THE WEEKEND DISPATCH
THE WEEKEND DISPATCH
Newsletter - Edition for September 5th, 2023
Welcome to this week's edition of The W.C. Weekend Dispatch. Our digital newspaper covering a wide range of cultural & political news. For your convenience, we've provided the Dispatch Directory below, offering a quick access to the articles for this week:
The End of Ideological Indoctrination: Ohio's Senate Bill 83
Why the Left Fears Honest Language: The Ohio Abortion Amendment Battle
Parental Absence and Classroom Struggles: Ohio's Educational Dilemma
Aging in the Aisles: The Concerning State of Elderly Leadership in Congress
Governor Kemp's Inaction: The Real Political Theater in Georgia
Victory for Ethical Medicine: Texas Supreme Court Upholds Ban on Trans Treatments for Minors
The Disturbing Demeanor: How a Judge Laughed at Harrison Floyd's Rights
Cultural Trends - Contributor Exclusive
Ohio News
The End of Ideological Indoctrination: Ohio's Senate Bill 83
In a political climate that often seems to be tilting ever more leftward, conservatives in Ohio have reason to take heart. The state remains a stronghold of conservative governance, and the Republican lawmakers are doing exactly what we elected them to do: protect our values and reform systems that have strayed from their original purpose. Case in point is the much-discussed Senate Bill 83, aimed at overhauling Ohio's public colleges and universities. This bill, which is expected to pass this fall, is a long-overdue corrective to the ideological excesses that have come to characterize higher education.
The bill is comprehensive, tackling a range of issues that have long been points of contention. For starters, it bans most mandatory diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training. While DEI initiatives may have started with good intentions, they have often morphed into ideological indoctrination, far removed from the educational mission of our colleges and universities. It's high time we put an end to this taxpayer-funded exercise in left-wing dogma.
Another significant change the bill introduces is in the area of tenure. The amended version of the bill also allows faculty unions other than professors to go on strike, a concession from the original version which prohibited all strikes. This is a balanced approach that respects the rights of workers while also holding them accountable for their performance and conduct.
In a move that underscores the importance of free speech, the bill mandates that schools must create a separate statement on free speech and equality, rather than simply including it in their mission statements. This ensures that these crucial principles are not just empty words but are given the prominence and attention they deserve.
The bill also addresses the issue of faculty reviews. Student evaluations will now count for 25% of a faculty review, down from 50%. This change recognizes that while student feedback is important, it should not be the sole metric by which a professor's performance is judged. Tenured professors will also have the right to appeal results, adding an extra layer of fairness to the process.
While the bill is stringent in its reforms, it is not inflexible. Exceptions will be made to allow required DEI training if it is needed for grants or certifications. This shows that the lawmakers are listening to concerns from universities and are willing to make reasonable accommodations.
Democrats and teachers' unions have, predictably, opposed the bill, claiming it will harm working conditions and the quality of education. But this argument misses the point. The bill is not about making life difficult for educators; it's about restoring balance to an institution that, according to the GOP sponsor of the bill, has "gone too far left."
The amended version of Senate Bill 83 is a significant step forward in the Republican efforts to pass this much-needed higher education overhaul this fall. It's a strong reminder that conservative governance is alive and well in Ohio, and that our elected officials are committed to upholding the principles that we hold dear. This bill should serve as a model for other states looking to reclaim their educational institutions from the grip of left-wing ideology. It's not just a win for conservatives; it's a win for anyone who believes in balanced, fair, and ideologically neutral education.
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Why the Left Fears Honest Language: The Ohio Abortion Amendment Battle
The battle over abortion rights has taken a new turn, and it's one that exposes the left's unwillingness to confront the realities of their own policies. The issue at hand is the language approved by Ohio Republicans for the November ballot concerning an abortion rights amendment. The language, which includes terms like "unborn child," has been decried by Democrats as unfair and inaccurate. However, the real question is, why is the left so uncomfortable with language that accurately describes what their policy is about?
The ballot measure aims to protect abortion access from bans, allowing limits only after the point of fetal viability to protect the life or health of the pregnant patient. The approved language states that the amendment "would always allow an unborn child to be aborted at any stage of pregnancy." Secretary of State Frank LaRose, who leads the ballot board, has defended the language as "fair and accurate." And he's right. The language is a straightforward description of what the amendment would allow.
Democrats are considering challenging the language at the Ohio Supreme Court, which leans Republican. This move is a clear indication that they are not confident in the merits of their own policy. If the left truly believed that their stance on abortion was justifiable, why would they be so concerned about the language that accurately describes it?
Opponents of the amendment argue that it would eliminate parental consent for abortions and could impact care for transgender teens. These are serious considerations that voters have a right to know about. Yet, instead of engaging in a substantive debate, Democrats are focusing on semantics, claiming that the language is "purposefully inaccurate" to help defeat the measure.
A proponent of the amendment stated, "We are going to do everything we can to ensure Ohio voters are able to see the truth." But what is the truth if not the reality that the amendment would allow the termination of an unborn child at any stage of pregnancy? The left needs to face the reality of their own policies, rather than attempting to obscure them with euphemisms and legal challenges.
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Parental Absence and Classroom Struggles: Ohio's Educational Dilemma
In a startling revelation, The W.C. Dispatch has spoken with several teachers in small rural districts who paint a grim picture of the state of education in their schools. These educators tell us that they are grappling with students in the 6th grade who are nearly illiterate. One teacher lamented, "The district has failed these kids." The situation is so dire that a math teacher in the same district revealed that only 10% of her students can perform 2 and 3 multiplication tables.
The teachers are beside themselves, struggling to find effective ways to teach these children. "You cannot blame COVID anymore," one teacher said, highlighting the urgency of the situation. Another added, "How are we expected to make up a kid who is that far behind in a single year?" These questions underscore the monumental challenges that educators face in trying to bring students up to grade level.
While the state of Ohio is moving to increase funding for schools and tackle the problem of low reading ability, perhaps it's time to shift the focus. It's not just about what the schools and teachers should be doing; it's also about what the parents should be doing. Parental involvement has to be completely absent for these kids to be this far behind. Teachers can only do so much in the classroom; the home environment plays a critical role in a child's educational development.
As we look to address this educational crisis, we must consider a multi-pronged approach that involves not just teachers and schools but also parents and communities. It's easy to point fingers at the education system, but the hard truth is that the responsibility for these failing students is shared. Teachers can't be expected to perform miracles in the classroom if parents aren't reinforcing the importance of education at home.
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American Headlines
Weaponizing the 14th Amendment: The Plot Against Trump
In a shocking display of political machinations that defy the very essence of American democracy, a coalition of never-Trumpers from both sides of the aisle are plotting to disqualify former President Donald Trump from the 2024 ballot. These individuals are not just betraying their respective parties; they are undermining the democratic principles upon which this nation was built. The effort to sideline Trump isn't solely a left-wing endeavor; it also includes Republicans who have lost sight of the conservative values they claim to uphold.
Arizona's Secretary of State, a Democrat, is currently examining how to address complaints aimed at disqualifying Trump from the upcoming election. The issue hinges on the 14th Amendment, which prohibits individuals who have engaged in insurrection from holding office. While some contend that Trump's actions on January 6th could be grounds for disqualification, legal experts are far from reaching a consensus. Even The New York Times, hardly a stronghold of conservative thought, has conceded that the left's legal pursuits against Trump may be overreaching.
State election officials in Arizona and New Hampshire are grappling with this contentious issue, fully aware of its national ramifications. They find themselves in a difficult position, tasked with certifying the ballot but hesitant to weigh in on the merits of any potential challenges. This equivocation is unacceptable. The fact that a former Trump ally in New Hampshire is contemplating a 14th Amendment challenge against him is nothing short of betrayal.
The timing of these challenges raises further questions. The Jack Smith case against Trump is scheduled to go to trial just one day before Super Tuesday. If this isn't a calculated political maneuver, then what is? State GOP officials have pledged to resist any attempts to deny candidates access to the ballot, and rightly so. These never-Trumpers are not merely targeting Trump; they are undermining the very bedrock of our democratic system.
Michigan's Secretary of State is also seeking legal advice on this matter, and lawsuits in both Florida and Michigan are in progress, questioning Trump's eligibility to appear on the ballots. Trump's legal team has vehemently opposed these actions, arguing that they distort the law beyond any reasonable interpretation. They have a point; the 14th Amendment was never meant to be exploited in this fashion.
These never-Trumpers, whether Democrat or Republican, are the adversaries within our midst, and they must be confronted. The time has come for conservatives to unite and expel these ineffective figures from our political landscape. We have a nation to preserve, and there's no room for those unwilling to take a stand. As we move closer to the 2024 elections, let this serve as a clarion call to all genuine conservatives. The battle is not solely against the left; it's also against those within our own ranks who have forgotten the meaning of conservative principles. What's needed now is vigilance, unity, and an unwavering dedication to a stronger America. Anything less would be a betrayal of the country we love and are committed to defending.
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The Biden Email Saga: A Test of Integrity and Transparency
In an era where the media seems obsessed with pursuing indictments against former President Trump, a recent directive from the House Oversight Committee shines a spotlight on the questionable activities of the current administration. The committee is specifically requesting "Any document or communication in which a pseudonym for Vice President Joe Biden was included either as a sender, recipient, copied or was included in the contents of the document or communication, including but not limited to Robert Peters, Robin Ware, and JRB Ware." This development raises serious concerns about President Biden's integrity and transparency during his time as vice president.
House investigators are now actively seeking emails from private accounts that Biden used under these and other aliases. The National Archives has already confirmed the existence of over 5,000 emails from accounts linked to these pseudonyms, such as robinware456@gmail.com.
What elevates these concerns to a new level is the content of these emails. Biden appears to have used these private accounts to conduct government business with his son Hunter. One email, in particular, shows Biden alerting Hunter to a scheduled call with Ukraine's president while Hunter was a board member of Burisma, the Ukrainian energy company. This revelation not only raises significant ethical questions but also an obvious conflict of interest. It proves once again that Hunter Biden was leveraging his father's political influence for personal gain—with Joe Biden's full knowledge and participation.
There's no legitimate reason for the White House to withhold these official vice presidential records unless there's something to hide. The American people deserve transparency and accountability, especially when the media and legal systems seem so eager to scrutinize some while giving others a free pass.
The Biden email saga is not just another political scandal; it's a symptom of a deeper malaise affecting American democracy. It's disheartening to see such blatant double standards in how political figures are held accountable. If we're to prevent our nation from further descending into a banana republic, where corruption is the norm and accountability is selective, then it's high time we demand equal scrutiny for all, regardless of their political affiliation.
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Aging in the Aisles: The Concerning State of Elderly Leadership in Congress
In a nation that prides itself on being a global leader, it's disconcerting to see key political figures who seem better suited for nursing homes than the halls of Congress. Both sides of the aisle are guilty of this, as evidenced by Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and California Senator Dianne Feinstein. These are not partisan jabs; they are observations about the state of our leadership, which should concern every American citizen.
Mitch McConnell, at 81, recently froze and went silent during a press appearance, marking the second such incident this summer. This has raised legitimate concerns about his ability to continue leading Senate Republicans, especially after a fall earlier this year that resulted in a concussion and a broken rib. McConnell's office has downplayed the incidents, stating he felt "momentarily lightheaded" and would see a doctor as a precaution. But neurologists suggest that these freezing episodes warrant further examination to rule out serious conditions like stroke or seizures. Despite these health scares, McConnell intends to serve out his Senate term through 2027.
On the other side of the aisle, 90-year-old Dianne Feinstein has faced calls for her resignation due to health issues that have kept her away from the Capitol for months. Since her return, she has appeared frail and has had several public mental lapses. Feinstein has even handed over power of attorney to her daughter, Katherine, partly to handle legal disputes over her late husband's estate. During a recent Senate Appropriations Committee hearing, Feinstein appeared confused and had to be prompted to vote on a significant Defense Appropriations Bill. She was hospitalized in February due to complications from shingles and spent two months recovering.
The question we must ask ourselves is: Are these the individuals we want voting on trillion-dollar bills, shaping the future of our nation, and representing us on the world stage? McConnell has been central to passing GOP priorities, and Feinstein has had a long career in public service. But there comes a time when one must put the needs of the nation above personal ambition. If they stepped down, there are capable successors like GOP Senators Thune, Cornyn, and Barrasso for McConnell, and a host of Democratic talent for Feinstein.
It's not ageism to suggest that the physical and mental toll of these high-stress jobs may be too much for octogenarians to handle effectively. It's a call for responsible governance. We need leaders who are fully capable, both mentally and physically, to navigate the complex and rapidly changing landscape of modern politics. The American people deserve nothing less.
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Victory for Ethical Medicine: Texas Supreme Court Upholds Ban on Trans Treatments for Minors
In a landmark decision that should serve as a model for the rest of the nation, the Texas Supreme Court has lifted a lower court's ban on a state law prohibiting gender-affirming care like hormones and surgeries for transgender minors. The law is set to take effect this week, and it's a significant step in the right direction for those who believe in the sanctity of childhood and the ethical responsibilities of medical professionals.
The state had initially appealed a lower court's decision to block the law, and the Texas Supreme Court's ruling allows the law to be in effect while its legality is determined through the court process. This is a crucial development, as it halts the dangerous and irreversible medical interventions on minors, at least for the time being.
Lawyers for families of transgender kids who challenged the law have argued that the ruling harms transgender youth. However, this argument fails to consider the long-term consequences and ethical implications of administering life-altering hormones and surgeries to minors. These are decisions that have permanent repercussions, and it's highly questionable whether children are capable of giving informed consent for such drastic measures.
It's worth noting that Europe has already begun to reverse course on this issue. The Karolinska Institute in Sweden, one of the most respected medical universities in the world, has stopped prescribing puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones for minors. This comes as a growing number of young adults are coming forward with lawsuits and testimonies about the irreversible damage they've experienced as a result of these treatments.
The Texas law is not only in line with emerging international consensus but also with common sense. The fact that such practices were ever allowed is deeply troubling and opens the door for medical malpractice lawsuits. Doctors have a responsibility to "do no harm," and it's becoming increasingly clear that gender-affirming treatments for minors are far from harmless.
While the state Supreme Court has rejected an emergency request to block the law again while the appeal is heard, the battle is far from over. However, this decision is a significant win for those who believe in protecting children from irreversible medical interventions based on an unchanging understanding of gender and biology.
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Governor Kemp's Inaction: The Real Political Theater in Georgia
The recent move by Mark Meadows, former White House chief of staff, to shift his election interference case from state to federal court is a telling sign of the times. It's a move that could have significant implications not just for Meadows but for former President Trump and other co-defendants. The strategy is clear: by moving the case to federal court, the defendants are likely aiming for a more conservative jury pool, which could be more sympathetic to their cause.
Meadows argues that his actions, such as arranging Trump's call with Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, were part of his official duties as chief of staff. To win the removal, defendants must prove they were federal officials acting in their official capacity and have a federal defense. Prosecutors, on the other hand, are opposing the removal, claiming Meadows violated the Hatch Act, which bars political acts by federal employees. Both sides have subpoenaed key witnesses, including Raffensperger and Trump attorneys, setting the stage for a high-profile showdown.
But let's step back and consider the broader context. The very fact that a local District Attorney believes she has the authority to prosecute a former President and his associates is nothing short of audacious. It's a clear example of a narcissistic power grab, fueled by a media environment that is overwhelmingly hostile to Trump. The Republican House is already launching a probe into her misconduct, and rightfully so.
Moreover, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, regardless of his personal feelings about Trump, should be taking action against this DA for her blatant overreach. It's not just about one case or one individual; it's about the integrity of our electoral process and the dangerous precedent being set. When local officials believe they can target political candidates and their associates with impunity, it undermines the very foundations of our democracy.
Governor Brian Kemp's recent comments on Fox 5 Atlanta are nothing short of ironic. While proclaiming, "As long as I am governor, we’re going to follow the law and the Constitution, regardless of who it helps or harms politically," he turns a blind eye to the blatant political theater being orchestrated by DA Fani Willis. Kemp also ironically stated, "In Georgia, we will not be engaging in political theater that only inflames the emotions of the moment. We will do what is right. We will uphold our oath to public service. And it is my belief that our state will be better off for it." If only his actions matched his words.
The use of RICO charges, originally designed to combat organized crime syndicates, against a former President and his associates is so farcical it would be comical if the stakes weren't so high. This is not just political theater; it's a travesty of justice. And while Kemp talks about avoiding political theater, his inaction in the face of Willis's overreach is, in itself, a form of political theater that undermines the very principles he claims to uphold.
The unfolding case against Mark Meadows could serve as a harbinger for the broader election interference case against Trump and his allies. If moved to federal court, it might offer the defendants a better chance at acquittal. But the real issue here goes beyond the legal intricacies. It's about the weaponization of the legal system to settle political scores, a dangerous trend that threatens the bedrock of our democracy.
Governor Kemp's failure to act against this blatant abuse of power not only contradicts his own stated principles but also casts doubt on whether our leaders are genuinely committed to the rule of law. It's a disheartening situation that should alarm Americans of all political stripes. If Kemp truly believes in doing "what is right" and upholding "our oath to public service," then it's high time he took action to put an end to this farce. Anything less would be a betrayal of the very principles he claims to champion.
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The Disturbing Demeanor: How a Judge Laughed Off Harrison Floyd's Rights
The case of Harrison Floyd, a co-defendant in the Georgia election interference case, is a glaring example of the unequal treatment that seems to be meted out in these politically charged cases. Floyd, a leader of Black Voices for Trump and a veteran with a distinguished service record, was initially denied bond on the grounds that he posed a flight risk and a risk of committing more felonies if released. This is despite the fact that Floyd voluntarily surrendered himself without a bond agreement in place, a move that should negate the idea that he is a flight risk.
What's particularly troubling is the judge's demeanor during the bond hearing. She was seen laughing and smiling with glee as she informed Floyd that he would not be granted bond, a move that not only raises questions about her professionalism but also about the fairness of the legal process. After facing scrutiny for this behavior, the judge doubled and set Floyd's bond. Fortunately, a fundraiser for Floyd's legal fund exceeded expectations, raising more than enough to cover the $100,000 bond, leading to his eventual release.
Floyd was charged with racketeering, witness tampering, and conspiracy related to efforts to overturn the election. It's worth noting that despite media claims, Floyd was not charged by the FBI with assault.
The case against Floyd stands out for another reason: he is the only black man among the 19 individuals indicted. In a climate where social justice and equality are buzzwords thrown around, the optics of a black veteran with a spotless record being singled out in this manner are concerning, to say the least.
The case serves as a cautionary tale of how media narratives and political agendas can distort the legal process. When a judge can laugh while denying bond and then double the bond under scrutiny, it's a sign that the justice system is being influenced by factors that have no place in a courtroom. Floyd's case should alarm anyone who cares about the integrity of our judicial system and the fair treatment of all citizens, regardless of their political affiliations.
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Must See Podcast
Oliver Anthony on Joe Rogan Experience
In a media landscape often dominated by the same voices, it's refreshing when a new, authentic voice breaks through the noise. That's exactly what happened with Oliver Anthony, whose recent appearance on the Joe Rogan Experience is our "Must-See Podcast of the Week." Anthony has skyrocketed to fame with his hit song "Rich Men North of Richmond," a tune that has resonated with Americans across the political spectrum. The song has become an anthem for those who feel increasingly disillusioned with a political establishment they see as out of touch and damaging to the nation.
What makes Anthony's rise even more fascinating is his relative obscurity before this hit. He was virtually unknown, which has led to a tug-of-war between both sides of the political aisle, each trying to claim him as their own. But Anthony doesn't neatly fit into any political box. His message is for the people, not for any political party, a point he elaborates on during his conversation with Rogan.
The podcast delves into the influences and experiences that shaped Anthony's worldview and inspired his music. Rogan, in his typical laid-back style, provides the perfect platform for Anthony to share his thoughts without the constraints often imposed by more traditional media outlets. The discussion is a deep dive into the mind of an artist who has touched a nerve in the American psyche at a time when many are questioning the direction of the country.
If you're interested in understanding the man behind the sensation that is "Rich Men North of Richmond," you won't want to miss this episode of the Joe Rogan Experience. It's a compelling listen that offers insights not just into Anthony as an artist, but also into the zeitgeist of a nation grappling with complex issues.
Listen to “Rich Men North of Richmond”
Watch Oliver Anthony on Joe Rogan
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Cultural Trends - Contributor Exclusive
The Fight for Free Speech in the Digital Age
In an era where the lines between Big Tech and Big Government are increasingly blurred, the battle for free speech has never been more critical. From the abrupt banning of congressional candidate Derrick Evans on X Space to the Orwellian undertones of social media platforms expanding their "Civic Integrity" teams, the digital realm has become a hotbed for censorship and control. Add to this Tucker Carlson's explosive revelations about the intelligence community's influence over mainstream media, and it's clear that the war on free speech is escalating at an alarming rate.
This exclusive article delves deep into these pressing issues, examining the precarious state of free speech in our society and the dire implications for our democracy. We explore the troubling alliances between tech companies and government agencies, the role of journalism in exposing uncomfortable truths, and the urgent need for open, honest discussions as we navigate these complex challenges.
This in-depth analysis is available exclusively to our paid contributors. Your support enables us to continue providing fearless journalism in an age of increasing censorship and control. Subscribe now to gain access to this weekly column and other premium content. The fight for free speech is a fight for the very soul of our democracy, and it's a fight we can't afford to lose. Stand with us. Subscribe today.
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