If you feel like our country is spinning out of control, you are not alone. Agitators are taking over our streets, as authorities let it happen. Many members of these mobs simply hate our history and culture, and are bent on destroying America as we know it. Their methods are threats, boycotts, intimidation and outright violence.
Tearing down statutes and changing the names of places reminds us of the tactics of history’s most oppressive regimes, from the Taliban to Communists. Unfortunately, this is not a new trend in our nation either. As you might remember, a few years ago the Freedom from Religion foundation tried to take down a cross I had on my property. Only after a MoDOT survey determined it was not on the state’s right of way did they give up their efforts.
But these groups aren’t stopping at the destruction of public property. Entire neighborhoods have fallen victim to the mob, such as in Seattle, where at least one murder has already occurred in the CHAZ/CHOP anarchist area. Now, former Bernie Sanders campaign surrogate Shaun King is advocating the destruction of any depiction of Jesus Christ as a white man. This is not an idle threat, as the torching of St. John’s Church in Washington, DC showed us.
Though the stated goals of some protesters are noble, in large part their efforts have been co-opted by certain radical elements. The “Black Lives Matter” movement has essentially become a part of the far left wing of the Democrat Party.
I agree with President Trump – there should be a stronger penalty for tearing down historical monuments. That is why I plan to introduce legislation increasing the penalties for damaging statues in Missouri. We are tired of standing idly by and watching our country be destroyed from within.
Please join me in praying for our beloved nation, asking God to preserve for ourselves and future generations the institutions and values that have made us the greatest nation on earth.
While the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases has seen an uptick in recent days, Gov. Parson said the state’s recovery efforts remain on track. The governor said the increase in cases is not a surge or a second wave, but is instead the product of aggressive testing that is meant to box in the virus and prevent further spread.
The governor noted that the state is not overwhelmed and that there are no plans to close Missouri back down. He stated that the vast majority of positive cases are not hospitalized and that Missouri’s hospitals are stable and ICU beds and ventilators continue to become available as more people recover. Parson also said the state continues to monitor the numbers on a daily basis and he remains confident that Missouri is on the road to recovery.
The governor also reminded Missourians that it remains critical that they be aware of COVID-19 and practice social distancing to protect themselves and others. The governor encourages those who can’t practice social distancing to wear a mask and take additional precautions. All Missourians should continue to be proactive, wash their hands, and use common sense.
The State of Missouri is offering free COVID-19 tests from July 7 through July 9 at the Libla Family Sports Complex in Poplar Bluff. Those wanting to be tested are encouraged to register ahead of time, though drive-ups are welcome. Please check local media for times and registration information.
Billington represents District 152, which includes parts of Butler and Dunklin counties.