Source: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- AFSCME Pres. Lee Saunders issued the following statement on the tax plan released today by House majority leaders that would dramatically benefit corporations and the wealthy at the expense of working people:
“This tax bill is another gift to the powerful corporate special interests who manipulate our politics and politicians.
“Working people, seniors, and children will pay for this bill’s tax giveaways to corporations and the super wealthy by way of partisan gamesmanship that will force cuts to Medicare, Medicaid, and public education. But to add insult to injury, the bill will starve communities of state and local public services, stifle job growth, and cause many middle class families to actually be hit with a tax increase.
“Real tax reform would ask corporations and the wealthy to pay their fair share, not reward them with more giveaways they don’t need, at the expense of working families.”
Read more about the "Cut Cut Cut" Act at The Ponder News by clicking HERE
The Unpopular Truth
Thursday, November 2, 2017
ACLU COMMENT ON TRUMP’S CALL TO END IMMIGRATION PROGRAM, SEND NYC ATTACK SUSPECT TO GUANTÁNAMO
Source: American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- President Trump has urged Congress to end a longtime immigration program, invoked “extreme vetting,” and said he is considering sending the man arrested in yesterday’s New York attack to the U.S. prison at Guantánamo Bay, Cuba.
Anthony D. Romero, executor director of the American Civil Liberties Union, had this reaction:
“President Trump’s reaction to the tragedy in New York represents a trifecta of unconstitutional and wrong-headed policies. His call for more ‘extreme vetting’ and an end to the diversity visa program — which will unfairly target Muslim and African immigrants — would double down on his Muslim ban and anti-immigrant policies.
“Sending Saipov to Guantánamo or treating him as an ‘enemy combatant’ would violate due process and the rule of law. The FBI and our federal court system are more than capable of dealing with terrorism cases, and Guantánamo was shown long ago to be an epic failure. It’s a shame that Trump is using this attack as a platform for pushing his anti-immigrant, anti-Muslim agenda.”
Read more about the New York Terrorist at The Ponder News by clicking HERE
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- President Trump has urged Congress to end a longtime immigration program, invoked “extreme vetting,” and said he is considering sending the man arrested in yesterday’s New York attack to the U.S. prison at Guantánamo Bay, Cuba.
Anthony D. Romero, executor director of the American Civil Liberties Union, had this reaction:
“President Trump’s reaction to the tragedy in New York represents a trifecta of unconstitutional and wrong-headed policies. His call for more ‘extreme vetting’ and an end to the diversity visa program — which will unfairly target Muslim and African immigrants — would double down on his Muslim ban and anti-immigrant policies.
“Sending Saipov to Guantánamo or treating him as an ‘enemy combatant’ would violate due process and the rule of law. The FBI and our federal court system are more than capable of dealing with terrorism cases, and Guantánamo was shown long ago to be an epic failure. It’s a shame that Trump is using this attack as a platform for pushing his anti-immigrant, anti-Muslim agenda.”
Read more about the New York Terrorist at The Ponder News by clicking HERE
Council statement on GOP tax reform bill
Source: American Benefits Council
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- American Benefits Council President James A. Klein said the following upon Republican leaders’ release of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act:
"Promoting savings, investment and economic growth is the goal of tax reform and retirement plans are how Americans save and invest. We are gratified today's proposal lets workers save for retirement in the way that best meets their financial security needs. We will work with Congress to ensure that retirement savings is protected as the tax reform process moves forward.”
The Council recently updated its 401(k) Fast Facts, a collection of statistics on the reach and importance of defined contribution retirement plans.
The American Benefits Council is the national trade association for companies concerned about federal legislation and regulations affecting all aspects of the employee benefits system. The Council’s members represent the entire spectrum of the private employee benefits community and either sponsor directly or administer retirement and health plans covering more than 100 million Americans.
Read more about the "Cut Cut Cut" Act at The Ponder News by clicking HERE
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- American Benefits Council President James A. Klein said the following upon Republican leaders’ release of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act:
"Promoting savings, investment and economic growth is the goal of tax reform and retirement plans are how Americans save and invest. We are gratified today's proposal lets workers save for retirement in the way that best meets their financial security needs. We will work with Congress to ensure that retirement savings is protected as the tax reform process moves forward.”
The Council recently updated its 401(k) Fast Facts, a collection of statistics on the reach and importance of defined contribution retirement plans.
The American Benefits Council is the national trade association for companies concerned about federal legislation and regulations affecting all aspects of the employee benefits system. The Council’s members represent the entire spectrum of the private employee benefits community and either sponsor directly or administer retirement and health plans covering more than 100 million Americans.
Read more about the "Cut Cut Cut" Act at The Ponder News by clicking HERE
Statement of ABA President Hilarie Bass Re: Respect for our justice system
Source: American Bar Association
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- The American Bar Association joins in mourning the victims of Tuesday’s terrorist attack in New York.
Adherence to the rule of law and the protections of our system of justice are critical aspects of our response to such a tragedy. They are the foundation for the values we hold dear. Those values are undermined when anyone thoughtlessly disparages our constitutional structure and the hard-working people who diligently uphold our laws.
Our constitution and the rule of law help to make our country fair and just, and they have long been a model for people around the world. No cowardly act of terrorism should divert our focus on maintaining and supporting the constitutional principles on which our justice system is based.
Go to www.abalegalfactcheck.com for the ABA’s new feature that cites case and statutory law and other legal precedents to distinguish legal fact from fiction.
With more than 400,000 members, the American Bar Association is one of the largest voluntary professional membership organizations in the world. As the national voice of the legal profession, the ABA works to improve the administration of justice, promotes programs that assist lawyers and judges in their work, accredits law schools, provides continuing legal education, and works to build public understanding around the world of the importance of the rule of law.
Read more about the New York Terrorist at The Ponder News by clicking HERE
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- The American Bar Association joins in mourning the victims of Tuesday’s terrorist attack in New York.
Adherence to the rule of law and the protections of our system of justice are critical aspects of our response to such a tragedy. They are the foundation for the values we hold dear. Those values are undermined when anyone thoughtlessly disparages our constitutional structure and the hard-working people who diligently uphold our laws.
Our constitution and the rule of law help to make our country fair and just, and they have long been a model for people around the world. No cowardly act of terrorism should divert our focus on maintaining and supporting the constitutional principles on which our justice system is based.
Go to www.abalegalfactcheck.com for the ABA’s new feature that cites case and statutory law and other legal precedents to distinguish legal fact from fiction.
With more than 400,000 members, the American Bar Association is one of the largest voluntary professional membership organizations in the world. As the national voice of the legal profession, the ABA works to improve the administration of justice, promotes programs that assist lawyers and judges in their work, accredits law schools, provides continuing legal education, and works to build public understanding around the world of the importance of the rule of law.
Read more about the New York Terrorist at The Ponder News by clicking HERE
Statement from the President on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
Source: The White House
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- I applaud the House Ways and Means Committee for introducing the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which is another important step toward providing massive tax relief for the American people. My tax reform priorities have been the same since day one: bringing tax cuts for hardworking, middle-income Americans; eliminating unfair loopholes and deductions; and slashing business taxes so employers can create jobs, raise wages, and dominate their competition around the world. The policies of my Administration have already helped to drive the stock market to all-time highs and the unemployment rate to a 16-year low. Economic confidence is skyrocketing and our GDP grew 3 percent yet again this quarter.
We are just getting started, and there is much work left to do. The special interests will distort the facts, the lobbyists will try to save their special deals, and some in the media will unfairly report on our efforts. But my Administration will work tirelessly to make good on our promise to the working people who built our Nation and deliver historic tax cuts and reforms -- the rocket fuel our economy needs to soar higher than ever before.
Read more about the "Cut Cut Cut" Act at The Ponder News by clicking HERE
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- I applaud the House Ways and Means Committee for introducing the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which is another important step toward providing massive tax relief for the American people. My tax reform priorities have been the same since day one: bringing tax cuts for hardworking, middle-income Americans; eliminating unfair loopholes and deductions; and slashing business taxes so employers can create jobs, raise wages, and dominate their competition around the world. The policies of my Administration have already helped to drive the stock market to all-time highs and the unemployment rate to a 16-year low. Economic confidence is skyrocketing and our GDP grew 3 percent yet again this quarter.
We are just getting started, and there is much work left to do. The special interests will distort the facts, the lobbyists will try to save their special deals, and some in the media will unfairly report on our efforts. But my Administration will work tirelessly to make good on our promise to the working people who built our Nation and deliver historic tax cuts and reforms -- the rocket fuel our economy needs to soar higher than ever before.
Read more about the "Cut Cut Cut" Act at The Ponder News by clicking HERE
Chairman Brady Introduces the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
Source: House Ways and Means Committee
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX) introduced the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act – bold legislation to overhaul America’s tax code for the first time in 31 years. With this bill, a typical middle-income family of four, earning $59,000 (the median household income), will receive a $1,182 tax cut.
Upon introducing the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act – co-sponsored by Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) and all Ways and Means Committee Republican Members – Chairman Brady said:
“Today marks the beginning of the end of our nation’s broken tax code. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will deliver real tax relief to Americans across the country – especially low- and middle-income Americans who have been struggling for far too long to earn a raise and get ahead.
“Our legislation is focused entirely on growing our economy, bringing jobs back to our local communities, increasing paychecks for our workers, and making sure Americans are able to keep more of the money they earn.
“For families, we’re lowering rates, eliminating costly deductions that drive up taxes, and significantly increasing the standard deduction to protect more of each paycheck from taxes. We’re boosting family-focused tax benefits like the Child Tax Credit to help families keep up with the rising costs of child care, higher education, and looking after their loved ones. And we’re eliminating taxes that punish hardworking families like the Alternative Minimum Tax.
“Our legislation also delivers unprecedented simplicity that will make it easier and more affordable for families across our country to file their taxes each April. For the first time in history 9 out of 10 of Americans will be able to file their taxes on a form as simple as a postcard.
“And we’re making America competitive again so our workers can compete – and win – anywhere in the world, especially here at home. By delivering tax relief to businesses of all sizes, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act makes it easier for entrepreneurs to achieve the American Dream – to start a business and create jobs in our local communities, and it entices employers to bring their headquarters and jobs back home.
“We made a promise to deliver tax reform that creates more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks. After years of work, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is our answer.
“The legislation is now available online so our workers, families, and job creators can see how tax reform will improve their lives. I’m confident in the weeks ahead we will move this important legislation forward and work with the Senate to send a unified bill to President Trump’s desk by the end of the year.”
Read more about the "Cut Cut Cut" Act at The Ponder News by clicking HERE
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX) introduced the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act – bold legislation to overhaul America’s tax code for the first time in 31 years. With this bill, a typical middle-income family of four, earning $59,000 (the median household income), will receive a $1,182 tax cut.
Upon introducing the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act – co-sponsored by Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) and all Ways and Means Committee Republican Members – Chairman Brady said:
“Today marks the beginning of the end of our nation’s broken tax code. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will deliver real tax relief to Americans across the country – especially low- and middle-income Americans who have been struggling for far too long to earn a raise and get ahead.
“Our legislation is focused entirely on growing our economy, bringing jobs back to our local communities, increasing paychecks for our workers, and making sure Americans are able to keep more of the money they earn.
“For families, we’re lowering rates, eliminating costly deductions that drive up taxes, and significantly increasing the standard deduction to protect more of each paycheck from taxes. We’re boosting family-focused tax benefits like the Child Tax Credit to help families keep up with the rising costs of child care, higher education, and looking after their loved ones. And we’re eliminating taxes that punish hardworking families like the Alternative Minimum Tax.
“Our legislation also delivers unprecedented simplicity that will make it easier and more affordable for families across our country to file their taxes each April. For the first time in history 9 out of 10 of Americans will be able to file their taxes on a form as simple as a postcard.
“And we’re making America competitive again so our workers can compete – and win – anywhere in the world, especially here at home. By delivering tax relief to businesses of all sizes, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act makes it easier for entrepreneurs to achieve the American Dream – to start a business and create jobs in our local communities, and it entices employers to bring their headquarters and jobs back home.
“We made a promise to deliver tax reform that creates more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks. After years of work, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is our answer.
“The legislation is now available online so our workers, families, and job creators can see how tax reform will improve their lives. I’m confident in the weeks ahead we will move this important legislation forward and work with the Senate to send a unified bill to President Trump’s desk by the end of the year.”
Read more about the "Cut Cut Cut" Act at The Ponder News by clicking HERE
AEM: Tax Cuts and Jobs Act a Big Step Forward
Source: Association of Equipment Manufacturers
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Equipment manufacturing leaders issued statements on Thursday hailing the release of The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act by leaders in Congress.
Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) President Dennis Slater said:
The equipment manufacturing industry commends Speaker Ryan, Chairman Brady and all the members of the House Ways & Means Committee for taking an important step on the path toward achieving pro-growth, pro-manufacturing tax reform. The legislation introduced today serves as a good foundation for continued debate in Congress. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers and its more than 950 members support permanent tax reform that simplifies the code, lowers rates for all businesses, and ultimately creates good-paying manufacturing jobs in America.
Equipment manufacturers have tirelessly advocated for pro-growth tax reform that improves the business environment for manufacturers in the United States and makes us more competitive as a nation. True reform is going to require hard work. Our elected leaders, regardless of party, should take their cues from the 1.3 million men and women of our industry, and put in the hard work necessary to enact meaningful and permanent tax reform that will create jobs and grow our economy.
Incoming AEM Chair and Doosan-Bobcat NA President Rich Goldsbury said:
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act introduced today is an important first step toward meaningful reform of our outdated tax code. I applaud Speaker Ryan and Chairman Brady for their leadership and hard work to bring about pro-growth tax reform that will strengthen manufacturing in America and make our economy more competitive. There is much work to be done, but I am encouraged that the final product will create a modern tax code for the modern manufacturing economy.
Vermeer Corporation President and CEO Jason Andringa said:
Equipment manufacturers need a simpler tax code that provides permanent tax relief for manufacturing companies of all types. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act introduced today is an important step toward comprehensive tax reform that will tilt the global playing field back in favor of U.S. manufacturers and spur manufacturing job growth across America. I urge our elected officials in Washington to work together to enact permanent and comprehensive tax reform to grow the economy and create more jobs for Americans.
Rick Alton, President, Compact Equipment Division, Manitou Group, said:
The tax reform legislation introduced today in Congress is an important step toward improving the business environment for manufacturers in the United States. Equipment manufacturers support pro-growth tax reform, and hope that Congress will work swiftly to simplify the code, lower rates for manufacturers of all types, and encourage manufacturing job growth in America.
General Kinematics President Tom Musschoot said:
I want to commend our leaders in Congress for introducing comprehensive tax reform legislation. This proposal would provide meaningful tax relief for equipment manufacturers including General Kinematics. Congressman Peter Roskam, who serves as chair of the Tax Policy Committee, deserves special credit for listening to the needs of his constituent businesses in putting together this legislation. We look forward to working with Congressman Roskam to advance comprehensive tax reform, which will help to improve U.S. manufacturers' global competitiveness in the decades to come.
AEM released a report earlier this month outlining the industry's priorities for tax reform. A copy of that report can be found here
Read more about the "Cut Cut Cut" Act at The Ponder News by clicking HERE
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Equipment manufacturing leaders issued statements on Thursday hailing the release of The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act by leaders in Congress.
Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) President Dennis Slater said:
The equipment manufacturing industry commends Speaker Ryan, Chairman Brady and all the members of the House Ways & Means Committee for taking an important step on the path toward achieving pro-growth, pro-manufacturing tax reform. The legislation introduced today serves as a good foundation for continued debate in Congress. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers and its more than 950 members support permanent tax reform that simplifies the code, lowers rates for all businesses, and ultimately creates good-paying manufacturing jobs in America.
Equipment manufacturers have tirelessly advocated for pro-growth tax reform that improves the business environment for manufacturers in the United States and makes us more competitive as a nation. True reform is going to require hard work. Our elected leaders, regardless of party, should take their cues from the 1.3 million men and women of our industry, and put in the hard work necessary to enact meaningful and permanent tax reform that will create jobs and grow our economy.
Incoming AEM Chair and Doosan-Bobcat NA President Rich Goldsbury said:
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act introduced today is an important first step toward meaningful reform of our outdated tax code. I applaud Speaker Ryan and Chairman Brady for their leadership and hard work to bring about pro-growth tax reform that will strengthen manufacturing in America and make our economy more competitive. There is much work to be done, but I am encouraged that the final product will create a modern tax code for the modern manufacturing economy.
Vermeer Corporation President and CEO Jason Andringa said:
Equipment manufacturers need a simpler tax code that provides permanent tax relief for manufacturing companies of all types. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act introduced today is an important step toward comprehensive tax reform that will tilt the global playing field back in favor of U.S. manufacturers and spur manufacturing job growth across America. I urge our elected officials in Washington to work together to enact permanent and comprehensive tax reform to grow the economy and create more jobs for Americans.
Rick Alton, President, Compact Equipment Division, Manitou Group, said:
The tax reform legislation introduced today in Congress is an important step toward improving the business environment for manufacturers in the United States. Equipment manufacturers support pro-growth tax reform, and hope that Congress will work swiftly to simplify the code, lower rates for manufacturers of all types, and encourage manufacturing job growth in America.
General Kinematics President Tom Musschoot said:
I want to commend our leaders in Congress for introducing comprehensive tax reform legislation. This proposal would provide meaningful tax relief for equipment manufacturers including General Kinematics. Congressman Peter Roskam, who serves as chair of the Tax Policy Committee, deserves special credit for listening to the needs of his constituent businesses in putting together this legislation. We look forward to working with Congressman Roskam to advance comprehensive tax reform, which will help to improve U.S. manufacturers' global competitiveness in the decades to come.
AEM released a report earlier this month outlining the industry's priorities for tax reform. A copy of that report can be found here
Read more about the "Cut Cut Cut" Act at The Ponder News by clicking HERE
MCMORRIS RODGERS: TAX CUTS AND JOBS ACT IS “MUST-PASS LEGISLATION”
Source: Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA, 5th)
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement after the Ways and Means Committee announced the introduction of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, pro-growth and pro-family legislation that overhauls the outdated tax code to put working men and women first. Sponsored by Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX), the tax reform plan creates more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks for all Americans. To read the bill, text “TAXREFORM” to 50589.
“We have a historic opportunity to improve people’s lives and make our economy boom. This is must-pass legislation for Republicans,” said McMorris Rodgers. “We are lifting the tax burden off hardworking Americans and their families. Our plan will put more money in people’s pockets, reward and restore the dignity of hard work, and encourage innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship.
“Our tax reform plan is written with working families in mind. Our plan means more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks, and that starts with helping those who are working hard but not getting ahead. American families deserve a tax code that doesn’t stand in the way of success. We want everyone to have the opportunity to realize their full potential and pursue their version of the American dream, and that begins with reforming the broken tax code.
NOTE: Over the past year, the Congresswoman has been hosting a number of tax reform roundtable around Eastern Washington to hear directly from people about the issues they are facing in the tax code and the benefit that relief might bring to them and their families. The Congresswoman’s top priority is to hear directly from middle-class families about why tax reform is so important to them and their communities. For more information about the GOP’s tax reform plan visit FairandSimple.GOP or text “TAXREFORM” to 50589.
Details for individuals and families:
Lowers individual tax rates for low- and middle-income Americans to Zero, 12%, 25%, and 35% so people can keep more of the money they earn throughout their lives, and continues to maintain 39.6% for high-income Americans.
Significantly increases the standard deduction to protect roughly double the amount of what you earn each year from taxes – from $6,350 to $12,000 for individuals and $12,700 to $24,000 for married couples.
Eliminates special-interest deductions that increase rates and complicate Americans’ taxes – so an individual or family can file their taxes on a form as simple as a postcard.
Takes action to support American families by:
Establishing a new Family Credit – which includes expanding the Child Tax Credit from $1,000 to $1,600 to help parents with the cost of raising children to help all families with their everyday expenses.
Preserving the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit to help families care for their children and older dependents such as a disabled grandparent who may need additional support.
Preserves the Earned Income Tax Credit to provide important tax relief for low-income Americans working to build better lives for themselves.
Streamlines higher education benefits to help families save for and better afford college tuition and other education expenses.
Continues the deduction for charitable contributions so people can continue to donate to their local church, charity, or community organization.
Preserves the home mortgage interest deduction for existing mortgages and maintains the home mortgage interest deduction for newly purchased homes up to $500,000 – providing tax relief to current and aspiring homeowners.
Continues to allow people to write off the cost of state and local property taxes up to $10,000.
Retains popular retirement savings options such as 401(k)s and Individual Retirement Accounts so Americans can continue to save for their future.
Repeals the Alternative Minimum Tax so millions of individuals and families will no longer have to worry about calculating their taxes twice each year and pay the higher amount.
Provides immediate relief from the Death Tax by doubling the exemption and repealing the Death Tax after six years. Family-owned farms and businesses will no longer have to worry about double or triple taxation from Washington when they pass down their life’s work to the next generation.
Details for job creators of all sizes:
Lowers the corporate tax rate to 20% – down from 35%, which today is the highest in the industrialized world – the largest reduction in the U.S. corporate tax rate in our nation’s history.
Reduces the tax rate on the hard-earned business income of Main Street job creators to no more than 25% – the lowest tax rate on small business income since World War II.
Establishes strong safeguards to distinguish between individual wage income and “pass-through” business income so Main Street tax relief goes to the local job creators it was designed to help most.
Allows businesses to immediately write off the full cost of new equipment to improve operations and enhance the skills of their workers – unleashing the growth of jobs, productivity, and paychecks.
Protects the ability of small businesses to write off the interest on loans that help these Main Street entrepreneurs start or expand a business, hire workers, and increase paychecks.
Retains the low-income housing tax credit that encourages businesses to invest in affordable housing so families, individuals, and seniors can find a safe and comfortable place to call home.
Preserves the Research & Development Tax Credit – encouraging our businesses and workers to develop cutting-edge “Made in America” products and services.
Strengthens accountability rules for tax-exempt organizations to ensure the churches, charities, foundations, and other organizations receiving tax-exempt status are focused on helping people and communities in need.
Modernizes our international tax system so America’s global businesses will no longer be held back by an outdated “worldwide” tax system that results in double taxation for many of our nation’s job creators.
Makes it easier and far less costly for American businesses to bring home foreign earnings to invest in growing jobs and paychecks in our local communities.
Prevents American jobs, headquarters, and research from moving overseas by eliminating incentives that now reward companies for shifting jobs, profits, and manufacturing plants abroad.
The House Ways and Means Committee will mark up the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act on November 6, 2017.
CLICK HERE to read the full legislative text of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
CLICK HERE to read the section-by-section summary of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
CLICK HERE to read the policy highlights in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
CLICK HERE to read examples of how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will help Americans of all walks of life
CLICK HERE to read how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will help Middle-Income Americans.
CLICK HERE to read how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will help Main Street businesses.
CLICK HERE to read how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will unleash American competitiveness and create American jobs.
Read more about the "Cut Cut Cut" Act at The Ponder News by clicking HERE
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement after the Ways and Means Committee announced the introduction of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, pro-growth and pro-family legislation that overhauls the outdated tax code to put working men and women first. Sponsored by Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX), the tax reform plan creates more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks for all Americans. To read the bill, text “TAXREFORM” to 50589.
“We have a historic opportunity to improve people’s lives and make our economy boom. This is must-pass legislation for Republicans,” said McMorris Rodgers. “We are lifting the tax burden off hardworking Americans and their families. Our plan will put more money in people’s pockets, reward and restore the dignity of hard work, and encourage innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship.
“Our tax reform plan is written with working families in mind. Our plan means more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks, and that starts with helping those who are working hard but not getting ahead. American families deserve a tax code that doesn’t stand in the way of success. We want everyone to have the opportunity to realize their full potential and pursue their version of the American dream, and that begins with reforming the broken tax code.
NOTE: Over the past year, the Congresswoman has been hosting a number of tax reform roundtable around Eastern Washington to hear directly from people about the issues they are facing in the tax code and the benefit that relief might bring to them and their families. The Congresswoman’s top priority is to hear directly from middle-class families about why tax reform is so important to them and their communities. For more information about the GOP’s tax reform plan visit FairandSimple.GOP or text “TAXREFORM” to 50589.
Details for individuals and families:
Details for job creators of all sizes:
The House Ways and Means Committee will mark up the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act on November 6, 2017.
CLICK HERE to read the full legislative text of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
CLICK HERE to read the section-by-section summary of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
CLICK HERE to read the policy highlights in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
CLICK HERE to read examples of how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will help Americans of all walks of life
CLICK HERE to read how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will help Middle-Income Americans.
CLICK HERE to read how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will help Main Street businesses.
CLICK HERE to read how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will unleash American competitiveness and create American jobs.
Read more about the "Cut Cut Cut" Act at The Ponder News by clicking HERE
American Action Network Statement On Introduction of The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
Source: American Action Network
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- American Action Network (@AAN) Executive Director Corry Bliss released the following statement following the introduction of The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act:
“The tax bill introduced in the House today will provide relief for American families and small businesses with a simpler, fairer tax code. Meaningful tax reform means higher wages, more jobs, and a $1,200 tax cut for the average middle-class family. Congress must work together to swiftly pass this tax reform bill, and the American Action Network is committed to spend an additional $8 million supporting this legislation, bringing our total spending to over $22 million advocating for tax cuts for the middle class.”
American Action Network’s Middle-Class Growth Initiative (MCGI), was launched in August to advocate for the passage of meaningful tax reform legislation. The multi-pronged effort, now totaling $14 million, includes advertising on television, radio, direct mail, and mobile billboards in over 50 congressional districts nationwide. AAN has pledged to spend at least $22 million total in efforts to support the passage of tax reform.
Read more about the "Cut Cut Cut" Act at The Ponder News by clicking HERE
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- American Action Network (@AAN) Executive Director Corry Bliss released the following statement following the introduction of The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act:
“The tax bill introduced in the House today will provide relief for American families and small businesses with a simpler, fairer tax code. Meaningful tax reform means higher wages, more jobs, and a $1,200 tax cut for the average middle-class family. Congress must work together to swiftly pass this tax reform bill, and the American Action Network is committed to spend an additional $8 million supporting this legislation, bringing our total spending to over $22 million advocating for tax cuts for the middle class.”
American Action Network’s Middle-Class Growth Initiative (MCGI), was launched in August to advocate for the passage of meaningful tax reform legislation. The multi-pronged effort, now totaling $14 million, includes advertising on television, radio, direct mail, and mobile billboards in over 50 congressional districts nationwide. AAN has pledged to spend at least $22 million total in efforts to support the passage of tax reform.
Read more about the "Cut Cut Cut" Act at The Ponder News by clicking HERE
Pondering the Masterpiece Cakeshop Case
The Masterpiece Cake Shop refused to bake a cake for a gay couple, citing religious grounds. They were sued.
The Ponder News has gathered information on this case and posted it all at
https://www.thepondernews.com/masterpiececakeshop
Here are the headlines you will see there:
HRC-Led Amicus Briefs in Masterpiece Cakeshop SCOTUS Case Features Top Chefs, Businesses
Amicus Briefs Demonstrate Broad Support for Equality in Masterpiece Case
U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, Representative Sean Patrick Maloney Lead Congressional Amicus Brief in Masterpiece Cakeshop Case
EVENT: Debate: ‘Masterpiece Cakeshop at US Supreme Court’ at Newseum on Nov. 13
THE MASTERPIECE CAKE SHOP SUPREME COURT CASE DOESN'T REALLY HAVE ANYTHING TO DO WITH CAKE
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HRC-Led Amicus Briefs in Masterpiece Cakeshop SCOTUS Case Features Top Chefs, Businesses
Amicus Briefs Demonstrate Broad Support for Equality in Masterpiece Case
U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, Representative Sean Patrick Maloney Lead Congressional Amicus Brief in Masterpiece Cakeshop Case
EVENT: Debate: ‘Masterpiece Cakeshop at US Supreme Court’ at Newseum on Nov. 13
THE MASTERPIECE CAKE SHOP SUPREME COURT CASE DOESN'T REALLY HAVE ANYTHING TO DO WITH CAKE
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HRC-Led Amicus Briefs in Masterpiece Cakeshop SCOTUS Case Features Top Chefs, Businesses
Source: Human Rights Campaign
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) civil rights organization, announced two amicus briefs featuring the nation’s leading bakers, chefs and businesses who oppose discrimination against LGBTQ people — the central issue in the pending Supreme Court case Masterpiece Cakeshop, Ltd. v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission.
The ‘Chefs for Equality’ brief includes bakers, chefs, restaurateurs and other culinary industry leaders from every state, plus Washington D.C. In addition to food professionals from all over the country, it is signed by some of the most prominent names in the culinary industry, including Elizabeth Falkner, Jose Andres, Sophie LaMontagne and Katherine Berman of Georgetown Cupcake, Carla Hall, Padma Lakshmi, Christina Tosi, Anthony Bourdain, Tom Colicchio, Duff Goldman, Sam Kass and more.
An HRC-led amicus brief featuring 37 businesses has also been filed in this case, also arguing that businesses must be open to all.
“The culinary community has joined this brief to relay a very simple message: ‘we welcome all,’” said Sarah Warbelow, legal director for the Human Rights Campaign. “If a business is open on main street, it must be open to everyone, regardless of who they are or whom they love. It is important for the nation and the Supreme Court to affirm the equal dignity of every single American.”
The ‘Chefs for Equality’ brief was authored by Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP, an international law firm headquartered in Washington, D.C.
“These companies are sending a powerful message to LGBTQ people and their families that America’s leading businesses believe in equality,” said HRC Deputy Director of Employee Engagement Beck Bailey. “Across the country, corporate leaders know that businesses should be open for all. A business owner's personal beliefs should never be reason enough to discriminate against a customer because of who they are or who they love.”
The brief featuring major businesses was authored by Steptoe & Johnson LLP, an international law firm headquartered in Washington, D.C.
The companies signing the brief are:
Affirm, Inc.; Airbnb, Inc.; Amalgamated Bank; Amazon.com, Inc.; American Airlines; Apple; Ben & Jerry's Homemade Inc.; Choice Hotels International, Inc., International; Cisco Systems, Inc.; Citigroup Inc.; Deutsche Bank; Glassdoor, Inc.; Intel Corporation; John Hancock; Levi Strauss & Co.; Linden Research, Inc.; Lyft Inc.; Marriott International, Inc.; MassMutual; Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams; MongoDB, Inc.; National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce; NIO U.S.; PayPal Holdings, Inc.; Pfizer Inc; Postmates Inc; PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP; Prudential Financial, Inc.; Replacements, Ltd.; salesforce.com, inc.; SurveyMonkey; The Estée Lauder Companies Inc.; Uber Technologies, Inc.; WeddingWire, Inc.; Weebly, Inc.; Witeck Communications; and Yelp Inc.
Masterpiece Cakeshop, Ltd. v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission is a case pending at the Supreme Court of the United States involving a baker who in 2012 refused to provide a wedding cake for a same-sex couple. Last year, the Colorado Supreme Court upheld a ruling by the Colorado Court of Appeals that bakery owner Jack Phillips cannot cite religious beliefs or free speech in order to discriminate against same-sex couples. Amicus briefs in support of the same-sex couple and the the Colorado Civil Rights Commission must be filed at the Supreme Court of the United States today. Oral arguments will be heard by the Court on December 5.
The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people. HRC envisions a world where LGBTQ people are embraced as full members of society at home, at work and in every community.
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Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) civil rights organization, announced two amicus briefs featuring the nation’s leading bakers, chefs and businesses who oppose discrimination against LGBTQ people — the central issue in the pending Supreme Court case Masterpiece Cakeshop, Ltd. v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission.
The ‘Chefs for Equality’ brief includes bakers, chefs, restaurateurs and other culinary industry leaders from every state, plus Washington D.C. In addition to food professionals from all over the country, it is signed by some of the most prominent names in the culinary industry, including Elizabeth Falkner, Jose Andres, Sophie LaMontagne and Katherine Berman of Georgetown Cupcake, Carla Hall, Padma Lakshmi, Christina Tosi, Anthony Bourdain, Tom Colicchio, Duff Goldman, Sam Kass and more.
An HRC-led amicus brief featuring 37 businesses has also been filed in this case, also arguing that businesses must be open to all.
“The culinary community has joined this brief to relay a very simple message: ‘we welcome all,’” said Sarah Warbelow, legal director for the Human Rights Campaign. “If a business is open on main street, it must be open to everyone, regardless of who they are or whom they love. It is important for the nation and the Supreme Court to affirm the equal dignity of every single American.”
The ‘Chefs for Equality’ brief was authored by Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP, an international law firm headquartered in Washington, D.C.
“These companies are sending a powerful message to LGBTQ people and their families that America’s leading businesses believe in equality,” said HRC Deputy Director of Employee Engagement Beck Bailey. “Across the country, corporate leaders know that businesses should be open for all. A business owner's personal beliefs should never be reason enough to discriminate against a customer because of who they are or who they love.”
The brief featuring major businesses was authored by Steptoe & Johnson LLP, an international law firm headquartered in Washington, D.C.
The companies signing the brief are:
Affirm, Inc.; Airbnb, Inc.; Amalgamated Bank; Amazon.com, Inc.; American Airlines; Apple; Ben & Jerry's Homemade Inc.; Choice Hotels International, Inc., International; Cisco Systems, Inc.; Citigroup Inc.; Deutsche Bank; Glassdoor, Inc.; Intel Corporation; John Hancock; Levi Strauss & Co.; Linden Research, Inc.; Lyft Inc.; Marriott International, Inc.; MassMutual; Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams; MongoDB, Inc.; National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce; NIO U.S.; PayPal Holdings, Inc.; Pfizer Inc; Postmates Inc; PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP; Prudential Financial, Inc.; Replacements, Ltd.; salesforce.com, inc.; SurveyMonkey; The Estée Lauder Companies Inc.; Uber Technologies, Inc.; WeddingWire, Inc.; Weebly, Inc.; Witeck Communications; and Yelp Inc.
Masterpiece Cakeshop, Ltd. v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission is a case pending at the Supreme Court of the United States involving a baker who in 2012 refused to provide a wedding cake for a same-sex couple. Last year, the Colorado Supreme Court upheld a ruling by the Colorado Court of Appeals that bakery owner Jack Phillips cannot cite religious beliefs or free speech in order to discriminate against same-sex couples. Amicus briefs in support of the same-sex couple and the the Colorado Civil Rights Commission must be filed at the Supreme Court of the United States today. Oral arguments will be heard by the Court on December 5.
The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people. HRC envisions a world where LGBTQ people are embraced as full members of society at home, at work and in every community.
See more headlines about the Masterpiece Cakeshop at The Ponder News Web Site by clicing here
Amicus Briefs Demonstrate Broad Support for Equality in Masterpiece Case
Source: Freedom for All Americans
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Briefs filed with the U.S. Supreme Court today indicate broad support for ensuring all Americans – including LGBTQ people – are treated fairly and equally when accessing public businesses. The Court will hear oral argument in the Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission case on December 5th, and businesses large and small, conservatives, people of faith, and municipal leaders from across the country agreed in a series of briefs that businesses open to the public must serve everyone.
At the heart of the Masterpiece case is the question of whether nondiscrimination laws can continue to be enforced without sweeping and dangerous exemptions. The case itself involves a Colorado bakery that refused to sell a cake to a same-sex couple celebrating their civil marriage. This action was in direct violation of Colorado’s nondiscrimination law, and both the Colorado Civil Rights Commission and the state appellate court ruled in favor of the couple.
“In seeking an exemption from his obligation to serve everyone equally, the business owner of Masterpiece Cakeshop is asking the Supreme Court to grant him a sweeping license to discriminate,” said Kasey Suffredini, acting CEO and president of strategy at Freedom for All Americans. “The dozens of friend-of-the-court briefs filed this week and signed by thousands of experts, scholars, and organizations showcase the diverse support for equal treatment and fairness for all. Nondiscrimination laws allow states and local governments to protect their residents from unequal treatment. These laws ensure all of us can participate in public life, and nothing should undermine that promise in America.”
FFAA supported the development of multiple briefs filed today – including a faith brief, a municipal leaders brief, and a small business brief. The faith brief features nearly 1,300 clergy from approximately 50 faith traditions across the country, representing half a million congregants. The municipal brief features more than 150 mayors representing 50 million constituents from big cities and smaller municipalities across the country – many of whom were activated through FFAA’s Mayors Against LGBT Discrimination program. And the small business brief features leading small business organizations, including Main Street Alliance and the American Independent Business Alliance. Collectively, more than 61,000 small businesses from across the country are represented on the brief.
“Our work to achieve an America where every single LGBTQ person lives free from discrimination will be enormously impacted by the outcome of this case,” added Suffredini. “As hostile legal challenges wind their way through our courts and the administration seeks to undermine equality, it’s incumbent upon us to share stories that illustrate the devastating consequences of discrimination and mobilize our allies.”
Recently, the Trump Administration announced it would support the bakery in seeking an exemption from the existing nondiscrimination law. The administration’s action is reflective of a larger effort to roll back or eliminate LGBTQ Americans from nondiscrimination protections.
The Supreme Court will hear oral argument in Masterpiece on December 5th. For the latest on Masterpiece and other key pieces of litigation, you can visit FFAA’s Litigation Tracker.
Freedom for All Americans is the bipartisan campaign to secure full nondiscrimination protections for LGBT people nationwide. Our work brings together Republicans and Democrats, businesses large and small, people of faith, and allies from all walks of life to make the case for comprehensive nondiscrimination protections that ensure everyone is treated fairly and equally.
See more headlines about the Masterpiece Cakeshop at The Ponder News Web Site by clicing here
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Briefs filed with the U.S. Supreme Court today indicate broad support for ensuring all Americans – including LGBTQ people – are treated fairly and equally when accessing public businesses. The Court will hear oral argument in the Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission case on December 5th, and businesses large and small, conservatives, people of faith, and municipal leaders from across the country agreed in a series of briefs that businesses open to the public must serve everyone.
At the heart of the Masterpiece case is the question of whether nondiscrimination laws can continue to be enforced without sweeping and dangerous exemptions. The case itself involves a Colorado bakery that refused to sell a cake to a same-sex couple celebrating their civil marriage. This action was in direct violation of Colorado’s nondiscrimination law, and both the Colorado Civil Rights Commission and the state appellate court ruled in favor of the couple.
“In seeking an exemption from his obligation to serve everyone equally, the business owner of Masterpiece Cakeshop is asking the Supreme Court to grant him a sweeping license to discriminate,” said Kasey Suffredini, acting CEO and president of strategy at Freedom for All Americans. “The dozens of friend-of-the-court briefs filed this week and signed by thousands of experts, scholars, and organizations showcase the diverse support for equal treatment and fairness for all. Nondiscrimination laws allow states and local governments to protect their residents from unequal treatment. These laws ensure all of us can participate in public life, and nothing should undermine that promise in America.”
FFAA supported the development of multiple briefs filed today – including a faith brief, a municipal leaders brief, and a small business brief. The faith brief features nearly 1,300 clergy from approximately 50 faith traditions across the country, representing half a million congregants. The municipal brief features more than 150 mayors representing 50 million constituents from big cities and smaller municipalities across the country – many of whom were activated through FFAA’s Mayors Against LGBT Discrimination program. And the small business brief features leading small business organizations, including Main Street Alliance and the American Independent Business Alliance. Collectively, more than 61,000 small businesses from across the country are represented on the brief.
“Our work to achieve an America where every single LGBTQ person lives free from discrimination will be enormously impacted by the outcome of this case,” added Suffredini. “As hostile legal challenges wind their way through our courts and the administration seeks to undermine equality, it’s incumbent upon us to share stories that illustrate the devastating consequences of discrimination and mobilize our allies.”
Recently, the Trump Administration announced it would support the bakery in seeking an exemption from the existing nondiscrimination law. The administration’s action is reflective of a larger effort to roll back or eliminate LGBTQ Americans from nondiscrimination protections.
The Supreme Court will hear oral argument in Masterpiece on December 5th. For the latest on Masterpiece and other key pieces of litigation, you can visit FFAA’s Litigation Tracker.
Freedom for All Americans is the bipartisan campaign to secure full nondiscrimination protections for LGBT people nationwide. Our work brings together Republicans and Democrats, businesses large and small, people of faith, and allies from all walks of life to make the case for comprehensive nondiscrimination protections that ensure everyone is treated fairly and equally.
See more headlines about the Masterpiece Cakeshop at The Ponder News Web Site by clicing here
U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, Representative Sean Patrick Maloney Lead Congressional Amicus Brief in Masterpiece Cakeshop Case
Source: Senator Tammy Baldwin - (D - WI)
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Representative Sean Patrick Maloney (D-NY) announced the filing of an Amicus Brief in support of equal rights for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) community and other marginalized groups in Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission. A ruling for Masterpiece Cakeshop could create a “license to discriminate” allowing businesses to deny service to Americans, including LGBTQ people. Senator Baldwin and Representative Maloney were joined on the brief by 35 Senators and 174 House members.
“I support religious freedom and the freedom of full equality for every American. Our religious beliefs don’t entitle any of us to discriminate against others and I don’t believe that any American should face discrimination based on race, gender, or sexual orientation - whether it’s at a bakery, a hotel, or a doctor’s office,” said Senator Baldwin. “It is simply wrong to discriminate against any American based on who they are or who they love. If an individual has the ability to pay for a service and is not in violation of the law, they should not be turned away.”
“We wouldn’t let a hotel owner refuse a room to a person because of their race or allow a restaurant to deny service to a couple based on their religion – and we can’t let that same kind of discrimination apply to Americans based on their sexual orientation or gender identity,” said Rep. Maloney, a Co-Chair of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus. “This is about fairness and the civil rights of all Americans – religion should not be used as a sword to inflict harm on minority groups.”
“If a business is open on main street, it must be open to everyone, regardless of who they are or whom they love,” said Sarah Warbelow, Legal Director, Human Rights Campaign. “It is important for the nation and the Supreme Court to affirm the equal dignity of every single American. Thank you to Senator Baldwin, Congressman Maloney and all of the members of Congress who have spoken up against the type of discrimination at issue in the Masterpiece Cakeshop v the Colorado Civil Rights Commission case.”
“As this friend-of-the-court brief makes clear, a ruling for Masterpiece Cakeshop would be ruling for discrimination, a violation of the Constitutional right to equal treatment under the law,” said Ian Thompson, legislative representative at the ACLU. “It would set a dangerous precedent with implications that go far beyond this case and this couple, jeopardizing long-standing anti-discrimination protections. The ACLU applauds the leadership of Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney, Senator Tammy Baldwin, and the 205 other Members of Congress who joined them to make their commitment to equality clear. No one should ever be refused service by a business that is open to the public simply for who they are or whom they love.”
"In this country we believe in freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and freedom from discrimination,” said Harper Jean Tobin, Esq., Director of Policy for the National Center for Transgender Equality. “If civil rights laws could be ignored in the name of religion, businesses across the country from hotels to hospitals could put up a 'transgender not welcome' sign. On behalf of the nearly two million Americans who are transgender we thank the Members of Congress who are standing up against a license to discriminate."
In 2012, same-sex couple Charlie Craig and David Mullins were denied a wedding cake by Masterpiece Cakeshop because of their sexual orientation. The shop’s owner, Jack Phillips, cited religious objections to same-sex marriage as a justification for his refusal. The Colorado Civil Rights Commission ruled that the shop could not lawfully deny services to individuals based on their sexual orientation under the Colorado anti-Discrimination Act and required the shop to provide staff training and issue reports on steps taken to come into compliance with the ruling. Masterpiece Cakeshop appealed the ruling, which was eventually upheld by the Colorado Supreme Court. The shop appealed the decision, and the United States Supreme Court granted certiorari. The U.S. Supreme Court will hear oral arguments on December 5th. If the court finds that a business owner’s religious conviction or expressive intent trumps civil rights laws, it could undermine local, state and federal civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination an accessing public accommodations.
In the friend-of-the-court brief, signers urge the Supreme Court to affirm the Colorado Civil Rights Commission’s initial decision to require Masterpiece Cakeshop to comply with the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act. The brief considers the history of federal nondiscrimination laws, such as Title II of the Civil Rights Act, and Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and how rulings regarding those statutes apply to the pending case. Signers warn that the outcome of the case could have broad implications for the civil rights of groups that already face discrimination and that creating exemptions to public accommodations laws – in this case based on a business’s arguably expressive conduct or religious belief – would undermine the government’s interest in prohibiting discrimination against minority groups.
The brief is supported by the Human Rights Campaign, the American Civil Liberties Union, Bend the Arc Jewish Action, GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD), Lambda Legal, NAACP Legal Defense Fund, National Center for Lesbian Rights, National Center for Transgender Equality, National Employment Law Project, National LGBTQ Task Force, National Women’s Law Center, People for the American Way Foundation, SAGE, Transgender Law Center, Equality California, Equality Delaware, Equality Florida, Equality New Mexico, Equality North Carolina, Garden State Equality, and One Colorado.
A full version of the brief is available here.
See more headlines About the Masterpiece Cakeshop at The Ponder News Web Site
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Representative Sean Patrick Maloney (D-NY) announced the filing of an Amicus Brief in support of equal rights for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) community and other marginalized groups in Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission. A ruling for Masterpiece Cakeshop could create a “license to discriminate” allowing businesses to deny service to Americans, including LGBTQ people. Senator Baldwin and Representative Maloney were joined on the brief by 35 Senators and 174 House members.
“I support religious freedom and the freedom of full equality for every American. Our religious beliefs don’t entitle any of us to discriminate against others and I don’t believe that any American should face discrimination based on race, gender, or sexual orientation - whether it’s at a bakery, a hotel, or a doctor’s office,” said Senator Baldwin. “It is simply wrong to discriminate against any American based on who they are or who they love. If an individual has the ability to pay for a service and is not in violation of the law, they should not be turned away.”
“We wouldn’t let a hotel owner refuse a room to a person because of their race or allow a restaurant to deny service to a couple based on their religion – and we can’t let that same kind of discrimination apply to Americans based on their sexual orientation or gender identity,” said Rep. Maloney, a Co-Chair of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus. “This is about fairness and the civil rights of all Americans – religion should not be used as a sword to inflict harm on minority groups.”
“If a business is open on main street, it must be open to everyone, regardless of who they are or whom they love,” said Sarah Warbelow, Legal Director, Human Rights Campaign. “It is important for the nation and the Supreme Court to affirm the equal dignity of every single American. Thank you to Senator Baldwin, Congressman Maloney and all of the members of Congress who have spoken up against the type of discrimination at issue in the Masterpiece Cakeshop v the Colorado Civil Rights Commission case.”
“As this friend-of-the-court brief makes clear, a ruling for Masterpiece Cakeshop would be ruling for discrimination, a violation of the Constitutional right to equal treatment under the law,” said Ian Thompson, legislative representative at the ACLU. “It would set a dangerous precedent with implications that go far beyond this case and this couple, jeopardizing long-standing anti-discrimination protections. The ACLU applauds the leadership of Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney, Senator Tammy Baldwin, and the 205 other Members of Congress who joined them to make their commitment to equality clear. No one should ever be refused service by a business that is open to the public simply for who they are or whom they love.”
"In this country we believe in freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and freedom from discrimination,” said Harper Jean Tobin, Esq., Director of Policy for the National Center for Transgender Equality. “If civil rights laws could be ignored in the name of religion, businesses across the country from hotels to hospitals could put up a 'transgender not welcome' sign. On behalf of the nearly two million Americans who are transgender we thank the Members of Congress who are standing up against a license to discriminate."
In 2012, same-sex couple Charlie Craig and David Mullins were denied a wedding cake by Masterpiece Cakeshop because of their sexual orientation. The shop’s owner, Jack Phillips, cited religious objections to same-sex marriage as a justification for his refusal. The Colorado Civil Rights Commission ruled that the shop could not lawfully deny services to individuals based on their sexual orientation under the Colorado anti-Discrimination Act and required the shop to provide staff training and issue reports on steps taken to come into compliance with the ruling. Masterpiece Cakeshop appealed the ruling, which was eventually upheld by the Colorado Supreme Court. The shop appealed the decision, and the United States Supreme Court granted certiorari. The U.S. Supreme Court will hear oral arguments on December 5th. If the court finds that a business owner’s religious conviction or expressive intent trumps civil rights laws, it could undermine local, state and federal civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination an accessing public accommodations.
In the friend-of-the-court brief, signers urge the Supreme Court to affirm the Colorado Civil Rights Commission’s initial decision to require Masterpiece Cakeshop to comply with the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act. The brief considers the history of federal nondiscrimination laws, such as Title II of the Civil Rights Act, and Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and how rulings regarding those statutes apply to the pending case. Signers warn that the outcome of the case could have broad implications for the civil rights of groups that already face discrimination and that creating exemptions to public accommodations laws – in this case based on a business’s arguably expressive conduct or religious belief – would undermine the government’s interest in prohibiting discrimination against minority groups.
The brief is supported by the Human Rights Campaign, the American Civil Liberties Union, Bend the Arc Jewish Action, GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD), Lambda Legal, NAACP Legal Defense Fund, National Center for Lesbian Rights, National Center for Transgender Equality, National Employment Law Project, National LGBTQ Task Force, National Women’s Law Center, People for the American Way Foundation, SAGE, Transgender Law Center, Equality California, Equality Delaware, Equality Florida, Equality New Mexico, Equality North Carolina, Garden State Equality, and One Colorado.
A full version of the brief is available here.
See more headlines About the Masterpiece Cakeshop at The Ponder News Web Site
Teen childbirth linked to increased risk for heart disease
Source: American Heart Association
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Women who became first-time mothers as teens were significantly more likely than older mothers to have greater risks for heart and blood vessel disease later in life, according to new research in Journal of the American Heart Association, the Open Access Journal of the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association.
Researchers found that women reporting a first birth before the age of 20 scored significantly higher on Framingham Risk Score — a measure commonly used to estimate the 10-year cardiovascular risk. In comparison, women whose first births occurred at older ages had lower average risk scores: The lowest cardiovascular risk, however, was among women who had never given birth.
“Adolescent mothers may need to be more careful about lifestyle factors that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, including maintaining a healthy body weight and sufficient physical activity,” said study lead author Catherine Pirkle, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Office of Public Health Studies at the University of Hawaii at Manoa in Honolulu. “Clinicians may need to pay more careful attention to women’s reproductive characteristics, and more intensive screening of cardiovascular-disease risk may be required of women reporting early childbirths.”
While previous studies found that women who had several pregnancies had higher cardiovascular risks, here, among women who had children, the number of lifetimes births did not affect cardiovascular risk.
Pirkle notes that women who had never given birth may have miscarried or terminated pregnancies, but would have experienced dramatically lower average levels of pregnancy-related complications. Therefore, they would have no, or much shorter durations, of pregnancy-related stress on the body, which may explain the lower average risk scores in that group.
Investigators obtained information about age at first birth for 1,047 women participating in the International Mobility in Aging Study in 2012. Study participants were between the ages of 65 and 74 and were from Canada, Albania, Colombia and Brazil. Using the Framingham Risk Score, the investigators connected age at first birth to risk for cardiovascular disease.
The findings must be confirmed because this study relied on self-reports of childbirth history which could be affected by memory loss in this older population even though participants were screened for dementia. In addition, many young mothers from the poorer countries may not have survived to the ages of 64-75 years represented in the study, limiting the strength of the findings.
“If adolescent childbirth increases the risk of cardiovascular disease risk, then our findings reinforce the need to assure that girls and adolescents have sufficient sexual education and access to contraception to avoid adolescent childbearing in the first place,” Pirkle said. “If the association is mediated by lower educational attainment, poorer health behaviors and other factors caused by young motherhood, then our findings also suggest a need to provide more support to young mothers.”
Co-authors are Nicole T.A. Rosendaal, M.S.; Beatriz Alvarado, Ph.D.; Yan Yan Wu, Ph.D.; Maria P. Velez, Ph.D. and Saionara M. Aires da Câmara, Ph.D. Author disclosures are on the manuscript.
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research and the National Institutes of Health Fogarty International Center supported the study.
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Women who became first-time mothers as teens were significantly more likely than older mothers to have greater risks for heart and blood vessel disease later in life, according to new research in Journal of the American Heart Association, the Open Access Journal of the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association.
Researchers found that women reporting a first birth before the age of 20 scored significantly higher on Framingham Risk Score — a measure commonly used to estimate the 10-year cardiovascular risk. In comparison, women whose first births occurred at older ages had lower average risk scores: The lowest cardiovascular risk, however, was among women who had never given birth.
“Adolescent mothers may need to be more careful about lifestyle factors that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, including maintaining a healthy body weight and sufficient physical activity,” said study lead author Catherine Pirkle, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Office of Public Health Studies at the University of Hawaii at Manoa in Honolulu. “Clinicians may need to pay more careful attention to women’s reproductive characteristics, and more intensive screening of cardiovascular-disease risk may be required of women reporting early childbirths.”
While previous studies found that women who had several pregnancies had higher cardiovascular risks, here, among women who had children, the number of lifetimes births did not affect cardiovascular risk.
Pirkle notes that women who had never given birth may have miscarried or terminated pregnancies, but would have experienced dramatically lower average levels of pregnancy-related complications. Therefore, they would have no, or much shorter durations, of pregnancy-related stress on the body, which may explain the lower average risk scores in that group.
Investigators obtained information about age at first birth for 1,047 women participating in the International Mobility in Aging Study in 2012. Study participants were between the ages of 65 and 74 and were from Canada, Albania, Colombia and Brazil. Using the Framingham Risk Score, the investigators connected age at first birth to risk for cardiovascular disease.
The findings must be confirmed because this study relied on self-reports of childbirth history which could be affected by memory loss in this older population even though participants were screened for dementia. In addition, many young mothers from the poorer countries may not have survived to the ages of 64-75 years represented in the study, limiting the strength of the findings.
“If adolescent childbirth increases the risk of cardiovascular disease risk, then our findings reinforce the need to assure that girls and adolescents have sufficient sexual education and access to contraception to avoid adolescent childbearing in the first place,” Pirkle said. “If the association is mediated by lower educational attainment, poorer health behaviors and other factors caused by young motherhood, then our findings also suggest a need to provide more support to young mothers.”
Co-authors are Nicole T.A. Rosendaal, M.S.; Beatriz Alvarado, Ph.D.; Yan Yan Wu, Ph.D.; Maria P. Velez, Ph.D. and Saionara M. Aires da Câmara, Ph.D. Author disclosures are on the manuscript.
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research and the National Institutes of Health Fogarty International Center supported the study.
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
Pondering about the New York Terrorist...
Click Here to read them all:
https://www.thepondernews.com/terrorist-in-new-york
November 02, 2017
American Legion National Commander issues condolences to New York City terrorist victims
The Ponder News
"Today's senseless attack upon innocent civilians is just another reminder of why The American Legion is fully committed to defeating terrorism," Rohan said. "We have always maintained that it will be a long protracted struggle but we must support our men and women in the military and in law enforcement. The first responders again performed admirably and we are grateful to the brave officers who stopped the attack. We pray for the victims and their families."
Read more...http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/11/american-legion-national-commander.html
November 02, 2017
CONGRESSMAN POE ON NEW YORK TERRORIST ATTACK
The Ponder News
Yesterday, as Americans went about their daily lives in New York City, a radicalized coward tore down a busy bike route driving a rented flatbed truck, plowing down all those in his path. The noise of bikes crunching and the cries of the injured rang out. The terrorist rushed forward, ramming directly into a school bus, injuring children inside. He fled the scene, sending bystanders into a panicked frenzy until peace officers apprehended the radical Islamic terrorist. Just blocks from the World Trade center, 8 individuals lay dead and at least 13 more were injured.
Read more...http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/11/congressman-poe-on-new-york-terrorist.html
November 02, 2017
CONGRESSMAN DUNCAN'S STATEMENT ON THE TERRORIST ATTACK IN NEW YORK
The Ponder News
President Trump has stated that his administration is in the process of terminating the Diversity Visa Lottery program, and is asking Congress to work to get rid of this program. I support the President’s decision and action to end the Diversity Visa Lottery program.
Read more...
http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/11/congressman-duncans-statement-on.html
November 02, 2017
Congresswoman Tenney Statement on New York City Terror Attack
The Ponder News
“Our hearts break for the victims of today’s horrific terror attack in New York City that killed eight and injured eleven. We are grateful to the NYPD and our first responders, our front line of defense here at home, for their swift action. As New Yorkers and as Americans we stand united against the threat of terrorism.”
Read more...http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/11/congresswoman-tenney-statement-on-new.html
November 02, 2017
Wilson Statement On Tuesday Terrorist Attack In New York City
The Ponder News
"This afternoon’s terrorist attack in New York City was as cowardly as it was senseless. This is another reminder that we must win the Global War on Terrorism overseas to stop terrorists from threatening American families here at home. The people of New York City have faced challenges like this before, and their strength and unity always inspire us. Roxanne and I will keep the victims – including those who have lost their lives and those who are injured – in our prayers."
Read more...http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/11/wilson-statement-on-tuesday-terrorist.html
November 01, 2017
Feinstein: President Must Not Sow Division
The Ponder News
“In the wake of a national tragedy, the president has an obligation to bring the country together, not sow division. It’s deeply troubling that the president’s response to a terrorist attack appears to be driven by this morning’s commentary on Fox & Friends...
Read more...http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/11/feinstein-president-must-not-sow.html
November 01, 2017
Senator Graham Statement On NYC Terror Suspect
The Ponder News
U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) issued this statement on potentially holding the suspect in the New York City terror attack, Sayfullo Habibullaevic Saipov, as an enemy combatant for intelligence gathering purposes.
Read more...http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/11/senator-graham-statement-on-nyc-terror.html
November 01, 2017
STATEMENT BY SASC CHAIRMAN JOHN McCAIN ON TERRORIST ATTACK IN NEW YORK CITY
The Ponder News
“The terrorist attack in New York is the latest brutal, horrific example of the war that radical Islamist extremists are waging against our nation and our way of life. From Orlando to San Bernardino and Boston to Manhattan, we must not consider these attacks on our homeland in isolation, but rather recognize them for what they are: acts of war. As such, the New York terror suspect should be held and interrogated—thoroughly, responsibly, and humanely—as an enemy combatant consistent with the Law of Armed Conflict. He should not be read Miranda Rights, as enemy combatants are not entitled to them. As soon as possible, the administration should notify Congress how it plans to proceed with the interrogation and trial of this suspect...
Read more...http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/11/statement-by-sasc-chairman-john-mccain.html
November 01, 2017
NYC terror suspect charged with supporting ISIS
ABC News
The man accused of plowing into people on a lower Manhattan bike path Tuesday had apparently been planning the attack for a number of weeks, police officials said today.
"He did this in the name of ISIS, and along with the other items recovered at the scene was some notes that further indicate that," John Miller, deputy commissioner of intelligence and counterterrorism of the NYPD, said this morning of the attack that killed eight. "He appears to have followed almost exactly to a 'T' the instructions that ISIS has put out in its social media channels before with instructions to their followers on how to carry out such an attack."
Read more...http://abcnews.go.com/US/nyc-terror-suspect-charged-supporting-isis/story?id=50855307
November 01, 2017
Trump Says He'd 'Certainly Consider' Sending New York City Attacker To Guantanamo Bay
Yahoo! News
President Donald Trump on Wednesday said he would consider sending Sayfullo Saipov, the suspect in Tuesday’s terrorist attack in New York City, to the notorious U.S. military detention facility in Guantanamo Bay.
“I would certainly consider that, yes,” Trump said in response to a question from Major Garrett of CBS. “Send him to Gitmo.” Trump also urged “quick justice” and “strong justice” for Saipov, calling him “this animal.”
Read more...https://www.yahoo.com/news/trump-says-apos-certainly-consider-164057535.html
November 01, 2017
Press Conference After Deadly Driver Kills 8 in Manhatten
Source: New York Mayor's Office
The Associated Press reported: "A man in a rented pickup truck drove onto a busy bicycle path near the World Trade Center memorial Tuesday, killing at least eight people and injuring several others in what the mayor called “a particularly cowardly act of terror.”"
The Ponder has acquired the read out and video of the press conference from the New York Mayor's office that came after the attack.
Read more...http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/11/press-conference-after-deadly-driver.html
November 01, 2017
Rep. Maloney on Suspected Terror Attack in Lower Manhattan
Source: Carolyn Maloney (D-NY, 12th)
“Today's terrorist attack was a preplanned barbaric act of violence against innocent civilians that deserves the condemnation of every citizen of every nation. Yet even in the face of such savagery, I know that our city is too strong, too resilient, to let terrorists dictate how we live. We intend to carry on with the same vigor and determination that lights up our city every day, even in the darkest of times.
Read more...http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/11/rep-maloney-on-suspected-terror-attack.html
November 01, 2017
The Diversity Lottery
The Ponder News
Washington, D.C. - November 1, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today released the following statement on the revelation that the man who committed yesterday's terrorist attack in New York City came to the U.S. through the notoriously flawed diversity visa lottery program:
Read more...http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/11/the-diversity-lottery.html
https://www.thepondernews.com/terrorist-in-new-york
November 02, 2017
American Legion National Commander issues condolences to New York City terrorist victims
The Ponder News
"Today's senseless attack upon innocent civilians is just another reminder of why The American Legion is fully committed to defeating terrorism," Rohan said. "We have always maintained that it will be a long protracted struggle but we must support our men and women in the military and in law enforcement. The first responders again performed admirably and we are grateful to the brave officers who stopped the attack. We pray for the victims and their families."
Read more...http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/11/american-legion-national-commander.html
November 02, 2017
CONGRESSMAN POE ON NEW YORK TERRORIST ATTACK
The Ponder News
Yesterday, as Americans went about their daily lives in New York City, a radicalized coward tore down a busy bike route driving a rented flatbed truck, plowing down all those in his path. The noise of bikes crunching and the cries of the injured rang out. The terrorist rushed forward, ramming directly into a school bus, injuring children inside. He fled the scene, sending bystanders into a panicked frenzy until peace officers apprehended the radical Islamic terrorist. Just blocks from the World Trade center, 8 individuals lay dead and at least 13 more were injured.
Read more...http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/11/congressman-poe-on-new-york-terrorist.html
November 02, 2017
CONGRESSMAN DUNCAN'S STATEMENT ON THE TERRORIST ATTACK IN NEW YORK
The Ponder News
President Trump has stated that his administration is in the process of terminating the Diversity Visa Lottery program, and is asking Congress to work to get rid of this program. I support the President’s decision and action to end the Diversity Visa Lottery program.
Read more...
http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/11/congressman-duncans-statement-on.html
November 02, 2017
Congresswoman Tenney Statement on New York City Terror Attack
The Ponder News
“Our hearts break for the victims of today’s horrific terror attack in New York City that killed eight and injured eleven. We are grateful to the NYPD and our first responders, our front line of defense here at home, for their swift action. As New Yorkers and as Americans we stand united against the threat of terrorism.”
Read more...http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/11/congresswoman-tenney-statement-on-new.html
November 02, 2017
Wilson Statement On Tuesday Terrorist Attack In New York City
The Ponder News
"This afternoon’s terrorist attack in New York City was as cowardly as it was senseless. This is another reminder that we must win the Global War on Terrorism overseas to stop terrorists from threatening American families here at home. The people of New York City have faced challenges like this before, and their strength and unity always inspire us. Roxanne and I will keep the victims – including those who have lost their lives and those who are injured – in our prayers."
Read more...http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/11/wilson-statement-on-tuesday-terrorist.html
November 01, 2017
Feinstein: President Must Not Sow Division
The Ponder News
“In the wake of a national tragedy, the president has an obligation to bring the country together, not sow division. It’s deeply troubling that the president’s response to a terrorist attack appears to be driven by this morning’s commentary on Fox & Friends...
Read more...http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/11/feinstein-president-must-not-sow.html
November 01, 2017
Senator Graham Statement On NYC Terror Suspect
The Ponder News
U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) issued this statement on potentially holding the suspect in the New York City terror attack, Sayfullo Habibullaevic Saipov, as an enemy combatant for intelligence gathering purposes.
Read more...http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/11/senator-graham-statement-on-nyc-terror.html
November 01, 2017
STATEMENT BY SASC CHAIRMAN JOHN McCAIN ON TERRORIST ATTACK IN NEW YORK CITY
The Ponder News
“The terrorist attack in New York is the latest brutal, horrific example of the war that radical Islamist extremists are waging against our nation and our way of life. From Orlando to San Bernardino and Boston to Manhattan, we must not consider these attacks on our homeland in isolation, but rather recognize them for what they are: acts of war. As such, the New York terror suspect should be held and interrogated—thoroughly, responsibly, and humanely—as an enemy combatant consistent with the Law of Armed Conflict. He should not be read Miranda Rights, as enemy combatants are not entitled to them. As soon as possible, the administration should notify Congress how it plans to proceed with the interrogation and trial of this suspect...
Read more...http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/11/statement-by-sasc-chairman-john-mccain.html
November 01, 2017
NYC terror suspect charged with supporting ISIS
ABC News
The man accused of plowing into people on a lower Manhattan bike path Tuesday had apparently been planning the attack for a number of weeks, police officials said today.
"He did this in the name of ISIS, and along with the other items recovered at the scene was some notes that further indicate that," John Miller, deputy commissioner of intelligence and counterterrorism of the NYPD, said this morning of the attack that killed eight. "He appears to have followed almost exactly to a 'T' the instructions that ISIS has put out in its social media channels before with instructions to their followers on how to carry out such an attack."
Read more...http://abcnews.go.com/US/nyc-terror-suspect-charged-supporting-isis/story?id=50855307
November 01, 2017
Trump Says He'd 'Certainly Consider' Sending New York City Attacker To Guantanamo Bay
Yahoo! News
President Donald Trump on Wednesday said he would consider sending Sayfullo Saipov, the suspect in Tuesday’s terrorist attack in New York City, to the notorious U.S. military detention facility in Guantanamo Bay.
“I would certainly consider that, yes,” Trump said in response to a question from Major Garrett of CBS. “Send him to Gitmo.” Trump also urged “quick justice” and “strong justice” for Saipov, calling him “this animal.”
Read more...https://www.yahoo.com/news/trump-says-apos-certainly-consider-164057535.html
November 01, 2017
Press Conference After Deadly Driver Kills 8 in Manhatten
Source: New York Mayor's Office
The Associated Press reported: "A man in a rented pickup truck drove onto a busy bicycle path near the World Trade Center memorial Tuesday, killing at least eight people and injuring several others in what the mayor called “a particularly cowardly act of terror.”"
The Ponder has acquired the read out and video of the press conference from the New York Mayor's office that came after the attack.
Read more...http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/11/press-conference-after-deadly-driver.html
November 01, 2017
Rep. Maloney on Suspected Terror Attack in Lower Manhattan
Source: Carolyn Maloney (D-NY, 12th)
“Today's terrorist attack was a preplanned barbaric act of violence against innocent civilians that deserves the condemnation of every citizen of every nation. Yet even in the face of such savagery, I know that our city is too strong, too resilient, to let terrorists dictate how we live. We intend to carry on with the same vigor and determination that lights up our city every day, even in the darkest of times.
Read more...http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/11/rep-maloney-on-suspected-terror-attack.html
November 01, 2017
The Diversity Lottery
The Ponder News
Washington, D.C. - November 1, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today released the following statement on the revelation that the man who committed yesterday's terrorist attack in New York City came to the U.S. through the notoriously flawed diversity visa lottery program:
Read more...http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/11/the-diversity-lottery.html
American Legion National Commander issues condolences to New York City terrorist victims
Source: The American Legion
Indianapolis, IN - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- American Legion National Commander Denise H. Rohan issued the following statement regarding today's truck attack in New York City.
"Today's senseless attack upon innocent civilians is just another reminder of why The American Legion is fully committed to defeating terrorism," Rohan said. "We have always maintained that it will be a long protracted struggle but we must support our men and women in the military and in law enforcement. The first responders again performed admirably and we are grateful to the brave officers who stopped the attack. We pray for the victims and their families."
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
Indianapolis, IN - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- American Legion National Commander Denise H. Rohan issued the following statement regarding today's truck attack in New York City.
"Today's senseless attack upon innocent civilians is just another reminder of why The American Legion is fully committed to defeating terrorism," Rohan said. "We have always maintained that it will be a long protracted struggle but we must support our men and women in the military and in law enforcement. The first responders again performed admirably and we are grateful to the brave officers who stopped the attack. We pray for the victims and their families."
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
CONGRESSMAN POE ON NEW YORK TERRORIST ATTACK
Source: Ted Poe (R-TX, 2nd)
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- "Yesterday, as Americans went about their daily lives in New York City, a radicalized coward tore down a busy bike route driving a rented flatbed truck, plowing down all those in his path. The noise of bikes crunching and the cries of the injured rang out. The terrorist rushed forward, ramming directly into a school bus, injuring children inside. He fled the scene, sending bystanders into a panicked frenzy until peace officers apprehended the radical Islamic terrorist. Just blocks from the World Trade center, 8 individuals lay dead and at least 13 more were injured.
We must not allow terror to strike fear on American soil. Our full resources must be directed to destroy terrorism. Today, terrorists use social media to recruit, fundraise, spread propaganda and domestically radicalize future supporters. It comes as no surprise that the dastardly terrorist who carried out yesterday’s rampage appears to have meticulously followed attack instructions that terrorist groups like ISIS have publicized online. Meanwhile, the United States does not have a whole of government approach to combatting terrorism on the cyber battlefield. Congress mandated a strategy to do just that, due in March 2017, nearly 8 months ago. I urge this Administration to move quickly on this national security priority to prevent another attack taking innocent American lives again."
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- "Yesterday, as Americans went about their daily lives in New York City, a radicalized coward tore down a busy bike route driving a rented flatbed truck, plowing down all those in his path. The noise of bikes crunching and the cries of the injured rang out. The terrorist rushed forward, ramming directly into a school bus, injuring children inside. He fled the scene, sending bystanders into a panicked frenzy until peace officers apprehended the radical Islamic terrorist. Just blocks from the World Trade center, 8 individuals lay dead and at least 13 more were injured.
We must not allow terror to strike fear on American soil. Our full resources must be directed to destroy terrorism. Today, terrorists use social media to recruit, fundraise, spread propaganda and domestically radicalize future supporters. It comes as no surprise that the dastardly terrorist who carried out yesterday’s rampage appears to have meticulously followed attack instructions that terrorist groups like ISIS have publicized online. Meanwhile, the United States does not have a whole of government approach to combatting terrorism on the cyber battlefield. Congress mandated a strategy to do just that, due in March 2017, nearly 8 months ago. I urge this Administration to move quickly on this national security priority to prevent another attack taking innocent American lives again."
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
CONGRESSMAN DUNCAN'S STATEMENT ON THE TERRORIST ATTACK IN NEW YORK
Source: John J. Duncan, Jr. (R-TN, 2nd)
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- “The terrorist attack in New York City yesterday that killed eight innocent people and injured 12 others is a terrible tragedy.
Officials have said the suspected perpetrator came here in 2010 through the Diversity Visa Lottery program. Apparently, he was influenced by the radical Islamic terrorist organization Islamic State.
President Trump has stated that his administration is in the process of terminating the Diversity Visa Lottery program, and is asking Congress to work to get rid of this program. I support the President’s decision and action to end the Diversity Visa Lottery program.
We have allowed far too many people into this Country, and we have to do a much better job screening those whom we let in.
The American people are some of the kindest, most sympathetic people in the world. We have allowed many millions to immigrate here over the last 50 years. No other country has even come close to allowing as many people to immigrate as has the U.S.
Unfortunately, many immigrants are not assimilating when they come here. We need to slow down much of this immigration and strictly enforce our laws. We especially have to be more careful when allowing immigration from Muslim majority countries.
Our entire infrastructure- our schools, hospitals, roads, jails, sewers, our overall economy- could not handle the rapid, massive influx of people we would have over the next few years if we simply opened our borders. We must have a legal, orderly system of immigration and it must be enforced.”
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- “The terrorist attack in New York City yesterday that killed eight innocent people and injured 12 others is a terrible tragedy.
Officials have said the suspected perpetrator came here in 2010 through the Diversity Visa Lottery program. Apparently, he was influenced by the radical Islamic terrorist organization Islamic State.
President Trump has stated that his administration is in the process of terminating the Diversity Visa Lottery program, and is asking Congress to work to get rid of this program. I support the President’s decision and action to end the Diversity Visa Lottery program.
We have allowed far too many people into this Country, and we have to do a much better job screening those whom we let in.
The American people are some of the kindest, most sympathetic people in the world. We have allowed many millions to immigrate here over the last 50 years. No other country has even come close to allowing as many people to immigrate as has the U.S.
Unfortunately, many immigrants are not assimilating when they come here. We need to slow down much of this immigration and strictly enforce our laws. We especially have to be more careful when allowing immigration from Muslim majority countries.
Our entire infrastructure- our schools, hospitals, roads, jails, sewers, our overall economy- could not handle the rapid, massive influx of people we would have over the next few years if we simply opened our borders. We must have a legal, orderly system of immigration and it must be enforced.”
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
Congresswoman Tenney Statement on New York City Terror Attack
Source: Claudia Tenney (R NY, 22nd)
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Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-22) released the following statement after the tragic terror attack on New York City:
“Our hearts break for the victims of today’s horrific terror attack in New York City that killed eight and injured eleven. We are grateful to the NYPD and our first responders, our front line of defense here at home, for their swift action. As New Yorkers and as Americans we stand united against the threat of terrorism.”
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
=====
Active Advantage: Run here for savings
=====
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-22) released the following statement after the tragic terror attack on New York City:
“Our hearts break for the victims of today’s horrific terror attack in New York City that killed eight and injured eleven. We are grateful to the NYPD and our first responders, our front line of defense here at home, for their swift action. As New Yorkers and as Americans we stand united against the threat of terrorism.”
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
Wilson Statement On Tuesday Terrorist Attack In New York City
Source: Joe Wilson (R-SC, 2nd)
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02) released the following statement in response to the Tuesday afternoon terrorist attack in New York City:
"This afternoon’s terrorist attack in New York City was as cowardly as it was senseless. This is another reminder that we must win the Global War on Terrorism overseas to stop terrorists from threatening American families here at home. The people of New York City have faced challenges like this before, and their strength and unity always inspire us. Roxanne and I will keep the victims – including those who have lost their lives and those who are injured – in our prayers."
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
Washington, D.C. - November 2, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02) released the following statement in response to the Tuesday afternoon terrorist attack in New York City:
"This afternoon’s terrorist attack in New York City was as cowardly as it was senseless. This is another reminder that we must win the Global War on Terrorism overseas to stop terrorists from threatening American families here at home. The people of New York City have faced challenges like this before, and their strength and unity always inspire us. Roxanne and I will keep the victims – including those who have lost their lives and those who are injured – in our prayers."
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
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