westernjournal--2020-08-20--City Imposes Up to $5,000 Fine and a Year in Jail for Violating Mask Order

While residents in western Washington state — Seattle , to be more specific — are dealing with an ineffectual government , oppressive regulations on business and leftist activists who at one point occupied an entire neighborhood , not a lot of attention has been paid to those living in the eastern part of the state .
Rural Washington , like rural areas in most states , tends to be more conservative .
However , that doesn ’ t seem to be the case in Whitman County , which sits just west of the state ’ s border with Idaho .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Washington State University , haven ’ t had to break up too many armed “ Summer of Love ” protests , but they are apparently dealing with citizens who aren ’ t wearing masks amid the coronavirus pandemic .
Those officials apparently aren ’ t too pleased with it , either .
TRENDING : Melania Viciously Attacked by Leftists for Not Holding POTUS ' Hand , But They Ignore the Real Story Some people apparently refuse to follow Democratic Gov .
Jay Inslee ’ s mask mandate to the letter , and now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a warning from the Pullman Police Department .
In fact , residents who refuse Inslee ’ s mask mandate or other health orders could face up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $ 5,000 .
KREM-TV reported the department has outlined the “ consequences of violating face mask , social distancing , and other health guidelines ” until the coronavirus no longer poses any threat to public health .
The warning sounds as if it could have been authored by the KGB .
“ Violations of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the violator ’ s health at risk but the health of our entire community .
We implore everyone to abide by Governor Inslee ’ s declarations , ” the news release from Pullman Police Chief Gary Jenkins says .
“ It is the right thing to do for you ; it is the right thing to do for your community .
We are in this together , and Pullman Police officers are here to help in keeping our community members safe and healthy.
” The police chief went on to say his officers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Individual violating a proclamation requirement ( facemask , social distancing ) … Gross misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $ 5,000 and/or 365 days jail .
“ Individual violating an order issued by local or State Board of Health , or by local health official ( facemask , social distancing ) … Misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $ 100 and/or 90 days jail .
RELATED : Sean Hannity Overcome with Emotion During Interview with Dad of Teen Killed in CHOP “ Person allowing a party or gathering with attendees not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ requirements , or gatherings of more than 10 people … Class 2 Civil infraction punishable by a $ 250 fine ; $ 350 fine for subsequent violations .
“ Failure to disperse a party/gathering as described above … Misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $ 100 and/or 90 days jail.
” How awfully progressive of the small Washington city .
Draconian mandates and unequal application of them must be a Pacific Northwest thing .
Not even the former inhabitants of CHAZ/CHOP were threatened with such strict language when they were occupying a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in June .
Likewise , down in Portland in neighboring Oregon , crimes such as arson , assault and vandalism apparently have been decriminalized .
The city has seen riots and nightly protests since May 25 , and criminals are acting with apparent impunity when they storm onto government property in droves , assault police officers and start fires .
In Pullman , meanwhile , refusing to cover your face with a mask — which might or might not be effective at preventing the spread of the coronavirus — could get you a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s nearest neighbor , the community of Moscow , Idaho , might share a name with the former capital of the Soviet Union , but Pullman is apparently home to the area ’ s totalitarian leftists .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

While residents in western Washington state — Seattle, to be more specific — are dealing with an ineffectual government, oppressive regulations on business and leftist activists who at one point occupied an entire neighborhood, not a lot of attention has been paid to those living in the eastern part of the state.
Rural Washington, like rural areas in most states, tends to be more conservative.
However, that doesn’t seem to be the case in Whitman County, which sits just west of the state’s border with Idaho.
Officials in Pullman, the home of Washington State University, haven’t had to break up too many armed “Summer of Love” protests, but they are apparently dealing with citizens who aren’t wearing masks amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Those officials apparently aren’t too pleased with it, either.
Some people apparently refuse to follow Democratic Gov. Jay Inslee’s mask mandate to the letter, and now they’re having their freedom threatened with a warning from the Pullman Police Department.
In fact, residents who refuse Inslee’s mask mandate or other health orders could face up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $5,000.
KREM-TV reported the department has outlined the “consequences of violating face mask, social distancing, and other health guidelines” until the coronavirus no longer poses any threat to public health.
The warning sounds as if it could have been authored by the KGB.
“Violations of the Governor’s proclamations not only put the violator’s health at risk but the health of our entire community. We implore everyone to abide by Governor Inslee’s declarations,” the news release from Pullman Police Chief Gary Jenkins says.
“It is the right thing to do for you; it is the right thing to do for your community. We are in this together, and Pullman Police officers are here to help in keeping our community members safe and healthy.”
The police chief went on to say his officers would be enforcing the following:
“Individual violating a proclamation requirement (facemask, social distancing) … Gross misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $5,000 and/or 365 days jail.
“Individual violating an order issued by local or State Board of Health, or by local health official (facemask, social distancing) … Misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $100 and/or 90 days jail.
Do you think Pullman is going too far with these penalties? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 97% (2485 Votes) No: 3% (64 Votes)
“Person allowing a party or gathering with attendees not in compliance with facemask or social distancing requirements, or gatherings of more than 10 people … Class 2 Civil infraction punishable by a $250 fine; $350 fine for subsequent violations.
“Failure to disperse a party/gathering as described above … Misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $100 and/or 90 days jail.”
How awfully progressive of the small Washington city.
Draconian mandates and unequal application of them must be a Pacific Northwest thing.
Not even the former inhabitants of CHAZ/CHOP were threatened with such strict language when they were occupying a Seattle Police Department precinct and its neighborhood in June.
Likewise, down in Portland in neighboring Oregon, crimes such as arson, assault and vandalism apparently have been decriminalized.
The city has seen riots and nightly protests since May 25, and criminals are acting with apparent impunity when they storm onto government property in droves, assault police officers and start fires.
In Pullman, meanwhile, refusing to cover your face with a mask — which might or might not be effective at preventing the spread of the coronavirus — could get you a year in jail.
The city’s nearest neighbor, the community of Moscow, Idaho, might share a name with the former capital of the Soviet Union, but Pullman is apparently home to the area’s totalitarian leftists.
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westernjournal--2020-08-20--Trump Gives Michelle Obama Blunt 4-Word Order Day After Her Overly Dramatic Convention Speech

So far from the Democratic National Convention , we ’ ve gotten three nights , two Obamas and one takeaway : Now we remember why America elected Donald Trump .
After Michelle Obama ’ s speech on Monday , the president reminded us as much and issued a four-word rejoinder to her on what she could do for the next four years : “ Sit back & watch !
” The former first lady capped off an unusual first night for the convention , one which struggled to find a tone .
Former Ohio Gov .
John Kasich , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to conservatives who might bristle at Trump ’ s style .
If those conservatives stuck around , they would have seen Bernie Sanders , the most left-wing man ever to come reasonably close to his party ’ s nomination , sign Joe Biden up for a whole host of progressive agenda items that would immediately remind conservatives why they ’ d prefer Trump .
And then there were Michelle Obama ’ s dramatic remarks , which used the not unfamiliar construct of worrying about what example we ’ re setting for our children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Leftists for Not Holding POTUS ' Hand , But They Ignore the Real Story In the speech , she said America ’ s young ones “ see people shouting in grocery stores , unwilling to wear a mask to keep us all safe .
They see people calling the police on folks minding their own business just because of the color of their skin.
” “ They see our leaders labeling fellow citizens enemies of the state while emboldening torch-bearing white supremacists .
They watch in horror as children are torn from their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pepper spray and rubber bullets are used on peaceful protesters for a photo op , ” she continued .
“ You know that I tell you exactly what I ’ m feeling .
You know I hate politics .
But you also know that I care about this nation .
You know how much I care about all of our children , ” the former first lady said .
“ If we have any hope of ending this chaos , we have got to vote for Joe Biden like our lives depend on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her husband had begun the process of putting children in cages or that she very much didn ’ t hate politics .
This was the kind of language the left loves .
Winner of the most eye-rolling headline to come out of the affair may have been The Washington Post ’ s Robin Givhan , who called the speech something akin to an “ empathetic neighbor expressing sorrow for what our country has become.
” There were plenty of people who responded to the specific points that Michelle Obama made in her speech @ @ @ @ @ @ @ else away from the totality of the address .
“ Somebody please explain to @ MichelleObama that Donald J. Trump would not be here , in the beautiful White House , if it weren ’ t for the job done by your husband , Barack Obama , ” Trump tweeted in the early hours of Tuesday morning .
“ Biden was merely an afterthought , a good reason for that very late & unenthusiastic endorsement , ” he continued , noting former President Obama ’ s reticence to endorse his former number two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which time it was clear Biden had already sewn up the nomination .
“ My Administration and I built the greatest economy in history , of any country , turned it off , saved millions of lives , and now am building an even greater economy than it was before .
Jobs are flowing , NASDAQ is already at a record high , the rest to follow .
Sit back & watch !
” Trump added .
“ People forget how divided our Country was under ObamaBiden .
The anger and hatred were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They shouldn ’ t be lecturing to us .
I ’ m here , as your President , because of them !
” The president also criticized the Obama administration ’ s slow response to the 2009 H1N1 swine flu pandemic and the investigation into Trump ’ s 2016 campaign .
South Carolina GOP Sen. Lindsey Graham , meanwhile , also had a fair summation of the situation : “ It is what it is .
Without @ BarackObama there would be no @ realDonaldTrump.
” “ President Trump has appointed conservative judges @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , cut taxes and regulations , is securing the border , negotiated new trade deals , passed criminal justice reform , re-set the Middle East , is standing up to China , etc.
” Michelle Obama talked unity .
While her family was in the White House , there wasn ’ t a whole lot of interest in that .
Sure , she might have sounded to liberals like an “ empathetic neighbor expressing sorrow for what our country has become.
” But what conservatives were reminded of is that while she may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s years as a time of comity , peace , prosperity and good government , Trump ’ s election was a repudiation of this .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

So far from the Democratic National Convention, we’ve gotten three nights, two Obamas and one takeaway: Now we remember why America elected Donald Trump.
After Michelle Obama’s speech on Monday, the president reminded us as much and issued a four-word rejoinder to her on what she could do for the next four years: “Sit back & watch!”
The former first lady capped off an unusual first night for the convention, one which struggled to find a tone.
Former Ohio Gov. John Kasich, a Republican, spoke as an outreach effort to conservatives who might bristle at Trump’s style. If those conservatives stuck around, they would have seen Bernie Sanders, the most left-wing man ever to come reasonably close to his party’s nomination, sign Joe Biden up for a whole host of progressive agenda items that would immediately remind conservatives why they’d prefer Trump.
And then there were Michelle Obama’s dramatic remarks, which used the not unfamiliar construct of worrying about what example we’re setting for our children.
In the speech, she said America’s young ones “see people shouting in grocery stores, unwilling to wear a mask to keep us all safe. They see people calling the police on folks minding their own business just because of the color of their skin.”
“They see our leaders labeling fellow citizens enemies of the state while emboldening torch-bearing white supremacists. They watch in horror as children are torn from their families and thrown into cages, and pepper spray and rubber bullets are used on peaceful protesters for a photo op,” she continued.
“You know that I tell you exactly what I’m feeling. You know I hate politics. But you also know that I care about this nation. You know how much I care about all of our children,” the former first lady said.
“If we have any hope of ending this chaos, we have got to vote for Joe Biden like our lives depend on it.”
Were the Obama-Biden years a time of division? Yes No
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None of her speechwriters remembered her husband had begun the process of putting children in cages or that she very much didn’t hate politics. This was the kind of language the left loves.
Winner of the most eye-rolling headline to come out of the affair may have been The Washington Post’s Robin Givhan, who called the speech something akin to an “empathetic neighbor expressing sorrow for what our country has become.”
There were plenty of people who responded to the specific points that Michelle Obama made in her speech. However, the president took something else away from the totality of the address.
“Somebody please explain to @MichelleObama that Donald J. Trump would not be here, in the beautiful White House, if it weren’t for the job done by your husband, Barack Obama,” Trump tweeted in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
“Biden was merely an afterthought, a good reason for that very late & unenthusiastic endorsement,” he continued, noting former President Obama’s reticence to endorse his former number two until late in the process, by which time it was clear Biden had already sewn up the nomination.
“My Administration and I built the greatest economy in history, of any country, turned it off, saved millions of lives, and now am building an even greater economy than it was before. Jobs are flowing, NASDAQ is already at a record high, the rest to follow. Sit back & watch!” Trump added.
Somebody please explain to @MichelleObama that Donald J. Trump would not be here, in the beautiful White House, if it weren’t for the job done by your husband, Barack Obama. Biden was merely an afterthought, a good reason for that very late & unenthusiastic endorsement….. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 18, 2020
….My Administration and I built the greatest economy in history, of any country, turned it off, saved millions of lives, and now am building an even greater economy than it was before. Jobs are flowing, NASDAQ is already at a record high, the rest to follow. Sit back & watch! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 18, 2020
“People forget how divided our Country was under ObamaBiden. The anger and hatred were unbelievable,” he continued.
“They shouldn’t be lecturing to us. I’m here, as your President, because of them!”
People forget how divided our Country was under ObamaBiden. The anger and hatred were unbelievable. They shouldn’t be lecturing to us. I’m here, as your President, because of them! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 18, 2020
The president also criticized the Obama administration’s slow response to the 2009 H1N1 swine flu pandemic and the investigation into Trump’s 2016 campaign.
Looking back into history, the response by the ObamaBiden team to the H1N1 Swine Flu was considered a weak and pathetic one. Check out the polling, it’s really bad. The big difference is that they got a free pass from the Corrupt Fake News Media! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 18, 2020
The ObamaBiden Administration was the most corrupt in history, including the fact that they got caught SPYING ON MY CAMPAIGN, the biggest political scandal in the history of our Country. It’s called Treason, and more. Thanks for your very kind words Michelle! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 18, 2020
South Carolina GOP Sen. Lindsey Graham, meanwhile, also had a fair summation of the situation: “It is what it is. Without @BarackObama there would be no @realDonaldTrump.”
“President Trump has appointed conservative judges, rebuilt the military, destroyed ISIS, cut taxes and regulations, is securing the border, negotiated new trade deals, passed criminal justice reform, re-set the Middle East, is standing up to China, etc.”
President Trump has appointed conservative judges, rebuilt the military, destroyed ISIS, cut taxes and regulations, is securing the border, negotiated new trade deals, passed criminal justice reform, re-set the Middle East, is standing up to China, etc… — Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) August 18, 2020
Michelle Obama talked unity. While her family was in the White House, there wasn’t a whole lot of interest in that.
Sure, she might have sounded to liberals like an “empathetic neighbor expressing sorrow for what our country has become.” But what conservatives were reminded of is that while she may try to talk up her husband’s years as a time of comity, peace, prosperity and good government, Trump’s election was a repudiation of this.
Sit back and watch, indeed.
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westernjournal--2020-08-20--Fauci Recovering After Undergoing Surgery

Dr. Anthony Fauci , the U.S. government ’ s top infectious disease expert , underwent surgery on Thursday to remove a growth from his vocal cord that was causing a noticeably raspy voice .
Fauci , who directs the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases , underwent outpatient surgery for the polyp and was home and resting , an institute spokesperson told The Associated Press .
Fauci , a member of the White House coronavirus task force , gives regular public advice via media interviews and webcasts , most recently one on Wednesday afternoon .
Polyps are bumps that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cause hoarseness .
Fauci said in an interview with the Economic Club of Washington this spring that he had an irritated throat after a bout of winter flu .
TRENDING : Melania Viciously Attacked by Leftists for Not Holding POTUS ' Hand , But They Ignore the Real Story “ I probably have a polyp there , ” he said at the time , adding that “ the only way you ’ re going to make it get better is to keep your mouth shut .
But that ’ s not in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Dr. Anthony Fauci, the U.S. government’s top infectious disease expert, underwent surgery on Thursday to remove a growth from his vocal cord that was causing a noticeably raspy voice.
Fauci, who directs the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, underwent outpatient surgery for the polyp and was home and resting, an institute spokesperson told The Associated Press.
Fauci, a member of the White House coronavirus task force, gives regular public advice via media interviews and webcasts, most recently one on Wednesday afternoon.
Polyps are bumps that can form on the vocal cords and cause hoarseness.
Fauci said in an interview with the Economic Club of Washington this spring that he had an irritated throat after a bout of winter flu.
“I probably have a polyp there,” he said at the time, adding that “the only way you’re going to make it get better is to keep your mouth shut. But that’s not in the cards right now.”
CNN first reported the surgery.
[jwplayer QDWDs8xY]
The Western Journal has reviewed this Associated Press story and may have altered it prior to publication to ensure that it meets our editorial standards.
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westernjournal--2020-08-20--Fact-Checking Sally Yates: Travel Ban Not a ‘Muslim Ban,’ Nor Is It Unconstitutional

If there ’ s been a theme to the speeches at the 2020 Democratic National Convention , it ’ s that President Donald Trump has destroyed presidential norms and is a threat to the rule of law and America as we know it .
Cheery , uplifting stuff , but such are the times we live in .
Perhaps no speaker exemplified the willingness to cast the Trump administration in a relentlessly negative light so much as Sally Yates , the former acting U.S. attorney general .
In her speech , recorded from Atlanta , Yates said the president “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his family business — this time , bankrupting our nation ’ s moral authority at home and abroad .
But our country doesn ’ t belong to him .
It belongs to all of us.
” TRENDING : Melania Viciously Attacked by Leftists for Not Holding POTUS ' Hand , But They Ignore the Real Story Yates was fired in the early days of the Trump administration when she refused to enact the president ’ s travel ban .
In her remarks before the convention Tuesday , Yates referred to it as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transcript of the second night of the convention by Rev , Tracee Ellis Ross introduced Yates by saying she “ refused to defend an unconstitutional travel ban and paid for it with her job.
” “ Speaking at a political convention is something I never expected to be doing , but the future of our democracy is at stake , ” Yates said .
“ I served as deputy attorney general in the Obama-Biden administration , and stayed on as acting attorney general for the Trump transition , ” she said .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fired for refusing to defend President Trump ’ s shameful and unlawful Muslim travel ban .
That was the start of his relentless attacks on our democratic institutions and countless dedicated public servants .
“ Like me , these officials didn ’ t swear an oath to a person or a party .
Public servants promise to defend our Constitution , uphold our laws , and work on behalf of the American people .
“ But from the moment President Trump took office , he ’ s used his position to benefit himself @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s trampled the rule of law , trying to weaponize our Justice Department to attack his enemies and protect his friends.
” If her definition of “ trampling the rule of law ” involves a “ Muslim ban ” that was upheld by the Supreme Court , it ’ s a curious one .
In June 2018 , the Supreme Court upheld the president ’ s travel ban by a 5-4 vote .
The countries covered by the ban at that time included Iran , Libya , North Korea , Somalia , Syria @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government officials from Venezuela .
According to NPR , the court ’ s decision — written by Chief Justice John Roberts — found that the travel ban fell “ squarely within the scope of Presidential authority under the INA , ” or Immigration and Nationality Act .
While five of the seven nations on the list were majority-Muslim , the travel ban proclamation made clear those countries either were state sponsors of terrorism or had declined “ to share or validate important information about individuals ” in order to properly vet them for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Nationality Act , foreign nationals seeking entry into the United States undergo a vetting process to ensure that they satisfy the numerous requirements for admission , ” Roberts wrote in his decision .
He also noted that under the INA , the president has significant authority to determine whether to restrict travel from a country when admitting individuals from that country “ would be detrimental to the interests of the United States.
” Roberts said Trump “ lawfully exercised that discretion based on his findings — following a worldwide , multi-agency review — @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be detrimental to the national interest .
And plaintiffs ’ attempts to identify a conflict with other provisions in the INA , and their appeal to the statute ’ s purposes and legislative history , fail to overcome the clear statutory language.
” At the time , the president lauded the decision .
“ Today ’ s Supreme Court ruling is a tremendous victory for the American People and the Constitution , ” Trump said in a statement .
“ The Supreme Court has upheld the clear authority of the President to defend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In this era of worldwide terrorism and extremist movements bent on harming innocent civilians , we must properly vet those coming into our country .
“ This ruling is also a moment of profound vindication following months of hysterical commentary from the media and Democratic politicians who refuse to do what it takes to secure our border and our country .
“ As long as I am President , I will defend the sovereignty , safety , and security of the American People , and fight for an immigration system that serves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and its citizens .
Our country will always be safe , secure and protected on my watch.
” The travel ban , in other words , is wholly constitutional .
It ’ s also just that — a travel ban , not a “ Muslim ban.
” It makes Americans safer .
Yates ’ speech , like so much at this year ’ s Democratic National Convention , sounded an alarm about a chimerical concern .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards @

If there’s been a theme to the speeches at the 2020 Democratic National Convention, it’s that President Donald Trump has destroyed presidential norms and is a threat to the rule of law and America as we know it. Cheery, uplifting stuff, but such are the times we live in.
Perhaps no speaker exemplified the willingness to cast the Trump administration in a relentlessly negative light so much as Sally Yates, the former acting U.S. attorney general.
In her speech, recorded from Atlanta, Yates said the president “treats our country like it’s his family business — this time, bankrupting our nation’s moral authority at home and abroad. But our country doesn’t belong to him. It belongs to all of us.”
Former acting Attorney General Sally Yates says President Trump “treats our country like it’s his family business — this time, bankrupting our nation’s moral authority at home and abroad. But our country doesn’t belong to him. It belongs to all of us.” https://t.co/tFT8FVSwQb pic.twitter.com/crMvYJGhlF — CBS News (@CBSNews) August 19, 2020
Yates was fired in the early days of the Trump administration when she refused to enact the president’s travel ban. In her remarks before the convention Tuesday, Yates referred to it as a “Muslim ban.”
According to a transcript of the second night of the convention by Rev, Tracee Ellis Ross introduced Yates by saying she “refused to defend an unconstitutional travel ban and paid for it with her job.”
“Speaking at a political convention is something I never expected to be doing, but the future of our democracy is at stake,” Yates said.
“I served as deputy attorney general in the Obama-Biden administration, and stayed on as acting attorney general for the Trump transition,” she said.
Was Donald Trump's travel ban a 'Muslim ban'? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 2% (13 Votes) No: 98% (736 Votes)
“Then 10 days in, I was fired for refusing to defend President Trump’s shameful and unlawful Muslim travel ban. That was the start of his relentless attacks on our democratic institutions and countless dedicated public servants.
“Like me, these officials didn’t swear an oath to a person or a party. Public servants promise to defend our Constitution, uphold our laws, and work on behalf of the American people.
“But from the moment President Trump took office, he’s used his position to benefit himself rather than our country. He’s trampled the rule of law, trying to weaponize our Justice Department to attack his enemies and protect his friends.”
If her definition of “trampling the rule of law” involves a “Muslim ban” that was upheld by the Supreme Court, it’s a curious one.
In June 2018, the Supreme Court upheld the president’s travel ban by a 5-4 vote. The countries covered by the ban at that time included Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria and Yemen, as well as some government officials from Venezuela.
According to NPR, the court’s decision — written by Chief Justice John Roberts — found that the travel ban fell “squarely within the scope of Presidential authority under the INA,” or Immigration and Nationality Act.
While five of the seven nations on the list were majority-Muslim, the travel ban proclamation made clear those countries either were state sponsors of terrorism or had declined “to share or validate important information about individuals” in order to properly vet them for entry.
“Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, foreign nationals seeking entry into the United States undergo a vetting process to ensure that they satisfy the numerous requirements for admission,” Roberts wrote in his decision.
He also noted that under the INA, the president has significant authority to determine whether to restrict travel from a country when admitting individuals from that country “would be detrimental to the interests of the United States.”
Roberts said Trump “lawfully exercised that discretion based on his findings — following a worldwide, multi-agency review — that entry of the covered aliens would be detrimental to the national interest. And plaintiffs’ attempts to identify a conflict with other provisions in the INA, and their appeal to the statute’s purposes and legislative history, fail to overcome the clear statutory language.”
At the time, the president lauded the decision.
“Today’s Supreme Court ruling is a tremendous victory for the American People and the Constitution,” Trump said in a statement.
“The Supreme Court has upheld the clear authority of the President to defend the national security of the United States. In this era of worldwide terrorism and extremist movements bent on harming innocent civilians, we must properly vet those coming into our country.
“This ruling is also a moment of profound vindication following months of hysterical commentary from the media and Democratic politicians who refuse to do what it takes to secure our border and our country.
“As long as I am President, I will defend the sovereignty, safety, and security of the American People, and fight for an immigration system that serves the national interests of the United States and its citizens. Our country will always be safe, secure and protected on my watch.”
The travel ban, in other words, is wholly constitutional.
It’s also just that — a travel ban, not a “Muslim ban.” It makes Americans safer.
Yates’ speech, like so much at this year’s Democratic National Convention, sounded an alarm about a chimerical concern.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
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westernjournal--2020-08-20--During DNC Pledge of Allegiance, Muslim Delegate Refuses To Say ‘Under God’

Any reference to God was missing as the moderator for the Democratic National Convention ’ s Muslim Delegates and Allies Assembly recited the Pledge of Allegiance on Monday .
Moderator AJ Durrani left the phrase “ under God ” out of the pledge , saying : “ I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America , and to the Republic for which it stands .
One nation , indivisible , with liberty and justice for all.
” Durrani , a Texas community activist , did not offer any public comment about why he truncated the Pledge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Attacked by Leftists for Not Holding POTUS ' Hand , But They Ignore the Real Story As illustrated by the debate on the Islam Stack Exchange message board , a variety of opinions exist among Muslims over whether the phrase “ under God ” is appropriate for Muslims to recite .
A report in The Washington Post about the origins of the addition of the phrase “ under God ” to the pledge in 1954 noted that the Rev .
George Docherty , a prime mover in its adoption , believed the phrase @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Muslims .
“ To omit the words ‘ under God ’ in the Pledge of Allegiance is to omit the definitive factor in the American way of life , ” Docherty said in a 1954 sermon .
“ An atheistic American is a contradiction in terms .
If you deny the Christian ethic , you fall short of the American ideal of life .
“ So , it must be ‘ under God ’ to include the great Jewish community , and the people of the Muslim faith , and the myriad of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Docherty said then , according to the Tampa Bay Times .
He said that without a reference to God , “ I could hear little Muscovites repeat a similar pledge to their hammer and sickle flag in Moscow with equal solemnity.
” But Durrani ’ s recitation of the pledge wasn ’ t the only instance during Monday ’ s DNC meetings in which the phrase was omitted .
As shown on Twitter , an unidentified speaker at an LGBTQ caucus meeting also used a shortened version of the pledge .
RELATED @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Biden Family Black Sheep To Speak on Final Night of Convention In an Op-Ed Wednesday in The Federalist , Kylee Zempel , an assistant editor at the publication , said omitting God in the pledge would be in lockstep with the leftward drift of the Democratic Party .
“ Anyone who has watched the trajectory of the Democratic Party , now with Joe Biden and Kamala Harris at the helm , shouldn ’ t be surprised at the omission .
After all , this presidential nominee pledged to go after nuns for refusing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” she wrote , later citing the “ Democratic Party ’ s increasing disdain for traditional religious teaching on marriage , the family , and church , to name a few.
” “ As the convention progresses , we shouldn ’ t be surprised when Democratic Party and committee leaders take God out of the Pledge of Allegiance .
They ’ re usually trying to take Him out of everything else.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
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Any reference to God was missing as the moderator for the Democratic National Convention’s Muslim Delegates and Allies Assembly recited the Pledge of Allegiance on Monday.
Moderator AJ Durrani left the phrase “under God” out of the pledge, saying: “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands. One nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
I guess the “Under God” part just isn’t important to Democrats. pic.twitter.com/0q4Hhg0XBT — Benny (@bennyjohnson) August 19, 2020
Durrani, a Texas community activist, did not offer any public comment about why he truncated the Pledge of Allegiance.
As illustrated by the debate on the Islam Stack Exchange message board, a variety of opinions exist among Muslims over whether the phrase “under God” is appropriate for Muslims to recite.
A report in The Washington Post about the origins of the addition of the phrase “under God” to the pledge in 1954 noted that the Rev. George Docherty, a prime mover in its adoption, believed the phrase was broad enough to include Jews and Muslims.
“To omit the words ‘under God’ in the Pledge of Allegiance is to omit the definitive factor in the American way of life,” Docherty said in a 1954 sermon. “An atheistic American is a contradiction in terms. If you deny the Christian ethic, you fall short of the American ideal of life.
“So, it must be ‘under God’ to include the great Jewish community, and the people of the Muslim faith, and the myriad of denominations of Christians in the land,” Docherty said then, according to the Tampa Bay Times.
Are Democrats against religion? Yes No
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He said that without a reference to God, “I could hear little Muscovites repeat a similar pledge to their hammer and sickle flag in Moscow with equal solemnity.”
But Durrani’s recitation of the pledge wasn’t the only instance during Monday’s DNC meetings in which the phrase was omitted. As shown on Twitter, an unidentified speaker at an LGBTQ caucus meeting also used a shortened version of the pledge.
NEW VIDEO: At the #DemocraticNationalConvention , LGBT Caucus purposely leaves out the words, “under God” from the Pledge of Allegiance. Watch. This now makes twice that two key constituencies of the Democratic Party have done this. See my earlier tweet about DNC Muslim Caucus pic.twitter.com/2GIDcCMq1F — David Brody (@DavidBrodyCBN) August 19, 2020
Twitter users disapproved of the omissions.
This person with his flags and his caucus is what’s wrong.
Wackos—plain and simple. This is what you vote for more of when you vote democrat. — al dva (@devillier_al) August 19, 2020
“Under God” isn’t important to Democrats when reciting the Pledge Of Allegiance, because democrats feel “THEY ARE GODS!” The Democrats want power over you!
The Democrats want control over you!
The Democrats want to make America into the next Venezuela! So, VOTE #Trump2020 ?? — Lynn ❤s TRUMP! ?? (@LynnWoodcock2) August 19, 2020
In an Op-Ed Wednesday in The Federalist, Kylee Zempel, an assistant editor at the publication, said omitting God in the pledge would be in lockstep with the leftward drift of the Democratic Party.
“Anyone who has watched the trajectory of the Democratic Party, now with Joe Biden and Kamala Harris at the helm, shouldn’t be surprised at the omission. After all, this presidential nominee pledged to go after nuns for refusing to violate their consciences in providing abortifacients,” she wrote, later citing the “Democratic Party’s increasing disdain for traditional religious teaching on marriage, the family, and church, to name a few.”
“As the convention progresses, we shouldn’t be surprised when Democratic Party and committee leaders take God out of the Pledge of Allegiance. They’re usually trying to take Him out of everything else.”
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westernjournal--2020-08-20--US Extends Border Restrictions with Mexico and Canada as Part of Coronavirus Response

Since initial closures were announced in late March , the ongoing global health crisis has forced the U.S. , Canada and Mexico to extend an agreement restricting nonessential travel between their land borders into the month of September .
The restrictions were originally imposed for 30 days , but have been been extended each month since March .
Prior to last week ’ s announcement , the travel restrictions were set to expire Aug. 21 , The Associated Press reported .
“ We continue to work with our Canadian and Mexican partners to slow the spread of # COVID19 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tweeted Friday .
“ Accordingly , we have agreed to extend the limitation of non-essential travel at our shared land ports of entry through September 21.
” TRENDING : Melania Viciously Attacked by Leftists for Not Holding POTUS ' Hand , But They Ignore the Real Story Canada receives much of its food supply from the U.S. , and Mexico is America ’ s “ 3rd largest goods trading partner with $ 611.5 billion in total ( two way ) goods trade during 2018 , ” according to the Office of the United @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Department of Commerce , U.S. exports of Goods and Services to Mexico supported an estimated 1.2 million jobs in 2015 , ” the USTR added , citing the latest data available .
Wolf indicated that to keep the economy moving , the preservation of supply chains and essential economic activity at the border takes precedence over nonessential travel .
“ We want to make sure that cargo continues , trade continues , health care workers continue to be able to traverse that border , ” he told reporters , according to Bloomberg @ @ @ @ @ @ @ activities and other things needs to stop during this crisis.
” Essential travelers such as airline crews , truck drivers and health care professionals are still permitted to cross the U.S.-Canada and U.S.-Mexico land borders , Fox News reported .
But those who refuse to comply with COVID-19 restrictions at the U.S.-Canada border , particularly Americans trying to get to Alaska via Canada , could face hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines , and even time behind bars , according to CNN .
Additionally , the three countries have agreed to immediately @ @ @ @ @ @ @ land borders illegally , according to the AP , as U.S. officials argue that unchecked travel poses a potential health risk .
RELATED : In Shock Move , DNC Invites Biden Family Black Sheep To Speak on Final Night of Convention Ever since he announced his run for the presidency , Donald Trump has emphasized stopping illegal immigration and border security , including the construction of a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border .
During Trump ’ s visit this week to Yuma , Arizona , he accepted the endorsement of the National Border @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Patrol agents .
“ Under the Trump administration , if you cross our border illegally , you are quickly apprehended and swiftly returned back home , ” Trump said .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Since initial closures were announced in late March, the ongoing global health crisis has forced the U.S., Canada and Mexico to extend an agreement restricting nonessential travel between their land borders into the month of September.
The restrictions were originally imposed for 30 days, but have been been extended each month since March.
Prior to last week’s announcement, the travel restrictions were set to expire Aug. 21, The Associated Press reported.
“We continue to work with our Canadian and Mexican partners to slow the spread of #COVID19,” Acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf tweeted Friday. “Accordingly, we have agreed to extend the limitation of non-essential travel at our shared land ports of entry through September 21.”
We continue to work with our Canadian and Mexican partners to slow the spread of #COVID19. Accordingly, we have agreed to extend the limitation of non-essential travel at our shared land ports of entry through September 21. — Acting Secretary Chad Wolf (@DHS_Wolf) August 14, 2020
Canada receives much of its food supply from the U.S., and Mexico is America’s “3rd largest goods trading partner with $611.5 billion in total (two way) goods trade during 2018,” according to the Office of the United States Trade Representative.
“According to the Department of Commerce, U.S. exports of Goods and Services to Mexico supported an estimated 1.2 million jobs in 2015,” the USTR added, citing the latest data available.
Wolf indicated that to keep the economy moving, the preservation of supply chains and essential economic activity at the border takes precedence over nonessential travel.
Do you think this agreement should remain in place for the foreseeable future? Yes No
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“We want to make sure that cargo continues, trade continues, health care workers continue to be able to traverse that border,” he told reporters, according to Bloomberg.
“But tourism, some recreational activities and other things needs to stop during this crisis.”
Essential travelers such as airline crews, truck drivers and health care professionals are still permitted to cross the U.S.-Canada and U.S.-Mexico land borders, Fox News reported.
But those who refuse to comply with COVID-19 restrictions at the U.S.-Canada border, particularly Americans trying to get to Alaska via Canada, could face hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines, and even time behind bars, according to CNN.
Additionally, the three countries have agreed to immediately turn back anyone attempting to cross their land borders illegally, according to the AP, as U.S. officials argue that unchecked travel poses a potential health risk.
Ever since he announced his run for the presidency, Donald Trump has emphasized stopping illegal immigration and border security, including the construction of a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border.
During Trump’s visit this week to Yuma, Arizona, he accepted the endorsement of the National Border Patrol Council, a union representing Border Patrol agents.
President @realDonaldTrump: “Under the Trump Administration, if you cross our border illegally, you are quickly apprehended and SWIFTLY returned back home.” pic.twitter.com/DhOYfOiBkk — Team Trump (Text TRUMP to 88022) (@TeamTrump) August 18, 2020
“Under the Trump administration, if you cross our border illegally, you are quickly apprehended and swiftly returned back home,” Trump said.
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westernjournal--2020-08-20--Sharp-Eyed Viewers Catch DNC Faking Kamala Harris Fans

It looks like support for Sen. Kamala Harris is as fake as her speeches .
When the Democratic nominee for vice president closed out her distinctly uninspiring speech on Wednesday night , she waved to a bank of video monitors showing rapturously applauding supporters .
But sharp-eyed Trump campaign workers saw something else : Many of the screens showed the same figures twice .
Zach Parkinson , Trump campaign deputy director of communications , sent out the first image when it looked like just two of the scenes were dupes : TRENDING : Melania Viciously Attacked by Leftists for Not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ignore the Real Story Then there were four : And , finally , it turned out six of the screens were duplicates .
Andrew Clark , rapid response director for the Trump campaign , blasted out the news .
Astounding as it might be , the Democratic National Committee — on a night that was declared “ historic ” thanks to the nomination of a black woman for vice president ( no matter how dubious she is ) — was apparently unable to put up 30 separate screens of supporters elated with being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s even more astounding — though it shouldn ’ t be at this point — is that liberals were falling all over themselves to excuse the idiocy .
RELATED : The DNC Painted Biden as an Ally of Sex Crime Victims ; So Why Did He Choose Harris as His Running Mate ?
One guy , when it looked like there was only one duplication , even went so far as to call the Democratic production “ perfection.
” Well , perfection it clearly wasn ’ t .
And there were many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t nearly so forgiving as the leftist vote .
That last one might be a little bit too harsh .
Given the oddity of the whole virtual convention setup , it ’ s an outside possibility that there was a technical glitch involved that somehow flooded Harris ’ supporter bank with duplicate feeds .
But given the Democrats ’ history of lying to the American people — this is the party of Adam Schiff , remember , and Jerry Nadler , and Nancy Pelosi , to name but a few — it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that knows it has the slavering support of a supine mainstream media thought there would be no downside to presenting a demonstrably false image to the country on one of its most important nights of the year .
This is a candidate , also , who used her speech after being announced as former Vice President Joe Biden ’ s running mate to regale the country with lie after lie after lie , as National Review ’ s Kyle Smith pointed out last week .
Either way , it ’ s a rock-solid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get anywhere near the kind of coverage in the mainstream media it would if it had been , say , Vice President Mike Pence waving like an idiot to a bank of computer-monitor clones .
As far as scandals go , “ Dupli-Gate ” has a nice ring to it .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

It looks like support for Sen. Kamala Harris is as fake as her speeches.
When the Democratic nominee for vice president closed out her distinctly uninspiring speech on Wednesday night, she waved to a bank of video monitors showing rapturously applauding supporters.
But sharp-eyed Trump campaign workers saw something else: Many of the screens showed the same figures twice.
Zach Parkinson, Trump campaign deputy director of communications, sent out the first image when it looked like just two of the scenes were dupes:
Apparently, the DNC couldn’t even find 30 people who were excited about Kamala Harris, so they had to duplicate someone’s livesteram pic.twitter.com/1cLhQRRkzg — Zach Parkinson (@AZachParkinson) August 20, 2020
Then there were four:
And, finally, it turned out six of the screens were duplicates.
Andrew Clark, rapid response director for the Trump campaign, blasted out the news.
mother of God there are more https://t.co/ENpNsTpTFo pic.twitter.com/htLcgoJMG9 — Andrew Clark (@AndrewHClark) August 20, 2020
Astounding as it might be, the Democratic National Committee — on a night that was declared “historic” thanks to the nomination of a black woman for vice president (no matter how dubious she is) — was apparently unable to put up 30 separate screens of supporters elated with being part of the historic occasion.
What’s even more astounding — though it shouldn’t be at this point — is that liberals were falling all over themselves to excuse the idiocy.
One guy, when it looked like there was only one duplication, even went so far as to call the Democratic production “perfection.”
Guess what. They did that on purpose. But you can keep nitpicking. You only do that because you know you got blown out by Obama and Harris today. You have nothing better to complain about. Because it was perfection. — Stefan Resists (@StefanK1117) August 20, 2020
Well, perfection it clearly wasn’t. And there were many, many Twitter users who weren’t nearly so forgiving as the leftist vote.
This is beyond embarrassing #DemConvention But it did make me laugh…can’t even fill a zoom screen, had to duplicate peeps? ?? — Mark Harris (@MarkVivLexCA) August 20, 2020
Desperate times call for desperate measures. ? — DBenjamin (@Dbenjamin80) August 20, 2020
Kinda says it all, when you have to use deception, doesn’t it?…..???? — Rita (@ribach10) August 20, 2020
That last one might be a little bit too harsh.
Given the oddity of the whole virtual convention setup, it’s an outside possibility that there was a technical glitch involved that somehow flooded Harris’ supporter bank with duplicate feeds.
Will the mainstream media try to cover this story up? Yes No
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But given the Democrats’ history of lying to the American people — this is the party of Adam Schiff, remember, and Jerry Nadler, and Nancy Pelosi, to name but a few — it’s more than possible that an organization that knows it has the slavering support of a supine mainstream media thought there would be no downside to presenting a demonstrably false image to the country on one of its most important nights of the year.
This is a candidate, also, who used her speech after being announced as former Vice President Joe Biden’s running mate to regale the country with lie after lie after lie, as National Review’s Kyle Smith pointed out last week.
Either way, it’s a rock-solid cinch that the incident won’t get anywhere near the kind of coverage in the mainstream media it would if it had been, say, Vice President Mike Pence waving like an idiot to a bank of computer-monitor clones.
As far as scandals go, “Dupli-Gate” has a nice ring to it.
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Malware

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


westernjournal--2020-08-20--Melania Viciously Attacked by Leftists for Not Holding POTUS’ Hand, But They Ignore the Real Story

Apparently , it was a story that Melania Trump wasn ’ t holding the president ’ s hand .
This seems like an odd thing to actually care about , but apparently , it was a sign to some that the first lady was joining the ranks of # TheResistance .
According to the U.K. Daily Mail , the video is from Sunday , when President Donald Trump , the first lady , and their son , Barron , returned to Joint Base Andrews in Maryland following spending the weekend in New Jersey .
“ As the couple descended the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over to grasp Melania ’ s hand , which she quickly pulled away , ” the Daily Mail reported .
And , boy , did this make certain people happy .
TRENDING : Melania Viciously Attacked by Leftists for Not Holding POTUS ' Hand , But They Ignore the Real Story Oh boy !
They ’ ve really got Trump now .
Except they hadn ’ t .
The Daily Mail noted that while liberal Twitterers used the clip to poke fun at the president , “ [ a ] debate ensued as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ president , insisting that Melania was merely trying to keep her frock from blowing upward in the wind.
” It ’ s not even really a debate , though .
Here ’ s the longer clip : RELATED : The Rose Garden Will Be Restored to Kennedy-Era Glory Thanks to Melania Trump Yes , as you can see , Melania pulls her hand away — but it ’ s because the wind was blowing her dress up .
After they made their way down the Air Force One steps , however , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to holding his hand .
It ’ s a moment that looks so confidently casual that it ’ s actually romantic , in the way married couples can be when they ’ re not even trying .
Again , getting onto the plane in Morristown , New Jersey , you can plainly see the president and first lady holding hands on the way from the helicopter to Air Force One : If she decided she was a member of # TheResistance , she apparently made the decision during the short flight down to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Except for people who , of course , wanted to have a debate .
Oh , well , thank goodness for Barron .
This is the only first family this is OK for the media to do this for — until , of course , the next Republican president is elected .
Then it ’ ll be OK again .
Why would it even matter ?
The one time there were actual marital problems inside the White House — and of such a nature that the president ended up getting impeached for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intern — we were told what was happening with the Clintons wasn ’ t any of our business .
But meanwhile , with the Trumps , we ’ re informed that it ’ s a real story when Melania appears not to hold her husband ’ s hand .
Does it matter that she holds it later in the video ?
No , of course not .
It ’ s unlikely some of them watched that far — or did any investigating beyond the initial clip .
The reason this is supposed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ apparently happened in the past .
Except , in the past , many of the videos were also taken out of context .
If it weren ’ t for double standards , the left wouldn ’ t have any standards at all .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Apparently, it was a story that Melania Trump wasn’t holding the president’s hand.
This seems like an odd thing to actually care about, but apparently, it was a sign to some that the first lady was joining the ranks of #TheResistance.
According to the U.K. Daily Mail, the video is from Sunday, when President Donald Trump, the first lady, and their son, Barron, returned to Joint Base Andrews in Maryland following spending the weekend in New Jersey.
“As the couple descended the steps of Air Force One Donald reached over to grasp Melania’s hand, which she quickly pulled away,” the Daily Mail reported.
And, boy, did this make certain people happy.
The Resistance is Melania’s hand. https://t.co/w9aiy6wgk0 — Jena Friedman (@JenaFriedman) August 17, 2020
Do these attacks hurt the left more than they hurt President Donald Trump? Yes No
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Oh boy! They’ve really got Trump now.
Except they hadn’t. The Daily Mail noted that while liberal Twitterers used the clip to poke fun at the president, “[a] debate ensued as other users came out to defend the president, insisting that Melania was merely trying to keep her frock from blowing upward in the wind.”
It’s not even really a debate, though. Here’s the longer clip:
MOMENTS AGO: President Trump, First Lady Melania, and Barron arrive at Joint Base Andrews from Morristown, NJ. pic.twitter.com/f6z3m5gx8w — The Hill (@thehill) August 16, 2020
Yes, as you can see, Melania pulls her hand away — but it’s because the wind was blowing her dress up. After they made their way down the Air Force One steps, however, and began crossing the tarmac, Melania transitions to holding his hand. It’s a moment that looks so confidently casual that it’s actually romantic, in the way married couples can be when they’re not even trying.
Again, getting onto the plane in Morristown, New Jersey, you can plainly see the president and first lady holding hands on the way from the helicopter to Air Force One:
If she decided she was a member of #TheResistance, she apparently made the decision during the short flight down to Washington.
So again, no debate. Except for people who, of course, wanted to have a debate.
Not that I have much respect for her….but she is clearly OVER. IT. That body language is beyond transparent, and I’m glad she doesn’t care if it’s on camera. Gives the T enablers a pretty crucial element they’d have a hard time arguing: even his wife is sick of him. — Paul Katz ☥ ?? (@PaulKatz9) August 17, 2020
.
I do feel sorry for Barron Trump He will probably turn out like the rest of them, but maybe not, because they will all be in prison & bankrupt in a few years.
So Barron might be saved
Poor Kid. I see the sadness on his face
& Melania could be deported for falsifying her VISA — ?Veterans For Biden?#FBR? (@DemCast_Vote) August 17, 2020
Oh, well, thank goodness for Barron.
This is the only first family this is OK for the media to do this for — until, of course, the next Republican president is elected. Then it’ll be OK again.
Why would it even matter? The one time there were actual marital problems inside the White House — and of such a nature that the president ended up getting impeached for lying about what he did with an intern — we were told what was happening with the Clintons wasn’t any of our business.
But meanwhile, with the Trumps, we’re informed that it’s a real story when Melania appears not to hold her husband’s hand.
Does it matter that she holds it later in the video? No, of course not. It’s unlikely some of them watched that far — or did any investigating beyond the initial clip. The reason this is supposed to be a story is that this has apparently happened in the past. Except, in the past, many of the videos were also taken out of context.
If it weren’t for double standards, the left wouldn’t have any standards at all.
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westernjournal--2020-08-21--DNC’s John Lewis Quote Backfires – It Actually Condemns Leftist Rioters

The American left ’ s tone-deafness and blatant ignorance caught up with it Thursday night at the 2020 Democratic National Convention .
Rounding out the fourth and final night of the event with a tribute to the late civil rights hero and 17-term U.S. Rep. John Lewis , who died in July , the Democratic Party unknowingly took itself to task on matters of criminal justice reform and civil disobedience .
The topics again have become mainstays in the American political discourse following the officer-involved deaths of unarmed black Americans George Floyd and Breonna Taylor earlier this year .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assert itself again as arbiters and champions of racial justice .
A quote from Lewis himself embedded within the DNC tribute to his life , however , reveals modern Democrats and progressives have no idea what it means to move the dial on such issues .
TRENDING : Melania Viciously Attacked by Leftists for Not Holding POTUS ' Hand , But They Ignore the Real Story “ The means by which we struggle must be consistent with the end we seek , ” Lewis could be heard saying amid a slew of his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fellow Democratic politicians .
According to The New Republic , it was a statement made in 1994 , during a PBS debate between Lewis and controversial fellow civil rights activist Al Sharpton on the topic of violence and retributive hate within the civil rights movement .
Lewis , like civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. , was a firm supporter of peaceful civil disobedience and attempts to strive , with love , toward unity on the issue of racial injustice in the United States .
The debate had been spurred on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ figures such as anti-Semite Louis Farrakhan and fellow members of the Nation of Islam .
But Lewis , the longtime Georgia congressman , did not hold this opinion for a brief moment at the time of the Nation of Islam ’ s relevancy .
He lived it , skipping the historic Million Man March in 1995 due to Farrakhan ’ s presence , according to excerpts from his memoir .
“ I did not march because I could not overlook the presence and central role of Louis Farrakhan , and so I refused @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I believe in freedom of speech but I also believe that we have an obligation to condemn speech that is racist , bigoted , anti-Semitic or hateful.
” “ The means by which we struggle must be consistent with the end we seek , and that includes the words we use to pursue those ends , ” he added .
WARNING : The following tweets contain graphic language and images that some viewers will find offensive .
Unfortunately , the modern American left does not seem to hold Lewis ’ personal philosophy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his Democratic voting record .
Or perhaps the left simply does not understand Lewis ’ words at all .
Either way , apathy or ignorance , the consequences have been great in recent months , as Democratic politicians made excuses for — or outright granted a stamp of approval to — violent Black Lives Matter demonstrations nationwide .
By the second week of June , race riots had resulted in more than $ 25 million worth of physical damage in Floyd ’ s home state of Minnesota alone , MarketWatch reported .
According @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the time also indicated that at least 17 people , the majority of them black , had died in the opening weeks of the unrest .
Since the start of the demonstrations , businesses have been razed .
People have , literally , been beaten and bloodied to near death in the streets by angry mobs .
If only the Democrats would make an effort to understand and live by the words they espouse , the words of the late , great figures of days gone by — perhaps they wouldn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The American left’s tone-deafness and blatant ignorance caught up with it Thursday night at the 2020 Democratic National Convention.
Rounding out the fourth and final night of the event with a tribute to the late civil rights hero and 17-term U.S. Rep. John Lewis, who died in July, the Democratic Party unknowingly took itself to task on matters of criminal justice reform and civil disobedience.
The topics again have become mainstays in the American political discourse following the officer-involved deaths of unarmed black Americans George Floyd and Breonna Taylor earlier this year.
And the social-justice left has been quick to assert itself again as arbiters and champions of racial justice.
A quote from Lewis himself embedded within the DNC tribute to his life, however, reveals modern Democrats and progressives have no idea what it means to move the dial on such issues.
John Lewis was a dear friend. He was the best of who we are and what we can become. And he held onto the promise of this country until his final breath. We miss you, John. #DemConvention pic.twitter.com/fRAr5Mijst — Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) August 21, 2020
“The means by which we struggle must be consistent with the end we seek,” Lewis could be heard saying amid a slew of his most famous quotations and the praises of fellow Democratic politicians.
According to The New Republic, it was a statement made in 1994, during a PBS debate between Lewis and controversial fellow civil rights activist Al Sharpton on the topic of violence and retributive hate within the civil rights movement.
Do you agree with Lewis? Yes No
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Lewis, like civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., was a firm supporter of peaceful civil disobedience and attempts to strive, with love, toward unity on the issue of racial injustice in the United States.
The debate had been spurred on by growing support within the movement for figures such as anti-Semite Louis Farrakhan and fellow members of the Nation of Islam.
But Lewis, the longtime Georgia congressman, did not hold this opinion for a brief moment at the time of the Nation of Islam’s relevancy.
He lived it, skipping the historic Million Man March in 1995 due to Farrakhan’s presence, according to excerpts from his memoir.
“I did not march because I could not overlook the presence and central role of Louis Farrakhan, and so I refused to participate,” Lewis wrote. “I believe in freedom of speech but I also believe that we have an obligation to condemn speech that is racist, bigoted, anti-Semitic or hateful.”
“The means by which we struggle must be consistent with the end we seek, and that includes the words we use to pursue those ends,” he added.
WARNING: The following tweets contain graphic language and images that some viewers will find offensive.
Rioters just tried breaking into the Gucci Store in DC but couldn’t break in before the cops showed up. pic.twitter.com/lDedf0bWOd — Caleb Hull (@CalebJHull) May 31, 2020
Antifa extremists throw smoke bombs and explosive fireworks in the street during the 50th night of violent Portland protests against the state. Video by @FromKalen: pic.twitter.com/xD0qNg1F6S — Andy Ngô (@MrAndyNgo) July 18, 2020
Unfortunately, the modern American left does not seem to hold Lewis’ personal philosophy in the same esteem that it does his Democratic voting record.
Or perhaps the left simply does not understand Lewis’ words at all.
Either way, apathy or ignorance, the consequences have been great in recent months, as Democratic politicians made excuses for — or outright granted a stamp of approval to — violent Black Lives Matter demonstrations nationwide.
By the second week of June, race riots had resulted in more than $25 million worth of physical damage in Floyd’s home state of Minnesota alone, MarketWatch reported.
According to WITI-TV, an unofficial tally done at the time also indicated that at least 17 people, the majority of them black, had died in the opening weeks of the unrest.
So we’re all just supposed to be ok with this happening or what? pic.twitter.com/No1pgkW2Zi — Peter J. Hasson (@peterjhasson) August 17, 2020
BREAKING: man critically injured at Dallas riots It appears he attempted to defend a shop with a large sword Looters ran at him, then he charged rioters They then beat him with a skateboard and stoned him with medium sized rocks I called an Ambulance and it’s on the way pic.twitter.com/kFxl3kjsBC — ELIJAH RIOT (@ElijahSchaffer) May 31, 2020
Since the start of the demonstrations, businesses have been razed.
People have, literally, been beaten and bloodied to near death in the streets by angry mobs.
If only the Democrats would make an effort to understand and live by the words they espouse, the words of the late, great figures of days gone by — perhaps they wouldn’t be doomed to radicalism.
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westernjournal--2020-08-21--DNC Host Tries To Mock Trump’s Memory, Accidentally Exposes Biden Instead

Actress Julia Louis-Dreyfus , who hosted Night 4 of the 2020 Democratic National Convention on Thursday , encouraged viewers to text the phone number “ 30330.
” The Democratic Party has been pushing people to text that number if they want to get connected to the campaign or learn how to register to vote .
Louis-Dreyfus said : “ 30330 .
It ’ s actually not that hard to remember.
” “ Person .
Woman .
Man .
Camera .
TV .
30330 .
Anyone can do it !
” she added .
The actress likely was attempting to mock @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Viciously Attacked by Leftists for Not Holding POTUS ' Hand , But They Ignore the Real Story Trump said that when he took a cognitive test recently , he was asked to remember the following words in the correct order , according to The New York Times : “ Person .
Woman .
Man .
Camera .
TV.
” But Louis-Dreyfus might have accidentally exposed former Vice President Joe Biden , the Democratic Party ’ s presidential nominee , instead .
During a nationally televised Democratic debate in July 2019 , Biden confused @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a website that didn ’ t exist .
“ Go to Joe 30330 and help me in this fight , ” the former vice president said , appearing to remember the “ 30330 ” sequence but forgetting the fact that it was a phone number , not a website .
Biden likely meant to tell viewers they should text “ Joe ” to the phone number 30330 .
Indeed , when The Western Journal texted the word “ Joe ” to that number in July 2019 , we received an automated response from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many users pointed out that Louis-Dreyfus ’ attempt to mock Trump had backfired : RELATED : DNC Features Performance by Rapper with Ties to Anti-Semite Louis Farrakhan “ Julia Louis-Dreyfus : Anyone can remember 30330 , ” Republican National Committee Rapid Response Director Steve Guest tweeted .
“ Joe Biden , hold my beer.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Actress Julia Louis-Dreyfus, who hosted Night 4 of the 2020 Democratic National Convention on Thursday, encouraged viewers to text the phone number “30330.”
The Democratic Party has been pushing people to text that number if they want to get connected to the campaign or learn how to register to vote.
Louis-Dreyfus said: “30330. It’s actually not that hard to remember.”
“Person. Woman. Man. Camera. TV. 30330. Anyone can do it!” she added.
The actress likely was attempting to mock President Donald Trump.
Trump said that when he took a cognitive test recently, he was asked to remember the following words in the correct order, according to The New York Times: “Person. Woman. Man. Camera. TV.”
But Louis-Dreyfus might have accidentally exposed former Vice President Joe Biden, the Democratic Party’s presidential nominee, instead.
During a nationally televised Democratic debate in July 2019, Biden confused viewers by suggesting they should go to a website that didn’t exist.
“Go to Joe 30330 and help me in this fight,” the former vice president said, appearing to remember the “30330” sequence but forgetting the fact that it was a phone number, not a website.
“Go to Joe 3-0-3-3-0, and help me in this fight.” Joe, what in God’s name was this? pic.twitter.com/Yq1g5mXI6m — Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) July 31, 2019
Biden likely meant to tell viewers they should text “Joe” to the phone number 30330.
Indeed, when The Western Journal texted the word “Joe” to that number in July 2019, we received an automated response from his campaign.
On social media, many users pointed out that Louis-Dreyfus’ attempt to mock Trump had backfired:
She just said 30330 is so easy to remember but yet Biden couldn’t remember it at one of his speeches ?????????????? — OgSallee (@RunningKyMan) August 20, 2020
She just said 30330 is so easy to remember but yet Biden couldn’t remember it at one of his speeches ?????????????? — OgSallee (@RunningKyMan) August 20, 2020
Julia Louis-Dreyfus: Anyone can remember 30330. Joe Biden, hold my beer. Yes. Joe Biden got it wrong.pic.twitter.com/S9q7aiPD6u — Steve Guest (@SteveGuest) August 20, 2020
“Julia Louis-Dreyfus: Anyone can remember 30330,” Republican National Committee Rapid Response Director Steve Guest tweeted. “Joe Biden, hold my beer.”
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westernjournal--2020-08-21--DNC Features Performance by Rapper with Ties to Anti-Semite Louis Farrakhan

During Night 4 of the Democratic National Convention on Thursday , the Democratic Party featured an artist with ties to a known anti-Semite .
Lonnie Rashid Lynn Jr. , better known by his stage name Common , performed a song celebrating the 1965 Selma to Montgomery voting rights marches .
Common has promoted the work of Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan , whom the Anti-Defamation League describes as “ quite possibly America ’ s most popular anti-Semite.
” In 2018 , using his Instagram account , Common shared a speech the Nation of Islam leader had given .
TRENDING @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Not Holding POTUS ' Hand , But They Ignore the Real Story In that same year , Common was one of the many rappers assembled for a music compilation that Farrakhan had put together , according to The Source .
Farrakhan has described Jewish people as “ satanic ” and often promotes the anti-Semitic canard that suggests a secret society of powerful , wealthy Jews runs the world for its own evil purposes .
Many politicians on the left have refused to condemn the anti-Semite .
In 2019 , Cory Booker would not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even floated the idea of having a sit-down with him .
Former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton , California Rep. Maxine Waters and former Attorney General Eric Holder have taken photos with the man who believes Jews have a satanic agenda .
In recent months , multiple left-leaning celebrities have voiced their support for Farrakhan or promoted his views on social media .
In July , Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeSean Jackson shared one of Farrakhan ’ s conspiracy theories about Jewish people and the coronavirus on Instagram .
“ # farrakhan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a chance to watch this !
!
Don ’ t be blinded .
Know what ’ s going on !
!
” Jackson added in a caption .
NFL Hall of Famer and Fox Sports commentator Shannon Sharpe later defended both Jackson and Farrakhan , claiming the latter was not anti-Semitic .
TV star Nick Cannon , former NBA player Stephen Jackson , rapper Ice Cube and talk-show host Chelsea Handler have also promoted Farrakhan ’ s views , according to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency .
We are committed to truth and accuracy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our editorial standards .

During Night 4 of the Democratic National Convention on Thursday, the Democratic Party featured an artist with ties to a known anti-Semite.
Lonnie Rashid Lynn Jr., better known by his stage name Common, performed a song celebrating the 1965 Selma to Montgomery voting rights marches.
Common has promoted the work of Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan, whom the Anti-Defamation League describes as “quite possibly America’s most popular anti-Semite.”
In 2018, using his Instagram account, Common shared a speech the Nation of Islam leader had given.
“Wise words being spoken!” the rapper’s caption read.
In that same year, Common was one of the many rappers assembled for a music compilation that Farrakhan had put together, according to The Source.
Farrakhan has described Jewish people as “satanic” and often promotes the anti-Semitic canard that suggests a secret society of powerful, wealthy Jews runs the world for its own evil purposes.
Vile #antisemitism which has now been viewed over 500,000 times. Known antisemite Louis Farrakhan makes a live broadcast speech in which he calls Jews “satanic” and “deceivers” This hate speech should be universally rejected, as should all forms of hate and racism. pic.twitter.com/bUrtssnh4a — 4IL (@4ILorg) July 5, 2020
Many politicians on the left have refused to condemn the anti-Semite.
In 2019, Cory Booker would not denounce the Nation of Islam leader and even floated the idea of having a sit-down with him.
Former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, California Rep. Maxine Waters and former Attorney General Eric Holder have taken photos with the man who believes Jews have a satanic agenda.
Where are all the reporters asking Democrats if they disavow @LouisFarrakhan – who is literally mainstreaming anti-Semitism inside the Dwmocratic party? — Benny (@bennyjohnson) October 28, 2018
In recent months, multiple left-leaning celebrities have voiced their support for Farrakhan or promoted his views on social media.
Should the Democratic Party roundly condemn Louis Farrakhan? 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% (196 Votes) No: 2% (4 Votes)
In July, Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeSean Jackson shared one of Farrakhan’s conspiracy theories about Jewish people and the coronavirus on Instagram.
“#farrakhan This man powerful I hope everyone got a chance to watch this !! Don’t be blinded. Know what’s going on !!” Jackson added in a caption.
NFL Hall of Famer and Fox Sports commentator Shannon Sharpe later defended both Jackson and Farrakhan, claiming the latter was not anti-Semitic.
TV star Nick Cannon, former NBA player Stephen Jackson, rapper Ice Cube and talk-show host Chelsea Handler have also promoted Farrakhan’s views, according to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency.
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westernjournal--2020-08-21--Op-Ed: We Are America’s Heart & Soul and No Political Battle Can Take That from Us

From now until the first Tuesday of November , the nation will hear from both political parties and candidates across the spectrum that this election is “ the most important election in our nation ’ s history.
” Every election is the most important because it is all we have .
Nothing is more important than exercising the right to make your voice heard and have your vote counted .
A more misleading phrase is the ever-popular , “ This election is a battle for the heart and soul of America.
” Wrong phrase , wrong battle and wrong war @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is for the heart and soul of the nation assume that the heart and soul of the nation belongs to political parties , politicians or institutions of government .
Nothing , and I mean nothing , could be further from the truth .
TRENDING : Melania Viciously Attacked by Leftists for Not Holding POTUS ' Hand , But They Ignore the Real Story The heart and soul of the nation is not found in Washington , D.C .
It is not housed in the nation ’ s Capitol .
The heart and soul @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Congress or held by its members .
It is not catalogued in the Library of Congress or stored in Fort Knox .
The heart and soul of America isn ’ t lurking in marbled halls or chiseled stone monuments .
The heart and soul of the country is not contained in the White House or the West Wing , nor is it controlled by any woman or man who may reside or work there .
The heart and soul of America can only be found in the heart and soul of the American @ @ @ @ @ @ @ politician and diplomat who ran for president in 1952 and 1956 , eloquently wrote , “ When an American says that he loves his country , he means not only that he loves the New England hills , the prairies glistening in the sun , the wide and rising plains , the great mountains , and the sea .
He means that he loves an inner air , an inner light in which freedom lives and in which a man can draw the breath of self-respect.
” The soul of the nation is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and selfless commitment to community and country .
It is also grounded in respect for the dignity of others and tolerance , valuing the unique value in every life , at every stage and in every station .
Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said , “ The essence of America — that which really unites us — is not ethnicity , or nationality or religion — it is an idea.
” America has been described as a mirror .
The great American mirror is what allows individuals and communities to look upon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reflect upon principles and values and assess to what degree they can see themselves living up to what they profess to believe .
Ultimately , citizens can gaze with hope to see the distant reflection of their own vision of the future .
The mirror of America is what reflects the heart and soul of the nation .
The soul of America can not be observed merely in its natural resources , natural beauty , teeming cities or even in the greatness of the republic ’ s inspired form of government and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Recently , I saw the heart and soul of the nation in a scene I didn ’ t see .
RELATED : Fred Weinberg : The Post Office Does n't Need Trump 's Help To Kneecap Itself - It 's Been Doing That for Decades It was a moment that manifested what politicians and governments can neither conceive nor create .
The reflection was contained in an experience shared by a friend I admire , whose patriotism runs deep , and whose understanding of the American experience has been nurtured in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ My friend had gone home to the Midwest after her mother had passed away .
Small town .
Big dreams .
Fields .
Farmland .
Open space .
Open hearts .
People who epitomize the soul of America .
Following a small memorial gathering at the local church , due to the coronavirus pandemic , the family emerged from the church prepared for the drive to the cemetery on the outskirts of town .
My friend was surprised to see the local , small-town law enforcement waiting to provide them a proper path @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the last thing anyone would need for a drive out to the cemetery was a police escort .
More fields than road , more corn than cars .
As the cortège began the journey , my friend described the magical moment that mirrored and reflected the soul of the nation .
She said that trucks and farm equipment pulled over to the side of the road in respect .
At the stoplight and cross streets , the people of the town got out of their cars to stand in honor of my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who did not know my friend or her family , stood by the street with her head bowed in prayer .
Jacob Needleman , in his book “ The American Soul , ” described the soul of the country this way : “ The deeper hope of America is its vision of what humanity is and can become.
” It is the recognition and respect of our fellow human beings , and their humanity and dignity , that helps us transcend “ us ” and “ them ” tribalism and form the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Recognizing our own potential and the inherent goodness and possibilities in others is the path to the soul of the nation .
Ernest Renan , a 19th-century French philosopher , wrote , “ A nation has a soul , a spiritual principle .
One is in the past , the other in the present .
One is the possession of a rich legacy of memories ; the other is the desire to live together and to value the common heritage.
” America does have a soul and spiritual principle .
Remembering that such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” is paramount .
Each of us living up to the better angels of our nature is the real test for the soul of America .
Politicians and political parties will continue to lay claim to the heart and soul of the nation .
Some will still try to convince us that America ’ s soul is something to be fought over , won and controlled by factions dueling for power .
In doing so , such so-called leaders will reveal in the reflection of their personal mirror and motivations that they do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nation or the people who make it extraordinary .
The heart and soul of America can only be found in the heart and soul of the American people .
The views expressed in this opinion article are those of their author and are not necessarily either shared or endorsed by the owners of this website .
If you are interested in contributing an Op-Ed to The Western Journal , you can learn about our submission guidelines and process here .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
@ @ @ @ @

From now until the first Tuesday of November, the nation will hear from both political parties and candidates across the spectrum that this election is “the most important election in our nation’s history.”
Every election is the most important because it is all we have. Nothing is more important than exercising the right to make your voice heard and have your vote counted.
A more misleading phrase is the ever-popular, “This election is a battle for the heart and soul of America.” Wrong phrase, wrong battle and wrong war.
Politicians claiming that a political election is for the heart and soul of the nation assume that the heart and soul of the nation belongs to political parties, politicians or institutions of government.
Nothing, and I mean nothing, could be further from the truth.
The heart and soul of the nation is not found in Washington, D.C. It is not housed in the nation’s Capitol. The heart and soul of America is certainly not kept in Congress or held by its members. It is not catalogued in the Library of Congress or stored in Fort Knox. The heart and soul of America isn’t lurking in marbled halls or chiseled stone monuments. The heart and soul of the country is not contained in the White House or the West Wing, nor is it controlled by any woman or man who may reside or work there.
The heart and soul of America can only be found in the heart and soul of the American people.
Adlai Stevenson, a U.S. politician and diplomat who ran for president in 1952 and 1956, eloquently wrote, “When an American says that he loves his country, he means not only that he loves the New England hills, the prairies glistening in the sun, the wide and rising plains, the great mountains, and the sea. He means that he loves an inner air, an inner light in which freedom lives and in which a man can draw the breath of self-respect.”
The soul of the nation is found in that inner self-respect, self-determination and selfless commitment to community and country. It is also grounded in respect for the dignity of others and tolerance, valuing the unique value in every life, at every stage and in every station.
Do you think this election is a "battle for the heart and soul of America" like Joe Biden says? 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: 29% (33 Votes) No: 71% (80 Votes)
Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said, “The essence of America — that which really unites us — is not ethnicity, or nationality or religion — it is an idea.”
America has been described as a mirror. The great American mirror is what allows individuals and communities to look upon themselves and measure what matters most, reflect upon principles and values and assess to what degree they can see themselves living up to what they profess to believe.
Ultimately, citizens can gaze with hope to see the distant reflection of their own vision of the future.
The mirror of America is what reflects the heart and soul of the nation. The soul of America cannot be observed merely in its natural resources, natural beauty, teeming cities or even in the greatness of the republic’s inspired form of government and the freedoms and liberties it fosters and preserves.
Recently, I saw the heart and soul of the nation in a scene I didn’t see.
It was a moment that manifested what politicians and governments can neither conceive nor create. The reflection was contained in an experience shared by a friend I admire, whose patriotism runs deep, and whose understanding of the American experience has been nurtured in the heart of America’s heartland.
My friend had gone home to the Midwest after her mother had passed away. Small town. Big dreams. Fields. Farmland. Open space. Open hearts. People who epitomize the soul of America.
Following a small memorial gathering at the local church, due to the coronavirus pandemic, the family emerged from the church prepared for the drive to the cemetery on the outskirts of town.
My friend was surprised to see the local, small-town law enforcement waiting to provide them a proper path to the cemetery. In that community, the last thing anyone would need for a drive out to the cemetery was a police escort. More fields than road, more corn than cars.
As the cortège began the journey, my friend described the magical moment that mirrored and reflected the soul of the nation.
She said that trucks and farm equipment pulled over to the side of the road in respect. At the stoplight and cross streets, the people of the town got out of their cars to stand in honor of my friend’s mother. One woman, who did not know my friend or her family, stood by the street with her head bowed in prayer.
Jacob Needleman, in his book “The American Soul,” described the soul of the country this way: “The deeper hope of America is its vision of what humanity is and can become.”
It is the recognition and respect of our fellow human beings, and their humanity and dignity, that helps us transcend “us” and “them” tribalism and form the foundation for a more perfect union.
Recognizing our own potential and the inherent goodness and possibilities in others is the path to the soul of the nation.
Ernest Renan, a 19th-century French philosopher, wrote, “A nation has a soul, a spiritual principle. One is in the past, the other in the present. One is the possession of a rich legacy of memories; the other is the desire to live together and to value the common heritage.”
America does have a soul and spiritual principle. Remembering that such things belong to “we the people” is paramount. Each of us living up to the better angels of our nature is the real test for the soul of America.
Politicians and political parties will continue to lay claim to the heart and soul of the nation.
Some will still try to convince us that America’s soul is something to be fought over, won and controlled by factions dueling for power.
In doing so, such so-called leaders will reveal in the reflection of their personal mirror and motivations that they do not understand the real notion of this nation or the people who make it extraordinary.
The heart and soul of America can only be found in the heart and soul of the American people.
The views expressed in this opinion article are those of their author and are not necessarily either shared or endorsed by the owners of this website. If you are interested in contributing an Op-Ed to The Western Journal, you can learn about our submission guidelines and process here.
Truth and Accuracy Submit a Correction → * Name
* Email
* Message
* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.