"Royal March"
This Blog is created to stress the importance of Peace as an environmental directive. “I never give them hell. I just tell the truth and they think it’s hell.” – Harry Truman (I receive no compensation from any entry on this blog.)
Sunday, December 16, 2018
"Marcha Real"
"Royal March"
Gloria, gloria, corona de la Patria, soberana luz que es oro en tu Pendón. Vida, vida, futuro de la Patria, que en tus ojos es abierto corazón...! Púrpura y oro: bandera inmortal; en tus colores, juntas, carne y alma están. Púrpura y oro: querer y lograr; Tú eres, bandera, el signo del humano afán. Gloria, gloria, corona de la Patria, soberana luz que es oro en tu Pendón. Púrpura y oro: bandera inmortal; en tus colores, juntas, carne y alma están.
Glory, glory, crown of the Fatherland sovereign light which in your standard is gold. Life, life, future of the Fatherland, in your eyes it is an open heart Purple and gold: immortal flag; in your colors, together, flesh and soul are. Purple and gold: to want and to achieve; You are, flag, the sign of human effort. Glory, glory, crown of the Fatherland sovereign light which in your standard is gold. Purple and gold: immortal flag; in your colors, together, flesh and soul are.
¡Pide, España! ¡Tu nombre llevaremos donde quieras tú; que honrarlo es nuestra ley! ¡Manda, España, y unidos lucharemos, porque vivas tú, sin tregua pueblo y rey! Una bandera gloriosa nos das; ¡nadie, viviendo, España, nos la arrancará! Para que, un día, nos pueda cubrir, ¡danos, España, el gozo de morir por ti!
It asks, Spain! Your name take anywhere you; that honor is our law! Manda, Spain, and united fight, because you live, relentlessly people and king! Give us a glorious flag; Nobody, he lives, Spain, us start! For that, one day, we can cover, Give us, Spain, the joy of dying for you!
¡Viva España! Del grito de la Patria, la explosión triunfal abrió camino al sol; ¡Viva España! repiten veinte pueblos y al hablar dan fe del ánimo español... ¡Marquen arado martillo y clarín su noble ritmo al grito de la Patria fe! ¡Guíe la mente a la mano hasta el fin, al "Viva España" asista toda España en pie!
Long live Spain! The cry of the Fatherland, the triumphant explosion He opened the way to the sun; Long live Spain! repeated twenty peoples and speaking attest the Spanish mind ... Mark plow hammer and bugle his noble rhythm at the cry of the Fatherland faith! Lead mind to hand to the end, the "Long Live Spain" Spain attends all standing!
"Royal March"
Saturday, December 15, 2018
This judicial activism is a real problem for the GOP for lots of reasons.
December 14, 2018
By Matthew Pedis
Republicans (click here) have controlled the legislative and executive branches of the Federal government for nearly two years. The mid-term election gave control of the house to the Democrats, but one goal the Republicans have had is to repeal the affordable care act.
By Matthew Pedis
Republicans (click here) have controlled the legislative and executive branches of the Federal government for nearly two years. The mid-term election gave control of the house to the Democrats, but one goal the Republicans have had is to repeal the affordable care act.
So what kind of shape is the affordable care act in right now? Funding’s been cut for navigators to help people get insurance, so what does that mean for people signing up? And what kind of coverage can they get from the plans on offer?
90.7’s Brendan Byrne joins WUSF’s Julio Ochoa, the editor of Health News Florida, Cynthia Cox with the Kaiser Family Foundation and Anne Packham, a healthcare navigator in Orlando to wade through some of the complexity of the Affordable Care Act as the open enrollment period comes to an end....
This issue spans the legislative branch of the USA government in a way that creates an illusion of legislative dependency within the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
The issues surrounding anti-American Congress really begins with the wayward approach to power by the GOP, instead of governance. The GOP obtains and holds power through corrupt measures such as gerrymandering, the ill conceived Electoral College and Citizen's United. Included in the corruptible and corruption paradigm are institutions masked by political non-profit status such as the Federalist Society and it's judges. If a system is corrupt and acts against the best interest of it's democracy because of a shadow government supported by wealth it is the duty of the citizenry to move against such a shadow government and return it's democracy in full strength.
In the case of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act the actions by the GOP has been to focus on the Robert's Court Decision AND FIND THE WORDS that will dismantle the very heart of a democracy, the health of it's' people. Is health a national security issue and indeed it is. The place to look for health as a national security issue is the "Selective Service Classifications."
To begin, this is the Director of the Selective Service Commission:
Senator Don Benton (click here) was appointed by President Donald J. Trump to be the 13th Director of the U.S. Selective Service System on April 11, 2017. He was sworn in by Justice Samuel Alito at the Supreme Court on April 13, 2017.
Prior to his appointment as Director of the Selective Service System, President Trump named Benton as a Senior White House Advisor to lead the transition team at the Environmental Protection Agency.
Benton is the son of a WWII Retired Naval Officer and the brother of two Vietnam combat veterans. Following high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army under the Guaranteed Enlistment Program, later receiving an Honorable Discharge.
Benton brings over 30 years of public service experience to Selective Service. He was a Washington state senator for 20 years. He was elected Chairman of the Washington State Republican Party. Benton served in the state House of Representatives for two years.
Don Benton and his wife of 36 years, Mary, have four children....
But, the Director is the least of the statement regarding health as seen by the primary National Security instrument, the USA Military.
Classification (click here) is the process of determining who is available for military service and who is deferred or exempted. Classifications are based on each individual registrant's circumstances and beliefs. A classification program would go into effect when Congress and the President decide to resume a draft. Then, men who are qualified for induction would have the opportunity to file a claim for exemptions, deferments, and postponements from military service.
The highest ranking for military service is A-1 when it comes to fitness. If there is an understanding as to what "Available for military service," means, then there is an understanding as to what is not available for military service.
1-A - Available for military service.
1-AM - Medical specialist available for military service
1-A-OM - Medical specialist conscientious objector available for noncombatant military service.
1-OM - Medical specialist conscientious objector available for civilian work contributing to the national health, safety or interest.
2-AM - Medical specialist deferred because of critical community need involving patient care.
2-M - Registrant deferred for medical study.
4-F - Registrant not qualified for military service.
4-FM - Medical specialist not qualified for military service.
In everyone of those classifications the word medical appears except for 1-A and 4-F. I propose those two classifications are the polar opposite in definition and hence the clear understanding that there are fit and unfit Americans for military service. The USA military cannot be compromised by unfit Americans or volunteer immigrants looking for American citizenship, because, that would create a grossly inferior defense force. The USA military always had a very ready and competent military.
But, to return to the idea that health is important as a national security directive, these classifications dictate the fitness of the military measured through mental and physical health. If the USA is to continue to have a ready and competent military that means the wellness of it's citizens is a part of that competency. If there is not a pool of men and women ready and willing to be a part of an all volunteer force, the USA is about to lose it's competency in the very basic idea of national defense.
So, to simply state the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is unconstitutional is nonsense. It is such nonsense that it is Un-American and directly traceable back to such organizations and CHOICE judges of the Federalist Society.
Judge O'Connor is an interesting study in point. He is a home grown Texan with less exposure to high society and the Federalist, but, just the same has decided to make a name for himself by being the MOST "Anti-Obama" and "Anti-Civil Rights," and "Anti-Immigrant" and "Pro-White Man" Judge in the USA.
Federal Judge Reed O'Connor (click here) receives a helping hand from Dobie Principal Franklin Moses while installing his plaque on the wall of the Dobie Hall of Honor during ceremonies on Friday nigh
He made it his business to weigh in on everything Obama that the political right wing was running on. He ruled against the Obama rules of Title IX, issued an injunction against rule 1557 of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, he ruled that the Indian Child Welfare Act was unconstitutional and of course he ruled that the entire Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is unconstitutional.
Judge O'Conner of Texas is so corrupt he has teamed up with the Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in a hate campaign of LGBT rights.
March 27, 2015
By John Wright
This issue spans the legislative branch of the USA government in a way that creates an illusion of legislative dependency within the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
The issues surrounding anti-American Congress really begins with the wayward approach to power by the GOP, instead of governance. The GOP obtains and holds power through corrupt measures such as gerrymandering, the ill conceived Electoral College and Citizen's United. Included in the corruptible and corruption paradigm are institutions masked by political non-profit status such as the Federalist Society and it's judges. If a system is corrupt and acts against the best interest of it's democracy because of a shadow government supported by wealth it is the duty of the citizenry to move against such a shadow government and return it's democracy in full strength.
In the case of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act the actions by the GOP has been to focus on the Robert's Court Decision AND FIND THE WORDS that will dismantle the very heart of a democracy, the health of it's' people. Is health a national security issue and indeed it is. The place to look for health as a national security issue is the "Selective Service Classifications."
To begin, this is the Director of the Selective Service Commission:
Senator Don Benton (click here) was appointed by President Donald J. Trump to be the 13th Director of the U.S. Selective Service System on April 11, 2017. He was sworn in by Justice Samuel Alito at the Supreme Court on April 13, 2017.
Prior to his appointment as Director of the Selective Service System, President Trump named Benton as a Senior White House Advisor to lead the transition team at the Environmental Protection Agency.
Benton is the son of a WWII Retired Naval Officer and the brother of two Vietnam combat veterans. Following high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army under the Guaranteed Enlistment Program, later receiving an Honorable Discharge.
Benton brings over 30 years of public service experience to Selective Service. He was a Washington state senator for 20 years. He was elected Chairman of the Washington State Republican Party. Benton served in the state House of Representatives for two years.
Don Benton and his wife of 36 years, Mary, have four children....
But, the Director is the least of the statement regarding health as seen by the primary National Security instrument, the USA Military.
Classification (click here) is the process of determining who is available for military service and who is deferred or exempted. Classifications are based on each individual registrant's circumstances and beliefs. A classification program would go into effect when Congress and the President decide to resume a draft. Then, men who are qualified for induction would have the opportunity to file a claim for exemptions, deferments, and postponements from military service.
The highest ranking for military service is A-1 when it comes to fitness. If there is an understanding as to what "Available for military service," means, then there is an understanding as to what is not available for military service.
1-A - Available for military service.
1-AM - Medical specialist available for military service
1-A-OM - Medical specialist conscientious objector available for noncombatant military service.
1-OM - Medical specialist conscientious objector available for civilian work contributing to the national health, safety or interest.
2-AM - Medical specialist deferred because of critical community need involving patient care.
2-M - Registrant deferred for medical study.
4-F - Registrant not qualified for military service.
4-FM - Medical specialist not qualified for military service.
In everyone of those classifications the word medical appears except for 1-A and 4-F. I propose those two classifications are the polar opposite in definition and hence the clear understanding that there are fit and unfit Americans for military service. The USA military cannot be compromised by unfit Americans or volunteer immigrants looking for American citizenship, because, that would create a grossly inferior defense force. The USA military always had a very ready and competent military.
But, to return to the idea that health is important as a national security directive, these classifications dictate the fitness of the military measured through mental and physical health. If the USA is to continue to have a ready and competent military that means the wellness of it's citizens is a part of that competency. If there is not a pool of men and women ready and willing to be a part of an all volunteer force, the USA is about to lose it's competency in the very basic idea of national defense.
So, to simply state the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is unconstitutional is nonsense. It is such nonsense that it is Un-American and directly traceable back to such organizations and CHOICE judges of the Federalist Society.
Judge O'Connor is an interesting study in point. He is a home grown Texan with less exposure to high society and the Federalist, but, just the same has decided to make a name for himself by being the MOST "Anti-Obama" and "Anti-Civil Rights," and "Anti-Immigrant" and "Pro-White Man" Judge in the USA.
He made it his business to weigh in on everything Obama that the political right wing was running on. He ruled against the Obama rules of Title IX, issued an injunction against rule 1557 of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, he ruled that the Indian Child Welfare Act was unconstitutional and of course he ruled that the entire Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is unconstitutional.
Judge O'Conner of Texas is so corrupt he has teamed up with the Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in a hate campaign of LGBT rights.
March 27, 2015
By John Wright
...On Thursday, Paxton (click here) — a "tea partier" who admitted to securities fraud last year — won a small, temporary victory in his ongoing war against LGBT people.
U.S. District Judge Reed O’Connor, a President George W. Bush appointee, issued an order blocking the new FMLA rule from taking effect as scheduled on Friday in Texas and three other states that joined Paxton's lawsuit — Arkansas, Louisiana and Nebraska....
So, with the reputation of Judge Reed O'Connor well established as byzantine and surreptitious it is easy to see why the law passed in 2010 under the Obama Administration has come under attack once again.
Now as a point of focus mostly unrelated to my point regarding the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, if there is any state in the United States of America that needs a refreshing of it's two party system it is Texas. The state is not different in many ways as other southeastern states in that the corruption of it's laws is so dense it sticks out like a sore thumb. Beto O'Rourke sincerely tried to return reason to Texas (click here), but, that stubborn oil money simply swept him away in the closing weeks of the US Senate race. I think Trump takes credit for it, but, in reality Trump was there for the petroleum industry, hence, Ted Cruz.
When looking at Judge Reed O'Connor it is easy to realize that judicial decisions he makes in the US District Court (click here) are corrupt. There is no doubt to that and it is based in party loyalty to keep those that contribute to the GOP understanding that no matter how corrupt a court has to be, it will be to ensure the outcome the cronies expect. North Carolina is mired in such junky judges. For a case to be properly decided coming out of North Carolina the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals is the only way to achieve fairness.
So, to get back to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act being under assault, one has to realize why it is under assault and it is because the Robert's Court made a big deal of the Individual Mandate as a tax that is legal and can be upheld to support the law. Now, let's look at that. It might have been a big deal to the GOP, but, in reality of the law it is not. The reversal of the tax of the Individual Mandate caused a drop in enrollment and for that insurance cronies of the GOP should be running the other way, but, as it being the sole element that completely destroys the law is nonsense. It is nothing but political noise even within the context of the Robert's Court. It is interesting a Federalist Judge would focus on the tax as legitimate. The wealthy simply hate taxes, including the current President.
To really understand the "idea" of taxing, let's first look at the wording of the USA Constitution Article I, Section 8, Powers of Congress. To make all Laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying into Execution the foregoing Powers, and all other Powers vested by this Constitution in the Government of the United States, or in any Department or Officer thereof. Article i, Section 8 clearly states the power to legislate lies with the Congress and not the other two branches of government. There are checks and balances to the legislature by the Executive Branch and the Courts, but, the primary driver of American law is Congress. They are the do all and end all for the will of the people and why Scott Walker's Lame Duck rant won't stand. The meaning of LEGISLATIVE BRANCH is strongly defined.
Now, to look at the article of the US Constitution that prohibits taxation. It is definitely one of the more interesting sections of the USA Constitution.
Article 1, Section 9
The Migration or Importation of such Persons as any of the States now existing shall think proper to admit, shall not be prohibited by the Congress prior to the Year one thousand eight hundred and eight, but a tax or duty may be imposed on such Importation, not exceeding ten dollars for each Person.
The country derived income from such things as tariffs to support any federal authority, but, that changed when the Sixteenth Amendment to the USA Constitution was ratified into law in 1913. It took three years and seven months to ratify the 16th Amendment, but, it was ratified according to constitutional statute and today the federal government is supported differently.
Now as a point of focus mostly unrelated to my point regarding the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, if there is any state in the United States of America that needs a refreshing of it's two party system it is Texas. The state is not different in many ways as other southeastern states in that the corruption of it's laws is so dense it sticks out like a sore thumb. Beto O'Rourke sincerely tried to return reason to Texas (click here), but, that stubborn oil money simply swept him away in the closing weeks of the US Senate race. I think Trump takes credit for it, but, in reality Trump was there for the petroleum industry, hence, Ted Cruz.
When looking at Judge Reed O'Connor it is easy to realize that judicial decisions he makes in the US District Court (click here) are corrupt. There is no doubt to that and it is based in party loyalty to keep those that contribute to the GOP understanding that no matter how corrupt a court has to be, it will be to ensure the outcome the cronies expect. North Carolina is mired in such junky judges. For a case to be properly decided coming out of North Carolina the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals is the only way to achieve fairness.
So, to get back to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act being under assault, one has to realize why it is under assault and it is because the Robert's Court made a big deal of the Individual Mandate as a tax that is legal and can be upheld to support the law. Now, let's look at that. It might have been a big deal to the GOP, but, in reality of the law it is not. The reversal of the tax of the Individual Mandate caused a drop in enrollment and for that insurance cronies of the GOP should be running the other way, but, as it being the sole element that completely destroys the law is nonsense. It is nothing but political noise even within the context of the Robert's Court. It is interesting a Federalist Judge would focus on the tax as legitimate. The wealthy simply hate taxes, including the current President.
To really understand the "idea" of taxing, let's first look at the wording of the USA Constitution Article I, Section 8, Powers of Congress. To make all Laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying into Execution the foregoing Powers, and all other Powers vested by this Constitution in the Government of the United States, or in any Department or Officer thereof. Article i, Section 8 clearly states the power to legislate lies with the Congress and not the other two branches of government. There are checks and balances to the legislature by the Executive Branch and the Courts, but, the primary driver of American law is Congress. They are the do all and end all for the will of the people and why Scott Walker's Lame Duck rant won't stand. The meaning of LEGISLATIVE BRANCH is strongly defined.
Now, to look at the article of the US Constitution that prohibits taxation. It is definitely one of the more interesting sections of the USA Constitution.
Article 1, Section 9
The Migration or Importation of such Persons as any of the States now existing shall think proper to admit, shall not be prohibited by the Congress prior to the Year one thousand eight hundred and eight, but a tax or duty may be imposed on such Importation, not exceeding ten dollars for each Person.
The privilege of the Writ of Habeas Corpus shall not be suspended, unless when in Cases of Rebellion or Invasion the public Safety may require it.
No Bill of Attainder or ex post facto Law shall be passed.
No capitation, or other direct, Tax shall be laid, unless in Proportion to the Census or Enumeration herein before directed to be taken.
No Tax or Duty shall be laid on Articles exported from any State.
No Preference shall be given by any Regulation of Commerce or Revenue to the Ports of one State over those of another: nor shall Vessels bound to, or from, one State, be obliged to enter, clear, or pay Duties in another.
No Money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in Consequence of Appropriations made by Law; and a regular Statement and Account of the Receipts and Expenditures of all public Money shall be published from time to time.
No Title of Nobility shall be granted by the United States: And no Person holding any Office of Profit or Trust under them, shall, without the Consent of the Congress, accept of any present, Emolument, Office, or Title, of any kind whatever, from any King, Prince or foreign State.
If Section 9 were still standing today there would be no doubt that the tax prescribed in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act would be unconstitutional. I want to point to the fact that the country was intact and flourishing under a government that did not impose an income tax. That state of affairs was intact until the year 1913. So let's get rid of the idea that law only stands if it has a tax appointed to it. The USA stood as a sovereign power while passing laws in the federal legislature without any income tax for 137 years.
The country derived income from such things as tariffs to support any federal authority, but, that changed when the Sixteenth Amendment to the USA Constitution was ratified into law in 1913. It took three years and seven months to ratify the 16th Amendment, but, it was ratified according to constitutional statute and today the federal government is supported differently.
The Congress shall have power to lay and collect taxes on incomes, from whatever source derived, without apportionment among the several states, and without regard to any census or enumeration.
That's it. That is the Sixteenth Amendment. It changes the law under Article 9 to state, The Congress shall have power to lay and collect taxes on incomes, from whatever source derived, without apportionment among the several States, and without regard to any census or enumeration. That is it. That is the verbiage the Sixteenth Amendment changed in the USA Constitution. There is absolutely no demand by the USA Constitution that every law that is passed be supported in it's constitutionality by a tax.
There are plenty of laws passed every year, except for the Ryan years, where the USA House and USA Senate do not assign taxes for it's constitutionality. I return to an important act by Congress that upholds the sovereignty of the USA in the "War Powers Act/Resolution (click here)." There is absolutely no tax assigned to this legislation which originated in the US House of Representatives, the body most responsible for the USA budget.
The idea that any legislation with extensive laws is solely upheld by an individual mandate and tax is grossly political and not at all accurate. Now, that is not to say corruption doesn't exist surround the law, obviously it does, but, the actual law is not dependent on an Individual Mandate. Amendment Sixteen definitely is an individual mandate, so the concept is not foreign to the USA Constitution.
The individual mandate was passed with the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act to allow attractiveness to the private sector insurance companies. Health Insurance in the USA is dependent on the private sector, except for Medicare and Medicaid.
The USA was in desperate need of law that provided health care insurance that protected Americans when the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act was passed.
Source: Gallup-Healthways poll (click here)
The private insurance companies were refusing coverage, causing deaths and selective of who received coverage outside that of businesses with 500 or more employees. The USA government needed to act because the care being received by Americans were either being denied or was very selective about the type of health care administered. The doctors, pharmacists and other health care professionals no longer were autonomous in administering care, they answered to the health care insurers as to how long patients stayed in hospitals and as a result newly born babies and there mothers were falling into peril.
At the time the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act was enacted the stories coming from the country regarding health care insurance were nothing short of horrific. The new health care insurance now would give the entire family health coverage instead of only children receiving care. As viewed in the graph above the new health care law was well received. The participation rate increased and for the first time in decades Americans were able to receive health coverage.
The year the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act went live with the insurance exchanges the uninsured reached an all time high of 18 percent of Americans. That was simply outrageous and nearly a fifth of the country. One in five Americans were not becoming uninsured and there was no sign of stopping. The new law was needed and to even play with it for the sake of politics is nothing short of ludicrous.
Judge, if you can call him that, Reed O'Connor is nothing more than a political hack. He takes extreme positions to win recognition for his political decisions which should lead to more and more appointments with increase in pay and permanency within a court somewhere in the southeast USA. His decision has no real meaning in the truth of the health care needs of Americans. His decision is a stepping stone and he knows it. His ROLE in all this mess that is the political right wing of the USA, if you can call it that, is to providing that stepping stone so it can make it to the Supreme Court to TEST the new five conservative justice court.
I sincerely believe Chief Justice Roberts isn't interested in the politics or the stepping stone and the health care insurance law will stand. There is nothing earth shaking about Reed O'Connor's decision (click here) that wasn't expected. The headlines in some media is flamboyant and causes hair to stand up on the necks of some Americans; this one is from the Texas Tribune; "Federal judge guts Obamacare, handing Texas an early win." An early win? What is that supposed to mean? That's politics for you. Unless on the inside of jargon gone wild, it makes no sense.
The USA was in desperate need of law that provided health care insurance that protected Americans when the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act was passed.
Source: Gallup-Healthways poll (click here)
The private insurance companies were refusing coverage, causing deaths and selective of who received coverage outside that of businesses with 500 or more employees. The USA government needed to act because the care being received by Americans were either being denied or was very selective about the type of health care administered. The doctors, pharmacists and other health care professionals no longer were autonomous in administering care, they answered to the health care insurers as to how long patients stayed in hospitals and as a result newly born babies and there mothers were falling into peril.
At the time the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act was enacted the stories coming from the country regarding health care insurance were nothing short of horrific. The new health care insurance now would give the entire family health coverage instead of only children receiving care. As viewed in the graph above the new health care law was well received. The participation rate increased and for the first time in decades Americans were able to receive health coverage.
The year the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act went live with the insurance exchanges the uninsured reached an all time high of 18 percent of Americans. That was simply outrageous and nearly a fifth of the country. One in five Americans were not becoming uninsured and there was no sign of stopping. The new law was needed and to even play with it for the sake of politics is nothing short of ludicrous.
Judge, if you can call him that, Reed O'Connor is nothing more than a political hack. He takes extreme positions to win recognition for his political decisions which should lead to more and more appointments with increase in pay and permanency within a court somewhere in the southeast USA. His decision has no real meaning in the truth of the health care needs of Americans. His decision is a stepping stone and he knows it. His ROLE in all this mess that is the political right wing of the USA, if you can call it that, is to providing that stepping stone so it can make it to the Supreme Court to TEST the new five conservative justice court.
I sincerely believe Chief Justice Roberts isn't interested in the politics or the stepping stone and the health care insurance law will stand. There is nothing earth shaking about Reed O'Connor's decision (click here) that wasn't expected. The headlines in some media is flamboyant and causes hair to stand up on the necks of some Americans; this one is from the Texas Tribune; "Federal judge guts Obamacare, handing Texas an early win." An early win? What is that supposed to mean? That's politics for you. Unless on the inside of jargon gone wild, it makes no sense.
Friday, December 14, 2018
Welcome to the USA where the wealthy protect the wealthy.
December 14, 2018
By Hank Winchester, Kelley Kosuda and Derick Hutchinson
Flint - Dr. Eden Wells (click here) will soon be on trial for involuntary manslaughter for her alleged role in the Flint water crisis. As the clock ticks down, Wells has just received a new job with the state, and taxpayers are footing the bill for her $180,000 salary.
Wells was previously appointed by Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder as the state's top medical executive. She remains in that role despite the charges, and now she's taken on a new job.
Her new position is one that was recently created. Some people believe it was created as a political move to protect Wells, who is at the center of the controversy.
Flint Mayor Karen Weaver said she can't believe Wells landed the new job.
Wells learned earlier this month that she will head to trial on charges of involuntary manslaughter and lying to a law enforcement officer....
I believe most Americans would agree with Mayor Karen Weaver.
Mayor Karen Weaver had the following to say:
“I wish at this point that I could be shocked by the actions of MDHHS and state government, but I simply cannot. There is a saying about when people show you who they are, you better believe them. Since the beginning of this crisis who they are has been made clear, I believe them,” Weaver stated.
“To create a new position, a classified position, with protections in place, one where she was the only applicant, it’s just plain insulting. I understand that you are innocent until proven guilty in this country; but I would love to see how many people are allowed to be bound over for trial on manslaughter, lying to a police officer, and obstruction, get a new position within the governmental structure, that is protected. Not only is this a defiant laugh in the face of Flint residents, but this appears to be a blatant maneuver to keep the Governor-elect from making any decisions as far keeping or removing a very controversial employee.”...
The brain trust of the GOP is wanting. I have this nightmare that realizes far too late that the GOP's idea of education isolates the majority of Americans from higher education and returns the country to a time around the American Revolutionary War when only the wealthy could afford education at any level. The difference between the time of Benjamin Franklin and now is that those educated have no moral character or the appreciation of humanity. When I see someone like Dr. Wells elevated to high office through appointment I want to be pinched to wake me up from my nightmare only to realize I am awake.
By Hank Winchester, Kelley Kosuda and Derick Hutchinson
Flint - Dr. Eden Wells (click here) will soon be on trial for involuntary manslaughter for her alleged role in the Flint water crisis. As the clock ticks down, Wells has just received a new job with the state, and taxpayers are footing the bill for her $180,000 salary.
Wells was previously appointed by Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder as the state's top medical executive. She remains in that role despite the charges, and now she's taken on a new job.
Her new position is one that was recently created. Some people believe it was created as a political move to protect Wells, who is at the center of the controversy.
Flint Mayor Karen Weaver said she can't believe Wells landed the new job.
Wells learned earlier this month that she will head to trial on charges of involuntary manslaughter and lying to a law enforcement officer....
I believe most Americans would agree with Mayor Karen Weaver.
Mayor Karen Weaver had the following to say:
“I wish at this point that I could be shocked by the actions of MDHHS and state government, but I simply cannot. There is a saying about when people show you who they are, you better believe them. Since the beginning of this crisis who they are has been made clear, I believe them,” Weaver stated.
“To create a new position, a classified position, with protections in place, one where she was the only applicant, it’s just plain insulting. I understand that you are innocent until proven guilty in this country; but I would love to see how many people are allowed to be bound over for trial on manslaughter, lying to a police officer, and obstruction, get a new position within the governmental structure, that is protected. Not only is this a defiant laugh in the face of Flint residents, but this appears to be a blatant maneuver to keep the Governor-elect from making any decisions as far keeping or removing a very controversial employee.”...
The brain trust of the GOP is wanting. I have this nightmare that realizes far too late that the GOP's idea of education isolates the majority of Americans from higher education and returns the country to a time around the American Revolutionary War when only the wealthy could afford education at any level. The difference between the time of Benjamin Franklin and now is that those educated have no moral character or the appreciation of humanity. When I see someone like Dr. Wells elevated to high office through appointment I want to be pinched to wake me up from my nightmare only to realize I am awake.
Government officials need to investigate the death and decide what occurred during eight hours.
14 December 2018
Washington — A 7-year-old girl (click here) picked up with her father and dozens of other migrants along a remote stretch of the U.S.-Mexico border suffered seizures and spiked a high fever in immigration custody and later died, federal officials said.
An autopsy was scheduled to try to determine what killed the girl, who appeared to be dehydrated and suffering from shock and apparently had not had anything to eat or drink in days, they said.
The girl was found Dec. 6 near Lordsburg, New Mexico, by U.S. Border Patrol agents. She was in custody for about eight hours before she began having seizures, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol officials said. Emergency medical technicians discovered the girl’s fever was 105.7 degrees Fahrenheit (40.9 degrees Celsius), and she was airlifted to an El Paso, Texas, hospital, where she later died.
Most American parents know such a high fever is deadly. The question is why did the fever occur if she was in custody with her family for eight hours. There should have been adequate water available when the family was found.
Often Border Patrol agents carry bottled water with them to give to the people they find along the border, it just seems odd to me that a young girl this dehydrated would not have received attention by agents that are somewhat cautious about dehydraton in most circumstances.
The results of the autopsy could take weeks, officials said.
The Guatemalan girl’s death comes as increasing numbers of children and families are making the dangerous trek north from Central America and as immigration officials are being increasingly criticized for their treatment of migrants who arrive at the U.S.-Mexico border. A review of what happened in the girl’s case will take place, federal officials said....
Washington — A 7-year-old girl (click here) picked up with her father and dozens of other migrants along a remote stretch of the U.S.-Mexico border suffered seizures and spiked a high fever in immigration custody and later died, federal officials said.
An autopsy was scheduled to try to determine what killed the girl, who appeared to be dehydrated and suffering from shock and apparently had not had anything to eat or drink in days, they said.
The girl was found Dec. 6 near Lordsburg, New Mexico, by U.S. Border Patrol agents. She was in custody for about eight hours before she began having seizures, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol officials said. Emergency medical technicians discovered the girl’s fever was 105.7 degrees Fahrenheit (40.9 degrees Celsius), and she was airlifted to an El Paso, Texas, hospital, where she later died.
Most American parents know such a high fever is deadly. The question is why did the fever occur if she was in custody with her family for eight hours. There should have been adequate water available when the family was found.
Often Border Patrol agents carry bottled water with them to give to the people they find along the border, it just seems odd to me that a young girl this dehydrated would not have received attention by agents that are somewhat cautious about dehydraton in most circumstances.
The results of the autopsy could take weeks, officials said.
The Guatemalan girl’s death comes as increasing numbers of children and families are making the dangerous trek north from Central America and as immigration officials are being increasingly criticized for their treatment of migrants who arrive at the U.S.-Mexico border. A review of what happened in the girl’s case will take place, federal officials said....
Who wants this in the White House?
December 13, 2018
By Tom Winter
Donald Trump (click here) was the third person in the room in August 2015 when his lawyer Michael Cohen and National Enquirer publisher David Pecker discussed ways Pecker could help counter negative stories about Trump's relationships with women, NBC News has confirmed.
As part of a nonprosecution agreement disclosed Wednesday by federal prosecutors, American Media Inc., the Enquirer's parent company, admitted that "Pecker offered to help deal with negative stories about that presidential candidate's relationships with women by, among other things, assisting the campaign in identifying such stories so they could be purchased and their publication avoided."

The "statement of admitted facts" says that AMI admitted making a $150,000 payment "in concert with the campaign," and says that Pecker, Cohen and "at least one other member of the campaign" were in the meeting. According to a person familiar with the matter, the "other member" was Trump....
The women were right to come forward. Unfortunately, they were strong armed and paid off to stay quite. Do I have to remind that Stormy Daniels was threatened in a parking lot while with her daughter?
By Tom Winter
Donald Trump (click here) was the third person in the room in August 2015 when his lawyer Michael Cohen and National Enquirer publisher David Pecker discussed ways Pecker could help counter negative stories about Trump's relationships with women, NBC News has confirmed.
As part of a nonprosecution agreement disclosed Wednesday by federal prosecutors, American Media Inc., the Enquirer's parent company, admitted that "Pecker offered to help deal with negative stories about that presidential candidate's relationships with women by, among other things, assisting the campaign in identifying such stories so they could be purchased and their publication avoided."

The "statement of admitted facts" says that AMI admitted making a $150,000 payment "in concert with the campaign," and says that Pecker, Cohen and "at least one other member of the campaign" were in the meeting. According to a person familiar with the matter, the "other member" was Trump....
The women were right to come forward. Unfortunately, they were strong armed and paid off to stay quite. Do I have to remind that Stormy Daniels was threatened in a parking lot while with her daughter?
Donald Trump is having a difficult time of things these days and anything to distract from it will suffice. So, having a scandal run by lawyers is far better than admitting he probably said, "You know, if it were me and I could knock off a journalist or two, I would. But, you actually having that power is enviable," to the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia.
And on top of Congress making Trump's day a little sour, he could not beg his favorite lackey be Chief of Staff. I congratulate Chris Christie (click here) for moving on. The Trump administration is a snake pit and no one with any dignity wants to be a part of the inner circle.
If Trump had any sense at all he would keep Kelly on, assuming he wants to stay on as Chief of Staff. I suppose he can always hand it back to Bannon. No one is going to take that job. Trump needs to leave and then there would be people willing to work in the Executive Branch. No one is that foolish.
And on top of Congress making Trump's day a little sour, he could not beg his favorite lackey be Chief of Staff. I congratulate Chris Christie (click here) for moving on. The Trump administration is a snake pit and no one with any dignity wants to be a part of the inner circle.
If Trump had any sense at all he would keep Kelly on, assuming he wants to stay on as Chief of Staff. I suppose he can always hand it back to Bannon. No one is going to take that job. Trump needs to leave and then there would be people willing to work in the Executive Branch. No one is that foolish.
Donald Trump's mischief.
I suppose Flynn was coerced into sitting next to Putin, too.
Special Council and Former Director Mueller could have gone two ways with Flynn; he could have charged him with treason which would easily hold up or he could treat him with respect as a former military officer and recognize the truth provided to him and remove any sentence he was rightfully due. It makes sense to me that Special Council Mueller would opt for respecting a former military officer and give him the benefit of the doubt.
Me? I would have liked to see him charged with treason, but, that was not an option for telling the truth in cooperation.
Personally, I think Flynn and Trump are both real slimeballs. When one is fighting for the country and then decides the grass is greener on the other after he retires that is treason. Playing footsie with Vladimir Putin is a highly suspicious move by Flynn. What did he have to offer Putin besides insider information? Nothing.
Flynn Intel Group, Inc. (click here)
December 14, 2018
By Chris Sommerfeldt and Denis Slattery
He should have known better. (click here)
Special counsel Robert Mueller unloaded on Michael Flynn’s legal team Friday for intimating the former national security adviser was lured into lying to the FBI, pointing out that someone who used to head a U.S. intelligence agency should not have to be reminded it’s a crime to mislead federal agents.
Citing Flynn’s extensive military and government experience, Mueller methodically detailed each step of the former Trump administration official’s lies about his presidential transition discussions with Sergey Kislyak, Russia’s former ambassador to the U.S.
“A sitting National Security Advisor, former head of an intelligence agency, retired Lieutenant General, and 33-year veteran of the armed forces knows he should not lie to federal agents,” Mueller charged. “He does not need to be warned it is a crime to lie to federal agents to know the importance of telling them the truth.”
Flynn’s attorneys repeatedly suggested in a sentencing memo earlier this week President Trump’s former top adviser had been tricked into lying because agents had not advised him to have an attorney present for an interview on Jan. 24, 2017 or explicitly spelled out to him that it’s illegal to lie to them.
Mueller — in one of his most pointed filings to date — wholeheartedly refuted that claim, not just because Flynn should have known better, but also because he was evidently “committed” to lie.
Specifically, Mueller noted Flynn first lied when he told The Washington Post via a spokesperson on Jan. 12, 2017 that he hadn’t discussed U.S. sanctions policy with Kislyak....
Special Council and Former Director Mueller could have gone two ways with Flynn; he could have charged him with treason which would easily hold up or he could treat him with respect as a former military officer and recognize the truth provided to him and remove any sentence he was rightfully due. It makes sense to me that Special Council Mueller would opt for respecting a former military officer and give him the benefit of the doubt.
Me? I would have liked to see him charged with treason, but, that was not an option for telling the truth in cooperation.
Personally, I think Flynn and Trump are both real slimeballs. When one is fighting for the country and then decides the grass is greener on the other after he retires that is treason. Playing footsie with Vladimir Putin is a highly suspicious move by Flynn. What did he have to offer Putin besides insider information? Nothing.
Flynn Intel Group, Inc. (click here)
44 CANAL CTR PLZ STE 400
ALEXANDRIA, VA, 22314-1548 United States
(703) 313-7040
Company Type: Parent
There is nothing wrong with a former military officer with some intelligence background forming a company with his son to officer private business and government SECURITY analysis and modifications, but, with Russia? Give me a break.
For his own reasons, Michael Flynn decided to march to the beat of a different drummer. And what I find more interesting than anything is that he not only was willing to work with Putin, but, ended up at the NSA with Trump. No one besides me finds that more than a coincidence?
Michael Flynn could have been easily charged with treason, but, he wasn't. He should be grateful to the country he once fought for in realizing he has been given another shot at his future. I rather he wouldn't have been given a break, but, I am not Robert Mueller.
For his own reasons, Michael Flynn decided to march to the beat of a different drummer. And what I find more interesting than anything is that he not only was willing to work with Putin, but, ended up at the NSA with Trump. No one besides me finds that more than a coincidence?
Michael Flynn could have been easily charged with treason, but, he wasn't. He should be grateful to the country he once fought for in realizing he has been given another shot at his future. I rather he wouldn't have been given a break, but, I am not Robert Mueller.
December 14, 2018By Chris Sommerfeldt and Denis Slattery
He should have known better. (click here)
Special counsel Robert Mueller unloaded on Michael Flynn’s legal team Friday for intimating the former national security adviser was lured into lying to the FBI, pointing out that someone who used to head a U.S. intelligence agency should not have to be reminded it’s a crime to mislead federal agents.
Citing Flynn’s extensive military and government experience, Mueller methodically detailed each step of the former Trump administration official’s lies about his presidential transition discussions with Sergey Kislyak, Russia’s former ambassador to the U.S.
“A sitting National Security Advisor, former head of an intelligence agency, retired Lieutenant General, and 33-year veteran of the armed forces knows he should not lie to federal agents,” Mueller charged. “He does not need to be warned it is a crime to lie to federal agents to know the importance of telling them the truth.”
Flynn’s attorneys repeatedly suggested in a sentencing memo earlier this week President Trump’s former top adviser had been tricked into lying because agents had not advised him to have an attorney present for an interview on Jan. 24, 2017 or explicitly spelled out to him that it’s illegal to lie to them.
Mueller — in one of his most pointed filings to date — wholeheartedly refuted that claim, not just because Flynn should have known better, but also because he was evidently “committed” to lie.
Specifically, Mueller noted Flynn first lied when he told The Washington Post via a spokesperson on Jan. 12, 2017 that he hadn’t discussed U.S. sanctions policy with Kislyak....
Thursday, December 13, 2018
It is well within reason, the "Guardians of the Truth," were honored for their selfless duty to the truth and the nations of people that fall under a truth.
There are no words. I am glad "Time" did find the words to make such reality known to all.
Jamal Khashoggi embodied the selflessness every other writer knows as the moral character that accompanies them into the battle of bringing truth to power.
There are no words. I am glad "Time" did find the words to make such reality known to all.
Jamal Khashoggi embodied the selflessness every other writer knows as the moral character that accompanies them into the battle of bringing truth to power.
Peace with Israel is impossible with the current military leadership.
Prime Minister Netanyahu has been to Oman to talk peace to an Arab nation. He has been instrumental in bringing about a ceasefire with Gaza through efforts by Egypt. So, what does he get (no different than Olmert or any other Prime Minister that approaches peace)? He gets corruption charges leveled at him. THIS IS A PATTERN to control the Prime Minister of Israel to prevent peace from occurring so much as a war of expansionism.
This chronic assault on a peace initiative by the Israeli right wing establishment has to stop and Jarad Kushner needs to end his advocating for war. He already got his friend the Crowded Prince in plenty of hot water the way it is.
Enough. There needs to be a dedicated OFFICE within Israel that carries out a peace initiative on a continuous basis and it must remain out of reach of those that would see it destroyed.
December 2, 2018
By Paul Goldman and Saphora Smith
Tel Aviv — Israeli police (click here) are recommending bribery and fraud charges be brought against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife in the third corruption scandal to engulf the Israeli leader.
This chronic assault on a peace initiative by the Israeli right wing establishment has to stop and Jarad Kushner needs to end his advocating for war. He already got his friend the Crowded Prince in plenty of hot water the way it is.
Enough. There needs to be a dedicated OFFICE within Israel that carries out a peace initiative on a continuous basis and it must remain out of reach of those that would see it destroyed.
December 2, 2018
By Paul Goldman and Saphora Smith
Tel Aviv — Israeli police (click here) are recommending bribery and fraud charges be brought against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife in the third corruption scandal to engulf the Israeli leader.
Authorities said Sunday that they have evidence that Netanyahu made regulatory decisions that favored Bezeq telecommunications group in exchange for positive coverage on its news website, Walla. Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing.
The decision of whether to charge Netanyahu rests with Israel’s attorney general, who is still deliberating on whether to indict the prime minister in two other cases....
Like I said, it is about national security from a Chinese 5G network intent on breaking into government secure sites.
September 24, 2018
By David E. Sanger and Sheera Frenkel
Washington — The Trump administration (click here) and its closest intelligence partners have quietly warned technology firms that they will demand “lawful access” to all encrypted emails, text messages and voice communications, threatening to compel compliance if the private companies refuse to voluntarily provide the information to the governments.
The threat was issued last week by the United States, Britain, Australia, New Zealand and Canada, the so-called Five Eyes nations that broadly share intelligence. Collectively, they have been frustrated by the spread of encrypted apps on cellphones and the ability to send encrypted messages through social media and, most prominently, on Apple’s iPhones.
The issue flared repeatedly during the Obama administration, with the former F.B.I. director, James B. Comey, warning that law enforcement officials were “going dark” as nefarious actors relied on encrypted channels to discuss or plan criminal activity or terrorist plots. But the Trump administration has said little about the subject, even after the meeting in Australia where the demand was issued in a joint statement by the five nations....
Meng Wanzhou (click here) was unaware she was going to be picked up in Canada. That seems like a success of the intelligence network that China wasn't to find access.
..."Sometimes Chinese (click here) aggression is explicitly state-sponsored and sometimes it's laundered through many of Beijing's so-called 'private' sector entities that are in bed with (President) Xi (Jinping)'s communist party," he added....
I just don't buy the Iran thing. I doesn't make sense to me and this explanation seems to burdened to be the reason. That is a lot of spying in cyberspace for the NSA and/or CIA. It just doesn't smell right to me. The internet security issues are more the problem.
...This paper (click here) examines factors driving Chinese-Iranian cooperation, potential tensions in the Chinese-Iranian partnership, and U.S. policy options for influencing this partnership to meet U.S. objectives....
The ministers of foreign affairs of France, Germany, the European Union, Iran, the United Kingdom and the United States as well as Chinese and Russian diplomats announcing the framework for a Comprehensive agreement on the Iranian nuclear program (Lausanne, April 2, 2015)
China was never a part of the Iran talks. China has no real interest in providing an international fellowship with the Permanent members of the UN Security Council plus Germany. China has no real impediments on developing a relationship with Iran and I can tell you, China sees itself as a real partner for a nuclear free Iran in it's relationship.
The arrest has less to do with Iran so much as the spying on The West by China though a large family run telecommunications company. Not to say the USA isn't annoyed with a relationship between Iran and China, but, it has little reason or leverage to move against China in this way.
China was surprised and caught off guard with the arrest of Meng Wanzhou. It could easily have been a test of Chinese intelligence as well as an annoyance by the USA of China with Iran.
13 December 2018
By Chris Uhlmann
It was a warm evening this past July (click here) when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau shared a drink with the world’s most powerful intelligence network.
Spy chiefs from the Five Eyes nations had come to a secure resort in coastal Nova Scotia for an informal evening after intense talks in nearby Ottawa.
Trudeau, who’d spent part of the day pledging to fix a “death trap” highway in the Atlantic province, dropped in on the gathering to share some thoughts about geopolitical threats....
...detailed evidence of the brazen attacks in Salisbury, where Moscow had used a military-grade chemical weapon on UK soil.
In the aftermath the British went public and the Five Eyes coordinated the largest ever expulsion of Russian intelligence officers from NATO and partner states. All agreed this would significantly degrade Russia’s intelligence capability.
That episode reminded everyone that espionage and foreign interference continues to be a pervasive threat. Some believed since 9/11 that mission had been obscured by the fight against terrorism and so at their own pace each had concluded the greatest emerging threat was China’s Communist Party.
They also knew that to contend with this challenge there was no other group of nations that enjoyed such shared knowledge, cultural affinity and technical expertise....
...Since that July meeting there has been a series of rare public speeches by intelligence chiefs and a coordinated effort on banning Huawei from 5G networks. It began with one of Malcolm Turnbull’s last acts as Prime Minister....
By David E. Sanger and Sheera Frenkel
Washington — The Trump administration (click here) and its closest intelligence partners have quietly warned technology firms that they will demand “lawful access” to all encrypted emails, text messages and voice communications, threatening to compel compliance if the private companies refuse to voluntarily provide the information to the governments.
The threat was issued last week by the United States, Britain, Australia, New Zealand and Canada, the so-called Five Eyes nations that broadly share intelligence. Collectively, they have been frustrated by the spread of encrypted apps on cellphones and the ability to send encrypted messages through social media and, most prominently, on Apple’s iPhones.
The issue flared repeatedly during the Obama administration, with the former F.B.I. director, James B. Comey, warning that law enforcement officials were “going dark” as nefarious actors relied on encrypted channels to discuss or plan criminal activity or terrorist plots. But the Trump administration has said little about the subject, even after the meeting in Australia where the demand was issued in a joint statement by the five nations....
Meng Wanzhou (click here) was unaware she was going to be picked up in Canada. That seems like a success of the intelligence network that China wasn't to find access.
..."Sometimes Chinese (click here) aggression is explicitly state-sponsored and sometimes it's laundered through many of Beijing's so-called 'private' sector entities that are in bed with (President) Xi (Jinping)'s communist party," he added....
I just don't buy the Iran thing. I doesn't make sense to me and this explanation seems to burdened to be the reason. That is a lot of spying in cyberspace for the NSA and/or CIA. It just doesn't smell right to me. The internet security issues are more the problem.
...This paper (click here) examines factors driving Chinese-Iranian cooperation, potential tensions in the Chinese-Iranian partnership, and U.S. policy options for influencing this partnership to meet U.S. objectives....
The ministers of foreign affairs of France, Germany, the European Union, Iran, the United Kingdom and the United States as well as Chinese and Russian diplomats announcing the framework for a Comprehensive agreement on the Iranian nuclear program (Lausanne, April 2, 2015)
China was never a part of the Iran talks. China has no real interest in providing an international fellowship with the Permanent members of the UN Security Council plus Germany. China has no real impediments on developing a relationship with Iran and I can tell you, China sees itself as a real partner for a nuclear free Iran in it's relationship.
The arrest has less to do with Iran so much as the spying on The West by China though a large family run telecommunications company. Not to say the USA isn't annoyed with a relationship between Iran and China, but, it has little reason or leverage to move against China in this way.
China was surprised and caught off guard with the arrest of Meng Wanzhou. It could easily have been a test of Chinese intelligence as well as an annoyance by the USA of China with Iran.
13 December 2018
By Chris Uhlmann
It was a warm evening this past July (click here) when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau shared a drink with the world’s most powerful intelligence network.
Spy chiefs from the Five Eyes nations had come to a secure resort in coastal Nova Scotia for an informal evening after intense talks in nearby Ottawa.
Trudeau, who’d spent part of the day pledging to fix a “death trap” highway in the Atlantic province, dropped in on the gathering to share some thoughts about geopolitical threats....
...detailed evidence of the brazen attacks in Salisbury, where Moscow had used a military-grade chemical weapon on UK soil.
In the aftermath the British went public and the Five Eyes coordinated the largest ever expulsion of Russian intelligence officers from NATO and partner states. All agreed this would significantly degrade Russia’s intelligence capability.
That episode reminded everyone that espionage and foreign interference continues to be a pervasive threat. Some believed since 9/11 that mission had been obscured by the fight against terrorism and so at their own pace each had concluded the greatest emerging threat was China’s Communist Party.
They also knew that to contend with this challenge there was no other group of nations that enjoyed such shared knowledge, cultural affinity and technical expertise....
...Since that July meeting there has been a series of rare public speeches by intelligence chiefs and a coordinated effort on banning Huawei from 5G networks. It began with one of Malcolm Turnbull’s last acts as Prime Minister....
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