westernjournal--2020-01-09--Age 5 Boy Attacked by Coyote Outside of Museum in Chicago, Rushed to Hospital

Wild animals are good at adapting — it ’ s pretty much what they do .
While some are definitely more resistant to change , those who scavenge have found ways to thrive even as humans encroach on their territories .
The problem , of course , is that they also get used to humans .
Instead of running off , they stand their ground .
Instead of fleeing , they attack .
Anyone who lives in a coyote-prone area knows this , and knows to keep any small pets indoors or risk losing them to the wiley coyotes .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Reportedly Helped Soleimani , Iran Gain More Power in Middle East Even in cities like Chicago , coyotes have become commonplace .
In most cases , small dogs and cats are the ones at risk — but after this week , people in Lincoln Park realize they have a more serious issue on their hands .
On Wednesday , a 5-year-old boy and his nanny were walking outside near the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum when a coyote approached .
While details are slim , what is known is that the coyote attacked the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ several times , according to what police and fire officials told WBBM-TV .
“ We ’ ve had coyote attacks on dogs and we don ’ t respond to those , but I haven ’ t seen any where people are involved .
I think they are getting more bold , ” Chicago Fire Department spokesman Larry Langford told Block Club Chicago .
“ The experts tell us they will approach children as they become more accustomed to being around people.
” “ They might not attack a full-grown man but they will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about 50 pounds.
” The boy was taken to Lurie Children ’ s Hospital , and is reportedly stable .
The attack has people concerned and authorities are on the lookout for the coyote responsible .
RELATED : Teenage Boys Reportedly Fill Car with Koalas To Help Save Them from Fires in Australia The very same evening , an adult male was approached and attacked by a coyote about 3 miles from where the boy was attacked , according to Block Club Chicago .
The animal bit him in the buttocks , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well , this second encounter has really driven the point home and raised the concern that the coyote ( s ) involved might be ill. “ If the animal ’ s sick that would make sense , but otherwise , for it to prey on a human is very rare , ” Steve Stronk , who runs a wildlife removal service , told Block Club Chicago .
“ I ’ ve been doing this for 35 years and this is the first time I ’ ve heard of a child being bitten .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ know the circumstances .
A lot of people feed them , intentionally and unintentionally.
” “ Whatever you do , if you start seeing coyote activity in your neighborhood , stop feeding them .
Pull bird feeders for at least a month because they aren ’ t here because they like us .
They are here because their food , water and shelter are all free .
If you do away with them , there ’ s no reason for them to be here.
” According to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rare considering the range and abundance of coyotes.
” “ A study published in 2007 found 187 reliable reports of attacks on humans , most of which ( 157 ) occurred in California , Arizona and Nevada .
Many of these incidents occurred where people were feeding coyotes intentionally , causing them to lose their fear of humans.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Wild animals are good at adapting — it’s pretty much what they do. While some are definitely more resistant to change, those who scavenge have found ways to thrive even as humans encroach on their territories.
The problem, of course, is that they also get used to humans.
Instead of running off, they stand their ground.
Instead of fleeing, they attack.
Anyone who lives in a coyote-prone area knows this, and knows to keep any small pets indoors or risk losing them to the wiley coyotes.
Even in cities like Chicago, coyotes have become commonplace.
In most cases, small dogs and cats are the ones at risk — but after this week, people in Lincoln Park realize they have a more serious issue on their hands.
On Wednesday, a 5-year-old boy and his nanny were walking outside near the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum when a coyote approached.
While details are slim, what is known is that the coyote attacked the boy, biting him in the head several times, according to what police and fire officials told WBBM-TV.
“We’ve had coyote attacks on dogs and we don’t respond to those, but I haven’t seen any where people are involved. I think they are getting more bold,” Chicago Fire Department spokesman Larry Langford told Block Club Chicago. “The experts tell us they will approach children as they become more accustomed to being around people.”
“They might not attack a full-grown man but they will attack a child. This child weighed about 50 pounds.”
The boy was taken to Lurie Children’s Hospital, and is reportedly stable. The attack has people concerned and authorities are on the lookout for the coyote responsible.
The very same evening, an adult male was approached and attacked by a coyote about 3 miles from where the boy was attacked, according to Block Club Chicago.
The animal bit him in the buttocks, and while the man is also reportedly doing well, this second encounter has really driven the point home and raised the concern that the coyote(s) involved might be ill.
“If the animal’s sick that would make sense, but otherwise, for it to prey on a human is very rare,” Steve Stronk, who runs a wildlife removal service, told Block Club Chicago. “I’ve been doing this for 35 years and this is the first time I’ve heard of a child being bitten. Of course, I don’t know the circumstances. A lot of people feed them, intentionally and unintentionally.”
“Whatever you do, if you start seeing coyote activity in your neighborhood, stop feeding them. Pull bird feeders for at least a month because they aren’t here because they like us. They are here because their food, water and shelter are all free. If you do away with them, there’s no reason for them to be here.”
According to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, “attacks on humans are extremely rare considering the range and abundance of coyotes.”
“A study published in 2007 found 187 reliable reports of attacks on humans, most of which (157) occurred in California, Arizona and Nevada. Many of these incidents occurred where people were feeding coyotes intentionally, causing them to lose their fear of humans.”
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westernjournal--2020-01-09--Trump Scores a Win as Court Clears the Way for Border Wall Funding

While facing off against one of the country ’ s biggest enemies abroad , the White House just scored another tactical victory on the home front — and proved how crucial the president ’ s power to shape the judiciary system really is .
President Donald Trump on Thursday was celebrating a decision by a panel of the Fifth Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals to lift a lower court order that blocked billions in military construction funds from being used to build up defenses on the southern border .
For Trump , who made controlling illegal immigration the centerpiece of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stance throughout his administration , it was a moment of victory in a long-running legal fight — and he had a judge he appointed himself to thank for it .
TRENDING : During Obama Years , Biden Reportedly Helped Soleimani , Iran Gain More Power in Middle East According to USA Today , the 5th Circuit ’ s decision released Wednesday allows the administration to go ahead with its plans to move $ 3.6 billion in funding allocated for military projects to Trump ’ s border wall .
The ruling set aside an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ David Briones in El Paso , Texas , Politico reported .
The Fifth District panel decided the challengers , the city of El Paso and an activist group called the Border Network for Human Rights , lacked legal standing to bring the case .
The 2-1 ruling came from Judges Edith Jones , who was nominated by then-President Ronald Reagan in 1985 , and Andrew Oldham , nominated by Trump in 2018 .
The dissent was written by Judge Stephen Higginson , an appointee of then-President Barack Obama in 2011 .
The ruling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but cited a Supreme Court decision from last year that lifted a similar injunction issued by a federal judge in Oakland , California , according to Politico .
That case , brought by the environmental group the Sierra Club , was decided in a 5-4 ruling , according to Reuters , with two Trump appointees , Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh , siding with the administration .
Coming less than a week after the Trump-ordered drone strike that killed Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani , the court victory gave Trump a win at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ less than seven days .
The appeals court decision might not be the final word on the matter , of course .
Lawyers for the challengers told Politico they haven ’ t decided their next move .
“ We , along with our clients , are considering our options , ” attorney Kristy Parker of the watchdog group Protect Democracy told the website .
RELATED : DHS Chief Demands Second Look into States Giving Illegals Driver 's Licenses “ We are confident the District Court ‘ s ruling is correct .
The power @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and we will continue our fight to enforce the separation of powers our Constitution mandates.
” It ’ s true that the power of the purse belongs to Congress .
But the power to rule on matters of law belongs to the federal judiciary .
And for too long , that judiciary has been largely in the hands of liberal judges who ’ ve interpreted the Constitution as they see fit , rather than what its words say or where the country is politically .
Trump ’ s impact on the judiciary has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well be the longest-lasting legacy of his years in office — whether they ’ re 4 or 8 .
That take on Wednesday ’ s ruling wasn ’ t lost on social media commenters either .
This isn ’ t an argument for filling the federal court ranks for political toadies — leave that to Democrats like Obama and his appointments of “ empathetic ” justices like the “ wise Latina ” Sonia Sotomayor .
In addition to an immigration crackdown , Trump made no secret of wanting to include more conservatives in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ select Supreme Court justices from a group vetted by the conservative Federalist Society was a key part of his campaign .
Wednesday ’ s decision , joined by one of Trump ’ s own appointees at the appellate level , and relying on two of his appointees at the Supreme Court level , shows how important that presidential power really is .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

While facing off against one of the country’s biggest enemies abroad, the White House just scored another tactical victory on the home front — and proved how crucial the president’s power to shape the judiciary system really is.
President Donald Trump on Thursday was celebrating a decision by a panel of the Fifth Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals to lift a lower court order that blocked billions in military construction funds from being used to build up defenses on the southern border.
For Trump, who made controlling illegal immigration the centerpiece of his presidential campaign and has continued that stance throughout his administration, it was a moment of victory in a long-running legal fight — and he had a judge he appointed himself to thank for it.
Breaking News: The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals just reversed a lower court decision & gave us the go ahead to build one of the largest sections of the desperately needed Southern Border Wall, Four Billion Dollars. Entire Wall is under construction or getting ready to start! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 9, 2020
According to USA Today, the 5th Circuit’s decision released Wednesday allows the administration to go ahead with its plans to move $3.6 billion in funding allocated for military projects to Trump’s border wall.
The ruling set aside an injunction issued last month by District Judge David Briones in El Paso, Texas, Politico reported. The Fifth District panel decided the challengers, the city of El Paso and an activist group called the Border Network for Human Rights, lacked legal standing to bring the case.
The 2-1 ruling came from Judges Edith Jones, who was nominated by then-President Ronald Reagan in 1985, and Andrew Oldham, nominated by Trump in 2018.
The dissent was written by Judge Stephen Higginson, an appointee of then-President Barack Obama in 2011.
Do you think the federal judiciary will be Trump's biggest legacy? Yes No
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The ruling itself contained no details on its reasoning, but cited a Supreme Court decision from last year that lifted a similar injunction issued by a federal judge in Oakland, California, according to Politico.
That case, brought by the environmental group the Sierra Club, was decided in a 5-4 ruling, according to Reuters, with two Trump appointees, Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh, siding with the administration.
Coming less than a week after the Trump-ordered drone strike that killed Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani, the court victory gave Trump a win at home and abroad in the space of less than seven days.
The appeals court decision might not be the final word on the matter, of course. Lawyers for the challengers told Politico they haven’t decided their next move.
“We, along with our clients, are considering our options,” attorney Kristy Parker of the watchdog group Protect Democracy told the website.
“We are confident the District Court‘s ruling is correct. The power of the purse belongs to Congress, and we will continue our fight to enforce the separation of powers our Constitution mandates.”
It’s true that the power of the purse belongs to Congress. But the power to rule on matters of law belongs to the federal judiciary.
And for too long, that judiciary has been largely in the hands of liberal judges who’ve interpreted the Constitution as they see fit, rather than what its words say or where the country is politically.
(In the United States, gay marriage is legal today because of one man — former Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy — not because of the Constitution.)
Trump’s impact on the judiciary has already outpaced his predecessors, and could well be the longest-lasting legacy of his years in office — whether they’re 4 or 8.
That take on Wednesday’s ruling wasn’t lost on social media commenters either.
Those judge appointments are really working out — Harry (@Harry49734617) January 9, 2020
Proving once again that it isn’t cream that comes to the top, it is judicial appointments…and rescue might be a better word. — Charlie Currie (@CharlieCurrie) January 9, 2020
Stacking the courts with sane, constitution-following judges will be Trump’s greatest achievement. — Nana’s Drunk Again (@B737CA) January 9, 2020
This isn’t an argument for filling the federal court ranks for political toadies — leave that to Democrats like Obama and his appointments of “empathetic” justices like the “wise Latina” Sonia Sotomayor.
In addition to an immigration crackdown, Trump made no secret of wanting to include more conservatives in the court system — his pledge to select Supreme Court justices from a group vetted by the conservative Federalist Society was a key part of his campaign.
Wednesday’s decision, joined by one of Trump’s own appointees at the appellate level, and relying on two of his appointees at the Supreme Court level, shows how important that presidential power really is.
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westernjournal--2020-01-09--Impeachment Causing Trouble as Dems Turn on Each Other, Future of Articles in Doubt

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is facing pressure from her own party as House and Senate Republicans and Democrats call for her to send the articles of impeachment to the Senate .
The articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump , which were passed on Dec. 18 , have been in limbo for weeks as the house speaker refuses to send them to the Senate until she knows exactly how the impeachment trial will be held .
On Tuesday , Pelosi said Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell needed to “ immediately ” publish the rules for the impeachment trial before she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Senate , according to CNN .
While Pelosi has delayed the Senate trial , members of her own party are anxiously waiting for the articles of impeachment and some have even defected to the Republican side .
Sen. Chris Murphy told The Washington Post that Pelosi should send the articles to the Senate even if McConnell refuses to give her the details of the resolution .
TRENDING : During Obama Years , Biden Reportedly Helped Soleimani , Iran Gain More Power in Middle East “ I think the time has passed , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should send the articles over.
” Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal told the Washington Examiner that while it is the speaker ’ s decision to make , “ [ W ] e are ready , willing and able .
I ’ m ready … to try this case , but she will have to make a decision.
” Three House Democrats defected from their party during the impeachment vote : Reps. Jeff Van Drew , Collin Peterson and Jared Golden .
New Jersey Rep. Van Drew has already announced he will be switching parties @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just a better fit for me , ” Van Drew said in his announcement , according to a pool report .
“ This is who I am.
” DNC Chairman Tom Perez said in a Tuesday interview on MSNBC ’ s “ Velshi & Ruhle ” that if a Senate impeachment trial is underway , the Jan. 14 Democratic presidential debate will have to be postponed because many of the 2020 candidates are senators .
“ Well , Democrats and our senators can walk and chew gum , ” he said .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trial on the 14th , then we ’ ll move the debate .
If there ’ s not , then we ’ re going to have the debate .
And at the moment , all systems are go.
” House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer would not confirm when Pelosi intended on sending the articles to the Senate .
“ This matter will be decided by the speaker , and she will give you the information as to when , how , why , and what not , ” the Maryland Democrat told the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Idea To Withhold Impeachment Articles from a CNN Interview : Report Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer pledged Tuesday to force a vote on calling impeachment witnesses at the start of the trial , but McConnell will need — and has — 51 votes to shoot any vote down .
McConnell told Republican senators Tuesday that they “ have the votes ” to pass a resolution to start the impeachment trial without requiring witness testimony .
“ We have the votes , once the impeachment trial has begun , to pass a resolution essential @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 100 to nothing vote in the Clinton trial , which sets up , as you may recall , what could best be described maybe as a Phase One , ” McConnell said , according to The Hill .
McConnell gained the votes to pass the resolution after two Republican moderate voters , Sens .
Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski , confirmed Monday night that they would back it .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is facing pressure from her own party as House and Senate Republicans and Democrats call for her to send the articles of impeachment to the Senate.
The articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump, which were passed on Dec. 18, have been in limbo for weeks as the house speaker refuses to send them to the Senate until she knows exactly how the impeachment trial will be held.
On Tuesday, Pelosi said Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell needed to “immediately” publish the rules for the impeachment trial before she would send the impeachment articles to the Senate, according to CNN.
While Pelosi has delayed the Senate trial, members of her own party are anxiously waiting for the articles of impeachment and some have even defected to the Republican side.
Sen. Chris Murphy told The Washington Post that Pelosi should send the articles to the Senate even if McConnell refuses to give her the details of the resolution.
“I think the time has passed,” the Connecticut Democrat said. “She should send the articles over.”
Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal told the Washington Examiner that while it is the speaker’s decision to make, “[W]e are ready, willing and able. I’m ready … to try this case, but she will have to make a decision.”
Three House Democrats defected from their party during the impeachment vote: Reps. Jeff Van Drew, Collin Peterson and Jared Golden.
New Jersey Rep. Van Drew has already announced he will be switching parties.
Do you think Pelosi will continue holding the articles of impeachment? Yes No
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“I believe that this is just a better fit for me,” Van Drew said in his announcement, according to a pool report. “This is who I am.”
DNC Chairman Tom Perez said in a Tuesday interview on MSNBC’s “Velshi & Ruhle” that if a Senate impeachment trial is underway, the Jan. 14 Democratic presidential debate will have to be postponed because many of the 2020 candidates are senators.
“Well, Democrats and our senators can walk and chew gum,” he said. “Obviously, if there’s a trial on the 14th, then we’ll move the debate. If there’s not, then we’re going to have the debate. And at the moment, all systems are go.”
House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer would not confirm when Pelosi intended on sending the articles to the Senate.
“This matter will be decided by the speaker, and she will give you the information as to when, how, why, and what not,” the Maryland Democrat told the Washington Examiner.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer pledged Tuesday to force a vote on calling impeachment witnesses at the start of the trial, but McConnell will need — and has — 51 votes to shoot any vote down.
McConnell told Republican senators Tuesday that they “have the votes” to pass a resolution to start the impeachment trial without requiring witness testimony.
“We have the votes, once the impeachment trial has begun, to pass a resolution essential the same, very similar to the 100 to nothing vote in the Clinton trial, which sets up, as you may recall, what could best be described maybe as a Phase One,” McConnell said, according to The Hill.
McConnell gained the votes to pass the resolution after two Republican moderate voters, Sens. Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski, confirmed Monday night that they would back it.
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westernjournal--2020-01-09--Iran Changes Plane Crash Story as Photos of Missile Remains Appear

It ’ s beginning to look like a crashed civilian airliner in Iran was mistakenly shot down by the Islamic Republic ’ s air defense systems .
Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 caught fire and plummeted to the ground Wednesday shortly after takeoff in Tehran , an accident Iranian officials originally blamed on a technical issue with the plane .
The rogue nation is now changing its tune as new photos emerge reportedly showing missile debris from an anti-aircraft system near the doomed plane ’ s flight path .
Now , Iran is saying the plane tried to turn back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — a claim that runs counter to new evidence that implicates a trigger-happy Iranian anti-aircraft crew .
TRENDING : During Obama Years , Biden Reportedly Helped Soleimani , Iran Gain More Power in Middle East Photographs popping up on Iranian social media , and now making their way to the West , appear to show missile remains near the final flight path of the 737 .
The remains appear to be part of a Tor surface-to-air missile system .
What ’ s left seems to be the “ tip ” of the missile @ @ @ @ @ @ @ instruments and sits in front of the warhead .
With a fragmenting payload , it ’ s not impossible for this part to survive relatively intact .
An intact Tor missile can be seen below , and it looks eerily similar to the piece found in Iran .
Even more damning for Iran is what was found on the wreckage of the aircraft itself .
Shrapnel damage , possibly from a fragmenting anti-aircraft warhead , appears to have shredded parts of the plane .
Seeing the extent of this damage makes it clear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to catch fire and crash .
Pictures of the punctured aircraft pieces can be seen below .
RELATED : Buttigieg Suggests Trump Is at Fault for Iran Shooting Down Civilian 737 It ’ s unlikely that if the plane was shot down by an anti-aircraft crew , it was done intentionally .
Since it happened just hours after Iran ’ s missile strikes against U.S. targets , air defense positions were probably on high alert and watching for any bombers or other American aircraft .
Iran has refused to turn over the plane @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or Boeing , the aircraft ’ s manufacturer , so the cause of the accident is difficult to piece together .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

It’s beginning to look like a crashed civilian airliner in Iran was mistakenly shot down by the Islamic Republic’s air defense systems.
Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 caught fire and plummeted to the ground Wednesday shortly after takeoff in Tehran, an accident Iranian officials originally blamed on a technical issue with the plane.
The rogue nation is now changing its tune as new photos emerge reportedly showing missile debris from an anti-aircraft system near the doomed plane’s flight path.
Now, Iran is saying the plane tried to turn back after taking off, Bloomberg reported Thursday — a claim that runs counter to new evidence that implicates a trigger-happy Iranian anti-aircraft crew.
Photographs popping up on Iranian social media, and now making their way to the West, appear to show missile remains near the final flight path of the 737.
Second image (right) of Tor anti-aircraft missile debris, supposedly from near the #PS752 crash site. Still unverified, and still going to be very hard to geolocate it based on what’s visible in the image. h/t @Liberalist_30 pic.twitter.com/TQNRp6hopj — Eliot Higgins (@EliotHiggins) January 9, 2020
The remains appear to be part of a Tor surface-to-air missile system.
Did Iran shoot down this airliner? Yes No
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What’s left seems to be the “tip” of the missile — a part that contains some guidance instruments and sits in front of the warhead. With a fragmenting payload, it’s not impossible for this part to survive relatively intact.
An intact Tor missile can be seen below, and it looks eerily similar to the piece found in Iran.
Even more damning for Iran is what was found on the wreckage of the aircraft itself.
Shrapnel damage, possibly from a fragmenting anti-aircraft warhead, appears to have shredded parts of the plane. Seeing the extent of this damage makes it clear that this could have caused the 737 to catch fire and crash.
Pictures of the punctured aircraft pieces can be seen below.
Iran likely downed a #Ukrainian Boeing 737 near #Tehran last night by mistake when their air defense was on alert for US airstrikes. Video of plane burning in the sky, bullet or shrapnel holes in the plane, 176 killed. #Iran refuses to turn over the black box flight recorder… pic.twitter.com/GDaa8eK6Qz — Matthew VanDyke (@Matt_VanDyke) January 8, 2020
It’s unlikely that if the plane was shot down by an anti-aircraft crew, it was done intentionally.
Since it happened just hours after Iran’s missile strikes against U.S. targets, air defense positions were probably on high alert and watching for any bombers or other American aircraft.
#BREAKING this morning at @Newsweek Iranian missile system shot down #Ukraine flight, probably by mistake, sources say https://t.co/j3Yg9BRWEO — James LaPorta (@JimLaPorta) January 9, 2020
Iran has refused to turn over the plane’s flight recorders to American officials or Boeing, the aircraft’s manufacturer, so the cause of the accident is difficult to piece together.
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westernjournal--2020-01-09--Google’s Former Head of Int’l Relations Blasts Company’s Treatment of Minorities, Women

Ross LaJeunesse , Google ’ s former head of international relations , posted an Op-Ed to Medium on Jan. 2 that exposed the tech giant ’ s alleged propensity for prioritizing profits over human rights , which contradicts its early company motto of “ Don ’ t be evil.
” In 2010 , 2 years after LaJeunesse joined the company , Google decided to stop cooperating with China because of the Chinese government ’ s censorship demands and its attempts to hack into the Gmail accounts of human rights advocates .
It was the only way that executives believed they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t be evil ” mantra .
However , after LaJeunesse became the company ’ s head of international relations in 2012 , he discovered that executives wanted to rejoin the Chinese market through a secret , censored search product for China with the code name “ Project Dragonfly.
” LaJeunesse said he was worried that the “ Don ’ t be evil ” mantra was being abandoned .
To help Google prioritize human rights in its relationship with China and in its corporate culture , LaJeunesse said he proposed a “ Human Rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Declaration of Human Rights , which aims to protect things like “ human dignity , ” “ peaceful assembly ” and “ just and favourable ” work conditions .
TRENDING : During Obama Years , Biden Reportedly Helped Soleimani , Iran Gain More Power in Middle East But every time he recommended the program , “ senior executives came up with an excuse to say no , ” LaJeunesse wrote .
“ I then realized that the company had never intended to incorporate human rights principles into its business and product decisions , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Google needed to double down on a commitment to human rights , it decided to instead chase bigger profits and an even higher stock price.
” LaJeunesse said human rights principles were not only neglected by Google ’ s product and policy teams , but also in the work space culture itself .
For instance , he alleged racist and sexist behavior that he says he witnessed at work .
“ Senior colleagues bullied and screamed at young women , causing them to cry at their desks , ” he wrote .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said , ‘ Now you Asians come to the microphone too .
I know you don ’ t like to ask questions , ' ” LaJeunesse continued .
He described an all-hands meeting , in which he claimed colleagues were separated into rooms labeled “ Asians , ” “ Brown people ” and “ homos.
” LaJeunesse , who is gay , said employees shouted out stereotypical terms such as “ effeminate ” and “ promiscuous ” at those in the “ homos ” room .
RELATED : US Stock Indexes Open High @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said he tried to report the issues to human resources , but each time no one followed up .
He said he learned the truth about what was going on when he was copied on an email from a senior director of HR to a colleague , where the director allegedly instructed the colleague to “ do some digging ” on LaJeunesse since he reported workplace concerns so often .
LaJeunesse said he experienced retaliation from Google for reporting misconduct .
He claimed to have lost his position as head of international relations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 11 years of glowing reviews , even though there were nearly 100 positions open on the policy team .
LaJeunesse said he was offered a smaller job in exchange for his silence , which he declined .
Google said in a statement to The Washington Post that the reorganization was not due to LaJeunesse ’ s individual performance .
Instead , the company said his previous position did not fit into the new structure that divided its policy team into regional and product teams .
“ We have an unwavering commitment to supporting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jenn Kaiser , a Google spokeswoman , told The Post .
In 2018 , more than 20,000 Google employees walked out while on the job to protest sexual harassment ; in response , Google said it would change its sexual misconduct policies and support workers who expressed concerns to HR .
“ In general , there ’ s a culture at Google where people were afraid to talk to HR — and in many cases for good reason , ” Liz Fong-Jones , a former Google engineer who claimed she experienced retaliation from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issues , told Recode , a technology news company owned by Vox Media .
The outlet reported that employees have been “ demoted , pushed out , or placed on less desirable projects ” for filing complaints with Google ’ s HR department .
“ To me , no additional evidence was needed that ‘ Don ’ t be evil ’ was no longer a true reflection of the company ’ s values ; it was now nothing more than just another corporate marketing tool , ” LaJeunesse , who ’ s now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Maine , wrote after detailing how he quit his job .
“ Two weeks after leaving Google , I returned home to Maine .
It ’ s where I was born and raised , and where I was taught basic values like the importance of working hard , standing up for what is right , and speaking the truth , ” he continued .
“ There are many people here in Maine and throughout the country who live by the credo ‘ Don ’ t be evil.
’ We may not use that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have billion dollar marketing budgets to convince the world of our goodness .
But , we live by those words every day , and we expect our government and our corporations to do the same.
” The Western Journal has reached out to Google for comment but has not yet received a response .
We will update this article if and when we do .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Ross LaJeunesse, Google’s former head of international relations, posted an Op-Ed to Medium on Jan. 2 that exposed the tech giant’s alleged propensity for prioritizing profits over human rights, which contradicts its early company motto of “Don’t be evil.”
In 2010, 2 years after LaJeunesse joined the company, Google decided to stop cooperating with China because of the Chinese government’s censorship demands and its attempts to hack into the Gmail accounts of human rights advocates.
It was the only way that executives believed they could stick with their “Don’t be evil” mantra.
However, after LaJeunesse became the company’s head of international relations in 2012, he discovered that executives wanted to rejoin the Chinese market through a secret, censored search product for China with the code name “Project Dragonfly.” LaJeunesse said he was worried that the “Don’t be evil” mantra was being abandoned.
To help Google prioritize human rights in its relationship with China and in its corporate culture, LaJeunesse said he proposed a “Human Rights Program” based off the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights, which aims to protect things like “human dignity,” “peaceful assembly” and “just and favourable” work conditions.
But every time he recommended the program, “senior executives came up with an excuse to say no,” LaJeunesse wrote.
“I then realized that the company had never intended to incorporate human rights principles into its business and product decisions,” he said.
“Just when Google needed to double down on a commitment to human rights, it decided to instead chase bigger profits and an even higher stock price.”
LaJeunesse said human rights principles were not only neglected by Google’s product and policy teams, but also in the work space culture itself.
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For instance, he alleged racist and sexist behavior that he says he witnessed at work.
“Senior colleagues bullied and screamed at young women, causing them to cry at their desks,” he wrote.
“At an all-hands meeting, my boss said, ‘Now you Asians come to the microphone too. I know you don’t like to ask questions,'” LaJeunesse continued.
He described an all-hands meeting, in which he claimed colleagues were separated into rooms labeled “Asians,” “Brown people” and “homos.”
LaJeunesse, who is gay, said employees shouted out stereotypical terms such as “effeminate” and “promiscuous” at those in the “homos” room.
LaJeunesse said he tried to report the issues to human resources, but each time no one followed up.
He said he learned the truth about what was going on when he was copied on an email from a senior director of HR to a colleague, where the director allegedly instructed the colleague to “do some digging” on LaJeunesse since he reported workplace concerns so often.
LaJeunesse said he experienced retaliation from Google for reporting misconduct.
He claimed to have lost his position as head of international relations for standing up for human rights despite 11 years of glowing reviews, even though there were nearly 100 positions open on the policy team.
LaJeunesse said he was offered a smaller job in exchange for his silence, which he declined.
Google said in a statement to The Washington Post that the reorganization was not due to LaJeunesse’s individual performance.
Instead, the company said his previous position did not fit into the new structure that divided its policy team into regional and product teams.
“We have an unwavering commitment to supporting human rights organizations and efforts,” Jenn Kaiser, a Google spokeswoman, told The Post.
In 2018, more than 20,000 Google employees walked out while on the job to protest sexual harassment; in response, Google said it would change its sexual misconduct policies and support workers who expressed concerns to HR.
“In general, there’s a culture at Google where people were afraid to talk to HR — and in many cases for good reason,” Liz Fong-Jones, a former Google engineer who claimed she experienced retaliation from Google for her activism against internal company issues, told Recode, a technology news company owned by Vox Media.
The outlet reported that employees have been “demoted, pushed out, or placed on less desirable projects” for filing complaints with Google’s HR department.
“To me, no additional evidence was needed that ‘Don’t be evil’ was no longer a true reflection of the company’s values; it was now nothing more than just another corporate marketing tool,” LaJeunesse, who’s now running for Senate as a Democrat in Maine, wrote after detailing how he quit his job.
“Two weeks after leaving Google, I returned home to Maine. It’s where I was born and raised, and where I was taught basic values like the importance of working hard, standing up for what is right, and speaking the truth,” he continued.
“There are many people here in Maine and throughout the country who live by the credo ‘Don’t be evil.’ We may not use that language, and we don’t have billion dollar marketing budgets to convince the world of our goodness. But, we live by those words every day, and we expect our government and our corporations to do the same.”
The Western Journal has reached out to Google for comment but has not yet received a response. We will update this article if and when we do.
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westernjournal--2020-01-09--Enemies of My Enemy

Enemies of My Enemy

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Branco cartoons , go to WesternJournal.com/opinion/cartoons .
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Aldi opened its first store in the U.S. in 1976 after it was founded a decade earlier in Germany by two brothers.


westernjournal--2020-01-09--Queen Was Reportedly Unprepared for Harry and Meghan’s Announcement To Step Down, Issues Response

As any mother-in-law knows , when your son marries someone , that person begins to affect family dynamics in an entirely new way .
The changes aren ’ t always positive , but they ’ re not always negative , either : They ’ re the result of two families with separate traditions and lifestyles coming together and deciding what they will carry on and what they will adjust .
That change is only magnified when a little one comes along .
At that point there are ( generally ) two sets of grandparents vying for time , and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the more difficult it can become for the new family to choose who to spend holidays with or where to live .
TRENDING : During Obama Years , Biden Reportedly Helped Soleimani , Iran Gain More Power in Middle East All of those issues come to a head for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle — but an immense amount of pressure and decorum is added , as well .
Not only are they still navigating married life and parenting ( enough of a challenge on its own ) , but they have royal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world ’ s scrutiny .
To that end , the couple released a statement recently that highlighted how they will be choosing to live their lives across continents and cultures .
“ After many months of reflection and internal discussions , we have chosen to make a transition this year in starting to carve out a progressive new role within this institution , ” they posted Wednesday through their Instagram account , sussexroyal .
“ We intend to step back as ‘ senior ’ members of the Royal Family and work to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fully support Her Majesty The Queen .
It is with your encouragement , particularly over the last few years , that we feel prepared to make this adjustment.
” They explained their plan was to split time between their homes in the U.K. and the U.S. while still “ continuing to honour ” their royal duties to “ The Queen , the Commonwealth , and our patronages.
” The couple said the change was for several reasons , including the raising of their son .
They want him to experience both of his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ announced plans to pursue a charitable endeavor .
RELATED : Prince Harry and Meghan Announce Move to North America , Step Down from Royal Duties “ We look forward to sharing the full details of this exciting next step in due course , as we continue to collaborate with Her Majesty The Queen , The Prince of Wales , The Duke of Cambridge and all relevant parties , ” they concluded .
“ Until then , please accept our deepest thanks for your continued support.
” The news has people humming , whether @ @ @ @ @ @ @ particularly British manner , it is unclear what exactly Her Majesty ’ s position on the matter is .
Following the Duke and Duchess of Sussex ’ s announcement , Buckingham Palace issued a cryptic but cautionary statement .
“ We understand their desire to take a different approach but these are complicated issues that will take time to work through , ” the palace said in a statement , according to The New York Times .
“ Discussions with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are at an early stage.
” Different @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Queen ’ s message , some pointing to “ we understand , ” arguably as a move to approve and support , while others note the hesitation in the “ complicated issues that will take time to work through.
” Either way , one thing is for sure : There ’ s a sense of disappointment — or at least a hint of doubt — suggested in the very tactful public statement .
One source even told People that the announcement came as a surprise to many of the royals , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prince Charles .
“ There is a lot of hurt about this , ” the source said , adding that the situation could have been handled differently and the rift “ was so avoidable.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

As any mother-in-law knows, when your son marries someone, that person begins to affect family dynamics in an entirely new way.
The changes aren’t always positive, but they’re not always negative, either: They’re the result of two families with separate traditions and lifestyles coming together and deciding what they will carry on and what they will adjust.
That change is only magnified when a little one comes along.
At that point there are (generally) two sets of grandparents vying for time, and the further they are from one another, the more difficult it can become for the new family to choose who to spend holidays with or where to live.
All of those issues come to a head for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle — but an immense amount of pressure and decorum is added, as well.
Not only are they still navigating married life and parenting (enough of a challenge on its own), but they have royal expectations to fulfill and are constantly under the world’s scrutiny.
To that end, the couple released a statement recently that highlighted how they will be choosing to live their lives across continents and cultures.
“After many months of reflection and internal discussions, we have chosen to make a transition this year in starting to carve out a progressive new role within this institution,” they posted Wednesday through their Instagram account, sussexroyal.
“We intend to step back as ‘senior’ members of the Royal Family and work to become financially independent, while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen. It is with your encouragement, particularly over the last few years, that we feel prepared to make this adjustment.”
They explained their plan was to split time between their homes in the U.K. and the U.S. while still “continuing to honour” their royal duties to “The Queen, the Commonwealth, and our patronages.”
The couple said the change was for several reasons, including the raising of their son.
They want him to experience both of his parents’ cultures, but they also announced plans to pursue a charitable endeavor.
“We look forward to sharing the full details of this exciting next step in due course, as we continue to collaborate with Her Majesty The Queen, The Prince of Wales, The Duke of Cambridge and all relevant parties,” they concluded. “Until then, please accept our deepest thanks for your continued support.”
The news has people humming, whether with approval or disdain.
In a particularly British manner, it is unclear what exactly Her Majesty’s position on the matter is.
Following the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s announcement, Buckingham Palace issued a cryptic but cautionary statement.
“We understand their desire to take a different approach but these are complicated issues that will take time to work through,” the palace said in a statement, according to The New York Times. “Discussions with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are at an early stage.”
Different outlets are choosing to highlight different portions of the Queen’s message, some pointing to “we understand,” arguably as a move to approve and support, while others note the hesitation in the “complicated issues that will take time to work through.”
Either way, one thing is for sure: There’s a sense of disappointment — or at least a hint of doubt — suggested in the very tactful public statement.
One source even told People that the announcement came as a surprise to many of the royals, including the Queen, Prince William and Prince Charles.
“There is a lot of hurt about this,” the source said, adding that the situation could have been handled differently and the rift “was so avoidable.”
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westernjournal--2020-01-09--Melania Trump Named 2020 Woman of Distinction

Melania Trump has been named Palm Beach Atlantic University ’ s 2020 Woman of Distinction for her charitable leadership with the White House ’ s “ Be Best ” initiative .
The first lady will be honored at the university ’ s luncheon on Feb. 19 celebrating women who have made a significant impact on the community .
“ Our first lady is an exquisite human being , a magnificent wife and life partner , a superb mother and an outstanding first lady , who represents us brilliantly in the United States and worldwide , ” Eileen Burns , co-chairwoman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Beach Post .
“ Melania is a perfect example of a Woman of Distinction and we are most proud to honor her , ” Burns said .
Co-chairwoman Frances Fisher added that Trump is only one of two first ladies who have been residents of Palm Beach ; Jacqueline and John F. Kennedy stayed there in a “ Winter White House ” when he was president .
TRENDING : During Obama Years , Biden Reportedly Helped Soleimani , Iran Gain More Power in Middle East “ First ladies define the history of our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This will be a truly memorable event.
” A Palm Beach Atlantic University representative told Newsweek that tickets for the event sold out after they were available .
Proceeds from the event will benefit a PBAU scholarship for female students .
The award recognizes women for their support of organizations that promote arts , education , health care and other community initiatives , and Trump is being honored for her leadership in the Be Best initiative .
The first lady launched Be Best in May 2018 to promote children ’ s social and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ generation ’ s moral imperative to take responsibility and help our children manage the many issues they are facing today , including encouraging positive social , emotional , and physical habits , ” Trump said in her statement launching the initiative .
“ By acknowledging there are many important issues , and knowing these problems can not be solved overnight , I believe we can change the way we think and talk about issues facing children today , ” she said .
Be Best focuses on three main pillars : well-being , online @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lady has traveled internationally and nationally to promote and recognize people and organizations across the globe that are dedicated to helping children overcome these concerns .
In the initiative ’ s first year , Trump visited 15 states and nine countries .
During her trips , which have included multiple visits to schools and hospitals , she has worked with the departments of Education and Health and Human Services .
RELATED : Trump Voted Co-'Most Admired Man ' in US and That 's Big Trouble for Democrats in 2020 “ My hope is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at helping children and families find effective ways to educate themselves and become part of the solution to so many problems and issues , ” Trump said on the one-year anniversary of the initiative .
The online safety pillar of Be Best includes cyberbullying and promoting good citizenship online .
In light of that , the first lady was criticized by some in the media last month for not defending 16-year-old climate change activist Greta Thunberg after President Donald Trump tweeted , “ Greta must work on her Anger Management problem , then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a friend !
Chill Greta , Chill !
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Melania Trump has been named Palm Beach Atlantic University’s 2020 Woman of Distinction for her charitable leadership with the White House’s “Be Best” initiative.
The first lady will be honored at the university’s luncheon on Feb. 19 celebrating women who have made a significant impact on the community.
“Our first lady is an exquisite human being, a magnificent wife and life partner, a superb mother and an outstanding first lady, who represents us brilliantly in the United States and worldwide,” Eileen Burns, co-chairwoman of the event, told The Palm Beach Post.
“Melania is a perfect example of a Woman of Distinction and we are most proud to honor her,” Burns said.
Co-chairwoman Frances Fisher added that Trump is only one of two first ladies who have been residents of Palm Beach; Jacqueline and John F. Kennedy stayed there in a “Winter White House” when he was president.
“First ladies define the history of our country,” Fisher said. “This will be a truly memorable event.”
A Palm Beach Atlantic University representative told Newsweek that tickets for the event sold out after they were available. Proceeds from the event will benefit a PBAU scholarship for female students.
The award recognizes women for their support of organizations that promote arts, education, health care and other community initiatives, and Trump is being honored for her leadership in the Be Best initiative.
The first lady launched Be Best in May 2018 to promote children’s social and emotional health.
Do you think Melania Trump deserves this award? Yes No
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“It remains our generation’s moral imperative to take responsibility and help our children manage the many issues they are facing today, including encouraging positive social, emotional, and physical habits,” Trump said in her statement launching the initiative.
“By acknowledging there are many important issues, and knowing these problems cannot be solved overnight, I believe we can change the way we think and talk about issues facing children today,” she said.
Be Best focuses on three main pillars: well-being, online safety and opioid abuse.
The first lady has traveled internationally and nationally to promote and recognize people and organizations across the globe that are dedicated to helping children overcome these concerns.
In the initiative’s first year, Trump visited 15 states and nine countries. During her trips, which have included multiple visits to schools and hospitals, she has worked with the departments of Education and Health and Human Services.
https://youtu.be/P_aOIm992qc
“My hope is that together we can be the best at helping children and families find effective ways to educate themselves and become part of the solution to so many problems and issues,” Trump said on the one-year anniversary of the initiative.
The online safety pillar of Be Best includes cyberbullying and promoting good citizenship online. In light of that, the first lady was criticized by some in the media last month for not defending 16-year-old climate change activist Greta Thunberg after President Donald Trump tweeted, “Greta must work on her Anger Management problem, then go to a good old fashioned movie with a friend! Chill Greta, Chill!”
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westernjournal--2020-01-09--Video Catches Ilhan Omar Giggling as US Iraq War Deaths Are Being Discussed

Rep. Ilhan Omar already had a reputation for speaking lightly of American deaths , but this is a step beyond .
The Minnesota Democrat was captured in a video of a news conference Wednesday giggling with one of her “ squad ” comrades as Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas discussed the thousands of American service members who ’ ve died in fighting in Iraq .
And Omar ’ s colleagues in Congress took notice .
TRENDING : During Obama Years , Biden Reportedly Helped Soleimani , Iran Gain More Power in Middle East “ @ HouseDemocrats make light of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ men and women in uniform deserve our utmost respect and applause for their service and sacrifice — not mockery and laughter.
” Appalling as it is to see a U.S. congresswoman acting out like a schoolgirl while the deaths of her countrymen were under discussion , the incident came at the same news conference where Omar claimed she was “ stricken with PTSD ” by the “ conversations around war ” dominating the nation ’ s capital this week .
As Fox News reported , Indiana Rep. Jim Banks , a Republican who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ corps officer in 2015 , wasn ’ t buying that claim at all .
“ This is a disgrace and offensive to our nation ’ s veterans who really do have PTSD after putting their life on the line to keep America safe , ” he tweeted .
In her own tweet , Omar responded that her “ PTSD ” stemmed from her childhood in war-torn Somalia , and attacked Banks for trying to “ erase the PTSD of survivors.
” Well , if the congresswoman representing the North Star state wants to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her family fled from , it ’ s tough to argue .
RELATED : Ilhan Omar Declared 'Antisemite of the Year ' by Anti-Hate Group But there ’ s no arguing the evidence that she didn ’ t seem too stressed while yukking it up with the often unhinged Michigan Democratic Rep. Rashida Tlaib as fellow Democrat Jackson Lee talked about American war deaths .
And Hice wasn ’ t the only one who thought the conduct was “ shameful.
” Of course , the times being what they are , there were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defended Omar .
One comment , for instance , noted that while the conduct might have been unprofessional , Omar wasn ’ t laughing at the idea of American deaths , just “ having a conversation at the back ” of a news conference — which shouldn ’ t be viewed as acceptable in the first place .
Hice was then accused of “ gaslighting , ” which is what liberals call just about anything they disagree with lately .
But arguments like that don ’ t change anything .
The fact is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ States congresswoman , appearing with her fellow lawmakers at a news conference in a time when the country is engaged in a military confrontation with Iran — a hostile power that has been essentially at war with the U.S. for 40 years .
The fact is , she chose that moment to act like a fifth-grader on a class trip .
It ’ s not easy to make a liberal as repugnant as Sheila Jackson Lee look like the adult in the room , but Omar managed to pull it off .
Omar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ things , referring to the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11 , 2001 , as “ some people did something.
” Actually giggling during a discussion of American combat deaths , though ?
It ’ s a step far beyond that .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Rep. Ilhan Omar already had a reputation for speaking lightly of American deaths, but this is a step beyond.
The Minnesota Democrat was captured in a video of a news conference Wednesday giggling with one of her “squad” comrades as Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas discussed the thousands of American service members who’ve died in fighting in Iraq.
And Omar’s colleagues in Congress took notice.
Absolutely shameful. WATCH→ @IlhanMN and other @HouseDemocrats make light of American lives lost overseas. Our brave men and women in uniform deserve our utmost respect and applause for their service and sacrifice — not mockery and laughter.pic.twitter.com/Lee0tmfGDa — Rep. Jody Hice (@CongressmanHice) January 8, 2020
“Absolutely shameful,” Georgia Republican Jody Hice wrote in a Twitter post.
“@HouseDemocrats make light of American lives lost overseas. Our brave men and women in uniform deserve our utmost respect and applause for their service and sacrifice — not mockery and laughter.”
Appalling as it is to see a U.S. congresswoman acting out like a schoolgirl while the deaths of her countrymen were under discussion, the incident came at the same news conference where Omar claimed she was “stricken with PTSD” by the “conversations around war” dominating the nation’s capital this week.
As Fox News reported, Indiana Rep. Jim Banks, a Republican who served in Afghanistan as a Navy supply corps officer in 2015, wasn’t buying that claim at all.
Rep. Ilhan Omar complained she’s “stricken with PTSD” because of recent events in the Middle East. This is a disgrace and offensive to our nation’s veterans who really do have PTSD after putting their life on the line to keep America safe. pic.twitter.com/twhZDuUDu0 — Jim Banks (@RepJimBanks) January 8, 2020
“This is a disgrace and offensive to our nation’s veterans who really do have PTSD after putting their life on the line to keep America safe,” he tweeted.
In her own tweet, Omar responded that her “PTSD” stemmed from her childhood in war-torn Somalia, and attacked Banks for trying to “erase the PTSD of survivors.”
Well, if the congresswoman representing the North Star state wants to claim post-traumatic stress disorder from the hell-hole her family fled from, it’s tough to argue.
But there’s no arguing the evidence that she didn’t seem too stressed while yukking it up with the often unhinged Michigan Democratic Rep. Rashida Tlaib as fellow Democrat Jackson Lee talked about American war deaths.
And Hice wasn’t the only one who thought the conduct was “shameful.”
This was an incredible, disgusting display of disrespect. ?? — JB & Co ??? (@LaughandScrap) January 8, 2020
@JacksonLeeTX18 @RashidaTlaib @RepJayapal laughing about American lives that have been lost is repulsive. Do they hate our Military and @realDonaldTrump that much? Soleimani was a terrorist who was responsible for thousands of deaths he was trash and deserved DEATH! — Karen Lynn ??☕ (@KarenLynnBNB) January 9, 2020
That is despicable behavior. I hope seeing her smug arrogance and her disrespect will help wake up members of her party. — Karen Hatfield (@kwhatfield) January 9, 2020
Of course, the times being what they are, there were quite a few Twitter respondents who actually defended Omar.
One comment, for instance, noted that while the conduct might have been unprofessional, Omar wasn’t laughing at the idea of American deaths, just “having a conversation at the back” of a news conference — which shouldn’t be viewed as acceptable in the first place. Hice was then accused of “gaslighting,” which is what liberals call just about anything they disagree with lately.
But arguments like that don’t change anything.
The fact is, Omar was acting as a United States congresswoman, appearing with her fellow lawmakers at a news conference in a time when the country is engaged in a military confrontation with Iran — a hostile power that has been essentially at war with the U.S. for 40 years.
The fact is, she chose that moment to act like a fifth-grader on a class trip. It’s not easy to make a liberal as repugnant as Sheila Jackson Lee look like the adult in the room, but Omar managed to pull it off.
Omar is already infamous for, among other things, referring to the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, as “some people did something.”
Actually giggling during a discussion of American combat deaths, though? It’s a step far beyond that.
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westernjournal--2020-01-09--Stefanik Becomes Anti-Impeachment Star, Outraises Dem Opponent by More Than 50%

Picture this headline being written about a Democrat : “ GOP woman gets outsized role at impeachment hearing.
” That ’ s not from , say , Vox or Daily Kos .
It ’ s from The Associated Press .
And it ’ s not just about any random woman .
If you ’ d have watched the November hearing to which it referred , you ’ d have realized you were watching the arrival of Rep. Elise Stefanik , a 35-year-old Republican on the House Intelligence Committee , as a major force in Washington .
Stefanik asked pointed questions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Marie Yovanovitch — the star witness for the Democrats that day , given that she ’ d been dismissed by the president — and consistently protested being interrupted by committee chairman Rep. Adam Schiff ’ s gavel .
TRENDING : During Obama Years , Biden Reportedly Helped Soleimani , Iran Gain More Power in Middle East “ We know clearly you ’ re going to interrupt us throughout this hearing , ” Stefanik said .
That may not have stopped Schiff , but it clearly gave Stefanik a national profile .
That national @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thanks to America ’ s favorite desperate househusband , George Conway : According to a curiously married man whose only wider cultural fame has come from attempting to humiliate his wife , Stefanik “ is lying trash ” and you should donate to her opponent , Tedra Cobb .
Barbra Streisand and the effect named after her probably should have alerted Conway to what happened next : According to the Washington Examiner , Stefanik out-raised Cobb by more than 50 percent .
Stefanik raised $ 3.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2019 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ million cash on hand .
Those are rookie numbers for presidential candidates , but that ’ s pretty big stuff for a House race , particularly when her opponent got George Conway to sic the flying monkeys of the coastal ActBlue battalion on her .
RELATED : Pelosi Got Idea To Withhold Impeachment Articles from a CNN Interview : Report Cobb , by the way , only raised about $ 2 million despite the ups from Conway .
According to WWNY-TV , she only has $ 2.2 million cash on hand .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ largest on record for any candidate in this congressional seat , ” a statement from the Stefanik campaign read .
“ Failed 2018 candidate and current 2020 Democrat Tedra Cobb starts off the on-year with a serious financial disadvantage to Stefanik ’ s war chest .
In 2018 , Stefanik beat Taxin ’ Tedra Cobb by a larger margin than any Republican Congressional candidate in the entire Northeast.
” “ I am overwhelmed by this historic level of support from my constituents and donors across the country for my reelection in 2020 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Every day of the week , I choose the North Country and America over the Far-Left Hollywood liberals like Rosie O ’ Donnell and Chelsea Handler who are funding my opponent .
“ This record-breaking support is indicative of the countless bipartisan results I ’ ve delivered for the hardworking families in my district .
Our campaign looks forward to running against failed candidate Taxin ’ Tedra Cobb , the Toast of Tinseltown.
” That ’ s some impressive alliteration .
What ’ s even more impressive are the numbers .
No @ @ @ @ @ @ @ driven by big money .
According to Stefanik ’ s statement , the average donation was $ 50 .
No , this wasn ’ t a case where old donors decided to double down on Stefanik .
There were almost 50,000 first-time donors to the campaign .
Yes , this was a huge bump .
Stefanik had only raised $ 450,000 from July to September .
George Conway , for whatever reason , isn ’ t commenting on this one .
Stefanik , meanwhile , has stayed active in the impeachment arena even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ House , telling Fox News on Wednesday that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi should stop trying to interfere with the Senate ’ s handling of the impeachment trial .
“ The impeachment dam is breaking , ” Stefanik told Sean Hannity , referring to several Democratic senators who were urging the speaker to turn over the articles of impeachment to the upper chamber regardless of whether Pelosi gets the trial that the Democrats want .
“ We need to continue to keep up the pressure , ” Stefanik said , adding : “ She @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The thing is , people are listening to Stefanik now .
She ’ s become one of the point people for the Republican Party on impeachment — and one of its most effective ones , at that .
That ’ s quite a shift for some random “ GOP woman.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Picture this headline being written about a Democrat: “GOP woman gets outsized role at impeachment hearing.”
That’s not from, say, Vox or Daily Kos. It’s from The Associated Press.
And it’s not just about any random woman.
If you’d have watched the November hearing to which it referred, you’d have realized you were watching the arrival of Rep. Elise Stefanik, a 35-year-old Republican on the House Intelligence Committee, as a major force in Washington.
Stefanik asked pointed questions of former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch — the star witness for the Democrats that day, given that she’d been dismissed by the president — and consistently protested being interrupted by committee chairman Rep. Adam Schiff’s gavel.
“We know clearly you’re going to interrupt us throughout this hearing,” Stefanik said.
That may not have stopped Schiff, but it clearly gave Stefanik a national profile.
That national profile only increased in the coming days thanks to America’s favorite desperate househusband, George Conway:
Do you think Stefanik is a rising star in the GOP? 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% (2686 Votes) No: 1% (30 Votes)
According to a curiously married man whose only wider cultural fame has come from attempting to humiliate his wife, Stefanik “is lying trash” and you should donate to her opponent, Tedra Cobb.
Barbra Streisand and the effect named after her probably should have alerted Conway to what happened next: According to the Washington Examiner, Stefanik out-raised Cobb by more than 50 percent.
Stefanik raised $3.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2019, meaning she now has $3.4 million cash on hand.
Those are rookie numbers for presidential candidates, but that’s pretty big stuff for a House race, particularly when her opponent got George Conway to sic the flying monkeys of the coastal ActBlue battalion on her.
Cobb, by the way, only raised about $2 million despite the ups from Conway. According to WWNY-TV, she only has $2.2 million cash on hand.
“Stefanik’s fundraising haul is the largest on record for any candidate in this congressional seat,” a statement from the Stefanik campaign read.
“Failed 2018 candidate and current 2020 Democrat Tedra Cobb starts off the on-year with a serious financial disadvantage to Stefanik’s war chest. In 2018, Stefanik beat Taxin’ Tedra Cobb by a larger margin than any Republican Congressional candidate in the entire Northeast.”
“I am overwhelmed by this historic level of support from my constituents and donors across the country for my reelection in 2020,” Stefanik said in the statement.
“Every day of the week, I choose the North Country and America over the Far-Left Hollywood liberals like Rosie O’Donnell and Chelsea Handler who are funding my opponent.
“This record-breaking support is indicative of the countless bipartisan results I’ve delivered for the hardworking families in my district. Our campaign looks forward to running against failed candidate Taxin’ Tedra Cobb, the Toast of Tinseltown.”
That’s some impressive alliteration. What’s even more impressive are the numbers.
No, this wasn’t a campaign driven by big money. According to Stefanik’s statement, the average donation was $50.
No, this wasn’t a case where old donors decided to double down on Stefanik. There were almost 50,000 first-time donors to the campaign.
Yes, this was a huge bump. Stefanik had only raised $450,000 from July to September.
George Conway, for whatever reason, isn’t commenting on this one.
Stefanik, meanwhile, has stayed active in the impeachment arena even after the vote got taken in the House, telling Fox News on Wednesday that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi should stop trying to interfere with the Senate’s handling of the impeachment trial.
“The impeachment dam is breaking,” Stefanik told Sean Hannity, referring to several Democratic senators who were urging the speaker to turn over the articles of impeachment to the upper chamber regardless of whether Pelosi gets the trial that the Democrats want.
“We need to continue to keep up the pressure,” Stefanik said, adding: “She has no authority over the Senate.”
The thing is, people are listening to Stefanik now. She’s become one of the point people for the Republican Party on impeachment — and one of its most effective ones, at that.
That’s quite a shift for some random “GOP woman.”
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westernjournal--2020-01-09--If PP Isn’t Primarily an Abortion Provider, Why Did It Perform Nearly 1K a Day in 2019?

I find it darkly felicitous that Planned Parenthood ’ s website lists its services in alphabetical order .
The felicity here is that , when you click on the services tab , you get this rather benign description of its mission : “ Planned Parenthood is one of the nation ’ s leading providers of high-quality , affordable health care , and the nation ’ s largest provider of sex education .
We offer compassionate care , backed by medical experts and more than 100 years of research in reproductive health.
” First two services listed : “ Abortion ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ English language , it seems , is arrayed against Planned Parenthood ’ s attempt to portray itself as nothing more than a women ’ s health provider that just so happens to kind-of , maybe , have a sideline in ( cough , cough ) terminating the unborn ( cough , cough ) , but it ’ s really nothing you ought to concern yourself with and it ’ s such a tiny fraction of the mission , and did we mention all the women ’ s health that we provide ?
Proponents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ might have some issues with the latest numbers about its activities , which shows it ’ s performing nearly a thousand abortions a day .
TRENDING : During Obama Years , Biden Reportedly Helped Soleimani , Iran Gain More Power in Middle East According to the organization ’ s 2018-2019 annual report , released this past weekend , Planned Parenthood performed 345,672 abortions in the fiscal year , an increase of 12,915 over the previous one .
As Kimberly Leonard at the Washington Examiner noted , the organization doesn ’ t let on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , many of which are subsidized either at the state level or via financial assistance .
However , what is clear is that the percentage of abortions as a part of Planned Parenthood ’ s services is up , at 4 percent this fiscal year compared with 3.4 percent last year .
It ’ s also Planned Parenthood ’ s highest total to date , Reagan McCarthy reported at Townhall .
That doesn ’ t sound too damning .
After all , Planned Parenthood performed 9.8 million services in the previous fiscal year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sexually transmitted diseases , and 26 percent were for birth control .
However , that number doesn ’ t look so great when you realize that Planned Parenthood only saw 2.4 million patients last year .
Most of these patients , in other words , received multiple services from the organization .
A woman can have more than one abortion in a year .
While roughly half of American women who have had an abortion have had one previously , according to a study by the Guttmacher Institute , it ’ s certainly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say , multiple visits for treating STDs .
Furthermore , the number of abortions as a percentage of business is up .
So is the amount of money the organization receives from federal and state governments — from $ 563 million to $ 616 million .
The report , it must be noted , was involved a fiscal year that ended in June , before the Trump administration ’ s decision to deny Title X family planning funding to any organization that directly refers to abortions , so it ’ s unclear how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ long term .
While the organization ’ s revenue is down slightly , that ’ s mostly because of a shortfall in private donations .
That shortfall was the one bright spot for humanity in the report , at least if you ’ re a pro-life advocate .
RELATED : Dem .
Gov .
Who Wore Blackface Now Trying To Remove Robert E. Lee Statue in DC In between all of the suitably intersectional , carefully curated pictures of smiling women and tidbits of happy news ( “ How Planned Parenthood Is Paving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” read one sidebar article , which played fast and loose with the definition of the word “ accurate ” ) and rage-inducement ( the Trump administration ’ s decision on funding was deemed “ an unethical and illegal rule that silences providers in the Title X national family planning program ” ) , was the crucial information that 400,000 donors had fled during the fiscal year .
It ’ s impossible to adduce a cause for this , of course .
The high-profile departure of former CEO Dr. Leana Wen didn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reports of internal division had been popping up with some regularity before this .
That said , it doesn ’ t explain a $ 39.5 million drop in donations — a drop that contributed to a $ 17.5 million shortfall in revenue even as Planned Parenthood government funding increased by $ 53 million .
These are minor victories , however .
It ’ s probably not great to focus on the upside for pro-life activists — instead , look at the dire numbers in the report .
Planned Parenthood performed just under a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year the report covers and took more of your money .
While the organization insists that federal money isn ’ t used to subsidize abortions — and indeed it can ’ t be , under the law — consider the fact that the money covers other costs , costs that either relate indirectly to abortion or help subsidize it .
Title X revocation might make a dent in this but it won ’ t fully defund Planned Parenthood .
Your tax dollars are still going to nation ’ s largest abortion provider , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If you don ’ t believe that Planned Parenthood is , first and foremost , an abortion-centric organization , ask yourself this : What do you associate Planned Parenthood with ?
What ’ s its brand ?
When people donate to the organization , what do you think they ’ re donating for ?
Perhaps some of them really buy the fiction that this is only about women ’ s health .
For most people , however , I would gather it ’ s because they see Planned Parenthood as a culture warrior @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unfettered abortion as loudly as possible .
Yes , it provides women ’ s health services .
So do many doctors and clinics that don ’ t perform abortions .
So what ’ s Planned Parenthood ’ s raison d ’ être ?
The fact that “ abortion ” and “ abortion referral ” were at the top of Planned Parenthood ’ s services webpage might have been a coincidence .
The numbers are far from coincidental , and they don ’ t lie about what the organization ’ s priorities are .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

I find it darkly felicitous that Planned Parenthood’s website lists its services in alphabetical order.
The felicity here is that, when you click on the services tab, you get this rather benign description of its mission: “Planned Parenthood is one of the nation’s leading providers of high-quality, affordable health care, and the nation’s largest provider of sex education. We offer compassionate care, backed by medical experts and more than 100 years of research in reproductive health.”
First two services listed: “Abortion” and “Abortion referral.”
Even the English language, it seems, is arrayed against Planned Parenthood’s attempt to portray itself as nothing more than a women’s health provider that just so happens to kind-of, maybe, have a sideline in (cough, cough) terminating the unborn (cough, cough), but it’s really nothing you ought to concern yourself with and it’s such a tiny fraction of the mission, and did we mention all the women’s health that we provide?
Proponents of this sanguine view of the organization might have some issues with the latest numbers about its activities, which shows it’s performing nearly a thousand abortions a day.
According to the organization’s 2018-2019 annual report, released this past weekend, Planned Parenthood performed 345,672 abortions in the fiscal year, an increase of 12,915 over the previous one.
As Kimberly Leonard at the Washington Examiner noted, the organization doesn’t let on how much it takes in from abortions, many of which are subsidized either at the state level or via financial assistance.
However, what is clear is that the percentage of abortions as a part of Planned Parenthood’s services is up, at 4 percent this fiscal year compared with 3.4 percent last year. It’s also Planned Parenthood’s highest total to date, Reagan McCarthy reported at Townhall.
That doesn’t sound too damning. After all, Planned Parenthood performed 9.8 million services in the previous fiscal year. A majority of those were for sexually transmitted diseases, and 26 percent were for birth control.
Do you think Planned Parenthood should be defunded? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 97% (166 Votes) No: 3% (5 Votes)
However, that number doesn’t look so great when you realize that Planned Parenthood only saw 2.4 million patients last year. Most of these patients, in other words, received multiple services from the organization.
A woman can have more than one abortion in a year. While roughly half of American women who have had an abortion have had one previously, according to a study by the Guttmacher Institute, it’s certainly an event much more rare than, say, multiple visits for treating STDs.
Furthermore, the number of abortions as a percentage of business is up. So is the amount of money the organization receives from federal and state governments — from $563 million to $616 million.
The report, it must be noted, was involved a fiscal year that ended in June, before the Trump administration’s decision to deny Title X family planning funding to any organization that directly refers to abortions, so it’s unclear how that will affect the number over the long term.
While the organization’s revenue is down slightly, that’s mostly because of a shortfall in private donations. That shortfall was the one bright spot for humanity in the report, at least if you’re a pro-life advocate.
In between all of the suitably intersectional, carefully curated pictures of smiling women and tidbits of happy news (“How Planned Parenthood Is Paving The Way For Accurate Storytelling In Hollywood,” read one sidebar article, which played fast and loose with the definition of the word “accurate”) and rage-inducement (the Trump administration’s decision on funding was deemed “an unethical and illegal rule that silences providers in the Title X national family planning program”), was the crucial information that 400,000 donors had fled during the fiscal year.
It’s impossible to adduce a cause for this, of course. The high-profile departure of former CEO Dr. Leana Wen didn’t happen until July, but reports of internal division had been popping up with some regularity before this.
That said, it doesn’t explain a $39.5 million drop in donations — a drop that contributed to a $17.5 million shortfall in revenue even as Planned Parenthood government funding increased by $53 million.
These are minor victories, however. It’s probably not great to focus on the upside for pro-life activists — instead, look at the dire numbers in the report. Planned Parenthood performed just under a thousand abortions a day during the fiscal year the report covers and took more of your money.
While the organization insists that federal money isn’t used to subsidize abortions — and indeed it can’t be, under the law — consider the fact that the money covers other costs, costs that either relate indirectly to abortion or help subsidize it.
Title X revocation might make a dent in this but it won’t fully defund Planned Parenthood. Your tax dollars are still going to nation’s largest abortion provider, whether you like it or not.
If you don’t believe that Planned Parenthood is, first and foremost, an abortion-centric organization, ask yourself this: What do you associate Planned Parenthood with? What’s its brand? When people donate to the organization, what do you think they’re donating for?
Perhaps some of them really buy the fiction that this is only about women’s health. For most people, however, I would gather it’s because they see Planned Parenthood as a culture warrior, standing up for the right to unfettered abortion as loudly as possible.
Yes, it provides women’s health services. So do many doctors and clinics that don’t perform abortions. So what’s Planned Parenthood’s raison d’être?
The fact that “abortion” and “abortion referral” were at the top of Planned Parenthood’s services webpage might have been a coincidence.
The numbers are far from coincidental, and they don’t lie about what the organization’s priorities are.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.


westernjournal--2020-01-09--Don Jr. Blasts MSNBC for Hoping Iranian Attack Would Kill American Soldiers

I understand the desire to be first with information .
But that desire probably shouldn ’ t include , at least if you ’ re in Western media , the parroting of Iranian state-run media .
This is especially true if the story in question involves Iran ’ s attacks targeting U.S. forces .
That ’ s exactly what MSNBC got called out for by many — including Donald Trump Jr. — in the wake of Iran ’ s reprisals .
As it turns out , the missile attacks against bases housing U.S. troops in Iraq turned out to claim @ @ @ @ @ @ @ However , Iranian state media immediately jumped into the void to make wild claims about how the attacks had killed between 30 and 80 of our soldiers .
That Iran would know and announce before our own sources how many of our troops were killed when they lobbed 22 missiles Iraq ’ s way seems odd — if almost laughable — on its face .
TRENDING : During Obama Years , Biden Reportedly Helped Soleimani , Iran Gain More Power in Middle East Repeating it might be necessary if just to say that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saying .
It should also be repeated with the caveat that Iranian state media is in the business of lying on behalf of the Iranian regime .
For instance , in full disclosure , I cited the 80 U.S. deaths figure in an article while noting that the U.S. had not reported any casualties and that “ [ g ] iven the relative trustworthiness of the two sources , I ’ d say the latter is much , much closer to the truth.
” So , when this got reported on MSNBC , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there was some level of incredulity : Yes , he said “ this bit I ’ m not sure about.
” As a preface goes , that ’ s fairly weak stuff .
When citing Iranian state media , you should say something like , “ well , they ’ re usually full of garbage ” or “ this is coming from the official mouthpiece of the regime , ” not “ this bit I ’ m not sure about.
” Furthermore , it ends with : “ But we have just stepped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have entered a very unpredictable time .
We have to see what the response will be from the United States.
” A longer clip of Arouzi reveals even more problems with his appearance : RELATED : Pelosi Got Idea To Withhold Impeachment Articles from a CNN Interview : Report “ This is drawing people from all sides into this what is potentially the beginning of a war , ” Arouzi said .
“ I don ’ t know how this is going to go in the coming hours , but it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ came out from President Trump earlier today saying that he will retaliate against any retaliation from Iran .
I think we can expect an attack on Iran imminently.
” There has been no imminent attack on Iran .
A number of good calls from this Arouzi chap , I ’ d say .
This wasn ’ t the only incidence of media reporting disinformation from Iran ’ s state-run media as if it were legitimate ( more on that later ) but it was the most conspicuous — conspicuous enough to get the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ They sound like they were actually hoping for that outcome , ” Trump Jr. said .
“ I guess they too were really upset about their loss this weekend too.
” I ’ m assuming he ’ s talking about Iranian terrorist Qassem Soleimani ’ s death , which happened in the early morning hours of Friday Iraq time .
That said , there does sound to be an element of anticipation here — if not anticipation of dead Americans , at least the anticipation of a juicy story .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the MSNBC newsroom in response to far juicier stories that didn ’ t involve the potential of any death .
One on the night of Nov. 8 , 2016 , springs immediately to mind .
By the way , this actually wasn ’ t the worst of the stories that relied on Iran ’ s state media .
Consider this headline from Raw Story : “ Iran state media claims 30 killed in missile strike — but no casualties reported by US or Iraq.
” The story contains two full paragraphs and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , and can be read either way in terms of who they trust here — although , given the sequencing of the facts and that most of them come from state media ( or a report from CNN which claimed there were casualties , but they were Iraqi ) , you can probably guess what side Raw Story is on .
The fact that Raw Story is to the left of MSNBC should give you an additional clue .
Also of interest , check out the banner that met me at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Help them report the truth about Trump ’ s Iran fiasco … by donating to them so they can amplify messages from Iranian state media .
Iranian state media isn ’ t parrot-worthy .
We ’ re not talking the BBC here , and MSNBC knows this full well .
This was a galling miscalculation on Arouzi ’ s part — and at some level , on the network ’ s part , too .
There wasn ’ t any pushback and there apparently weren ’ t any directives against using Iran ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another source .
Absent those , the network had a horrible night Tuesday — and it was wholly deserved .
This was saber-rattling , plain and simple .
They wanted a better story than the one that existed .
Thank goodness they didn ’ t get it .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

I understand the desire to be first with information.
But that desire probably shouldn’t include, at least if you’re in Western media, the parroting of Iranian state-run media. This is especially true if the story in question involves Iran’s attacks targeting U.S. forces.
That’s exactly what MSNBC got called out for by many — including Donald Trump Jr. — in the wake of Iran’s reprisals.
As it turns out, the missile attacks against bases housing U.S. troops in Iraq turned out to claim no lives, American or otherwise. However, Iranian state media immediately jumped into the void to make wild claims about how the attacks had killed between 30 and 80 of our soldiers.
That Iran would know and announce before our own sources how many of our troops were killed when they lobbed 22 missiles Iraq’s way seems odd — if almost laughable — on its face.
Repeating it might be necessary if just to say that this is what Iranian state media was saying. It should also be repeated with the caveat that Iranian state media is in the business of lying on behalf of the Iranian regime.
For instance, in full disclosure, I cited the 80 U.S. deaths figure in an article while noting that the U.S. had not reported any casualties and that “[g]iven the relative trustworthiness of the two sources, I’d say the latter is much, much closer to the truth.”
So, when this got reported on MSNBC, it’s easy to see why there was some level of incredulity:
MSNBC helped Iran push the false claim that 30 U.S. soldiers were killed tonight in their attack. Zero were killed. This isn’t just fake news, this is so damn disrespectful to the family members of those deployed. Do better or delete your network.pic.twitter.com/2l9KzsNPc5 — Jason Howerton (@jason_howerton) January 8, 2020
That’s NBC News’ Tehran bureau chief, Ali Arouzi, talking about the Iranian state media claim.
Yes, he said “this bit I’m not sure about.”
As a preface goes, that’s fairly weak stuff. When citing Iranian state media, you should say something like, “well, they’re usually full of garbage” or “this is coming from the official mouthpiece of the regime,” not “this bit I’m not sure about.”
Furthermore, it ends with: “But we have just stepped over the precipice, Chris. We have entered a very unpredictable time. We have to see what the response will be from the United States.”
A longer clip of Arouzi reveals even more problems with his appearance:
“This is drawing people from all sides into this what is potentially the beginning of a war,” Arouzi said.
“I don’t know how this is going to go in the coming hours, but it’s not looking good from the rhetoric that came out from President Trump earlier today saying that he will retaliate against any retaliation from Iran. I think we can expect an attack on Iran imminently.”
There has been no imminent attack on Iran. A number of good calls from this Arouzi chap, I’d say.
This wasn’t the only incidence of media reporting disinformation from Iran’s state-run media as if it were legitimate (more on that later) but it was the most conspicuous — conspicuous enough to get the attention of the president’s son.
They sound like they were actually hoping for that outcome. I guess they too were really upset about their loss this weekend too. https://t.co/AcdJjwQUvk — Donald Trump Jr. (@DonaldJTrumpJr) January 8, 2020
“They sound like they were actually hoping for that outcome,” Trump Jr. said.
“I guess they too were really upset about their loss this weekend too.”
I’m assuming he’s talking about Iranian terrorist Qassem Soleimani’s death, which happened in the early morning hours of Friday Iraq time.
That said, there does sound to be an element of anticipation here — if not anticipation of dead Americans, at least the anticipation of a juicy story.
I’m reminded of more funereal atmospheres in the MSNBC newsroom in response to far juicier stories that didn’t involve the potential of any death. One on the night of Nov. 8, 2016, springs immediately to mind.
By the way, this actually wasn’t the worst of the stories that relied on Iran’s state media. Consider this headline from Raw Story: “Iran state media claims 30 killed in missile strike — but no casualties reported by US or Iraq.”
The story contains two full paragraphs and a tweet (from Arouzi, predictably), and can be read either way in terms of who they trust here — although, given the sequencing of the facts and that most of them come from state media (or a report from CNN which claimed there were casualties, but they were Iraqi), you can probably guess what side Raw Story is on.
The fact that Raw Story is to the left of MSNBC should give you an additional clue.
Also of interest, check out the banner that met me at the top of the Raw Story website:
Help them report the truth about Trump’s Iran fiasco … by donating to them so they can amplify messages from Iranian state media.
Iranian state media isn’t parrot-worthy. We’re not talking the BBC here, and MSNBC knows this full well. This was a galling miscalculation on Arouzi’s part — and at some level, on the network’s part, too.
Do you think MSNBC was rooting for a war with Iran? 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% (2696 Votes) No: 1% (40 Votes)
There wasn’t any pushback and there apparently weren’t any directives against using Iran’s media without confirming the story with another source.
Absent those, the network had a horrible night Tuesday — and it was wholly deserved. This was saber-rattling, plain and simple. They wanted a better story than the one that existed.
Thank goodness they didn’t get it.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.