response to his hometown reporter was to claim that The Wall Street Journal had found no reason to suspect misbehavior on his part, the paper’s report was at best ambivalent.
The key sentence was: “Corporate records reviewed by The Wall Street Journal show no role for Joe Biden.” (Emphasis added.)
Of course, searchable corporate records would “show no role for Joe Biden” — there’s too much chance they might end up incriminating someone some day. According to the email, Hunter was holding the relevant percentage – keeping the “big guy” a suitable distance away. (It’s how all great crime families are organized.)
Some Wall Street Journal editors were very kind to the Biden campaign by putting that bit of irrelevancy into the headline — more evidence that even The Journal has become increasingly identical to its more obviously liberal counterparts over the Trump years, outside of its consistently admirable editorial section.
But it still can’t obscure reality completely.
No serious person would consider Biden’s answer remotely satisfactory.
First, Biden denied there was any controversy around his son – a man with a well-documented drug problem and a well-documented history of holding incredibly well-paying jobs with no qualification other than being named, among other things.
No controversy around Hunter? The man is nothing but controversy — it’s his natural habitat.
Second, sheer dint of repetition has robbed Biden’s attacks against Trump of much of their sting. (Repetition might be all Biden is mentally capable of at this point.)
Yes, the American people know that country has been struck by a deadly pandemic – as has the world. To claim that Trump has “no plan” for dealing with it is to deny reality.
Trump is dealing with it. He’s dealt with it since February and before. And while there has been a regrettable loss of life, there is literally no way of arguing that anything Joe Biden or any other Democrat could have or would have done that would have changed that.
Trump is also preparing to lead the country in restoring its pre-pandemic economy, the one that humiliated Democratic governments of the past by overturning their regulations and slashing their taxes to build an economy that directly benefited the very groups — particularly black Americans — that Democrats claim to care about. Biden offers only a “bleak winter” and a national mask mandate.
Finally, Biden’s statement included the implicit acknowledgment that the mainstream media and Big Tech have been running cover for him.
Since the New York Post reminded the country of what journalism looked like on Oct. 15 when it broke the Hunter laptop story, the “major” news outlets Biden referred to have spent their time either diligently ignoring a story the American people have a right to know, or attacking the messenger.
(The social media giants of Facebook and Twitter showed their totalitarian hand early, with Facebook limiting distribution of the story and Twitter freezing the New York Post’s account almost immediately after the first report appeared. It remained frozen Monday.)
No American with any sense is fooled by the mainstream media’s openly subservient coverage of the Democratic candidate. Even liberals can see it for what it is, they’re just happy it’s on their side (like a football player with a hometown referee.)
The real lesson from Biden’s weekend outburst was an idea of what the septuagenarian would look like if he were ever faced with one-tenth the hostility Trump faces from the media every day.
A cadaverous shell of his former self, Biden isn’t a man fit to face even mild questions from the media, which means he’s nowhere near the man to face down the hard cases of Beijing, Moscow and Tehran with anything like the strength the American people require of their president.
His outburst on Saturday – a combination of lies, half-truths and a wandering kind of venomous gossip masquerading as campaign logic – is a perfect of example of what Americans need to see more of before the Nov. 3 election.
It’s no wonder the Democratic presidential campaign keeps Biden in a basement.
It’s where he belongs. And when this election is decided with another four years of a pro-America, pro-liberty and pro-job growth Trump administration, let’s hope Biden stays there.
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westernjournal--2020-10-26--Bob Ehrlich: The Mainstream Media Is Now Employing Boulders in Order To Tip the Election for Biden

No one truly knows how the election will play out .
We do , however , know how the media want it to go .
The continuing mainstream media blackout regarding emails reflecting Hunter Biden ’ s nefarious activities in Ukraine as well as sordid implications of father Joe ’ s complicity and possible financial gains would have been blowout news in a normal year — but not so much when Donald Trump is on the ballot .
Just think of the media circus if the roles were reversed and Don Jr. or Eric Trump were the ethics-challenged child at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forced to watch from the sidelines as Big Tech exerts its enormous clout in shutting the story down .
Adding insult to injury , Mr. Biden has cited the shutdown as cover for his continuing failure to respond .
Orwell must be spinning in his grave .
Recall the old metaphor about inappropriately placing one ’ s hand on the scale of justice .
A typically left-leaning media is now employing boulders in order to tip the election to their favored candidate .
TRENDING : Big Tech CEO Emails All 10 Million Customers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'Vote Against Democracy' Should the president prevail — and with him a Republican Senate — look for a serious effort to combat the ever-growing abuses of Silicon Valley regarding how , when and even whether the public receives political news .
Yes , many conservatives have finally had their fill of this dangerous game .
A contingent of First Amendment-friendly GOP members will lead in what promises to be bruising fights over liability and antitrust protections currently enjoyed by the social media giants .
Speaking of those for whom this election is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loose confederation of POTUS-hating NeverTrumpers have serious skin in the game .
For these shut-out GOPers , the continued employment of Mr. Trump as the leader of the free world presents an existential threat .
They are the establishment , and they want their status quo back .
But theirs is an interesting quandary .
Think about it .
A Trump win raises real questions about their continued relevance on the national political stage .
After all , a one-off win over a polarizing and unlikeable Hillary Clinton can be rationalized away , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Amtrak Joe after four years of brutal resistance and in the midst of a worldwide pandemic would show the world a new main street , America first-oriented GOP is here to stay .
Another four years outside the tent for these Lincoln Project types would indeed be hard to swallow as their temporary Democratic allies will surely jettison them in a heartbeat .
Who needs temporary allies with no push inside their party ?
In any event , two losses to the great devil Trump will have the Democrats preoccupied with their own @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a different set of issues .
A few jubilant NeverTrumpers may get rewarded for their efforts with goodies such as appointments , but ascendant progressives would have little tolerance for newly arrived , right-of-center Republicans in their neighborhood .
For just one example , John Kasich ’ s fiscal conservatism ( let alone pro-life record ) would never sit well with the Bernie bros and AOC types who will be directing policy in the new administration .
If you doubt my opinion , take a good look at last week ’ s threatening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ uber-left progressives demanding that he eschew corporate America from his new administration … or else .
Trust me , this time the uber-lefties mean business .
RELATED : Mike Huckabee : This Year 's Election Will Test if Big Tech Billionaires Can Steal an Election But how Trump-supporting Republicans would view the turncoats is even more interesting .
Most would view their former brethren with jaundiced eyes .
Those who fought — and lost — the re-election effort would require the NeverTrumpers to own the Biden/Harris legacy , especially if it proves to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gone Wild.
” Some of the anti-Trumpers may not care about being identified with the pseudo-socialist , open-borders crowd , but others surely would .
For the latter group , it will be a long , uncomfortable road ahead .
The views expressed in this opinion article are those of their author and are not necessarily either shared or endorsed by the owners of this website .
If you are interested in contributing an Op-Ed to The Western Journal , you can learn about our submission guidelines and process here .
We are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

No one truly knows how the election will play out. We do, however, know how the media want it to go.
The continuing mainstream media blackout regarding emails reflecting Hunter Biden’s nefarious activities in Ukraine as well as sordid implications of father Joe’s complicity and possible financial gains would have been blowout news in a normal year — but not so much when Donald Trump is on the ballot.
Just think of the media circus if the roles were reversed and Don Jr. or Eric Trump were the ethics-challenged child at issue.
Indeed, we have been forced to watch from the sidelines as Big Tech exerts its enormous clout in shutting the story down. Adding insult to injury, Mr. Biden has cited the shutdown as cover for his continuing failure to respond. Orwell must be spinning in his grave.
Recall the old metaphor about inappropriately placing one’s hand on the scale of justice. A typically left-leaning media is now employing boulders in order to tip the election to their favored candidate.
Should the president prevail — and with him a Republican Senate — look for a serious effort to combat the ever-growing abuses of Silicon Valley regarding how, when and even whether the public receives political news.
Yes, many conservatives have finally had their fill of this dangerous game. A contingent of First Amendment-friendly GOP members will lead in what promises to be bruising fights over liability and antitrust protections currently enjoyed by the social media giants.
Speaking of those for whom this election is a very big deal, that ever-growing, loose confederation of POTUS-hating NeverTrumpers have serious skin in the game.
Do you think the media is putting its thumb on the scale for Joe Biden? 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% (190 Votes) No: 1% (1 Votes)
For these shut-out GOPers, the continued employment of Mr. Trump as the leader of the free world presents an existential threat. They are the establishment, and they want their status quo back. But theirs is an interesting quandary. Think about it.
A Trump win raises real questions about their continued relevance on the national political stage. After all, a one-off win over a polarizing and unlikeable Hillary Clinton can be rationalized away, but a second win over good ole Amtrak Joe after four years of brutal resistance and in the midst of a worldwide pandemic would show the world a new main street, America first-oriented GOP is here to stay.
Another four years outside the tent for these Lincoln Project types would indeed be hard to swallow as their temporary Democratic allies will surely jettison them in a heartbeat. Who needs temporary allies with no push inside their party? In any event, two losses to the great devil Trump will have the Democrats preoccupied with their own intra-party problems.
A Trump loss presents a different set of issues. A few jubilant NeverTrumpers may get rewarded for their efforts with goodies such as appointments, but ascendant progressives would have little tolerance for newly arrived, right-of-center Republicans in their neighborhood.
For just one example, John Kasich’s fiscal conservatism (let alone pro-life record) would never sit well with the Bernie bros and AOC types who will be directing policy in the new administration.
If you doubt my opinion, take a good look at last week’s threatening letter to Mr. Biden, issued by uber-left progressives demanding that he eschew corporate America from his new administration … or else. Trust me, this time the uber-lefties mean business.
But how Trump-supporting Republicans would view the turncoats is even more interesting.
Most would view their former brethren with jaundiced eyes. Those who fought — and lost — the re-election effort would require the NeverTrumpers to own the Biden/Harris legacy, especially if it proves to be the next installment of “Progressives Gone Wild.” Some of the anti-Trumpers may not care about being identified with the pseudo-socialist, open-borders crowd, but others surely would.
For the latter group, it will be a long, uncomfortable road ahead.
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--2020-10-26--Franklin Graham Makes Powerful Pre-Election Trump Proclamation

The Rev .
Franklin Graham gave President Donald Trump a ringing endorsement a week before the election in a viral Facebook post Monday about voting .
Graham , who has defended the president from the never-ending barrage of attacks from the establishment media throughout the last four years , offered an impassioned description of Trump ’ s legacy for the country in just one term in office .
“ There was an article I read a few days ago that said President Trump had changed the world , even if he didn ’ t win the next election .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and how true that headline really is , ” Graham wrote .
“ Already in his first term , President Trump has appointed close to 200 constitutionalist federal judges , ” he wrote .
“ With Amy Coney Barrett , he will have appointed three conservative U.S. Supreme Court justices .
These actions alone will have an impact on not only my generation , but the lives of my children and grandchildren.
” But the son of iconic evangelist Billy Graham also cited Trump ’ s defense of faith and religious liberty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tech CEO Emails All 10 Million Customers Warning a Vote for Trump Is a 'Vote Against Democracy' “ President Trump has defended religious freedom here at home and around the world , and he boldly declared to the nation that the church is ‘ essential ’ during this pandemic , ” he wrote .
Graham also praised Trump ’ s historic impact on peace in the Middle East .
“ Here in the final hours before the 2020 election , he has brokered peace agreements between Israel and the UAE , Bahrain , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Saudi Arabia is in the pipeline to recognize Israel , ” he wrote .
“ This is unprecedented .
Any other president would have probably received the Nobel Peace Prize for this — and he should have .
President Trump was also the first president to keep his promise to move the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem.
” Graham argued that despite the coronavirus pandemic , many Americans are better of today than they were four years ago .
That assertion is backed up by a recent Gallup survey that found 56 percent of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off now compared with where they were in 2016 .
Graham cited low taxes , energy independence and record economic growth under Trump ’ s leadership for this .
He also touted Trump ’ s approach to foreign policy .
“ President Trump has stood up to NATO , ” Graham said .
“ He has stood up to China .
He has stood up to Russia .
He stood up to Turkey and accomplished the release of American pastor Andrew Brunson .
“ He has stood up to North Korea .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to the political swamp in Washington that has falsely accused him of collusion and impeached him.
” Graham said , “ I ’ m not telling people who to vote for , but I certainly am encouraging people to pray about who to vote for — and to pray for this president with so many in the media and the progressive , socialist-leaning left doing everything they can to stop him.
” He concluded , “ I just thank God for all that President Donald J. Trump has done and continues to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” An hour after posting his message praising Trump to Facebook , Graham had already received more than 13,000 comments and almost 30,000 shares .
His post came a day after 13 Orthodox Jewish rabbis thanked the president in a letter .
The rabbis shared gratitude for Trump ’ s strong support of their First Amendment religious freedoms in New York during the coronavirus pandemic , as local leaders have targeted them .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The Rev. Franklin Graham gave President Donald Trump a ringing endorsement a week before the election in a viral Facebook post Monday about voting.
Graham, who has defended the president from the never-ending barrage of attacks from the establishment media throughout the last four years, offered an impassioned description of Trump’s legacy for the country in just one term in office.
“There was an article I read a few days ago that said President Trump had changed the world, even if he didn’t win the next election. I thought about that from a Christian perspective, and how true that headline really is,” Graham wrote.
“Already in his first term, President Trump has appointed close to 200 constitutionalist federal judges,” he wrote. “With Amy Coney Barrett, he will have appointed three conservative U.S. Supreme Court justices. These actions alone will have an impact on not only my generation, but the lives of my children and grandchildren.”
But the son of iconic evangelist Billy Graham also cited Trump’s defense of faith and religious liberty throughout his presidency.
“President Trump has defended religious freedom here at home and around the world, and he boldly declared to the nation that the church is ‘essential’ during this pandemic,” he wrote.
Graham also praised Trump’s historic impact on peace in the Middle East.
“Here in the final hours before the 2020 election, he has brokered peace agreements between Israel and the UAE, Bahrain, and Sudan — and reports say that Saudi Arabia is in the pipeline to recognize Israel,” he wrote.
“This is unprecedented. Any other president would have probably received the Nobel Peace Prize for this — and he should have. President Trump was also the first president to keep his promise to move the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem.”
Graham argued that despite the coronavirus pandemic, many Americans are better of today than they were four years ago.
That assertion is backed up by a recent Gallup survey that found 56 percent of respondents said they believe they are better off now compared with where they were in 2016.
Graham cited low taxes, energy independence and record economic growth under Trump’s leadership for this.
He also touted Trump’s approach to foreign policy.
Do you agree with the Rev. Franklin Graham? Yes No
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“President Trump has stood up to NATO,” Graham said. “He has stood up to China. He has stood up to Russia. He stood up to Turkey and accomplished the release of American pastor Andrew Brunson.
“He has stood up to North Korea. And at the same time, has stood up to the political swamp in Washington that has falsely accused him of collusion and impeached him.”
Graham said, “I’m not telling people who to vote for, but I certainly am encouraging people to pray about who to vote for — and to pray for this president with so many in the media and the progressive, socialist-leaning left doing everything they can to stop him.”
He concluded, “I just thank God for all that President Donald J. Trump has done and continues to do. What do you think?”
An hour after posting his message praising Trump to Facebook, Graham had already received more than 13,000 comments and almost 30,000 shares.
His post came a day after 13 Orthodox Jewish rabbis thanked the president in a letter.
It was an honor to work on this unprecedented letter starting in June in thanks to @realDonaldTrump for announcing that religion is essential — it definitely is! We worked months to gather signatures (wanted to gather even more) and it was recently delivered to the President. https://t.co/HcjAFBhICq pic.twitter.com/7IavhhpcUV — Rabbi Moshe Margaretten (@Tzedek_Assoc) October 25, 2020
The rabbis shared gratitude for Trump’s strong support of their First Amendment religious freedoms in New York during the coronavirus pandemic, as local leaders have targeted them.
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westernjournal--2020-10-26--Hero Police Dog Helps Find Missing Toddler in Wooded Area

It ’ s not all that rare to hear of children going missing from their homes because they wandered off and most families have probably dealt with this scenario at least once .
When a young child becomes lost , it ’ s their naivete that puts them at the highest risk — they don ’ t understand the danger of weather , strangers or their surroundings , and every minute they ’ re gone lasts an age for their worried parents .
In this case , it was an officer and police dog who found a boy and his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heroes here .
On Oct. 20 , the Cerro Gordo County Sheriff ’ s office was notified that a 2-year-old boy and his dog had gone missing in Mason City , Iowa .
There was a wooded area and a creek near the family ’ s rural home , and any time there is water involved , time is even more of the essence .
TRENDING : Big Tech CEO Emails All 10 Million Customers Warning a Vote for Trump Is a 'Vote Against Democracy' People , dogs and a drone from Cerro @ @ @ @ @ @ @ search for the lost pair .
“ Responding deputies assisted family members searching the house and buildings on the acreage , ” the sheriff ’ s report read .
“ Mason City Police K-9 were first on the scene .
Officer Duane Kemna and K-9 Kilo started a track.
” Officer Kemna and Kilo followed the scent and eventually found the toddler and his pup less than a mile away , on a neighboring property .
“ They tracked the 2-yr-old boy along a creek and through several acres of timber a distance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was found in the NW corner of a neighbor ’ s house sitting on a cinder block with the dog at his side .
He had removed his wet socks , shoes and coat.
” The child was reportedly in good health and didn ’ t experience any injuries during his jaunt .
“ The family is thankful to law enforcement for the safe recovery of the 2-yr-old boy and his dog , ” the report concluded .
“ Medical attention was not required.
” RELATED : Man Saves Cats , Sheep , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bringing Them Into His Own Home Thankfully this story had a happy ending , and because of the swift actions of the responding officer and his dog , the wandering pup and boy were found before they encountered any real trouble .
“ It ’ s not everyday we get to share good news , but we are proud of the work done yesterday by K9 Kilo and Officer Duane Kemna , ” the Mason City Police Department shared on Wednesday .
“ They were called to assist Cerro Gordo County Sheriff on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the missing 2-year-old .
Good dog !
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

It’s not all that rare to hear of children going missing from their homes because they wandered off and most families have probably dealt with this scenario at least once.
When a young child becomes lost, it’s their naivete that puts them at the highest risk — they don’t understand the danger of weather, strangers or their surroundings, and every minute they’re gone lasts an age for their worried parents.
In this case, it was an officer and police dog who found a boy and his dog, and dogs are clearly the heroes here.
On Oct. 20, the Cerro Gordo County Sheriff’s office was notified that a 2-year-old boy and his dog had gone missing in Mason City, Iowa.
There was a wooded area and a creek near the family’s rural home, and any time there is water involved, time is even more of the essence.
People, dogs and a drone from Cerro Gordo County Emergency Management showed up to search for the lost pair.
“Responding deputies assisted family members searching the house and buildings on the acreage,” the sheriff’s report read.
“Mason City Police K-9 were first on the scene. Officer Duane Kemna and K-9 Kilo started a track.”
Officer Kemna and Kilo followed the scent and eventually found the toddler and his pup less than a mile away, on a neighboring property.
“They tracked the 2-yr-old boy along a creek and through several acres of timber a distance of .6 of a mile. He was found in the NW corner of a neighbor’s house sitting on a cinder block with the dog at his side. He had removed his wet socks, shoes and coat.”
The child was reportedly in good health and didn’t experience any injuries during his jaunt.
“The family is thankful to law enforcement for the safe recovery of the 2-yr-old boy and his dog,” the report concluded. “Medical attention was not required.”
Thankfully this story had a happy ending, and because of the swift actions of the responding officer and his dog, the wandering pup and boy were found before they encountered any real trouble.
“It’s not everyday we get to share good news, but we are proud of the work done yesterday by K9 Kilo and Officer Duane Kemna,” the Mason City Police Department shared on Wednesday.
“They were called to assist Cerro Gordo County Sheriff on a missing person case and tracked down the missing 2-year-old. Good dog!”
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westernjournal--2020-10-26--Furious California Restaurants Demand Money Back from Government

California ’ s financially battered restaurants filed government claims Monday to recover more than $ 100 million in fees for liquor and health permits and tourism charges that they say were assessed even though their businesses were shuttered or only partially operating under long-running coronavirus orders .
Few industries have been hit as hard during the pandemic as restaurants , which in California were ordered closed , reopened , closed for a second time and then allowed to welcome customers again , though with restrictions .
Those rules vary in the state ’ s 58 counties and have limited some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outdoor-only dining .
Thousands of restaurants have closed permanently .
Owners say one thing has remained constant amid the turmoil : State and county governments have continued to charge fees for liquor licenses , health permits and tourism assessments — even though the restaurants were closed down by government orders or permitted to operate with limited capacity and dining .
The owners contend they have been being unjustly punished for following the law and are being charged for permits they can ’ t use .
TRENDING : Big Tech CEO Emails All 10 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Is a 'Vote Against Democracy' “ The irony is , they did what they were told and the very entity that told them to close is keeping these fees , ” said attorney Brian Kabateck , who is representing restaurants that filed claims against the state and against Los Angeles , Orange , Sacramento , San Diego and Monterey counties .
Additional claims will be filed in the coming days for restaurants in San Francisco and in Fresno and Placer counties .
The move is supported by the California Restaurant Association .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wrong and to return the money , ” Kabateck said .
A government claim , filed for individual restaurants and on behalf of other businesses in the sector , is a required initial step before filing a class-action lawsuit against government agencies in California .
Officials have 45 days to respond .
Walter Schild , who owns the 33 Taps Hollywood gastropub in Los Angeles , said he pays about $ 7,000 annually in government fees beside property taxes — ranging from his liquor license to a levy on his valet service .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ get the fees reduced or delayed and is now being charged with late fees of up to 50 percent for failing to pay , even though the restaurant has been closed for all but about a month since mid-March .
With the restaurant closed , Schild has no income .
He recently was forced to shutter another restaurant southeast of Los Angeles in Orange County because of the financial strain and laid off 30 employees .
The Hollywood restaurant lost money when he attempted takeout and delivery , and the lack of tourists @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s usual customer base .
“ We have been pleading with our legislators for fee relief , ” Schild said .
“ It ’ s been tough.
” The restaurant association previously urged Democratic Gov .
Gavin Newsom to hold a special session of the Legislature to work on an aid package for their businesses .
Under state rules , counties with the highest infection rates are limited to outdoor dining only , along with takeout and delivery .
If those rates improve , restaurants can operate with 25 percent capacity indoors or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Even under the least restrictive rules , indoor capacity can only reach 50 percent .
Industry officials have said the rules will doom many more restaurants .
California has nearly 60,000 restaurants that employ approximately 1.5 million workers .
“ Even when the restrictions are lifted , the devastating impact on the restaurant industry will extend for years , ” Jot Condie , who heads the restaurant association , said in a statement .
“ Easing fees would help enable establishments to stay open and keep vulnerable workers employed.
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California’s financially battered restaurants filed government claims Monday to recover more than $100 million in fees for liquor and health permits and tourism charges that they say were assessed even though their businesses were shuttered or only partially operating under long-running coronavirus orders.
Few industries have been hit as hard during the pandemic as restaurants, which in California were ordered closed, reopened, closed for a second time and then allowed to welcome customers again, though with restrictions.
Those rules vary in the state’s 58 counties and have limited some eateries to takeout and delivery service or outdoor-only dining. Thousands of restaurants have closed permanently.
Owners say one thing has remained constant amid the turmoil: State and county governments have continued to charge fees for liquor licenses, health permits and tourism assessments — even though the restaurants were closed down by government orders or permitted to operate with limited capacity and dining.
The owners contend they have been being unjustly punished for following the law and are being charged for permits they can’t use.
“The irony is, they did what they were told and the very entity that told them to close is keeping these fees,” said attorney Brian Kabateck, who is representing restaurants that filed claims against the state and against Los Angeles, Orange, Sacramento, San Diego and Monterey counties.
Additional claims will be filed in the coming days for restaurants in San Francisco and in Fresno and Placer counties.
The move is supported by the California Restaurant Association.
“Somebody has to tell them this is wrong and to return the money,” Kabateck said.
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Kabateck estimated the fees could exceed $100 million statewide.
A government claim, filed for individual restaurants and on behalf of other businesses in the sector, is a required initial step before filing a class-action lawsuit against government agencies in California. Officials have 45 days to respond.
Walter Schild, who owns the 33 Taps Hollywood gastropub in Los Angeles, said he pays about $7,000 annually in government fees beside property taxes — ranging from his liquor license to a levy on his valet service.
He said he has been unable to get the fees reduced or delayed and is now being charged with late fees of up to 50 percent for failing to pay, even though the restaurant has been closed for all but about a month since mid-March.
With the restaurant closed, Schild has no income. He recently was forced to shutter another restaurant southeast of Los Angeles in Orange County because of the financial strain and laid off 30 employees.
The Hollywood restaurant lost money when he attempted takeout and delivery, and the lack of tourists gutted what would be the eatery’s usual customer base.
“We have been pleading with our legislators for fee relief,” Schild said. “It’s been tough.”
The restaurant association previously urged Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom to hold a special session of the Legislature to work on an aid package for their businesses.
Deanna from Woodland Hills, “Please reopen our restaurants. Many of us make a living waiting tables…”https://t.co/hmE7ctLbc7 pic.twitter.com/OHouPoQNK9 — @CalRestaurants (@CalRestaurants) October 13, 2020
Under state rules, counties with the highest infection rates are limited to outdoor dining only, along with takeout and delivery.
If those rates improve, restaurants can operate with 25 percent capacity indoors or 100 patrons, whichever is fewer. Even under the least restrictive rules, indoor capacity can only reach 50 percent.
Industry officials have said the rules will doom many more restaurants. California has nearly 60,000 restaurants that employ approximately 1.5 million workers.
“Even when the restrictions are lifted, the devastating impact on the restaurant industry will extend for years,” Jot Condie, who heads the restaurant association, said in a statement. “Easing fees would help enable establishments to stay open and keep vulnerable workers employed.”
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The Western Journal has reviewed this Associated Press story and may have altered it prior to publication to ensure that it meets our editorial standards.
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westernjournal--2020-10-26--NFL Superstar Appears To Make Insulting Gesture to Trump Supporters

While many patriotic fans of professional football have felt insulted by the NFL ’ s embrace of leftist politics this season , one of the league ’ s most talented players is accused of literally giving President Donald Trump supporters two middle fingers Sunday .
Arizona Cardinals player DeAndre Hopkins , the NFL ’ s leading wide receiver , was reportedly driving on the I-10 in Glendale , Arizona , on Sunday when he encountered a caravan of supporters of Trump .
The weekend saw Trump supporters gather in cities across the country for rallies , and boat and car @ @ @ @ @ @ @ images that some viewers may find offensive : Apparently , they were out in full force in the battleground state of Arizona , where Hopkins encountered them , according to KSAZ-TV .
TRENDING : Big Tech CEO Emails All 10 Million Customers Warning a Vote for Trump Is a 'Vote Against Democracy' Despite a big “ Sunday Night Football ” matchup against the Seattle Seahawks only hours way , the 28-year-old former Clemson University star apparently had other things on his mind when seeing all the support for Trump .
Driving what appeared @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reacted to the Trump supporters by flipping them the bird with both hands , and the moment went viral online .
People claiming to be part of the Trump I-10 caravan also accused Hopkins of disrupting the motorcade by weaving in and out of traffic .
RELATED : NFL Pulls the Plug on Mexico and London Games Over Coronavirus Concerns Refusing to stand for the American flag before games has been a flippant display in the eyes of many fans of some NFL players ’ attitude toward the country that has made them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the photo is indeed Hopkins , and it certainly appears it is , this is a terrible look for the league .
Two middle fingers to Americans who are exercising their First Amendment rights seems counterintuitive to the NFL ’ s social justice stance and its championing of a national conversation about divisive issues .
That is even more true when the person accused of a disrespectful double gesture is part of a league battling a perception it is out of touch with fans .
Nothing says “ I don ’ t respect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everyday people from a lavish Italian sports car .
Hopkins hasn ’ t commented to confirm or deny if he is the man in the photo .
Late Texans owner Bob McNair reportedly once stated , “ We can ’ t have the inmates running the prison , ” when speaking with other team owners about players kneeling during the anthem , according to The Washington Post .
Hopkins reacted to those reported comments by comparing himself to a slave .
“ It feels like I ’ m a slave again .
Getting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , go to work .
But I took into consideration that he was older — RIP , his soul .
He was a good man , but some people they don ’ t really… When you grow up certain places , you talk a certain way , ” He told GQ .
He skipped a practice and said he considered not playing in a game .
But the player changed course , citing his teammates .
“ I play for them , ” he said .
“ I don ’ t play for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ family .
That ’ s it.
” A year later , Hopkins apparently still has little affection for the everyday Americans who pay his reported $ 27 million annual salary by way of supporting the NFL .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

While many patriotic fans of professional football have felt insulted by the NFL’s embrace of leftist politics this season, one of the league’s most talented players is accused of literally giving President Donald Trump supporters two middle fingers Sunday.
Arizona Cardinals player DeAndre Hopkins, the NFL’s leading wide receiver, was reportedly driving on the I-10 in Glendale, Arizona, on Sunday when he encountered a caravan of supporters of Trump.
The weekend saw Trump supporters gather in cities across the country for rallies, and boat and car parades.
WARNING: The following contains images that some viewers may find offensive:
Apparently, they were out in full force in the battleground state of Arizona, where Hopkins encountered them, according to KSAZ-TV.
#NEW Cardinals’ DeAndre Hopkins seemingly gives the bird to Trump supporters on I-10 https://t.co/8AviD7xt6y — FOX 10 Phoenix (@FOX10Phoenix) October 26, 2020
Despite a big “Sunday Night Football” matchup against the Seattle Seahawks only hours way, the 28-year-old former Clemson University star apparently had other things on his mind when seeing all the support for Trump.
Driving what appeared to be a Ferrari, Hopkins apparently reacted to the Trump supporters by flipping them the bird with both hands, and the moment went viral online.
Not a great way to endear yourself to fans.
Cardinals’ star wide-reciever DeAndre Hopkins reportedly gives the bird to Trump supporters on I-10. https://t.co/65yw150d6O — Kari Lake (@KariLakeFox10) October 26, 2020
No confirmation from @Arizona_DPS about the rumor DeAndre Hopkins was swerving or pulled over for driving through a “caravan” of Trump supporters. The middle finger rumors are verified by this picture though. https://t.co/ipdIKC3qXj — Ryan Cody ???? (@RyanThomasCody) October 25, 2020
People claiming to be part of the Trump I-10 caravan also accused Hopkins of disrupting the motorcade by weaving in and out of traffic.
@AZCardinals this is one of your own Deandre Hopkins flipping off people. Apparently weaving in and out of traffic during a Trump rally. Maybe he can set the example as a public figure and let people exercise their 1st amendment right. Great behavior from a Cardinal. pic.twitter.com/NgIzvmyrL2 — Jamie Ritchie (@jamieritchie_) October 26, 2020
Refusing to stand for the American flag before games has been a flippant display in the eyes of many fans of some NFL players’ attitude toward the country that has made them incredibly wealthy.
If the man in the photo is indeed Hopkins, and it certainly appears it is, this is a terrible look for the league.
Two middle fingers to Americans who are exercising their First Amendment rights seems counterintuitive to the NFL’s social justice stance and its championing of a national conversation about divisive issues.
That is even more true when the person accused of a disrespectful double gesture is part of a league battling a perception it is out of touch with fans.
Nothing says “I don’t respect your voice” quite like flipping off everyday people from a lavish Italian sports car.
Hopkins hasn’t commented to confirm or deny if he is the man in the photo.
Late Texans owner Bob McNair reportedly once stated, “We can’t have the inmates running the prison,” when speaking with other team owners about players kneeling during the anthem, according to The Washington Post.
Hopkins reacted to those reported comments by comparing himself to a slave.
“It feels like I’m a slave again. Getting ran over. Listen to the master, go to work. But I took into consideration that he was older — RIP, his soul. He was a good man, but some people they don’t really… When you grow up certain places, you talk a certain way,” He told GQ.
He skipped a practice and said he considered not playing in a game.
But the player changed course, citing his teammates.
“I play for them,” he said. “I don’t play for nobody else but my teammates and my family. That’s it.”
A year later, Hopkins apparently still has little affection for the everyday Americans who pay his reported $27 million annual salary by way of supporting the NFL.
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westernjournal--2020-10-26--Thousands Rally in Washington DC for ‘Let Us Worship’ Protest

Thousands gathered to attend a “ Let Us Worship ” rally to protest coronavirus-related religious restrictions at the National Mall in Washington , D.C. , Sunday evening .
Attendees sang along to worship music and participated in group prayers at the event , which lasted from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m .
The gathering was a protest against nationwide mandates to close indoor church services amid the coronavirus pandemic .
The event was hosted by evangelical activist Sean Feucht .
Previous events in other cities included worship music , prayers and mass baptisms , WRC-TV reported on Friday .
TRENDING @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Million Customers Warning a Vote for Trump Is a 'Vote Against Democracy' Ron Rurik of Chicago , Illinois , blew into a shofar horn as performers on stage sang worship music .
Rurik said that nothing happened in the Book of Revelations until the trumpet was blown , and compared the shofar to a “ glory horn.
” Around 15,000 people were expected to attend the event , WRC-TV reported .
Health officials were concerned the event could increase the spread of the coronavirus .
Though D.C. requires masks to be worn at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to wear masks because the event took place on federal land .
RELATED : Family Suffers Terrifying Attack While Participating in 'Jews for Trump ' Event “ It ’ s concerning , ” MedStar Washington Hospital Center Chief of Infectious Diseases Dr. Glenn Wortmann said to WRC-TV .
“ I mean , anytime there ’ s a group of a large number of people in one area , there is a potential for spread .
The fact that the event is happening outside makes the risk lower.
” A version of this article @ @ @ @ @ @ @ website .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Thousands gathered to attend a “Let Us Worship” rally to protest coronavirus-related religious restrictions at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., Sunday evening.
Attendees sang along to worship music and participated in group prayers at the event, which lasted from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. The gathering was a protest against nationwide mandates to close indoor church services amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The event was hosted by evangelical activist Sean Feucht. Previous events in other cities included worship music, prayers and mass baptisms, WRC-TV reported on Friday.
Ron Rurik of Chicago, Illinois, blew into a shofar horn as performers on stage sang worship music.
Rurik said that nothing happened in the Book of Revelations until the trumpet was blown, and compared the shofar to a “glory horn.”
Around 15,000 people were expected to attend the event, WRC-TV reported. Health officials were concerned the event could increase the spread of the coronavirus.
Though D.C. requires masks to be worn at all times, attendees were not required to wear masks because the event took place on federal land.
“It’s concerning,” MedStar Washington Hospital Center Chief of Infectious Diseases Dr. Glenn Wortmann said to WRC-TV. “I mean, anytime there’s a group of a large number of people in one area, there is a potential for spread. The fact that the event is happening outside makes the risk lower.”
Content created by The Daily Caller News Foundation is available without charge to any eligible news publisher that can provide a large audience. For licensing opportunities of our original content, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org.
A version of this article appeared on The Daily Caller News Foundation website.
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westernjournal--2020-10-26--Family That Raised Over $2 Million for Daughter’s Lifesaving Treatment Gets Incredible News from Dru

Family That Raised Over $2 Million for Daughter’s Lifesaving Treatment Gets Incredible News from Drug Company

On April 1 , 7:35 p.m. , the Van Doormaal family in Vancouver , Canada , welcomed their newest bundle of joy into the world .
Lucy arrived at 7 pounds , 13 ounces , and her parents “ were in newborn bliss.
” Two weeks later , Lucy started exhibiting some concerning behaviors .
She was having trouble breathing , moving her arm , and sucking her thumb — something she had been able to do shortly after being born .
Just a few weeks into life , Lucy got a heartbreaking diagnosis : type 1 spinal muscular atrophy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a defective gene that could claim her life before she was even 2 years old .
“ When we first took her home , we were in newborn bliss , ” Lucy ’ s mom Laura told CNN .
“ Just absolutely in love with her .
She was a great baby.
” TRENDING : Big Tech CEO Emails All 10 Million Customers Warning a Vote for Trump Is a 'Vote Against Democracy' “ But we started to realize her movement was declining .
She had trouble breathing and eating .
When she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy.
” “ When we received the diagnosis , we were devastated .
We ’ d never heard of it before .
Reading the words ‘ most infants don ’ t make it to their second birthday ’ just broke our hearts , especially as parents of a newborn who seemed so healthy.
” There was a potential treatment — but the cost was prohibitive .
Zolgensma , a U.S. FDA-approved treatment , “ replaces a working copy of the gene into those nerve cells before they die.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , of course , but over 500 children have been treated with it already .
The price tag ?
A whopping $ 2.125 million for a one-time treatment .
And until then , Lucy had to be on Spinraza , a drug that has to be injected every four months for a patient ’ s entire life , and has its own hefty price tag — but insurance was able to cover it .
“ Gene therapies such as Zolgensma have the potential to reduce the financial burden on patients , families and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , lifetime therapies with a single treatment , ” said a spokesperson for the company that markets the drug .
“ As a single , one-time intravenous infusion , Zolgensma ’ s price in the countries where it has been approved reflects the long-term value it brings .
Zolgensma is priced in the U.S. at approximately 50 % less than the current 10-year cost of chronic SMA therapy.
” While the cost was staggering , the family started to fundraise immediately .
The problem was that they were fighting the clock .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the better , as any damage done before the treatment would be irreversible .
“ It ’ s critical she gets the ( treatment ) as soon as possible , ” Laura explained .
“ It won ’ t be able to reverse any damage that ’ s being done to her right now , but it will give her the gene she needs to live.
” RELATED : Desperate Dad Flags Down Officer To Help Pregnant Wife , Cops Deliver Baby in Police Station Parking Lot The GoFundMe page the family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dollars at final count , but then a miracle occurred .
Novartis Gene Therapies randomly selected Lucy as a recipient of a covered treatment of Zolgensma — the family wouldn ’ t have to shell out for the bill themselves .
“ We were totally shocked , we didn ’ t expect this outcome but we were just so happy because our single goal was providing the treatment to Lucy , ” Laura told CNN in a follow-up .
“ This has been a traumatic experience , having to fight for treatment and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it , so this is really a relief.
” Lucy was treated , and though there have been some hiccups , there have been positive advancements as well .
“ Since treatment , Lucy has had some ups and downs , ” an update on the GoFundMe page stated .
“ The first week her platelets and liver enzymes were at a dangerous level so we doubled her daily dose of prednisolone steroid .
We also started a prescription anti nausea medicine to help with some of the side effects from the steroid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blood tests have since stabilized .
Hopefully we will be able to wean her off the steroid in the upcoming month.
” “ We noticed an immediate difference , ” Laura told CNN .
“ The biggest changes are her head control , really quickly after the treatment she was able to hold her head up which is something she ’ s never done before .
She can sit with some support and hopefully one day she ’ ll crawl.
” Since the cost has been covered by NGT , the family offered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the opportunity to donate to other patients ’ causes .
They are thrilled that their little Lucy has the best shot at life now .
“ Maybe one day she ’ ll even walk , ” the hopeful mother said .
“ That ’ s really an optimistic dream , I know , but we like to have high expectations and we don ’ t want to hold her back.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

On April 1, 7:35 p.m., the Van Doormaal family in Vancouver, Canada, welcomed their newest bundle of joy into the world. Lucy arrived at 7 pounds, 13 ounces, and her parents “were in newborn bliss.”
Two weeks later, Lucy started exhibiting some concerning behaviors. She was having trouble breathing, moving her arm, and sucking her thumb — something she had been able to do shortly after being born.
Just a few weeks into life, Lucy got a heartbreaking diagnosis: type 1 spinal muscular atrophy, an inherited wasting disease caused by a defective gene that could claim her life before she was even 2 years old.
“When we first took her home, we were in newborn bliss,” Lucy’s mom Laura told CNN. “Just absolutely in love with her. She was a great baby.”
“But we started to realize her movement was declining. She had trouble breathing and eating. When she was five weeks old, she was diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy.”
“When we received the diagnosis, we were devastated. We’d never heard of it before. Reading the words ‘most infants don’t make it to their second birthday’ just broke our hearts, especially as parents of a newborn who seemed so healthy.”
There was a potential treatment — but the cost was prohibitive. Zolgensma, a U.S. FDA-approved treatment, “replaces a working copy of the gene into those nerve cells before they die.” It’s not guaranteed to work, of course, but over 500 children have been treated with it already.
The price tag? A whopping $2.125 million for a one-time treatment. And until then, Lucy had to be on Spinraza, a drug that has to be injected every four months for a patient’s entire life, and has its own hefty price tag — but insurance was able to cover it.
“Gene therapies such as Zolgensma have the potential to reduce the financial burden on patients, families and the overall healthcare system by replacing repeat, lifetime therapies with a single treatment,” said a spokesperson for the company that markets the drug.
“As a single, one-time intravenous infusion, Zolgensma’s price in the countries where it has been approved reflects the long-term value it brings. Zolgensma is priced in the U.S. at approximately 50% less than the current 10-year cost of chronic SMA therapy.”
While the cost was staggering, the family started to fundraise immediately. The problem was that they were fighting the clock. The sooner they could get their daughter treated, the better, as any damage done before the treatment would be irreversible.
“It’s critical she gets the (treatment) as soon as possible,” Laura explained. “It won’t be able to reverse any damage that’s being done to her right now, but it will give her the gene she needs to live.”
The GoFundMe page the family set up raised nearly $2.5 million dollars at final count, but then a miracle occurred. Novartis Gene Therapies randomly selected Lucy as a recipient of a covered treatment of Zolgensma — the family wouldn’t have to shell out for the bill themselves.
“We were totally shocked, we didn’t expect this outcome but we were just so happy because our single goal was providing the treatment to Lucy,” Laura told CNN in a follow-up. “This has been a traumatic experience, having to fight for treatment and put our life out there to fund it, so this is really a relief.”
Lucy was treated, and though there have been some hiccups, there have been positive advancements as well.
“Since treatment, Lucy has had some ups and downs,” an update on the GoFundMe page stated. “The first week her platelets and liver enzymes were at a dangerous level so we doubled her daily dose of prednisolone steroid. We also started a prescription anti nausea medicine to help with some of the side effects from the steroid. Thankfully this helped greatly and her blood tests have since stabilized. Hopefully we will be able to wean her off the steroid in the upcoming month.”
“We noticed an immediate difference,” Laura told CNN. “The biggest changes are her head control, really quickly after the treatment she was able to hold her head up which is something she’s never done before. She can sit with some support and hopefully one day she’ll crawl.”
Since the cost has been covered by NGT, the family offered refunds to donors to the GoFundMe or the opportunity to donate to other patients’ causes. They are thrilled that their little Lucy has the best shot at life now.
“Maybe one day she’ll even walk,” the hopeful mother said. “That’s really an optimistic dream, I know, but we like to have high expectations and we don’t want to hold her back.”
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