newsweek--2020-12-08--GOP Rep Says 'Impeachable Conduct' May Be on Hunter Biden Laptop, Requests DOJ Probe

Colorado GOP congressman Ken Buck says America ca n't `` move forward '' with a Joe Biden presidency unless the Justice Department appoints a special counsel to investigate Hunter Biden 's laptop .
Buck told a Michigan-based radio host this week that the contents of Hunter Biden 's laptop , which is currently in the FBI 's possession , could uncover `` impeachable conduct . ''
The Colorado Republican penned a letter to Attorney General Bill Barr Monday urging the DOJ to appoint a special counsel similar to Robert Mueller 's probe of President Donald Trump to investigate Biden 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said then-Vice President Biden 's consent or knowledge of his son 's alleged dealings with energy group Burisma is the allegation that requires a special counsel investigation .
Buck 's claim about lingering GOP questions over the laptop aside , he still maintains that Joe Biden may not have won the November 3 presidential election—a false suggestion repeated by Trump himself .
`` The special counsel has authority to investigate and is given independent resources , and I think , in this case , the subject matter [ Biden 's laptop held by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ important for the American people to get to the bottom of , '' Buck told The Kyle Olson Show in an interview set to air Saturday .
`` It 's actually impeachable conduct if the vice president at the time knew his son was selling his authority and access , '' Buck continued .
`` It 's an issue that is going to cloud the Biden presidency if in fact Joe Biden is formally sworn in as president , and I think in order for America to move forward it makes sense for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Buck 's letter calling for Barr to appoint a special counsel comes just days after the attorney general publicly appointed U.S. Attorney John Durham of Connecticut as special counsel to investigate the origins of the Russia probe into the Trump administration .
As Fox News reported Monday , Barr stated that Durham is `` authorized to investigate whether any federal official , employee , or any other person or entity violates the law in connection with the intelligence , counter-intelligence or law enforcement activities directed at the 2016 presidential campaigns ... and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Just hours after calling for an official investigation , Buck claimed without evidence that he somehow knows the younger Biden 's Ukraine dealings did likely occur when his father was vice president .
`` I do n't think it 's just an allegation .
I think it 's quite clear that all of those things happened .
The allegation is really just whether the vice president knew about it , consented to it , and participated in it , '' Buck told the Michigan radio host this week .
Despite Buck @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may uncover `` impeachable conduct '' from his father , he has n't always been so quick to throw around such accusations .
During a November 2019 impeachment hearing of Trump , Buck declared `` it 's not impeachable '' to request foreign investigation of a political rival .
Unlike his views toward the Bidens this week , Buck claimed last year that Trump 's alleged quid pro quo in Ukraine was n't impeachable unless the exchange itself rose to the level of a criminal act .
Newsweek reached out to both Buck @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for additional remarks Tuesday evening .

Colorado GOP congressman Ken Buck says America can't "move forward" with a Joe Biden presidency unless the Justice Department appoints a special counsel to investigate Hunter Biden's laptop.
Buck told a Michigan-based radio host this week that the contents of Hunter Biden's laptop, which is currently in the FBI's possession, could uncover "impeachable conduct." The Colorado Republican penned a letter to Attorney General Bill Barr Monday urging the DOJ to appoint a special counsel similar to Robert Mueller's probe of President Donald Trump to investigate Biden's alleged business dealings in Ukraine. Buck said then-Vice President Biden's consent or knowledge of his son's alleged dealings with energy group Burisma is the allegation that requires a special counsel investigation.
Buck's claim about lingering GOP questions over the laptop aside, he still maintains that Joe Biden may not have won the November 3 presidential election—a false suggestion repeated by Trump himself.
"The special counsel has authority to investigate and is given independent resources, and I think, in this case, the subject matter [Biden's laptop held by the FBI] is absolutely significant and important for the American people to get to the bottom of," Buck told The Kyle Olson Show in an interview set to air Saturday.
"It's actually impeachable conduct if the vice president at the time knew his son was selling his authority and access," Buck continued. "It's an issue that is going to cloud the Biden presidency if in fact Joe Biden is formally sworn in as president, and I think in order for America to move forward it makes sense for America to clear up this matter."
Buck's letter calling for Barr to appoint a special counsel comes just days after the attorney general publicly appointed U.S. Attorney John Durham of Connecticut as special counsel to investigate the origins of the Russia probe into the Trump administration. As Fox News reported Monday, Barr stated that Durham is "authorized to investigate whether any federal official, employee, or any other person or entity violates the law in connection with the intelligence, counter-intelligence or law enforcement activities directed at the 2016 presidential campaigns...and the administration of Donald J. Trump."
Just hours after calling for an official investigation, Buck claimed without evidence that he somehow knows the younger Biden's Ukraine dealings did likely occur when his father was vice president.
"I don't think it's just an allegation. I think it's quite clear that all of those things happened. The allegation is really just whether the vice president knew about it, consented to it, and participated in it," Buck told the Michigan radio host this week.
Despite Buck's unfounded claim that Biden's laptop may uncover "impeachable conduct" from his father, he hasn't always been so quick to throw around such accusations. During a November 2019 impeachment hearing of Trump, Buck declared "it's not impeachable" to request foreign investigation of a political rival. Unlike his views toward the Bidens this week, Buck claimed last year that Trump's alleged quid pro quo in Ukraine wasn't impeachable unless the exchange itself rose to the level of a criminal act.
Newsweek reached out to both Buck's office and the Biden transition team for additional remarks Tuesday evening.


newsweek--2020-12-08--Bernie Sanders, Dem Senators Demand Stimulus Checks, Opposes $908 Relief Proposal

Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont , an independent , and five progressive Democrats in the upper chamber are opposing the framework of the $ 908 billion bipartisan stimulus plan for being insufficient in addressing the economic fallout of the pandemic and excluding a second round of stimulus checks .
In a letter—signed by Sanders and Democratic Sens .
Kirsten Gillibrand of New York , Elizabeth Warren and Edward Markey of Massachusetts , and Jeffrey Merkley and Ron Wyden of Oregon—the lawmakers in the Senate Democratic Caucus said the leading stimulus proposal `` does not go anywhere near far enough .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Democrats on Monday .
`` Please join us in demanding that any new COVID-relief proposal includes a $ 1,200 direct payment to adults and $ 500 to their children .
Further , please work with us to make certain that there is no language in this bill to give a liability shield to corporations who threaten the health and safety of workers and customers , '' the letter read .
The six senators criticized the current bipartisan framework for allocating `` $ 300 supplements for unemployed workers rather than $ 600 a week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the health care crisis impacting millions of Americans who can not afford medical care , '' and potentially providing legal immunity to corporations `` whose irresponsibility has led to the deaths of hundreds of workers . ''
Democratic Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Republican Senator Josh Hawley , although not signatories on the letter , have also joined the progressive push for further stimulus checks .
Hawley called President Donald Trump on Saturday and urged him to veto any legislation that does n't include direct payments .
`` I said , ' I think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ direct payments , and I 'm not gon na vote for it if it does n't , ' '' the senator said in an interview on Monday .
`` And I also urged him to veto any bill that did not have direct payments in it . ''
The senator said that the president seemed receptive to his suggestion .
Ocasio-Cortez has also said she would n't support the $ 908 billion plan unless it included a second stimulus check .
`` COVID relief needs to directly help everyday people .
People need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tweeted Thursday .
The $ 908 bipartisan measure , introduced by a group of Republican and Democratic senators as a middle-of-the-road compromise , includes funding for state and local governments , expanded unemployment benefits and funding for small businesses .
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi , Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and President-elect Joe Biden have backed the plan that 's less than half of their latest $ 2.2 trillion bill proposal .
But Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell initially rejected the measure and negotiations are still ongoing .
McConnell , who previously opposed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reportedly warming to the idea of including another check to further coronavirus relief , Politico reported on Tuesday .
Newsweek reached out to Pelosi 's office for comment .

Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont, an independent, and five progressive Democrats in the upper chamber are opposing the framework of the $908 billion bipartisan stimulus plan for being insufficient in addressing the economic fallout of the pandemic and excluding a second round of stimulus checks.
In a letter—signed by Sanders and Democratic Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand of New York, Elizabeth Warren and Edward Markey of Massachusetts, and Jeffrey Merkley and Ron Wyden of Oregon—the lawmakers in the Senate Democratic Caucus said the leading stimulus proposal "does not go anywhere near far enough."
Sanders circulated the letter among Senate Democrats on Monday.
"Please join us in demanding that any new COVID-relief proposal includes a $1,200 direct payment to adults and $500 to their children. Further, please work with us to make certain that there is no language in this bill to give a liability shield to corporations who threaten the health and safety of workers and customers," the letter read.
Senator Bernie Sanders at the U.S. Capitol on October 20, 2020. Stefani Reynolds/Getty
The six senators criticized the current bipartisan framework for allocating "$300 supplements for unemployed workers rather than $600 a week," doing "nothing to address the health care crisis impacting millions of Americans who cannot afford medical care," and potentially providing legal immunity to corporations "whose irresponsibility has led to the deaths of hundreds of workers."
Democratic Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Republican Senator Josh Hawley, although not signatories on the letter, have also joined the progressive push for further stimulus checks.
Hawley called President Donald Trump on Saturday and urged him to veto any legislation that doesn't include direct payments.
"I said, 'I think it's vital that any relief include direct payments, and I'm not gonna vote for it if it doesn't,'" the senator said in an interview on Monday. "And I also urged him to veto any bill that did not have direct payments in it."
The senator said that the president seemed receptive to his suggestion.
Ocasio-Cortez has also said she wouldn't support the $908 billion plan unless it included a second stimulus check. "COVID relief needs to directly help everyday people. People need stimulus checks & UI," she tweeted Thursday.
The $908 bipartisan measure, introduced by a group of Republican and Democratic senators as a middle-of-the-road compromise, includes funding for state and local governments, expanded unemployment benefits and funding for small businesses. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and President-elect Joe Biden have backed the plan that's less than half of their latest $2.2 trillion bill proposal. But Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell initially rejected the measure and negotiations are still ongoing.
McConnell, who previously opposed sending out more direct payments, is reportedly warming to the idea of including another check to further coronavirus relief, Politico reported on Tuesday.
Newsweek reached out to Pelosi's office for comment.
Correction 12/9/20, 4 a.m. ET: The headline of this article was updated to state "$908 billion."


newsweek--2020-12-09--Venomous Snakes Caught Invading People's Bedrooms in Shocking Video

A snake removal expert in Australia has advised residents to stay vigilant after multiple species were recently found lurking in people 's homes .
Stuart McKenzie , the owner of Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers 24/7 , shared a video to Facebook on Tuesday showing a series of encounters with reptiles that were found hiding in the bedrooms of residents of the Sunshine Coast region .
The clip featured a wide variety of species , from the relatively harmless tree snake to the deadly eastern brown and the large-bodied carpet python constrictor .
The video—taken by the relocation team as they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a person 's carpet , a python curled under a duvet and a venomous red-bellied black snake that had been discovered inside a wardrobe .
In one of the most eye-catching moments , McKenzie wrangled a thick python that was inside a homeowner 's bedroom closet .
`` Wow , look at the size of this snake , '' he is heard saying .
`` That is ridiculous , it 's lucky there 's no bed and someone sleeping in here . ''
Carpet pythons , which are the most commonly encountered species @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , are regularly found `` curled up in ceilings enjoying the security and warmth , '' the Queensland Government explains on its website .
McKenzie wrote in a caption on Facebook : `` We are getting called weekly for snakes that have entered a family 's home and ended up in one of the bedrooms .
`` Often the bedroom is the hardest place to find a snake because most bedrooms are quite messy or have plenty of stuff in them for snakes to hide amongst .
If you ever have a snake @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the door and wedge a towel under the outside of the door isolating the snake in there and give us a call immediately . ''
In a separate Facebook post on Tuesday , another Queensland reptile removal business , Snake Catchers Brisbane & Gold Coast , published two images of a large carpet python that had to be relocated from a woman 's bed at her home in Bardon .
It said in a caption the homeowner had left her windows open overnight when a python that had previously been seen in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` They ... were happy to have it outside , but it really pushed the boundaries this time so it was time to have it relocated , '' Snake Catchers Brisbane & Gold Coast said .
According to the Queensland Government , the state is home to roughly 120 species of snake , about 65 percent of which are venomous .
It says snakes are attracted to yards and houses by food and shelter , sometimes unknowingly provided by humans .
Officials said it 's vital to not attempt to kill the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kill a native animal and it could also result in a higher risk of being attacked or bitten .
`` It is important to remember that snakes are an important part of the environment and the relocated snake is often replaced by another living nearby .
The best approach is to snake-proof your house , '' officials said in an FAQ about the treatment of snakes .

A snake removal expert in Australia has advised residents to stay vigilant after multiple species were recently found lurking in people's homes.
Stuart McKenzie, the owner of Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers 24/7, shared a video to Facebook on Tuesday showing a series of encounters with reptiles that were found hiding in the bedrooms of residents of the Sunshine Coast region.
The clip featured a wide variety of species, from the relatively harmless tree snake to the deadly eastern brown and the large-bodied carpet python constrictor.
The video—taken by the relocation team as they attended call-outs—showed an eastern brown hiding under a person's carpet, a python curled under a duvet and a venomous red-bellied black snake that had been discovered inside a wardrobe.
In one of the most eye-catching moments, McKenzie wrangled a thick python that was inside a homeowner's bedroom closet. "Wow, look at the size of this snake," he is heard saying. "That is ridiculous, it's lucky there's no bed and someone sleeping in here."
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Carpet pythons, which are the most commonly encountered species of snake along the Sunshine Coast region, are regularly found "curled up in ceilings enjoying the security and warmth," the Queensland Government explains on its website.
McKenzie wrote in a caption on Facebook: "We are getting called weekly for snakes that have entered a family's home and ended up in one of the bedrooms.
"Often the bedroom is the hardest place to find a snake because most bedrooms are quite messy or have plenty of stuff in them for snakes to hide amongst. If you ever have a snake enter one of your bedrooms please shut the door and wedge a towel under the outside of the door isolating the snake in there and give us a call immediately."
In a separate Facebook post on Tuesday, another Queensland reptile removal business, Snake Catchers Brisbane & Gold Coast, published two images of a large carpet python that had to be relocated from a woman's bed at her home in Bardon.
It said in a caption the homeowner had left her windows open overnight when a python that had previously been seen in the yard decided to slither into the room.
"They... were happy to have it outside, but it really pushed the boundaries this time so it was time to have it relocated," Snake Catchers Brisbane & Gold Coast said.
According to the Queensland Government, the state is home to roughly 120 species of snake, about 65 percent of which are venomous. It says snakes are attracted to yards and houses by food and shelter, sometimes unknowingly provided by humans.
Officials said it's vital to not attempt to kill the snake, as it is illegal to kill a native animal and it could also result in a higher risk of being attacked or bitten.
"It is important to remember that snakes are an important part of the environment and the relocated snake is often replaced by another living nearby. The best approach is to snake-proof your house," officials said in an FAQ about the treatment of snakes.


newsweek--2020-12-09--California Pastor Found in Contempt for Violating COVID Rules, Says He's 'Not a Policeman'

A California church pastor who repeatedly defied a court order to stop holding unmasked indoor services has been found in contempt for violating COVID-19 health orders .
Mike McClure , head pastor of Calvary Chapel San Jose , continued to host gatherings of hundreds of people not wearing masks in violation of state health orders , the Santa Clara County district attorney said .
`` I 'm not a policeman , I 'm a pastor , '' McClure told reporters outside court on Tuesday .
`` I respect the judge , I understand what the laws are , but there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's lawyer , Robert Tyler , told people to `` wake up '' after a court ruled the church to pay around $ 55,000 in fines .
`` This Covid crisis is not what people are making it out to be and it 's a significant intrusion upon liberties , '' Tyler added .
Judge Peter Kirwan of the Santa Clara County Court ordered the church to pay $ 2,500 in fines for each day it violated the county 's health order , an amount which could add up to $ 55,000 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ indicated he would continue services , saying he had to `` follow what God 's word said . ''
The Santa Clara County Counsel initially sued the church back in October , leading to a court granting a temporary restraining order in early November .
The church continued to put the community at risk by hosting indoor services , the county said .
`` These public health orders are literally a matter of life and death ; they are designed to reduce Covid-19 transmission , avoid serious illness , and save lives , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Williams said .
McClure said that he 's not against masks , and if people want to wear one they should .
`` I 'm not worried so much about the things you 're worried about , '' he told KPIX5 News .
`` More as much about what God 's worried about .
God 's worried about your heart and your life and your eternity more than a mask because those are debatable things , right ? ''
Most of those from McClure 's congregation who came to court in support of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Many held placards which read `` Churches are essential '' and applauded as McClure left the court .
`` Justice was not served today , '' Attorney Mariah Gondeiro told reporters .
`` Justice is not served by trying to bankrupt a church who has posed no threat to public health and safety based off the evidence that we have and instead has tried to help people . ''
The non-denominational Christian church located on 1175 Hillsdale Ave can host up to 1900 people , church lawyers said .
In a video @ @ @ @ @ @ @ & Freedom , attorney Robert Tyler takes viewers on a tour of the church , saying it can host thousands .
`` You got this bottom part which seats 1,100 ... the balcony up top seats another 680 and out in the lobby it seats another 1,700 people , '' Tyler said .
Church attorneys said they will appeal the court 's decision , calling the county health restrictions on religious institutions unconstitutional and will take the case to the Federal court on December 17 .
Current health orders mandate that indoor gatherings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ capped at 25 percent capacity or 100 people , whichever is less , with masks and social distancing requirements , according to the county website .
More than 20,000 people have died of COVID-19 in California and cases have continued to rise throughout the state .
Newsweek has contacted the Santa Clara County district attorney and Calvary Chapel San Jose and pastor Mike McClure for comment .

A California church pastor who repeatedly defied a court order to stop holding unmasked indoor services has been found in contempt for violating COVID-19 health orders.
Mike McClure, head pastor of Calvary Chapel San Jose, continued to host gatherings of hundreds of people not wearing masks in violation of state health orders, the Santa Clara County district attorney said.
"I'm not a policeman, I'm a pastor," McClure told reporters outside court on Tuesday. "I respect the judge, I understand what the laws are, but there's a bigger law."
McClure's lawyer, Robert Tyler, told people to "wake up" after a court ruled the church to pay around $55,000 in fines. "This Covid crisis is not what people are making it out to be and it's a significant intrusion upon liberties," Tyler added.
The Calvary Chapel San Jose in California has been fined for continuing to host gatherings of hundreds of people not wearing masks in violation of state health orders. Google Maps
Judge Peter Kirwan of the Santa Clara County Court ordered the church to pay $2,500 in fines for each day it violated the county's health order, an amount which could add up to $55,000, NBC Bay Area News reports.
McClure indicated he would continue services, saying he had to "follow what God's word said."
The Santa Clara County Counsel initially sued the church back in October, leading to a court granting a temporary restraining order in early November. The church continued to put the community at risk by hosting indoor services, the county said.
"These public health orders are literally a matter of life and death; they are designed to reduce Covid-19 transmission, avoid serious illness, and save lives," Santa Clara County Counsel James R. Williams said.
McClure said that he's not against masks, and if people want to wear one they should.
"I'm not worried so much about the things you're worried about," he told KPIX5 News. "More as much about what God's worried about. God's worried about your heart and your life and your eternity more than a mask because those are debatable things, right?"
Most of those from McClure's congregation who came to court in support of their pastor did not wear a mask. Many held placards which read "Churches are essential" and applauded as McClure left the court.
"Justice was not served today," Attorney Mariah Gondeiro told reporters. "Justice is not served by trying to bankrupt a church who has posed no threat to public health and safety based off the evidence that we have and instead has tried to help people."
The non-denominational Christian church located on 1175 Hillsdale Ave can host up to 1900 people, church lawyers said.
In a video uploaded by nonprofit group Advocates for Faith & Freedom, attorney Robert Tyler takes viewers on a tour of the church, saying it can host thousands.
"You got this bottom part which seats 1,100... the balcony up top seats another 680 and out in the lobby it seats another 1,700 people," Tyler said.
Church attorneys said they will appeal the court's decision, calling the county health restrictions on religious institutions unconstitutional and will take the case to the Federal court on December 17.
Current health orders mandate that indoor gatherings for religious or other purposes must be capped at 25 percent capacity or 100 people, whichever is less, with masks and social distancing requirements, according to the county website.
More than 20,000 people have died of COVID-19 in California and cases have continued to rise throughout the state.
Newsweek has contacted the Santa Clara County district attorney and Calvary Chapel San Jose and pastor Mike McClure for comment.


newsweek--2020-12-09--Joe Biden Plucking Marcia Fudge From House Makes Nancy Pelosi's Slim Majority Even Smaller

President-elect Joe Biden 's decision to nominate Congresswoman Marcia Fudge to lead the Department of Housing and Urban Development will further reduce the Democratic majority in the House of Representatives when the new Congress meets early next year .
Fudge , who represents Ohio 's 11th congressional district , is the second serving representative to find a position in the incoming Biden administration .
Congressman Cedric Richmond of Louisiana 's 2nd district has been appointed director of the Office of Public Engagement .
Special elections will be held to fill the seats but until then Speaker Nancy Pelosi 's caucus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a slim majority of just five , while a minimum 218 votes are needed to pass legislation .
Fudge spoke to Politico 's Playbook newsletter about her departure and what it might mean for the Democratic majority .
`` It 's tight , '' Fudge said .
`` Certainly I do think about it because I 'm a part of this team , and I support this caucus.
!
`` Certainly I 'm in a safe district , '' Fudge went on .
`` Whoever would come here would be a part @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gives me some comfort .
`` I just have to hope that we can hold together long enough to make sure that something like that would happen if I should leave .
Because right now Cedric is gone and so we 're down one , his seat will be a safe seat as well .
So we 're just hopeful that if this works out the way we would like it to—that it 'll be OK. '' Fudge won re-election with 80.1 percent of the vote this year , according to the New @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also safe .
He won re-election with 63.6 percent of the vote .
However , organizing special elections takes time and Republicans have already noticed the changing electoral math .
Senator John Cornyn ( R-TX ) quoted directly from the Politico report on Fudge in a tweet on Wednesday .
Pelosi 's House majority will be the chamber 's smallest since 2001 and her party 's smallest since 1893 , Politico reported .
A reduced Democratic majority would be a concern for Biden as well as Pelosi .
Progressive Representatives Rashida Tlaib and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vote for further stimulus if it does not include checks to American families similar to those issued in April .
If divisions like these persist into January , it could become increasingly difficult to legislate .

President-elect Joe Biden's decision to nominate Congresswoman Marcia Fudge to lead the Department of Housing and Urban Development will further reduce the Democratic majority in the House of Representatives when the new Congress meets early next year.
Fudge, who represents Ohio's 11th congressional district, is the second serving representative to find a position in the incoming Biden administration. Congressman Cedric Richmond of Louisiana's 2nd district has been appointed director of the Office of Public Engagement.
Special elections will be held to fill the seats but until then Speaker Nancy Pelosi's caucus will consist of 220 members. This is a slim majority of just five, while a minimum 218 votes are needed to pass legislation.
Read more Pelosi Calls WH's $916B Proposal With $600 Stimulus Checks 'Unacceptable' Pelosi Calls WH's $916B Proposal With $600 Stimulus Checks 'Unacceptable'
Fudge spoke to Politico's Playbook newsletter about her departure and what it might mean for the Democratic majority.
"It's tight," Fudge said. "Certainly I do think about it because I'm a part of this team, and I support this caucus.!
"Certainly I'm in a safe district," Fudge went on. "Whoever would come here would be a part of this team as well so that gives me some comfort.
"I just have to hope that we can hold together long enough to make sure that something like that would happen if I should leave. Because right now Cedric is gone and so we're down one, his seat will be a safe seat as well. So we're just hopeful that if this works out the way we would like it to—that it'll be OK."
Fudge won re-election with 80.1 percent of the vote this year, according to the New York Times. Richmond's district is also safe. He won re-election with 63.6 percent of the vote.
However, organizing special elections takes time and Republicans have already noticed the changing electoral math. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) quoted directly from the Politico report on Fudge in a tweet on Wednesday.
Pelosi's House majority will be the chamber's smallest since 2001 and her party's smallest since 1893, Politico reported. A reduced Democratic majority would be a concern for Biden as well as Pelosi.
Progressive Representatives Rashida Tlaib and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez recently suggested they won't vote for further stimulus if it does not include checks to American families similar to those issued in April.
If divisions like these persist into January, it could become increasingly difficult to legislate.


newsweek--2020-12-09--Chinese Forces Flex Muscles in South China Sea During U.S. Navy Transit

The Chinese military held live-fire combat drills in the South China Sea as U.S. Navy warships entered the disputed waters on Sunday , according to China 's state-owned media .
The Chinese Navy 's Type 056A corvettes Enshi , Yongzhou and Guangyuan conducted `` unscripted '' combat training during a long-range , high-intensity exercise , People 's Liberation Army news site js7tv reported Monday .
According to the South China Sea Probing Initiative , a Beijing think tank tracking U.S. navy activity , the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group and the USS Somerset sailed into the South China Sea on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Defense Christopher Miller 's Asia visit .
The USS Makin Island entered south of Taiwan , while the USS Somerset traversed the Philippines , a SCSPI graphic showed .
The PLA news site , which is operated by state broadcaster China Central Television , said the navy exercise included missile interception and the destroying of a mock enemy warship .
The report was accompanied by a video showing ships firing live ammunition off the coast of southern China .
Chinese Communist Party newspaper Global Times , which represents the most hawkish views of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the combat drills were conducted amid the U.S. Navy 's transit of the South China Sea , which it described as `` muscle-flexing . ''
`` China should be prepared to confront the U.S. in the South China Sea and Taiwan Straits [ sic ] no matter who sits in the White House , '' the party paper wrote Tuesday .
Beijing claims the U.S. ' frequenting of the disputed South China Sea undermines regional stability , but the U.S. military has challenged territorial claims in the body of water under its Freedom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transit the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait , where American spy planes have been recorded flying regular sorties .
Acting Secretary Miller 's brief Asia trip included a visit to Indonesia on Monday and the Philippines on Tuesday .
It will conclude at the Indo-Pacific Command Headquarters in Hawaii , according to a press release by the Department of Defense .
Miller , who was installed as defense secretary after President Donald Trump fired Mark Esper last month , made one of the Trump administration 's final diplomatic calls in order to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Acting Secretary Miller will meet with his counterparts and other senior officials to discuss the importance of the bilateral defense relationships and securing a free and open Indo-Pacific region , '' the DOD 's statement said .

The Chinese military held live-fire combat drills in the South China Sea as U.S. Navy warships entered the disputed waters on Sunday, according to China's state-owned media.
The Chinese Navy's Type 056A corvettes Enshi, Yongzhou and Guangyuan conducted "unscripted" combat training during a long-range, high-intensity exercise, People's Liberation Army news site js7tv reported Monday.
According to the South China Sea Probing Initiative, a Beijing think tank tracking U.S. navy activity, the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group and the USS Somerset sailed into the South China Sea on Sunday, coinciding with Acting Secretary of Defense Christopher Miller's Asia visit.
The USS Makin Island entered south of Taiwan, while the USS Somerset traversed the Philippines, a SCSPI graphic showed.
#Latest: The Makin Island ARG entered the #SouthChinaSea, Dec 6.
USS Makin Island (LHD-8) MMSI: 369970689
USS Somerset (LPH-25) MMSI: 369970850 pic.twitter.com/SqZhJe5VZL — SCS Probing Initiative (@SCS_PI) December 6, 2020
The PLA news site, which is operated by state broadcaster China Central Television, said the navy exercise included missile interception and the destroying of a mock enemy warship. The report was accompanied by a video showing ships firing live ammunition off the coast of southern China.
Chinese Communist Party newspaper Global Times, which represents the most hawkish views of the leadership in Beijing, noted that the combat drills were conducted amid the U.S. Navy's transit of the South China Sea, which it described as "muscle-flexing."
"China should be prepared to confront the U.S. in the South China Sea and Taiwan Straits [sic] no matter who sits in the White House," the party paper wrote Tuesday.
Beijing claims the U.S.' frequenting of the disputed South China Sea undermines regional stability, but the U.S. military has challenged territorial claims in the body of water under its Freedom of Navigation Program.
U.S. Navy vessels transit the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait, where American spy planes have been recorded flying regular sorties.
Acting Secretary Miller's brief Asia trip included a visit to Indonesia on Monday and the Philippines on Tuesday. It will conclude at the Indo-Pacific Command Headquarters in Hawaii, according to a press release by the Department of Defense.
Miller, who was installed as defense secretary after President Donald Trump fired Mark Esper last month, made one of the Trump administration's final diplomatic calls in order to counter Chinese influence in the region.
"Acting Secretary Miller will meet with his counterparts and other senior officials to discuss the importance of the bilateral defense relationships and securing a free and open Indo-Pacific region," the DOD's statement said.


newsweek--2020-12-09--One of Silicon Valley's Largest Hospitals Hits Full Capacity After COVID Surge in California

As California 's average daily COVID-19 cases hit yet another record high on Tuesday , one of the largest hospitals in the Silicon Valley region has run out of beds for the first time since the pandemic , including within its intensive care unit .
The Regional Medical Center in San Jose , Silicon Valley 's most populous city , is the region 's fifth-largest hospital based on the number of days that in-patients ( excluding newborns in the nursery ) were hospitalized in 2017 , according to data from California 's Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ are filled , with 40 percent of their ICU capacity consisting of COVID-19 patients , California 's ABC 7 reported .
`` We are at capacity .
We do n't have any free beds in the hospital , '' a spokesperson for the hospital , Sarah Sherwood , told ABC 7 .
Noting `` this surge is directly related to Thanksgiving , '' Sherwood warned `` We can not visit other families and we can not gather in large gatherings . ''
The hospital was reported to be preparing for the worst .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ tents and transferring patients out , we have n't had to do that yet and that 's because we are treating patients more quickly , '' Sherwood noted .
The Regional Medical Center in San Jose , the state 's third-most populous city with a population of just over a million , has 264 beds and serves `` Silicon Valley and beyond , '' according to the hospital 's LinkedIn page .
Silicon Valley has a population of over 3.1 million , according to state and county level data compiled by the Silicon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confirmed cases in California have surpassed 1.4 million , with 20,275 total reported deaths , as of Wednesday , according to Johns Hopkins University .
The state 's seven-day average of cases has been rising sharply since early November , hitting a record high of 24,475 on Wednesday , after remaining flat for most of the outbreak since late March , according to data compiled by Worldometer .
There are at least 10,991 COVID-19 patients currently hospitalized in California , which includes both suspected and confirmed cases among adults and children , according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Health and Human Services ( HHS ) .
Hospitals across California could hit full capacity by January 6 , when the number of all beds projected to be needed ( around 27,301 ) is expected to exceed the number of all beds available ( 26,654 ) , according to the latest forecast by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation ( IHME ) at the University of Washington .
The novel coronavirus has infected more than 68.3 million people , including over 15.1 million in the U.S. , since it was first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 1.5 million people have died worldwide and over 44 million have recovered as of Wednesday , according to Johns Hopkins University .
The graphic below , provided by Statista , shows the spread of COVID-19 cases in the U.S .
The graphic below , produced by Statista , shows the distribution of COVID-19 deaths among the U.S. population .

As California's average daily COVID-19 cases hit yet another record high on Tuesday, one of the largest hospitals in the Silicon Valley region has run out of beds for the first time since the pandemic, including within its intensive care unit.
The Regional Medical Center in San Jose, Silicon Valley's most populous city, is the region's fifth-largest hospital based on the number of days that in-patients (excluding newborns in the nursery) were hospitalized in 2017, according to data from California's Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development.
The hospital's more than 200 beds are filled, with 40 percent of their ICU capacity consisting of COVID-19 patients, California's ABC 7 reported.
"We are at capacity. We don't have any free beds in the hospital," a spokesperson for the hospital, Sarah Sherwood, told ABC 7.
Noting "this surge is directly related to Thanksgiving," Sherwood warned "We cannot visit other families and we cannot gather in large gatherings."
The hospital was reported to be preparing for the worst. "We are talking about putting up tents and transferring patients out, we haven't had to do that yet and that's because we are treating patients more quickly," Sherwood noted.
The Regional Medical Center in San Jose, the state's third-most populous city with a population of just over a million, has 264 beds and serves "Silicon Valley and beyond," according to the hospital's LinkedIn page.
Silicon Valley has a population of over 3.1 million, according to state and county level data compiled by the Silicon Valley Institute for Regional Studies.
Total confirmed cases in California have surpassed 1.4 million, with 20,275 total reported deaths, as of Wednesday, according to Johns Hopkins University.
The state's seven-day average of cases has been rising sharply since early November, hitting a record high of 24,475 on Wednesday, after remaining flat for most of the outbreak since late March, according to data compiled by Worldometer.
There are at least 10,991 COVID-19 patients currently hospitalized in California, which includes both suspected and confirmed cases among adults and children, according to data published by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Hospitals across California could hit full capacity by January 6, when the number of all beds projected to be needed (around 27,301) is expected to exceed the number of all beds available (26,654), according to the latest forecast by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington.
A nurse places a blanket over a patient in the emergency room at the Regional Medical Center in San Jose, California on May 21. The hospital hit full capacity this week as average daily COVID-19 cases in the state hit a record high on Tuesday. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
The wider picture
The novel coronavirus has infected more than 68.3 million people, including over 15.1 million in the U.S., since it was first reported in Wuhan, China.
More than 1.5 million people have died worldwide and over 44 million have recovered as of Wednesday, according to Johns Hopkins University.
The graphic below, provided by Statista, shows the spread of COVID-19 cases in the U.S.
STATISTA
The graphic below, produced by Statista, shows the distribution of COVID-19 deaths among the U.S. population.


newsweek--2020-12-09--National Pastry Day: 9 Pastry TikToks to Make at Home

National Pastry Day is here .
Of course , positioned in the middle of the holiday season , this special day is another great excuse to put your baking skills to use , indulge in some sweet and savory bites and celebrate the art of the pastry .
First , a brief history lesson : Pastries have been around for centuries .
According to the Great British Chefs blog , it is believed that they originated in ancient Egypt , Rome and Greece .
Those pastries began as flour-and-oil based .
Centuries later , in the medieval period , puffier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Eater , the first `` celebrity pastry chef '' ever was Marie-Antoine Carême in the late 18th and early 19th century .
Carême is credited for bringing pastries into the world of grande cuisine in France .
He had a patisserie in Paris , and the windows were filled with elaborate , delicious displays .
Legend has it , according to Eater , that Carême may have also been the first person to `` pipe '' meringue using a pastry bag , and he may have been the first person to master the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) .
Now , pastries have become more diverse ( and more delicious ) than ever before .
MasterClass notes that although there are many different pastries , there are five different types of pastry doughs : flaky , shortcrust , puff , Choux and filo .
Each dough is flour , water and fat-based .
The ratio of the ingredients and the type of fat , however , is what sets each apart .
Celebrate National Pastry Day by stopping by one of your local bakeries for a treat .
Or maybe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or revisit an old favorite , courtesy of step-by-step baking videos on TikTok .
The short-form video platform has become a great resource to learn how to cook , and pastry baking is no exception .
To commemorate this pastry-centric holiday , we 've rounded up a few mesmerizing and mouth-watering TikToks that will make you preheat your oven and reach for a bag of flour as soon as possible .
These flakey desserts are layered with honey , pistachios and can be topped off with icing ( and more pistachios ! )
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ways to add extra spice to these sophisticated pastries .
The video here shows spring roll pastry dough being used , but the TikToker actually recommends phyllo pastry dough in the comments section .
These icing-covered , larger-than-life cinnamon rolls will make you rethink your weekend breakfast plans .
The secret to making perfect cinnamon rolls is to roll the dough before cutting each individual roll , instead of vice versa .
Mixing in butter is also key for the cinnamon-sugar layers to achieve the perfect consistency , as seen in this video @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guilty pleasure , '' this TikToker wrote in the caption of this video .
These delicacies are covered in powdered sugar and stuffed with chocolate cream .
To minimize the mess in making cream puffs , this TikToker used plastic piping bags for forming the puffs and inserting the cream .
This will also keep the batch of cream puffs uniform .
Filled with buttery and flakey goodness , these desserts get their name from their elegant crescent shape .
Pro tip : The most efficient way to evenly fill the layers with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as this TikToker demonstrates .
Decadent and filled with ganache , these French treats are worth the time and patience that goes into making them .
Per the comments section of this video , the key here is to let the macarons rest before baking them , which allows the shell to set and harden .
That way , the TikToker who made the clip noted , the macarons do n't crack while they 're in the oven and they maintain their smooth exterior .
Extensive prep and precision cutting skills come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The full instructions for these star-shaped , fruity pastries can be found in subsequent TikToks .
This chef 's recipe calls for apples , raisins , cranberries , and a bit of brandy to give it a tart flavor .
These gourmet pop-tarts are fresher , fluffier and more decadent than those you can find at the supermarket .
This recipe recommends baking them at 425 degrees F for 10 minutes , and then lowering the temperature to 350 degrees F for another 10 minutes .
This trick will give the pastries a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chef mentioned in the comments section .
Any Harry Potter fan who always wanted to try a pumpkin pasty should look no further than this video .
Use pumpkin puree ( not pumpkin pie filling ) to get the right consistency for these treats .
Although the TikTok only shows pumpkin pie spice added to the filling , do n't be afraid to sprinkle in some cinnamon and nutmeg for extra flavor .
Not all pastries are sweet !
This zucchini-based scone is savory and pairs great with soups .
One person commented @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bypass squeezing the liquid out of the zucchini by grating , freezing and thawing them ahead of time .

National Pastry Day is here. Of course, positioned in the middle of the holiday season, this special day is another great excuse to put your baking skills to use, indulge in some sweet and savory bites and celebrate the art of the pastry.
First, a brief history lesson: Pastries have been around for centuries. According to the Great British Chefs blog, it is believed that they originated in ancient Egypt, Rome and Greece. Those pastries began as flour-and-oil based. Centuries later, in the medieval period, puffier pastries became more common.
As per Eater, the first "celebrity pastry chef" ever was Marie-Antoine Carême in the late 18th and early 19th century. Carême is credited for bringing pastries into the world of grande cuisine in France. He had a patisserie in Paris, and the windows were filled with elaborate, delicious displays. Legend has it, according to Eater, that Carême may have also been the first person to "pipe" meringue using a pastry bag, and he may have been the first person to master the perfect cream puff (an underrated delicacy).
Now, pastries have become more diverse (and more delicious) than ever before. MasterClass notes that although there are many different pastries, there are five different types of pastry doughs: flaky, shortcrust, puff, Choux and filo. Each dough is flour, water and fat-based. The ratio of the ingredients and the type of fat, however, is what sets each apart.
Celebrate National Pastry Day by stopping by one of your local bakeries for a treat. Or maybe try to learn a new recipe, or revisit an old favorite, courtesy of step-by-step baking videos on TikTok. The short-form video platform has become a great resource to learn how to cook, and pastry baking is no exception.
To commemorate this pastry-centric holiday, we've rounded up a few mesmerizing and mouth-watering TikToks that will make you preheat your oven and reach for a bag of flour as soon as possible.
Close-up of frosted cupcakes decorated with chocolate sandwich cookies on display during the Chocolate Expo at the Cradle of Aviation Museum, Garden City, New York, March 1, 2015. Chuck Fishman/Getty Images
Baklava
These flakey desserts are layered with honey, pistachios and can be topped off with icing (and more pistachios!). Cinnamon and cocoa powder are great ways to add extra spice to these sophisticated pastries. The video here shows spring roll pastry dough being used, but the TikToker actually recommends phyllo pastry dough in the comments section.
Cinnamon Rolls
These icing-covered, larger-than-life cinnamon rolls will make you rethink your weekend breakfast plans. The secret to making perfect cinnamon rolls is to roll the dough before cutting each individual roll, instead of vice versa. Mixing in butter is also key for the cinnamon-sugar layers to achieve the perfect consistency, as seen in this video.
Cream Puffs
"Fancy French desserts are my guilty pleasure," this TikToker wrote in the caption of this video. These delicacies are covered in powdered sugar and stuffed with chocolate cream. To minimize the mess in making cream puffs, this TikToker used plastic piping bags for forming the puffs and inserting the cream. This will also keep the batch of cream puffs uniform.
Croissants
Filled with buttery and flakey goodness, these desserts get their name from their elegant crescent shape. Pro tip: The most efficient way to evenly fill the layers with melted butter is by brushing it on, as this TikToker demonstrates.
Macarons
Decadent and filled with ganache, these French treats are worth the time and patience that goes into making them. Per the comments section of this video, the key here is to let the macarons rest before baking them, which allows the shell to set and harden. That way, the TikToker who made the clip noted, the macarons don't crack while they're in the oven and they maintain their smooth exterior.
Mince Pies
Extensive prep and precision cutting skills come in handy for this holiday classic. The full instructions for these star-shaped, fruity pastries can be found in subsequent TikToks. This chef's recipe calls for apples, raisins, cranberries, and a bit of brandy to give it a tart flavor.
Pop Tarts
These gourmet pop-tarts are fresher, fluffier and more decadent than those you can find at the supermarket. This recipe recommends baking them at 425 degrees F for 10 minutes, and then lowering the temperature to 350 degrees F for another 10 minutes. This trick will give the pastries a crispy, golden coating, this TikTok chef mentioned in the comments section.
Pumpkin Pasties
Any Harry Potter fan who always wanted to try a pumpkin pasty should look no further than this video. Use pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) to get the right consistency for these treats. Although the TikTok only shows pumpkin pie spice added to the filling, don't be afraid to sprinkle in some cinnamon and nutmeg for extra flavor.
Zucchini & Cheddar Scones
Not all pastries are sweet! This zucchini-based scone is savory and pairs great with soups. One person commented on the video below that you can bypass squeezing the liquid out of the zucchini by grating, freezing and thawing them ahead of time.


newsweek--2020-12-09--Olivia Jade's 'Red Table Talk' Sparks Wave of Memes

Olivia Jade Giannulli was , quite literally , in the hot seat this week for an appearance on Red Table Talk with Jada Pinkett Smith , Willow Smith and Adrienne Banfield-Norris , in an interview that has prompted a flurry of memes , reactions and hot takes from viewers .
The daughter of Lori Loughlin and Mossimo Giannulli , who are both serving prison sentences for their part in the college admissions scandal , 21-year-old influencer Olivia Jade '' I 'm not trying to victimize myself , '' Giannulli said , apologizing for her part in the scheme .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do n't deserve pity .
I just want a second chance and to say I recognized that I messed up . ''
Red Table Talks always reflect huge cultural talking points , giving the interviewees a platform to expressive themselves publicly , usually in the aftermath of a controversy , such as the highly publicized Jordyn Woods episode .
However , many viewers were not buying it , with Giannulli 's explanations sparking huge a huge discussion and the inevitable flood of memes .
Here are some more stand out reactions : The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arguably the praise for Adrienne Banfield-Norris who did not hold back on delivering Giannulli some hard truths about her white privilege .
Banfield-Norris asked the influencer : `` Do you understand why different people in the community would be upset ?
Do you have any understanding of why I would be upset at your being here and what you all did and the harm that it caused ? ''
`` I fought it tooth and nail , '' Banfield-Norris , 67 , said .
`` I just found it really ironic that she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to for her redemption story .
I feel like here we are , [ a ] white woman coming to Black women for support when we do n't get the same from them . ''
She added : `` Her being here is the epitome of white privilege to me . ''
Author Fredrick Joseph tweeted : `` So many Black people 's lives would be changed by getting an opportunity to appear on Red Talk Table .
I 'm happy Jada 's mother spoke the truth about the Olivia Jade interview .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , journalist Philip Lewis tweeted : `` I really wonder if anyone has ever spoken to Olivia Jade like this before . ''
While writer Shanita Hubbard added : `` Jada 's mom is 100 % correct .
I refuse to watch the full interview .
Right now a BW is in jail for using a different address to get her kid in a better school district .
I would amplify the episode shining a light on *that* issue .
Olivia Jade will be fine .
# redtabletalk . ''
Olivia Jade 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Facebook .

Olivia Jade Giannulli was, quite literally, in the hot seat this week for an appearance on Red Table Talk with Jada Pinkett Smith, Willow Smith and Adrienne Banfield-Norris, in an interview that has prompted a flurry of memes, reactions and hot takes from viewers.
The daughter of Lori Loughlin and Mossimo Giannulli, who are both serving prison sentences for their part in the college admissions scandal, 21-year-old influencer Olivia Jade
"I'm not trying to victimize myself," Giannulli said, apologizing for her part in the scheme. "I don't want pity. I don't deserve pity. I just want a second chance and to say I recognized that I messed up."
Actress Lori Loughlin (L) and Social Media Personality Olivia Jade Giannulli (R) attend the PrettyLittleThing by Kourtney Kardashian launch party on October 25, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. Paul Archuleta/FilmMagic/Getty
Red Table Talks always reflect huge cultural talking points, giving the interviewees a platform to expressive themselves publicly, usually in the aftermath of a controversy, such as the highly publicized Jordyn Woods episode.
However, many viewers were not buying it, with Giannulli's explanations sparking huge a huge discussion and the inevitable flood of memes.
Here are some more stand out reactions:
olivia jade going on red table talk pic.twitter.com/ojpbGQLhhn — mel (@melinakeyless) December 8, 2020
OLIVIA JADE SAYING THIS WITH HER WHOLE CHEST.... pic.twitter.com/WLkh5Miims — maggie (@jacksrebeccaa) December 8, 2020
It is so scary to me that the bubble of privilege drives you to the point where you can’t even think of, let alone empathize with people below your class #OliviaJade #RedTableTalk https://t.co/8Gpv26IkvQ — Sitashma Thapa (@sitashmathapa98) December 8, 2020
olivia jade doing a red table talk while both her parents are still in jail is in fact the content i am here for — brianna (@briannakovit) December 7, 2020
Olivia Jade: I wanted to tell my story on Red Table Talk because I knew I would be understood. I watch the show and this space feels safe.
Gammy: pic.twitter.com/rH0je8VU9t — Jai (@jaidanielle) December 8, 2020
I get Jada wants her views for Red Table Talk but interviewing Olivia Jade??? Seriously ma’am? pic.twitter.com/4MH3LpHbVY — KP 🧬 (@kendraxlamar) December 8, 2020
The biggest standout of the episode however is arguably the praise for Adrienne Banfield-Norris who did not hold back on delivering Giannulli some hard truths about her white privilege.
Banfield-Norris asked the influencer: "Do you understand why different people in the community would be upset? Do you have any understanding of why I would be upset at your being here and what you all did and the harm that it caused?"
"I fought it tooth and nail," Banfield-Norris, 67, said. "I just found it really ironic that she chose three Black women to reach out to for her redemption story. I feel like here we are, [a] white woman coming to Black women for support when we don't get the same from them."
She added: "Her being here is the epitome of white privilege to me."
Author Fredrick Joseph tweeted: "So many Black people's lives would be changed by getting an opportunity to appear on Red Talk Table. I'm happy Jada's mother spoke the truth about the Olivia Jade interview."
So many Black people’s lives would be changed by getting an opportunity to appear on Red Talk Table.
I’m happy Jada’s mother spoke the truth about the Olivia Jade interview. https://t.co/jIwLXPSRrs — Frederick Joseph (@FredTJoseph) December 8, 2020
Sharing a clip of Banfield-Norris speaking, journalist Philip Lewis tweeted: "I really wonder if anyone has ever spoken to Olivia Jade like this before."
I really wonder if anyone has ever spoken to Olivia Jade like this before pic.twitter.com/kkFYc4I5Qh — philip lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) December 8, 2020
While writer Shanita Hubbard added: "Jada's mom is 100% correct. I refuse to watch the full interview. Right now a BW is in jail for using a different address to get her kid in a better school district. I would amplify the episode shining a light on *that* issue. Olivia Jade will be fine. #redtabletalk."
Jada’s mom is 100% correct. I refuse to watch the full interview. Right now a BW is in jail for using a different address to get her kid in a better school district. I would amplify the episode shining a light on *that* issue. Olivia Jade will be fine. #redtabletalk https://t.co/GmN8fGwFSp — Shanita Hubbard (@msshanitarenee) December 8, 2020
Olivia Jade's Red Table Talk is streaming now on Facebook.


newsweek--2020-12-09--Which Teams Are in the NFL Playoffs 2020? Updated AFC, NFC Standings and Bracket After Week 13

The NFL 's last unbeaten record has gone and two teams have already booked a playoff spot in Week 13 of the NFL season .
The Pittsburgh Steelers suffered their first defeat of the season but remain top of the AFC standings , while the Kansas City Chiefs and New Orleans Saints secured a playoff berth .
Behind them , the situation remains as fluid as ever , with a number of teams jostling for position .
Here 's what the playoff bracket looks like after 13 weeks of the season .
The Steelers ' bid for an undefeated season @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 23-17 loss at home to the Washington Football Team on Monday , but they retain top spot in the AFC by virtue of having a better record against conference opponents than the Chiefs .
Pittsburgh 's remaining schedule , however , is the fifth-hardest in the NFL and includes trips to Buffalo—this coming Sunday—and Indianapolis , as well as home matchups against AFC North rivals Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals .
The Chiefs clinched a playoff berth for a franchise-record sixth consecutive season by beating the Denver Broncos on Sunday Night Football .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ easier schedule than the Steelers as they close the season with home games against the Atlanta Falcons and the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 16 and Week 17 .
Prior to that , however , the Chiefs face back-to-back trips against the Miami Dolphins and the New Orleans Saints .
Buffalo moved a step closer to a first divisional title with a convincing 34-24 road win against the San Francisco 49ers on Monday Night Football .
The Bills are one game clear of the Tennessee Titans for the No .
3 spot in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fourth-hardest remaining schedule , beginning with a home game against the Steelers on Sunday Night Football , which could have huge playoff ramifications for both teams .
Buffalo 's final two games are against AFC East rivals New England Patriots and Miami Dolphins , both of which are still in the hunt for a playoff berth .
The Titans are fourth in the AFC standings after losing at home to Cleveland on Sunday and have little margin for error , as they lead the AFC South division only by virtue of a better @ @ @ @ @ @ @ however , has the fourth-easiest remaining schedule and three of its last four games are against teams with a losing record .
FiveThirtyEight 's statistical projections give the Titans a 62 percent chance to win the division , while the Indianapolis Colts have a 38 percent chance .
Cleveland edged closer to returning to the playoffs for the first time since 2002 with an impressive 41-35 road win over the Titans on Sunday and currently hold the first of three wildcard spots in the AFC and a valuable one-game advantage over the sixth-placed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ New Jersey against the New York Giants and the New York Jets are sandwiched in between games against AFC North rivals Baltimore—on Monday Night Football—and Pittsburgh in Week 17 .
Miami improved to 8-4 with a 19-7 win over the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday and trails Buffalo by one game in the AFC East .
The Dolphins hold the second wildcard spot with a one-game advantage over the Baltimore Ravens and Las Vegas Raiders but have the hardest remaining schedule in the league , with back-to-back home games against Kansas City and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Raiders and the Bills .
The Colts ' 26-20 over the Houston Texans allowed them to keep pace with the Titans in the AFC South .
Both teams are 8-4 but Tennessee holds the tiebreaker by virtue of having a better record against divisional opponents and currently relegates Indianapolis to the last wildcard spot in the AFC .
The Colts still have to negotiate road games in Las Vegas and Pittsburgh , but can improve their record against divisional opponents with home games against Houston and Jacksonville .
New Orleans has clinched a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the Green Bay Packers in the race for the No .
1 seed in the NFC .
Except for a home game against the Chiefs in Week 15 , the Saints have a relatively easy schedule with road games against Philadelphia and Carolina bookending a home game against the Minnesota Vikings .
The Packers improved to 9-3 on Sunday and remain the closest challenger to the Saints for the NFC 's solitary bye spot .
Green Bay has an easier remaining schedule than New Orleans , with back-to-back home games against Carolina @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to NFC North rivals Detroit and Chicago .
FiveThirtyEight gives the Packers a 33 percent chance to clinch the No .
1 seed to the Saints ' 64 , but with Aaron Rodgers playing at MVP levels anything is possible .
The Rams took control of the NFC West with a crucial win against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday , improving to 8-4 and holding the tiebreaker over Seattle in the division .
The Rams , however , still have to face the Seahawks and the Cardinals in the next four weeks , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the hapless New York Jets .
The Giants may be the only division leader with a losing record but look to be coming into form at the right time .
The G-Men are 5-7 after winning their last four games and Sunday 's 17-12 win in Seattle could prove crucial for their playoffs hopes .
The Giants hold the tiebreaker over the Washington Football Team but their remaining schedule is the hardest of any NFC East team , with games against the Cardinals , Browns , Ravens and Dallas Cowboys still to come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be at home for three of those , save for their trip to Baltimore .
Seattle 's surprising loss against the Giants saw them slip behind the Rams in the NFC West but the Seahawks retain a comfortable buffer in the wildcard race , which they lead by a one-game margin over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers .
The home game against the Rams in Week 16 is Seattle 's hardest remaining assignment on a schedule that ranks as the third-easiest in the NFL and includes a home game against the Jets and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Bucs return from their bye still in control of the second wildcard spot and with a one-game lead over the Minnesota Vikings , who currently hold the final playoff berth in the NFC .
The Vikings are the hardest team left on Tampa Bay 's schedule , which also includes two games against the Atlanta Falcons and a road trip to Detroit .
After a dismal 1-5 start to the season , the Vikings have forced themselves into the playoff picture with five wins in their last six games .
Minnesota @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likely hinge on road games against the Bucs and the Saints in Week 14 and 16 , with a home game against Chicago in Week 15 and a trip to Detroit in Week 17 also on the schedule .

The NFL's last unbeaten record has gone and two teams have already booked a playoff spot in Week 13 of the NFL season.
The Pittsburgh Steelers suffered their first defeat of the season but remain top of the AFC standings, while the Kansas City Chiefs and New Orleans Saints secured a playoff berth.
Behind them, the situation remains as fluid as ever, with a number of teams jostling for position.
Here's what the playoff bracket looks like after 13 weeks of the season.
AFC
Pittsburgh Steelers (11-1)
The Steelers' bid for an undefeated season went up in smoke following a surprise 23-17 loss at home to the Washington Football Team on Monday, but they retain top spot in the AFC by virtue of having a better record against conference opponents than the Chiefs.
Pittsburgh's remaining schedule, however, is the fifth-hardest in the NFL and includes trips to Buffalo—this coming Sunday—and Indianapolis, as well as home matchups against AFC North rivals Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals.
Kansas City Chiefs (11-1)
The Chiefs clinched a playoff berth for a franchise-record sixth consecutive season by beating the Denver Broncos on Sunday Night Football. The reigning Super Bowl champions have an easier schedule than the Steelers as they close the season with home games against the Atlanta Falcons and the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 16 and Week 17. Prior to that, however, the Chiefs face back-to-back trips against the Miami Dolphins and the New Orleans Saints.
Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs looks to pass during the second quarter of a game against the Denver Broncos at Arrowhead Stadium on December 6 in Kansas City, Missouri. The Chiefs won 22-16 to clinch a playoff spot for the sixth consecutive season. Jamie Squire/Getty
Buffalo Bills (9-3)
Buffalo moved a step closer to a first divisional title with a convincing 34-24 road win against the San Francisco 49ers on Monday Night Football. The Bills are one game clear of the Tennessee Titans for the No. 3 spot in the AFC but have the NFL's fourth-hardest remaining schedule, beginning with a home game against the Steelers on Sunday Night Football, which could have huge playoff ramifications for both teams. Buffalo's final two games are against AFC East rivals New England Patriots and Miami Dolphins, both of which are still in the hunt for a playoff berth.
Tennessee Titans (8-4)
The Titans are fourth in the AFC standings after losing at home to Cleveland on Sunday and have little margin for error, as they lead the AFC South division only by virtue of a better record against divisional opponents. Tennessee, however, has the fourth-easiest remaining schedule and three of its last four games are against teams with a losing record. FiveThirtyEight's statistical projections give the Titans a 62 percent chance to win the division, while the Indianapolis Colts have a 38 percent chance.
Cleveland Browns (9-3)
Cleveland edged closer to returning to the playoffs for the first time since 2002 with an impressive 41-35 road win over the Titans on Sunday and currently hold the first of three wildcard spots in the AFC and a valuable one-game advantage over the sixth-placed Miami Dolphins. Back-to-back road games in New Jersey against the New York Giants and the New York Jets are sandwiched in between games against AFC North rivals Baltimore—on Monday Night Football—and Pittsburgh in Week 17.
Miami Dolphins (8-4)
Miami improved to 8-4 with a 19-7 win over the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday and trails Buffalo by one game in the AFC East. The Dolphins hold the second wildcard spot with a one-game advantage over the Baltimore Ravens and Las Vegas Raiders but have the hardest remaining schedule in the league, with back-to-back home games against Kansas City and the Patriots followed by road games against the Raiders and the Bills.
Indianapolis Colts (8-4)
The Colts' 26-20 over the Houston Texans allowed them to keep pace with the Titans in the AFC South. Both teams are 8-4 but Tennessee holds the tiebreaker by virtue of having a better record against divisional opponents and currently relegates Indianapolis to the last wildcard spot in the AFC. The Colts still have to negotiate road games in Las Vegas and Pittsburgh, but can improve their record against divisional opponents with home games against Houston and Jacksonville.
NFC
New Orleans Saints (10-2)
New Orleans has clinched a playoff berth and retains a one-game lead over the Green Bay Packers in the race for the No. 1 seed in the NFC. Except for a home game against the Chiefs in Week 15, the Saints have a relatively easy schedule with road games against Philadelphia and Carolina bookending a home game against the Minnesota Vikings.
Green Bay Packers (9-3)
The Packers improved to 9-3 on Sunday and remain the closest challenger to the Saints for the NFC's solitary bye spot. Green Bay has an easier remaining schedule than New Orleans, with back-to-back home games against Carolina and Tennessee sandwiched in between road trips to NFC North rivals Detroit and Chicago. FiveThirtyEight gives the Packers a 33 percent chance to clinch the No. 1 seed to the Saints' 64, but with Aaron Rodgers playing at MVP levels anything is possible.
Los Angeles Rams (8-4)
The Rams took control of the NFC West with a crucial win against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, improving to 8-4 and holding the tiebreaker over Seattle in the division. The Rams, however, still have to face the Seahawks and the Cardinals in the next four weeks, along with games against the Patriots and the hapless New York Jets.
New York Giants (5-7)
The Giants may be the only division leader with a losing record but look to be coming into form at the right time. The G-Men are 5-7 after winning their last four games and Sunday's 17-12 win in Seattle could prove crucial for their playoffs hopes. The Giants hold the tiebreaker over the Washington Football Team but their remaining schedule is the hardest of any NFC East team, with games against the Cardinals, Browns, Ravens and Dallas Cowboys still to come. The good news is the Giants will be at home for three of those, save for their trip to Baltimore.
Darnay Holmes #30 of the New York Giants celebrates his interception with teammates against the Seattle Seahawks in the fourth quarter at Lumen Field on December 6 in Seattle, Washington. Abbie Parr/Getty
Seattle Seahawks (8-4)
Seattle's surprising loss against the Giants saw them slip behind the Rams in the NFC West but the Seahawks retain a comfortable buffer in the wildcard race, which they lead by a one-game margin over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The home game against the Rams in Week 16 is Seattle's hardest remaining assignment on a schedule that ranks as the third-easiest in the NFL and includes a home game against the Jets and road matchups against Washington and the 49ers.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-5)
The Bucs return from their bye still in control of the second wildcard spot and with a one-game lead over the Minnesota Vikings, who currently hold the final playoff berth in the NFC. The Vikings are the hardest team left on Tampa Bay's schedule, which also includes two games against the Atlanta Falcons and a road trip to Detroit.
Minnesota Vikings (6-6)
After a dismal 1-5 start to the season, the Vikings have forced themselves into the playoff picture with five wins in their last six games. Minnesota's bid for a playoff berth will likely hinge on road games against the Bucs and the Saints in Week 14 and 16, with a home game against Chicago in Week 15 and a trip to Detroit in Week 17 also on the schedule.


newsweek--2020-12-09--'Virgin River' Season 3: Has Netflix Secretly Renewed the Show?

Virgin River is the latest hit show from Netflix , with the drama currently the second most-watched show on the streaming service .
Despite this success , however , Netflix has not confirmed Season 3 of the show yet .
However , that does not mean that Virgin River Season 3 is not going ahead .
In fact , rumors are circulating that the show may have been secretly filming since as early as August .
These rumours have not been confirmed , but there is a major piece of evidence that the series has been quietly shooting for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of evidence for this came from the lead actors of Virgin River , Alexandra Breckinridge and Martin Henderson .
The Jack and Melinda stars released a video in November previewing Season 2 of Virgin River , in front of what looked like a trailer .
The fact that they were together on set led to only three possible conclusions—either the pair are starring in something else together ( nothing has been announced ) , the video was filmed back when they were filming Season 2 , or they were speaking from the set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the video may give viewers another clue .
Henderson says : `` It 's going to be season ... what season is it ?
, '' to which Breckinridge replies , `` two . ''
Could this confusion about the seasons be because they are publicising Season 2 while filming Season 3 ?
If that is the case , that would explain why the makers of Virgin River have been speaking as if Season 3 was a foregone conclusion .
In fact , showrunner Sue Tenney said the mystery of who shot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seasons , '' for example .
Netflix has not confirmed this , but there is a credible source that filming began in the summer .
Trade publication Production Weekly reported that the show was to start shooting in August .
Though Netflix does usually publicly announce that shows have been renewed before filming commences on new episodes , Virgin River would not be the first show to begin shooting before a renewal was announced .
Most notably , the Spanish series Elite filmed its second and third seasons back to back , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ already concluded on it .
Production Weekly also reported that The Umbrella Academy Season 3 starring Elliot Page went into pre-production in October , before the official green light was announced in November .
This early return to filming for Virgin River could mean that Netflix is capitalising on the show 's global success by trying to get new episodes out quicker than the usual 12-month gap between seasons allows .
If filming began in summer 2020 , a summer 2021 release date for Virgin River Season 3 is very possible .
However @ @ @ @ @ @ @ show and give it a release date in a year 's time .
Another reason why the show may have gone into production early is because as a rural-set show , it is easier to film with COVID-19-releated restrictions than more urban shows , so filming it early gives the streamer a show ready if the coronavirus pandemic causes another production shutdown .
Virgin River Seasons 1 and 2 are streaming now on Netflix .

Virgin River is the latest hit show from Netflix, with the drama currently the second most-watched show on the streaming service. Despite this success, however, Netflix has not confirmed Season 3 of the show yet. However, that does not mean that Virgin River Season 3 is not going ahead.
In fact, rumors are circulating that the show may have been secretly filming since as early as August. These rumours have not been confirmed, but there is a major piece of evidence that the series has been quietly shooting for the last few months.
The biggest piece of evidence for this came from the lead actors of Virgin River, Alexandra Breckinridge and Martin Henderson.
The Jack and Melinda stars released a video in November previewing Season 2 of Virgin River, in front of what looked like a trailer. The fact that they were together on set led to only three possible conclusions—either the pair are starring in something else together (nothing has been announced), the video was filmed back when they were filming Season 2, or they were speaking from the set of Season 3.
You can see Martin and Alex in the video below on set. But wait, what are they on set for? 🧐#virginriverseason3 pic.twitter.com/VxezyCEPM6 — What's on Netflix (@whatonnetflix) November 22, 2020
What they say in the video may give viewers another clue. Henderson says: "It's going to be season...what season is it?," to which Breckinridge replies, "two." Could this confusion about the seasons be because they are publicising Season 2 while filming Season 3?
If that is the case, that would explain why the makers of Virgin River have been speaking as if Season 3 was a foregone conclusion. In fact, showrunner Sue Tenney said the mystery of who shot Jack could play out over "several seasons," for example.
Netflix has not confirmed this, but there is a credible source that filming began in the summer. Trade publication Production Weekly reported that the show was to start shooting in August.
'Virgin River' Season 3 may already be filming. Netflix
Though Netflix does usually publicly announce that shows have been renewed before filming commences on new episodes, Virgin River would not be the first show to begin shooting before a renewal was announced.
Most notably, the Spanish series Elite filmed its second and third seasons back to back, but only announced Season 3 after filming had already concluded on it. Production Weekly also reported that The Umbrella Academy Season 3 starring Elliot Page went into pre-production in October, before the official green light was announced in November.
This early return to filming for Virgin River could mean that Netflix is capitalising on the show's global success by trying to get new episodes out quicker than the usual 12-month gap between seasons allows. If filming began in summer 2020, a summer 2021 release date for Virgin River Season 3 is very possible.
However, Netflix may choose to shelve the show and give it a release date in a year's time.
Another reason why the show may have gone into production early is because as a rural-set show, it is easier to film with COVID-19-releated restrictions than more urban shows, so filming it early gives the streamer a show ready if the coronavirus pandemic causes another production shutdown.
Virgin River Seasons 1 and 2 are streaming now on Netflix.


newsweek--2020-12-09--Big Tech's Biden Administration Beachhead Is the Real Threat To Liberty | Opinion

As Joe Biden has begun to roll out his administration , most of the focus has been on one question .
Will the next administration be dominated by old-school Democratic moderates and members of the party establishment , like the president-elect himself ?
Or will the party 's increasingly influential left-wing activist base gain a foothold in the corridors of power ?
But the more important question to be asked about the next four years is n't whether the likes of Sen. Bernie Sanders ( I-VT ) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez ( D-NY ) will be influencing a Biden-Harris administration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not only have a loud voice in Washington , but also ensure that its power continues to grow .
The early returns are in and the answer is clear .
Anyone who thinks Big Tech wo n't try to collect on the debt the Biden campaign owes it for its effort to attack and censor President Donald Trump during the presidential campaign , as well as to silence efforts by some conservative outlets to cover stories that were embarrassing to the Democratic candidate , is mistaken .
Representatives of Internet giants dominate the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the tech world has yet to score a major Cabinet appointment—former Google CEO Eric Schmidt is thought to be in the running for one despite furious pushback from left-wing critics—the industry is nonetheless in possession of a pocketful of IOUs from Biden , due both to efforts to influence the election in his favor and to massive campaign contributions .
No one should underestimate Big Tech 's ability to influence policy in its favor within an administration that will be a creature of the D.C. establishment .
That will be true even if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Big Tech 's hands .
Joe Biden is not as personally committed to the idea of empowering Big Tech as was his old boss President Barack Obama .
Silicon Valley regarded the eight years from 2009 to 2016 as a golden age in which the party of big government chose to revert to traditional laissez-faire policies—at least when it came to allowing the tech industry to grow and do as it liked without the heavy hand of federal regulation .
But unlike Obama , Biden is not as comfortable hobnobbing with Silicon Valley @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the industry works or what it wants .
Indeed , Big Tech watchers have noted that the Internet giants are anticipating a chillier reception in the White House than they experienced with Obama , though it 's clear that Biden wo n't be as hostile as was President Donald Trump .
Back in January , when his campaign was struggling before the party united behind him , Biden voiced support for abolishing Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act .
That 's the key provision that allows social media sites to be treated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Conservatives have embraced this cause with a passion because they see it as the only way to punish companies like Twitter for censoring conservatives with impunity .
They believe that if Internet sites are going to act like publishers , they should have the same liability as journalism outlets for what they publish .
Liberals have also been open to reforming the law .
Unlike those on the Right who rightly understand that the left-wing bias of the owners and staff of Google , Facebook and Twitter has led them to engage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there has n't been enough censorship .
Many of them actually believed the myth that Facebook ads pushed by Russian bots stole the presidential election from Hillary Clinton in 2016 , and thus wanted the industry to take preemptive action to ensure that Trump was defeated in 2020 .
Silicon Valley had spread enough lobbying money and campaign contributions around Washington to not take too seriously the threats from conservatives like Senators Josh Hawley ( R-MO ) and Ted Cruz ( R-TX ) .
But they definitely felt the heat from Democrats .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Or at least they were as long as it meant things like making it harder to access videos from sites like PragerU , trying to demonetize The Federalist or to diminish web traffic for Breitbart , let alone putting warning notices on the president 's tweets or directing readers to liberal `` fact checks '' that attacked conservative positions .
But while Biden is unlikely to move quickly to end the Trump administration 's efforts to use federal antitrust lawsuits to break up Google ( which has support on the Left ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he owes it .
It was Twitter , after all , that led the way when it came to shutting down coverage of the revelations about Hunter Biden 's influence-peddling reported by the New York Post—as well as the subsequent revelations pointing toward the former vice president 's direct involvement in his son 's schemes to profit from his father 's role as Obama administration point man on policy toward Ukraine and China .
That 's why it 's clear that if there is any pressure on Big Tech coming from the incoming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more such censorship and hobbling of the Democrats ' conservative opponents .
The agenda of all those social media and technology executives now helping Biden fill the thousands of administration posts will be to ensure that reforms aimed at punishing Big Tech for its monopoly exploitation of the public information highway to advance left-wing activism never materialize .
And if Biden considers whether he should try to play the populist card and knock Silicon Valley billionaire oligarchs and their millionaire minions down a peg or two , former Big Tech lobbyist Ron Klain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be there to remind him of the foolishness of such ingratitude .
That 's not to mention the close ties between Vice President-elect Kamala Harris and one of her home state 's most powerful industries and Democratic Party donor bases .
As the transition and Biden 's Cabinet selections seem to indicate , the technology industry 's political agenda will be advanced less by a direct takeover of the government than it will by the not-so-subtle influence of contributors and advisors to whom the new president and his top aides will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and funders during a campaign in which he largely hid from view , Big Tech expects that its interests will be well protected .
Nothing we have seen so far about the way Biden is going about setting up a government should lead us to believe anything to the contrary .
It 's clearly the good opinion of Internet and social media oligarchs that Biden seeks—not that of Bernie , AOC and the `` Squad . ''
Having a major industry wielding so much influence with a new presidential administration is troubling by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ industry that has so much control over public discourse and the ability to shut down debate on ideas and positions its liberal owners despise , the issue becomes not so much a mere scandal as a direct threat to freedom .
Rather than decrying this troubling development , liberals who spent the last four years accusing Trump of being an authoritarian and falsely predicting that he would end American liberty are now silent about a far more real danger from the Democratic Party 's allies in Silicon Valley .
Indeed , Big Tech @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can influence public debate and an election .
Given its place at the table in Biden 's incoming administration , there 's no reason to think this threat will diminish , rather than grow , over the next four years .
Jonathan S. Tobin is editor in chief of JNS.org , a senior contributor to The Federalist and a columnist for the New York Post .
Follow him on Twitter at : @ jonathans_tobin .
The views expressed in this article are the writer 's own .

As Joe Biden has begun to roll out his administration, most of the focus has been on one question. Will the next administration be dominated by old-school Democratic moderates and members of the party establishment, like the president-elect himself? Or will the party's increasingly influential left-wing activist base gain a foothold in the corridors of power?
But the more important question to be asked about the next four years isn't whether the likes of Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) will be influencing a Biden-Harris administration. It's whether Big Tech will not only have a loud voice in Washington, but also ensure that its power continues to grow.
The early returns are in and the answer is clear. Anyone who thinks Big Tech won't try to collect on the debt the Biden campaign owes it for its effort to attack and censor President Donald Trump during the presidential campaign, as well as to silence efforts by some conservative outlets to cover stories that were embarrassing to the Democratic candidate, is mistaken.
Representatives of Internet giants dominate the entire Biden transition team. And though the tech world has yet to score a major Cabinet appointment—former Google CEO Eric Schmidt is thought to be in the running for one despite furious pushback from left-wing critics—the industry is nonetheless in possession of a pocketful of IOUs from Biden, due both to efforts to influence the election in his favor and to massive campaign contributions. No one should underestimate Big Tech's ability to influence policy in its favor within an administration that will be a creature of the D.C. establishment. That will be true even if no major Cabinet posts wind up in Big Tech's hands.
Joe Biden is not as personally committed to the idea of empowering Big Tech as was his old boss President Barack Obama. Silicon Valley regarded the eight years from 2009 to 2016 as a golden age in which the party of big government chose to revert to traditional laissez-faire policies—at least when it came to allowing the tech industry to grow and do as it liked without the heavy hand of federal regulation. But unlike Obama, Biden is not as comfortable hobnobbing with Silicon Valley moguls, or pretending to understand how the industry works or what it wants. Indeed, Big Tech watchers have noted that the Internet giants are anticipating a chillier reception in the White House than they experienced with Obama, though it's clear that Biden won't be as hostile as was President Donald Trump.
Back in January, when his campaign was struggling before the party united behind him, Biden voiced support for abolishing Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act. That's the key provision that allows social media sites to be treated as bulletin boards, rather than publishers.
Conservatives have embraced this cause with a passion because they see it as the only way to punish companies like Twitter for censoring conservatives with impunity. They believe that if Internet sites are going to act like publishers, they should have the same liability as journalism outlets for what they publish.
Liberals have also been open to reforming the law. Unlike those on the Right who rightly understand that the left-wing bias of the owners and staff of Google, Facebook and Twitter has led them to engage in censorship of conservatives, liberals think there hasn't been enough censorship. Many of them actually believed the myth that Facebook ads pushed by Russian bots stole the presidential election from Hillary Clinton in 2016, and thus wanted the industry to take preemptive action to ensure that Trump was defeated in 2020.
Big Tech corporate logos DENIS CHARLET/AFP via Getty Images
Silicon Valley had spread enough lobbying money and campaign contributions around Washington to not take too seriously the threats from conservatives like Senators Josh Hawley (R-MO) and Ted Cruz (R-TX). But they definitely felt the heat from Democrats. Liberals were crying out for more censorship. Or at least they were as long as it meant things like making it harder to access videos from sites like PragerU, trying to demonetize The Federalist or to diminish web traffic for Breitbart, let alone putting warning notices on the president's tweets or directing readers to liberal "fact checks" that attacked conservative positions.
But while Biden is unlikely to move quickly to end the Trump administration's efforts to use federal antitrust lawsuits to break up Google (which has support on the Left), the president-elect still understands how much he owes it. It was Twitter, after all, that led the way when it came to shutting down coverage of the revelations about Hunter Biden's influence-peddling reported by the New York Post—as well as the subsequent revelations pointing toward the former vice president's direct involvement in his son's schemes to profit from his father's role as Obama administration point man on policy toward Ukraine and China.
That's why it's clear that if there is any pressure on Big Tech coming from the incoming administration, it will be to encourage more such censorship and hobbling of the Democrats' conservative opponents. The agenda of all those social media and technology executives now helping Biden fill the thousands of administration posts will be to ensure that reforms aimed at punishing Big Tech for its monopoly exploitation of the public information highway to advance left-wing activism never materialize.
And if Biden considers whether he should try to play the populist card and knock Silicon Valley billionaire oligarchs and their millionaire minions down a peg or two, former Big Tech lobbyist Ron Klain, his incoming chief of staff, will be there to remind him of the foolishness of such ingratitude. That's not to mention the close ties between Vice President-elect Kamala Harris and one of her home state's most powerful industries and Democratic Party donor bases.
As the transition and Biden's Cabinet selections seem to indicate, the technology industry's political agenda will be advanced less by a direct takeover of the government than it will by the not-so-subtle influence of contributors and advisors to whom the new president and his top aides will be beholden. After acting as his bodyguards and funders during a campaign in which he largely hid from view, Big Tech expects that its interests will be well protected. Nothing we have seen so far about the way Biden is going about setting up a government should lead us to believe anything to the contrary. It's clearly the good opinion of Internet and social media oligarchs that Biden seeks—not that of Bernie, AOC and the "Squad."
Having a major industry wielding so much influence with a new presidential administration is troubling by itself. But when it concerns an industry that has so much control over public discourse and the ability to shut down debate on ideas and positions its liberal owners despise, the issue becomes not so much a mere scandal as a direct threat to freedom.
Rather than decrying this troubling development, liberals who spent the last four years accusing Trump of being an authoritarian and falsely predicting that he would end American liberty are now silent about a far more real danger from the Democratic Party's allies in Silicon Valley. Indeed, Big Tech has already shown us how heavy-handed censorship can influence public debate and an election. Given its place at the table in Biden's incoming administration, there's no reason to think this threat will diminish, rather than grow, over the next four years.
Jonathan S. Tobin is editor in chief of JNS.org, a senior contributor to The Federalist and a columnist for the New York Post. Follow him on Twitter at: @jonathans_tobin.
The views expressed in this article are the writer's own.