We should have seen more of this number in the media... Hillary won the popular vote by roughly 2.8 million votes. So far, with votes still to count, the Democratic vote in the House elections is 4.1 million greater than the Republican vote. Translate that to the Senate overall and it comes out that the GOP has about 20% more senators with 10% less of the vote.
The day will come when the Dems once again control both chambers of Congress and the presidency. When that happens the first thing they need to do is sweeping Constitutional and supporting legislative reform to ensure that every vote cast in America is of equal value and that every American who is entitled to vote is able to register to vote at an office in their own county operated by a bipartisan independent Electoral Commission which exists to facilitate democracy.
The irony for those of us outside America who live in representative democracies with independent electoral commissions and universal healthcare, is that America in one sense is indeed the greatest country on earth - in it's potential. If every American had an equal vote in the way America is run, then it would be a marvellous country.
That has to be the objective now. Empower the great middle to vote for politicians who reflect their real values and concerns and - the icing on the cake - pass an amendment which makes it illegal for any "person" not entitled to vote in an American election to donate to a political campaign. Corporations can't vote!
7
Two things are absolutely guaranteed:
#1: By now, Robert Mueller has amassed enough criminal evidence to put Trump AND his family behind bars for multiple life sentences.
#2: The President and his mafia clan are entirely above the law and will suffer absolutely no consequences.
This is the matchless system we are marketing to the rest of the world, because 'we're the best.'
A stomach-turning spectacle.
4
There's a saying that dictators start 'knowing' that they're clearly above the Law and would exercise retaliations against anyone not ready to obey, either at the local level and even Internationally, if they have the Power. Clearly this latter option wasn't in the reach of a Pinochet. But, we can ask:—what's happening in U.S. lately—?
4
That post election news conference was a disgrace.
What a painful thing to watch and witness: an American President nakedly showing abject hostility toward the press gathered in the room. Though it was not surprising that he clashed with CNN's Jim Acosta, who always pushes his buttons, his derogatory remarks and treatment of several African-American women in the press pool was cringe-inducing and completely uncalled for, as was his horrendous reaction to members of the foreign press who politely asked him questions. I don't understand how any responsible American can watch this continual freak show Trump puts on and be anything less than appalled. The nightmare continues. This man must be stopped before we all find ourselves in a veritable dictatorship.
12
Trump's demagogic vitriol will continue as will his pathological lying. It is long past the time for Democrats to play nice.
5
Trump’s “endorsement” of Nancy Pelosi is, in effect, the same kind of “endorcement” that V. Putin has given to Trump. Rather than a call to work harmoniously together, in reality, he is setting up Democrats in the hope that Ms Pelosi’s UNpopularity with Republicans would sow discord an chaos in the House. NOT harmony.
Typically, another Trump lie.
Perhaps Trumps next book should be titled: “The Art of Sowing Discord, Hatred, and Chaos”. The primary things that Trump has proven, time and time again, where his true talents lie.
4
Dems in he House need to have a take no prisoners approach. Republicans have no ethics, or integrity and do not respect the constitution when it does not serve their billionaire benefactors.
Legislate immediately! Pass a tax code that benefits the middle class and reverse the cuts for millionaires and billionaires. Secure the affordable care act- pre existing conditions, coverage mandate, women’s health issues. Legislation to protect Mueller.
Environmental protection. Immigration, DACA. Make Republicans show their true colors and watch them say no. Hold hearings on Russian investigation. Bring Donny junior in open hearings, Jared, Ivanka and Roger Stone.
Legislation, oversight, and execution of all government officials oath to preserve, protect, and defend the constitution!
4
More and more like putin everyday!
It won't take long for this person of little tolerance to wreck everything he can as a result of dysregulation of his emotions.
tRump must REALLY be rattled by the renewed comments voicing investigation of his finances. Hmmm...what could be hiding there?
Hope our newly-elected do not hesitate to enforce our constitution.
God Bless America!
3
He threatens war a lot more than he declares war. Mostly he would endless tweet at them that he is threatening to do something.
2
Trump, you are not king, you are not dictator and you certainly are no god.
4
Was brutish Trump trying to intimidate his critics from finding out the truth, by exposing his fraudulent achievements, nasty cruelty towards others, his constant lying about the facts when inconvenient to him, his crookery in private and public life, now enhanced by the abusing the power of the presidency? Trump is in deep trouble, and he knows it, and running scared, hence, attacking like a rabid dog in the false hope of escaping judgement, and the punishment for his misdeeds he so deservedly worked for. Can't we see Trump for what he is, a narcissist who lives for the applause...while screwing the very folks giving him support and relevance? He is so insecure, and immature, and nasty, and so empty of humanity, that he is confused as to whether he is truly human or a wild beast in human clothes. Trump's nastiness is hopelessly lost to remedy; he must be pushed to the fringes, where he belongs...and die for lack of applause, no audience for his self-congratulatory egomania, ending in his irrelevancy and public disdain.
5
"Warlike"??
Why is it that a Five-Deferment coward feels free to use military-speak and is never called out by vets?
Could it be his fiscal collusion with the military-industrial complex?
6
If Trump is lying about Acosta, and the unedited video footage suggests he is lying, just call him a liar!
3
It's so, so, so, so, so obvious Trump is hiding "something".
He has to be spending a lot of time and effort to insure this "something" is kept secret. Add this time to his rallies, golfing, Trump resort visits, fox news watching and ask yourself, "How much effort is he actually spending toward administrative work"? This man is obviously mailing it in.
His downfall and removal is going to be painful and political divisions will certainly mushroom , but if this country is to progress, not regress, the malignancy of Trump must be excised. The House must make his removal priority number one.
It starts with exposing his financial secrets, which must really be "something".
9
@GP It might be painful for him but who cares? If he is ousted I'm hosting a party and popping champagne like there's no tomorrow.
5
Could Trump make him self look any more guilty? If he has nothing to hide, why not say, "Go ahead. Investigate! You'll find nothing." But he has done nothing but threaten and complain and has now fired his attorney general. The man has much to hide. Let's find it and expose it. Then prosecute.
10
I could be wrong, but considering that the IRS has audited his returns, it seems unlikely that any criminal activity will be exposed. It is more likely that a lot of stuff he has done while not illegal is embarrassingly nasty and unethical which will not play well with regular folks like me.
5
Trump declares war on the U.S. if it insists upon treating him equally before the law. Not a notion most American leaders have ever wanted to express openly. But Trump is a limbo dancer, he’s always trying to see how low he can go.
5
Overwhelming comments here, as expected, attacking Trump, Republicans, and asking for continued obstruction and investigations. I was hoping that Congress might start doing their job. Working together. Legislating some common sense into the ACA, EPA, finance reform (as DoddFrank was abysmal). How naive I was; so sorry I voted for any Democrats. What has happened to my party?!!
DJT has been in "warlike posture" for a minimum of two years now. It is impossible to imagine two to six more years of this daily onslaught.
5
If Democrats want to craft reasonable compromise legislation in the interests of the American people (on DACA, Taxes, Medicaid, etc.), Trump and the Republicans will work with them
If Democrats want to double down on their strategy of weaponizing investigations as a tool for their opposition research. Trump can, and should, fight back in kind.
If the Dems go that route, as least we will all get to see the tax returns and personal finances of Elizabeth Warren, Cory Booker, Kamala Harris, et al. Transparency!
1
Trump basically came out a winner on Tuesday, He has a strong senate advantage and can rubber stamp all appointments, judges, and trade agreements at will.. If the House investigates then he will prosecute politicians for leaking of classified materials.. Investigating Trump is a sure way that DEMS will lose the house in two years, but working with him towards much needed legislation will ensure the house stays in DEM hands for the next cycle.. I say lets be rational and work with him to get things done.
1
Donald Trump is setting the stage for his greatest performance. He has taken the first steps to protect himself before the Democrats take over the House in January. By firing Sessions he will now surround himself with political pit bulls.
His "war-like stance" is his excuse to do everything possible to build what he perceives as a strong offense against anyone who wants to look into his finances and/or to thwart anything that Mueller might have.
If that fails, he will feign being the victim against the "corrupt" DoJ machine.
Use of the phrase "warlike posture" was, perhaps, not the best choice for Mr. Trump as it has generated numerous comments involving his draft deferments for bone spurs.
5
Why "untrue characterization"? It was a flat out lie and a defamation of Jim Acosta's character. Our president and his spokesperson are continually lying about many things big and small. Let's call them what they are. Liars.
CNN should sue on behalf of its reporter who has been unjustly libeled by the White House.
7
We need to win back the senate by boycotting/disinvesting in red-state companies and products.
4
Bring it on Donald. You're just like any other bully; a loudmouth bag of wind. Give it your best shot, but you're going to lose. Quit now and save the country the time and trouble and money to kick you out on the street where you belong.
8
If Trump has dirt on Democrats, he should present it. I don't want ANY dirty actors in government.
But, President Trump will finally get the
scrutiny he deserves.
5
Sanders should be placed on leave until an independent source looks at the video she used to illustrate her charge about Acosta.
If it is indeed fake, she needs to apologize to the American people and she should be fired.
Maybe Trump is talking about Infowars instead of his ongoing war with Reality.
7
I cannot and probably never will understand what his cheering, brain numb supporters see in Trump's performance (he's no President in our historical sense) as a positive change in leading the greatest nation in the world with gutter values.
His latest rude and petulant incident with the three White House reporters was embarrassing for me as a Vietnam Veteran to watch how low our American values of decency and respect have sunk to have a despicable person as Trump presiding over our nation like he's some loud and foul mouth offensive drunk in a bar.
Our Nation that many Americans have died to serve and protect.
5
"Warlike Posture"?
Bring it on, little man....
6
War on anyone who opposes you is what our Dictator does.Trump does not compromise; he will destroy America to "win". Say goodbye to Democracy. Ray Sipe
1
Trump declared himself at war with American Justice itself.
Is he above the law that applies to all? America overthrew a mad king centuries ago.
He falsely claims people seeking sanctuary in the United States are breaking the law.
What is the punishment for treason, corruption and asset acquisition through criminal conduct?
Forfeiture.
5
What I want to know is, who has the authority to arrest the POTUS? What's it take? An indictment, an ignored subpoena, an arrest warrant? Has the Constitution or later law spelled out exactly how to get past the WH guards, Secret Service and Trump's personally hired security to handcuff him and escort him out of OUR house, like the common criminal psychopathic con artist he so obviously is? And why hasn't a local sheriff arrested him at one of his rallies where he casually advocates violence and offers to 'pay your legal fees' if you punch someone? Seems like stopping him then and there should have happened during his first rally more than two years ago, but better late than never...
2
We know he has a lot of felonies to hide or he wouldn't be so belligerent. The Democrats should start an immediate investigation on all fronts of the systematic liar and cheat in the White House. There is no Democrat that can have a worse record for obvious lawbreaking as Trump. Let's start with tax evasion, collusion with the Russians, employing relatives who are also unqualified for the jobs and enriching his company by having foreign governments rent space at his hotels to gain his favor.
1
If Mr. Trump takes a "war like posture" does that mean his bone spurs are going to return?
The house should immediately begin their investigations.
Preferably a 1000 of them, all at once.
I say sue Mr. Trump right into the ground.
2
Trump believes he is above the law and will do literally anything to preserve what must be some very dark secrets. The Senate Republican are supine and ready to do his bidding. The only questions that remains is how much courage the new Democratic House majority has and whether Trump's efforts to pack the District, Circuit and Supreme Courts with partisan toadies has been successful.
1
Democrats need to stand up and take the hits, it's what they were elected to do, keep Trump and his administration in check and protect the rest of the country.
Our time for acquiescence is over. We can no longer take the moral high road, Trump is bulldozing the road as we speak, not standing up to him will only embolden his behavior.
1
“If that happens, then we’re going to do the same thing, and government comes to a halt. And I would blame them.”
But the majority of the people would blame Trump, given that a majority wants Trump investigated.
Trump tweet yesterday:
'If the Democrats think they are going to waste Taxpayer Money investigating us at the House level, then we will likewise be forced to consider investigating them for all of the leaks of Classified Information, and much else, at the Senate level. Two can play that game!'
The fact is, the money spent on Mueller has been more than recouped by the real estate and monetary seizures of the criminals involved. Manafort's seizures alone recovered $15 million, deposited right into US coffers.
4
Civil War is here. It will only get worse.
1
Trump can't use the defense that Mueller is costing too much money when the investigation basically is paying for itself by seizing monetary and real estate assets from criminals like Manafort (alone accounts for $15M). That money goes right into US treasury where it was stolen from the US by tax fraud.
3
I agree with the commenter. Democrats, don't go into battle against Trump. He is a brilliant manipulator, is spoiling for a fight and he has a lot of experience fighting dirty. You don't. Neutralize him, make him irrelevant, make him toxic to Republicans seeking re election. You've got 2 years to systematically take him down.
1
If he is as pure as the driven snow as he claims, he wouldn't be afraid of Mueller and any other investigation that Republicans might start. Obviously he is hiding lots of corruption by himself and his cabinet members. Even his Attorney General replacement is not being legally done. Just like Kavanaugh's appointment he is trying to surround himself with people that will protect him whatever the damage to our democracy. But as his former attorney Cohen found out the loyalty only goes one way. And the late Roy Cohn never got paid except with a fake "diamond and gold" watch, like a lot of the people that tied themselves to Trump in the past.
1
I appreciate those who look on the bright side. I, however, am very depressed. I don't want to live in a world where my fellow citizens embrace someone like trump. I do not understand what drives voters to the polls for him. The democrats wining the house was not a repudiation of trump, rather, the fact that they did not win by a much larger margin, and the senate too, reinforces the fact that hate and fear sell. Don't tell me about structural disadvantages because we're talking about things that should transcend politics. I'm not anti-republican. I'm not pro-democrat. There are problems and successes in both parties. What I AM for, though, is civil discourse that is productive and honest. We continue to live in shame.
5
Can someone inform the President that Congress works for us not him.
6
In view of this threat, the House needs to make an investigation of Trump its first order of business.
Trump has thrown down a challenge that must be met with force.
Anything less isn't just timid, it's gutless.
A weaker response and much, much will be lost.
1
Agreed. Dems need to come out the gates swinging with investigations and hearings.
1
Unless a handful of Republican senators stand up to Trump, the rule of law will be a thing of the past in this country and so will our democracy.
There is very little reason to think a Republican senator will do anything to favor democracy over Trump.
3
@JoeJohn
Don't wait for anyone in his party to voice their concern. They are spineless and answer to President Bone Spurs only, they are afraid of their own shadow.
1
What does a "warlike posture" actually mean for Trump. When he was asked to serve in a real war he got a heel spur. Does his "warlike posture" mean he will begin to fake limping when in public?
5
It's gonna be a bumpy two years.
Trump declares war against Democrats. Here is some strategically essential advice: Do not fight Trump with his tactics. He leaves himself wide open on so many other fronts. Use the law, use facts, mockery, humiliation, prey on his vast ignorance, his reliance on conspiracy, his misogyny, his narcissism, his constant use of superlatives as directed towards himself. He gets himself in deeper water all on his own.
6
Food for thought:
Abraham Lincoln, Edwin Stanton first met when they were both lawyers working together. Lincoln had written up his own notes and submitted them to his colleague.
Who used none of them. "Who is that man?" he inquired. "The original gorilla?"
Stanton was later tapped to be Secretary of War during the Civil War. He and the President had a good working relationship throughout that whole conflict.
"Now he belongs to the ages," declared a weeping Stanton as he stood beside Lincoln's deathbed.
Our President is not cut out of that same cloth.
I was struck--truth to tell, I laughed uproariously--as (one by one) Mr. Trump ticked off the names of people who had recoiled from his embrace. Oh the pleasure! I don't suppose this man GETS much pleasure anymore.
But that was one.
"Too bad about that, Mike. . ..I'm sorry about that, Mia. . .."
Reminds me of Bismarck. "When I can't sleep at night," confided the Iron Chancellor, "I rehash old enmities in my mind."
Betcha someone else does that. All the time.
And--apropos of the Mueller investigation--
--"There's nothing there," says our President.
No sir. There's a LOT there.
Why else--like a broken record--do you keep reiterating:
"Witch hunt. . .there's nothing there. . .witch hunt. . . .."?
What'll happen these next two years?
Gosh, New York Times--I wish I knew.
Old Chinese curse: "May you live in interesting times!"
We live in interesting times.
2
I read Trump's press conference as a someone coming undone under mounting pressure. Frankly I think he is mentally ill but the press conference revealed a wounded, scared man. And ever more dangerous for it. The Dems need to keep up there pressure and Trump will destroy himself. His current enablers - there may have never been a more cowardly group in my lifetime - will abandon him as his descent into utter madness becomes untenable. They may likely pivot to someone like Romney for the 2020 presidential election.
Trump will no quietly however. Trump will not walk away hundreds of millions of dollars in his re-election fund so the Don McGahn's of the world will be called upon to figure out how to release those funds to the Trump Organization. The art of the deal is also the height of corruption but it would be worth it to rid ourselves of this dangerous man.
5
What I heard was nothing more than extortion coming out of Don Trumps mouth.
3
So... suspending the credentials of Jim Acosta of CNN; what exactly does that do? Can Jim Acosta no longer participate in WH press briefings? When are people going to stand up to the absurdity of this man who holds the highest position in this great country? Perhaps with the House picking up so many Democrats, the GOP will discover its backbone and not bow down to this any more. And let the Mueller investigation continue unchecked.
1
I believe the threats from Trump, like war-like posture and tossing reporters out of the white house, and firing Sessions are the best indicators of the things EVERYONE needs to acknowledge.
Since when does a president threaten the house in public, on TV and say if you try and get me, I'll get you. This is the President of the US. He is consuming us daily with this kind of treacherous, and traitorous behavior. Treating the press the way he does is criminal in my mind.
Instead of censuring him or trying to reign him in, the GOP can't carry his water fast enough. What are they getting? This is a disgusting way for our system to work.
4
So this is where our president DJT, lover of the world's dictators, lives. Attacking the press, his political enemies, and firing those around him who are not at his beckon call to do as he pleases. Trump will meet his political Waterloo very soon.
1
People who aren't guilty don't put up "war like posture". Investigate him, find the truth, then LOCK HIM UP!
1
So if the Democrats carry out their job by providing oversight to the executive branch, he will take his football and go home. Very mature, for Mr. Trump.
Perhaps if he understood the Constitution and our government, we wouldn't have so many people in his administration going to prison and he wouldn't have to worry about how to stop the House from doing it's job.
1
The house has a duty to the American people to give the executive branch oversight.
But then the President has no clue about the constitution so he will interpret oversight as attack. Here we go .....
3
"Trump Vows ‘Warlike Posture’ if Democrats Investigate Him."
This should be fun to watch. I hope it happens.
3
I thought "warlike posture" for Trump is getting Dad to phone the doc for a fake diagnosis of bone spurs, a crippling situation that disappears as soon as the golf game at the country club begins.
Or wearing a monogrammed trucker hat.
It doesnt sound too serious- go ahead and root around for the taxes Trump promised years ago.
No Embrace.
1
Just a dream I had: "Trump vows to reach across the aisle to work on behalf of the American people." Then I woke up.
1
Hard to watch the press conference yesterday. We know that the 45th doesn’t respect anyone but himself. He speaks incoherently, contradicts himself constantly, and lies about facts. He has proven that he is not credible and unfit for the current job he has. However, the journalists are giving him ammunitions to attack the press. It’s important to call him out, but arguing with him is pointless. That man is so illiterate and morally incompetent. It just like trying to argue with a wall.
And don’t forget, before he became the president, YOU gave him free platform 24/7 on your news channels for ratings and entertainment. YOU benefitted from him with his hurtful words (lies), and inappropriate actions.
So, who to blame?
2
This is as good as admission of guilt.
3
Trump vows 'warlike posture' if Democrats investigate him. Sounds too much like Dorothy Parker and the death of Calvin Coolidge: "How could you tell?"
1
Trump has no intentions of "cutting bipartisan deals." Any such suggestion is nonsense and naīve
1
If trump did nothing wrong why would he be threatening war like response?
20
There’s new here as regards Trump. He does not want, apparently out of fear, to be accountable; and he uses the power of not his office, but office of the president to push people around, threaten, demean ... you name it ... in a word “bully” ... under the full protection, including armed, of presidential office. Perfect example of a positioned coward, really. As for the press: It enables this, making the effectiveness of Trump in his self-aggrandizing mission evermore advertised in a way that metastatic disease is envisaged. Frankly, doing without the addictive hold Trump has on the press that mostly is so manipulated by him, might be a wonderful service by the press for the nation. Enough, already! We are not living in a normal time. And, of course, the press standing in solidarity with Acosta would be, in my view, rather appropriate for the sake of press integrity.
5
House Democrats need to go on offense starting on Jan 3 - Medicaid, pre-existing conditions, infrastructure, enviornmental protection, reasonable gun control measures, millionaires tax, eliminate loopholes, minimum wage, something on tuition....pass these and let the Republicans and Trump explain their opposition. If the Mueller report shows malfeasance or if the WH moves on Mueller, Dems need to aggressively pursue these charges as well. Pelosi must surround herself with young, telegenic policy experts or which there are an abundance in the Democratic caucus, and they must be out there every day selling the agenda, and refuting the Trump nonsense. No more hoping people will figure it all out on their own - It's time to actually get on the field and compete.
House Dems need to be relentless in setting the policy agenda as if they represent the majority, because they do.
20
This is going to be tragically hilarious. Irony on steroids.
Did anyone catch Trump's fake apology for having to drag the nation through abusing rape allegations and racial massacres? He wouldn't do it if it wasn't necessary to win. Much like the abusive husband. Of course, he didn't mean it, and is now at our throats again with firings, threats and expulsions.
As a woman, I bet we can outlive this self destructive person. As a human, I question why he hasn't yet been brought down. Oh, that's right, he's got misogynists and racists backing him. Hard to argue with them, even if it's their daughter or congregation.
24
This entire Press Conference was a sham. Does it remind anyone of the political atmosphere of Germany in the 30’s? It should!!!
35
@Eric Cosh
Reminds me of Vlad Putin, actually. Hates the press. Allows no questions that aren't prearranged.
Yes. America still has lot to lose.
2
As a retired history teacher here in Germany I fully agree.
1
We all live under one sky. Intellectual horizons however differ tremendously. Mr Trump is the living proof. Not only since yesterday's press conference.
8
It's a typical day in Dogpatch USA. Where typical folk do things in a typical way. First we wipe the sleep from our eyes. Then amuse ourselves tellin' LIES. (L'il Abner the musical).
This is why rural America like Trump.
8
If ANY Democrat was president right now, Republicans would be investigating them as if they were traitors seeking to overturn the Constitution and install Sharia Law. That is what they always do, investigate made up scandals and shut down government. Instead of being punished for it by voters, they have won 2/3 of all elections.
But of course corporate mass news is cautioning Democrats that investigations might hurt their reelection in two years. Nonsense.
Trump it's almost definitely a traitor seeking to overturn the Constitution and install "christian" Sharia Law, a la Roy Moore, for corrupt profit.
There are about 220 Democratic members of Congress plus their staffs. Many volunteers from around the country would help. Every crime that Trump has likely committed, especially the ones he has confessed to on TV, needs to be investigated. They need to be investigated and publicized until McConnell begs the House to impeach Trump.
Corporate mass media has a conflict of interest. Their shareholders and CEOs profit from Trump's tax cuts and other favors for global corporations. Don't take advice from pundits that accept Supply Side Economics as a viable hypothesis, even though 40 years of data shows it to be a lie.
Trump almost definitely has a long list of crimes in his history especially money laundering. Most likely, Putin has them documented and is blackmailing Trump.
Trump must be investigated thoroughly. He is a public servant who works for We the People.
24
From emoluments to nepotism to disregard for tradition to lying to harassing the press to dog whistle politics. Trump's presidency is a many splendoured thing! Why not add "war like" or whatever the heck he said to the list?
12
It's obvious that Trump has much to hide by his threat to adopt a "warlike posture" if the House investigates him. Democrats should ensure that Mueller can continue his work, and then, if necessary, begin their own investigation of this man who appears to have no possession of decency.
13
Considering that Trump has declared war in Democracy, it seems only fair that Democracy fights back
26
The Democrats have one of two paths to choose. They could try and get along by working on infrastructure and medical legislation or use the next two years to diffuse Trump. The former may seem like a more prudent approach, I wonder how much would really get accomplished. Or we take this opportunity to right this nation's ship during this turbulent period and make a more positive long lasting effect on our country. The Democrats need to keep Trump from getting the Republican party's nomination through indictments. This is the most difficult of the paths to take but the one we as a nation must go down to cleanse itself and recover our dignity and place in the world as a leader to be admired. No more Trump.
9
@DaveT They can do both. There are different committees to do these jobs.
1
If the only tool the House has is the power of investigation, they need to remove as many people in Trump's supporting roles as possible. Trump's narcissism is truly medical level insanity. He will be impervious to anything.
13
It's completely in character that the Democratic establishment would extend the olive branch, and the reason why Trump has taken over the government. I've despaired that that Democratic party operatives (I mean it's elected officials) have the guts or the brains to turn back the tide. Maybe Michael Avenotti or Oprah in 2020?
3
I imagine Al Capone, Micheal Milken, Bernie Madoff, and most other criminals make threats when the law starts investigating criminal financial dealings.
As did Micheal Cohen, Paul Manaforte, and Michael Flynn, not so long ago too.
11
The Legislative branch is a check and balance to the Executive Branch.
Trump threatening a Democratic House is alarming. Authoritarianism has no place in America.
11
Is there any credible dispute that Trump, a great political demagogue, is an autocratic president. That the GOP marches only in lock step, (Maybe a sign of rampant corrupt cronyism?) Both abrogate constitutional duties, and avoid real public scrutiny. Astonishing that it's now a winning political game plan in the US.
There should be real public debate asking if this is what failing democracies looks like? It's a valid question, but today's behemoth partisan media making machines (used to call it blatant partisan propaganda) seems to drown really credible news and public information out. There's so much historic government corruption at play, the NYT reports Fox news stars joined Trump on his political rally stage.
There is some relief from anxiety that some opposition will exist in government, but I feel the bigger truth is the Dems can't overturn rising autocratic rule w/o rebuilding the failed democratic institutions the US desperately needs. The Dems haven't been a force for keeping those institutions alive all along (could this be due to more cronyism?).
So one wonders what's next.
4
@Pete_in_Downtown
I agree wholeheartedly with your comments. in other words: Congress, do your job running the country!
3
Warlike posture? Will he draw upon his own experiences during military service? Oh, right, he had five deferments. Yes, but he attended a military academy which dressed him in costly uniforms with lots of braid and brass. That should do it. Just know that to him, warlike translates as tantrum and he has lots of those.
11
Democrats are so deep into their Trump Russia collusion nonsense lies, they have no way out.
Trump will win this one and Democrats will be exposed.
That the Democrats still think they can push a fake narrative, when everyone knows it is fake, goes to show how much they think of their supporters.
In other words, "if you promise to be nice to me (and ignore your responsibility to investigate me), I might throw you a bone every now and then, but only when I can take all the credit for getting the bill passed.
7
Trump's been in a warlike posture since he was elected. It would be a tremendous mistake for Democrats not to hold him accountable.
15
As if there has been governing going on the last two years. Besides the precious tax cut the GOP has salivate over for years, what "governing" is DT talking about? Halting government is what DT and the GOP has done for 2 years. Some "threat."
3
So it's business as usual, then? One can only imagine how much this reprobate has reason to hide.
4
I think the Dems need to get together and divide up (figuratively) with about 2/3 aggressively working to get an infrastructure bill, protect pre-existing conditions from coverage denials and higher premiums, negotiate for lower drug costs for Medicaid, and protect Medicaid and Social Security, get an infrastructure plan ready, keep him busy doing actual work of a president, and the other third operate in stealth mode to the extent possible to weed out the corruption and maybe get rid of this clown in the oval office. They should hire a retired general to train them how to take-no-prisoners on this nonsense.
3
The next time he behaves like a man innocent of serious wrongdoing will be the first. I believe trump's ultimate destination is jail.
2
This Senate is never going to pass a piece of legislation initiatiated by this Congress, and Trump is going to voto anything that might pass. It is tome for the Democrats to learn how to be an opposition party, and act like one. Let the subpoenas fly, and let the indictments begin.
4
@expat
I agree. Time to get on with the impeachment.
2
No more Mr. Nice Guy, now that he truly feels threatened. Will the newly flipped House be in office in time to intervene and, if in time, will the Dems have the smarts and fight required. Trump is a known entity (although the extent of his evil still amazes us), but Dem power is a new factor here. Let's home the majority in the House proves a true wall against the Trump invasion of our democracy and our vaues.
I can't avoid a quip: I heard Trump on TV saying he wants to heal the nation. Not being in print, I envisioned him telling the nation to "HEEL!"
3
@citizen vox
I'm confused. When was he ever nice?
What was on display was not only a petulant, narcissistic bully of president but also a reminder that half the country has no ability to discern the dangers to democracy he poses. Fortunately real populism took hold of the house providing a measure of accountability envisioned by our Constitution. Typical of the con man, Trump promised unity and displayed vitriolic partisanship his only answers and statements regarding only himself and HE faired in Tuesday's election. He evaded all....all tough questions, chided anyone who didn't agree with or bow to him. Present him with a true "populist" agenda. Let the Conservative Senate misread their Trumpian mandate by squashing this agenda. Let Trump rant himself into irrelevance like Lonesome Rhodes did in A FACE IN THE CROWD. Let the corruptive cancer metastasize and face the radiation of the people. Hopefully the South will wake up to the fools they just put into the Senate.
3
Nancy needs to stand at the podium and Proclaim, "Our goal is to make sure this president has no successes and one term."
7
A “warlike posture” sounds very weak. It means he has everything to hide.
4
Trump's narcissism knows no bounds. He would engage in real partisan warfare to satisfy himself. Think Sarajevo. Anything and everything would become collateral damage, and worth it to him. The Democrats need some outstanding leadership now. Day 1 was yesterday.
3
The bottom line is that if the Mueller investigation can be concluded without interruption, I have no doubt that Trump will not only be impeached, he'll probably also be tried in a court of law for his blatant corruption. The only problem is that Trump will pull out all the stops trying to end all investigations against him and his family. He's guilty of corruption, and most likely treason, and will stop at nothing to put an end to any attempts at justice. He has nothing to lose at this point and the American people have everything to lose if he remains in office for one more day. He is a major risk to our security and democracy.
2
Trump is chumming the waters. Will Democrats try to govern or take the bait. We'll see.
2
I charged my college history students with the task of researching the reign of Stalin and producing an essay comparing Stalin and Trump. Their findings surprised them. One student said she never expected to find so many similarities, especially in their assault on the press. My reply: Welcome to the world of Donald Trump, dictator wannabe.
3
@nzierler
Of course there are similarities: Stalin was Putin's predecessor and, to a degree, role model , whereas Putin is Trump's master.
Wake up America and smell the coffee.
1
Oh please. Who does he think is? The president? he has been on a war footing for two years, and he has lost.
2
It is time that the New York Times, and indeed the entire responsible journalist profession, boycott all future White House news conferences until Mr. Acosta's credentials are reinstated. Enough already of pretending to be above the fray and that this President is not toxic. It's time to fight back for the First Amendment, especially now that yesterday's elections have opened this creature up to investigation. Show a little courage. Actually, you have shown a lot by being a principle instrument in exposing the filthiness of this Administration over the last two years. Now it is time to go to the next step by showing some self-respect for your own profession. Don't worry: the news media has the upper hand in the case of a vain prima donna like Trump. What happens when the White House press room is suddenly mostly empty...and goes silent? He will come back begging to you.
1
I'd like to thank Donald Trump for his work in destroying the republican party. It's a pity he seems to be destroying the country at the same time.
3
We have a criminal as president. His history is replete with violations. Look at his associates. The fact that he is president is stunning. His removal is long overdue.
6
Vows warlike posture. He has taken that stance since day 1 of his unhinged chaotic presidency. I hope we investigate his money. Romney said awhile back he is a phony not showing his account. Mr Manafort had 33 off shore accounts I bet Mr Trump has more with a few with Russian money flowing daily. We need to find out how long the account has been open and force Trump or family to pay their back taxes. We need to stop the sale of bullets after todays 13 dead in a bar shootout. I bet it was a soar looser Republican again.
Trump’s performance in the press conference was one of the most embarrassing this country has ever seen. He’s on the verge.
And please - get someone else besides the pretty little girl dressed in burgundy and pearls to do her job. (Whatever her job is - microphone?). She looked terrified ducking! Well, who wouldn’t be terrified, I guess, being in the midst of Trump’s mood!?)
2
@MIMA
I rather enjoyed it. Chuckled through all the way! Never thought I could take such delight in seeing somebody squirm.
He's nervous, that's good.
Now, go get him!
1
Our democracy is safe for the time being there will now be a check in place and the people will get justice if this president has been enriching himself as I suspect then the people will get justice. No more see no ,hear no speak ,no from do nothing lying republicans.
1
Where are Devin Nunes, Jim Jordan and Mark Meadows when you need them? In the minority where they belong.
1
A war-like posture? So, in other words, nothing will change. A word of advice to Dems in the House, don't be bullied by Trump. He's afraid because he's guilty of corruption. Find the money trail that certainly exists and lock him up!
1
So, the president of the U.S. just threatened war with the U.S. House of Representatives?
4
@Panthiest
makes more sense when you think he works for Vlad Putin.
I have not known real fear of my government until these last two years. As someone who is desperately dependant upon the medical care provided by ObamaCare, I must live with the stomach churning fear that I could very possibly die because of some Republican's desire to look like they are doing something. The last year, that fear has galvanised me to participate in the campaign process in an attempt to actually fight back. Last night's democratic takeover of the house should prevent any further tampering.
The fact that Donald Drumpf code to fire Jeff Sessions from his office of attorney General shows that he has already adopted a position of defiance against the laws of this nation, and those charged with enforcing them. I think of all the blood that has been spilled over the last 250 years of this nation's history, so that American people could live in a nation free of tyranny. Then I see this Orange fat man deficating all over it, and I am filled with anger and outrage. I know in my heart that I cannot rest until I see this defiler of our nation's highest office removed, by force if necessary, and incarcerated for his crimes. Until that goal is secured, being an American citizen is no longer what the founding fathers intended for our nation. Our newly elected house of representatives must make the removal of the current occupant of the Oval Office it's TOP PRIORITY!
1
I count President Trump's vocabulary limited to 400 words. Does anybody have a count higher than this?
2
Trump was totally off the rails. If he were a middle school counselor and went on those kinds of incoherent rants, he'd be fired. Alas.
But his ridiculous claims remind me of Orwell's 1984. The scene where Oceania's enemy shifts, overnight, from Eurasia to Eastasia. And the government says 'We're at war with Eurasia. We have always been at war with Eurasia.' Now Bush and Cheney pulled this one with Afghanistan and Iraq. And people bought it (or at least, the press that questioned their premises and claims were ignored and filtered out of the fear-laden narrative).
Trump saying it was a great victory, it's starting to feel like he just test markets these statements to see how far he can go and still have his cult followers blindly take him at his word. His anger and complete lack of executive functioning rules out most other explanations. What is less clear is whether he spouts such nonsense and checks the polling to gratify his ego, or whether his 'team' is just calibrating what kinds of lies they can spin to their base with near impunity.
1
Only the terminally naive would believe anything Trump says after the last two years of his corrupt administration.
It’s all out war starting now to remove Trump. If Nancy Pelosi is sincere about conciliation with Trump then she should not be the new Speaker.
Yes, Mike Pence is the fallback position for Trumps departure.
What Pence offers is some semblance of civility and decency as a counterpoint to Trumps debacle as president.
Would Pence brag about grabbing women’s private parts? Would Pence rudely push another head of state out of the way?
What Pence will offer is a caretaker president until the 2020 election can provide a real choice for all Americans.
American women have shown all of us how to take the lead in Congress. Now it’s time for us to follow their lead and return America to decency!
1
Those where the days,the good old days when an American Citizen got up from his sleep,had hot coffee,a slice of bread with cream or butter & off he went to do his “duty for the nation”:Vote.
Elections usually used to come & like a mild headache used to go away the way it used to come,mildly.
He voted not with any particular animosity towards any of those on the ballot paper.
Frankly,he was indifferent.They didn’t hurt him.
Once he had “done his duty to the nation “ he would hurry home for a quick bite,Local TV news followed by his standard daily routine.
Not any more,
Today,it’s different,once the vote is done based on severe personal animosity towards the various candidates on the ballot paper, is now an NEW agenda,for him,besides his routine,bread,breakfast coffee,the US NEWS MEDIA’s :ANALYSIS OR SHALL WE SAY OVER ANALYSIS of the elections.
It’s an mind crunching affair,that can,unnervate the myelin sheath in even the most healthy neuron synapses.
The question are quick.
Why did he or she lose ?
The reason for that particular candidates victory.
Which foreign power is behind his success.
& Now for the Never Ending Investigations
& Subpoenas & Acrimonious debates.
When is the business of legislation going to get done,God only knows.
The atmosphere before & after elections is to put it mildly:REVENGEFUL.
Oh! for those mild days.
trump has been exhibiting a warlike posture on democracy beginning with his inauguration speech on January 20, 2017.
Trump's clear message is those that embrace him, the Godfather, win. Those in his "family" will do all they can to protect him. Thanks to all who went to the polls to put a check on this mad man.
1
Horrible as Trump's strongman bullying tactics are to most people, to Trump's base, his words are music to their ears. It is depressing to realize that so brainwashed are most of his base than even his most egregiously immoral acts continue to be perceived by them as justifiable. Had he selected Vladimir Putin to be his next attorney general, his base would have applauded this appointment and chafed at those who would have second-guessed it. Trump speaks the language of undying loyalty, America Right or Wrong, and commitment to "principles" even though when you look at what those principles are they turn out to be those of intolerance, discrimination, injustice for the weak and contempt for all who oppose.
"I think people like me" the president said.
Not on this planet they don't.
3
Drumpf will grow more dangerous and unhinged every threatening our constitution and people. The only ones who can stop him are the GOP, which they won't. It will be a very rough next 2 years with levels of criminality and vile discourse never seen in our government.
1
From what I saw of yesterday's press conference, that looked like a melt-down, as in when a school teacher has lost control of the class due to his own incompetence. The problem is, because of this president's previous and continuous (in my opinion) mis-behavior, yesterday's antics seem normal (for him) and now seemingly acceptable. Well, it isn't. Sending Acosta to the principle's office, among other scoldings; What a joke. Get rid of him.
1
..., “Never ascribe to malice that which is adequately explained by incompetence.” (Unknown)
Let me be perfectly clear, Mr. Trump...."no, we do not like you or what you have done to this country over the last two years" the election results could not be more clear. Pay attention to something other than yourself.
We elected Democrats, not wimps. If you want to LOSE 2020, do nothing to rattle trump.
We want his sleepless nights to begin now.
2
Brace our selves, djt words and actions are going to get worse. He lost the House, he is terrified and enraged.
Jess Sessions firing, Jim Acosta's loosing his WH Press pass is only the beginning. Democrats, appease the guy, give him something to crow about.
My hope is that Mr. Mueller will release 'something' sooner than later that will point to djt direct involvement regarding obstruction of justice.
Threats. That is all. That's Mr. Trump's M.O. Invest in Donald's brand of hair dye people because the O Man will need to start swimming in it to keep the gray at bay.
Let the NYS Attorney General investigate Trump for money laundering, tax fraud and other financial crimes. He'll be in jail by 2021.
1
The House should say to Trump, what FDR said to his critics-
"I welcome your scorn".
Bullies don't stop bullying until someone larger slaps them down.
"It's a madhouse!"
- Charlton Heston
2
What I am concerned about are Trump's threats toward a body of people who are supposed to be working for the people. How long are our elected officials going to be cowed by his threats? I wish someone would ask Trump what exactly he means when he says he is going to retaliate and when he shrugs and says "Wait and see" or whatever he usually says, that that same person would ask him if he is making an actual threat. We should not keep letting him off the hook about ANYTHING anymore; people need to start telling him he is immoral and acting like a dictator. He needs to be told, as many times as it takes, that he is lying, that he is racist, and that he is wrong--each time these things are true. And someone should define nationalism to him, since he refuses to define it himself.
181
Trump is scared ! Acting like a belligerent baby.
8
@Constance Campana Yes, he's a LIAR. It's high time that the press stopped tiptoeing around the elephant in the room. Call them lies. Call him a liar.
12
@Solar Power
As a NYT reader, you are surely aware that calling Trump a lying liar who tells lies is all the NYT does. Ever.
Given that Trump's former attorney has set up multiple off-shore accounts to hide his money and evade paying taxes, the odds are very good that Trump has them also - and has evaded both federal and state taxes.
Start the investigations into Trump's illegal actions with his taxes.
If proof is found, impeach.
4
Trump would give up the Republicans for a deal with the Democrats. Not much loyalty to the ideals of conservatism.
3
So it's going to be civil war in Washington for the next two years and Trump holds most of the cards (strong majorities in the Senate and the courts, control of DOJ, unlimited (by him) executive power, cabinet officials well along in dismantling their departments). Only the House can vote against him but their only power is investigation, and he has shown himself impervious to that.
1
There is nothing political about Trump. He is as above politics as any despot must be. Politics used to be the sport of the ruling classes. Now, the power of passion, rather than reason, has taken hold of the nation and to save our democracy from the tyranny of passion we are going to have to suspend it and allow a military take over. If we don't do it first, Trump will.
6
Read Gibbon’s Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire. His basic argument too - the problem as he pointed out there was that every army needs a general and every general needs or becomes an emperor. It did not end well.
3
@Max & Max
No. That's the worst thing you could do. Hold on fast to the rule of law and citizen's rights. That's where your strength is.
It is my opinion that Mr Putin probably wants to get Americans fighting with each other. He cannot take the U.S. militarily. He needs to weaken it by making it fight itself. Don't play his game. Trump is just his proxy, a greedy man after his own power -- remove him from office. It may look difficult, but it's surely not impossible. He's already alienated nearly all his supporters.
The threatened adoption of a “warlike posture” on the part of our panicky president may well be easier for both his political allies and foes to face than was the “psychotic posture” Mr. Trump so frequently publicly displayed during his first twenty-two months in office.
I wonder what is in the forbidden records of D.T.’s “financial and political dealings” that he so obviously is using to tantalize us. Is this just a new wrinkle on the old “snakes jumping from the peanut brittle can” gag? Or does Honest Don really have something he needs to hide? (Personally, I suspect these threats are simply Ploy#217, the latest of Donald’s needy schemes to keep himself the center of attention.)
It’ll be fun finding out. The president’s unique flair for the dramatic makes every bend in the winding highway he’s leading us down—> one more twisted adventure!
2
I thought republicans were the "if you have nothing to hide why are you afraid if they look?" crowd.
Oh yeah, logic, facts, and consistency were abandoned by them long ago.
10
If incoherent, deranged rambling and looking really unhealthy is a "warlike posture," then he's doing a great job.
13
President Trump threatened on Wednesday to adopt a “warlike posture” against Democrats if they use their newly won control of the House to investigate his financial and political dealings". i say to this bully -Bring it On! Trump is running scared and he will do everything to avoid investigation into untold skeletons he has in his closet. Let us see how many of the Republican senators up for election in 2020 stand by him. They should know what happened in 2018 to the US Congress members who stuck with Trump. The hind sight should be indeed be in 2020 for those senators and should bring in focus their fate if they stick to a bully, tyrant and perpetual liar.
4
What a hideous spectacle the “press conference” was. Surreal. Outrage should be coming from every voice in America.
14
Trump wants to use the IRS, FBI, and DOJ to investigate his political enemies.
Nixon Redux.
9
Nobody is Above the Law. Protest November 8th, 5pm local time. Google for more information, several thousands of communities have pledged to protest, there's undoubtedly one near you.
If you wait for the NYTimes to cover it, Godot will get there first.
1
"Our" government is not in the business of protecting criminal activities!!! This is NOT Trumps "government". Trump is merely a servant. No one person has "degraded" our nation more. There has been REAL criminal activity going on In Trump's circle that is being investigated that has already netted 30-40 indictments or admissions and the surface has only been scratched!! This is in NO WAY just a "witch hunt". There appears to be crime at every turn but this can only be confirmed by independent investigation which can NOT be obstructed. Trump is clearly attempting to use the power of his position to obstruct investigation of criminal activities within his own circle which include himself and family members. He now also is threatening to "weaponize" the power of the justice dept to punish his own political foes. We are entering the front door of either a REAL constitutional crisis or a political take over of the US Government!!
Are YOU going to stand by and let that happen? This is becoming very real folks and it's coming down to where YOU and I and Millions of others will need to stand up to say ENOUGH and not let up until justice is allowed to take it's course!
6
Trump cheated his way into the White House in 2016 with the help of a hostile country. He has been monetising his office to enrich himself and his cronies, abusing execute power to save his skin, and exploiting resentment to divide the country. He's not above the law.
Any American with a modicum of decency and patriotism must not let him get away with impunty.
10
If the Pelosi-led Democrats mean to have war with President Trump, then let it begin here. Congresspeople are elected and sent to Washington, D.C. to legislate not to investigate.
Congress has completely abdicated its job and responsibility to consider laws and legislation.
We are on the verge of a nation-wide Civil War as it is. If President Trump can "take up arms" against the Democrats, and/or any other entity, then he can be the people's proxy for at least the next two years and perhaps keep this War from too much domestic slaughter on the streets.
On the other hand this nation was founded in and upon blood, violence, shooting and loss of life, limbs, property, etc. If we are destined to keep repeating our history then sobeit.
2
They want a pig for a president? Let trump supporters pay dearly for their red state rejections of the ACA. Let them drink from aquifers polluted by fracking run off. Let their senior parents be forced to pick and choose which drug to take and which one is too expensive. Let their roads collapse, their crops rot, their friends and neighbors and children OD on opiads while trump lines his pockets. See ya in 2020.
9
Guinness book of the longest records for a press conference of hate speech.
6
Warlike posture? Trump: "I may have groped some women, but some Democrats did it too."
2
To all those people that told us to let Trump be Trump. We told you so.
11
A guilty fraud backed in the corner is what Trump is. The tax returns have the Russian connection—big time. Selling high end condos is the perfect money laundering scheme.
No one in the Nationalist Party (gulp) of the USA will do anything about it though, they are too busy sticking their nose in Trumps fat end. Mueller will end up before the House Juciciary for public hearings—I’m stocking up on popcorn!
5
Suspending Acosta. Just shows Trump has no real guts.
7
"president angrily scolded reporters whose questions or behavior he did not like"
- No, it is not that Trump did not like them--he doesn't--it's that they have no respect for him nor does the NYT and its reporters like Peter Baker, one of the authors of this column. Since people like Jim Acosta are only grandstanders, they should be called out for what they are. The president courageously stood up to the loser journalists, all of whom hate him.
1
@Labete - Maybe that's how they do it in your country. That's not the way we do it here. We have (or had anyway) freedom of speech in the USA.
1
During the next two years Democrats should afford DJT all the cooperation and respect that Republicans showed President Obama.
12
The house was taken back. Clawed back. Posturing shown to be a weakness. Hasn't sunk in apparently.
Now let the republicans waste all their currency protecting Trump. No amount of rigging is gonna change the result.
Let the negotiations begin. We don't negotiate with confederates or racists. You want that, go out and find your own country. All but the most pathological get it. Moving on.
Forget infrastructure, happening anyway. Go after environment, gerrymanders, giant sums of money sloshing around corrupting. Get that little big mouth liar off the court. Hammer him. Yea buddy when he's arraigned we'll consider him innocent. Until.
5
Full bore to gut this toxic president.
The gutless Democrats with their timid incrementalism is much of the reason we have the problem we do today.
He boldly threatens anyone to even question him so tear him up.
How dare he threaten the American people as if he were above the law.
10
Before the era of Trump madness I never once wondered what it would be like to have a mob boss running the US. Now I don't have to imagine it, I need only read the news from an unbiased source.
The Vichy Republicans were never going to constrain their useful idiot in the White House. We can only hope that the new Democratic majority in the House will start to put some constraints on his illegal and disgusting behavior.
We are at a precipice where we can stand up to the open attack on democracy in the US by unprincipled Republicans or roll over and let them take this country down. It is now or never folks - stand up and fight or lose this experiment in democracy once and for all.
7
Donnie Has no idea how government works
2
The U.S. needs a third party...desperately if only to moderate the other two. Give voters another option and watch how the Dems and Repubs begin paying attention to the centre...where I believe most Americans live. The risk of a dark horse coming up the middle to rob votes from either side of the current divide will force a more responsive tone from the left and the right. An either/or system does not work in the current climate and only perpetuates the polarization. Just my two cents.
1
I confess: discussions of the President's "tone" are exasperating and irrelevant to future planning, other than to warn us that you cannot get him to discuss and problem logically. All politicians at times d a number where , instead of responding to questions, they resort to some unrelated comment.
He shifts into explosive anger and self-righteousness on a dime as a defense, gets airtime, and his angry followers identify with the feeling. Likewise, he can spout "conciliatory" comments as a hook.
His serious intent is to win and protect himself: that greed for power and attention is the one way in which he is transparent. We are not allowed to see his taxes - - but the rest of him is naked to see.
When he draws anyone into his sort of rhetoric, they lose, because he never responds to logic, and resorts to mocking.
Someday, when he has unloaded on a favortie target with his hackneyed, but still insulting, lines, It would be refreshing to see the press corps stage a walk out. Or a sit down where they fold there arms and sit silently.
Silence is one thing the man cannot tolerate.
8
There are clear and deliberate steps required to dismantle this administration. Tuesday the nation took one of those steps- and a big one.
Even DJT knows it!
DJT and mitch had the WH and a majority in Congress for two years and basically got nothing done.
Now the Democratic Party has control of the House and subpoena power to seek justice regarding any crimes and misdemeanors committed by this administration.
The walls are closing in on a weak and desperate WH.
It will look likely get worse before it gets better but justice will be served.
Even DJT knows it!
4
What have the Dems done, liar? Trump et al. Have accomplished more than 200 things.
1
Pretty obvious what we are in for now. Trump--morning, noon and night--just what he wants. He wants to build walls, but the ones behind which he belongs are already there.
2
That press conference was hard to watch on any level, but the worst part was the contempt with which he treated the journalists who were questioning him.
I did chuckle when he mentioned, with a straight face, the "warlike stance" he would be adopting. What stance has he been exhibiting for the last three years (or decades)? That was non-warlike-stance Trump? Yikes.
11
Why is Trump expressing support for Pelosi? I suspect they have spoken, and Pelosi has promised to keep a lid on the most preposterous investigative initiatives, and impeachment. She has probably given up on the idea of unseating the President in 2020, and hopes that by working with the President, she may be able to get some legislation passed that the nation sorely needs.
In other words, putting the interests of the nation above political interests. At least I hope so.
2
Great press conference...a tour de force. POTUS was correct to ban Acosta after his open assault on a White House press intern. In the age of metoo, angry white men must never touch a woman without her permission. His aggressive posture and open disrespect for the President can never be tolerated. Let this be a lesson to the rest of the press. Never aggressively touch a woman without her permission.
1
Steve-get your facts straight or go watch the press conference AGAIN! Never touched her! Never. And is your idea of a free press one that only agrees with the narcissist-in-chief?
8
That is not what I saw.
2
I’m pretty sure we didn’t watch the same video, he did no such thing. Of course the bots are now coming out in full force saying that is what happened...
1
There is only one thing the media can do at this stage: CALL IN SICK.
No White House reporter should show up to work until Acosta is brought back into the fold.
8
Trump said “I would like to see bipartisanship. I’d like to see unity”. Unity and bipartisanship by Trump's definition is that the Democrats should also be his lap dogs.
10
Be constructive, work with the other side, but expose this man for everything he is.
Impeachment would be a waste of time. Voting him out is the only way out.
6
I will be extremely surprised to see any bipartisan breakthroughs. 2020 is not that far away and the Democrats will continue to work to deny the President any landmark achievement successes. At the same time, the zeal to investigate will go on.
We elected a wealthy man with ongoing business interests. The voters were fully aware of this. Some of the alleged conflicts, such as foreign officials staying as paying guests in his Washington hotel, are ridiculous in my opinion. On the other hand, they welcome Menendez back as a champion of the people, notwithstanding the fact that he used his office to try to get his friend's fraudulent Medicare claims paid, then went on vacations and perks financed by that convicted felon friend. It demonstrates that these investigations of Trump are primarily to harass, as they seem to have no effect on his political support among the public.
Can you work with someone trying to harass you? Maybe if you were a Saint. Trump is no saint.
Ummm, as opposed to the posture he's taken thus far? Would anyone notice a difference? One of the biggest problems in America today is that the highest levels of leadership treat the majority (it is a majority) of citizens who disagree or are trying to hold them accountable for their policies and actions as enemy combatants. They show more sympathy, understanding and respect for foreign autocrats than for their own constituents. Until this country is united on what little common ground remains we are vulnerable.
3
Who knows what he’ll do in the next 2 years. But then, there will be 33 senate seats up for grabs. As in, Dems time to forge ahead. I can stand another two years of campaigning to save America,
1
Trump has one thing on his mind: to avoid indictment on "collusion", obstruction of justice, tax affairs and Kushner's 'transactional' foreign policy with MBS. All the imprecations, threats, diversions and offers revolve around avoiding these issues. It seems that the noose is tightening and his desperation is growing. The accusations against Acosta are the kind of charade we must prepare for.
6
I'm not qualified to analyze Trump's behaviour but I am allowed to make an observation based on a long life of being observant. Trump lacks compassion, it's just not there. He obeys the basic norms of civilized culture enough to avoid jail not from any obligation to be decent person. This lack of compassion prevails in everything he does. So Democrats attempting to be conciliatory towards this cruel person are wasting time and energy. Be wary of him, he only knows how to hurt.
18
Yes, lack of empathy which, when diagnosed, is considered very dangerous.
1
"Abuse of power." Trump should consult with his attorneys and they will explain what it is and why he shouldn't make threats.
17
It's not all about you all the time, Donald.
10
The great experiment has failed.
Time for the peaceful breakup of the United States into smaller countries. The fractures are too deep, with Red voters acting more like a cult and distrusting every cherished national governing institution and us Blue voters aghast at what “We The People” have become.
I honestly do not believe there is any fix for us at a Federal level and have no wish to see mine or my children’s blood spilled as it was in the 1860s.
Peaceful dissolution. And time for my family’s “migrant caravan” to head West or Northeast.
12
@ Robert
As we witness with the Brexit, it's impossible to separate what has institutionally grown together without steep losses for both sides.
It won't solve capital flight either, nor the tax race to the bottom so corporations won't leave the country, and it would enable Red Murica to pollute with impunity. How break up the army? Its base in Germany with its almost 300,000 Americans and a hospital ready for 3 wars while Yemenites die from hunger and untreated wounds caused by American arms used by its coalition ally? The base in Qatar? Its floating, gloating aircraft carriers?
America became 'great' that is prosperous (on the lashed shoulders of its slaves, and later of its outsourced slaves created by corporate dictation of third world country policies of labor treatment whipped into wage dumping discipline by the scourge of our consumer greed), after it did away with intra-state tariffs and other trade barriers.
Still we are free to dream:
The East Coast and the West Coast will always be Blue,
And the BlueExit will grant them a spectacular hue.
To Blue we stay loyal. To our Source we stay true:
The Wisdom of the Ocean, from which we splash and renew.
The solution lies in underlying belief system change on who we really are and what life is, then lasting institutional change will reflect that change. Today a hardly updated Vengeful and Vindictive Old Testament God of Wrathful Eternal Punishment Exuberance and Heavenly Privilege for the Chosen only still reigns us.
Trump can vow and threaten whatever he wants. He's an employee of the Federal government and he gets to be investigated just like the rest of them if another Branch thinks its warranted.
Democrats: take no prisoners as you bring it all down.
18
Mr Trump, I would personally like to see you in an orange jump suit. After you are impeached and tried in the Senate.
My guess is that you are well on your way.
On election night I was talking-to a number of family and friends from around the country and told them that electing Trump was not going to end well and I stand by that statement. Before anyone points and says partisanship, I am an independent and did not vote for Hillary or Trump.
Trump will burn down the house before he will come clean.
What is going to get him is obstruction of justice. The other stuff is what caused him to obstruct justice in the first place.
I really feel sad for our country because this is not going to be one of our finest moments.
18
I agree with you. But by not voting for Hillary, you helped get him elected. One has to be practical about these matters.
5
Now, why in the world is Trump endorsing Ms. Pelosi's bid to regain the speakership? He and others have attacked her for years. In a study first published last April, the Wesleyan (University) Media Project found Pelosi to be "the most targeted Congressional leader." Her name was mentioned in 7 percent of campaign ads – and all 19,000+ mentions were negative, even in pro-Democratic ads.
So, the answer is that Trump and crew know Pelosi's a lightening rod for stirring up his base. (I can almost here the "Lock her up" chants already.) Democrats be wary.
6
The Dems didn't even try to flip the Senate, without which there could be no impeachment, they know that. We will have two more years of erosion of our democratic principles, then four more years, then who knows... All because the Democratic Party elites don't have the courage of their old convictions. Now they all just want to preserve their cushy Senate and House seats, with all those benefits.
3
With trump, I feel like I'm back on the playground when I was in sixth grade. "It's my ball", "I'm not talking to you", "You're rude"or "you can't play in my playground". Then he runs off to his other bullies and they start picking on the smaller kids to make themselves feel big.
11
He looks so happy and lively, must still be relishing the big win or something.
1
Once again, an innocent man does not need, want, or cultivate a "warlike posture." He stands tall with the knowledge that there is no surer way to exonerate himself than to have a full investigation. A smart man would do all in his power to welcome one and to help speed it along.
A smart man. An honest man. We have neither at the helm.
We have a man whose hostility in firing Jim Acosta, hysteria over the caravan, dirty politicking in his own campaign and in campaigning for the GOP, escalating paranoia, and firing of Sessions looks more and more like a third-rate dictator fulminating and blustering precisely because he has nothing of value to say and knows all he can do is attack those who do.
Even though I have been calling for impeachment from the moment he was elected (on the grounds that he was in flagrant abuse of the Emoluments Clause and for stealing from a charity and breaking fair housing policy laws --charged and found guilty-- and stealing from a charity was a stunt that just garnered a Texas Rep. ten years in prison) I would have counseled the new Democratic-led house to exercise caution and move slowly.
Would have. With the Sessions' firing and ongoing attacks on the press, we are now in the open terrain of obstruction of justice. This paranoid, petty, ridiculous but dangerous man just did the one thing calculated to legitimize impeachment.
He asked for it. Congress, deliver.
19
It is only natural to assume that Trump's ferocity is because he has something to hide.
12
The GOP ruthlessly obstructed Obama with no mercy, they even flushed his constitutional right of a Supreme Court nomination through a white spite toilet and followed up with nominating hyper partisan, hyper divisive, hyper vengeful, hyper hard right Voldemorts and more such Kleptocracy Bread and Butter to destroy government and rights and justice from the bench.
They rammed a tax cut - for the superrich only - through Congress, specifically designed to rob the bank of the middle class in the blue states out of sheer resentment and spite.
They tried to destroy healthcare for twenty million people, and only John McCain would stop them, they still try to obstruct and explode its procedures, and make it as costly as possible so they can yell that it FAILED.
They destroy and dismantle the EPA, the Consumer Financial Protection Agency, the Justice Department etc.
And now, all of a sudden, this GOP of Trump poses as if it wants to work together, not solely destroy, and do all the destroying on their aloning, solo, superrich-dictated own.
Nice.
Nice, like preying vultures can be nice:
"Lay there and play corpse. We ain't rich and fat enough yet, after all the superrich vulture partying and superrich vulture feasting on the dead bodies of what once were your government services, your (voting) rights, your protections and safeguards, and the prudent financing to serve and build your future on."
"Cooperate with us!"
"Give us more, more, more, all-devouring super riches!"
13
I might say Trump's press conference shows him like a misunderstood misanthrope climbing the Empire State building desperately attempting escape from a pack of frenzied human journalists with violent questions, but I don't want to be accused of thoughtless insensitivity toward simians.
I loved Koko, she taught me a heck of a lot; Donald's taught me nothing I want to know or remember.
6
I think this day has been coming for nearly two years. Whatever the Democrats might do, Trump will find a way to interpret their actions as hostile and continue his "warlike" posture and actions. He has succeeded now in running the country as he did Trump Enterprises; create turmoil, create divisions, turn people against each other and then sit back and enjoy the show.
We've reached a point when Democrats can't continue efforts to work with him. He doesn't want that. He never has. It is folly to continue to do so. He isn't uniting the country. He isn't interested in collaboration or compromise. So, to use the words of a previous president; Bring it on.
We can have "ugly" now or "ugly" later. It is better to have the fight now rather than wait until he foments more anger and division.
8
A “warlike posture” - an attack on democracy - can only be met head on.
We’re about one Reichstag Fire away from a so-called state of exception - the precursor to a state of emergency, suspension of due process, rounding up of opposition, acquiescence of press, surrending of free speech.
With any hint of ending the Mueller probe, we bring charges of obstruction of justice immediately - or face the possibility of disintegration of social order, making the job of restoring justice exponentially longer and more painful. If we succumb to fear and inaction now, we’re lost.
12
What can Trump mean by threatening a war-like response if the Congress investigates him? How violent does he intend to get? Will he suspend Habeas Corpus and declare martial law? Or will he follow the lead of Muhammed bin Salman in dealing with is critics? Is he just blustering or should he be taken at his word? Can we afford to wait and see? What he's threatening is too dire to not take it seriously and prepare for the worst. We sometimes use "war" loosely--as in phrases like "the war on poverty" and "the war on drugs." But it is dangerous metaphor, since in war necessity becomes its own law. I hope the members of Congress--I mean all of them regardless of party--recognize that Trump's threat not only targets the institution and its members, but calls for the provision of a forceful and effective defense as this slow-motion national crisis gets worse and worse.
6
One can only hope that it won't be long before Trump can be referred to in the past tense. Can't happen soon enough for me!
12
Don’t care what side you’re on. Right, left or in the weeds. The system created by our founders, warts and all, has foreshadowed this character in the White House.
Happy to see it’s standing up to the test of time.
ROCK ON AMERICA!
1
Retaliation? There's a uniting figure. It's time for him to go, NOW!
6
So why is Trump so vehement about not wanting to share his financial information after precedent has been set by prior U.S. Presidents, he has something to hide.
8
It's very helpful of Mr. Trump to highlight for the Democrats where the focus of their investigations should be; his financial dealings and his political dealings. Is he that inept or is he setting a trap? Based on the past two years, I'll go with the former.
8
Mr. President,
Please feel free to start your investigations into whomever you wish. As opposed to the GOP, we are in favor of punishing those found guilty of crimes. The GOP tried for 8 years with Ms. Clinton and she willingly testified before Congress for 11 hours — something you’ve been unwilling to do, but you are welcome to reopen them if you wish.
However, any crimes committed by you or others during the campaign or your presidency will be made public for the American people to review as well as the Senate and appropriate states.
6
Get his tax return immediately. There is a reason why he's not showing it.
11
Trump's post-election press conference was testimony of a
total incoherent, rambling thinking expressed in a way so disconcerting that I struggled to follow his reasoning in its first part; it was like he was not talking to an audience but more like an inner soliloquy no matter how many people were listening. Then when the conference turned to Q&A he sort of woke up and switched to aggressive mode towards the journalists insulting, twisting the argument, patronizing and bullying everybody, with his language becoming more understandable syntactically and morphologically. An umpteenth demonstration of his pathology of duality and split personality. How trustworthy such an individual can be?
10
What I do not understand is Trump's attitude toward investigations. If as he says there is nothing to find, then why fight the investigations? He should come out lily white if there is nothing to find, right?? Does his reaction sound like an innocent man? An innocent man would say bring 'em on, there is nothing to find. Or is there?
8
Democrats should not put too much faith in their control of the House. Sure, they can hold hearings and subpoena documents and witnesses, and in the past this would have been enough. But this is not a typical President, not a President who thinks he is accountable to laws and the Constitution.
All Trump has to do is ignore the Democrat's subpoenas. All the witnesses have to do is claim this administration's weird form of Executive Privilege and refuse to answer questions. He has protected himself by his complete control of the Senate, with a toady Attorney General, and with two sycophants in the Supreme Court.
This isn't your normal fractious government, Democrats. Republicans have rewritten the rules. Trump has threatened retaliation by ordering investigations of Democrats by "his" Senate, and packed the Supreme Court with his own men.
If Democrats don't start thinking two moves ahead to counter Trump they will find themselves under the metaphorical tank treads and a dictator in power.
10
DJT consistently reacts with extreme paranoia and threats when there is a hint of investigating his financial and political dealings. There must be some good dirt on him, really, really good dirt on him. May I suggest those pesky tax returns as a starting point for the House of Representatives to begin its investigation?
6
That press conference was a word salad delivered by a delusional Narcissist. We are now familiar with what happens to someone’s brain when they drink 6+ diet cokes a day for serveral decades...
I’m totally baffled how anyone could be impressed with that performance. We put a man on the moon, right?
4
There's nothing but more worry in this for the citizenry of allied nations, such as myself. The monster in the white house continues its thrashing. And the people at large, the voters, appear to embrace it in worship. This creature will push for civil war before permitting itself to be brought to justice, and too many of the supporters of his cabal are already openly expressing desire to harm those they deem unamerican. Many of these are armed to military standard, and even training through professional militaries.
And in the meantime, as the flagship of democracy and individual freedom struggles to avoid foundering on the worst shoals of its own making this far, other forces prey on the weak and few dependent on her example. Dictators and autocrats namely, to which the president has time and again expressed his admiration of, simply to cause contention with supporters of democracy and human rights that he openly calls enemies of the people.
Where does one place his trust in a time like this? The president's impunity, and the results of the latest election are dark omens. The more time passes, the more it seems as if the current president is not an anomaly, afterall, but the face of the true desires of its people come to fruition.
3
it is very sad that the leader of the free world behave as if he is above the law. how can one with no moral compass and integrity lead?
6
Not sure if Pelosi is right for the leadership position, frankly. But what I do know? The Democrats need a ‘long game’ strategy which results in proposed legislation that lays bare the Trump lie (of caring about the 99%) before laying bare the Corruption and criminality of his administration and business dealings.
3
If he has done no wrong, he should fear no probe. His panic was palpable in his press conference yesterday.
4
Two main goals for the new House.
1. Investigations, as so many are saying.
2. Equally if not more important: Pass bills that do what polls since 2015 show Americans increasingly want--better healthcare and lower drug prices; infrastructure; environmental protections; voter protections; higher minimum wage; etc.
Show that Democrats do what Americans want!
6
So fair missing in action are Bob Corker, Jeff Flake and Paul Ryan all Republicans not running again and have been critical of Trump’s actions in the past. Respectfully I say you have a duty to the American public until the third of January 2019.
And PBS is reporting that the new Acting AG is a friend of respected Republican Chairman Chuck Grassley. Gentlemen it is time to step up the plate and condemn Trump’s firing of Jeff Sessions not face to face but by a Tweet!!
4
It is entirely clear that President Trump will adopt a "warlike posture" whether or not the House of Representatives investigates him.
4
Bring it on. Democrats should absolutely go to war. Go to war now, not later. Put Trump under pressure and make him make mistakes. Better to slug it out in January 2019 vs. January 2020 when we are 10 months out from the next election. The Democrats need to realize that they have no other option other than to go to war or roll over. Do Democrats actually think they are going to pass meaningful bipartisan legislation? Do you really think the people that voted for Trump are going to move away from Trump on the strength of the Democrats legislative agenda? Hilarious. No wonder we always loose. Let's get real, get smart, and get some principle driven investigations and subpoenas going.
3
The next time Ms Sanders has a briefing, or the president has a news conference, the first question should be about one and only one topic: renewal of Mr Acosta's pass and his reinstatement into the White House press corps.
If that request is denied, then all members of the press should not say another word. Just sit and let the silence go on and on.
Back to the days of "the whole world is watching".
9
"Trump Vows ‘Warlike Posture’ if Democrats Investigate Him"
Key word: "posture," like his posturing as a tough guy and a big fan of the military when he dodged the draft and carried on the Trump family tradition of avoiding service.
Since they arrived in the US in 1885, not a single Trump has served in the military, although 10 Trump males have been of service age during US military conflicts. But Junior shoots baby elephants from a safe distance. They can't shoot back.
Donald Trump -- warrior. As authentic as Donald Trump the philanthropist, Donald Trump the business genius, Donald Trump the patriot, and Donald Trump the president.
9
I guess it will all come down to the rule of law. Not who has the most money or who has the most vocal and committed followers or even, no matter what the most radical people may think, who has the most guns.
I don't think we are ready to throw out three hundred years of the rule of law to protect any party, or any president or any particular ideology.
There are plenty of people who may feel that they have "the right" to act as if they were above the law. They are not.
I do not think that any investigation into wrongdoing should be influenced in any way by any political operatives or certainly by any subjects of an ongoing investigation.
So the president may put Matthew Whitaker, or anyone else in charge of the Justice Department.
That will make no difference to Robert Mueller If we are still a country based on the rule of law.
1
There was this one kid who bullied me in school for almost a year. Then one afternoon, I punched him in the face and the bullying stopped.
The only way to teach a bully (aka Trump- the world's oldest bully) is to punch him in the face. Really hard.
4
Trump will not only loose in 2020, he will drag the the whole Republican Party with him. Democrats should investigate him methodically and his warlike posture is an advantage for Democrats. Firing Mueller is an obstruction of justice and an impeachable offense. Democrats should go on overdrive in investigations while pushing funding for infrastructure, ACA, gun control, etc. Investigate the caravan, which may be a fake that might have been made possible by extreme right wing Republicans in time before midterm elections to excite their base. Watch, the caravan will dissipate and Trump claims victory with his tough stand. Once start digging, surprises will pop out that weren’t thought of. For Democrats, I would say happy hunting.
1
Pete in Downtown makes good points. I hope the Democrats do not squander their new found opportunity. Nancy P, please! Please! Don't allow the distraction over the salacious subject of the Trump tax returns to become what everyone talks about. Few can even understand whatever issues lurk there, and it will not impact how people vote in a way that matters. Seriously the Democrats must come up with a winning strategy that focuses on the issues that influence votes. Stick to the high road. Try to pass infrastructure bills, try to deal with the costs of prescription drugs, and talk about the real issues that impact votes and nothing else. Please. We need to believe there's a real chance of returning to a normal, sane, and honorable environment.
2
When negotiations break down between labor and management there are strikes or lock outs or arbitration. But the govt is in gridlock and it is business as usual?
1
I didn't see the whole news conference. Did Trump think to explain why he should mind being investigated?
It's not as if an investigation would cut into his TV time or interfere with other essential activities.
1
Trump has won where it matters, the senate! He wasted no time to force Sessions down and it would be interesting to see how the Mueller investigation will be "managed" in the near future by Trump's team. Equally, interesting would be the actions taken by the special counsel, a career law enforcement officer, and his team, to ensure that their findings are duly heard by the judiciary. For now, I would be inclined to think that Trump is going to leverage Senate and judiciary to his advantage and prevail over congress and his other opponents. I will not surprised if he goes on to win the next election. Trump broke many protocols, said things that many presidents would not have dared to say and did things that were unfathomable, and despite all that, the blue wave was not strong enough! One must really wonder why??
1
Trump has done this before, saying how wonderful “Chuck and Nancy” are and then demanding a wall or a military parade to honor him. Democrats don’t want to ruffle any feathers so soon after the elections, amid such turmoil and chaos in this country, but it’s been like this for 2 years.
We want to see his tax returns and find out by how much he and his family are defrauding the government. And bring on Mueller. Now.
9
I’m thinking the ruffling feathers is EXACTLY what voters want the Dems to do. Enough with this tippy toeing around. This situation calls for immediate forceful investigation and possible and timely impeachment if warranted. Dems need to show strength...voters are attracted to that.
1
What does it take for people to see how dangerous this has become? It is obvious that the Mueller investigation will be muzzled. And what else? The United States is rapidly heading towards a one-party state. Oh, yes, there will still be a Democratic Party. There is an opposition party in Russia as well. Think about it. Think long and hard about it.
15
We need to hear more from the Never Trumpers, in the centre. This might balance the Fox/Trump media with its stream of fawning commentators.
1
This disgusting person masquerading as a president is starting to act more and more like that tyrant in Germany from the 1930's! America, do not let this vile man tear down what your great country has become! Democrats, please stand up to this bully, and show him for what he is!
54
Just before the elections, there was little or no Check and Balance function on the part of the legislature. Now that the situation has changed, with the Democrats in the House, Mr. Trump has already declared that there should not be any questions/investigations. It will be interesting to see how the new House will move on, especially with having to work with the Executive Branch.
There are several issues which the people would like to see followed up. Healthcare, Medicaid, Drug prices, resolving the long overdue immigration debate (not the Caravan) Infrastructure, Climate Change, and others. At the same time, the Democrats are sure to bring up questions from the new Oversight Committees. This is where we could see road blocks and new debates. By the time it is all sorted out, it will be almost year 2020, and little or no progress made. We will see the usual post mid term scenarios continue. Will the pattern change?
Whether the newly elected House or Mr. Trump will be prepared to compromise, on any issue, at this stage, it is unclear how that will happen. At the end, the constituents will be left out to watch many questions unanswered.
2
It’s literally part of Congress’s job to hold the executive accountable. Just as it is the job of the free press to hold all branches of government accountable (please see first amendment). It doesn’t work if 45’s crimes are just pushed under the rug. Dems should focus on health care and the economy, yes. But, also focus on reigning in the stable genius’s outlandish actions and unconstitutional ideas.
54
Trump has given the Democrats marching orders. He is challenging them, in ways that are not even subtle, to hold him accountable, to show America that the law means something and that he is not above the law. Whoever is chosen to lead the Democrats in Congress had better be ready to go to the mat (as we used to say in wrestling referring to a takedown) with Trump because he is swaggering and telling Democrats 'just try me'. The Democrats better be ready, and they better be ready to defy Trump in the Senate on his pick for Attorney General.
22
Pelosi has already capitulated and the Democrats haven’t even taken power. It’s hard to believe there is no one other than Nancy Pelosi to lead the Democrats in the House? Pelosi May be respected within the DC beltway, but out here in the provinces, she’s effectively vilified and poisons other House members’ reputatation. Why not get fresh, new and younger talent?
12
“Provinces”? Odd phrasing for a Texan.
3
In another article, “democrats struck a conciliatory tone after winning...”
Like always, Democrats roll over and show their throat. Immediately, Mitch McConnell is hitting the airwaves making warnings to democrats under the guise of just reciting history. Then the Donald goes on the set to do the same (and has now pulled CNNs credentials).
Republicans always do this. Act criminally and unilaterally when they have power. Then preach either total obstruction or make false paeans to bipartisanship when they don’t. They are Lucy with the Football every time. Obstruct. Oversee. Investigate. Prosecute. And legislate new laws to prevent future trumps.
21
Wow ... His face in the picture tells it all; any kid I knew on a play ground would laugh at him ...
The firing of Sessions and Comey is proof he doesn't get it. Despite differences I respect their loyalty to the American people and our constitution. Trump's idea of loyalty is that of a shoddy businessman or petty crook.
There will be a lot of bluster and nonsense, then the information will come out. He's talks about investigating ... .. 'them'. OK, what do you have?
Looking back since his election, every time Comey or Sessions or Russia or ANYTHING close to this issue was mentioned he quickly bleated..'no collusion' often when no one had mentioned the word.
To quote Shakespeare:
"I fear the lady doth protest too loudly"
15
Trump is so transparent.... An honest businessman would proudly open his dealings and taxes to anyone interested in looking. An honest businessman would never adopt a 'warlike' position regarding accountability.
Following the money will lead to either Trump impeachment of total disgrace... No, of course there is no threat to jail time for white collar crime in America by a President.
16
Honestly, the U.S. and the rest of the world better be prepared for Trump's war-like posture against the Democrats...if his angry, uncivil, name-calling treatment of CNN White House Correspondent Jim Acosta today is any indication.
No surprise that Trump turns out to be a bad loser. And we all know that anyone daring to question his fact-challenged statements ain't spared the bunt of his incivility.
But it was way beyond being uncivil...he behaved extremely hostile and attacked Acosta personally (and very childishly I might add).
And then once again, he spews his propaganda that the press is the "enemy of the people."
That the President of the United States should act in such a way! Watch out Democrats!
12
Trump needs to be taken to the proverbial woodshed for a severe
Attitude adjustment. This child needs to understand that the world or this country does not revolve around him. This narcissistic infact , seriously needs to grow up and understand that his preoccupation with self is destroying this country, and he does not care.
He is more suited to the high roller ethos of Mar A Largo, and its wealthy attendees who understand the power of wealth and its supposed entitlement to everything, and its attendant attitude of “me-me,” first.
9
Trump can get as mad as he will but the Democrats will investigate him and his cohorts and family come Hell or high water. But going down he will use every nasty trick we’ve never thought of. It we thought it’s been ugly just wait for Trump to metamorphose. He will play the dirtiest game this country has ever seen. He will call his base to act out the basest of behaviors, and that could be very bad indeed. Let’s hold together friends. This is unprecedented evil in our midst. Anyway, mad he may be (in more ways than one) but we will have the last word.
23
If Congress turns against Trump for made-up crimes, Trump should order the Acting Attorney General to investigate real ones.
@Rolf:
You seem to have about the same level of understanding of how the U.S. justice system works as does Trump.
heck, @Pete in Downtown, i'd be happy if our infrastructure could be brought into the *20th* century!
2
The behavior of the press was a national disgrace. If they are not embarrassed then I am. Why?
If DJT’s olive branch is refused then we the American people will be the losers not the crazy press.
1
Bring it on!
6
[[Trump Vows ‘Warlike Posture’ if Democrats Investigate Him]]
Good. Let's do it.
9
Get ready to hit the streets tomorrow, November 8, at 5 pm.
Democratic organizations have been planning a massive demonstration if The Con Don fired Sessions. Rachel Maddow just reported it's on for tomorrow night at 900 locations across the United States.
The link is below so you can find a demonstration near you. Every American citizen who values OUR democratic form of governance must take part to send a message even
The Con Don can hear.
WE THE PEOPLE must not let this hostile takeover of OUR United States Government stand. Not now. Not ever.
https://www.trumpisnotabovethelaw.org/event/mueller-firing-rapid-response/search/?from=@
10
Please copy this message and get it out to everyone you know.
2
The Dems can give as good as they get. When did Republicans ever play nice?
7
I see a theme here - that Democrats should get going on legislation, especially infrastructure and wages. Very solid idea,
Is Rep. Pelosi listening? We need to hear new initiatives SOON!
8
Perhaps - just perhaps - now that the election is over and the GOP already got the Supreme Court, tax cuts, and deregulation - just maybe some veteran professional incumbants will break their silence over this embarrassment of a President.
Our GOP senator quietly disagrees with child separation, immigration rhetoric, blaming victims, and nationalism - - NOW is it safe to speak out?
One can only hope
8
Trump’s threat of a “warlike posture” is just more of his everyday bullying. Democrats should just ignore the bullying and do what they have to do. And that does not mean retribution; retribution is not appropriate and does not exist with someone like Donald Trump. Just stick to the business of running the country and overseeing the Executive Branch; that is the “people’s” business and will keep the House busy enough.
10
Ooooh! “Warlike posture”!! Does that mean he’ll be bandaging those pesky heel spurs??
23
Here is a thought of ways to combat Trump's lies. Quit giving voice to them. If he tweets a verifiable falsehood do not publish it. Stop going to his rallies altogether. He never says anything of import at them and just plays to his demagoguery for his base. And points to the press as the enemy. Stop going to White House press briefings - let Sanders lie to Fox and evangelical 'reporters'.
Until Trump can show he can tell the truth, ignore him. Stop letting him troll you on this constant basis.
There is plenty else going on in Congress and their investigative committees that will hopefully hold Trump's feet to the fire. Give voice to that process.
Trump cannot function without a foil. To get someone's attention, ignore them.
14
How depressing to hear Nancy Pelosi set the Democratic House up to be Trump's punching bag for the next two years. If I were her, here's what I would have said this afternoon:
"The Constitution gives us the responsibility to oversee the Executive branch. We can perform that duty while passing legislation to meet the needs of the American people. It would be a shame if the President decides to block the effective functioning of the government to keep us from doing our Constitutional duty."
Have the Democrats learned nothing from the last two years? Trump is a master at deflecting blame and convincing his followers that someone else, anyone else, is responsible for his flaws and failures. There's another election in two years, and if Speaker Pelosi wants to avoid being blamed for whatever mess Trump creates in the interim, she needs to learn to play his game and deflect some of that blame back in the other direction.
9
William Shakepeare's Hamlet gave us many quotes, one being,
"The lady doth protest too much, Me thinks" being one of them.
With that said, how about we make the quote current:
"Donald Trump doth protest too much, Bob Mueller thinks."
3
Trump’s endorsement of Pelosi should be warning enough to Dems NOT TO PICK NANCY! She would be the perfect foil for his bullying. We need fresh new leadership in the House!
5
Trump gives new meaning to President Thoedore Roosevelt's concept of using the Executive Office as a bully pulpit. Too bad our this president only gets the "bully" part of his office.
"United States President Theodore Roosevelt, referred to his office as a "bully pulpit", by which he meant a terrific platform from which to advocate an agenda. Roosevelt used the word bully as an adjective meaning "superb" or "wonderful", a more common usage at that time."
If you wondered if POTUS is the Bully in Chief, just watch him telling reporters to "sit down" or shut up at today's press conference. As a veteran of many a playground scrap with bullies back in the day, I predict this bully will get his come-uppance one way, one day or another. I thought Richard Nixon had huge hubris,
but Trump's hubris is new low, or a new high, I'm not sure. But as all students of Greek tragedy know, hubris usually has a nasty outcome.
5
Donald Trump: the only man on planet earth born on third who thinks he hit a triple only then to steal second!!
I hope the Democrats make his existence miserable. what did McConnell say about Obama: We're going to try to make him a one-term president. same goes here Mitch. Time for the Democrats to take off the gloves and give the GOP a little bit of its own medicine. Shouldn't be too hard... Good old Donald telegraph's exactly what he wants us to do... look deep into his finances. Mr Adam Schiff...the floor is yours.
Liars, cheats and thieves like Donald get what they deserve. what goes around comes around president con man.
8
Democratic voters: thank you from the rest of the world. Now, please, get to work and reveal the grifters in all their filth.
11
Trying to make sense of this from afar. It seems like it’s far better that the Dems won the House rather than lost. But, Trump still has significant power and what is even more concerning a lot of voters who still love and support him (no matter how corrupt he is). I am really interested by his threats to the Dems about investigating him. It suggests to me two things: 1. he is obviously very worried, so what has got to hide? 2. what would not investigating be worth to him, could it give the Dems more leverage for other big things?
2
Trump firing Sessions just after the election must make some republicans uneasy. It was ingenuous, to say the least. Clearly there was a plan to conceal this move from voters.
1
I've been commenting for months that Trump's only goal is to take authocatic control of the country and nobody pays attention despite all the obvious evidence hitting them in the face.
Maybe now someone will listen. The one way, as I've mentioned so many times, and the only way, is for him to find an excuse to declare the country under martial law.
You're looking at the first step with his little "warlike posture" business.
Don't tell me you were not warned.
7
Basic question: why is Trump so terrified of Mueller’s investigation? Basic answer: he’s afraid of what it will expose.
8
If Trump is not guilty why should he worry of the Democrats' investigation? Considering his constant lies, logic tells me that he is, in fact, guilty of something. A man like Trump will not loose sleep over cheating the IRS but, precisely for this reason, he should be investigated.
4
The Donald is angry and posturing because he is afraid.
8
Trump promises a "warlike posture?" Who does he think he is kidding. It's been war since the day he entered the Republican primaries.
7
@Pete
I watched the whole clip. The headline is editorialized. Trump did not “vow” a warlike posture. I am so disappointed with the NYT once again. I implore all the NYT readers who are baffled by Trump’s popularity to investigate their news source for bias and partiality. Are you being swayed unawares? For example, Jim Acosta is an activist journalist. His questions are embedded with arguable assumptions and posed as neutral fact-finding. The public is just not educated enough catch this sleight-of-hand. Stay awake and on alert, everyone!
Does he know he can't enlist the Secret Service to fight for him?
6
As pure a performance of bullying as you are likely to see. Bully the Democrats into not investigating him. Bully the media into not pointing out all his flaws. He just decided to hit first, twenty-four hours after an election that suddenly left him more vulnerable than before.
4
This won't be the most popular opinion, but I say: Democrats, do the worst thing you can to Trump: take him by his word. Instead of starting a quixotic attempt to impeach him before Mueller has finished or before the Mueller investigation is shut down, present him with a trillion dollar infrastructure bill that will bring America's roads, bridges, sewers, canals, airports, railroads and subways finally into the 21st century, and have him say "no" to that. Pass a bill that allows states to re-import medications from Canada and Mexico to save on Medicaid drug costs, and let him and the Republican Senate try to shoot it down. Pass a $ 12/hour federal minimum wage bill for 2019 with automatic increase of at least 50 cents every year thereafter, and let Trump and his Senate explain why millions of hard-working Americans don't deserve a raise.
In a nutshell, put Trump's populist pretenses to the test, with the results for all to see. That'll show how much a man of the people this President of the millionaires and billionaires actually is. By now, it's clear that if Trump whistles, the Republicans in the Senate will fetch his stick, so it's really down to him. Maybe this way of testing Trump's populism is not as satisfactory as trying to impeach him first thing, but it'll show whether this self-styled emperor-cum-populist actually has any clothes on or not. And, it's a lot more productive in the long run, and just as much fun. Just imagine him naked.
1055
@Pete in Downtown - I'd rather not thanks.
26
@Pete in Downtown
I would love to see that happen. Would have loved to see it happen almost a decade ago when Democrats held the House, Senate and Presidency. Sadly, the gridlock will continue.
11
@Pete in Downtown, those are great ideas. There also have to be investigations, including of his personal corruption.
76
The man is terrified and lashing out. But, Democrats, being spineless as usual will probably agree to compromise on everything and let him off the hook. This is why people do not respect Democrats or liberals. They stand for nothing and worse, fight for nothing.
1
@FXQ
The majority of American voters chose Hillary over Trump, by millions. But you believe people don't respect Democrats or liberals.
Obama led the bitter fight by Democrats to bring affordable healthcare to all Americans. But you believe they stand and fight for nothing.
Where do you get this stuff?
2
I am an American. I believe in the rule of law. I believe in accountability and in checks and balances. I believe that criminals must be held accountable for their crimes, regardless of who they are or what position they currently hold. I believe the the Constitution and in inalienable human rights.
Donald Trump can go to hell.
9
if the GOP want to wage war over this President let it begin here.
2
Need an elixer after watching trump's disgusting Press Conference? Check out "Thank You, Mister President" (1983) hosted elegantly by E G Marshall, available on YouTube, highlighting President John F. Kennedy's wit, intelligence, sense of humor.
4
For all the unmistakable anti-Trump disappointment, contempt, and anger we have seen, heard, and read about over the past two years, the mid-term results seem to say something else to the world. Granted most races were decided on very small margins, but the end results yet again seem to tell us that too many Americans continue to see Trump as "one of their own."
Yes, we have heard many Americans say emphatically that he's a narcissistic, ignorant, divisive, dangerous, senile, racist nut, a joke... an accidental president.
Yet Trump stormed into the White House right after 8 years under president Obama... as if the collective white America could wait no longer to replace Obama with a racist president. (Or was it a mere coincidence?) And, now the utterly unsatisfying mid-term election results... The obsession with race...
I am a naturalized immigrant American citizen with an enormous debt of gratitude to America for forever transforming my life for the better. And I have run into too many kind, gracious, generous, empathetic, confident, joyous, and hopeful Americans to even begin to count. Where have they gone?
3
“I think people like me,” the president said. “I think people like the job I’m doing, frankly.”
100% WRONG
6
Let me get this straight:
1) Trump fires Sessions after claiming that Sessions was not loyal to him
2) The normal MO is asst. AG take the place (Rosenstein)
3) Trump instead places loyalist and partisan Whitaker instead
4) Whitaker is on record for defending Trump Tower meeting and Trump family and blasting/defunding Mueller
5) Whitaker will now be briefed on entirety of Mueller probe
6) Whitaker is able to bury any reports sent to his desk, even to Congress and deny any indictments requested by Mueller
7) Mueller waited until after elections to bring on reports and indictments
8) Trump instates Whitaker one day after election
9) AND Noel Francisco, senior under Rosenstein, (a Trump placement) was a member of Trump’s defense team
10) NF also is owed $.5M from Trumps defense team
11) NF is supposed to recuse himself if Rosenstein gets fired
12) McGahn wrote a secret “ethics waiver” for NF which allows him to work on the Mueller case even though he had conflicts of interest
13) McGahn was supposed to be recused from any legal orders of the Mueller investigation while on staff
14) So Noel Francisco, who worked on Trump’s behalf before will be allowed to take over Rosensteins position
THIS WHOLE THING STINKS OF OBSTRUCTION
https://www.citizensforethics.org/crew-discovers-previously-undisclosed-ethics-waiver-for-solicitor-general-noel-francisco/
5
I'm in for war. Impeach, indict, convict, imprison, confiscate, deport. Then repeat as needed until GOP is DOA.
3
I'd like to thank the Arizonians who voted for the Green Party senate candidate. Now you are going to get a climate change denying Republican. Just how stupid do you feel now?
Didn't you learn anything from the Bush-Gore presidential election? Had Floridians voted Democrat rather than Green, Gore would have been president. I suspect that Gore's environmental policies would have been superior to Bush's.
10
”War-like posture”?
Is that another dog whistle, for guys like the pipe bomb guy, or the synagogue mass murder guy?
I am not being rhetorical here — these things are already happening!!
3
Is Trump above the law?
Is Trump the apogee of White privilege?
2
Since all legislation must originate in the House, the win is a huge advantage for Democrats.
Just about every law the Democratic House puts forward will be defeated by the Republican majority in the Senate, making them appear obstructionist.
Since I’m sure that some Democratic proposals will receive some Republican voter supporter in the country, those Republicans may not be too thrilled to have their views discounted by a partisan Senate.
Yes, we could have done better. But I’m planning to get a huge bowl of popcorn and settle down in front of the TV to watch the fireworks.
2
One specific subject that our president knows a lot about. He and Steve Bannon discussed this subject in detail.
Actually they are correct and this realism is why Trump is the most powerful person is our nation for better or worse. (
Finally, it's time to share this simple TRUTH that Trump (and Bannon) understand more than most.
DO WHAT YOU WANT ! Provided it is legal and won't land you in prison.
Most people are interested in themselves and their families.
Concentrate on these factors and don't go all over the lot.
Trump won the presidency.
After the mid term election of November 6, the fact is that Trump is still well equipped to deal with his adversaries.
We might now expect some deals with Democrats if that serves his interests,
With the loss of some of the most promising of the Democrat candidates, most gurus charge up yesterdays election as a
Draw.
The "House" going Democrat.
The Senate and Governors going Republican.
Not considered a loss for Trump.
Today, Trump is making some dramatic changes.
He understands the "game"
It's not sure that he will lose in 2020.
Maybe president Trump and Steve Bannon were right in the first pace.
Donald Trump is the president of the united states of America (For better or worse)
No need to thank him for his service.
@M.W. Endres
Dems gained 33 seats overall. There isn't a republican leader right now considering this a draw. They lose everything if that trend continues in the next cycle.
1
Well it didn't take Trump long to return to race-baiting and calling out reporters. And blame others for the losses, which will lead to at least some measure of accountability.
But 'call for unity?' Seriously? Like if Stalin had called for 'healing' after starving millions in Siberia.
I hope we're entering an era where Trump's distractions don't make the headlines. Let's look at the harm he's inflicting on people and groups who don't support him (meaning, the majority of Americans). Otherwise, things like Sessions, there will be a distraction every day if necessary.
Godspeed, Mr. Mueller.
3
Does Trump think he’s a rose floating around in the vile swamp that he’s in the center of?
I think we will have responsible thoughtful leaders in the House when the Democrats take over. A very necessary job of the house is to perform an oversight function on the administration. The Current GOP led Congress totally ignored the oversight role and our country needs that role filled.
2
Well, we certainly know he is worried what the numbers will reveal
1
Is there a figure for the amount that guy has made us spend on constant campaigning (read: having his ego stroked by his cult members), playing golf and making a profit off visiting his own holdings? Maybe a constant tally can be a little reminder of how much we are paying to the grifter-in-chief and how little Republicans actually care about the waste of money in government.
6
I feel like our country is lost. People are concerned about healthcare and the economy when the most dangerous threat to the US in my lifetime of 56 years resides in the White House and he is the President of the United States.
This is a national emergency. He is a criminal, a liar, a thug, a bully and most likely an asset of the Russian government.
I just wish that the Republicans in the Senate would stop thinking politically and start acting as patriots. We need this madman out of the White House.
Believe me, I am no fan of Pence but Trump is an immediate danger and he needs to go.
9
The emperor has no clothes
6
This man is toxically immature. How can all his devoted followers not see through this bluster? I am in disbelief every day that a man this vile manages to command even an iota of respect from the very people he's selling down the river. He reminds me of the worst of the blustering idiot high school boys I knew, with rich parents, grabby hands, and a self-aggrandizing manner that made him seem even more foolish and insecure. The only reason people hung around him was in hopes his money and privilege would rub off somehow. I pity him, to be honest. He appears to me to be a shell of a person. And I pity us, to have to pay this much attention to him.
8
Some offer of cooperation; it’s collaboration or else, just like back in the time most loved by Trump (as he thinks himself the second coming of Hitler).
1
Dear Mr. President. Don't forget that tax cut you promised as you were trying to help Republicans at the end of the campaign. You said it would be out this week, I think.
Respectfully,
Someone who isn't rich enough for the first GOP tax giveaway.
11
Massachusetts more Red. Yes we have a Republican Governor who modern Republicans would call a super RINO. He also has a House and senate where Democrats are over 80 of the members and have veto proof majorities. Reelecting a Republican figurehead is not shifting red.
2
Trump is clueless about the Constitution, and believe it does not apply to him. He is trying to negotiate (by threat) with the House not to perform their constitutional oversight duties.
4
Fascinating theatre. Trump essentially told democrats, I will support your agenda, provided you leave me alone, as I can bring a few Republican votes with me as needed.
Trump already made that deal with his cohorts when he rammed through the Republican agenda.
Think about that.
Democrats are now faced with the ultimate dilemma. Try to work with Trump on initiatives they have supported for generations, or deal with Nixon on steroids.
The fruit has been dangled. Now the democrats have to decide, democracy and country or self interest.
4
@Bob
Work with *him*? Look at any person, or any entity, who believed that they could work with that guy and get a good deal. You can go back to Polish demolition workers in the early '80s and work your way all the way up to the present.
2
This presser was all theater and self-gratification. None of what Trump says (except about CNN) matters, since he changes his mind hourly. He doesn't know what he really thinks, he wings it all the time. So don't get too invested in any of his plans or idea, they'll disappear before the sun rises tomorrow.
221
The scorpion and the frog? The leopard changing its spots? Pick a fable: it will apply to Trump's vague hand-wave in the direction of cooperation, as well as his promise to betray.
4
Warlike posture? As opposed to his kind decency previously? Most of his financial dealings are in the hands of State or Federal prosecutors. He sure is afraid, though, as if maybe he's not been quite so honorable in his business dealings.
We are still a divided nation. Trump owns the Republican party and some will object to that. Some resist the changes happening to the country but time will resolve some of that. Then again, we've always been divided, it's both the good news and the bad news of our democracy.
But Mr. Schumer and Ms. Pelosi understand how the system works far better than Mr. Trump. Plus, White House staff are constantly on the defense, trying to make sense of his actions. He can stomp and complain all he wants but he's a man under siege and he knows it. Flailing about like a chicken in a pillowcase will not help him.
5
I suppose the only reason why trump makes threats is because he cannot get along with others, especially those in disagreement.
I often wonder if this is how he raised his kids in an environment of iron-fisted meanness and threats.
Not only can America do better, trump himself can certainly improve. Until he does, he won't have any legacy other than all the rejoicing when he's finally out of office and replaced with presidents smarter and with more compassion and understanding.
2
So, DJ Trump remains out of control, both lashing out and claiming to be interested in working well with others, all at the same time.
Not surprising.
I'd love to see his fourth grade report card, where he'd have been evaluated for the ability to get along with his classmates.
4
Trump is very very afraid of a light shining on his finances. His actions from firing Sessions forward will all be fear-driven. Watch for it.
7
So #45 is willing to work together with the Democrats on health care, pharmaceutical drug prices, the environment and infrastructure IF the Democrats do not "...demand the release of his tax returns and reopen the chamber’s investigation into any interactions between Mr. Trump’s campaign and Russia during the 2016 election."
Wow, how could you refuse a deal like that!
Art of the Deal that the corrupt regimes can learn from.
6
Trump will tell his base that the Democrats are carrying on a fake investigation and Democrats will go silent like the Republicans?
I guess we will see how that works out.
1
With Trump, everything has to be a quid pro quo. He can never be magnanimous or even conciliatory. ‘If they come after me, I’ll come after them.’ He is absolutely the worst person to have in the most important job in the world. Today’s presser proved that point (as if we haven’t known it since January 2017).
2
A cold water splash of reality tells us that "unity" for the next two years is a delusion — just another way that politicians kiss babies and tout motherhood and apple pie. Get over it. The Democrats should be talking war, because that's what they are going to get. There is no way around it, tyranny must be confronted and the full extent of the law must be pursued. This election showed that Trump and many of the Republicans are bent on waging a tyranny of lies and bullying. Trump's savage abuse of reporters today has shown that he now feels the license to go further. He started off vilifying the press as the enemies of the people. Now he is bullying reporters, verbally pushing and kicking them around, while employing his typical tactic of accusing them of being hostile. His abuses aren't static, they are constantly enlarging as he perceives more and more power in his hands. Democrats and the press are going to have to fight fiercely with and for the truth, and they are going to have to keep in mind what we have learned about how this one man's hate mongering seeps down into the irrational levels of society and results in violence. Where will it stop if a body with power and authority like the new House of Representatives decides to be comfortable and seek "unity" with a force that intends to devour them? Or media like CNN and NYT remain reticent to inflict consequences on Trump for the abuses he is heaping on the press?
3
"Aggressive oversight by the Democrats, Mr. Trump added, would undercut any chance of bipartisan compromises. “If that happens, then we’re going to do the same thing and government comes to a halt and I’m going to blame them,” he said."
To which I would ask is "What are you trying to hide?"
3
The Democrats should ignore Trump's threats because they are meaningless -- he will attack them incessantly, irrespective of what they do or do not investigate.
Find the tax fraud, find the money laundering for the Russian (and other) real estate clients. Find the Russian connections.
Pass legislation in the House that forces the Senate either to vote on it (and make a record of who votes how) or refuse to do so and prove we need a new Senate in 2020.
He will attack you with everything he can muster, no matter how much or how little you do.
Set an agenda for 2020 (because nothing significant will be accomplished now) and go to work NOW. Don't wait until summer of 2020 to wake up and ask yourself why did we delay?
5
In short, Trump is saying that he'll reach across the aisle, but only as long as the Democrats do things to his liking.
3
You all realize the call for unity from Trump is a call to arms, don't you? Isn't it obvious from the first "unifying" act after the election, the firing of Sessions?
What a humiliating spectacle, this compulsively irrational man in a position of high respect. Yes, he seems to be seductive to enough Americans, to dangle the country over the abyss of his consuming ailments. But for how long can the Democrats fail to reach them with something more constructive? That is the question thrust forth by this election.
3
I don't believe the congress can request to see the President's tax return and if they did t would be counter productive as many in the nation do not like Trump but hate the Democrats and will see this for what it really is.
If they have grounds to impeach Trump then do it.
They obviously do not have any and if they request his tax returns it is because they are searching for one.
That is my definition of a witch hunt.
What do you think they will see.
I believe if anything it won't be something that can be used to impeach him.
It however can be used by some to attack the President politically.
The Democrats would be crazy to do that.
They don't understand once you do that you give the opposition the right to do the same.
Please do not tell me the Democrats have nothing to hide.
You know I really do not understand liberals and why do they hate Trump.
Liberals will complain that the USA is fighting too many wars.
Except for a war with China over international trade Trump has not started any wars and has not done anything that threatens our democracy.
You have.
He has pushed for policies the liberals do not like.
You can't impeach him because you do not like him.
You try to defeat him.
If the Democrats want to win in 2020 they will need to concentrate on choosing a candidate and then they will have to convince people to vote for this person
Attacking Trump will divert people attention and you will not able to convince them to vote for your candidate .
"Bipartisanship"...........the losing strategy for 8 years.
Pelosi has surrendered immediately after winning a major battle.
Get another Speaker of the House. I'm tired of losing.
She must be a robot.
1
Trump will say he has had a great win because, for him, losing is the same thing as not existing. I heard a rumour that he cheats at golf -- that his entourage will secretly moves his ball to better his score. For someone who is as pathologically narcissistic as Trump he will twist and skew the facts until he appears the winner. Forget facts, forget the truth it is win or become invisible. It will be an interesting time to come. If the stars are aligned at all, he will, for the first time in his life get real push back.
A message to the press. If you truly care about this country please stop giving top headlines to T's diversions (his threats to the House do not deserve more than a line) and start putting policy at the top of the headlines. Tell us what is happening in our government rather than speculating on what the people of this country will think or do in response. Let us think for ourselves by reporting facts and stop highlighting the loud divisive minority. Let us know what extremists are up to, but stop repeating scare tactics that are not true, but voiced loudly by extremists. The country's future is in your hands and how you frame your reporting to us..
Finally, the tax returns. Let's see what happening at the golf resort in Scotland that's losing money and with his other unsavory dealings. The tax returns!
2
Dear 45,
I don't think you're in the position you were on Monday. You no longer dictate what you want. You either compromise or you will be revealed. You no longer tell us what to do, or what we're going to do. Our base wants your head on a platter, so the only thing standing in the way is the good sense of a democratic house. You're in a stalemate and if you don't cooperate we will make your agenda disappear. Get it?
5
Sorry, but my distrust of this poisonous wretch and his battery of lawyers and minions runs very deep. I was prepared for the dismissal of Sessions,and Rosenstein will be next. My wish is for the insane amount of tax dollars being spent to stop the mytholigized caravan,and warehousing of immigrants be addressed,and our decaying infrastructure and climate change get some attention....and I am not optomistic about any of this happening anytime soon.
3
Everything with this guy is "big". No president ever had an inaugural crowd this big, only I can fix this, losing the House and hanging onto the Senate is a huge win, yada yada yada. He really should refrain from the use of adjectives and adverbs.
2
Let's read this right. Mr Trump is saying that if the Democrats look into his illegal dealings, he will disrupt government operations and blame them. Let's call him out on paranoid operations every time he does it. Being paranoid means you find someone else to blame. Standing outside of it mean you turn the tables back and wonder why the paranoid person is blaming again. Could this be a strange way to say "don't look into my dirty dealings?" He's already announcing the need for a one liner that throws his disowned dishonesty in his face.
1
How does Trump know the Mueller investigation has 'nothing'. Total nonsense. Unlike Trump Mueller and his team are totally professional in their approach and are not leaking, blabbing, lying, trying to undercut the President. They are a textbook case of undertaking a complex investigation (with ahem, several indictments). Trump seems awfully worried for a man who claims he has nothing to worry about. He also is reverting to his 'mafia don' style of threatening and bullying while holding out possibilities for collaboration. The man don't know from collaboration. It is all about him. Mueller's investigation MUST be protected. And even then, the Justice Department can refuse to turn the report over to the House which they most likely will do if Rosenstein is fired. Disgusting Donald. And you don't like Venezuela? You'd be right at home there... or in Saudi Arabia, Moscow or even Istanbul.
1
"Don't investigate me, don't do your constitutionally mandated job, and I'll work with you for the good of the country. Otherwise I won't..."
Yes, hold the people hostage and demand that the House of Representatives corrupts itself as the ransom to free them.
That is what an extortionist does. This is what a criminal does. This is what a seditionist or traitor does to his country.
This is what Donald Trump is doing and he will surely be supported in his (further) debasing of our government and country by this fellow GOP seditionists.
1
An extortion threat made to the entire Democratic Party, issued the day after the election, at the same press conference where Trump appeared on the verge of having a total meltdown directed at Jim Acosta?
Overt, unmitigated, nationalist fascism. This is America.
2
Do you hear what I hear?
♪♫ Blue skies
Smiling at me
Nothing but blue skies
Do I see
Bluebirds
Singing a song
Nothing but bluebirds
All day long
Never saw the sun shining so bright
Never saw things going so right
Noticing the days hurrying by
When you're in love, my how they vote ♪♫
It’s going to be an ugly 2 years. Look at what happened to Canada. Mexico. Japan. Our former European allies. Republicans who dared to disagree. Trump is a bully, and with bullies you either hand over the lunch money, or stand up and get beaten up.
2
Apparently Jim Acosta wasn’t being politically correct. You know how PC republicans can be. He was being “rude” I guess. Don’t anger our dear leader.
1
(chitchat between East Coast Gangster and West Coast Gangster – adapted)
ECG:
“...You've got two alternatives...You and your guys can work for us...Your little operation will then be a big operation...
“...The second alternative is here...Squeeze the trigger and kill me....
WCG:
“...You've an unusual sense of humor...What they say about you is true...You're out of your [ ] mind...
ECG:
“...Take another five seconds to make your selection...
“...I guess that means you're working for us. May I have my gun back...
Investigate the hell out of him! Block everything and go for the impeachment. Treat him like the Republicans treated both Clintons! Let's get this show going!
4
I've never heard anyone publicly thank President Trump for his mentorship. When looking at great leaders, we need look no further than their ability and desire to assist and develop others, either personally or professionally. True leaders and agents of positive change embrace a level of selflessness that manifests itself in service to others not service to oneself. I can only hope that a new and true leader will arise in the not-too-distant future that will inspire all of us to live and lead better lives.
4
Huh? What mentorship? Fascism rides on his coattails, while he threatens anyone who dares oppose him. Democrats, do your duty and go after him: Lets see his tax returns and the results of the Russian investigation. Words have consequences, show us what these are!
Trump always forget that Congressional interest in his finance is not about how he has exaggerated his wealth but it is about the emoluments clause of the Constitution. Check out Judge Messitte's judicial ruling on Trump's situation. He adjudged that the Constitution bans all financial gains for the President apart from his salary; and that it says nothing about how or what the Congress can do about financial gains otherwise by the President. On this even the GOP controlled Congress has not said a word about what financial gains the President can gain from occupying the office. Therefore the emoluments clause is still the only valid constraint. That alone may be sufficient to remove Trump from office, unless people who swore to uphold the Constitution decide, for political expediency, to act unconstitutionally. Others with honour and integrity will act as the Constitution dictates. So Congress concern of Trump's finance is not prying into his private finance. It's whether he has broken the law.
14
@H. Smith
Stop this.
He's not going to be removed from office.
You can't pry into his business if you are doing it purely based on your belief he has broken the law.
\You need evidence and you do not have I t.
Trump's threat to adopt a "warlike posture" in dealing with a Democratic-controlled House of Representatives, should that body exercise its legal powers to investigate his financial and political dealings, smacks of the arrogant petulance that would shame the most spoiled seventh-grader. But it's worse than that. If--as I naturally doubt--Trump actually did have any credible evidence of Congressional wrongdoing more solid than the smarmy innuendoes he fumblingly describes as "a lot of questionable things," isn't he obligated to treat such alleged Democratic misdeeds not as the basis for contriving another of his crooked "deals," but as something his oath of office requires him to confront straightforwardly and prosecute honestly and impartially? What Trump contemptuously refers to and practices as "a game," reflects his corrupt and opportunistic conception of elective governance and of political leadership in general. There's no changing the man.
14
@Jim
Excellent point
Only question is, on what basis would you investigate him? What credible evidence do you have to warrant an investigation? Just because you don’t like the man is not a reason.
@Jim Todd
Thanks, Jim Todd. It seems to me that a Congressional committee might have plenty of grounds for such an investigation once the Mueller findings are presented. And in any case, "not liking the man" is, speaking for myself, a judgment based on a whole host of wide-ranging reasons, none of them, I must say, superficial or inconsequential. But don't get me started!
1
I supported blue candidates across the country with dollars and, in my own state, at the ballot box because I want this man investigated inside and out. Remember: no amount of placating, no amount of bipartisanship, and no amount of generosity on the part of the Democratic Party will stop the lying in the right wing media, the lying at the podium from the press secretary, or the lies in the attack ads come election season. Might as well just go all in and expose this fraud for what he is in every way possible. Maybe the dems will gain support from people in the wings like me waiting to see some teeth.
26
The house Dems should take him on and feed every slimy detail of what they find to the press, bring the heat on and drench Republican voters in the truthful bilge about Don the Con.
16
It's not at all clear this man is sane.
20
@Blue in Green
He grew up in Queens NY. I know someone else just like him. It's a deeply rooted Mafia criminal inclination they display.
There is a military maxim: don't fight on the ground of your enemy's choosing. Fight on a battlefield that favors you.
Donald Trump is the master of silly partisan games. Don't play with him. Protect Mueller's investigation so he can do his job, but don't fall into tit-for-tat battles with Trump. The people who can see he is a crook knows that already. The people who still can't see that have already drunk the kool-aid. You're not going to convince them with tax returns or whatever.
What will turn out Democratic voters in 2020 is sound legislation that will improve the quality of life of Americans, and yes...that does include standing up for civil rights. You don't really represent ALL Americans if you are willing to throw some of them under the bus.
But policy, policy, policy. Trump's policies are all hollow shell games and fearmongering. Let's keep making this about policy.
21
Thoroughly disgusted that my state voted in a Senator whose main campaign pitch was effectively vowing to stand with Trump no matter what.
14
Trump must be trembling at the thought of the House investigating him, he much have so much dirt that he is hiding that it will take front end loader to deal with it all,
10
The appropriate response to Trump’s hostility to the press would have been for them to simply walk out. Same with the deplorable Sarah H.
Which journalist is going to play Joseph Welch to Trump’s McCarthy
10
Trump exhibits all the signs of a narcissist and a bully. Both crave attention.
I'm advocating for a #nonews day.
I believe that if all the major news outlets got together and didn't print or air or post anything at all about him for a day (or more) we'd be collectively denying him what he lives for most. We can collectively take his ball and all go home.
Would make my day better, and after all, it's all about me--or I will strike you all down!
4
Apple,tree,snake.
5
Time to stop playing Trump's games. The Democrats in the House should do what's right for the country. Make sure Mueller do his job, but don't fall into playing silly partisan games. Republicans have become so enamored with their Dear Leader that they wouldn't believe any evidence the House produces anyway.
There are a lot of potential Democratic voters for 2020 that are waiting for some real, sane political leadership. Push legislation that will help improve quality of life for people of this country. If Republicans shoot it down, so be it.
7
That Trump couples his offer of unity with threats of "war" is understandable. Trump has seen that crimes can be overlooked without any consequences. His own sexual improprieties were quickly put aside, in spite of the large number of women who accused him. He has seen that the president can use his bully pulpit to get away with the most awful actions.He has been able to paint an aura of innocence over serious charges --while ignoring any attempt at a real investigation of guilt or innocence. This we have seen in the case of Kavanaugh and in the case of Khashoggi. Similarly he shrugs off any attempt at looking deeply into suspicion of obstruction of justice, or of collusion, or of corrupt gain from emoluments. Under Trump people he does not want to judge as guilty are able to get away with murder, sexual predation, or corrupt enrichment.He sees that it is verily possible to shoot someone in Times Square and never be charged with any crime. And now he threatens retaliation, a "warlike posture", to any politician who attempts to make him obey the law, to anyone who attempts to punish him for breaking it. But he has to learn --as all Republicans have to learn---that no one should be allowed to break the law with impunity.
6
Plea to Democrats. Investigate his business deals, investigate taxes, investigate his finances. Immediately and drives this blight on our history and all of his lame followers right back where they belong. In the history books as a problem we overcame.
12
Why would the Democrats in the House care if you investigate them? They aren't the ones making threats because they're desperately trying to avoid prison. You are.
11
Only after being handed a crushing loss of the house and full control of the government that will result in the next two years of his life being under the microscope constantly would a pathological liar declare victory. Good luck on that Donnie! The game is up and you are on the losing end bigly!
11
A common theme is that Democrats are educated, care about the masses and have better policies. Then let's please see them mount the leadership and strategy to win enough Trump supporters for 2020 success. Sorry to say this: Trump remains a cunning and compelling strong man and I do not see a stellar, focused DTeam. Some good players but not enough to topple Trump.
6
@kat perkins, he isn't "compelling" to many intelligent people.
Trump has been looking for a war since he moved into the White House. No secret there. So he shopped around and looked here and there and it seemed our adversaries were to his liking. His wish was closer to home, all those people who did not vote for him. The bad seed is in the White House. So watch out below, he is declaring war on Americans and anybody looking to be American. This will be America's first uncivil war. Some good innocent people may die. But this is the collateral damage he likes. Rough 'em up!
3
So glad to see the prez on form today.
Keep up the crazy.
3
@pealass, why? Just interested in your perspective.
Trump needs to run his mouth while under oath. Hearing Trump speak while not under oath to tell the truth is a waste of my time.
4
As usual, his misuse of the English language trumps reason.
8
Nothing says "innocent" like threatening fire and brimstone if Democrats take action to investigate his tax returns or Russian interference in the 2016 election.
21
I am sick and tired of this man.
18
The American people are about to get a first hand view of the Democrats who would run America. Nancy P. says no impeachment and immediately is countermanded by one of the party's biggest donors. Let the Chaos Begin !!
2
@Connecticut Yankee Well, we’ve had years and years of Chaos with messieurs Ryan, McConnell, and Trump and all their minions. And, they certainly talked the telephone tough talk, enough for a daily outrage; so why not have the Dems? I say give it to them in spades and let the soybean farmers consider themselves lucky if they can continue to cash their Cadillac Welfare checks.
2
He promises to work with them and then he threatens them with warlike acts?? This could get really dangerous. Hunker down, America!!
8
"Warlike posture".......... more baby talk from the man child.
9
We are a country more divided than ever. So many people are not voting. We can point fingers, call each other nasty names, and even more concerningly, threaten violence (which is never acceptable), but at some point, we actually need to work together. As naive as that sounds, it seems the current pattern we are all in, is not sustainable. Remember the expression, 'you attract more flies with honey than vinegar?' well.........works for politics I am thinking.
1
“Trump threatened to adopt a “warlike posture” and retaliate if they use their newfound power to investigate his financial and political dealings”.
This threat seems more like an invitation.
The Democrats are better served improving their record thorough good policy moves, avoiding vindictiveness. They should be the model of good government instead of copying the GOP model of governance by incompetence.
3
Without a stroke of luck, I think we will have another 6 years.
Trump reminds me of our kids when they were little.
Question:
‘’ Did you pick up your toys? ‘’
Reply:
‘’ Don’t check! Don’t check!’’
5
I can only hope that some day, Mueller shows up at the WH with the appropriate law enforcement and they haul this demagogue out in restraints; probably a straight jacket, too. I would have hoped GOP and Congress would have tried to reign him in, multiple times. But alas they have no backbone. They have no bones at all, these spineless toadies.
Don't people see where this is headed? It isn't good.
AMERICA! WAKE UP! We must stop the orange menace.
4
His comments just make it more clear that he has no idea what government is or how it works. He just wants to be a dictator. He's an embarrassment.
9
The "president" is making threats to Congress?
what kind of third world tin pot dictatorship does he think he's in.
don the con continues to prove that he hasn't the slightest idea what is in the Constitution which he swore to defend and protect... he IS the enemy "within"
10
Okay, so lets see, I'll work with you Democrats so long as you don't go looking into my past or my taxes or for that matter anything that has to do with me.
Yes, this is a very generous offer from the guiltiest man in the world.
The best thing that could happen here is that Daddy and Jr. get to share a cell.
4
Trump looks very sour in the photo with this article.
Was it a shock to really understand what a democracy is?
"We the people..." are thrilled, Mr Trump.
4
Now that the elections are over I hope we can return to a bipartisan effort to promote and protect the sanctity of private property. Stock prices are falling, bond returns are parlous and there are no tax cuts on the horizon. Freedom!!
1
So, Mr. Trump is open and upfront. He is willing to hold needed legislation for the American people hostage to protect his own criminal activities. Earning his friendship certainly seems to have its price.
5
Anyone who has ever had the pleasure of answering the door to a third-rate salesman of dodgy goods might have a going-back-in-time experience watching this video.
2
The President's response is classic Trump! He promises to play nice as long as they give him everything he wants and ask nothing of him, especially the truth about his dealings, finances and personal responsibility. The American people want the truth. We voted for the truth and we deserve the truth!
8
Although some of the political commenters on TV and in print say that this was not a huge victory for Democrats, I look at it differently. What if they had NOT taken over the house? Even if one considers this less than a huge victory, it is a great start, and is an indication of increasing dissatisfaction regarding the Trump administration and the Republican party. If the Democrats handle this wisely, this will bloom into a truly huge blue wave. This is their chance to be smart, organize well, make good decisions, and not respond to baiting by the bully in charge.
2
When Nixon was forced to resign, certain requirements to become president & remain president should have been enacted. The right too pardon & who might be eligible to be pardoned should have been codified. No pardons to friends, family members, former presidents, congress members or senators absent conviction with some time served. Hence,& every American president would have understood that he/she isn't above the law.
If that had been the case, then DJT would not be able to hide his tax returns, lie repeatedly, ignore the emollients provision or act so as the endanger the political, economic psychological & social fabric of the USA. Not only would DJT not have been elected president but even G.W. Bush would have been held accountable for entering the USA into an endless, costly & mindless wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
While the Dems may not have taken it all in 2018, there is always 2019 & forcing the country to understand what is essential to insure there will be a future. Running a country is not the same as running a family owned & operated business. Americans need to understand that reality. Dems are now going to have to force DJT to explain the why for the actions he takes. I.e., what changed between 11/6 & 11/7 wherein up to 15000 soldiers to thwart an 'invasion' by 3800 refugees, half children, now described as a 15000 'support' group? Government shutdown ok, that's on DJT, not the Dems.
3
Representative Pelosi has long served with honor and integrity. But it is time to allow a new generation of leaders to emerge in the Democratic Party. Younger politicians need to enter the national limelight, and the elder statesmen and women retire to become mentors for their success.
2
Listening to trump's threats made very clear the terms under which the republicans abandoned their constitutional duties and capitulated to him. I'll sign your bills as long as you keep the investigators away from me. The democrats retook the House to work on policy issues (and critically important ones at that) for sure, but most importantly to restore checks and balances to the federal government. They had best make better choices than the republicans did.
4
In reference to his post-election press conference, if I ever saw a 72 year old delusional man behave like that I would feel sorry for him, but he is our President...
3
Can't wait for those tax returns.
8
So he is threatening the new House Democrats right out of the gate? Pelosi needs to put him in his place. No more Ms. Nice Guy. Tell him in no uncertain terms that the House doesn't work for him and that if House Democrats think he needs investigating, they will investigate. I really hate bullies. Democrats need to stand up to this one.
7
If Democrats don’t put their act together, Republicans would continue to implement their destructive, deregulation agenda. Trump, hopefully would continue to be investigated and hopefully something tangible would come out of it. I really hope Democrats build something for the American people, not to continue with their infighting as always happens. There are Democrats of all colors, and the spectrum goes from the center to the left. This is a fact and needs to be recognized by all Democrats, particularly from those politicians in power positions.
How does he get away with
behavior that we would not
allow in our children or grandchildren?
How do hard-working, honest
Americans accept his insistence
on hiding his tax returns?
Don’t people wonder what
he is hiding? How do these
people cast votes for his
candidates?
4
My suggestion would be that the house immediately propose a health care bill that opens up the Medicare option to all Americans below 65 who prefer that option to a private insurance. I would counter when Republicans scream that I thought they always welcome competition in the market place. Make the Republicans go on the defensive and keep them there for the next two years.
I would respond to his threats about his taxes with this one, do anything to impede or kill the Mueller probe and your taxes will be front and center in a New York minute.
2
@Chris
The Mueller probe was not meant to last forever.
It should have found something by now to justify doing the investigation that you think will prove Trump is guilty of some impeachable offence.
The Republican now will control the Sensate.
Do you really think they will remove him from office.
Investigating the President will just make it that much easier for him to win in 2020.
This poor excuse of a leader of the free world, has never, ever worked in cooperation with anyone, nor in his business life, personal life. It was, and still is completely on his terms, which means that he'll inevitably demand the cessation of the Mueller investigation, as a condition of his cooperation. It's sure to be an attempt on his part to gain complete compliance on the part of the left side of the aisle. It's all about winning the deal on his trems, nothing less.
3
Yes, let's celebrate. And carefully think through next steps. Put the electorate first---all the electorate---for a change. And, ask what checks are needed, what balance is overdue, But beware. The Tantrum-Thrower-in-Chief can be counted on to put a match to whatever is flammable. Especially when he sees a loss of power ahead. We shouldn't step back, or shrink from it but let's make sure we don't end up facing a lot of brush fires.
Well, as a fully native citizen of this nation, country and representative democracy, I think the people I elected to represent me have every right to look into the President's tax returns — which he DID PROMISE to release.
“I’m under a routine audit and it'll be released, and as soon as the audit is finished it will be released."
Since he LIED, REPEATEDLY, and lies about many other things every single day, it is completely proper to follow up and verify if his lies are harmless exaggerations, as his supporters would have us believe, or something more egregious. And if there is anything wrong there, it is absolutely right to make him face whatever is legal and constitutional in seeing that corrective steps are taken. His threats only betray fear.
I'm convinced that the legislative branch is badly broken at this point. I don't want the Dems (of which I am one) to break it even more, but someone smarter than me needs to figure out how to build a new branch from the ashes of congress that Newt set afire and McConnell nuked.
3
My, my … he’s certainly testy. But he knows that every time he tries to retaliate the Dems will open an investigation on another front. The coming two years will be worse than the last for the American people as this political battle is fought out. However, it will be far, far worse for Trump and his confederates.
3
@HenryJ
That would be a witch hunt and unconstitutional.
Mr. Trump is manipulative as usual, but I don't think the Democratic leadership will take the bait. They will choose what is in the best interests of Democrats, now and for 2020, not cower before Trump.
I think that Trump has an inflated view of a Republican held Senate’s loyalty to him. They are not going to act as whipping boys against lawful Congressional Subcommittees investigating The President on the basis of whatever manufactured charges Trump or Hannity dream up. I doubt they even have the Constitutional ability to do so. They might even find themselves accessories to obstruction of justice thereby.
1
Let's see if Trump can manage to do what no one has done before.
Unite Congressional Democrats.
3
So, Trump will get away with everything he can until those Democrats have taken office.
Jeff Sessions, having left office, now has no protection from prosecution. He lied under oath to Congress, and can now face the consequences of his actions.
1
The Democrats should never, ever trust this guy one iota. It's time for the guy who lives by trying to punch you in the face first not being given any chance at all. He has shown himself all too clearly. Getting nothing done is better than giving this guy any chance to mess up things even more.
1
He fired Sessions - obviously claims that he'll behave and be bipartisan if we don't investigate are pure lies. Not a surprise - but still - anyone other than Trump would be smarter about this.
1
Th press conference was bizarre. To begin with when he castigates members of the Press for being "rude" he acts as it he's never said a mean word to anyone. He is sick enough to believe that he is an injured innocent who never done an aggressive to anyone. He thinks he is a really nice guy as totally bizarre as that must seem to anyone with a brain and two eyes.
Trump practices the most grotesque version of the double standard I have personally ever seen. Psychologically he buys into his myth of being a "counter puncher", simply an innocent who "fights back" to defend himself. Like a 12 year old he tells himself if he didn't start it, no matter how aggressive his behavior is towards others it doesn't "count" since he didn't start it.
This is all ego defenses and self deception of course but I don't think Trump has any insight into that. The cascade of threats he made today against the Press and the Dems was weak, pathetic, a double standard -- he can dish it out, but he can't take it, and doesn't think he should have to.
He expects people to prop up his weak ago all the time. He's told the Press, "never criticize me and always be positive about me", and if you don't a volley of threats. Delusion of grandiosity; delusion of persecution.
He should be on psych meds... This cannot be allowed to stand.
2
Go ahead Clown, make our day.
12
If Trump's finances are on the up and up, why is he afraid of an investigation?
10
@Linda
Good question and if he was running for office you would have the right to ask and if he doesn't answer it he has not committed a crime but his opponent can try to use that in their campaign and it would be up to each voter to either ignore it or to use it as a reason to vote for the other guy.
Sadly, Schumer and Pelosi will likely announce they have decided to work together with Trump. Trump will propose something very draconian and use this as leverage to get 90% of what they want for the this admininsitration's sham infrastucture spending bill. Dems will fall for it like Charlie Brown trusting Lucy in punting the ball and fall on their thick heads.
1
As a blue state resident, it’s frustrating that we have cede power to the empty rural states but even more galling that we have to subsidize them as well.
So much for Republicans hating welfare but then I remember they don’t consider it welfare when white Christians get it.
20
Love me or I’ll hurt you...
16
This is my take on why Trump wants to keep his tax returns private.
He claims Florida as his home so he doesn't have to pay state income taxes in New York. (Nothing illegal about that, so why not just own up?)
His only claimed "income" is Social Security.
He is in debt up to his eyeballs to the Russians.
He claims deductions he doesn't want anyone to know about (even perhaps his family?)
Can't wait to see them.
10
Dems are responsible for putting Donald Trump in office. And they’re going to do so again in 2020 if they don’t quit the obsessive hysteria and start governing on behalf of American citizens.
1
@Shenoa Since Trump is still campaigning against Mrs. Clinton, even though she didn't run for office in 2018, it looks like Trump is the one with obsessive/compulsive behavior. He can't quit talking about her!
9
Sounds like typical domestic batterer talk - I love you but you better not make me mad again or it will be your fault when I beat you again...
10
What does this say about someone who insists on hiding his “financial and political” dealings?
Such a person should never have set foot in the White House. Too much ignorance and poor judgement in this country for too long!
12
Trump has about two months to do as much damage to this country as he can before the next batch of officials are sworn in. So the trick will be to figure out what he is going to do, and how low he is going to go, and prepare for it. Remember that he breaks deals all of the time, and that there is absolutely no low to which he will not sink. And for Heaven's sake, don't let him know the game-plan. Play everything close to the vest. The only way to stop a monster is to not let him see that you are coming. It is horrible that it has to be this way, but it really is the only way to stop him.
14
Threatening retaliation? That's a new low, even for Trump. He might as well hang an "I'm guilty" sign around his neck. He claims to be so tough, but he's acting like a big, whimpering coward. It makes you wonder just what kind of horror show would be revealed by examining his finances and his political ties.
But if Pelosi caves (which wouldn't be the first time), with the weak excuse of bipartisanship, then the democratic party might as well pack up and go home because it's contributing to the corruption of the federal government, and the downfall of democracy in the US.
9
Warlike posture? What does that mean, and why is this phrase not included in the video clip? I want to understand the context of that phrase. This seems an "ultimately" inappropriate response to one's opposing political party in "any" circumstance. But it's Trump, and that's the way he likes to operate. After people accept him saying the unacceptable, he is free to do any/every thing he wants. It makes me feel sick.
1
Altogether now!!
Give me an I!
Give me a M!
Give me ... well you know the rest.
Unlike Paul Ryan, I’m confident Nancy Pelosi can spell.
2
Trump is lining up an administration of authoritarians. They will either intimidate or steamroller any opposition in their way to their goal of an Alt White America.
Because he has the Supreme Court, it's all downhill from here.
1
This overt dictator-wanna-be proves absolutely has to go. Overtly shutting down freedom of the press publicly now? You think you have that power to decide who is "offensive" in press conferences now? (Actually you, we the people believe).
Your 2 Senators representing 300k per state are no match for our 20M per state Senators and and House of REPRESENTATIVES for We the People. Bring it on--you will lose. North Easterners figured you out long before you entered politics as a totally abusive employer as a property developer...go ahead and retire to Texas or Alabama.
3
My advice taken from my battle book.
Dear Dems, cut the talk about impeachment and look into his dealings. Nothing about ethics, racism, Russian voting scandals, attacks on the media will move his base. Hypocrisy will. He is terrified about all his financial history way back to Atlantic City days up to now. Quo bono?
6
Nancy Pelosi's measured, polite and proper manner represents a tradition that few in power now respect and of necessity -- regardless of party -- will likely write off unless they can "use" her. We seem to have entered the zone in which "kindness" = "weakness" = "stupidity"... The little thugs of my elementary school years can be forgiven their efforts at lunchbox realpolitik, but Trump is beyond hope; he is a shamelessly smoldering powder keg, a globally existential hazard. Trump and his minions must be driven from office. It's time for relentless, legal attacks. Any hopes for infrastructure projects will be thwarted for more years than it will take to get Trump out of power. Time to get real. Money isn't everything.
3
By sacking Sessions, it looks like Trump has already replaced the olive branch with a dagger.
6
Don't believe a word of what the Liar-In-Chief says-him "retaliating" is like a criminal promising to commit more crimes if the police arrest him! Get his tax returns and prosecute him and his family for profiteering off the Presidency he won by a minority of votes!
5
Trump is SCARED that Maxine and Mueller will reveal him for the thug, con artist and financial fraudster that we Dems already KNEW Trump's entire family is!!
7
Donald Trump’s arrogance and lack of poise was on full display during the news conference. He yelled at reporters, calling them as rude and a disgrace, while displaying the same qualities himself. To an impartial observer, his conduct was most unbecoming of a president.
What was appalling in Trump’s words was his threat of retaliation if democrats investigated him or his administration. Trump forgets that oversight of government is Congress’s constitutional responsibility, and we hope that the democrats would effectively fulfil it. Trump’s inner fears are the reason for his bravado language and threats. Sometimes, one must play the game the same way as the opponent. Trump needs a taste of his own medicine - you need a thief to catch a thief
1
Trump's asinine statements about why Mia Love lost- something like "no love for me" and the other woman senator Comstock "she wouldn't embrace me" were stomach churning. And that is how he treats REPUBLICAN women.
The GOP owns this jerk.
4
sounds like he's scared....as he should be.
11
As usual Trump couples his "congratulations" with threats. Good grief 2 more years of lies and threats. No matter what the Democrats in the House do it will be met with more lies and threats from the Republicans and the President. It makes me sick.
3
Oh now he's willing to work together.... for what? Give me a break... no thanks.
4
Typical Trump. "I'll work with you, but only on my terms."
6
Wow, naked threats from a chief executive against duly elected officials whose job it is to exercise oversight and who were elected to do just that. Trump still doesn't know what country he actually lives in.
This is the United States of America, not the Republic of Trumpistan. Tens of millions of Americans think Trump is a crook, a liar, and was possibly put into office through the collusion of a hostile foreign power. We are alarmed by the Republican Party's practice of actions associated with classical fascism.
The Democrats elected to the House aren't afraid of Trump's threats. Let the oversight begin.
8
Smart
He extends an olive branch, the DEMS say 'nein!', and Trump points out that the DEMS are unwilling and unable to work with the GOP.
Couple that with keeping Pelosi as Supreme Leader, and now you have an ineffective, obstructionist, unwilling to cooperate, dumb, extreme left wing, socialist Democratic Party.
And from here to 2020 that is what the image DEMS will be trying to fight.
It's the first shot for 2020 and so far he is winning.
When is a win a win? Republicans lost at least seven governorships, at least 27 congressional seats and gained maybe two senate seats.
Trumpty Dumpty nonetheless marches on with lies upon lies.
Want to know the truth . . . . read some of the exit polling.
7
This odious president is not worth focusing now that we have control of Congress.
2
Last I heard, the best way to deal with a bully is to punch him in the nose (so to speak).
Where the law is being broken, let the indictments begin.
2
Threatening the Dems if they investigate his finances? Oh please, Pelosi, Cummings, and Schiff, you HAVE TO dig deep now into what he's hiding.
4
He's the consummate deal maker? Really?
3
✔
@realDonaldTrump
Received so many Congratulations from so many on our Big Victory last night...
If this is what a Trump victory looks like, bring 'em on.
2
Congratulations from whom Donald des lies? Those foreign leaders can read numbers as well as anyone else and they know you have no popular vote mandate, your constituency is farm fields.
You praised congressional investigation when it was faked by your acolytes, now only empty threats. Let the real investigations commence!
1
Threatening the Democratic Party with retaliation via Senate if the House has the gall to do its job and investigate this extremely corrupt president speaks volumes about his putrid character. Personally, I have had quite enough of this cesspool of an administration and the fecklessness of Congress. I shall vote again in 2020; until then, I'm done with this daily back and forth nonsense. Time to turn off the cable news channels and watch something much more palatable...like the test pattern.
1
Trump is psychotic. Up is down. Win is loss. Sad is happy. The only way the Dems should "work with Trump" is to help him leave office early.
3
Grand Jury Subpoenas, get them going, as soon as clock strikes 12 midnight 12/31/18
2
Talk about speaking with a forked tongue -- at last Donald Trump reveals himself for what he truly is.
2
This is the old "Marry me or I'll kill you" approach.
3
I love Trum['s logic. If the Democrats waste money investigating him, then he will have the Republicans waste money investigating them. (And presumably the Democrats then investigate the Republicans and nothing gets done in Congress).
He will investigate them for security leaks if they persist. Does this mean that he would tolerate the breeches otherwise? I didn't know law enforcement was political. That means that if he does NOT investigate them, they should impeach him for failing to enforce the laws of the land - Article II Sec. 3.
2
Investigate, indict, convict.
4
Treasonous Racist Unethical Misogynistic Prevaricating: The End is getting closer. Let the indictments begin!
4
And we're going to blame you, and your acceptance of emoluments and the way your family and friends are grifting their way through the White House.
And sorry, there's no "playing better" than bringing down a senile narcissist and his buddies.
If government comes to a halt because we're stopping your cronies from doing any more damage to this country, than so be it.
There will be a reckoning for you and your lot in 202, if not before.
1
Tax returns! But first I would like him to stop going after Jim Acosta.
5
Why are threats from trump so scary?
Good lord, he is nothing but an empty suit, a coward and a bully.
Stormy is not afraid of him.!
I'm sick of his threats . Why doesn't anyone stand up to this man?
He is so purely despicable!
5
"Do not dare to investigate any of my crimes", well, of course not.
Does Trump think the democrats were born yesterday?
3
If it wasn't for gerrymandering, the Democrats would have picked up even more seats, in the House. If it wasn't for prejudicial voter ID laws, and purging of voter rolls, in some states, Senate and Governor races, would have gone to Democrats.
One of the items, on the Democrats agenda is to enact ethics laws. Let's hope it goes to campaign finance reform.
Trump, ha snot intention to work with Democrats, in the House. So, they might as well investigate him for tax fraud. I expect Mueller will give them enough for a full scale investigation, ala Watergate.
Trump will rally his base to disrupt such hearings and have them do more attack, bomb making and mass shootings. These tactics may work in Russia, Saudi Arabia, or Turkey, but not the United States.
The message last night is anyone with a brain has turned on Trump and the GOP agenda. Chances were very good if the GOP started with less than 42 held Senate seats, they would have lost the Senate, too. I based that on the at least seven pick ups of governors fro the Democrats.
Finally, again Trump blames just about everyone else, except himself. Why he remains popular with 41% of voters, is just amazing.
4
Some good Dem gains -- but Rome wasn't built in a day. M&Ms (Mueller & Maxine) are worth waiting for!
2
@Debussy
Maxine is a complete idiot. Do you remember her at all the financial services hearings? She doesn't have even a basic understanding of the financial services industry, a fact that is made worse by her advancing senility.
“ I’ll play nice, if you ignore my Crimes “.
No thanks.
21
Trump threatens to retaliate if the legislators do their jobs????
17
Pelosi needs to go. If she stays on as Speaker, we are guaranteed another term for Trump, because she is already energizing the wackadoos in his base. They’re literally praying she gets the gig. And frankly, it would be a gift to the GOP.
Just stop, Nancy. It’s time.
8
...and she needs to go because she does a great job?
@BothSides
First. It doesn't take much to energize the "wackadoos in his base."
And no matter if Nancy Pelosi is there or not, Trump will always find someone -- like "Pocahontas".
Taxes, Taxes , Taxes...
5
What is mr. trump hiding in his financial dealings?
6
"But if you dare to look into my illegal activities, I swear I'll hold the entire country hostage, costing taxpayers millions by making up claims about you."
This is exactly what abusers do. "If you call the police on me, I'll hurt you."
12
Guess Trump forgot about his grudge and lies about Montana's Joh Tester who got re-elected. And Georgia aint over til its over.
6
If the response of the president to a mixed election result is to threaten the house that he'll play nice as long as they don't ask for his tax returns or investigate anything and then to go on and be rude and racist towards reporters covering a rare live, solo press event, this is only the beginning of the bad.
If the House or Congress cannot look into these matters and take appropriate action, then who can?
Warlike response? Sounds like he thinks he can have his own little coup. That ain't happening under our watch.
10
As a Brit, I am just an interested onlooker, but was avidly hoping that the Dems would get control of the house. Certainly now it would be interesting to expose Mr Trumps tax details to the American public. However, having watched the reaction of Mr Trumps base to various revelations of infidelity and payments: I am not sure they will care, even if his Tax details are damning. To his most ardent supporters, Mr Trump seems to be bulletproof, no matter what he does.
5
That's so cute! Trump threatening anyone who dares investigate his extensive criminality. He better fasten the seat belt on his golf cart - it's going to be a bumpy ride!
7
Trump is impossible to work with. There are no olive branch to be extended to such person like him. He should be investigated and impeached. The sooner the better. Two years is a long time to further tolerate his nonsense. He is unfit to be President.
9
Investigate the Democrats for what ?! I don't like to be threatened and I say bring it on Trump. Dems are not going to genuflect and kiss the mob boss's ring.
7
Seriously?
"Whether he meant it as a gracious gesture or a tweak because he enjoys having Ms. Pelosi as a foil was not immediately clear."
Do you honestly think the vile creature in the White House (well, mostly at Mar-a-Lago) meant it any other way than a tweak? He knows nothing at all about being gracious.
2
Trump will start a Twitter war with Pelosi, Schiff, Neal, Cummings, et al. They should ignore him. Just go about their business. It’ll drive him crazy.
6
Not a hope of any bipartsanship here. We were there before with the cozy Chinese meal and everyone talking about how Trump and Schumer were good old boys from New York. Before it dissolved into rancour. The polarisation will increase. It's all about 2020 now, who's the candidate? When you start to think about who can beat him you realize what a rare and precious gem Obama was. I think that Beto would get a shellacking.
2
I voted for candidates I believed would bring some oxygen to these investigations that the Rebublicans have been smothering. If the Dems fail to do that, I will consider my vote wasted.
7
He is a bully still. Threats of "if you don't play my way". We need respectful dialogues, not a suppression of the truth through intimidation.
6
Regarding the behavior of Donald J. Trump. I think the historian Will Durant is probably rolling over in his grave many, many, many times. Durant never predicted that Donald J. Trump would ever be in office. And how could anyone in the United States vote to put him in office.
4
Consummate deal maker indeed. Why does anyone ever quote Kellyanne Conway anymore? She lies right alongside trump.
6
Blah, lie, blah, obfuscate, blah, mislead. How so much of the country could possibly still be under this snake oil salesman’s spell is mystifying. He belongs in jail, period, along with all the accomplices who support him or vote for him.
7
"but threatened to retaliate if they use their newfound power to investigate his financial and political dealings."...LOL...he says this a week after the federal judge ruled that Dems can proceed with the emoluments lawsuit. He's making so much money off this gig. He's a scoundrel through and through. And has the audacity to threaten anyone who speaks against him? It's astounding what we let him get away with.
5
Accountability!! That is exactly why I voted Democrat. "Lock him up!"
5
Call his bluff. Investigate.
10
@FilmMD maybe that will make the GOP "leadership" feel some heat and DO something to stop this guy
@FilmMD
...and convict.
1
@N. Smith Exactly.
We have never seen a president so wild as the fellow we just witnessed in his first post-election news conference. Those white eye sockets surrounded by pink sunlamp burn only accentuate the madness.
10
@Jim Steinberg
He was not wild at all. He was knowledgeable, articulate, and in command. I hesitate to say Presidential, but he was definitely not unhinged.
1
The House has rid itself of obstructionist baggage. It is now free to do its job as an independent and equal branch of the Government. This is what we were voting for -- a restoration of our Democracy. And, no, Mr. Trump, no one will cowtow to your threats. The House will investigate every suspicious act that emanates from the WH. As it should.
5
What the House Democrats do over the next two years will play a key role in what happens in 2020.
While I appreciate all that Nancy Pelosi (my rep) has done for the party, she’s become so unpopular and the poster child of what’s wrong with the Democrats in the eyes of Republicans. For the good of the party, I hope is she realizes this and passes the Speaker baton to someone new.
6
Amen.
@Tam
I disagree.
The Democrats have only 18 months (before everyone begins campaigning again) to get a lot of work done.
They need a seasoned, productive Speaker.
Pelosi knows the job and absolutely knows how to rally her troops.
1
If the incoming class of Democrats are smart, they will use Trump's own words and 'drain the swamp', specifically investigating violations of the emoluments clause, finding out just how much money the president gets from the Russians and Saudis and ensuring that Trump's tax returns, in detail are made available for ALL AMERICANS to see.
10
@Lostin24:
Spot on . . . but don't hold your breath.
Someone who threatens war upon releasing information must have some serious things to hide. That is a reason in itself to obtain his tax returns.
12
@Nhersh
Who cares about his tax returns? There will be nothing much in there, and they're boring. Any mistakes will be blamed on his accountants.
Robert Mueller has promised to give the results of his investigation after the election. The Democrats do not have to rush to take action before that.
Also, NYS and NYC are already conducting investigations into the Trump family's finances and their foundations. They may yield results before the new Congress is sworn in. They have gained the co-operation of several top Trump company officers, including the Chief Financial Officer, all for immunity, of course.
Congress should just let the NY AG do the dirty work while they conduct the country's business. They will not get Trump's co-operation anyway and only draw the wrath of his disciples.
A true Blue Wave will not occur until the economy takes a turn for the worst, which it probably will given Trump's trade policies. Be patient. We will go bluer, not in one big wave.
2
Democrats, he's more evil than ever, but unraveling. Keep pushing, with the velvet dagger. You must play hardball to save our country. Look at how he campaigned for the midterms with fear-based lies that have even inspired violence. The consequences of going soft are too severe. Our republic is not out of danger, but you have a beachhead.
3
Typical bully reaction when faced with something he can’t bully—“I’ll be nice if you are”.
This is an interesting wedge to use in negotiating with him. Every time he’s “ uncooperative” suggest the subpoena is a-coming!
More seriously, cooperating with this man is impossible, he will only want what he wants.
Time for the Democrats to put his feet, and the Senate’s, to the fire!
4
Oh, come on. "I'll play nice now, but don't waste any money investigating me or I'll waste even more investigating you back!"
A playground bully who doesn't realize how his own words brand him as a crook. And since when did The Golfer-in-Chief ever worry about wasting the taxpayers' money?
Can we build a wall and put him inside of it, please?
6
IWe had a very different outcome than 2016 in PA now that our state is redistricted. The new governors and will have a huge impact on run up to 2020. that will take some wind out of Trump's bombast.
1
The job of the House now is to investigate Trump and his cronies. The job of the Senate now is to mill new far-right judges. Effective legislation is nigh near impossible, but we should make a good faith effort!
4
So, the old man wants to try that old fashioned “carrot and stick” approach with the Democrats. I hope the Dems remember that he’s been ticking it to them for almost two years. The carrot should be considered poison. Now let’s get on with proving he’s a crook and traitor while stewarding and governing for the people, like it’s everybodies business. It’s a game he has no tools to play with. Congratulations People! While celebrating keep your eye out for Centrist politics that continues to serve the comfortable, the powerful and greedy rich.
4
He’s running scared. As Mueller moves in closer, and now that the House will provide some checks and balances, he’s lashing out. It’s Mueller time. Hold onto your seats.
3
Have Senate leaders repudiated, or at least distanced themselves from, Trump's threat to use the Senate for politically motivated investigations? It should be abundantly clear that the people expect Congress to be a co-equal branch of government, not the president's lackeys.
2
He loves the battle, the confusion - a toxic brew that, paradoxically, nourishes him....
3
I may have missed this in the extensive Times coverage. According to the Sacramento Bee and confirmed by a similar article in The Washington Post, 40 million plus people voted for Democrat Senatorial candidates while more or less 33 million people voted for Republicans.
Democracy is what again? One person, one vote? Whomever gets the most votes wins?
And also, if anyone in the Trump Nationalist Party is paying attention, the "great victory" might be seen as a warning.
4
@Christopher Beaver
The US is not a democracy. Rather, it is a representative republic. And, as you may have heard, the Electoral College, and the structure of the House & Senate, were integral components of the compromise that brought the States together after the Articles of Confederation. Ask a fifth-grader.
Hmmm. What could he possibly have to hide...?
1
Pre-negotiation, is merely a ploy. His word on anything much less a political promise is worthless. Mdme Speaker: Go for it!
3
Looney tunes, what a rant, Trump was out of control. Yet this press conference was revelatory. A forthright demonstration of Trump’s fear, paranoia and overt hostility.
3
I am sure the Times is a bit beyond Trump's comprehension, but just in case his minions digest it for him, I like to point out: a large ( very large) segment of the public is deeply concerned about real and perceived conflicts of interest. This is not unreasonable, nor is it fundamentally partisan. Mr. Trump's situation is completely unique in history and it is fair for the public to demand more transparency than he has offered. It is totally arrogant and divisive to refuse to make a full disclosure of personal and business finances as has been the norm for recent Presidents. Threatening not to cooperate if the House wants transparency? Retaliation, is such transparency is demanded? In a banana republic, sure. If anyone thinks they can "work with" this man, they are mistaken.
3
And what would happen if Democrats vowed to make him a one-term president? I can hear the outrage from Republicans and the media - outrage that was noticeably missing when Republicans made that exact same vow when Obama was first elected.
It never ceases to amaze me how the media and voters let Republicans get away with so much hypocrisy. You can bet that if Republicans are denouncing Democrats for something, it's something the Republicans have done themselves.
6
Congratulations to all the women who have made it into congress! Now we'll see real change and important work getting done. As to Trump, his news conference this morning was more of the same: shameless self promotion and denigration of other people - even his own fellow republicans who lost because 'they didn't embrace his leadership publicly'. How are we going to endure two more years of this drivel? God help us.
3
Trump threatens warlike response - dodge the draft by making a spurious claim that he suffers from bone spurs?
3
The only thing I learned about Trump skills it doesn’t matter how in debt our nation is everyone still wants handouts and could careless our debt is mounting. Could be a great lesson for the Democrats.
2
So, the president threatens to use the senate as blunt object to beat the Dems into submission, should they investigate him. How does the senate feel about being used that way?
1
Ignore the felon for now. We the people are tired of the petulant fraud grandstanding whenever the press pays attention to someone else.
Pay attention to what our new Congress will be doing in your front pages. Put Trump on page 3.
2
Trump can offer to work across the aisle. But he can never be trusted. We've seen this before. He is not an ideologue. He is a narcissist. So it doesn't matter what particular issue he's promoting in the moment, if it doesn't soothe his ego or somehow reflect into his mirror, then he'll blow it apart as he gets more attention for explosions than he does for getting things done.
3
Bring it on!! Trump needs to be called out and held accountable as the criminal he is.
2
When does Mueller’s press conference start?
2
Rex Tillerson was 101% correct. Ralph L. Seifer, Long Beach, California
5
Trump is telling his base that this stinging defeat was actually a heroic victory. It's like something we would laugh about North Korea doing.
Yesterday, Americans saved the Affordable Care Act, they stopped the idiotic border wall, and they have begun the process of unraveling the corruption of Trump and his cronies. The GOP leadership was too cowardly and spineless to uphold any of the values they once championed, and now that gauntlet has been picked up by the Democrats.
Subpoenas, collusion, corruption, the emoluments clause, influence peddling, tax returns: these will be the new watchwords of the day.
Spin that anyway you like, Mr. President.
3
I hope that this time; Dems don't use their intelligence and negotiate in good faith.
GOP is a snake, who will bite the hand that feeds it.
1
Great. Now we must endure two years of maniacal Trump and the heavily sedated Pelosi. Two more years of nothing getting done. Trump gets another four years after these forthcoming miserable two and then hands the throne over to his son, like his dictator buddies. For those that can cope with cold weather, Canada is looking better every day.
1
Democrats will have a duty to oversee and investigate the administration come January. Don’t fail. For the party’s sake and the country’s.
2
How is Donald going to retaliate? Attacking the Democrats on twitter? Here paper tiger...
4
The twisted mind of a most infantile man who occupies the most important job in the world. What does that say about his supporters? He said to make believe that he was the one on the ballot in each instance. Guess they did, for he’s the one,
and only he, who could prevent the evil aliens from heaving themselves across the border with their smallpox and leprosy. Perhaps the Space Force can be called on next time to wipe out the Aliens.
2
Uhhh, is this a filibuster?
1
Where to start with the ramblings of a demented person.
Firstly, only a bully makes threats because he has no clue how to play nice with others.
Next, his kowtowing minion Ryan no longer has any power, so he's expended. trump says he's all about bipartisanship; said that in the past, and of course the usual words - very good things.
Lastly, a warlike posture - he's had that from the day he thew his red hat into the ring. No change there.
Dems, take the high road, as others have mentioned, do your job; side projects can still be done. trump isn't capable of focusing on multiple activities. Don't blow it!
3
Let us All not forget that Trump threw several Republicans by name, who did not show him "Love", as he described Mia Love who lost along with the other Republicans who lost due to not
Kissing his Ring! The last asked press question about White Nationalist and the home grown terrorist, he deliberately avoided answering. Force Field shields up America, Trump is... fill in your own thoughts. I'm done!
3
You, dictator wannabe, will NOT make threats to another branch of MY, OUR government.
Our founders had their flaws, but they had a healthy fear of dictators. They designed US government to check executive powers.
2
we the people are going to see your taxes Mr trump
1
@paula
That's very unlikely. The House will see them for sure, but they will not be made public.
Game on, Mr. Trump. Game on.
1
TRUMP IS CERTIFIABLE - no question here. As of this afternoon he has set an all-time low for the Office of the President. His script says amity and cooperation across the aisle. His mouth blithered incoherent narcissistic "poor-me" and "I'm the greatest, kiss-my-ring" nonsense characteristic of a deranged child off his meds.
Trump has absolutely no intention of being a President of this nation. He is more of a divider, misusing the WH as a personal propaganda platform for lies and leverage, than ever. We cannot tolerate this narcissistic sociopath any longer.
I had hoped for some awareness of reality after this Midterm but see less than none. This "all about me" liar, grifter, crook cannot be allowed to continue to destroy this Democracy.
I strongly suggest that a pre-eminent group of Psychiatrists with spines certify him as severely mentally deranged and incompetent to continue in office (not that he ever was). Invoke the 25th Amendment!
1
@RealTRUTH
This is all about the character of the American people. They would rather have this lying, conniving scalawag as their leader than a honest decent
president whose eight years of service were scandal free.
Donald Trump nothing more than a con-man and a bully. He is damaging our nation through the normalization of racist ideologies, the dissemination of disinformation, and sowing fear. Enough is enough already! Get it together America, we are so much better than this!!! Remember the “only thing we have to fear is fear itself” and “a house divided against itself cannot stand.”
6
I could barely get through this “press conference”. How he treated the press was despicable. Telling Jim Acosta, when he pressed him on why he inflated the seriousness of the migrant caravan, to sit down, take the mic from him, that he was a “rude, terrible person” was simply jaw dropping.
His lack of knowledge on foreign policy was on full display. He had to be told by a reporter that it was Putin who was responsible for the annexation of Crimea. His response - “It was Obama’s regime”.
I saw someone who failed to acknowledge the House majority and who is lashing out because he’s fully aware of the repercussions and what’s in store for him the next two years.
2
The Democrats in the house don't have to go further than the excellent road map The New York Times has already done:
https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2018/10/02/us/politics/donald-trump-tax-schemes-fred-trump.html
3
Civility last about 40 seconds for this president
2
True bully. He wants it his way, and clearly doesn’t understand how our government works or the Constitution.
Adam Schiff, investigate away!
1
I would not believe anything this pathological liar says. For God's sake, are his tax returns under perpetual review by the IRS?
4
Either Pelosi learns to use brass knuckles, or she should be replaced.
2
@Keith
Puh-leaze! Brass knuckles? She can't even chew her own food at this point.
"Unity" = soundbite
"Warlike" = standard operating procedure
1
Trump pounding his chest over the elections last night is like him pounding his chest for being a great businessman as he files for this umpteenth bankruptcy.