westernjournal--2020-06-13--Officer at Center of George Floyd Case Likely To Receive $1 Million Payout

The former officer who has been charged with second-degree murder for his alleged role in the death of George Floyd on May 25 could still receive over $ 1 million in pension benefits even if he is convicted .
Former officer Derek Chauvin was charged with second-degree murder after video footage showed him kneeling on Floyd ’ s neck for nearly nine minutes during an arrest .
He also faces charges of third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter , according to the Star Tribune .
Chauvin was fired immediately following Floyd ’ s death after 19 years on the police force @ @ @ @ @ @ @ convicted of second-degree murder , he could still collect his pension benefits during retirement , CNN reported .
Minnesota is not one of the states that allow for the forfeiture of pensions for employees convicted of crimes related to their work .
Pension benefits are a form of compensation , similar to retirement savings accounts , earned throughout a worker ’ s career and partially funded by taxpayers .
According to the Public Employees Retirement Association of Minnesota , participants contribute 11.8 percent of their pay to their pension , and employers contribute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nor our staff have the discretion to increase , decrease , deny or revoke benefits , ” a retirement plan spokeswoman told CNN .
“ Any changes to current law would need to be done through the legislative process.
” A CNN analysis estimated that Chauvin would be eligible for annual payments around $ 50,000 a year if he chose to start getting them at age 55 .
Those benefits could exceed $ 1.5 million over 30 years .
“ Pension forfeiture for misconduct is pretty rare , ” D. Bruce Johnsen , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , told CNN .
“ With this terrible tragedy , it might be a good time to push in this direction.
” Many people on Twitter seemed to agree : According to Forbes , previous court rulings have said that pensions can be seized as a form of restitution .
However , Minnesota is not one of the states the rulings apply to .
It remains unclear whether or not Chauvin will owe restitution and what that means for his pension We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism @ @ @ @ @ @

The former officer who has been charged with second-degree murder for his alleged role in the death of George Floyd on May 25 could still receive over $1 million in pension benefits even if he is convicted.
Former officer Derek Chauvin was charged with second-degree murder after video footage showed him kneeling on Floyd’s neck for nearly nine minutes during an arrest.
He also faces charges of third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter, according to the Star Tribune.
Chauvin was fired immediately following Floyd’s death after 19 years on the police force.
I’m at the Hennepin County Jail where former MPD officer Derek Chauvin is scheduled to make his first court appearance, via video monitor, from the Oak Park Heights prison where he is held. I’ll add details to a thread here after it gets underway. @kare11 pic.twitter.com/vm5P5WZMta — Lou Raguse (@LouRaguse) June 8, 2020
However, even if he is convicted of second-degree murder, he could still collect his pension benefits during retirement, CNN reported.
Minnesota is not one of the states that allow for the forfeiture of pensions for employees convicted of crimes related to their work.
Pension benefits are a form of compensation, similar to retirement savings accounts, earned throughout a worker’s career and partially funded by taxpayers.
Do you think Chauvin should be able to keep his pension benefits? 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: 51% (338 Votes) No: 49% (326 Votes)
According to the Public Employees Retirement Association of Minnesota, participants contribute 11.8 percent of their pay to their pension, and employers contribute 17.7 percent.
“Neither our Board nor our staff have the discretion to increase, decrease, deny or revoke benefits,” a retirement plan spokeswoman told CNN.
“Any changes to current law would need to be done through the legislative process.”
A CNN analysis estimated that Chauvin would be eligible for annual payments around $50,000 a year if he chose to start getting them at age 55.
Those benefits could exceed $1.5 million over 30 years.
“Pension forfeiture for misconduct is pretty rare,” D. Bruce Johnsen, a law professor at George Mason University, told CNN.
“With this terrible tragedy, it might be a good time to push in this direction.”
Many people on Twitter seemed to agree:
Derek Chauvin: a bunch of bull! what job pays you a pension after you have been fired, and then charged with murder. They have been covering their butts for a long time because all of them are crooked and they wanted to make sure that they got paid when they committed. — Diana Love-Nelson (@shaun2293) June 12, 2020
Guess I don’t understand how Derek Chauvin is still eligible for his 1M$ pension even if he’s convicted of killing George Floyd. If a nurse is found guilty of malpractice, they lose EVERYTHING. Pension, license, benefits regardless how long they’ve been working. — Lindsay RN????❣ (@LKRuedisale) June 13, 2020
This nonsense needs to be part of police reform: Minneapolis Owes Derek Chauvin A Pension – Even If Convicted Of Murder https://t.co/bWxE0Z6eSF — Frank Figliuzzi (@FrankFigliuzzi1) June 13, 2020
According to Forbes, previous court rulings have said that pensions can be seized as a form of restitution.
However, Minnesota is not one of the states the rulings apply to. It remains unclear whether or not Chauvin will owe restitution and what that means for his pension
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-06-13--Baker Mayfield: ‘I Absolutely Am’ Going To Kneel During National Anthem

Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield plans to kneel during the national anthem this upcoming season to support protests of social injustice , police brutality and racism .
In answering a post from a fan on his Instagram account Saturday that pleaded with him not to kneel , Mayfield responded : “ Pull your head out .
I absolutely am.″ Mayfield has been outspoken about the need for more understanding and justice in the nation following the killing of George Floyd , a black man , while in police custody in Minneapolis .
“ It ’ s a pivotal time for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ What ’ s being addressed now obviously has been going on for a long time .
“ So now everybody ’ s finally coming together to address it .
And doing it the right way of holding people accountable.
” Mayfield wore an “ I Can ’ t Breathe ” T-shirt while working out .
On Friday , Houston Texans coach Bill O ’ Brien said he would kneel with his players if they chose to do so during the anthem .
Earlier this week , while not going as far as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kevin Stefanski made it clear he would back his players in any peaceful demonstrations .
“ My position is I want to make sure I support our players , ” Stefanski said .
“ First things first , I want to make sure I sit down with them and talk.
” “ I can just promise you this , we will spend as much time as needed to make sure that we are all on the same page and we are a united front from a player , staff , you name it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Press contributed to this report .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield plans to kneel during the national anthem this upcoming season to support protests of social injustice, police brutality and racism.
In answering a post from a fan on his Instagram account Saturday that pleaded with him not to kneel, Mayfield responded: “Pull your head out. I absolutely am.″
Mayfield has been outspoken about the need for more understanding and justice in the nation following the killing of George Floyd, a black man, while in police custody in Minneapolis.
“It’s a pivotal time for change,” Mayfeld said Thursday. “What’s being addressed now obviously has been going on for a long time.
“So now everybody’s finally coming together to address it. And doing it the right way of holding people accountable.”
Mayfield wore an “I Can’t Breathe” T-shirt while working out.
On Friday, Houston Texans coach Bill O’Brien said he would kneel with his players if they chose to do so during the anthem.
Earlier this week, while not going as far as O’Brien, new Browns coach Kevin Stefanski made it clear he would back his players in any peaceful demonstrations.
Do you agree with Mayfield's position on kneeling? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 2% (75 Votes) No: 98% (3995 Votes)
“My position is I want to make sure I support our players,” Stefanski said. “First things first, I want to make sure I sit down with them and talk.”
“I can just promise you this, we will spend as much time as needed to make sure that we are all on the same page and we are a united front from a player, staff, you name it (standpoint).”
The Western Journal has reviewed this Associated Press story and may have altered it prior to publication to ensure that it meets our editorial standards.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-06-13--As Radicals Plan Tennessee Autonomous Zone, Governor Warns That Lawlessness ‘Will Not Be Tolerated’

Ahead of a planned Saturday rally , protesters calling for an “ autonomous zone ” camped outside the Tennessee State Capitol in Nashville on Friday as Gov .
Bill Lee issued a warning .
“ We encourage Tennesseans to exercise their First Amendment rights and have seen many examples of peaceful protests across our state in recent weeks , ” the Republican governor said in a statement .
“ As demonstrations continue , we will continue to protect Tennesseans ’ right to peaceful assembly , while also reassuring citizens that lawlessness , autonomous zones , and violence will not be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prohibits camping on state property not expressly designated as a campground area , and that law will be enforced.
” On Friday evening , a group of about 50 people set up camp near the capitol at Legislative Plaza , saying they planned to remain for an undetermined length of time .
Although state police observed the protest , those participating were not asked to leave , according to the Nashville Tennessean .
Participants dubbed their site the “ Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone , ” according to WKRN-TV .
That ’ s the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protesters in Seattle who set up what they call an autonomous zone Monday .
Some participants told WKRN-TV they planned to remain until they had a conversation with Lee .
As of Saturday morning , about 24 people were camped at the site , according to WTVF-TV .
The group demands that Metro Nashville Police Department Chief Steve Anderson be fired , and also wants to “ defund ” and “ demilitarize ” the police , as well as force the removal of statues that organizers claim are racist .
“ We have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ organizer Venita Lewis told the Tennessean .
“ There ’ s no more hiding all of this hate.
” “ I understand your work .
It ’ s hard , ” she told the watching troopers .
“ Don ’ t put your racism behind that suit .
Don ’ t put your anger behind the suit.
” On Saturday , more than 5,000 people were expected to march in a rally near the capitol , WKRN-TV reported .
RELATED : Baker Mayfield : ' I Absolutely Am ' Going To Kneel During @ @ @ @ @ @ @ House Speaker Cameron Sexton said there is a fine line between protests and lawlessness .
“ I fully support the rights of all Tennesseans to peacefully assemble .
However , there is a difference between peaceful assembly , and lawlessness or unlawful camping , occupying , and autonomous zones on state property .
The General Assembly enacted laws after Occupy Nashville making it a Class A misdemeanor to occupy state property , ” the Republican said , according to WTVF-TV .
“ I agree with Governor Lee ’ s decision to enforce our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fully prepared to enhance this type of lawlessness to a felony before the 2020 legislative session concludes next week , ” Sexton said .
Businesses in Nashville are being hurt by the continual protests , according to one business owner .
“ We are down like 95 percent and all the businesses are , they are down about 95 percent , ” Layla Vartanian of Layla ’ s Honky Tonk told WKRN-TV .
“ It ’ s really disrupting our businesses , ” she said .
“ That ’ s fine if people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to keep it on Legislative Plaza , Capitol Hill that ’ s where the politicians are .
You want to voice your opinion to the politicians .
Broadway has nothing to do with what they are rallying about we need to get our businesses back in order some kind of normalcy.
” “ We are not going to be able to pay our teachers , our fire department our public works .
It ’ s costly to the whole city to bring a huge police force down here to protect everybody .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and it ’ s just costing business owners a lot of money , people don ’ t want to come down here because of all the disruption , ” she said .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Ahead of a planned Saturday rally, protesters calling for an “autonomous zone” camped outside the Tennessee State Capitol in Nashville on Friday as Gov. Bill Lee issued a warning.
“We encourage Tennesseans to exercise their First Amendment rights and have seen many examples of peaceful protests across our state in recent weeks,” the Republican governor said in a statement.
“As demonstrations continue, we will continue to protect Tennesseans’ right to peaceful assembly, while also reassuring citizens that lawlessness, autonomous zones, and violence will not be tolerated. Further, Tennessee law expressly prohibits camping on state property not expressly designated as a campground area, and that law will be enforced.”
On Friday evening, a group of about 50 people set up camp near the capitol at Legislative Plaza, saying they planned to remain for an undetermined length of time.
Although state police observed the protest, those participating were not asked to leave, according to the Nashville Tennessean.
Participants dubbed their site the “Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone,” according to WKRN-TV. That’s the same name used by a group of protesters in Seattle who set up what they call an autonomous zone Monday.
NOW: Protesters are setting up a “Capitol Hill #AutonomousZone” in #Nashville, they say reclaiming the people’s land. This is where protesters took down the Edward Carmack Statue on March 30th. They’ve now “renamed” Legislative Plaza “Ida B Wells Plaza.” @WKRN pic.twitter.com/d883UCtx1K — Stassy Olmos (@StassyOlmosWKRN) June 12, 2020
Some participants told WKRN-TV they planned to remain until they had a conversation with Lee.
Should the police clear out this camp immediately? 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% (2069 Votes) No: 1% (29 Votes)
As of Saturday morning, about 24 people were camped at the site, according to WTVF-TV.
The group demands that Metro Nashville Police Department Chief Steve Anderson be fired, and also wants to “defund” and “demilitarize” the police, as well as force the removal of statues that organizers claim are racist.
“We have an insensitive sick America,” rally organizer Venita Lewis told the Tennessean. “There’s no more hiding all of this hate.”
“I understand your work. It’s hard,” she told the watching troopers. “Don’t put your racism behind that suit. Don’t put your anger behind the suit.”
On Saturday, more than 5,000 people were expected to march in a rally near the capitol, WKRN-TV reported.
In a statement, Tennessee House Speaker Cameron Sexton said there is a fine line between protests and lawlessness.
“I fully support the rights of all Tennesseans to peacefully assemble. However, there is a difference between peaceful assembly, and lawlessness or unlawful camping, occupying, and autonomous zones on state property. The General Assembly enacted laws after Occupy Nashville making it a Class A misdemeanor to occupy state property,” the Republican said, according to WTVF-TV.
“I agree with Governor Lee’s decision to enforce our current laws, and the House is fully prepared to enhance this type of lawlessness to a felony before the 2020 legislative session concludes next week,” Sexton said.
Businesses in Nashville are being hurt by the continual protests, according to one business owner.
“We are down like 95 percent and all the businesses are, they are down about 95 percent,” Layla Vartanian of Layla’s Honky Tonk told WKRN-TV.
“It’s really disrupting our businesses,” she said. “That’s fine if people want to protest, but they need to keep it on Legislative Plaza, Capitol Hill that’s where the politicians are. You want to voice your opinion to the politicians. Broadway has nothing to do with what they are rallying about we need to get our businesses back in order some kind of normalcy.”
“We are not going to be able to pay our teachers, our fire department our public works. It’s costly to the whole city to bring a huge police force down here to protect everybody.
“Even the protesters need to be protected and it’s just costing business owners a lot of money, people don’t want to come down here because of all the disruption,” she said.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-06-13--Autonomous Zone Anarchists Holding Seattle Hostage Release Absurd List of Demands

Leftist activists who took over a portion of Seattle ’ s Capitol Hill neighborhood earlier this week have released a list of insane demands .
For anyone casually observing the events in the city through the media lens and reading statements from Seattle ’ s mayor , you might get the impression that the occupants of the area are simply exercising their rights to assemble freely .
That isn ’ t the case , as is outlined by a list of demands attributed to the “ collective black voices ” inside of the so-called “ Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Democrats have catered to them , it appears the activists believe they are in a position to demand a ransom before they return the area to its previous inhabitants .
Democratic Mayor Jenny Durkan and the Seattle Police Department apparently made the call to cede the area , which includes a police precinct , to the anarchists this past week .
Durkan has also made complimentary statements about the occupants of the city ’ s Capitol Hill neighborhood , at least publicly , going as far as to describe the armed occupation as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the scene of the CHAZ shows the “ block party ” comparison is in no way apt — just look at how the activists are treating the police .
WARNING : the following video contains vulgar language which some viewers might find offensive .
CNN anchor and far-left activist Chris Cuomo asked Durkan on Thursday how long she intended to allow the CHAZ anarchy to go on .
“ I don ’ t know .
We could have a summer of love , ” she responded .
Despite how Durkan , other Democrats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the armed occupation of an American neighborhood by those who President Donald Trump has rightly called “ anarchists ” and “ domestic terrorists , ” there appears to be a love deficit in the CHAZ .
RELATED : Fire Breaks Out Near Seattle 'Autonomous Zone , ' Protesters Reportedly Left with No Choice But To Phone City for Help Some of the armed activists are even reported to be extorting local businesses .
“ We ’ ve also received reports that these armed people may be demanding payment from business owners in exchange @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Seattle Police Department Chief Carmen Best said in a video address to her officers on Thursday .
“ We ’ ve also heard that they may be demanding to see identification from people who live in the area .
This is not legal , and we ’ ve asked anyone who may be experiencing this to come forward and file a police report so that we can investigate these crimes.
” According to a post on Medium published this week by the some of the radicals , who used the byline “ FreeCapitolHill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the CHAZ are demanding more than mafia-style protection payments from local businesses .
They want to extort the government into giving in to their demands for a liberal utopia .
In the lengthy blog post , the occupiers in Seattle demanded a number of outlandish provisions from their city and state governments , but here are ten of the most insane among them : 1 .
The abolition of the Seattle Police Department and the city ’ s courts .
( “ We demand that the Seattle Council and the Mayor defund and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attached Criminal Justice Apparatus .
This means 100 % of funding , including existing pensions for Seattle Police , ” the blog post reads .
At least part of the police department ’ s funding would be reallocated to “ Socialized Health and Medicine for the City of Seattle , ” also known as free health care . )
2 .
Free college for the people of Washington state .
3 .
New trials for every violent black convicted inmate “ by a jury of their peers in their community.
” 4 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to vote while incarcerated .
5 .
The abolition of imprisonment , which would be replaced by “ accountability programs.
” 6 .
Racially segregated hospitals in Seattle , with black health care workers for black patients .
7 .
Educations reforms in Washington state which focus on black and Native American history .
9 .
The abolition of evictions in the city , and an end to “ gentrification.
” 10 .
Mandated anti-bias training for jobs in the education , medical profession and media sectors throughout the state .
The list @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the area are no longer protesters , and any talk of another “ summer of love ” from Durkan is misplaced or disingenuous .
Seattle Democrats allowed protests following the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis to get so out of control in their own city that they ’ ve lost a neighborhood and a police precinct .
Democratic Gov .
Jay Inslee has downplayed the occupation , siding with Durkan and describing the situation as “ peaceful , ” while adding that the actions of the anarchists are “ fundamentally American.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ citizens and are allowing lawlessness to run unchecked , which has drawn the ire of Trump : These activists are not protesting for black lives .
They are terrorists occupying an American neighborhood so they can forward a radical political agenda .
It isn ’ t clear how long Democratic leaders plan to allow this to go on , but the country and the world and now watching — as is the president .
If Democrats continue to blink , and actually negotiate with these people , the precedent is set : Law @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Democrat leadership .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Leftist activists who took over a portion of Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood earlier this week have released a list of insane demands.
For anyone casually observing the events in the city through the media lens and reading statements from Seattle’s mayor, you might get the impression that the occupants of the area are simply exercising their rights to assemble freely.
That isn’t the case, as is outlined by a list of demands attributed to the “collective black voices” inside of the so-called “Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone,” or the CHAZ.
Now that Democrats have catered to them, it appears the activists believe they are in a position to demand a ransom before they return the area to its previous inhabitants.
Democratic Mayor Jenny Durkan and the Seattle Police Department apparently made the call to cede the area, which includes a police precinct, to the anarchists this past week.
Durkan has also made complimentary statements about the occupants of the city’s Capitol Hill neighborhood, at least publicly, going as far as to describe the armed occupation as a “block party.”
Footage from the scene of the CHAZ shows the “block party” comparison is in no way apt — just look at how the activists are treating the police.
WARNING: the following video contains vulgar language which some viewers might find offensive.
Peaceful natives of CHAZ. pic.twitter.com/voUxMQqMEK — Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) June 12, 2020
CNN anchor and far-left activist Chris Cuomo asked Durkan on Thursday how long she intended to allow the CHAZ anarchy to go on.
“I don’t know. We could have a summer of love,” she responded.
This exchange actually happened on CNN about #CHAZ……. Chris Cuomo: How long do you think Seattle in those few blocks looks like this? Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan (D): I don’t know. We could have the summer of love! pic.twitter.com/ApIDfMN9RD — Curtis Houck (@CurtisHouck) June 12, 2020
Despite how Durkan, other Democrats and the establishment media want to portray the armed occupation of an American neighborhood by those who President Donald Trump has rightly called “anarchists” and “domestic terrorists,” there appears to be a love deficit in the CHAZ.
Do you think it is time for the federal government to intervene in Seattle? 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: 91% (3284 Votes) No: 9% (331 Votes)
Some of the armed activists are even reported to be extorting local businesses.
“We’ve also received reports that these armed people may be demanding payment from business owners in exchange for some of that protection,” Seattle Police Department Chief Carmen Best said in a video address to her officers on Thursday. “We’ve also heard that they may be demanding to see identification from people who live in the area. This is not legal, and we’ve asked anyone who may be experiencing this to come forward and file a police report so that we can investigate these crimes.”
According to a post on Medium published this week by the some of the radicals, who used the byline “FreeCapitolHill,” the leftist activists inside of the CHAZ are demanding more than mafia-style protection payments from local businesses.
They want to extort the government into giving in to their demands for a liberal utopia.
In the lengthy blog post, the occupiers in Seattle demanded a number of outlandish provisions from their city and state governments, but here are ten of the most insane among them:
1. The abolition of the Seattle Police Department and the city’s courts. (“We demand that the Seattle Council and the Mayor defund and abolish the Seattle Police Department and the attached Criminal Justice Apparatus. This means 100% of funding, including existing pensions for Seattle Police,” the blog post reads. At least part of the police department’s funding would be reallocated to “Socialized Health and Medicine for the City of Seattle,” also known as free health care.)
2. Free college for the people of Washington state.
3. New trials for every violent black convicted inmate “by a jury of their peers in their community.”
4. The “unrestricted right” for prisoners to vote while incarcerated.
5. The abolition of imprisonment, which would be replaced by “accountability programs.”
6. Racially segregated hospitals in Seattle, with black health care workers for black patients.
7. Educations reforms in Washington state which focus on black and Native American history.
8. Reparations for “victims of police brutality.”
9. The abolition of evictions in the city, and an end to “gentrification.”
10. Mandated anti-bias training for jobs in the education, medical profession and media sectors throughout the state.
The list makes the situation clear; those occupying the area are no longer protesters, and any talk of another “summer of love” from Durkan is misplaced or disingenuous.
Seattle Democrats allowed protests following the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis to get so out of control in their own city that they’ve lost a neighborhood and a police precinct.
Democratic Gov. Jay Inslee has downplayed the occupation, siding with Durkan and describing the situation as “peaceful,” while adding that the actions of the anarchists are “fundamentally American.”
I spoke with @MayorJenny and her team about the situation on Capitol Hill. Although unpermitted, and we should remember we are still in a pandemic, the area is largely peaceful. Peaceful protests are fundamentally American, and I am hopeful there will be a peaceful resolution. — Governor Jay Inslee (@GovInslee) June 11, 2020
Democrats have yet again let down law-abiding citizens and are allowing lawlessness to run unchecked, which has drawn the ire of Trump:
Radical Left Governor @JayInslee and the Mayor of Seattle are being taunted and played at a level that our great Country has never seen before. Take back your city NOW. If you don’t do it, I will. This is not a game. These ugly Anarchists must be stopped IMMEDIATELY. MOVE FAST! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 11, 2020
These activists are not protesting for black lives. They are terrorists occupying an American neighborhood so they can forward a radical political agenda.
It isn’t clear how long Democratic leaders plan to allow this to go on, but the country and the world and now watching — as is the president.
If Democrats continue to blink, and actually negotiate with these people, the precedent is set: Law and order are dead for citizens under Democrat leadership.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-06-13--Kanye West Earns Elite Title Less Than a Year After His First Gospel Album

Forbes recently released its annual list of the 100 highest-paid celebrities in the world , ranging from supermodels to world famous athletes and everything in between .
And Grammy-winning rapper Kanye West grabbed the No .
2 spot less than a year after releasing his first gospel album , “ Jesus Is King.
” West brought in $ 170 million in 2019 , making him the year ’ s highest-paid musician .
The only celebrity to to rake in more money was his sister-in-law , Kylie Jenner , who made $ 590 million , mostly from the sale of her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the rapper didn ’ t come close to earning what Jenner did , he more than doubled the $ 81 million that Elton John , the second-highest-paid musician , brought in .
While West reached the status of highest-paid musician worldwide just months after the release of his first ever gospel album , the vast majority of his earnings came from his highly successful Adidas Yeezy sneaker line .
Forbes reported that in 2019 , Adidas brought in roughly $ 1.3 billion in sales just from Kanye ’ s Yeezy line alone .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ latest sneaker , the Yeezy Boost 350 V2 , which launched in November , has a recommended retail price of $ 220 .
Even though the hip-hop artist ’ s massive earnings are largely credited to his sneaker brand , it ’ s undeniable that his gospel album has been wildly successful .
After the album was released on Oct. 25 , it immediately began topping the charts .
According to Forbes , “ Jesus Is King , ” debuted as No .
1 on 22 different Billboard charts , including the Billboard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Christian Albums .
Not only did it reach No .
1 on 22 different charts , but the album ’ s top-performing song , “ Follow God , ” has maintained its spot at No .
1 on Billboard ’ s Hot Gospel Songs for 32 consecutive weeks and counting .
Once “ Jesus Is King ” was released and became one of the most successful albums of the year , West found himself being booked to perform at various Christian events , such as Awaken 2020 in Tempe , Arizona .
RELATED @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Racism After She Calls Out Feminist Movement The January event brought in nearly 30,000 attendees to hear the gospel and worship Jesus .
The rapper saw this as the perfect opportunity to share his powerful testimony .
West opened up about Jesus saving him from his struggles with addiction and bipolar disorder , reminding everybody that there is nothing that can keep them from God ’ s love .
“ See , I ’ ve been to the mental hospital and back , working for the devil , ” West said .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to get out .
They had already grabbed shovels .
They said , ‘ There ’ s something wrong with his head , so his career is dead . '
” “ But Jesus saves , no matter how long you think you ’ ve been away , ” he said .
“ No matter how long you been in the dark , the light is right there ready to save , to give you the confidence when they don ’ t want to be brave.
” We are committed to truth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Read our editorial standards .

Forbes recently released its annual list of the 100 highest-paid celebrities in the world, ranging from supermodels to world famous athletes and everything in between.
And Grammy-winning rapper Kanye West grabbed the No. 2 spot less than a year after releasing his first gospel album, “Jesus Is King.”
West brought in $170 million in 2019, making him the year’s highest-paid musician. The only celebrity to to rake in more money was his sister-in-law, Kylie Jenner, who made $590 million, mostly from the sale of her cosmetics brand, Kylie Cosmetics.
Though the rapper didn’t come close to earning what Jenner did, he more than doubled the $81 million that Elton John, the second-highest-paid musician, brought in.
While West reached the status of highest-paid musician worldwide just months after the release of his first ever gospel album, the vast majority of his earnings came from his highly successful Adidas Yeezy sneaker line.
Forbes reported that in 2019, Adidas brought in roughly $1.3 billion in sales just from Kanye’s Yeezy line alone.
For instance, the line’s latest sneaker, the Yeezy Boost 350 V2, which launched in November, has a recommended retail price of $220.
Do you think Kanye West has turned into a positive role model? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 94% (452 Votes) No: 6% (29 Votes)
Even though the hip-hop artist’s massive earnings are largely credited to his sneaker brand, it’s undeniable that his gospel album has been wildly successful.
After the album was released on Oct. 25, it immediately began topping the charts.
According to Forbes, “Jesus Is King,” debuted as No. 1 on 22 different Billboard charts, including the Billboard 200, Top Rap Albums and Top Christian Albums.
Not only did it reach No. 1 on 22 different charts, but the album’s top-performing song, “Follow God,” has maintained its spot at No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Songs for 32 consecutive weeks and counting.
Once “Jesus Is King” was released and became one of the most successful albums of the year, West found himself being booked to perform at various Christian events, such as Awaken 2020 in Tempe, Arizona.
The January event brought in nearly 30,000 attendees to hear the gospel and worship Jesus. The rapper saw this as the perfect opportunity to share his powerful testimony.
West opened up about Jesus saving him from his struggles with addiction and bipolar disorder, reminding everybody that there is nothing that can keep them from God’s love.
“See, I’ve been to the mental hospital and back, working for the devil,” West said. “They didn’t think I was going to get out. They had already grabbed shovels. They said, ‘There’s something wrong with his head, so his career is dead.'”
“But Jesus saves, no matter how long you think you’ve been away,” he said. “No matter how long you been in the dark, the light is right there ready to save, to give you the confidence when they don’t want to be brave.”
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-06-13--Opinion: Cancel ‘Cancel Culture’ Because There’s Nothing Wrong with Showing Good Cops in Entertainme

Opinion: Cancel ‘Cancel Culture’ Because There’s Nothing Wrong with Showing Good Cops in Entertainment

Enough is enough .
I had always assumed that my line would be if cancel culture ever came for the seminal Christmas movie “ Die Hard , ” but it turns out that it didn ’ t even have to reach that point .
I ’ ve reached critical mass on the absurd attacks of police officers , and there has nary been a mention of John McClane in the zeitgeist .
To get this out of the way , yes , there are bad police officers out there .
They should face the full , unbridled consequences for their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discussions about criminal justice reform are both uncomfortable and absolutely necessary .
But cancel culture isn ’ t just coming for bad police officers or calling for meaningful discussions about criminal justice reform .
No , cancel culture is rather going after … entertainment ?
The most infuriating part of this all is that cancel culture appears to be winning .
“ Cops ” and “ Live PD ” have both been axed for the unforgivable sin of showing police officers performing their day-to-day duties .
As if that wasn ’ t ridiculous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gone after beloved children ’ s show “ PAW Patrol.
” A cartoon about dogs fulfilling various first responder jobs apparently needs to be canceled because Chase the dog portrays a “ good cop.
” Again , cancel culture appeared to get at least a small win given this tweet from the show ’ s official Twitter account : And now , the once venerable Rolling Stone magazine is going after “ Law and Order : SVU ” for reasons that include the fact that viewers likely won ’ t see fictional main @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to hire more police officers of color.
” RELATED : 'The Dukes of Hazzard ' May Soon Be Removed by Amazon for Featuring the Confederate Flag It ’ s not just television .
Video game website Kotaku was particularly upset that Spider-Man had a good working relationship with the New York City Police Department in the web-head ’ s latest digital outing .
“ Many video games depict police as purely altruistic , not reflecting any of the bitter reality of prejudice and violence , ” Kotaku writer Imran Khan wrote .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ publicly supporting causes like resistance against police brutality and black civil rights , or reinforcing a propagandist call to trust police as morally pure heroes , ” Khan added .
That last quote doubles as an apt summary of the general ongoing war against police depiction in entertainment .
Which is all to say , cancel culture ’ s “ with us or against us ” narrative has gotten completely out of hand .
What ’ s wrong with presenting police officers as paragons of virtue ?
What ’ s wrong with setting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not , for cops ?
What ’ s wrong with Chase from “ PAW Patrol ” ?
For the record , here are the answers , in order : Nothing , nothing and absolutely nothing .
Portraying “ good cops ” on television doesn ’ t somehow absolve the bad police officers out there .
If anything , it reminds the societal conscience that this is the standard we should want .
Even if it ’ s an unrealistic standard , coming up well short would likely still produce a quality officer .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ purpose and goal of portraying bad police officers ?
What good can come of that ?
It only deepens the division and worsens the tension between citizens and police .
That , in turn , only amplifies the chances that an encounter between police and civilians turns hostile , or worse yet , deadly .
How does that nurture or improve the relationship between the aggrieved and officers ?
Spoiler alert : It doesn ’ t .
If you ’ ve managed to get this far into this article , I ’ m @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me of being a bootlicker .
Well , I ’ d rather lick the rubber outsole of a shoe than be a mindless , shambling husk of a woke mob ambling toward irreparable division in the United States .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Enough is enough.
I had always assumed that my line would be if cancel culture ever came for the seminal Christmas movie “Die Hard,” but it turns out that it didn’t even have to reach that point.
I’ve reached critical mass on the absurd attacks of police officers, and there has nary been a mention of John McClane in the zeitgeist.
To get this out of the way, yes, there are bad police officers out there. They should face the full, unbridled consequences for their misdeeds.
And, yes, substantive discussions about criminal justice reform are both uncomfortable and absolutely necessary.
But cancel culture isn’t just coming for bad police officers or calling for meaningful discussions about criminal justice reform.
No, cancel culture is rather going after … entertainment?
The most infuriating part of this all is that cancel culture appears to be winning.
“Cops” and “Live PD” have both been axed for the unforgivable sin of showing police officers performing their day-to-day duties.
Do you think cancel culture has gotten out of hand? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 100% (693 Votes) No: 0% (0 Votes)
As if that wasn’t ridiculous enough, social justice advocates have also gone after beloved children’s show “PAW Patrol.” A cartoon about dogs fulfilling various first responder jobs apparently needs to be canceled because Chase the dog portrays a “good cop.”
Again, cancel culture appeared to get at least a small win given this tweet from the show’s official Twitter account:
In solidarity of #amplifymelanatedvoices we will be muting our content until June 7th to give access for Black voices to be heard so we can continue to listen and further our learning. #amplifyblackvoices pic.twitter.com/NO2KeQjpHM — PAW Patrol (@pawpatrol) June 2, 2020
And now, the once venerable Rolling Stone magazine is going after “Law and Order: SVU” for reasons that include the fact that viewers likely won’t see fictional main character Olivia Benson “making an effort to hire more police officers of color.”
It’s not just television. Video game website Kotaku was particularly upset that Spider-Man had a good working relationship with the New York City Police Department in the web-head’s latest digital outing.
“Many video games depict police as purely altruistic, not reflecting any of the bitter reality of prejudice and violence,” Kotaku writer Imran Khan wrote.
“The games will either be seen as publicly supporting causes like resistance against police brutality and black civil rights, or reinforcing a propagandist call to trust police as morally pure heroes,” Khan added.
That last quote doubles as an apt summary of the general ongoing war against police depiction in entertainment. Which is all to say, cancel culture’s “with us or against us” narrative has gotten completely out of hand.
What’s wrong with presenting police officers as paragons of virtue? What’s wrong with setting a fictionally high standard, realistic or not, for cops? What’s wrong with Chase from “PAW Patrol”?
For the record, here are the answers, in order: Nothing, nothing and absolutely nothing.
Portraying “good cops” on television doesn’t somehow absolve the bad police officers out there. If anything, it reminds the societal conscience that this is the standard we should want. Even if it’s an unrealistic standard, coming up well short would likely still produce a quality officer.
More importantly, what’s the purpose and goal of portraying bad police officers? What good can come of that? It only deepens the division and worsens the tension between citizens and police.
That, in turn, only amplifies the chances that an encounter between police and civilians turns hostile, or worse yet, deadly.
How does that nurture or improve the relationship between the aggrieved and officers? Spoiler alert: It doesn’t.
If you’ve managed to get this far into this article, I’m sure there are some that will accuse me of being a bootlicker.
Well, I’d rather lick the rubber outsole of a shoe than be a mindless, shambling husk of a woke mob ambling toward irreparable division in the United States.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-06-13--Judge Trashes Double Jeopardy Argument, Rules New Charges Against Jussie Smollett Can Move Forward

Actor Jussie Smollett on Friday lost his bid to have new charges against him thrown out .
Smollett had initially claimed in a since-discredited account that he was attacked in a racist and homophobic assault in January 2019 .
When that story fell apart , Smollett was charged with 16 counts of disorderly conduct .
Those charges were later dropped by the Cook County prosecutor ’ s office , which in turn was investigated for the manner in which it handled the high-profile case .
Six charges related to Smollett ’ s original claims were later brought against him .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ have dropped .
Smollett ’ s attorneys said their client had performed community service and forfeited his $ 10,000 bond to get out from under the 2019 charges , and therefore any new charges violated his right against double jeopardy , according to WBBM-TV .
“ There was no trial in this case , there was no jury empaneled , no witnesses were sworn , no evidence was heard , no guilty pleas were ever entered … nothing like that every happened , ” Linn said Friday , according to WGN-TV .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Linn said Smollett could not have paid any criminal penalty because with the former “ Empire ” actor legally innocent of charges that were dropped , there was no penalty to pay .
“ You can not have any criminal penalty , whether it ’ s jail , probation , conditional discharge … none of that can be ordered on the innocent or presumed innocent or the unadjudicated , ” Linn said , Deadline reported .
Linn also noted that Judge Michael Toomin said last year that due to the conduct of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Foxx , her office ’ s entire case against Smollett was invalid .
Prosecutor Sean Wieber said no matter what deal Smollett reached with the Cook County State ’ s Attorney ’ s Office , it was not part of any formal plea agreement .
“ We know he didn ’ t participate in [ deferred prosecution ] and instead they say he effectively complied , ” Wieber said .
RELATED : Kanye West Earns Elite Title Less Than a Year After His First Gospel Album “ But effective compliance is no compliance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actual enrollment.
” Smollett has been recently tweaked on Twitter over the case against him : In rejecting Smollett ’ s big for the charges against him to be thrown out , Linn said the court records of the day on which Cook County dropped charges against Smollett was highly irregular .
“ I don ’ t know exactly how to describe it , ” he said , according to the Chicago Tribune .
“ I ’ ve never quite seen a transcript [ or ] anything like that .
Perhaps clarity will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , there are maybe other people to address that … what didn ’ t happen is that double jeopardy attached to that proceeding , ” he added .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Actor Jussie Smollett on Friday lost his bid to have new charges against him thrown out.
Smollett had initially claimed in a since-discredited account that he was attacked in a racist and homophobic assault in January 2019.
When that story fell apart, Smollett was charged with 16 counts of disorderly conduct.
Those charges were later dropped by the Cook County prosecutor’s office, which in turn was investigated for the manner in which it handled the high-profile case.
Six charges related to Smollett’s original claims were later brought against him. Those were the charges Smollett sought to have dropped.
Smollett’s attorneys said their client had performed community service and forfeited his $10,000 bond to get out from under the 2019 charges, and therefore any new charges violated his right against double jeopardy, according to WBBM-TV.
Cook County Circuit Court Judge James Linn disagreed.
“There was no trial in this case, there was no jury empaneled, no witnesses were sworn, no evidence was heard, no guilty pleas were ever entered … nothing like that every happened,” Linn said Friday, according to WGN-TV.
“There was no adjudication of this case.”
Should Jussie Smollett face jail time? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 100% (448 Votes) No: 0% (1 Votes)
Linn said Smollett could not have paid any criminal penalty because with the former “Empire” actor legally innocent of charges that were dropped, there was no penalty to pay.
“You cannot have any criminal penalty, whether it’s jail, probation, conditional discharge … none of that can be ordered on the innocent or presumed innocent or the unadjudicated,” Linn said, Deadline reported.
Linn also noted that Judge Michael Toomin said last year that due to the conduct of Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx, her office’s entire case against Smollett was invalid.
Prosecutor Sean Wieber said no matter what deal Smollett reached with the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, it was not part of any formal plea agreement.
“We know he didn’t participate in [deferred prosecution] and instead they say he effectively complied,” Wieber said.
“But effective compliance is no compliance at all, because there was no actual enrollment.”
Smollett has been recently tweaked on Twitter over the case against him:
I’m old enough to remember that racism in America was SO BAD that Jussie Smollett had to pay his black friends to commit a hate crime. pic.twitter.com/YOBh4q10Zf — Marky Hutt (@MarkyHutt) June 8, 2020
Remember when Jussie Smollett tried to start a race war based on a lie. The left and the Democrats fueled it by jumping on the bandwagon until they found out he lied. We wonder who wrote that script Black people please pay attention! — Diamond and Silk® (@DiamondandSilk) June 13, 2020
In rejecting Smollett’s big for the charges against him to be thrown out, Linn said the court records of the day on which Cook County dropped charges against Smollett was highly irregular.
“I don’t know exactly how to describe it,” he said, according to the Chicago Tribune.
“I’ve never quite seen a transcript [or] anything like that. Perhaps clarity will come about that at some later date, there are maybe other people to address that … what didn’t happen is that double jeopardy attached to that proceeding,” he added.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-06-13--Trump Appoints Mike Lindell To Help Make Minnesota Great Again, Will Chair State Campaign

President Donald Trump has appointed a true American patriot , MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell , to chair his re-election campaign in the state of Minnesota : Lindell , an outspoken supporter of the president , epitomizes the “ America First ” policies embraced by the # MAGA movement .
After all , unlike many business executives who rarely hesitate to send manufacturing jobs overseas , Lindell makes all of his products right here in the United States .
In addition , Lindell has used his success as a force for good as the nation has grappled with hardships over the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ donated his signature product to members of the Minnesota National Guard who had to sleep on the floor as they protected the Twin Cities from the wrath of looters and rioters .
During the coronavirus crisis , Lindell also transformed a 200,000-square-foot factory into a “ mask production powerhouse.
” While Lindell has flirted with the idea of running for office in the past , he could probably do more of a service to the country by serving as Trump ’ s top surrogate in Minnesota .
In a state like Minnesota , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for revitalizing American manufacturing is a winning issue .
Even though Minnesota has not voted for a Republican presidential candidate since 1972 , Trump and the Republicans have reasons for optimism about winning the state .
In 2016 , Trump came within 1.5 percentage points of defeating Hillary Clinton in the state .
Just four years earlier , Mitt Romney lost the North Star State to incumbent President Barack Obama by a margin of more than 7 percentage points .
Minnesota ’ s 10 electoral votes would have been icing on the cake @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his already impressive total of 306 electoral votes .
However , Trump only achieved that victory by winning three critical states by the thinest of margins .
If the president fails to receive the same level of support in certain swing states in 2020 , a win in Minnesota could help make up for losses elsewhere .
In addition to helping Trump carry Minnesota , Lindell could help Republicans win down-ballot races in the state .
Republicans think they have finally found their ideal candidate to beat long-serving congressional Democrat Collin Peterson , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than 30 points .
Peterson , the only House Democrat to vote against impeaching the president , has represented Minnesota ’ s 7th Congressional District for three decades .
RELATED : Democrats and Media Cry Racism Over Trump Resuming Famous Campaign Rallies Former Lt. Gov .
Michelle Fischbach received the president ’ s endorsement for the district , and her entry into the race prompted political observers , including the University of Virginia ’ s Larry Sabato , to rate the race a “ toss-up.
” In contrast to other swing states @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how the presidential race will turn out in Minnesota this fall .
A poll from the left-of-center ( as rated by Media Bias / Fact Check , which itself leans left-of-center ) Minneapolis Star Tribune conducted nearly a month ago found Trump apparently trailing Joe Biden .
In that poll , the former vice president came up just short of receiving majority support in Minnesota .
The poll found Biden capturing 49 percent support to Trump ’ s 44 percent , with a 3.5-point margin of error .
Trump should definitely make winning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strategy .
His smart choice to make Lindell , a well-known figure from his MyPillow commercials , the face of his re-election campaign in the state may enable him to do just that .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

President Donald Trump has appointed a true American patriot, MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell, to chair his re-election campaign in the state of Minnesota:
Thank you @realDonaldTrump for appointing me Chairman of the Minnesota Trump Campaign! We are working hard to help get you re-elected and win Minnesota. We know with your leadership we can make Minnesota great again! pic.twitter.com/dXp3IidUc4 — Mike Lindell (@realMikeLindell) June 11, 2020
Lindell, an outspoken supporter of the president, epitomizes the “America First” policies embraced by the #MAGA movement. After all, unlike many business executives who rarely hesitate to send manufacturing jobs overseas, Lindell makes all of his products right here in the United States.
In addition, Lindell has used his success as a force for good as the nation has grappled with hardships over the past few months.
The MyPillow CEO donated his signature product to members of the Minnesota National Guard who had to sleep on the floor as they protected the Twin Cities from the wrath of looters and rioters. During the coronavirus crisis, Lindell also transformed a 200,000-square-foot factory into a “mask production powerhouse.”
While Lindell has flirted with the idea of running for office in the past, he could probably do more of a service to the country by serving as Trump’s top surrogate in Minnesota. In a state like Minnesota, part of the industrial Midwest, passion for revitalizing American manufacturing is a winning issue.
Even though Minnesota has not voted for a Republican presidential candidate since 1972, Trump and the Republicans have reasons for optimism about winning the state.
In 2016, Trump came within 1.5 percentage points of defeating Hillary Clinton in the state. Just four years earlier, Mitt Romney lost the North Star State to incumbent President Barack Obama by a margin of more than 7 percentage points.
Do you think President Trump will win Minnesota in 2020? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 96% (3538 Votes) No: 4% (159 Votes)
Minnesota’s 10 electoral votes would have been icing on the cake for Trump in 2016, adding to his already impressive total of 306 electoral votes. However, Trump only achieved that victory by winning three critical states by the thinest of margins.
If the president fails to receive the same level of support in certain swing states in 2020, a win in Minnesota could help make up for losses elsewhere.
In addition to helping Trump carry Minnesota, Lindell could help Republicans win down-ballot races in the state.
Republicans think they have finally found their ideal candidate to beat long-serving congressional Democrat Collin Peterson, who represents a district Trump carried by more than 30 points.
Peterson, the only House Democrat to vote against impeaching the president, has represented Minnesota’s 7th Congressional District for three decades.
Former Lt. Gov. Michelle Fischbach received the president’s endorsement for the district, and her entry into the race prompted political observers, including the University of Virginia’s Larry Sabato, to rate the race a “toss-up.”
Michelle @FischbachMN7 is running for Congress in Minnesota. Michelle will protect the unborn, is Strong on Crime & Borders, Cutting Taxes, your #2A, Loves our Military, Vets, & will stand w/ our Great Farmers. Michelle has my Complete & Total Endorsement! https://t.co/qwz5F64dQn — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 2, 2020
In contrast to other swing states, limited polling is available to predict how the presidential race will turn out in Minnesota this fall.
A poll from the left-of-center (as rated by Media Bias / Fact Check, which itself leans left-of-center) Minneapolis Star Tribune conducted nearly a month ago found Trump apparently trailing Joe Biden.
In that poll, the former vice president came up just short of receiving majority support in Minnesota. The poll found Biden capturing 49 percent support to Trump’s 44 percent, with a 3.5-point margin of error.
Trump should definitely make winning Minnesota a key part of his campaign strategy.
His smart choice to make Lindell, a well-known figure from his MyPillow commercials, the face of his re-election campaign in the state may enable him to do just that.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-06-13--California Assembly Passes Reparations Bill, Moves State One Step Closer to Race-Based Payments

California has taken a step closer to paying reparations for slavery .
On Thursday , the state assembly passed a bill that would create an eight-person task force “ to study and develop reparation proposals for African Americans.
” The legislation , which now goes to the state senate , passed 61-12 .
Democratic Assemblywoman Shirley Weber , who introduced the bill , said the legislation was necessary , despite the fact that California entered the U.S. in 1850 as a state where slavery was illegal .
“ The discriminatory practices of the past echo into the everyday lives of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , leader of the Legislative Black Caucus , told The Associated Press .
“ This country has taught itself to hate African-Americans and to deny the history that has brought us here , ” she said at a news conference last week while urging colleagues to support the bill , according to the San Francisco Chronicle .
Lisa Holder , an attorney who teaches civil rights at UCLA School of Law , said the issue of reparations should be linked to discrimination and not slavery .
“ The response really has to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ injustice that started back in 1619 when Africans were stolen from Africa and brought here as enslaved people , ” Holder told the AP .
“ Then you don ’ t get into this messy , unintelligible notion of who is directly linked to a slave , ” she said .
The legislation seeks to delve into the past to fully expose the extent of slavery in the country , according to the bill ’ s text .
“ This bill would establish the Task Force to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” it reads .
“ The bill would require the Task Force to , among other things , identify , compile , and synthesize the relevant corpus of evidentiary documentation of the institution of slavery that existed within the United States and the colonies.
” The bill said the task force , which must be convened by Democratic Gov .
Gavin Newsom no later than June 1 , 2021 , must have four members with a history of supporting reparations .
According to the legislation : “ As a result of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continue to suffer debilitating economic , educational , and health hardships ” which include “ [ h ] aving nearly 1,000,000 black people incarcerated ” and “ [ a ] n unemployment rate more than twice the current white unemployment rate.
” The committee will base its call for reparations on “ the lingering negative effects of the institution of slavery and the discrimination … on living African Americans and on society in California and the United States , ” according to the bill .
The bill said the issue of reparations will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ instructional resources and technologies are being used to deny the inhumanity of slavery and the crime against humanity of people of African descent in California and the United States.
” The task force will also asses “ [ h ] ow the State of California will offer a formal apology on behalf of the people of California for the perpetration of gross human rights violations and crimes against humanity on African slaves and their descendants , ” according to the bill , and “ [ h ] ow California laws and policies that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Americans as a group and perpetuate the lingering material and psychosocial effects of slavery can be eliminated.
” The panel will be charged with determining how compensation is to be calculated and awarded .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

California has taken a step closer to paying reparations for slavery.
On Thursday, the state assembly passed a bill that would create an eight-person task force “to study and develop reparation proposals for African Americans.”
The legislation, which now goes to the state senate, passed 61-12.
Democratic Assemblywoman Shirley Weber, who introduced the bill, said the legislation was necessary, despite the fact that California entered the U.S. in 1850 as a state where slavery was illegal.
“The discriminatory practices of the past echo into the everyday lives of today’s Californians,” Weber, leader of the Legislative Black Caucus, told The Associated Press.
“This country has taught itself to hate African-Americans and to deny the history that has brought us here,” she said at a news conference last week while urging colleagues to support the bill, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.
Lisa Holder, an attorney who teaches civil rights at UCLA School of Law, said the issue of reparations should be linked to discrimination and not slavery.
“The response really has to be framed around the issue of continuing racial injustice that started back in 1619 when Africans were stolen from Africa and brought here as enslaved people,” Holder told the AP.
“Then you don’t get into this messy, unintelligible notion of who is directly linked to a slave,” she said.
Are reparations for slavery a bad idea? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 98% (4285 Votes) No: 2% (68 Votes)
The legislation seeks to delve into the past to fully expose the extent of slavery in the country, according to the bill’s text.
“This bill would establish the Task Force to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African Americans, consisting of 8 members,” it reads. “The bill would require the Task Force to, among other things, identify, compile, and synthesize the relevant corpus of evidentiary documentation of the institution of slavery that existed within the United States and the colonies.”
The bill said the task force, which must be convened by Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom no later than June 1, 2021, must have four members with a history of supporting reparations.
According to the legislation: “As a result of the historic and continued discrimination, African Americans continue to suffer debilitating economic, educational, and health hardships” which include “[h]aving nearly 1,000,000 black people incarcerated” and “[a]n unemployment rate more than twice the current white unemployment rate.”
The committee will base its call for reparations on “the lingering negative effects of the institution of slavery and the discrimination … on living African Americans and on society in California and the United States,” according to the bill.
The bill said the issue of reparations will also consider “The manner in which instructional resources and technologies are being used to deny the inhumanity of slavery and the crime against humanity of people of African descent in California and the United States.”
The task force will also asses “[h]ow the State of California will offer a formal apology on behalf of the people of California for the perpetration of gross human rights violations and crimes against humanity on African slaves and their descendants,” according to the bill, and “[h]ow California laws and policies that continue to disproportionately and negatively affect African Americans as a group and perpetuate the lingering material and psychosocial effects of slavery can be eliminated.”
The panel will be charged with determining how compensation is to be calculated and awarded.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-06-13--‘Bee Whisperer’ Goes Viral, Removes ‘Largest Hive’ He’d Ever Seen

Everybody has heard of the dog whisperer , Cesar Millan , but how many have heard of Tennessee ’ s “ Bartlett Bee Whisperer ” ?
David Glover is known around the Memphis area for safely removing honeybee hives from the homes of residents , but unlike an exterminator , he extracts the bees and sends them to live on farms .
Glover has come in contact with some pretty massive hives over the years , but his most recent discovery makes some of the others seem like child ’ s play .
On Tuesday , the “ Bartlett Bee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ awaiting a remodel and discovered more than 30 feet of honeycomb packed inside the walls of the house .
“ Over the years I ’ ve removed some big hives .
I even had one go viral , ‘ Holy Huge Comb , ’ A couple of years ago .
Monday I removed the largest hive I ’ ve ever come across .
Coming in at over 30 feet of combs , this was the big one , ” Glover wrote on a viral Facebook photo album .
During the extraction , Glover @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one colony in the large hive ; there were two colonies and two queen bees .
“ As we were finishing up the removal , another swarm of bees moved in and were trying to move into the house , ” Glover told WREG .
“ So , we were able to capture a second queen in the swarm .
So , we left with two complete colonies of bees.
” After he safely extracted the bees , they were sent off to a local honeybee farm where they would thrive as an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ They ’ re very important , ” he said .
“ Not just to our ecosystem because we like honey , but for agriculture .
In 2018 , that was worth about $ 29 billion of added agriculture just from the pollination services .
So , it ’ s very important that these bees in people ’ s houses get put back out on farms.
” This isn ’ t the first time Glover ’ s had a honeycomb discovery go viral .
In 2018 , the bee whisperer was called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , after the residents hired an unsuccessful exterminator .
What Glover discovered was much larger than he expected , and at the time , it was the largest hive he ’ d ever come across .
“ This is what I mean by AWESOME .
The comb wasn ’ t overly-attached to the bricks AND this is one of the largest single pieces of comb I ’ ve ever seen !
” Glover wrote in a Facebook post that received more than 2,500 shares .
The U.S. Department of Agriculture released a report @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had regarding honeybees and their contribution to agriculture .
According to the report , bee pollination of goods like nuts , berries , fruits and vegetables make up nearly $ 15 billion in the agricultural industry .
So , the next time you have a honeybee infestation inside the walls of your home , consider the positive impact they have on our Earth and reach out not to an exterminator , but to an extractor like “ The Bartlett Bee Whisperer.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Everybody has heard of the dog whisperer, Cesar Millan, but how many have heard of Tennessee’s “Bartlett Bee Whisperer”?
David Glover is known around the Memphis area for safely removing honeybee hives from the homes of residents, but unlike an exterminator, he extracts the bees and sends them to live on farms.
Glover has come in contact with some pretty massive hives over the years, but his most recent discovery makes some of the others seem like child’s play.
On Tuesday, the “Bartlett Bee Whisperer” went to a local home awaiting a remodel and discovered more than 30 feet of honeycomb packed inside the walls of the house.
“Over the years I’ve removed some big hives. I even had one go viral, ‘Holy Huge Comb,’ A couple of years ago. Monday I removed the largest hive I’ve ever come across. Coming in at over 30 feet of combs, this was the big one,” Glover wrote on a viral Facebook photo album.
During the extraction, Glover discovered that there wasn’t just one colony in the large hive; there were two colonies and two queen bees.
“As we were finishing up the removal, another swarm of bees moved in and were trying to move into the house,” Glover told WREG. “So, we were able to capture a second queen in the swarm. So, we left with two complete colonies of bees.”
After he safely extracted the bees, they were sent off to a local honeybee farm where they would thrive as an important part of Earth’s ecosystem.
“They’re very important,” he said. “Not just to our ecosystem because we like honey, but for agriculture. In 2018, that was worth about $29 billion of added agriculture just from the pollination services. So, it’s very important that these bees in people’s houses get put back out on farms.”
This isn’t the first time Glover’s had a honeycomb discovery go viral. In 2018, the bee whisperer was called to a home in Germantown, Tennessee, after the residents hired an unsuccessful exterminator.
What Glover discovered was much larger than he expected, and at the time, it was the largest hive he’d ever come across.
“This is what I mean by AWESOME. The comb wasn’t overly-attached to the bricks AND this is one of the largest single pieces of comb I’ve ever seen!” Glover wrote in a Facebook post that received more than 2,500 shares.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture released a report in 2007 echoing similar concerns that Glover had regarding honeybees and their contribution to agriculture.
According to the report, bee pollination of goods like nuts, berries, fruits and vegetables make up nearly $15 billion in the agricultural industry.
So, the next time you have a honeybee infestation inside the walls of your home, consider the positive impact they have on our Earth and reach out not to an exterminator, but to an extractor like “The Bartlett Bee Whisperer.”
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-06-13--Tom Cotton: New York Times Putting ‘Lives In Danger’ with Anti-Police Column

Sen. Tom Cotton blasted The New York Times over an Op-Ed the newspaper published Friday calling on cities to abolish their police departments , saying that the column put Americans “ lives in danger.
” “ Running this column puts lives in danger , ” Cotton wrote on Twitter in response to an Op-Ed from activist Mariame Kaba entitled “ Yes , We Mean Literally Abolish the Police.
” Cotton was using the same line of argument that a group of New York Times staffers adopted to force the newspaper to apologize for running an Op-Ed from the Arkansas Republican @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Op-Ed , Cotton called on the national guard to tamp down on looting and rioting that stemmed from protests over the death of George Floyd , a 46-year-old black man killed in police custody in Minneapolis on May 25 .
A group of Times staffers openly revolted over the Cotton Op-Ed , saying that it put the lives of the newspapers ’ black staffers in danger .
The Times caved in to the internal pressure by firing its opinion page editor and attaching several editor ’ s notes to Cotton ’ s article @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for bending over backwards to appease the “ woke children ” on the newspaper ’ s staff .
Cotton also pointed out that his Op-Ed differentiated between peaceful protesters , whom he said he supports , and rioters and looters who descended on numerous cities across the U.S. Kaba ’ s Op-Ed echoed the arguments of “ Defund the Police ” movement that sprung up in the wake of Floyd ’ s death .
Some activists who support the spirit of the defund the police movement have said that the slogan is not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be shut down .
Instead , they assert that police departments need to reallocate resources toward social services .
Some Democratic lawmakers — including former Vice President Joe Biden — have said that they do not support defunding police departments , instead supporting widespread reforms .
But Kaba rejects those half measures in her Op-Ed , writing that police departments are beyond reform .
“ Enough , ” she writes .
“ We can ’ t reform the police .
The only way to diminish police violence is to reduce contact between the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump To Withdraw US from Open Skies Treaty “ But don ’ t get me wrong .
We are not abandoning our communities to violence .
We don ’ t want to just close police departments .
We want to make them obsolete.
” “ We should redirect the billions that now go to police departments toward providing health care , housing , education and good jobs .
“ If we did this , there would be less need for the police in the first place , ” she claimed .
A version @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Caller News Foundation website .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Sen. Tom Cotton blasted The New York Times over an Op-Ed the newspaper published Friday calling on cities to abolish their police departments, saying that the column put Americans “lives in danger.”
“Running this column puts lives in danger,” Cotton wrote on Twitter in response to an Op-Ed from activist Mariame Kaba entitled “Yes, We Mean Literally Abolish the Police.”
Cotton was using the same line of argument that a group of New York Times staffers adopted to force the newspaper to apologize for running an Op-Ed from the Arkansas Republican published on June 3.
In the Op-Ed, Cotton called on the national guard to tamp down on looting and rioting that stemmed from protests over the death of George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man killed in police custody in Minneapolis on May 25.
A group of Times staffers openly revolted over the Cotton Op-Ed, saying that it put the lives of the newspapers’ black staffers in danger.
The Times caved in to the internal pressure by firing its opinion page editor and attaching several editor’s notes to Cotton’s article. Cotton responded by mocking The Times for bending over backwards to appease the “woke children” on the newspaper’s staff.
Cotton also pointed out that his Op-Ed differentiated between peaceful protesters, whom he said he supports, and rioters and looters who descended on numerous cities across the U.S.
Running this column puts lives in danger. pic.twitter.com/SkESdnYpX2 — Tom Cotton (@TomCottonAR) June 13, 2020
Kaba’s Op-Ed echoed the arguments of “Defund the Police” movement that sprung up in the wake of Floyd’s death.
Do you agree that The New York Times is putting lives in danger with its editorial choices? 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% (74 Votes) No: 1% (1 Votes)
Some activists who support the spirit of the defund the police movement have said that the slogan is not meant to convey that police departments should be shut down. Instead, they assert that police departments need to reallocate resources toward social services.
Some Democratic lawmakers — including former Vice President Joe Biden — have said that they do not support defunding police departments, instead supporting widespread reforms.
But Kaba rejects those half measures in her Op-Ed, writing that police departments are beyond reform.
“Enough,” she writes. “We can’t reform the police. The only way to diminish police violence is to reduce contact between the public and the police.”
“But don’t get me wrong. We are not abandoning our communities to violence. We don’t want to just close police departments. We want to make them obsolete.”
“We should redirect the billions that now go to police departments toward providing health care, housing, education and good jobs.
“If we did this, there would be less need for the police in the first place,” she claimed.
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.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-06-13--Ohio Animal Hospital Offering Free Care of Police Horses Injured During Riots

The aftermath of a riot is devastating .
Business owners are left to pick up the pieces of their livelihoods , and many people on both sides walk away with injuries .
But when animals get involved , people get even more upset .
They ’ re innocent bystanders , whether they ’ ve been pressed into service or were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time .
Mounted cops have responded to many scenes where protesting has devolved into violent behavior , and the situations have been every bit as dangerous for the horses as they have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are big , powerful animals , they can become dangerous in a matter of seconds if they get spooked .
During violent protests , when items start getting lobbed at cops , they often strike the horses as well and things can get out of hand very quickly .
In London , a mounted cop was injured when her horse got frightened and started running .
The cop was knocked out of her saddle and , according to the Metropolitan Police , was receiving hospital treatment for non-life-threatening injuries .
The horse made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In Dallas , a police horse named Cash was injured when a protester threw a large rock at its face .
While the horse was wearing an eye guard , the brick appeared to have caught him on the cheek and gashed him open .
Photos showed police and firefighters using towels to staunch the bleeding .
As of June 2 , Cash was reportedly doing well and was on the mend .
“ Cash is healing nicely , ” the Dallas Police Department Tactical Support Unit shared on Facebook .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their concern and get well wishes !
” RELATED : 'Bee Whisperer ' Goes Viral , Removes 'Largest Hive ' He 'd Ever Seen On May 30 , the Animal Eye Institute of Cincinnati , Ohio , made a generous offer for any horses in their area like Cash who might need medical attention after sustaining riot- or protest-related injuries .
“ We aren ’ t in any way going to get political here , but if any police horses have eye injuries from protests from Columbus down to Lexington , we will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ posted , using a photo of Cash to highlight their point .
“ Just call the office or send us an email .
The big gentle giants don ’ t deserve to be hurt.
” Hopefully no more horses will be injured and no police departments will have to take up the medical group ’ s offer , but it ’ s a kind gesture , and it ’ s reassuring to know that there are people out there who care and are willing to help where they can .
We are committed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The aftermath of a riot is devastating. Business owners are left to pick up the pieces of their livelihoods, and many people on both sides walk away with injuries.
But when animals get involved, people get even more upset. They’re innocent bystanders, whether they’ve been pressed into service or were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Tear gas fired after objects thrown at mounded officers during downtown protests. https://t.co/3HKAU4Bz41 pic.twitter.com/LoPzMxGR0J — NBC4 Columbus (@nbc4i) May 30, 2020
Mounted cops have responded to many scenes where protesting has devolved into violent behavior, and the situations have been every bit as dangerous for the horses as they have been for the people.
While horses are big, powerful animals, they can become dangerous in a matter of seconds if they get spooked. During violent protests, when items start getting lobbed at cops, they often strike the horses as well and things can get out of hand very quickly.
In London, a mounted cop was injured when her horse got frightened and started running. The cop was knocked out of her saddle and, according to the Metropolitan Police, was receiving hospital treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. The horse made its way safely home to the stables.
In Dallas, a police horse named Cash was injured when a protester threw a large rock at its face. While the horse was wearing an eye guard, the brick appeared to have caught him on the cheek and gashed him open.
Photos showed police and firefighters using towels to staunch the bleeding.
@DallasPD horse Cash was injured by a large rock. @DallasFireRes_q and police officers work to stop the bleeding. The suspected rock thrower in jail charged with assault on a police animal.#Dallas #GeorgeFloyd @FOX4 @GoodDayFox4 pic.twitter.com/n07Q1mRvoA — FOX4Terry (@FOX4Terry) May 30, 2020
As of June 2, Cash was reportedly doing well and was on the mend.
“Cash is healing nicely,” the Dallas Police Department Tactical Support Unit shared on Facebook. “We would like to thank everyone for their concern and get well wishes!”
On May 30, the Animal Eye Institute of Cincinnati, Ohio, made a generous offer for any horses in their area like Cash who might need medical attention after sustaining riot- or protest-related injuries.
“We aren’t in any way going to get political here, but if any police horses have eye injuries from protests from Columbus down to Lexington, we will treat them for free,” they posted, using a photo of Cash to highlight their point.
“Just call the office or send us an email. The big gentle giants don’t deserve to be hurt.”
Hopefully no more horses will be injured and no police departments will have to take up the medical group’s offer, but it’s a kind gesture, and it’s reassuring to know that there are people out there who care and are willing to help where they can.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-06-13--Fire Breaks Out Near Seattle ‘Autonomous Zone,’ Protesters Reportedly Left with No Choice But To Pho

Fire Breaks Out Near Seattle ‘Autonomous Zone,’ Protesters Reportedly Left with No Choice But To Phone City for Help

Over the past week , multiple blocks of the Capitol Hill neighborhood in Seattle have been occupied by anti-police protesters .
These vagabonds , social misfits and apparently otherwise unskilled people have declared the area as independent from the United States , and they are calling it the “ Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone , ” or CHAZ for short .
One of the first thing the founders of the CHAZ did was create their own borders — and they are enforcing them .
The budding independent region of leftists has its own armed guards — essentially a police force meant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out of the area .
But the anti-American and ironically anti-law enforcement region has no fire department .
It must be hard going out on your own , because the self-appointed leaders of this autonomous area seemed unprepared to handle a curve ball which was thrown at them this week .
A dumpster fire struck near the CHAZ border Wednesday night , and demonstrators were reportedly forced to take drastic measures : They apparently had to seek international aide by calling Seattle ’ s fire department .
Townhall reporter Julio Rosas , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week covering the protesters ’ activities , documented the hilarity of the incident .
“ Dumpster fire started just outside the boundary of the ‘ Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone , ’ ” Rosas reported .
Minutes later , Rosas posted an update about the fire .
“ Protesters called the fire department about the dumpster fire , ” he tweeted .
The images show Seattle firefighters working to douse the flames .
While images of the demonstrators this week appear to show more than enough personnel in the area who could have helped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ small fire , the area ’ s occupiers apparently chose instead to call the system that they are protesting for perceived racial inequality — which sent firefighters to clean up after them .
That is a privilege not afforded to many new nations facing oppression from a parent country .
The British , for instance , never sent any such aide to their American adversaries after the Battles of Lexington and Concord .
At least President Donald Trump has publicly recognized the start-up region ’ s presence : Still , it might take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out how to govern themselves , now that they ’ ve apparently obtained their independence .
The people of the CHAZ are working to build a food supply to begin feeding themselves in the form of a tomato garden planted in the neighborhood ’ s Cal Anderson Park .
It looks like it ’ s going well : But without basic services , such as a fire department , it ’ s only a matter of time before the next dumpster fire strikes .
Then again , a dumpster fire is a great @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looks like .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Over the past week, multiple blocks of the Capitol Hill neighborhood in Seattle have been occupied by anti-police protesters.
These vagabonds, social misfits and apparently otherwise unskilled people have declared the area as independent from the United States, and they are calling it the “Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone,” or CHAZ for short.
One of the first thing the founders of the CHAZ did was create their own borders — and they are enforcing them.
The budding independent region of leftists has its own armed guards — essentially a police force meant to keep people who are deemed undesirable out of the area.
CHAZ was established to get rid of police brutality, walls, and stop-and-frisk. They’ve replaced them with brutality by armed bands, fences, and stop-and-frisk. Tom Wolfe could not write better parody. — Ben Shapiro (@benshapiro) June 11, 2020
But the anti-American and ironically anti-law enforcement region has no fire department.
It must be hard going out on your own, because the self-appointed leaders of this autonomous area seemed unprepared to handle a curveball that was thrown at them this week.
A dumpster fire struck near the CHAZ border Wednesday night, and demonstrators were reportedly forced to take drastic measures: They apparently had to seek international aid by calling Seattle’s fire department.
Do you think it is time for the federal government to intervene in Seattle? 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: 89% (8924 Votes) No: 11% (1065 Votes)
Townhall reporter Julio Rosas, who has been embedded in the area this week covering the protesters’ activities, documented the hilarity of the incident.
“Dumpster fire started just outside the boundary of the ‘Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone,’” Rosas reported.
Dumpster fire started just outside the boundary of the “Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone.” pic.twitter.com/YhHQYqjXDX — Julio Rosas (@Julio_Rosas11) June 11, 2020
Minutes later, Rosas posted an update about the fire.
“Protesters called the fire department about the dumpster fire,” he tweeted.
Protesters called the fire department about the dumpster fire. pic.twitter.com/Fkd7VAzuN2 — Julio Rosas (@Julio_Rosas11) June 11, 2020
The images show Seattle firefighters working to douse the flames.
While images of the demonstrators this week appear to show more than enough personnel in the area who could have helped to carry water and put out the small fire, the area’s occupiers apparently chose instead to call the system that they are protesting for perceived racial inequality — which sent firefighters to clean up after them.
That is a privilege not afforded to many new nations facing oppression from a parent country. The British, for instance, never sent any such aid to their American adversaries after the Battles of Lexington and Concord.
At least President Donald Trump has publicly recognized the start-up region’s presence:
Domestic Terrorists have taken over Seattle, run by Radical Left Democrats, of course. LAW & ORDER! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 11, 2020
Radical Left Governor @JayInslee and the Mayor of Seattle are being taunted and played at a level that our great Country has never seen before. Take back your city NOW. If you don’t do it, I will. This is not a game. These ugly Anarchists must be stopped IMMEDIATELY. MOVE FAST! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 11, 2020
Still, it might take some time for these rebels to figure out how to govern themselves, now that they’ve apparently obtained their independence.
The people of the CHAZ are working to build a food supply to begin feeding themselves in the form of a tomato garden planted in the neighborhood’s Cal Anderson Park.
It looks like it’s going well:
An update on the community gardens in the CHAZ: wiring has been placed around the plots and yes, that’s cardboard underneath the soil. pic.twitter.com/9YJ1GPV48D — Julio Rosas (@Julio_Rosas11) June 13, 2020
But without basic services, such as a fire department, it’s only a matter of time before the next dumpster fire strikes.
Then again, a dumpster fire is a great metaphor for what leftist, autonomous self-rule looks like.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.