Many good citizens don't run for office because they don't want embarrassing incidents from their past dredged up and ladelled out to the masses on 24/7 cable news.
But after the Trump era (God forbid it should last more than 4 years) those fears may dissolve, opening up the field to more flawed, but also more talented candidates than the ones currently running for office.
In the future, as soon as past indiscretions are unveiled, the candidate can simply say -- that ain't nothin' compared to what Trump and his staff did. Who could argue?
5
Trump, like his supporters, is addicted to drama.
They want a reality show, WWE world. Drama. Adrenaline.
4
A couple of brief thoughts:
1. It is common practice throughout the government and business world to employees that were just terminated to have security escort them out of the building. Why is that headline making news for the NYTs?
2. Not sure what the issues were surrounding McEntee, but at least he was not pleading the 5th like a certain Attorney General did under the previous administration. Which leads to the bigger question; why wasn't Loretta Lynch escorted out by security whe she admitted self-incriminating concerns?
2
It is NOT common practice to have security escort former employees off premises. Only employees threatening violence, known thieves and other unsavory types enjoy frog march. Vast majority of employees leave peacefully and have previous knowledge of their firing, lay off, etc. Stop watching FAUX news and Infowars.
6
Simply put... The President's a bad person as is most of those around him. Have them removed!
2
Lynch never pleaded the 5th. Let's stop untruths in their tracks. https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/loretta-lynch-pleads-fifth-over-iran-p...
10
Donald Trump has no personal integrity and does not have any expectations of integrity in those around him. I think his main requirement for hiring is that the person is a fawning sycophant.
9
Only an utterly shameless president, WH and Republican Party appeasers could try to pull this off. Try? Who am I kidding?
Of course they'll pull it off because Trump pumps out so much outrageousness on a daily basis that this probably doesn't even make the Top 10 list.
5
Frog marched out of the West Wing straight to a senior position in the Trump 2020 campaign. All in the fine tradition of Paul Manafort, Carter Page, Mike Flynn and Rick Gates.
Who ought to be locked up? Hillary? Really?
6
Wow the lack of ethics in this administration is astounding
Especially given the blood curdling screams from DJT about Hilary
Astounding hypocrisy
So let me get this straight, DJT’s body man can’t get clearance due some form of criminality but will still work for DJT in the campaign that is 3 years from now.
7
"Mr. McEntee and the White House doctor were two aides who were never left off the travel manifest."
I'd like to know more about the White House doctor traveling with the president. Is this standard operating procedure to put him on the manifest just in case he is needed? Mr. Trump claims to be in perfect health so this seems incongruous.
6
What? All politicians, especially the president should have a background check and submit financial and tax information before they're allowed to run for office. This would prevent criminals like Trump and many other republicans from running. This is an obvious ommission that was probably caused by current republicans. It should be fixed as soon as possible.
7
Upon reflection, it appears that the tone of government in the U.S. has descended into a phase of early adolescence. That would account for the similarities to the chaos I recall in the eighth grade where the juvenile delinquents reached peak hormonal energy and got most of the attention until they crashed.
3
If only there were some sort of way of holding people accountable for their actions. I know, maybe some sort of over sight committee could be formed that looks into matters like this. Oh wait there is. It’s just not being used. Thanks Paul Ryan. Thanks Mitch McConnell. Thanks for putting AMERICA first over your own political agenda.
Nov 2018 can’t come quickly enough. And I’m not talking about Thanksgiving.
17
I am trying hard to think back. Yes, if there was only a way... to elect people who had their constituents interests as their interests. Who had the good of all above personal aggrandisement and power, above personal enrichment and the heady perfume of power.
That does seem like such a quaint idea doesn't it? Is that way really lost for good? A pity if it is.
1
Something's fishy about this whole incident.
10
Let's make America GREAT again.
Remember what happened to the Rosenbergs??
Selling out your country for a price had a price when America was GREAT !!
5
So the White House decides it cannot allow McEntee to stay on board because he's suspected of being involved in criminal behavior, yet Trump's presidential campaign quickly hires him onboard for the reelection campaign. Does this mean that the next person to become a member of Trump's reelection campaign will be Rob Porter?
13
No, it will be Paul Manafort.
7
if the process had real integrity....trump's clearance would have been revoked long ago
14
"Dueling centers of power around him."
Wrong. This president only tolerates sycophants. His method is controlled chaos, exactly the way he ran his businesses. It is the way he maintains absolute power.
Secondly, the article is incomplete. There is a word, "gambling", as the rationale for his expulsion. That needs to be investigated by the NYT.
Gamblers are subject to security compromise because they are inordinate risk-takers. Yet the president will not exclude him form 'loyalty' duties.
14
Actuaries say I’ll live another 24 years in the post-trump era. I wonder what that will do to my life expectancy.
7
God help us when we think it's normal to worry about whether the commander-in-chief is "in a good place."
21
What a morally abysmal administration! Trump and his “best people” are the worst! Vote Trump and his plebes out!
18
He seems to be the equivalent of Gary, Selena Meyers "bagman" from Veep. Thought that was a made up position.
4
Trump lies, steals, cheats, insults everyone, sexual assaults and denigrates women, fires people by tweet, lusts after his daughter and worships thugs. One term of his depravity is enough.
23
Only the best and the brightest.
10
Gotta love it. Not.
From the Politico article about McEntee:"McEntee’s father has thought his son would like to open his own business one day, but he is now so devoted to his boss that he wouldn’t be surprised if he follows him back to the Trump Organization, whether it’s in three or seven years." Seems Dad was off by a year. And a question: Is McEntee the equivalent of the fictional character, Gary Walsh, on Veep? And didn't this character, at some point in the show, lose his security clearance? Life imitates art...
5
Yes, "life imitates art" -- and reality-TV has given Trump one real-life skill, at least. "You're fired," has acquired an even more familiar ring. If only the president had learned at some point how to actually hire the people with actual skills and experience, he wouldn't have to keep dumping so many who were such miserable picks. Concerning the latter, we can all agree.
1
The president’s private attendant
On whom he is wholly dependent
Was dismissed just today
And escorted away
Destined to become a defendant
46
Seeing all of these departures from the Trump administration is like watching 40 circus clowns get out of a tiny car.
Don't be surprised that you got a government run like a circus when you elected a clown for President.
One term.
22
Interesting how so many of trump's hires (the very best, believe me) are going down in flames. Apart from everything else about him, what does this say about his judgement ? And he is the leader of the free world? Lord help us!
20
Is the Lord even watching? If by some chance He is, I agree with you. Yes. Yes. Lord please help us.
6
McEntee was fired for serious financial crimes including gambling and tax issues that precluded him from getting a security clearance..
And yet he was the president's personal assistant since Trump was sworn in privy to all classified conversations and communication of the president. He rode in the limo with Trump at all times.
Now, if he has gambling problems and other serious criminal financial issues isn't it possible that he could have been blackmailed and our country's security compromised?
But not to worry, we're safe. McEntee already has a new job as senior aide in Trump's re-election campaign.
UNBELIEVABLE!
31
A habitual gambler who may have debts to underworld figures? Fits right in with the wife beaters, gropers and crooks who are soiling the honor of our White House.
37
People have used the cover of gambling to launder money. Untrustworthy enough for a security clearance but trustworthy enough for Campaign 2020.
30
gets a job the day he is fired for what the secret service calls "serious financial crimes" You can buy silence by keeping them employed I guess.
24
Why is Trump always criticizing the FBI? nearly every clearance granted to members of this White House constitutes a favor.
14
The child said " What was America Daddy "
The Father smiled and replied " A dream son, a dream "
16
So....
Trump's "draining the swamp," just like he promised;
but then fills his reelection campaign with the swamp sludge!?!?
18
I wonder how long it will be before John McEntee writes a tell-all book to cash in on his connection to Trump.
10
I wonder sometimes whether people get jobs in Trump's orbit because they know how he operates, and have blackmailed him.
18
That would probably include Vladimir Putin, whom Trump refuses to criticize, because he is still hopeful for Russian real estate deals for Trump Towers, etc.
1
All this winning is so tiresome.
30
How is it that Mr. Trump has a security clearance? Has he passed any of the litmus tests that would make one qualify? It's hard to believe that he would have. It's easy to prove hundreds of times over that he is dishonest, indiscreet, vulnerable to blackmail from every point of the compass, has enormous conflicts of interest in every category, panders to special interests, and always has his had out for a bit of lucre. My feeling is that our United States of America is dangerously "unpresidented".
25
Unfortunately, solely by virtue of the Office, he automatically has clearance.
2
Allies will absolutely not trust the US with important info with Trump and his motley crew in the White House.
Get rid of the scourge of the Trump family and their hangers-on, America, and clean out the stables!
3
Why is the Department of Homeland Security investing him? What did he do? He had a security clearance from what I understood so sounds like something happened after this was given. I'm very curious - doesn't sound good.
3
And trumps followers slap their flippers together and bark for more fish.
30
We Pinnipeds demand an immediate apology for your lumping us in with trump followers. We have far more exacting standards.
6
Amazing how "only the best people" brought into this White House can't get security clearances...for a year! And when it becomes apparent that they can't continue due to the obvious possibility of being compromised or an imminent indictment...they sign on with Trump's campaign...the only organization more corrupt than the Trump White House!
33
Firing all these people or having them leave under scrutiny is probably comfortable for Trump. You know , the empty offices, hallways, the echoes of lone footsteps, much like those in all his companies that went bankrupt in his career. Right at home. He says he does it all by himself. What a guy!
18
Nobody should be able to see eyes only or top secret, without a permanent security clearance. It would seem that the advisors that surround Trump, are in fact unable to get clearance at all.
22
Too dishonest for government but not too crooked for the Republican politics?
Once a modern Republican, never again a loyal American or decent human being.
58
McEntee was fired from White House because of a criminal investigation, but is OK for the re-election campaign? This will be excellent red meat for whoever runs against IQ45 in 2020, but I fervently pray he does not last through this year. It is a sickening thought that he would still be President then. Pence may be running in his stead, but he will provide a lot of juicy red meat himself, as his time as President would be nearly as awful. Republicans have certainly dug themselves a deep grave with this crowd. May they never climb out.
36
IQ45? That's a keeper! :)
12
Remember that Lincoln didn't expect to be re-elected in '62, yet after Gettysburg and Grants victories, as well as the Emancipation, look how he was elevated to godhead after his assassination.
Yep! He even has it monogrammed on his shirt cuffs ,in case he forgets,in his modesty, what a genius he is !
Removed for financial CRIMES.., so my guess is, he either spills his guts to Mueller, or he's off to jail
23
I don't imagine Mr. McEntee's security clearance was revoked because of Friday night poker games with friends. Had the FBI already been aware of national security concerns, McEntee would have been given an interim clearance.
The best bet is that McEntee's security clearance was revoked because (a) he did not tell the truth and (b) his gambling problem is so serious as to be a significant security risk. Is he a gambling addict? To whom does he owe money? Has he lost vast sums? Did he gamble on college sports or his own games? Consequently, who could blackmail or otherwise control him?
Oh there are some very fine people in this White House--
26
Please name just one "very fine person" in this administration's WH. Seems as if the swamp has engulfed the establishment, bringing with it the stench of corruption and treachery.
8
Another person who endangers our national security working for a man who is unwilling to acknowledge the threat to our national security. It's disturbing as it is disgraceful that our national is under attack and we have a Commander-in-Chief who is not only in denial, but is reluctant to ensure that we are safe and secure.
20
Wait, he sees Avgo as a threat to national security, yet he doesn’t view his closest staff as a threat, yet they are unable to get clearance.
3
So the man whose casinos went bankrupt is forced to fire an aide for running up gambling debts and then hires him back into his campaign. You can’t make this stuff up. Nor would you want to.
47
Trainwreck of a presidency continues....
35
Five bears in the bed and the fat one said
"I'm crowded, roll over"
So they all rolled over, and Priebus fell out
Four bears in the bed, and the dumb one said
"I'm crowded, roll over"
So they all rolled over and Bannon fell out
Three bears in the bed, and the incompetent one said
"I'm crowded, roll over"
So they all rolled over and Cohn fell out
Two bears in the bed, and the immoral one said
"I'm crowded, roll over"
So they all rolled over and Tillerson fell out
One bear in the bed, and the big one said
"Where's Stormy?"
69
This is great! If if doesn't get the "NYT Picks" then there's no justice in the world!
1
Trump has been in office just over a year. Why is he campaigning now for 2020?!!!!! It’s too soon by any measure ! Lurching from one election to the next does not a great country make.
19
He officially opened a re-election committee the day after his inauguration.
5
He's paying his legal bills from campaign funds. Because despite being a self-proclaimed "billionaire", he seems to be chronically short on cash.
4
Wrong!!
The Trump Foundation is footing the legal bills.
That is after the NY AG finishes investigating it and Eric's Foundation transfers over more cash since Melania went on a shopping spree and drained it
2
So much for hiring “the best people.” Trump’s picks have been almost uniformly the worst — from Cabinet-level people all the way down to personal aides.
26
President Trump seems to like to surround himself with people that make him look smart by comparison. Betsy DeVos is maybe the best example, Perry another. Really smart people don’t last long, especially if their light shines brighter than his.
15
And which ones were the really smart ones?
2
Hey, good corrupt help is hard to find!
32
So are corrupt cohorts that can’t get security clearance.
3
Let's just issue indictments for anyone who works for the Trump swamp.
21
CNN is reporting that John McEntee, despite having had unfettered access to Trump and expecting to travel with him to California today, was escorted out of the White House this morning and into a job working for the re-election campaign, all while being under investigation:
"Longtime personal aide John McEntee was fired because he is currently under investigation by the Department of Homeland Security for serious financial crimes, a source familiar with his firing told CNN."
And this "little" story about AG Sessions "misrepresenting the facts" in his "speech" last week, is getting buried under the weight of today's headlines. ICE Official quits, saying:
"I quit because I didn’t want to perpetuate misleading facts. I asked them to change the information. I told them that the information was wrong, they asked me to deflect, and I didn’t agree with that. Then I took some time and I quit.”
What can a sane person say!
https://www.cnn.com/2018/03/13/politics/john-mcentee-white-house-securit...
https://www.nationalreview.com/2018/03/ice-spokesman-resigns-sessions-ex...
27
I think we should enact laws to make sure anyone running for public office at the congressional or national level can pass a white house security clearance during the primary. That would save us a lot of time and money if TeeVee stars are going to be our politicians.
40
If the "trumpster" runs for 3 1/2 years he will be "old hat".
The electorate will soon tire of his antics.
Who is going to "run" our Republic when he is "bamboozling" the electorate?
10
trump needs to be given a commission as an army general. let congress legislate. let the citizens see the journey the u.s.a. has embarked on.
3
Clearly perfect for campaign treasurer.
19
I hope the Times actually does investigative reporting to make sure that McEntee is actually be paid for working on the campaign, not just as a payoff to get him out of Trump's life. Trump would love to use campaign funds to make his problems go away now that he can't funnel it through his corrupt lawyer.
20
"With Mr MecEntee gone, Mr Trump will have none of his closest and most trusted aides by his side."
It seems that almost all of his closest and most trusted aides can't pass a security clearance. To those who voted for him, what does that tell you?
37
They can all be by each other's side when they share prison cells.
2
Donald Trump does not need a personal assistant.
As long as Trump follows Vladimir Putin's orders while spending a third of his time in office on vacation at his properties including playing golf 100 days he needs no aide. While Trump's working day consists of watching Fox News and tweeting without working up a sweat.
The most momentous day in Trump's life was the day he was born to inherit New York City real estate. Trump has hardly worked since.
30
This is the guy that sat outside the Oval Office like Hicks, woke the president up every morning & walked him up every night. Knew what channels at what time to set the TV to and brought the Trumpster his favorite papers. The McDonald's or the Kentucky Fried hot and ready on the plane after events where DT chose not to eat. The only person, other than MD automatically assigned to every trip. Gatekeeper & buddy extraordinaire
The dude's calls were answered on one ring.
I see Manafort in the financial dealings. You know, those great investment opportunities.
Win-win and all that.
He may be loyal to DT but his folks were sure he was gonna be a priest. DT appointed him a senior adviser to his campaign today (keep him in the old sphere of influence), but Mom & Pop may have the last word on truth-telling & jail time, when Mueller comes knocking.
Johnny we hardly knew ye.
17
Mueller has probably talked with McEntee since his closeness with Trump for such a long time will make him like Hope Hicks a gold mine of information.
14
Betty, you ask who he is and where he came from. He is an intelligent, talented young man brought up in Southern California by a faith based family that has done more for their community out of kindness than any of you "hate-mongers" posting. As our President repeatedly states, "the news that is told is FAKE or half truths to sell a story". Mark my words President Trump will go down in history as one of our nations best Presidents! Let him continue to do his job without the constant obstruction and surround himself with talented young men like John McEntee.
2
Wow! Are you really an a American living in New Mexico? Whav3 you studied US history and Government? You make very bold conclusory opinion statements, but not fact based comments.
18
If he cannot get clearance he cannot serve. We are a nation of laws.
16
Brenda, what surely is NOT FAKE news is that this young nan who sprung from a faith community could not get a security clearance. Maybe you should be wondering why instead of offering such a gushing appraisal of a man in the Oval Office who has demonstrated himself to be far beyond the pale of Christianity.
18
Whether you approve of any of Trump's foreign and domestic policy goals, none of them can possibly work when the highest levels of government are being staffed (if they are being staffed at all) by people who are capable of lying and behaving illegally, are ignorant and are dismissive of real information from science, career diplomatic officials and the intelligence community.
Everything you believe Trump is doing in the best interests of this country, he cannot execute. Perhaps Trump himself has no intention of doing anything but achieving Putin's enormous wealth.
16
I guess it is a president's privilege and right to take anyone he wants to on board Air Force One, regardless of whatever may be lurking in that person's background. I mean, it's not like he's shining Trump's brogans on board the jet to justify his presence. Guests don't need clearances, just the employees on the public payroll. Which begs the question: Who is polishing the royal footwear now? Surely not his eminence himself.
7
Don't security clearances look at anything that makes one vulnerable to blackmail and is hidden? Some form of behavior or financial irregularity that if approached for illicit information, you would comply. That means it's serious enough that you might risk jail or losing your reputation and/or ill-gotten gains.
That so many Trump staffers can't meet the basic background check of debt or money laundering, violence or collusion is scary. These are not people who have America's best interest but their own.
30
It seems like not being able to get a Security Clearance was a job requirement.
28
So he was with trump for at least fifteen months and he had done illegal financial transactions and they didn't do anything or find out about it until now. Strange that McEntee who now we see has done something illegal in his past had no issue exposing himself by working at the White House? So it took fifteen month just to root out McEntee maybe trump shouldn't be so surprise regarding the length of the Mueller investigation which to date is shorter than the time McEntee was working for trump before the justice department found out about his financial irregularities
12
At least he wasn't in charge of solving the crisis in the Middle East (as far as we know anyway).
3
Why would Trump want someone who cannot qualify I'm future for a security clearance to be part of his re-election campaign staff!-? Now would be the best time to assess people who can get a clearance... But of course his only requirement is blind loyalty and obedience... Authoritarian dictator attitude much!!?
12
Fired but sent to campaign =Fired but still paid to shut up.
41
Reelection campaign. After less than 2 years and no positive accomplishments, on top of a very poor work ethic why would any rational people want to hire this guy (Trump) again? Why?
19
It had been clear for a long time that Rex Tillerson's departure was a matter of when, not if. This, on the other hand and on the same day, is altogether different. Why couldn't McEntee get a security clearance, and why give him another job after he failed to meet a basic requirement of the first one?
15
There is this vexing question that seems unaddressed. Could Trump get a security clearance? Is it possible possible (likely?) that we have a President who would be unable pass an FBI security background investigation?
39
I've been through the process. With all his bankruptcies, other financial issues, etc. he would never be granted a clearance. I've seen people lose their clearance for a serious driving offense or financial issue. Getting elected was the only way in for him.
24
After this fiasco in our electoral history, it may be a good idea to vet candidates to make sure they're not security risks.
It may also be a good idea to make sure they're qualified (and can read and understand the Constitution- or at least have a desire to do so.)
6
Yeah, I've been through the process too, and I agree with everything you've said. Once you get a clearance it doesn't take much to lose it or even come under scrutiny if there's so much as a perception that something is amiss. And in the USIC, perception is everything. In fact, if I'd made any comments similar to Trump's with respect to Putin, et.al. during the course of my employment (I'm retired now), it's highly likely an administrative inquiry would've have been opened on me. And THIS would only have been the beginning of my problems. Given all this, it truly amazes me that Trump is sitting where he is right now.
1
Alarming that we so often read speculation regarding how certain events might affect the president's mood. Have we really just accepted that our entire country is forced to weather bad decisions because an infantile president may get grumpy? Trump supporters seem able to accept this, reasoning that the country is doing fine. The part they never seem to grasp is that it does so in spite of him, not because of him.
20
Perfect person to handle coordination with Russia to rig another election.
16
Let us remember that Reggie Love who was assistant to Obama left to get his MBA at Wharton.Mr.Trump's assistant was forced out of the White House because he could not get a security clearance.Anyone who works for Trump has at least three strikes against them- they can't get a security clearance, they are not ideologically pure enough or they must survive the chaotic Oval Office.
10
Trump's problem is obvious; those who wish to be near him cannot qualify for security clearances while those who could qualify for security clearances have no wish to be near him.
34
All empires eventually decline. I never thought that I might witness the decline of the U.S.A, brought on by the Republican GOP, whose vision of the U.S.A. is synonymous with the GOP: vis-a-vis the Republican-led House of Representatives not even able to find a single example of potentially impeachable wrongdoing by the Trump Campaign or the Trump Administration. By contrast the Special Counsel Mueller investigation, that has already indicted numerous Trump associates, will hopefully lead to a truthful conclusion.
11
"John McEntee, Trump Aide, Is Forced Out Over Security Issue, but Joins Re-election Campaign"
McEntee gets tossed out of one door and comes back in another door so will still be close to Trump. How do we know that McEntee will not be given the same sort of information he was getting or had access to?
It would be interesting to know how much McEntee was paid until today and how much he will be getting in his job with the campaign and if any of it will be our federal tax dollars that could slip under the table and over to the campaign.
8
If this GOP congress gets booted out in November, they can turn their campaign into Trump's legal defense fund. Since McEntee had to depart due to financial crimes, perhaps he can end up campaigning from a jail cell. The same one Trump should have ended up in for fraud and racketeering. Or the same one he WILL end up in for treason.
13
He gets the “best people”. Cooks them in a pie. Wanna slice ?
6
Probably didn’t even pay his income tax on some ill gotten gains. A real patriot.
His brother Zach is body man to Steve Mnuchin. Lock him up please!
11
Is there anyone who has a close relationship with Trump who is *not* a crook, con-man, or somebody under a federal investigation? If there is any justice in the universe, the Trump will get impeached after the mid-term elections. And if Democrats refused to move on impeachment, I would not vote for them either.
The time is here for courage and integrity to do what is in the best interests of the country - full stop.
30
Amazing! What transgression could be so serious as to warrant immediate revocation of security clearance and an armed escort off the premises, but not serious enough to prevent an instantaneous transition to a cushy job with the campaign? Inquiring minds want to know.
41
Rumor has it that he is being investigated for financial crimes unrelated to his work with the Trump campaign or Trump administration. Therefore he is unlikely to ever get security clearance, and has been moved to the campaign.
1
okay, I'm full of anxiety and frustration reading through these comments. It's nothing about resolving what is going on. The children that were so poignant and enunciated their actions to stop guns in their schools I've now been shut down and I am in fear that the March 24th March event may not happen or make any difference.
Flip over to Fox News and read their comments. not one mention of Tillerson or Stormy . just at the NRA has calmed Trump down. And Hillary Clinton falls down in India and Joy from The View has apologized to the vice president.
Currently we are on two different planets and no longer the United States. The Trump people will never see things the way New York Times readers are seeing things. Facts mean nothing under Trump.
Can we use this commentary area to discuss how can we promote that facts matter? how can we relate and start a conversation that make sense and unite as one and help ourselves and others?
25
Let's discuss a legal strategy to get rid of Fox news. Unless the oligarchy's propaganda outlet is silenced or neutered in a legitimate way, there is little hope of resolution. It is time to admit that Murdoch is a cancer, and must be stopped before the fascists take over.
12
Have any of you heard about the Russian attack on U.S. troops in Syria? Authorized by Putin, but he uses mercenaries for all these forays to prevent dead soldiers from being counted as dead Russian soldiers.
"The core of the attacking force came from the Wagner Group, Russia’s version of the American thugs who worked for the company formerly known as Blackwater. But while the media refers to the Russians as mercenaries, the Wagner Group functions as an auxiliary of the Russian military — it previously gave command performances in Crimea and eastern Ukraine. It exists to give Moscow (barely) plausible deniability."
In any case, the U.S. struck back and pummeled them killing an unknown number since Russia doesnt post those statistics.
And the Russian Manchurian candidate, Drump hasnt said a word about it, or warned Putin to knock it off. Here is the article. Notice this happened a month ago. https://nypost.com/2018/02/13/russians-attacked-american-troops-on-putin...
9
Take a deep breath and hold on tight. You must be patient. Trump is self-destructing and the thieves and con men will not will out in our great country. The rule of law, not of men, will take them down.
5
If Trump himself ever had to obtain a security clearance he would certainly be denied for the same reasons that so many of his closest staff have been denied. That should frighten and horrify every citizen.
31
Well, at least this rolling disaster is much more transparent than Obama's prosecution of whistle blowers. I wonder if Trump's team is competent enough to put classified material in a server in the bathroom to work around this ouster.
2
Dear Robert Mueller: It’s a huge undertaking and we know that you and your talented team are working very, very hard. Having said that, anything you can do to expedite the release of the next 500 indictments would be greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
All Sentient Members of Humanity
67
So it's all kabuki?? To show they "care" about security clearances? And so, what, he walked all the way around to the back door and walked back to his desk?
13
The voters of the US including Republicans must stand up for America in November.
15
Work for "reelection campaign" ... euphemism for "patronage" job with someone else picking up the tab, as always.
16
yes the American public. We pick up the tab for Air Force One for every campaign stop. What a rip off!
10
What is the distinction between the White House and the Trump Campaign that McEntee can work for one, but not the other? Security? Now there's a joke.
11
It is absurd that Donald is so friable and erratic that the entire staff is handwringing over his moods and state of mind. How does anyone call this fit for office?
17
A CNN reporter stated that McEntee is being investigated for financial crimes. Anyone have an update?
7
Now now on the re-election team, Katrina Pierson, as low a snake in the grass as low can go.
6
I'm confused. Can Trump invite McEntee to travel with him? The guy was escorted out of the White House. Is he barred (as a private citizen; as a friend) from Air Force One? Mar-a-Lago?
4
Only the BEST people, amirite??????
8
When the maid is caught stealing jewelry from your main home you fire her and then rehire her to work in your summer house in Maine.
11
Hey watch out! we don't have maids that steal jewelry in Maine!!
4
McEntee either insulted Putin, or said a joke about Netanyahu, or made fun of Javanka, or all of these things.
5
It's as though the President were a toddler who needs people to babysit him.
10
The BEST ( alleged ) Criminals.
13
Financial crime is not considered a problem by folks who run the Trump campaign.
18
I'm pretty sure it's considered an asset.
13
Clearly, you are correct, as they showed by just moving him over to the campaign.
3
It's probably a pre-requisite.
4
It's a pity that Donald Trump was not forced out of his position and escorted from the White House after his security clearance was removed. That would be appropriate for this fawning acolyte of Vladimir Putin whose White House can't bring itself to condemn the Russian nerve gas attack in Britain or take action to defend America from interference in the 2018 mid-term elections. It's outrageous that an under-secretary of state has been fired instantly just for telling the truth and contradicting the lying president on the firing of Tillerson. After all everyone knows that Trump lies all the time...
17
Not to mention ignoring the Russian attack on U.S. soldiers in Syria at Putins direction. Thankfully, our soldiers were ordered to fight back and ran them into the ground.
5
Too bad, for Mr. McEntee, a former college quarterback. Wow! How can a man like that be denied a permanent security clearance? Probably had DUI or something. Oh well, he'll be around for the re-election Committee. Cheers!
1
So you would be fine with someone who drives drunk and endangers lives being in the White House? Why am I not surprised.
5
@DR,
I was being sarcastic, but if you want to get serious, let's consider the New England example of Edward Kennedy, who drove off a bridge while under the influence, and left a woman to die in the submerged car in the canal. Massachusetts voters seemed to fine with him presenting them in in Senate for several terms; and Democrats even considered him as a potential presidential candidate in 1980. Why I am not surprised. Thank you.
2
The revolving door between Trump admin people who are too criminal to get security clearance going to the Trump campaign is really getting too much. Get this criminal out of the WH. Our country depends on it.
13
Fired for ongoing investigations into "serious financial crimes." Well, now we know what he and Donald had in common.
12
It is disturbing to think that even though McEntee was removed from the White House because of Security Clearance issues will still be close to Trump.
5
Everything about "Trump" is disturbing. If people are useful to him he will skirt any and all laws and norms.
7
The Trump re-election Committee doesn’t need to worry about security. Putin has already promised to support Trump.
38
Nothing is surprising from this sorry reality show, sometimes also known as the Trump White House. We don't know what is by design, or by accident.
What we do know is that anything and everything is to keep us chasing ourselves into false side alleys, and keep the focus off the Main Story.
18
Who is he, and what was his job? What top secret info did he see? And how much were we paying him for that?
14
Apparently he had some pretty hefty responsibilities.
Included in those responsibilities: setting the WH clocks for daylight savings.
6
Looks like the White House needs a literal bouncer.
17
What will he have to sing about?
This year's (and last's) must have fashion accessory in certain circles is a wire.
6
"...Mr. McEntee has been named Senior Adviser for Campaign Operations, putting him in a position to remain as a close aide during the next several years."
But of course. There are only so many corrupt sycophants to go around- can't let one go to waste!
29
Well, there are 51 currently available in the Senate, and over 200 in the House, so the fraud in the W/House has plenty more corrupt sycophants to select from.
5
It is easy to see why Trump had to appoint his own CIA and FBI Directors. It's very scary, isn't it?
19
President Obama's body man Reggie Love, unlike John McEntee was not a budding criminal working for a seriously ill, legitimate criminal.
31
There is no limit to how low the clown in the White House can descend to. Am I reading this right, his own personal assistant is escorted out of our White House because of financial crimes, probably helping his master David Dennison aka Donald Trump launder assassin Putin dirty money, but now is hired by his campaign. The den of traitors and thieves called the West Wing and Donald Trump campaign is a perfect fit for such criminals.
27
Reality check and history exam: does anyone remember when using a 'private email server' that could possibly have been vulnerable to a security breach - but never actually was breached, as far as anyone could tell - was sufficient grounds for organizing a posse to 'lock her up'?
'National security' must be a very, very flexible concept indeed.
84
This is really becoming like something from a 2017 update of the Caligula and Nero episodes of "I Claudius"!
Backroom plotting, mendacity, paranoia, apparent madness, utter abuses of power and formerly-legitimate government institutions, and even assignation attempts (politically, and literally, in England!)
PS If someone DOES do a new update of an "I Claudius" and "House of Cards" combo, I want my royalties for the idea! ; )
21
This criminality akes "I Claudius" look positively mundane and quaint.
5
Who needs Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey.
13
I only hire the very best.
24
Nothing at all odd about keeping a guy around who can’t pass a background check. Nope. Not unusual. Particularly for someone who is as corrupt and unprincipled as Trump.
32
Well, you have to wonder what Trump staffer, Fox News employee, and YouTube video celebrity had to do to get his security clearance revoked. Porter was outed. Kushner is obvious. What's up with this guy? Your security clearance doesn't just languish for years unless the F.B.I. has some follow-ups to do. Campaign staff? Body man? I can see the interest. Maybe Kelly is just trying to get McEntee out of the White House before he gets subpoenaed.
26
Clearly the only security Trump & Co care about is not the nation’s, but their own.
24
What's the current unemployment rate in the Trump White house?
13
Zero, they get hired for "the campaign".
1
Possibly this is more theater intended to distract us from actual criminal or possibly treasonous activity.
16
Can't see how "fired" and "works with the campaign" are not a bald contradiction, but then this is the most corrupt administration in our nation's history, so nothing surprises me at this point.
19
So why was he not able to get a permanent security clearance? Inquiring minds would like to know.
18
Summarily fired, unceremoniously, but now joining the campaign? Wait! What?
42
It appears as if "Delusional Donald" is running out of all his 'best people'... Undoubtedly, he'll claim that there are even 'better people' who are just dying to work in the West Wing....As usual...he's half right....there are clearly legions of 'better people' in the wings...but they'd rather die than work in Trump's West Wing.
40
Birds of the same feather flock together. Donald Trump surrounds himself with ethically challenged individuals. What a morass of incompetence the White House has become.
55
And still a third of electorate thinks he's doing a great job. What's wrong with this picture? With our country?
5
In that case, why do we allow people to run for elective offices, especially presidency, without first ensuring they can pass a background check? Donald Trump would never have cleared a security check, as would most members of Congress. Yet they are receiving high level security briefings, making and enforcing policies.
Makes no sense for lower level employees to go through a background check while their bosses themselves are a much higher security risk.
59
He could not be hired at Target.
18
Presumably the political parties have the responsibility of not nominating those who are security risks due to financial, sexual, family or other issues.
A person in high office is a security risk when they could be suborned by a foreign power by blackmail. They are unacceptable on domestic issues if they will put personal or party values above the good of the country.
How many of the reps of both parties in Congress and the various departments could pass these tests? Not many I think.
7
@Jean,
In fact a large percentage of them are convicted felons.
1
Why is it that Kushner gets to stay? My husband said to me this morning, someone else is gone from the Trump administration, guess who? And I couldn’t get it because there were so many choices. It makes your head spin!
44
Trump's family and a wide variety of dubious 'assistants' have surrounded him to prop him up from moment to moment, such is his vulnerability and incompetence at navigating his way through even a single day on his own steam.
From available and abundant evidence Trump can barely read and must be verbally spoon-fed all information, he is terrified of walking even a few steps in a stairway without assistance, he must be flattered shamelessly at all times.
The man is simply too weak of mind to manage himself independently. No wonder he really cannot manage anything else, starting with his staff and office.
42
Forgive my ignorance, but what department is in charge of the security background checks and clearances? The F.B.I., the C.I.A., some other agency? Because if these chronic security errors are under the scrutiny of the C.I.A., then Mike Pompeo (current C.I.A. director) being promoted to Secretary of State makes me even more concerned and leery.
16
That takes care of Mr. McEntee; now can we get rid of his boss, Mr. Manatee?
26
Don't insult a harmless gentle creature like the manatee. I'm having a hard time thinking of an appropriate animal. Only humans can be that vile.
2
Another one bites the dust....trumps picks people like himself with questionable backgrounds. Trump does not pay taxes, cheats and lies in business deals, then sues people he cannot control. He hires hookers and is in constant litigation sued and bring sued. I am sure trump could not pass a background check or mental evaluation if they gave one to an incoming president....Presidents should pass a background check, reveal their tax returns, and have a mental evaluation before they can even be considered. Trump would fail all tests!
45
I agree. Did you know local police officers have to turn over all their financial records to make sure they cannot be blackmailed or be persuaded to do something unethical while on the job. Also they must pass 3 different psychological exams. And then take intellectual exams. And physical test. This is the local police.
Public School teachers must pass emotional and psychological exams. On a yearly basis. And then must have And then must have annual exams re Education or they don't get their paycheck!
And then of course any sales person in America in retail has to pass background and drug test
just Googled, 131 countries have their president has a mental, physical and intellectual exam when they are in the primary stage! And then retake same and continue test during their presidency! Only dictatorships in communist countries do not do this. and America.
8
elle - All employees at banks and credit unions have to pass similar types of screening, credit check etc. Trump and company couldn't get jobs as bank tellers.
5
“Both Mr. McEntee and Ms. Hicks have had offices just outside the Oval Office.”
So?
Unless “Oval Office” is a corner table at Mar a Lago, or an 18th hole snack shack at Trump Links, will it really make a difference? How often is this guy actually at work?
15
Are we amazed? Let's hope he's working for nothing.
1
My goodness...how tired the press has become! There was a time when every form of media would be jumping all over stuff like this, making staff work around the clock, sending out updates, etc. But I guess that these types of occurrences do not add up to "going after the goon (POTUS)..." but, word to the wise, these are even more relevant than ever. They measure the level of incompetence and disrespect that this whole 'Trump experience' bears upon our Republic. It does not show a poor leader only, but poor people, us!
14
Jared Kushner is working on prison reform. I think he should do it and...soon. Because he may land up there considering all his lies and obfuscations for security clearance, trying to create back channels with countries like China and Russia and his and his family conducting business with China, Russia and Israel with promises of procuring EB1 visas for them and their families leading to American citizenship
14
@AlliemalCNN
BREAKING: Trump aide Johnny McEntee was fired because he is currently under investigation by DHS for serious financial crimes, a source [says]... The source added the charges are not Trump related.
13
CNN is reporting that McEntee is being investigated by HHS for serious financial crimes. What role did this play in his loss of clearance and what security risk to the US does it represent?
13
Tillerson, McEntee, Porter? Hicks? So much for the central casting theory to make an administration look sharp.
8
"Officials declined to say what issues prompted the security concerns about Mr. McEntee."
Paging Mr. Mueller...
17
Boy, that pledge of loyalty goes a long way. At least they don't attempt to hide the slime.
4
Trump promised the "best and brightest" would serve his administration, but he can't keep even those willing to serve him. Vetting of these people before appointment to sensitive positions has obviously been careless at best. Mr. Trump's own disorganization and need for "yes" men is a prime cause of the high turnover in his office and in his cabinet. He can only move people around so much like a chess game before even his base gets tired of his incompetence.
7
The WSJ is reporting that he couldn't get a security clearance due to his investigation by Homeland Security of on line gambling and 'mishandling of his taxes'.
I think there is more to this story.
27
Just to be safe, I'd like to see anyone who cannot pass an F.B.I. background check be deported. By the way, who checks the F.B.I., or do they just trust themselves? The way we do things sometimes seems as unanswerable a question to me as how the world began.
1
Why has it taken so long to start removing people from POTUS access because they are security risks? Why were so many "advisers" allowed in the White House before their clearance had been completed? Seems like a pretty casual approach to national security.
24
Of course the campaign for 2020 hired him....the campaign is being used to silence people with the inside truth on Trump and Putin. McEntee knows a lot and so Trump hires him under the campaign and he signs an NDA.....which is how Trump keeps the truth from reaching the American people. If the people knew the truth, Trump would have been long ago.
12
If what's going on in the White House isn't chaos, what is? If this is what Trump calls management, it's no wonder he put multiple companies into bankruptcy.
17
Yet another indication that Trump and his Republican enablers are indifferent to serious breaches of national security. That’s what failing a security clearance means: allowing McEntee to work in the White House poses a threat to national security. So give him a job in tha campaign. Terrifying.
21
Recent departures, along with ex-Admin officials going back to Flynn, face the prospect of exorbitant legal bills resulting from their own actions, lies & association with Trump. In addition, Mr. Mueller's laser-like scrutiny is revealing everybody's secrets of anyone nearby. The FBI actually is very effective at investigating crimes, despite what Fox News may be telling you. Anybody with anything to hide is scrambling for cover. A bilious CEO and legal issues of this magnitude will continue to make it very difficult for the WH to find qualified candidates, for any position. From a recent bumper sticker: "Elect a clown, expect a circus."
9
Assuming that Trump believed he brought the best and brightest with him when he started, what does than mean about what we are getting now? How many people currently working in the WH do not have the necessary clearance to do what they do? Why are the Republicans not hollering about that? Shouldn't national security have to start at the top?
9
But at least Mr. Love was presumably able to pass the requisites for a high security clearance. It is extraordinary how the character, fitness and competence of the boss is reflected by his or her selection of subordinates. This also holds true when the boss lacks any character, fitness or competence.
2
Trump was right. I'm tired of winning.
15
So he was fired for “serious financial crimes” and not allowed to collect his personal belongings or even his jacket (reported elsewhere), but he’s still perfectly capable of working on IQ45s re-election campaign, and were supposed to believe that this administration isn’t corrupt?
32
Ok, firing him is only half the answer. Why could he not pass an FBI background check while operating in the west wing for over a year? The congress has a right to know. What prevents Trump from making this just a revolving door of hiring another close adviser who can't pass the FBI background check but has access to confidential information with interim clearance.
11
"Serious Financial crimes" - perhaps trading on insider information or perhaps fraud? - either way should disqualify him from any position in the campaign as well - but for this renegade, rogue, self dealing, grifting administration this is just normal behavior.
When people tell me they like what Trump has accomplished I want to slam my head against the wall because I don't understand why they hated Hillary for her GS speeches but all of this criminal behavior is just fine as long as they get their itty bitty temporary tax break.
Nov 6th cannot arrive quickly enough for me.
27
There are a lot of empty desks in the West Wing. Just who is in charge of this sinking ship???
21
Perfect. Isn't clean enough to work in White House but he a plenty good enough for campaign work. This swamp is fetid.
46
The Trump Administration as a whole couldn't pass an FBI background check.
It's not just a few staff members; it's the entire Administration that is a national security risk.
We're going to need a bigger swamp !
67
Are we Making America Great Again, yet?
35
What is going on with these people?
15
Trump now has as many ex-staffers as there are women charging him with sexual abuse.
36
"Dad, why did you have to embarrass John like that?"
--NOT Ivanka Trump's response to McEntee's ouster.
I guess this would be hysterical if it weren't so utterly pathetic. Trump's team seems to change at least daily. Kind of reminds me of the old Abbott and Costello - Who's on first?
20
Rats! Now it'll be much harder to trick-shot a nuclear disarmament agreement into place.
12
Does Congress work anymore? Do Republicans, the 'ruling' majority, understand the incredible mess we're in with this ignorant nut running the country? The American people need protection from those we elected to protect us. The president surely will not; he's too busy running, period.
25
C'mon! America has a fool for a president. What a shame.
1
McEntee should quit while he's behind.
(Oh wait, sorry -- for a second there I forgot McEntee is a Republican. Therefore, certainly he'd join Trump's re-election campaign. That's what loyal Republican Narcissists do.)
9
So a wife basher joins Trump's campaign - oh we are surprised !
It tells a lot about about us as voters.
We already got a person boasting on TV about touching women appropriately just being famous and getting elected as president of USA.
First time shame on you.
Second time shame on me.
11
How many impeachment president in prison have a re-election campaign in prison or do they let you have or run one from prison.
9
I've been reading Ian Kershaw's biography of Hitler. Hitler also liked dueling and fighting amongst his officials. The parallels are almost too much to contemplate.
29
I read Kershaw too, amongst others. I disagree with you on the comparison. Hitler was darkly intelligent. Trump is, well, Trump. However, I do see a great deal of correspondence between the German Christians supporters of the National Socialist movement and the evangelical element supporting Trump. And that I find both recursively frightening and alarming.
14
In the middle of 'Lenin'.
Same problem.
Shouting everyone down. Only trusts his own judgment.
It's a prototype for budding dictators.
1
Well, he alone can fix it and he's getting more aloner every day. Minute.
24
Fine to throw out someone who doesn't qualify for clearance. BTW, how did he get in in the first place? Never mind that criminals and morons populate the highest levels. Everyone is replaceable (except Himself). Everyone is culpable (except Himself). No one needs skill, training, ethics or experience (including Himself). Loyalty will fill the entire bill (except Himself). We are indeed sliding into another Dark Age (quoting Musk). Let's celebrate with a big expensive military parade, just like our friend Mr. Kim.
23
I'm starting to feel like a pariah for not having worked at the Trump White House. Or having been fired from it.
12
When will golf caddy Dan Scavino be fired? After all he violated the Hatch Act.
7
actually, I believe that a Hatch Act violation constitutes a rite of passage in the Trump Administration
6
CNN is reporting that he is under investigation for financial crimes. This should make him an ideal match for the Trump campaign. https://www.cnn.com/2018/03/13/politics/john-mcentee-white-house-securit...
10
All the king's horses and all the king's men couldn't put Humpty together again.
11
The Donald is nearly naked, is he not? Who is going to remove John Kelly? He clearly has not been doing his job.
Putin is dancing ever faster and swirling his bottle of Russian vodka. Oh, Putin cries, there is a god after all. Miracles do exist. It was oh, so easy, and i received so much more than i ever expected. I am blessed.
7
This is exhausting. More importantly, serious damage is being perpetrated upon our government. I’m not sure we’ll ever recover from this Drumpfocracy. Let me put this in a term that Drumpf would understand: the United States deserves a mulligan on the 2016 election.
17
The shambles have become an administration.
5
And now we have reports on the President's "mood"?!?!?! Let's elect a grown-up next time around, please.
20
So, is it unusual to have the President's "body man" fail to pass a background check and be escorted from the premises? I'm guessing yes. And I'm hoping that, for journalists, the race is on to find out WHY he was let go. Imagine how bad you have to be to fail a test of integrity in this White House.
10
Trump would NOT be able to pass the process for even a low level security clearance. Thanks, GOP/NRA Party. You sure can pick'em.
24
Like the head of any criminal organization, Trump knows he MUST keep underlings on his payroll in order to keep them quiet.
9
How much of this questionable, unprofessional, inappropriate behavior will the Republicans tolerate and support before they pull up their big-boy pants, remember who and where they are, what they are there for, and--finally, at long last--do the right thing???
If nothing else, this bizarre experience has certainly separated the sheep from the goats and revealed who is there for public service and who is there for personal enrichment.
God almighty, have they NO SHAME?!
13
Once again doesn't anyone in the current White House and administration walk a straight line?
VOTE 2018
7
What kind of presidential staff is packed with staffers that can't even pass an FBI background check?
14
There are just no words for the Trump cabal. Lose your security clearance, get fired, get shown the White House door, then....land a new job with your old boss, to help put him back in the place where you got canned! What a country!
Like many, I’m beginning to find it very difficult to forgive those who voted for this clown for any reason (I count any protest votes here too), and those who decided to sit it out. As much as you may have detested the alternative, be honest: It would be much more preferable to tge great big ball of confusion and constant turmoil we have now.
It’s exhausting, and not healthy for us or the Republic.
16
And the hits just keep on coming!
On the bright side- the U.S. taxpayer doesn't have the pay McEntee's salary anymore.
Just another photogenic empty suit!
5
Not a security issue at all it seems but "serious financial crimes." Of course Trump announced McEntee would be joining his re-election campaign.
9
Serious financial crimes are precisely the kind of security issues auditors look for, as questionable finances leave one exposed to bribery and extortion.
2
What an insane carousel the White House has become. It's alarming, unsettling, and infuriating. This is not normal, yet I'm sure Trump supporters find it delightful. History will judge us harshly.
15
Had to re-hire him, probably with a very large raise and the promise to cover all attorney fees, to stop him from testifying against the head of the crime syndicate
15
This guy is allegedly being investigated for having committed what the Wall Street Journal terms "high financial crimes." That's enough for him to be summarily tossed out of his job at the White House, but not enough to keep him from snagging a senior position in Trump's re-election campaign. Having considered myself to be a person of lively imagination, I always thought the phrase "You can't make this stuff up,'' kind of silly. No more.
13
Your president seems to posses the uncanny ability to surround himself with people who can't pass basic F.B.I. security vetting and a concomitant inability to retain the services of those who can. When the 'fish stinks' it usually does so from the head first.
15
Trump has been in a "good mood" recently. Is that a euphemism for manic?
21
Other media outlets reporting there were significant problems Thad had to do with "financial dealings.". Just another felon tosend over to the campaign. Trump gravitates to crooks.
8
Security clearance revoked due to him being the subject of a financial crime investigation then fired and escorted out of the White House, McEntee is rewarded with a new position, Senior Adviser for Campaign Operations.
This speaks volumes about the most corrupt Presidency in U.S. history. We have a grifter running a criminal enterprise out of the White House.
21
The unemployment level in the White House is at an historic high.
8
Trump truly has drained the swamp... and exposed the reptiles to full view.
4
Where there is smoke there is fire. But no one in Trump land or at the GOP seems to care.
Where there is a Fox in the hen house, if it is the Putin brand endorsed by Hannity, that is OK too.
Where there is a security issue? Well maybe that is different in Trump land. It looks like it depends on whether you are a blood relative or not.
McEntee gone today following concern about security clearances.
Kushner still hanging in there, Russian ties and all.
Can Kelly be not be on the way out?
It is only a matter of time.
The real question remaining is who, among all who have gone through this god awful revolving door of hypocrisy and mistrust is going to talk out loud first about what is really going on. Tillerson? Any of the dozens before him? Kelly when he goes? or even Stormy if no one else will.
It is getting downright ugly out there. Remember when it was Obama. No scandals, no porn stars, no bragging sexual predations, no profanity, no drama, no Russian intrigue, no inflammatory remarks about the people of Mexico, refugees of Syria or the Muslims of the world. No rants that our press is all fake or the enemy of the people and best of all no constant megaphone about how great all things Trump are and no one else.
Trump's base calls it shaking things up. I call it obscene hypocrisy.
One thing Trump has changed for sure.
There is no longer a shred of Dignity or Respect coming out of the White House about anything. Without that there can be no future
15
Trump is doing a great job of draining the swamp. They just flop over to the open cesspool that he has created for them.
5
He will join the Trump campaign to help complete the coup by the Russian government.
7
How many contestants are left on Survivor:Trump Island Season 2?
16
But her emails...so careless with secure files. Oh please.
35
The White House is looking more and more as an unruly day care center. And a very expensive one. The question is who will be next? Session? Kelly? The only one with job security for now, is the Vice president Pence. The worst which could happen to him, is to be put in the dog house. For Pence to be fire it will have to wait 2020, before he could be fired by Trump (by dumping him from the ticket) or by the voters (if the Electoral College do not get in the way).
4
Trump - "I hire the best people..."
Yes. The best of the worst.
14
Apparently being whisked out of the White House under suspicion of "serious financial crimes" immediately qualifies an aide for a senior position in the never ending TrumpWorld (tm) "campaign" and reality television show. Money laundering, creation of bogus LLCs for the disbursement of hush money and similarly unsavory practices are an essential part of the "brand," it would appear. Besides, he's a "body guy." I assume that means he can change adult diapers when the need arises.
How all of this will be presented in middle school history texts a few decades from now is anybody's guess. Thankfully I will no longer be around to find out. But at this rate, quite possibly none of us will be.
17
"How all of this will be presented in middle school history texts a few decades from now is anybody's guess."
Barber schools are already teaching Trump's comb-over technique.
1
Has been with Trump a long time. Must know a lot.
How long till Mueller & Crew call?
Serious financial issues - should be ripe ground for a flip!
16
The list of senior people leaving the White House is about to become larger than the roster of names engraved on the poignantly beautiful Vietnam War Memorial. There, the comparison ends.
4
Not to worry, everyone. After we learn he was called to testify before Mueller's team we will learn he too was "just a coffee boy."
13
Are we to presume there will be a complete firewall between the Oval Office and Campaign Headquarters? I certainly won't hold my breath waiting for that.
9
My question exactly—is this Trump’s way of keeping him around? It sounds like Kelly was the one doing the firing.
1
He (Trump) is conflicted. On the one hand he is ecstatic that the Republican poodles on the House Intelligence Committee gave him a pass (after destroying the Committee’s viability). On the other hand his babysitters are being taken from him. At least Mike Pompeo has escaped his morning babysitting duty. Now let’s see how Trump likes some morning s&m.
4
Was there or has there ever been one single member of Trump's administration that had security clearance from jump street, aside from John Kelly? With security issues like this running amuck, why even bother to lock the doors to the White House or have passwords on computers or laptops?
15
He will be on a campaign to nowhere. Trump likely will not actually run again. The Stormy Daniels story, the Mueller investigation, and my prediction that Melania Trump will file for divorce will all take too much of a toll for him to be a credible candidate for 2020. Watch Pence ramp up his nascent campaign apparatus in the not very distant future.
4
I wish I were that optimistic.
3
What is happening to the American presidency? Aren't you just overloaded with constant exhausting news flow from the Trump WH?
How can this WH team manage a complex set of simultaneous global and domestic situations with such chaos among the leadership?
How long can Kelly sustain this level of activity?
6
What else should or could we expect?
The swamp is festering in Mr Trump's house and includes all those around him. Where is that clean-up crew?
4
If you can't pass a security check you get interim clearance? Innocent until proven guilty? If we don't know if you are trustworthy we will trust you until we find out otherwise? I just don't get it.
9
my sentiments exactly.
3
Is Donald Trump so afraid that he would not be re-elected that he has to run for 3 1/2 years? What a travesty?
7
He enjoys the campaign, just not the job. Hence, the numerous "rallies", rather than substantive meetings.
California is going to be a major trial for him.
My recommendation: keep sending McDonalds coupons!
4
I'm sure that for Trump running for President and basking in the adulation of the faithful is much more fun than actually doing the job.
5
Sad, oh so sad! What has happened to our wonderful Republic?
4
It speaks volumes that so many in Trump’s cabinet just can’t seem to pass FBI background checks... what does that say about the man himself?
5
A shipwreck.
5
No idea what the financial crimes might be. Maybe he sold Alcoa two weeks ago?... but it does strike me as corrupt that someone under a criminal investigation lands a job immediately on the reelection campaign.
9
Another person for Mueller’s team to speak with.
6
We have become the prime example of a Banana Republic. I wonder how much more it takes for tRump supporters to abandon him? Or do they really believe that this is Making America Great Again?
9
So who does have permanent security clearances at the White House? Obviously a shorter list than those who do not.
9
Mr. McEntee will remain in the president’s orbit despite his abrupt departure from the White House and has been named Senior Adviser for Campaign Operations. Someone needs to be liaison to Putin and the Soviets; McEntee sounds like just the guy; no security clearance but close to the boss.
7
He did say he would bring a bunch of “Real Winners” with him to office.
3
I find it interesting that the White House doctor travels with Trump wherever he goes. What don't we know? This is the same guy who pronounced Trump in perfect health after the annual check-up.
6
I believe this to be true of all Presidents, Their personal physician accompanies the POTUS wherever he goes.
1
at this point, they're not even trying to maintain a public facade, are they?
11
He’s better off on the campaign where a security clearance is not required to transact with agents of foreign governments. Each new day brings fresh absurdities at which to marvel.
7
We misunderstood. It was ‘retaining’ the swamp. Unfortunately, many people like dictatorships simply because they do not have to think or have moral responsibility. Compare religious doctrine and dictatorships and see what you find.
5
Thanks Gen Kelly for being the adult in the room and for your service in keeping us from complete chaos.
3
"Yesterday upon the stair/I met a man who wasn't there/he wasn't there again today/I wish, I wish he'd go a way." -Ogden Nash (I think).
People are being forced out who no one knew were there in the first place. Trump's is truly the first Zen presidency.
3
McEntee and Tillerson in one day? This would be beyond comical if there weren't a nation at stake. The lack of any consistency, staff continuity or administrative control is inexcusable.
4
Although the reason for hjs abrupt departure have not been specified, we know he did not harass a woman or collude with the Russia, as neither would be seen as ground for firing by this administration.
5
I'm pretty sure that at this point no one else would hire him. Even President Putin is becoming disillusioned with the caliber of Trump's White House staff. I'm guessing Putin gave the orders too.
I am reminded of a song played after a goal was scored at my young son or daughter's hockey games...
..."Another one bites the dust. Another one bites the dust. Another one bites the dust. Yaaaaaaaa-aaa." (music close.)
3
It is a valid question: Can Mr. Trump pass a security test? What if he couldn't? Maryland, I believe, has passed a law at the state level that requires release of tax returns for an individual running for president to appear on the ballot. It seems to me that it wouldn't be a bad idea for states to require that an individual be able to pass a security clearance in order to be on the state ballot for president. Trying to change the Constitution on this matter is a pipe dream.
3
Mr. Kelly is quite right to revoke interim security clearances for those who can't meet the standard. There are good reasons why a staff member might never meet those standards. If that means these people lose their jobs, well, they should have thought a little more clearly before they were involved in whatever behavior caused the revocation.
It seems that many of Mr. Trump's associates and appointees are ill-chosen. The worst part is that his poor judgement is leading the nation in a direction very few Americans want. Add to this his bigotry, anti-Muslim actions, misogyny, secrecy about his finances, and general unfitness for office, and he is clearly the security risk.
7
Something doesn't make sense. Mr. McEntee is frog-marched out of the White House but then is to be attached to the next presidential re-elction campaign? Now he's Senior Advisor for Campaign Operations. If someone has been dismissed for security or any other reason, they shouldn't land on their feet in an unrelated position that is still in touch with the president. There is something terribly wrong with this scenario.
6
A criminal record is practically a requirement for a position on the 2020 campaign. If you can't get a security clearance, Trump wants you!
5
"There is something terribly wrong with this scenario."
There is something terribly wrong with any scenario in which Donald John Trump is President of the United States.
4
“Something doesn't make sense. Mr. McEntee is frog-marched out of the White House but then is to be attached to the next presidential re-elction campaign?”
CNN is reporting that he is being investigated for serious financial crimes. Think of it this way: he was reassigned into a new position that is a better fit with his background and experience.
4
Just when you think you've seen the last character emerge from this circus, another pops out.
What a messy lot!
4
...and then there were none.
32
From your lips to God's ears!
3
He was paid $115,000 to be a gofer.
Nice work if you can throw a football 50 yards into a trash can...
53
Trump could have gotten so much more from him if he'd only upped the offer to $130,000.
7
One word: exhausting.
158
Two words 'Bloody mess'. What a way to run America. He was I thinking we had it bad.
4
Dismissed for investigation of "serious financial crimes."
Perfect background for the Trump campaign organization.
363
Did I miss the sentence in the article about "serious financial crimes? What is your source?
2
Ralph Cramden: I guess you did miss the story.
Type this into Google:
"Longtime Trump aide fired over financial crime investigation"
(CNN and many other media outlets)
McEntee: out. Tillerson: out. "And then there were..." ?
36
"And then there were....." ?
We should be so lucky.
1
When are they going to rename this the Committee to Reelect the President, or CREEP? Back to the good old days.
184
Had enough?
150
"Had enough"? Well, yes, but I believe there is more to come. Help!
6
More than enough. Too much enough. Enough already.
3
Escorted from the White House and onto the re-election campaign.
Fastest draining and refilling of a swamp in D.C. history.
11/6/18. VOTE.
478
Did Trump pass a background check?....seriously...did he?
346
Without a doubt, Trump couldn't get a security clearance. With his record, he probably doesn't qualify for a credit card! But, unfortunately, he passed the Electoral College and that's all that counts.
131
If you aren't held accountable to show your taxes for the past 5 years, at least you should have to pass a background check -- BEFORE you are allowed on a political party's ticket for office.
14
That should be a party requirement for the nomination.
13
The Chaos President reigns supreme, he'll just have McEntee move to another position in his campaign, like others who have shown they like the taste of boot polish.
94
Swamp drained. Swamp refilled.
75
The swamp was never drained, it was enhanced.
1
More evidence that Trump is incompetent as well as immoral and unethical.
229
Now if we could just get the worst security threat out of the White House!
301
Trump’s WH is like a house of cards!
32
Marked cards. Stacked deck.
4
Another one of "the best people!"
56
Anybody check Trumps security status? Perhaps he should be escorted from the White House as well.
214
Another trumper that can't be trusted? Geeze, what a shock.
45
Did he have a completed clearance that was revoked or is he just one of the people still using an interim clearance? Having a completed clearance suddenly revoked seems considerably more serious.
87
I'm sitting on the edge of my seat waiting to find out what McEntee's dirty deeds kept him getting clearance. Oh no I'm sitting on the edge of my seat waiting for Trump to swing back on gum control. Oh no i'm on the edge of my seat wondering if we will have a nuclear war. Oh no, fuggedaboudit!
79
"Gum" control? If only that were the issue on which the president had ended up backtracking on and playing nice with the NRA. No chewing, much less blowing bubbles, for anyone without a 3-day waiting period and background check.
5
Not that kind of gum control; he means flossing to prevent gingivitis.
3
One wonders, what havoc have all these people without security clearances wrought during the last year+. There is a reason why security clearances are required by those leading our country. But, come to think of it, one wonders what kind of security clearance the current occupant of the Oval Office has.
104
As an elected official (vs a political appointee or other non elected government employee) the President does not have to undergo a security clearance. It's the voters' responsibility to root out unqualified candidates and the reason why the media's role in keeping candidates and government transparent and honest is so vital to this process. Of course, voters need to be able to discern truth from fiction and fair vs biased journalism ...
6
Indeed: https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/citizen-trump-likely-wouldnt-get...
3
Remember when CREEP was the 'soft landing' for Nixon's cronies?
54
The closest thing to perpetual motion - the exiting of the clown car. With every departure and replacement cycle, the hope for an upgrade to the talent pool takes yet another hit.
This administration is like cold fusion...except without the intellectual honesty. Go figure.
86
As I keep saying, "Elect a clown. Expect a circus."
7
Here we are again. The campaign is the presidency and the presidency is the campaign. Trump hasn't stopped campaigning since he entered office and the proof is again in front of us. It is time for those of us who know that this experiment in populist politics must end to push our senators and representatives to in their chosen party to find people who can end this reign of chaos and embarrassment before it becomes much more like an experiment in Democratic dictatorships which we all know can't exist and the US come out viable and alive on the other end. Presidencies should not be launching and landing pads for Aides or Adult
children of political with security clearance issues to continue to hang out. Trump thrives on chaos because he isn't smart enough to realize it iems dangerous and not conducive to healthy living for people or Democracies.
111
Yes, but we can't go back to corporate control, which is why we got Trump. The problem is money--income disparity and wealth concentration, money is power. We have a long, bumpy, road ahead.
1
The silver lining, in this mess of an administration that has constant turnover and vacancies, is that there is not a full and stable staff to enact Trump's policies. Yet the fact that someone so close to the president had such significant problems that it warranted revocation of his security clearance - after more than one year with access to the highest and most sensitive of information - shows just how bad the judgment is within the White House. This is simply not normal. The current administration, instead of "draining the swamp," has brought the swamp with it. And each day the swamp spreads.
535
Except for Scott Pruitt and Ryan Zinke, who are destroying the environment and plundering our National Parks while we are perpetually distracted by Trump's antics.
The courts are also being packed with unqualified ultra-conservative judges who will have lifetime appointments.
26
I would say that the current administration has a different definition of "swamp" from the rest of the English-speaking world! Not only did they "bring the swamp with them", they also enlarged and deepened the swamp and brought in more smarmy creatures to populate it!
8
The great fear for many of us is no, this has never been normal for 99% of us. But this is occurring in such sheer volume and disgrace and crime, how long does this go on before it becomes so normalized we will see it forevermore in our government.
4
what a farce
a tragic, democracy destroying farce
139
The American people have a right to know why Mr. McEntee's clearance was rovoked and what risks did he pose that he had to be escorted from the White House. Very troubling and yet par for the course in the Trump Administration.
490
Given the suddenness of the move I'd bet on domestic abuse far more egregious than Rob Porter's, and I expect sordid details will be ferreted out soon enough. Since John Kelley has no control over at the campaign, and they prize that trait as desirable for employees, he'll do just fine in his new position. The Trump campaign basketball team is getting new uniforms, bright red shorts and white sleeveless wife beaters. Though not much on hang time, they have no problem jumping, at least from job to job.
6
"Serious financial crimes," according to CNN. “Minutes after news of his departure broke, the Trump campaign announced McEntee would be joining the reelection effort as a senior adviser for campaign operations.”
10
No, they don't have that "right". It would reveal sensitive information but, even if it did not, no such right exists in the law. Indeed, it would perforce contain personal info about McEntree, who still has a legal right to have such material kept from public view.
File a FOIA request, and get sheets so heavily redacted they'd be worthless.
Someone needs to explain to the Donald that is while “the buck stops” on the president’s desk, the job requires skills and knowledge that one person alone couldn’t possibly possess...and especially one with no public service experience. I think we have reached a point that his behavior is beyond the pale and Trump is becoming an ever more dangerous threat to our national security with his erratic behavior.
71
"I think we have reached a point that his behavior is beyond the pale and Trump is becoming an ever more dangerous threat to our national security with his erratic behavior."
I would have applauded this sentiment in March, 2016. In March, 2017 it's too little too late.
4
Of course I meant March, 2017 and March, 2018. Please excuse my nitwittedness.
3
Mr. Trump is going to have dig really deep to come up with a reelection team as low, immoral and as corruptable as his team for the 2016 election. But it's good to see that he's at least trying. I hope someone in congress can find out just what Mr. McEntee's problem was for getting a clearance. Might be good to know for the future should Mr. Trump gets a chance to run for a second term.
75
My goodness. A new record. Two in the last few hours?
132
Wow!! Makes feel secure knowing that someone unqualified for security clearance has been viewing classified material for over a year.
235
You mean "Trump"? Jared? I could keep going down the list...
7
I wish they'd all go, including Trump. Sorry, couldn't resist as fatigue has set in with the whole bunch of bananas. Is there any end to this? HELP!
53
"The campaign’s decision underscores Mr. Trump’s tolerance for — and often encouragement of — dueling centers of power around him. "
Respectfully disagree.
This underscores Trump's disorganization and complete lack of management ability.
722
The campaign seems to be a jobs program for those who otherwise might consider telling what they know about Trump.
11
Also Trump's choice of the unqualified and inexperienced, who therefore owe allegiance to him alone and never to any higher principle.
11
Not necessarily...internal competitiveness is an entirely reasonable, albeit ruthless, management strategy.