westernjournal--2020-02-02--New York Found a Way To Charge People for Looking at the Night Sky

New York has discovered a way to charge people for looking at the night sky , and it looks like the state is taking full advantage of the new discovery .
The New York State Office of Parks , Recreation and Historic Preservation is now offering a stargazing permit for those wanting to observe the night sky in a number of parks throughout the Empire State .
The state office released a pricing guide for the permits in December of 2019 .
For anyone wanting to look at the cosmos in 2020 , it ’ ll come with a hefty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the listed New York state parks .
Residents of New York will pay $ 35 to look at the stars according to New York guidelines .
TRENDING : Pelosi Defies Senate 's Authority , Says Even if Senate Votes To Acquit , Trump Wo n't Actually Be Acquitted For those out of state who inexplicably want to travel to New York for stargazing , they ’ ll have to shell out a whopping $ 60 for the privilege .
The permits allow “ after sunset parking for stargazing only ” at locations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Robert Moses , and Gov .
Alfred E. Smith parks .
For Wildwood and Montauk Point parks , the permit only allows stargazing from a parking lot .
Who says you can ’ t connect with nature in New York ?
The issue of paying for stargazing privileges was brought to the forefront after one of the state ’ s permits was photographed and uploaded to Twitter .
The permit is numbered 0226 , which means there are likely 225 more people who were duped into paying to look at something that has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ history .
News of the permit drew widespread criticism over New York ’ s nanny state attitude and the government ’ s attempt to monetize a free and educational hobby .
Famed astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson even waded into the conversation , issuing a scorching rebuke to New York ’ s shameless attempt to pad the treasury .
“ No , ” Tyson wrote .
“ Back in the day , you didn ’ t need permission to look up at the sky.
” RELATED : Thanks to Liberal No-Bail Law , 6 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fentanyl Ring Go Free Permits for activities like fishing and hunting at least make sense — after all , nobody benefits from an uneducated hunter or angler unknowingly devastating fisheries and forests .
But stargazing doesn ’ t damage anything .
Those that look at the stars do not take away any resources , and the celestial bodies shine just as bright as before they were observed .
Americans pride ourselves on our freedoms — something much of the world can ’ t boast about .
When it comes to states like New @ @ @ @ @ @ @ selling it back to the public is apparently too lucrative to ignore .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

New York has discovered a way to charge people for looking at the night sky, and it looks like the state is taking full advantage of the new discovery.
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is now offering a stargazing permit for those wanting to observe the night sky in a number of parks throughout the Empire State.
The state office released a pricing guide for the permits in December of 2019.
For anyone wanting to look at the cosmos in 2020, it’ll come with a hefty fee if they plan to use any of the listed New York state parks.
Residents of New York will pay $35 to look at the stars according to New York guidelines.
For those out of state who inexplicably want to travel to New York for stargazing, they’ll have to shell out a whopping $60 for the privilege.
The permits allow “after sunset parking for stargazing only” at locations in Hither Hills, Jones Beach, Robert Moses, and Gov. Alfred E. Smith parks. For Wildwood and Montauk Point parks, the permit only allows stargazing from a parking lot.
Who says you can’t connect with nature in New York?
The issue of paying for stargazing privileges was brought to the forefront after one of the state’s permits was photographed and uploaded to Twitter.
The permit is numbered 0226, which means there are likely 225 more people who were duped into paying to look at something that has been free for the entirety of human history.
News of the permit drew widespread criticism over New York’s nanny state attitude and the government’s attempt to monetize a free and educational hobby.
Famed astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson even waded into the conversation, issuing a scorching rebuke to New York’s shameless attempt to pad the treasury.
“No,” Tyson wrote. “Back in the day, you didn’t need permission to look up at the sky.”
No. Back in the day, you didn’t need permission to look up at the sky. — Neil deGrasse Tyson (@neiltyson) January 22, 2020
Permits for activities like fishing and hunting at least make sense — after all, nobody benefits from an uneducated hunter or angler unknowingly devastating fisheries and forests.
But stargazing doesn’t damage anything. Those that look at the stars do not take away any resources, and the celestial bodies shine just as bright as before they were observed.
Should stargazing require a permit? 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: 1% (11 Votes) No: 99% (828 Votes)
Americans pride ourselves on our freedoms — something much of the world can’t boast about.
When it comes to states like New York, restricting that freedom and then selling it back to the public is apparently too lucrative to ignore.
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westernjournal--2020-02-02--Man Who Hacked Cop’s Head with Machete Cleared of Attempted Murder

Despite a suspect ’ s brutal machete attack being caught on film , the man was cleared of attempted murder after nearly hacking a cop to death .
Muhammad Rodwan was filmed attacking U.K. Metropolitan Police Officer Stuart Outten after a traffic stop in August , according to the Independent .
The 56-year-old Rodwan , who was found guilty of a separate machete attack before the August incident , left Outten in rough shape .
The officer was found to have multiple gashes on his head , cuts on his arms and broken fingers .
Although one Taser shot failed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quickly subdued Rodwan .
Rodwan told a court that the brutal attack was started by the police officers .
TRENDING : Pelosi Defies Senate 's Authority , Says Even if Senate Votes To Acquit , Trump Wo n't Actually Be Acquitted He accused the officers of being rude and injuring him in the struggle , and characterized his bloody machete rampage as a matter of self-defense .
On Jan. 23 , Rodwan learned his fate .
A jury found him guilty of wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm .
Shockingly , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ murder and offensive weapon charges .
One reason the jury might have landed on this verdict is a lack of information .
Although Rodwan previously was convicted of a machete attack , those deciding his fate were not told of this .
The jury also was not informed of a previous rape conviction as well as a drug citation Rodwan had received .
Outten may have miraculously survived , but his attacker appears to have dodged true justice for his crimes .
Watch the harrowing video below to see the attack play out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prosecution Expertise To Present Evidence of Biden Bribery , Extortion The grisly attack underscores the failure of knife control in the United Kingdom and the near-impossibility of disarming people of dangerous instruments .
Although the machete was a tool used by Rodwan in his gardening job , the frenzied man was able to almost take the life of a police officer with it .
Outten will have scars from the harrowing attack for the rest of his life , but thankfully he survived to tell the tale himself .
We are committed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Despite a suspect’s brutal machete attack being caught on film, the man was cleared of attempted murder after nearly hacking a cop to death.
Muhammad Rodwan was filmed attacking U.K. Metropolitan Police Officer Stuart Outten after a traffic stop in August, according to the Independent.
The 56-year-old Rodwan, who was found guilty of a separate machete attack before the August incident, left Outten in rough shape. The officer was found to have multiple gashes on his head, cuts on his arms and broken fingers.
Although one Taser shot failed to stop the attacker, a followup quickly subdued Rodwan.
Rodwan told a court that the brutal attack was started by the police officers.
He accused the officers of being rude and injuring him in the struggle, and characterized his bloody machete rampage as a matter of self-defense.
On Jan. 23, Rodwan learned his fate. A jury found him guilty of wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm.
An “arrogant, remorseless” machete attacker who left a police officer with skull fractures and deep gashes to the head has been sentenced to 16 years in prison https://t.co/ig8i4g1DkI — Sky News (@SkyNews) January 24, 2020
Was Rodwan acting in self-defense? 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: 1% (31 Votes) No: 99% (2956 Votes)
Shockingly, however, Rodwan was cleared of attempted murder and offensive weapon charges.
One reason the jury might have landed on this verdict is a lack of information.
Although Rodwan previously was convicted of a machete attack, those deciding his fate were not told of this. The jury also was not informed of a previous rape conviction as well as a drug citation Rodwan had received.
Outten may have miraculously survived, but his attacker appears to have dodged true justice for his crimes.
Watch the harrowing video below to see the attack play out.
The grisly attack underscores the failure of knife control in the United Kingdom and the near-impossibility of disarming people of dangerous instruments.
Although the machete was a tool used by Rodwan in his gardening job, the frenzied man was able to almost take the life of a police officer with it.
Outten will have scars from the harrowing attack for the rest of his life, but thankfully he survived to tell the tale himself.
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westernjournal--2020-02-02--Watch as Captain Nimbly Docks Huge Ship in Violent Waters

A captain who docked a massive cruise ship in rough waters and made it look easy is now the star of a viral video after his feat was caught on camera .
The massive ship in the video is the MS Nordnorge , according to the U.K. Daily Mail .
While the vessel was making its way into a Bodo , Norway , harbor on Jan. 21 , violent waves began to push the ship around like a toy .
Lesser captains may have panicked , or abandoned docking altogether .
After all , when a ship meets a solid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
TRENDING : Pelosi Defies Senate 's Authority , Says Even if Senate Votes To Acquit , Trump Wo n't Actually Be Acquitted Despite the rough conditions , this captain brought his vessel in successfully .
Two workers in high-visibility vests can be seen cautiously approaching the boat as it drifts closer to land .
Eventually , the ship makes contact with land as ropes are thrown overboard .
Amazingly , this resulted in only minimal damage to the MS Nordnorge .
The ship ’ s communications manager , Rune Thomas Ege , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ few slight surface scuffs .
“ There were small dents around the fender rails to the rear , ” Ege told the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation , a Norwegian government-owned news organization .
With how violently this ship was being rocked by the waves , it ’ s clear the damage could have been much greater .
Another video shows the same dangerous docking , but from a different angle .
This clip gives a better idea of how large this ship actually is : RELATED : Man Who Hacked Cop 's Head with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hurt in this shocking event , largely thanks to the skill and actions of the ship ’ s captain and crew .
Not all ships are fortunate enough to have such level-headed captains , but the MS Nordnorge had one when it needed one the most .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

A captain who docked a massive cruise ship in rough waters and made it look easy is now the star of a viral video after his feat was caught on camera.
The massive ship in the video is the MS Nordnorge, according to the U.K. Daily Mail.
While the vessel was making its way into a Bodo, Norway, harbor on Jan. 21, violent waves began to push the ship around like a toy.
Lesser captains may have panicked, or abandoned docking altogether.
After all, when a ship meets a solid concrete dock, the ship usually loses.
Despite the rough conditions, this captain brought his vessel in successfully.
Two workers in high-visibility vests can be seen cautiously approaching the boat as it drifts closer to land. Eventually, the ship makes contact with land as ropes are thrown overboard.
Watch the gripping video below:
Would you trust this captain to keep you safe on the ocean? 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% (279 Votes) No: 2% (5 Votes)
Amazingly, this resulted in only minimal damage to the MS Nordnorge.
The ship’s communications manager, Rune Thomas Ege, explained the only damage sustained was a few slight surface scuffs.
“There were small dents around the fender rails to the rear,” Ege told the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation, a Norwegian government-owned news organization.
With how violently this ship was being rocked by the waves, it’s clear the damage could have been much greater.
Another video shows the same dangerous docking, but from a different angle. This clip gives a better idea of how large this ship actually is:
Nobody was hurt in this shocking event, largely thanks to the skill and actions of the ship’s captain and crew.
Not all ships are fortunate enough to have such level-headed captains, but the MS Nordnorge had one when it needed one the most.
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westernjournal--2020-02-02--Poll Finds More Republicans Are Excited About 2020 Election While Most Democrats Are Anxious

When it comes to the 2020 presidential election , Democrats are nervous wrecks and Republican excitement has grown .
That ’ s according to a new poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research as Americans look ahead to a high-stakes election that is 10 months away but still very much top of mind .
While emotions could change in the coming months , the findings give Democrats one more worry to add to the list : Will anxiety or enthusiasm be a bigger motivator come November ?
On the verge of the first votes being cast in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 66 percent of Democrats report anxiety about the election , compared with 46 percent of Republicans .
Democrats are also more likely to feel frustration .
Republicans , meanwhile , are more likely than Democrats to declare excitement about the race , and the share of enthusiastic Republicans appears to be rising .
TRENDING : Pelosi Defies Senate 's Authority , Says Even if Senate Votes To Acquit , Trump Wo n't Actually Be Acquitted The findings aren ’ t surprising to anyone who ’ s talked to an undecided Democrat about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intense desire to oust President Donald Trump , Democrats often describe deep uncertainty about what sort of candidate has the best chance and whether the party will be able to win the votes .
There ’ s also hard division over policy and whispers about a contested convention .
It can all feel a bit too much for some .
“ I ’ m anxious and not really in a good way , ” said James Horinek , 32 , a Democrat in Lawton , Oklahoma , who works in marketing .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — there ’ s too much on the Democratic side and too little on the Republican one.
” Republicans , meanwhile , appear to share less of that angst , while their party hangs together on the strong economy and other major issues on Trump ’ s agenda .
“ I am not nervous at all .
I think Donald Trump will win it in a landslide , ” said Clinton Adams , a 39-year-old custodian in the Florida Panhandle .
The poll found that 43 percent of Republicans say they ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ percentage points from October .
Meanwhile , 33 percent of Democrats reported excitement .
About three-quarters of both Democrats and Republicans say they are highly motivated to cast ballots this year .
But that only raises the question of which emotion will be stronger in turning out the vote around the margins .
A party usually wants its voters excited rather than anxious , said George Marcus , a political scientist at Williams College who has studied the role of emotion in politics and polling .
Marcus found that voters who report fear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confused and split their votes .
“ It creates the possibility for persuasion , ” Marcus said of voter worry .
“ If I ’ m an anxious Democrat , I may stay home , I may vote Republican .
… You want your base to be either really angry at the other side or really enthusiastic.
” Still , Marcus noted Democrats have a long way to go before Election Day .
The selection of a nominee could calm jitters and stir up excitement for a candidate .
Events could also shift @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a Democratic pollster , said the contrast between GOP excitement and Democratic anxiety and frustration is not a surprise .
“ In general , supporters of the party in power are going to be more optimistic and hopeful , while supporters of the party out of power are going to be frustrated and angry , ” Greenburg said .
She also said Democrats have been stressed since Trump won the White House .
However , Greenburg said , “ there is no evidence that Democrats are any less enthusiastic about voting in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2018 election would suggest that they are highly motivated to vote.
” Indeed , the poll suggests that the feeling among Democrats might be a driver : About 9 in 10 anxious Democrats say they feel very motivated to vote this November , compared with about half of those who are not anxious .
Tim Farrell is one of those stressed-out Democrats who have been worried since Trump won in 2016 .
The 58-year-old social worker in Watertown , New York , says he ’ s been “ ill for the last three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ faith that voters will turn on Trump , but it ’ s the ongoing impeachment trial in the Republican-controlled Senate that ’ s raised his anxiety about November .
“ I ’ m dreading the expected outcome .
He won ’ t be convicted .
He ’ ll feel he ’ s invulnerable , ” Farrell said of the president .
Farrell expects to donate to whomever the party nominates , and indeed , that ’ s one way Democratic anxiety might help the party .
Eighteen percent of anxious Democrats say they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ percent of those who are not anxious .
Still , the stress doesn ’ t feel good to Kathy Tuggle , a retired administrative assistant in Richmond , Indiana .
She also dreads the implications of a Trump acquittal and worries about what she claims are relaxed standards for truth in political ads on Facebook .
“ I ’ m just not sure we can have a fair election right now , ” the 65-year-old Democrat said .
“ That ’ s probably my biggest anxiety right now.
” Domingo Rodriguez thinks these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ translator lives in Fort Myers Beach , Florida , and , though he ’ s not affiliated with either party , supports Trump .
“ I think Trump will win again .
I ’ m not nervous , ” Rodriguez said , chuckling as he thought about Democrats ’ view of the election .
“ They ’ re absolutely anxious .
For them it ’ s a matter of life and death , ” said Rodriguez , who emigrated from Uruguay decades ago .
Not for him , though .
“ I know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and existing and being in the great United States even if the Democrats win , ” he said .
The AP-NORC poll of 1,353 adults was conducted Jan. 16-21 using a sample drawn from NORC ’ s probability-based AmeriSpeak Panel , which is designed to be representative of the U.S. population .
The margin of sampling error for all respondents is plus or minus 3.6 percentage points .
Respondents were first selected randomly using address-based sampling methods and later were interviewed online or by phone .
The Associated Press contributed to this report @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

When it comes to the 2020 presidential election, Democrats are nervous wrecks and Republican excitement has grown.
That’s according to a new poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research as Americans look ahead to a high-stakes election that is 10 months away but still very much top of mind.
While emotions could change in the coming months, the findings give Democrats one more worry to add to the list: Will anxiety or enthusiasm be a bigger motivator come November?
On the verge of the first votes being cast in a primary contest with no clear leader, 66 percent of Democrats report anxiety about the election, compared with 46 percent of Republicans.
Democrats are also more likely to feel frustration. Republicans, meanwhile, are more likely than Democrats to declare excitement about the race, and the share of enthusiastic Republicans appears to be rising.
The findings aren’t surprising to anyone who’s talked to an undecided Democrat about the crowded primary field. Behind an intense desire to oust President Donald Trump, Democrats often describe deep uncertainty about what sort of candidate has the best chance and whether the party will be able to win the votes.
There’s also hard division over policy and whispers about a contested convention.
It can all feel a bit too much for some.
“I’m anxious and not really in a good way,” said James Horinek, 32, a Democrat in Lawton, Oklahoma, who works in marketing. “There’s division across the board — there’s too much on the Democratic side and too little on the Republican one.”
Are you anxious about the November presidential election? 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: 20% (176 Votes) No: 80% (691 Votes)
Republicans, meanwhile, appear to share less of that angst, while their party hangs together on the strong economy and other major issues on Trump’s agenda.
“I am not nervous at all. I think Donald Trump will win it in a landslide,” said Clinton Adams, a 39-year-old custodian in the Florida Panhandle.
The poll found that 43 percent of Republicans say they’re excited about the election, up 10 percentage points from October. Meanwhile, 33 percent of Democrats reported excitement.
About three-quarters of both Democrats and Republicans say they are highly motivated to cast ballots this year. But that only raises the question of which emotion will be stronger in turning out the vote around the margins.
A party usually wants its voters excited rather than anxious, said George Marcus, a political scientist at Williams College who has studied the role of emotion in politics and polling. Marcus found that voters who report fear and anxiety are more likely to be confused and split their votes.
“It creates the possibility for persuasion,” Marcus said of voter worry. “If I’m an anxious Democrat, I may stay home, I may vote Republican. … You want your base to be either really angry at the other side or really enthusiastic.”
Still, Marcus noted Democrats have a long way to go before Election Day. The selection of a nominee could calm jitters and stir up excitement for a candidate. Events could also shift GOP voters’ confidence.
Anna Greenburg, a Democratic pollster, said the contrast between GOP excitement and Democratic anxiety and frustration is not a surprise.
“In general, supporters of the party in power are going to be more optimistic and hopeful, while supporters of the party out of power are going to be frustrated and angry,” Greenburg said.
She also said Democrats have been stressed since Trump won the White House.
However, Greenburg said, “there is no evidence that Democrats are any less enthusiastic about voting in 2020, and the results of the 2018 election would suggest that they are highly motivated to vote.”
Indeed, the poll suggests that the feeling among Democrats might be a driver: About 9 in 10 anxious Democrats say they feel very motivated to vote this November, compared with about half of those who are not anxious.
Tim Farrell is one of those stressed-out Democrats who have been worried since Trump won in 2016. The 58-year-old social worker in Watertown, New York, says he’s been “ill for the last three years.”
He said he has little faith that voters will turn on Trump, but it’s the ongoing impeachment trial in the Republican-controlled Senate that’s raised his anxiety about November. “I’m dreading the expected outcome. He won’t be convicted. He’ll feel he’s invulnerable,” Farrell said of the president.
Farrell expects to donate to whomever the party nominates, and indeed, that’s one way Democratic anxiety might help the party. Eighteen percent of anxious Democrats say they’ve donated, compared with 5 percent of those who are not anxious.
Still, the stress doesn’t feel good to Kathy Tuggle, a retired administrative assistant in Richmond, Indiana. She also dreads the implications of a Trump acquittal and worries about what she claims are relaxed standards for truth in political ads on Facebook.
“I’m just not sure we can have a fair election right now,” the 65-year-old Democrat said. “That’s probably my biggest anxiety right now.”
Domingo Rodriguez thinks these worries are ridiculous. The 75-year-old retired translator lives in Fort Myers Beach, Florida, and, though he’s not affiliated with either party, supports Trump.
“I think Trump will win again. I’m not nervous,” Rodriguez said, chuckling as he thought about Democrats’ view of the election.
“They’re absolutely anxious. For them it’s a matter of life and death,” said Rodriguez, who emigrated from Uruguay decades ago. Not for him, though.
“I know I’m going to be living and existing and being in the great United States even if the Democrats win,” he said.
The AP-NORC poll of 1,353 adults was conducted Jan. 16-21 using a sample drawn from NORC’s probability-based AmeriSpeak Panel, which is designed to be representative of the U.S. population.
The margin of sampling error for all respondents is plus or minus 3.6 percentage points.
Respondents were first selected randomly using address-based sampling methods and later were interviewed online or by phone.
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--2020-02-02--Trump Bans Travel from China, Orders 1st Quarantine in 50 Years

President Donald Trump has taken tough steps to protect Americans from the spread of the coronavirus rampaging through China .
In an order issued Friday , federal officials announced that as of 5 p.m. Sunday , “ Foreign nationals other than immediate family of U.S. citizens and permanent residents who have traveled in China in the last 14 days will be denied entry into United States.
” American citizens returning the U.S. from areas in China where they may have been exposed to the virus will be quarantined , while others coming from the rest of China will be screened @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officials said Americans who evacuated from Wuhan earlier in the week would be quarantined for up to 14 days at March Air Reserve Base in California — the first mandatory quarantine order in the U.S. in 50 years , according to NPR .
As of Saturday , about 250 had died from the virus and about 12,000 infections had been confirmed , according to The New York Times .
No deaths have been reported outside of China .
TRENDING : Pelosi Defies Senate 's Authority , Says Even if Senate Votes To Acquit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Eight cases of the virus have been confirmed in the United States .
The eighth case was reported Saturday in Massachusetts .
According to the Boston Herald , the man infected had been in Wuhan , China , the epicenter of the virus .
The other cases have been reported in California , Arizona , Washington state and Illinois .
Trump ’ s actions follow the declaration of a global health emergency over the virus and a State Department warning against travel to China .
“ The risk of infection for Americans remains @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Secretary Alex Azar said , according to a White House transcript of a briefing .
“ And with these and our previous actions , we are working to keep the risk low .
All agencies are working aggressively to monitor this continually evolving situation and to keep the public informed in a constantly transparent way , ” he said .
During the briefing , Dr. Robert Redfield , director of the Centers for Disease Control , said that the coronavirus represents “ a serious health situation in China , but I want to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public currently is low .
Our goal is do all we can do to keep it that way.
” In response to the virus , incoming flights from China are limited to seven airports — San Francisco , Los Angeles International Airport , Seattle , John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City , Atlanta , Honolulu , and O ’ Hare Airport in Chicago .
Delta , United and American have canceled flights to and from China , according to CNBC .
Travel bans have been enacted by other nations , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ service to China .
Research published in “ The Lancet ” suggested that in Wuhan alone , the city where the virus was first detected , more than 75,000 people may be infected , according to the South China Morning Post .
Apple on Saturday announced it is closing all of its stores , offices and contact centers in China until Feb. 9 “ out of an abundance of caution and based on the latest advice from leading health experts , ” CBS reported .
As the virus spreads , China has come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reveal what was taking place in Wuhan .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

President Donald Trump has taken tough steps to protect Americans from the spread of the coronavirus rampaging through China.
In an order issued Friday, federal officials announced that as of 5 p.m. Sunday, “Foreign nationals other than immediate family of U.S. citizens and permanent residents who have traveled in China in the last 14 days will be denied entry into United States.”
American citizens returning the U.S. from areas in China where they may have been exposed to the virus will be quarantined, while others coming from the rest of China will be screened for the virus.
Earlier Friday, officials said Americans who evacuated from Wuhan earlier in the week would be quarantined for up to 14 days at March Air Reserve Base in California — the first mandatory quarantine order in the U.S. in 50 years, according to NPR.
As of Saturday, about 250 had died from the virus and about 12,000 infections had been confirmed, according to The New York Times. No deaths have been reported outside of China.
Eight cases of the virus have been confirmed in the United States.
The eighth case was reported Saturday in Massachusetts. According to the Boston Herald, the man infected had been in Wuhan, China, the epicenter of the virus. The other cases have been reported in California, Arizona, Washington state and Illinois.
Trump’s actions follow the declaration of a global health emergency over the virus and a State Department warning against travel to China.
“The risk of infection for Americans remains low,” Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar said, according to a White House transcript of a briefing.
Should China be totally isolated to protect other nations? 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% (2754 Votes) No: 3% (75 Votes)
“And with these and our previous actions, we are working to keep the risk low. All agencies are working aggressively to monitor this continually evolving situation and to keep the public informed in a constantly transparent way,” he said.
During the briefing, Dr. Robert Redfield, director of the Centers for Disease Control, said that the coronavirus represents “a serious health situation in China, but I want to emphasize that the risk to the American public currently is low. Our goal is do all we can do to keep it that way.”
In response to the virus, incoming flights from China are limited to seven airports — San Francisco, Los Angeles International Airport, Seattle, John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City, Atlanta, Honolulu, and O’Hare Airport in Chicago. Delta, United and American have canceled flights to and from China, according to CNBC.
Travel bans have been enacted by other nations, and other airlines have also temporarily stopped service to China.
Research published in “The Lancet” suggested that in Wuhan alone, the city where the virus was first detected, more than 75,000 people may be infected, according to the South China Morning Post.
Apple on Saturday announced it is closing all of its stores, offices and contact centers in China until Feb. 9 “out of an abundance of caution and based on the latest advice from leading health experts,” CBS reported.
As the virus spreads, China has come under criticism for not acting faster to reveal what was taking place in Wuhan.
“It’s clear that a much stronger public health system could save China lives and money,” Tom Frieden, former director of the CDC, said, according to The Washington Post.
“China’s public health system has modernized, but China’s political system hasn’t,” Jude Blanchette, head of China studies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, said. “If anything, there’s been a regression.”
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westernjournal--2020-02-01--PETA Whines About Axed Super Bowl Ad Featuring Anthem-Kneeling Bald Eagle

On Friday , People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals took to Twitter to share their rejected Super Bowl ad , claiming its message must have been “ too daring ” for the NFL .
The minute-long ad showcases a multitude of cartoon animals all taking a knee as the national anthem plays to pay “ homage to Kaepernick.
” At the end of the commercial , a bald eagle is depicted kneeling before the words , “ Respect is the right of every living being , ” and “ # EndSpeciesism ” appear .
TRENDING : Pelosi Defies Senate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Votes To Acquit , Trump Wo n't Actually Be Acquitted There was nearly instantaneous backlash on Twitter .
PETA wrote more about their disappointment in a news release headlined : “ Banned !
NFL Blocks PETA ’ S New Super Bowl Commercial.
” RELATED : Beyoncé and Jay-Z Caught on Camera Remaining Seated for Super Bowl National Anthem “ The National Football League ( NFL ) apparently found our new Colin Kaepernick-inspired ad — with its message of inclusion and respect — too daring and pressured FOX to snub our commercial , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a talented group of advertisers and artists who came up with the idea for our beautiful ad .
“ Positively acknowledged by Kaepernick himself , this project pays homage to all movements that remind us to open our hearts and minds and reject all forms of injustice , including sexism , ableism , racism , ageism , homophobia , and speciesism , ” PETA stated .
PETA went on to explain why humans and animals are the same , what “ speciesism ” is and to say that the NFL is not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may be unconcerned with inequality , but we at PETA are activists who will continue to work to dismantle all forms oppression , ” PETA said .
FOX and the NFL have not commented publicly about the allegations .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

On Friday, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals took to Twitter to share their rejected Super Bowl ad, claiming its message must have been “too daring” for the NFL.
The minute-long ad showcases a multitude of cartoon animals all taking a knee as the national anthem plays to pay “homage to Kaepernick.”
At the end of the commercial, a bald eagle is depicted kneeling before the words, “Respect is the right of every living being,” and “#EndSpeciesism” appear.
THIS is the PETA #SuperBowl ad the @NFL apparently didn’t want you to see and pressured @FOXSports to snub. It envisions a world where respect is the right of every being and pays homage to Kaepernick and movements rejecting injustice. https://t.co/kD1osnKhuX #EndSpeciesism pic.twitter.com/clXzU79aZV — PETA (@peta) January 31, 2020
There was nearly instantaneous backlash on Twitter.
Homage to Kapernick? He got dumped by 49ers for not playing good enough. He started kneeling for attention and claimed that was why he couldnt play. Given tryout. Now what? Homage to a phony little man who publicly disrespects those who gave him the freedom to make$$ playing game — C A G (@CAG35262200) February 1, 2020
Just another reason to love the NFL — Jimmy’s Famous Seafood (@JimmysSeafood) January 31, 2020
Is the cup kneeling too? pic.twitter.com/rklOcV5hrK — Danny Saint (@CenterStageDS) January 31, 2020
Just another reason to love the NFL — Jimmy’s Famous Seafood (@JimmysSeafood) January 31, 2020
PETA wrote more about their disappointment in a news release headlined: “Banned! NFL Blocks PETA’S New Super Bowl Commercial.”
“The National Football League (NFL) apparently found our new Colin Kaepernick-inspired ad — with its message of inclusion and respect — too daring and pressured FOX to snub our commercial,” the release said.
“PETA worked with a talented group of advertisers and artists who came up with the idea for our beautiful ad.
“Positively acknowledged by Kaepernick himself, this project pays homage to all movements that remind us to open our hearts and minds and reject all forms of injustice, including sexism, ableism, racism, ageism, homophobia, and speciesism,” PETA stated.
Should the NFL run this PETA ad during the Super Bowl? Yes No
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PETA went on to explain why humans and animals are the same, what “speciesism” is and to say that the NFL is not concerned with equality.
“The NFL may be unconcerned with inequality, but we at PETA are activists who will continue to work to dismantle all forms oppression,” PETA said.
FOX and the NFL have not commented publicly about the allegations.
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westernjournal--2020-02-01--Giuliani Uses His Mob Prosecution Expertise To Present Evidence of Biden Bribery, Extortion

Before he became mayor of New York City — and indeed , lost a close election for the office in one of the most Democrat cities in America back in 1989 — as well as the president ’ s personal attorney , Rudy Giuliani made his name as a successful mob prosecutor .
This wasn ’ t an easy job in New York City , and not just because the mob is known to , as John Gotti might have said , fix leaky pipes .
It had to do with the fact that obvious leaky-pipe fixers ( and committers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ known to get acquittals in federal court — sometimes by hook or by crook , but often because they could afford famous lawyers like William Kuntsler and Bruce Cutler .
“ I think I ’ ll stand on my record as having prosecuted or put in prison more members of the Mafia than probably any U.S. attorney in history , having been threatened with death by them at least three times — four times seriously going back to when I was an assistant U.S. attorney , ” Giuliani said in 2000 , according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fact , he did enough that the Sicilian Mafia plotted to kill him .
So , perhaps you don ’ t buy Giuliani ’ s argument that Joe Biden and his son Hunter were involved in criminal activity in Ukraine .
After all , he is Donald Trump ’ s counsel .
However , given Rudy ’ s history , you would be ill-advised not to listen to him at all .
TRENDING : Pelosi Defies Senate 's Authority , Says Even if Senate Votes To Acquit , Trump Wo n't Actually Be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as Giuliani has launched his own impeachment-related podcast ( which isn ’ t exactly news ) .
Pretty much every publication and every person remotely associated with politics has an impeachment-related podcast nowadays — GOP Sen. Ted Cruz , Vox impresario Ezra Klein , former Breitbart head and White House mover-and-shaker Steve Bannon and NPR ’ s Brian Lehrer all are in on the game .
What makes Giuliani ’ s podcast unusual is that he ’ s the president ’ s lawyer — and , in episode two , posted Friday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prosecution experience , using perhaps the most famous sentence in Biden ’ s Ukrainian repertoire : the one where he talks about withholding money from Ukraine unless they fired a prosecutor who was allegedly corrupt and had not-so-allegedly investigated Burisma , the company that employed Hunter Biden , for corruption .
“ I said , ‘ I ’ m leaving in six hours .
If the prosecutor ’ s not fired , you ’ re not getting the money , ’ ” Biden said at a 2018 event hosted by the Council on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a b—- , he got fired.
” That was , to most people , a blatant conflict of interest for a then-vice president .
To Giuliani , that was bribery .
“ Let me first give you the definition of the crime of bribery , ” Giuliani said .
“ Corruptly offering something of value in exchange for official action .
That ’ s the definition under the United States Code.
” He also noted that ’ s “ pretty much the universal definition , including in the country of Ukraine.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Giuliani , are why Biden is guilty of bribery — and he managed to do it in just one sentence .
“ If the prosecutor is not fired , you ’ re not getting the money.
” “ ‘ If the prosecutor is not fired ’ is the official action , ” Giuliani said .
“ ‘ You ’ re not getting the money ’ is something of value that ’ s put at stake .
“ That ’ s the crime of bribery , and all you need to add is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you that very simply how we do that.
” Giuliani noted that this could be extortion instead of bribery since it involved a threat and that Biden said the Ukrainians “ put in place someone who was solid at the time.
” “ He sure was solid , ” Giuliani said .
“ Because ultimately the case on his son , the case on his son ’ s crooked boss , who stole $ 5 billion — I said $ 5 billion — and his son ’ s corrupt company , Burisma , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no evidence that Hunter Biden was involved in this corruption , mind you , and the prosecutor who was fired wasn ’ t actively investigating Burisma at the time he was fired , but the oligarch in question was able to return to the Ukraine in part thanks to the fact that there wasn ’ t any threat of an investigation anymore .
So , the question is , is this extortion and/or bribery ?
That ’ s a very loaded question and also one nobody ’ s going to pursue legally at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the president is going to use in his reelection campaign ?
You ’ d better believe it .
One of the most curious things about Biden ’ s race for the Democratic nomination is that no one has brought up the fact that the very act of him demanding the firing the Ukrainian prosecutor constituted , at the very least , a conflict of interest .
Very well .
I suppose that merely bringing it up would legitimize the allegations against the Bidens being leveled by the Trump administration .
But perhaps it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ race gets nastier .
Perhaps it won ’ t .
One thing ’ s for sure , though : An interpretation of what Joe Biden did in Ukraine that ’ s a lot worse is going to be brought up during the general election if Biden manages to get the nomination .
And it ’ s going to be made in part by a guy who knows a lot about organized crime , given that he prosecuted it — with unusual success — for the first part of his career .
We are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Before he became mayor of New York City — and indeed, lost a close election for the office in one of the most Democrat cities in America back in 1989 — as well as the president’s personal attorney, Rudy Giuliani made his name as a successful mob prosecutor.
This wasn’t an easy job in New York City, and not just because the mob is known to, as John Gotti might have said, fix leaky pipes. It had to do with the fact that obvious leaky-pipe fixers (and committers of various other criminal activities) were known to get acquittals in federal court — sometimes by hook or by crook, but often because they could afford famous lawyers like William Kuntsler and Bruce Cutler.
“I think I’ll stand on my record as having prosecuted or put in prison more members of the Mafia than probably any U.S. attorney in history, having been threatened with death by them at least three times — four times seriously going back to when I was an assistant U.S. attorney,” Giuliani said in 2000, according to the Los Angeles Times.
In fact, he did enough that the Sicilian Mafia plotted to kill him.
So, perhaps you don’t buy Giuliani’s argument that Joe Biden and his son Hunter were involved in criminal activity in Ukraine. After all, he is Donald Trump’s counsel. However, given Rudy’s history, you would be ill-advised not to listen to him at all.
That just became a little easier, as Giuliani has launched his own impeachment-related podcast (which isn’t exactly news). Pretty much every publication and every person remotely associated with politics has an impeachment-related podcast nowadays — GOP Sen. Ted Cruz, Vox impresario Ezra Klein, former Breitbart head and White House mover-and-shaker Steve Bannon and NPR’s Brian Lehrer all are in on the game.
What makes Giuliani’s podcast unusual is that he’s the president’s lawyer — and, in episode two, posted Friday, he made a point using mob prosecution experience, using perhaps the most famous sentence in Biden’s Ukrainian repertoire: the one where he talks about withholding money from Ukraine unless they fired a prosecutor who was allegedly corrupt and had not-so-allegedly investigated Burisma, the company that employed Hunter Biden, for corruption.
“I said, ‘I’m leaving in six hours. If the prosecutor’s not fired, you’re not getting the money,’” Biden said at a 2018 event hosted by the Council on Foreign Relations. “Well, son of a b—-, he got fired.”
That was, to most people, a blatant conflict of interest for a then-vice president. To Giuliani, that was bribery.
“Let me first give you the definition of the crime of bribery,” Giuliani said. “Corruptly offering something of value in exchange for official action. That’s the definition under the United States Code.”
He also noted that’s “pretty much the universal definition, including in the country of Ukraine.”
And Biden’s words, according to Giuliani, are why Biden is guilty of bribery — and he managed to do it in just one sentence. “If the prosecutor is not fired, you’re not getting the money.”
“‘If the prosecutor is not fired’ is the official action,” Giuliani said. “‘You’re not getting the money’ is something of value that’s put at stake.
“That’s the crime of bribery, and all you need to add is corruptly, and I’ll show you that very simply how we do that.”
Giuliani noted that this could be extortion instead of bribery since it involved a threat and that Biden said the Ukrainians “put in place someone who was solid at the time.”
“He sure was solid,” Giuliani said. “Because ultimately the case on his son, the case on his son’s crooked boss, who stole $5 billion — I said $5 billion — and his son’s corrupt company, Burisma, just went away.”
Do you think the Bidens committed bribery or extortion? Yes No
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There’s no evidence that Hunter Biden was involved in this corruption, mind you, and the prosecutor who was fired wasn’t actively investigating Burisma at the time he was fired, but the oligarch in question was able to return to the Ukraine in part thanks to the fact that there wasn’t any threat of an investigation anymore.
So, the question is, is this extortion and/or bribery? That’s a very loaded question and also one nobody’s going to pursue legally at the moment.
Is it something that the president is going to use in his reelection campaign?
You’d better believe it.
One of the most curious things about Biden’s race for the Democratic nomination is that no one has brought up the fact that the very act of him demanding the firing the Ukrainian prosecutor constituted, at the very least, a conflict of interest. Very well. I suppose that merely bringing it up would legitimize the allegations against the Bidens being leveled by the Trump administration.
But perhaps it’ll get brought up as the race gets nastier. Perhaps it won’t. One thing’s for sure, though: An interpretation of what Joe Biden did in Ukraine that’s a lot worse is going to be brought up during the general election if Biden manages to get the nomination.
And it’s going to be made in part by a guy who knows a lot about organized crime, given that he prosecuted it — with unusual success — for the first part of his career.
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westernjournal--2020-02-01--CPAC Pulls Romney’s Invitation After Senator Sides with Democrats

Republican Sen. Mitt Romney of Utah will not be invited to this year ’ s Conservative Political Action Conference after he sided with Senate Democrats in President Donald Trump ’ s impeachment trial .
On Friday , Romney — who in 2016 made his distaste for Trump the core of the GOP ’ s failed “ never Trump ” movement — voted with Democrats to call witnesses in Trump ’ s impeachment trial .
Republican Sen. Susan Collins of Maine was the only other GOP senator to support calling witnesses .
That led to a tweet from conservative Matt Schlapp @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BREAKING : The ‘ extreme conservative ’ and Junior Senator from the great state of Utah , @ SenatorRomney is formally NOT invited to # CPAC2020 , ” he tweeted .
TRENDING : Pelosi Defies Senate 's Authority , Says Even if Senate Votes To Acquit , Trump Wo n't Actually Be Acquitted The conference , which takes place next month , is one of the major events for America ’ s conservatives .
Romney has addressed the conference in the past .
It is not known if Romney was planning to attend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in criticizing Romney .
The Club for Growth is running an ad against him .
“ Unfortunately , Mitt Romney continues to side with Democrats in their sham impeachment of President Trump , and voters deserve to know about his support of radical-liberals and their attempts to undo the results of the 2016 election and reverse the enormous economic gains achieved under Trump , ” David McIntosh , the president of Club for Growth , said in a statement , according to The Hill .
“ There ’ s Mitt Romney , threatening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out spotlight-seeking blowhards who will trash President Trump on the witness stand , ” the ad said in its opening .
Others took to Twitter to criticize Romney .
Republican Sen. Mike Lee of Utah said critics ought to respect Romney even in disagreement .
Romney has said he believed more testimony was necessary , particularly from former national security advisor John Bolton .
Media accounts have said a new book from Bolton will allege that Trump linked military aid for Ukraine with that country investigating Democratic presidential candidate and former Vice President @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Ukraine in 2016 .
Trump has insisted there was no connection .
“ John Bolton has a relevant testimony to provide , ” Romney said , according to the Desert News .
“ I know there are some who feel if we open the door , we ’ d have tons of witnesses and court battles , ” Romney said , according to The New York Times .
“ I think of this as an inflection point , politically in our country , ” Romney said .
“ It ’ s a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of deep responsibility to abide by the Constitution , to determine — absent the pulls from the right and the pulls from the left — what is the right thing to do ?
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Republican Sen. Mitt Romney of Utah will not be invited to this year’s Conservative Political Action Conference after he sided with Senate Democrats in President Donald Trump’s impeachment trial.
On Friday, Romney — who in 2016 made his distaste for Trump the core of the GOP’s failed “never Trump” movement — voted with Democrats to call witnesses in Trump’s impeachment trial. Republican Sen. Susan Collins of Maine was the only other GOP senator to support calling witnesses.
That led to a tweet from conservative Matt Schlapp of the American Conservative Union.
“BREAKING: The ‘extreme conservative’ and Junior Senator from the great state of Utah, @SenatorRomney is formally NOT invited to #CPAC2020,” he tweeted.
BREAKING: The “extreme conservative” and Junior Senator from the great state of Utah, @SenatorRomney is formally NOT invited to #CPAC2020. pic.twitter.com/f35tYy73V1 — Matt Schlapp (@mschlapp) January 31, 2020
The conference, which takes place next month, is one of the major events for America’s conservatives. Romney has addressed the conference in the past. It is not known if Romney was planning to attend this year.
Schlapp was not alone in criticizing Romney.
The Club for Growth is running an ad against him.
Did Sen. Mitt Romney betray the GOP? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 99% (3555 Votes) No: 1% (30 Votes)
“Unfortunately, Mitt Romney continues to side with Democrats in their sham impeachment of President Trump, and voters deserve to know about his support of radical-liberals and their attempts to undo the results of the 2016 election and reverse the enormous economic gains achieved under Trump,” David McIntosh, the president of Club for Growth, said in a statement, according to The Hill.
“There’s Mitt Romney, threatening to vote with Democrats again to trot out spotlight-seeking blowhards who will trash President Trump on the witness stand,” the ad said in its opening.
Others took to Twitter to criticize Romney.
Romney getting much-deserved massive backlash for backstabbing President Trump CPAC just dropped the hammer on him ?https://t.co/xF4L6FRA9S — Wayne Dupree ?? (@WayneDupreeShow) February 1, 2020
Dear Utah Mittens Romney sided with the Democrats – and tried to get other Republicans to join him in betraying the President. We CANNOT take 5 more years of him in the Senate!! Please pass a recall law – and then recall Mittens right away! MITT MUST GO!!! — Daniel Hill (@danhill2011) February 1, 2020
Republican Sen. Mike Lee of Utah said critics ought to respect Romney even in disagreement.
Mitt Romney is a good friend and an excellent Senator. We have disagreed about a lot in this trial. But he has my respect for the thoughtfulness, integrity, and guts he has shown throughout this process. Utah and the Senate are lucky to have him. — Mike Lee (@SenMikeLee) January 31, 2020
Romney has said he believed more testimony was necessary, particularly from former national security advisor John Bolton.
Media accounts have said a new book from Bolton will allege that Trump linked military aid for Ukraine with that country investigating Democratic presidential candidate and former Vice President Joe Biden for Biden’s role in Ukraine in 2016. Trump has insisted there was no connection.
“John Bolton has a relevant testimony to provide,” Romney said, according to the Desert News.
“I know there are some who feel if we open the door, we’d have tons of witnesses and court battles,” Romney said, according to The New York Times.
“I think of this as an inflection point, politically in our country,” Romney said. “It’s a constitutional issue. I feel a sense of deep responsibility to abide by the Constitution, to determine — absent the pulls from the right and the pulls from the left — what is the right thing to do?”
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westernjournal--2020-02-01--Elizabeth Warren Attacks Christian Schools for Following Biblical Sexual Morality

On Sunday Sen. Elizabeth Warren shared a HuffPost article on Twitter bashing private Christian schools for having “ anti-LGBTQ+ policies.
” The article focused attention on a U.S. Supreme Court case attacking Montana private religious schools and attempting to take away tax credits to individuals who contributed to private schools because the money supports policies that “ discriminate against LGBTQ staff and employees.
” Such policies include having bathrooms designated for people according to their biological gender and hiring faculty and staff who abide by Christian marriage values .
“ States should focus on funding public schools , not private @ @ @ @ @ @ @ policies .
We must ensure every kid–especially LGBTQ+ kids–can get a high-quality public education , ” Warren tweeted .
TRENDING : Pelosi Defies Senate 's Authority , Says Even if Senate Votes To Acquit , Trump Wo n't Actually Be Acquitted “ ( T ) he program at the center of Espinoza v. Montana Department of Revenue , which the Supreme Court is hearing later this month , provided tax credits to individuals and corporations that donated to private schools and scholarship groups , ” HuffPo explained .
Four of the 13 schools @ @ @ @ @ @ @ program have implemented policies that HuffPost considered anti-LGBTQ .
They then cited statements from some of the handbooks .
Foothills Community Christian School ’ s handbook states that “ there is no room for a non-Christian or an uncommitted Christian ” to teach at the school .
Heritage Christian School states in its handbook that it reserved “ the right to reject students based on ‘ sexual conduct ( including but not limited to sexual activity outside of marriage , lesbian , gay , bisexual and/or transgender conduct ) .
” The Stillwater @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and campus visitors must use restrooms , locker rooms , and changing facilities conforming with their biological sex.
” Other handbooks , such as the one published by Helena Christian School , argued that “ God intends sexual intimacy to occur only between a man and a woman who are married to each other.
” Public school groups have been vocal about their feelings towards the case , claiming that it “ could have a devastating effect on education and play a major role in disintegrating the U.S. doctrine of the separation of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ president of the American Federation of Teachers , said that this case could turn the American understanding of “ separation of church and state ” upside down , and that “ it will basically change over 200 years of practice in the United States , ” The Daily Wire reported .
Those in favor of public funding for private schools argue that school choice and voucher programs give lower income students the same opportunities as students from more well-to-do families .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism @ @ @ @ @ @

On Jan. 26, Sen. Elizabeth Warren shared a HuffPost article on Twitter bashing private Christian schools for having “anti-LGBTQ+ policies.”
The article focused attention on a U.S. Supreme Court case attacking Montana private religious schools and attempting to take away tax credits to individuals who contributed to private schools because the money supports policies that “discriminate against LGBTQ staff and employees.”
Such policies include having bathrooms designated for people according to their biological gender and hiring faculty and staff who abide by Christian marriage values.
“States should focus on funding public schools, not private ones — especially ones that maintain anti-LGBTQ+ policies. We must ensure every kid–especially LGBTQ+ kids–can get a high-quality public education,” Warren tweeted.
States should focus on funding public schools, not private ones—especially not ones that maintain anti-LGBTQ+ policies. We must ensure every kid—especially LGBTQ+ kids—can get a high-quality public education. https://t.co/hxKap5Ofjm — Elizabeth Warren (@ewarren) January 26, 2020
“(T)he program at the center of Espinoza v. Montana Department of Revenue, which the Supreme Court is hearing later this month, provided tax credits to individuals and corporations that donated to private schools and scholarship groups,” HuffPo explained.
Four of the 13 schools signed up for the Montana tax credit program have implemented policies that HuffPost considered anti-LGBTQ.
It` then cited statements from some of the handbooks.
Should private schools receive public funding? 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: 73% (927 Votes) No: 27% (350 Votes)
Foothills Community Christian School’s handbook states that “there is no room for a non-Christian or an uncommitted Christian” to teach at the school.
Heritage Christian School states in its handbook that it reserved “the right to reject students based on ‘sexual conduct (including but not limited to sexual activity outside of marriage, lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or transgender conduct).”
The Stillwater Christian School handbook requires that “students and campus visitors must use restrooms, locker rooms, and changing facilities conforming with their biological sex.”
Other handbooks, such as the one published by Helena Christian School, argued that “God intends sexual intimacy to occur only between a man and a woman who are married to each other.”
Public school groups have been vocal about their feelings towards the case, claiming that it “could have a devastating effect on education and play a major role in disintegrating the U.S. doctrine of the separation of church and state.”
Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, said that the case could turn the American understanding of “separation of church and state” upside down, and that “it will basically change over 200 years of practice in the United States,” The Daily Wire reported.
Those in favor of public funding for private schools argue that school choice and voucher programs give lower-income students the same opportunities as students from more well-to-do families.
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westernjournal--2020-02-01--Vote To Acquit Trump Postponed as Moderate GOP Senators Rebel

The Senate vote that is expected to acquit President Donald Trump of the articles of impeachment against him will be held on Wednesday .
This comes after Senate leaders received pushback from Democrats and moderate Republicans about holding the vote either Friday night or Saturday .
The Hill quoted unnamed sources saying moderate Republicans did not support a quick vote after Friday ’ s dramatic 51-49 vote to reject calling new witnesses in the trial .
The Hill quoted an unnamed Republican senator as saying a few GOP senators opposed the plan for a Friday or Saturday vote , threatening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ For us to do to what we want to do , we all got to want to do it , ” the senator said .
Republican Sen. Susan Collins of Maine , a moderate who supported calling witnesses , reportedly wanted time for deliberations before the final vote .
TRENDING : Pelosi Defies Senate 's Authority , Says Even if Senate Votes To Acquit , Trump Wo n't Actually Be Acquitted Republican Sen. Mike Braun of Indiana , speaking of a meeting among GOP senators , said there was “ some feverish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Utah , who also voted to call witnesses , did not object to a quick vote .
“ Other members have expressed concerns however , ” a reported GOP aide said after a meeting among moderates Romney , Collins , Sen. Lamar Alexander of Tennessee and Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska .
“ A fair trial would have been one where we could have remedied the defects that came out of the House .
I think we got to a point where you just realize that [ it ] would never be sufficient @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were seeking the results they wanted , ” she said .
“ We started with a flawed product .
I ’ m at that point where I ’ m frustrated and disappointed — angry at all sides , ” she said , according to ABC News .
The Wednesday vote came together through a combination of factors .
“ A lot of folks want to address the subject so that gives them a chance on Monday , Tuesday , and part of Wednesday to do that , ” Senate Majority Whip John Thune @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Politico .
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell consulted with Trump before the schedule was adopted .
Trump , who gives his State of the Union address Tuesday , signed off on the delayed vote , according to The New York Times .
“ The president is gratified that finally — at long last , after multiple delays — the Senate will set a schedule for his acquittals quickly as possible , ” said Eric Ueland , Trump ’ s legislative affairs director , according to The Washington Post .
“ I do not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to deliver a strong and confident State of the Union message to the House of Representatives and the country next week.
” The delay also addresses the concerns of Democrats .
Minority Leader Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York said Republicans “ wanted to rush through an acquittal vote tonight ” but Democrats wanted “ ample time for every member to speak , ” according to The Times .
The schedule calls for the Senate to reconvene at 11 a.m. Monday to hear closing arguments from each side and then deliberations in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to make them .
The final vote is set for 4 p.m. Wednesday .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The Senate vote that is expected to acquit President Donald Trump of the articles of impeachment against him will be held on Wednesday. This comes after Senate leaders received pushback from Democrats and moderate Republicans about holding the vote either Friday night or Saturday.
The Hill quoted unnamed sources saying moderate Republicans did not support a quick vote after Friday’s dramatic 51-49 vote to reject calling new witnesses in the trial.
The Hill quoted an unnamed Republican senator as saying a few GOP senators opposed the plan for a Friday or Saturday vote, threatening the unity needed to acquit Trump.
“For us to do to what we want to do, we all got to want to do it,” the senator said.
Republican Sen. Susan Collins of Maine, a moderate who supported calling witnesses, reportedly wanted time for deliberations before the final vote.
Republican Sen. Mike Braun of Indiana, speaking of a meeting among GOP senators, said there was “some feverish discussion.”
Republican Sen. Mitt Romney of Utah, who also voted to call witnesses, did not object to a quick vote. “Other members have expressed concerns however,” a reported GOP aide said after a meeting among moderates Romney, Collins, Sen. Lamar Alexander of Tennessee and Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska.
Murkowski rejected Democratic demands for additional witnesses on Friday.
“A fair trial would have been one where we could have remedied the defects that came out of the House. I think we got to a point where you just realize that [it] would never be sufficient to meet the demands of those who were seeking the results they wanted,” she said.
Do you think the trial should have ended by now? Yes No
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“We started with a flawed product. I’m at that point where I’m frustrated and disappointed — angry at all sides,” she said, according to ABC News.
The Wednesday vote came together through a combination of factors.
“A lot of folks want to address the subject so that gives them a chance on Monday, Tuesday, and part of Wednesday to do that,” Senate Majority Whip John Thune of South Dakota said, according to Politico.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell consulted with Trump before the schedule was adopted. Trump, who gives his State of the Union address Tuesday, signed off on the delayed vote, according to The New York Times.
“The president is gratified that finally — at long last, after multiple delays — the Senate will set a schedule for his acquittals quickly as possible,” said Eric Ueland, Trump’s legislative affairs director, according to The Washington Post. “I do not believe that schedule interferes with his ability to deliver a strong and confident State of the Union message to the House of Representatives and the country next week.”
The delay also addresses the concerns of Democrats. Minority Leader Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York said Republicans “wanted to rush through an acquittal vote tonight” but Democrats wanted “ample time for every member to speak,” according to The Times.
The schedule calls for the Senate to reconvene at 11 a.m. Monday to hear closing arguments from each side and then deliberations in the form of speeches from senators who want to make them. The final vote is set for 4 p.m. Wednesday.
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westernjournal--2020-02-01--Conservative Judge in Liberal County Has His Game Plan and He’s Not Worried: ‘I’m Outnumbered’

The Texas primaries are quickly approaching , and Republican Justice Ken Wise has found himself in a tough situation as he runs for re-election in a district with a large liberal population .
In 2013 , Wise was appointed to Texas ’ 14th Court of Appeals — which covers the counties of Austin , Brazoria , Chambers , Colorado , Fort Bend , Galveston , Grimes , Harris , Waller and Washington — and has been re-elected in every election since .
Harris County is one of the most populous counties in the country and has several judges on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more liberal elected judges in Harris County , meaning Wise has a little more persuading to do .
“ As a conservative — as a judicial conservative , I ’ m outnumbered .
I think that the precedent should be respected , I think the laws should be slow to change and I think the legislature ought to be the one making the law , not some judge with an agenda .
And that ’ s not a view that ’ s universally held anymore , ” Wise said in an interview with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that as a conservative judge in a mostly liberal area , he is going to have to make a genuine effort to get to know the people in and around his community to ensure that they remember who he is .
TRENDING : Pelosi Defies Senate 's Authority , Says Even if Senate Votes To Acquit , Trump Wo n't Actually Be Acquitted “ The biggest challenge that judges face no matter which judicial office they hold , is getting the voters ’ attention , ” Wise said .
“ We ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ counties , and voters generally don ’ t know who the judges are.
” However , Wise believes that between the good relationships he has with people in the community and his 20 years of experience as a judge , the odds will be in his favor .
The Western Journal asked Wise what his plan is to ensure that he remains in his role , and it ’ s all about getting new voters to the polls .
“ My plan is to raise money , ” he said .
“ The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the district in such a way to maximize new voters.
” Wise explained that he has already raised more money than any of his opponents and believes that his years of experience as a judge in the area give him an additional advantage over them .
Even though he is confident in his standing , Wise said he still makes a point to get into the community and be involved so that people know him , regardless of whether it is for the primary — where he is unopposed — or the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ don ’ t have an opponent in the primary , not a week goes by that I don ’ t go visit with groups out in the 10-county district , and so I ’ m on the road all the time doing that , ” he said .
Wise explained that his deep involvement with Texas historians is a way to give back to his community .
“ My joy for serving the state of Texas has just grown as I ’ ve gotten more serious about the study of Texas history .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ ve gone from just reading about it and enjoying it to actually trying to give back to the historical community in the greater Texas community by producing some sort of preservation , promotion , analysis of our history.
” On Sunday , Wise lived up to his word and spent time in the Brazoria County area promoting his campaign and spending time with voters .
“ I ’ ve run in this district once before , I ’ ve run in Harris County five previous times , so I ’ m @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wise added .
“ I ’ ve been on the bench a long time so I ’ m well known to the voters — as well as you can be as a judge — so that gives me a lot of confidence.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The Texas primaries are quickly approaching, and Republican Justice Ken Wise has found himself in a tough situation as he runs for re-election in a district with a large liberal population.
In 2013, Wise was appointed to Texas’ 14th Court of Appeals — which covers the counties of Austin, Brazoria, Chambers, Colorado, Fort Bend, Galveston, Grimes, Harris, Waller and Washington — and has been re-elected in every election since.
Harris County is one of the most populous counties in the country and has several judges on the ballot. This year, there are more liberal elected judges in Harris County, meaning Wise has a little more persuading to do.
“As a conservative — as a judicial conservative, I’m outnumbered. I think that the precedent should be respected, I think the laws should be slow to change and I think the legislature ought to be the one making the law, not some judge with an agenda. And that’s not a view that’s universally held anymore,” Wise said in an interview with The Western Journal.
Wise is aware that as a conservative judge in a mostly liberal area, he is going to have to make a genuine effort to get to know the people in and around his community to ensure that they remember who he is.
“The biggest challenge that judges face no matter which judicial office they hold, is getting the voters’ attention,” Wise said. “We’re pretty far down the ballot in most counties, and voters generally don’t know who the judges are.”
However, Wise believes that between the good relationships he has with people in the community and his 20 years of experience as a judge, the odds will be in his favor.
The Western Journal asked Wise what his plan is to ensure that he remains in his role, and it’s all about getting new voters to the polls.
“My plan is to raise money,” he said. “The key will be to deploy that money across the district in such a way to maximize new voters.”
Do conservatives still have a chance to win elections in a majority liberal district? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 94% (593 Votes) No: 6% (38 Votes)
Wise explained that he has already raised more money than any of his opponents and believes that his years of experience as a judge in the area give him an additional advantage over them.
Even though he is confident in his standing, Wise said he still makes a point to get into the community and be involved so that people know him, regardless of whether it is for the primary — where he is unopposed — or the general election.
“Even though I don’t have an opponent in the primary, not a week goes by that I don’t go visit with groups out in the 10-county district, and so I’m on the road all the time doing that,” he said.
Wise explained that his deep involvement with Texas historians is a way to give back to his community.
“My joy for serving the state of Texas has just grown as I’ve gotten more serious about the study of Texas history. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve gone from just reading about it and enjoying it to actually trying to give back to the historical community in the greater Texas community by producing some sort of preservation, promotion, analysis of our history.”
Justice “Judge” Wise performing his duties as Jovial Texas History Ambassador Friday evening at the #FultonMansion pic.twitter.com/BVd9IXvIae — Copano Bay Press (@TexasHistory) January 26, 2020
On Sunday, Wise lived up to his word and spent time in the Brazoria County area promoting his campaign and spending time with voters.
“I’ve run in this district once before, I’ve run in Harris County five previous times, so I’m well known in Harris County,” Wise added. “I’ve been on the bench a long time so I’m well known to the voters — as well as you can be as a judge — so that gives me a lot of confidence.”
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westernjournal--2020-02-01--Europe Using Military Airlifts to Pull Citizens from China Virus Outbreak

European governments ramped up military airlifts Saturday to bring their citizens back from China amid the outbreak of a new virus that has sickened thousands of people .
A German air force plane arrived in Frankfurt carrying 128 passengers who were expected to spend two weeks quarantined at a military base .
Russia also sent military aircraft to evacuate citizens from Wuhan and other areas of China most affected by the virus .
The German plane ’ s arrival was delayed after it was refused permission to stop in Moscow to refuel and change the crew .
Defense Minister Annegret @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but not to land due to what the Russian side said was insufficient capacity .
TRENDING : Pelosi Defies Senate 's Authority , Says Even if Senate Votes To Acquit , Trump Wo n't Actually Be Acquitted “ Together with the Foreign Ministry , we will certainly discuss next week what other reasons there are beyond the official explanation about insufficient capacity at the Moscow airport , ” Kramp-Karrenbauer said .
Russia ’ s RIA-Novosti news agency cited an unnamed aviation source as saying Russia was not giving permission to any third-country evacuation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s aviation authority could not be reached for comment .
More repatriation flights were planned for Sunday , including to France .
Of the 180 French people flown back from Wuhan on Friday , one showed symptoms of being infected with the virus and was sent to a Marseille hospital for testing , French Health Minister Agnes Buzyn said .
The other passengers are being quarantined for 14 days at a large , isolated Mediterranean resort not far from Marseilles on the edge of Carry-le-Rouet .
The plane being dispatched Sunday also is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flight taking off from Wuhan on Sunday is due to land at a military base in Rome early Monday bearing 70 Italians who will be be quarantined for about 14 days , Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio said .
None of the returning Italians have shown any signs of contagion , Di Maio said .
Italian Foreign Ministry officials also plan to meet with Chinese Embassy representatives in Rome about how to get Chinese tourists , business people and others back to China .
They are stranded due to a ban on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government put in place on Thursday .
The Italian consumer advocacy group Codacons has urged Catholic faithful to consider watching Pope Francis ’ appearance at a Vatican window on TV instead of flocking Sunday to St. Peter ’ s Square , where tens of thousands of tourists and Romans gather each week to glimpse the pontiff .
The group said the Catholic Church should consider suspending public Masses as well .
Codacons also has called on Italian authorities to ban group tours at popular tourist sites like the Colosseum as well as access @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cinemas and soccer stadiums during matches .
There was no immediate reaction to the group ’ s appeal .
Italian Premier Giuseppe Conte has said the situation is under control , after two Chinese tourists were hospitalized in the Italian capital earlier in the week with confirmed cases of the virus .
Italy ’ s center-left Democratic Party in Milan announced it is promoting an evening stroll , the Italian habit known as a “ passeggiata , ” on Sunday as a way to combat discrimination against people from Asia or of Asian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Milan ’ s Chinatown is aimed at combating “ psychosis linked to the fear of frequenting Chinese stores and restaurants , with cases of intolerance and isolation toward people of Asian origin , ” Italian news agency LaPresse said .
The initiative also is also encouraging participants to dine in Chinatown .
The Associated Press contributed to this report .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

European governments ramped up military airlifts Saturday to bring their citizens back from China amid the outbreak of a new virus that has sickened thousands of people.
A German air force plane arrived in Frankfurt carrying 128 passengers who were expected to spend two weeks quarantined at a military base.
Russia also sent military aircraft to evacuate citizens from Wuhan and other areas of China most affected by the virus.
The German plane’s arrival was delayed after it was refused permission to stop in Moscow to refuel and change the crew.
Defense Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer said the plane received flyover clearance but not to land due to what the Russian side said was insufficient capacity.
“Together with the Foreign Ministry, we will certainly discuss next week what other reasons there are beyond the official explanation about insufficient capacity at the Moscow airport,” Kramp-Karrenbauer said.
Russia’s RIA-Novosti news agency cited an unnamed aviation source as saying Russia was not giving permission to any third-country evacuation flights to make stops. Russia’s aviation authority could not be reached for comment.
More repatriation flights were planned for Sunday, including to France. Of the 180 French people flown back from Wuhan on Friday, one showed symptoms of being infected with the virus and was sent to a Marseille hospital for testing, French Health Minister Agnes Buzyn said.
Do you think all travel into and out of China should be banned for now? 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% (24 Votes) No: 0% (0 Votes)
The other passengers are being quarantined for 14 days at a large, isolated Mediterranean resort not far from Marseilles on the edge of Carry-le-Rouet.
The plane being dispatched Sunday also is expected to transport seven Austrians.
A flight taking off from Wuhan on Sunday is due to land at a military base in Rome early Monday bearing 70 Italians who will be be quarantined for about 14 days, Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio said.
None of the returning Italians have shown any signs of contagion, Di Maio said.
Italian Foreign Ministry officials also plan to meet with Chinese Embassy representatives in Rome about how to get Chinese tourists, business people and others back to China. They are stranded due to a ban on flights to or from China the Italian government put in place on Thursday.
The Italian consumer advocacy group Codacons has urged Catholic faithful to consider watching Pope Francis’ appearance at a Vatican window on TV instead of flocking Sunday to St. Peter’s Square, where tens of thousands of tourists and Romans gather each week to glimpse the pontiff.
The group said the Catholic Church should consider suspending public Masses as well.
Codacons also has called on Italian authorities to ban group tours at popular tourist sites like the Colosseum as well as access to other crowded places like theaters, cinemas and soccer stadiums during matches.
There was no immediate reaction to the group’s appeal.
Italian Premier Giuseppe Conte has said the situation is under control, after two Chinese tourists were hospitalized in the Italian capital earlier in the week with confirmed cases of the virus.
Italy’s center-left Democratic Party in Milan announced it is promoting an evening stroll, the Italian habit known as a “passeggiata,” on Sunday as a way to combat discrimination against people from Asia or of Asian descent.
Organizers said the event in Milan’s Chinatown is aimed at combating “psychosis linked to the fear of frequenting Chinese stores and restaurants, with cases of intolerance and isolation toward people of Asian origin,” Italian news agency LaPresse said. The initiative also is also encouraging participants to dine in Chinatown.
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--2020-02-01--GOP Launching New Effort To Win Minority Votes in the Swing State of Wisconsin

The Wisconsin Republican Party this week will open its first-ever office in the heart of downtown Milwaukee , one of the clearest signs yet of the party ’ s push to cut into Democrats ’ advantage among minority voters and the latest indication of how hard-fought every vote will be in the battleground state .
The office , which opens Thursday , will serve as the base for the party ’ s minority outreach coordinator and serve as a hub for Republican events , campaign organizing and efforts to connect with black and Hispanic people in Milwaukee , party leaders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want to be a part of the community , ” Wisconsin Republican Party Chairman Andrew Hitt told the AP .
“ We want to make sure they know there is a choice.
” Both major parties have stressed the importance of reaching every possible voter in the swing state .
President Donald Trump carried the state by fewer than 23,000 votes in the 2016 election , fueled by high turnout among Republicans in rural areas and a drop in Democratic voters in Milwaukee , which is home to more than 69 percent of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may not win in Milwaukee — Hillary Clinton got 77 percent of the city ’ s vote in 2016 — but “ we need to make the Democrats fight for those votes , ” said Mark Jefferson , executive director of the Wisconsin Republican Party .
TRENDING : Pelosi Defies Senate 's Authority , Says Even if Senate Votes To Acquit , Trump Wo n't Actually Be Acquitted In 2016 , black turnout was down about 7 percentage points nationally compared with 2012 , according to census estimates .
In Wisconsin , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 20 percent , based on a study by the Center for American Progress , a liberal advocacy group .
Democrats have been making a concerted push to turn it around .
That includes choosing Milwaukee to host the national convention in July , when the Democrats will nominate their candidate to take on Trump .
But it also involves a lot of organizing on the ground to connect with voters who stayed home in 2016 .
Angela Lang leads Black Leaders Organizing Communities , a group that formed after the 2016 election to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ We know that turnout was down .
( Black ) people felt that they weren ’ t engaged in a meaningful way , ” Lang said .
“ So we ’ re trying to think of lessons learned and making sure that we ’ re engaging people .
… We need to start our conversations early and we can ’ t wait for a candidate or party leader.
” Lang said she ’ s glad the GOP is “ finally realizing the importance of the black vote , ” but she said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ convincing black voters to support it .
“ It ’ s interesting that now they want to target black voters when a lot of Republican policies directly are in conflict with our community and actually supporting our community , ” she said .
The political arm of Voces De La Frontera , which advocates for immigrant rights , is recruiting a network of 23,000 Latinos and multiracial youth to engage Hispanic voters leading up the presidential election — whether it ’ s friends , families , or acquaintances on social networks .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ surge of voters for Trump , but it was lost because of lower turnout by blacks , Latinos and youth , ” executive director Christine Neumann-Ortiz said .
Neuman-Ortiz said she doubts Republicans will succeed with minorities .
“ The way they ’ ve up to now made inroads , or tried to make inroads , I think has really been a failed strategy because they offer nothing , ” Neuman-Ortiz said .
She said if Republicans want to gain minority votes , they should “ stop the aggressive attacks against immigrants through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Republican issues that would resonate with black voters include the strong economy , GOP support for school voucher programs , Trump ’ s expansion of tax breaks designed to spur investment in low-income urban areas , and changes to the criminal justice system .
That includes the First Step Act , a broad overhaul that included such elements as reducing prison sentences .
The law was a rare bipartisan victory that had backing from black leaders and lawmakers who forged an alliance with Trump on that issue .
“ We have a good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and tell people , ” Hitt said .
The Associated Press contributed to this report .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The Wisconsin Republican Party this week will open its first-ever office in the heart of downtown Milwaukee, one of the clearest signs yet of the party’s push to cut into Democrats’ advantage among minority voters and the latest indication of how hard-fought every vote will be in the battleground state.
The office, which opens Thursday, will serve as the base for the party’s minority outreach coordinator and serve as a hub for Republican events, campaign organizing and efforts to connect with black and Hispanic people in Milwaukee, party leaders told The Associated Press.
“We want to be a part of the community,” Wisconsin Republican Party Chairman Andrew Hitt told the AP. “We want to make sure they know there is a choice.”
Both major parties have stressed the importance of reaching every possible voter in the swing state. President Donald Trump carried the state by fewer than 23,000 votes in the 2016 election, fueled by high turnout among Republicans in rural areas and a drop in Democratic voters in Milwaukee, which is home to more than 69 percent of Wisconsin’s black voters.
Republicans may not win in Milwaukee — Hillary Clinton got 77 percent of the city’s vote in 2016 — but “we need to make the Democrats fight for those votes,” said Mark Jefferson, executive director of the Wisconsin Republican Party.
In 2016, black turnout was down about 7 percentage points nationally compared with 2012, according to census estimates.
In Wisconsin, the drop-off among black voters was steeper — 20 percent, based on a study by the Center for American Progress, a liberal advocacy group.
Democrats have been making a concerted push to turn it around. That includes choosing Milwaukee to host the national convention in July, when the Democrats will nominate their candidate to take on Trump. But it also involves a lot of organizing on the ground to connect with voters who stayed home in 2016.
Angela Lang leads Black Leaders Organizing Communities, a group that formed after the 2016 election to better reach black voters in Milwaukee.
Do you think Trump will win Wisconsin again in 2020 like he did in 2016? 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% (78 Votes) No: 0% (0 Votes)
“We know that turnout was down. (Black) people felt that they weren’t engaged in a meaningful way,” Lang said. “So we’re trying to think of lessons learned and making sure that we’re engaging people. … We need to start our conversations early and we can’t wait for a candidate or party leader.”
Lang said she’s glad the GOP is “finally realizing the importance of the black vote,” but she said the party will have a tough time convincing black voters to support it.
“It’s interesting that now they want to target black voters when a lot of Republican policies directly are in conflict with our community and actually supporting our community,” she said.
The political arm of Voces De La Frontera, which advocates for immigrant rights, is recruiting a network of 23,000 Latinos and multiracial youth to engage Hispanic voters leading up the presidential election — whether it’s friends, families, or acquaintances on social networks.
“Wisconsin was lost not because of a surge of voters for Trump, but it was lost because of lower turnout by blacks, Latinos and youth,” executive director Christine Neumann-Ortiz said.
Neuman-Ortiz said she doubts Republicans will succeed with minorities.
“The way they’ve up to now made inroads, or tried to make inroads, I think has really been a failed strategy because they offer nothing,” Neuman-Ortiz said.
She said if Republicans want to gain minority votes, they should “stop the aggressive attacks against immigrants through policies that separate families.”
Hitt said Republican issues that would resonate with black voters include the strong economy, GOP support for school voucher programs, Trump’s expansion of tax breaks designed to spur investment in low-income urban areas, and changes to the criminal justice system.
That includes the First Step Act, a broad overhaul that included such elements as reducing prison sentences.
The law was a rare bipartisan victory that had backing from black leaders and lawmakers who forged an alliance with Trump on that issue.
“We have a good story to tell if we reach out and tell people,” Hitt said.
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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* All fields are required. Success! We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.