westernjournal--2020-07-17--Pro-Life Leaders Largely Unified in Decrying Federal Death Penalty Reintroduction

A unified pro-life community found itself publicly galvanized against capital punishment this week , as the U.S. Supreme Court cleared the way for Justice Department officials within the Trump administration to reintroduce the death penalty at the federal level .
According to The Associated Press , the court stepped in early Tuesday morning to end , by a 5-4 decision , a series of lower court legal volleys delaying the scheduled execution of several high-profile federal inmates , an action promised by Attorney General William Barr during his 2019 confirmation .
The execution of convicted killers Daniel Lewis Lee , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 68 , promptly followed the Supreme Court ruling , with Lee put to death on Tuesday and Purkey on Thursday .
Both men were executed by lethal injection at the federal penitentiary in Terre Haute , Indiana .
The killing of Lee was the first federal execution in 17 years .
Lee , a reformed white supremacist , was found guilty on three counts of murder in aid of racketeering after killing an Arkansas family of three in 1996 .
Purkey was sentenced to death for interstate kidnapping and the murder of Kansas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Long had been raped before her death and was found dismembered .
Pro-life leaders , however , were quick to speak out against capital punishment , putting to rest notions that the movement is disingenuous in its support of the sanctity of life .
TRENDING : Victor Davis Hanson : Millions of NFL Fans Are About To Shrug and Change the Channel “ We are pro-life for the whole life , ” Democrats for Life Executive Director Kristen Day told The Western Journal .
“ It ’ s a culture of death and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unplanned pregnancy — particularly if that pregnancy was brought about by violence — we want to solve that problem with more violence .
It ’ s the same thing with the death penalty .
There was a violent act ; we solve that with more violence .
We need to bring about a culture of treating people with more love and respect rather than violence.
” “ Solving violence with violence is just never a good way to handle any situation , ” she said .
Planned Parenthood employee turned pro-life activist Abby @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Western Journal , “ I believe in protecting human life from conception until natural death .
I don ’ t believe [ that ] in our country , where we do have a way to keep people in prison , that we need to carry out capital punishment.
” Capital punishment has been halted and reintroduced on several occasions throughout U.S. history .
The first major instance took place in 1972 , when the Supreme Court invalidated the practice nationwide by a 5-4 decision in Furman v. Georgia — which saw separate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A challenge to subsequent reinventions of state death penalty law in Gregg v. Georgia four years later overturned the precedent in Furman .
Controversy arose again about capital punishment in 2003 , when the Bush administration placed federal executions on hold over legal challenges citing the use of three separate drugs to carry out executions as a form of cruel and unusual punishment , NBC News reported .
As is evident from the political response to Barr ’ s recent reintroduction of the practice , debate surrounding the morality of — and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ yet to find its conclusion .
Far less inconclusive , however , is the body of criminal justice literature which holds that the practice serves as a poor deterrent for violent or otherwise heinous crime .
A widely cited 2009 study from The Journal of Criminal Law & Criminology revealed nearly 90 percent of justice experts believe the process to be ineffective in lowering murder rates , with legal appeals slowing administration of punishment enough to dull fear of impending death in the mind of potential criminals .
It was for this reason @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Journal this week that other forms of justice administration should suffice — particularly given America ’ s expansive incarceration capabilities .
RELATED : Trump Urges Iran To Halt Executions of Three Protesters “ We live in a country that is capable of incarcerating prisoners , keeping the general population safe , ” said Destiny Herndon-De La Rosa , founder of non-partisan pro-life organization New Wave Feminists .
“ There is no reason to bring more violence into a situation.
” “ The fact that after 17 years we ’ ve decided — especially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people don ’ t trust — that we ’ re going to go ahead and allow for federal killing of human bodies , when there is no reason to do that , when we can safely incarcerate them to keep the general population protected … it furthers the violence , ” she said .
The pro-life community ’ s wider discussion surrounding the topic was not without its outliers .
Christian entrepreneur and Cities4Life founder David Benham defended capital punishment as a way for the society and justice system at large to signal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ claiming of innocent lives .
“ Human beings are not animals , ” Benham wrote in a statement received Tuesday by The Western Journal .
“ We are created in God ’ s image .
If you willingly take an innocent life , you forfeit yours .
Otherwise , it degrades the value of a human being.
” Despite disagreements with that premise , others within the movement did seem to advocate against over-investment in the political discussion surrounding capital punishment .
The pro-life community ’ s focus , they said , should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ abuse to have received a government stamp of approval in recent history : abortion .
“ I think in general , the pro-life movement needs to be really focused on abortion , ” said Johnson , the former Planned Parenthood employee .
“ If you don ’ t respect an innocent child in the womb , why would you respect a convicted killer outside of the womb ?
” Students for Life President Kristan Hawkins agreed , telling The Western Journal , “ I am not an advocate for the death penalty , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saving lives , both mother and pre-born child.
” “ The pro-life movement is diverse , and those who make up our movement hold many views on important issues — capital punishment being one of them.
” Hawkins said .
“ My focus will continue to remain on defending the innocent who we know do not deserve the death penalty , delivered by a predatory abortion industry.
” Others , however , found this to be a short-sited view , incompatible with a truly pro-life agenda .
According to data provided by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1,500 convicts have been executed in the United States since 1976 .
At least 170 death-row exonerations have taken place in that time .
A bombshell 2014 report also revealed that as many as 1 in 25 individuals sentenced to death in the U.S. is falsely convicted .
Though the evidence leading to Lee ’ s conviction was widely believed to be strong , the victim of America ’ s first execution since 2003 went to the grave Tuesday professing his innocence , The Associated Press reported .
“ I didn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I ’ ve made a lot of mistakes in my life , but I ’ m not a murderer .
You ’ re killing an innocent man.
” According to Day , the opportunity for such a statement to be proved true post-mortem should be enough to keep members of the pro-life community fighting against capital punishment .
“ When you look at the death penalty , just the numbers of wrongly accused people is unconscionable , ” Day said .
“ You can ’ t take it back.
” “ I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one time .
Our major focus is on trying to end abortion extremism within the Democratic Party , but nothing precludes you from coming out and saying that the death penalty is wrong as well , ” he added .
“ It may not be the focus — the issue that you focus on day to day — but when the Supreme Court rules on something like this , we should all in the pro-life community , come out and say that , ‘ No , this is wrong.
’ “ We are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

A unified pro-life community found itself publicly galvanized against capital punishment this week, as the U.S. Supreme Court cleared the way for Justice Department officials within the Trump administration to reintroduce the death penalty at the federal level.
According to The Associated Press, the court stepped in early Tuesday morning to end, by a 5-4 decision, a series of lower court legal volleys delaying the scheduled execution of several high-profile federal inmates, an action promised by Attorney General William Barr during his 2019 confirmation.
The execution of convicted killers Daniel Lewis Lee, 47, and Wesley Ira Purkey, 68, promptly followed the Supreme Court ruling, with Lee put to death on Tuesday and Purkey on Thursday. Both men were executed by lethal injection at the federal penitentiary in Terre Haute, Indiana. The killing of Lee was the first federal execution in 17 years.
Lee, a reformed white supremacist, was found guilty on three counts of murder in aid of racketeering after killing an Arkansas family of three in 1996. Purkey was sentenced to death for interstate kidnapping and the murder of Kansas City teen Jennifer Long in 1998. Long had been raped before her death and was found dismembered.
Pro-life leaders, however, were quick to speak out against capital punishment, putting to rest notions that the movement is disingenuous in its support of the sanctity of life.
“We are pro-life for the whole life,” Democrats for Life Executive Director Kristen Day told The Western Journal. “It’s a culture of death and violence. For example, with an unplanned pregnancy — particularly if that pregnancy was brought about by violence — we want to solve that problem with more violence. It’s the same thing with the death penalty. There was a violent act; we solve that with more violence. We need to bring about a culture of treating people with more love and respect rather than violence.”
“Solving violence with violence is just never a good way to handle any situation,” she said.
Planned Parenthood employee turned pro-life activist Abby Johnson voiced a similar opinion, telling The Western Journal, “I believe in protecting human life from conception until natural death. I don’t believe [that] in our country, where we do have a way to keep people in prison, that we need to carry out capital punishment.”
Compounding Violence
Capital punishment has been halted and reintroduced on several occasions throughout U.S. history.
The first major instance took place in 1972, when the Supreme Court invalidated the practice nationwide by a 5-4 decision in Furman v. Georgia — which saw separate written opinions filed by every sitting justice. A challenge to subsequent reinventions of state death penalty law in Gregg v. Georgia four years later overturned the precedent in Furman.
Controversy arose again about capital punishment in 2003, when the Bush administration placed federal executions on hold over legal challenges citing the use of three separate drugs to carry out executions as a form of cruel and unusual punishment, NBC News reported.
As is evident from the political response to Barr’s recent reintroduction of the practice, debate surrounding the morality of — and potential cruelty in — governmental execution has yet to find its conclusion.
Far less inconclusive, however, is the body of criminal justice literature which holds that the practice serves as a poor deterrent for violent or otherwise heinous crime. A widely cited 2009 study from The Journal of Criminal Law & Criminology revealed nearly 90 percent of justice experts believe the process to be ineffective in lowering murder rates, with legal appeals slowing administration of punishment enough to dull fear of impending death in the mind of potential criminals.
It was for this reason that several pro-life leaders told The Western Journal this week that other forms of justice administration should suffice — particularly given America’s expansive incarceration capabilities.
“We live in a country that is capable of incarcerating prisoners, keeping the general population safe,” said Destiny Herndon-De La Rosa, founder of non-partisan pro-life organization New Wave Feminists. “There is no reason to bring more violence into a situation.”
“The fact that after 17 years we’ve decided — especially with an administration that a lot of people don’t trust — that we’re going to go ahead and allow for federal killing of human bodies, when there is no reason to do that, when we can safely incarcerate them to keep the general population protected … it furthers the violence,” she said.
First Things First
The pro-life community’s wider discussion surrounding the topic was not without its outliers.
Christian entrepreneur and Cities4Life founder David Benham defended capital punishment as a way for the society and justice system at large to signal the seriousness with which it views the claiming of innocent lives.
“Human beings are not animals,” Benham wrote in a statement received Tuesday by The Western Journal. “We are created in God’s image. If you willingly take an innocent life, you forfeit yours. Otherwise, it degrades the value of a human being.”
Despite disagreements with that premise, others within the movement did seem to advocate against over-investment in the political discussion surrounding capital punishment. The pro-life community’s focus, they said, should remain on fighting the greatest human rights abuse to have received a government stamp of approval in recent history: abortion.
“I think in general, the pro-life movement needs to be really focused on abortion,” said Johnson, the former Planned Parenthood employee. “If you don’t respect an innocent child in the womb, why would you respect a convicted killer outside of the womb?”
Do you support the reintroduction of capital punishment? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 91% (98 Votes) No: 9% (10 Votes)
Students for Life President Kristan Hawkins agreed, telling The Western Journal, “I am not an advocate for the death penalty, as I have devoted my life to saving lives, both mother and pre-born child.”
“The pro-life movement is diverse, and those who make up our movement hold many views on important issues — capital punishment being one of them.” Hawkins said. “My focus will continue to remain on defending the innocent who we know do not deserve the death penalty, delivered by a predatory abortion industry.”
Life is Precious
Others, however, found this to be a short-sited view, incompatible with a truly pro-life agenda.
According to data provided by the Death Penalty Information Center, more than 1,500 convicts have been executed in the United States since 1976. At least 170 death-row exonerations have taken place in that time. A bombshell 2014 report also revealed that as many as 1 in 25 individuals sentenced to death in the U.S. is falsely convicted.
Though the evidence leading to Lee’s conviction was widely believed to be strong, the victim of America’s first execution since 2003 went to the grave Tuesday professing his innocence, The Associated Press reported.
“I didn’t do it,” Lee said. “I’ve made a lot of mistakes in my life, but I’m not a murderer. You’re killing an innocent man.”
According to Day, the opportunity for such a statement to be proved true post-mortem should be enough to keep members of the pro-life community fighting against capital punishment.
“When you look at the death penalty, just the numbers of wrongly accused people is unconscionable,” Day said. “You can’t take it back.”
“I think you can do multiple things at one time. Our major focus is on trying to end abortion extremism within the Democratic Party, but nothing precludes you from coming out and saying that the death penalty is wrong as well,” he added.
“It may not be the focus — the issue that you focus on day to day — but when the Supreme Court rules on something like this, we should all in the pro-life community, come out and say that, ‘No, this is wrong.’ “
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westernjournal--2020-07-16--Video: If Trump’s 36 Clemencies Are an Abuse of Power, What Were Obama’s 1,927?

Trump has granted clemency to 36 people , which is good for 53 times fewer than the number of pardons @ @ @ @ @ .
STORY : http : //w-j.co/s/Q2ODM

Bradley Cooper's latest role has not gone down well with everyone, particularly with regard to his use of a prosthetic nose.


westernjournal--2020-07-16--Video: Georgia Gov. Kemp Overrides All Local Mask Orders, Bans Cities and Counties from Mandating Fa

Video: Georgia Gov. Kemp Overrides All Local Mask Orders, Bans Cities and Counties from Mandating Face Coverings

The governor has decided to strongly encourage masks instead of mandate them .
STORY : http : //w-j.co/s/U5Mzc


westernjournal--2020-07-16--RNC Announces Plans for Scaled-Back GOP Convention

A spike in coronavirus cases in Florida has left the Republican National Committee changing its game plan .
On Thursday , Florida reported 13,965 cases and 156 deaths as part of a sharp increase that has forced Jacksonville , where the convention is to be held , to re-impose some of its lockdown rules , the Orlando Sentinel reported .
The convention , which begins Aug. 24 , will adapt to the new reality by limiting attendance for the first three days to the convention ’ s 2,500 delegates .
Alternate delegates and guests will be allowed to attend the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at around 7,000 people .
RNC chairwoman Ronna McDaniel informed delegates by letter Thursday about the changes .
TRENDING : Victor Davis Hanson : Millions of NFL Fans Are About To Shrug and Change the Channel “ I want to make clear that we still intend to host a fantastic convention celebration in Jacksonville .
We can gather and put on a top-notch event that celebrates the incredible accomplishments of President Trump ’ s administration and his re-nomination for a second term — while also doing so in a safe and responsible manner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CNN .
She also said the convention plans “ to utilize a number of indoor and outdoor venues in this multi-block radius of Jacksonville , including the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena , TIAA Bank Field , Daily ’ s Place Amphitheater , 121 Financial Ballpark , and several others , ” Fox News reported .
In fact , President Donald Trump is likely to make his acceptance speech outdoors , unnamed party officials told Politico .
One Republican is not the least deterred .
“ I wouldn ’ t miss it for anything @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of silly stuff , ” said Republican Florida state Rep. Anthony Sabatini , an alternate delegate whose wife , Francheska , is an RNC delegate .
Sabatini said a great show can still take place , even with a leaner crowd , and held out hope that changes may take place between now and the time the convention begins .
“ Conditions could really change in 40 days , ” he said .
“ People could say , ‘ You know what ?
We ’ re ready to open up more and have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think he ’ ll have a large crowd .
If you have to have a large crowd , just spread it out .
I think people are OK with that.
” McDaniel said the convention will “ implement a variety of health protocols in order to ensure a safe event.
” “ This plan includes but is not limited to on-site temperature checks , available PPE , aggressive sanitizing protocols , and available COVID-19 testing , ” she added .
Vice President Mike Pence told reporters Wednesday that the health of everyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can tell you it is a work in progress .
The president indicated that we ’ ll be flexible , we will continue to consult with Mayor [ Lenny ] Curry and other local officials and Gov .
[ Ron ] DeSantis as we ’ ve moved forward , ” he said .
“ But there ’ s consideration being given to having the convention in an outdoor setting , and also putting the kind of measures in place that put the health of all of those that are participating , our delegates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we ’ ll put the health of everyone participating first.
” In June , the convention was moved from Charlotte , North Carolina , to Florida in hopes of having a full-scale , in-person convention without the social distancing rules North Carolina wanted to enforce .
However , a summer spike in coronavirus cases in Florida followed , requiring the convention to make changes .
For protocol ’ s sake , the formal business of the renominating the president will take place in North Carolina , while the speeches and celebrations will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will hold its convention in Milwaukee but plans to make the event nearly all virtual .
The Democrats will hold their convention the week before the Republican convention .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

A spike in coronavirus cases in Florida has left the Republican National Committee changing its game plan.
On Thursday, Florida reported 13,965 cases and 156 deaths as part of a sharp increase that has forced Jacksonville, where the convention is to be held, to re-impose some of its lockdown rules, the Orlando Sentinel reported.
The convention, which begins Aug. 24, will adapt to the new reality by limiting attendance for the first three days to the convention’s 2,500 delegates.
Alternate delegates and guests will be allowed to attend the final night, which will cap attendance at around 7,000 people.
RNC chairwoman Ronna McDaniel informed delegates by letter Thursday about the changes.
“I want to make clear that we still intend to host a fantastic convention celebration in Jacksonville. We can gather and put on a top-notch event that celebrates the incredible accomplishments of President Trump’s administration and his re-nomination for a second term — while also doing so in a safe and responsible manner,” McDaniel wrote, according to CNN.
She also said the convention plans “to utilize a number of indoor and outdoor venues in this multi-block radius of Jacksonville, including the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, TIAA Bank Field, Daily’s Place Amphitheater, 121 Financial Ballpark, and several others,” Fox News reported.
In fact, President Donald Trump is likely to make his acceptance speech outdoors, unnamed party officials told Politico.
One Republican is not the least deterred.
Do you support the RNC's changes to the convention? 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: 86% (179 Votes) No: 14% (28 Votes)
“I wouldn’t miss it for anything, even if they require a bunch of silly stuff,” said Republican Florida state Rep. Anthony Sabatini, an alternate delegate whose wife, Francheska, is an RNC delegate.
Sabatini said a great show can still take place, even with a leaner crowd, and held out hope that changes may take place between now and the time the convention begins.
“Conditions could really change in 40 days,” he said. “People could say, ‘You know what? We’re ready to open up more and have larger crowds.’ But either way, I think he’ll have a large crowd. If you have to have a large crowd, just spread it out. I think people are OK with that.”
McDaniel said the convention will “implement a variety of health protocols in order to ensure a safe event.”
“This plan includes but is not limited to on-site temperature checks, available PPE, aggressive sanitizing protocols, and available COVID-19 testing,” she added.
Vice President Mike Pence told reporters Wednesday that the health of everyone was a top priority.
“I can tell you it is a work in progress. The president indicated that we’ll be flexible, we will continue to consult with Mayor [Lenny] Curry and other local officials and Gov. [Ron] DeSantis as we’ve moved forward,” he said.
“But there’s consideration being given to having the convention in an outdoor setting, and also putting the kind of measures in place that put the health of all of those that are participating, our delegates, visitors and anyone else is present, we’ll put the health of everyone participating first.”
In June, the convention was moved from Charlotte, North Carolina, to Florida in hopes of having a full-scale, in-person convention without the social distancing rules North Carolina wanted to enforce.
However, a summer spike in coronavirus cases in Florida followed, requiring the convention to make changes.
For protocol’s sake, the formal business of the renominating the president will take place in North Carolina, while the speeches and celebrations will be in Florida.
The Democratic Party will hold its convention in Milwaukee but plans to make the event nearly all virtual. The Democrats will hold their convention the week before the Republican convention.
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westernjournal--2020-07-16--Trump Urges Iran To Halt Executions of Three Protesters

President Donald Trump on Wednesday joined the Iranian people and protesters around the world in urging Iran ’ s regime not to execute three men for their role in anti-government protests in November .
Media accounts on Thursday indicated the sentences might be reconsidered .
“ Three individuals were sentenced to death in Iran for participating in protests , ” Trump tweeted .
“ The execution is expected momentarily .
Executing these three people sends a terrible signal to the world and should not be done !
# StopExecutionsInIran.
” TRENDING : Victor Davis Hanson : Millions of NFL Fans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Channel The president ’ s comments followed a social media phenomenon that erupted in Iran beginning Tuesday , when the country ’ s Supreme Court upheld the three men ’ s death sentences .
The social media outpouring was so great that “ the most-tweeted hashtag within Iran was # DontExecute in Persian ” by midday Tuesday , according to The New York Times .
Radio Farda , the Iranian branch of the Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty broadcast news service , which is funded by the U.S. government , reported that the hashtag @ @ @ @ @ @ @ million tweets .
“ I ’ ve never seen a hashtag with this level of participation from Iranians everywhere , ” Amir Rashidi , a digital researcher , told The Times .
Some sent their messages in English for the world to read : Amirhossein Moradi , 25 , Saeed Tamjidi , 27 , and Mohammad Rajabi , 27 , were charged for participating in protests that involved thousands of Iranians in November .
The U.S. has estimated that 1,500 protesters were killed , according to Fox News .
More than 7,000 people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ charged with “ participation in vandalism and arson with the intent to confront and engage in war with the Islamic Republic of Iran.
” On Tuesday , the Iranian judiciary announced that the men would face execution , as the Supreme Court had upheld their sentences .
Amnesty International condemned the death sentences in a statement on its website .
“ Iran ’ s increasing use of the death penalty as a political weapon for repression is alarming and warrants the immediate attention of the international community .
Without urgent diplomatic and public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at risk of being cut short by the state ’ s execution machine , ” said Diana Eltahawy , the group ’ s deputy regional director for the Middle East and North Africa .
Iran ’ s judiciary said Wednesday it would review the sentences if those sentenced to die requested that it do so , according to the BBC .
“ Lawyers for the three men also were reportedly told that they could for the first time examine the court papers and evidence against their clients , ” the outlet reported Thursday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as saying a request to avert the death sentences has been submitted , the U.S. government-funded Voice of America reported .
Protests over the sentences broke out as well : One commentator said imposition of the death sentences is linked to the regime ’ s insecurity .
“ The society is boiling , so they are increasing the number of executions , ” said Roya Boroumand , executive director of the Abdorrahman Boroumand Center , which supports human rights in Iran .
She told The Times that the government is trying to send @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kill.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

President Donald Trump on Wednesday joined the Iranian people and protesters around the world in urging Iran’s regime not to execute three men for their role in anti-government protests in November.
Media accounts on Thursday indicated the sentences might be reconsidered.
“Three individuals were sentenced to death in Iran for participating in protests,” Trump tweeted.
“The execution is expected momentarily. Executing these three people sends a terrible signal to the world and should not be done!#StopExecutionsInIran.”
Three individuals were sentenced to death in Iran for participating in protests. The execution is expected momentarily. Executing these three people sends a terrible signal to the world and should not be done! #StopExecutionsInIran — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 15, 2020
The president’s comments followed a social media phenomenon that erupted in Iran beginning Tuesday, when the country’s Supreme Court upheld the three men’s death sentences.
The social media outpouring was so great that “the most-tweeted hashtag within Iran was #DontExecute in Persian” by midday Tuesday, according to The New York Times.
Radio Farda, the Iranian branch of the Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty broadcast news service, which is funded by the U.S. government, reported that the hashtag was used globally for more than 7 million tweets.
Do you think U.S. government should get involved in ensuring that these men are not executed? 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: 76% (64 Votes) No: 24% (20 Votes)
“I’ve never seen a hashtag with this level of participation from Iranians everywhere,” Amir Rashidi, a digital researcher, told The Times.
Some sent their messages in English for the world to read:
People have been standing up against injustice across the world. This is the outcome for 3 young men that chose to stand up against the corruption and tyranny that has taken over Iran. There is no end to brutality and killing with the Islamic Republic. #DontExecute #اعدام_نکنید pic.twitter.com/LoTXdf0epi — Daniel Ghods-Esfahani (@Daniel_Ghods) July 14, 2020
They have families like you, they have friends like you, and they have the right to live like you, be their voice..#dontexecute #اعدام_نکنید pic.twitter.com/6ssOXd6ZOb — Amelie (@amelieinhere) July 14, 2020
Don’t execute! They are our sons,
our brothers#dontexecute — هاویشام (@kalafekamva) July 14, 2020
Amirhossein Moradi, 25, Saeed Tamjidi, 27, and Mohammad Rajabi, 27, were charged for participating in protests that involved thousands of Iranians in November.
The U.S. has estimated that 1,500 protesters were killed, according to Fox News. More than 7,000 people were arrested.
The three men were charged with “participation in vandalism and arson with the intent to confront and engage in war with the Islamic Republic of Iran.”
On Tuesday, the Iranian judiciary announced that the men would face execution, as the Supreme Court had upheld their sentences.
Amnesty International condemned the death sentences in a statement on its website.
Iran’s @khamenei_ir must quash the death sentences of protesters—Amirhossein Moradi, Saeed Tamjidi & Mohammad Rajabi—immediately! Their trial was unfair & they said they were subjected to torture through beatings, electric shocks and being hung upside down. #اعدام_نکنید pic.twitter.com/aY1AHaHLhO — Amnesty International (@amnesty) July 16, 2020
“Iran’s increasing use of the death penalty as a political weapon for repression is alarming and warrants the immediate attention of the international community. Without urgent diplomatic and public action, more lives in Iran are at risk of being cut short by the state’s execution machine,” said Diana Eltahawy, the group’s deputy regional director for the Middle East and North Africa.
Iran’s judiciary said Wednesday it would review the sentences if those sentenced to die requested that it do so, according to the BBC.
“Lawyers for the three men also were reportedly told that they could for the first time examine the court papers and evidence against their clients,” the outlet reported Thursday
Defense lawyers were quoted by Iranian media as saying a request to avert the death sentences has been submitted, the U.S. government-funded Voice of America reported.
Protests over the sentences broke out as well:
Protests broke out in #Shiraz and #Behbahan in #Iran aginst the death penalty tonight. Heavy police presence in Tehran. https://t.co/HrHBCfGDHo — RadioFarda (@RadioFarda_Eng) July 16, 2020
One commentator said imposition of the death sentences is linked to the regime’s insecurity.
“The society is boiling, so they are increasing the number of executions,” said Roya Boroumand, executive director of the Abdorrahman Boroumand Center, which supports human rights in Iran.
She told The Times that the government is trying to send a message: “Remember we can kill.”
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westernjournal--2020-07-16--Op-Ed: A Story About Jacob in the Bible Shows Exactly How We Need To Pray About COVID

For a moment , it seemed like we were so close .
In Israel , as in some locations in the U.S. , it looked like the coronavirus pandemic had turned a corner in June .
But in July , both nations saw a resurgence in new cases and , exercising an abundance of caution , both put the brakes on “ reopening.
” This is discouraging for everyone , but it poses unique challenges to people of faith .
For months we have prayed for healing for those who have been affected by this virus and for a swift @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ve made sacrifices for the greater good , isolating ourselves in our homes , wearing masks and even staying away from our churches and synagogues .
And we ’ ve prayed too for those suffering from the devastating effects of the lockdown itself – for those who have lost jobs or entire businesses , for those whose anxiety and depression have been magnified by isolation , for the children whose education has been put on hold .
And now , it may seem like all of our prayers and our efforts to end @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Victor Davis Hanson : Millions of NFL Fans Are About To Shrug and Change the Channel In life , we want to see cause and effect .
If we are kind to others , we expect them to be kind in return .
If we work hard , we expect to receive a fair paycheck .
And if we pray with all of our heart , we want our prayers to be answered like they were for Isaac and Rebekah in Genesis 25:21 .
At first glance , the account here seems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prayed to the Lord on behalf of his wife , because she was childless .
The Lord answered his prayer , and his wife Rebekah became pregnant.
” Prayers were offered to God and were answered in short order .
But there ’ s more to this story .
We must remember that this wasn ’ t the first time Isaac had prayed for children , nor the second time , nor the third time .
The chapter also tells us that Isaac was 40 years old when he married Rebekah , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fact , Isaac and Rebekah had been praying for children for 20 years .
Their prayers were answered – but in God ’ s time , not theirs .
Throughout 20 long years of devout prayer , they never gave up hope , keeping the doors open for God to answer them .
So often , this is exactly how prayers of petition work in our own lives .
Sometimes we pour out our hearts to God and our prayers are answered immediately .
However , more often than not , we don @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when we don ’ t , it ’ s easy to give up after praying for the same thing over and over again .
Our efforts may seem futile .
But the powerful lesson that we learn from Isaac and Rebekah is that we must press on and press forward with our prayers .
The very next prayer may be the one that opens the door .
RELATED : Cal Thomas : Like the Apostle Paul , Roger Stone Says He 's Given Up His Old Life for New Life in Christ Prayer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
And it ’ s an investment , not a transaction .
Many truths can be found in paradox because God is bigger than our limited comprehension .
And prayer is one of the biggest paradoxes of all : The most important time to pray is when we feel like giving up .
Psalm 130:5 tells us , “ I wait for the Lord , my whole being waits , and in his word I put my hope.
” And so we wait – sometimes longer than we want to wait – in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we need .
We don ’ t lose hope .
We persevere .
Prayer must be as much a part of healing our nations as scientific and medical interventions .
Every year , at the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews , we actually devote an entire month to focus on prayer .
We offer to take the requests of our faithful donors to the Western Wall in Jerusalem , one of the holiest sites in Judaism .
And every year , we receive tens of thousands of prayer requests from both Christians @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seriously because we know there is power in prayer .
Prayer is like a mighty reservoir ; each prayer that we send up to heaven adds a little bit of water until our heartfelt prayers to God reach the top , and the blessings come spilling over the dam .
I want to invite everyone to join us as we persevere , in faith and prayer , against this crisis .
I hope you will send us your prayers so that we may take them to the Western Wall and appeal to God @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we work to heal the world and eradicate this virus , let us use one of the most powerful weapons we have to lift each other up as well .
And let us do so secure in the knowledge that God will answer our prayers – in his time .
The views expressed in this opinion article are those of their author and are not necessarily either shared or endorsed by the owners of this website .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial @ @

For a moment, it seemed like we were so close.
In Israel, as in some locations in the U.S., it looked like the coronavirus pandemic had turned a corner in June. But in July, both nations saw a resurgence in new cases and, exercising an abundance of caution, both put the brakes on “reopening.”
This is discouraging for everyone, but it poses unique challenges to people of faith. For months we have prayed for healing for those who have been affected by this virus and for a swift end to the pandemic.
We’ve made sacrifices for the greater good, isolating ourselves in our homes, wearing masks and even staying away from our churches and synagogues.
And we’ve prayed too for those suffering from the devastating effects of the lockdown itself – for those who have lost jobs or entire businesses, for those whose anxiety and depression have been magnified by isolation, for the children whose education has been put on hold. And now, it may seem like all of our prayers and our efforts to end the pandemic were in vain.
In life, we want to see cause and effect.
If we are kind to others, we expect them to be kind in return. If we work hard, we expect to receive a fair paycheck. And if we pray with all of our heart, we want our prayers to be answered like they were for Isaac and Rebekah in Genesis 25:21.
At first glance, the account here seems so simple and straightforward: “Isaac prayed to the Lord on behalf of his wife, because she was childless. The Lord answered his prayer, and his wife Rebekah became pregnant.” Prayers were offered to God and were answered in short order.
But there’s more to this story.
Have you been praying for an end to the coronavirus pandemic? Yes No
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We must remember that this wasn’t the first time Isaac had prayed for children, nor the second time, nor the third time.
The chapter also tells us that Isaac was 40 years old when he married Rebekah, and 60 when she became pregnant. In fact, Isaac and Rebekah had been praying for children for 20 years. Their prayers were answered – but in God’s time, not theirs.
Throughout 20 long years of devout prayer, they never gave up hope, keeping the doors open for God to answer them.
So often, this is exactly how prayers of petition work in our own lives. Sometimes we pour out our hearts to God and our prayers are answered immediately. However, more often than not, we don’t get instant results. And when we don’t, it’s easy to give up after praying for the same thing over and over again.
Our efforts may seem futile. But the powerful lesson that we learn from Isaac and Rebekah is that we must press on and press forward with our prayers. The very next prayer may be the one that opens the door.
Prayer is a marathon, not a sprint. And it’s an investment, not a transaction.
Many truths can be found in paradox because God is bigger than our limited comprehension. And prayer is one of the biggest paradoxes of all: The most important time to pray is when we feel like giving up.
Psalm 130:5 tells us, “I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope.”
And so we wait – sometimes longer than we want to wait – in the expectation that God will provide what we need. We don’t lose hope. We persevere.
Prayer must be as much a part of healing our nations as scientific and medical interventions.
Every year, at the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, we actually devote an entire month to focus on prayer.
We offer to take the requests of our faithful donors to the Western Wall in Jerusalem, one of the holiest sites in Judaism. And every year, we receive tens of thousands of prayer requests from both Christians and Jews.
We take this opportunity seriously because we know there is power in prayer. Prayer is like a mighty reservoir; each prayer that we send up to heaven adds a little bit of water until our heartfelt prayers to God reach the top, and the blessings come spilling over the dam.
I want to invite everyone to join us as we persevere, in faith and prayer, against this crisis.
I hope you will send us your prayers so that we may take them to the Western Wall and appeal to God on your behalf. Together, as we work to heal the world and eradicate this virus, let us use one of the most powerful weapons we have to lift each other up as well.
And let us do so secure in the knowledge that God will answer our prayers – in his time.
CORRECTION, July 17, 2020: When originally published, this article’s headline incorrectly referred to the biblical patriarch Jacob as being the subject of the Op-Ed, when it was in fact his father, Isaac. The headline has been updated to correct this information. We apologize to our readers for the error, and for any confusion we may have caused.
The views expressed in this opinion article are those of their author and are not necessarily either shared or endorsed by the owners of this website. If you are interested in contributing an Op-Ed to The Western Journal, you can learn about our submission guidelines and process here.
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westernjournal--2020-07-16--Latest Violence in New York City: Mom Pushing Stroller Choked, Stabbed in Alarming Video

Violent crime has skyrocketed in New York City in recent months .
Yet Democratic mayor Bill de Blasio , hostile to the city ’ s police force , last month cut $ 1.5 billion from the city ’ s law enforcement budget .
He and the city council transferred the money to bloated education and human services bureaucracies .
As a result , criminals in the nation ’ s largest city are increasingly acting without fear of consequences .
Violent men and women now are seen in broad daylight brazenly attacking victims .
On Tuesday , security cameras caught a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attacked a 21-year-old woman — allegedly his ex-girlfriend — placed her in a chokehold and stabbed her repeatedly .
As he assaulted her , he knocked her infant child in a stroller onto the pavement .
TRENDING : Victor Davis Hanson : Millions of NFL Fans Are About To Shrug and Change the Channel WARNING : The following video contains graphic violence that some viewers will find offensive .
WNYW-TV , the Fox affiliate in New York City , reports , “ The horrifying incident on Tuesday at about 7:11 p.m. was captured @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the scene on Sedgwick Avenue and transported both the victim and the infant to Saint Barnabas Hospital , where they were listed in stable condition.
” Police are looking for the suspect , Carlos Gonzales , 25 , of Manhattan .
This disturbing incident is one of many recent shocking attacks caught on camera .
Footage of violence in the city has included assaults on police officers on the Brooklyn Bridge — with one officer suffering a fractured eye socket — and a recording of a man knocking a 92-year-old woman down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ following videos contain graphic violence that some viewers will find offensive .
As the “ defund the police ” movement picks up steam in Democratic-controlled cities , innocent mothers and children have been victims .
They are the collateral damage of a radical movement determined to sow chaos in American cities .
Working class and poorer communities that can ’ t afford private security are suffering the most because of this movement .
In fact , residents of communities such as East Harlem have called the idea of defunding the police “ suicide.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ City of New York described it best in a tweet showing a typical night in Harlem when law enforcement ’ s hands are tied .
“ This is what a “ light touch ” looks like : Police officers responding to a shots fired job in Harlem last night were met with this .
@ NYCMayor , @ NYCSpeakerCojo and company should be held responsible for surrendering our city.
” The New York mayor and city council have surrendered their city indeed .
And young men such as the one in the Bronx @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
New York City no longer is safe for families with children .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Violent crime has skyrocketed in New York City in recent months.
Yet Democratic mayor Bill de Blasio, hostile to the city’s police force, last month cut $1.5 billion from the city’s law enforcement budget.
He and the city council transferred the money to bloated education and human services bureaucracies.
As a result, criminals in the nation’s largest city are increasingly acting without fear of consequences. Violent men and women now are seen in broad daylight brazenly attacking victims.
On Tuesday, security cameras caught a brutal Bronx incident in which a man attacked a 21-year-old woman — allegedly his ex-girlfriend — placed her in a chokehold and stabbed her repeatedly. As he assaulted her, he knocked her infant child in a stroller onto the pavement.
WARNING: The following video contains graphic violence that some viewers will find offensive.
WNYW-TV, the Fox affiliate in New York City, reports, “The horrifying incident on Tuesday at about 7:11 p.m. was captured on security video.”
“EMS responded to the scene on Sedgwick Avenue and transported both the victim and the infant to Saint Barnabas Hospital, where they were listed in stable condition.”
Is Bill de Blasio the worst mayor New York City has ever had? 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% (3924 Votes) No: 1% (21 Votes)
Police are looking for the suspect, Carlos Gonzales, 25, of Manhattan.
This disturbing incident is one of many recent shocking attacks caught on camera.
Footage of violence in the city has included assaults on police officers on the Brooklyn Bridge — with one officer suffering a fractured eye socket — and a recording of a man knocking a 92-year-old woman down on the sidewalk.
WARNING: The following videos contain graphic violence that some viewers will find offensive.
Three officers violently attacked by protesters crossing the Brooklyn Bridge. The officers sustained serious injuries. This is not peaceful protest, this will not be tolerated. pic.twitter.com/cYuDX8G7ku — NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) July 15, 2020
As the “defund the police” movement picks up steam in Democratic-controlled cities, innocent mothers and children have been victims.
They are the collateral damage of a radical movement determined to sow chaos in American cities. Working class and poorer communities that can’t afford private security are suffering the most because of this movement.
In fact, residents of communities such as East Harlem have called the idea of defunding the police “suicide.”
The Police Benevolent Association of the City of New York described it best in a tweet showing a typical night in Harlem when law enforcement’s hands are tied.
“This is what a “light touch” looks like: Police officers responding to a shots fired job in Harlem last night were met with this. @NYCMayor, @NYCSpeakerCojo and company should be held responsible for surrendering our city.”
This is what a “light touch” looks like: Police officers responding to a shots fired job in Harlem last night were met with this. @NYCMayor, @NYCSpeakerCojo and company should be held responsible for surrendering our city. pic.twitter.com/R64BYTUhvY — NYC PBA (@NYCPBA) June 28, 2020
The New York mayor and city council have surrendered their city indeed. And young men such as the one in the Bronx are taking advantage of that political negligence.
New York City no longer is safe for families with children.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
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westernjournal--2020-07-16--Video: After ‘Noose’ Controversy, Bubba Wallace’s Next Act Takes Aim at Christian Driver

Wallace was not pleased that he won ’ t even get a chance to compete in the All-Star Race and @ @ @ @ @ .
STORY : http : //w-j.co/s/ExNTU


westernjournal--2020-07-16--Vandals Target Connecticut Catholic Church with ‘Anarchist and Satanic Symbols’

A Catholic church in New Haven , Connecticut , has reported vandalism as attacks on churches continue throughout the U.S .
The Rev .
John Paul Walker of St. Mary ’ s Parish , which consists of both St. Mary ’ s Catholic Church and St. Joseph ’ s Catholic Church , announced in a Thursday Facebook post that St. Joseph ’ s Church was vandalized sometime between 9 p.m. Wednesday and 6 a.m. Thursday .
The Archdiocese of Hartford also shared a Facebook post confirming that “ a person or group of persons had painted anarchist and satanic symbols @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in New Haven.
” “ This follows an apparent trend of desecrating Catholic spaces throughout the nation , as evidenced by incidents in Chattanooga , Queens , Boston , Sacramento , and Ocala , ” the pastor wrote on Facebook .
“ The underlying motive of these sacrilegious attacks is clear : to intimidate and instill fear in the hearts of those who worship Christ.
” TRENDING : Victor Davis Hanson : Millions of NFL Fans Are About To Shrug and Change the Channel The pastor said that the Catholic faith has survived @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not about to yield now.
” “ Therefore , we remain unafraid and resolute in our faith , and we will pray for a conversion of the hearts of those who wish to terrorize us , ” he added .
He did not immediately respond to a request for comment .
The New Haven police did not immediately respond to requests for comment from the Daily Caller News Foundation on the matter .
News of the vandalism comes after the Rev .
Wilbert Chin Jon of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary confirmed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spray painted and used marker or chalk to deface a statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus at Sacred Heart Church in Calgary , Alberta , Canada , on Tuesday around 1:30 a.m .
Numerous other statues of the Virgin Mary have also been vandalized throughout the country .
RELATED : Driver Plows into Catholic Church , Sets It on Fire with Worshipers Still Inside Content created by The Daily Caller News Foundation is available without charge to any eligible news publisher that can provide a large audience .
For licensing opportunities of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dailycallernewsfoundation.org .
A version of this article appeared on The Daily Caller News Foundation website .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

A Catholic church in New Haven, Connecticut, has reported vandalism as attacks on churches continue throughout the U.S.
The Rev. John Paul Walker of St. Mary’s Parish, which consists of both St. Mary’s Catholic Church and St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, announced in a Thursday Facebook post that St. Joseph’s Church was vandalized sometime between 9 p.m. Wednesday and 6 a.m. Thursday.
The Archdiocese of Hartford also shared a Facebook post confirming that “a person or group of persons had painted anarchist and satanic symbols on the doors of St. Joseph Church in New Haven.”
“This follows an apparent trend of desecrating Catholic spaces throughout the nation, as evidenced by incidents in Chattanooga, Queens, Boston, Sacramento, and Ocala,” the pastor wrote on Facebook.
“The underlying motive of these sacrilegious attacks is clear: to intimidate and instill fear in the hearts of those who worship Christ.”
The pastor said that the Catholic faith has survived for over 2,000 years and is “not about to yield now.”
“Therefore, we remain unafraid and resolute in our faith, and we will pray for a conversion of the hearts of those who wish to terrorize us,” he added.
He did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The New Haven police did not immediately respond to requests for comment from the Daily Caller News Foundation on the matter.
News of the vandalism comes after the Rev. Wilbert Chin Jon of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary confirmed to the Daily Caller Thursday that vandals spray painted and used marker or chalk to deface a statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus at Sacred Heart Church in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, on Tuesday around 1:30 a.m.
Numerous other statues of the Virgin Mary have also been vandalized throughout the country.
Content created by The Daily Caller News Foundation is available without charge to any eligible news publisher that can provide a large audience. For licensing opportunities of our original content, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org.
A version of this article appeared on The Daily Caller News Foundation website.
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westernjournal--2020-07-16--Video: Report: Trump Secretly Authorized CIA Cyberattacks on Russia, China, Others

‘ The White House wanted a vehicle to strike back .
And this was the way to do it.
’ @ @ @ @ @


westernjournal--2020-07-16--National Association of Police Organizations Cancels Biden, Endorses Trump for President

The National Association of Police Organizations has endorsed President Donald Trump in the upcoming election , touting his “ steadfast and very public support ” of law enforcement officers .
The Wednesday announcement on its surface came as a surprise , given the group had backed the Democrats ’ Barack Obama/Joe Biden ticket in the 2008 and 2012 elections , Fox News reported .
The NAPO chose not to endorse either candidate in the 2016 presidential race .
Given Trump ’ s very vocal support of the “ thin blue line , ” especially during the recent push to defund @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to play both sides , perhaps the endorsement should not come as a surprise at all .
“ Our endorsement recognizes your steadfast and very public support for our men and women on the front lines , especially during this time of unfair and inaccurate opprobrium being directed at our members by so many , ” the group ’ s president , Michael McHale , wrote in the endorsement letter .
TRENDING : Victor Davis Hanson : Millions of NFL Fans Are About To Shrug and Change the Channel “ We particularly value @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to aggressively prosecute those who attack our officers , ” McHale said .
Trump responded to the endorsement , tweeting , “ THANK YOU @ NAPOpolice and their 241,000 brave law enforcement members for a FULL & COMPLETE ENDORSEMENT !
I will ALWAYS back the men and women in blue , and never let you down .
LAW AND ORDER will prevail !
# LESM ” Trump campaign senior adviser Bob Paduchik added in a statement , “ This endorsement for President Trump highlights that as the Law and Order President , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their own lives every day to keep our communities safe.
” “ Joe Biden has done nothing to stop his party ’ s defund the police movement and remains silent as police officers across the country are being attacked by violent rioters and protesters , ” Paduchik said .
RELATED : NYT 's Bizarre Double Presidential Endorsement Should Be Good News for Trump Re-Election Biden did not jump entirely on the defund the police train but has backed redirecting funds from police departments to other programs , The Associated Press reported .
That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ New York Mayor Bill de Blasio and the City Council did when they took $ 1 billion of the NYPD ’ s funds ( 17 percent of the $ 6 billion budget ) for that purpose .
The Big Apple has seen an extreme spike in murders and other violent crimes in recent weeks .
Biden is trying to split the baby by not fully getting behind the Democrat-led defunding movement while also not offering much in the way of vocal support for the police .
The NAPO got it right : Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The National Association of Police Organizations has endorsed President Donald Trump in the upcoming election, touting his “steadfast and very public support” of law enforcement officers.
The Wednesday announcement on its surface came as a surprise, given the group had backed the Democrats’ Barack Obama/Joe Biden ticket in the 2008 and 2012 elections, Fox News reported.
The NAPO chose not to endorse either candidate in the 2016 presidential race.
Given Trump’s very vocal support of the “thin blue line,” especially during the recent push to defund the police, while Biden has tried to play both sides, perhaps the endorsement should not come as a surprise at all.
“Our endorsement recognizes your steadfast and very public support for our men and women on the front lines, especially during this time of unfair and inaccurate opprobrium being directed at our members by so many,” the group’s president, Michael McHale, wrote in the endorsement letter.
NAPO has endorsed President Trump in his reelection campaign. Here is our endorsement letter which was issued following today’s meeting. pic.twitter.com/mf6ZUTf10l — NAPO (@NAPOpolice) July 15, 2020
“We particularly value your directing the Attorney General Bill Barr to aggressively prosecute those who attack our officers,” McHale said.
Trump responded to the endorsement, tweeting, “THANK YOU @NAPOpolice and their 241,000 brave law enforcement members for a FULL & COMPLETE ENDORSEMENT! I will ALWAYS back the men and women in blue, and never let you down. LAW AND ORDER will prevail! #LESM”
Do you think the NAPO made the right choice? Yes No
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The hashtag #LESM stands for “law enforcement social media.”
Trump campaign senior adviser Bob Paduchik added in a statement, “This endorsement for President Trump highlights that as the Law and Order President, he is defending the hardworking people who risk their own lives every day to keep our communities safe.”
“Joe Biden has done nothing to stop his party’s defund the police movement and remains silent as police officers across the country are being attacked by violent rioters and protesters,” Paduchik said.
Trump himself responded quickly on social media.
THANK YOU @NAPOpolice and their 241,000 brave law enforcement members for a FULL & COMPLETE ENDORSEMENT! I will ALWAYS back the men and women in blue, and never let you down. LAW AND ORDER will prevail! #LESM https://t.co/tJnA0EpuTR — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 16, 2020
Biden did not jump entirely on the defund the police train but has backed redirecting funds from police departments to other programs, The Associated Press reported.
That would seem to line up with what New York Mayor Bill de Blasio and the City Council did when they took $1 billion of the NYPD’s funds (17 percent of the $6 billion budget) for that purpose.
The Big Apple has seen an extreme spike in murders and other violent crimes in recent weeks.
Biden is trying to split the baby by not fully getting behind the Democrat-led defunding movement while also not offering much in the way of vocal support for the police.
The NAPO got it right: Trump has their back, and Biden does not.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
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westernjournal--2020-07-16--Video: Soros Group Cash Dump Will Fund ‘Black-Led Racial Justice Groups for Years to Come’

The project ‘ will support several Black-led racial justice groups for years to come , ’ according to the New @ @ @ @ @ http : //w-j.co/s/I2ODI


westernjournal--2020-07-16--Op-Ed: Complying with Tyranny on Masks Will Bring on More Tyranny, Not Less

The left has sprinted past what we previously thought was a line in the sand between personal freedom and forced state dictates for personal behavior .
The breach of that boundary has led to numerous other fundamental rights crumbling to dust along with our historical monuments .
There is still time to restore those boundaries and our rights but only if we start telling the truth en masse and defying unjust edicts from lawless lawmakers .
Sadly , we can no longer expect that there will be enough lawful lawmakers to protect our liberties .
We must protect them ourselves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an excuse to crack down on our freedoms despite false projections that even the CDC dramatically ratcheted down months ago .
TRENDING : Victor Davis Hanson : Millions of NFL Fans Are About To Shrug and Change the Channel Democratic governors and other politicians are refusing to relinquish the “ emergency powers ” they have awarded to themselves that allowed them to continue lockdowns and restrict businesses .
As if they somehow thought of it independently , they continue to act simultaneously to tighten their demands and micromanage our lives .
They have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we all , no matter our health , risk level , or opinion , be forced to wear masks in public .
What a perfect and ever-present reminder that we are not in charge of our lives .
They are .
Even weak-willed Republicans like Gov .
Greg Abbott of Texas have become lost in this masquerade .
To leftists , it doesn ’ t matter whether masks work or make sense .
It only matters that they have been a wildly successful tool for obedience training in collectivism for Americans .
Socialism @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Both the secret and the avowed socialists among us are engaged in an all-out battle to punish America for being built on individualism and for flourishing because of a Constitution that was created to protect it .
While Democratic tacticians have their Democratic politicians ramping up threats of fines and jail time for refusing to wear a mask , they ’ re also pushing the idea that masks are “ cool.
” There is a whole new cottage industry marketing masks as an opportunity to make a “ signature ” fashion statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ superficial individuality to “ mask ” one ’ s prostration to serfdom and conformity .
Savvy watchers of the left were suspicious early on when they noticed a familiar leftist tactic being warmed up and served for public consumption .
They went to work making it socially acceptable to vilify dissenters and brand them as selfish .
They rush to reward it .
RELATED : Op-Ed : A Story About Jacob in the Bible Shows Exactly How We Need To Pray About COVID How dare anyone question the efficacy of masks or the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Americans to comply ?
How dare anyone care about their own personal freedom and the freedom of their fellow citizens , even those too ignorant or complacent to care ?
“ We ’ re in the middle of a pandemic !
” they self-righteously scold .
Masks create further alienation and suspicion between friends , neighbors and business associates .
They muzzle us while helping snitches to easily identify dissenters .
We have seen how deadly the combination of collectivism and social bullying can be .
It can often lead to mob rule @ @ @ @ @ @ @ politicians don ’ t have to worry about enforcing their unconstitutional orders .
The mob does it for them .
Masks also blur the lines between criminals and law-abiding citizens .
We are indistinguishable from antifa and other groups who now commit heinous crimes in plain sight and with impunity .
The backward subliminal message is that masked people are law-abiding and unmasked people are criminals .
After watching the same Democratic politicians refuse to impose their own orders on rioters , looters and vandals , their credibility is lower than the fatality @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of such a blatant dereliction of duty to protect their innocent constituents , they still have the chutzpah to claim that it is compassion that compels them to order us to wear masks .
The good news is that a growing number of people believe that these suffocating orders are ridiculous and even dangerous .
The bad news is that most still only whisper it in muffled tones behind their cloth masks .
As we have seen , complying with the orders of authoritarians only brings more authoritarianism .
Masks will continue to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can beat it back .
Previously polite , law-abiding citizens must unmask themselves and let their voices be heard .
Unlike their oppressive opposition , they have little interest in vilifying those who choose to wear a mask for their own reasons .
In the 1982 film “ Gandhi , ” Ben Kingsley portrayed Gandhi as saying , “ 100,000 Englishmen simply can not control 350 million Indians , if those Indians refuse to cooperate.
” The views expressed in this opinion article are those of their author and are not necessarily either @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this website .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The left has sprinted past what we previously thought was a line in the sand between personal freedom and forced state dictates for personal behavior.
The breach of that boundary has led to numerous other fundamental rights crumbling to dust along with our historical monuments.
There is still time to restore those boundaries and our rights but only if we start telling the truth en masse and defying unjust edicts from lawless lawmakers.
Sadly, we can no longer expect that there will be enough lawful lawmakers to protect our liberties. We must protect them ourselves.
Coronavirus is still being used as an excuse to crack down on our freedoms despite false projections that even the CDC dramatically ratcheted down months ago.
Democratic governors and other politicians are refusing to relinquish the “emergency powers” they have awarded to themselves that allowed them to continue lockdowns and restrict businesses.
As if they somehow thought of it independently, they continue to act simultaneously to tighten their demands and micromanage our lives. They have now moved from suggesting to demanding that we all, no matter our health, risk level, or opinion, be forced to wear masks in public.
What a perfect and ever-present reminder that we are not in charge of our lives. They are.
Even weak-willed Republicans like Gov. Greg Abbott of Texas have become lost in this masquerade.
Do you think Democratic politicians are making masks a political issue? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 98% (966 Votes) No: 2% (17 Votes)
To leftists, it doesn’t matter whether masks work or make sense. It only matters that they have been a wildly successful tool for obedience training in collectivism for Americans. Socialism can’t take hold without it.
Both the secret and the avowed socialists among us are engaged in an all-out battle to punish America for being built on individualism and for flourishing because of a Constitution that was created to protect it.
While Democratic tacticians have their Democratic politicians ramping up threats of fines and jail time for refusing to wear a mask, they’re also pushing the idea that masks are “cool.” There is a whole new cottage industry marketing masks as an opportunity to make a “signature” fashion statement.
There’s nothing quite like superficial individuality to “mask” one’s prostration to serfdom and conformity.
Savvy watchers of the left were suspicious early on when they noticed a familiar leftist tactic being warmed up and served for public consumption. They went to work making it socially acceptable to vilify dissenters and brand them as selfish. They rush to reward it.
How dare anyone question the efficacy of masks or the use of bullying and intimidation to force Americans to comply? How dare anyone care about their own personal freedom and the freedom of their fellow citizens, even those too ignorant or complacent to care? “We’re in the middle of a pandemic!” they self-righteously scold.
Masks create further alienation and suspicion between friends, neighbors and business associates. They muzzle us while helping snitches to easily identify dissenters.
We have seen how deadly the combination of collectivism and social bullying can be. It can often lead to mob rule and violence. At that point, politicians don’t have to worry about enforcing their unconstitutional orders. The mob does it for them.
Masks also blur the lines between criminals and law-abiding citizens. We are indistinguishable from antifa and other groups who now commit heinous crimes in plain sight and with impunity. The backward subliminal message is that masked people are law-abiding and unmasked people are criminals.
After watching the same Democratic politicians refuse to impose their own orders on rioters, looters and vandals, their credibility is lower than the fatality rate of the coronavirus.
In light of such a blatant dereliction of duty to protect their innocent constituents, they still have the chutzpah to claim that it is compassion that compels them to order us to wear masks.
The good news is that a growing number of people believe that these suffocating orders are ridiculous and even dangerous. The bad news is that most still only whisper it in muffled tones behind their cloth masks.
As we have seen, complying with the orders of authoritarians only brings more authoritarianism. Masks will continue to be a major battleground on which we can beat it back.
Previously polite, law-abiding citizens must unmask themselves and let their voices be heard. Unlike their oppressive opposition, they have little interest in vilifying those who choose to wear a mask for their own reasons.
In the 1982 film “Gandhi,” Ben Kingsley portrayed Gandhi as saying, “100,000 Englishmen simply cannot control 350 million Indians, if those Indians refuse to cooperate.”
It’s time to stop cooperating.
The views expressed in this opinion article are those of their author and are not necessarily either shared or endorsed by the owners of this website. If you are interested in contributing an Op-Ed to The Western Journal, you can learn about our submission guidelines and process here.
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westernjournal--2020-07-16--Video: He’s ‘Gone Through Hell’: Trump Would Welcome Michael Flynn Back in the White House

‘ I think he ’ s a great gentleman , he ’ s a great — he ’ s been @ @ @ @ @ , many decades , actually .
Highly respected .
What General Flynn went through is @ @ @ @ @ ’ s still going through it , ’ President Trump said .
STORY : http @ @

[jwplayer Ze4qYCHL]
‘I think he’s a great gentleman, he’s a great — he’s been in the military for many, many decades, actually. Highly respected. What General Flynn went through is so unfair. And he’s still going through it,’ President Trump said. STORY: http://w-j.co/s/IwNTE


westernjournal--2020-07-16--Museum Curator Says He Still Wants To Accept White Artists’ Work, Staff Demands His Resignation

The American left enjoys significant influence over our nation ’ s most prestigious museums .
The fact that a single worldview dominates many of these institutions has in some cases led to the weaponization of art and culture to support a radical , racial agenda .
A jaw-dropping example this phenomena was the absurd “ whiteness poster ” recently released by the Smithsonian ’ s National Museum of African American History & Culture in Washington , D.C. , which labelled universal American values as mere “ White Dominance.
” On the other side of the country in San Francisco , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just destroyed the career of one of America ’ s most prominent curators of painting and sculpture , Gary Garrels .
Garrels was curator at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art from 1993 to 2000 , a post he returned to in 2008 and has continued in to the present day .
Despite his years of dedicated service , Garrels tenure will end as of July 31 because he committed a thought crime .
At a museum staff meeting last week , he said the SFMOMA would still collect the work of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be “ reverse discrimination.
” TRENDING : Victor Davis Hanson : Millions of NFL Fans Are About To Shrug and Change the Channel This benign observation led to a revolt among staff members , who released a petition through Change.org calling for Garrels ’ removal .
The vocabulary in the petition is a master class in radical leftist language butchery .
“ When pressed on the museum ’ s collecting policies he has repeatedly said some variation of ‘ don ’ t worry , we will continue to collect white male artists.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in public view , Gary has used and continued to use white supremacist and racist language such as ‘ reverse discrimination , ' ” the petition says .
“ His use of dog whistle terms and divisive language is the antithesis of the spirit of SFMOMA ’ s Strategic Plan.
” The petition goes on to say that “ as exemplified by his words and actions , he is clearly ill-equipped to further SFMOMA ’ s agenda of inclusion and equity outlined in the plan and is failing to ‘ ensure that all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those who have been historically underrepresented… are represented in the development of arts policy ; the support of artists ; the nurturing of accessible , thriving venues for expression ; and the fair distribution of programmatic , financial , and informational resources.
’ “ Gary ’ s removal from SFMOMA is non-negotiable .
Considering his lengthy tenure at this institution , we ask just how long have his toxic white supremacist beliefs regarding race and equity directed his position curating the content of the museum ?
” Garrels has literally been labeled a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the works of white artists should still be considered in the future collection and display of art at the museum .
He was right to point out that purposely refusing to consider the works of certain artists because they are white would be “ reverse discrimination.
” But the employees who came for his scalp used the proper left-wing “ dog whistles , ” if you will , to destroy him .
Apparently , voicing a willingness to still consider white artists , among other creators , is “ white supremacist and racist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ politically motivated standards of artistry , evaluating the works of white artists is “ divisive.
” Deliberately excluding one race is ironically considered “ inclusion and equity.
” RELATED : Goya CEO Defies Mob , Declares 'Hell No !
Hell No ! '
I Wo n't Apologize for Pro-Trump Comments This cancel culture reality brings to mind the notion presented by George Orwell in “ 1984 ” that “ the Revolution will be complete when the language is perfect.
” The left has the lingo down pat whenever they want someone removed .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ perfectly reasonable statement about including all voices , cancel culture will accuse him or her of being a racist and white supremacist and call their words “ violence.
” Labeling the words “ violence ” immediately marks the target as a dangerous and threatening person who must be removed for the safety of others .
It is a cruel linguistic trick that seeks to remove meaning from words , and those responsible are acting like animalistic mobs who don ’ t have the ability to use words in the first place .
Art @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or sex .
It exists to teach and delight everyone , not to be used as a form of virtue signaling .
Sadly , Garrells released an apology for his inoffensive remarks at the meeting .
In an email to staff on Saturday , he wrote , “ I want to offer my personal and sincere apology to every one of you .
I realized almost as soon as I used the term ‘ reverse discrimination ’ that this is an offensive term and was an extremely poor choice of words on my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how upsetting these words were to many staff , ” according to Artnet .
“ I do not believe I have ever said that it is important to collect the art of white men .
I have said that it is important that we do not exclude consideration of the art of white men.
” “ I realize in the current climate , I can no longer effectively work at SFMOMA , ” he added .
Of course he can no longer “ effectively work ” in “ the current climate ” because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ irony is that Garrels had used major funding in recent years to expand the museum ’ s acquisitions to include a wide range of artists pleasing to the very people who got him fired .
As Artnet reported : “ But his lasting legacy at SFMOMA may be tied to two very different initiatives : the museum ’ s extended loan deal of the Fisher Collection and its decision , last year , to auction off a painting by Mark Rothko for $ 50.1 million in order to create a dedicated fund to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of color , and LGBTQ+ artists.
” No matter how woke a person tries to be , it will never be enough for the woke mob .
The revolution always eats its own .
Garrells ’ career is now ruined , and he will likely be blacklisted from future work in the art world .
That is the price he pays for remaining sane in an art culture run by left-wing activists .
He will not be the last man or woman to be sacrificed for this revolution , and the art world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The American left enjoys significant influence over our nation’s most prestigious museums. The fact that a single worldview dominates many of these institutions has in some cases led to the weaponization of art and culture to support a radical, racial agenda.
A jaw-dropping example this phenomena was the absurd “whiteness poster” recently released by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History & Culture in Washington, D.C., which labelled universal American values as mere “White Dominance.”
On the other side of the country in San Francisco, the radical left-wing movement poisoning American culture just destroyed the career of one of America’s most prominent curators of painting and sculpture, Gary Garrels.
Garrels was curator at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art from 1993 to 2000, a post he returned to in 2008 and has continued in to the present day.
Despite his years of dedicated service, Garrels tenure will end as of July 31 because he committed a thought crime. At a museum staff meeting last week, he said the SFMOMA would still collect the work of white men because refusing to do so would be “reverse discrimination.”
This benign observation led to a revolt among staff members, who released a petition through Change.org calling for Garrels’ removal.
The vocabulary in the petition is a master class in radical leftist language butchery.
“When pressed on the museum’s collecting policies he has repeatedly said some variation of ‘don’t worry, we will continue to collect white male artists.’ Amongst SFMOMA staff as well as in public view, Gary has used and continued to use white supremacist and racist language such as ‘reverse discrimination,'” the petition says.
“His use of dog whistle terms and divisive language is the antithesis of the spirit of SFMOMA’s Strategic Plan.”
Is the world of art and culture being overrun by leftists? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 100% (576 Votes) No: 0% (2 Votes)
The petition goes on to say that “as exemplified by his words and actions, he is clearly ill-equipped to further SFMOMA’s agenda of inclusion and equity outlined in the plan and is failing to ‘ensure that all people — including but not limited to those who have been historically underrepresented… are represented in the development of arts policy; the support of artists; the nurturing of accessible, thriving venues for expression; and the fair distribution of programmatic, financial, and informational resources.’
“Gary’s removal from SFMOMA is non-negotiable. Considering his lengthy tenure at this institution, we ask just how long have his toxic white supremacist beliefs regarding race and equity directed his position curating the content of the museum?”
Garrels has literally been labeled a “white supremacist” for maintaining that the works of white artists should still be considered in the future collection and display of art at the museum. He was right to point out that purposely refusing to consider the works of certain artists because they are white would be “reverse discrimination.”
But the employees who came for his scalp used the proper left-wing “dog whistles,” if you will, to destroy him. Apparently, voicing a willingness to still consider white artists, among other creators, is “white supremacist and racist language.”
By the left’s politically motivated standards of artistry, evaluating the works of white artists is “divisive.” Deliberately excluding one race is ironically considered “inclusion and equity.”
This cancel culture reality brings to mind the notion presented by George Orwell in “1984” that “the Revolution will be complete when the language is perfect.” The left has the lingo down pat whenever they want someone removed.
If the accused dares to make a perfectly reasonable statement about including all voices, cancel culture will accuse him or her of being a racist and white supremacist and call their words “violence.”
Reason no longer matters.
Labeling the words “violence” immediately marks the target as a dangerous and threatening person who must be removed for the safety of others. It is a cruel linguistic trick that seeks to remove meaning from words, and those responsible are acting like animalistic mobs who don’t have the ability to use words in the first place.
Art is not reserved for a certain race or sex. It exists to teach and delight everyone, not to be used as a form of virtue signaling.
Sadly, Garrells released an apology for his inoffensive remarks at the meeting.
In an email to staff on Saturday, he wrote, “I want to offer my personal and sincere apology to every one of you. I realized almost as soon as I used the term ‘reverse discrimination’ that this is an offensive term and was an extremely poor choice of words on my part. I am very sorry at how upsetting these words were to many staff,” according to Artnet.
“I do not believe I have ever said that it is important to collect the art of white men. I have said that it is important that we do not exclude consideration of the art of white men.”
“I realize in the current climate, I can no longer effectively work at SFMOMA,” he added.
Of course he can no longer “effectively work” in “the current climate” because the current climate is nuts.
The irony is that Garrels had used major funding in recent years to expand the museum’s acquisitions to include a wide range of artists pleasing to the very people who got him fired.
As Artnet reported: “But his lasting legacy at SFMOMA may be tied to two very different initiatives: the museum’s extended loan deal of the Fisher Collection and its decision, last year, to auction off a painting by Mark Rothko for $50.1 million in order to create a dedicated fund to acquire work by female artists, artists of color, and LGBTQ+ artists.”
No matter how woke a person tries to be, it will never be enough for the woke mob. The revolution always eats its own.
Garrells’ career is now ruined, and he will likely be blacklisted from future work in the art world. That is the price he pays for remaining sane in an art culture run by left-wing activists.
He will not be the last man or woman to be sacrificed for this revolution, and the art world will continue to suffer for 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.


westernjournal--2020-07-16--Video: Walmart Will Now Require All Shoppers To Wear Masks in Stores

Victor Davis Hanson : Millions of NFL Fans Are About To Shrug and Change the Channel


westernjournal--2020-07-16--As Coronavirus Cases Surge, Arkansas Gov Mandates Citizens Wear Face Masks

Arkansas Gov .
Asa Hutchinson issued an order Thursday requiring people to wear face masks in public throughout the state , which has had a surge in coronavirus cases over the past several weeks .
The Republican governor had resisted a statewide mask mandate and opposed issuing a stay-at-home order earlier in the pandemic , but he announced the order requiring masks when social distancing isn ’ t possible in the hopes of slowing the disease ’ s rapid spread in the state .
The order takes effect Monday .
Hutchinson said the state ’ s rising cases , hospitalizations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be done to combat the virus ’ spread .
He also said adults needs to set the right example for the state ’ s schoolchildren , many of whom will be required to wear masks when in-person classes resume next month .
“ This whole fight against COVID-19 is likely to get harder and not easier , and we have to meet the challenge together .
Everyone must do their part , ” Hutchinson said .
“ This is a way to enlist the support of everyone in this fight.
” Hutchinson ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mask requirements from business and health leaders and a day after Bentonville-based Walmart said it would require customers to wear masks in all of its U.S. stores .
TRENDING : Victor Davis Hanson : Millions of NFL Fans Are About To Shrug and Change the Channel The state ’ s largest newspaper , the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette , also called for a statewide requirement on Thursday .
Hutchinson previously encouraged people to wear masks and allowed cities to pass ordinances requiring their use , but he stopped short of requiring them statewide .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relent on the mask issue in the face of a surge in COVID-19 cases .
Alabama ’ s governor issued a similar mask mandate on Wednesday .
Arkansas ’ coronavirus cases have dramatically risen since May , when the state began allowing businesses that had closed because of the pandemic to reopen despite warnings from federal health officials about the risks of doing so too soon .
Arkansas was one of a handful of states that did not issue a broad stay-at-home order to keep most businesses closed .
Hutchinson announced the order @ @ @ @ @ @ @ biggest single-day increases in confirmed COVID-19 cases .
The Health Department on Thursday added 817 new confirmed cases to the state ’ s overall tally 31,114 since the pandemic started .
It also raised the state ’ s death toll by six , to 341 , and added 12 more patients to the number of people currently hospitalized with the disease , for a total of 470 .
The order includes several exemptions , including people younger than 10 years old or those engaged in religious worship , despite worship services being identified @ @ @ @ @ @ @ elsewhere .
Violators could face a fine of up to $ 500 .
The order prohibits law enforcement from detaining or arresting anyone for not complying , and says first-time violators will only receive a verbal or written warning .
RELATED : Here Are the States That Have Slowed Down the Most Due to COVID Shutdowns The order also allows the state to exempt counties that the Health Department has certified as having a low risk of transmission .
Hutchinson said that would be defined as counties that have had no positive cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ capability .
It was unclear whether any counties currently could be exempted under that provision .
Hutchinson previously questioned how a mask mandate could be enforced in a rural state such as Arkansas , but this week he left open the possibility of such a requirement .
The chancellor of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences called for a statewide requirement last weekend .
“ This is the right decision and will flatten the curve and save lives in Arkansas as we fight against the COVID-19 pandemic , ” UAMS Chancellor Cam @ @ @ @ @ @ @ announcement .
Hutchinson ’ s order was expected to face criticism from some conservatives in the solidly Republican state .
Hours before he issued the order , a Republican legislator who said he expected the mandate from Hutchinson called it an overreach by the state .
“ It ’ s not a question of whether you want to wear a mask or not .
The question is whether you want a state so powerful that it can mandate you wearing a mask , ” state Sen. Bob Ballinger said in a video posted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson issued an order Thursday requiring people to wear face masks in public throughout the state, which has had a surge in coronavirus cases over the past several weeks.
The Republican governor had resisted a statewide mask mandate and opposed issuing a stay-at-home order earlier in the pandemic, but he announced the order requiring masks when social distancing isn’t possible in the hopes of slowing the disease’s rapid spread in the state. The order takes effect Monday.
Hutchinson said the state’s rising cases, hospitalizations and deaths show that more needs to be done to combat the virus’ spread. He also said adults needs to set the right example for the state’s schoolchildren, many of whom will be required to wear masks when in-person classes resume next month.
“This whole fight against COVID-19 is likely to get harder and not easier, and we have to meet the challenge together. Everyone must do their part,” Hutchinson said. “This is a way to enlist the support of everyone in this fight.”
Hutchinson’s decision comes amid growing support for mask requirements from business and health leaders and a day after Bentonville-based Walmart said it would require customers to wear masks in all of its U.S. stores.
The state’s largest newspaper, the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, also called for a statewide requirement on Thursday.
Hutchinson previously encouraged people to wear masks and allowed cities to pass ordinances requiring their use, but he stopped short of requiring them statewide.
He’s the latest Republican governor to relent on the mask issue in the face of a surge in COVID-19 cases. Alabama’s governor issued a similar mask mandate on Wednesday.
Arkansas’ coronavirus cases have dramatically risen since May, when the state began allowing businesses that had closed because of the pandemic to reopen despite warnings from federal health officials about the risks of doing so too soon.
Do you think wearing a face mask should be optional? 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: 92% (68 Votes) No: 8% (6 Votes)
Arkansas was one of a handful of states that did not issue a broad stay-at-home order to keep most businesses closed.
Hutchinson announced the order as the state reported one of its biggest single-day increases in confirmed COVID-19 cases. The Health Department on Thursday added 817 new confirmed cases to the state’s overall tally 31,114 since the pandemic started.
It also raised the state’s death toll by six, to 341, and added 12 more patients to the number of people currently hospitalized with the disease, for a total of 470.
The order includes several exemptions, including people younger than 10 years old or those engaged in religious worship, despite worship services being identified as sources of outbreaks in Arkansas and elsewhere. Violators could face a fine of up to $500.
The order prohibits law enforcement from detaining or arresting anyone for not complying, and says first-time violators will only receive a verbal or written warning.
The order also allows the state to exempt counties that the Health Department has certified as having a low risk of transmission. Hutchinson said that would be defined as counties that have had no positive cases for 28 days and have adequate testing capability.
It was unclear whether any counties currently could be exempted under that provision.
Hutchinson previously questioned how a mask mandate could be enforced in a rural state such as Arkansas, but this week he left open the possibility of such a requirement. The chancellor of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences called for a statewide requirement last weekend.
“This is the right decision and will flatten the curve and save lives in Arkansas as we fight against the COVID-19 pandemic,” UAMS Chancellor Cam Patterson tweeted moments after Hutchinson’s announcement.
Hutchinson’s order was expected to face criticism from some conservatives in the solidly Republican state. Hours before he issued the order, a Republican legislator who said he expected the mandate from Hutchinson called it an overreach by the state.
“It’s not a question of whether you want to wear a mask or not. The question is whether you want a state so powerful that it can mandate you wearing a mask,” state Sen. Bob Ballinger said in a video posted on Facebook.
The Western Journal has reviewed this Associated Press story and may have altered it prior to publication to ensure that it meets our editorial standards.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
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