Source: Free Press
Washington, D.C. - October 24, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Sens. Amy Klobuchar, John McCain and Mark Warner introduced the “Honest Ads Act.” The bill is Congress’ first effort since last year’s election to introduce some transparency and accountability in the massive online political-advertising market on platforms like Facebook, Google and Twitter.
The bill requires online platforms with a monthly average of at least 50 million unique monthly visitors to maintain a searchable record of ads “made by or on behalf of a candidate” and of those communicating a “message relating to any political matter of national importance.”
The bill also includes penalties for noncompliance and requires the platforms to take reasonable measures to reject political ads purchased by foreign nationals. The legislation would strengthen prohibitions in current law against foreign nationals’ involvement in U.S. elections.
Free Press Action Fund Policy Counsel Gaurav Laroia made the following statement:
“This bill represents a necessary first step toward ensuring there are adequate protections against the abuse of social media and other online platforms to shape the news and information we consume and influence the choices we make in a democracy.
“We can’t understand what we can’t see. As online advertising grows, the public must be able to know who is paying to influence our elections. The bill represents the tip of a very large iceberg as new media gatekeepers like Facebook, Google and Twitter come under much-needed scrutiny for their role in our economy and our society. This bipartisan effort to better understand and disclose the forces seeking to influence our elections is a good place to start.”
The Unpopular Truth
Showing posts with label First Amendment. Show all posts
Showing posts with label First Amendment. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 24, 2017
Wednesday, October 18, 2017
Congressman Yoho Statement on Richard Spencer and Antifa
Washington, D.C. - October 18, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Ted S. Yoho (R-FL) released the following statement on the upcoming visit of Richard Spencer to the University of Florida and the group Antifa who will be protesting the event.
"Richard Spencer, president of a hate group misleadingly named the National Policy Institute, is coming to Gainesville, FL to speak about his support of ethnic nationalism, racial division and white supremacy on October 19, 2017. Antifa, a so-called “anti-fascist” group comprised of radical Marxists and anarchists, is calling on its supporters to come and protest Richard Spencer, advocating violence and chaos in the process.
"In our constitutional republic, both sides have a right-and what I feel is a privilege-to espouse their views as guaranteed by the First Amendment to the Constitution. The First Amendment gives individuals the right of free speech, peaceful assembly and protest to promote one's views. People must be serious about exercising these rights respectfully. You cannot have freedom without responsibility.
"Hate groups and groups that promote violence and anarchy have no place in our society. They simply have a self-serving agenda and feed off mob-like participation and divisiveness.
"When Richard Spencer comes to Gainesville, I want to ask that all people of differing viewpoints take responsibility for themselves and the groups they have invited to attend the event. It is estimated that this event will cost the University of Florida hundreds of thousands of dollars and Alachua County will have to mobilize hundreds of law enforcement officers, EMT's, firefighters and paramedics at a cost not yet determined but paid for by the taxpayers of the county.
"While these groups exercise their right of free speech and to peaceably assemble, I hope they will have respect for each other's rights to express their own points of view, and that all will agree to disagree peacefully. Let's hope they keep in mind the many first responders that are taking time away from their families and at great cost to Alachua County taxpayers for the protection of all parties. Let's hope these groups take responsibility for their members and that there is no violent behavior. However, if people do engage in violence, I will press state and federal prosecutors to bring charges against malefactors to the fullest extent permitted by law.
"As for me, I refuse to be anywhere near this event because Richard Spencer and Antifa’s viewpoints are both morally repugnant. I choose not to offer either of them an audience. Please join me."
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"Richard Spencer, president of a hate group misleadingly named the National Policy Institute, is coming to Gainesville, FL to speak about his support of ethnic nationalism, racial division and white supremacy on October 19, 2017. Antifa, a so-called “anti-fascist” group comprised of radical Marxists and anarchists, is calling on its supporters to come and protest Richard Spencer, advocating violence and chaos in the process.
"In our constitutional republic, both sides have a right-and what I feel is a privilege-to espouse their views as guaranteed by the First Amendment to the Constitution. The First Amendment gives individuals the right of free speech, peaceful assembly and protest to promote one's views. People must be serious about exercising these rights respectfully. You cannot have freedom without responsibility.
"Hate groups and groups that promote violence and anarchy have no place in our society. They simply have a self-serving agenda and feed off mob-like participation and divisiveness.
"When Richard Spencer comes to Gainesville, I want to ask that all people of differing viewpoints take responsibility for themselves and the groups they have invited to attend the event. It is estimated that this event will cost the University of Florida hundreds of thousands of dollars and Alachua County will have to mobilize hundreds of law enforcement officers, EMT's, firefighters and paramedics at a cost not yet determined but paid for by the taxpayers of the county.
"While these groups exercise their right of free speech and to peaceably assemble, I hope they will have respect for each other's rights to express their own points of view, and that all will agree to disagree peacefully. Let's hope they keep in mind the many first responders that are taking time away from their families and at great cost to Alachua County taxpayers for the protection of all parties. Let's hope these groups take responsibility for their members and that there is no violent behavior. However, if people do engage in violence, I will press state and federal prosecutors to bring charges against malefactors to the fullest extent permitted by law.
"As for me, I refuse to be anywhere near this event because Richard Spencer and Antifa’s viewpoints are both morally repugnant. I choose not to offer either of them an audience. Please join me."
====Special Offer====
Custom Bobbleheads
Wednesday, September 27, 2017
Read about the New Tax Reform and More at The Ponder Today!
Access all the links by going to http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/09/read-about-new-tax-reform-and-more-at.html
New FAIR Study: Illegal Immigration Costs $116 Billion Annually
Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR US)
Illegal immigration to the U.S. costs federal, state and local taxpayers a staggering net cost of $116 billion a year – an increase of some $16 billion compared to previous estimates – according to a new study released by the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR). The study is the most comprehensive to date on the cost to federal, state and local taxpayers of the nation’s 12.5 million illegal immigrants and their 4.2 million citizen children.
Read More...
'Team Internet' Mobilizing Thousands of Net Neutrality Activists to Meet with Lawmakers Across the Country
Free Press
In late July, on the heels of the Day of Action to Save Net Neutrality, the advocacy groups Demand Progress, Free Press Action Fund and Fight for the Future announced the launch of Team Internet. Using a distributed-organizing model — which connects volunteers face to face and empowers them to lead organizing efforts in their communities — Team Internet has mobilized tens of thousands of local activists in just two months.
Read More...
GOA Celebrates Roy Moore Primary Victory
Gun Owners of America
Moore, who is endorsed by GOA, will be a stalwart defender of the Second Amendment, if he wins the general election. “I thank all Alabama gun owners and activists who turned out to vote for Moore,” Tim Macy, chairman of GOA, said. “I look forward to rallying their support one more time in December to solidify Moore’s Senate seat.”
Read more...
Response to the Introduction of the SUCCEED Act in the U.S. Senate
Hispanic Leadership Fund
Hispanic Leadership Fund President Mario H. Lopez issued the following statement in response to the introduction of the SUCCEED Act in the U.S. Senate, a bill that if enacted into law, would establish an earned path to legal status for undocumented immigrants who were brought to the United States as children if they serve in the military, graduate from college, or work.
Read more...
EVENT
Conaway, Peterson Announce Farm Bill Listening Session in New York
House Committee on Agriculture
House Agriculture Committee Chairman K. Michael Conaway (TX-11) and Ranking Member Collin Peterson (MN-7) announced a committee listening session, “The Next Farm Bill, Conversations in the Field” in Cobleskill, New York on Monday, Oct. 9, 2017. The listening session is a continuation of the committee’s efforts to gather input from farmers, ranchers and stakeholders ahead of the upcoming farm bill. Upon announcement, the chairman and ranking member made the following remarks:
Read more...
Members Review Proposals to Modernize Federal Fisheries Management
House Committee on Natural Resources
The Subcommittee on Water, Power and Oceans held a legislative hearing on a series of bills aimed at improving federal fisheries management for commercial and recreational fisherman.
Read more...
Tribal Recognition Act of 2017
House Committee on Natural Resources
The bill establishes a statutory process within the Department of the Interior (DOI) for examining evidence submitted by groups seeking recognition and codifies the Constitutional authority of tribal recognition as solely vested with the legislative branch.
Read more...
Personal Use of Government Aircraft Investigated
House Committee on Oversight and Governmental Reform
House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Trey Gowdy (R-SC) and Ranking Member Elijah Cummings (D-MD) sent letters to the White House and 24 federal agencies requesting information related to senior officials’ use of government-owned aircraft or private non-commercial aircraft for official and personal travel.
Read more...
Chairman Chabot Responds to Unified Plan to Fix Broken Tax Code
House Committee on Small Business
“Today, we took a positive step toward fixing our broken tax code and helping provide relief to the tens of millions of small businesses across our country who continue to be held back by a broken system. Small businesses deserved a voice in the largest tax reform in 31 years and today they were heard. This unified plan will provide small business owners, their families, and their employees with a simpler and fairer tax code that will help their bottom lines, and also grow our economy,” said Chairman Chabot.
Read more...
EVENT
TAX REFORM SPEECHES THIS THURSDAY: Chairman Brady to Discuss Republicans’ Unified Tax Reform Framework
House Committee on Ways and Means
On Thursday, September 28, House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX) will deliver two speeches to discuss how Republicans’ unified tax reform framework will create more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks.
Read more...
NFL Players Have No First Amendment Right to Protest
Liberty Counsel
We have heard many people claim that the athletes have a First Amendment right to kneel in protest of the National Anthem and injustice, but this is not accurate. In order for the First Amendment to apply to any situation, there must be a government actor on one side and a private person, group or organization on the other side. In the NFL context, there is no government actor and thus, there is no First Amendment concern
Read more...
Congratulations to Judge Roy Moore on Your Victory!
MAGA Coalition
MAGA Coalition Chief Strategist, Dr Sebastian Gorka, remarked that “Tonight’s victory for Judge Moore is a victory for President Trump and the MAGA Agenda we all voted for in November,” Gorka said, “The Establishment- both on Left AND Right – betrayed the sacred oath they made with the American people. It is time for change. Time to dismantle the D.C. Establishment. Judge Moore will be a frontline fighter for Donald Trump as we drain the Swamp together. Now let us together MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
Read more...
NACo statement on the administration’s and Congress’ joint tax reform proposal
National Association of Counties
We are pleased to see the preservation of tax-exempt municipal bonds, a key financing tool counties and states leverage to build roads, schools, hospitals and other public facilities. However, we have major concerns with the proposal to eliminate federal deductibility of state and local taxes, or SALT.
Read more...
Millions of Middle-Income Homeowners Stand to Lose Under “Big 6” Tax Proposal
National Association of Realtors
A group of legislators and administration leaders known as the “Big 6” today released an outline for comprehensive tax reform that if enacted, according to the National Association of Realtors®, could lead to a tax on homeownership for millions.
Read more...
Cattlemen “Very Pleased” That Tax-Reform Blueprint Includes Death Tax Repeal, Will Fight to Maintain Existing Positive Provisions in Tax Code
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association
Our Nation’s cattle producers are very pleased that President Trump and Republican leaders in Congress have maintained their long-standing commitment to American agriculture by including a full repeal of the onerous death tax in the Unified Framework for Fixing Our Broken Tax Code. We look forward to working with the Administration and lawmakers on Capitol Hill as pen meets paper on tax legislation, and will continue to demonstrate how the death tax and its associated costs adversely affect family-owned operations and the rural communities they support.
Read more...
Small Business Encouraged by Tax Reform Framework
National Federation of Independent Business
“This is the beginning of a long process, and we look forward to more details. NFIB will remain engaged to ensure that tax reform starts with small business. Small businesses need meaningful reform that lowers their tax bill, allows them to invest in their business, create jobs, and grow the economy.”
Read more...
Revive CHIP; Stabilize the Health Insurance Market
National Governor’s Association
Following the Senate’s decision yesterday to move on from a broad health care reform bill, the National Governors Association (NGA) today released the following statement on the need to reauthorize the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and stabilize the nation’s health insurance markets:
Read more...
America’s Cities to Congress: NO to Eliminating Key Deductions that Support Cities and Families
National League of Cities
“America’s cities agree that our tax code is overly-complicated and in need of reform. We are glad to see Congress and the administration willing to streamline the tax system and lower tax rates, but this reform effort cannot eliminate the critical tools that enable cities to strengthen communities, make infrastructure investments and keep residents safe.
Read more...
Sen. Sanders, Lt. Gov. Newsom Stress Need for Single Payer Bills
National Nurses United
In a convention highlighted by Sen. Bernie Sanders and California Lt. Governor Gavin Newsom promoting single payer legislation federally and in California, some 500 California Nurses Association/National Nurses Organizing Committee delegates unanimously reaffirmed their commitment to work to implement an improved and expanded Medicare for all Saturday.
Read more...
National Right to Life Urges Passage of Bill to Protect Pain-Capable Unborn Children
National Right to Life Committee
“This legislation has saved lives at a state level and would save thousands of unborn babies annually from terribly painful deaths,” said Jennifer Popik, J.D., National Right to Life legislative director. “Now is the time to say that these babies need to be protected across the country.”
Read more...
Alaskan Bus Driver Asks NLRB to Reconsider ‘Successor Bar’ That Blocks Removal of Unwanted Union
National Right to Work Legal Defense Foundation
With free legal assistance from National Right to Work Legal Defense Foundation staff attorneys, an Alaskan worker has asked the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to review a case in which she and her co-workers were denied the right to vote to remove a union claiming to represent them, despite the fact that a majority of the employees in the bargaining unit signed a petition to remove the union as their representative.
Read more...
Passing a Budget is Key to the Success of Tax Reform
National Taxpayers Union
Given the opposition from most Senate Democrats to the tax reform plan, the only realistic way that it can be passed into law is through budget reconciliation that prevents a Senate filibuster.
Read more...
National Urban League President Responds to President Trump's Criticism of National Anthem Protests
National Urban League
"Rather than disparaging Colin Kaepernick and other athletes in vulgar terms, President Trump should be addressing the systemic racism and police brutality that inspire their protests. Kapernick and others are part of a long American tradition of sports as a force for social change, including Jackie Robinson, Muhammad Ali, Tommie Smith and John Carlos, and Billie Jean King. Standing up - or kneeling down - for our ideals is the most patriotic of acts. We support the right of all athletes to free speech, and urge the President to pay more attention to the reason for their concerns rather than the manner in which they express them."
Read more...
New FAIR Study: Illegal Immigration Costs $116 Billion Annually
Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR US)
Illegal immigration to the U.S. costs federal, state and local taxpayers a staggering net cost of $116 billion a year – an increase of some $16 billion compared to previous estimates – according to a new study released by the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR). The study is the most comprehensive to date on the cost to federal, state and local taxpayers of the nation’s 12.5 million illegal immigrants and their 4.2 million citizen children.
Read More...
'Team Internet' Mobilizing Thousands of Net Neutrality Activists to Meet with Lawmakers Across the Country
Free Press
In late July, on the heels of the Day of Action to Save Net Neutrality, the advocacy groups Demand Progress, Free Press Action Fund and Fight for the Future announced the launch of Team Internet. Using a distributed-organizing model — which connects volunteers face to face and empowers them to lead organizing efforts in their communities — Team Internet has mobilized tens of thousands of local activists in just two months.
Read More...
GOA Celebrates Roy Moore Primary Victory
Gun Owners of America
Moore, who is endorsed by GOA, will be a stalwart defender of the Second Amendment, if he wins the general election. “I thank all Alabama gun owners and activists who turned out to vote for Moore,” Tim Macy, chairman of GOA, said. “I look forward to rallying their support one more time in December to solidify Moore’s Senate seat.”
Read more...
Response to the Introduction of the SUCCEED Act in the U.S. Senate
Hispanic Leadership Fund
Hispanic Leadership Fund President Mario H. Lopez issued the following statement in response to the introduction of the SUCCEED Act in the U.S. Senate, a bill that if enacted into law, would establish an earned path to legal status for undocumented immigrants who were brought to the United States as children if they serve in the military, graduate from college, or work.
Read more...
EVENT
Conaway, Peterson Announce Farm Bill Listening Session in New York
House Committee on Agriculture
House Agriculture Committee Chairman K. Michael Conaway (TX-11) and Ranking Member Collin Peterson (MN-7) announced a committee listening session, “The Next Farm Bill, Conversations in the Field” in Cobleskill, New York on Monday, Oct. 9, 2017. The listening session is a continuation of the committee’s efforts to gather input from farmers, ranchers and stakeholders ahead of the upcoming farm bill. Upon announcement, the chairman and ranking member made the following remarks:
Read more...
Members Review Proposals to Modernize Federal Fisheries Management
House Committee on Natural Resources
The Subcommittee on Water, Power and Oceans held a legislative hearing on a series of bills aimed at improving federal fisheries management for commercial and recreational fisherman.
Read more...
Tribal Recognition Act of 2017
House Committee on Natural Resources
The bill establishes a statutory process within the Department of the Interior (DOI) for examining evidence submitted by groups seeking recognition and codifies the Constitutional authority of tribal recognition as solely vested with the legislative branch.
Read more...
Personal Use of Government Aircraft Investigated
House Committee on Oversight and Governmental Reform
House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Trey Gowdy (R-SC) and Ranking Member Elijah Cummings (D-MD) sent letters to the White House and 24 federal agencies requesting information related to senior officials’ use of government-owned aircraft or private non-commercial aircraft for official and personal travel.
Read more...
Chairman Chabot Responds to Unified Plan to Fix Broken Tax Code
House Committee on Small Business
“Today, we took a positive step toward fixing our broken tax code and helping provide relief to the tens of millions of small businesses across our country who continue to be held back by a broken system. Small businesses deserved a voice in the largest tax reform in 31 years and today they were heard. This unified plan will provide small business owners, their families, and their employees with a simpler and fairer tax code that will help their bottom lines, and also grow our economy,” said Chairman Chabot.
Read more...
EVENT
TAX REFORM SPEECHES THIS THURSDAY: Chairman Brady to Discuss Republicans’ Unified Tax Reform Framework
House Committee on Ways and Means
On Thursday, September 28, House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX) will deliver two speeches to discuss how Republicans’ unified tax reform framework will create more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks.
Read more...
NFL Players Have No First Amendment Right to Protest
Liberty Counsel
We have heard many people claim that the athletes have a First Amendment right to kneel in protest of the National Anthem and injustice, but this is not accurate. In order for the First Amendment to apply to any situation, there must be a government actor on one side and a private person, group or organization on the other side. In the NFL context, there is no government actor and thus, there is no First Amendment concern
Read more...
Congratulations to Judge Roy Moore on Your Victory!
MAGA Coalition
MAGA Coalition Chief Strategist, Dr Sebastian Gorka, remarked that “Tonight’s victory for Judge Moore is a victory for President Trump and the MAGA Agenda we all voted for in November,” Gorka said, “The Establishment- both on Left AND Right – betrayed the sacred oath they made with the American people. It is time for change. Time to dismantle the D.C. Establishment. Judge Moore will be a frontline fighter for Donald Trump as we drain the Swamp together. Now let us together MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
Read more...
NACo statement on the administration’s and Congress’ joint tax reform proposal
National Association of Counties
We are pleased to see the preservation of tax-exempt municipal bonds, a key financing tool counties and states leverage to build roads, schools, hospitals and other public facilities. However, we have major concerns with the proposal to eliminate federal deductibility of state and local taxes, or SALT.
Read more...
Millions of Middle-Income Homeowners Stand to Lose Under “Big 6” Tax Proposal
National Association of Realtors
A group of legislators and administration leaders known as the “Big 6” today released an outline for comprehensive tax reform that if enacted, according to the National Association of Realtors®, could lead to a tax on homeownership for millions.
Read more...
Cattlemen “Very Pleased” That Tax-Reform Blueprint Includes Death Tax Repeal, Will Fight to Maintain Existing Positive Provisions in Tax Code
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association
Our Nation’s cattle producers are very pleased that President Trump and Republican leaders in Congress have maintained their long-standing commitment to American agriculture by including a full repeal of the onerous death tax in the Unified Framework for Fixing Our Broken Tax Code. We look forward to working with the Administration and lawmakers on Capitol Hill as pen meets paper on tax legislation, and will continue to demonstrate how the death tax and its associated costs adversely affect family-owned operations and the rural communities they support.
Read more...
Small Business Encouraged by Tax Reform Framework
National Federation of Independent Business
“This is the beginning of a long process, and we look forward to more details. NFIB will remain engaged to ensure that tax reform starts with small business. Small businesses need meaningful reform that lowers their tax bill, allows them to invest in their business, create jobs, and grow the economy.”
Read more...
Revive CHIP; Stabilize the Health Insurance Market
National Governor’s Association
Following the Senate’s decision yesterday to move on from a broad health care reform bill, the National Governors Association (NGA) today released the following statement on the need to reauthorize the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and stabilize the nation’s health insurance markets:
Read more...
America’s Cities to Congress: NO to Eliminating Key Deductions that Support Cities and Families
National League of Cities
“America’s cities agree that our tax code is overly-complicated and in need of reform. We are glad to see Congress and the administration willing to streamline the tax system and lower tax rates, but this reform effort cannot eliminate the critical tools that enable cities to strengthen communities, make infrastructure investments and keep residents safe.
Read more...
Sen. Sanders, Lt. Gov. Newsom Stress Need for Single Payer Bills
National Nurses United
In a convention highlighted by Sen. Bernie Sanders and California Lt. Governor Gavin Newsom promoting single payer legislation federally and in California, some 500 California Nurses Association/National Nurses Organizing Committee delegates unanimously reaffirmed their commitment to work to implement an improved and expanded Medicare for all Saturday.
Read more...
National Right to Life Urges Passage of Bill to Protect Pain-Capable Unborn Children
National Right to Life Committee
“This legislation has saved lives at a state level and would save thousands of unborn babies annually from terribly painful deaths,” said Jennifer Popik, J.D., National Right to Life legislative director. “Now is the time to say that these babies need to be protected across the country.”
Read more...
Alaskan Bus Driver Asks NLRB to Reconsider ‘Successor Bar’ That Blocks Removal of Unwanted Union
National Right to Work Legal Defense Foundation
With free legal assistance from National Right to Work Legal Defense Foundation staff attorneys, an Alaskan worker has asked the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to review a case in which she and her co-workers were denied the right to vote to remove a union claiming to represent them, despite the fact that a majority of the employees in the bargaining unit signed a petition to remove the union as their representative.
Read more...
Passing a Budget is Key to the Success of Tax Reform
National Taxpayers Union
Given the opposition from most Senate Democrats to the tax reform plan, the only realistic way that it can be passed into law is through budget reconciliation that prevents a Senate filibuster.
Read more...
National Urban League President Responds to President Trump's Criticism of National Anthem Protests
National Urban League
"Rather than disparaging Colin Kaepernick and other athletes in vulgar terms, President Trump should be addressing the systemic racism and police brutality that inspire their protests. Kapernick and others are part of a long American tradition of sports as a force for social change, including Jackie Robinson, Muhammad Ali, Tommie Smith and John Carlos, and Billie Jean King. Standing up - or kneeling down - for our ideals is the most patriotic of acts. We support the right of all athletes to free speech, and urge the President to pay more attention to the reason for their concerns rather than the manner in which they express them."
Read more...
Friday, September 8, 2017
Life Legal Files Joint Amicus Brief with SCOTUS in Masterpiece Cakeshop Case
Source: Life Legal Defense Foundation
Washington, D.C. - September 8, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Life Legal has collaborated with the Bioethics Defense Fund in an amicus brief filed with the Supreme Court yesterday in Masterpiece Cakeshop Ltd. v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission. The brief was written on behalf of the American College of Pediatricians and other pro-life health professionals.
As you may be aware, the Masterpiece case involves a baker who was asked to create a cake for the wedding of a same-sex couple. The baker, Jack Phillips, said he could not use his artistic talents to give approval to a marriage that violated his religious beliefs. In response, the Colorado Civil Rights Commission said Phillips' religious beliefs were illegal and prohibited him from designing any wedding cakes, which resulted in the loss of 40% of his business. The Commission imposed draconian reporting requirements on Phillips, forcing him to provide a detailed account of the reasons for any orders he declines.
So why would Life Legal, a pro-life law firm, file a Supreme Court brief in support of a baker?
If the State of Colorado can destroy Phillips' business because he chooses not to use his skills to create a product that expresses the state's sentiment on a controversial issue, what is to stop a state from forcing any professional to violate his or her deeply held belief in furtherance of the state's viewpoint?
Our concern is that the Masterpiece Cakeshop case is "likely to have rapid and lasting impact on the rights of medical professionals to practice their professions consistently with their consciences and the teachings of their faiths on issues of life and death—or indeed to practice their professions at all."
"Masterpiece Cakeshop has enormous implications for the First Amendment rights of everyone in the workplace, especially those whose deeply held beliefs require them to opt out of certain practices," said Life Legal Defense Foundation Executive Director Alexandra Snyder. "We have seen increasing pressure on health care professionals, in particular, to perform or facilitate abortions or risk losing their livelihoods. Life Legal trusts that the Supreme Court will adhere to precedent in guarding First Amendment freedoms, including protections against laws compelling speech and activities that violate religious and conscience objections."
Click here to read the brief
Life Legal Defense Foundation was established in 1989, and is a nonprofit organization composed of attorneys and other concerned citizens committed to giving helpless and innocent human beings of any age, and their advocates, a trained and committed voice in the courtrooms of our nation.
Washington, D.C. - September 8, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Life Legal has collaborated with the Bioethics Defense Fund in an amicus brief filed with the Supreme Court yesterday in Masterpiece Cakeshop Ltd. v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission. The brief was written on behalf of the American College of Pediatricians and other pro-life health professionals.
As you may be aware, the Masterpiece case involves a baker who was asked to create a cake for the wedding of a same-sex couple. The baker, Jack Phillips, said he could not use his artistic talents to give approval to a marriage that violated his religious beliefs. In response, the Colorado Civil Rights Commission said Phillips' religious beliefs were illegal and prohibited him from designing any wedding cakes, which resulted in the loss of 40% of his business. The Commission imposed draconian reporting requirements on Phillips, forcing him to provide a detailed account of the reasons for any orders he declines.
So why would Life Legal, a pro-life law firm, file a Supreme Court brief in support of a baker?
If the State of Colorado can destroy Phillips' business because he chooses not to use his skills to create a product that expresses the state's sentiment on a controversial issue, what is to stop a state from forcing any professional to violate his or her deeply held belief in furtherance of the state's viewpoint?
Our concern is that the Masterpiece Cakeshop case is "likely to have rapid and lasting impact on the rights of medical professionals to practice their professions consistently with their consciences and the teachings of their faiths on issues of life and death—or indeed to practice their professions at all."
"Masterpiece Cakeshop has enormous implications for the First Amendment rights of everyone in the workplace, especially those whose deeply held beliefs require them to opt out of certain practices," said Life Legal Defense Foundation Executive Director Alexandra Snyder. "We have seen increasing pressure on health care professionals, in particular, to perform or facilitate abortions or risk losing their livelihoods. Life Legal trusts that the Supreme Court will adhere to precedent in guarding First Amendment freedoms, including protections against laws compelling speech and activities that violate religious and conscience objections."
Click here to read the brief
Life Legal Defense Foundation was established in 1989, and is a nonprofit organization composed of attorneys and other concerned citizens committed to giving helpless and innocent human beings of any age, and their advocates, a trained and committed voice in the courtrooms of our nation.
Thursday, August 17, 2017
More Opinion from House Members on Charlottesville
House Representative Vicky Hartzler (R-MO, 4th) made a heartfelt statement about the violence in Charlottesville, saying, “Over the past few days America has witnessed the disturbing events in Charlottesville and the racism and violence that continues to inflict harm on our nation. It breaks my heart that today's young generation is still having to witness this unAmerican way to settle disagreements. Racism is not acceptable in our society in any form and should not be tolerated. It is one thing to have disagreements on the validity of historical monuments but violence is not the answer. It cannot be tolerated. This is not representative of America or the values that we hold dear.”
I appreciate how she refused to name either side as sole culprit. Of course, not everyone had the same view. House Representative Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL, 20th) shot back, "Today’s comments by President Trump were completely appalling. What took place in in Charlottesville was an act of domestic terrorism, not a two-sided affair." I'd like to ask Mr. Hastings if he was there at the rally, or did he speak to anyone at the rally to make this assumption. Just because there where White Nationalists present did not mean that there weren't black bigots taunting and instigating them, throwing feces, urine and spraying pepper spray.
"The President has lost all moral authority to lead this nation," he continues. It takes a lot of morals to look at both sides of an issue before deciding which bandwagon to jump on. "By continuing to stand with white supremacists promoting the abhorrent, anti-democratic ideology of inequality, injustice, and fascism, President Trump is fueling the fires of hate." Nowhere did Trump say he stood with white supremacists. What he said was that the violence was the responsibility of BOTH sides, and BOTH sides need to be held accountable (not in those exact words). "This is completely outrageous, and every single elected representative to Congress, regardless of party, must hold him to account." Go ahead, and when you do, make sure you bring the unedited version of the Youtube video in which Trump speaks to the press about Charlottesville.
House Representative Brian Higgins (D-NY, 26th) made his viewss known by saying, “Over the past several months, a regular barrage of words and actions coming from those entrusted to lead have demonstrated disrespect for women, refugees, transgender service members and others based on race. We are witnessing a dangerous and dismissive attitude toward some people as less accepted and less valued than others. This display of intolerance is hurtful to individuals and the noble principles that genuinely make our nation great.
“I am proud to call Buffalo -- the ‘City of Good Neighbors’ -- my home. As a country and as humans we could all benefit from being more neighborly. Each of us face our own struggles but they are better overcome when we are united rather than divided. Each of us bring our own strengths as individuals but we are wise to recognize we are significantly stronger together.
“Genuine leadership doesn’t embolden hate; instead, it should promote kindness and understanding. These exhausting distractions tear us apart, preventing us from working together and making real progress. We need less confrontation and more collaboration, fewer outbursts and more outcomes, and less heat and more light.”
Promoting kindness and understanding does not mean shutting out the voices of those who are different from us. It means being willing to listen to what they have to say, even if you don't like them, and finding a way to accommodate that won't hurt either side of the issue, and may even help both. THAT, Mr. Higgins, is what TRUE leadership does. Demonizing someone who thinks differently than you do doesn't do anything to help the relationship. The next step after demonization is extermination, and if you would look at history and learn from it, you will see the truth in what I have just said. But, I digress, most of those who think like you are for getting rid of any reminders of that history.
House Representative French Hill (R-AR, 2nd) condemned what happened by saying, ""During World War II, my father-in-law helped to liberate Buchenwald concentration camp. He bore witness to Nazi terror – a terror that started with an ideology of hate and superiority based upon race and creed. He and so many other Americans and Allies fought against that ideology, which was an affront to American values and continues to have no place in our civil society. I reject, in the strongest terms possible, the speech of hate and bigotry of white supremacists and others. It's repugnant and un-American. I condemn acts of domestic terror as the tools of cowards. Let's pray for civil discourse in our country, and my thoughts are with the community, those hurt, and those grieving over loss and injury."
My granddaddy was one of 300 soldiers who rode in a ship to Normandy. He fought for freedom so everyone, including his wife (who he encouraged to get her high school diploma, so she could better help with the war effort at home), could have the opportunity to better themselves and the world around them. When it came time to come home, there were only 73 men from the same ship who survived. He fought the war every day of his life since then. I would not be here today if he hadn't survived -- and I will not let his sacrifice be in vain by picking and choosing who has rights regardless of race, creed, religion, color or nationality, and that includes those who wish to preserve their heritage...even if I don't agree with their views. The First Amendment was not written for popular opinion holders.
House Representative Jim Himes (D-CT, 4th), who obviously has no idea what the President said, retorted, "White supremacy in any form has no place in our society, our politics or our civil discourse. It takes surpassing ignorance, total moral bankruptcy and a pathetic sense of entitlement to have marched with the KKK and neo-Nazis in Charlottesville. Period, full stop, and I am shocked I need to say so, much less to the President of the United States.
"I condemn the violence in Charlottesville and the hateful ideology behind the late night march and the daytime rally, and I stand aghast with the rest of the nation and leaders in both parties at the President's equivocation on this fundamental principle of decency. The President betrays the ideals and legacy of the country he leads - a country which paid with the lives of millions of its people to defeat white supremacy and Nazism."
While I agree with Himes about the characterization of those who marched with the KKK, I would like to extend that same characterization to the BLM group who decided that the KKK didn't have First Amendment rights and disrupting their Freedom of Assembly, which is also a First Amendment right. As far as what he said about the President, the President did not betray anything. He is not going to condemn one without condemning the other, and he is working to make those guilty of breaking the peace accountable on BOTH sides.
I appreciate how she refused to name either side as sole culprit. Of course, not everyone had the same view. House Representative Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL, 20th) shot back, "Today’s comments by President Trump were completely appalling. What took place in in Charlottesville was an act of domestic terrorism, not a two-sided affair." I'd like to ask Mr. Hastings if he was there at the rally, or did he speak to anyone at the rally to make this assumption. Just because there where White Nationalists present did not mean that there weren't black bigots taunting and instigating them, throwing feces, urine and spraying pepper spray.
"The President has lost all moral authority to lead this nation," he continues. It takes a lot of morals to look at both sides of an issue before deciding which bandwagon to jump on. "By continuing to stand with white supremacists promoting the abhorrent, anti-democratic ideology of inequality, injustice, and fascism, President Trump is fueling the fires of hate." Nowhere did Trump say he stood with white supremacists. What he said was that the violence was the responsibility of BOTH sides, and BOTH sides need to be held accountable (not in those exact words). "This is completely outrageous, and every single elected representative to Congress, regardless of party, must hold him to account." Go ahead, and when you do, make sure you bring the unedited version of the Youtube video in which Trump speaks to the press about Charlottesville.
House Representative Brian Higgins (D-NY, 26th) made his viewss known by saying, “Over the past several months, a regular barrage of words and actions coming from those entrusted to lead have demonstrated disrespect for women, refugees, transgender service members and others based on race. We are witnessing a dangerous and dismissive attitude toward some people as less accepted and less valued than others. This display of intolerance is hurtful to individuals and the noble principles that genuinely make our nation great.
“I am proud to call Buffalo -- the ‘City of Good Neighbors’ -- my home. As a country and as humans we could all benefit from being more neighborly. Each of us face our own struggles but they are better overcome when we are united rather than divided. Each of us bring our own strengths as individuals but we are wise to recognize we are significantly stronger together.
“Genuine leadership doesn’t embolden hate; instead, it should promote kindness and understanding. These exhausting distractions tear us apart, preventing us from working together and making real progress. We need less confrontation and more collaboration, fewer outbursts and more outcomes, and less heat and more light.”
Promoting kindness and understanding does not mean shutting out the voices of those who are different from us. It means being willing to listen to what they have to say, even if you don't like them, and finding a way to accommodate that won't hurt either side of the issue, and may even help both. THAT, Mr. Higgins, is what TRUE leadership does. Demonizing someone who thinks differently than you do doesn't do anything to help the relationship. The next step after demonization is extermination, and if you would look at history and learn from it, you will see the truth in what I have just said. But, I digress, most of those who think like you are for getting rid of any reminders of that history.
House Representative French Hill (R-AR, 2nd) condemned what happened by saying, ""During World War II, my father-in-law helped to liberate Buchenwald concentration camp. He bore witness to Nazi terror – a terror that started with an ideology of hate and superiority based upon race and creed. He and so many other Americans and Allies fought against that ideology, which was an affront to American values and continues to have no place in our civil society. I reject, in the strongest terms possible, the speech of hate and bigotry of white supremacists and others. It's repugnant and un-American. I condemn acts of domestic terror as the tools of cowards. Let's pray for civil discourse in our country, and my thoughts are with the community, those hurt, and those grieving over loss and injury."
My granddaddy was one of 300 soldiers who rode in a ship to Normandy. He fought for freedom so everyone, including his wife (who he encouraged to get her high school diploma, so she could better help with the war effort at home), could have the opportunity to better themselves and the world around them. When it came time to come home, there were only 73 men from the same ship who survived. He fought the war every day of his life since then. I would not be here today if he hadn't survived -- and I will not let his sacrifice be in vain by picking and choosing who has rights regardless of race, creed, religion, color or nationality, and that includes those who wish to preserve their heritage...even if I don't agree with their views. The First Amendment was not written for popular opinion holders.
House Representative Jim Himes (D-CT, 4th), who obviously has no idea what the President said, retorted, "White supremacy in any form has no place in our society, our politics or our civil discourse. It takes surpassing ignorance, total moral bankruptcy and a pathetic sense of entitlement to have marched with the KKK and neo-Nazis in Charlottesville. Period, full stop, and I am shocked I need to say so, much less to the President of the United States.
"I condemn the violence in Charlottesville and the hateful ideology behind the late night march and the daytime rally, and I stand aghast with the rest of the nation and leaders in both parties at the President's equivocation on this fundamental principle of decency. The President betrays the ideals and legacy of the country he leads - a country which paid with the lives of millions of its people to defeat white supremacy and Nazism."
While I agree with Himes about the characterization of those who marched with the KKK, I would like to extend that same characterization to the BLM group who decided that the KKK didn't have First Amendment rights and disrupting their Freedom of Assembly, which is also a First Amendment right. As far as what he said about the President, the President did not betray anything. He is not going to condemn one without condemning the other, and he is working to make those guilty of breaking the peace accountable on BOTH sides.
Policinski: It takes great effort, restraint to defend First Amendment
Greeley Tribune
History tells us of the rise at various times in our nation of groups preaching hate and bigotry and violence, using their rights of speech, press and assembly to inflame rather than inform, incite rather than inspire and indoctrinate rather than educate. Nativists, the Ku Klux Klan, neo-Nazis and others at various times have used fear, prejudice and ignorance to flourish and gain public accommodation or support — sometimes for decades — before crawling back under the social rocks from whence they came.
It's tempting to believe if only such domestic terrorists were silenced by government, their views would dissipate; that "out of sight" truly would mean "out of mind." But such censoring, suppressing and silencing is a betrayal of our core principles — along with being ineffective and often counterproductive.
This guy is saying what I have been saying. He gets it.
History tells us of the rise at various times in our nation of groups preaching hate and bigotry and violence, using their rights of speech, press and assembly to inflame rather than inform, incite rather than inspire and indoctrinate rather than educate. Nativists, the Ku Klux Klan, neo-Nazis and others at various times have used fear, prejudice and ignorance to flourish and gain public accommodation or support — sometimes for decades — before crawling back under the social rocks from whence they came.
It's tempting to believe if only such domestic terrorists were silenced by government, their views would dissipate; that "out of sight" truly would mean "out of mind." But such censoring, suppressing and silencing is a betrayal of our core principles — along with being ineffective and often counterproductive.
Read more...
This guy is saying what I have been saying. He gets it.
Friday, June 23, 2017
Senate Healthcare Bill, First Amendment, Wounded Warriors, Behavioral Health, Event Alert
AARP Calls on Senate to Reject Health Bill
AARP
June 22, 2017
AARP Executive Vice President Nancy LeaMond released the following statement in response to the Senate bill which imposes an “Age Tax” on older adults—increasing health insurance premiums and reducing tax credits, makes cuts to both Medicare and Medicaid funding, and yet gives billions of dollars in tax breaks to drug and insurance companies. AARP calls on every Senator to vote ‘NO’ on this harmful bill.
Read more...
Federal union leader says Senate health care bill ‘shameful’
American Federation for Government Employees
June 22, 2017
"The Senate's bill follows the same failed approach as the House-passed bill. It would deny health care coverage to millions of Americans in order to lavish huge tax cuts on corporations and the wealthiest 1 percent.
Read more...
The Senate’s Better Care Reconciliation Act is Irredeemable, would eliminate 12 Percent of CDC’s Budget for Fiscal Year 2018
Trust for America’s Health
June 22, 2017
If the Better Care Reconciliation Act becomes law, tens of millions will lose insurance. A critical part of what they’ll lose is access to the care they need to prevent or manage chronic conditions in a life- and cost-saving way. More than 80 percent of the $3 trillion dollars we spend every year on healthcare goes to individuals with one or more chronic conditions—with better preventive care and well managed chronic disease clinical services we can reduce costs and improve health outcomes.
Read more...
Court Expresses Concerns About First Amendment Violations Before Dismissing Appeal
First Liberty Institute
June 22, 2017
Writing for the majority Judge Moritz stated, “We assume that the defendants violated Sause’s rights under the First Amendment when, according to Sause, they repeatedly mocked her, ordered her to stop praying so they could harass her, threatened her with arrest and public humiliation, insisted that she show them the scars from her double mastectomy, and then ‘appeared…disgusted’ when she complied – all over a mere noise complaint.”
Read more...
Army Veteran Finds Light In His Recovery With Wounded Warrior Project
Wounded Warrior Project
June 22, 2017
"I realized there is light inside me," Joey said. "That light is my wife, my kids, and the Holy Spirit. I can achieve recovery with them by my side and with the tools I learned at the workshop. I'll do it for me and to show my brothers and sisters it's possible."
Read more...
Sovereign Health: Protesters and Shaken up Employees Stand Up for Behavioral Health Patients
Sovereign Health
June 22, 2017
Tuesday’s protest follows the incident on Tuesday June 13, in which armed federal, state and local officials searched the offices of Sovereign Health’s Culver City, Palm Desert and San Clemente facilities. What the authorities termed a “raid” was actually an unnecessary and brutal disruption to doing what the company does best – providing specialized care for patients with behavioral and mental health issues.
Read more...
EVENT ALERT: 60 Talk Radio Hosts Converging on Capitol Hill, June 28 and 29 to Evaluate Trump's Progress on Immigration and Urge Congress to Act
The Ponder News
June 22, 2017
On June 28 and 29, more than 60 talk radio hosts from around the country will converge on Washington, D.C., for the 11th annual – and largest ever – Hold Their Feet to the Fire radio row event. Their intent is to make sure the President delivers on his immigration promises and that Congress acts. Sponsored by the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR), the event features two days of live, continuous broadcasting with talk hosts debating and interviewing dozens of members of Congress, administration officials, policy experts, law enforcement professionals, and people whose lives have been forever changed by our failed and dangerous immigration policies.
What: Hold Their Feet to the Fire Radio Row
When: Wednesday June 28 and Thursday June 29, 6 am to 9 pm
Where: Phoenix Park Hotel 520 North Capitol Street, NW, Washington D.C.
Contact FAIRUS.org for more information
AARP
June 22, 2017
AARP Executive Vice President Nancy LeaMond released the following statement in response to the Senate bill which imposes an “Age Tax” on older adults—increasing health insurance premiums and reducing tax credits, makes cuts to both Medicare and Medicaid funding, and yet gives billions of dollars in tax breaks to drug and insurance companies. AARP calls on every Senator to vote ‘NO’ on this harmful bill.
Read more...
Federal union leader says Senate health care bill ‘shameful’
American Federation for Government Employees
June 22, 2017
"The Senate's bill follows the same failed approach as the House-passed bill. It would deny health care coverage to millions of Americans in order to lavish huge tax cuts on corporations and the wealthiest 1 percent.
Read more...
The Senate’s Better Care Reconciliation Act is Irredeemable, would eliminate 12 Percent of CDC’s Budget for Fiscal Year 2018
Trust for America’s Health
June 22, 2017
If the Better Care Reconciliation Act becomes law, tens of millions will lose insurance. A critical part of what they’ll lose is access to the care they need to prevent or manage chronic conditions in a life- and cost-saving way. More than 80 percent of the $3 trillion dollars we spend every year on healthcare goes to individuals with one or more chronic conditions—with better preventive care and well managed chronic disease clinical services we can reduce costs and improve health outcomes.
Read more...
Court Expresses Concerns About First Amendment Violations Before Dismissing Appeal
First Liberty Institute
June 22, 2017
Writing for the majority Judge Moritz stated, “We assume that the defendants violated Sause’s rights under the First Amendment when, according to Sause, they repeatedly mocked her, ordered her to stop praying so they could harass her, threatened her with arrest and public humiliation, insisted that she show them the scars from her double mastectomy, and then ‘appeared…disgusted’ when she complied – all over a mere noise complaint.”
Read more...
Army Veteran Finds Light In His Recovery With Wounded Warrior Project
Wounded Warrior Project
June 22, 2017
"I realized there is light inside me," Joey said. "That light is my wife, my kids, and the Holy Spirit. I can achieve recovery with them by my side and with the tools I learned at the workshop. I'll do it for me and to show my brothers and sisters it's possible."
Read more...
Sovereign Health: Protesters and Shaken up Employees Stand Up for Behavioral Health Patients
Sovereign Health
June 22, 2017
Tuesday’s protest follows the incident on Tuesday June 13, in which armed federal, state and local officials searched the offices of Sovereign Health’s Culver City, Palm Desert and San Clemente facilities. What the authorities termed a “raid” was actually an unnecessary and brutal disruption to doing what the company does best – providing specialized care for patients with behavioral and mental health issues.
Read more...
EVENT ALERT: 60 Talk Radio Hosts Converging on Capitol Hill, June 28 and 29 to Evaluate Trump's Progress on Immigration and Urge Congress to Act
The Ponder News
June 22, 2017
On June 28 and 29, more than 60 talk radio hosts from around the country will converge on Washington, D.C., for the 11th annual – and largest ever – Hold Their Feet to the Fire radio row event. Their intent is to make sure the President delivers on his immigration promises and that Congress acts. Sponsored by the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR), the event features two days of live, continuous broadcasting with talk hosts debating and interviewing dozens of members of Congress, administration officials, policy experts, law enforcement professionals, and people whose lives have been forever changed by our failed and dangerous immigration policies.
What: Hold Their Feet to the Fire Radio Row
When: Wednesday June 28 and Thursday June 29, 6 am to 9 pm
Where: Phoenix Park Hotel 520 North Capitol Street, NW, Washington D.C.
Contact FAIRUS.org for more information
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