freebeacon--2020-01-21--Iran Has Spies Across U.S., Officials Warn After Tehran Posts $3M Bounty on Trump

Following Iran 's announcement of a three million dollar bounty for the assassination of President Donald Trump , U.S. officials and terrorism experts are warning that Tehran has significantly expanded its terror capabilities in America , potentially allowing the Islamic Republic to conduct a domestic attack .
Iranian lawmakers announced on Tuesday that they would pay a `` three million dollar award in cash to whoever kills Trump . ''
The bounty is the latest in a series of increasingly direct threats by Tehran .
It has renewed concerns about the Islamic Republic 's vast terrorism network , which stretches @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officials and experts told the Washington Free Beacon .
While Iran has failed to pull off a strike in America , it is seen as having the resources necessary to do so .
Several Iranian Americans have been arrested in recent years and charged with surveilling potential terror sites for a strike .
Iran 's capabilities stretch beyond lone wolves and sleeper cells stationed in America .
Iranian terror proxies such as Hezbollah have long operated across Latin America , including along the U.S. southern border .
Iran also has established a network @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a wing of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps ( IRGC ) that specializes in unconventional warfare , sources said .
`` As [ Senate Foreign Relations Committee ranking member Bob ] Menendez recently said , Iran has sleeper cells across the United States , possibly backed by sympathizers and supporters of the Quds Force , '' one senior congressional official who works on national security matters told the Free Beacon .
`` No one who follows this issue or gets regular briefings doubts that danger .
The difference is that some people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the mullahs , while other people think it 's a reason to appease them . ''
As recently as 2018 , lawmakers warned that Iran poses `` a direct threat to the homeland , '' particularly via `` sleeper cell '' militants stationed throughout the United States .
The threat of Hezbollah and Iranian support for the group was outlined during a 2018 congressional hearing on Iran 's spying ability .
Two individuals who had received weapons training from Hezbollah were arrested in 2017 for plotting terror attacks in New York City and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ operations told the Free Beacon at the time that Hezbollah poses a serious threat to the United States due to its coordination abilities .
`` [ Hezbollah is ] as good or better at explosive devices than ISIS , they are better at assassinations and developing assassination cells , '' said Michael Pregent , a former intelligence officer who worked to counter Iranian influence in the region .
`` Hezbollah is smart , '' Pregent said .
`` They 're very good at keeping their communications secure , keeping their operational security secure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ high-profile attack perspective , they 'd be good at improvised explosive devices . ''
Iran has also concentrated its efforts on building spy networks across the United States .
This activity has focused on recruiting individuals living in the United States .
`` Over the past four decades , Tehran has expanded its capabilities to execute terrorist operations in the United States , '' Saeed Ghasseminejad , a senior Iran adviser at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies , told the Free Beacon .
`` The Quds Force and Ministry of Intelligence are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world . ''
`` Tehran also relies on the Iranian expats in the United States as we saw in the case of Ahmadreza Mohammadi-Doostdar , '' Ghasseminejad added .
Mohammadi-Doostdar is a dual U.S.-Iranian citizen who was recently convicted of spying on Americans for Iran .
The concern has been amplified as Iran continues to send `` thousands of pro-regime students and immigrants to the U.S. , '' according to Ghasseminejad .
`` While the majority of Iranians in the U.S. are anti-regime , over the years , Tehran has managed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we saw in the case of Mohsen Dehnavi , a high-ranking member of the Basij Organization , who was denied entry at the border , '' said Ghasseminejad , `` Tehran sends members of Basij and IRGC to the United States under cover as students and researchers .
Basij is an IRGC-controlled militia force , its members receive military training and some are picked and trained by the IRGC Intelligence . ''
Senior Iranian regime figures also continue to send their children and other family members to the United States for school and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come to the U.S. with significant financial assets and are placed in the most prestigious universities and institutions , '' Ghasseminejad said .
`` They serve as their family 's consigliere in the West , overseeing the money laundering and investment operation while at the same time infiltrating the selective elite circles of business and politics .
Blanket bans such as travel bans do not prohibit this group from traveling to Washington . ''
This activity has largely gone unchecked by the U.S. government .
`` The United States should create a list @ @ @ @ @ @ @ economic , and political elites in Iran , '' Ghasseminejad said .
`` Only then , Washington can manage to monitor and control this group . ''

Following Iran's announcement of a three million dollar bounty for the assassination of President Donald Trump, U.S. officials and terrorism experts are warning that Tehran has significantly expanded its terror capabilities in America, potentially allowing the Islamic Republic to conduct a domestic attack.
Iranian lawmakers announced on Tuesday that they would pay a "three million dollar award in cash to whoever kills Trump."
The bounty is the latest in a series of increasingly direct threats by Tehran. It has renewed concerns about the Islamic Republic's vast terrorism network, which stretches into the continental United States, U.S. officials and experts told the Washington Free Beacon.
While Iran has failed to pull off a strike in America, it is seen as having the resources necessary to do so. Several Iranian Americans have been arrested in recent years and charged with surveilling potential terror sites for a strike.
Iran's capabilities stretch beyond lone wolves and sleeper cells stationed in America. Iranian terror proxies such as Hezbollah have long operated across Latin America, including along the U.S. southern border. Iran also has established a network of individuals tied to its Quds Force, a wing of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) that specializes in unconventional warfare, sources said.
"As [Senate Foreign Relations Committee ranking member Bob] Menendez recently said, Iran has sleeper cells across the United States, possibly backed by sympathizers and supporters of the Quds Force," one senior congressional official who works on national security matters told the Free Beacon. "No one who follows this issue or gets regular briefings doubts that danger. The difference is that some people think that's a reason to sanction the mullahs, while other people think it's a reason to appease them."
As recently as 2018, lawmakers warned that Iran poses "a direct threat to the homeland," particularly via "sleeper cell" militants stationed throughout the United States.
The threat of Hezbollah and Iranian support for the group was outlined during a 2018 congressional hearing on Iran's spying ability. Two individuals who had received weapons training from Hezbollah were arrested in 2017 for plotting terror attacks in New York City and Michigan.
Experts on Iran's terror operations told the Free Beacon at the time that Hezbollah poses a serious threat to the United States due to its coordination abilities.
"[Hezbollah is] as good or better at explosive devices than ISIS, they are better at assassinations and developing assassination cells," said Michael Pregent, a former intelligence officer who worked to counter Iranian influence in the region.
"Hezbollah is smart," Pregent said. "They're very good at keeping their communications secure, keeping their operational security secure, and, again, from a high-profile attack perspective, they'd be good at improvised explosive devices."
Iran has also concentrated its efforts on building spy networks across the United States. This activity has focused on recruiting individuals living in the United States.
"Over the past four decades, Tehran has expanded its capabilities to execute terrorist operations in the United States," Saeed Ghasseminejad, a senior Iran adviser at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, told the Free Beacon. "The Quds Force and Ministry of Intelligence are very active in recruiting Shia Arabs around the world."
"Tehran also relies on the Iranian expats in the United States as we saw in the case of Ahmadreza Mohammadi-Doostdar," Ghasseminejad added. Mohammadi-Doostdar is a dual U.S.-Iranian citizen who was recently convicted of spying on Americans for Iran.
The concern has been amplified as Iran continues to send "thousands of pro-regime students and immigrants to the U.S.," according to Ghasseminejad. "While the majority of Iranians in the U.S. are anti-regime, over the years, Tehran has managed to recruit some Iranian-Americans."
"As we saw in the case of Mohsen Dehnavi, a high-ranking member of the Basij Organization, who was denied entry at the border," said Ghasseminejad, "Tehran sends members of Basij and IRGC to the United States under cover as students and researchers. Basij is an IRGC-controlled militia force, its members receive military training and some are picked and trained by the IRGC Intelligence."
Senior Iranian regime figures also continue to send their children and other family members to the United States for school and other trips.
"These family members come to the U.S. with significant financial assets and are placed in the most prestigious universities and institutions," Ghasseminejad said. "They serve as their family's consigliere in the West, overseeing the money laundering and investment operation while at the same time infiltrating the selective elite circles of business and politics. Blanket bans such as travel bans do not prohibit this group from traveling to Washington."
This activity has largely gone unchecked by the U.S. government.
"The United States should create a list of the upper echelon of military, economic, and political elites in Iran," Ghasseminejad said. "Only then, Washington can manage to monitor and control this group."


freebeacon--2020-01-21--WATCH: Here’s What Happened at the Richmond Gun-Rights Rally

Despite media predictions of violence from fringe groups , Monday 's gun-rights demonstration in Richmond , Va. , saw tens of thousands of attendees peacefully demonstrating for their constitutional rights , Washington Free Beacon staff writer Stephen Gutowski reported .
Demonstrators held signs displaying phrases like , `` Gun rights are women 's rights , '' `` We will not comply , '' and `` I want gay married couples to be able to protect their marijuana plants with guns . ''
Gutowski , who was on the scene for his Free Beacon-presented YouTube show Range Time , said he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rally and noted the absence of violence , white supremacist agitation , or even counter-protesters : `` All we had were people from Virginia here to support their right to bear arms . ''
Gutowski captured interviews with attendees eager to discuss why they were out on a brisk Monday morning to lobby the Virginia state legislature .
One of those attendees was Philip Van Cleave , president of the Virginia Citizens Defense League ( VCDL ) , the group that organized Monday 's demonstration .
Van Cleave said the VCDL 's goal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Virginia legislature to `` walk away '' from the gun issue .
Asked which of the gun-control proposals floated by Democrats in the legislature he was most concerned about , Van Cleave pointed to red flag laws and a potential ban on AR-15s .
Another attendee , Mark ( who declined to provide his last name ) , said he was at the rally because gun rights are both a constitutional right and a civil right .
`` I love this country .
It 's about the Second Amendment , it 's about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loved ones .
It 's not only a constitutional rights issue but it 's also a civil rights issue , '' he told Gutowski .
`` For me , as an African American on MLK Day , it 's critically important that we preserve the ability to defend ourselves and our loved ones , '' he added .
Gutowski 's experience contrasted strongly with descriptions of the rally by the media and members of the Democratic Party .
MSNBC host Craig Melvin said that `` thousands of gun-rights activists , white nationalists , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Virginia state capitol in Richmond . ''
The creative director for the Democratic Governors Association retweeted a tweet claiming that legally carrying rifles was `` terrorism . ''

Despite media predictions of violence from fringe groups, Monday's gun-rights demonstration in Richmond, Va., saw tens of thousands of attendees peacefully demonstrating for their constitutional rights, Washington Free Beacon staff writer Stephen Gutowski reported.
Demonstrators held signs displaying phrases like, "Gun rights are women's rights," "We will not comply," and "I want gay married couples to be able to protect their marijuana plants with guns." Gutowski, who was on the scene for his Free Beacon-presented YouTube show Range Time, said he was struck by the size of the rally and noted the absence of violence, white supremacist agitation, or even counter-protesters: "All we had were people from Virginia here to support their right to bear arms."
Gutowski captured interviews with attendees eager to discuss why they were out on a brisk Monday morning to lobby the Virginia state legislature. One of those attendees was Philip Van Cleave, president of the Virginia Citizens Defense League (VCDL), the group that organized Monday's demonstration.
Van Cleave said the VCDL's goal was to send a signal to the Virginia legislature to "walk away" from the gun issue. Asked which of the gun-control proposals floated by Democrats in the legislature he was most concerned about, Van Cleave pointed to red flag laws and a potential ban on AR-15s.
Another attendee, Mark (who declined to provide his last name), said he was at the rally because gun rights are both a constitutional right and a civil right.
"I love this country. It's about the Second Amendment, it's about our ability to defend ourselves and our loved ones. It's not only a constitutional rights issue but it's also a civil rights issue," he told Gutowski.
"For me, as an African American on MLK Day, it's critically important that we preserve the ability to defend ourselves and our loved ones," he added.
Gutowski's experience contrasted strongly with descriptions of the rally by the media and members of the Democratic Party. MSNBC host Craig Melvin said that "thousands of gun-rights activists, white nationalists, militia groups" were "swarming the Virginia state capitol in Richmond." The creative director for the Democratic Governors Association retweeted a tweet claiming that legally carrying rifles was "terrorism."


freebeacon--2020-01-21--Russia Gets New Government in What Putin Calls ‘Major Renewal’

MOSCOW ( Reuters ) – Russian President Vladimir Putin approved a new government on Tuesday which he described as a break with the past , bringing in some fresh faces but retaining many senior ministers .
The new government included a new economy minister and a new first deputy prime minister , but the finance , foreign , defense , energy and agriculture ministers all kept their jobs .
The new team was formed less than a week after Putin unveiled a sweeping shake-up of the political system , which led to the resignation of his ally Dmitry Medvedev as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Putin went on to pick 53-year-old former tax chief Mikhail Mishustin , who has almost no political profile , as his new prime minister .
Putin 's wider shake-up , which envisages changing the constitution , is widely seen as preparing the ground for 2024 , when Putin , now 67 , is obliged to leave the presidency after occupying the Kremlin or the prime minister 's job continuously since 1999 .
Critics have long said Putin , a former KGB officer , wants to stay on in some capacity after his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ power over the world 's largest nation and one of its two biggest nuclear powers .
Tuesday 's new appointments could be intended to reboot the government 's flagging image and shift attention to Putin 's drive to lift falling real incomes and drive ahead with big national infrastructure projects which he hopes will catapult his country into a new economic league .
`` The most important task is to increase the welfare of our citizens and strengthen our statehood and the position of our country in the world .
All these are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the new government .
`` We have achieved a very balanced government .
We have enough people who worked in the previous government , as well as a major renewal . ''
Finance Minister Anton Siluanov , Energy Minister Alexander Novak , Agriculture Minister Dmitry Patrushev , Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov all kept their jobs .
Putin named Andrei Belousov , his economy advisor since 2013 , as first deputy prime minister , replacing Anton Siluanov who had held the role since May 2018 .
Belousov , 60 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and mining companies pay a windfall tax , sending their share prices lower , although that proposal was subsequently watered down .
Belousov also made headlines last year when he confirmed his friendship with businessman Artem Avetisyan , whose legal battle with private equity fund Baring Vostok has rattled the business community .
Putin approved 40-year-old Maxim Reshetnikov , a former regional governor , as the new economy minister , replacing Maxim Oreshkin who spent just over three years in the role .
Reshetnikov has previously worked in the Moscow mayor 's office @ @ @ @ @ @ @ telecommunications .
He named Maksut Shadaev , until now a vice president of state telecoms operator Rostelecom , to the role .
Abbas Gallyamov , a former government speech writer , said Putin had removed three people strongly disliked in certain parts of society – the ministers for culture and education , and a deputy prime minister who oversaw sport at the height of a doping scandal .
`` Previously the Kremlin said it would appoint who it wanted and did n't care if people did n't like their choice , '' Gallyamov @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the logic has changed and the authorities do not want to irritate society . ''
But he said keeping on some political heavyweights , signalled there was little change in direction , adding : `` Putin is clearly showing that substantive changes to the regime 's ideology are not planned . ''

By Gabrielle Tétrault-Farber and Maria Kiselyova
MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russian President Vladimir Putin approved a new government on Tuesday which he described as a break with the past, bringing in some fresh faces but retaining many senior ministers.
The new government included a new economy minister and a new first deputy prime minister, but the finance, foreign, defense, energy and agriculture ministers all kept their jobs.
The new team was formed less than a week after Putin unveiled a sweeping shake-up of the political system, which led to the resignation of his ally Dmitry Medvedev as prime minister along with the entire government.
Putin went on to pick 53-year-old former tax chief Mikhail Mishustin, who has almost no political profile, as his new prime minister.
Putin's wider shake-up, which envisages changing the constitution, is widely seen as preparing the ground for 2024, when Putin, now 67, is obliged to leave the presidency after occupying the Kremlin or the prime minister's job continuously since 1999.
Critics have long said Putin, a former KGB officer, wants to stay on in some capacity after his term ends so that he can wield power over the world's largest nation and one of its two biggest nuclear powers.
Tuesday's new appointments could be intended to reboot the government's flagging image and shift attention to Putin's drive to lift falling real incomes and drive ahead with big national infrastructure projects which he hopes will catapult his country into a new economic league.
"The most important task is to increase the welfare of our citizens and strengthen our statehood and the position of our country in the world. All these are absolutely attainable goals," Putin told the new government.
"We have achieved a very balanced government. We have enough people who worked in the previous government, as well as a major renewal."
Finance Minister Anton Siluanov, Energy Minister Alexander Novak, Agriculture Minister Dmitry Patrushev, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov all kept their jobs.
"THE LOGIC HAS CHANGED"
Putin named Andrei Belousov, his economy advisor since 2013, as first deputy prime minister, replacing Anton Siluanov who had held the role since May 2018.
Belousov, 60, in 2018 proposed making big metals and mining companies pay a windfall tax, sending their share prices lower, although that proposal was subsequently watered down.
Belousov also made headlines last year when he confirmed his friendship with businessman Artem Avetisyan, whose legal battle with private equity fund Baring Vostok has rattled the business community.
Putin approved 40-year-old Maxim Reshetnikov, a former regional governor, as the new economy minister, replacing Maxim Oreshkin who spent just over three years in the role. Reshetnikov has previously worked in the Moscow mayor's office.
Putin also replaced the minister of telecommunications. He named Maksut Shadaev, until now a vice president of state telecoms operator Rostelecom, to the role.
Abbas Gallyamov, a former government speech writer, said Putin had removed three people strongly disliked in certain parts of society - the ministers for culture and education, and a deputy prime minister who oversaw sport at the height of a doping scandal.
"Previously the Kremlin said it would appoint who it wanted and didn't care if people didn't like their choice," Gallyamov wrote on social media. "Now the logic has changed and the authorities do not want to irritate society."
But he said keeping on some political heavyweights, signalled there was little change in direction, adding: "Putin is clearly showing that substantive changes to the regime's ideology are not planned."
(Additional reporting by Vladimir Soldatkin, Andrey Ostroukh, Alexander Marrow, Tom Balmforth, Polina Devitt. Daria Korsunskaya, Maxim Rodionov and Maria Tsvetkova, Writing by Andrew Osborn, Editing by Timothy Heritage)


freebeacon--2020-01-21--Warren Turns Back on ‘Latinx’ in Major Campaign Departure

Presidential candidate Sen. Elizabeth Warren ( D. , Mass . )
failed to use the gender-neutral term `` Latinx '' for the first time in seven months , marking a major departure from previous campaign rhetoric .
Warren has consistently used `` Latinx '' in favor of the gender-specific alternatives `` Latino '' and `` Latina . ''
The Massachusetts senator mentioned `` African-American and Latinx '' families on the June debate stage and went on to sell unisex `` Latinx with Warren '' t-shirts .
Warren did not use the term `` Latino '' on Twitter after that debate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when she released her `` Restoring America 's Promise to Latinos '' plan .
Warren touted the plan by referring to the `` Latino community , '' and while the plan uses the term `` Latinx '' on six occasions , it uses `` Latino '' more than 70 times .
`` Latinx '' attempts to escape the use of masculine and feminine noun forms in the Spanish language .
Though only 2 percent of America 's Latinos prefer the term , progressive activists began using it as a way to refer to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ excluding people who identify as neither male nor female .
The Warren campaign did not respond to a request for comment on her use of `` Latino '' and whether she plans to continue using `` Latinx '' throughout her campaign for president .
The Merriam-Webster dictionary added `` Latinx '' as a word in September 2018 , though it noted the term may not `` catch on in mainstream use . ''
Many Latinos have since criticized the gender-neutral phrase as `` elitist . ''
`` I do n't see the point @ @ @ @ @ @ @ word for it , and it 's ‘ Latinos , ' '' South Carolina resident Enrique Salas told NBC News in March .

Presidential candidate Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D., Mass.) failed to use the gender-neutral term "Latinx" for the first time in seven months, marking a major departure from previous campaign rhetoric.
Warren has consistently used "Latinx" in favor of the gender-specific alternatives "Latino" and "Latina." The Massachusetts senator mentioned "African-American and Latinx" families on the June debate stage and went on to sell unisex "Latinx with Warren" t-shirts. Warren did not use the term "Latino" on Twitter after that debate.
But Warren bucked the trend Tuesday when she released her "Restoring America's Promise to Latinos" plan. Warren touted the plan by referring to the "Latino community," and while the plan uses the term "Latinx" on six occasions, it uses "Latino" more than 70 times.
"Latinx" attempts to escape the use of masculine and feminine noun forms in the Spanish language. Though only 2 percent of America's Latinos prefer the term, progressive activists began using it as a way to refer to all people of Latin American descent without excluding people who identify as neither male nor female.
The Warren campaign did not respond to a request for comment on her use of "Latino" and whether she plans to continue using "Latinx" throughout her campaign for president.
The Merriam-Webster dictionary added "Latinx" as a word in September 2018, though it noted the term may not "catch on in mainstream use." Many Latinos have since criticized the gender-neutral phrase as "elitist."
"I don't see the point of it when there's already a word for it, and it's 'Latinos,'" South Carolina resident Enrique Salas told NBC News in March.


freebeacon--2020-01-21--U.S. Urges China to Join Nuclear Arms Talks With Russia

GENEVA ( Reuters ) – The United States urged China on Tuesday to join trilateral nuclear arms talks with Moscow , calling Beijing 's secrecy around growing stockpiles a `` serious threat to strategic stability '' .
U.S. President Donald Trump said last year he had discussed a new accord on limiting nuclear arms with Russian President Vladimir Putin and hoped to extend that to China in what would be a major deal between the globe 's top three atomic powers .
But China has so far refused to take part .
`` We think , given the fact that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ double over the next ten years , now is the time to have that trilateral discussion , '' Robert Wood , U.S. disarmament ambassador , told reporters on the opening day of the U.N.-backed Conference on Disarmament in Geneva .
He said that Washington had discussed the potential trilateral talks in a security meeting with Russia last week and had reached an `` understanding '' about pursuing them .
`` We can not afford to wait , '' he added .
Asked how to go about pressuring Beijing to join , Wood said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , would help .
`` Hopefully over time and through the influence of others besides the United States , they ( China ) will come to the table .
We think it 's imperative for global security that the Chinese do that . ''
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said last week that Russia would take part in potential trilateral talks but that he `` wo n't force China to change '' its current position .
China has previously said its weapons were the `` lowest level '' of its national security needs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the United States .
The United Nations is seeking the total elimination of nuclear arms but talks have been deadlocked for more than 20 years .
Other talks between the five declared nuclear powers that have ratified the 1970 Non-Proliferation Treaty ( NPT ) – China , United States , Russia , France and the United Kingdom – are ongoing and a meeting is planned in London next month .
However , Wood said this was not the right framework for nuclear arms talks with Beijing .
In his speech , China @ @ @ @ @ @ @ refer to its own nuclear stockpiles but called for cooperation among nuclear powers and made a thinly-veiled swipe at the Trump administration .
Li called for a commitment to multilateralism , `` with no exceptions , least of all the big power which shoulders a special responsibility for international peace and security and who is not expected to play the role of a ‘ spoiler ' to our collective efforts and to withdraw from treaties '' .

By Emma Farge
GENEVA (Reuters) - The United States urged China on Tuesday to join trilateral nuclear arms talks with Moscow, calling Beijing's secrecy around growing stockpiles a "serious threat to strategic stability".
U.S. President Donald Trump said last year he had discussed a new accord on limiting nuclear arms with Russian President Vladimir Putin and hoped to extend that to China in what would be a major deal between the globe's top three atomic powers. But China has so far refused to take part.
"We think, given the fact that China's nuclear stockpile is estimated to double over the next ten years, now is the time to have that trilateral discussion," Robert Wood, U.S. disarmament ambassador, told reporters on the opening day of the U.N.-backed Conference on Disarmament in Geneva.
He said that Washington had discussed the potential trilateral talks in a security meeting with Russia last week and had reached an "understanding" about pursuing them. "We cannot afford to wait," he added.
Asked how to go about pressuring Beijing to join, Wood said that he hoped Russia, and others, would help. "Hopefully over time and through the influence of others besides the United States, they (China) will come to the table. We think it's imperative for global security that the Chinese do that."
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said last week that Russia would take part in potential trilateral talks but that he "won't force China to change" its current position.
China has previously said its weapons were the "lowest level" of its national security needs and not comparable to those of Russia and the United States.
The United Nations is seeking the total elimination of nuclear arms but talks have been deadlocked for more than 20 years.
Other talks between the five declared nuclear powers that have ratified the 1970 Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) - China, United States, Russia, France and the United Kingdom - are ongoing and a meeting is planned in London next month.
However, Wood said this was not the right framework for nuclear arms talks with Beijing.
In his speech, China's disarmament Ambassador Li Song did not refer to its own nuclear stockpiles but called for cooperation among nuclear powers and made a thinly-veiled swipe at the Trump administration.
Li called for a commitment to multilateralism, "with no exceptions, least of all the big power which shoulders a special responsibility for international peace and security and who is not expected to play the role of a 'spoiler' to our collective efforts and to withdraw from treaties".
(Additional reporting by Stephanie Nebehay and Maria Kiselyova in Moscow; editing by Mark Heinrich)


freebeacon--2020-01-21--‘Donald Trump’s Worst Nightmare’ Imprisoned in El Chapo’s Former Cell in Manhattan

Attorney Michael Avenatti , whom the media dubbed `` Donald Trump 's worst nightmare '' has been imprisoned in a New York cell once occupied by Mexican drug lord Joaquin `` El Chapo '' Guzman .
`` He is in a cell reportedly once occupied by El Chapo , on a floor that houses individuals charged with terrorism offenses , '' Avenatti ’ s attorney , Scott Srebnick , wrote in court filings he sent Monday night .
`` The temperature in his cell feels like it is in the mid-40s .
He is forced to sleep with three blankets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ having great difficulty functioning . ''
Srebnick argued to a judge that his client should be transferred from solitary confinement to the general prison population in order to better prepare for his trial .
He added that Avenatti is under constant surveillance in a lockdown 24 hours a day , with a guard standing outside his cell and two cameras watching him at all times .
Avenatti was transferred from federal custody in California to the Metropolitan Correctional Center in lower Manhattan last week .
Since his arrival at his new cell , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ calls and is unable to shave , according to the New York Post .
Avenatti rose to prominence as the lawyer for adult-film star Stormy Daniels , who claimed to have a nondisclosure agreement with President Donald Trump over a hush-money payment for an alleged affair in 2006 .
Daniels later dropped Avenatti as her attorney , claiming he forged her signature to obtain money due to her from the sales of her book .
Avenatti became a fervent critic of Trump while representing Daniels , frequently appearing on television .
He was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to give his commentary on how Trump was guilty of numerous crimes and would soon resign from office .
He also appeared on an array of comedy and daytime talk shows , where hosts often lavished praise on him .
Some members of the media even considered Avenatti as a viable presidential candidate against Trump in 2020 .
HBO host Bill Maher once described Avenatti `` Donald Trump 's worst nightmare . ''
His media appearances racked up hundreds of millions of dollars in free media .
A Washington Free Beacon supercut shows @ @ @ @ @ @ @ received before his legal troubles .
Avenatti was arrested last March on charges of extortion and fraud but was released on bail .
Last week , he was arrested and denied bail in California on charges that he hid and laundered money .
He faces charges of extorting Nike for $ 25 million .
The Metropolitan Correctional Center is also where multimillionaire pedophile Jeffrey Epstein was imprisoned until he died , reportedly by suicide .

Attorney Michael Avenatti, whom the media dubbed "Donald Trump's worst nightmare" has been imprisoned in a New York cell once occupied by Mexican drug lord Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman.
"He is in a cell reportedly once occupied by El Chapo, on a floor that houses individuals charged with terrorism offenses," Avenatti’s attorney, Scott Srebnick, wrote in court filings he sent Monday night. "The temperature in his cell feels like it is in the mid-40s. He is forced to sleep with three blankets. Not surprisingly, he has been having great difficulty functioning."
Srebnick argued to a judge that his client should be transferred from solitary confinement to the general prison population in order to better prepare for his trial. He added that Avenatti is under constant surveillance in a lockdown 24 hours a day, with a guard standing outside his cell and two cameras watching him at all times. Avenatti was transferred from federal custody in California to the Metropolitan Correctional Center in lower Manhattan last week. Since his arrival at his new cell, Avenatti has only been allowed two social calls and is unable to shave, according to the New York Post.
Avenatti rose to prominence as the lawyer for adult-film star Stormy Daniels, who claimed to have a nondisclosure agreement with President Donald Trump over a hush-money payment for an alleged affair in 2006. Daniels later dropped Avenatti as her attorney, claiming he forged her signature to obtain money due to her from the sales of her book.
Avenatti became a fervent critic of Trump while representing Daniels, frequently appearing on television. He was a near-daily guest on CNN and MSNBC to give his commentary on how Trump was guilty of numerous crimes and would soon resign from office. He also appeared on an array of comedy and daytime talk shows, where hosts often lavished praise on him. Some members of the media even considered Avenatti as a viable presidential candidate against Trump in 2020. HBO host Bill Maher once described Avenatti "Donald Trump's worst nightmare." His media appearances racked up hundreds of millions of dollars in free media.
A Washington Free Beacon supercut shows a sample of the fawning coverage Avenatti received before his legal troubles.
Avenatti was arrested last March on charges of extortion and fraud but was released on bail. Last week, he was arrested and denied bail in California on charges that he hid and laundered money. He faces charges of extorting Nike for $25 million.
The Metropolitan Correctional Center is also where multimillionaire pedophile Jeffrey Epstein was imprisoned until he died, reportedly by suicide.


Beacon Extra

Welcome to the Washington Free Beacon ’ s morning newsletter , your comprehensive briefing on the Enemies of Freedom .
To get this newsletter sent straight to your inbox every morning , sign up here .
STRONGER APART … `` Hillary Clinton in Full : A Fiery New Documentary , Trump Regrets and Harsh Words for Bernie : ‘ Nobody Likes Him ’ , '' via THR : In the doc , you 're brutally honest on [ Bernie ] Sanders : `` He was in Congress for years .
He had one senator support him .
Nobody likes him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he got nothing done .
He was a career politician .
It 's all just baloney and I feel so bad that people got sucked into it . ''
That assessment still hold ?
CLINTON : Yes , it does .
THR : If he gets the nomination , will you endorse and campaign for him ?
CLINTON : I 'm not going to go there yet .
We 're still in a very vigorous primary season .
I will say , however , that it 's not only him , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's his leadership team .
It 's his prominent supporters .
REVOLUTIONARY GROVELS BEFORE ESTABLISHMENT … `` Sanders apologizes to Biden for surrogate ’ s brutal op-ed , '' via POLITICO : `` Whether or not [ Joe ] Biden is making choices to please donors , there is no doubt his record represents the transactional , grossly corrupt culture in Washington that long precedes Trump , '' wrote Zephyr Teachout , a progressive law professor .
The op-ed , published in the Guardian , was pushed out by the [ Bernie ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Sanders told CBS News : `` It is absolutely not my view that Joe Biden is corrupt in any way .
And I ’ m sorry that that op-ed appeared . ''
THEN AGAIN , SHE ’ S USED TO PLEADING IGNORANCE ABOUT MEN BEHAVING BADLY … `` Hillary Clinton Pleads Ignorance About Harvey Weinstein Despite Multiple Warnings , '' by WFB ’ s Alex Griswold : `` How could we have known ? ''
Clinton said when asked by the Hollywood Reporter about her longstanding relationship with Weinstein .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Obamas , for Democrats in general … And of course , if all of us had known what we know now , it would have affected our behavior . ''
Several Hollywood insiders have said that the Clinton camp was well aware of his predatory behavior … Clinton 's professed ignorance also comes despite journalist Ronan Farrow 's claim that the failed candidate 's staff attempted to pressure him when he first began investigating Weinstein at NBC in 2017 .
AS MEDIA INSISTS VOTER FRAUD IS A MYTH … `` Non-U.S. citizens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' via HERALD-REVIEW : Five Republican Illinois House members are calling for an immediate hearing into the state 's automatic voter registration law after more than 500 non-U.S. citizens were inadvertently registered to vote because of a programming error in the secretary of state 's office .
`` This is an absurd lack of compliance with state law , surfacing less than three weeks from the opening of early voting for our state 's 2020 general primary election , '' the House members said in a letter dated Monday .
The letter , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ D. , Chicago ) and seeking a House executive committee hearing , came from GOP executive committee members .
IT ’ S NO GREEN ROOM … `` Michael Avenatti might be in El Chapo 's former jail cell—and it 's freezing , his attorneys say , '' via CNN : He is being held in New York 's Metropolitan Correction Center .
According to his attorneys ' letter to U.S. District Judge Paul G. Gardephe , Avenatti `` has been locked down for 24 hours a day , in solitary confinement , except @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
`` He is in a cell reportedly once occupied by El Chapo , on a floor that houses individuals charged with terrorism offenses , '' the letter reads .
ARE YOU TIRED OF WINNING YET ?
… `` Trump Lauds U.S. Economy as He Opens World Economic Forum , '' via WSJ : Hours before his impeachment trial was set to begin …It was a campaign-style address that appeared aimed as much at a U.S. re-election audience and the 100 senators who will act as jurors in his impeachment trial as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ business executives attending the World Economic Forum in this Swiss mountain resort … David McKay , chief executive of Royal Bank of Canada , said that , based on his meetings in Davos so far , business leaders shared [ President ] Trump ’ s optimism .
`` There ’ s a general positivity about economic opportunity in the U.S. , '' Mr. McKay said .
CHILL , GRETA , CHILL … `` Trump and the Teenager : A Climate Showdown at Davos , '' via NYT : [ President ] Trump implicitly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ activists , saying they peddled warnings of doom at a time when his policies had ushered in a bright new era of economic prosperity for Americans .
`` They are the heirs of yesterday ’ s foolish fortune tellers , '' the president said .
`` They predicted an overpopulation crisis in the 1960s , a mass starvation in the 70s , and an end of oil in the 1990s . ''
SEND THE BOMBERS … `` Iran Has Spies Across U.S. , Officials Warn , After Tehran Posts $ 3M Bounty on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Adam Kredo : Following Iran 's announcement of a three-million dollar bounty for the assassination of President Donald Trump , U.S. officials and terrorism experts are warning that Tehran has significantly expanded its terror capabilities in America , potentially allowing the Islamic Republic to conduct a domestic attack … The bounty is the latest in a series of increasingly direct threats by Tehran .
It has renewed concerns about the Islamic Republic 's vast terrorism network , which stretches into the continental United States , U.S. officials and experts told the Washington Free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ AT HOME … `` CNN Brings on Hard-hitting White House Correspondent to Join Jim Acosta , '' by WFB ’ s David Rutz : [ John ] Harwood is a well-sourced veteran of Washington who can appeal to the leading experts for their insights .
For instance , on Sept. 21 , 2015 , Harwood emailed Hillary Clinton campaign chairman John Podesta for advice on what to ask Jeb Bush during their interview the following day .
Incredible access !
Six days later , he showed off his forward-thinking journalism and political prophecy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jake Sullivan that he could n't believe `` that some people still think it 's worth burning so much interview time with person most likely to be next president on her email . ''
He was so right ; Hillary Clinton very nearly became the president !
HOW DO THEY HANDLE AIRPORTS … `` ‘ Chilling ’ : Reporters Whine About Going Through Metal Detector To Cover Impeachment Trial , '' via DAILY CALLER : New York Times White House correspondent and CNN political analyst Michael D. Shear called the arrangements an `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Kansas City Star Washington correspondent Byron Lowry claimed the metal detectors were `` not for security but meant solely to prevent people from tweeting or filing stories during the trial . ''
DIOS MIO … `` Warren Turns Back on ‘ Latinx ’ in Major Campaign Departure , '' by WFB ’ s Collin Anderson : [ Elizabeth ] Warren has consistently used `` Latinx '' in favor of the gender-specific alternatives `` Latino '' and `` Latina . ''
… But Warren bucked the trend Tuesday when she released her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' plan … Though only 2 percent of America 's Latinos prefer the term , progressive activists began using it as a way to refer to all people of Latin American descent without excluding people who identify as neither male nor female .
SOME REAL NEWS FOR A CHANGE … `` WATCH : Here ’ s What Happened at the Richmond Gun-Rights Rally , '' by WFB Staff : Demonstrators held signs displaying phrases like , `` Gun rights are women 's rights , '' `` We will not comply , '' and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be able to protect their marijuana plants with guns . ''
Stephen Gutowski , who was on the scene for his Free Beacon-presented YouTube show Range Time , said he was struck by the size of the rally and noted the absence of violence , white supremacist agitation , or even counter-protesters : `` All we had were people from Virginia here to support their right to bear arms . ''
DAYS SINCE JOE BIDEN DID A SUNDAY SHOW : 1,137 .
Come back , Joe !
`` You know who really doesn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
—Former President Barack Obama Thanks for reading !
Send tips to rutz @ freebeacon.com .

Welcome to the Washington Free Beacon’s morning newsletter, your comprehensive briefing on the Enemies of Freedom. To get this newsletter sent straight to your inbox every morning, sign up here.
MENSHEVIKS PREPARE FOR LAST STAND … "Democratic Leaders Willing to Risk Party Damage to Stop Bernie Sanders," via NYT: Since Mr. Sanders’s victory in Nevada’s caucuses on Saturday, the Times has interviewed 93 party officials—all of them superdelegates … and found overwhelming opposition to handing the Vermont senator the nomination if he arrived with the most delegates but fell short of a majority …
Since Mr. Sanders won Nevada’s caucuses on Saturday, four donors have approached former representative Steve Israel of New York to ask if he can suggest someone to run a super PAC aimed at blocking Mr. Sanders. He declined their offer.
THE NEW NEW DEMOCRATS … "2020 Dem Plans Reflect Party of the ‘Professional Class’," by WFB’s Charles Fain Lehman: The [Manhattan Institute] report examines the distributive impacts of major proposals, including Medicare for All, student debt forgiveness, and the repeal of key components of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA). It argues that while Democratic candidates talk big about supporting workers and the poor, these programs primarily serve the interests of the wealthy …
Long branded as representatives of the working class, the Democratic Party has come to appeal primarily to the college-educated, often affluent residents of urban America, data indicate.
MIKE GOT IT DONE … "Bloomberg Locked Up Nearly Half a Million People on Marijuana Charges," by WFB’s Yuichiro Kakutani: The administrations of [Michael] Bloomberg's three predecessors … collectively arrested 226,000 people, or 25 people daily, for the same charge over a 24-year period between 1978 and 2001. During Bloomberg's tenure, approximately 471,000 people were arrested on possession charges …
The possession arrests for Bloomberg's tenure peaked in 2011 when the police hauled in more than 50,000 New Yorkers.
DOWNLOAD UNAVAILABLE IN WISCONSIN … "Coming to a podcast near you: Hillary Clinton," via POLITICO: The former first lady, secretary of State, and 2016 Democratic presidential nominee is planning to launch a new audio program in late spring, just in time for her to have a powerful new megaphone during the 2020 election …
Clinton’s show will feature her in conversation with a brand-name guest, who might be drawn from world leaders and politicians, of course, but also celebrities, authors and perhaps famous chefs.
BOOK THROWN … "Former Baltimore Mayor Catherine Pugh sentenced to 3 years for ‘Healthy Holly’ children’s book fraud scheme," via BALTIMORE SUN: [Pugh] told reporters: "This is not the last you’ll see of Catherine Pugh" …
Pugh’s political fall began in March when the Baltimore Sun revealed she had entered into a no-bid deal with the University of Maryland Medical System, where Pugh sat on the board of directors, to buy 100,000 copies of her sloppily self-published "Healthy Holly" books for $500,000.
YANG HOLDS OUT FOR BETTER OFFER … "Michael Bloomberg’s Campaign Sought Andrew Yang’s Backing, Floated Vice- Presidential Slot," via WSJ: Aides to the former New York City mayor reached out to discuss ways the two entrepreneurs-turned-politicians could work together as Mr. Bloomberg seeks the Democratic nomination, these people said.
Mr. Yang, who dropped out of the race earlier this month, didn’t commit to join forces, as he considers his own political future, a third person familiar with the discussions said.
NO SURRENDER … "Congressional Republicans Warn Trump Against Inking Peace Deal With Taliban," by WFB’s Adam Kredo: The lawmakers … are demanding they receive assurances the administration "will not place the security of the American people into the hands of the Taliban" …
The lawmakers are also demanding the release of so-called secret annexes in the draft agreement that they claim establish a set of unknown side deals with the Taliban, a move reminiscent of the Obama administration's secret agreements with Iran when the Iran nuclear deal was being negotiated.
TEHRAN MARY … "Iran Vice President Is One of 7 Officials to Contract Coronavirus," via NYT: The disclosure came a day after a cabinet meeting in which she was in close contact with other government leaders, including [Hassan] Rouhani. A photo posted by a BBC Persia reporter on Twitter showed she had been sitting a few yards from the president.
[Masoumeh] Ebtekar, one of four vice presidents, was known to Americans as "Mary" during the Tehran hostage crisis four decades ago, when, as a young revolutionary, she was a spokeswoman for the captors of the 52 Americans held at the United States Embassy.
PICTURE OF COWARDICE … "Sony World Photography Awards Removes Hong Kong Protest Images," via HYPERALLERGIC: Since pro-democracy protests prompted by the Hong Kong government’s now-scrapped extradition bill erupted across the city in spring 2019, China has tightened its grip on the media …
Now, some speculate WPO yielded to pressure from China to take down the photographs, especially because other entries featuring arguably graphic or politically sensitive content have not faced a similar fate in past competitions.
THE REAL VICTIMS … "Mark Halperin Says Murderers Are Treated More Fairly Than Canceled People," via MOTHER JONES: "I haven’t had a job interview in two years," Halperin said, adding that he has applied to work at restaurants and Target, trying to get health insurance for his three-year-old son …
When [asked to] differentiate between appropriate and inappropriate ways that he had been held accountable for his behavior … he said victims deserve "top priority" but complained again that there isn’t a mechanism for reintegrating canceled people.
THIS IS CNN … "Sasse Criticizes CNN for Referring to a Baby as a ‘Fetus That Was Born’," via CNN: "The Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act is about babies who have already been born," [Sen. Ben] Sasse said to the Washington Free Beacon. "I’m glad CNN finally made the correction, but there’s no reason this needed to take two days. Planned Parenthood desperately wants to misrepresent this bipartisan, pro-babies bill, and unfortunately too many reporters have bought their spin hook, line, and sinker."
PUNK IS DEAD … "Billy Idol is helping de Blasio take on idling cars in new campaign," via NY POST: Billy Idol has a new Rebel Yell: helping Mayor Bill de Blasio fight fume-spewing vehicles that idle on Big Apple streets …
The campaign will also publicize the city’s 2018 "Citizens Air Complaint Program," where individuals who see a bus or delivery truck idling for longer than four minutes can file a complaint and collect a 25 percent bounty off the fine, worth $87.50.
"The First Postmodern Pandemic," via WFB’s Matthew Continetti: We were better off when the media focused on impeachment. Now that it is interested in coronavirus, a familiar pattern will set in. Data will be publicized without the slightest sense of proportion. The most outrageous scenarios will receive the most attention. Speculation will be paraded as fact …
The Washington Post transcribes Democratic Party talking points when it suggests Vice President Mike Pence is incapable of overseeing the government's efforts because he opposes needle-sharing programs. Among the reasons [President Donald] Trump is said to have weakened public health? He defunded Planned Parenthood.
Thanks for reading! Send tips to rutz@freebeacon.com.


freebeacon--2020-01-22--Government Union Reports Sharp Decline in Political Spending

One of the country 's top labor unions cut its political spending in union stronghold Oregon after seeing dues drop by $ 2 million , according to its annual report .
Oregon 's Service Employees International Union ( SEIU ) chapter reported just $ 1.6 million in political activities and lobbying in its 2019 report , down over $ 500,000 from 2018 .
The decline in political spending reflects the union 's struggle to maintain its membership after the Supreme Court banned mandatory fees in the 2018 Janus decision .
Dues fell by $ 2 million in the first year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ political influence reflects century-low union membership , undermining big labor 's longstanding support for Democratic candidates and left-wing political advocacy groups .
SEIU 's Oregon chapter has slashed its political spending by more than 60 percent since 2017 , when it spent $ 4.1 million .
The steep drop was not limited to Oregon .
SEIU , one of the Democratic Party 's largest donors , spent less than $ 45 million nationally on political activities and lobbying in 2018 , down from $ 60 million in 2016 .
`` The unions are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are losing members , money , and political clout , but the numbers do n't lie , '' said Ashley Varner , spokeswoman for Washington state think tank Freedom Foundation .
`` Fewer union members means smaller coffers to spend on buying politicians and influencing public policy . ''
Neither SEIU nor its Oregon chapter returned requests for comment .
Organized labor 's political spending has not always reflected its members ' voting habits .
Hillary Clinton won union voters in 2016 by the narrowest margin of any Democrat since 1984 , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Despite this partisan divide among members , 99 percent of all union political contributions since 2010 have gone to Democratic causes .
The National Right to Work Foundation , which successfully argued the Janus case , said the Supreme Court 's decision has forced unions to reconsider how they spend workers ' money .
`` For years government union bosses across the country played politics with workers ' money , even though many of the radical policies and candidates they backed were opposed by many of the rank-and-file workers they claimed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Now that their legal power to threaten public employees to pay up or be fired has been eliminated , union officials must refocus on representing the interests of actual workers or risk alienating more workers who are now free to cut off their political support . ''
Top Democrats and labor leaders have rushed to bolster union membership and political influence in response .
In many Democrat-controlled states , including Oregon , new legislation aims to unionize workers without their knowledge and allow unions to collect workaround fees from nonmembers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the Education and Labor Committee have pushed the Protecting the Right to Organize Act , a union wishlist bill that outlaws secret ballot elections and gives unions the ability to force objecting employees to pay for representation .
Leading Democratic presidential candidates have also gone to great lengths to woo organized labor .
Former vice president Joe Biden and Sens .
Bernie Sanders ( I. , Vt. ) and Elizabeth Warren ( D. , Mass . )
all released big labor-backed plans to revive the country 's struggling unions , with Sanders @ @ @ @ @ @

One of the country's top labor unions cut its political spending in union stronghold Oregon after seeing dues drop by $2 million, according to its annual report.
Oregon's Service Employees International Union (SEIU) chapter reported just $1.6 million in political activities and lobbying in its 2019 report, down over $500,000 from 2018. The decline in political spending reflects the union's struggle to maintain its membership after the Supreme Court banned mandatory fees in the 2018 Janus decision. Dues fell by $2 million in the first year after the ruling.
SEIU's waning political influence reflects century-low union membership, undermining big labor's longstanding support for Democratic candidates and left-wing political advocacy groups. SEIU's Oregon chapter has slashed its political spending by more than 60 percent since 2017, when it spent $4.1 million. The steep drop was not limited to Oregon. SEIU, one of the Democratic Party's largest donors, spent less than $45 million nationally on political activities and lobbying in 2018, down from $60 million in 2016.
"The unions are trying to hide the fact that they are losing members, money, and political clout, but the numbers don't lie," said Jason Dudash, Oregon state director for the think tank Freedom Foundation. "Fewer union members means smaller coffers to spend on buying politicians and influencing public policy."
Neither SEIU nor its Oregon chapter returned requests for comment.
Organized labor's political spending has not always reflected its members' voting habits. Hillary Clinton won union voters in 2016 by the narrowest margin of any Democrat since 1984, with nearly half of union households voting Republican. Despite this partisan divide among members, 99 percent of all union political contributions since 2010 have gone to Democratic causes. The National Right to Work Foundation, which successfully argued the Janus case, said the Supreme Court's decision has forced unions to reconsider how they spend workers' money.
"For years government union bosses across the country played politics with workers' money, even though many of the radical policies and candidates they backed were opposed by many of the rank-and-file workers they claimed to represent," spokesman Patrick Semmens said. "Now that their legal power to threaten public employees to pay up or be fired has been eliminated, union officials must refocus on representing the interests of actual workers or risk alienating more workers who are now free to cut off their political support."
Top Democrats and labor leaders have rushed to bolster union membership and political influence in response.
In many Democrat-controlled states, including Oregon, new legislation aims to unionize workers without their knowledge and allow unions to collect workaround fees from nonmembers. At the federal level, House Democrats on the Education and Labor Committee have pushed the Protecting the Right to Organize Act, a union wishlist bill that outlaws secret ballot elections and gives unions the ability to force objecting employees to pay for representation.
Leading Democratic presidential candidates have also gone to great lengths to woo organized labor. Former vice president Joe Biden and Sens. Bernie Sanders (I., Vt.) and Elizabeth Warren (D., Mass.) all released big labor-backed plans to revive the country's struggling unions, with Sanders aiming to double union membership.


freebeacon--2020-01-22--Montana Moms Fight For Religious Schools

A group of Montana mothers will take their religious discrimination battle to the Supreme Court on Wednesday in a landmark case that could affect millions of schoolchildren .
Teresa Schmit was relieved when Montana state lawmakers passed a tax break for private school donations in 2015 .
Schmit works two days a week as a counselor , while her husband works full-time at an engineering firm , to send their eight children to Catholic schools .
Still , the family 's combined income can not cover the tuition of even one of their children .
`` All of the money @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Schmit told the Washington Free Beacon .
The family relies on private scholarships to cover the difference and hoped the credit for donors would expand such opportunities .
Schmit did not count on Montana 's Blaine Amendment , which prohibits state and local governments from giving aid to `` sectarian schools . ''
The state supreme court cited the provision , which is historically linked to , to strike down the program .
On Wednesday , the Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in Espinoza v. Montana Department of Revenue to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from applying to scholarships at religious schools while making the credits available to similar secular institutions .
The decision could affect the 4 million students who attend religiously affiliated private schools .
The case could mark a turning point for the state of religious freedom in the country .
If the Supreme Court strikes down Montana ’ s Blaine Amendment , it could open up constitutional challenges to similar provisions enshrined in the constitutions of 37 other states .
The parents argue that the state court ’ s decision effectively discriminates against people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a widely available public program solely because of their religious beliefs .
`` I have a stake in this because I want to support my children through private education , '' said Christi Rudolph , a Montana native and divorced mother of two .
`` But the bigger thing is the families that are going to come behind me .
I believe every single parent should have an educational choice if they choose to opt out of their public school system . ''
For many Montanans , the case is not just about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ line that restricts their educational choices .
For the Schmit family , every bit of additional scholarship aid helps .
`` For one kid ’ s education , we would n't be able to put groceries on the table .
We would n't be able to pay our mortgage .
So , if it was n't for the scholarship , you know , I actually do n't know what we would do , '' Schmit said .
The Supreme Court previously heard a similar case concerning a Missouri program that denied improvement grants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lutheran Church of Columbia , Inc. v. Comer , the Court ruled 7-2 that the state violated the First Amendment by excluding parochial schools from a neutral education program .
The majority emphasized that its decision was limited to the improvement project , rather than `` funding or other forms of discrimination . ''
If the Supreme Court decides to reinstate the tax credit program , the ruling could motivate states to provide even more support for religious schools , expanding access for students across the country , according to Dr. Tim Uhl @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` If we throw out the Blaine Amendment then suddenly we 're going to have a radical transformation of school funding , '' Uhl said .
`` We 're going to have a radical change in potential for different states… .
That 's really what 's at stake . ''
Oral arguments are scheduled to begin at 10 a.m .

A group of Montana mothers will take their religious discrimination battle to the Supreme Court on Wednesday in a landmark case that could affect millions of schoolchildren.
Teresa Schmit was relieved when Montana state lawmakers passed a tax break for private school donations in 2015. Schmit works two days a week as a counselor, while her husband works full-time at an engineering firm, to send their eight children to Catholic schools. Still, the family's combined income cannot cover the tuition of even one of their children.
"All of the money we have we put toward their education," Schmit told the Washington Free Beacon.
The family relies on private scholarships to cover the difference and hoped the credit for donors would expand such opportunities. Schmit did not count on Montana's Blaine Amendment, which prohibits state and local governments from giving aid to "sectarian schools." The state supreme court cited the provision, which is historically linked to anti-Catholic sentiments in the late 19th century , to strike down the program.
On Wednesday, the Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in Espinoza v. Montana Department of Revenue to determine whether states can prohibit tax credits from applying to scholarships at religious schools while making the credits available to similar secular institutions. The decision could affect the 4 million students who attend religiously affiliated private schools. The case could mark a turning point for the state of religious freedom in the country. If the Supreme Court strikes down Montana’s Blaine Amendment, it could open up constitutional challenges to similar provisions enshrined in the constitutions of 37 other states.
The parents argue that the state court’s decision effectively discriminates against people of faith by denying them access to a widely available public program solely because of their religious beliefs.
"I have a stake in this because I want to support my children through private education," said Christi Rudolph, a Montana native and divorced mother of two. "But the bigger thing is the families that are going to come behind me. I believe every single parent should have an educational choice if they choose to opt out of their public school system."
For many Montanans, the case is not just about larger constitutional principles but the financial bottom line that restricts their educational choices. For the Schmit family, every bit of additional scholarship aid helps.
"For one kid’s education, we wouldn't be able to put groceries on the table. We wouldn't be able to pay our mortgage. So, if it wasn't for the scholarship, you know, I actually don't know what we would do," Schmit said.
The Supreme Court previously heard a similar case concerning a Missouri program that denied improvement grants to a religious school. In Trinity Lutheran Church of Columbia, Inc. v. Comer, the Court ruled 7-2 that the state violated the First Amendment by excluding parochial schools from a neutral education program. The majority emphasized that its decision was limited to the improvement project, rather than "funding or other forms of discrimination."
If the Supreme Court decides to reinstate the tax credit program, the ruling could motivate states to provide even more support for religious schools, expanding access for students across the country, according to Dr. Tim Uhl, superintendent of Montana Catholic Schools.
"If we throw out the Blaine Amendment then suddenly we're going to have a radical transformation of school funding," Uhl said. "We're going to have a radical change in potential for different states.... That's really what's at stake."
Oral arguments are scheduled to begin at 10 a.m.


Beacon Extra 1/21/20

Welcome to the Washington Free Beacon ’ s morning newsletter , your comprehensive briefing on the Enemies of Freedom .
To get this newsletter sent straight to your inbox every morning , sign up here .
FIGHTING NORTHAM AGGRESSION … `` Thousands Peacefully Protest For Gun Rights in Richmond , '' by WFB ’ s Stephen Gutowski : The event ’ s peaceful procession marked a stark contrast to mainstream media portrayals of a rally filled with white nationalists and others prepared to do violence .
The day ’ s rally concluded without a single incidence of mayhem or civil @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rights constrained in one way—a Friday evening order from the state supreme court left in place Governor Ralph Northam 's ( D. ) ban on carrying firearms in the area around the state capitol .
The [ Virginia Citizens Defense League ] , which had brought suit to try to enjoin the order , told its supporters over the weekend to abide by Northam 's decision .
HIDE YOUR STAPLERS … `` Amy Klobuchar desperately wants an Iowa moment .
Impeachment is getting in the way.
, '' via WAPO : `` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to have to be leaving actually tomorrow night and going back to the impeachment hearing , '' Klobuchar said , as she opened her event [ in Waukee ] before about 150 voters .
`` We get a lot of questions about , well , how are you going to keep running ?
I always tell people that I 'm a mom and I can do two things at once . ''
But you couldn ’ t miss the disappointment in Klobuchar ’ s voice .
The impeachment trial comes as things @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way .
MORONS FOR HILLARY … `` Fans give up Social Security numbers to hear Hillary Clinton speak , '' via PAGE SIX : Clinton was hawking her new Hulu docuseries `` Hillary '' with a speech at the Langham Huntington hotel in Pasadena , Calif. , and we ’ re told , `` Everyone had to give Social Security numbers to get in !
It was the only way to get in . ''
… Clinton attended with her former top aide Huma Abedin .
SEND THE BOMBERS … `` Iran Threatens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' by WFB ’ s Adam Kredo : Iranian leaders are threatening to sever their country ’ s cooperation with international nuclear inspectors tasked with ensuring the Islamic Republic does not resume its secretive work on a nuclear weapon .
As the United States and Europe tighten the economic noose on Iran ’ s economy , Iran has significantly scaled back its commitment to the landmark nuclear accord .
In addition to resuming the enrichment of uranium , the key component in a nuclear weapon , Tehran has signaled that it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
HE ’ LL BLEND … `` As his impeachment trial consumes Washington , Trump heads to Davos , '' via NBC NEWS : [ President ] Trump is scheduled to land Tuesday in Davos , where he will speak before a group of executives , financiers , and foreign dignitaries at the World Economic Forum just hours before the Senate is set to begin the first full day of his impeachment trial .
He is also expected to hold a series of meetings with world leaders over the next two days , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ developments in real time from across the Atlantic Ocean .
The platform will give Trump the chance to tout U.S. economic growth and recent trade deals with China and Mexico , elements his campaign views as key to his re-election bid .
MEDIA LAMENTS LACK OF VIOLENCE … `` Virginia Second Amendment rally proves the media hate gun owners , '' via EXAMINER : It 's not hard to read between the lines of the Washington Post 's coverage : `` Chants of ‘ U-S-A , U-S-A ' broke out every few minutes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no signs of violence or conflict with law enforcement officers . ''
… We know that the media smear marches they hate .
It was one year ago that the Washington Post and other outlets recklessly and falsely cast a crew of Catholic schoolboys in MAGA hats as nasty racists .
FAKING NEWS … `` MSNBC Anchor : White Nationalists ‘ Swarming ’ VA State Capitol , '' by WFB ’ s Cameron Cawthorne : `` Right now thousands of gun rights activists , white nationalists , militia groups—all swarming the Virginia state @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] Melvin said following a `` breaking news '' alert … The rally `` is not organized by racists and they wo n't be in any way a significant portion of the attendees , '' Washington Free Beacon staff writer Stephen Gutowski said .
I HAVE A NIGHTMARE … `` Yale Taps BDS Activist as MLK Day Speaker , '' by WFB ’ s Adam Kredo : Yale selected prominent black power movement leader Angela Davis to speak at its MLK Day commemoration event on Thursday .
Davis is an outspoken supporter of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ movement , which wages economic warfare on Israel .
Davis also has faced accusations of anti-Semitism for her support of the Soviet Union 's suppression of Jewish dissidents … The promotion of BDS at U.S. colleges has long been a focal point in the pro-Israel community 's efforts to combat growing anti-Semitism on campus , an issue that has received renewed scrutiny in the wake of several violent attacks on Jews across the country .
WHY CHOOSE ONE WHEN WE CAN HAVE ALL THREE … `` THE ENDORSEMENT : Melania and Ivanka Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ WFB Staff : Endorsing a candidate for First Lady not named Trump would , in our esteemed estimation , be an exercise in futility .
Melania , the incumbent , has demonstrated a commanding grace and sense of style that Americans of all genders can admire .
The success of her `` Be Best '' initiative has shattered the toxic stereotypes perpetuated by her predecessor , Michelle Obama .
Being FLOTUS can and should involve more than simply lecturing children about vegetables and planting a garden in your backyard .
Ivanka Trump would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the highest female office in the land … One day , God willing , Ivanka will prove Sen. Bernie Sanders ( I. , Vt. ) wrong once and for all by demonstrating that , yes , a woman can become president .
DAYS SINCE JOE BIDEN DID A SUNDAY SHOW : 1,136 .
Come back , Joe !
`` You know who really doesn ’ t have it ?
Joe Biden . ''
—Former President Barack Obama Thanks for reading !
Send tips to rutz @ freebeacon.com .

Welcome to the Washington Free Beacon’s morning newsletter, your comprehensive briefing on the Enemies of Freedom. To get this newsletter sent straight to your inbox every morning, sign up here.
FIGHTING NORTHAM AGGRESSION … "Thousands Peacefully Protest For Gun Rights in Richmond," by WFB’s Stephen Gutowski: The event’s peaceful procession marked a stark contrast to mainstream media portrayals of a rally filled with white nationalists and others prepared to do violence. The day’s rally concluded without a single incidence of mayhem or civil unrest …
Attendees did find their gun rights constrained in one way—a Friday evening order from the state supreme court left in place Governor Ralph Northam's (D.) ban on carrying firearms in the area around the state capitol. The [Virginia Citizens Defense League], which had brought suit to try to enjoin the order, told its supporters over the weekend to abide by Northam's decision.
HIDE YOUR STAPLERS … "Amy Klobuchar desperately wants an Iowa moment. Impeachment is getting in the way.," via WAPO: "I think you all know that I'm going to have to be leaving actually tomorrow night and going back to the impeachment hearing," Klobuchar said, as she opened her event [in Waukee] before about 150 voters. "We get a lot of questions about, well, how are you going to keep running? I always tell people that I'm a mom and I can do two things at once."
But you couldn’t miss the disappointment in Klobuchar’s voice. The impeachment trial comes as things have finally seemed to be going her way.
MORONS FOR HILLARY … "Fans give up Social Security numbers to hear Hillary Clinton speak," via PAGE SIX: Clinton was hawking her new Hulu docuseries "Hillary" with a speech at the Langham Huntington hotel in Pasadena, Calif., and we’re told, "Everyone had to give Social Security numbers to get in! It was the only way to get in." …
Clinton attended with her former top aide Huma Abedin.
SEND THE BOMBERS … "Iran Threatens to End Cooperation With International Nuclear Inspectors," by WFB’s Adam Kredo: Iranian leaders are threatening to sever their country’s cooperation with international nuclear inspectors tasked with ensuring the Islamic Republic does not resume its secretive work on a nuclear weapon.
As the United States and Europe tighten the economic noose on Iran’s economy, Iran has significantly scaled back its commitment to the landmark nuclear accord. In addition to resuming the enrichment of uranium, the key component in a nuclear weapon, Tehran has signaled that it is picking back up its nuclear bomb work.
HE’LL BLEND … "As his impeachment trial consumes Washington, Trump heads to Davos," via NBC NEWS: [President] Trump is scheduled to land Tuesday in Davos, where he will speak before a group of executives, financiers, and foreign dignitaries at the World Economic Forum just hours before the Senate is set to begin the first full day of his impeachment trial. He is also expected to hold a series of meetings with world leaders over the next two days, where he can respond to the impeachment developments in real time from across the Atlantic Ocean.
The platform will give Trump the chance to tout U.S. economic growth and recent trade deals with China and Mexico, elements his campaign views as key to his re-election bid.
MEDIA LAMENTS LACK OF VIOLENCE … "Virginia Second Amendment rally proves the media hate gun owners," via EXAMINER: It's not hard to read between the lines of the Washington Post's coverage: "Chants of 'U-S-A, U-S-A' broke out every few minutes, but by 10:15 a.m. there were no signs of violence or conflict with law enforcement officers." …
We know that the media smear marches they hate. It was one year ago that the Washington Post and other outlets recklessly and falsely cast a crew of Catholic schoolboys in MAGA hats as nasty racists.
FAKING NEWS … "MSNBC Anchor: White Nationalists ‘Swarming’ VA State Capitol," by WFB’s Cameron Cawthorne: "Right now thousands of gun rights activists, white nationalists, militia groups—all swarming the Virginia state capitol in Richmond," [Craig] Melvin said following a "breaking news" alert …
The rally "is not organized by racists and they won't be in any way a significant portion of the attendees," Washington Free Beacon staff writer Stephen Gutowski said.
I HAVE A NIGHTMARE … "Yale Taps BDS Activist as MLK Day Speaker," by WFB’s Adam Kredo: Yale selected prominent black power movement leader Angela Davis to speak at its MLK Day commemoration event on Thursday. Davis is an outspoken supporter of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement, which wages economic warfare on Israel. Davis also has faced accusations of anti-Semitism for her support of the Soviet Union's suppression of Jewish dissidents …
The promotion of BDS at U.S. colleges has long been a focal point in the pro-Israel community's efforts to combat growing anti-Semitism on campus, an issue that has received renewed scrutiny in the wake of several violent attacks on Jews across the country.
WHY CHOOSE ONE WHEN WE CAN HAVE ALL THREE … "THE ENDORSEMENT: Melania and Ivanka Trump (and Tiffany)," by WFB Staff: Endorsing a candidate for First Lady not named Trump would, in our esteemed estimation, be an exercise in futility. Melania, the incumbent, has demonstrated a commanding grace and sense of style that Americans of all genders can admire. The success of her "Be Best" initiative has shattered the toxic stereotypes perpetuated by her predecessor, Michelle Obama. Being FLOTUS can and should involve more than simply lecturing children about vegetables and planting a garden in your backyard.
Ivanka Trump would also be a fabulous choice to serve in the highest female office in the land … One day, God willing, Ivanka will prove Sen. Bernie Sanders (I., Vt.) wrong once and for all by demonstrating that, yes, a woman can become president.
DAYS SINCE JOE BIDEN DID A SUNDAY SHOW: 1,136. Come back, Joe!
"You know who really doesn’t have it? Joe Biden." —Former President Barack Obama
Thanks for reading! Send tips to rutz@freebeacon.com.


freebeacon--2020-01-23--Soros Group Spends Record $48 Million on Lobbying in 2019

An advocacy group funded by liberal billionaire George Soros spent a record amount on lobbying in 2019 , filings show .
The Open Society Policy Center ( OSPC ) , a D.C.-based nonprofit that has pushed funds toward advocacy that includes making gun companies liable for crimes committed with firearms , fighting Trump judicial nominations , and on issues related to immigration enforcement , dropped $ 24 million into lobbying efforts during the fourth quarter of 2019 , disclosures filed Monday show .
The money is the most the group has ever spent in a three-month span and propelled the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to date .
Soros 's lobbying shop has now poured nearly $ 100 million into advocacy efforts since President Donald Trump took office— $ 40 million more than it spent over the previous 14 years combined .
OSPC ranked as a top-three spender , ahead of corporate giants Amazon , Facebook , Boeing , and Alphabet in recent years .
The explosion in lobbying cash shows the extent the financier 's group is devoted to pushing back against the administration and bolstering the efforts of other progressive advocacy groups that are resisting the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which acts as the advocacy arm to the Open Society Foundations network , uses two in-house lobbyists .
The group also gives grants to like-minded groups for their own lobbying activities .
The group pushed nearly $ 24.5 million into such activities between Jan. 1 and Sept. 30 , 2019 .
Some of that money went toward an effort to repeal an act protecting firearm manufacturers from liability for gun crimes .
During the fourth quarter , which runs from Oct. 1 to Dec. 31 , the group lobbied the House of Representatives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Act 2020 , the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 , and issues related to national security powers , its new form shows .
Lobbying reports only list the issue being advocated and do not disclose exactly what the groups are pushing .
More than $ 20 million was passed to dozens of liberal groups for their own lobbying efforts and organizational support throughout the year .
The groups that receive the grants are active in pushing back against policies such as the repeal of Obamacare and President Trump 's tax @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for example , grants of at least $ 1 million were made to the Sixteen Thirty Fund , Community Change Action , Emgage Action , Indivisible Project , Tides Advocacy , and Virginia New Majority , according to the group ’ s website .
Money was also passed to liberal activist groups to support policy efforts on immigration , sexual health and rights , government accountability , and environmental policy , among other initiatives .
Its fourth-quarter grants are not yet publicly posted .
The OSPC spent a total of $ 48.42 million @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Too often , powerful corporate interests have a seat at the table in Washington , while workers , consumers , and patients are excluded from the political process , '' said Tom Perriello , executive director of the OSPC .
`` OSPC 's grantees help give voice to those who need to be heard at this unprecedented moment in America .
We are proud to do our part , along with our grantees , to stand against hate , bigotry , and anti-Semitism ; corporate greed ; presidential overreach and more .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 96 million into advocacy efforts since Trump was sworn into office .
The OSPC reported spending a combined total of $ 56.65 million from 2002 to 2016 , nearly $ 40 million less than it spent in the three years since the start of the Trump presidency .

An advocacy group funded by liberal billionaire George Soros spent a record amount on lobbying in 2019, filings show.
The Open Society Policy Center (OSPC), a D.C.-based nonprofit that has pushed funds toward advocacy that includes making gun companies liable for crimes committed with firearms, fighting Trump judicial nominations, and on issues related to immigration enforcement, dropped $24 million into lobbying efforts during the fourth quarter of 2019, disclosures filed Monday show. The money is the most the group has ever spent in a three-month span and propelled the group to its highest annual lobbying totals to date.
Soros's lobbying shop has now poured nearly $100 million into advocacy efforts since President Donald Trump took office—$40 million more than it spent over the previous 14 years combined. OSPC ranked as a top-three spender, ahead of corporate giants Amazon, Facebook, Boeing, and Alphabet in recent years. The explosion in lobbying cash shows the extent the financier's group is devoted to pushing back against the administration and bolstering the efforts of other progressive advocacy groups that are resisting the president's agenda.
The OSPC, which acts as the advocacy arm to the Open Society Foundations network, uses two in-house lobbyists. The group also gives grants to like-minded groups for their own lobbying activities.
The group pushed nearly $24.5 million into such activities between Jan. 1 and Sept. 30, 2019. Some of that money went toward an effort to repeal an act protecting firearm manufacturers from liability for gun crimes. During the fourth quarter, which runs from Oct. 1 to Dec. 31, the group lobbied the House of Representatives and Senate on the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act 2020, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020, and issues related to national security powers, its new form shows. Lobbying reports only list the issue being advocated and do not disclose exactly what the groups are pushing.
More than $20 million was passed to dozens of liberal groups for their own lobbying efforts and organizational support throughout the year. The groups that receive the grants are active in pushing back against policies such as the repeal of Obamacare and President Trump's tax cuts.
During the third quarter, for example, grants of at least $1 million were made to the Sixteen Thirty Fund, Community Change Action, Emgage Action, Indivisible Project, Tides Advocacy, and Virginia New Majority, according to the group’s website. Money was also passed to liberal activist groups to support policy efforts on immigration, sexual health and rights, government accountability, and environmental policy, among other initiatives. Its fourth-quarter grants are not yet publicly posted.
The OSPC spent a total of $48.42 million on its lobbying activities in 2019.
"Too often, powerful corporate interests have a seat at the table in Washington, while workers, consumers, and patients are excluded from the political process," said Tom Perriello, executive director of the OSPC. "OSPC's grantees help give voice to those who need to be heard at this unprecedented moment in America. We are proud to do our part, along with our grantees, to stand against hate, bigotry, and anti-Semitism; corporate greed; presidential overreach and more."
Soros's group has now pushed $96 million into advocacy efforts since Trump was sworn into office. The OSPC reported spending a combined total of $56.65 million from 2002 to 2016, nearly $40 million less than it spent in the three years since the start of the Trump presidency.


Beacon Extra

Welcome to the Washington Free Beacon ’ s morning newsletter , your comprehensive briefing on the Enemies of Freedom .
To get this newsletter sent straight to your inbox every morning , sign up here .
NASTY WOMAN !
… `` Tulsi Gabbard sues Hillary Clinton for defamation , '' via NY POST : Democratic presidential hopeful Tulsi Gabbard has filed a defamation suit against Hillary Clinton for calling her a `` Russian asset , '' according to newly filed court papers .
`` Tulsi Gabbard is running for President of the United States , a position Clinton has long @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to attain , '' Wednesday ’ s Manhattan federal lawsuit reads .
`` In October 2019—whether out of personal animus , political enmity , or fear of real change within a political party Clinton and her allies have long dominated—Clinton lied about her perceived rival Tulsi Gabbard .
She did so publicly , unambiguously , and with obvious malicious intent . ''
THE SILENT MAJORITY … `` Poll : Two-Thirds of Americans Want Candidate Who Supports ‘ Significant Restrictions ’ on Abortion , '' by WFB ’ s Yuichiro Kakutani : The annual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Columbus showed that 55 percent of Americans identify as pro-choice .
However , 70 percent of the country , including nearly half of self-described pro-choice respondents , oppose all abortions or believe they should be permitted only during the first 12 weeks , in medical emergencies , or in cases of rape or incest .
The data do not bode well for the leading Democratic presidential candidates , all of whom espouse ambitious pro-abortion policy platforms .
Sen. Elizabeth Warren ( D. , Mass . )
wants to install a federal statutory right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Roe v. Wade '' and prohibit states from restricting abortion in later months of pregnancy .
TOUGH BOSS … `` Klobuchar Pledges to Fire Betsy DeVos in First 100 Days , '' by WFB ’ s David Rutz : Sen. Amy Klobuchar ( D. , Minn. ) in a new ad released Wednesday pledged to fire Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos within her first 100 days as president—a likely unnecessary move given that DeVos would depart with sitting president Donald Trump … Klobuchar 's odd promise recalls failed 2020 hopeful , Rep. Eric @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who told the New York Times he would fire Trump adviser Jared Kushner on his first day in office .
ABRAMS DELIVERS CONCESSION SPEECH … `` Stacey Abrams : Time to stop fighting past elections , '' via AP : Democratic politician and voting rights advocate Stacey Abrams told a college crowd Wednesday that it 's time to move beyond past elections and ensure future ones are fair .
DEADBEAT DAD … `` Appear in Arkansas court , explain , judge orders Hunter Biden , '' via DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE : Hunter Biden must appear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ explain why he should n't be held in contempt for violating court orders to provide financial information in his Arkansas paternity case … Biden , son of former vice president Joe Biden , is being ordered to appear in the Arkansas courtroom days after President Donald Trump 's impeachment trial began in the Senate .
Hunter Biden has been mentioned as a possible witness in the impeachment proceedings .
CHASER … `` Hunter Biden renting $ 12,000-per-month Hollywood home while refusing to pay child support , '' via EXAMINER : Hunter Biden is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ financial information as part of a child support fight while renting a $ 3.8 million designer home in Hollywood Hills , Los Angeles , for $ 12,000 per month .
DEBBIE DOWNERS OF THE WORLD UNITE !
… `` Trump Roars , and Davos Shrugs , '' via POLITICO : An annual survey known as the `` Trust barometer '' sponsored by the Edelman public affairs firm—collecting views from 34,000 people in 28 countries—captured the downbeat assumptions that pervaded many conversations at Davos .
Some 56 percent of respondents say they believe that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fewer than one in three people in developed markets believe they and their families will be better off in five years ’ time .
Nearly 80 percent agree that `` elites are getting richer while regular people struggle to pay their bills . ''
CHICOM CONTAGION … `` China quarantines Wuhan amid coronavirus outbreak , '' via FOX NEWS : The Chinese government has quarantined the city of Wuhan and plans to shut down the airport and public transportation within hours amid an outbreak of the coronavirus , state media reported .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 17 deaths and has sickened over 500 others .
Xinhua News Agency said on Thursday that the city had asked people not to leave Wuhan without specific reasons , with the People 's Daily newspaper then tweeting that no one would be allowed to leave the city starting at 10 a.m. and that train stations and the airport will shut down .
CNN FINDS THE REAL CRIME … `` Media Interest in Jeffrey Epstein Heightens Amid Scrutiny of Environmental Record , '' by WFB ’ s Andrew Stiles : CNN reports that a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pervert 's estate accuses Epstein of having `` potentially damaged the delicate environment with illegal construction projects and brushed aside fines and other efforts to curb his behavior . ''
These alleged environmental offenses , according to the lawsuit , were `` part of a pattern of behavior in flouting the laws of the Virgin Islands and holding [ Epstein ] above the law . ''
Perhaps if American journalists had known of Epstein 's environmental crimes much earlier , they might have been compelled to report on the massive international sex-trafficking ring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Biden to CBS reporter : ‘ Why , why , why , why , why ? '
, '' via THE HILL : `` Yesterday , you said you accepted Bernie 's apology , now you 're attacking him , '' said Ed O'Keefe , the veteran reporter … `` Why are you doing that ?
Why was n't his apology enough , Mr. Vice President ?
Why attack Sanders ? ''
… '' Why , why , why , why , why , why , why ? ''
Biden said , waving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him slightly .
`` You 're getting nervous , man .
Calm down , it 's OK ! ''
Biden said , putting his hands gently on O'Keefe 's shoulder .
BEACON MAN OF THE YEAR MAKING A COMEBACK … `` Chris Hughes wants another chance , '' via VOX : He blew more than $ 4 million on his husband ’ s congressional campaign , which lost to the Republican incumbent by nearly 30 percentage points in a district President Barack Obama had won two years prior .
He bought the New @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the venerable but ailing magazine , and when he tried to remove his handpicked editor , almost the entire staff resigned in protest … Since those debacles , Hughes has settled into a different niche , one that harks back to his long-ago role as Facebook ’ s house `` empath . ''
He ’ s now a philanthropist , and a convener of other philanthropists and organizations .
His full-time job , he says , is trying to craft a world `` after neoliberalism '' —one with a heavier hand of government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , one perhaps without Twitter monopolizing our sidewalks .
THOSE WHO CAN ’ T , TEACH … `` STUDY : Profs donate to Dems over Republicans by 95:1 ratio , '' via CAMPUS REFORM : Two researchers , Heterodox Academy director of research Sean Stevens and Brooklyn College professor Mitchell Langbert … looked at the political donations of 12,372 college professors at universities in 31 states and the District of Columbia during the past two election cycles in 2015-16 and 2017-18 .
Of those professors , 2,301 made political donations , 2,081 of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 22 of those 2,301 professors donated to Republicans … Nearly half of the 12,372 professors—48.5 percent—are registered Democrats while just 5.7 percent are registered Republicans .
LOVE TRUMPS HATE … `` Fifteen Years Ago Today , Hillary Clinton Learned the Meaning of True Love , '' by WFB ’ s Andrew Stiles : [ Yesterday ] in 2005 , Donald J. Trump married the love of his life , Melania Knauss , in a tasteful church ceremony in Palm Beach , Fla. A grateful nation wishes them all the best as they celebrate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the attendees at the wedding happened to be a U.S. senator who would go on to become one of the least successful female presidential candidates in American history … One can only imagine the pride Hillary must feel at having witnessed such a historic event , the joy she must have felt at seeing true love manifested for perhaps the first time in her life .
DAYS SINCE JOE BIDEN DID A SUNDAY SHOW : 1,138 .
Come back , Joe !
`` You know who really doesn ’ t have it ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Obama Thanks for reading !
Send tips to rutz @ freebeacon.com .