westernjournal--2020-06-17--Tucker Carlson Leaps to Top of Cable News Ratings Following Controversy Over BLM

Fox News host Tucker Carlson topped all comers in cable news ratings on Monday after a week in which the conservative pundit lost advertisers over comments he made about protests following the death of George Floyd .
Carlson drew nearly 4.2 million viewers during Monday ’ s 8 p.m. Eastern prime-time slot , coming in ahead of fellow Fox News personality Sean Hannity , who normally enjoys the largest news audience on cable , TVNewser reported .
Hannity drew approximately 3.7 million viewers at 9 p.m. Eastern and FNC ’ s “ The Five ” came in third , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ The Rachel Maddow Show ” was the top drawer among non-Fox programming , with an audience of 2.7 million at 9 p.m. Eastern .
Carlson lost some high-profile advertisers last week after he said the protests following the death of George Floyd are “ definitely not about black lives.
” Among those pulling ads were ABC , whose parent company is Disney , T-Mobile and Papa John ’ s Pizza .
In a segment that aired on June 8 , Carlson said regarding the protests , “ No matter what they tell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do with black lives .
If only it did.
” “ If Democratic leaders cared about saving the lives of black people — and they should — they wouldn ’ t ignore the murder of thousands of black men in their cities every year.
” “ They would instead do their very best to improve the public schools and to encourage intact families.
” He concluded , “ This may be a lot of things , this moment we are living through , but it is definitely not about black lives and remember @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and at this rate , they will.
” The hashtag “ IStandWithTuckerCarlson ” was trending on Twitter on Friday .
BlazeTV host Elijah Schaffer was among those voicing his support .
“ The mob will stop at nothing to destroy the lives of anyone who criticizes them , ” he wrote .
“ Advertiser exodus is the new book burning , canceling anyone you disagree with , ” Schaffer added .
Fox News contributor Lisa Boothe tweeted on Wednesday that she believes Carlson is drawing such a large audience because people are looking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there is a reason Tucker Carlson and Joe Rogan are thriving right now in the current media landscape , ” Boothe wrote .
“ People are hungry for fearlessness and independent thinking when so many engage in groupthink.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Fox News host Tucker Carlson topped all comers in cable news ratings on Monday after a week in which the conservative pundit lost advertisers over comments he made about protests following the death of George Floyd.
Carlson drew nearly 4.2 million viewers during Monday’s 8 p.m. Eastern prime-time slot, coming in ahead of fellow Fox News personality Sean Hannity, who normally enjoys the largest news audience on cable, TVNewser reported.
Hannity drew approximately 3.7 million viewers at 9 p.m. Eastern and FNC’s “The Five” came in third, with about 3.3 million.
MSNBC’s “The Rachel Maddow Show” was the top drawer among non-Fox programming, with an audience of 2.7 million at 9 p.m. Eastern.
Carlson lost some high-profile advertisers last week after he said the protests following the death of George Floyd are “definitely not about black lives.”
Among those pulling ads were ABC, whose parent company is Disney, T-Mobile and Papa John’s Pizza.
In a segment that aired on June 8, Carlson said regarding the protests, “No matter what they tell you, it has very little to do with black lives. If only it did.”
Do you support Tucker Carlson? Yes No
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“If Democratic leaders cared about saving the lives of black people — and they should — they wouldn’t ignore the murder of thousands of black men in their cities every year.”
“They wouldn’t put abortion clinics in black neighborhoods,” Carlson said.
“They would instead do their very best to improve the public schools and to encourage intact families.”
He concluded, “This may be a lot of things, this moment we are living through, but it is definitely not about black lives and remember that when they come for you, and at this rate, they will.”
The hashtag “IStandWithTuckerCarlson” was trending on Twitter on Friday.
BlazeTV host Elijah Schaffer was among those voicing his support.
“The mob will stop at nothing to destroy the lives of anyone who criticizes them,” he wrote.
“Advertiser exodus is the new book burning, canceling anyone you disagree with,” Schaffer added.
#IStandWithTuckerCarlson On the streets & online The mob will stop at nothing to destroy the lives of anyone who criticizes them Be prepared when they come after you It will happen eventually Advertiser exodus is the new book burning, canceling anyone you disagree with https://t.co/uRs3HKeKmv — ELIJAH SCHAFFER (@ElijahSchaffer) June 12, 2020
Fox News contributor Lisa Boothe tweeted on Wednesday that she believes Carlson is drawing such a large audience because people are looking for independent thinking.
“I think there is a reason Tucker Carlson and Joe Rogan are thriving right now in the current media landscape,” Boothe wrote.
I think there is a reason Tucker Carlson and Joe Rogan are thriving right now in the current media landscape. People are hungry for fearlessness and independent thinking when so many engage in groupthink. — Lisa Boothe (@LisaMarieBoothe) June 17, 2020
“People are hungry for fearlessness and independent thinking when so many engage in groupthink.”
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westernjournal--2020-06-17--Presidential Nominee Says Libertarian Party the ‘True Outsiders’ for ‘Fed-Up’ Electorate

With recent election cycles giving way to rapid increases in negative partisanship and social animosity , according to Pew Research Center , political battle lines are being drawn tighter than ever before in the United States — and the window for a third-party presidential run just seems to be growing thinner .
According to 2020 Libertarian Party presidential nominee Jo Jorgensen , however , now may be just the time for third-party players to make their case to a “ fed-up ” American electorate .
The political appetite for an “ outsider ” is strong , Jorgensen told The Western @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Craving a such a candidate , the American public chose billionaire real estate mogul Donald Trump for the presidency in 2016 , largely as a referendum on the Washington establishment .
Many voted for Trump in hopes that he would put an end to D.C. drudgery by balancing the budget , curtailing military interventionism overseas and shrinking the scope of government .
In the eyes of many conservatives , Trump has come through on his campaign promises , with 85 percent of Republicans approving of his job performance in recent Gallup polling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ results have been lackluster .
The reason ?
She says America had been looking for its outsider in all the wrong places .
“ Trump was seen as an outsider , and one of the reasons that the polls got it wrong was that they didn ’ t poll people who either had never voted or hadn ’ t voted in 20 years because they were so fed up with the system , ” Jorgensen said .
“ Their attitude was , ‘ We ’ re fed up , we want something different.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump and he was supposed to come in and balance the budget , get rid of the deficit and give us smaller government .
And just like every other Republican , he ’ s given us bigger government.
” “ What I want to say to those Trump voters is , ‘ We are what you are looking for when you are looking for smaller government , ' ” she added .
“ If you really want something different , then take a look at us , because we are the true outsider.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Libertarian Party , according to her official campaign website , Jorgensen has been something of a political outsider since 1980 , when she cast her first Libertarian presidential ballot for Ed Clark .
Her first personal foray into politics was a 1992 run for South Carolina ’ s 4th Congressional district .
Despite falling to Republican Bob Inglis , the young third-party candidate still managed to make waves on the congressional debate stage , and was referred to by local media as “ a rose between two thorns.
” In 1996 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ herself to the party ’ s vice presidential nomination , campaigning in 38 states with Harry Browne at the top of the ticket .
The candidate has not ventured far from the private sector throughout her career , however , running two software-related companies and founding a business consulting start-up in 2002 .
She also holds a doctorate in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Clemson University .
RELATED : Trump 's Return Rally is Now Up in the Air After 'Overwhelming Response' Jorgensen ’ s May 23 nomination — she earned 51 percent of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Libertarian Party ’ s first ever female presidential candidate .
Prior to Jorgensen ’ s nomination , former Republican New Mexico Gov .
Gary Johnson had twice in a row topped the Libertarian ticket , first in 2012 and again in 2016 , pulling a record share of the national popular vote for a Libertarian candidate in the most recent presidential election with more than 4 million votes ( 3.3 percent ) .
The result signaled potential electoral traction for the party , which has historically struggled to break above 1 percent in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ believed by partisans and centrists alike to be radical or unpalatable due to its socially liberal values or support for mass decentralization of the federal government .
Jorgensen pushed back against such perceptions in her interview with The Western Journal , indicating a small-government platform was no more radical than that of a politician seeking to raise taxes or expand the scope of the state .
“ What I think a radical candidate is , is taking over half your money and then spending it on stuff you don ’ t want , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ special interests , ” Jorgensen said .
“ How about letting people keep their money , and then they get to spend it where they want ?
” “ They get to choose who is doing a good enough job to earn their business , not the government , because once you have the government bureaucrats , then it goes to their friends and special interests and lobbyists , and that ’ s not where the money should go , ” she added .
Some of Jorgensen ’ s principle policy proposals include @ @ @ @ @ @ @ U.S. an “ armed and neutral ” nation on the world stage , eliminating the Department of Education , cutting taxes at every level and providing a system in which the American people have the opportunity to “ opt out ” of Social Security .
The candidate remains confident this platform will do her well , resonating with the average American .
Fears , however , continue to persist within the Libertarian Party that the electorate will continue to avoid voting third party in an effort to retain votes for the major party @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out of office .
“ There are a lot of people who are concerned about the spoiler effect — and when I ask them , ‘ Well , do you think government is too big or too small ?
’ First of all , they usually laugh when I ask them if they think government is too small , because most people don ’ t think that .
But then I follow up with , ‘ Well , if you don ’ t want big government , then why are you voting for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Why would you vote for something you do not want ?
How about voting for something that you do want ?
” The Western Journal ’ s Joe Setyon contributed to this report .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

With recent election cycles giving way to rapid increases in negative partisanship and social animosity, according to Pew Research Center, political battle lines are being drawn tighter than ever before in the United States — and the window for a third-party presidential run just seems to be growing thinner.
According to 2020 Libertarian Party presidential nominee Jo Jorgensen, however, now may be just the time for third-party players to make their case to a “fed-up” American electorate.
The political appetite for an “outsider” is strong, Jorgensen told The Western Journal in a telephone interview last week. Craving a such a candidate, the American public chose billionaire real estate mogul Donald Trump for the presidency in 2016, largely as a referendum on the Washington establishment.
Many voted for Trump in hopes that he would put an end to D.C. drudgery by balancing the budget, curtailing military interventionism overseas and shrinking the scope of government.
In the eyes of many conservatives, Trump has come through on his campaign promises, with 85 percent of Republicans approving of his job performance in recent Gallup polling.
But according to Jorgensen, the results have been lackluster. The reason? She says America had been looking for its outsider in all the wrong places.
“Trump was seen as an outsider, and one of the reasons that the polls got it wrong was that they didn’t poll people who either had never voted or hadn’t voted in 20 years because they were so fed up with the system,” Jorgensen said.
“Their attitude was, ‘We’re fed up, we want something different.’ And so, they voted for Trump and he was supposed to come in and balance the budget, get rid of the deficit and give us smaller government. And just like every other Republican, he’s given us bigger government.”
“What I want to say to those Trump voters is, ‘We are what you are looking for when you are looking for smaller government,'” she added. “If you really want something different, then take a look at us, because we are the true outsider.”
The Libertarian Rose
A “Life Member” of the Libertarian Party, according to her official campaign website, Jorgensen has been something of a political outsider since 1980, when she cast her first Libertarian presidential ballot for Ed Clark.
Her first personal foray into politics was a 1992 run for South Carolina’s 4th Congressional district. Despite falling to Republican Bob Inglis, the young third-party candidate still managed to make waves on the congressional debate stage, and was referred to by local media as “a rose between two thorns.”
In 1996, the recognition paid dividends as Jorgensen elevated herself to the party’s vice presidential nomination, campaigning in 38 states with Harry Browne at the top of the ticket.
The candidate has not ventured far from the private sector throughout her career, however, running two software-related companies and founding a business consulting start-up in 2002. She also holds a doctorate in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Clemson University.
Jorgensen’s May 23 nomination — she earned 51 percent of the 1,026-delegate vote — officially made her the Libertarian Party’s first ever female presidential candidate.
Running Radical?
Prior to Jorgensen’s nomination, former Republican New Mexico Gov. Gary Johnson had twice in a row topped the Libertarian ticket, first in 2012 and again in 2016, pulling a record share of the national popular vote for a Libertarian candidate in the most recent presidential election with more than 4 million votes (3.3 percent).
Would you ever vote third party? 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: 39% (90 Votes) No: 61% (138 Votes)
The result signaled potential electoral traction for the party, which has historically struggled to break above 1 percent in the popular vote and has long been believed by partisans and centrists alike to be radical or unpalatable due to its socially liberal values or support for mass decentralization of the federal government.
Jorgensen pushed back against such perceptions in her interview with The Western Journal, indicating a small-government platform was no more radical than that of a politician seeking to raise taxes or expand the scope of the state.
“What I think a radical candidate is, is taking over half your money and then spending it on stuff you don’t want, spending it on tanks and favoring … special interests,” Jorgensen said. “How about letting people keep their money, and then they get to spend it where they want?”
“They get to choose who is doing a good enough job to earn their business, not the government, because once you have the government bureaucrats, then it goes to their friends and special interests and lobbyists, and that’s not where the money should go,” she added.
Pulling Votes or Playing to Principle?
Some of Jorgensen’s principle policy proposals include balancing the federal budget, turning the U.S. an “armed and neutral” nation on the world stage, eliminating the Department of Education, cutting taxes at every level and providing a system in which the American people have the opportunity to “opt out” of Social Security.
The candidate remains confident this platform will do her well, resonating with the average American.
Fears, however, continue to persist within the Libertarian Party that the electorate will continue to avoid voting third party in an effort to retain votes for the major party of their choice and keep opposing partisans out of office.
“There are a lot of people who are concerned about the spoiler effect — and when I ask them, ‘Well, do you think government is too big or too small?’ First of all, they usually laugh when I ask them if they think government is too small, because most people don’t think that. But then I follow up with, ‘Well, if you don’t want big government, then why are you voting for big government?'” Jorgensen said.
“Why would you vote for something you do not want? How about voting for something that you do want?”
The Western Journal’s Joe Setyon contributed to this report.
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westernjournal--2020-06-17--Senate Republicans Unveil New Police Reform Bill That Seeks To Reach Across the Aisle

Senate Republicans unveiled new police reform legislation Wednesday aimed at holding officers accountable by enhancing a use-of-force database , adding restrictions on chokeholds , and creating new commissions to study law enforcement and race .
The “ Just and Unifying Solutions to Invigorate Communities Everywhere ” or “ JUSTICE Act ” was spearheaded by Sen. Tim Scott in the wake of George Floyd ’ s death on May 25 in Minneapolis after a police officer knelt on his neck for roughly nine minutes during an arrest .
“ Too often we ’ re having a discussion in this nation about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or are you supporting communities of color ?
This is a false binary choice , ” the South Carolina Republican said .
“ The answer to the question of which side do you support is ‘ I support America.
’ And if you support America you support restoring the confidence that communities of color have in institutions of authority .
“ If you support America , that means you know that the overwhelming number of officers in this nation want to do their job , go home to their family .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legislation encompasses that spirit.
” “ We hear you .
We ’ re listening to your concerns , ” Scott added .
“ The George Floyd incident certainly accelerated this conversation.
” The 106-page legislation is supported by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Republican Sens .
Shelley Moore Capito , John Cornyn , Lindsey Graham , James Lankford and Ben Sasse .
The legislation would require law enforcement to create a database of use of force reports under a new George Floyd and Walter Scott Notification Act — named after Floyd and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by police during a traffic stop in 2015 .
It would also create the Breonna Taylor Notification Act , which would track “ no-knock ” warrants .
It is named after the 26-year-old woman who was killed after police entered her Kentucky home under such a warrant .
Police agencies are also encouraged to do away with the use of chokeholds or risk losing federal funding .
Police will also be provided funds for training to “ de-escalate ” situations to prevent the use of excessive force .
The legislation doesn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have said that it does not go far enough , according to Fox News .
“ The Senate proposal of studies and reporting without transparency and accountability is inadequate , ” House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said .
The JUSTICE Act does include a bipartisan proposal to establish the National Criminal Justice Commission Act .
The 14-member commission created by this act will conduct a “ comprehensive review of the criminal justice system ” and make further recommendations for criminal justice reform .
Other proposals in the legislation include the creation of a training @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the U.S. by the Smithsonian ’ s National Museum of African American History and Culture and the prohibition of federal law enforcement officers from engaging in sexual activities with people who have been arrested or are in custody .
McConnell said he ’ ll bring the legislation to a vote on the Senate floor by next week .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Senate Republicans unveiled new police reform legislation Wednesday aimed at holding officers accountable by enhancing a use-of-force database, adding restrictions on chokeholds, and creating new commissions to study law enforcement and race.
The “Just and Unifying Solutions to Invigorate Communities Everywhere” or “JUSTICE Act” was spearheaded by Sen. Tim Scott in the wake of George Floyd’s death on May 25 in Minneapolis after a police officer knelt on his neck for roughly nine minutes during an arrest.
“Too often we’re having a discussion in this nation about are you supporting the law enforcement community, or are you supporting communities of color? This is a false binary choice,” the South Carolina Republican said.
“The answer to the question of which side do you support is ‘I support America.’ And if you support America you support restoring the confidence that communities of color have in institutions of authority.
“If you support America, that means you know that the overwhelming number of officers in this nation want to do their job, go home to their family. It is not a binary choice. This legislation encompasses that spirit.”
“We hear you. We’re listening to your concerns,” Scott added. “The George Floyd incident certainly accelerated this conversation.”
Watch the latest video at foxnews.com
The 106-page legislation is supported by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Republican Sens. Shelley Moore Capito, John Cornyn, Lindsey Graham, James Lankford and Ben Sasse.
The legislation would require law enforcement to create a database of use of force reports under a new George Floyd and Walter Scott Notification Act — named after Floyd and a South Carolina man who was shot by police during a traffic stop in 2015.
Do you think this legislation will pass in the Senate? 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: 85% (164 Votes) No: 15% (29 Votes)
It would also create the Breonna Taylor Notification Act, which would track “no-knock” warrants. It is named after the 26-year-old woman who was killed after police entered her Kentucky home under such a warrant.
Police agencies are also encouraged to do away with the use of chokeholds or risk losing federal funding. Police will also be provided funds for training to “de-escalate” situations to prevent the use of excessive force.
The legislation doesn’t ban chokeholds, however, and Democrats have said that it does not go far enough, according to Fox News.
“The Senate proposal of studies and reporting without transparency and accountability is inadequate,” House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said.
“The Senate’s so-called Justice Act is not action.”
The JUSTICE Act does include a bipartisan proposal to establish the National Criminal Justice Commission Act.
The 14-member commission created by this act will conduct a “comprehensive review of the criminal justice system” and make further recommendations for criminal justice reform.
Other proposals in the legislation include the creation of a training curriculum on the history of racism in the U.S. by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture and the prohibition of federal law enforcement officers from engaging in sexual activities with people who have been arrested or are in custody.
McConnell said he’ll bring the legislation to a vote on the Senate floor by next week.
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westernjournal--2020-06-17--Lib Mayor Who Supported BLM Has Home Vandalized by Protesters, Calls It ‘Domestic Terrorism’

The mayor of Olympia , Washington , a progressive heroine and supporter of the “ peaceful protests ” that have taken place all across the country in the wake of George Floyd ’ s death , has gotten a rude awakening now that a group of protesters have vandalized her home .
Reacting to the vandalism of her home with graffiti reading “ BLM , ” the initials for the far-left group “ Black Lives Matter , ” Mayor Cheryl Selby described what happened as “ domestic terrorism , ” The Olympian reported .
“ It ’ s unfair , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these radical , far-left protesters , who were anything but “ peaceful , ” showed up in her backyard , she was singing a different tune .
Just weeks ago , Selby made it clear that “ the city of Olympia supports the peaceful protests that highlight the racial injustices black people continue to endure at the hands of police in the United States , ” according to The Olympian .
The damage caused by these “ peaceful protests ” that spiraled out of control Friday night extended far beyond Selby ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protesters responsible for what she called “ domestic terrorism ” also wreaked havoc on downtown Olympia by “ burning flags , smashing windows , and spray painting businesses.
” Unfortunately , this rioting that often leads to lost lives and destroyed businesses has become a staple of everyday life in major American cities following the death of an unarmed African-American man , George Floyd , in police custody late last month .
Since many in corporate America , let alone the leadership of America ’ s largest metropolises , have caved to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should not come as a surprise that the far left feels more emboldened than ever .
The unrest and violence in Olympia took place as a group of leftist protesters have turned a portion of nearby Seattle into the “ Capitol Hill Occupied Protest , ” refusing to relinquish control of the city blocks until local leaders cave to their radical list of demands .
As for Selby ’ s claim that the vandalism to her home amounted to “ domestic terrorism , ” the most powerful elected official in the United States @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recently announced his decision to declare antifa , the group believed to be behind some of the violence and chaos gripping the nation , a terrorist organization .
Sadly , it will probably take a lot more vandalism to the properties of woke liberals , like what happened to Cheryl Selby , for the far left to stop egging on this chaos and say “ enough.
” Deep down , even liberals see the danger in letting the unrest continue unabated .
For an example of this , look no further than the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week , the California city issued an emergency order banning nighttime gatherings of more than ten people in residential areas , citing a desire to “ preserve the peace and tranquility of residential neighborhoods.
” RELATED : Trump Rips Seattle Leaders : 'Take Back Your City Now ' or ' I Will' So in other words , ensuring “ peace and tranquility ” only matters in neighborhoods where rich liberals live .
Everyone else , including businesses in Olympia and Seattle , can sit by and watch as rioters vandalize or even completely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ understandable that Selby and others would feel “ fear , rage , and nausea ” about the death of George Floyd , as Selby told The Olympian .
However , the anarchy that has unfolded in the past three weeks , especially in Washington state , should cause liberal leaders just as much “ fear , rage , and nausea.
” The fact that far-left protesters would not spare the home of Selby , which had a rainbow flag on the porch as a clear virtue-signaling posture , from their wrath , proves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mob .
Selby herself seemed baffled that the anarchists would target someone who was “ giving so much ” to her community .
Ultimately , the mob does not care if the person whose house they are vandalizing is on their side or not .
Their approach is to “ burn it all down ” and then completely rebuild society to reflect their insane worldview .
Hopefully , Selby will actually back up her concerns about “ domestic terrorism ” with action and restore law and order in her city before it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The mayor of Olympia, Washington, a progressive heroine and supporter of the “peaceful protests” that have taken place all across the country in the wake of George Floyd’s death, has gotten a rude awakening now that a group of protesters have vandalized her home.
Reacting to the vandalism of her home with graffiti reading “BLM,” the initials for the far-left group “Black Lives Matter,” Mayor Cheryl Selby described what happened as “domestic terrorism,” The Olympian reported. “It’s unfair,” she told the paper.
Before these radical, far-left protesters, who were anything but “peaceful,” showed up in her backyard, she was singing a different tune.
Just weeks ago, Selby made it clear that “the city of Olympia supports the peaceful protests that highlight the racial injustices black people continue to endure at the hands of police in the United States,” according to The Olympian.
The damage caused by these “peaceful protests” that spiraled out of control Friday night extended far beyond Selby’s home.
The same group of black-clad protesters responsible for what she called “domestic terrorism” also wreaked havoc on downtown Olympia by “burning flags, smashing windows, and spray painting businesses.”
Unfortunately, this rioting that often leads to lost lives and destroyed businesses has become a staple of everyday life in major American cities following the death of an unarmed African-American man, George Floyd, in police custody late last month.
Since many in corporate America, let alone the leadership of America’s largest metropolises, have caved to the demands of Black Lives Matter, it should not come as a surprise that the far left feels more emboldened than ever.
The unrest and violence in Olympia took place as a group of leftist protesters have turned a portion of nearby Seattle into the “Capitol Hill Occupied Protest,” refusing to relinquish control of the city blocks until local leaders cave to their radical list of demands.
Should liberal mayors who supported "peaceful" protests be surprised when liberal mobs vandalize their homes? 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% (112 Votes) No: 98% (4700 Votes)
As for Selby’s claim that the vandalism to her home amounted to “domestic terrorism,” the most powerful elected official in the United States agrees with her. President Donald Trump recently announced his decision to declare antifa, the group believed to be behind some of the violence and chaos gripping the nation, a terrorist organization.
Sadly, it will probably take a lot more vandalism to the properties of woke liberals, like what happened to Cheryl Selby, for the far left to stop egging on this chaos and say “enough.” Deep down, even liberals see the danger in letting the unrest continue unabated.
For an example of this, look no further than the progressive mecca of Beverly Hills. Last week, the California city issued an emergency order banning nighttime gatherings of more than ten people in residential areas, citing a desire to “preserve the peace and tranquility of residential neighborhoods.”
To preserve the peace and tranquility of residential neighborhoods, effective tonight and until further notice, no more than 10 people shall gather in an assembly in a public right of way in a residential area between the hours of 9 p.m. – 8 a.m. More: https://t.co/EVjLWqWgE5 — CityofBeverlyHills (@CityofBevHills) June 14, 2020
So in other words, ensuring “peace and tranquility” only matters in neighborhoods where rich liberals live. Everyone else, including businesses in Olympia and Seattle, can sit by and watch as rioters vandalize or even completely destroy their businesses.
It’s understandable that Selby and others would feel “fear, rage, and nausea” about the death of George Floyd, as Selby told The Olympian. However, the anarchy that has unfolded in the past three weeks, especially in Washington state, should cause liberal leaders just as much “fear, rage, and nausea.”
The fact that far-left protesters would not spare the home of Selby, which had a rainbow flag on the porch as a clear virtue-signaling posture, from their wrath, proves that no one is safe from the mob. Selby herself seemed baffled that the anarchists would target someone who was “giving so much” to her community.
Ultimately, the mob does not care if the person whose house they are vandalizing is on their side or not. Their approach is to “burn it all down” and then completely rebuild society to reflect their insane worldview.
Hopefully, Selby will actually back up her concerns about “domestic terrorism” with action and restore law and order in her city before it’s too late.
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westernjournal--2020-06-17--The Black Lives Matter Organization Has Close Ties to a Convicted Terrorist Who Was Freed by Clinton

A group backing Black Lives Matter has a convicted terrorist on its board of directors .
The Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation is funded through Thousand Currents , a 501 ( c ) ( 3 ) tax-exempt non-profit organization .
Susan Rosenberg , a former member of the Weather Underground leftist terrorist organization , is currently a member of the Thousand Currents board of directors .
A biography of Rosenberg on the Thousand Currents board of directors webpage describes her as “ a human rights and prisoners rights advocate , adjunct professor , communications consultant , award-winning writer , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” The organization also details its connection to the Black Lives Matter as “ a fiscal sponsorship agreement , ” with Thousand Currents providing “ the legal and administrative framework to enable BLM to fulfill its mission.
” Rosenberg was arrested in New Jersey in 1984 for unloading 740 pounds of explosives and weapons , which she planned to use in a series of politically motivated bombings , according to a New York Times report from 2001 .
At the time of her arrest , Rosenberg was also wanted for her alleged involvement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ robbery in Rockland County that resulted in the killings of two police officers and one security guard , The Times reported .
Although charged , Rosenberg was never tried for her alleged connection to the Brink ’ s robbery because Rudy Giuliani , the United States attorney for Manhattan at the time , decided that her 58-year sentence was more than enough , according to The Times .
She was released from prison in 2001 thanks to a controversial decision by then-President Bill Clinton to commute her sentence .
Politicians at the time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sen. Chuck Schumer harshly criticized Clinton ’ s decision to free the convicted terrorist , as did then-New York City Police Commissioner Bernard B. Kerik .
Thanks to the commutation , Rosenberg only served 16 years of her 58-year sentence .
Andrew C. McCarthy , a former federal prosecutor who had worked on Rosenberg ’ s case , described the details of the case in a 2008 commentary piece for National Review .
“ Rosenberg turned her New Jersey terrorism trial into a circus , posturing as a political prisoner .
At her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continue their war against the United States .
( “ When we were first captured we said , we ’ re caught , we ’ re not defeated , long live the armed struggle .
We ’ d like to take this moment to rededicate ourselves to our revolutionary principles , to our commitment to continue to fight for the defeat of U.S. imperialism.
” ) She expressed remorse about only one thing : she hadn ’ t had the courage to shoot it out with the police who ’ d apprehended her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brazen barbarism moved a highly respected federal judge not only to impose the 58-year sentence but to recommend against parole ( within the limits of then-existing law , under which convicts “ maxed out ” after two thirds of their jail terms ) .
Southern District U.S. Attorney Rudy Giuliani then dismissed the Brink ’ s charges : not because Rosenberg was innocent but because there had already been a grueling trial that Rosenberg didn ’ t deign to attend while she was out plotting murder and mayhem .
There was no need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ promised : the New Jersey sentence should have kept her on ice for at least 20 and , more likely , well over 30 years.
” Much like Rosenberg , the Black Lives Matter organization also has many far-left positions .
RELATED : Swalwell Calls on GOP To Say 'Black Lives Matter ' , Gaetz Agrees , Adding 'All Lives Matter' On the about page of the organization ’ s website , BLM declares its intentions to “ disrupt the Western-prescribed nuclear family structure requirement by supporting each other as extended families and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one another , especially our children , to the degree that mothers , parents , and children are comfortable.
” Additionally , the organization continues to propagate the idea of systemic racism despite significant evidence to the contrary .
Black Lives Matter has also called for “ a national defunding of police ” in response to the death of George Floyd , the Minneapolis man whose May 25 death in police custody sparked a round of riots and protests throughout the country .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

A group backing Black Lives Matter has a convicted terrorist on its board of directors.
The Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation is funded through Thousand Currents, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profit organization.
Susan Rosenberg, a former member of the Weather Underground leftist terrorist organization, is currently a member of the Thousand Currents board of directors.
A biography of Rosenberg on the Thousand Currents board of directors webpage describes her as “a human rights and prisoners rights advocate, adjunct professor, communications consultant, award-winning writer, public speaker and a formerly incarcerated person.”
The organization also details its connection to the Black Lives Matter as “a fiscal sponsorship agreement,” with Thousand Currents providing “the legal and administrative framework to enable BLM to fulfill its mission.”
Rosenberg was arrested in New Jersey in 1984 for unloading 740 pounds of explosives and weapons, which she planned to use in a series of politically motivated bombings, according to a New York Times report from 2001.
At the time of her arrest, Rosenberg was also wanted for her alleged involvement in the infamous 1981 Brink’s robbery in Rockland County that resulted in the killings of two police officers and one security guard, The Times reported.
Although charged, Rosenberg was never tried for her alleged connection to the Brink’s robbery because Rudy Giuliani, the United States attorney for Manhattan at the time, decided that her 58-year sentence was more than enough, according to The Times.
She was released from prison in 2001 thanks to a controversial decision by then-President Bill Clinton to commute her sentence. Politicians at the time such as then-Mayor Giuliani and even Democratic Sen. Chuck Schumer harshly criticized Clinton’s decision to free the convicted terrorist, as did then-New York City Police Commissioner Bernard B. Kerik.
Do you blame former President Clinton for this convicted terrorist being free today? 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% (551 Votes) No: 1% (4 Votes)
Thanks to the commutation, Rosenberg only served 16 years of her 58-year sentence.
Andrew C. McCarthy, a former federal prosecutor who had worked on Rosenberg’s case, described the details of the case in a 2008 commentary piece for National Review.
“Rosenberg turned her New Jersey terrorism trial into a circus, posturing as a political prisoner. At her sentencing, she urged her supporters to continue their war against the United States. (“When we were first captured we said, we’re caught, we’re not defeated, long live the armed struggle. We’d like to take this moment to rededicate ourselves to our revolutionary principles, to our commitment to continue to fight for the defeat of U.S. imperialism.”) She expressed remorse about only one thing: she hadn’t had the courage to shoot it out with the police who’d apprehended her,” McCarthy wrote.
“Her brazen barbarism moved a highly respected federal judge not only to impose the 58-year sentence but to recommend against parole (within the limits of then-existing law, under which convicts “maxed out” after two thirds of their jail terms). Southern District U.S. Attorney Rudy Giuliani then dismissed the Brink’s charges: not because Rosenberg was innocent but because there had already been a grueling trial that Rosenberg didn’t deign to attend while she was out plotting murder and mayhem. There was no need for the pandemonium a second Rosenberg trial promised: the New Jersey sentence should have kept her on ice for at least 20 and, more likely, well over 30 years.”
Much like Rosenberg, the Black Lives Matter organization also has many far-left positions.
On the about page of the organization’s website, BLM declares its intentions to “disrupt the Western-prescribed nuclear family structure requirement by supporting each other as extended families and ‘villages’ that collectively care for one another, especially our children, to the degree that mothers, parents, and children are comfortable.”
Additionally, the organization continues to propagate the idea of systemic racism despite significant evidence to the contrary.
Black Lives Matter has also called for “a national defunding of police” in response to the death of George Floyd, the Minneapolis man whose May 25 death in police custody sparked a round of riots and protests throughout the country.
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westernjournal--2020-06-17--Black Man Defies Hateful Protesters to Their Faces, Carries American Flag Right Through ‘CHAZ’

The Spokesman-Review of Spokane , Washington , has dubbed the CHAZ — the “ Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone , ” which is basically a 2020 reboot of the Occupy Wall Street rabblements set in the American Northwest , taking over six blocks in Seattle for some sort of vague experiment in alternative living — the city ’ s “ newest neighborhood ” and said it was trying “ to create its own narrative.
” I suppose coming from the remove of Spokane , in the eastern part of Washington state , the CHAZ might appear like a 1960s kind of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all look back on as a “ social change ecosystem ” ( to use the words of one participant ) that sparked some small modicum of change in our political and cultural consciousness .
WARNING : The following videos and tweets contains graphic language that some viewers will find offensive .
From a closer vantage point , however , it looks less like Woodstock and more like Altamont .
Don ’ t ask me , though , ask an African-American man who tried to carry an American flag through “ Seattle ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ event was posted to Twitter on Sunday by Andy Ngô , chronicler of all things antifa in the Pacific Northwest , as well as TheBlaze ’ s Elijah Schaffer : Now , the CHAZ community was sparked by the protests that followed the death of George Floyd , whose neck was knelt on for nearly nine minutes by a Minneapolis police officer during a May 25 arrest .
Nominally , then , you would think one of their goals is to give black Americans more of a voice .
Here ’ s a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ point to make .
He decided to show his support for the United States by carrying a flag .
And what did we get ?
Several of the CHAZ participants then decided they wanted to take the flag , leading to one individual telling them to “ de-escalate !
De-escalate !
” RELATED : The 1st VP of Color Was Elected Over 90 Years Ago ; He Was a Republican Ngô also alleged that there was “ [ a ] woman carrying an American flag [ who ] was robbed moments earlier , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be video of that .
So , how do you square this with the values one might ascribe to the “ social change ecosystem ” of CHAZ ?
Well , to quote one of the people involved in a video where a street preacher was held down , “ the Autonomous Zone has the right to reject you.
” That ’ s some rejection .
In another video involving the street preacher , a gay CHAZ participant engages in a forceful “ hug ” with the preacher that looks a lot like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kisses him : Meanwhile , Seattle Police Department Chief Carmen Best says that “ rapes , robberies and all sorts of violent acts have been occurring in the area and we ’ re not able to get to it , ” adding that response times in the area had tripled .
According to Fox News , Assistant Chief of Police Deanna Nollette said that they ’ d “ heard , anecdotally , reports of citizens and businesses being asked to pay a fee to operate within this area .
This is the crime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subjected to this , we need them to call 911.
” Apologists for the CHAZ often point out that the community is mostly peaceful — a statement which is likely accurate if you subscribe to the leftist groupthink that came up with a concept like CHAZ in the first place .
The individuals in the videos above were no doubt there to be provocative .
But that was supposed to be the point .
This isn ’ t an exercise in free thought .
It ’ s a safe space for the kind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ black man holding an American flag and call him a “ race traitor a– b—-.
” Last Thursday , Democratic Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan told CNN ’ s Chris Cuomo that CHAZ has “ a block party atmosphere ” and said it could turn into a “ summer of love.
” I ’ m not sure what Durkan knows about the Summer of Love or what kind of block parties she goes to .
However , those preposterous thoughts make clear her impressions of her city ’ s “ newest neighborhood ” are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The Spokesman-Review of Spokane, Washington, has dubbed the CHAZ — the “Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone,” which is basically a 2020 reboot of the Occupy Wall Street rabblements set in the American Northwest, taking over six blocks in Seattle for some sort of vague experiment in alternative living — the city’s “newest neighborhood” and said it was trying “to create its own narrative.”
I suppose coming from the remove of Spokane, in the eastern part of Washington state, the CHAZ might appear like a 1960s kind of utopian project, something we’ll all look back on as a “social change ecosystem” (to use the words of one participant) that sparked some small modicum of change in our political and cultural consciousness.
WARNING: The following videos and tweets contains graphic language that some viewers will find offensive.
From a closer vantage point, however, it looks less like Woodstock and more like Altamont.
Don’t ask me, though, ask an African-American man who tried to carry an American flag through “Seattle’s newest neighborhood.”
The video of the event was posted to Twitter on Sunday by Andy Ngô, chronicler of all things antifa in the Pacific Northwest, as well as TheBlaze’s Elijah Schaffer:
“Keep on walking you race traitor ass bitch,” shouts a man over a bullhorn to a black man carrying an American flag through the Seattle “autonomous zone.” People then try to steal his flag. A woman carrying an American flag was robbed moments earlier. Both were chased out #antifa pic.twitter.com/nXl8qCwAFy — Andy Ngô (@MrAndyNgo) June 14, 2020
Citizens of #CHAZ chase off black man carrying American flag Call him a race traitor & imperialist b*tch over the megaphone One person threw beer onto him and the flag While a crowd continued to form Yelling black lives matter Absolutely no social distancing here either pic.twitter.com/RU7g808kCv — ELIJAH SCHAFFER (@ElijahSchaffer) June 14, 2020
Should the police act on CHAZ? Yes No
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Now, the CHAZ community was sparked by the protests that followed the death of George Floyd, whose neck was knelt on for nearly nine minutes by a Minneapolis police officer during a May 25 arrest. Nominally, then, you would think one of their goals is to give black Americans more of a voice.
Here’s a black American. He has a political point to make. He decided to show his support for the United States by carrying a flag. And what did we get?
“Keep on walking you race traitor a– b—-.”
Several of the CHAZ participants then decided they wanted to take the flag, leading to one individual telling them to “de-escalate! De-escalate!”
Ngô also alleged that there was “[a] woman carrying an American flag [who] was robbed moments earlier,” although there doesn’t appear to be video of that.
So, how do you square this with the values one might ascribe to the “social change ecosystem” of CHAZ? Well, to quote one of the people involved in a video where a street preacher was held down, “the Autonomous Zone has the right to reject you.”
“the autonomous zone has the right to reject you” A citizen of #CHAZ yells at a street preacher being held down by Antifa As he screams “I am free citizen!” While they pry his speaker from his hands And chokehold him at one point face down like George Floyd (video below) pic.twitter.com/a1pry438jA — ELIJAH SCHAFFER (@ElijahSchaffer) June 13, 2020
That’s some rejection. In another video involving the street preacher, a gay CHAZ participant engages in a forceful “hug” with the preacher that looks a lot like sexual misconduct, particularly given that he kisses him:
This is what “Defund the Police” looks like In #CHAZ a street preacher is surrounded by ANTIFA A professing homosexual man holds onto him, kisses him (unwarranted) they eventually released him There are no cops, but there are definitely rules in the Automomous Zone pic.twitter.com/2b1NTLjSk8 — ELIJAH SCHAFFER (@ElijahSchaffer) June 13, 2020
Meanwhile, Seattle Police Department Chief Carmen Best says that “rapes, robberies and all sorts of violent acts have been occurring in the area and we’re not able to get to it,” adding that response times in the area had tripled.
Seattle Police Chief: “Rapes, robberies and all sorts of violent acts have been occurring in the area and we’re not able to get to [them].” #capitolhillautonomouszone #antifa #BlackLivesMatter pic.twitter.com/Oe5YfVz3uL — Andy Ngô (@MrAndyNgo) June 12, 2020
According to Fox News, Assistant Chief of Police Deanna Nollette said that they’d “heard, anecdotally, reports of citizens and businesses being asked to pay a fee to operate within this area. This is the crime of extortion. If anyone has been subjected to this, we need them to call 911.”
Utopia! “Social change ecosystem!”
Apologists for the CHAZ often point out that the community is mostly peaceful — a statement which is likely accurate if you subscribe to the leftist groupthink that came up with a concept like CHAZ in the first place. The individuals in the videos above were no doubt there to be provocative.
But that was supposed to be the point. This isn’t an exercise in free thought. It’s a safe space for the kind of person who would look at a black man holding an American flag and call him a “race traitor a– b—-.”
Last Thursday, Democratic Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan told CNN’s Chris Cuomo that CHAZ has “a block party atmosphere” and said it could turn into a “summer of love.”
I’m not sure what Durkan knows about the Summer of Love or what kind of block parties she goes to. However, those preposterous thoughts make clear her impressions of her city’s “newest neighborhood” are dangerously flawed.
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westernjournal--2020-06-17--Trump Admin Comes Down on Assad, Syrian Elite with New Sanctions

The Trump administration on Wednesday dialed up pressure on Syrian President Bashar Assad , his wife , Asma , and his inner circle with new economic and travel sanctions for human rights abuses .
The State Department said 39 Syrians , including Assad and his wife , had been designated for the new sanctions .
Others include members of the extended Assad family , senior military leaders and business executives .
Many of those on the list were already subject to U.S. sanctions , but the penalties also target non-Syrians who do business with them .
Separately , the Treasury @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on 24 individuals , companies and government agencies that “ are actively supporting the corrupt reconstruction efforts ” of Assad .
One newcomer to the U.S. blacklists is Asma Assad , who had not been previously targeted .
She was cited by the State Department as “ one of Syria ’ s most notorious war profiteers.
” Asma Assad has increasingly sought to centralize all charity work under her control and that of the Syria Trust for Development , where most foreign aid for postwar reconstruction is channeled .
The sanctions are the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Syria Civilian Protection Act , named after the pseudonym of a Syrian policeman who turned over photographs of thousands of victims of torture by the Assad government .
“ Today ’ s designations send a clear message that no individual or business should enter into business with or otherwise enrich such a vile regime , ” White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said in a statement .
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the designations represent “ the beginning of what will be a sustained campaign of economic and political pressure to deny @ @ @ @ @ @ @ uses to wage war and commit mass atrocities against the Syrian people.
” “ Anyone doing business with the Assad regime , no matter where in the world they are , is potentially exposed to travel restrictions and financial sanctions , ” Pompeo said in a statement .
Besides rights abuses , those targeted were also hit for obstructing a peaceful political resolution to the country ’ s long-running conflict .
In addition to Bashar and Asma Assad , those designated on Wednesday include Assad ’ s sister Bushra ; his brother , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; Mohamed Hamsho , the head of the Damascus Chamber of Commerce ; his wife , Rania al-Dabbas ; his son , Ahmed , a show jumper on Syria ’ s equestrian team in the 2012 Olympics ; and Ghassan Ali , a right-hand man of Maher Assad , and Samer al-Dana , who are both leaders of the Syrian military ’ s Fourth Division .
Syria ’ s foreign ministry said the measures were a violation of international law and showed that U.S. officials were behaving like “ gangs and bandits.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You 've Never Heard Of Is California Lawyer Robert O'Brien The Damascus government also accused the U.S. of hypocrisy , saying that in light of the recent unrest across America , the United States should be “ the last to utter words about human rights.
” Even so , Wednesday ’ s announcement was widely expected , and ahead of it , Syria devalued its currency by 44 percent .
Syria announced a new official exchange rate for the pound amid chaos in the market just hours before the sanctions took effect .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in place even before the war — imposed by the United States and European countries against officials or individuals linked to Assad ’ s government .
The new sanctions will likely severely impact the inflow of foreign capital , especially from Russia and Iran , Assad ’ s main allies , as well as China and neighboring countries .
The Washington-based Syria Justice and Accountability Center said the Caesar sanctions are designed for this purpose , “ aiming to deter foreign financial engagement and commercial reconstruction agreements with the Assad government.
” But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provisions exempting humanitarian goods and services and are intended to ensure the flow of aid and mitigate the economic consequences for the Syrian people .
Still , many commercial transactions have stopped .
The government , in an effort to control the flow of foreign currency and the exchange rate , has cracked down on hawalas — offices of exchange that are used by the majority of Syrians — which has also impacted the flow of foreign currency in the country .
A financial crisis in neighboring Lebanon , where there are controls @ @ @ @ @ @ @ currency , has also impacted the Syrian banking sector .
Iran ’ s own economic woes , and the economic impact of coronavirus restrictions in the region , have all added to the crisis in Syria .
“ Ultimately , the most significant cause of the economic crisis is the Syrian government — its irresponsible fiscal policy , continuous corruption , refusal to respect international laws and norms or engage in good-faith political and diplomatic negotiations , ” SCJA said in a report issued Tuesday , which added that the sanctions offer a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the sanctions .
The Associated Press contributed to this report .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The Trump administration on Wednesday dialed up pressure on Syrian President Bashar Assad, his wife, Asma, and his inner circle with new economic and travel sanctions for human rights abuses.
The State Department said 39 Syrians, including Assad and his wife, had been designated for the new sanctions.
Others include members of the extended Assad family, senior military leaders and business executives.
Many of those on the list were already subject to U.S. sanctions, but the penalties also target non-Syrians who do business with them.
Separately, the Treasury Department announced that it has imposed sanctions on 24 individuals, companies and government agencies that “are actively supporting the corrupt reconstruction efforts” of Assad.
One newcomer to the U.S. blacklists is Asma Assad, who had not been previously targeted. She was cited by the State Department as “one of Syria’s most notorious war profiteers.”
Asma Assad has increasingly sought to centralize all charity work under her control and that of the Syria Trust for Development, where most foreign aid for postwar reconstruction is channeled.
The sanctions are the result of legislation known as the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act, named after the pseudonym of a Syrian policeman who turned over photographs of thousands of victims of torture by the Assad government.
“Today’s designations send a clear message that no individual or business should enter into business with or otherwise enrich such a vile regime,” White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said in a statement.
Has the Trump administration done enough to counter Syria's regime? 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: 58% (7 Votes) No: 42% (5 Votes)
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the designations represent “the beginning of what will be a sustained campaign of economic and political pressure to deny the Assad regime revenue and support it uses to wage war and commit mass atrocities against the Syrian people.”
“Anyone doing business with the Assad regime, no matter where in the world they are, is potentially exposed to travel restrictions and financial sanctions,” Pompeo said in a statement.
Besides rights abuses, those targeted were also hit for obstructing a peaceful political resolution to the country’s long-running conflict.
In addition to Bashar and Asma Assad, those designated on Wednesday include Assad’s sister Bushra; his brother, Maher, and his wife, Manal; Mohamed Hamsho, the head of the Damascus Chamber of Commerce; his wife, Rania al-Dabbas; his son, Ahmed, a show jumper on Syria’s equestrian team in the 2012 Olympics; and Ghassan Ali, a right-hand man of Maher Assad, and Samer al-Dana, who are both leaders of the Syrian military’s Fourth Division.
Syria’s foreign ministry said the measures were a violation of international law and showed that U.S. officials were behaving like “gangs and bandits.”
The Damascus government also accused the U.S. of hypocrisy, saying that in light of the recent unrest across America, the United States should be “the last to utter words about human rights.”
Even so, Wednesday’s announcement was widely expected, and ahead of it, Syria devalued its currency by 44 percent. Syria announced a new official exchange rate for the pound amid chaos in the market just hours before the sanctions took effect.
Syria is already facing sanctions — some in place even before the war — imposed by the United States and European countries against officials or individuals linked to Assad’s government.
The new sanctions will likely severely impact the inflow of foreign capital, especially from Russia and Iran, Assad’s main allies, as well as China and neighboring countries.
The Washington-based Syria Justice and Accountability Center said the Caesar sanctions are designed for this purpose, “aiming to deter foreign financial engagement and commercial reconstruction agreements with the Assad government.”
But the group said the sanctions also contain provisions exempting humanitarian goods and services and are intended to ensure the flow of aid and mitigate the economic consequences for the Syrian people.
Still, many commercial transactions have stopped. The government, in an effort to control the flow of foreign currency and the exchange rate, has cracked down on hawalas — offices of exchange that are used by the majority of Syrians — which has also impacted the flow of foreign currency in the country.
A financial crisis in neighboring Lebanon, where there are controls on withdrawals and a shortage of foreign currency, has also impacted the Syrian banking sector.
Iran’s own economic woes, and the economic impact of coronavirus restrictions in the region, have all added to the crisis in Syria.
“Ultimately, the most significant cause of the economic crisis is the Syrian government — its irresponsible fiscal policy, continuous corruption, refusal to respect international laws and norms or engage in good-faith political and diplomatic negotiations,” SCJA said in a report issued Tuesday, which added that the sanctions offer a clear path for the Syrian government out of the sanctions.
[jwplayer AbfoxX4w]
The Western Journal has reviewed this Associated Press story and may have altered it prior to publication to ensure that it meets our editorial standards.
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westernjournal--2020-06-17--‘Gone with the Wind’ Returning to HBO Max with Sickening New Addition

Do you enjoy watching fictional 80-year-old Oscar-winning films with patronizing disclaimers ?
If so , you ’ ll be thoroughly served by HBO Max when you stream the classic 1939 film “ Gone with the Wind.
” In addition to being entertained by the time-tested story of love and heartache set during the Civil War , you can be re-educated on behalf of HBO and its parent company , WarnerMedia , by University of Chicago professor Jacqueline Stewart .
“ Gone with the Wind ” was pulled by HBO Max a week ago after it was deemed no longer appropriate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gone with the Wind ’ is a product of its time and depicts some of the ethnic and racial prejudices that have , unfortunately , been commonplace in American society , ” an HBO Max representative told Variety .
The representative added that it would be “ irresponsible ” not to add context to the film ’ s “ racist ” depictions of its characters .
But the film is coming back , and Stewart will ensure you get that context by way of a disclaimer before viewing the film , which she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Op-Ed published by CNN on Saturday , Stewart decried the fictional film , its depiction of the Antebellum South and its effects on popular culture .
Stewart criticized “ Gone with the Wind ” as “ a prime text for examining expressions of white supremacy in popular culture .
“ ‘ Gone with the Wind ’ taps into longstanding myths about the gentility of the antebellum South .
The film ’ s lavish costumes , magnificent plantation sets and sweeping Technicolor cinematography render Scarlett O ’ Hara ’ s romances and economic tribulations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wrote .
“ As the title indicates , ‘ Gone with the Wind ’ looks back nostalgically at idyllic days that are no more ( because they never were ) .
“ By harkening back to the great old days , plantation dramas invite white viewers to imagine appealing but false pedigrees .
When working class and poor white viewers identify with a noble white lineage , for example , they might be less likely to form what could be beneficial alliances with their Black working class and poor counterparts , ” she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ viewers don ’ t romanticize the film , Stewart will offer a forward , warning you of the fictional film ’ s subtle depictions of racism and historical inaccuracies the way she sees them .
“ I will provide an introduction placing the film in its multiple historical contexts .
For me , this is an opportunity to think about what classic films can teach us , ” she announced .
RELATED : Bill Maher , Left Without Fawning Studio Audience , Gets Utterly Exposed by Dan Crenshaw “ Right now , people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and the top-selling books on Amazon are about anti-racism and racial inequality .
If people are really doing their homework , we may be poised to have our most informed , honest and productive national conversations yet about Black lives on screen and off , ” Stewart concluded .
Take the popcorn out of the microwave , have a seat on your sofa and enjoy the comfort of your at-home virtual re-education camp .
Being reprogrammed by liberals will only cost you about $ 15 a month after your free trial offer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ HBO expires .
But , you ’ ll have full access to HBO ’ s large catalog of movies and original series .
Be careful , though .
I just looked , and the company hasn ’ t yet added a disclaimer warning that TV mob boss Tony Soprano isn ’ t a big fan of black people on HBO ’ s hit show “ The Sopranos.
” WARNING : the following video contains vulgar language that some viewers might find offensive : Perhaps someone should alert the network , so that viewers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s prejudicial comments while they idealize stereotypical Italian-American mob stranglings , dismemberments , shakedowns and gratuitous scenes glorifying adultery .
That might force HBO to go back and pull arguably the greatest show of all time from its streaming service — which might hurt the company financially .
Or you could just cancel HBO and all companies which treat you with contempt by asserting that you don ’ t have the ability to think for yourself .
Conservatives ceded popular culture to leftists decades ago .
If we aren ’ t going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Do you enjoy watching fictional 80-year-old Oscar-winning films with patronizing disclaimers?
If so, you’ll be thoroughly served by HBO Max when you stream the classic 1939 film “Gone with the Wind.”
In addition to being entertained by the time-tested story of love and heartache set during the Civil War, you can be re-educated on behalf of HBO and its parent company, WarnerMedia, by University of Chicago professor Jacqueline Stewart.
“Gone with the Wind” was pulled by HBO Max a week ago after it was deemed no longer appropriate in its original context.
“‘Gone with the Wind’ is a product of its time and depicts some of the ethnic and racial prejudices that have, unfortunately, been commonplace in American society,” an HBO Max representative told Variety.
The representative added that it would be “irresponsible” not to add context to the film’s “racist” depictions of its characters.
But the film is coming back, and Stewart will ensure you get that context by way of a disclaimer before viewing the film, which she assures you is racist.
In an Op-Ed published by CNN on Saturday, Stewart decried the fictional film, its depiction of the Antebellum South and its effects on popular culture.
Stewart criticized “Gone with the Wind” as “a prime text for examining expressions of white supremacy in popular culture.
Do you think it's time for conservatives to boycott the entertainment industry? 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% (923 Votes) No: 2% (21 Votes)
“‘Gone with the Wind’ taps into longstanding myths about the gentility of the antebellum South. The film’s lavish costumes, magnificent plantation sets and sweeping Technicolor cinematography render Scarlett O’Hara’s romances and economic tribulations in grand melodramatic fashion,” she wrote.
“As the title indicates, ‘Gone with the Wind’ looks back nostalgically at idyllic days that are no more (because they never were).
“By harkening back to the great old days, plantation dramas invite white viewers to imagine appealing but false pedigrees. When working class and poor white viewers identify with a noble white lineage, for example, they might be less likely to form what could be beneficial alliances with their Black working class and poor counterparts,” she added.
To be positively sure that viewers don’t romanticize the film, Stewart will offer a forward, warning you of the fictional film’s subtle depictions of racism and historical inaccuracies the way she sees them.
“I will provide an introduction placing the film in its multiple historical contexts. For me, this is an opportunity to think about what classic films can teach us,” she announced.
“Right now, people are turning to movies for racial re-education, and the top-selling books on Amazon are about anti-racism and racial inequality. If people are really doing their homework, we may be poised to have our most informed, honest and productive national conversations yet about Black lives on screen and off,” Stewart concluded.
Take the popcorn out of the microwave, have a seat on your sofa and enjoy the comfort of your at-home virtual re-education camp.
Being reprogrammed by liberals will only cost you about $15 a month after your free trial offer from the generous and virtuous people at HBO expires.
But, you’ll have full access to HBO’s large catalog of movies and original series.
Be careful, though. I just looked, and the company hasn’t yet added a disclaimer warning that TV mob boss Tony Soprano isn’t a big fan of black people on HBO’s hit show “The Sopranos.”
WARNING: the following video contains vulgar language that some viewers might find offensive:
Perhaps someone should alert the network, so that viewers don’t mistakenly romanticize Tony’s prejudicial comments while they idealize stereotypical Italian-American mob stranglings, dismemberments, shakedowns and gratuitous scenes glorifying adultery.
That might force HBO to go back and pull arguably the greatest show of all time from its streaming service — which might hurt the company financially.
Or you could just cancel HBO and all companies which treat you with contempt by asserting that you don’t have the ability to think for yourself.
Conservatives ceded popular culture to leftists decades ago. If we aren’t going to challenge their propaganda, we should cancel them.
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westernjournal--2020-06-17--Aunt Jemima Brand To Be Erased Over ‘Racial Stereotype’

The Quaker Oats Company will permanently pull its Aunt Jemima brand of syrup and pancake mix for promoting a “ racial stereotype ” and will also donate $ 5 million to the black community .
Civil unrest following the death George Floyd while in police custody in Minneapolis has sent much of corporate America scrambling to align itself with protestors .
The decision to end Aunt Jemima ’ s more than 130-year reign as a kitchen and breakfast staple comes after the brand was targeted by cancel culture activists on Twitter and other social media platforms Tuesday .
The brand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ perpetuating stereotypes about slavery and black Americans .
According to NBC News , Aunt Jemima was originally dressed as a minstrel character .
Quaker Oats , a Chicago-based company , made the announcement to cancel Aunt Jemima Wednesday , and stated the products will be given a new look and a new name .
“ We recognize Aunt Jemima ’ s origins are based on a racial stereotype , ” Kristin Kroepfl , the Quaker Foods North America vice president and chief marketing officer , said in a media release .
Noting there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Aunt Jemima ’ s logo over the decades , the company executive further stated that those changes did not do enough to promote racial unity .
“ While work has been done over the years to update the brand in a manner intended to be appropriate and respectful , we realize those changes are not enough.
” “ We are starting by removing the image and changing the name , ” Kroepfl said .
RELATED : The Rise and Fall of Elizabeth Holmes , Founder of Theranos “ We will continue the conversation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ organization and the Black community to further evolve the brand and make it one everyone can be proud to have in their pantry.
” Kroepfl said Quaker ’ s breakfast syrup brand was standing in the way of racial progress and does not reflect the values of the company , which is owned by PepsiCo .
“ We acknowledge the brand has not progressed enough to appropriately reflect the confidence , warmth and dignity that we would like it to stand for today , ” Kroepfl said .
The Aunt Jemima name and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this fall .
According to the media release , over the next five years , the Aunt Jemima brand will donate $ 5 million to “ create meaningful , ongoing support and engagement in the Black community.
” That is in addition to the $ 400 million pledged by Pepsi this week to support black causes .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The Quaker Oats Company will permanently pull its Aunt Jemima brand of syrup and pancake mix for promoting a “racial stereotype” and will also donate $5 million to the black community.
Civil unrest following the death George Floyd while in police custody in Minneapolis has sent much of corporate America scrambling to align itself with protestors.
The decision to end Aunt Jemima’s more than 130-year reign as a kitchen and breakfast staple comes after the brand was targeted by cancel culture activists on Twitter and other social media platforms Tuesday.
The brand was accused of promoting racism and for perpetuating stereotypes about slavery and black Americans. According to NBC News, Aunt Jemima was originally dressed as a minstrel character.
Wait are people seriously just learning that Aunt Jemima is racist? Be sure you check out Uncle Ben’s and Cream of Wheat too. The brands have been profiteering off of racist tropes for over a century. — Christina Warren (@film_girl) June 17, 2020
The secret ingredient in Aunt Jemima syrup is racism — Connor Shaw (@Curlyshaw) June 17, 2020
Quaker Oats, a Chicago-based company, made the announcement to cancel Aunt Jemima Wednesday, and stated the products will be given a new look and a new name.
“We recognize Aunt Jemima’s origins are based on a racial stereotype,” Kristin Kroepfl, the Quaker Foods North America vice president and chief marketing officer, said in a media release.
Noting there have been a number of changes to Aunt Jemima’s logo over the decades, the company executive further stated that those changes did not do enough to promote racial unity.
“While work has been done over the years to update the brand in a manner intended to be appropriate and respectful, we realize those changes are not enough.”
“We are starting by removing the image and changing the name,” Kroepfl said.
Will you buy Quaker's updated Aunt Jemima products? Yes No
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“We will continue the conversation by gathering diverse perspectives from both our organization and the Black community to further evolve the brand and make it one everyone can be proud to have in their pantry.”
Kroepfl said Quaker’s breakfast syrup brand was standing in the way of racial progress and does not reflect the values of the company, which is owned by PepsiCo.
“We acknowledge the brand has not progressed enough to appropriately reflect the confidence, warmth and dignity that we would like it to stand for today,” Kroepfl said.
The Aunt Jemima name and likeness will be removed and replaced by this fall.
According to the media release, over the next five years, the Aunt Jemima brand will donate $5 million to “create meaningful, ongoing support and engagement in the Black community.”
That is in addition to the $400 million pledged by Pepsi this week to support black causes.
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westernjournal--2020-06-17--Ahmaud Arbery’s Mother Praises Trump After White House Meeting

Ahmaud Arbery ’ s mother praised President Donald Trump and said he was “ very compassionate ” when he met with families affected by violence against African-Americans on Tuesday prior to signing a police reform executive order .
Arbery , 25 , was jogging on Feb. 23 in Brunswick , Georgia , when Gregory McMichael and his son , Travis McMichael , allegedly confronted him with two firearms .
During the encounter , Travis McMichael shot and killed Arbery , according to a Georgia Bureau of Investigation news release .
Wanda Cooper-Jones , Arbery ’ s mother , was one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the president prior to him signing a police reform executive order on Tuesday .
“ I was very , very emotional throughout the whole conference , ” she said later in a clip played on Fox News ’ “ Special Report .
“ [ Trump ] was very compassionate .
He showed major concern for all families .
Not just one family but for all families.
” “ I can say that President Trump was very receiving , ” she added .
“ He listened and he addressed each and every family accordingly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the clip , which Ivanka Trump posted on Twitter , and said that Arbery “ is looking down from heaven & is very proud of his wonderful & loving mom !
!
!
” According to a tweet from Fox News congressional reporter Chad Pergram , Cooper-Jones said that the president assured the families that they “ would and should expect change.
” After Trump met with the families , he signed an executive order aimed at establishing national law enforcement standards and reaffirmed his opposition to defunding police .
RELATED : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Outsiders ' for 'Fed-Up ' Electorate The president ’ s executive order specifically calls for state and local law enforcement agencies to ban chokeholds , “ except in those situations where the use of deadly force is allowed by law.
” The order also says police departments will only be rewarded with federal grants when their policing practices and procedures are certified by an independent credentialing body .
When Cooper-Jones was asked about the executive order , she said she didn ’ t think it was enough “ but I do think that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ according to CBS News White House correspondent Fin Gomez .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Ahmaud Arbery’s mother praised President Donald Trump and said he was “very compassionate” when he met with families affected by violence against African-Americans on Tuesday prior to signing a police reform executive order.
Arbery, 25, was jogging on Feb. 23 in Brunswick, Georgia, when Gregory McMichael and his son, Travis McMichael, allegedly confronted him with two firearms.
During the encounter, Travis McMichael shot and killed Arbery, according to a Georgia Bureau of Investigation news release.
Wanda Cooper-Jones, Arbery’s mother, was one of the many people who met with the president prior to him signing a police reform executive order on Tuesday.
“I was very, very emotional throughout the whole conference,” she said later in a clip played on Fox News’ “Special Report.
“[Trump] was very compassionate. He showed major concern for all families. Not just one family but for all families.”
“I can say that President Trump was very receiving,” she added.
Do you think Trump is working hard enough to help the families of victims like Arbery? 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% (1010 Votes) No: 0% (2 Votes)
“He listened and he addressed each and every family accordingly,” Cooper-Jones said.
Trump replied to the clip, which Ivanka Trump posted on Twitter, and said that Arbery “is looking down from heaven & is very proud of his wonderful & loving mom!!!”
A GREAT woman. Her son is looking down from heaven & is very proud of his wonderful & loving mom!!! https://t.co/ZzKUbjlOOT — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 17, 2020
According to a tweet from Fox News congressional reporter Chad Pergram, Cooper-Jones said that the president assured the families that they “would and should expect change.”
After Trump met with the families, he signed an executive order aimed at establishing national law enforcement standards and reaffirmed his opposition to defunding police.
The president’s executive order specifically calls for state and local law enforcement agencies to ban chokeholds, “except in those situations where the use of deadly force is allowed by law.”
The order also says police departments will only be rewarded with federal grants when their policing practices and procedures are certified by an independent credentialing body.
When Ahmaud Arbery’s mom, Wanda Cooper-Jones, was asked about the executive order that @realdonaldtrump signed today she said she didn’t think that it was enough “but I do think that it’s a start.” per @psmolinskiCBS https://t.co/pZRPb2uSat — Fin Gomez (@finnygo) June 16, 2020
When Cooper-Jones was asked about the executive order, she said she didn’t think it was enough “but I do think that it’s a start,” according to CBS News White House correspondent Fin Gomez.
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westernjournal--2020-06-17--Craigslist Ad Sought People Infected with COVID To Attend Trump Rally

Strange ( and sometimes fake ) Craigslist ads regarding President Donald Trump ’ s rallies are nothing particularly new .
When they encourage people with COVID-19 to show up at a rally and spread the disease , however , that ’ s when things have turned very toxic .
A post since flagged for removal on the Tulsa , Oklahoma , Craigslist site — but viewable via archive.is — purportedly looked to recruit people infected with the novel coronavirus to attend Trump ’ s planned rally Saturday at Tulsa ’ s Bank of Oklahoma Center .
It ’ s the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic shutdown mass gatherings across the country .
“ If you have been diagnosed as having the Covid virus and really want to make a difference , we are hiring 20 of you to work in a large scale test on transmission of the virus , ” the ad stated .
“ Please assemble outside the BOK convention center on Saturday night wearing all black or if arriving in a group of 4 , please dress in the following manner : One dressed in all white One dressed in all black One dressed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flops .
This will make it easy to identify you .
Trump ’ s rally has been controversial in the mainstream media due to the possibility of COVID-19 transmission , something that ’ s interesting coming from a media that has collectively covered one of the largest clusters of mass protests since the 1960s with barely a mention of contagion .
There ’ s a difference , however , between worries about coronavirus transmission and an actor actively seeking coronavirus transmission .
Which raises the question : Who posted the ad ?
As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this would hardly be the first hoax Craigslist ad that has to do with Trump ’ s rallies .
In fact , this wouldn ’ t even be the first hoax ad associated with the Trump rally in Tulsa , assuming it is a fake .
PolitiFact reported on a previous post that advertised for “ [ e ] xcited and enthusiastic MINORITY actors and actresses needed to hold signs at event in Tulsa.
” “ Send headshot/resume for early consideration .
*This may be applied towards community service if necessary ( in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ad , which has since been removed , was unsurprisingly found to be a fake by PolitiFact .
However , there ’ s a huge difference between a fake ad designed to make the Trump campaign look racist and one that actively endangers the lives of those attending the rally on Saturday .
This is likely someone involved in a sick hoax , an internet troll desperate for attention .
The strange language of the ad — particularly the odd dress requirements — make this seem like a prank that seemed like a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ college dorm room somewhere after more than a few intoxicating beverages .
The problem is that someone might actually take this call to action seriously , given that there are more enough people who have become convinced Trump is the nexus of evil in this world and that the supporters who show up to his rallies are nothing less than Satan ’ s minions .
How many of these people have COVID-19 is another matter entirely .
As of Tuesday , there had been 1,729 confirmed cases in Tulsa County , according to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infected with both the coronavirus and with a case of Trump Derangement Syndrome serious enough to try to spread infection at a Trump rally may be difficult , but certainly not impossible — and that ’ s what ’ s so dangerous about this ad .
It ’ s essentially looking to place a human biological weapon inside a crowded event simply because of the political affiliation of those attending .
If this is a Trump supporter looking to make the other side look bad , that ’ s even worse .
One @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stupid as to do something like that , but someone was either dull or evil enough to post this ad in the first place , so that can ’ t be excluded .
Whatever the case , one hopes the Secret Service is investigating this .
We don ’ t know the intent behind the ad , but we can sure guess the potential effect .
This could potentially end up killing people .
The responsibility for this should lie solely on whoever posted it , but we ought to consider the toxic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ considered possible .
It ’ s wildly implausible that this would have happened during any prior presidency .
But the country has been been whipped up to the extent that an ad like this , sadly , feels almost inevitable .
There are lessons about Trump Derangement Syndrome be learned from this .
Will we learn them ?
That ’ s hoping too much .
The extent of our hope in this case is that the person or persons involved in this are tracked down and dealt with accordingly .
Given that this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use oneself as a silent , deadly weapon , the possibility of criminal charges should definitely be on the table .
The Western Journal has reached out to Craigslist for comment .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Strange (and sometimes fake) Craigslist ads regarding President Donald Trump’s rallies are nothing particularly new.
When they encourage people with COVID-19 to show up at a rally and spread the disease, however, that’s when things have turned very toxic.
A post since flagged for removal on the Tulsa, Oklahoma, Craigslist site — but viewable via archive.is — purportedly looked to recruit people infected with the novel coronavirus to attend Trump’s planned rally Saturday at Tulsa’s Bank of Oklahoma Center. It’s the first Trump campaign rally since the coronavirus pandemic shutdown mass gatherings across the country.
“If you have been diagnosed as having the Covid virus and really want to make a difference, we are hiring 20 of you to work in a large scale test on transmission of the virus,” the ad stated.
“Please assemble outside the BOK convention center on Saturday night wearing all black or if arriving in a group of 4, please dress in the following manner:
One dressed in all white
One dressed in all black
One dressed in coveralls
One barefoot or wearing flip flops.
This will make it easy to identify you.
“Singers, or people with a bad cough preferred.”
BREAKING: Craigslist ad seeking people infected with #COVID19 to attend Trump rally in Tulsa, OK. RT—this is biological warfare. cc: @realDonaldTrump, @SecretService pic.twitter.com/Ag94BwwgEB — Mike Yoder (@Yoder_Esqq) June 16, 2020
Should the person who posted this ad be charged with a crime? Yes No
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Trump’s rally has been controversial in the mainstream media due to the possibility of COVID-19 transmission, something that’s interesting coming from a media that has collectively covered one of the largest clusters of mass protests since the 1960s with barely a mention of contagion.
There’s a difference, however, between worries about coronavirus transmission and an actor actively seeking coronavirus transmission. Which raises the question: Who posted the ad?
As I mentioned right off the top, this would hardly be the first hoax Craigslist ad that has to do with Trump’s rallies.
In fact, this wouldn’t even be the first hoax ad associated with the Trump rally in Tulsa, assuming it is a fake.
PolitiFact reported on a previous post that advertised for “[e]xcited and enthusiastic MINORITY actors and actresses needed to hold signs at event in Tulsa.”
“Send headshot/resume for early consideration. *This may be applied towards community service if necessary (in lieu of payment).”
The ad, which has since been removed, was unsurprisingly found to be a fake by PolitiFact.
However, there’s a huge difference between a fake ad designed to make the Trump campaign look racist and one that actively endangers the lives of those attending the rally on Saturday.
This is likely someone involved in a sick hoax, an internet troll desperate for attention. The strange language of the ad — particularly the odd dress requirements — make this seem like a prank that seemed like a good idea at 4 a.m. in a college dorm room somewhere after more than a few intoxicating beverages.
The problem is that someone might actually take this call to action seriously, given that there are more enough people who have become convinced Trump is the nexus of evil in this world and that the supporters who show up to his rallies are nothing less than Satan’s minions.
How many of these people have COVID-19 is another matter entirely. As of Tuesday, there had been 1,729 confirmed cases in Tulsa County, according to the Tulsa Health Department.
Finding someone infected with both the coronavirus and with a case of Trump Derangement Syndrome serious enough to try to spread infection at a Trump rally may be difficult, but certainly not impossible — and that’s what’s so dangerous about this ad. It’s essentially looking to place a human biological weapon inside a crowded event simply because of the political affiliation of those attending.
If this is a Trump supporter looking to make the other side look bad, that’s even worse. One would hope no one would be so stupid as to do something like that, but someone was either dull or evil enough to post this ad in the first place, so that can’t be excluded.
Whatever the case, one hopes the Secret Service is investigating this.
We don’t know the intent behind the ad, but we can sure guess the potential effect. This could potentially end up killing people.
The responsibility for this should lie solely on whoever posted it, but we ought to consider the toxic environment in which this could even be considered possible. It’s wildly implausible that this would have happened during any prior presidency. But the country has been been whipped up to the extent that an ad like this, sadly, feels almost inevitable.
There are lessons about Trump Derangement Syndrome be learned from this. Will we learn them? That’s hoping too much.
The extent of our hope in this case is that the person or persons involved in this are tracked down and dealt with accordingly. Given that this is nothing less than a call to use oneself as a silent, deadly weapon, the possibility of criminal charges should definitely be on the table.
The Western Journal has reached out to Craigslist for comment.
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