december 2022 |
All text by Zorek Richards
|
|
| December 30, 2022 |
Dec 30, 2022: CNBC: Highly immune evasive omicron XBB.1.5 variant is quickly becoming dominant in U.S. as it doubles weekly
- The Covid omicron XBB.1.5 variant has nearly doubled in prevalence over the past week and now represents about 41% of new cases in the U.S., according to CDC data.
- XBB.1.5 is highly immune evasive and appears to bind better to cells than other members of the XBB omicron subvariant family.
- Scientists at Columbia University have warned that the rise of subvariants such as the XBB family could “result in a surge of breakthrough infections as well as re-infections.”
| December 29, 2022 |
Dec 29, 2022: AP: Ginni Thomas says she regrets post-election texts to Meadows
Virginia Thomas, the wife of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, says she regrets sending texts to then-White House chief of staff Mark Meadows after the 2020 election, telling the House Jan. 6 committee that “I would take them all back if I could today.”
Virginia Thomas, the wife of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, says she regrets sending texts to then-White House chief of staff Mark Meadows after the 2020 election, telling the House Jan. 6 committee that “I would take them all back if I could today.”
Dec 29, 2022: Vanity Fair: JANUARY 6 COMMITTEE WITHDRAWS TRUMP SUBPOENA AS REPUBLICAN MAJORITY LOOMS
“In light of the imminent end of our investigation, the Select Committee can no longer pursue the specific information covered by the subpoena,” Rep. Bennie Thompson wrote in a released letter to Trump’s lawyer.
“In light of the imminent end of our investigation, the Select Committee can no longer pursue the specific information covered by the subpoena,” Rep. Bennie Thompson wrote in a released letter to Trump’s lawyer.
Dec 29, 2022: Truthout: Jan. 6 Transcripts Show Trump Wanted “Blanket Pardon” for Capitol Attackers
Former White House counsel Pat Cipollone rejected the idea, according to testimony from Trump’s former aides.
Former White House counsel Pat Cipollone rejected the idea, according to testimony from Trump’s former aides.
Dec 29, 2022: Politico: Republicans rage over White House plans to slow investigations
While the House GOP has spent weeks detailing its planned investigations into the Biden administration now that the party has a majority, the White House has stayed mostly silent on strategy. That changed Thursday morning, when White House Special Counsel Richard Sauber announced he plans to effectively reset the clock come Jan. 3 and ignore the long list of investigative requests already sent by Republican Reps. James Comer of Kentucky and Jim Jordan of Ohio — the incoming chairs for the Oversight and Judiciary Committees, respectively.
While the House GOP has spent weeks detailing its planned investigations into the Biden administration now that the party has a majority, the White House has stayed mostly silent on strategy. That changed Thursday morning, when White House Special Counsel Richard Sauber announced he plans to effectively reset the clock come Jan. 3 and ignore the long list of investigative requests already sent by Republican Reps. James Comer of Kentucky and Jim Jordan of Ohio — the incoming chairs for the Oversight and Judiciary Committees, respectively.
Dec 29, 2022: SpectrumNews1: Biden signs $1.7 trillion bill funding government operations
President Joe Biden on Thursday signed a $1.7 trillion spending bill that will keep the federal government operating through the end of the federal budget year in September 2023, and provide tens of billions of dollars in new aid to Ukraine for its fight against the Russian military.
President Joe Biden on Thursday signed a $1.7 trillion spending bill that will keep the federal government operating through the end of the federal budget year in September 2023, and provide tens of billions of dollars in new aid to Ukraine for its fight against the Russian military.
| December 28, 2022 |
Dec 28, 2022: MSNBC: Why George Santos is the perfect poster boy for House Republicans
Santos, who narrowly defeated an incumbent Democrat in New York’s redrawn 3rd District, was found to have lied extensively about his biography during his campaign.
Santos, who narrowly defeated an incumbent Democrat in New York’s redrawn 3rd District, was found to have lied extensively about his biography during his campaign.
Dec 28, 2022: Truthout: Former Trump Chief of Staff Mark Meadows Routinely Burned White House Documents
Meadows burned documents once or twice a week, his former aide Cassidy Hutchinson told the January 6 committee.
Meadows burned documents once or twice a week, his former aide Cassidy Hutchinson told the January 6 committee.
Dec 28, 2022: USA Today: Trump tax returns: Public scheduled to get first look Friday
A U.S. House committee is planning to release six years of former President Donald Trump’s tax returns Friday, a spokesperson confirmed to USA TODAY.
A U.S. House committee is planning to release six years of former President Donald Trump’s tax returns Friday, a spokesperson confirmed to USA TODAY.
Dec 28, 2022: USA Today: Jan. 6 transcripts: Guilfoyle demands $60k, White House chief burns docs, white nationalist pleads 5th
- A White House aide says former Trump chief of staff Mark Meadows burned documents in his office fireplace.
- A white nationalist who dined with Trump pleads the Fifth Amendment when asked about his views.
- One rally organizer associated with Stop the Steal accused others of ‘grifting off the movement.’
Dec 28, 2022: Gothamist: Nassau County DA opens investigation into Rep.-elect George Santos
The Nassau County District Attorney’s office on Wednesday launched an investigation into Rep.-elect George Santos after the Republican admitted to lying about his education and work experience as well as misleading voters about his religion on the campaign trail.
The Nassau County District Attorney’s office on Wednesday launched an investigation into Rep.-elect George Santos after the Republican admitted to lying about his education and work experience as well as misleading voters about his religion on the campaign trail.
Dec 28, 2022: Gothamist: NYC mayor lauds federal directive to close federal ‘ghost gun loophole’
Mayor Eric Adams is praising a new federal directive to regulate the sale of unfinished firearms, also known as ghost guns.
These partially built firearms have become more popular in recent years since buyers can bypass background checks to purchase guns. Ghost guns also typically lack serial numbers, making them difficult to track.
Mayor Eric Adams is praising a new federal directive to regulate the sale of unfinished firearms, also known as ghost guns.
These partially built firearms have become more popular in recent years since buyers can bypass background checks to purchase guns. Ghost guns also typically lack serial numbers, making them difficult to track.
Dec 28, 2022: Vanity Fair: MEADOWS GOES UP IN FLAMES: HUTCHINSON CLAIMS SHE WATCHED HIM BURN DOCUMENTS “ROUGHLY A DOZEN TIMES”
Former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows allegedly burned documents in his fireplace in the final weeks of the Donald Trump administration, according to his former aide Cassidy Hutchinson.
Hutchinson testified on May 17 to the January 6 committee; the fiery revelation was found in the House panel’s newly released transcripts of the former aide’s deposition.
Former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows allegedly burned documents in his fireplace in the final weeks of the Donald Trump administration, according to his former aide Cassidy Hutchinson.
Hutchinson testified on May 17 to the January 6 committee; the fiery revelation was found in the House panel’s newly released transcripts of the former aide’s deposition.
Dec 28, 2022: Times of Israel: Whoopi Goldberg insists she didn’t double down on claim Holocaust wasn’t about race
‘The View’ co-host apologizes after repeating assertion that landed her 2-week suspension, says she does believe the Nazi-orchestrated genocide was racial: ‘Still learning a lot’
‘The View’ co-host apologizes after repeating assertion that landed her 2-week suspension, says she does believe the Nazi-orchestrated genocide was racial: ‘Still learning a lot’
Dec 28, 2022: Insider: Democratic Rep. Jamie Raskin diagnosed with a 'serious but curable form of cancer'
- Democratic Rep. Jamie Raskin announced he's been diagnosed with Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma.
- He said he'll soon begin chemo-immunotherapy and that it's a "serious but curable form of cancer."
- "Prognosis for most people in my situation is excellent after four months of treatment," he said.
| December 26, 2022 |
Dec 26, 2022: USA Today: Whoopi Goldberg denies 'doubling down' on Holocaust remarks after drawing criticism from ADL
Whoopi Goldberg is speaking out after the Anti-Defamation League criticized her for comments in which she seemed to question whether the Holocaust, which involved the murder of 6 million Jews and others, was racially motivated.
In a statement obtained by USA TODAY Tuesday, Goldberg said her remarks were taken out of context and were a response to comments she made about the Holocaust earlier this year. In a January episode of "The View," Goldberg drew criticism for saying the Holocaust was not "about race."
Whoopi Goldberg is speaking out after the Anti-Defamation League criticized her for comments in which she seemed to question whether the Holocaust, which involved the murder of 6 million Jews and others, was racially motivated.
In a statement obtained by USA TODAY Tuesday, Goldberg said her remarks were taken out of context and were a response to comments she made about the Holocaust earlier this year. In a January episode of "The View," Goldberg drew criticism for saying the Holocaust was not "about race."
| December 25, 2022 |
Dec 25, 2022: CNN: More migrants dropped off outside vice president’s home in freezing weather on Christmas Eve
Several busloads of migrants were dropped off in front of Vice President Kamala Harris’ residence in Washington, DC, on Christmas Eve in 18 degree weather late Saturday.
An initial two busloads were taken to local shelters, according to an administration official. More buses arrived outside the vice president’s residence later Saturday evening. A CNN team saw migrants being dropped off, with some migrants wearing only T-shirts in the freezing weather. They were given blankets and put on another bus that went to a local church.
Several busloads of migrants were dropped off in front of Vice President Kamala Harris’ residence in Washington, DC, on Christmas Eve in 18 degree weather late Saturday.
An initial two busloads were taken to local shelters, according to an administration official. More buses arrived outside the vice president’s residence later Saturday evening. A CNN team saw migrants being dropped off, with some migrants wearing only T-shirts in the freezing weather. They were given blankets and put on another bus that went to a local church.
| December 24, 2022 |
Dec 24, 2022: Citizen Times: Roll Call: Here's how WNC's members of Congress voted the week of Dec. 16-22
House Vote 1: PAY FOR U.S. ATHLETES: The House has passed the Equal Pay for Team USA Act (S. 2333), sponsored by Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., to require equal compensation for male and female athletes officially representing the U.S. in the Olympics and other international amateur athletic contests. The vote, on Dec. 21, was 350 yeas to 59 nays. NAYS: Cawthorn R-NC (11th).
House Vote 1: PAY FOR U.S. ATHLETES: The House has passed the Equal Pay for Team USA Act (S. 2333), sponsored by Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., to require equal compensation for male and female athletes officially representing the U.S. in the Olympics and other international amateur athletic contests. The vote, on Dec. 21, was 350 yeas to 59 nays. NAYS: Cawthorn R-NC (11th).
| December 23, 2022 |
Dec 23, 2022: Insider: Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has been vacationing in Costa Rica during one of the most consequential legislative weeks of the year
- Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has been vacationing in Costa Rica this week.
- That's despite the House voting on a major government spending bill that she's dubbed the "omnimonster."
- She also did not attend an address at the Capitol by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Wednesday.
Dec 23, 2022: CNN: Bidens read to children at National Children’s Hospital ahead of Christmas weekend
President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden met with patients at National Children’s Hospital in Washington on Friday, carrying on a longstanding tradition during the holiday season.
The first couple, sporting cloth masks, met with pediatric patients, their families and hospital staff, greeting leadership and emergency department workers. Dr. Biden read Ezra Jack Keats’ “The Snowy Day” before the Bidens visited with children and their families in the cardiac intensive care unit.
President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden met with patients at National Children’s Hospital in Washington on Friday, carrying on a longstanding tradition during the holiday season.
The first couple, sporting cloth masks, met with pediatric patients, their families and hospital staff, greeting leadership and emergency department workers. Dr. Biden read Ezra Jack Keats’ “The Snowy Day” before the Bidens visited with children and their families in the cardiac intensive care unit.
Dec 23, 2022: NBC News: House passes $1.7 trillion spending bill that rewrites U.S. election law, sending it to Biden to sign
The House on Friday voted to finalize a massive $1.7 trillion government funding bill, sending it to President Joe Biden and marking the end of two years of Democrats controlling both chambers of Congress.
The package contains a major boost to military spending and nearly $45 billion in assistance to Ukraine. It overhauls federal election law by revising the Electoral Count Act of 1887 to try to prevent another Jan. 6. The bill funds a swath of domestic programs as well, averting a shutdown and keeping the government funded through next fall.
The House on Friday voted to finalize a massive $1.7 trillion government funding bill, sending it to President Joe Biden and marking the end of two years of Democrats controlling both chambers of Congress.
The package contains a major boost to military spending and nearly $45 billion in assistance to Ukraine. It overhauls federal election law by revising the Electoral Count Act of 1887 to try to prevent another Jan. 6. The bill funds a swath of domestic programs as well, averting a shutdown and keeping the government funded through next fall.
| December 22, 2022 |
Dec 22, 2022: NPR: Fox News' Sean Hannity says he knew all along Trump lost the election
Fox News star Sean Hannity – one of former President Donald Trump's strongest allies on the air and one of his closest advisers off it – admitted under oath that he never believed the lie that Trump was cheated of victory in the 2020 presidential election by a voting tech company.
Fox News star Sean Hannity – one of former President Donald Trump's strongest allies on the air and one of his closest advisers off it – admitted under oath that he never believed the lie that Trump was cheated of victory in the 2020 presidential election by a voting tech company.
Dec 22, 2022: CBS News: Cassidy Hutchinson told Jan. 6 committee Trump-linked lawyer urged her to "downplay" role in testimony, transcript reveals
During the Feb. 16 meeting, Hutchinson said she also relayed her recollection of an incident involving Trump and the head of his security detail after his speech at a rally on the Ellipse on Jan. 6, during which she was told Trump lunged at the Secret Service agent after his demands to go to the Capitol were denied. Hutchinson revealed the alleged encounter involving Trump during her public testimony at the June 29 committee hearing.
But Passantino urged her not to share her recollection of the encounter to committee investigators.
"And Stefan said, 'No, no, no, no.' I remember he, like, sat back in his chair, and he's like, 'No, no, no, no, no. We don't want to go there. We don't want to talk about that,'" Hutchinson told the committee of the exchange.
Hutchinson stressed that he "never told me to lie," but did say Passantino instructed her to say "I do not recall" and encouraged her to "use that response as much as you deem necessary."
During the Feb. 16 meeting, Hutchinson said she also relayed her recollection of an incident involving Trump and the head of his security detail after his speech at a rally on the Ellipse on Jan. 6, during which she was told Trump lunged at the Secret Service agent after his demands to go to the Capitol were denied. Hutchinson revealed the alleged encounter involving Trump during her public testimony at the June 29 committee hearing.
But Passantino urged her not to share her recollection of the encounter to committee investigators.
"And Stefan said, 'No, no, no, no.' I remember he, like, sat back in his chair, and he's like, 'No, no, no, no, no. We don't want to go there. We don't want to talk about that,'" Hutchinson told the committee of the exchange.
Hutchinson stressed that he "never told me to lie," but did say Passantino instructed her to say "I do not recall" and encouraged her to "use that response as much as you deem necessary."
Dec 2, 2022: Politico: Trump acknowledged his election loss to McCarthy before Jan. 6, Hutchinson testified
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy told then-White House aide Cassidy Hutchinson in the days before Jan. 6, 2021, that Donald Trump had privately acknowledged losing the 2020 election, according to a newly disclosed interview Hutchinson gave to the Jan. 6 select committee.
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy told then-White House aide Cassidy Hutchinson in the days before Jan. 6, 2021, that Donald Trump had privately acknowledged losing the 2020 election, according to a newly disclosed interview Hutchinson gave to the Jan. 6 select committee.
Dec 22, 2022; USA Today: Ex-Trump aide inspired to testify after reading Watergate book - Jan. 6 live updates
The waiting game resumes Thursday for the final report of the House committee that investigated the Capitol attack on Jan. 6, 2021, after a delay from Wednesday for the visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and unspecified logistical hurdles.
However, the committee released files from dozens of witnesses it interviewed, though some of the documents remain sealed.
The waiting game resumes Thursday for the final report of the House committee that investigated the Capitol attack on Jan. 6, 2021, after a delay from Wednesday for the visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and unspecified logistical hurdles.
However, the committee released files from dozens of witnesses it interviewed, though some of the documents remain sealed.
| December 21, 2022 |
Dec 21, 2022: The Hill: Zelensky to address Congress amid rising fears of massive Russian winter offensive
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will make his historic visit to Washington, D.C., on Wednesday at a critical time in his country’s war with Russia, as Ukrainian officials warn Moscow is massing upwards of 200,000 troops for a renewed offensive within the first three months of next year.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will make his historic visit to Washington, D.C., on Wednesday at a critical time in his country’s war with Russia, as Ukrainian officials warn Moscow is massing upwards of 200,000 troops for a renewed offensive within the first three months of next year.
Dec 21, 2022: NPR: Zelenskyy was escorted into the Chamber by House Democrats
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was escorted into a packed House Chamber by a welcome committee made up of members of both Congressional chambers.
His arrival was met with extended applause from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.
Escorts from the House included Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, D-M.D., Rep. Katherine Clark, D-Mass., Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., Rep. Pete Aguilar, D-Cali., Rep. Gregory Meeks, D-N.Y., Rep. Marcy Kaptur, D-Ohio, Rep. Mike Quigley, D-Ill.
He then took to the lectern to address Congress.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was escorted into a packed House Chamber by a welcome committee made up of members of both Congressional chambers.
His arrival was met with extended applause from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.
Escorts from the House included Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, D-M.D., Rep. Katherine Clark, D-Mass., Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., Rep. Pete Aguilar, D-Cali., Rep. Gregory Meeks, D-N.Y., Rep. Marcy Kaptur, D-Ohio, Rep. Mike Quigley, D-Ill.
He then took to the lectern to address Congress.
Dec 21, 2022: Roll Call: As nation awaits Jan. 6 report, Republicans release their own
On the eve of the expected release of the final report from the House select committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, assault on the Capitol, a group of Republican lawmakers put out their own account of the attack that focused instead on Capitol Police preparedness that day.
On the eve of the expected release of the final report from the House select committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, assault on the Capitol, a group of Republican lawmakers put out their own account of the attack that focused instead on Capitol Police preparedness that day.
Dec 21, 2022: CNN: Alicia Silverstone poses nude for PETA
Alicia Silverstone is going nude in the name of animals.
The actress stars in a PETA campaign against the use of leather with the slogan, “Wear Vegan. Buy cactus, mushroom or apple leather instead!”
PETA released a behind-the-scenes video featuring Silverstone being photographed for the campaign.
Alicia Silverstone is going nude in the name of animals.
The actress stars in a PETA campaign against the use of leather with the slogan, “Wear Vegan. Buy cactus, mushroom or apple leather instead!”
PETA released a behind-the-scenes video featuring Silverstone being photographed for the campaign.
Dec 21, 2022: HuffPost: 3 Years After Trump's Extortion, Zelenskyy Visits White House In First Post-Invasion Trip
President Joe Biden promised Wednesday that the United States would stick with Ukraine “as long as it takes,” as that country’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, visited the White House in hopes of negotiating an end to the war that Russia started ― and doing so on Ukraine’s terms.
President Joe Biden promised Wednesday that the United States would stick with Ukraine “as long as it takes,” as that country’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, visited the White House in hopes of negotiating an end to the war that Russia started ― and doing so on Ukraine’s terms.
| December 20, 2022 |
Dec 20, 2022: News & Observer: NC’s Mark Meadows tied to election conspiracy in Jan. 6 panel’s criminal referral of Trump
Mark Meadows, the former North Carolina congressman who served as Donald Trump’s final chief of staff, is one of a few Trump allies mentioned in a U.S. House committee’s unprecedented report referring the former president to the Justice Department for potential prosecution.
Mark Meadows, the former North Carolina congressman who served as Donald Trump’s final chief of staff, is one of a few Trump allies mentioned in a U.S. House committee’s unprecedented report referring the former president to the Justice Department for potential prosecution.
Dec 20, 2022: Fox News: Lauren Boebert, Marjorie Taylor Greene snipe at each other over McCarthy speaker support
Rep. Lauren Boebert, R-Colo., has hit back at fellow firebrand Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., in a public spat over who House Republicans should support to be the next speaker of the House.
The two lawmakers, both Trump Republicans, are on different sides when it comes to House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., and his ambition to be the next speaker. Greene, a McCarthy ally, criticized Boebert Monday after the Colorado lawmaker was asked why she didn't join Greene in support of McCarthy at a Turning Point USA conference in Phoenix.
Rep. Lauren Boebert, R-Colo., has hit back at fellow firebrand Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., in a public spat over who House Republicans should support to be the next speaker of the House.
The two lawmakers, both Trump Republicans, are on different sides when it comes to House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., and his ambition to be the next speaker. Greene, a McCarthy ally, criticized Boebert Monday after the Colorado lawmaker was asked why she didn't join Greene in support of McCarthy at a Turning Point USA conference in Phoenix.
Dec 20, 2022: USA Today: Liz Cheney has been a godsend for democracy, but she doesn't fit anywhere in US politics
The departing Wyoming Republican said Monday that former President Donald Trump is "unfit for any office" and should never "serve in any position of authority in our nation again." Her sharp-edged certainty, deployed to save democracy, has been a gift to Democrats, fellow Republican resisters and, above all, America.
But today's GOP is hostile to Cheney precisely because of that mission. And unless working with the opposition has upended her worldview, the Democratic Party won't be a fit, either.
The departing Wyoming Republican said Monday that former President Donald Trump is "unfit for any office" and should never "serve in any position of authority in our nation again." Her sharp-edged certainty, deployed to save democracy, has been a gift to Democrats, fellow Republican resisters and, above all, America.
But today's GOP is hostile to Cheney precisely because of that mission. And unless working with the opposition has upended her worldview, the Democratic Party won't be a fit, either.
Dec 20, 2022: Vox: Wasn’t Elon Musk supposed to quit by now?
It’s been over 36 hours since people voted overwhelmingly for Elon Musk to step down as CEO of Twitter (out of some 17 million votes, 57.5 percent were in favor of Musk resigning). But instead of immediately and publicly accepting the results, which he said he’d do, Musk is now casting doubt on the validity of his poll after Musk himself launched it on Twitter, a platform that he owns.
It’s been over 36 hours since people voted overwhelmingly for Elon Musk to step down as CEO of Twitter (out of some 17 million votes, 57.5 percent were in favor of Musk resigning). But instead of immediately and publicly accepting the results, which he said he’d do, Musk is now casting doubt on the validity of his poll after Musk himself launched it on Twitter, a platform that he owns.
Dec 20, 2022: Dakota News Now: Ethics board dismisses Noem plane case, says law is unclear
South Dakota’s ethics board dismissed a complaint against Gov. Noem for using state government aircraft to attend events hosted by political organizations because state law does not define what is meant by “state business.”
South Dakota’s ethics board dismissed a complaint against Gov. Noem for using state government aircraft to attend events hosted by political organizations because state law does not define what is meant by “state business.”
| December 19, 2022 |
Dec 19, 2022: The Hill: Boebert says she won’t support McCarthy without mechanism to remove Speaker
Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) on Monday said she would not support House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) as the next Speaker unless there is a mechanism to easily remove him from the top post.
Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) on Monday said she would not support House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) as the next Speaker unless there is a mechanism to easily remove him from the top post.
Dec 19, 2022: Spectrum News 1: Jan. 6 committee refers Mark Meadows to DOJ for prosecution along with former President Trump
Mark Meadows is among those the Jan. 6 committee referred to the Justice Department for prosecution, along with former President Donald Trump.
The committee Monday announced it was referring Trump, Meadows, John Eastman, Rudolph Giuliani, Kenneth Chesebro and others to the DOJ. If the special prosecutor agrees, they could face criminal prosecution for their roles in the Jan. 6 attack.
“We have every confidence that the work of this committee will help provide a roadmap to justice,” said Committee Chair Bennie Thompson, D-Miss.
Mark Meadows is among those the Jan. 6 committee referred to the Justice Department for prosecution, along with former President Donald Trump.
The committee Monday announced it was referring Trump, Meadows, John Eastman, Rudolph Giuliani, Kenneth Chesebro and others to the DOJ. If the special prosecutor agrees, they could face criminal prosecution for their roles in the Jan. 6 attack.
“We have every confidence that the work of this committee will help provide a roadmap to justice,” said Committee Chair Bennie Thompson, D-Miss.
Dec 19, 2022: Deutsche Welle: US Vice President Kamala Harris: How is she doing?
Kamala Harris' appointment as vice president of the United States was historic. She became the first woman, the first Black, and the first Asian ever to take on the role. The White House seemed to embrace the new VP, using the tagline "Biden-Harris Administration," on social media to underscore the importance of the second-in-command.
Kamala Harris' appointment as vice president of the United States was historic. She became the first woman, the first Black, and the first Asian ever to take on the role. The White House seemed to embrace the new VP, using the tagline "Biden-Harris Administration," on social media to underscore the importance of the second-in-command.
Dec 19, 2022: Deutsche Welle: Opinion: Elon Musk's Twitter poll is ridiculous
Around 58% of all 17.5 million people voting ticked "yes" when Elon Musk tweeted a poll asking whether he should step down as the head of Twitter. What does this tell us?
The short answer is: nothing, really.
The long answer is: Elon Musk seems to be growing bored with the new $44-billion (€41 billion) toy that's caused him nothing but trouble since he bought it. But it seems out of place to feel sorry for the world's now only second-richest man — he's brought this misery upon himself by acting out like a spoiled 4-year-old.
Around 58% of all 17.5 million people voting ticked "yes" when Elon Musk tweeted a poll asking whether he should step down as the head of Twitter. What does this tell us?
The short answer is: nothing, really.
The long answer is: Elon Musk seems to be growing bored with the new $44-billion (€41 billion) toy that's caused him nothing but trouble since he bought it. But it seems out of place to feel sorry for the world's now only second-richest man — he's brought this misery upon himself by acting out like a spoiled 4-year-old.
De 19, 2022: New York Times: The Jan. 6 Committee Just Made History. Here’s What That Means for Prosecutors.
In voting on Monday to issue a sweeping final report, the Jan. 6 committee has honored its duty and the Constitution. When the full report is released this week, there will be much to review and process for our country, our government and American history. But given the facts that have been revealed, these hearings had to end with criminal referrals against Donald Trump and his minions.
In voting on Monday to issue a sweeping final report, the Jan. 6 committee has honored its duty and the Constitution. When the full report is released this week, there will be much to review and process for our country, our government and American history. But given the facts that have been revealed, these hearings had to end with criminal referrals against Donald Trump and his minions.
Dec 19, 2022: CNN: Opinion: Trump represents our founders’ worst fears
The House January 6 committee’s decision to issue criminal referrals against former President Donald Trump marks a return to old expectations about the rule of law and its equal application to all citizens. The referrals are advisory and the Department of Justice will ultimately decide whether to indict Trump, but the January 6 committee’s message is loud and clear. They believe the former president should be prosecuted for serious crimes against the country.
The founders of our republic would approve. In creating the executive branch of the US government in Article 2 of the Constitution, the founders included a mandatory oath that affirmed the president must be deferential to the law, not vice versa. The president must “preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States” – the highest law of the land.
The House January 6 committee’s decision to issue criminal referrals against former President Donald Trump marks a return to old expectations about the rule of law and its equal application to all citizens. The referrals are advisory and the Department of Justice will ultimately decide whether to indict Trump, but the January 6 committee’s message is loud and clear. They believe the former president should be prosecuted for serious crimes against the country.
The founders of our republic would approve. In creating the executive branch of the US government in Article 2 of the Constitution, the founders included a mandatory oath that affirmed the president must be deferential to the law, not vice versa. The president must “preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States” – the highest law of the land.
Dec 19, 2022: Los Angeles Times: Jan. 6 committee’s criminal referral of a former president is a first in American history
The House panel investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol unanimously voted Monday to urge the Justice Department to take the unprecedented step of pursuing several potential criminal charges against former President Trump, including insurrection.
The House panel investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol unanimously voted Monday to urge the Justice Department to take the unprecedented step of pursuing several potential criminal charges against former President Trump, including insurrection.
Dec 19, 2022: The Guardian: A very American coup attempt: Jan 6 panel lays bare Trump’s bid for power
It was, all in all, a very American attempt at a coup. Or self-coup to be exact.
The world watched its denouement dumbfounded on 6 January 2021 as thousands of Donald Trump’s supporters stormed the heart of US democracy, the Capitol in Washington, with cries to hang the vice-president, in an attempt to overturn an election and keep Trump in power.
It was, all in all, a very American attempt at a coup. Or self-coup to be exact.
The world watched its denouement dumbfounded on 6 January 2021 as thousands of Donald Trump’s supporters stormed the heart of US democracy, the Capitol in Washington, with cries to hang the vice-president, in an attempt to overturn an election and keep Trump in power.
Dec 19, 2022: CNN: What’s in the House January 6 committee report summary
The House select committee investigating the January 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol has concluded that former President Donald Trump was ultimately responsible for the insurrection, laying out for the public and the Justice Department a trove of evidence for why he should be prosecuted for multiple crimes.
“That evidence has led to an overriding and straight-forward conclusion: the central cause of January 6th was one man, former President Donald Trump, who many others followed,” the committee writes in a summary of its final report released on Monday. “None of the events of January 6th would have happened without him.”
The House select committee investigating the January 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol has concluded that former President Donald Trump was ultimately responsible for the insurrection, laying out for the public and the Justice Department a trove of evidence for why he should be prosecuted for multiple crimes.
“That evidence has led to an overriding and straight-forward conclusion: the central cause of January 6th was one man, former President Donald Trump, who many others followed,” the committee writes in a summary of its final report released on Monday. “None of the events of January 6th would have happened without him.”
Dec 19, 2022: CNN: Incoming House GOP chairs ratchet up pressure on McCarthy’s detractors and call on them to not ‘squander’ their majority
Republicans who will chair House committees in the next Congress are warning that if Kevin McCarthy’s detractors deny him the 218 votes needed to become speaker, they are at risk of undermining the slim majority they won in November.
“Let us not squander this majority before we even take back the gavels,” the incoming chairs write in a letter on Monday. “Time is of the essence, and the American people want us to get to work now. Majorities are earned, never given – and the American people will remember how we choose to begin ours.”
Republicans who will chair House committees in the next Congress are warning that if Kevin McCarthy’s detractors deny him the 218 votes needed to become speaker, they are at risk of undermining the slim majority they won in November.
“Let us not squander this majority before we even take back the gavels,” the incoming chairs write in a letter on Monday. “Time is of the essence, and the American people want us to get to work now. Majorities are earned, never given – and the American people will remember how we choose to begin ours.”
Dec 19, 2022: NBC News: Jan. 6 committee summary: Ivanka Trump not 'forthcoming;' Giuliani changed tone on stolen election during deposition
The House Jan. 6 select committee released an executive summary on Monday, highlighting a series of revelations and accusations against key figures who have testified as it prepares to wrap up its far-reaching investigation in the coming days.
The House Jan. 6 select committee released an executive summary on Monday, highlighting a series of revelations and accusations against key figures who have testified as it prepares to wrap up its far-reaching investigation in the coming days.
Dec 19, 2022: Politico: Jan. 6 committee delivers its judgment on Donald Trump
The Jan. 6 select committee on Monday began unveiling its most comprehensive case yet that Donald Trump attempted to subvert the transfer of presidential power to Joe Biden — first by pressuring allies at every level of government and then with the aid of a violent mob.
The panel introduced the first components of its final report following an 18-month probe that featured explosive testimony from members of Trump’s West Wing, battles that reached the Supreme Court and access to some of the most sensitive papers held by Trump’s White House.
The Jan. 6 select committee on Monday began unveiling its most comprehensive case yet that Donald Trump attempted to subvert the transfer of presidential power to Joe Biden — first by pressuring allies at every level of government and then with the aid of a violent mob.
The panel introduced the first components of its final report following an 18-month probe that featured explosive testimony from members of Trump’s West Wing, battles that reached the Supreme Court and access to some of the most sensitive papers held by Trump’s White House.
Dec 9, 2022: New York Magazine: The Unhinged Debate Over Twitter and ‘Free Speech’
Twitter has always loved to talk about itself. But in the weeks since a luridly unwell billionaire purchased the platform, gutted its staff, published its internal communications, littered his immaculately unfunny posts across everyone’s feeds, capriciously suspended a bunch of journalists who may or may not have shared publicly available information about his plane, and then asked the platform’s users to decide if he keeps his job, Twitter users have barely discussed anything else. (And by “Twitter users,” I mean my solipsistic community of amateur and professional news junkies.)
Twitter has always loved to talk about itself. But in the weeks since a luridly unwell billionaire purchased the platform, gutted its staff, published its internal communications, littered his immaculately unfunny posts across everyone’s feeds, capriciously suspended a bunch of journalists who may or may not have shared publicly available information about his plane, and then asked the platform’s users to decide if he keeps his job, Twitter users have barely discussed anything else. (And by “Twitter users,” I mean my solipsistic community of amateur and professional news junkies.)
Dec 19, 2022: CNN: Lawyers for Proud Boys defendants raise concern over today's committee meeting
A possible complication from the final Jan. 6 committee’s public meeting and the release of transcripts could come at the federal courthouse across from the Capitol where five leaders of the Proud Boys are on trial beginning today on seditious conspiracy.
Lawyers for defendants including Enrique Tarrio, have argued that the committee’s public activity has made it impossible for them to receive a fair trial.
A possible complication from the final Jan. 6 committee’s public meeting and the release of transcripts could come at the federal courthouse across from the Capitol where five leaders of the Proud Boys are on trial beginning today on seditious conspiracy.
Lawyers for defendants including Enrique Tarrio, have argued that the committee’s public activity has made it impossible for them to receive a fair trial.
| December 18, 2022 |
Dec 18, 2022: CNN: GOP congressman signals confidence in McCarthy capturing speakership: ‘We will get there’
A Republican lawmaker on Sunday signaled confidence in House GOP leader Kevin McCarthy’s ability to capture the speakership and move forward even as a number of conservative hard-liners are threatening to upend his bid.
A Republican lawmaker on Sunday signaled confidence in House GOP leader Kevin McCarthy’s ability to capture the speakership and move forward even as a number of conservative hard-liners are threatening to upend his bid.
| December 17, 2022 |
Dec 17, 2022; NPR: Twitter lifts suspensions on several journalists amid rift between the site and media
The company has not explained why the accounts were taken down. But Musk took to Twitter on Thursday night to accuse journalists of sharing private information about his whereabouts, which he described as "basically assassination coordinates." He provided no evidence for that claim.
The company has not explained why the accounts were taken down. But Musk took to Twitter on Thursday night to accuse journalists of sharing private information about his whereabouts, which he described as "basically assassination coordinates." He provided no evidence for that claim.
Dec 17, 2022: Aljazeera: Advertisers should fear more than the chaos at Twitter
In the wake of Elon Musk’s chaotic takeover of Twitter, several of the world’s largest ad agencies have advised clients to pause advertising their brands on the social media network due to concerns over “brand safety”. Thousands of Twitter employees either quit or were let go which reportedly affected moderation capacities, including those dedicated to ensuring adverts do not appear next to online content that could damage the image or reputation of a brand.
In the wake of Elon Musk’s chaotic takeover of Twitter, several of the world’s largest ad agencies have advised clients to pause advertising their brands on the social media network due to concerns over “brand safety”. Thousands of Twitter employees either quit or were let go which reportedly affected moderation capacities, including those dedicated to ensuring adverts do not appear next to online content that could damage the image or reputation of a brand.
| December 16, 2022 |
December 16, 2022:
After the 2018, Santa Fe High School shooting, Texas Governor Greg Abbott said that he would consult across Texas in an attempt to prevent gun violence in schools. He had a series of round-table discussions followed at the state capitol. In a speech to a NRA convention in Dallas almost two weeks later, Abbott said, "The problem is not guns, it’s hearts without God".
So, if that is the problem..what is the answer? It would be making efforts to turn hearts toward God, would it not? Or is it blaming the Christian church for not reaching those hearts? And how does an elected official deal with that when separation of church and state is a paramount issue throughout America's history?
A few days later Abbott published a Youtube video saying the shooter broke "two gun laws the day he committed the multiple murders"..... It is a felony to possess a gun on school property" and "what he did on campus is capital murder. That's a crime that would have subjected him to the death penalty in Texas." So, if that is the answer..what is the problem? Are shooters concerned about committing a crime? Obviously not. The State of Texas has executed 578 people since 1982. Seems to me that if you combine both responses from Governor Abbott that the shootings resulted because they had a godless heart and ignorance of capital penalties.
Before God reaches hearts, men are subject only to or restrained by secular rules and laws of society. Don't kill people with guns. Governments can only really control the penalty phase of any legal breach of justice...though lawyers can often breach that and do quite often.
Reaching hearts is actually the most sure way. But you can't make reaching hearts a law with consequences no matter how hard you try to legislate it. And since the second amendment is applied in the way it is today which gives any gun enthusiast an orgasm there aren't much options...or maybe none at all -Z
After the 2018, Santa Fe High School shooting, Texas Governor Greg Abbott said that he would consult across Texas in an attempt to prevent gun violence in schools. He had a series of round-table discussions followed at the state capitol. In a speech to a NRA convention in Dallas almost two weeks later, Abbott said, "The problem is not guns, it’s hearts without God".
So, if that is the problem..what is the answer? It would be making efforts to turn hearts toward God, would it not? Or is it blaming the Christian church for not reaching those hearts? And how does an elected official deal with that when separation of church and state is a paramount issue throughout America's history?
A few days later Abbott published a Youtube video saying the shooter broke "two gun laws the day he committed the multiple murders"..... It is a felony to possess a gun on school property" and "what he did on campus is capital murder. That's a crime that would have subjected him to the death penalty in Texas." So, if that is the answer..what is the problem? Are shooters concerned about committing a crime? Obviously not. The State of Texas has executed 578 people since 1982. Seems to me that if you combine both responses from Governor Abbott that the shootings resulted because they had a godless heart and ignorance of capital penalties.
Before God reaches hearts, men are subject only to or restrained by secular rules and laws of society. Don't kill people with guns. Governments can only really control the penalty phase of any legal breach of justice...though lawyers can often breach that and do quite often.
Reaching hearts is actually the most sure way. But you can't make reaching hearts a law with consequences no matter how hard you try to legislate it. And since the second amendment is applied in the way it is today which gives any gun enthusiast an orgasm there aren't much options...or maybe none at all -Z
Dec 16, 2022: Dakota News Now: Kristi Noem orders Health Department to terminate Transgender group contract
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem instructed the S.D. Department of Health to terminate their contract with The Transformation Project, which is a transgender activist group, according to The Daily Signal
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem instructed the S.D. Department of Health to terminate their contract with The Transformation Project, which is a transgender activist group, according to The Daily Signal
Dec 16, 2022: Politico: Judge unseals new details of contacts among Rep. Perry, Trump-connected attorneys
A federal judge revealed Friday that earlier this year she granted Justice Department investigators access to emails between three Trump-connected attorneys and Rep. Scott Perry as part of the federal investigation into election subversion efforts by the former president and others.
At the request of DOJ, U.S. District Court Chief Judge Beryl Howell unsealed a June opinion in which she determined that 37 emails sent among Trump-era Justice Department official Jeffrey Clark, his aide Ken Klukowski and conservative attorney John Eastman and Perry (R-Pa.) — another top Donald Trump ally who chairs the House Freedom Caucus — were not protected by attorney-client privilege.
A federal judge revealed Friday that earlier this year she granted Justice Department investigators access to emails between three Trump-connected attorneys and Rep. Scott Perry as part of the federal investigation into election subversion efforts by the former president and others.
At the request of DOJ, U.S. District Court Chief Judge Beryl Howell unsealed a June opinion in which she determined that 37 emails sent among Trump-era Justice Department official Jeffrey Clark, his aide Ken Klukowski and conservative attorney John Eastman and Perry (R-Pa.) — another top Donald Trump ally who chairs the House Freedom Caucus — were not protected by attorney-client privilege.
Dec 16, 2022: CNN: January 6 committee considering asking DOJ to pursue at least two criminal charges against Trump
The House select committee investigating January 6, 2021, is considering asking the Justice Department to pursue multiple charges against former President Donald Trump, according to a source familiar with the matter.
The House select committee investigating January 6, 2021, is considering asking the Justice Department to pursue multiple charges against former President Donald Trump, according to a source familiar with the matter.
Dec 16, 2022: The Atlantic: No One Wins in Elon Musk’s Battle With Journalists
Last night, several well-known journalists, including Ryan Mac of The New York Times and Drew Harwell of The Washington Post, were suspended from Twitter.
The suspensions were ostensibly related to the journalists’ reporting on an account—@ElonJet, operated by the 20-year-old Jack Sweeney—which was dedicated to publishing the location of Elon Musk’s private jet based on public data. Musk had once promised that his commitment to free speech would prevent him from ever suspending or banning @ElonJet, but he pivoted this week after an apparently unrelated alleged stalking incident.
Last night, several well-known journalists, including Ryan Mac of The New York Times and Drew Harwell of The Washington Post, were suspended from Twitter.
The suspensions were ostensibly related to the journalists’ reporting on an account—@ElonJet, operated by the 20-year-old Jack Sweeney—which was dedicated to publishing the location of Elon Musk’s private jet based on public data. Musk had once promised that his commitment to free speech would prevent him from ever suspending or banning @ElonJet, but he pivoted this week after an apparently unrelated alleged stalking incident.
Dec 16, 2022: Insider: Twitter's real problem is that the constant string of Elon Musk scandals is making it boring
- The only thing anyone talks about on Twitter these days is Elon Musk.
- It's getting dull.
- Constant scandal is fun for journalists and influencers, but it's off-putting for ordinary users.
Dec 16, 2022; Politico: Virginia Dems squeeze House special election into one breakneck week
State Sens. Jennifer McClellan and Joe Morrissey are among the Democrats running for Virginia’s vacant 4th District, previously held by the late Democratic Rep. Don McEachin, who died on Nov. 28, just weeks after winning reelection. The Richmond-based district is heavily Democratic, and thanks to the specifics of how the state handles special elections, the party is using a“firehouse primary” — a party-run vote — next Tuesday, just days after the candidates jumped into the race.
State Sens. Jennifer McClellan and Joe Morrissey are among the Democrats running for Virginia’s vacant 4th District, previously held by the late Democratic Rep. Don McEachin, who died on Nov. 28, just weeks after winning reelection. The Richmond-based district is heavily Democratic, and thanks to the specifics of how the state handles special elections, the party is using a“firehouse primary” — a party-run vote — next Tuesday, just days after the candidates jumped into the race.
| December 15, 2022 |
Dec 15, 2022: NPR: Twitter suspends several journalists who shared information about Musk's jet
Press freedom advocates on Thursday criticized Twitter owner Elon Musk, who has suspended the accounts of several high-profile journalists who cover the billionaire and his chaotic leadership of the social media site.
Press freedom advocates on Thursday criticized Twitter owner Elon Musk, who has suspended the accounts of several high-profile journalists who cover the billionaire and his chaotic leadership of the social media site.
Dec 15, 2022: Philadelphia Inquirer: Trump should be prosecuted in the courts
As a public defender, I swore an oath to uphold the U.S. Constitution — to fight for its citizens and to ensure that the legal concept of probable cause is applied equitably in each and every case. However, that commitment becomes compromised when powerful individuals abuse the system in a manner meant to skirt the law or put them above the law that governs everybody else.
As a public defender, I swore an oath to uphold the U.S. Constitution — to fight for its citizens and to ensure that the legal concept of probable cause is applied equitably in each and every case. However, that commitment becomes compromised when powerful individuals abuse the system in a manner meant to skirt the law or put them above the law that governs everybody else.
Dec 15, 2022: Capitol Gazette: Two get prison time for assisting Gov. Gretchen Whitmer kidnap plotter
Two men who forged an early alliance with the leader of a plot to kidnap Michigan’s governor were sentenced Thursday to lengthy prison terms for assisting him before the FBI broke up the scheme in 2020.
Pete Musico was given a minimum term of 12 years and his son-in-law Joe Morrison got 10 years. A third person, Paul Bellar, was awaiting his sentence at the same hearing in Jackson County.
Two men who forged an early alliance with the leader of a plot to kidnap Michigan’s governor were sentenced Thursday to lengthy prison terms for assisting him before the FBI broke up the scheme in 2020.
Pete Musico was given a minimum term of 12 years and his son-in-law Joe Morrison got 10 years. A third person, Paul Bellar, was awaiting his sentence at the same hearing in Jackson County.
Dec 15, 2022: USA Today: These charts show how Trump's 2024 bid is losing steam
Donald Trump is in a slump.
Support for the former president's 2024 presidential bid has declined as he faces significant midterm losses and courtroom setbacks, an exclusive USA TODAY/Suffolk University Poll found.
Among all voters, Trump has fallen further behind President Joe Biden in a hypothetical rematch. Meanwhile, Republicans are leaning in to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis as a possible 2024 presidential candidate and Trump opponent.
Donald Trump is in a slump.
Support for the former president's 2024 presidential bid has declined as he faces significant midterm losses and courtroom setbacks, an exclusive USA TODAY/Suffolk University Poll found.
Among all voters, Trump has fallen further behind President Joe Biden in a hypothetical rematch. Meanwhile, Republicans are leaning in to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis as a possible 2024 presidential candidate and Trump opponent.
Dec 15, 2022: Philadelphia Inquirer: Paul Pelosi attack: Man told cops of ‘evil’ in Washington
“There is evil in Washington, what they did went so far beyond the campaign," David DePape told Lt. Carla Hurley, according to a recording of their interview that was played in court.
“There is evil in Washington, what they did went so far beyond the campaign," David DePape told Lt. Carla Hurley, according to a recording of their interview that was played in court.
Dec 15, 2022: Philadelphia Inquirer: Pat Toomey Q&A: What Pennsylvania’s retiring senator says about tax cuts, gun legislation, Jan. 6, and Trump
As he leaves public office, Sen. Pat Toomey (R., Pa.) sat for a lengthy interview about his policies, the future of the GOP, and Donald Trump's influence.
As he leaves public office, Sen. Pat Toomey (R., Pa.) sat for a lengthy interview about his policies, the future of the GOP, and Donald Trump's influence.
| December 14, 2022 |
Dec 14, 2022: Politico: Come on down? House GOP weighs the right price to topple a speaker
At the heart of the House GOP leader’s latest battle of wits with his critics on the right is what’s known as the “motion to vacate the chair,” which allows members to force a vote on deposing a sitting speaker. The tool became notorious in 2015 when conservatives threatened to use it against then-Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio), but outgoing Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) abolished it — and now McCarthy allies want its use severely restricted amid a fist-tight majority.
At the heart of the House GOP leader’s latest battle of wits with his critics on the right is what’s known as the “motion to vacate the chair,” which allows members to force a vote on deposing a sitting speaker. The tool became notorious in 2015 when conservatives threatened to use it against then-Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio), but outgoing Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) abolished it — and now McCarthy allies want its use severely restricted amid a fist-tight majority.
Dec 14, 2022: The Hill: Abbott asks state attorney general to investigate NGOs over immigration
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) on Wednesday asked his top law enforcement official to investigate nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) operating in the state over their role in assisting immigrants to cross the U.S.-Mexico border.
In a letter to Attorney General Ken Paxton (R), Abbott said the number of “illegal immigrants crossing the Texas-Mexico border has reached an all-time high.”
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) on Wednesday asked his top law enforcement official to investigate nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) operating in the state over their role in assisting immigrants to cross the U.S.-Mexico border.
In a letter to Attorney General Ken Paxton (R), Abbott said the number of “illegal immigrants crossing the Texas-Mexico border has reached an all-time high.”
Dec 14, KTLA: Rage Against the Machine guitarist Tom Morello joins striking University of California workers at UCLA
On Wednesday, the presidents of the Los Angeles Federation of Labor and United Teachers Los Angeles were on hand to lend their support, as was Tom Morello, the guitarist for Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave.
For weeks, UC officials have urged the 36,000 academy employees, who are represented by the UAW union, to resolve their disputes through an independent mediator.
On Wednesday, the presidents of the Los Angeles Federation of Labor and United Teachers Los Angeles were on hand to lend their support, as was Tom Morello, the guitarist for Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave.
For weeks, UC officials have urged the 36,000 academy employees, who are represented by the UAW union, to resolve their disputes through an independent mediator.
Dec 14, 2022: New York Magazine: Elon Musk’s Politics Are About As Complicated As Trump’s
Peters is not alone in characterizing Musk as “a bundle of contradictions and inconsistencies” whose politics are “tricky to pin down.” Several other reporters have puzzled over Musk’s apparent transformation from politically taciturn Obama donor to compulsive sharer of cringe-inducing conservative memes. Musk himself maintains that his politics are “neither conventionally right nor left.”
Nevertheless, neither Musk’s political trajectory nor his present orientation seem all that difficult to comprehend or categorize. Musk is not only an identifiable political type but a familiar one. In many respects, he is a conservative in the mold of Donald Trump.
Peters is not alone in characterizing Musk as “a bundle of contradictions and inconsistencies” whose politics are “tricky to pin down.” Several other reporters have puzzled over Musk’s apparent transformation from politically taciturn Obama donor to compulsive sharer of cringe-inducing conservative memes. Musk himself maintains that his politics are “neither conventionally right nor left.”
Nevertheless, neither Musk’s political trajectory nor his present orientation seem all that difficult to comprehend or categorize. Musk is not only an identifiable political type but a familiar one. In many respects, he is a conservative in the mold of Donald Trump.
Dec 14, 2022: Los Angeles Times: Paul Pelosi’s alleged attacker also targeted Tom Hanks, Hunter Biden, Gavin Newsom, investigator says
The judge ruled at Wednesday’s preliminary hearing that prosecutors had presented sufficient evidence to move forward with a trial — evidence that included body camera footage, as well as testimony from an officer who first responded to the 911 call and an investigator who said DePape had a “hit list” that included actor Tom Hanks, California Gov. Gavin Newsom and President Biden’s son Hunter Biden
The judge ruled at Wednesday’s preliminary hearing that prosecutors had presented sufficient evidence to move forward with a trial — evidence that included body camera footage, as well as testimony from an officer who first responded to the 911 call and an investigator who said DePape had a “hit list” that included actor Tom Hanks, California Gov. Gavin Newsom and President Biden’s son Hunter Biden
Dec 14, 2022: Newsweek: Republicans Slam McConnell After He Expresses Support for Omnibus Bill
Several prominent Republican lawmakers are publicly criticizing Senate GOP Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky for his willingness to work on a year-end omnibus spending deal with Democrats.
Several prominent Republican lawmakers are publicly criticizing Senate GOP Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky for his willingness to work on a year-end omnibus spending deal with Democrats.
Dec 14, 2022: San Diego Union Tribune: Trump Org. was secretly held in contempt for hindering probe
Donald Trump’s company impeded a grand jury investigation last year by repeatedly failing to turn over evidence in a timely fashion, leading to a secret contempt finding and a $4,000 fine, according to court records made public Tuesday.
The Trump Organization was found to have been “willfully disobeying” four grand jury subpoenas and three court orders, to the detriment of Manhattan prosecutors who were left ill-prepared to question witnesses, Judge Juan Manuel Merchan ruled.
Donald Trump’s company impeded a grand jury investigation last year by repeatedly failing to turn over evidence in a timely fashion, leading to a secret contempt finding and a $4,000 fine, according to court records made public Tuesday.
The Trump Organization was found to have been “willfully disobeying” four grand jury subpoenas and three court orders, to the detriment of Manhattan prosecutors who were left ill-prepared to question witnesses, Judge Juan Manuel Merchan ruled.
| December 12, 2022 |
Dec 12, 2022: Los Angeles Times: Newsom slams Republicans for blocking immigration reform on visit to Mexican border
While visiting a state-funded migrant center that provides services to asylum seekers near the Imperial County border with Mexico on Monday, Gov. Gavin Newsom criticized Republicans in Congress for politicizing immigration while failing to support comprehensive reforms.
While visiting a state-funded migrant center that provides services to asylum seekers near the Imperial County border with Mexico on Monday, Gov. Gavin Newsom criticized Republicans in Congress for politicizing immigration while failing to support comprehensive reforms.
Dec 12, 2022: Newsweek: Gavin Newsom Visits Border After Biden Said He Had 'More Important' Issues
On Monday, California Governor Gavin Newsom's office announced in a vaguely-worded release that the Democrat and potential presidential candidate had left the state on a single-day trip to the border in an effort "to discuss immigration reform and [his] commitment to supporting immigrant communities and the border region."
On Monday, California Governor Gavin Newsom's office announced in a vaguely-worded release that the Democrat and potential presidential candidate had left the state on a single-day trip to the border in an effort "to discuss immigration reform and [his] commitment to supporting immigrant communities and the border region."
Dec 12, 2022: The Hill: Greene creates new headache for McCarthy over Jan. 6
Rep. Kevin McCarthy (Calif.) is being dragged into a new row set off by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) as Democrats seek to tie the would-be GOP Speaker to the firebrand lawmaker’s remarks that Jan. 6 rioters would have been armed if she had been their organizer.
Rep. Kevin McCarthy (Calif.) is being dragged into a new row set off by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) as Democrats seek to tie the would-be GOP Speaker to the firebrand lawmaker’s remarks that Jan. 6 rioters would have been armed if she had been their organizer.
Dec12, 2022; NBC News: Twitter disbands its Trust and Safety Council
Twitter on Monday disbanded its Trust and Safety Council, a group of volunteers who offered the company outside expert advice about online safety, according to an email seen by NBC News.
"As Twitter moves into a new phase, we are reevaluating how best to bring external insights into our product and policy development work," the company said in the email. "As part of this process, we have decided that the Trust and Safety Council is not the best structure to do this."
Twitter on Monday disbanded its Trust and Safety Council, a group of volunteers who offered the company outside expert advice about online safety, according to an email seen by NBC News.
"As Twitter moves into a new phase, we are reevaluating how best to bring external insights into our product and policy development work," the company said in the email. "As part of this process, we have decided that the Trust and Safety Council is not the best structure to do this."
Dec 12, 2022: CNN: Elon Musk booed off stage at a Dave Chappelle show
Elon Musk joined Dave Chappelle on stage Sunday in San Francisco, home of Twitter’s headquarters where the world’s richest person recently laid off many of its employees. It went about as well as you’d expect.
The crowd at the Chase Center loudly booed Musk, who had spent much of the weekend wading into the culture wars, making transphobic statements and seemingly echoing QAnon tropes.
Elon Musk joined Dave Chappelle on stage Sunday in San Francisco, home of Twitter’s headquarters where the world’s richest person recently laid off many of its employees. It went about as well as you’d expect.
The crowd at the Chase Center loudly booed Musk, who had spent much of the weekend wading into the culture wars, making transphobic statements and seemingly echoing QAnon tropes.
| December 11, 2022 |
Dec 11, 2022: The Hill: GOP members who rebuffed Jan. 6 panel may face referral to ethics panel
The five GOP members of the House who flouted subpoenas from the Jan. 6 committee may not be included in the panel’s criminal referrals but could see the matter punted to the Ethics Committee.
Lawmakers on the panel suggested that the Constitution ties their hands when it comes to recommending prosecution for the group.
The five GOP members of the House who flouted subpoenas from the Jan. 6 committee may not be included in the panel’s criminal referrals but could see the matter punted to the Ethics Committee.
Lawmakers on the panel suggested that the Constitution ties their hands when it comes to recommending prosecution for the group.
| December 10, 2022 |
Dec 10, 2022: CNBC: Twitter to relaunch subscription service Twitter Blue on Monday
Twitter will relaunch a revamped version of its subscription service Twitter Blue on Monday at a higher price for Apple users, the company said in a tweet on Saturday.
The revamped service will allow subscribers to edit tweets, upload 1080p videos and get a blue checkmark post account verification. Twitter did not explain why Apple users were being charged more than others on the web but there have been media reports that the company was looking for ways to offset fees charged in the Apple App Store.
Twitter will relaunch a revamped version of its subscription service Twitter Blue on Monday at a higher price for Apple users, the company said in a tweet on Saturday.
The revamped service will allow subscribers to edit tweets, upload 1080p videos and get a blue checkmark post account verification. Twitter did not explain why Apple users were being charged more than others on the web but there have been media reports that the company was looking for ways to offset fees charged in the Apple App Store.
Dec 10, 2022: Texas Scorecard: Texas GOP to Focus on Banning Democrat Chairs in Rules Fight
State Republican Executive Committeewoman Jill Glover is calling on citizens to contact their elected officials regarding a Texas House rule to ban Democrat committee chairs.
During the March Republican primary, 81 percent of Republican voters indicated they agree that “the Republican-controlled Texas Legislature should end the practice of awarding committee chairmanships to Democrats.”
State Republican Executive Committeewoman Jill Glover is calling on citizens to contact their elected officials regarding a Texas House rule to ban Democrat committee chairs.
During the March Republican primary, 81 percent of Republican voters indicated they agree that “the Republican-controlled Texas Legislature should end the practice of awarding committee chairmanships to Democrats.”
Dec 10, 2022: Bloomberg: In Battleground Georgia, Republicans and Democrats Each Find a Star
Georgia's drama-filled elections of the past two years have thrust a new star from each party onto the national stage: Democratic US Senator Raphael Warnock and Republican Governor Brian Kemp.
Warnock is the first Black man to represent Georgia in the Senate and got there by coming out ahead in four elections over the past two years. Kemp is also a rare creature — a Republican who defied Donald Trump and survived. As he put it: “Reports of my political death have been greatly exaggerated.”
Georgia's drama-filled elections of the past two years have thrust a new star from each party onto the national stage: Democratic US Senator Raphael Warnock and Republican Governor Brian Kemp.
Warnock is the first Black man to represent Georgia in the Senate and got there by coming out ahead in four elections over the past two years. Kemp is also a rare creature — a Republican who defied Donald Trump and survived. As he put it: “Reports of my political death have been greatly exaggerated.”
Dec 10, 2022: New York Times: A Political Theory of King Elon Musk
Musk claims to want Twitter to serve as a digital town square. But that seems like a category error: Social media includes aspects of a town-square experience, but fundamentally it’s a larger parallel reality, a prototype of the immersive virtual world that Mark Zuckerberg has so far failed to build. It’s a place where people form communities and alliances, nurture friendships and sexual relationships, yell and flirt, cheer and pray. And all this happens transnationally, the system spreading itself across borders while policing who can cross its own.
Musk claims to want Twitter to serve as a digital town square. But that seems like a category error: Social media includes aspects of a town-square experience, but fundamentally it’s a larger parallel reality, a prototype of the immersive virtual world that Mark Zuckerberg has so far failed to build. It’s a place where people form communities and alliances, nurture friendships and sexual relationships, yell and flirt, cheer and pray. And all this happens transnationally, the system spreading itself across borders while policing who can cross its own.
|
Dec 10, 2022: CNN: Opinion: The tragedy of Herschel Walker isn’t over yet
As a Black man, I found the US Senate race between Raphael Warnock and Herschel Walker a particularly painful one to watch, observe and analyze. The assumption that a Black football player whose celebrated symbolism in Georgia would be enough to split the Black vote thankfully went unrealized, but the reality that a number of White Georgians were willing to support Walker underscores the troubling questions ahead for a country mired in division and bracing for former President Donald Trump’s bid for his old office in 2024. |
|
| December 9, 2022 |
Dec 9, 2022: New York Magazine: The ‘Twitter Files’ Is What It Claims to Expose
That’s the story that conservatives want to tell about what Twitter used to be, in the bad old days before Elon Musk begrudgingly bought it. Fortunately, Twitter’s new CEO has a deep-seated objection to social-media companies using their power over discourse to promote partisan causes. Therefore, Musk is using his newfound power over discourse to promote the conservative movement’s demagogic narratives about Twitter and the Democratic president’s son.
That’s the story that conservatives want to tell about what Twitter used to be, in the bad old days before Elon Musk begrudgingly bought it. Fortunately, Twitter’s new CEO has a deep-seated objection to social-media companies using their power over discourse to promote partisan causes. Therefore, Musk is using his newfound power over discourse to promote the conservative movement’s demagogic narratives about Twitter and the Democratic president’s son.
Dec 9, 2022: Daily Beast: Rep. Jim Jordan Flip-Flops After Being Called Out Over Kanye Tweet
Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH) responded fiercely during a committee hearing Thursday to Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) after being asked to “disavow” a since-deleted tweet about Kanye West. The post, which appeared to support West, was originally sent out in early October by the GOP House Judiciary Committee—of which Jordan is the ranking member. It was deleted Dec. 1 as West launched an antisemitic tirade on Alex Jones’ conspiracy show, InfoWars. “Do you denounce your tweet praising Kanye West?” Swalwell asked Jordan, referencing the now-infamous and deleted “West, Trump, Elon” tweet. The right-wing member of Congress fired back: “That tweet was not on our account.” Then he claimed: “That tweet was removed!”
Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH) responded fiercely during a committee hearing Thursday to Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) after being asked to “disavow” a since-deleted tweet about Kanye West. The post, which appeared to support West, was originally sent out in early October by the GOP House Judiciary Committee—of which Jordan is the ranking member. It was deleted Dec. 1 as West launched an antisemitic tirade on Alex Jones’ conspiracy show, InfoWars. “Do you denounce your tweet praising Kanye West?” Swalwell asked Jordan, referencing the now-infamous and deleted “West, Trump, Elon” tweet. The right-wing member of Congress fired back: “That tweet was not on our account.” Then he claimed: “That tweet was removed!”
Dec 9, 2022: News Nation: Kari Lake announces lawsuit against Maricopa County
Arizona Republican Kari Lake has signaled on Twitter that she’s filed a lawsuit against Maricopa County over her recent election loss.
Arizona Republican Kari Lake has signaled on Twitter that she’s filed a lawsuit against Maricopa County over her recent election loss.
|
Dec 9, 2022: Capital-Gazette: ‘It’s personal’: Maryland Democrats say US electoral count bill elicits searing Jan. 6 memories
“It’s still difficult,” Cardin says. “We relive it when we see the videos today.” That jarring afternoon may remain lodged in his memory, but Cardin and many of his colleagues — including fellow U.S. Sen. Chris Van Hollen of Maryland and Baltimore-area U.S. Rep. John Sarbanes — are pushing for pending legislation to lessen the chances of similar insurrections by eliminating ambiguity in the electoral count system that officially decides who will be president. Cardin was a member of an informal, bipartisan Senate group that developed the pending bill. |
|
Dec 9, 2022: New York Magazine: Kyrsten Sinema Is Playing Chicken
The biggest loser of the 2022 election other than Donald Trump was Kyrsten Sinema. The Arizona senator and now-former Democrat desperately needed Democrats, especially fellow senator Mark Kelly, to lose. Only such a setback would make the party desperate enough to tolerate her continued presence. Kelly’s reelection made it certain that Sinema would face, and lose, a primary challenge in two years.
The biggest loser of the 2022 election other than Donald Trump was Kyrsten Sinema. The Arizona senator and now-former Democrat desperately needed Democrats, especially fellow senator Mark Kelly, to lose. Only such a setback would make the party desperate enough to tolerate her continued presence. Kelly’s reelection made it certain that Sinema would face, and lose, a primary challenge in two years.
|
|
Dec 9, 2022: Vanity Fair: KYRSTEN SINEMA KEEPS HOLDING THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY HOSTAGE
The Arizona Senator announced she's leaving the Democratic party and registering as an Independent, but she's been cagey about what that will mean for Democrats in the Senate now, and in 2024 should she run for reelection.
The Arizona Senator announced she's leaving the Democratic party and registering as an Independent, but she's been cagey about what that will mean for Democrats in the Senate now, and in 2024 should she run for reelection.
| Margaret Thatcher |
| December 8, 2022 |
Dec 8, 2022; Texas Tribune: Texas hits 1,000 days under Greg Abbott’s public health disaster as a new COVID-19 wave and legislative session loom
After more than 92,000 deaths and 8 million reported COVID-19 cases in Texas, the state remains one of less than a dozen still under a statewide disaster or public health emergency.
After more than 92,000 deaths and 8 million reported COVID-19 cases in Texas, the state remains one of less than a dozen still under a statewide disaster or public health emergency.
Dec 8, 2022: Cleveland.com: ‘It’s killing our babies’: 12-year-old from Richmond Heights dies attempting TikTok challenge, family says
A 12-year-old boy from Richmond Heights died Tuesday after trying a dangerous game from social media that has gone viral, his family says.
Tristan Casson died attempting the “blackout challenge” on TikTok, one of the world’s most popular apps, the boy’s mother, Taylor Davis said. As part of it, participants are challenged to hold their breath or asphyxiate themselves until they pass out
A 12-year-old boy from Richmond Heights died Tuesday after trying a dangerous game from social media that has gone viral, his family says.
Tristan Casson died attempting the “blackout challenge” on TikTok, one of the world’s most popular apps, the boy’s mother, Taylor Davis said. As part of it, participants are challenged to hold their breath or asphyxiate themselves until they pass out
Dec 8, 2021: CNN: First on CNN: January 6 committee considers criminal referrals for at least 4 others besides Trump
The House select committee investigating the January 6, 2021, insurrection is considering criminal referrals for at least four individuals in addition to former President Donald Trump, multiple sources told CNN.
The panel is weighing criminal referrals for former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows, right wing lawyer John Eastman, former Justice Department official Jeffrey Clark and Trump’s former lawyer Rudy Giuliani, the sources said.
The House select committee investigating the January 6, 2021, insurrection is considering criminal referrals for at least four individuals in addition to former President Donald Trump, multiple sources told CNN.
The panel is weighing criminal referrals for former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows, right wing lawyer John Eastman, former Justice Department official Jeffrey Clark and Trump’s former lawyer Rudy Giuliani, the sources said.
Dec 8, 2022; Politico: Florida Republican who sponsored ‘Don’t Say Gay’ resigns after federal indictment
Republican state Rep. Joe Harding resigned from office one day after a federal grand jury indictment against him was unsealed alleging he defrauded a federal pandemic-related small business loan program.
Republican state Rep. Joe Harding resigned from office one day after a federal grand jury indictment against him was unsealed alleging he defrauded a federal pandemic-related small business loan program.
Dec 8, 2022: New York Times: Special Master’s Review in Trump Case Ends as Appeal Court’s Ruling Takes Effect
A federal appeals court on Thursday brought to an end a special master’s review of sensitive documents the F.B.I. had seized from former President Donald J. Trump’s private club and residence in Florida, concluding a court fight that had delayed the Justice Department’s investigation for nearly three months.
A federal appeals court on Thursday brought to an end a special master’s review of sensitive documents the F.B.I. had seized from former President Donald J. Trump’s private club and residence in Florida, concluding a court fight that had delayed the Justice Department’s investigation for nearly three months.
| |
| December 7, 2022 |
Dec 7, 2022: The Hill: GOP smells blood with wounded Trump
Senate Republicans who want to move on from Donald Trump are smelling blood after a series of self-destructive errors by the former president that they think is opening the door for GOP rivals to challenge and defeat him in a 2024 presidential primary.
Senate Republicans who want to move on from Donald Trump are smelling blood after a series of self-destructive errors by the former president that they think is opening the door for GOP rivals to challenge and defeat him in a 2024 presidential primary.
Dec 7, 2022: Time: 2022 PERSON OF THE YEAR: VOLODYMYR ZELENSKY
Zelensky’s success as a wartime leader has relied on the fact that courage is contagious. It spread through Ukraine’s political leadership in the first days of the invasion, as everyone realized the President had stuck around. If that seems like a natural thing for a leader to do in a crisis, consider historical precedent. Only six months earlier, the President of Afghanistan, Ashraf Ghani—a far more experienced leader than Zelensky—fled his capital as Taliban forces approached. In 2014, one of Zelensky’s predecessors, Viktor Yanukovych, ran away from Kyiv as protesters closed in on his residence; he still lives in Russia today. Early in the Second World War, the leaders of Albania, Belgium, Czechoslovakia, Greece, Poland, the Netherlands, Norway, and Yugoslavia, among others, fled the advance of the German Wehrmacht and lived out the war in exile.
Zelensky’s success as a wartime leader has relied on the fact that courage is contagious. It spread through Ukraine’s political leadership in the first days of the invasion, as everyone realized the President had stuck around. If that seems like a natural thing for a leader to do in a crisis, consider historical precedent. Only six months earlier, the President of Afghanistan, Ashraf Ghani—a far more experienced leader than Zelensky—fled his capital as Taliban forces approached. In 2014, one of Zelensky’s predecessors, Viktor Yanukovych, ran away from Kyiv as protesters closed in on his residence; he still lives in Russia today. Early in the Second World War, the leaders of Albania, Belgium, Czechoslovakia, Greece, Poland, the Netherlands, Norway, and Yugoslavia, among others, fled the advance of the German Wehrmacht and lived out the war in exile.
Dec 7, 2022: NBC News: Additional items marked classified found in Trump storage unit
A search for documents carried out at the behest of former President Donald Trump's attorneys turned up two documents with classified markings at a Florida storage facility, two people familiar with the documents told NBC News.
A search for documents carried out at the behest of former President Donald Trump's attorneys turned up two documents with classified markings at a Florida storage facility, two people familiar with the documents told NBC News.
Dec 7, 2022: Los Angeles Times: Column: Warnock won and Walker lost because voters judged on character
But was it really progress that put two Black men — Sen. Raphael Warnock, the Democrat who won Tuesday’s runoff, and Herschel Walker, the football legend and Republican candidate — on the ballot? I don’t think so, not given the self-serving cynicism that led first Donald Trump and then other pliant Republican leaders to pluck Walker from Texas to run against Warnock, the senior pastor at Dr. King’s Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta. Leading Black pundits called Walker’s candidacy tokenism and “an insult to Black people,” given his evident unfitness for the office.
But was it really progress that put two Black men — Sen. Raphael Warnock, the Democrat who won Tuesday’s runoff, and Herschel Walker, the football legend and Republican candidate — on the ballot? I don’t think so, not given the self-serving cynicism that led first Donald Trump and then other pliant Republican leaders to pluck Walker from Texas to run against Warnock, the senior pastor at Dr. King’s Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta. Leading Black pundits called Walker’s candidacy tokenism and “an insult to Black people,” given his evident unfitness for the office.
Dec 7, 2022: Intelligencer: Raphael Warnock Is the Exception
I spent several weeks this summer following Raphael Warnock’s reelection campaign across Georgia, and the closest I got to a one-on-one interview was when I asked him a question he didn’t want to answer. It was August 17, the day Rudy Giuliani testified about 2020 election interference at the Fulton County courthouse. “I was wondering if you had any comment on Giuliani’s testimony this morning,” I asked the senator, who won his runoff against former football star Herschel Walker on Tuesday.
I spent several weeks this summer following Raphael Warnock’s reelection campaign across Georgia, and the closest I got to a one-on-one interview was when I asked him a question he didn’t want to answer. It was August 17, the day Rudy Giuliani testified about 2020 election interference at the Fulton County courthouse. “I was wondering if you had any comment on Giuliani’s testimony this morning,” I asked the senator, who won his runoff against former football star Herschel Walker on Tuesday.
Dec 7, 2022: NPR: Germany says it foiled a far-right coup plot. Here's what we know
The far-right coup plotters had mapped out their own government, with people chosen for cabinet-like roles if they succeeded in overthrowing Germany's elected leaders. That's among the revelations shared by German officials on Wednesday in an update on what they say was a conspiracy foiled by a massive anti-terrorism operation
The far-right coup plotters had mapped out their own government, with people chosen for cabinet-like roles if they succeeded in overthrowing Germany's elected leaders. That's among the revelations shared by German officials on Wednesday in an update on what they say was a conspiracy foiled by a massive anti-terrorism operation
Dec 7, 2022: Verdict Justia: Can SCOTUS Prevent Free Speech from Swallowing Anti-discrimination Law?
On Monday, the Supreme Court heard oral argument in 303 Creative LLC v. Elenis. As the case comes to the high Court, it presents a clash between a Colorado law forbidding places of public accommodation from discriminating based on sexual orientation and a conservative Christian web designer’s objection to creating material that, she says, tacitly expresses approval of same-sex marriage. Although the original complaint raised issues of both religious freedom and free speech, the Court took the case to decide the free speech question alone.
On Monday, the Supreme Court heard oral argument in 303 Creative LLC v. Elenis. As the case comes to the high Court, it presents a clash between a Colorado law forbidding places of public accommodation from discriminating based on sexual orientation and a conservative Christian web designer’s objection to creating material that, she says, tacitly expresses approval of same-sex marriage. Although the original complaint raised issues of both religious freedom and free speech, the Court took the case to decide the free speech question alone.
| December 6, 2022 |
Dec 6, 2022: Christian Headlines: Trump's Recent Comments and Actions Are 'Incompatible with Serving' as President, Mohler Says
Theologian R. Albert Mohler Jr. is speaking out about recent comments and actions by former President Donald Trump, calling them reckless and anti-conservative while suggesting that Republicans must rally around a different candidate for 2024.
Theologian R. Albert Mohler Jr. is speaking out about recent comments and actions by former President Donald Trump, calling them reckless and anti-conservative while suggesting that Republicans must rally around a different candidate for 2024.
Dec 5, 2022: Gainesville Times: ‘It’s an emergency’: Sen. Warnock rallies church crowd in Gainesville, discusses stakes of election
Sen. Raphael Warnock lived up to his reverend title on Sunday, preaching about the importance of his Senate race during a lively campaign rally at St. John Baptist Church in Gainesville.
Warnock is running against Herschel Walker for one of Georgia's two U.S. Senate seats. The winner will be decided in the runoff election Tuesday, Dec. 6. Neither candidate was able to secure more than half the vote in the general election, which is required to avoid a runoff in Georgia. Less than 1% of the vote separated the candidates, with Warnock ahead by about 37,000 votes.
Sen. Raphael Warnock lived up to his reverend title on Sunday, preaching about the importance of his Senate race during a lively campaign rally at St. John Baptist Church in Gainesville.
Warnock is running against Herschel Walker for one of Georgia's two U.S. Senate seats. The winner will be decided in the runoff election Tuesday, Dec. 6. Neither candidate was able to secure more than half the vote in the general election, which is required to avoid a runoff in Georgia. Less than 1% of the vote separated the candidates, with Warnock ahead by about 37,000 votes.
December 6, 2022:
Lara Trump, wife of Donald Trump’s son Eric, will no longer be a paid Fox News contributor. “We appreciate Lara’s valuable contributions across Fox News Media programming,” a Fox News spokesperson said in a statement. The Los Angeles Times noted, “Fox News has made it a rule to not employ people running for office or directly connected to active campaigns.”
HUH?????
Sean Hannity, Laura Ingraham, TucKKKer Carlson, Fox and Friends hosts and many others at Fox News have spent most of their time on air campaigning for people like Donald Trump. So if the Fox News "rule" was actually being followed...they would have to dump most of the station personalities.
Lara Trump, wife of Donald Trump’s son Eric, will no longer be a paid Fox News contributor. “We appreciate Lara’s valuable contributions across Fox News Media programming,” a Fox News spokesperson said in a statement. The Los Angeles Times noted, “Fox News has made it a rule to not employ people running for office or directly connected to active campaigns.”
HUH?????
Sean Hannity, Laura Ingraham, TucKKKer Carlson, Fox and Friends hosts and many others at Fox News have spent most of their time on air campaigning for people like Donald Trump. So if the Fox News "rule" was actually being followed...they would have to dump most of the station personalities.
|
Dec 6, 2022: New York Magazine: Family of Officer Killed on January 6 Snubs Republican Leaders at Ceremony
But when it came time to present the medals to the recipients, one family sent a pointed message. Family members of Officer Brian Sicknick, a Capitol Police officer who died following injuries sustained during the riot, shook hands with both House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer while walking past Republican leaders Mitch McConnell and Kevin McCarthy without acknowledging them. |
|
| December 5, 2022 |
Life was already extremely difficult for Afghans before the Taliban returned to power more than a year ago, but it has only become more difficult since. The country’s economy is in ruins, and the United Nations estimates that half of Afghans -- some 20 million people -- suffer from acute hunger.
Gallup’s surveys in Afghanistan, conducted in July and August 2022, coinciding with the one-year anniversary of the Taliban’s takeover, show life is worse for Afghans than it has been at any point during the past decade -- or for anyone else on the planet. ---Afghans Sink Deeper Into Despair Under Taliban's Control 12.1.22
Gallup’s surveys in Afghanistan, conducted in July and August 2022, coinciding with the one-year anniversary of the Taliban’s takeover, show life is worse for Afghans than it has been at any point during the past decade -- or for anyone else on the planet. ---Afghans Sink Deeper Into Despair Under Taliban's Control 12.1.22
Dec 5 2022: ABC7: Gunman who shot Lady Gaga's dog walker in Hollywood sentenced to 21 years in prison
The man who shot Lady Gaga's dog walker and stole her French bulldogs last year took a plea deal and was sentenced to 21 years in prison on Monday, officials said.
The man who shot Lady Gaga's dog walker and stole her French bulldogs last year took a plea deal and was sentenced to 21 years in prison on Monday, officials said.
Dec 5, 2022: Bloomberg: North Carolina Attack Shows US Power Grid Is ‘Extremely Vulnerable’
The attacks that left two electrical substations in North Carolina riddled with gunfire and knocked out power to about 45,000 homes and businesses underscores the fragility of US grids, experts said Monday.
The FBI is investigating the assault which left “extensive damage” to the substations in Moore County, North Carolina. The destruction was discovered around 7 p.m. Saturday evening, county sheriff Ronnie Fields said in a news conference Sunday.
The attacks that left two electrical substations in North Carolina riddled with gunfire and knocked out power to about 45,000 homes and businesses underscores the fragility of US grids, experts said Monday.
The FBI is investigating the assault which left “extensive damage” to the substations in Moore County, North Carolina. The destruction was discovered around 7 p.m. Saturday evening, county sheriff Ronnie Fields said in a news conference Sunday.
Dec 5, 2022: Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press: It’s time to pass the PRESS Act
The time between an election and the inauguration of a new Congress — or the lame duck, as it is affectionately known — is ironically a time when things can happen on the Hill, in part because departing members don’t have to worry about reelection, and Congress has to agree on certain must-pass bills (the National Defense Authorization Act, for instance) before year’s end. This year, the Senate has a unique opportunity to pass a landmark federal shield bill that would protect journalists from being forced to disclose source information and work product to federal agencies and courts, with narrow exceptions.
The time between an election and the inauguration of a new Congress — or the lame duck, as it is affectionately known — is ironically a time when things can happen on the Hill, in part because departing members don’t have to worry about reelection, and Congress has to agree on certain must-pass bills (the National Defense Authorization Act, for instance) before year’s end. This year, the Senate has a unique opportunity to pass a landmark federal shield bill that would protect journalists from being forced to disclose source information and work product to federal agencies and courts, with narrow exceptions.
Dec 5, 2022: Politico: Giuliani defends 2020 election challenge at D.C. Bar hearing
Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani said Monday that it was his “obligation” as a lawyer to attempt to overturn the results of 2020 presidential election in Pennsylvania on behalf of his then-Client, Donald Trump.
Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani said Monday that it was his “obligation” as a lawyer to attempt to overturn the results of 2020 presidential election in Pennsylvania on behalf of his then-Client, Donald Trump.
Dec 5, 2022: ScotusBlog: Will Jackson be the Supreme Court’s next great opponent of capital punishment?
With Breyer gone, who will emerge as the left’s chief critic of capital punishment? It may end up being his successor, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson.
Jackson’s views on the death penalty were largely unknown when she was elevated to the high court. In her nine years as a lower-court judge, she never handled a death-penalty case, and she said little about the issue in her nomination hearings. But Jackson’s early work as a justice hints that she may take up Breyer’s mantle, just as Breyer took up Blackmun’s.
With Breyer gone, who will emerge as the left’s chief critic of capital punishment? It may end up being his successor, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson.
Jackson’s views on the death penalty were largely unknown when she was elevated to the high court. In her nine years as a lower-court judge, she never handled a death-penalty case, and she said little about the issue in her nomination hearings. But Jackson’s early work as a justice hints that she may take up Breyer’s mantle, just as Breyer took up Blackmun’s.
Dec 5, 2022: NPR: Supreme Court hears clash between LGBTQ and business owners' rights
The U.S. Supreme Court hears arguments Monday in a potential landmark case that pits two cherished constitutional principles against each other. On one side are laws that guarantee same-sex couples equal access to all businesses that offer their services to the public. On the other are business owners who see themselves as artists and don't want to use their talents to express a message that they don't believe in.
The U.S. Supreme Court hears arguments Monday in a potential landmark case that pits two cherished constitutional principles against each other. On one side are laws that guarantee same-sex couples equal access to all businesses that offer their services to the public. On the other are business owners who see themselves as artists and don't want to use their talents to express a message that they don't believe in.
Herschel Walker is winning the werewolf demographic voters in Georgia.
| December 4, 2022 |
Dec 4, 2022: Politico: The shadow race is on to succeed Feinstein
Sen. Dianne Feinstein hasn’t said if she intends to seek another term in 2024 — but the competition to succeed the oldest member of Congress is escalating.
Reps. Ro Khanna and Katie Porter are fielding entreaties to jump into the race, and Rep. Adam Schiff has publicly declared he is exploring a run. Rep. Barbara Lee is spending the holidays mulling her next move. Three hopefuls have contacted former Sen. Barbara Boxer to seek her advice, marking the incipient stages of a fierce fight between California Democrats for a seat that has not been open for a generation.
Sen. Dianne Feinstein hasn’t said if she intends to seek another term in 2024 — but the competition to succeed the oldest member of Congress is escalating.
Reps. Ro Khanna and Katie Porter are fielding entreaties to jump into the race, and Rep. Adam Schiff has publicly declared he is exploring a run. Rep. Barbara Lee is spending the holidays mulling her next move. Three hopefuls have contacted former Sen. Barbara Boxer to seek her advice, marking the incipient stages of a fierce fight between California Democrats for a seat that has not been open for a generation.
Dec 4, 2022: New York Times: ‘S.N.L.’ Mocks Herschel Walker Ahead of Georgia’s Senate Vote
The episode’s opening sketch found Senator Mitch McConnell (played by James Austin Johnson) in an office with Senators John Cornyn (Mikey Day) and Marsha Blackburn (Cecily Strong), lamenting the difficulties that Republicans face in Tuesday’s Senate vote in Georgia.
Into their office, they welcomed their party’s contender for that seat, Herschel Walker (Thompson). “Hey there, Mitch McDonalds,” Thompson said as he entered. “I’m sorry I’m late. I was having too much fun in that free merry-go-round y’all got out front.”
The episode’s opening sketch found Senator Mitch McConnell (played by James Austin Johnson) in an office with Senators John Cornyn (Mikey Day) and Marsha Blackburn (Cecily Strong), lamenting the difficulties that Republicans face in Tuesday’s Senate vote in Georgia.
Into their office, they welcomed their party’s contender for that seat, Herschel Walker (Thompson). “Hey there, Mitch McDonalds,” Thompson said as he entered. “I’m sorry I’m late. I was having too much fun in that free merry-go-round y’all got out front.”
Dec 4, 2022: CNN: Trump calls for the termination of the Constitution in Truth Social post
“Do you throw the Presidential Election Results of 2020 OUT and declare the RIGHTFUL WINNER, or do you have a NEW ELECTION? A Massive Fraud of this type and magnitude allows for the termination of all rules, regulations, and articles, even those found in the Constitution,” Trump wrote in a post on the social network Truth Social and accused “Big Tech” of working closely with Democrats. “Our great ‘Founders’ did not want, and would not condone, False & Fraudulent Elections!”
“Do you throw the Presidential Election Results of 2020 OUT and declare the RIGHTFUL WINNER, or do you have a NEW ELECTION? A Massive Fraud of this type and magnitude allows for the termination of all rules, regulations, and articles, even those found in the Constitution,” Trump wrote in a post on the social network Truth Social and accused “Big Tech” of working closely with Democrats. “Our great ‘Founders’ did not want, and would not condone, False & Fraudulent Elections!”
Dec 4, 2022: The Hill; Trump loss ignites next steps for DOJ in Mar-a-Lago investigation
A federal appeals court decision has paved the way for the Department of Justice (DOJ) to use the remaining cache of unclassified records it seized at former President Trump’s home, halting the special master process and lifting an important roadblock into its investigation of the potential mishandling of records at Mar-a-Lago
A federal appeals court decision has paved the way for the Department of Justice (DOJ) to use the remaining cache of unclassified records it seized at former President Trump’s home, halting the special master process and lifting an important roadblock into its investigation of the potential mishandling of records at Mar-a-Lago
| December 2, 2022 |
Dce 2, 2022: Y'all Politics: LTG Hosemann makes newest appointment to Mississippi Charter School Authorizer Board
Marcy Scoggins, is a longtime Madison County Schools’ parent and the Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann’s newest appointee to the Mississippi Charter School Authorizer Board. She will serve a term ending in August 2025 upon confirmation by the Mississippi Senate during the 2023 Legislative Session.
Marcy Scoggins, is a longtime Madison County Schools’ parent and the Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann’s newest appointee to the Mississippi Charter School Authorizer Board. She will serve a term ending in August 2025 upon confirmation by the Mississippi Senate during the 2023 Legislative Session.
Dec 2, 2022: Gulf Live: Gulfport man pleads guilty to burning cross to intimidate Black neighbors
A 24-year-old Gulfport man pleaded guilty in federal court to burning a cross in his yard to intimidate the Black family living next door.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Axel C. Cox of Gulfport admitted he violated the Fair Housing Act and engaged in a hate crime when he used “threatening and racially derogatory remarks” toward the neighbors and burned a cross in his yard.
A 24-year-old Gulfport man pleaded guilty in federal court to burning a cross in his yard to intimidate the Black family living next door.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Axel C. Cox of Gulfport admitted he violated the Fair Housing Act and engaged in a hate crime when he used “threatening and racially derogatory remarks” toward the neighbors and burned a cross in his yard.
Dec 2, 2022: WLOX: Mayor Hewes covers numerous topics with Gulfport State of the City address
Purpose focused. Passion Driven. It’s the theme of the 2022 Gulfport State of the City address from Mayor Billy Hewes. He talked about everything Gulfport, including the blue economy, growth along several different corridors, to the expansion down by Jones Park and the Mississippi Aquarium.
Purpose focused. Passion Driven. It’s the theme of the 2022 Gulfport State of the City address from Mayor Billy Hewes. He talked about everything Gulfport, including the blue economy, growth along several different corridors, to the expansion down by Jones Park and the Mississippi Aquarium.
| December 1, 2022 |
Dec 1, 2022: Tulsa World: Cal Thomas: Trump should leave the stage -- he's toxic for GOP
Former president Donald Trump recently announced another run for president. Perhaps it should be on the grievance or revenge ticket.
For the second time, he has skewed the Georgia Senate race, allowing incumbent Raphael Warnock to win reelection. Before that, Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto narrowly won re-election over Adam Laxalt in Nevada, guaranteeing a Democrat Senate majority.
Former president Donald Trump recently announced another run for president. Perhaps it should be on the grievance or revenge ticket.
For the second time, he has skewed the Georgia Senate race, allowing incumbent Raphael Warnock to win reelection. Before that, Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto narrowly won re-election over Adam Laxalt in Nevada, guaranteeing a Democrat Senate majority.
Dec 1, 2021: Open Secrets: Tax returns reveal finances of former Trump aides’ ‘dark money’ group bankrolling divisive ads ahead of 2022 midterms
The America First Legal Foundation, a “dark money” group connected to officials in former President Donald Trump’s administration that bankrolled provocative ads ahead of 2022 midterms, raised more than $6.3 million during its first year in operation, a new OpenSecrets analysis of tax filings found.
Former Trump White House official Stephen Miller launched America First Legal with the intention of using the legal system to challenge President Joe Biden‘s agenda. Multiple former Trump officials are on America First Legal’s board of directors or in leadership positions, including Miller, Gene Hamilton, John Zadrozny, Ian Prior and former Trump White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows.
The America First Legal Foundation, a “dark money” group connected to officials in former President Donald Trump’s administration that bankrolled provocative ads ahead of 2022 midterms, raised more than $6.3 million during its first year in operation, a new OpenSecrets analysis of tax filings found.
Former Trump White House official Stephen Miller launched America First Legal with the intention of using the legal system to challenge President Joe Biden‘s agenda. Multiple former Trump officials are on America First Legal’s board of directors or in leadership positions, including Miller, Gene Hamilton, John Zadrozny, Ian Prior and former Trump White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows.
Dec 1, 2022: Mississippi Today: McDaniel blasts Hosemann as too liberal, weighs Lt. Gov. run
Longtime state Sen. Chris McDaniel, once the standard bearer for tea party conservatives in Mississippi who made two unsuccessful U.S. Senate runs, is pondering a challenge of incumbent Republican Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann next year.
McDaniel says Hosemann isn’t conservative enough for Mississippi.
“My official answer is, all the cards are on the table and all the options are available and there’s time to decide,” McDaniel said when questioned about a run for lieutenant governor. “… (Hosemann) is not one of us, and that’s causing a tremendous amount of frustrated conservatives.”
Longtime state Sen. Chris McDaniel, once the standard bearer for tea party conservatives in Mississippi who made two unsuccessful U.S. Senate runs, is pondering a challenge of incumbent Republican Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann next year.
McDaniel says Hosemann isn’t conservative enough for Mississippi.
“My official answer is, all the cards are on the table and all the options are available and there’s time to decide,” McDaniel said when questioned about a run for lieutenant governor. “… (Hosemann) is not one of us, and that’s causing a tremendous amount of frustrated conservatives.”
Dec 1, 2022: Mississippi Free Press: Doug Evans, Who Tried Curtis Flowers For Murder Six Times, Loses Election
Doug Evans, the prosecutor who tried Curtis Flowers six times for murder since 1997, lost his bid for a District 5 Mississippi Circuit Court judge seat to Winona Municipal Court Judge Alan D. Lancaster in a runoff election Tuesday.
Doug Evans, the prosecutor who tried Curtis Flowers six times for murder since 1997, lost his bid for a District 5 Mississippi Circuit Court judge seat to Winona Municipal Court Judge Alan D. Lancaster in a runoff election Tuesday.
Dec 1, 2022: Politico: Biden world once ignored Marjorie Taylor Greene. Now it’s making her the face of the GOP.
During Congress’ lame duck period, the West Wing has unleashed attacks on lawmakers like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), whom the White House has tried to turn into the poster child of the incoming House GOP majority.
During Congress’ lame duck period, the West Wing has unleashed attacks on lawmakers like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), whom the White House has tried to turn into the poster child of the incoming House GOP majority.
Dec 1, 2022: The Hill: Arizona’s Cochise County certifies election following court order
The Cochise County, Ariz., board of supervisors certified the county’s election results on Thursday, after a state judge ruled that it was unlawful for two GOP supervisors not to certify the results by the state’s legal deadline.
The Cochise County, Ariz., board of supervisors certified the county’s election results on Thursday, after a state judge ruled that it was unlawful for two GOP supervisors not to certify the results by the state’s legal deadline.
Dec 1, 2022: NPR: They ran a voter suppression scheme. Now they're sentenced to register voters
Two far-right operatives who told tens of thousands of people not to vote by mail in a robocall scheme will now have to spend 500 hours registering people to vote thanks to a legal sentence from an Ohio judge.
Jacob Wohl and Jack Burkman robocalled roughly 85,000 voters across Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois and Ohio in the summer of 2020, falsely telling them that voting by mail would risk "giving your private information to the man."
Two far-right operatives who told tens of thousands of people not to vote by mail in a robocall scheme will now have to spend 500 hours registering people to vote thanks to a legal sentence from an Ohio judge.
Jacob Wohl and Jack Burkman robocalled roughly 85,000 voters across Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois and Ohio in the summer of 2020, falsely telling them that voting by mail would risk "giving your private information to the man."
Tuesday election was a run-off between Tim Gray and Tameika Smith. As the early boxes came in and were counted, the numbers looked close. Soon, Gray pulled solidly ahead. Gray—2328 and Smith—962
Run-Off Election Places Tim Gray as Chancery Clerk 11.30.22
Run-Off Election Places Tim Gray as Chancery Clerk 11.30.22
Kevin McCarthy suggests Republicans will hold their own hearings on the January 6 attack on the Capitol and on democracy, but with a "vastly different focus."
I presume that means Hunter Bidens laptop is going to get blamed for Jan 6. (12.1.22)
