freebeacon--2020-10-07--Katie Hill Claims Anonymous Former Staff Calling Her ‘Abusive’ Are Actually Hackers

Ex-congresswoman Katie Hill on Wednesday claimed her congressional Twitter account was `` hacked '' after alleged former staffers used it to denounce the Hollywood adaptation of Hill 's memoir .
`` Thanks to all who let me know my government official twitter account was hacked , '' Hill tweeted , adding that she had reported the hack to Twitter .
The disgraced former congresswoman 's comments were in response to a tweet thread an hour earlier Wednesday morning , in which someone claiming to be `` former staff '' made the case that Hill took sexual advantage of subordinates .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ for women , '' the anonymous tweeter wrote , expressing disappointment that Hollywood is lionizing Hill given her `` workplace abuse and harassment . ''
`` Katie took advantage of her subordinates , '' the person wrote .
The author of the tweets also cautioned that a proper telling of Hill 's story would require `` more nuance , '' unlike , presumably , Hill 's memoir She Will Rise .
Hill dodged an investigation by the House Ethics Committee and was never held accountable for her sexual misconduct , the alleged staffer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ October following reports of affairs with two members of her staff .
Photos of her were published proving she had been part of a romantic `` throuple '' with her now ex-husband and a female member of her campaign staff .
Hill admitted to the affair with her campaign staffer but denied other allegations .
The House Ethics Committee was investigating Hill for sexual misconduct at the time of her resignation .
Hill said in her memoir that she 's taken `` full responsibility '' for her actions , but she also suggested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of misogyny and called her affairs a `` gray area . ''
However , congressional ethics rules prohibit affairs with staffers , and the New York Times ‘ s review of the book called her affair an `` unambiguous ethical violation . ''

Ex-congresswoman Katie Hill on Wednesday claimed her congressional Twitter account was "hacked" after alleged former staffers used it to denounce the Hollywood adaptation of Hill's memoir.
"Thanks to all who let me know my government official twitter account was hacked," Hill tweeted, adding that she had reported the hack to Twitter.
Thanks to all who let me know my government official twitter account was hacked. Control of my account was immediately handed back to the House Clerk when I resigned, including password changes and access restrictions. God knows who hacked it from there. Reported to @twitter. — Katie Hill (@KatieHill4CA) October 7, 2020
The disgraced former congresswoman's comments were in response to a tweet thread an hour earlier Wednesday morning, in which someone claiming to be "former staff" made the case that Hill took sexual advantage of subordinates.
https://twitter.com/RepKatieHill/status/1313703826646466562?s=20
"Katie Hill is not a hero for women," the anonymous tweeter wrote, expressing disappointment that Hollywood is lionizing Hill given her "workplace abuse and harassment."
"Katie took advantage of her subordinates," the person wrote.
https://twitter.com/RepKatieHill/status/1313703832216506369?s=20
The author of the tweets also cautioned that a proper telling of Hill's story would require "more nuance," unlike, presumably, Hill's memoir She Will Rise. Hill dodged an investigation by the House Ethics Committee and was never held accountable for her sexual misconduct, the alleged staffer said.
Hill resigned in disgrace last October following reports of affairs with two members of her staff. Photos of her were published proving she had been part of a romantic "throuple" with her now ex-husband and a female member of her campaign staff. Hill admitted to the affair with her campaign staffer but denied other allegations. The House Ethics Committee was investigating Hill for sexual misconduct at the time of her resignation.
Hill said in her memoir that she's taken "full responsibility" for her actions, but she also suggested her resignation could have been a product of misogyny and called her affairs a "gray area." However, congressional ethics rules prohibit affairs with staffers, and the New York Times's review of the book called her affair an "unambiguous ethical violation."


freebeacon--2020-10-07--U.S. Sanctions Force Venezuelan Oil Industry to New Low

The once-massive Venezuelan oil industry has hit a new low due to expansive American sanctions , the New York Times reported Wednesday .
For the first time in a century , there are no oil rigs in the country actively searching for new oil .
Instead , nearly all oil-based infrastructure has been directed toward already drilled resources .
`` Venezuela ’ s days as a petrostate are gone , '' Risa Grais-Targow , an analyst at Eurasia Group , a political risk firm , told the Times .
Numbers bear out the impact sanctions , economic mismanagement by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have had on Venezuelan oil .
At its peak , Caracas was the largest oil exporter in Latin America , exporting $ 90 billion a year in petrol .
The 2020 projection for Venezuela ’ s export regime is now $ 2.3 billion .
It is also unlikely that the country recovers its primary industry in the coming years .
Given unstable political leadership , minimal global demand for oil , and a renewed environmental focus from many consumer countries , the requisite level of foreign investment in Venezuela ’ s oil infrastructure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say .
In large part , Venezuela ’ s economy is in shambles due to Washington ’ s robust sanctions .
Even allies such as Iran have had attempts to engage in oil trade with Caracas blocked by American naval forces .
Furthermore , sanctions masterminded by Iran envoy Elliott Abrams have deterred any attempt from the socialist Maduro regime to fully seize power in the country .
Washington hopes for an end game of a new regime in Venezuela in the coming years .
`` The Venezuelan people are suffering under an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ democratic institutions , abusing human rights , engaging in rampant corruption , and exploiting the worst economic and humanitarian crisis in recent history , '' a July White House statement reads .
`` My Administration will always stand against socialism . ''

The once-massive Venezuelan oil industry has hit a new low due to expansive American sanctions, the New York Times reported Wednesday.
For the first time in a century, there are no oil rigs in the country actively searching for new oil. Instead, nearly all oil-based infrastructure has been directed toward already drilled resources.
"Venezuela’s days as a petrostate are gone," Risa Grais-Targow, an analyst at Eurasia Group, a political risk firm, told the Times.
Numbers bear out the impact sanctions, economic mismanagement by the Maduro regime, and the coronavirus pandemic have had on Venezuelan oil. At its peak, Caracas was the largest oil exporter in Latin America, exporting $90 billion a year in petrol. The 2020 projection for Venezuela’s export regime is now $2.3 billion.
It is also unlikely that the country recovers its primary industry in the coming years. Given unstable political leadership, minimal global demand for oil, and a renewed environmental focus from many consumer countries, the requisite level of foreign investment in Venezuela’s oil infrastructure will likely not be met, experts say.
In large part, Venezuela’s economy is in shambles due to Washington’s robust sanctions. Even allies such as Iran have had attempts to engage in oil trade with Caracas blocked by American naval forces.
Furthermore, sanctions masterminded by Iran envoy Elliott Abrams have deterred any attempt from the socialist Maduro regime to fully seize power in the country.
Washington hopes for an end game of a new regime in Venezuela in the coming years."The Venezuelan people are suffering under an illegitimate and tyrannical regime intent on destroying democratic institutions, abusing human rights, engaging in rampant corruption, and exploiting the worst economic and humanitarian crisis in recent history," a July White House statement reads. "My Administration will always stand against socialism."


freebeacon--2020-10-07--Biden Surrogate Jane Fonda Calls COVID ‘God’s Gift to the Left’

Jane Fonda , a Biden campaign surrogate known for fraternizing with enemy soldiers during the Vietnam War , called the coronavirus `` God 's gift to the Left . ''
`` I just think that COVID is God 's gift to the Left , '' Fonda said .
`` That 's a terrible thing to say .
I think it was a very difficult thing to send down to us , but it has ripped the band-aid off who [ Trump ] is and what he stands for and what is being done to average people and working people in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus pandemic as an `` existential crossroads '' for humanity to address issues like climate change .
`` What a great gift , what a tremendous opportunity , we are so lucky , we have to use it with every ounce of intelligence and courage and wherewithal we have , '' she added .
Fonda appeared alongside vice presidential candidate Kamala Harris and the Biden campaign in a virtual event in September .
Harris promoted the event by saying that veterans `` sacrifice so much for our nation and deserve our respect and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and after . ''
Fonda famously posed with enemy troops for a photo on an antiaircraft gun in 1972 , earning her the nickname `` Hanoi Jane '' from angered Vietnam veterans .
Fonda 's comment were first spotted by Meghan Portfolio on social media .

Jane Fonda, a Biden campaign surrogate known for fraternizing with enemy soldiers during the Vietnam War, called the coronavirus "God's gift to the Left."
"I just think that COVID is God's gift to the Left," Fonda said. "That's a terrible thing to say. I think it was a very difficult thing to send down to us, but it has ripped the band-aid off who [Trump] is and what he stands for and what is being done to average people and working people in this country."
She described the coronavirus pandemic as an "existential crossroads" for humanity to address issues like climate change.
"What a great gift, what a tremendous opportunity, we are so lucky, we have to use it with every ounce of intelligence and courage and wherewithal we have," she added.
Fonda appeared alongside vice presidential candidate Kamala Harris and the Biden campaign in a virtual event in September. Harris promoted the event by saying that veterans "sacrifice so much for our nation and deserve our respect and gratitude, both while on active duty and after."
Fonda famously posed with enemy troops for a photo on an antiaircraft gun in 1972, earning her the nickname "Hanoi Jane" from angered Vietnam veterans.
Fonda's comment were first spotted by Meghan Portfolio on social media.


freebeacon--2020-10-08--Eliana Johnson: Pence Got the Better of Harris on Court Packing

Washington Free Beacon editor in chief Eliana Johnson said Vice President Mike Pence successfully challenged Sen. Kamala Harris ( D. @ @ @ @ @ packing during Wednesday 's vice presidential debate .
On PBS News Hour , Johnson praised @ @ @ @ @ economy , energy , China , `` and particularly on pressing Kamala Harris about whether @ @ @ @ @ the Supreme Court . ''
Johnson said Pence faced an `` uphill battle '' going @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus pandemic .
But he succeeded in forcing Harris to repeatedly dodge on whether @ @ @ @ @ the Supreme Court , just as Biden did during the first presidential debate .

Washington Free Beacon editor in chief Eliana Johnson said Vice President Mike Pence successfully challenged Sen. Kamala Harris (D., Calif) on court packing during Wednesday's vice presidential debate.
On PBS News Hour, Johnson praised Pence's performance on the economy, energy, China, "and particularly on pressing Kamala Harris about whether the Biden administration would pack the Supreme Court."
Johnson said Pence faced an "uphill battle" going into the debate because of the coronavirus pandemic. But he succeeded in forcing Harris to repeatedly dodge on whether a Biden administration would pack the Supreme Court, just as Biden did during the first presidential debate.


freebeacon--2020-10-08--Texas Dem House Candidate Hasn’t Lived in Texas for Years

A Texas Democratic House candidate voted as recently as last year using her parents ' Dallas address while she was living and working in California .
Helane `` Lulu '' Sawsan Seikaly , who is challenging Republican incumbent Van Taylor in Texas 's Third Congressional District , worked in California until at least last year as an attorney for a Sacramento-based law firm and as a professor at the University of California Davis .
Using an address linked to her parents , however , Seikaly voted in Texas in both 2016 and 2018 , public records show .
A couple @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the House last December , Seikaly switched her registration from Dallas to Collin County , Texas .
Seikaly , who is casting herself as somebody who `` understands the challenges facing North Texans , '' has downplayed her recent residency in California .
She makes no mention of it on her campaign website .
But her work history , including for a law firm that boasts `` deep roots in California , '' raises questions as to why she continued to vote in Texas rather than in the Golden State , and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to launch a congressional bid could prove a stumbling block on the campaign trail .
Asked to describe her `` length of residency in Texas '' in a Dallas Morning News questionnaire earlier this year , Seikaly did not mention that she lived and worked in California until recently .
`` My parents came to North Texas in the late 80s when I was a year old .
It 's been home ever since , '' she wrote in the questionnaire .
Seikaly was admitted into the California bar on June 2 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ website , and is still listed as an active attorney in the state .
She is also a member of Phi Delta Phi , an international legal society , and her membership record with the organization lists her as a resident of Roseville , Calif. Seikaly worked as an employment lawyer at the Sacramento-based Churchwell White LLP from January 2015 to March 2020 , according to her LinkedIn page .
Churchwell White describes itself as `` a law firm with deep roots in California . ''
`` We focus on results , while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clients navigate across complexities that are unique to California , '' the company 's website says .
The firm 's clients include some California municipal governments , and its lawyers have served as city attorneys .
Seikaly was introduced as the `` deputy city attorney '' of Atwater , Calif. , during a Jan. 14 , 2019 , city council meeting , according to minutes from the proceeding .
An election watchdog criticized out-of-state voting as a violation of the `` spirit '' of voting laws .
`` It 's sort of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ law , '' said Catherine Engelbrecht , the founder of True the Vote , an election fraud monitoring group based in Houston .
`` The idea is to be heard through the voice of your vote in your community .
So if your community is California , that 's really where the power of your vote should be heard . ''
Although the Texas third district has been reliably Republican and is expected to remain so this election , a recent poll commissioned by Seikaly 's campaign found her trailing the GOP incumbent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee also added the race to its battleground target list , according to National Journal .
Voting in Texas is limited to residents of the state , but Texas has some of the most liberal residency requirements in the country .
Texans are allowed to maintain their residency even if they move out of the state , as long as they are moving `` for temporary purposes only '' and the person `` intends to return after any temporary absence , '' according to the state 's election @ @ @ @ @ @ @ respond to a request for comment .
Her campaign website says she was raised in Texas , attended Southern Methodist University and South Texas College of Law , and currently `` lives in Plano , Texas , the community where her husband , Daniel , grew up , and where her in-laws live . ''
Seikaly also worked as an adjunct professor at the University of California Davis School of Law from August 2017 to May 2019 , according to her LinkedIn page .
On her campaign website , Seikaly said she worked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' but did not mention that this was in California .
Seikaly and her husband are associated with two addresses in Roseville , Calif. , and her husband is currently registered to vote in Placer County , Calif. , according to state records .
Engelbrecht said out-of-state voting is a problem in many states , not just Texas , but the chances of someone facing legal repercussions for it are `` very slim . ''
`` I think Texas has a certain slipperiness to the language of the code as it speaks to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no means are we unique , '' said Engelbrecht .
`` You look at any state and you 're going to find problems that just come with the territory , one way or the other , as it relates to keeping good , clean voter rolls . ''
Donna Garcia Davidson , a lawyer specializing in campaign finance who previously served as general counsel for the Republican Party of Texas , said the issue is `` not easily litigated .
Most people understand that residency is a difficult challenge . ''
`` For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that individual has to have the ability to show that their residence is in Texas .
Property ownership , a family home , and other factors help to show residence , '' Davidson said .
`` If a voter can show they are only temporarily absent , they are qualified to vote . ''

A Texas Democratic House candidate voted as recently as last year using her parents' Dallas address while she was living and working in California.
Helane "Lulu" Sawsan Seikaly, who is challenging Republican incumbent Van Taylor in Texas's Third Congressional District, worked in California until at least last year as an attorney for a Sacramento-based law firm and as a professor at the University of California Davis. Using an address linked to her parents, however, Seikaly voted in Texas in both 2016 and 2018, public records show.
A couple of weeks after filing to run for the House last December, Seikaly switched her registration from Dallas to Collin County, Texas.
Seikaly, who is casting herself as somebody who "understands the challenges facing North Texans," has downplayed her recent residency in California. She makes no mention of it on her campaign website. But her work history, including for a law firm that boasts "deep roots in California," raises questions as to why she continued to vote in Texas rather than in the Golden State, and the perception that Seikaly returned to Texas only to launch a congressional bid could prove a stumbling block on the campaign trail.
Asked to describe her "length of residency in Texas" in a Dallas Morning News questionnaire earlier this year, Seikaly did not mention that she lived and worked in California until recently.
"My parents came to North Texas in the late 80s when I was a year old. It's been home ever since," she wrote in the questionnaire.
Seikaly was admitted into the California bar on June 2, 2014, according to the association's website, and is still listed as an active attorney in the state. She is also a member of Phi Delta Phi, an international legal society, and her membership record with the organization lists her as a resident of Roseville, Calif.
Seikaly worked as an employment lawyer at the Sacramento-based Churchwell White LLP from January 2015 to March 2020, according to her LinkedIn page. Churchwell White describes itself as "a law firm with deep roots in California."
"We focus on results, while providing exceptional client service and helping our clients navigate across complexities that are unique to California," the company's website says.
The firm's clients include some California municipal governments, and its lawyers have served as city attorneys. Seikaly was introduced as the "deputy city attorney" of Atwater, Calif., during a Jan. 14, 2019, city council meeting, according to minutes from the proceeding.
An election watchdog criticized out-of-state voting as a violation of the "spirit" of voting laws. "It's sort of the rule of law versus the spirit of law," said Catherine Engelbrecht, the founder of True the Vote, an election fraud monitoring group based in Houston. "The idea is to be heard through the voice of your vote in your community. So if your community is California, that's really where the power of your vote should be heard."
Although the Texas third district has been reliably Republican and is expected to remain so this election, a recent poll commissioned by Seikaly's campaign found her trailing the GOP incumbent, Taylor, by just 1 point. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee also added the race to its battleground target list, according to National Journal.
Voting in Texas is limited to residents of the state, but Texas has some of the most liberal residency requirements in the country. Texans are allowed to maintain their residency even if they move out of the state, as long as they are moving "for temporary purposes only" and the person "intends to return after any temporary absence," according to the state's election code.
Seikaly's campaign did not respond to a request for comment.
Her campaign website says she was raised in Texas, attended Southern Methodist University and South Texas College of Law, and currently "lives in Plano, Texas, the community where her husband, Daniel, grew up, and where her in-laws live."
Seikaly also worked as an adjunct professor at the University of California Davis School of Law from August 2017 to May 2019, according to her LinkedIn page. On her campaign website, Seikaly said she worked "as an attorney working with cities" but did not mention that this was in California.
Seikaly and her husband are associated with two addresses in Roseville, Calif., and her husband is currently registered to vote in Placer County, Calif., according to state records.
Engelbrecht said out-of-state voting is a problem in many states, not just Texas, but the chances of someone facing legal repercussions for it are "very slim."
"I think Texas has a certain slipperiness to the language of the code as it speaks to this piece of it. But by no means are we unique," said Engelbrecht. "You look at any state and you're going to find problems that just come with the territory, one way or the other, as it relates to keeping good, clean voter rolls."
Donna Garcia Davidson, a lawyer specializing in campaign finance who previously served as general counsel for the Republican Party of Texas, said the issue is "not easily litigated. Most people understand that residency is a difficult challenge."
"For an individual to vote in Texas, that individual has to have the ability to show that their residence is in Texas. Property ownership, a family home, and other factors help to show residence," Davidson said. "If a voter can show they are only temporarily absent, they are qualified to vote."


freebeacon--2020-10-08--N.Y. Dem Gives Local Law Enforcement the Cold Shoulder

New York Democrat Jackie Gordon has repeatedly refused to meet with local law enforcement groups as she courts far-left activists working to defund the police .
Gordon is running to fill the seat being vacated by longtime GOP congressman Peter King .
The Democrat often touts her former role as a military police officer to appeal to voters in the Long Island district , which includes two of the largest suburban county police forces in the nation .
Gordon , however , canceled a July 30 candidate screening with the Suffolk County Police Benevolent Association `` a few hours prior @ @ @ @ @ @ @ multiple attempts to reschedule , '' according to union president Noel DiGerolamo .
`` Jackie Gordon has never taken a stand for the men and women of law enforcement who risk so much for so little every day , '' DiGerolamo told the Washington Free Beacon .
`` I personally find it offensive that she would utilize her position as a military police officer in an attempt to mislead people that she is a ‘ law and order ' candidate , which she is not . ''
DiGerolamo said the screening would have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officers association , and detectives association , among other local law enforcement representatives .
The Nassau County Police Benevolent Association also told the Free Beacon that Gordon canceled a similar screening with the union .
Gordon 's prospective district includes portions of both Suffolk and Nassau—the two counties employ nearly 5,000 officers , as well as hundreds of civilian employees .
Gordon in March submitted the 375 petition signatures required to appear on the Working Families Party line in November .
The party has openly embraced police defunding and in July launched the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to `` elect the next generation of leaders who pledge to defund police , '' according to its website .
The party 's New York chapter accused the NYPD of `` deliberately cultivating bad apples at the expense of Black and brown New Yorkers '' in a July tweet after endorsing Gordon months before .
`` Clearly Jackie Gordon shares the belief of defunding the police , otherwise she would have denounced it like others have , '' DiGerolamo told the Free Beacon .
`` She 's accepted the endorsement and support of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ abolishing of police . ''
In addition to her ties to the Working Families Party , Gordon campaign field staffer Chelsea Villalba shared multiple Facebook posts denigrating police and endorsing violent protests in June .
One post called the `` destruction of property by Black people , Indigenous people , and People of Color '' a `` necessary , valid , and poignant aspect of political and social protest , '' while another referred to `` cops '' as `` bastards . ''
The posts in question were deleted shortly after the Free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Democrat did not respond .
Gordon is also backed by Indivisible Upper East Side , a far-left group that has called for police departments to be `` defunded and completely transformed . ''
The group recently hosted a `` NY to NY texting campaign '' to support Gordon , Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez ( D. , N.Y. ) , and other state Democrats , according to its website .
Indivisible Project—the group 's national organization—organizes activists to `` call your local officials and tell them to defund your local police department , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' that `` persists across every facet of American life '' in the process .
After Gordon refused to meet with the unions , both the Suffolk County and Nassau County Police Benevolent Associations endorsed her Republican opponent , state legislator Andrew Garbarino , in September .
Gordon is not the only Democrat who has struggled to gain the support of police—Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden failed to name a single law enforcement group that supports his campaign during a September debate and later admitted that police officers no longer back him .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ police my whole career up until this year , '' Biden said during Monday 's NBC town hall .

New York Democrat Jackie Gordon has repeatedly refused to meet with local law enforcement groups as she courts far-left activists working to defund the police.
Gordon is running to fill the seat being vacated by longtime GOP congressman Peter King. The Democrat often touts her former role as a military police officer to appeal to voters in the Long Island district, which includes two of the largest suburban county police forces in the nation. Gordon, however, canceled a July 30 candidate screening with the Suffolk County Police Benevolent Association "a few hours prior" and went on to ignore "multiple attempts to reschedule," according to union president Noel DiGerolamo.
"Jackie Gordon has never taken a stand for the men and women of law enforcement who risk so much for so little every day," DiGerolamo told the Washington Free Beacon. "I personally find it offensive that she would utilize her position as a military police officer in an attempt to mislead people that she is a 'law and order' candidate, which she is not."
DiGerolamo said the screening would have included the county's PBA, superior officers association, and detectives association, among other local law enforcement representatives. The Nassau County Police Benevolent Association also told the Free Beacon that Gordon canceled a similar screening with the union. Gordon's prospective district includes portions of both Suffolk and Nassau—the two counties employ nearly 5,000 officers, as well as hundreds of civilian employees.
Gordon in March submitted the 375 petition signatures required to appear on the Working Families Party line in November. The party has openly embraced police defunding and in July launched the WFP Justice Fund, a PAC aiming to "elect the next generation of leaders who pledge to defund police," according to its website. The party's New York chapter accused the NYPD of "deliberately cultivating bad apples at the expense of Black and brown New Yorkers" in a July tweet after endorsing Gordon months before.
"Clearly Jackie Gordon shares the belief of defunding the police, otherwise she would have denounced it like others have," DiGerolamo told the Free Beacon. "She's accepted the endorsement and support of multiple groups calling for the defunding and abolishing of police."
In addition to her ties to the Working Families Party, Gordon campaign field staffer Chelsea Villalba shared multiple Facebook posts denigrating police and endorsing violent protests in June. One post called the "destruction of property by Black people, Indigenous people, and People of Color" a "necessary, valid, and poignant aspect of political and social protest," while another referred to "cops" as "bastards." The posts in question were deleted shortly after the Free Beacon reached out to Gordon for comment. The Democrat did not respond.
Gordon is also backed by Indivisible Upper East Side, a far-left group that has called for police departments to be "defunded and completely transformed." The group recently hosted a "NY to NY texting campaign" to support Gordon, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D., N.Y.), and other state Democrats, according to its website. Indivisible Project—the group's national organization—organizes activists to "call your local officials and tell them to defund your local police department," accusing America of "structural racism" that "persists across every facet of American life" in the process.
After Gordon refused to meet with the unions, both the Suffolk County and Nassau County Police Benevolent Associations endorsed her Republican opponent, state legislator Andrew Garbarino, in September. Gordon is not the only Democrat who has struggled to gain the support of police—Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden failed to name a single law enforcement group that supports his campaign during a September debate and later admitted that police officers no longer back him.
"I have had overwhelming support from police my whole career up until this year," Biden said during Monday's NBC town hall.


freebeacon--2020-10-08--Stephanopoulos: Lot of People Thought Pence Was ‘Mansplaining’ at Debate

After noting Pence 's `` calm demeanor , '' Stephanopoulos said , `` I think a lot of people were @ @ @ @ @ tonight . ''
`` Mansplaining '' is a derogatory term for men who condescendingly explain @ @ @ @ @ .
Republican commentator Sarah Fagen disagreed with Stephanopoulos , saying Pence was respectful to Democratic @ @ @ @ @ Susan Page .
Despite liberal complaints that Pence spoke over his time too often , @ @ @ @ @ talked more than three minutes longer than he did .
Stephanopoulos cut his teeth in @ @ @ @ @ President Bill Clinton 's White House communications director before transitioning to journalism .

ABC News anchor George Stephanopoulos accused Vice President Mike Pence of "mansplaining" during Wednesday night's debate.
After noting Pence's "calm demeanor," Stephanopoulos said, "I think a lot of people were noticing some mansplaining going on tonight."
"Mansplaining" is a derogatory term for men who condescendingly explain things or talk over women. Republican commentator Sarah Fagen disagreed with Stephanopoulos, saying Pence was respectful to Democratic opponent Kamala Harris and moderator Susan Page.
Despite liberal complaints that Pence spoke over his time too often, one unofficial reading found Harris talked more than three minutes longer than he did.
Stephanopoulos cut his teeth in Democratic politics and served as President Bill Clinton's White House communications director before transitioning to journalism.


freebeacon--2020-10-08--ABC Brings in Doctor to Speculate About Pence’s Health

George Stephanopoulos brought on ABC 's chief medical correspondent Jennifer Ashton to examine Vice President Mike Pence 's eye during @ @ @ @ @ coverage .
Ashton said she was unable to confirm anything from looking at eye discoloration @ @ @ @ @ Pence 's face .
`` What do we know about ocular or eye manifestations in @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Anywhere from 11-30 percent of COVID patients can have pink eye , it @ @ @ @ @ .
But George , he can just have some makeup in his eye . ''
@ @ @ @ @ Bill Clinton 's administration , said ABC had contacted Pence 's office for comment .

George Stephanopoulos brought on ABC's chief medical correspondent Jennifer Ashton to examine Vice President Mike Pence's eye during the network's post-vice-presidential debate coverage.
Ashton said she was unable to confirm anything from looking at eye discoloration in a zoomed-in picture of Pence's face.
"What do we know about ocular or eye manifestations in COVID?" she said. "Anywhere from 11-30 percent of COVID patients can have pink eye, it can be an early sign. But George, he can just have some makeup in his eye."
Stephanopoulos, who served in Bill Clinton's administration, said ABC had contacted Pence's office for comment.


freebeacon--2020-10-08--Harris Refuses to Answer Pence on Packing Supreme Court

Democratic vice-presidential candidate Kamala Harris twice refused to answer during Wednesday 's debate whether she and running mate Joe Biden would pack the Supreme Court once in office .
Vice President Mike Pence challenged Harris to answer whether she would add seats to the court if Democrats took power next year , which some Democrats have threatened to do as retaliation for Republicans confirming Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court .
`` Your party is actually openly advocating adding seats to the Supreme Court , which has had nine seats for 150 years , if you do n't get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Now you 've refused to answer the question .
Joe Biden has refused to answer the question , so I think the American people would really like to know .
If Judge Amy Coney Barrett is confirmed to the Supreme Court of the United States , are you and Joe Biden going to pack the Supreme Court to get your way ? ''
Harris said the open Supreme Court seat should not be filled while an election was underway but would not directly answer Pence 's question .
Pence repeated his question @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that she and Biden would pack the Court .
Harris accused the Trump administration of packing the lower courts with what she deemed substandard judges , but she again dodged responding to Pence 's query .
`` I just want the record to reflect she never answered the question .
Maybe in the next debate Joe Biden will answer the question , '' Pence said .
Biden and Harris have repeatedly refused to directly answer questions about court-packing in recent weeks , even though Biden previously called it a `` bonehead '' idea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would destroy the Supreme Court 's credibility .

Democratic vice-presidential candidate Kamala Harris twice refused to answer during Wednesday's debate whether she and running mate Joe Biden would pack the Supreme Court once in office.
Vice President Mike Pence challenged Harris to answer whether she would add seats to the court if Democrats took power next year, which some Democrats have threatened to do as retaliation for Republicans confirming Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court.
"Your party is actually openly advocating adding seats to the Supreme Court, which has had nine seats for 150 years, if you don't get your way," Pence said. "Now you've refused to answer the question. Joe Biden has refused to answer the question, so I think the American people would really like to know. If Judge Amy Coney Barrett is confirmed to the Supreme Court of the United States, are you and Joe Biden going to pack the Supreme Court to get your way?"
Harris said the open Supreme Court seat should not be filled while an election was underway but would not directly answer Pence's question.
Pence repeated his question and said it was clear to viewers that she and Biden would pack the Court. Harris accused the Trump administration of packing the lower courts with what she deemed substandard judges, but she again dodged responding to Pence's query.
"I just want the record to reflect she never answered the question. Maybe in the next debate Joe Biden will answer the question," Pence said.
Biden and Harris have repeatedly refused to directly answer questions about court-packing in recent weeks, even though Biden previously called it a "bonehead" idea and said last year that doing so would destroy the Supreme Court's credibility.


freebeacon--2020-10-08--VP DEBATE: Mike Pence Steals the Show In Flawless Black Oxfords, Kamala Harris Disappoints in Heels

Mike Pence won the vice presidential debate on Wednesday before the fake news moderator could ask a single question .
Donald J. Trump 's second-in-command `` slayed , '' in the parlance of our time , by donning an immaculate pair of black oxfords on the debate stage .
Biden 's historic female running mate , Kamala Harris , failed to impress fashion experts with her lifeless pointed toe pumps .
Far more was expected of Harris , who has been the subject of sexist media coverage focusing on her choice of footwear .
The Democrat was widely praised , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a trendy pair of Chuck Taylor All-Stars .
Harris wooed professional journalists a second time by descending from a private jet , and touring scorched ruins in California , in a `` lit '' pair of Timberland boots , sometimes referred to as `` Timbs . ''
Harris 's decision to go the conservative route by forgoing a `` memeable '' footwear at the debate would not have been a catastrophic mistake if Pence had n't been prepared to take advantage .
The sheen of his black oxford dress shoes , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ entrepreneurs alike , burst off the screen and into the living rooms of patriotic Americans who want a vice president who is n't afraid to go bold .
Pence delivered the full package of goods in a crisp suit and vibrant red tie , and by using his superior logic to win the debate .
`` You ’ re entitled to your opinion , but not your own facts , '' Pence told Harris , epically .
President Trump , if he was watching , must have been impressed with his partner 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mention his impeccable fashion sense .
Congrats , Mr. Vice President !
ADDENDUM : Mike Pence won the debate on Wednesday , but Kamala Harris was n't the only loser .
Oliver Darcy , a confirmed cat owner , struggled to perform his duties as CNN media intern .

Mike Pence won the vice presidential debate on Wednesday before the fake news moderator could ask a single question. Donald J. Trump's second-in-command "slayed," in the parlance of our time, by donning an immaculate pair of black oxfords on the debate stage. Biden's historic female running mate, Kamala Harris, failed to impress fashion experts with her lifeless pointed toe pumps.
Far more was expected of Harris, who has been the subject of sexist media coverage focusing on her choice of footwear. The Democrat was widely praised, for example, after walking the streets in a trendy pair of Chuck Taylor All-Stars. Harris wooed professional journalists a second time by descending from a private jet, and touring scorched ruins in California, in a "lit" pair of Timberland boots, sometimes referred to as "Timbs."
Harris's decision to go the conservative route by forgoing a "memeable" footwear at the debate would not have been a catastrophic mistake if Pence hadn't been prepared to take advantage. The sheen of his black oxford dress shoes, a popular choice among successful businessmen and hipster entrepreneurs alike, burst off the screen and into the living rooms of patriotic Americans who want a vice president who isn't afraid to go bold. Pence delivered the full package of goods in a crisp suit and vibrant red tie, and by using his superior logic to win the debate.
"You’re entitled to your opinion, but not your own facts," Pence told Harris, epically. President Trump, if he was watching, must have been impressed with his partner's forceful yet cerebral demeanor, not to mention his impeccable fashion sense. Congrats, Mr. Vice President!
ADDENDUM: Mike Pence won the debate on Wednesday, but Kamala Harris wasn't the only loser. Oliver Darcy, a confirmed cat owner, struggled to perform his duties as CNN media intern.


freebeacon--2020-10-08--Harris: Biden Admin Will Repeal Tax Cuts ‘On Day One’

Democratic vice presidential candidate Kamala Harris said a Biden-Harris administration would not raise taxes while at the same time saying @ @ @ @ @ would be eliminated .
`` On day one , Joe Biden will repeal that tax @ @ @ @ @ about the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act .
`` He ’ ll get rid of @ @ @ @ @ ’ ll do with the money is invest it in the American people . ''
@ @ @ @ @ would not raise taxes as president .
`` Biden has been very clear , he @ @ @ @ @ anybody who makes less than $ 400,000 a year , '' Harris said .
Pence @ @ @ @ @ Cuts and Jobs Act reduced taxes for many who make less than $ 400,000 .
@ @ @ @ @ that gave the average working family $ 2,000 in a tax break every single year @ @ @ @ @

Democratic vice presidential candidate Kamala Harris said a Biden-Harris administration would not raise taxes while at the same time saying tax cuts passed by Republicans would be eliminated.
"On day one, Joe Biden will repeal that tax code," Harris said about the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. "He’ll get rid of it. And what he’ll do with the money is invest it in the American people."
Harris also claimed that Biden would not raise taxes as president.
"Biden has been very clear, he will not raise taxes on anybody who makes less than $400,000 a year," Harris said.
Pence pointed out that the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act reduced taxes for many who make less than $400,000.
"That was tax cuts that gave the average working family $2,000 in a tax break every single year," Pence said.


freebeacon--2020-10-08--Religious Groups Hit Biden on Abortion, Religious Liberty

Religious groups have launched an advertising campaign focused on abortion and religious liberty to counter the Biden campaign 's ad push courting swing-state believers .
CatholicVote and Concerned Women for America announced an advertising effort , featuring Democratic Party leaders threatening to pack the Supreme Court , to run in Wisconsin , Michigan , Pennsylvania , and Florida .
Brian Burch , president of CatholicVote , told the Washington Free Beacon that Biden 's record on religious liberty , abortion , and religious schools undermines the Biden campaign 's attempt to woo Catholic voters .
`` No one is questioning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what we 're questioning are his public policies , '' he said in a phone interview .
The Biden campaign unveiled a multimillion-dollar ad push targeting Catholic voters in 14 states .
The advertisements highlight Biden 's struggles with personal losses and feature Biden in conversation with the editor-in-chief of a Catholic publication .
`` My father would say the cardinal sin of all sins is the abuse of power , whether it ’ s a man raising his hand to a woman , whether it is the government abusing its power , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Biden says in one of the advertisements .
`` The idea that everyone 's entitled to dignity , that you have an obligation to reach out and be inclusive .
It was just basic principles . ''
Biden has been at odds with his own church on a number of issues , including his support for taxpayer-funded abortion and opposition to the Little Sisters of the Poor—nuns repeatedly targeted by the Obama administration for objecting to birth control mandates .
The Trump campaign has attacked Biden for his extremism on these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Biden 's Catholic faith a centerpiece of their outreach to religious voters .
The relationship between Biden 's policy positions and his faith has been controversial for the duration of his presidential campaign .
Last October , a priest denied Biden communion during Mass because of his stance on abortion .
While Trump has enjoyed steady support from white Evangelical voters , his support among Catholics has wavered .
September polls showed Biden with a 12-point lead among Catholic voters .
And opinion polling indicated that the biggest issues for Catholic voters are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus , putting them within range of the Biden campaign 's focus .
If elected , Biden would also become the second Catholic president in American history , after John F. Kennedy .
Penny Nance of Concerned Women for America told the Free Beacon she is skeptical that the Biden campaign 's biographic appeals will be enough to woo religious voters given his policy positions .
`` I think that Catholic voters would rather elect a Catholic president who actually believes the doctrine of the Church , '' she said .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suggest that somehow he is a spokesperson for the Catholic faith . ''

Religious groups have launched an advertising and grassroots campaign focused on abortion and religious liberty to counter the Biden campaign's ad push courting swing-state believers.
CatholicVote and Concerned Women for America announced an advertising and grassroots mobilization effort centered on Democratic Party leaders threats to pack the Supreme Court. The campaign will run in Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Florida.
Brian Burch, president of CatholicVote, told the Washington Free Beacon that Biden's record on religious liberty, abortion, and religious schools undermines the Biden campaign's attempt to woo Catholic voters. "No one is questioning Biden's personal relationship with God, what we're questioning are his public policies," he said in a phone interview.
The Biden campaign unveiled a multimillion-dollar ad push targeting Catholic voters in 14 states. The advertisements highlight Biden's struggles with personal losses and feature Biden in conversation with the editor-in-chief of a Catholic publication.
"My father would say the cardinal sin of all sins is the abuse of power, whether it’s a man raising his hand to a woman, whether it is the government abusing its power, basic essential elements of what constitutes Catholicism," Biden says in one of the advertisements. "The idea that everyone's entitled to dignity, that you have an obligation to reach out and be inclusive. It was just basic principles."
Biden has been at odds with his own church on a number of issues, including his support for taxpayer-funded abortion and opposition to the Little Sisters of the Poor—nuns repeatedly targeted by the Obama administration for objecting to birth control mandates. The Trump campaign has attacked Biden for his extremism on these issues while the Biden campaign has made Biden's Catholic faith a centerpiece of their outreach to religious voters.
The relationship between Biden's policy positions and his faith has been controversial for the duration of his presidential campaign. Last October, a priest denied Biden communion during Mass because of his stance on abortion.
While Trump has enjoyed steady support from white Evangelical voters, his support among Catholics has wavered. September polls showed Biden with a 12-point lead among Catholic voters. And opinion polling indicated that the biggest issues for Catholic voters are the economy, health care, and the coronavirus, putting them within range of the Biden campaign's focus.
If elected, Biden would also become the second Catholic president in American history, after John F. Kennedy.
Penny Nance of Concerned Women for America told the Free Beacon she is skeptical that the Biden campaign's biographic appeals will be enough to woo religious voters given his policy positions.
"I think that Catholic voters would rather elect a Catholic president who actually believes the doctrine of the Church," she said. "I think it's a stretch to suggest that somehow he is a spokesperson for the Catholic faith."


freebeacon--2020-10-08--MELTDOWN: Cal Cunningham Lashes Out in Bizarre Batman-Voiced Hostage Video

Cal Cunningham , the Democratic candidate for Senate in North Carolina , has canceled all public appearances since being caught engaging in at least one extramarital affair with a married woman , but there was something he wanted to get off his chest .
In a bizarre video presumably recorded in a `` windowless basement , '' Cunningham lashed out at his Republican opponent , Sen. Thom Tillis ( R. , N.C ) .
In his best approximation of Christian Bale 's Batman voice , Cunningham suggested Tillis was to blame for his sex scandal .
`` Because Thom Tillis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ knows that we are winning , he has now resorted to trying to make this campaign about something other than the issues , '' Cunningham said in the video , which reminded some political experts of a hostage tape .
Cunningham 's flailing rage might have been in response to the Tillis campaign 's latest ad , which highlights the Democrat 's past remarks that `` here in North Carolina , the truth still matters , '' and accuses him of hypocrisy .
Cunningham 's campaign has been sputtering since late last week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confirm the authenticity of text messages he exchanged with Arlene Guzman Todd , who recently admitted to having `` weird '' sexual relations with Cunningham at his family home in North Carolina over the summer .
Guzman Todd 's husband , Army veteran Jeremy Todd , has called on Cunningham , an officer in the Army Reserve , to drop out of the race .
`` Mr. Cunningham chose to repeatedly engage in activities that would hurt his family and a fellow junior officer and veteran , '' Todd told Raleigh , N.C. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the same day the Army Reserve announced an investigation into Cunningham 's conduct .
`` If elected , I can only imagine how misplaced his judgment would be for the people he ’ s charged to represent . ''
Beyond a vague apology for `` the hurt that I have caused in my personal life , '' Cunningham has refused to comment further on his philandering escapades .
When confronted by a local reporter earlier this week , the candidate repeatedly refused to address the sex scandal .
`` This campaign is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I appreciate your question , '' Cunningham told the reporter .
`` The campaign is about the people of North Carolina . ''

Cal Cunningham, the Democratic candidate for Senate in North Carolina, has canceled all public appearances since being caught engaging in at least one extramarital affair with a married woman, but there was something he wanted to get off his chest.
In a bizarre video presumably recorded in a "windowless basement," Cunningham lashed out at his Republican opponent, Sen. Thom Tillis (R., N.C). In his best approximation of Christian Bale's Batman voice, Cunningham suggested Tillis was to blame for his sex scandal.
"Because Thom Tillis knows that he is losing, and knows that we are winning, he has now resorted to trying to make this campaign about something other than the issues," Cunningham said in the video, which reminded some political experts of a hostage tape.
NEW: Cal Cunningham is blaming SENATOR TILLIS for his sexting scandal pic.twitter.com/pZah66zOsm — Chris Martin (@chrisjdmartin) October 8, 2020
Cunningham's flailing rage might have been in response to the Tillis campaign's latest ad, which highlights the Democrat's past remarks that "here in North Carolina, the truth still matters," and accuses him of hypocrisy.
Chuck Schumer has spent over $80 million trying to paint one picture of Cal Cunningham, but North Carolinians are now realizing it was all one big lie and that Cunningham's candidacy is riddled with hypocrisy. Watch our new ad here -> pic.twitter.com/JImz4lcgAe — Thom Tillis (@ThomTillis) October 8, 2020
Cunningham's campaign has been sputtering since late last week, when the Democrat was forced to confirm the authenticity of text messages he exchanged with Arlene Guzman Todd, who recently admitted to having "weird" sexual relations with Cunningham at his family home in North Carolina over the summer.
Guzman Todd's husband, Army veteran Jeremy Todd, has called on Cunningham, an officer in the Army Reserve, to drop out of the race. "Mr. Cunningham chose to repeatedly engage in activities that would hurt his family and a fellow junior officer and veteran," Todd told Raleigh, N.C.'s The News & Observer on Wednesday, the same day the Army Reserve announced an investigation into Cunningham's conduct. "If elected, I can only imagine how misplaced his judgment would be for the people he’s charged to represent."
Beyond a vague apology for "the hurt that I have caused in my personal life," Cunningham has refused to comment further on his philandering escapades. When confronted by a local reporter earlier this week, the candidate repeatedly refused to address the sex scandal. "This campaign is not about my personal life, and I appreciate your question," Cunningham told the reporter. "The campaign is about the people of North Carolina."


freebeacon--2020-10-08--California Dems Push Affirmative Action Against Wishes of Voters

New polling shows that affirmative action is unpopular among California voters , even as California Democrats move to reinstate the practice at public universities .
A new poll from the Public Policy Institute of California shows 47 percent of California voters plan to vote against Proposition 16 , a ballot measure that would repeal the state 's ban on racial preferences in public institutions .
Just 31 percent of voters say they support the measure , and 22 percent are undecided .
Prop 16 has nonetheless garnered approval from powerful left-leaning stakeholders , including the University of California system , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measure in June .
The UC 's board of regents said its endorsement was part of the `` amazing momentum for righting the wrongs caused by centuries of systemic racism in our country . ''
Vice-presidential candidate and former California attorney general Kamala Harris is another big-name proponent of Prop 16 , despite its unpopularity in her own state .
Before she became a U.S. senator , Harris filed legal briefs in favor of race-based admissions at both the University of Texas and the University of Michigan .
The UC system—the top lobbying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to her 2020 presidential bid .
Likewise , Reps. Nancy Pelosi ( D. , Calif. ) and Karen Bass ( D. , Calif. ) , former Democratic presidential candidates Pete Buttigieg and Tom Steyer , and Los Angeles mayor Eric Garcetti ( D. ) have all endorsed the measure .
So have a slew of teachers ' unions and a Los Angeles Unified School District board member , who represents the second-largest public school district in the country .
Stop Prop 16 , a coalition of voters against race-based affirmative action , told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dramatically underestimates how many voters are against the proposition .
Tony Guan , a spokesman for the group , said its internal polling found that more than 80 percent of verified voters plan to vote down Prop 16 .
Still , he worries that many people are afraid to express those views publicly .
`` Some of our endorsers … are worried about the attacks from the [ vote yes ] side , '' Guan told the Free Beacon .
`` In the state legislature , [ opponents of Prop 16 ] did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they were attacked very badly by their Democrat peers .
They called [ opponents of the measure ] racist . ''
Nonetheless , the group believes it can overcome that stigma and attract undecided voters .
Guan said that when he is out knocking on doors and passing out flyers , many people are not aware of what Prop 16 is .
But `` once they learn about it they are against it , '' he added .
`` If people were looking for jobs before 1996—when it was legal to discriminate based @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was . ''

New polling shows that affirmative action is unpopular among California voters, even as California Democrats move to reinstate the practice at public universities.
A new poll from the Public Policy Institute of California shows 47 percent of California voters plan to vote against Proposition 16, a ballot measure that would repeal the state's ban on racial preferences in public institutions. Just 31 percent of voters say they support the measure, and 22 percent are undecided. Prop 16 has nonetheless garnered approval from powerful left-leaning stakeholders, including the University of California system, which voted unanimously to endorse the ballot measure in June. The UC's board of regents said its endorsement was part of the "amazing momentum for righting the wrongs caused by centuries of systemic racism in our country."
Vice-presidential candidate and former California attorney general Kamala Harris is another big-name proponent of Prop 16, despite its unpopularity in her own state. Before she became a U.S. senator, Harris filed legal briefs in favor of race-based admissions at both the University of Texas and the University of Michigan. The UC system—the top lobbying force behind Prop 16—was the top donor to her 2020 presidential bid.
Likewise, Reps. Nancy Pelosi (D., Calif.) and Karen Bass (D., Calif.), former Democratic presidential candidates Pete Buttigieg and Tom Steyer, and Los Angeles mayor Eric Garcetti (D.) have all endorsed the measure. So have a slew of teachers' unions and a Los Angeles Unified School District board member, who represents the second-largest public school district in the country.
Stop Prop 16, a coalition of voters against race-based affirmative action, told the Washington Free Beacon that current polling dramatically underestimates how many voters are against the proposition. Tony Guan, a spokesman for the group, said its internal polling found that more than 80 percent of verified voters plan to vote down Prop 16. Still, he worries that many people are afraid to express those views publicly.
"Some of our endorsers ... are worried about the attacks from the [vote yes] side," Guan told the Free Beacon. "In the state legislature, [opponents of Prop 16] did not vote yes or no, but they were attacked very badly by their Democrat peers. They called [opponents of the measure] racist."
Nonetheless, the group believes it can overcome that stigma and attract undecided voters. Guan said that when he is out knocking on doors and passing out flyers, many people are not aware of what Prop 16 is. But "once they learn about it they are against it," he added. "If people were looking for jobs before 1996—when it was legal to discriminate based on race—they remember how bad this discrimination was."


freebeacon--2020-10-08--Biden: ‘You’ll Know My Opinion on Court Packing When the Election Is Over’

Joe Biden told reporters Thursday he would reveal his stance on expanding the size of the Supreme Court the day after the election .
`` You ’ ll know my opinion on court packing when the election is over , '' Biden said during a joint appearance with his running mate Sen. Kamala Harris ( D. , Calif. ) in Arizona .
He said his position would become a `` distraction '' if he were to state it .
Biden has repeatedly dodged on the question of whether he supports expanding the size of the Supreme Court .
During the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take a position on court packing .
`` Whatever position I take on that , that will become the issue , '' he said .
Harris also refused to state a position during the debate with Vice President Mike Pence Wednesday , even after repeated questioning .
Biden had earlier in his career opposed expanding the size of the Supreme Court , calling it a `` bonehead '' move that would hurt the institution 's legitimacy .
During this past Democratic primary , Biden said he opposed packing the Supreme Court .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Court has at all , '' he said in 2019 .

Joe Biden told reporters Thursday he would reveal his stance on expanding the size of the Supreme Court the day after the election.
"You’ll know my opinion on court packing when the election is over," Biden said during a joint appearance with his running mate Sen. Kamala Harris (D., Calif.) in Arizona. He said his position would become a "distraction" if he were to state it.
Biden has repeatedly dodged on the question of whether he supports expanding the size of the Supreme Court. During the first presidential debate, Biden refused to take a position on court packing.
"Whatever position I take on that, that will become the issue," he said.
Harris also refused to state a position during the debate with Vice President Mike Pence Wednesday, even after repeated questioning.
Biden had earlier in his career opposed expanding the size of the Supreme Court, calling it a "bonehead" move that would hurt the institution's legitimacy. During this past Democratic primary, Biden said he opposed packing the Supreme Court.
"We begin to lose any credibility the Court has at all," he said in 2019.


freebeacon--2020-10-08--NY Dem Organized for Group That Protested Terror Leader’s Death

A New York Democrat previously organized for a far-left group that protested against the killing of Iranian general and designated terrorist Qassem Soleimani .
Dana Balter , Democratic nominee for the state 's 24th Congressional District , became a `` leading voice '' for the Central New York Solidarity Coalition .
In January 2020 , the coalition protested against the assassination of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps general Soleimani , who was killed in a January drone strike .
The group is committed to `` protecting all Central New Yorkers from the dangers of the Trump-Pence-Ryan administration 's policies , appointees @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its website .
The group 's mission came to include defending the IRGC , which the Trump administration designated as a terrorist organization in 2019 .
It attracted more than 125 protesters , who chanted , `` Iran is not our enemy , war is not the answer . ''
Soleimani was responsible for the deaths of hundreds of American troops and coalition forces , with thousands more injured .
At the time of his death , Soleimani was actively planning to attack American diplomats and military installations alike in the Iraqi-Iranian region @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who received a Purple Heart after being wounded by a roadside bomb , told the Washington Free Beacon that Balter 's association is concerning .
`` She 's basically a traitor , simple as that , '' Bartlett said .
`` I want [ voters ] to know that if they vote her in , they 're voting for ‘ death to America , ' because that 's what Iranians chant . ''
Balter did not respond to a request for comment .
An assistant visiting professor at Syracuse University , Balter has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the western New York area and became involved in the coalition as early as 2017 .
The coalition touts itself as aligned with `` anchor organizations , '' which include a group that advocates for `` reparations to Palestinians , '' and with an organization that demonstrates for the purpose of `` defunding the police and abolishing the Prison Industrial Complex . ''
Balter has staked out similar positions to this network of advocacy organizations during her campaign .
In a July interview , Balter told reporters that she hoped Americans would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The issue has attracted the attention of her opponents .
New York GOP chairman Nick Langworthy reacted to Balter 's record with frustration .
`` We already knew Dana Balter was an extreme radical , but anyone who aligns themselves with those who protest the death of a mass murderer of American soldiers has no place in Congress , '' Langworthy told the Free Beacon .
`` Her dangerous values are completely out of step with Central New York and will be resoundingly rejected by the voters . ''
National Republican Congressional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Beacon that Balter 's record is indicative of the kind of policies she will pursue in Congress .
`` Given Dana Balter openly supports bail reform that allows violent criminals to roam free , it 's not surprising to learn that she also worked for a socialist anti-police group that advocates for terrorist organizations , '' Atchison said .
`` Dana Balter is dangerous for New York and unfit to represent NY-24 families . ''
The Central New York Solidarity Coalition did not respond to a request for comment .
Balter lost her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by 5 points .
The Cook Political Report currently rates the race as a `` toss up . ''

A New York Democrat previously organized for a far-left group that protested against the killing of Iranian general and designated terrorist Qassem Soleimani.
Dana Balter, Democratic nominee for the state's 24th Congressional District, became a "leading voice" for the Central New York Solidarity Coalition. In January 2020, the coalition protested against the assassination of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps general Soleimani, who was killed in a January drone strike.
The group is committed to "protecting all Central New Yorkers from the dangers of the Trump-Pence-Ryan administration's policies, appointees, and rhetoric," according to its website. The group's mission came to include defending the IRGC, which the Trump administration designated as a terrorist organization in 2019. It attracted more than 125 protesters, who chanted, "Iran is not our enemy, war is not the answer."
Soleimani was responsible for the deaths of hundreds of American troops and coalition forces, with thousands more injured. At the time of his death, Soleimani was actively planning to attack American diplomats and military installations alike in the Iraqi-Iranian region. Iraq war veteran Robert Bartlett, who received a Purple Heart after being wounded by a roadside bomb, told the Washington Free Beacon that Balter's association is concerning.
"She's basically a traitor, simple as that," Bartlett said. "I want [voters] to know that if they vote her in, they're voting for 'death to America,' because that's what Iranians chant."
Balter did not respond to a request for comment.
An assistant visiting professor at Syracuse University, Balter has become a staple in social justice politics in the western New York area and became involved in the coalition as early as 2017. The coalition touts itself as aligned with "anchor organizations," which include a group that advocates for "reparations to Palestinians," and with an organization that demonstrates for the purpose of "defunding the police and abolishing the Prison Industrial Complex."
Balter has staked out similar positions to this network of advocacy organizations during her campaign. In a July interview, Balter told reporters that she hoped Americans would "reorient our thinking" toward policing.
The issue has attracted the attention of her opponents. New York GOP chairman Nick Langworthy reacted to Balter's record with frustration.
"We already knew Dana Balter was an extreme radical, but anyone who aligns themselves with those who protest the death of a mass murderer of American soldiers has no place in Congress," Langworthy told the Free Beacon. "Her dangerous values are completely out of step with Central New York and will be resoundingly rejected by the voters."
National Republican Congressional Committee spokeswoman Carly Atchison told the Free Beacon that Balter's record is indicative of the kind of policies she will pursue in Congress.
"Given Dana Balter openly supports bail reform that allows violent criminals to roam free, it's not surprising to learn that she also worked for a socialist anti-police group that advocates for terrorist organizations," Atchison said. "Dana Balter is dangerous for New York and unfit to represent NY-24 families."
The Central New York Solidarity Coalition did not respond to a request for comment.
Balter lost her 2018 race to Republican congressman John Katko by 5 points. The Cook Political Report currently rates the race as a "toss up."


freebeacon--2020-10-08--Trump Admin Hits 18 Iranian Banks With Sanctions

The Trump administration on Thursday slapped sanctions on 18 Iranian banks , further crippling the Iranian economy and stripping its @ @ @ @ @ system .
Iran ’ s entire financial sector is now subject to U.S. sanctions , @ @ @ @ @ .
The new sanctions will stop Iran from accessing U.S. dollars , the primary global @ @ @ @ @ institutions .
All of the banks were identified as supporting Iran ’ s nuclear program @ @ @ @ @ terrorism enterprise , and its network of terror proxy groups , according to the Treasury @ @ @ @ @ programs will continue until Iran stops its support of terrorist activities and ends its nuclear @ @ @ @ @ Steven Mnuchin said in a statement .
`` Today ’ s actions will continue to @ @ @ @ @ support the Iranian people . ''
Several of the banks impacted by the sanctions are @ @ @ @ @ ministry of defense and armed forces .
Many of them also work in tandem with @ @ @ @ @ , which controls large swaths of the Iranian economy .

The Trump administration on Thursday slapped sanctions on 18 Iranian banks, further crippling the Iranian economy and stripping its access to the global financial system.
Iran’s entire financial sector is now subject to U.S. sanctions, according to the Treasury Department.
The new sanctions will stop Iran from accessing U.S. dollars, the primary global currency used by most financial institutions. All of the banks were identified as supporting Iran’s nuclear program, missile development, global terrorism enterprise, and its network of terror proxy groups, according to the Treasury Department.
"Our sanctions programs will continue until Iran stops its support of terrorist activities and ends its nuclear programs," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement. "Today’s actions will continue to allow for humanitarian transactions to support the Iranian people."
Several of the banks impacted by the sanctions are tied to Iran’s ministry of defense and armed forces. Many of them also work in tandem with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which controls large swaths of the Iranian economy.


freebeacon--2020-10-08--Liberal Donors Pass Millions in Secret Election Cash Through Sixteen Thirty Fund

Democratic donors are obscuring millions in 2020 election cash by using a dark money entity to mask the original source of the contributions , federal filings show .
Nearly $ 30 million in secret cash has been pumped into the elections through the Sixteen Thirty Fund , a progressive incubator managed by Arabella Advisors , a D.C.-based consulting firm .
Because the Sixteen Thirty Fund does not disclose its donors ' identities , individuals can use the group to fund super PACs anonymously .
Many Democratic PACs report the Sixteen Thirty Fund as their largest donor , which means that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public view .
The 2020 cycle marks the first time the Sixteen Thirty Fund has been used to pass money to presidential and congressional electoral efforts .
The fund 's primary purpose is to house progressive nonprofits , in which capacity it has facilitated hundreds of millions in anonymous donations to left-wing groups and initiatives .
One such group is Change Now , which has raised $ 6.4 million this cycle .
The super PAC 's filings with the Federal Election Commission show that it has received $ 5 million of its contributions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accounts for 80 percent of its total cash haul .
Change Now , in turn , has injected large sums into ad buys and direct mail against Trump and Republicans locked in tough Senate races .
So far this cycle , the super PAC has spent $ 2.9 million against Trump and spent hundreds of thousands more against Sens .
Susan Collins ( R. , Maine ) , Martha McSally ( R. , Ariz. ) , and Thom Tillis ( R. , N.C. ) .
The Sixteen Thirty Fund also provides administrative support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Black PAC is another liberal super PAC that counts the Sixteen Thirty Fund as its largest donor .
Officially dedicated to increasing black turnout , the group has bombarded airwaves with ads against Trump and GOP lawmakers .
The Sixteen Thirty Fund accounts for $ 2.25 million of the $ 6.3 million the Black PAC has raked in this cycle , while George Soros 's Democracy PAC , which has pumped more than $ 50 million into the 2020 elections , added a $ 1 million contribution of its own .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ funding from the pro-Biden Unite the Country super PAC , the League of Conservation Voters Victory Fund , America Votes , and Service Employees International Union .
It has spent more than $ 3 million on media buys , canvassing , telephone calls , and direct mail against Trump , Sen. Tillis , and Michigan Republican Senate candidate John James .
The Sixteen Thirty Fund funneled millions more to other prominent liberal PACs .
These donations include $ 5.7 million to Victory 2020 , a joint fundraising venture between Unite the Country and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 3.5 million to Priorities USA , the largest pro-Biden super PAC ; $ 2.2 million directly to the American Bridge PAC ; and $ 2 million to PACRONYM , a super PAC tied to the ACRONYM dark money network , which is funding `` fake news '' sites that push flattering stories about Democrats .
`` The Sixteen Thirty Fund is confronting the biggest social challenges in our country through fiscal sponsorship , advocacy , and electoral action like many other 501 ( c ) 4 organizations , '' Amy Kurtz , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Washington Free Beacon .
`` We support investing in the health and strength of our democracy and have lobbied in favor of reform to the current campaign finance system ( through H.R .
1 ) , but we are equally committed to following the current laws to level the playing field for progressives in this election . ''
The Free Beacon reported in July that the Sixteen Thirty Fund was being utilized to steer just shy of $ 20 million into the 2020 elections .
It has since pushed millions more to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nearly $ 30 million .
Arabella Advisors , which manages the Sixteen Thirty Fund , oversees what has become a dark money juggernaut .
More than $ 1 billion in secret cash has passed through the funds it manages to bankroll progressive causes in recent years .
Demand Justice , which falls under the Sixteen Thirty Fund 's umbrella , is currently in the midst of a $ 10 million campaign against Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett .

Democratic donors are obscuring millions in 2020 election cash by using a dark money entity to mask the original source of the contributions, federal filings show.
Nearly $30 million in secret cash has been pumped into the elections through the Sixteen Thirty Fund, a progressive incubator managed by Arabella Advisors, a D.C.-based consulting firm. Because the Sixteen Thirty Fund does not disclose its donors' identities, individuals can use the group to fund super PACs anonymously. Many Democratic PACs report the Sixteen Thirty Fund as their largest donor, which means that their most generous backers remain hidden from public view.
The 2020 cycle marks the first time the Sixteen Thirty Fund has been used to pass money to presidential and congressional electoral efforts. The fund's primary purpose is to house progressive nonprofits, in which capacity it has facilitated hundreds of millions in anonymous donations to left-wing groups and initiatives.
One such group is Change Now, which has raised $6.4 million this cycle. The super PAC's filings with the Federal Election Commission show that it has received $5 million of its contributions from the Sixteen Thirty Fund, which accounts for 80 percent of its total cash haul. Change Now, in turn, has injected large sums into ad buys and direct mail against Trump and Republicans locked in tough Senate races. So far this cycle, the super PAC has spent $2.9 million against Trump and spent hundreds of thousands more against Sens. Susan Collins (R., Maine), Martha McSally (R., Ariz.), and Thom Tillis (R., N.C.).
The Sixteen Thirty Fund also provides administrative support to Change Now, according to filings.
The Black PAC is another liberal super PAC that counts the Sixteen Thirty Fund as its largest donor. Officially dedicated to increasing black turnout, the group has bombarded airwaves with ads against Trump and GOP lawmakers. The Sixteen Thirty Fund accounts for $2.25 million of the $6.3 million the Black PAC has raked in this cycle, while George Soros's Democracy PAC, which has pumped more than $50 million into the 2020 elections, added a $1 million contribution of its own.
The Black PAC has also received hefty funding from the pro-Biden Unite the Country super PAC, the League of Conservation Voters Victory Fund, America Votes, and Service Employees International Union. It has spent more than $3 million on media buys, canvassing, telephone calls, and direct mail against Trump, Sen. Tillis, and Michigan Republican Senate candidate John James.
The Sixteen Thirty Fund funneled millions more to other prominent liberal PACs. These donations include $5.7 million to Victory 2020, a joint fundraising venture between Unite the Country and David Brock's American Bridge PAC; $3.5 million to Priorities USA, the largest pro-Biden super PAC; $2.2 million directly to the American Bridge PAC; and $2 million to PACRONYM, a super PAC tied to the ACRONYM dark money network, which is funding "fake news" sites that push flattering stories about Democrats.
"The Sixteen Thirty Fund is confronting the biggest social challenges in our country through fiscal sponsorship, advocacy, and electoral action like many other 501(c)4 organizations," Amy Kurtz, the group's executive director, told the Washington Free Beacon. "We support investing in the health and strength of our democracy and have lobbied in favor of reform to the current campaign finance system (through H.R. 1), but we are equally committed to following the current laws to level the playing field for progressives in this election."
The Free Beacon reported in July that the Sixteen Thirty Fund was being utilized to steer just shy of $20 million into the 2020 elections. It has since pushed millions more to election efforts, bringing its total to nearly $30 million.
Arabella Advisors, which manages the Sixteen Thirty Fund, oversees what has become a dark money juggernaut. More than $1 billion in secret cash has passed through the funds it manages to bankroll progressive causes in recent years. Demand Justice, which falls under the Sixteen Thirty Fund's umbrella, is currently in the midst of a $10 million campaign against Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett.


freebeacon--2020-10-08--The Biden-Harris Fracking Plan, Explained

Democratic vice-presidential candidate Kamala Harris twice claimed Wednesday that Joe Biden would not ban fracking if he took office , but both Harris and Biden repeatedly said they would support a ban or phase it out during the Democratic primary .
Harris said there was `` no question '' she favored banning fracking during her failed presidential run .
Biden now says he is only for preventing new fracking leases on federal lands , but he said at a primary debate there would be no room for it in his administration , said at another debate there would be `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ climate activist he would `` love to '' get rid of it though it would take time , and also said he would `` phase out '' the practice and get rid of fossil fuels .
Fracking , also known as hydraulic fracturing , is a drilling and extraction method of obtaining oil and natural gas from underground shale rocks .
The explosion of fracking in the United States in the 21st century has helped the country become more energy-independent and created a new energy industry , but left-wing figures oppose it over @ @ @

Democratic vice-presidential candidate Kamala Harris twice claimed Wednesday that Joe Biden would not ban fracking if he took office, but both Harris and Biden repeatedly said they would support a ban or phase it out during the Democratic primary.
Harris said there was "no question" she favored banning fracking during her failed presidential run. Biden now says he is only for preventing new fracking leases on federal lands, but he said at a primary debate there would be no room for it in his administration, said at another debate there would be "no new fracking," told a climate activist he would "love to" get rid of it though it would take time, and also said he would "phase out" the practice and get rid of fossil fuels.
Fracking, also known as hydraulic fracturing, is a drilling and extraction method of obtaining oil and natural gas from underground shale rocks. The explosion of fracking in the United States in the 21st century has helped the country become more energy-independent and created a new energy industry, but left-wing figures oppose it over environmental concerns.


freebeacon--2020-10-08--Vet Wounded by Iranian Explosives Warns Against Biden Presidency

A new ad that seeks to galvanize voters in the battleground state of Pennsylvania says a Biden presidency is likely to embolden the Iranian regime and loosen sanctions that have crippled Tehran ’ s economy .
The ad , part of a $ 10 million expenditure by the pro-Trump America First Action SuperPAC , features an American war vet who was wounded by Iranian explosives while serving abroad .
It premiered in the Philadelphia area on Thursday and seeks to sway voters who remain concerned about the Obama administration ’ s landmark nuclear deal with Iran , which provided the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Biden has pledged to rejoin that deal and pursue increased diplomacy with Iran .
`` That bomb was made by Iranians , '' says a retired staff sergeant and Purple Heart recipient identified as Robert .
`` Now Joe Biden wants to cut another deal with them , paving the way for Iran to get the nuclear weapon , giving in to the monsters that did this to me and my friends .
Iran is pure evil and Joe Biden is dangerously weak . ''
With the election still close in several critical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say lingering displeasure with the Iran deal could push undecided voters into the president ’ s corner .
The new advertisement could sway the more than 1 million voters in the Philadelphia area who disapprove of the Iran deal and tip the election in Trump ’ s favor , said Nathan Klein , who oversees the spending for America First Action .
The ad also is slated to run in Wisconsin and Florida through Election Day .
`` Pennsylvania is an extremely competitive state , '' said Peter Towey , America First Action @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` As swing voters learn more about Biden 's failures of leadership , especially his weakness in the face of the evil Iranian regime that has targeted American soldiers like Rob , the people of Pennsylvania will vote to give President Trump four more years in the White House . ''

A new ad that seeks to galvanize voters in the battleground state of Pennsylvania says a Biden presidency is likely to embolden the Iranian regime and loosen sanctions that have crippled Tehran’s economy.
The ad, part of a $10 million expenditure by the pro-Trump America First Action SuperPAC, features an American war vet who was wounded by Iranian explosives while serving abroad. It premiered in the Philadelphia area on Thursday and seeks to sway voters who remain concerned about the Obama administration’s landmark nuclear deal with Iran, which provided the regime with billions in cash windfalls. Biden has pledged to rejoin that deal and pursue increased diplomacy with Iran.
"That bomb was made by Iranians," says a retired staff sergeant and Purple Heart recipient identified as Robert. "Now Joe Biden wants to cut another deal with them, paving the way for Iran to get the nuclear weapon, giving in to the monsters that did this to me and my friends. Iran is pure evil and Joe Biden is dangerously weak."
With the election still close in several critical states, including Pennsylvania, Trump allies say lingering displeasure with the Iran deal could push undecided voters into the president’s corner.
The new advertisement could sway the more than 1 million voters in the Philadelphia area who disapprove of the Iran deal and tip the election in Trump’s favor, said Nathan Klein, who oversees the spending for America First Action.
The ad also is slated to run in Wisconsin and Florida through Election Day.
"Pennsylvania is an extremely competitive state," said Peter Towey, America First Action’s senior adviser for Pennsylvania. "As swing voters learn more about Biden's failures of leadership, especially his weakness in the face of the evil Iranian regime that has targeted American soldiers like Rob, the people of Pennsylvania will vote to give President Trump four more years in the White House."


freebeacon--2020-10-08--Cotton: U.S. Should Make ‘Explicit’ Commitment to Defend Taiwan From China

Sen. Tom Cotton ( R. , Ark . )
said Wednesday that the United States should announce an `` explicit and unambiguous '' commitment to defend Taiwan from a potential Chinese invasion .
For decades , Washington has made it unclear as to how it would respond to a Chinese invasion of Taiwan , which Beijing views as its sovereign territory .
Cotton said Wednesday that a public defense commitment from the United States would send a message to China and limit the likelihood of an invasion .
`` The main source of restraint in the minds of Xi Jinping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or not an invasion of Taiwan would succeed , '' the senator said during a Hudson Insitute event .
The success of an invasion is contingent on the response time from American forces , which may be decreased by a public declaration to defend Taiwanese sovereignty .
In recent months , China has increased its amphibious capabilities for a possible invasion of Taiwan and has displayed increasing aggression toward the island nation .
When Undersecretary of State Keith Krach visited Taiwan in September , more than a dozen Chinese aircraft stalked Taiwanese airspace @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Washington .
Some regional experts believe Cotton 's proposal would signal `` strategic clarity '' to both China and Taiwan .
`` Senator Cotton talked about the need to ‘ restore deterrence , ' which is a particularly critical issue in Asia , '' American Enterprise Institute scholar Zack Cooper told the Washington Free Beacon .
`` I think there is much to recommend this position , as long as it is carefully and accurately described to both Taipei and Beijing . ''
Cotton also said that Washington should pursue further arms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year , the Trump administration has facilitated the sale of Patriot missile-defense systems , complex sea mines , and drones to Taiwan to help the island nation defend against a potential invasion from Beijing .
Taiwan 's spending to defend against Chinese aircraft has jumped to nearly $ 900 million this year alone Secretary of Defense Mark Esper said Tuesday that a strengthened Taiwan will deter Chinese aggression .
`` I 'm confident we would prevail today in any conflict [ across the Taiwan Strait ] , '' Esper said .
`` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what we need to do . ''

Sen. Tom Cotton (R., Ark.) said Wednesday that the United States should announce an "explicit and unambiguous" commitment to defend Taiwan from a potential Chinese invasion.
For decades, Washington has made it unclear as to how it would respond to a Chinese invasion of Taiwan, which Beijing views as its sovereign territory. Cotton said Wednesday that a public defense commitment from the United States would send a message to China and limit the likelihood of an invasion.
"The main source of restraint in the minds of Xi Jinping and the Central Military Commission is whether or not an invasion of Taiwan would succeed," the senator said during a Hudson Insitute event. The success of an invasion is contingent on the response time from American forces, which may be decreased by a public declaration to defend Taiwanese sovereignty.
In recent months, China has increased its amphibious capabilities for a possible invasion of Taiwan and has displayed increasing aggression toward the island nation. When Undersecretary of State Keith Krach visited Taiwan in September, more than a dozen Chinese aircraft stalked Taiwanese airspace in a show of force to Taipei and Washington.
Some regional experts believe Cotton's proposal would signal "strategic clarity" to both China and Taiwan.
"Senator Cotton talked about the need to 'restore deterrence,' which is a particularly critical issue in Asia," American Enterprise Institute scholar Zack Cooper told the Washington Free Beacon. "I think there is much to recommend this position, as long as it is carefully and accurately described to both Taipei and Beijing."
Cotton also said that Washington should pursue further arms sales with Taiwan. In the last year, the Trump administration has facilitated the sale of Patriot missile-defense systems, complex sea mines, and drones to Taiwan to help the island nation defend against a potential invasion from Beijing. Taiwan's spending to defend against Chinese aircraft has jumped to nearly $900 million this year alone
Secretary of Defense Mark Esper said Tuesday that a strengthened Taiwan will deter Chinese aggression.
"I'm confident we would prevail today in any conflict [across the Taiwan Strait]," Esper said. "We recognize China's direction and we know what we need to do."


freebeacon--2020-10-08--Harris Angers Left With Defense of Fracking

Democratic vice-presidential nominee Kamala Harris is getting blowback from her claim in Wednesday night ’ s vice-presidential debate that Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden would not ban fracking .
`` Fracking is bad , actually , '' New York congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez ( D. ) tweeted .
Climate change activist Mark Ruffalo joined the Twitter cacophony , tweeting that the practice pollutes water and causes diseases .
He proposed the Green New Deal—which Ocasio-Cortez brought to Congress , and Harris at one point backed—as a better alternative to fracking for job creation .
And the far-left Sunrise Movement , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other far-left House Democrats , tweeted a meme and asked followers to support the Green New Deal .
Harris said Wednesday evening that `` Joe Biden will not ban fracking . ''
Both Biden and Harris have flip-flopped on fracking since setting out on the campaign trail last year .
The former vice president said as recently as March that there would be `` no more drilling '' in the United States if he were elected .
And Harris said there was `` no question '' that she was in favor of banning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ While prominent Democrats on the far left believe fracking is bad for the environment , former president Barack Obama and former secretary of state Hillary Clinton both previously backed fracking as a cleaner alternative to coal .
The U.S. fracking industry has greatly reduced the country ’ s dependence on Russia and OPEC nations for oil , thereby strengthening national security .
It also supports the employment of 14 million American workers .

Democratic vice-presidential nominee Kamala Harris is getting blowback from her claim in Wednesday night’s vice-presidential debate that Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden would not ban fracking.
"Fracking is bad, actually," New York congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D.) tweeted.
Climate change activist Mark Ruffalo joined the Twitter cacophony, tweeting that the practice pollutes water and causes diseases. He proposed the Green New Deal—which Ocasio-Cortez brought to Congress, and Harris at one point backed—as a better alternative to fracking for job creation. And the far-left Sunrise Movement, a youth environmentalist group that supports Ocasio-Cortez and other far-left House Democrats, tweeted a meme and asked followers to support the Green New Deal.
https://twitter.com/sunrisemvmt/status/1314032219372032007
Harris said Wednesday evening that "Joe Biden will not ban fracking."
Both Biden and Harris have flip-flopped on fracking since setting out on the campaign trail last year. The former vice president said as recently as March that there would be "no more drilling" in the United States if he were elected. And Harris said there was "no question" that she was in favor of banning fracking during a debate last year.
While prominent Democrats on the far left believe fracking is bad for the environment, former president Barack Obama and former secretary of state Hillary Clinton both previously backed fracking as a cleaner alternative to coal.
The U.S. fracking industry has greatly reduced the country’s dependence on Russia and OPEC nations for oil, thereby strengthening national security. It also supports the employment of 14 million American workers.


freebeacon--2020-10-08--Swastika Found at Columbia University Just Days After Anti-Israel Vote

A swastika was found at Columbia University just one week after students voted to pass an anti-Israel referendum calling on the school to divest from Israel .
Jewish students discovered the swastika on the steps of Columbia 's Low Library on Oct. 7 , a mere nine days after the referendum passed .
The motion had been pushed by Columbia University Apartheid Divest , a group that claims Israel is an apartheid state .
Pro-Israel student leader Ofir Dayan told the Washington Free Beacon that the swastika reflected the normalization of anti-Semitism at Columbia .
`` Passing the referendum [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a shame that the Columbia community did not listen when Jewish and pro-Israel students warned that passing it would cause a rise in anti-Semitism on campus , '' Dayan said .
`` I hope , but based on the past [ am ] doubtful , that the administration will track and punish the racist bigots responsible for the swastika . ''
This is the second swastika found on campus property this year : In February , the symbol was painted on the 16th floor of a residential dormitory .
Brian Cohen , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ center , told the Free Beacon that growing anti-Semitism reinforces the importance of Jewish student groups .
`` Incidents like this are too common on campus , and around the city , country , and world , '' Cohen said .
`` Columbia Hillel remains committed to advocating for the physical and emotional safety and security of Jewish students on campus . ''
Last week , an association of pro-Israel alumni penned a letter to Columbia president Lee Bollinger asking him to more forcefully denounce anti-Semitism .
Bollinger had condemned the anti-Israel referendum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but the alumni group believes the president can `` do more to protect Jewish students on campus . ''
`` Now is the time for your administration to show that antisemitism is a vile hate that divides student bodies , targets Jewish students and allies , and impedes on academic achievement , '' the letter reads .
`` Your leadership is needed to support the Columbia Jewish community . ''
`` We condemn the expression of antisemitism recently seen on our campus , and we are investigating the incident , '' a Columbia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Our thoughts are with our Jewish community members , as we say once again that acts of bias and hate have no place at Columbia . ''

A swastika was found at Columbia University just one week after students voted to pass an anti-Israel referendum calling on the school to divest from Israel.
Jewish students discovered the swastika on the steps of Columbia's Low Library on Oct. 7, a mere nine days after the referendum passed. The motion had been pushed by Columbia University Apartheid Divest, a group that claims Israel is an apartheid state.
Pro-Israel student leader Ofir Dayan told the Washington Free Beacon that the swastika reflected the normalization of anti-Semitism at Columbia. "Passing the referendum [was] a dangerous precedent and it is a shame that the Columbia community did not listen when Jewish and pro-Israel students warned that passing it would cause a rise in anti-Semitism on campus," Dayan said. "I hope, but based on the past [am] doubtful, that the administration will track and punish the racist bigots responsible for the swastika."
This is the second swastika found on campus property this year: In February, the symbol was painted on the 16th floor of a residential dormitory.
Brian Cohen, a spokesman for the university's Hillel center, told the Free Beacon that growing anti-Semitism reinforces the importance of Jewish student groups. "Incidents like this are too common on campus, and around the city, country, and world," Cohen said. "Columbia Hillel remains committed to advocating for the physical and emotional safety and security of Jewish students on campus."
Last week, an association of pro-Israel alumni penned a letter to Columbia president Lee Bollinger asking him to more forcefully denounce anti-Semitism. Bollinger had condemned the anti-Israel referendum after it passed on Sept. 29, but the alumni group believes the president can "do more to protect Jewish students on campus." "Now is the time for your administration to show that antisemitism is a vile hate that divides student bodies, targets Jewish students and allies, and impedes on academic achievement," the letter reads. "Your leadership is needed to support the Columbia Jewish community."
"We condemn the expression of antisemitism recently seen on our campus, and we are investigating the incident," a Columbia spokesperson told the Free Beacon. "Our thoughts are with our Jewish community members, as we say once again that acts of bias and hate have no place at Columbia."