If Trump wins with sufficient votes to overwhelm the professional politicians' efforts to count the votes adversely, expect him to have an accident or to be assassinated. There is no way the Democrat and GOP establishment or the CIA and other Syndicate members will allow Trump to become President. War and blaming Putin are among the Plans B and C being bandied about.
Given Trump's vulnerability and Clinton's neurological issues we actually are choosing between Kaine and Pence.
Given Trump's vulnerability and Clinton's neurological issues we actually are choosing between Kaine and Pence.
2
"Clinton's neurological issues"????
Let me guess.
Breitbart news??
Let me guess.
Breitbart news??
9
Hillary can genuinely want to change a lot of things. She can genuinely promise the world to all of us but, is Congress going to give in? Is Congress going to be able to compromise? Probably NOT.
I can see Mitch Mconnelll and his troop relief because they don't have to put up with Trump anymore but declaring that they will make sure to make Hillary a one term president already...
Republicans, the party of NO...
I can see Mitch Mconnelll and his troop relief because they don't have to put up with Trump anymore but declaring that they will make sure to make Hillary a one term president already...
Republicans, the party of NO...
2
Today's ominous internet hacks should make us double down on bolstering our cyber-security for the inevitable November 8 hack attempts. Although it's been reported that all states do not have their vote tallying computers connected to the internet, our government should be involved at the highest levels to ensure maximum attention for any signs of attacks. This means you, NSA!
Now we know why the candidate refused to say anything that could be construed as disparaging about that little demagogue in Moscow. He's undoubtedly expecting an "out" if there are signs of enough hacking to suggest an anomalous election process.
It won't work.
Now we know why the candidate refused to say anything that could be construed as disparaging about that little demagogue in Moscow. He's undoubtedly expecting an "out" if there are signs of enough hacking to suggest an anomalous election process.
It won't work.
1
Good Grief! Get out and VOTE! It is imperative that this authoritarian lowlife pervert deviant spoiled rotten ignorant punk be vanquished at the polls . . . God Save the Republic and God Bless America.
7
Has anyone noticed Mr. Trump not proudly sporting a wedding band?
If, indeed, he is not, what message lies within?
He proudly announces that he may not honor our democratic process, but really, no wedding band.
How can Mr. Trump do such a thing!
If, indeed, he is not, what message lies within?
He proudly announces that he may not honor our democratic process, but really, no wedding band.
How can Mr. Trump do such a thing!
Loud Donald is too delighted with his own presumed wit to notice the revulsion of many around him.
5
Donald Trump happily accepted his primary election victories across America. But now that he's losing the general election, all of a sudden he doesn't trust the same polling places he won at earlier this year. What a spoiled crybaby!
5
Even if he was joking or being sarcastic, Trump's statement show how little judgement he has even when he knows the cameras are on him and he is live. The man simply can't be trusted to comport like a President.
8
Sounds like a variation on, "Heads I win, tails you lose".
2
Every time Mr. Trump says something whether it is normal or outrageous the press still sounds and acts like a flock of turkeys when it thunders.
May I be clear? This guy won't go away unless and until we stop paying so much attention. And the extent to which we endlessly rubberneck this human wrecking ball is the extent to which he will continue to appease us. He is reliable in that way.
7
The much broader question of whether we should accept any election in which candidates cannot reach viability without major corporate funding - in effect, corporate vetting - cannot be raised in the corporate-media.
3
Jowly Donald J. Trump is so delighted with his own egotism. He has no inkling that the average American considers him a boor and egomaniac. He is the perfect advertisement for electing anyone but Donald J. Trump. Hillary Clinton is the most effective option for making sure we keep dangerous Trump out of the White House. Therefore, I'm voting enthusiastically and negatively for Hillary Clinton, hoping that her better side will grow stronger in office.
2
Trump, in the end, is making America great again by uniting the majority of Democrats, Republicans and Independents against him. People who haven't agreed on anything for years are coming together to make sure he will not be our next president.
8
on january first 2000 i stayed up with the tee vee on. once i saw pictures of new years lights in sydney and tokyo, i breathed a sigh of relief. Y2K was not a worry any longer.
this years version of Y2K is just as frightening, but we only have to wait a couple more weeks till that collective sigh of relief. do not worry fellow americans he is going down in defeat. yugely bye donny
this years version of Y2K is just as frightening, but we only have to wait a couple more weeks till that collective sigh of relief. do not worry fellow americans he is going down in defeat. yugely bye donny
3
Besides the corruption and dishonesty, Hillary has bad judgment. We need not look back to her acceptance of the WMD argument and invasion of Iraq. Unlike Trump, she (and others here) seems willing to accept our intelligence community's claim that Russia is behind the email hacks of her campaign. Just like with WMD, this interpretation of intelligence based on dubious and unpresented evidence comes at an extremely politically charged time and should NOT be simply accepted again (unless, of course, she is responsible for the interpretation.) Her unwillingness to question this claim by our "intelligence", despite the clear grounds for a bias, shows that she learned NOTHING from the tremendous loss of lives from a series of wars that should never have occurred. Such poor judgment - especially with all her experience - is the primary reason that I can't imagine voting for her.
2
@bumba
No offense. But you continue to repeat the yourself over and over again -- which by the way, doesn't necessarily make what you say right.
Here's an idea.
Try to remember who started the most recent war in that region. (G.W. Bush)
Try to remember why the U.S. got involved (WMD=Faulty Intel)
And that Russian hacking story isn't a total fabrication.
This is most recent:
nytimes.com/2016/10/20/world/europe/prague-russian-hacker.html
Another thing.
Given the only other alternative in this election is a groping sexist and card-carrying racist -- chances are, more people are keeping THAT in mind.
I know I am.
No offense. But you continue to repeat the yourself over and over again -- which by the way, doesn't necessarily make what you say right.
Here's an idea.
Try to remember who started the most recent war in that region. (G.W. Bush)
Try to remember why the U.S. got involved (WMD=Faulty Intel)
And that Russian hacking story isn't a total fabrication.
This is most recent:
nytimes.com/2016/10/20/world/europe/prague-russian-hacker.html
Another thing.
Given the only other alternative in this election is a groping sexist and card-carrying racist -- chances are, more people are keeping THAT in mind.
I know I am.
7
Of course he will accept the outcome. He can't not. We will have our first woman president after our first black president. The country will be better for it and Mr. Trump will have grown up a little. Political parties have deep benches and they will recover. Can't wait to see who they put in the game next.
2
On November 9, my mom and I will be driving around our neighborhood a couple of times, honking the car horn, shouting “Hillary! Hillary!”
We’ll be in an ultra-conservative red state at the time, but, a year ago, we promised each other this is what we would do if things worked out this way.
The neighbors will understand, fortunately; we all have found a way to
respect each other’s political views. Rare but true.
And when I am old, and Mom has long passed – Dad, too – I’ll remember that November 9, 2016, was when the glass was finally, forcefully, courageously shattered, once and for all, and that we three were able to witness it together.
Well done, almost Madame President-elect. Well done.
We’ll be in an ultra-conservative red state at the time, but, a year ago, we promised each other this is what we would do if things worked out this way.
The neighbors will understand, fortunately; we all have found a way to
respect each other’s political views. Rare but true.
And when I am old, and Mom has long passed – Dad, too – I’ll remember that November 9, 2016, was when the glass was finally, forcefully, courageously shattered, once and for all, and that we three were able to witness it together.
Well done, almost Madame President-elect. Well done.
9
thank you young lady i am in tears
5
Oh please I hope this guy goes away soon. I'm really tired of the daily "drip" of stupid things he's saying or doing. People have told him he's in political ditch, so stop digging. We'll, Donald decides to get a bigger shovel and dig so deep that he'll never get out.
6
I think it would be a mistake to elect him, and it's sure not good to raise the specter of challenging the vote, but, come on, when he said "If I win." my bet is he was kidding.
Cmon, time to take this off the top left corner of the front page. It was questionable even when it was news because it came during a rally and was bracketed by a promise to "accept a clear election result" which, all things considered, is a pretty sane statement from the Trump.
Let's move on.
Let's move on.
2
After this election is over and done with im taken a vacation from All Media sources. Have too detox myself from the unbranded name of trump.
Please Please with a cherry on top report Media stop given this person free
Media coverage everytime he barf pass gas etc...Let us vote and be done with it.
Please Please with a cherry on top report Media stop given this person free
Media coverage everytime he barf pass gas etc...Let us vote and be done with it.
2
Trump's campaign has become obnoxiously frivolous ; if Tokyo Rose was running against him, I would vote for Tokyo Rose. He never ever had a normal moment in a year and a half of campaigning. That alone proves he's crazy, and out of his mind, and a probable burden to his family.
4
Hmm. If Trump had simply said: "I'll accept the outcome of the election as long as there is nothing questionable in a very close race that deserves to be challenged as Al Gore did in 2000 all the way to the Supreme Court over the supposed hanging chads in the Florida vote", I wonder if the NY Times and all the conveniently outraged progressives in this blog would be just as hyperventilating, counting down to the imminent collapse of the Republic?
The picture within this article...an 8 yr old wearing a "Crooked Hillary" badge.
Deplorable parenting..............
Deplorable parenting..............
12
Donald J. Trump's public comments against free elections and peaceful transfer of power, aside from being shocking and appalling, are, plain and simple, seditious.
Wikipedia: In law, SEDITION is overt conduct, such as speech and organization, that tends toward insurrection against the established order. Sedition often includes subversion of a constitution and incitement of discontent (or resistance) to lawful authority. Sedition may include any commotion, though not aimed at direct and open violence against the laws.
Wikipedia: In law, SEDITION is overt conduct, such as speech and organization, that tends toward insurrection against the established order. Sedition often includes subversion of a constitution and incitement of discontent (or resistance) to lawful authority. Sedition may include any commotion, though not aimed at direct and open violence against the laws.
5
Trump wants us to believe that it is only the Presidential election and only the iteration involving him that is rigged. What about all the other elections that have been and are being contested across the nation? With gerrymandering, voter suppression, Citzens United, Faux News, and candidates' ignorance of scientific or historical evidence, it doesn't appear to be the Democratic candidates that are benefitting from any unfairness that may exist.
4
I have been wondering the same thing. Perhaps the GOP primary was rigged and Jeb should be in Trump's place.
3
Mr. Trump is a wish washy businessman, who thinks any thing can be bought, that is as long as he has money and the other end a receiver- a barter deal. After more than two hundred years of democracy, people are willing to take risk and cast their ballot to a candidate, even if there is a degree of rigging, but no gross improperiety. So far he has not clarified his position on accepting the results of the elections, accept to say that he will bide if he wins. Even a child knows the answer. Sorry Mr. Trump, you are unfit to be our leader in the Oval Office.
1
The pot (Hillary) calling the kettle black"
5
And your point is???....Try to complete the thought.
5
When my Granddaughters are in the room
We don't even talk about Trump
THE WORLD IS SICK !!
We don't even talk about Trump
THE WORLD IS SICK !!
7
Whatever spin Trump and his campaign are putting on it now, at the debate he made it quite clear he was not just reserving the right to contest a close election. Before declining to support the outcome, he referred to how the election was being rigged by the media, by “millions” of improperly registered voters, and by claiming Hillary Clinton’s candidacy itself was illegitimate.
Not a breath that he was referring to a limited Bush v Gore scenario, which is now being offered by him and his campaign as damage control.
There is a big difference between contesting a close election in accordance with state election laws and procedures, and not accepting the outcome of an election, which was Trump’s original position.
Al Gore explained that distinction quite eloquently in his December 13, 2000 concession speech. Those who don't understand the distinction may want to look at it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GyKlcQ_HiD4
Not a breath that he was referring to a limited Bush v Gore scenario, which is now being offered by him and his campaign as damage control.
There is a big difference between contesting a close election in accordance with state election laws and procedures, and not accepting the outcome of an election, which was Trump’s original position.
Al Gore explained that distinction quite eloquently in his December 13, 2000 concession speech. Those who don't understand the distinction may want to look at it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GyKlcQ_HiD4
4
Beware America. You may regard this as another presidential election but the rest of the world see it as an intelligence test, and Trumps popularity means its not looking good!
9
Do you honestly think we don't recognize that??...This may come as a surprise to you, but there are actually many Americans who have family connections in Europe (I'm one of them), and the rest of the world.
So, we get it!!!
So, we get it!!!
8
While I am a Hillary supporter and don't believe the election is rigged in the way Trump suggests, the system is definitely rigged. A marginal voter in MA or OK has very little weight, while a marginal voter in OH and FL has significant weight on the election results. I'm subject to very low campaign contribution limits, while Super-PACs can spend unlimited funds. And just today CNN is releasing early voter data to suggest where the count stands. Why is this info being released and how does it not influence later voting?
You can not say that the election system is free from these inherent issues and that my vote is likely not even counted at the end of the day.
You can not say that the election system is free from these inherent issues and that my vote is likely not even counted at the end of the day.
4
What winner doesn't accept as valid an election in which he's declared the winner? Mr. Trump's tautology proves nothing. The measure of leadership and maturity that Mr. Trump fails at is accepting the result - without foot stomping, sour grapes and bloodshed - of the result when he (presumably) loses.
The best he could do was pull even in the polls and his mouth and ego have always gotten in his way of going any higher. He was a bad choice from Day One.
The best he could do was pull even in the polls and his mouth and ego have always gotten in his way of going any higher. He was a bad choice from Day One.
2
Billy Bush on line 1, Mr. Trump. He says you must accept the results.
Does this man deserve any kind of credibility? His humor is of the locker room type at best. He says he never meant what he said or denies what is on the record categorically. I guess for the next few weeks we still can't ignore him but hopefully after November 8 we will be able to.
4
If the rabid Trumpistas posting here are really planning to burn the country down when their golden idol loses, I sincerely hope they'll start with Trump Tower.
13
What “if “Mr. Trump gets elected, what will happen if he doesn’t build “the wall, that he doesn’t bring back jobs? What will happen if he doesn’t reduce the debt, that he doesn’t have a concrete plan for vets, Medicare, immigration and national security? What will is supporters do? Who will they blame?
The only thing he wants is to win at any cost, he doesn’t want the job because he has no clue what he will do after.
The only thing he wants is to win at any cost, he doesn’t want the job because he has no clue what he will do after.
4
Trump is a very dangerous man who will get us all killed by starting a war with his mouth!!!!! I'm very proud of teens like myself who expressed their opinions about how ugly and bad electing TRUMP IS!!!!!
10
I'm glad to read a comment like yours from a younger person. It gives me great hope for the future of this country. Keep Biff Tannen out of office!
2
This whole thing is making Trump look more childish than ever. Anything that can make Trump look more childish than he already looks is amazing.
5
When all is said and done, you've got to admit that he gave us a show of shows, even if it destroys him.
3
If I want a show, I'll go see a movie or turn on my TV. People need to learn the difference between real life and trashy reality TV.
4
We don't need a Circus in the White House.
3
Perhaps, but there will only be one Caesar.
1
Trump is clearly a person who doesn't get that this isn't a "reality" show. He doesn't undersatnd the context and he's used to putting on a show. Surprise. In this context his words have weight and take on great importance... he must be a grown up. I think he didn't spend more money because he doesn't really want this role, it's not as much fun or as easy as he thought.
Same goes for the media who have been acting like silly distracted children at a sugar pumped party. Remember the Fourth Estate? Were have you been... you are actually supossed to be the most responsible of all... not everything has two sides...not everyone in this election is acting badly... just one.
Same goes for the media who have been acting like silly distracted children at a sugar pumped party. Remember the Fourth Estate? Were have you been... you are actually supossed to be the most responsible of all... not everything has two sides...not everyone in this election is acting badly... just one.
4
If Trump wins I will not "accept" the outcome knowing it was "rigged"
6
Since I started my write-in campaign, I already got 4 votes. I have a great start. I definitely have a narrow path to victory. I will make America great again. It is going to be so beautiful, trust me I can do it.
9
No offense. But if this idea weren't so stupid, and the stakes of this election not so high, it might be vaguely amusing in a very limited way.
3
@N. Smith
Oh stop. Even if Trump somehow manages to win the Sun will still rise. The constant fear-mongering is so tiring. The US is going down the drain regardless if Donald or Hillary is at the helm.
Oh stop. Even if Trump somehow manages to win the Sun will still rise. The constant fear-mongering is so tiring. The US is going down the drain regardless if Donald or Hillary is at the helm.
1
Don't listen to that other poster. That was very funny.
1
Why would anyone wear a question long enough to rehearse defeat in front of millions of people about to elect Trump, President of the United State of America.
You should really get out of the Fruited Plain more often.
11
I honestly don't care if Trump gives a concession speech or not - just so he leaves the stage. Watching Trump and Clinton debate was like watching a feisty, mean-spirited 13-year-old debate his teacher. Trump out-shouted and managed to intimidate his way through all the 2016 Republican candidates for president. I really don’t see how any of the losing candidates would fare any better in a contest with Hillary Clinton when they couldn’t even beat such an obviously uninformed bully.
The saddest most alarming part about the Trump supporters is that they are basically his main prey. They can't or just won't see behind the super hero status they have placed on him. They have completely fallen for his con and have rolled over to become willing victims. They are from the same place in life where most of his past victims live and work. It’s a very sad thing to witness in our country in what we like to think is our advanced society in 2016.
The saddest most alarming part about the Trump supporters is that they are basically his main prey. They can't or just won't see behind the super hero status they have placed on him. They have completely fallen for his con and have rolled over to become willing victims. They are from the same place in life where most of his past victims live and work. It’s a very sad thing to witness in our country in what we like to think is our advanced society in 2016.
24
Great point that the people he rips off are mostly likely to support him. Both sad and sick.
1
I do not understand how this guy is even on the ticket. Among other things, he seems mentally ill.
16
Trump's performance at Al Smith dinner was a total train wreck. He's already demonstrated contempt for our US Constitution. His technique is to talk from a 360'degree circle of confusion so that can assert what position may seem most hurtful or damaging to his opponent --and by extension-- the nation itself. Aphasia may be the cause, but I suspect deniability and deception is the sole objective.
6
The world waits while Donald decides wither or not he will accept defeat. This is how he got the nomination in the first place. A guy like Trump loves attention no matter what is it for and we just can't help but make him happy. As we have seen in the debates when he is not the center of our attention he makes comments and fidgets with his microphone. Trump knows he is a lost cause so I guess this is his last chance of making headlines. I wish the media would stop feeding Trump's ego. Someone needs to tell him if he loses he will not have to call the moving men. We all need to put Donald on ignore the next time he has a hissy fit. I will be so happy when the media gives him a timeout.
4
Trump is many things to many people, but he's most famously known for one thing: being a troll.
Trump loves a big reaction. Whether it's cheers at a rally for immigration reform or starting a Twitter-storm on Alicia Machado, he clearly enjoys getting reactions from fans. And approbation from the opposition.
But as the campaign winds down, Trump's need for attention has become increasingly annoying.
A troll inevitably gets boring, and I'm afraid that's what's happening now.
Trump loves a big reaction. Whether it's cheers at a rally for immigration reform or starting a Twitter-storm on Alicia Machado, he clearly enjoys getting reactions from fans. And approbation from the opposition.
But as the campaign winds down, Trump's need for attention has become increasingly annoying.
A troll inevitably gets boring, and I'm afraid that's what's happening now.
3
If you don't find Donald Trump's comments about the election results disturbing, imagine for a moment that Donald Trump is President of the United States and he is saying the same thing.
Do we really want a man, in power, with an army, refusing to acknowledge the democratic process in this country? Think about it.
Do we really want a man, in power, with an army, refusing to acknowledge the democratic process in this country? Think about it.
4
It's interesting how blogs have become therapy sessions without the fees. Lots of venting that will do nothing in the long run with respect to this election (or much of anything else). The only thing each citizen can do is vote. Plain and simple. Many people complain about the recent articles regarding Trump in the NYT as being ridiculous. However, the fault is that of the readers. Yup, for each of these articles there have been hundreds if not thousands of responses and it shows the NYT that these articles are being read which shows an interest in the material and means "more to come." So, if you don't like the quality of the article, then don't comment, and the subject will probably not been seen in the future.
Hat's off to Trump and his blatant disregard for status quo politics and to the rest of us for that matter.. He thumbed his nose at both parties and angered just about everyone. Trump never had a chance winning this election and the established parties knew this from the get go. They made his run appear doom and gloom on purpose so when it's all over they can sit back and tell us how fortunate we are that they are in charge. The true charlatans in this game are the Democrat and Republican parties, their media organizations who propagandize their existence and the mega corporations who own the entire store. The American voter is just a sheep to be sheered and it doesn't matter which side you're on. Our vote is no longer a voice- It's just a commodity to be bought and sold.
1
This "anti-status quo" rant is starting to chafe -- especially since Donald Trump is about as status-quo as you can get, and his in running for President was purely self-motivated.
If you are able to find anything good to say about sexist bigot with a blatant disregard for democracy, and this country -- you're lost.
If you are able to find anything good to say about sexist bigot with a blatant disregard for democracy, and this country -- you're lost.
4
since you know its all a sham, doesnt it make you look stupid by participating in it ?
2
I have no idea why this man tells the media to jump and they say how high? Really, he says the most outrageous things simply to make the headlines - and it works. The media has been a wholesale enabler of this demagogue.
1
"i will totally accept the results of this great and historic presidential election - if I win". That says to me, if Mr. Trump does not win, he will not accept the election results. He could not be clearer.
The man is totally beyond anyone's control as witnessed by this remark and his inappropriate verbal assault on Hillary Clinton at the Al Smith dinner. He is acting like a wounded animal, except in this case the wounds aren't physical, it is his huge ego that has continued to receive blow after blow as people express their outrage at his indecorous behavior.
The man is totally beyond anyone's control as witnessed by this remark and his inappropriate verbal assault on Hillary Clinton at the Al Smith dinner. He is acting like a wounded animal, except in this case the wounds aren't physical, it is his huge ego that has continued to receive blow after blow as people express their outrage at his indecorous behavior.
3
On Sep.17, 2012 former Justice David Souter Speaking on PBS on the issue of "Constitutionally Speaking" stated:
“What I worry about is that when problems are not addressed, people will not know who is responsible,” he said. “And when the problems get bad enough – another serious terrorist attack, another financial meltdown – some one person will come forward and say, ‘Give me total power, and I will solve this problem.’ That is how the Roman republic fell….That is how democracy dies. And if something is not done to improve the level of civic knowledge, that is what you should worry about at night.” Let us hope that D.Trump IN NOT that person. But he sure sounds like him!
5
I support Hillary Clinton--a no-brainer. In general, I respect the NY Times.
But the headline for this article is clearly prejudiced against Trump. It clearly misrepresents the import of Trump's speech. The Times should be ashamed of itself.
But the headline for this article is clearly prejudiced against Trump. It clearly misrepresents the import of Trump's speech. The Times should be ashamed of itself.
1
No, it is fine. Trump has been calling a rigged election for some time now. In that context, which is reality, the headline is appropriate.
6
When will democrats realize that its party is lying to it. In an email to campaign Chair John Podesta from February 2016 (released Friday by WikiLeaks), DNC head Donna Brazile gave an honest assessment of the Obama economy: “I think people are more in despair about how things are — yes new jobs but they are low wage jobs”. “HOUSING is a huge issue. Most people pay half of what they make to rent,”
Given she was also nailed by Wikileaks for giving debate questions to Hillary (cheating), it is time for two-faced, unethical Donna to resign.
Given she was also nailed by Wikileaks for giving debate questions to Hillary (cheating), it is time for two-faced, unethical Donna to resign.
You say the party is lying, then you cite something that I have not seen any lies about. Does the party highlight those facts? No. Never lied about them, though. Meanwhile, the Republican Party ignores the positive facts about the economy and jobs and focuses on the negatives. Hey, that's politics. What they also don't focus on is how much better the economy might be if they hadn't done everything they could get away with for 7 1/2 years to stymie everything Obama tried to do, including that huge speed bump in the middle called SHUTTING DOWN THE GOVERNMENT.
Every time we put ourselves in an economic hole, it takes longer and longer to climb out of it. Throwing monkey wrenches into the recovery process sure doesn't help - so I'm pleasantly amazed at how much the economy has come back from GWB's disaster of a Presidency despite the obstructionism and the increased pressure of a global market that will continue to catch up with the US. I guess Obama has been a pretty good President, all told.
Every time we put ourselves in an economic hole, it takes longer and longer to climb out of it. Throwing monkey wrenches into the recovery process sure doesn't help - so I'm pleasantly amazed at how much the economy has come back from GWB's disaster of a Presidency despite the obstructionism and the increased pressure of a global market that will continue to catch up with the US. I guess Obama has been a pretty good President, all told.
9
Just about every, and I mean every, Trump "talking point" has ben debunked. From the 6 billion that Hillary herself supposedly mismanaged to the paid protestors on down the line... Trump is a sad, sad " man" who is grasping at what little he can in order not to lose every last shred of his pride and ego. Gore contested Forida because, well, there was something obvious to contest and when the supremes called it he accepted- thats democracy. Trumps is preemptively calling it which is the last gasp of a loser......
8
When Trump quips that he will the results with which he agrees, he has no understanding of the most basic principle of democracy, that everyone must enthusiastically accept and help to implement decisions made by majorities verses the preferences of minorities or individuals, or the system will degenerate into anarchy quite rapidly. Order and stability and cooperation depend upon the losers joining with the winners in proceeding as the majority has decided. But it's just another indication that Trump does not reflect upon what he says or does.
Trump cannot tolerate being teased nor bullied as he habitually does to others, it makes him angry, likely because it affects his self esteem. He harried President Obama about the legitimacy of holding that office by continual questioning of his birth place but when Obama retaliated with humor at the Correspondents Diner in 2011, Trump was visibly resentful.
He has an opinion regarding any subject that comes up in conversations or interviews and he boldly states that he can fix this country's problems with great confidence and his regular assurance, "believe me", but he understands virtually nothing about our government, foreign affairs, nor our economy and none of his ideas are fresh ones, all are borrowed from ones previously proposed by others. In others words, Donald not only has no plans that he can implement when elected, he does not understand enough about anything relevant to plan anything.
Trump cannot tolerate being teased nor bullied as he habitually does to others, it makes him angry, likely because it affects his self esteem. He harried President Obama about the legitimacy of holding that office by continual questioning of his birth place but when Obama retaliated with humor at the Correspondents Diner in 2011, Trump was visibly resentful.
He has an opinion regarding any subject that comes up in conversations or interviews and he boldly states that he can fix this country's problems with great confidence and his regular assurance, "believe me", but he understands virtually nothing about our government, foreign affairs, nor our economy and none of his ideas are fresh ones, all are borrowed from ones previously proposed by others. In others words, Donald not only has no plans that he can implement when elected, he does not understand enough about anything relevant to plan anything.
11
Who could have ever thought that the guy who did his best to marginalize President Obama would himself come to be marginalized by his own words and conduct while Obama looks positively saintly by comparison.
2
President Obama isn't a saint, he's a good man who loves his country and who has shown a lot of grace and class under pressure, he is everything Trump never was and never will be.
10
...but he still looks saintly in comparison to Trump. :D
5
@williams
That is hardly the recommendation ths President deserves.
That is hardly the recommendation ths President deserves.
1
In view of crimes committed by the Clintons,including hiring of thugs to disrupt his rallies, and co-option of mainstream journalists by the Clinton campaign , he is right to be wary of committing himself to accepting election results pending a scrupulous review.Reported that Dem, operative, apparently one of Obama's "potes " from Chicago, visited WH more than 300 times. Now we know what Obama really meant when he described himself as a "community organizer."If one looks at 96 percent of contributions by members of the press to Hillary, and 4 percent to Trump, one gets the point.To those who wring their hands in anguish about the threat to American democracy allegedly posed by Trump.one has only to look at donor class which has put HRC where she is today.It is truly a plutocracy,with no help for the little man or woman, and they r looking down their noses at us.Things will only get worse, and gap between rich and poor will grow wider. Every member of Congress who is not a 1 percenter aspires to become one Question posed to Harry Helmsley, billionaire builder years ago, could also be formulated for the Clintons:How much is enough?Will say this for LEONA HELMSLEY: At least she had a soft spot in her heart for defenseless animals, and left percentage of assets to rescue groups.Do not believe hot air about Foundation's great work in Africa. Worked 4 yrs.in w. Africa,in Guinea, Senegal, Ghana. We never heard of them, and could have used their help.
5
Good news for you, then. Instead of binge watching Fox News, you will soon be able to feast on Trump TV and have an endless supply of innuendo and lies to sate your cravings!
3
Excellent contribution. Look at this example of the collusion: http://dailycaller.com/2016/10/20/clinton-campaign-and-harry-reid-worked...
2
Literally none of the "crimes" you refer to ever actually happened.
And I have no doubt that the closest you've ever come to Africa is looking at it on a map.
And I have no doubt that the closest you've ever come to Africa is looking at it on a map.
6
Who cares whether he "accepts" defeat. The simply fact is the entire rest of the country with the exception of some of his followers will except the result of the election and there is nothing he can do about that. It the reason many of us have never considered voting for Trump. We will accept the result if and when Trump loses and Hillary Clinton will be President. It's just that simple.
1
Not so simple when Trump supporters live in a factless universe and will do anything to support their cult leader and assure his victory.
3
@dss
Very simple when you consider how vastly outnumbered they are...
Or, have you forgotten Trump has alienated HALF of the American electorate???
Very simple when you consider how vastly outnumbered they are...
Or, have you forgotten Trump has alienated HALF of the American electorate???
1
"Donald Trump Says He Will Accept Election Outcome"
Everyone is misunderstanding Trump, he said "except" not "accept."
*wink*
Everyone is misunderstanding Trump, he said "except" not "accept."
*wink*
1
Now we ARE going to have to make America great again. Once the Trump syndrome dies we will have to make repairs all around this country.
2
We went off track and headed in the wrong direction when we decided borrowing for two long term wars was smart, cutting taxes on the wealthy would help the poor, and letting the banks bring us to the brink of a depression with a mortgage scheme that backfired. Although the Right blames Obama for all of this, he has done a remarkable job to make course corrections to bring us back on track. Trump would drive the train over a cliff and tell everybody only he knows where we are headed. Give me the lady who understands how a railroad operates not the one who says he does and was never a passenger.
3
Where is Joe McCarthy when we really, really need him? DJT brags that he admires strongmen like Putin and would put that horrible, horrible crooked, lying nasty lady HRC in Jail for deleting 33,000 email and mismanaging $6,000,000,000 in State Department funds, among other things.
Wait. In China, Chairman Xi would rip the orange rug off his head and put him in a factory making Trump suits, shirts and ties...for ripping-off trades people and not paying taxes. Wait, maybe he can work in a Catholic Charities homeless shelter to amend for all his lies, cheating and assault of women.
Wait. In China, Chairman Xi would rip the orange rug off his head and put him in a factory making Trump suits, shirts and ties...for ripping-off trades people and not paying taxes. Wait, maybe he can work in a Catholic Charities homeless shelter to amend for all his lies, cheating and assault of women.
2
Why is it when ever a person during the election of any type( but the presidential) is asked if they will accept the out come win or lose it's and they say no or maybe it's considered acceptable, but when a person running for the presidential election is asked the same they must say yes or be considered non American or worst just because they want to make sure it is a legal and just outcome with out voter fraud. I would say about the same as Trump has not knowing if there would be, and to have said yes earlier and there was fraud it may not be caught because I said yes earlier then would that not be a lie ? People have to lay off of Trump, Hillary Clinton has lied to the American people when her husband Bill was governor and while Bill Clinton was president and while she was in office as both senator and states dept, she never brought about anything to do with the capture or death of Osama Bin Laden that was wrong for her to say or do that, It was Bush who did start that after 9/11 and President Obama was lucky to have been in office when it happened or he would have had nothing to do with that either other than being in office at that time, so lay off Trump I've had enough Obama, Clinton to last me a life time get them out.!
This is a democracy Mark D. I am not laying off a threat to it, and that threat is Trump.
1
This is not funny. We need to introduce and enforce legislation that will disqualify people exhibiting this trashy behavior from holding office. "When they go low, you go high" is fine, but in the end it does not protect us from people highjacking our democracy. Look at what's happened with congress, where elected officials have no shame in blocking work from being done simply because their bribers (aka special interest groups) dictate how they should behave. This is the definition of corruption. Trump's behavior constitutes incitement to violence. Assuming that such individuals will not be elected *is not enough* because even then, they drag down our democratic system into a mud wrestling festival.
1
Stupidity on top of stupidity!
It is most disturbing that such a man is running for the the highest office in the country.
My only consolation that as a student of history I have learned we have had some pretty bad Presidents and survived and thrived despite their ineptitude.
It is most disturbing that such a man is running for the the highest office in the country.
My only consolation that as a student of history I have learned we have had some pretty bad Presidents and survived and thrived despite their ineptitude.
1
I also accept if I win. Please write-in my name.
6
Gore mounted a sincere and legitimate challenge in 2000 regardless of how one feels about the outcome. Either candidate has the right to make a challenge this year if there is a legitimate issue in a decisive state.
Personally, as far as Trump is concerned, I am more troubled by the fear that part of his legacy will be a significant increase in the number of citizens who believe we do not conduct fair elections. His sweeping claims that the election is "rigged" have no evidentiary support whatsoever. (Indeed, we will not have "an election" in November, we will conduct thousands of individual elections. Distorting the results in even one is difficult.) His audience is largely folks of modest education who have little interaction with credible news sources. At best they may spend some time in the cloudy bubble that carries the Fox label. The fact Trump is both a TV celebrity and the candidate of a major party to a segment gives them credibility despite the absence of any factual evidence.
This is sadly compounded by the fact that he includes press coverage of his routine untruths and flip-flops under the umbrella of election "rigging". The press does not conduct elections. It is free (a term from our Constitution that is foreign to Trump) to cover him as it sees fit. That has nothing to do with how elections are conducted, and it is monumentally irresponsible and damaging on his part to conflate them as he does.
Personally, as far as Trump is concerned, I am more troubled by the fear that part of his legacy will be a significant increase in the number of citizens who believe we do not conduct fair elections. His sweeping claims that the election is "rigged" have no evidentiary support whatsoever. (Indeed, we will not have "an election" in November, we will conduct thousands of individual elections. Distorting the results in even one is difficult.) His audience is largely folks of modest education who have little interaction with credible news sources. At best they may spend some time in the cloudy bubble that carries the Fox label. The fact Trump is both a TV celebrity and the candidate of a major party to a segment gives them credibility despite the absence of any factual evidence.
This is sadly compounded by the fact that he includes press coverage of his routine untruths and flip-flops under the umbrella of election "rigging". The press does not conduct elections. It is free (a term from our Constitution that is foreign to Trump) to cover him as it sees fit. That has nothing to do with how elections are conducted, and it is monumentally irresponsible and damaging on his part to conflate them as he does.
2
Which makes his subtle and not so subtle appeals to the radical 2nd Amendment Right so frightening. Those are the ones who interpret the 2nd primarily as the right to be able to overthrow the Government when necessary. We have already had domestic acts of terrorism by such folks while not getting the wink-nod support of a major Presidential candidate.
1
@williams
Agree. I'm with you on this one -- that 2nd Amendment flag that Trump has been waving is serving as nothing more than a dog-whistle to a gun-toting alt-right.
Agree. I'm with you on this one -- that 2nd Amendment flag that Trump has been waving is serving as nothing more than a dog-whistle to a gun-toting alt-right.
2
With a little less than 2 weeks to go before the election I have decided to vote for Hillary. I align more closely with the belief that change is needed in Washington, that we are squandering much of our resources via terrible foreign policy, inferior Global trade agreements and that the democratic policy elite have turned a blind eye on millions of working class/rust belt middle americans, in social and economic despair over the decades long loss of their jobs and quality of life.
Trump speaks to their despair but ended up with a political strategy of pointing fingers at all (latinos, african american americans) pitting them against each other. But in reality all are in the same economic boat as Trump's white rust belt working class base.. That and Trump's many character issues make him the wrong candidate..
I only hope that Hillary takes an empathetic look at those who are voting for Trump and let them know that although she did not get their vote she hears them and feels their pain...
Trump speaks to their despair but ended up with a political strategy of pointing fingers at all (latinos, african american americans) pitting them against each other. But in reality all are in the same economic boat as Trump's white rust belt working class base.. That and Trump's many character issues make him the wrong candidate..
I only hope that Hillary takes an empathetic look at those who are voting for Trump and let them know that although she did not get their vote she hears them and feels their pain...
35
No biggie. Al Gore said the same thing...before he faded away.
2
You're on the wrong channel.
Gore hasn't "faded away".
Keep up.
Gore hasn't "faded away".
Keep up.
9
Would that be the defunct Al Jazeera America channel?
It's an inconvenient truth, but he's irrelevant.
It's an inconvenient truth, but he's irrelevant.
he did not the same thing PRIOR to the election. please work on your comprehension skills.
3
Trump's comments about the legitimacy of the election are more than disgraceful, they are deplorable. They only go to prove what many have said about him. He thinks about and cares only about himself. He doesn't care about the country, about his followers (who are deluding themselvesif they think he does). Trump is atstacking and undermining the very core and essence of the republic. The peaceful transfer of power is what helps differentiate the United States from countries where the elections are indeed rigged (99% -- really??). Trump should be ashamed of, of course, will not be of his words and attitude.
1
Let's just hope loses, and wait and see. In the end, he will do whatever will gain the most headlines on November 9.
If the Liberal's choice is such a 'honest' individual, then someone answer this please: why did she not tell Donna Brazile to not tell her what the questions were going to be ahead of the debate? 5decades ago a mans life was ruined when he was supplied t he questions ahead of him winning on "The $64,000 Question" T.V. Program! Seems a fitting result finally for HRC, a corrupt individual.
1
Why would anyone care whether Donald Trump accepts the results of the presidential election or not. He can just move on to the next scam.
3
When this election is over, we can be sure of one thing. Donald Trump will blame someone or something else for his lass. He may go through the motions of conceding, but he will continue to insist that the election was rigged, that it was stolen from him, that there was a conspiracy with Hillary Clinton and the press. He will continue to say the Hillary Clinton should never have been nominated because or her "criminal acts." He will blame the leaders of the Republican Party. He will say that there was voter fraud in "certain places." He will never admit that he is a loser. But that is exactly what Donald Trump is, in many ways: A LOSER. A VERY, VERY BIG LOSER!
This is another game being played by Donald. By saying I will abide by the results of the election does not take away a candidates right to challange and illregularities. This give him a whinny way out should he lose. IF he loses he will take his followers with him to the Trump Network. Donald always thinking of Donald.
I would like to think that is there was really a way to rig the election, the Donald would have been working on it. I put nothing past this man. He is capable of the most outrageous acts imaginable and has prove himself to be quite loathsome The 2000 election was about one state. Trump accuses the entire country of fraud. The brass on this guy!
1
So looking forward to November 10th or shortly there after, when this election is in the rear view mirror and I no longer have to read headlines about Donald Trump. At this point its not news, just an ongoing series of tired cliche.
4
You'll be sorely disappointed. He ain't going away. In fact, he won't have running for President to keep him somewhat in check.
Ozymandias
BY PERCY BYSSHE SHELLEY
I met a traveller from an antique land,
Who said—“Two vast and trunkless legs of stone
Stand in the desert. . . . Near them, on the sand,
Half sunk a shattered visage lies, whose frown,
And wrinkled lip, and sneer of cold command,
Tell that its sculptor well those passions read
Which yet survive, stamped on these lifeless things,
The hand that mocked them, and the heart that fed;
And on the pedestal, these words appear:
My name is Ozymandias, King of Kings;
Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!
Nothing beside remains. Round the decay
Of that colossal Wreck, boundless and bare
The lone and level sands stretch far away.”
BY PERCY BYSSHE SHELLEY
I met a traveller from an antique land,
Who said—“Two vast and trunkless legs of stone
Stand in the desert. . . . Near them, on the sand,
Half sunk a shattered visage lies, whose frown,
And wrinkled lip, and sneer of cold command,
Tell that its sculptor well those passions read
Which yet survive, stamped on these lifeless things,
The hand that mocked them, and the heart that fed;
And on the pedestal, these words appear:
My name is Ozymandias, King of Kings;
Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!
Nothing beside remains. Round the decay
Of that colossal Wreck, boundless and bare
The lone and level sands stretch far away.”
4
The Donald is making his transition back from political candidate (if he ever was one) back to TV personality (if he ever was anything else). Hence his shocking statements that keep him in the headlines, even if they lose him votes. The reality television audience enjoys watching bullying and abuse. People watch Judge Judy, not because they are students of the law, but to see her abuse the "litigants." People watch The Apprentice, not to learn how to gain success in business, but to see the Donald abuse the "aspiring executives." I must confess that as a child I did enjoy watching Mo hit Curly over the head. Did I hear Reince Priebus recently say, "Don't worry about us Republicans. We just hired three new men."
3
At this point of the race, who cares about Trump? Clearly, excluding die-hard followers, voters are not paying attention and/or taking Donald Trump's messages seriously.
Luckily for Donald Trump, his Via Crucis is now entering the final stage. The end is near. The (pathetic) grand finale would be a loser Trump to summon followers to take the streets of America and contest the election's result.
Luckily for Donald Trump, his Via Crucis is now entering the final stage. The end is near. The (pathetic) grand finale would be a loser Trump to summon followers to take the streets of America and contest the election's result.
1
This is all VERY much ado about nothing. It matters not if Trump accepts a loss. Come January there will be one inauguration and he won't be taking the oath of office. HRC will.
Crazy, but I wonder if Trump thinks he can eventually send this to the Supreme Court and get Thomas, Roberts, Alito and Kennedy to support him.
2
Asking whether he'll accept the results is goading him to sound threatening. The media should stop doing that. What is the alternative? Even The Donald isn't crazy enough to try to stage a coup d'etat. And he can contest confirmed election results or his baldness or that the sky is blue, but that just proves he's short on emotional maturity. He is easily pushed to the edge of verbal treason and should be discouraged, regardless of how entertaining the headlines can sound.
1
Remember, all narcissistic people perceive defeat as a threat because they desperately cling to a grandiose sense of self. He is compelled to block any negative feedback from the voters. Trump could not help but act within the frame of his narcissism and his narcissistic rage. It is a defense mechanism and perhaps the best thing that happens to him after the election is that someone recognizes this and counsels him to receive psychological therapy.
In the meantime, we must recognize that the only sane, reasonable person here is Hillary Clinton and she has demonstrated she has all the qualities that we should look for in a president.
In the meantime, we must recognize that the only sane, reasonable person here is Hillary Clinton and she has demonstrated she has all the qualities that we should look for in a president.
2
Unfortunately, not all of the qualities. She needs to be less secretive (it's because of a bit of elitism, I'm afraid), she needs to stop lawyerly parsing answers to troublesome questions (the main reason the email thing lasted so long and so continually), and sometimes she's a little loose-lipped when stressed (the whole thing with Benghazi could have been much ameliorated if she had been willing to not give answers until all the facts were in thoroughly, for example).
But, in this election, no question who is the best choice among the ones still standing.
But, in this election, no question who is the best choice among the ones still standing.
2
@williams
No. I don't put it on the "elitism", as much as I put it on 30+ years of near non-stop Republican attacks.....And they're the same ones who've fostered the "secretive" , "distrustful" tropes.
This is not a far-fetched conspiracy -- it's fact.
And they've pulled the same trick with President Obama since the first day of his administration.
If that doesn't teach you how to keep your powder dry -- nothing will.
Another thing.
Those Benghazi Hearigs proved zip, and not only wasted time, but taxpayer's money.
No. I don't put it on the "elitism", as much as I put it on 30+ years of near non-stop Republican attacks.....And they're the same ones who've fostered the "secretive" , "distrustful" tropes.
This is not a far-fetched conspiracy -- it's fact.
And they've pulled the same trick with President Obama since the first day of his administration.
If that doesn't teach you how to keep your powder dry -- nothing will.
Another thing.
Those Benghazi Hearigs proved zip, and not only wasted time, but taxpayer's money.
3
I respectfully disagree with Ken Gallant because Trump is doing his usual thing: he issues a "dog-whistle" (or in this case, a yell, invitation for Walkies, and a sirloin steak) to his heavily armed, white-supremacist base, IE " The election is rigged, I alone am the legitimate winner, do what you feel if the rigged election doesn't go our way." THEN he takes a speciously "moderate" line as if to back track. He is a traitorous, wannabe dictator. And as such extremely dangerous. Though he appears as a buffoon, the next wannabe strong-man may not.
4
What seems ironic, in last night's Al Smith dinner, is that Donald Trump seemed honestly to question whether audience booing his anti-Hillary comments were directed at her, or him. This distance from individual perception and reality also occurred in the Romney campaign, where the Republican presidential nominee honestly thought that he would win the election up until the votes were counted. It seems apparent that the parties shield their candidates from adverse news, and thus support the appearance of greater campaign success than is in fact true. This protective cushion occasionally seems to follow a candidate into office. We can only hope that whoever wins, they will do their utmost to keep in touch with reality, bursting the bubble of deceit.
2
The "if I win" comment was either a silly, obnoxious quip or a deranged threat. Fortunately for our USA, the fellow how considered it clever, cute and worth saying will soon be rejected clearly by the American majority.
3
There is the opinion that Trump ran in the hopes he would build up his brand. But now that people have seen the person behind the brand in a most intimate manner, the Emperor may have no clothes.
2
In that department Obama has no equal.
1
True. Because President Obama has clothes -- and actually looks quite good in them.
11
As much as the Republicans like to accuse Obama of "kinging" it, making Executive orders is perfectly legal - and, when one is overturned by the Supreme Court, he basically shrugged and said "my bad" and did not whine. He has definitely never said anything like "only I can fix it", and almost every attempt he has made to work with the Republicans was met by stony silence - thus, one of the most, if not the most, do-nothing Congresses the country has ever seen. Sadly, that's during one of those periods where we desperately needed the government to do Something. Well, the Republicans got what they deserved - Trump For President. Have they learned enough so that they will try to work across the aisle for a change?
2
If Donald Looses the election, and if he accepts it, do you think he will go ahead and sue the American people for not electing him? For causing his family, especially Melania, so much pain and suffering?
5
This is another false dilemma manufactured by the Democrats and carried by the press. The only objectionable way to reject the results of an election is to start a revolution. There is nothing wrong with insisting on an honest count of the ballots. And since George Bush juniors day that had been the question. Are we getting true accounting on the results of our elections.
1
However, Trump has said many times that the only way he could lose is if the election is rigged and stolen away from him. He has also hinted at "2nd Amendment people" taking the law into their own hands. That's why it is not a false dilemma - his recent words have to be taken within a larger context, and thus it's no minor issue that way. Even a small, unsuccessful insurrection can cause a lot of damage and possibly waste a lot of lives.
Trump is now pretty much be predictable in his unpredictability.
2
There's really nothing new here. Trump's statement:
“Of course I would accept a clear election result, but I would also reserve my right to contest or file a legal challenge in the case of a questionable result,” Mr. Trump, appearing to accept the possibility of defeat, said. “I will follow and abide by all the rules and traditions of all of the many candidates who came before me, always.”
means nothing. He reserves his right to file legal challenge for anything he defines as "a questionable result." That is meaningless language.
As for the other bit, following and abiding by all of the "rules and traditions" is vague and broad enough to give him license to demand a duel with pistols and/or rapiers. As he has in the course of his campaign, Trump has sidestepped his embrace of menace. Had he called on his followers to respect the election, that would have been meaningful.
“Of course I would accept a clear election result, but I would also reserve my right to contest or file a legal challenge in the case of a questionable result,” Mr. Trump, appearing to accept the possibility of defeat, said. “I will follow and abide by all the rules and traditions of all of the many candidates who came before me, always.”
means nothing. He reserves his right to file legal challenge for anything he defines as "a questionable result." That is meaningless language.
As for the other bit, following and abiding by all of the "rules and traditions" is vague and broad enough to give him license to demand a duel with pistols and/or rapiers. As he has in the course of his campaign, Trump has sidestepped his embrace of menace. Had he called on his followers to respect the election, that would have been meaningful.
"expressed concern that his position threatened to upend America’s tradition of peaceful power transfers." Totally ridiculous and a complete misrepresentation of Trump's argument. You - the NYTimes and Hillary's supporters - know what Trump is complaining about. There's ample recorded documentation of the Democrats at the highest level acting to disrupt Trump's campaign, to paint it as encouraging violence when in fact it was the Democrats fostering it with Obama's acquiescence. Trump has every right to be suspicious.
Republicans will be the first to tell you that the election process is 99.99% fair and honest. Why else would they have spent so much energy on gerrymandering, ultimately unconstitutional voter id laws, etc. etc. in attempts to keep Democrats and minorities AWAY from the ballot box. Who cares whether this arrogant third rate Mussolini wannabe "accepts" the results of the election or not. If there is a legitimate case for a recount there is already an adequate and honest system for dealing with it in all jurisdictions.
8
Donald knows he's superfluous. He goads the media and they still bite.
1
He has 40 million supporters. They haven't dropped him, and given the media outlet he seems to be on the way to creating, he will not become superfluous.
1
Trump is superfluous (and finished!) on the political stage.
He can keep his TV-land kingdom, and all his supporters are welcome to him.
He can keep his TV-land kingdom, and all his supporters are welcome to him.
1
Of course "national elections" can be rigged, state by state, as they were (among others?) in Florida in 2000 and in Ohio in 2004. A county clerk (Kim Davis anyone?) a state officer (Kathleen Harris anyone?) a registar (more votes than residents Ohio?...and all from the same political party. One partisan at a time, the electoral college farce becomes a living nightmare. Republican officials know how to rig and steal elections; they have done it before. I know of two right wing nut brothers who know how to scam the system, each of them repeatedly engaging in voter fraud every election for the last 40 years, stealing the "absentee" ballots of their wives and children to increase the right wing "voice."
Own property in more than one state? Well then, according to one brother you can and should register to vote in each state, and absentee too for your disinterested, frightened or idle-brained spawn/spouse. "Vote early. Vote often. Vote Republican!" says one brother...and he does. A Republican vote in California is a waste, so register and vote in Ohio and Florida where your votes (yes, plural, votes) will really count.
Think about it: It is the right wing that steals elections everywhere never the liberals.
"We won't get fooled again!"? HA!
Own property in more than one state? Well then, according to one brother you can and should register to vote in each state, and absentee too for your disinterested, frightened or idle-brained spawn/spouse. "Vote early. Vote often. Vote Republican!" says one brother...and he does. A Republican vote in California is a waste, so register and vote in Ohio and Florida where your votes (yes, plural, votes) will really count.
Think about it: It is the right wing that steals elections everywhere never the liberals.
"We won't get fooled again!"? HA!
2
Our system of government was designed to prevent demagogues from achieving power.
That a Trump has gotten so close to this much power indicates one of several possibilities:
1. There is heretofore undiscovered weakness or flaw in our Constitutional program;
2. Our Constitutional program has been weakened by corrupt practice, manifest in legislative and/or judicial flaw;
3. Our social and/or economic circumstances have put strains on our governance;
4. Humans have more capacity for unintelligence and ignorance than for reason, rationality and knowledge;
5. All of the above.
If we found such dangerous flaws in our nuclear defenses, or in our intelligence system, we would apply assets and urgency to address those flaws. Over the next years, if we are fortunate enough to have the opportunity to do so, we'd better address the flaws that have allowed us to allow the likes of Trump to get this close to the White House. If we still maintain any presumptions about being the leading country in the free world, let alone a functional democracy, we'd better get to work. Trump rose too easily, and received too much assistance. The media, the fourth estate, has been as pathetic as have too many citizens, and our so-called leaders.
We can bicker about who is most guilty, and there certainly are worse villains in this fiasco (Don't call this a near-fiasco. We have sustained severe damage. We might not recover.). Let's not kid ourselves. We have work to do.
That a Trump has gotten so close to this much power indicates one of several possibilities:
1. There is heretofore undiscovered weakness or flaw in our Constitutional program;
2. Our Constitutional program has been weakened by corrupt practice, manifest in legislative and/or judicial flaw;
3. Our social and/or economic circumstances have put strains on our governance;
4. Humans have more capacity for unintelligence and ignorance than for reason, rationality and knowledge;
5. All of the above.
If we found such dangerous flaws in our nuclear defenses, or in our intelligence system, we would apply assets and urgency to address those flaws. Over the next years, if we are fortunate enough to have the opportunity to do so, we'd better address the flaws that have allowed us to allow the likes of Trump to get this close to the White House. If we still maintain any presumptions about being the leading country in the free world, let alone a functional democracy, we'd better get to work. Trump rose too easily, and received too much assistance. The media, the fourth estate, has been as pathetic as have too many citizens, and our so-called leaders.
We can bicker about who is most guilty, and there certainly are worse villains in this fiasco (Don't call this a near-fiasco. We have sustained severe damage. We might not recover.). Let's not kid ourselves. We have work to do.
3
There is only one flaw regarding the Constitution: people. The Founding Fathers explicitly said that failure to be vigilant and true to the document would bring it down. However - unfortunately - people haven't evolved as far beyond animals as we like to think. Evolution gave us the ability to transcend our instincts, but we still follow them 90% of the time, and fear will usually push up the other 10%. There is no other explanation for people seeing video evidence of one thing and believing something contradictory because that's what they want to be true. There is no other reason for having a bias (which is unavoidable - intelligence works by being able to form a hypothesis for basing further action) and acting on that bias without confirming whether the bias is based on reality (which then makes intelligence a weakness, with the accompanying ability to rationalize). That's why the scientific method had to be developed before our knowledge about the workings of the universe could take off. Animal instincts otherwise gets in the way.
1
Amen.
People are making such a big deal over this Trump thing, they need to get over it. Can you blame him, I still think to this day that the Obama election was rigged, and I could definitely see Hillary doing the same thing. Our country is making a big deal of this, when they should be asking why so many states don't require a valid id to vote.
2
If every state made assertive efforts to ID everyone, then you might have a point. But no, these voter ID efforts seem to happen only where there are significant numbers of voters for whom it would be burdensome to get an ID via the method available (and also just happen to be populations that would tend to vote Democrat...).
Don't understand the furor about these remarks considering all the other things Donald has said. Isn't saying a judge was unqualified because he was Mexican just as bad? Or saying that the Mexican leaders send over rapists and other criminals? How about when he said Muslims wouldn't be allowed into the country? Or describing late term abortions as babies ripped from the womg on their due date? I simply don't understand...
1
Well, his words ring well with people who wish to save this country as opposed to the actions of the Clintons over the past 35 yrs.
@chuck
His words ring well with people who know NOTHING about his track record, and who haven't had the chance to see him close-up over the years -- like most of us here in New York City.
His words ring well with people who know NOTHING about his track record, and who haven't had the chance to see him close-up over the years -- like most of us here in New York City.
4
Like HRC has been so good for the state of NY & the country??? That is laughable.
1
He IS such a 12 years old high school bully, certified laughing stock of the world.
5
Well I think the Republican candidate should question election results especially if he wins. In past elections, for a few examples:
"In Indiana’s Marion County (Indiana, 2006), about 175 of 914 precincts turned to paper because poll workers didn’t know how to run the machines, said Marion County Clerk Doris Ann Sadler."
In 2012, some voters in South Carolina waited in line for 7 hours to cast a vote in the presidential election.
In 2013 "Morgan County, Ga., eliminated more than a third of its polling places, despite an outcry that the move would disenfranchise low-income and black voters."
In 2016, "Most counties surveyed by The Arizona Republic had enough polling places to average 2,500 or fewer eligible voters per polling site. Maricopa County had only one site per every 21,000 voters."
After decades of investigations, it appears voter disenfranchisement is the culprit behind possible rigged elections that affects outcomes.
"In Indiana’s Marion County (Indiana, 2006), about 175 of 914 precincts turned to paper because poll workers didn’t know how to run the machines, said Marion County Clerk Doris Ann Sadler."
In 2012, some voters in South Carolina waited in line for 7 hours to cast a vote in the presidential election.
In 2013 "Morgan County, Ga., eliminated more than a third of its polling places, despite an outcry that the move would disenfranchise low-income and black voters."
In 2016, "Most counties surveyed by The Arizona Republic had enough polling places to average 2,500 or fewer eligible voters per polling site. Maricopa County had only one site per every 21,000 voters."
After decades of investigations, it appears voter disenfranchisement is the culprit behind possible rigged elections that affects outcomes.
2
Bespeaking incompetence (which is not rigging), or tactics Republicans (not Democrats) have been using these days. Seems like that old rule of thumb - the person accusing others the most about something often turns out to be guilty of that something.
I think it would be time to tell people WHY Trump is doubtful about the election result.
Here the links to read to understand it: the yournalist's James O'Keefe videos that unveil WHY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5IuJGHuIkzY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rlljHjnEV7w
Here the links to read to understand it: the yournalist's James O'Keefe videos that unveil WHY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5IuJGHuIkzY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rlljHjnEV7w
Even though it would be rude, even though his supporters would love it, and it would be chaos, in the end it wouldn't matter. Conceding isn't required in order to name the winner. Trump is, as usual, enjoying the fake power that he thinks he has.
3
W. had an ace in the hole: his nephew John Prescott Ellis, who helpfully called Florida for him from the Fox News "Decision Desk." Once that happened, the playing field tilted, and Gore was never ever going to get enough toehold.
2
And don't forget his brother JEB!, was then-Governor of Florida.
3
When Donald Trump loses the election can the American media outlets pledge to have a Donald Trump blackout?
6
What does his opinion have to do with anything?
The US Government decides how the election is run and is accountable for its outcome. Period. Not Donald Trump. Not his prevaricating and mendacious minions. He is pathetically doing everything he can to deflect the most obvious comment which he will hear for the rest of his life - that he is a "loser".
If the shoe fits.....
The US Government decides how the election is run and is accountable for its outcome. Period. Not Donald Trump. Not his prevaricating and mendacious minions. He is pathetically doing everything he can to deflect the most obvious comment which he will hear for the rest of his life - that he is a "loser".
If the shoe fits.....
5
I heard Lt. Governor Dan Patrick on the Texas Standard radio show this morning, explaining what Trump really meant: if the election was close, he would do what Al Gore did and challenge the results. There are so many things wrong with this.
First, the State of Florida called for the recount, because the tallies were very close and automatically triggered a recount in accordance with Florida state law. Al Gore did not challenge the recount. It was George Bush who sued in court to stop the recount, and it was a conservative Supreme Court that ruled in his favor.
Second, if Mr. Trump really meant to say something else, then why didn't he say what he meant? Why does he need a conventional, right-wing politician like Dan Patrick to "interpret" for him? Is Trump not speaking English? If his language skills are so poor, doesn't that make him unfit for the presidency, a job that requires better than average linguistic skills?
First, the State of Florida called for the recount, because the tallies were very close and automatically triggered a recount in accordance with Florida state law. Al Gore did not challenge the recount. It was George Bush who sued in court to stop the recount, and it was a conservative Supreme Court that ruled in his favor.
Second, if Mr. Trump really meant to say something else, then why didn't he say what he meant? Why does he need a conventional, right-wing politician like Dan Patrick to "interpret" for him? Is Trump not speaking English? If his language skills are so poor, doesn't that make him unfit for the presidency, a job that requires better than average linguistic skills?
6
Right. Only politicians can say what they mean without offending someone, or self-censor themselves so that they actually mean what they say?
>>>
For an election to be rigged it has to be close, and this one will not be.
For an election to be rigged it has to be close, and this one will not be.
6
All I can say is "What a jerk." He was churlish at the Al Smith dinner, and has insulted all and sundry, including American democratic institutions, every minute of every day. The world would get very tired of this behavior over a four-year period. I never thought anyone could exceed Silvio Berlusconi as the most unsuitable national leader since Caligula, but Trump is poised to break the record if he is elected. I hope Americans wake up.
10
Has anyone ever explained this intellectual midget the meaning of the line We The People?
Obviously not, and Sean Calamitty doesn't know its meaning either.
Obviously not, and Sean Calamitty doesn't know its meaning either.
6
Mr. Trump's history (not under the Clinton campaign's control) is such that he makes a statement one day and then retracts it the next. He has a serious credibility problem.
1
"Saying that George W. Bush might have lost the 2000 election to Al Gore if he had made a pre-election pledge not to challenge results...."
If only.
Can you imagine how much better off the world would be today?
If only.
Can you imagine how much better off the world would be today?
6
Such a pledge is essentially meaningless, and needless. Millions of voters unsatisfied with a result that was not seen as being investigated thoroughly? The country would have been in an uproar. Wouldn't matter if the candidates accepted it or not.
If Trump "wins" then America and Americans lose.
Donald Trump is a bloviating bullying buffoon demagogue in the mode of Benito Mussolini, Adolf Hitler, Huey Long and George Wallace. Donald Trump is a pompous prancing preening pretender to a throne that does not exist in our divided limited power democratic republic. This is no mass media "Presidential Apprentice" reality TV program. By inference and inflection and ambiguity Trump is playing with fire.
Whether or not Donald Trump accepts the election results does not matter in a nation where the Presidential oath of office requires the preservation, protection and defense of the Constitution as the prime foundational directive. Neither the American people nor their flag nor their national anthem rise to that level.
The ultimate question is whether or not a majority of the American people will accept Donald Trump. Civil war? Civil insurrection? A police state? Martial law?
Donald Trump is a bloviating bullying buffoon demagogue in the mode of Benito Mussolini, Adolf Hitler, Huey Long and George Wallace. Donald Trump is a pompous prancing preening pretender to a throne that does not exist in our divided limited power democratic republic. This is no mass media "Presidential Apprentice" reality TV program. By inference and inflection and ambiguity Trump is playing with fire.
Whether or not Donald Trump accepts the election results does not matter in a nation where the Presidential oath of office requires the preservation, protection and defense of the Constitution as the prime foundational directive. Neither the American people nor their flag nor their national anthem rise to that level.
The ultimate question is whether or not a majority of the American people will accept Donald Trump. Civil war? Civil insurrection? A police state? Martial law?
3
Thanks but straight up is that you, Donna? Those last questions would be entertaining but the debates are over. Otherwise I would have a few for you to pass along for me to the moderator.
1
The way it should be! Just think about the Dems and Gore and how they didn't accept the outcome in Florida, but, thank Goodness, Gore finally lost.
1
The outcome was accepted. And so you are great full for the totally unnecessary war in Iraq, the financial meltdown? This is why we can't have nice things.
1
It was the Election authorities that did not accept the outcome, and the Right-leaning Supreme Court that truncated the attempt to get it right and allowed Bush to win. The result? An America where someone like Trump can almost become President.
1
@Wally Wolf
Caribbean incantations aside one may look for a life size cardboard cutout of the Clintons knocking on the Trump White House private entrance pulling a red wagon full of stuff they looted during their last occupation.
Caribbean incantations aside one may look for a life size cardboard cutout of the Clintons knocking on the Trump White House private entrance pulling a red wagon full of stuff they looted during their last occupation.
Americans don't need a concession from Trump when he loses. The Electoral College results will establish that Hillary Clinton becomes our President. We as Americans don't need anything from Trump. We are already forgetting him.
6
Future references to the 2016 Presidential race will include phrases like "Trump's disastrous run for President" and "the implosion and destruction of the GOP".
3
It might be nice to end up with more than 2 major political parties. We would probably have more if getting elected didn't depend so much on money that is not evenly available to candidates.
the trump camp needs to rein in its supporters by descrying any possibility of violence. He needs to speak to this issue and run ads calming his rabid base.
1
You seem to be in some kind of fantasy. Have you ignored Trump's behavior for the last few months? He doesn't "need" to do anything just because it would be the right thing to do. He gets away with outrageous behavior and tens of millions of our fellow citizens support him!
1
trump is th Liberace of politics
little talent, all showman
9
Why do people still make the claim that Don is unpredictable? As a 3 year old masquerading as a 70 year old, I find him very predictable. Like all spoiled brats with bad parents, he is demanding and throws a violent tantrum when he doesn't get what he wants. Like so many others, I'm getting bored with the whining and theatrics. Everyone knew this would happen last year, and yet here we are and acting surprised about it.
What's most appalling about the election is not Trump himself, but the fact that there are voters out there who still intend to vote for him. Aren't you supposed to be an adult to qualify as a voter? This tells me that there are millions of people who are just as infantile and immature as their candidate. If I can't compete, they complain, I'm going to take the ball home so no one else can play either. But the ball does not belong to them, so instead, they are trying to deflate the ball with a knife. If those voters want a great nation, they should grow up and play ball -- by the rules. The vote is the centerpiece of democracy. And it is meant and designed to keep losers like Don and his deplorable minions away from the office of the president. I'm sorry that your parents did not love you enough to teach you manners and responsibility, Trump and Trump supporters, but the vote does not belong to you.
What's most appalling about the election is not Trump himself, but the fact that there are voters out there who still intend to vote for him. Aren't you supposed to be an adult to qualify as a voter? This tells me that there are millions of people who are just as infantile and immature as their candidate. If I can't compete, they complain, I'm going to take the ball home so no one else can play either. But the ball does not belong to them, so instead, they are trying to deflate the ball with a knife. If those voters want a great nation, they should grow up and play ball -- by the rules. The vote is the centerpiece of democracy. And it is meant and designed to keep losers like Don and his deplorable minions away from the office of the president. I'm sorry that your parents did not love you enough to teach you manners and responsibility, Trump and Trump supporters, but the vote does not belong to you.
8
He is only unpredictable if you keep expecting him to act like a mature, psychologically balanced adult - which means you have not made the effort to notice his tendencies enough to predict his reactions. There is no flaw in "the media" during this campaign greater than the way they keep making predictions about how things will play out based on the behavior of past mature, psychologically balanced adults in previous campaigns. Even now they still seem surprised by what Trump does. Amazing.
Here's an idea- When Trump loses and then (you know he will,) contests the legitimacy of the election...wait for it......
Don't cover it. Just don't.
Don't give the story legitimacy by writing about it. Just stop covering Trump. I know, I know, it's your journalistic duty to write about it. FIne, write one story, front page, "Trump Campaign Files Suit Over Election Loss. With No Cause." So you then write the truth, the legal challenge has no merit. Then don't cover his rallies. Don't cover his press conferences. Don't print his press releases. Done. I know this is the most naive idea, to wit, front page today, "Trump Has Spent a Fraction of What Clinton Has on Ads," and we all know why, he doesn't need to because you do it for him. Now, I have 564 other comments to write now, (Washington Post, LATimes, WSJ, ABC, FOX, etc.) so better get going.
Don't cover it. Just don't.
Don't give the story legitimacy by writing about it. Just stop covering Trump. I know, I know, it's your journalistic duty to write about it. FIne, write one story, front page, "Trump Campaign Files Suit Over Election Loss. With No Cause." So you then write the truth, the legal challenge has no merit. Then don't cover his rallies. Don't cover his press conferences. Don't print his press releases. Done. I know this is the most naive idea, to wit, front page today, "Trump Has Spent a Fraction of What Clinton Has on Ads," and we all know why, he doesn't need to because you do it for him. Now, I have 564 other comments to write now, (Washington Post, LATimes, WSJ, ABC, FOX, etc.) so better get going.
6
Its too bad that the Supreme Court wasn't 4-4 back in 2000. The Florida Supreme Court ruling that there would be a fair recount would have been completed. Trump certainly knows very little current events. It was the Supreme Court who pulled the plug on the recount. Without any standing to do so. It turned out to be one of the worst misuses of the Supreme Court in the USs history. Gore won the popular vote and obviously had a good case to not accept the results. But he did. Trump will soon be put out business whether he accepts the results or not.
3
I see that Trump and his staffers are still trying to wiggle out from under this one, claiming that he never really said any or this, or never really meant it, or was just telling a joke the rest of us are too dumb to get, or some other sort of clever talk-talk.
I think my favorite is the whole, "well, he's not a politician and can't be expected to understand these things, so let's elect him President, shall we?"
Of course, he's got a long history of bullying and suing and blustering to get what he wants, he's been yelling about rigged elections for months, he's said this more than once, and he's been whomping up his people by sneering at laws and democratic traditions right from the start.
Please make sure you turn out and vote. We need to get rid of this fool.
I think my favorite is the whole, "well, he's not a politician and can't be expected to understand these things, so let's elect him President, shall we?"
Of course, he's got a long history of bullying and suing and blustering to get what he wants, he's been yelling about rigged elections for months, he's said this more than once, and he's been whomping up his people by sneering at laws and democratic traditions right from the start.
Please make sure you turn out and vote. We need to get rid of this fool.
8
Actually, the nut of it explains why he went bankrupt so often and has a near-billion dollar multi-year tax write-off. Really successful business people don't need to be "politicians" per se to understand NOT to say and do the things Trump does, especially after they learn the negative of impact after doing it once. Trump is obviously very intelligent, so the reason for his problems must be deep seated psychological weaknesses - pathological lying being one of them, it seems.
1
Barry Williams - I think Trump is cunning and that's very different from intelligent.
BTW, I really enjoy your comments.
BTW, I really enjoy your comments.
1
Thanks for the appreciation. Trump is intelligent, he has just learned to depend on cunning. Even that wouldn't be so bad, but having psych issues too? Oh man.
It's possible Trump will have to move to Russia after the election.
He's going down for his conspiracy to commit fraud in his Trump universities scam. He just might have to flee.
He's going down for his conspiracy to commit fraud in his Trump universities scam. He just might have to flee.
13
This may be 'the long vacation' he's been bragging about.
4
Naw, those who rabidly support him will pay the subscription cost of his new media channel and make him even richer and more obnoxiously intrusive in our lives.
One of the cudgels Trump wielded against Hillary at the debate was that she was pretending not to hate Catholics.
That charge is repulsive.
Then, against, democracy he wielded the cudgel that he might not abide by the rules of the game and concede defeat if he lost.
Against victims of his sexual assaults and lecherous interventions, he wielded the cudgel that "Hillary's people did it" Say what?
Another hideous lie.
Trump: the most foul and repulsive candidate ever to run for office. He picked the right party. The Republican Party has become the refuge for anti-democratic forces of character assassination as a tool of electoral competition since George Herbert Bush married Willie Horton to Michael Dukakis.
For shame.
That charge is repulsive.
Then, against, democracy he wielded the cudgel that he might not abide by the rules of the game and concede defeat if he lost.
Against victims of his sexual assaults and lecherous interventions, he wielded the cudgel that "Hillary's people did it" Say what?
Another hideous lie.
Trump: the most foul and repulsive candidate ever to run for office. He picked the right party. The Republican Party has become the refuge for anti-democratic forces of character assassination as a tool of electoral competition since George Herbert Bush married Willie Horton to Michael Dukakis.
For shame.
7
A sound thumping of Mr. Trump is vital to our democracy and standing in the world. If you simply cannot vote for the other three parties, then leave the president slot blank, then continue on with the rest of the ballot.
8
We get it....you hate Trump
Two words: Al Gore
Two words: Al Gore
1
You are uninformed. Do more homework.
6
One question: Do you think Trump, given the same circumstances that confronted Al Gore, would concede the election? Lol if you do.
3
Why would either of them cede the right to contest the outcome?
1
That right is assumed. Making a point of it, especially in the context of claiming that everything is rigged and that there is a vast left wing conspiracy working against him (my words, distilling the essence of his claims), gives his words a more sinister cast.
Let's put the puppet to bed.
16
... and whatever happened to the Republican leadership? They're lying low, hoping no one will notice their absence.
Mitch and Paul, tell us in no uncertain terms where you stand on the Trump candidacy. Do you favor American democracy, or are you just Republican at any cost?
Mitch and Paul, tell us in no uncertain terms where you stand on the Trump candidacy. Do you favor American democracy, or are you just Republican at any cost?
11
The republican leadership Ryan and McConnell created trump
1
I don't see why this is considered a big deal by some. Personally I don't care what he accepts or doesn't, once he loses we won't have to hear from him again.
1
Actually, we will when he launches some sort of Trump media.
5
dont speak too soon
Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner has informally approached one of the media industry’s top dealmakers about the prospect of setting up a Trump television network after the presidential election in November.
Mr Kushner — an increasingly influential figure in the billionaire’s presidential campaign — contacted Aryeh Bourkoff, the founder and chief executive of LionTree, a boutique investment bank, within the past couple of months, according to three people with knowledge of the matter.
Their conversation was brief and has not progressed since, the people said. Mr Bourkoff and Mr Kushner both declined to comment.
However, the approach suggests Mr Kushner and the Republican candidate himself are thinking about how to capitalise on the populist movement that has sprung up around their campaign in the event of an election defeat to Democrat Hillary Clinton next month. Mr Trump has in recent days ramped up his criticism of the “dishonest and distorted” mainstream media, which he accuses of being biased against him in collusion with the Clinton campaig
https://www.ft.com/content/7dc39954-940e-11e6-a1dc-bdf38d484582
2
Another highly leveraged trump-endeavor that will fail quickly. Potential advertisers will boycott the medium and actual advertisers will be boycotted by the public.
3
Like some women keep falling in love with bad men, so the Republican Party, from a good family, has been brought down by a series of bad romantic liasons with seriously flawed leading men. Nixon, Reagan, Bush, another Bush, much worse... now this.
Still hard to believe this isn't all just a parody, like Colbert, Ted Bundy or, for older viewers, Archie Bunker. The trouble is, it isn't funny anymore. Stop already.
Still hard to believe this isn't all just a parody, like Colbert, Ted Bundy or, for older viewers, Archie Bunker. The trouble is, it isn't funny anymore. Stop already.
9
The Republican Party of the last 50 years is more and more the story of a bad tail (the win at all costs, no compromising members) wagging a not actually bad dog (the majority of Republicans who merely have different ideas about achieving the same things all Americans want, based on different core axioms). This campaign season, we have now seen an even worse tip of the tail (the alt-Right) wagging that bad tail - and dragging the rest of the dog to the edge of oblivion.
1
Does what Trump does really matter? As far as I know, the Constitution does not mention concession speeches. The official transition will be from Obama to Clinton. Congressional leaders will no doubt visibly sanction it, along with the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court administering the oath. Although Trump's rantings might be fodder for the dead enders who support his troglodytic views, they are clearly destined to be forgotten in the not too distant future.
4
The media (particularly the NY Times) has been so overboard in their negative coverage of Trump (and the 40 % of the US population that support him ?) - that I think this is really going to hurt the paper's credibility long after this election is over. It is not surprising that a majority of Americans now think the media is biased.. An interesting side note, a few very reparable polls now have this election much closer than is being reported in the mainsteam media.. if Trump does in fact win .. our media elite will really look silly and ineffective..
1
Which polls??
3
"Reparable polls"?
I suspect Kojo Reese meant to type "reputable polls," but ironically, "repairable" is probably closer to accurate.
Any poll showing Trump ahead at this point is such an outlier, it's obviously been "repaired" to do so.
I suspect Kojo Reese meant to type "reputable polls," but ironically, "repairable" is probably closer to accurate.
Any poll showing Trump ahead at this point is such an outlier, it's obviously been "repaired" to do so.
4
No, it won't the New York Times. Spoken like a true sore loser.
2
I don't worry about revolt. The police and FBI will take care of that. Here's what's to worry about:
That the Repub party goes right on its way, obstructing Hillary and keeping things from getting better for the average, middle-class joe and jane. Then they will whine that's it's all the fault of Hillary and Obamacare, and their next authoritarian candidate will be smarter and more subtle.
Ryan and McConnell don't admit that Trump is a product of their obstruction and undermining of everyone who's not themselves. The smart thing to do would be to work with Dems to get a few things done and force the short-sighted Tea Party out. Instead, they're still blithely obstructing the appointment of Merrick Garland.
For God's sake: VOTE ALL OF THEM OUT. How can people who learn nothing at all from the appearance of a Trump be allowed to hold all of us hostage?
That the Repub party goes right on its way, obstructing Hillary and keeping things from getting better for the average, middle-class joe and jane. Then they will whine that's it's all the fault of Hillary and Obamacare, and their next authoritarian candidate will be smarter and more subtle.
Ryan and McConnell don't admit that Trump is a product of their obstruction and undermining of everyone who's not themselves. The smart thing to do would be to work with Dems to get a few things done and force the short-sighted Tea Party out. Instead, they're still blithely obstructing the appointment of Merrick Garland.
For God's sake: VOTE ALL OF THEM OUT. How can people who learn nothing at all from the appearance of a Trump be allowed to hold all of us hostage?
11
I have seen and heard most of the ten women who have come forward to accuse Trump of sexual assault. This is a presidential election, not a criminal trial; but judges' standard admonition to jurors before they begin deliberations in criminal trials applies to our evaluation of Donald J. Trump. If you believe one or more witnesses' accounts that contradict his, you should doubt the rest of his testimony. (My recollection of this instruction.) I believe these women. I conclude that Trump is a liar.
14
Last night if anyone watched the two candidates at the Al Smith dinner,then you could see how Hillary was head and shoulders better than Donald.
10
At this point, attention must be given to the idea that Mr. Trump is not interested in winning the presidency. He is using the campaign as advertising for an intended alt-right Trump Media Network.
Everything he has done in this campaign seems to be aimed, not at winning over the kind of voter he needs to win the presidency, but at firing up his base. Looked at from that perspective, his behavior makes sense.
Everything he has done in this campaign seems to be aimed, not at winning over the kind of voter he needs to win the presidency, but at firing up his base. Looked at from that perspective, his behavior makes sense.
2
The only way Trump could lose is if Democrats cheated. You can believe that. Dead Voters, Illegal voters,
1
The only way that Trump can win is if he cheats, which is impossible in General election that is monitored state by state. Whatever helps you sleep at night.
2
Because all those dead and/or "illegal" voters are skewing the polls now?
Or is that the corrupt media and pollsters?
Or both?
Or is that the corrupt media and pollsters?
Or both?
1
Elections are run at the state and local level. What incentive would all of those Republicans in red states have to make sure that Trump loses?
1
Assuming that Trump loses on November 8, there is still serious repair-work to be done in this country to avoid this phenomena from recurring. It will be in everyone’s interest to take the substantial numbers aligned with Trump seriously, not ridicule them. Major policies need to be directed at their plight.
Think about it: The working class supporters of Trump used to be a bulwark constituency of the Democratic Party, namely organized labor. Now they are no longer listening to the Republican establishment, the party who co-opted their vote but delivered nothing but trickle-down misery and irrelevant conservative dogma. So a charlatan like Trump was able to fill the vacuum, and there are many Trumps waiting in the wings going forward.
Hopefully we will have dodged a bullet on November 8. But this is an ongoing national danger that will keep happening and only get worse if it is not addressed in a big way going forward.
Think about it: The working class supporters of Trump used to be a bulwark constituency of the Democratic Party, namely organized labor. Now they are no longer listening to the Republican establishment, the party who co-opted their vote but delivered nothing but trickle-down misery and irrelevant conservative dogma. So a charlatan like Trump was able to fill the vacuum, and there are many Trumps waiting in the wings going forward.
Hopefully we will have dodged a bullet on November 8. But this is an ongoing national danger that will keep happening and only get worse if it is not addressed in a big way going forward.
9
@ Dan88 Long Island, NY "It will be in everyone's interest to take the substantial numbers aligned with Trump seriously... Major policies need to be directed at their plight."
Not "everyone's" -- it will clearly not be in the Publicans' interests to do so.
They are the ones who have spent the last 7 3/4 years successfully obstructing Democrats' attempts to direct major policies at the plight of the working- and middle-classes, and -- with the help of the corporate media -- have convinced at least 40% of the electorate that this was the Democrats' failures, not the Publicans' successes.
Since it worked so well for the Congressional Publicans (if not for their Presidential candidates), we can expect more of the same with Hillary -- only, I suspect, more so.
This is why it is imperative that we give the Senate back to the Democrats -- preferably with a filibuster-proof majority -- and try to reduce the Publican majority in the House by as much as possible.
Even more important, we must control as many State legislatures as possible by 2020, to reduce the Publican gerrymandering that has given them the House, despite majorities of the electorate voting Democratic in many states.
Not "everyone's" -- it will clearly not be in the Publicans' interests to do so.
They are the ones who have spent the last 7 3/4 years successfully obstructing Democrats' attempts to direct major policies at the plight of the working- and middle-classes, and -- with the help of the corporate media -- have convinced at least 40% of the electorate that this was the Democrats' failures, not the Publicans' successes.
Since it worked so well for the Congressional Publicans (if not for their Presidential candidates), we can expect more of the same with Hillary -- only, I suspect, more so.
This is why it is imperative that we give the Senate back to the Democrats -- preferably with a filibuster-proof majority -- and try to reduce the Publican majority in the House by as much as possible.
Even more important, we must control as many State legislatures as possible by 2020, to reduce the Publican gerrymandering that has given them the House, despite majorities of the electorate voting Democratic in many states.
2
Republicans, meaning the "Republican establishment," have been squeezed as much, perhaps the most, in this election. Trump's "base" of voters are demanding they support Trump, otherwise they will abandon them. Meanwhile, "mainstream" Republican voters reject much or all of what Trump stands for, and are demanding that other Republican politicians do so as well.
Meanwhile, demographics is destiny, so the Democratic party coalition will continue to grow even larger every election cycle.
So, imo, it is also in the interest of Republicans to cooperate in an effort to help these voters make gains in their lives, so that they do not turn to the next Donald Trump, and the next one after that. And to work to construct a broader national coalition. Both things are in the interests of Republicans.
Now whether the Republican Party recognize this and puts aside the well-ensconced ways that you mention above, if it is not already too late, is a different issue.
Meanwhile, demographics is destiny, so the Democratic party coalition will continue to grow even larger every election cycle.
So, imo, it is also in the interest of Republicans to cooperate in an effort to help these voters make gains in their lives, so that they do not turn to the next Donald Trump, and the next one after that. And to work to construct a broader national coalition. Both things are in the interests of Republicans.
Now whether the Republican Party recognize this and puts aside the well-ensconced ways that you mention above, if it is not already too late, is a different issue.
Ironically, those working class supporters are once again drinking the trickle-down kool-ade...
Just. Stop. Covering. What. Trump. "Thinks." The talking heads say Hillary played Trump, well Trump is playing the long game. He's playing all of us. For instance, he says over and over that Al Gore sued over the 2000 Presidential election. As he would say, "Wrong." Bush is the one who sued. It's Bush v Gore for a reason. Trump is like some toxic plant out of "Goosebumps" that grows the more attention is paid. Turn off the spot lights.
9
Donald Trump has become a BORE. A predictable whining BORE. He's going to lose and he knows it.
14
Mrs Clinton underlined extremely well the altered way of mind of a narcissistic pervert: in his mind, HE is never the one going wrong and being toxic, but ALL THE OTHERS are. He thinks he goes well, thinks in the norm, and, in the paranoid way of mind which is associated to these profiles, the others, whoever they are, will always represent a threat to him.
5
She was talking about Bill Clinton.
1
If that's Bill, then no wonder Hillary recognized the traits in Trump so easily.
1
The King Predator and Con Don would start a civil war - if we let him. NO. Call out any anarchist you see or hear causing trouble. They are bullies at heart and will run with their tails between their legs if confronted. WE do not want an America that looks like the one The Con Don and his buddies are trying to push on us. It's up to US. We are Stronger Together!
5
I believe that taking anything Donald Trump says with more than a grain of salt is to not realize that he's clueless regarding consequences. He's clueless about how the world works. He's clueless regarding the law of cause and affect. In fact, he told one of his biographers that he's no different than he was in the first grade. I believe him. I therefore scratch my head whenever his "policies" are examined as if he knows what he's talking about. He doesn't. There's only one thing on Donald Trump's mind. It's winning. And even pretending he wins when he doesn't. So in his mind he's always a winner and never learns from his mistakes, because in his mind he makes none. And that means getting the love and affection he needs from a large group of our citizens by saying anything they want to hear. That's fundamentally the level of this miserable man's personal growth and development.
11
@bkw
Thank you. I think you've hit the nail on the head quite nicely.
Thank you. I think you've hit the nail on the head quite nicely.
1
Except - I've watched his supporters being interviewed at his rallies, and I've checked out the stuff on Breitbart. Evidently there are tens of millions who either think that way or are willing to allow those that do to act on their behalf. It is frightening, because that's how Nazi Germany came about - among other travesties.
@Williams
No one can expect anything different coming from Breitbart news.
And it was a little different in Nazi Germany -- there, the implicit use of threats of bodily harm was involved, and dissenters had a way of quietly disappearing.
No one can expect anything different coming from Breitbart news.
And it was a little different in Nazi Germany -- there, the implicit use of threats of bodily harm was involved, and dissenters had a way of quietly disappearing.
1
This reminds me of what Thomas Carlyle said about Margaret Fuller, the American Transcendentalist went went about telling people she accepted the Universe. Egad, she had better, said Carlyle.
5
In the old neighborhood where I grew up there were more than a few bullies, street thugs and in the eyes of some, less than a full respect of the means of repression and those who were the means had even less respect for those in the neighborhood. That was called life. It happens. So let us move on.
Organized criminals though had the respect of everyone and oddly, that group respected the neighborhood and its struggling inhabitants more than most including the repressive forces.
One thing that everyone understood is that certain bullies and thugs deserved not a drop of respect. So when those individuals acted out, they were pretty much on their own.
Rant and rage as much as they tried got them only one thing: trouble. For most of us, the best thing was to ignore them. And for them the best thing was to keep their mouths shut.
So if a person running for office does not like the outcome and wants to follow a tactic that is not legal, so be it. But to waste time discussing the insane and insanity is not productive unless there is a cure to the ill being presented.
There are however important issues which the candidates should address and the media should report. All else should be given in the words of one Nixon staffer, ..benign neglect...
So how is the World Series going?
Organized criminals though had the respect of everyone and oddly, that group respected the neighborhood and its struggling inhabitants more than most including the repressive forces.
One thing that everyone understood is that certain bullies and thugs deserved not a drop of respect. So when those individuals acted out, they were pretty much on their own.
Rant and rage as much as they tried got them only one thing: trouble. For most of us, the best thing was to ignore them. And for them the best thing was to keep their mouths shut.
So if a person running for office does not like the outcome and wants to follow a tactic that is not legal, so be it. But to waste time discussing the insane and insanity is not productive unless there is a cure to the ill being presented.
There are however important issues which the candidates should address and the media should report. All else should be given in the words of one Nixon staffer, ..benign neglect...
So how is the World Series going?
1
When he loses, I really don't care if Trump gives a concession speech or not. I will just be happy and relieved not to have to hear his loud voice booming caustic words or see his orange physical presence and little hands ever again. He may very well start Trump TV, but this is one individual who will never be a consumer.
5
1. I am sick to death of Trump's people having to (blatantly falsely) "explain" his remarks. Folks, he meant what he said the first time. Period.
2. I am sick to death of the cravenness of McConnell, Ryan, and all the other Trump apologists. I no longer have ANY respect for their good faith.
3. I doubt his followers can put up much fuss after the election. We're told they make @ $70,000 a year. They have something to lose, and it's not unemployment. If anything, it will be like the resistance to BHO—a few nut jobs who think the nation will rise with their deluded actions, and who are bewildered when they're arrested and jailed.
Here's hoping the rest of the nation is as OVER all this as I am.
2. I am sick to death of the cravenness of McConnell, Ryan, and all the other Trump apologists. I no longer have ANY respect for their good faith.
3. I doubt his followers can put up much fuss after the election. We're told they make @ $70,000 a year. They have something to lose, and it's not unemployment. If anything, it will be like the resistance to BHO—a few nut jobs who think the nation will rise with their deluded actions, and who are bewildered when they're arrested and jailed.
Here's hoping the rest of the nation is as OVER all this as I am.
12
I too am also sick of the twisted logic and lack of integrity with him and people who try and justify his ignorance.
1
One of the undeniable aspects of fraud, if well executed, is that it is very hard to impossible to detect. Any fraud expert will tell you that only a small percentage of business fraud is actually detected, and just ask John Podesta how the fraudulent hackers got the password into his email account and how easy it is to miss fraudulent behavior. The latest biased message from the elitist know-it-alls, and their weak and politically biased academic studies, is that they and they alone know that fraud has not occurred. Please stop lecturing on how you know it all and admit that fraud can and does occur all the time, and that it is usually undetected.
For this reason, it is wise for Trump to wait and at least see if non-obvious signs of fraud do not appear prior to conceding election should he lose.
For this reason, it is wise for Trump to wait and at least see if non-obvious signs of fraud do not appear prior to conceding election should he lose.
2
It's been widely proven voter fraud is not an issue. He is complaining about fraud before the election even happens which makes him a cry baby with no integrity for our democratic process. It makes anyone who parrots this man's words and twists his logic his mindless sheep and unpatriotic. Republican officials run many of the state election processes which is why even his own party is denouncing his words.
Your theory that fraud is hard to prove but it exists and we should worry about it is absurd. Big Foot is hard to prove it exists also but I am not going to worry about it and bring it up and complain every time I go camping.
Your theory that fraud is hard to prove but it exists and we should worry about it is absurd. Big Foot is hard to prove it exists also but I am not going to worry about it and bring it up and complain every time I go camping.
5
And how, pray tell, are these would-be fraudsters "skewing" all the polls -- all but one of which have all along (except, for a couple of them, for one short day in August, and for a couple of others, a few days in September) shown Hillary with leads ranging from a point or three to, more recently, 10-12 points or more, both nationally and in all of the "swing" states?
Please note that this includes all of the pollsters that traditionally swing Publican, including those that infamously so completely miscalled 2012 for Rmoney.
Are they ALL in on the conspiracy?
Please note that this includes all of the pollsters that traditionally swing Publican, including those that infamously so completely miscalled 2012 for Rmoney.
Are they ALL in on the conspiracy?
At this point, Trump is terrified of his most ardent supporters. He knows they're crazy and armed. The last thing he wants them to suspect is that he has been working for the Clintons this whole time. He would hate for them to find out that on a clear day, Trump, Bill and Howard Stern played golf at Westchester. The club was closed that day, except for the most essential staff. Out on the back nine, Clinton made his case. After Hilary stuck with him, in the wake of the Lewinsky scandal, he would make sure she became the first female President. But it was soon clear this would take some doing. After the defeat of Obama, the analytics didn't lie; she was too unpopular. They would need her to run against a candidate so vile that disparate groups would unite not to vote for her, but to vote against him. Clinton told Trump, you can go as extreme as you want. Stern promised to write bits for him, stuff that would rile up the crazy base. After this election, Hillary would be President and the GOP that has been harassing the Clintons since they stepped on the stage, would be flattened and their teeth would be removed by exposing their abject racism and sexism. Tump was their man, embodying the very worst of the Patriarchy, so that a reckoning could be derived to American culture. Great shifts in culture take great efforts. The end of the imperial system in Europe took World War I. The end of the patriarchy in America took Trump. She will win. We will be better for it.
2
You have a future as an author of political fiction. Keep at it. Maybe we will see you in the NYT best seller list someday.
The true measure of what kind of man Trump is will be determined on how he reacts after the election results are in and finalized.
2
He has already shown what kind of man he is. We don't need any further evidence.
1
So, the election is fair if he wins and rigged if he loses. He sounds more like his 7 years old than 70. If he needs a "clear result" to convince himself that America does not want him to be president, it's no problem. I have a pretty good idea that a decisive loss is exactly what he'll get on Nov. 8th.
9
Only in Trumpland can you call an election, that has yet to occur, a fraud. It is like labeling someone a thief before he has even stolen something. It does not pass his brain that you can't call a future event a fraud. An event can only first happen and then be called a fraud (if there is any reason to call it a fraud).
I am surprised that sane people use this clown's products and think this man child's name has some value. I would be embarrassed to be associated with his name in any way, direct or indirect. His name should be attached to seedy motels and not hotels. I hope this brand loses value because he is a poster for bigots, conspiracy crowd, a 70 year old boy, who just blurts what he feels and thinks without thinking a thought through to its conclusion.
And O my God, in our nation there are actually people who think we can put him in the white house and let our future be in his hands??
I am surprised that sane people use this clown's products and think this man child's name has some value. I would be embarrassed to be associated with his name in any way, direct or indirect. His name should be attached to seedy motels and not hotels. I hope this brand loses value because he is a poster for bigots, conspiracy crowd, a 70 year old boy, who just blurts what he feels and thinks without thinking a thought through to its conclusion.
And O my God, in our nation there are actually people who think we can put him in the white house and let our future be in his hands??
10
Yet, you are entirely happy to declare an election free and fair even before it is held, but I am sure you see no inconsistency in that.
Trump was goaded into signing a pledge to accept election results once before by a group of honorless politicians who proved the value of a politician's word.
Now Hillary tries the same silly trick?
Now Hillary tries the same silly trick?
4
@ken
Do you have any proof of this pledge??
Do you have any proof of this pledge??
6
That Billy Bush ruins everything!
1
NYT: This is not news. This is akin to saying "The sky is blue this morning! OMG!"
Legal recourse to rigged processes is as normal as an autumn sky.
We expect better from you.
Legal recourse to rigged processes is as normal as an autumn sky.
We expect better from you.
3
Trump will not concede. It is better for his brand to levy a suit against Hillary. It keeps his supporters involved and his new TV station needs viewers.
He will sue on the basis that Hillary should have been disqualified from running in the first place. Hope the Dems win the House and get SCOTUS sorted out immediately ( starting with Garland nomination).
Trump doesn't give in lightly. He's a man-child with no sense of civility and social decorum, no sense of professionalism, no consideration of historical context.
He is going to LOSE big in November. Thank the folks who kept pushing the media to finally call him out on his horrible past transgressions. Completely unfit to lead to ANYTHING let alone our wonderful nation.
Thank you, Tea Party. You created the monster that will take decades to fix.
He will sue on the basis that Hillary should have been disqualified from running in the first place. Hope the Dems win the House and get SCOTUS sorted out immediately ( starting with Garland nomination).
Trump doesn't give in lightly. He's a man-child with no sense of civility and social decorum, no sense of professionalism, no consideration of historical context.
He is going to LOSE big in November. Thank the folks who kept pushing the media to finally call him out on his horrible past transgressions. Completely unfit to lead to ANYTHING let alone our wonderful nation.
Thank you, Tea Party. You created the monster that will take decades to fix.
12
Don't worry President Donald Trump will fix things again.
@Morris, only if he is elected which doesn't seem likely right now.
1
Just when you think Trump might be finished smashing enough democratic norms for a single election cycle, this happens. I'm not sure he even understands how dangerous his rhetoric is, and how much more likely this makes the possibility of violence on or after Election Day. Sad!
3
My reply, had I been Trump, would have been that I would respect the process and its fairness and legality in the same way others have, specifically Al Gore and John Kerry, both of whom questioned their losses. In my opinion, it was a ridiculous question anyway.
2
Over the past two years, there have been more than a few occasions where I have wondered if I have accidentally visited the Clinton campaign website instead of the New York Times. Lately, the frequency of these occurrences have increased. Is there a merger or takeover in the works?
3
Trump claims to be the great negotiator, and a lot of people like that, but is it true? When are we going to get a close picture of his negotiation team?
Who is on it? What is their role? And does Trump actively attend the meetings?
Who is on it? What is their role? And does Trump actively attend the meetings?
1
It is exceedingly naive not to believe that the major media and the Democratic party are not trying to steal the election this year. Trump is right in foreseeing the danger, and reserving the right to contest questionable results. Al Gore contested the election in 2000. Why should Trump not have the right to do likewise in 2016, if results appear questionable? If the hidden power structure of the United States, centered in a banking cartel on Wall Street, tries to cheat this year, the American people will not relent.
1
You just fall for those talking points hook line and sinker then repeat them like a parrot don't you. Gore won the popular vote and Florida election rules triggered the recount. Go read the graceful speech from Gore after the recount was in and how he supported the final decision. Never anywhere before the election did Gore say the system was rigged or discredit our election process.
5
Nonsense.
This is yet another of the pernicious and innumerable Publican zombie lies -- which, no matter how often debunked and refudiated, the credulous and propagandized continue to repeat and spread.
Gore "contested" nothing.
The name of the Supreme Court case was "Bush v Gore" -- and the plaintiff's name always comes first.
It was the Bush team that shrieked for the courts to intervene and stop the *automatically-triggered* Florida recount -- successfully, as it turned out, in a decision that has been thoroughly demonstrated to have been corrupt and hypocritical, so much so that the "Justices" wrote into that very decision that it was not to be considered a precedent for any future cases.
(Read "Supreme Injustice: How the High Court Hijacked Election 2000" by Dershowitz for the details, if you can stomach it.)
And of course this elides the fact that the recount was necessitated in the first place by the utterly corrupt acts of Florida's Sec'y of State Katherine Harris, under then-Gov. Jeb Bush (GW's brother), to disenfranchise tens of thousands of registered voters (mostly of color) under false pretenses. Had they been permitted their constitutionally-protected voting rights, the election would never have been close enough for the Jeb Bush administration and the Supremes to steal.
Not that I'm bitter, or anything...
This is yet another of the pernicious and innumerable Publican zombie lies -- which, no matter how often debunked and refudiated, the credulous and propagandized continue to repeat and spread.
Gore "contested" nothing.
The name of the Supreme Court case was "Bush v Gore" -- and the plaintiff's name always comes first.
It was the Bush team that shrieked for the courts to intervene and stop the *automatically-triggered* Florida recount -- successfully, as it turned out, in a decision that has been thoroughly demonstrated to have been corrupt and hypocritical, so much so that the "Justices" wrote into that very decision that it was not to be considered a precedent for any future cases.
(Read "Supreme Injustice: How the High Court Hijacked Election 2000" by Dershowitz for the details, if you can stomach it.)
And of course this elides the fact that the recount was necessitated in the first place by the utterly corrupt acts of Florida's Sec'y of State Katherine Harris, under then-Gov. Jeb Bush (GW's brother), to disenfranchise tens of thousands of registered voters (mostly of color) under false pretenses. Had they been permitted their constitutionally-protected voting rights, the election would never have been close enough for the Jeb Bush administration and the Supremes to steal.
Not that I'm bitter, or anything...
When you look at the picture with a man with iphone, and is a trump supporter.. kinda hypocritical, right? Trump says that he doesn't want companies to outsource jobs by immigrants and outside countries, yet trump supporters have products made in China... Trump supporters should have products made in America.
2
Not surprising. Trump also has his brand products made in China...and India...and Viet Nam....and Bangladesh.... get the picture?
4
Sadly, a vote for Mr. Trump is no longer a vote against Mrs. Clinton but vote against America. And everything we stand for.
10
Senator Ayotte's support for Donald Trump is the reason she is losing and will lose reelection. And that is really a shame, because Senator Ayotte has shown herself to be an intelligent, capable Senator who has worked hard and well with both sides of the aisle on difficult issues, and who has shown a willingness to get things done in Washington. Support for Trump is also the primary reason for the downward spiraling poll numbers for many other hard working, responsible Republican Senators and Representatives.
Trump has no moral compass and no character, and is incapable of rational thought and analysis. Republican leaders who support Trump are finding that support to be a death knell to their political futures. Voters are calling on such elected officials to explain their support for someone with such vile character and values. Voters remember the endorsement they made, and as indicated in current polls, that support is the primary reason they are having difficulty retaining a lead in their polls or will be losing their seats.
It is amazing that incumbent Republicans who are up for reelection are that out of touch to not realize that their support for Trump brings dire consequences. Every elected official who has not disengaged with Trump and has not vowed to never vote for Trump should be replaced November 8th - does anyone really want such clueless 'leadership' in either the House or Senate?
Trump has no moral compass and no character, and is incapable of rational thought and analysis. Republican leaders who support Trump are finding that support to be a death knell to their political futures. Voters are calling on such elected officials to explain their support for someone with such vile character and values. Voters remember the endorsement they made, and as indicated in current polls, that support is the primary reason they are having difficulty retaining a lead in their polls or will be losing their seats.
It is amazing that incumbent Republicans who are up for reelection are that out of touch to not realize that their support for Trump brings dire consequences. Every elected official who has not disengaged with Trump and has not vowed to never vote for Trump should be replaced November 8th - does anyone really want such clueless 'leadership' in either the House or Senate?
3
Senator Ayotte has not lost yet. Haven't you notice Democrats don't get many votes lately. Maybe never after Obama Care.
How old, pinched and discolored he looked Tuesday next to Hillary. And he dares to criticize the looks of women that don't fit his ideal. But then this is a man who when looking into a mirror sees his 35 year old self. The Donald has never been able to see reality even when it is staring back at him. Donald you are done. Your youth is gone and so are your chances of being elected president. The debates are done. I am done. I voted yesterday, the first day of early voting in NC. And the lines were long. How gratifying it was to fill in the circle next to that "nasty woman" Hillary Clinton.
7
an utterly graceless clod w billions of dollars
why does that so often happen
2
Well, let's just make sure the results are so overwhelming there is no chance of them being questioned -- by anyone, including Trump's troglodyte army.
6
he would then say cheating has occurred
for trump, th only explanation for a failure is that he was being cheated
2
Hubris. Hubris. Hubris. Donald Trump is the epitome of wealth being a distorted sense of entitlement along with Jeffrey Epstein et al. America has a long "love affair" with macho men. Further ... the Macho Ideal had its modern birth in the early days of the 20th Century when so many immigrants had to "be tough and self-reliant" in the face of adversity, relying on often dubious ways of surviving, distilled in the economically harsh territory of NYC and Chicago that still exists. Gangsterism was spawned and Mafia personalities ... Capone and cult figures ... Dillenger became idolized. In movies (think Swartzenegger) the transparent macho into America's soul. The White and Black hats of Western movies actually began the entire concept of American national character as we see it today. Everyone had to be ... tough ... enterprising ... and powerful. Kinda like America's presence around the globe, right now.
2
With the unremittingly negative coverage from NYT and other outlets, is Trump really so outlandish in claiming that the election is predetermined?
2
its all a vast left wing conspiracy mike
you sussed it out
they cant fool you, can they, old top
8
Wait. Have you honestly not been listening towhat's coming out of this man's mouth??...
He has insulted HALF of the American electorate in one way or the other.
Is it any surprise he's being repudiated?
Any negative coverage Trump gets, he has brought upon himself.
He has insulted HALF of the American electorate in one way or the other.
Is it any surprise he's being repudiated?
Any negative coverage Trump gets, he has brought upon himself.
8
Wait, you mean the coverage of what he actually said during his election campaign?
4
Anyone need any more proof that this man is unqualified to be president?! He has no respect for our nation, our Constitution or....any of us!
No thanks.....#ImWithHer
No thanks.....#ImWithHer
4
When watching the video of Trump's statement, I was relieved to see Trump break out into a huge grin. He was being a showman and playing to his audience. As unfunny as he has been, he was winking to the audience in this case. He became less scary to me. Trump enjoys being a pain.
3
You are inspirational Mr. Trump!
God Bless.
God Bless.
1
jralger3 - Would you care to elaborate on your statement?
Peter
Peter
2
Trump is priming the pump for post-election theatrics culminating in a new reality freak-show, this will then prop-up that enormous ego especially if it achieves the long lasting success of 'Celebrity-Apprentice' .
2
The world has yet to completely understand the magnitude of the impact the internet has on world opinion. It is both a matter of trust ( do you trust that the information that is made available is truthful and unbiased) and volume - if there are 100 websites that give information and 85 of them agree on "facts" that are not truthful and only 15 tell the truth as objective facts have proven, then what does the person believe. Videotapes and voice recordings can be doctored to support or disprove whatever beliefs the presenter wants. In the absence of a trusted unbiased source of information, why would someone believe one website over the other. When our Govt is not trusted and our pillars of the media are losing trust then unfortunately people may resort to what the majority of the websites and news media espouse. Volume over veracity
3
Because there are a slew of comments accusing "the media" of bias against Trump, I've been considering the idea. It occurs to me that the bias stems from the fact that many reporters have met both candidates and have had dealings with them face to face or on the phone.
Actually meeting a person or having conversations with him will influence the way that one feels about someone else. Since there is no such thing as perfect objectivity, articles will inevitably reflect the experiences of reporters.
Maybe people in the media are biased because they know Trump to an extent, and it's clear to them that he is not good presidential material. Maybe the media is doing us a favor by protecting us from this man.
Instead of assuming that reporters have some sort of political agenda, why not assume that they have some personal experiences with the candidates that have helped them to judge which of the two is actually capable of steering our ship of state. They're on the front lines when it comes to politics and will have experienced far more of the candidates than almost anyone else not directly connected to their campaigns or personal lives.
Trusting here that the Times reporters know what they're talking about. Some have reported on The Donald for thirty years. They know what he is and how he operates. Others have attended multiple press conferences of his and have first-hand experience. Am assuming their experiences have shown them sides of Trump he doesn't want publicized.
Actually meeting a person or having conversations with him will influence the way that one feels about someone else. Since there is no such thing as perfect objectivity, articles will inevitably reflect the experiences of reporters.
Maybe people in the media are biased because they know Trump to an extent, and it's clear to them that he is not good presidential material. Maybe the media is doing us a favor by protecting us from this man.
Instead of assuming that reporters have some sort of political agenda, why not assume that they have some personal experiences with the candidates that have helped them to judge which of the two is actually capable of steering our ship of state. They're on the front lines when it comes to politics and will have experienced far more of the candidates than almost anyone else not directly connected to their campaigns or personal lives.
Trusting here that the Times reporters know what they're talking about. Some have reported on The Donald for thirty years. They know what he is and how he operates. Others have attended multiple press conferences of his and have first-hand experience. Am assuming their experiences have shown them sides of Trump he doesn't want publicized.
4
The lack of any rebuke of Trump for saying he will not respect the democratic process by GOP Leadership is appalling. As someone who has his entire life voted Republican, funded Republicans in a significant way and has called himself a Republican I want the GOP leadership to know when early voting starts here in Texas on Monday I will do the responsible thing now and vote straight Democrat. At least the Democrats have adult supervision rather than the childish leadership of the GOP.
78
Thank you BW. We need more patriotic Americans like you to come forward and say enough is enough. We are all in this together regardless of party affiliation; a fact which all too many of us seem to have forgotten. It gives me hope when I read posts like this. May the sun forever shine on the great state of Texas.
I find that I have no further need to listen to anything this man has to say.
10
In recent months I've been hearing that some people, particularly children were afraid of clowns. Many years ago as a child I never had such thoughts. Lately, looking at Donald Trump and his behavior I wonder if there is some connection with fear of clowns. I now see how a child could get shaken by Trump's antics and actions.
1
The larger fear: What would a candidate do -- if he won -- if as president, he didn't like the actual outcome of the election?
1
Why wouldn't Donald Trump, the showman, say he will keep America in "suspense"? The Great and All Knowing Donald knows that successful Reality TV uses 'cliffhangers' to tease viewers into tuning into the next episode.
Donald has turned our national election into a tragicomedy. He does not intend to bring the curtain down and take a bow on November 8; he intends to bring America down.
There are somethings that should never be joked about. Trivializing and showing disdain for our democracy, suggesting election results are rigged and rousing millions of citizens to not accept the election outcome is beyond disgusting and distasteful, it is seditious.
Donald has turned our national election into a tragicomedy. He does not intend to bring the curtain down and take a bow on November 8; he intends to bring America down.
There are somethings that should never be joked about. Trivializing and showing disdain for our democracy, suggesting election results are rigged and rousing millions of citizens to not accept the election outcome is beyond disgusting and distasteful, it is seditious.
5
The Donald certainly knows how to keep the media spotlight on himself. Instead of melting down as he should have after his last debate performance he is still flaming brightly. He is either very smart to do so or will soon end ignobly like his predecessors Mussolini and Hitler. We will miss his performances after this election. Instead of the Trump TV platform he is hoping for we may see him performing before special committees of Congress and maybe even as a defendant in civil or federal law court cases. The best show will come when we some mole in the IRS finally leaks his income tax returns and we all get to see that the entire Trump empire is just a Ponzi scheme and he owes more than he claims to be worth. What a loser!
2
Who cares about winning an election when you are actually planning to launch a media empire ? Donald Trump is mainly interested in launching Trump Tv, and his rather strange election campaign was just the primer for this purpose.
2
Interestingly, Al Smith is the proto-type for a corporate Democrat. He tried to stop Roosevelt at the 1932 convention and campaigned vigorously against FDR in 1936, comparing the New Deal to Godless Communism.
His chief campaign backer was John J. Raskob, former top executive with DuPont, GM and DNC Chairman prior to FDR winning the 1932 Democratic Party nomination.
Smith came up through the Tammany Hall corrupt syndicate. So having Hillary speak was appropriate.
His chief campaign backer was John J. Raskob, former top executive with DuPont, GM and DNC Chairman prior to FDR winning the 1932 Democratic Party nomination.
Smith came up through the Tammany Hall corrupt syndicate. So having Hillary speak was appropriate.
Trump's fascistic-autocratic bent is showing again when he says, in effect, "Not thy way, Voters, but my way" and "My way or the highway."
If history has given us occasions to despair of "democracy," keeping us from returning to caves and clubs hasn't been one of them.
If history has given us occasions to despair of "democracy," keeping us from returning to caves and clubs hasn't been one of them.
I´ve been thinking that a smart guy like Donald Trump cannot be doing things like this unless he doesn´t really want to win the election. Is he really willing to become President of the United States or he has realized that the burden is too heavy for his shoulders?
He is just saying these things. Around the water cooler at work he is the center of conversation. I have no doubt he will win and he knows it. After wikileaks there is no way anyone would vote for the "other" one.
There are many who will be voting for the other one. You might want to practice saying Madame President.
1
Perhaps you haven't noticed that the "other" one hasn't been insulting and vilifying the American electorate during the course of the entire campaign, and doesn't tweet unadulterated mendacity at 3am.
1
Go Trump! Stand by your conviction; stand by what you believe!
1
This is the funniest comment yet. Trump has changed party affiliation six times. He frequently contradicts himself in a single sentence. Trump believes in himself and that's pretty much it.
13
Like one comment said a few days ago, In many ways Trump has already won. Sadly, a new wave of hate, disrespect, agression and racism is renewed in America. Elections are corrupt he does have a valid point about contesting the results.
The Trump show is ending and we are all glad. For 16 months he had a good run of the Celebrity Apprentice--President of the US version, but now it sounds repetitive and boring, like a re-run. Trump, You're fired! See you next season.
2
How silly you all are. I am not a Trumpet but I find the media nonsense to be offputting.
By now, most of us know about comments beginning with: "I am not a Trump supporter, but..."
7
The Times continues to astonish critical thinkers with their twisting soviet style propaganda headlines. Trump has proven to be sloppy and coarse, but the reality is that the establishment lined up to destroy him with the Hillary Clinton Times at the front of the queue. The democrats appear to be shifting to be the party of the big government centered socialists along with their state sponsored media. The truth is that a Trump presidency would probably be no better. Time will tell how far we rise or fall. Mock my moniker, but it is empirically verified by our current culture footprint and this election.
I have a question for the liberals: What did you say when Al Gore contested the 2000 election? Was he "unfit" to be President? What about when John Kerry would not initially concede the 2004 election? It's just amazing the hypocrisy on the left.
its been posted 10, 000 times that fl law mandated th recount
now its 10, 001 times
now its 10, 001 times
5
You mis-remember Andrew.
Gore retracted his concession after learning that Florida would have to do a mandatory recount under state law. What Gore and his legal team challenged, sir, was not the validity of the election but how the recount would be carried out.
It was so close (1784 votes) that it was his duty to await the recount.
He never claimed anything was rigged.
Try harder.
Gore retracted his concession after learning that Florida would have to do a mandatory recount under state law. What Gore and his legal team challenged, sir, was not the validity of the election but how the recount would be carried out.
It was so close (1784 votes) that it was his duty to await the recount.
He never claimed anything was rigged.
Try harder.
8
First. There is no feasible way to equate Al Gore with Donald Trump.
Not only was Gore fit to be President, he won the popular vote by a wide margin, and had the intellegence and grace to know how to concede the election.
That's something Trump has shown he has no real intention of doing, regardless of what he says.
Not only was Gore fit to be President, he won the popular vote by a wide margin, and had the intellegence and grace to know how to concede the election.
That's something Trump has shown he has no real intention of doing, regardless of what he says.
6
Now that the debates, and Al Smith charity roastings are over, Trump can go back to his much anticipated, and normal querulous behavior, and constant carping tongue. It is a common knowledge that his churlish chapters will continue to have no end. He apparently does not take to jests, the way duck takes to water. It has been the gospel truth from time immemorial that he has preferred petulance over pleasantness. No fathomable reason. That's perhaps his DNA, which is immutable.
Hillary was a lot less vapid in the Al Smith dinner. Having stood steady in 3 debates, her campaign can stay laser focused on substantive issues, rather than bare knuckle brawls, which Trump is so fond of, and revels in. Yet, the anti-Hillary force is quite a juggernaut, to deal with. She may not be able to assuage them, even after these arduous days of ground gaming, owing to her own terribly imperfect and beleaguered past.
All said and done, the election results, which will be anybody's guess, will have to be abided by, as there are no other choices for the vanquished. If Trump creates a hullabaloo, in the event of his loss, all inferno can break lose and cause havoc. That's for sure, if his recent pronouncements are any guide. Unwanted riots have to be quelled if they raise their ugly heads.
Hillary was a lot less vapid in the Al Smith dinner. Having stood steady in 3 debates, her campaign can stay laser focused on substantive issues, rather than bare knuckle brawls, which Trump is so fond of, and revels in. Yet, the anti-Hillary force is quite a juggernaut, to deal with. She may not be able to assuage them, even after these arduous days of ground gaming, owing to her own terribly imperfect and beleaguered past.
All said and done, the election results, which will be anybody's guess, will have to be abided by, as there are no other choices for the vanquished. If Trump creates a hullabaloo, in the event of his loss, all inferno can break lose and cause havoc. That's for sure, if his recent pronouncements are any guide. Unwanted riots have to be quelled if they raise their ugly heads.
Since when does a pre-election pledge legally bind anyone? Just look at the pledge that all the Republican candidates took when they thought Trump wasn't going to win the primaries and were concerned that he would run as an independent. He signed the pledge and then he won the candidacy and they ripped their pledges up. I'm no fan of Trump, but the Republican party is filled with self righteous hypocrits
1
Let's not forget that Trump is the suer-in-chief (as well as the sewer-in-chief) and could easily sue in each state in which he loses, potentially hamstringing the election outcome for months if not for years. Let's not forget that he is super thin-skinned and has such a weak, delicate ego and super-thin skin that he could easily sue each state in which he loses.
1
Donald,
you will get a butt-kicking on Nov 8 and you will take it, willingly or not.
you will get a butt-kicking on Nov 8 and you will take it, willingly or not.
4
Remember that classic line from Casablanca when Capt. Renault says "I'm shocked to discover there is gambling here" Why on earth would anyone be surprised or shocked to discover that Putin's collaborator is doing his best to subvert American democracy. The bottom line is that it's no longer Trump vs Hillary, it's Trump vs. American democracy. It look like most of America has begun to figure this out, and is planning to vote accordingly. CW has is that elections are often about voting against rather than for. This time America has to ask itself one question. Are you for democracy and the constitution? If yes, then vote Hillary, because every vote Hillary gets is, first and foremost, a vote for. For democracy, for the constitution, for the American Revolution which is still, in many ways, a work in progress.
I believe that it's pretty much a forgone conclusion that Trump will lose this election. I also believe that it won't be close. And if he were not to accept the election outcome, claiming voter fraud, it would be regarded by the vast majority of voters to be outrageous and grossly irresponsible...Now maybe he's thinking of profiting somehow from such an experience, but I simply can't imagine that a significant majority of his followers would be so inclined to believe that the election was "rigged". For Trump to put the blame squarely on the "media's" shoulders without taking a serious look in the mirror, it would just serve to reinforce what many of us already think and believe -- that Donald Trump is a selfish and irresponsible individual whose opinions and actions have proven so reprehensible to the majority as to make his candidacy more of a joke than something to be considered seriously.
25
I agree if Trump claims electoral fraud, it will be rejected by a majority of the country. But a "vast majority?" I'm not sure. I think whatever percentage is with him and votes for him on Election Day has proven that they are willing to support him regardless of what he does or says. Many of them appear principally motivated to register in no-uncertain terms their anger with being left behind by the existing socio-political-economic system.
IMO to them this is not about a discourse on American democratic traditions, so much as venting long-boiling frustrations.
IMO to them this is not about a discourse on American democratic traditions, so much as venting long-boiling frustrations.
1
I am still looking for someone who wants four more years of Obama. They have to work for the government.
Morris Bentley - You don't get out much do you? Millions of us would be thrilled to have President Obama for another term.
3
I confess that if Donald wins, a thought that fills me with dread, I hereby pledge that I will not accept the outcome. I will spend four years trying not to read a paper, watch him on TV, or acknowledge him as our leader. His name will not pass my lips. If I could travel abroad for the entire four years in a haze of denial, that would even be better.
2
So the Trumpian logic (an oxymoron if there ever was one) here is: if Trump wins then the election was fair, unbiased, completely above-board, and NOT rigged. But if he loses, then the election was fixed, corrupted, and totally rigged. And some of those cherry-picking his quotes say that he's just doing what previous candidates have done. But that is not true--he has called for violence, in his reference to 2nd Amendment people having "something to say" about election results, he has threatened riots from his adherents (who show no reluctance in that regard) and he has attacked the democratic process on many occasions. This shows a total disregard for the good of the nation and an alarming ignorance of American history in which the peaceful handing over of power from one administration to the next has been a cornerstone since Jefferson's election in 1801 (no matter how vitriolic the campaign that preceded it).
2
The Trump Show is just about over. Trump's campaign meme about "taking back America" brought out the most banal bigots, racists, rednecks and, as HIllary said, "deplorables" since the Goldwater days. To be sure, not everyone who supports Trump falls into those categories, but many do. Trump's presidency would not have made "America Great Again". It would have made "America Hate Again". Sad. Very sad. And Trump is a sad porcine man. Definitely not a 10. Not even an 8, nor a 7. At most a 3. As he slithers back to his gilded penthouse on Fifth Avenue, I have only the utmost sympathy for him, although I surely won't miss his mean outbursts, his skewed views about women, his ugly racist and bigoted characterizations of the American public, and his vile personality.
2
Donald Trump hasn’t threaten to block the peaceful turnover of power; he has threatened to challenge the vote tally if he thinks voter fraud has occurred. Richard Nixon famously opted not to contest the results of the 1960 presidential election, but that doesn’t mean candidates have surrendered their right to challenge election results. The 12th Amendment to the Constitution provides for challenges to presidential elections as a safeguard against election fraud. When Congress meets in joint session to count electoral votes, the President of the Senate must call for objections as each electoral vote is read out. The objection must be signed by one representative and one senator. When objections are made, both the Senate and House of Representatives must vote separately on the objection, which fails unless both houses agree. This process has been used twice in recent years, once in 1969 and once in 2005, both time by Democrats. The Electoral Count Act of 1887 permits candidates to challenge presidential election results at the state level, as Democrat Al Gore did in 2000 when Democrats contested the election results all the way to the Supreme Court.
I am keen that the true Republican decent defence of democracy and the freeworld are maintained. I am, though, saddened that 41% of voters asked said they would vote Trump still. He appears to disdain democracy. Did we really stand together in muddy fields in France for this man to be given any say whatsoever on any matter at all when it comes to actual government. He appears to struggle govern himself adequately. Your call though boys and girls, good luck to you all.
4
Trump is not a career politician; and that's why we trust him. we don't care what comes out of his mouth; we just want him to fix this mess. If he accomplishes two things: 1) Term Limits; and 2) Supreme court appointees from his already published list, we don't care if takes the rest of the term and goes on vacation. I wouldn't care if he turns the White House into his next great golf resort hotel. I don;t care if he ever builds a wall, but i like the idea because it gives us a visual of the problem. A Trump Win is a defeat for the New York Times, CNN and MSNBC; and that is not a bad thing because these people would like to eliminate election day and just pick the President from a small committee of liberal journalists. Do you really think they trust the American people to pick their own leader. If nothing else, a Trump Win will send a message to media that they are not in charge. a Trump Win will send a message to the career politicians that they better put the people ahead of themselves. Have you ever looked at their pension and benefits. No employee has a benefits that come close to a Congressman or U.S. Senator. Have you ever asked yourself why the Congress changed the law to ensure that their benefits get paid first before any other government expenditures? They know with $20 Trillion in debt and climbing, the system will eventually collapse, and there will definitely not be enough to pay for everything, so they put themselves ahead of the people who elected them.
11
You might as well write Santa and ask him to bring you a pony for Christmas. Trump won't win and you're very lucky that he won't because the harm he would do could have a deep and lasting impact on your life.
6
Denying the legitimacy of our election is a slippery slope. It doesn't start with a fascist overthrow or a brutal takeover. It starts with challenging the foundation of our democracy.
2
Recording the nonsense this man speaks is akin to doing the same for a barking dog.
3
well put
1
Trump's seditious comments should come as no surprise. Republicans had already cranked this kind of behavior up to 10 before he began his campaign by declaring they would refuse to work with President Obama. His threat of not agreeing to election results, etc., is part of a continuum, not a unique instance. Both Trump and the Republicans need to pay a price for all of this by being overwhelmingly beaten at the polls.
4
Go Trump!! I wish the media would cover Trump truthfully and stop trying to spin his views and comments. Why don't you spin more of Hillary's comments and wrong doings! Wake up AMERICA. Female supporter of Trump
1
Did you watch the debate? There is no spin, these are the things he said and did.
6
@ Chris. - We don't need the media to tell us who Trump is. He has shown us in the debates and in his rallies and speeches that he is totally unqualified to be President of the U.S.. If I had not read even one sentence about him I would have concluded that.
7
Is the concern here that there will be riots by Trump supporters if he loses similar to the violent protests by Black Lives Matters that was encouraged and fomented by the media?
Does the fact that Hillary and company are pushing the Russian conspiracy theory (out of desperation) concern anyone and invoke bad memories of McCarthyism?
Does the fact that Hillary and company are pushing the Russian conspiracy theory (out of desperation) concern anyone and invoke bad memories of McCarthyism?
1
desperation ?
when shes trashing him in th polls ?
its trump who is desperate
1
No. but Donald is clearly a big fan of Putin, no conspiracy ...fact!
2
It is amazing the hysteria among the Times writers as well as the bulk of the commentariat. People worry about him inciting violence, but now we find it was Democratic operatives who initiated violence at Trump rallies -- including one who regularly appeared at the WH and met with Obama on several occasions.
Trump is perfectly within his rights to say he will reserve judgment until the results are in. If Hillary wins by a clear number of electoral votes -- as it is unlikely she will win a majority of the popular vote -- then Trump will concede. But if it is close, particularly in swing states -- I think he would be correct in making sure that all the votes were counted correctly. Results could be off for a number of reasons, including human error. But because the voting process is not ironclad, it is quite possible -- as we saw in Florida -- that votes could be miscounted.
And strange things happen. In the 2000 election all major networks announced that the polls in Florida would close at 7 ET. Except the heavily Republican western part of FL is in the central time zone -- so the end result was lower turnout in those western precincts. Probably an accident. But there were other actions from both sides that were questionable.
So, only a fool would waive their right to challenge election results under circumstances like Florida.
Trump is perfectly within his rights to say he will reserve judgment until the results are in. If Hillary wins by a clear number of electoral votes -- as it is unlikely she will win a majority of the popular vote -- then Trump will concede. But if it is close, particularly in swing states -- I think he would be correct in making sure that all the votes were counted correctly. Results could be off for a number of reasons, including human error. But because the voting process is not ironclad, it is quite possible -- as we saw in Florida -- that votes could be miscounted.
And strange things happen. In the 2000 election all major networks announced that the polls in Florida would close at 7 ET. Except the heavily Republican western part of FL is in the central time zone -- so the end result was lower turnout in those western precincts. Probably an accident. But there were other actions from both sides that were questionable.
So, only a fool would waive their right to challenge election results under circumstances like Florida.
1
The violence you claim was incited by Democrats, has not been proven! And I'm willing to bet good money that it was funded by Donald to smear the DNC!
5
Mari - tapes look pretty convincing to me -- but all progs seem to reject or ignore any negative info on Hill or the Dems and try to turn it on Donald.
Trump is accustomed to declaring bankruptcy when one of his economic projects goes belly-up---stiffing his contractors, giving his investors a haircut, and coming away with tax losses that can be used to pad his bankroll.
Unfortunately, there is no political bankruptcy statute to help Trump save face, make money, and salve his fragile ego. But the voters can help him declare political bankruptcy by overwhelmingly electing Secretary Clinton as the 45th President of the United States. It's an overwhelming POPULAR VOTE majority for Hillary that will convince Trump that he has nothing to gain by lawsuits, temper tantrums, and an attack on American democracy that could otherwise go on for as long as his phony Birtherism rants did about President Obama.
Unfortunately, there is no political bankruptcy statute to help Trump save face, make money, and salve his fragile ego. But the voters can help him declare political bankruptcy by overwhelmingly electing Secretary Clinton as the 45th President of the United States. It's an overwhelming POPULAR VOTE majority for Hillary that will convince Trump that he has nothing to gain by lawsuits, temper tantrums, and an attack on American democracy that could otherwise go on for as long as his phony Birtherism rants did about President Obama.
8
Nobody outside the US will never again take the country for serious after this ridiculous and disgusting election campaign.Shame on all of yours for making a mockery out of democracy.
2
america has descended into th category of joke country
usually reserved for broken down 3rd world banana republics
only difference is they dont grow bananas is th usa
@Hank
Speaking as someone who lives under a monarchy, you might forget that part of what makes a democracy function is the freedom to be "ridiculous".
On the other hand, you might want to take further stock of what's happening in Sweden with the rise of the right-wing 'Sverigedemokraterna', which is also somewhat shameful.
Speaking as someone who lives under a monarchy, you might forget that part of what makes a democracy function is the freedom to be "ridiculous".
On the other hand, you might want to take further stock of what's happening in Sweden with the rise of the right-wing 'Sverigedemokraterna', which is also somewhat shameful.
2
More manufactured outrage. If the election hinges on close/inconclusive results in one or more states, then each candidate owes it to their own supporters, to withhold acceptance of the result (and/or contest the result, if circumstances warrant), until the affected states employ their own checks. All or nearly all states have recount requirements if the popular vote counts winds up very close. To claim victory, or concede, a state whose own officials are recounting, is anti-democratic (small d).
The world now knows that our Democracy is a joke. The establishment of both parties has been hand picking the nominees for years. How else could two names be in the White house for 28 years and possibly 8 more. At least the Bush political dynasty was slain. The founding fathers are not sleeping well.
1
Like John Adams and John Quincy Adams?
What if he doesn't win?
He'll take it anyway.
He'll take it anyway.
You have to give it to Trump (at least I do); he's proven to be exceptional,...not many 70yr Old Adolescent Narcissists get this far in life.
The one's I grew up around: in jail, first name basis with most bailbondsmen in the area, parole, (unfortunately a few are) cops, have restraining orders in volumes, went in the military but were kicked out before they got their uniforms,...
The one's I grew up around: in jail, first name basis with most bailbondsmen in the area, parole, (unfortunately a few are) cops, have restraining orders in volumes, went in the military but were kicked out before they got their uniforms,...
1
OTOH, Her Majesty refused to answer the same question. When Jennifer Griffin asked her if she would preemptively renounce her right to challenge the results if she loses, HRM dismissed her subject forthwith, asserting monarchical privilege.
Odd since no one in Trump campaign has been caught on video confessing to vote fraud & assorted other election-corrupting crimes…
Why would anyone accept an HC "win" as legitimate when the evidence is damning & mounting daily that HC & BO, Alinsky disciples both, together w/ the entire Clinton cabal, which includes the WH, DOJ, FBI, DNC & agitprop press, are corrupting this election. If her name weren't Clinton, she wouldn't pass an FBI background check for an entry-level post. She'd be in the slammer.
The premise of Clinton's argument, that this is a "clean, free election," is patently false, but her argument is circular in any case.
The real threat to American democracy and liberty isn't Trump's comment but rather Clinton's corruption.
The D operative involved, Rbt Creamer, a felon & husband of D IL Rep Jan Schakowsky, visited WH more than 300 times & met w/ Obama 47 of those times. He was immediately fired, tacit admission of the crimes/conspiracy.
The fired D dirty-tricks operative was caught on tape unwittingly providing admissions of vote fraud, inciting violence at Trump rallies ("bird-dogging") & a dark money trail to DNC & Clinton campaign.
Our retrogressive lurch toward monarchical oppression & tyranny continues.
Odd since no one in Trump campaign has been caught on video confessing to vote fraud & assorted other election-corrupting crimes…
Why would anyone accept an HC "win" as legitimate when the evidence is damning & mounting daily that HC & BO, Alinsky disciples both, together w/ the entire Clinton cabal, which includes the WH, DOJ, FBI, DNC & agitprop press, are corrupting this election. If her name weren't Clinton, she wouldn't pass an FBI background check for an entry-level post. She'd be in the slammer.
The premise of Clinton's argument, that this is a "clean, free election," is patently false, but her argument is circular in any case.
The real threat to American democracy and liberty isn't Trump's comment but rather Clinton's corruption.
The D operative involved, Rbt Creamer, a felon & husband of D IL Rep Jan Schakowsky, visited WH more than 300 times & met w/ Obama 47 of those times. He was immediately fired, tacit admission of the crimes/conspiracy.
The fired D dirty-tricks operative was caught on tape unwittingly providing admissions of vote fraud, inciting violence at Trump rallies ("bird-dogging") & a dark money trail to DNC & Clinton campaign.
Our retrogressive lurch toward monarchical oppression & tyranny continues.
Aren't we glad he'll be accepting the rules after all, albeit on condition of winning. Should that happen -- let's not keep anybody in suspense -- the nation would accept it, even though this result would smell heavily of rigging.
Interesting to see the "rigging" myth has made it al the way to Switzerland.
The only thing is, that's all it is ...until proven otherwise.
Another thing.
It's best not to believe everything that comes out of Trump's mouth.
He has the habit of changing his mind in the space of a nano-second.
The only thing is, that's all it is ...until proven otherwise.
Another thing.
It's best not to believe everything that comes out of Trump's mouth.
He has the habit of changing his mind in the space of a nano-second.
2
Actually, I tried a little irony and parody. Sorry, if you took me seriously, N. Smith, probably my fault.
1
@Krug
No problem. Sometimes its hard to make the distinction between irony and truth, when deaing with the subject matter of Donald Trump.
No problem. Sometimes its hard to make the distinction between irony and truth, when deaing with the subject matter of Donald Trump.
1
Empty rhetoric from a bloviating fool. His followers will gripe and moan and continue to accept their government benefits: Medicare, Medicaid, food stamps, free schools, etc. I was worried about violent uprisings across the country but now I realize they'll be too busy watching Trump TV.
3
Excellent decision! Same goes for Hillary will she accept the results of the Election? Al Gore did then he didn't (on the advise of Bill Clinton) and after going to the Supreme Court finally conceded.
Here in Southwest Ohio (battleground state), the counties surrounding Hamilton County, largely Cincinnati and its near suburbs, the election will most likely be hotly contested due largely to the Democratic majority within the City of Cincinnati. The suburbs and metro areas north and east of the City are largely Republican, thus posing a real test of strength for both Clinton and Trump.
This is just background to point out that Republican officials in and around Cincinnati are praising Trump's refusal to accept the election's results unless he wins or beaten like a rug. One Butler County official was quoted this morning as describing Trump's stance was "the work of genius." Another said it reflected Trump's refreshing willingness to upset the applecart.
These and others of a similar ilk do not, however, brag about the Ohio General Assembly's constant efforts (most, thankfully, rebuffed by federal courts) to severely restrict voting opportunities in the inner city and in predominately black zip codes.
I offer this as a gentle reminder that there exists in this great nation a persistent undercurrent of anti-government fervor, tinged with racist attitudes towards individual freedoms, including the right to vote. It is this loathing that is driving the Trump candidacy, and the best and only way to counter it is by voting on Nov. 8 to uphold civil society.
This is just background to point out that Republican officials in and around Cincinnati are praising Trump's refusal to accept the election's results unless he wins or beaten like a rug. One Butler County official was quoted this morning as describing Trump's stance was "the work of genius." Another said it reflected Trump's refreshing willingness to upset the applecart.
These and others of a similar ilk do not, however, brag about the Ohio General Assembly's constant efforts (most, thankfully, rebuffed by federal courts) to severely restrict voting opportunities in the inner city and in predominately black zip codes.
I offer this as a gentle reminder that there exists in this great nation a persistent undercurrent of anti-government fervor, tinged with racist attitudes towards individual freedoms, including the right to vote. It is this loathing that is driving the Trump candidacy, and the best and only way to counter it is by voting on Nov. 8 to uphold civil society.
3
I believe Donald expects the listener to provide his or her own "ba-da-boom!" after "---if I win!!" That's show biz, folks.
1
Judging from his performance at the Al Smith dinner last night, Trump is obviously the Unhappy Warrior.
3
Now that the Al Smith roasting dinner and the debates are over, Trump can comfortably revert back to his querulous behavior, and his habit of constantly carping tongue., For some curious reasons, he seems to have a penchant for petulance, rather than pleasantness. That has now become more pronounced gospel truth, since the onset of this election cycle. It is probably his innate instinct, from his DNA, which is possibly immutable. During the Al Smith catholic charity dinner, his humor was quite wry and dry.
Hillary, despite her own severe shortcomings, was much less insipid. She was wittier and more personable, with ear to ear grins. Donald had his grins quite a bit rationed and restricted. His discomfiture in cracking jokes was quite kenspeckle. In addition, his effort at suppressing any ill-will was awkward and clumsy, as if he was swallowing an extremely bitter pill.
Whatever said and done, the vanquished will have to abide by the results. If Trump refuses to acknowledge his rout, as he has been announcing recently, and questions the results stridently, even if they are fair, one can only wish him good luck with that. As a consequence, his efforts at reversing the results will be both futile and unwarranted. He has to get resigned to the fact that he has lost. If he directly or indirectly foments any riots, or mutinies, they will have to be quelled, quite relentlessly. There will be no other option, and it is stating the obvious.
Hillary, despite her own severe shortcomings, was much less insipid. She was wittier and more personable, with ear to ear grins. Donald had his grins quite a bit rationed and restricted. His discomfiture in cracking jokes was quite kenspeckle. In addition, his effort at suppressing any ill-will was awkward and clumsy, as if he was swallowing an extremely bitter pill.
Whatever said and done, the vanquished will have to abide by the results. If Trump refuses to acknowledge his rout, as he has been announcing recently, and questions the results stridently, even if they are fair, one can only wish him good luck with that. As a consequence, his efforts at reversing the results will be both futile and unwarranted. He has to get resigned to the fact that he has lost. If he directly or indirectly foments any riots, or mutinies, they will have to be quelled, quite relentlessly. There will be no other option, and it is stating the obvious.
I find it amusing how every time Donald Trump opens his mouth and inserts foot, the Republican pundits scramble to "clarify" his statements. Luckily, most of us are not buying it. What he said in the heat of the moment is EXACTLY what he meant and what he is saying today is but him succumbing to the pressure of his advisors to rectify yet another misstep. Moreover, he is doing a very poor job at it, since it's not what he truly believes. We should be grateful that Donny is so transparent, otherwise, he would be infinitely more dangerous.
3
While there's great truth in what you say -- that still doesn't account for the ca. 40% of Americans who don't see through Trump's transparency.
And the Republican "pundits" don't help....
And the Republican "pundits" don't help....
2
When the devil wears a smile, you know nothing he says is without double meaning. All that smiling Trumpenstein did at the Al Smith dinner last night was a clue that he has already gotten all his ducks in order for massive lawsuits, the strategy Trump always uses when he sniffs a failure or loss in his future.
3
The American people would be better served if the media would stop banging on Trump 24/7 and give some coverage to the allegations against HRC, which seems to be even more seriously comprimising the future of not only America but the world.
Last night PBS aired "The White House: Inside Story". It was is excellent documentary on the The White House, the building, it's history, it's occupants, and staff. It had interviews with many of its occupants includes Presidents and First Ladies. It provided a sense of the values and traditions of not only The White House but what it means to be the family that occupies it.
While watching that show I found it impossible to imagine Donald Trump living there. In our house. The contradiction of style and taste as evidenced in Trump's gilded and gauche palaces and monuments to himself was all to stark and obvious.
A telling moment was during an interview, and I think it was with Laura Bush, where she spoke on the power of our democracy as demonstrated in smooth transition of power as one family moves in while another moves out. It might be taken as a reaction to what Trump said except the documentary was first aired July 12 of this year.
While watching that show I found it impossible to imagine Donald Trump living there. In our house. The contradiction of style and taste as evidenced in Trump's gilded and gauche palaces and monuments to himself was all to stark and obvious.
A telling moment was during an interview, and I think it was with Laura Bush, where she spoke on the power of our democracy as demonstrated in smooth transition of power as one family moves in while another moves out. It might be taken as a reaction to what Trump said except the documentary was first aired July 12 of this year.
2
With the hacking of the DNC proof that the DNC was in the bag for Hilary and not giving Bernie the media or chance he needed, the HRC campaign has proved itself as willing to Rig the results of the election. On the right, there are videos coming out showing that Podesta doesnt mind if illegals and dreamers vote with their drivers licence, even if they are not citizens, and that the rougher groups have been hired to disrupt outside Trumps "huoooge" events, and even that Hilary got free questions for the debate from Donna Brazille. I think his followers get it when he hems and haws at such a question. I was kind of surprised it was asked, given that Hilary and Bill supported Al Gore when he would not concede in his race for president. If there is even one illegal immigrant casting a foul vote, it is not a free and fair election.
1
He says he reserves the right to challenge the election "in the case of a questionable result". And who will be sole arbiter of what represents a questionable result? Why, Donald J. Trump, of course. The chance he will concede unequivocally is nil.
2
What Trump really wants is to build the kind of following that is normally reserved for cult leaders. Whether he gets the White House is irrelevant. He'll have his adoring followers for the rest of his life. Prepare for them to be trouble-stirrers for years to come.
Thanks GOP. America owes you big time for this.
Thanks GOP. America owes you big time for this.
1
This was the first year in more than 65 that I voted early, by mail. The rest of my California family did the same. I wasn't sure how I'd feel about having this option. Now I know that it has made me more impatient for voters in the rest of the country to get their chance to speak out, and for this debacle of an election season to be over with. I may choose to wait in line four years from now.
2
President Jimmy Carter had a much better grasp on objectifying women, and he was widely lampooned and ridiculed.
Saying that committed adultery, in his heart, he was framing the condemnation from the Bible from which he modeled his life. A much more pervasive ban on reducing women to objects, President Carter understood at a much more profound level the temptation that seems to grip a large number of our fellow citizens, namely those that become entangled in extra-marital affairs and those that subtly use their sexuality to enlarge their power.
You say "no"? I will take a dollar for every woman who strides into the next charity event with cleavage exposed for the world to see. Now that's just a body part, correct? Well, yes, that it is. And I suppose we should start cutting men's trousers to accentuate the size of their genitals...the better to attract attention. If not in mixed company, perhaps it will fly with certain audiences.
We are so hypocritical about how we objectify each other. One day it is Matthew McConnaughey and the next day it is Tom Cruise or the fictional Ross Poldark who must remove his shirt at least once an episode to remind us what covers the rent check in Cornwall.
Mr. Trump is a boorish and vulgar man. We used to recoil from that behavior. However, we now live in a twilight of morals where college men and women get drunk and take most of their clothing off, as long as they have a legal consent form.
The Muslim chador, coming to your town.
Saying that committed adultery, in his heart, he was framing the condemnation from the Bible from which he modeled his life. A much more pervasive ban on reducing women to objects, President Carter understood at a much more profound level the temptation that seems to grip a large number of our fellow citizens, namely those that become entangled in extra-marital affairs and those that subtly use their sexuality to enlarge their power.
You say "no"? I will take a dollar for every woman who strides into the next charity event with cleavage exposed for the world to see. Now that's just a body part, correct? Well, yes, that it is. And I suppose we should start cutting men's trousers to accentuate the size of their genitals...the better to attract attention. If not in mixed company, perhaps it will fly with certain audiences.
We are so hypocritical about how we objectify each other. One day it is Matthew McConnaughey and the next day it is Tom Cruise or the fictional Ross Poldark who must remove his shirt at least once an episode to remind us what covers the rent check in Cornwall.
Mr. Trump is a boorish and vulgar man. We used to recoil from that behavior. However, we now live in a twilight of morals where college men and women get drunk and take most of their clothing off, as long as they have a legal consent form.
The Muslim chador, coming to your town.
Trump has been trying to build audience for his (future) TV venture. For democracy to function and flourish it is good to have a counterbalance voice. And for a while I thought Trump could do just that. But his debate performance and subsequent shenanigans have proven that he has a small repertoire of sentences and he keeps repeating the same thing. I don't see how he can translate the 40% voting on Republican ticket to TV ratings, yet agains he will be on fringes--the Trump side show.
To think that after November, Trump as a topic of conversation will go away, is missing the point big time. The issue is not Trump. The issue is the enraged (and armed) people without power in the most unequal country on Earth. How did they become disenfranchised? They will make their voice heard in many other ways.
For a taste of what is to come look at the disintegration of the United Kingdom, post Brexit.
For a taste of what is to come look at the disintegration of the United Kingdom, post Brexit.
1
Listen, geniuses, it was a joke.
As far as Trump accepting results go, who cares. The results will speak for themselves.
As far as Trump accepting results go, who cares. The results will speak for themselves.
1
The geniuses are the ones who take anything Trump says as the opposite of what he really means....especially when it comes to winning.
1
He's obviously been watching his hero Putin.
I am aware of only Democrats who have challenged Presidential election results, but now its outrageous for Trump to even suggest that might do the same. Give me a break. He's a business man.
Presidential elections don't need widespread fraud to be "rigged". You only need to affect the results of a few districts in a few states. See 1960.
I have a car to sell every one of you that are outraged by his comment. You can't see or drive it first and I will just hand you the keys and the payment book.
Presidential elections don't need widespread fraud to be "rigged". You only need to affect the results of a few districts in a few states. See 1960.
I have a car to sell every one of you that are outraged by his comment. You can't see or drive it first and I will just hand you the keys and the payment book.
He is; he isn't. He is; he isn't. He is; he isn't. Such leadership: truly presidential.
2
I am a firm believer that strong competition breeds excellence sadly this race has turned into a reality show that I no longer want to watch. There was a time when I thought Bernie or Donald was the answer the upset the apple cart we have come to accept as our modern day political system. Every four years we are told a change is about to come if we only make the right choice in the voting booth. After the election it seems like everyone who promised change always find an excuse of why the change they promised will never come. With Trump having turned this election into carnival show I fear when Hillary wins in November there will be no real mandate to change anything. Sad part is if Trump could have just put his sensitive ego on the shelf for a while he could have made this a serious race. Three weeks from zero hour and no one has told us their dream for our country. Trump is no longer entertaining or funny for he has become a national embarrassment. Maybe we had to reach this point for us to realize how ridicules we have truly become. The right has played one our fears and prejudice for years and now they are about to reap the harvest they have sowed. Does anyone besides me ever wonder what ever happened to the party of Lincoln? A full day the news cycle after the debate has been overwhelmed with the question will Trump accept the results if and win he loses. So in other words our republic is so fragile that there will anarchy if the likes of Trump refuses to concede?
The Republican Party as it is presently constituted deserves to be put on the sidelines for tje next two election cycles, and the party's office holders,.leadersip, and campaign strategists should be required to pass a civics examination at least as difficult as the one that applicants for American citizenship are required to take and pass before being allowed to take the oath of allegiance at their naturalization ceremony. That Republican Party and those officials are a national disgrace and a stain on our reputation around the world.
Donald Trump's candidacy illustrates the intellectual bankruptcy and moral rot that the Republican Party has taken itself to in recent years. We need a new party that will restore honor and decency to conservative political programs and ideas that work for our country as a whole.
Donald Trump's candidacy illustrates the intellectual bankruptcy and moral rot that the Republican Party has taken itself to in recent years. We need a new party that will restore honor and decency to conservative political programs and ideas that work for our country as a whole.
America, time to take a few deep breaths. Donald is highly unlikely to be your next President. When he loses he may well rant and rave, but there is not much he can do about it.
I assume that you have laws about those whom incite political insurrection.
His supporters may well be angry after all his rhetoric was played to garner the support of the angry, and disposed. Their anger stems often from their own sense of helplessness and fear for their futures. A smart new government would work to address their fears and anxieties in a rational, constructive manner. There is much which is structurely wrong in American society, which the wise would well do to address.
I assume that you have laws about those whom incite political insurrection.
His supporters may well be angry after all his rhetoric was played to garner the support of the angry, and disposed. Their anger stems often from their own sense of helplessness and fear for their futures. A smart new government would work to address their fears and anxieties in a rational, constructive manner. There is much which is structurely wrong in American society, which the wise would well do to address.
I last heard this type of talk when my child was 6.
2
TRUMP will accept if he wins because it means that the Rigging done by the Billionaire class had little effect on the people who voted TRUMP. Its fact that massive rigging was the name of the game for Hillary from day one. First it worked against poor Sanders who got "delegated out" by making the delegates pledge their votes even before their followers cast a single vote thereby proving that the delegates couldn't care less for the people , what the people thought or did. If that was NOT rigging what's it then ?
TRUMP is the official candidate of the major political party, REPUBLICANS who has as many followers and more than Hillary .Still the mainstream media controlled by the elite 1% ignores that fact and has nothing but "evil" to say about TRUMP all these months and elevate Hilary to a faultless deity.If that is NOT RIGGING , whats it then ?
Democracy doesn't mean that election rigging be condoned and accepted. DEMOCRACY in America has been murdered by Hillary and her team of the elite 1% long back.Trump,the potential slayer of the wolves of Wall Street, Trump the man with guts and gumption to take on single handed the wolves of Wall street, and by opposing end them, Trump who has a mind of his own and no one's puppet protested and warned that he will not accept the election results since its rigged so blatantly how does he become anti-democratic ? Trump is certain that in spite of the rigging,he will win.Trump is our next POTUS , so say all of us the 99%.
TRUMP is the official candidate of the major political party, REPUBLICANS who has as many followers and more than Hillary .Still the mainstream media controlled by the elite 1% ignores that fact and has nothing but "evil" to say about TRUMP all these months and elevate Hilary to a faultless deity.If that is NOT RIGGING , whats it then ?
Democracy doesn't mean that election rigging be condoned and accepted. DEMOCRACY in America has been murdered by Hillary and her team of the elite 1% long back.Trump,the potential slayer of the wolves of Wall Street, Trump the man with guts and gumption to take on single handed the wolves of Wall street, and by opposing end them, Trump who has a mind of his own and no one's puppet protested and warned that he will not accept the election results since its rigged so blatantly how does he become anti-democratic ? Trump is certain that in spite of the rigging,he will win.Trump is our next POTUS , so say all of us the 99%.
To be blunt. I disagree with practically EVERYTHING you say.
I'm not sure if it's because of the Brit Press you read, or the channels that you watch, I'm not even sure if you can vote in American elections...but your information is wrong.
Another thing.
Donald Trump has insulted and alienated HALF of the American electorate, there's no way that he could possibly speak for the 99%.
And you also seem to forget that he is a BILLIONAIRE.
No slaying of Wall Street wolves in his agenda.
No BREXIT going on here.
I'm not sure if it's because of the Brit Press you read, or the channels that you watch, I'm not even sure if you can vote in American elections...but your information is wrong.
Another thing.
Donald Trump has insulted and alienated HALF of the American electorate, there's no way that he could possibly speak for the 99%.
And you also seem to forget that he is a BILLIONAIRE.
No slaying of Wall Street wolves in his agenda.
No BREXIT going on here.
1
Alan and Alex, I strongly believe there is a very strong case that can be built against Trump for which he should be or could be arrested even before the election.
By refusing to concede the election on the election night and by repeatedly coining the term,"rigged", Donald is building up a mass hysteria deliberately.
And if that mass hysteria or the mob frenzy that he's fomenting, all with the purpose of suppressing the will of the electorate, he's opening himself to a tangled legal mess from which he can be arrested if any citizen is hurt by his mob.
I don't know which lawyers are counseling him, but his innuendos that our our electoral college which is more than 200 years old, is rigged, he's trashing the purity of election process which no candidate challenged, except Al Gore who just challenged the counting of some paper ballots which turned to be true as some of the so called 'chad' did not fall down as expected, thus creating genuine doubts at the recount that he ordered.
But Donald's call for 'rigged' along racial lines,ethnicity line and on religion line is actually illegal under most of the Constitutional amendments that were passed.
Actually, most of Donald's rhetoric can be called unconstitutional.
And it's obvious that the man and his devotees never read our constitution as pointed by the father of a fallen soldier in the last Democratic convention.
So, in the end I think as counter punch to Trump's " Lock Hilary Up."
We should start our chant,"Lock Trump Up."
By refusing to concede the election on the election night and by repeatedly coining the term,"rigged", Donald is building up a mass hysteria deliberately.
And if that mass hysteria or the mob frenzy that he's fomenting, all with the purpose of suppressing the will of the electorate, he's opening himself to a tangled legal mess from which he can be arrested if any citizen is hurt by his mob.
I don't know which lawyers are counseling him, but his innuendos that our our electoral college which is more than 200 years old, is rigged, he's trashing the purity of election process which no candidate challenged, except Al Gore who just challenged the counting of some paper ballots which turned to be true as some of the so called 'chad' did not fall down as expected, thus creating genuine doubts at the recount that he ordered.
But Donald's call for 'rigged' along racial lines,ethnicity line and on religion line is actually illegal under most of the Constitutional amendments that were passed.
Actually, most of Donald's rhetoric can be called unconstitutional.
And it's obvious that the man and his devotees never read our constitution as pointed by the father of a fallen soldier in the last Democratic convention.
So, in the end I think as counter punch to Trump's " Lock Hilary Up."
We should start our chant,"Lock Trump Up."
2
What about this speculation: Trump was surprised this attention-getter actually resulted in a nomination. MAYBE he is smart enough to know that he cannot do this job. And he got scared. Bur since he 'is not a quitter', his only way out is to act too outrageously to be elected.
Could he be taking us all for a ride (+ and sell us his branded products afterwards?... and leave some dangerously distraught voters in his wake? )
Could he be taking us all for a ride (+ and sell us his branded products afterwards?... and leave some dangerously distraught voters in his wake? )
1
By this point, haven't we all had enough? For many months, he has poisoned the political, civic, and social discourse in our country. He is a national disgrace and has damaged the reputation, image, and political standing of the United States throughout the world.
All of the news media and related information services have gorged on his disgusting antics in pursuit of higher ratings. Even the venerable New York Times still gives front page coverage to this affront to our national dignity.
We'll get through the election, Trump will lose, and in a few short months he'll be relegated to well-deserved obscurity. Fortunately, we all have short memories. Let's just forget this guy and move on.
All of the news media and related information services have gorged on his disgusting antics in pursuit of higher ratings. Even the venerable New York Times still gives front page coverage to this affront to our national dignity.
We'll get through the election, Trump will lose, and in a few short months he'll be relegated to well-deserved obscurity. Fortunately, we all have short memories. Let's just forget this guy and move on.
Recently I visited some Asian countries like Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, India and Bangladesh. In ever country so many people has one common question for me and that is ' how a crazy man can become a candidate for presidency in America?' All those people have great respect for America and its presidents. They love Obama. They think Trump is a self centered racist, bigot, male chauvinist , ignorant and somewhat crazy. They are shocked that so many Americans support him.
2
He is threatening. When he is no longer a presidential candidate, will he still be able to incite violence without penalty?
2
GOP has a runaway train on their hands...a national embarrassment that the party is either too weak or too scared to do anything about.
1
A few years ago I married a man who I often lose in a crowd. The reason? He always stops to let people go before him and to help anyone who needs a hand bending down for a dropped purse or an umbrella left under a seat. He is refreshingly, and impeccably polite, if slow to exit. I don't mind waiting. He is the real definition of a good man to me; and a foil for Donald Trump who is all ego and id, refusing to put the welfare of the country that made him rich before his blind ambition.
2
This made my day. Best wishes to you both.
Since the time of Goldwater, when conservatism got a running start in Republican politics, major party candidates have been decrying what they call “big government,” “government overreach,” or “the nanny state.” It boggled my mind then and it still does, that folks seeking public office should so disdain the institutions that make public office possible.
Yes, I know there are always ways to streamline and simplify, and (as in the case of abortion politics and LGBT rights) insist that the government stay out of our most private decision-making. But is it really such a stretch to accept what DJT is saying and doing as the natural extension of decades of trashing our most sacred institutions?
I don't think so.
Yes, I know there are always ways to streamline and simplify, and (as in the case of abortion politics and LGBT rights) insist that the government stay out of our most private decision-making. But is it really such a stretch to accept what DJT is saying and doing as the natural extension of decades of trashing our most sacred institutions?
I don't think so.
1
I like Lawrence O´Donnell´s take on this behavior. The Founding Fathers weren´t worried about demagogues running for President. There is no requirement under the Constitution to concede the election. First Amendment, right to free speech, lets you be a sore loser afterward for as long as you like. It will have no discernable effect on the election, which is as a result of electoral votes. As happened in 2008 and 2012, the losing candidate´s supporters will turn on him and blame him for being a loser. No rioting will occur. His potential ¨flailing about¨ will quickly become boring to everyone.
2
And has he not been know to lie? This is purely a response to all the negative comments by journalists, Hillary, and the pundits regarding his mistake in telling the country he will contest the election if he loses. Tomorrow it could be something else. It's hard to believe and incredibly sad that any American would believe anything that comes out of his mouth. Attractive or Unattractive!
1
Dear NYT
Trump did not "soften his stance". Trump is a spoiler, a spoilt brat, he's a sore loser. are some of the headlines that might fit. You are softening your tone, when he is actually trying to destroy our democratic elections.
Trump did not "soften his stance". Trump is a spoiler, a spoilt brat, he's a sore loser. are some of the headlines that might fit. You are softening your tone, when he is actually trying to destroy our democratic elections.
4
Trump is really tiresome. It would almost be amusing watching a 70 year old man behave in ways most kindergarteners have already learned not to if it weren't that he is making a mockery of our political system. Our political system has always had big flaws, for sure, but this time it has been turned into a complete farce. I watched a documentary on Mitt Romney last night. It reminded me that the "debates" used to be fairly civil. Can anyone imagine Obama or Romney calling each other "that nasty man"?
Trump has no respect for this country. He is playing some big stupid game for his own pleasure and everyone else will suffer for it. The mob he has stirred up with his lies, racism and misogyny, does he think they are going to just calm down and go away after the election? He went and kicked a hornets' nest. Sure, these people were disgruntled before, but Trump gave them the idea that it was okay to become completely enraged and say ugly things and threaten nasty stuff. He made them think they were entitled to throw tantrums if they don't get their way. Trump took on a mantle of leadership and used it very irresponsibly.
Trump has no respect for this country. He is playing some big stupid game for his own pleasure and everyone else will suffer for it. The mob he has stirred up with his lies, racism and misogyny, does he think they are going to just calm down and go away after the election? He went and kicked a hornets' nest. Sure, these people were disgruntled before, but Trump gave them the idea that it was okay to become completely enraged and say ugly things and threaten nasty stuff. He made them think they were entitled to throw tantrums if they don't get their way. Trump took on a mantle of leadership and used it very irresponsibly.
1
I will accept -- and celebrate -- the election outcome when Trump loses.
4
Donald Trump is only asking for the same kind of services the Republican National Committee supplied to George W. Bush in Florida in 2001. GOP "operatives" and goons to descend on the polls and intimidate voters, and later, officials out of doing effective recounts. Soon he will demand the Supreme Court bend over backward to reinterpret election laws in his favor.
Trump is a narcissist, therefore he's too vain to concede. His reluctance to say whether he would accept the outcome of the election should he lose, and his rhetoric about leaving the country "in suspense" were just a face-saving strategy. As he loves to indulge himself in conspiracy theories, it wouldn't surprise me if he is still hoping for a miracle - like people would still vote for him after all, or Russia might succeed in rigging this election in his favour. I really hope not.
7
Social Security and Medicare are not the entitlement problems in US. The entitlement problems we are suffering from are those of people like Trump and people like him. They feel entitled to run the country for their own benefit and they have no interest in democratic government.
Luckily, it doesn't matter whether Trump concedes or not, the machinery of government will move on. I seriously doubt that the Supreme Court will intervene on his behalf as it did for George Bush. The truth is that eventually the majority does rule with or without government. It's just that change of government by law is so much easier on everybody than revolution. Elections allow us to change governing powers without killing people. So much more civilized.
But Trump and those like him feel entitled to ignore the will of the government. This is why he cannot be allowed to win.
Luckily, it doesn't matter whether Trump concedes or not, the machinery of government will move on. I seriously doubt that the Supreme Court will intervene on his behalf as it did for George Bush. The truth is that eventually the majority does rule with or without government. It's just that change of government by law is so much easier on everybody than revolution. Elections allow us to change governing powers without killing people. So much more civilized.
But Trump and those like him feel entitled to ignore the will of the government. This is why he cannot be allowed to win.
10
I am a firm believer that strong competition breeds excellence sadly this race has turned into a reality show that I no longer want to watch. There was a time when I thought Bernie or Donald was the answer to upset the apple cart we have come to accept as our modern day political system. Every four years we are told a change is about to come if we only make the right choice in the voting booth. After the election it seems like everyone who promised change always find an excuse of why the change they promised will never come. With Trump having turned this election into carnival show I fear when Hillary wins in November there will be no real mandate to change anything. Sad part is if Trump could have just put his sensitive ego on the shelf for a while he could have made this a serious race. Three weeks from zero hour and no one has told us their dream for our country. Trump is no longer entertaining or funny for he has become a national embarrassment. Maybe we had to reach this point for us to realize how ridicules we have truly become. The right has played one our fears and prejudice for years and now they are about to reap the harvest they have sowed. Does anyone besides me ever wonder what ever happened to the party of Lincoln? A full day the news cycle after the debate has been overwhelmed with the question will Trump accept the results if and win he loses. So in other words our republic is so fragile that there will anarchy if the likes of Trump refuses to concede?
1
It's sad that such a great institution is unraveling. No. I'm not talking about American Democracy aka the feigned outrage at Mr. Trump's possible non-concession. I'm talking about the New York Times. You've even abandoned your previous policy of labeling some articles "analysis" so your anti-Trump bias is all the more blatant. Your primary mission (as your famous quotation states) is to report the news. You are not doing it regarding our presidential race. Please label your opinion pieces as such.
On the same front page, the "news" article (where no comments were allowed) on the Al Smith Dinner is even more rife with derogatory OPINION about about what took place. Your "reporters" also conveniently failed to mention Mr. Trump's statement (considering the most powerful force in this election is the media) that the authors of the most obvious rigging were there, namely the heads of the NYT and major networks).
When can we expect to see no favoritism in even one article regarding the election in the future? Left wingers who make up the vast majority of your subscribers (and commenters) will gladly forgive you. . .but the extreme slant is obvious. Please respect journalistic ethics. You are not doing so. Although your editorial board is significantly left of center as everyone knows, why are you not upholding the great New York Times tradition of great journalism. Any semblance of objectivity is nowhere to be found in what is supposed to be news REPORTING.
On the same front page, the "news" article (where no comments were allowed) on the Al Smith Dinner is even more rife with derogatory OPINION about about what took place. Your "reporters" also conveniently failed to mention Mr. Trump's statement (considering the most powerful force in this election is the media) that the authors of the most obvious rigging were there, namely the heads of the NYT and major networks).
When can we expect to see no favoritism in even one article regarding the election in the future? Left wingers who make up the vast majority of your subscribers (and commenters) will gladly forgive you. . .but the extreme slant is obvious. Please respect journalistic ethics. You are not doing so. Although your editorial board is significantly left of center as everyone knows, why are you not upholding the great New York Times tradition of great journalism. Any semblance of objectivity is nowhere to be found in what is supposed to be news REPORTING.
2
Calling a nut job a nut job IS reporting. Trying to dress it up like it's some circus clown -- which is what was being done for nearly a year of this corrosive "campaign" -- that's not reporting, or it's reporting like People magazine.
I'm tired of this attempt to call these false equivalencies as "balanced reporting". This craven demagogue is a cancer upon this country and the Republicans have enabled him to metastasize. Fairness would be to rebuke him completely along with is enablers.
I'm tired of this attempt to call these false equivalencies as "balanced reporting". This craven demagogue is a cancer upon this country and the Republicans have enabled him to metastasize. Fairness would be to rebuke him completely along with is enablers.
2
I don't think Donald Trump wants to be president. Donald Trump wants to be Fox, the next Fox News.
5
Interesting article in Australian Telegraph today has trump outing himself as a sleaze ...
Trump admitted in 2005 to having hair envy concerning the Newcastle cheerleader.
“There were about 97 beautiful women in this dressing room in Quito, Ecuador, and my eyes were immediately drawn to this stunning blonde, combing her hair,” he said at an Australian government reception in New York to fete Hawkins.
“My first thought was, ‘Wow, I’d love to have hair like that’, which was kind of surprising, even to me, because there were all these other beauties around her in various stages of undress. But Jennifer’s very special, and I don’t want all this to change her.”
Trump admitted in 2005 to having hair envy concerning the Newcastle cheerleader.
“There were about 97 beautiful women in this dressing room in Quito, Ecuador, and my eyes were immediately drawn to this stunning blonde, combing her hair,” he said at an Australian government reception in New York to fete Hawkins.
“My first thought was, ‘Wow, I’d love to have hair like that’, which was kind of surprising, even to me, because there were all these other beauties around her in various stages of undress. But Jennifer’s very special, and I don’t want all this to change her.”
4
Trump had an opportunity on Thursday to tell Americans that we have a great democracy with the best people doing the right thing, with a long history of minimal interference in the electoral process.
He chose instead to continue talking about himself.
Not.Fit.To.Be.President.
He chose instead to continue talking about himself.
Not.Fit.To.Be.President.
9
I had the pleasure to drive yesterday from eastern Iowa through central Iowa. My several hours driving gave me the opportunity to travel through many towns small and large. I saw only Trump/Pence signs. Clinton has her base and there are people she appeals to just by default, but I was really surprised that I didn't see any signs supporting her. After all the support Obama received in this state, not to see a single sign in more than a hundred miles says something. This election might just turn out to be about more than who is a republican or democrat. Voters have signaled their deep desire for change since making history by electing Obama. Clinton simply does not represent that change like Trump does right now. Many people here don't think we are on the right track, and haven't been for a long time. There is a generation of voters that have known nothing but war. There are voters that have lived through World War Two that have never seen anything like the last two administrations. I can only pray that simply voting a new president into office can change the path we are on. God bless us all.
4
He has tapped into base emotions. These people are misled.
I agree Mark. Even though I was well aware I lived in a red county...it came as a shock to see the toxic mushroom proliferation of Trump signs all over Coos Bay, Oregon. It suddenly cast a disturbing pall over my beloved neighborhood and town. I have seen maybe 5 or less signs for Hillary. No bumper stickers whatsoever. I wish I did not have to see this. Like so many I am flummoxed that so many people seriously believe he is presidential material. I do not want my mind poisoned by the fact so many of my neighbors believe this. I make a point of just giving it to God. Whatever! I am just grateful for own my own mind and intelliigence and look forward to HRC making history.
1
Many people are afraid to put Clinton signs in their yards, because of the prominence of gun-toting hate spewers among Trump's supporters. But posting signs and showing up at the polls are two different things -- as one old hand once reminded me, lawn signs don't vote.
I drove through a large stretch of the rural Northeast this week, the kind of areas that are overwhelmingly Republican. I saw only two vehicles with Trump bumper stickers. Don't lose heart.
I drove through a large stretch of the rural Northeast this week, the kind of areas that are overwhelmingly Republican. I saw only two vehicles with Trump bumper stickers. Don't lose heart.
1
In the words of Bugs Bunny, what maroon!
In my words, he's a horse's backside.
He is not intellectually, emotionally, or morally mature enough to be POTUS. I don't think most preschools would accept a small child with his psychopathic tendencies.
Should he win (bite your tongue, but anything's possible), the District of Columbia will have him for lunch. He may know how to bully folks in NY, but politics is the business of DC and it's a full contact blood sport. I'm not the only local who remembers Trump's mentor, Roy Cohn. There are very long memories and, the ultimate threat, documentation going back forever, as a part of business as usual in DC.
Yeah, I've dealt with the "I need it yesterday" NY corporate attorneys on a daily basis. A nice southern accent and gentle conversation turns them into kittens. Life's too short not to relax and enjoy it.
DC is not a town for amateurs and Donald isn't just an amateur, he's small time. The first time he tries to ignore Congress and SCOTUS, they'll fry him.
The "wall" he wants to build? Just build it around Trump, his current wife, and his offspring, as well as his VP.
A wall won't stop drugs from Mexico as the big operations tunnel deep and professionally. A wall around the Trumps, blocking cell and internet access, will give us time to heal from this election.
I'm not scared of immigrants. Almost all of us descend from immigrants.
In my words, he's a horse's backside.
He is not intellectually, emotionally, or morally mature enough to be POTUS. I don't think most preschools would accept a small child with his psychopathic tendencies.
Should he win (bite your tongue, but anything's possible), the District of Columbia will have him for lunch. He may know how to bully folks in NY, but politics is the business of DC and it's a full contact blood sport. I'm not the only local who remembers Trump's mentor, Roy Cohn. There are very long memories and, the ultimate threat, documentation going back forever, as a part of business as usual in DC.
Yeah, I've dealt with the "I need it yesterday" NY corporate attorneys on a daily basis. A nice southern accent and gentle conversation turns them into kittens. Life's too short not to relax and enjoy it.
DC is not a town for amateurs and Donald isn't just an amateur, he's small time. The first time he tries to ignore Congress and SCOTUS, they'll fry him.
The "wall" he wants to build? Just build it around Trump, his current wife, and his offspring, as well as his VP.
A wall won't stop drugs from Mexico as the big operations tunnel deep and professionally. A wall around the Trumps, blocking cell and internet access, will give us time to heal from this election.
I'm not scared of immigrants. Almost all of us descend from immigrants.
5
An example of a sore loser!
6
I just bought a Powerball lottery ticket. I will accept the results of the drawing and abide by its rules, as long as I win...
11
Donald is a total failure. Unless of course his intention was to take down the Republican Party. Then you'd have to call him brilliant. Like Stephen Colbert to the max.
10
Apparently this is worse than promising to jail Hillary if Trump becomes president.
3
Trump logic (or lack thereof):
Third Debate: Elections are rigged! (meaning I can't win)
Post debate in Ohio: I will only accept the nomination if win (meaning I can win).
Third debate dialog:
Trump: You are unqualified. Bernie Sanders says you are unqualified (so Bernie is credible).
Clinton: Guess who is Bernie Sanders supporting? Me.
Trump: He is making a mistake (Bernie is not credible).
Third debate dialog:
Trump to Clinton: Putin hates you but he likes me.
Clinton: Of course he likes you. He wants a puppet.
Trump: No you are the puppet (A puppet hated by his master? Is this even possible?).
Second Debate:
Trump: I avoided paying taxes. I am a genius.
Third Debate:
Clinton: Under my plan you will contribute more to Social Security, unless you find a way to avoid it.
Trump: What a nasty woman! (Why? She is only asking you to show again what a genius you are).
Third Debate: Elections are rigged! (meaning I can't win)
Post debate in Ohio: I will only accept the nomination if win (meaning I can win).
Third debate dialog:
Trump: You are unqualified. Bernie Sanders says you are unqualified (so Bernie is credible).
Clinton: Guess who is Bernie Sanders supporting? Me.
Trump: He is making a mistake (Bernie is not credible).
Third debate dialog:
Trump to Clinton: Putin hates you but he likes me.
Clinton: Of course he likes you. He wants a puppet.
Trump: No you are the puppet (A puppet hated by his master? Is this even possible?).
Second Debate:
Trump: I avoided paying taxes. I am a genius.
Third Debate:
Clinton: Under my plan you will contribute more to Social Security, unless you find a way to avoid it.
Trump: What a nasty woman! (Why? She is only asking you to show again what a genius you are).
5
Can't just somebody build a fake White House and tell him that he has won ?
8
Trump just built a fake White House (in the form of a Hotel) that's down the street from the real one.
1
That's a great idea.
"In other words, no, I won't be accepting the results."
4
REALITY: like most americans i dont like either candidate but because the media has been so over the top reporting on trump and his mostly pathetic ego but not attacking hillary on her obvious corruption lying and acts of incompetence i will be voting for trump/
5
Sorry jim but you can't have it both ways. If Clinton is disliked it is largely due to the media reporting on her that you claim it hasn't done. In spite of your beliefs that the media hasn't attacked Clinton, we have been treated to years of media reports of Clinton's supposed corruption lying and acts of incompetence with the press dutifully running articles with every charge and every (one more time!) Republican investigation. And that doesn't include months and months of free press given to Trump at every utterance and their chasing his accusations against Clinton helping to establish the false equivalence that has built up around him. It is only lately it seems that some of the press are waking up to the obvious differences in the level of suitability between the candidates.
2
Got it, that sounds like a Trump supporter. What you're really saying is that if you don't get your way you'll do something stupid and mean spirited out of spite. You're also admitting that you don't read or watch any actual news.
2
You are not readung broadly enough. Coverage of their shortcomings has been pretty equally distributed. Trump has been getting the lion's share if attention because he says HUGE things, versus Hillary goes on about policy and hope in ways that are boring to the typical US IQ.
1
Open mouth, insert foot, swallow the whole body. Bye bye!
4
As the campaign rolls along its interesting what we have learned (or not) about the two candidates. Trump has no substantive policies, not on education, welfare, the economy or foreign etc. We have learned he is a borderline misogynist, borderline racist, a bully, and temperamentally all over the place. He is the perfect person to breath new life into the American Party, otherwise remember as the "Know Nothing Party". Trump Television can be assigned the call letters abreviation "TKNP".
As to Hillary Clinton, the problem is not her lack of policies (like or loathe them) but her inability to project reasons why we should like or trust her.
So come Election Day, voters will have to go the polling booth with nose clips.
As to Hillary Clinton, the problem is not her lack of policies (like or loathe them) but her inability to project reasons why we should like or trust her.
So come Election Day, voters will have to go the polling booth with nose clips.
1
Since when has "liking" a President become so important?--this isn't Facebook.
And trust? -- that's earned, and a decision each and every person must come to for themselves.
Do you like Boris Johnson or Theresa May???
Another thing.
That "nose clips' comment is stale. And better Clinton than a gropng sexist endorsed by White Supremacists.
And trust? -- that's earned, and a decision each and every person must come to for themselves.
Do you like Boris Johnson or Theresa May???
Another thing.
That "nose clips' comment is stale. And better Clinton than a gropng sexist endorsed by White Supremacists.
2
Borderline? That's my only question here - I'm with you on the nose clips.
Trump is bluffing about not conceding to Hillary when count is in. Remember that lawsuit he was going to file against the NY Times for printing stories of sexual assault against women? Lawsuit never happened. Remember those promised tax returns? Returns never released. Remember those two guys sent to Hawaii to unearth "birther" truth on President Obama? Men never sent. Trump is bluffing to get his name across all media pages. He is a con man, and a faker, precisely as Ruth Bader-Ginsberg told us months ago. She was right then, she is right today. Base supporters of Trump? You have been had.
27
I agree, but many of his supporters take him with deadly seriousness...and they're armed.
1
All I can figure out is that Trump didn't say anything else in the debate for everyone to rip apart. This is truly the silliest thing to make a big deal about. Did Kerry go silently into the night when he lost? Why is everything just great for a progressive liberal to do but not for a conservative? Move on there's nothing to discuss here.
3
Funny thing is, for all his poll watching comments, Trump winning would be the only rigged election that should be investigated, and wouldn't be, by his lackeys.
8
"It's MY ball - if I don't get to win the game, you can't use my ball."
Worked when I was 8 years old......
Worked when I was 8 years old......
14
I'm dying to make a sparkling riposte here, but will demur.
1
Trump thinks he is above the law, a world apart. We've seen that already with tycoon Berlusconi in Italy, exactly the same behavior poisoning Italians' DNA with his outrageous antics. So many dangerous resemblances.
4
Hillary Clinton needs to get the facts correct about Gore's behavior with respect to conceding in his lost presidential election. Maybe the Supreme Court should have allowed another recount. Some would say they rigged the election so Bush could win. As such, Trump is factually correct that U.S. elections are rigged. To be specific, he did not say all elections are rigged, but used a broad generic classification. Like the Russians or not, they were our allies in WWII and critical to the defeat of Nazi Germany. If truly they are providing U.S. voters with the truth behind the curtain that shows widespread deceit, then the people who are deceitful are the problem and not the hackers. The peak in the people's trust in the Political Class and big government has passed. This is not a light switch event but a process. Trump's candidacy is just a mile marker of what lies ahead, both in the USA and globally. Welcome to the new normal. In 2020, we might very well look back at this election and say it was the good old days.
2
Trump questioning the democratic process by his words is once again doing Russia and Putin's bidding.
7
Lost in translation?
It goes like this. Trump says something that is beyond the pale - but with just enough wink-wink nod-nod so his base eats it up and the rest of us understand. in the fallout Trump modifies what he said. Trump's defenders redefine what he said and deflect to something that someone else said.
So here's the question: Do we really want the Commander in Chief in the White House to be someone whose statements require translating or reinterpretation every time he says something? Especially when there are enemies around the world who are all to eager to retaliate and friends to alienate?
It goes like this. Trump says something that is beyond the pale - but with just enough wink-wink nod-nod so his base eats it up and the rest of us understand. in the fallout Trump modifies what he said. Trump's defenders redefine what he said and deflect to something that someone else said.
So here's the question: Do we really want the Commander in Chief in the White House to be someone whose statements require translating or reinterpretation every time he says something? Especially when there are enemies around the world who are all to eager to retaliate and friends to alienate?
10
Why was Clinton not asked the same question? Why was she not pledged to abide by the election result? Why was the question asked at all? Why did Wallace ask the Republicans in the primaries whether they would abide by the nomination of Trump? Why are millions of US voters marginalized by this newspaper, CNN and many of the mainstream media? Why?
The answer, my friend, is blowèd in the wind, the answer is blowèd in the wind.
The answer, my friend, is blowèd in the wind, the answer is blowèd in the wind.
5
Why was the question asked? Really?
The question was asked in the context of Trump's repeated claims that the election is rigged. His has said his "2nd amendment people" could take action if the election doesn't go his way.
That's why he was asked. But do we really have to explain. And what does it say about the electorate that we do?
The question was asked in the context of Trump's repeated claims that the election is rigged. His has said his "2nd amendment people" could take action if the election doesn't go his way.
That's why he was asked. But do we really have to explain. And what does it say about the electorate that we do?
2
Perhaps Clinton wasn't asked the same question because 1. She was asked it at the last debate and gave a straightforward answer and 2. She hasn't been the one loudly declaring that election has been rigged?
2
This is important information I truly hope the NY Times will accept this comment and links
https://news.grabien.com/story-flashback-gore-refuses-concede-election-d...
http://hotair.com/archives/2016/10/20/last-week-hillary-agreed-gore-won-...
http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/newsweek-hillary-clinton-to-crow...
http://dailycaller.com/2015/12/15/john-kerry-thinks-bush-rigged-the-2004...
https://news.grabien.com/story-flashback-gore-refuses-concede-election-d...
http://hotair.com/archives/2016/10/20/last-week-hillary-agreed-gore-won-...
http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/newsweek-hillary-clinton-to-crow...
http://dailycaller.com/2015/12/15/john-kerry-thinks-bush-rigged-the-2004...
3
Hillary would not be winning if it were not for the fact that she is running against Trump. Any other Republican would win by a mandate over Hillary. She is as unpopular and as unlikeable as Trump is. There is no mandate in this election. And I for one will not help support a mandate that seems to indicate she is something other that what she is. I am voting against a mandate and voting for a third party candidate.
How naive is Kaine that he actually seems to think that "if the mandate is clear, I don't think many people will follow him" (Trump). Obama had a clear mandate and that did not stop the establishment Republicans from obstructing Obama.
And Trump is much worse because he has such a large following, a following that has been agitating hate for years. They are not going away any time soon even if Hillary should get a "mandate".
The recent Republican history makes one wonder where Kaine has been for the past 8 or more years.
How naive is Kaine that he actually seems to think that "if the mandate is clear, I don't think many people will follow him" (Trump). Obama had a clear mandate and that did not stop the establishment Republicans from obstructing Obama.
And Trump is much worse because he has such a large following, a following that has been agitating hate for years. They are not going away any time soon even if Hillary should get a "mandate".
The recent Republican history makes one wonder where Kaine has been for the past 8 or more years.
1
The liberal media, just like a bunch or robots are repeating the same headline. After the campaign of hate, daily smears, liberal bigotry and racism waged against him, Trump has every right to be watchful for a rigged election. The self righteous ness of the liberals and the belief in the goodness and sanctity of their beliefs, is reminiscent of another do-gooder philosophy, Communism, which destroyed countries and murdered millions of people to make the world a better and more fair place.
5
Sir, Trump is USING you and his supporters. He has -- from the get-go -- smeared and bullied his Republican primary opponents, lied to, frightened and encouraged good Americans to believe in all kinds of conspiracy theories. He has POISONED you. I will never, ever forgive him for the damage he is causing to you, my neighbor, my fellow American.
We have issues: we must rebuild together and evolve. We will.
We have issues: we must rebuild together and evolve. We will.
2
Just as Al Gore didn't accept the results of the 2000 election until he had exhausted his legal efforts, Trump is keeping his lawful options open. Those of you who disagree with his wanting to ensure the entire democratic process is available to him and those who vote for him, should chastise Al Gore and the Democratic Party as well for wanting to ensure our democratic process is observed; but, that might be asking too much.
3
"President Obama, speaking at a rally in Miami, skewered Mr. Trump for complaining of a rigged system and rejected the notion that an election in a country as large as the United States could be manipulated."
Actually, the President is wrong about this, as it’s happened twice already in the 21st Century, but a Republican complaining about stolen presidential elections could serve as the definition of chutzpah.
In 2003, the president of Diebolt, wrote a fundraising letter promising that he was "committed to helping Ohio deliver its electoral votes to the president next year," and the following year a 4% Kerry advantage in exit polls morphed into a 2.5% win for Bush after the ballots were counted. Now either exit polls, which are used by election monitors in countries around the world to detect fraud, are unreliable, or the 2004 was stolen.
So how does one explain the fact that Obama won two elections? Simple. His margins in exit polls were so much larger, and his paths to victory so much greater, than Kerry’s, that it was impossible to steal either election.
At this point, the same appears to be the case for Clinton this year, and given Trump’s rocky relationship with Republican leaders, it is unlikely that he’ll be helped by any thumbs on the scale.
But maybe that’s what Trump is complaining about, not that the election will be stolen but, rather, that it won’t (actually can’t) be stolen. Very Zen, that.
Actually, the President is wrong about this, as it’s happened twice already in the 21st Century, but a Republican complaining about stolen presidential elections could serve as the definition of chutzpah.
In 2003, the president of Diebolt, wrote a fundraising letter promising that he was "committed to helping Ohio deliver its electoral votes to the president next year," and the following year a 4% Kerry advantage in exit polls morphed into a 2.5% win for Bush after the ballots were counted. Now either exit polls, which are used by election monitors in countries around the world to detect fraud, are unreliable, or the 2004 was stolen.
So how does one explain the fact that Obama won two elections? Simple. His margins in exit polls were so much larger, and his paths to victory so much greater, than Kerry’s, that it was impossible to steal either election.
At this point, the same appears to be the case for Clinton this year, and given Trump’s rocky relationship with Republican leaders, it is unlikely that he’ll be helped by any thumbs on the scale.
But maybe that’s what Trump is complaining about, not that the election will be stolen but, rather, that it won’t (actually can’t) be stolen. Very Zen, that.
8
Rather than "leave the country in suspense," perhaps Trump could simply "leave the country." I'm sure Russia would welcome him.
12
Trump's boorish behavior at the Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner demonstrates the degree to which this election represents something of a cultural clash and not merely a political one. Trump has a populist appeal among Americans who seem to be convinced that politeness equals duplicity, civil discourse equals surrender, treating one's opponents with respect and dignity equals weakness, and abiding by the traditions and rules of etiquette equals cowardice. Many of the most vile strains of bigotry that still run through our culture and lurk beneath the surface were held in check at least to some extent by notions of what is appropriate for public discourse. Trump has demolished such notions and thereby given bigots a carte blanche not only to spew their hate but, worse, to indulge in it without guilt. In other words, whereas the civilizing influence of politeness tends to dampen not only what people actually say but what they actually feel, Trump has unleashed the mob by rejecting such conventions of propriety. Thus, he has not only coarsened our culture but harmed our country. One can only guess how many generations it will take to heal the damage.
8
Trump's remarks are that of a school yard coward.
5
Just imagine a scenario that he wins now, and then loses in 2020.
In the intervening four years, he has replaced supreme court justices with judges as right wing or even more than Antonin Scalia.
With a Republican DoJ and sympathetic supreme court justices, expanding voter ID laws have suppressed the vote of minorities even further.
This has very likely resulted in a GOP house majority, even a GOP controlled senate.
In the intervening four years, any number of laws have been passed expanding powers of surveillance and detention.
And then he claims in 2020 that the elections were rigged, and refuses to step down from the presidency?
A right leaning supreme court rejects legal arguments by the Democratic party. There goes the judicial branch.
In 2016, the GOP house and senate has largely stood by him, choosing power over country. They are even less likely to oppose him in 2020. There goes congress.
All this has happened during the Bush presidency in some form or another in a less severe fashion, so think about it if you are considering voting for him while buying into the arguments that hes not as bad as the biased media says he is.
In the intervening four years, he has replaced supreme court justices with judges as right wing or even more than Antonin Scalia.
With a Republican DoJ and sympathetic supreme court justices, expanding voter ID laws have suppressed the vote of minorities even further.
This has very likely resulted in a GOP house majority, even a GOP controlled senate.
In the intervening four years, any number of laws have been passed expanding powers of surveillance and detention.
And then he claims in 2020 that the elections were rigged, and refuses to step down from the presidency?
A right leaning supreme court rejects legal arguments by the Democratic party. There goes the judicial branch.
In 2016, the GOP house and senate has largely stood by him, choosing power over country. They are even less likely to oppose him in 2020. There goes congress.
All this has happened during the Bush presidency in some form or another in a less severe fashion, so think about it if you are considering voting for him while buying into the arguments that hes not as bad as the biased media says he is.
6
Oh let's not.
1
After the election, Donald will be known as Trump The Loser and his acceptance of the nickname will not be optional.
2
Haha. Vibrant American democracy in action - for all world to see. Such a simpleton for President ! Knowing the previous Presidents like GW Bush, sure this is not the first time for America !!
2
If the election were held tomorrow and Trump won, are you all saying you wouldn't be suspicious of the result ?
It's not like he would have to fix the results in 50 states. All he would need to do is fix 1 or 2 counties in 4 states ( FL, NC, NH, and WI for example ). And 3 of those states are controlled by Republicans.
It's not like he would have to fix the results in 50 states. All he would need to do is fix 1 or 2 counties in 4 states ( FL, NC, NH, and WI for example ). And 3 of those states are controlled by Republicans.
1
Many people have not or will not admit to voting for Trump, so the polls right now are sketchy at best.
One of the political correspondents hit the nail on the head - Trump still thinks he's doing a reality show. And you always need drama leading into your next episode. Someone needs to tell him that his "show" is about to go off the air. How many more days of this fool?
1
Not 30 seconds after the debate ended, all the pundits had identified Trump's comments about the election as the major headline. Meanwhile, the national debt and Medicare/Medicaid were discussed for the first time. Whether Trump will depart gracefully seems to me a trivial issue by comparison and I find it laughable that his comments portend doom for our democracy, given that the Supreme Court weighed in on an election just a few years ago and we managed to avoid armed conflict.
What does portend doom is the absolutely horrid coverage of this election by the news media. This is the same news media whose puppy-like compliance failed to push back on the "weapons of mass destruction" storyline and helped convince the country we should be in Iraq. This same media now publishes every little crazy thing about Trump while failing to examine Hillary Clinton with a similarly critical eye. Instead of helping voters make clear-eyed choices between the candidates, warts and all, the NYT and other outlets have lost all objectivity and have become shrill and sensationalist. Instead of feeling informed by the news media, I feel bullied by it.
Yes, I am disappointed in my choice of candidates, but mostly I am disappointed in the NYT, to which I subscribe and read faithfully. I never expected more from Donald Trump or Hillary Clinton but I did expect more from you.
What does portend doom is the absolutely horrid coverage of this election by the news media. This is the same news media whose puppy-like compliance failed to push back on the "weapons of mass destruction" storyline and helped convince the country we should be in Iraq. This same media now publishes every little crazy thing about Trump while failing to examine Hillary Clinton with a similarly critical eye. Instead of helping voters make clear-eyed choices between the candidates, warts and all, the NYT and other outlets have lost all objectivity and have become shrill and sensationalist. Instead of feeling informed by the news media, I feel bullied by it.
Yes, I am disappointed in my choice of candidates, but mostly I am disappointed in the NYT, to which I subscribe and read faithfully. I never expected more from Donald Trump or Hillary Clinton but I did expect more from you.
1
30% of the country will vote this election for an old, lecherous, angry white man railing against progress and equality for women and minorities....someone who is threatening to shred the constitution and jeopardize America's standing in the world in order to get his way.
Astonishing.
Astonishing.
4
Well then, if Donald Trump will only accept the election results if he wins, then I guess we can all expect him not to accept the election results -- because he will, most definitely, NOT win...And, like others have said here, his real motive is to somehow profit from this experience in the "literal" sense i.e. make money with perhaps his own tv channel or some other such nonsense. What he doesn't realize is that a move such as that will quickly lose appeal once the dust settles.
1
All the sour faces Donald Trump made during last night's debate? Heel spurs. Oh the agony, can't we just have the election now?
3
Trump is a buffoon - like the guys that wolf whistle as the girls walk to work in the city...they are harmless with bravado and raise kids and smile at their minor transgressions.
Hillary is like Robert Redford in "The Sting" - very likeable, but ultimately a criminal at at the core.
That is the decision this country has facing it, a buffoon Vs. a criminal...it is obvious from so many sidebar discussions that many have not chosen.
I know what choice the NYTimes has made - but you have not made your because your reading this...I choose the unknown...Trump...do you go with 4 more years of gridlock...or the unknown...you American you?
Hillary is like Robert Redford in "The Sting" - very likeable, but ultimately a criminal at at the core.
That is the decision this country has facing it, a buffoon Vs. a criminal...it is obvious from so many sidebar discussions that many have not chosen.
I know what choice the NYTimes has made - but you have not made your because your reading this...I choose the unknown...Trump...do you go with 4 more years of gridlock...or the unknown...you American you?
1
It is amazing and disturbing that he is still the representative of the Republican Party. He is a very disturbed man, one so concerned with his self image that he would take the country down with him rather than face the truth about himself. If I had one wish it would be that I never hear his name again. I have the Donald Trump Blues.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0BnYNTpfQk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0BnYNTpfQk
3
I must be missing something here.
Isn't Trump saying he might do the very same thing Gore did in 2000? Gore filed a lawsuit challenging the election result – remember? We've been hearing conspiracy theories for 16 years – remember? Gore blamed it on Ralph Nader, on Kathleen Brown, on Jeb Bush, on "mysterious forces" – whatever. Who cares? Repeat: Who cares?
The losing candidate doesn't get to count the votes or declare the winner. He just gets to run, period. The voters decide, and someone other than the losing candidate counts the votes and declares the winner. Whether the losing candidate "accepts" the result or not doesn't matter.
Who cares?
Nobody really likes to hear Gore or his supporters whine about the 2000 election, but they've been doing it for 16 years now and show no signs of letting up. We've gotten used to it, and we'll get used to it if Trump does the same thing.
Who cares?
Isn't Trump saying he might do the very same thing Gore did in 2000? Gore filed a lawsuit challenging the election result – remember? We've been hearing conspiracy theories for 16 years – remember? Gore blamed it on Ralph Nader, on Kathleen Brown, on Jeb Bush, on "mysterious forces" – whatever. Who cares? Repeat: Who cares?
The losing candidate doesn't get to count the votes or declare the winner. He just gets to run, period. The voters decide, and someone other than the losing candidate counts the votes and declares the winner. Whether the losing candidate "accepts" the result or not doesn't matter.
Who cares?
Nobody really likes to hear Gore or his supporters whine about the 2000 election, but they've been doing it for 16 years now and show no signs of letting up. We've gotten used to it, and we'll get used to it if Trump does the same thing.
Who cares?
4
Yes, you are missing something.
2
There are a lot of people who still care.
And you are definitely missing a lot of things.
And you are definitely missing a lot of things.
3
All masks are coming off in this horrific election season about the true nature that is our political class and industry. Trump is just the worst of it, taken to the logical extreme.
3
Incorrect:
"Al Gore was actually elected President in 2000."
No, Al Gore was not actually elected President in 2000.
Al Gore CLAIMED he was elected President in 2000, but that claim was incorrect. George W. Bush was actually elected President in 2000 (and re-elected in 2004). I didn't like Bush, and didn't like Gore, and voted for neither of them.
"Al Gore was actually elected President in 2000."
No, Al Gore was not actually elected President in 2000.
Al Gore CLAIMED he was elected President in 2000, but that claim was incorrect. George W. Bush was actually elected President in 2000 (and re-elected in 2004). I didn't like Bush, and didn't like Gore, and voted for neither of them.
2
Gore still whines about the election in 2000, despite his failed legal maneuvering to overturn the results in Florida. The SCOTUS ruled 7-2 that his recount efforts violated due process. Subsequent analysis by The NY Times showed that Gore would not have won Florida under any comprehensive recount scenarios.
The facts so far:
(1) The Republican Party countenanced a multiyear program to discredit President Obama's citizenship, a program led by Mr Trump.
(2) The GOP-led Senate has flouted its duty to meet with a Supreme Court nominee, thereby challenging President Obama's power as outlined in the Constitution.
(3) A foreign leader (Netanyahu) was invited to speak before Congress, bypassing President Obama - a public insult, also unconstitutional, since the President is Commander in Chief.
(4) The GOP nominee explicitly refused to comply with fundamental norms such as tax return disclosure and acceptance of the legitimacy of the American election process.
(5) The GOP nominee has repeatedly issued threats and intimidations in public, to his opponent, and has whipped up an atmosphere of violence. After each outrageous statement, he walks it back slightly to confuse people.
(6) It has been demonstrated that Russia has hacked the Democratic party and that the GOP is using those hacks for political purposes.
(7) Russia is asking to send 'observers' to the American elections.
(8) November 7-8, 2016 is, to the day, the 99th anniversary of the Russian Revolution. Coincidence? Maybe. I certainly hope so.
I don't know about anyone else, but I think these are amazing aggressions against the United States. The only person who seems to be highlighting that in public is Steve Schmidt. Obviously there has to be an orderly election. I assume Homeland Security is on the case.
(1) The Republican Party countenanced a multiyear program to discredit President Obama's citizenship, a program led by Mr Trump.
(2) The GOP-led Senate has flouted its duty to meet with a Supreme Court nominee, thereby challenging President Obama's power as outlined in the Constitution.
(3) A foreign leader (Netanyahu) was invited to speak before Congress, bypassing President Obama - a public insult, also unconstitutional, since the President is Commander in Chief.
(4) The GOP nominee explicitly refused to comply with fundamental norms such as tax return disclosure and acceptance of the legitimacy of the American election process.
(5) The GOP nominee has repeatedly issued threats and intimidations in public, to his opponent, and has whipped up an atmosphere of violence. After each outrageous statement, he walks it back slightly to confuse people.
(6) It has been demonstrated that Russia has hacked the Democratic party and that the GOP is using those hacks for political purposes.
(7) Russia is asking to send 'observers' to the American elections.
(8) November 7-8, 2016 is, to the day, the 99th anniversary of the Russian Revolution. Coincidence? Maybe. I certainly hope so.
I don't know about anyone else, but I think these are amazing aggressions against the United States. The only person who seems to be highlighting that in public is Steve Schmidt. Obviously there has to be an orderly election. I assume Homeland Security is on the case.
4
What a wonderful article by a perfect unbiased media! God bless the NYT!!!
3
I totally agree with Trump. It is America and if reports show anyone is tampering with election results (as was done in the past) he has every right to see where this goes. Who gives the press and the NY Times authority to decide as it does not concern them. The Times continues to make a major deal out of nothing but that seems to be the style today.
3
Liberal fear of Trump is exaggerated. If he doesn't accept the election, we are in danger of a coup. If he is elected he will misuse nukes. He should pay more taxes than what he owes. His economic program will doom us because experts hired by Clinton say so. Trump is bad. Liberal distortion of what he says is bad. This is basically a hysterical election and neither side cares about the truth. It is a shameful election which reflects badly on both parties. In the course of the campaign, few important issue were debated. And those who reported on the candidates chose one or the other to side with and were totally partisan in their coverage. Those responsible for this fiasco let the American people down.
5
That would be you, bucko.
Did you learn about and work for a candidate?
Did you point out lies (after confirming that's what they were), or make arguments for the truth?
Did you 'discuss' with friends and neighbors?
Did you evidence any willingness at all to compromise for the sake of finding a solution?
Did you offer any sup[port for a peaceful and constructive transfer of power to whoever wins, for the sake of your country?
Did you demand your representatives act like adults?
Did you learn about and work for a candidate?
Did you point out lies (after confirming that's what they were), or make arguments for the truth?
Did you 'discuss' with friends and neighbors?
Did you evidence any willingness at all to compromise for the sake of finding a solution?
Did you offer any sup[port for a peaceful and constructive transfer of power to whoever wins, for the sake of your country?
Did you demand your representatives act like adults?
1
do you really think there will be a coup?
I've become increasingly suspicious when comments begin with:
"I'm not a Trump supporter, but..."
So just to be clear. I'm not a Trump supporter. Which is why I have no reason to doubt every word that comes out of his mouth, including:
" I will totally accept the results of this great and historic presidential election -- if I win".
Anyone listening to his statement about the election outcome last night knows that it was a lot closer to the truth, than this cleaned-up modified version is.
But soon it will be 3am. So it's time to get ready for the next tweet to come out.
"I'm not a Trump supporter, but..."
So just to be clear. I'm not a Trump supporter. Which is why I have no reason to doubt every word that comes out of his mouth, including:
" I will totally accept the results of this great and historic presidential election -- if I win".
Anyone listening to his statement about the election outcome last night knows that it was a lot closer to the truth, than this cleaned-up modified version is.
But soon it will be 3am. So it's time to get ready for the next tweet to come out.
5
The scary thing is that Trump beat out 16 other GOP candidates. How does a man like Trump accomplish that?
3
The other candidates were just as stupid, inept and mean spirited.
a juggernaut of free airtime.
Easy: he lives in a country where virtually no one participates in the process of selecting leadership (voting).
Obama has a great line for this when gently chastises audiences after mentioning Trump:
Don't boo. Vote!
Obama has a great line for this when gently chastises audiences after mentioning Trump:
Don't boo. Vote!
1
At this point, his loss baked into the cake. But he is stoking xenophobia and paranoia and resentment which makes America an uglier place. I live abroad. I know folks from many nations and they still respect us and consider us essential. But they consider this Trump thing as insane.
Hating foreigners is no way to live.
Hating foreigners is no way to live.
5
Most foreigners consider lying and corruption normal, too. That is not way to live.
Not sure why you say this:
"GOP will be in deep trouble, if Trump challenges election result against him."
Gore did the same thing in 2000. Do you think that hurt the Democrats in 2004? They lost, of course, but I've never heard that blamed on Gore. Do you think we should blame him?
"GOP will be in deep trouble, if Trump challenges election result against him."
Gore did the same thing in 2000. Do you think that hurt the Democrats in 2004? They lost, of course, but I've never heard that blamed on Gore. Do you think we should blame him?
1
No, Gore did not do the same thing. Not Even Close. there were colossal issues with the Florida election returns resulting in questions about the design of the tally and that brought into question how they were counted. NO it is not the same thing at all, on any level. Please go back and read your history.
1
Gore challenged the vote count in one state where a recount was warranted. Trump may may outright dispute the counts in several states even though the margin might be greater.
1
Please check facts before posting comments 3cents. Florida law automatically triggered a recount due to the close contest. Sheesh. Gore never hedged before the election like trump has done.
2
When it pertains to anything Trump, I have achieved the mentality of the Stanley Motss character who was wonderfully played by Dustin Hoffman from the 1997 film Wag the Dog.
Each time the situation deteriorated from bad to worse, to horrific, Stanley, in a mildly perturbed manner that others had not already figured a solution to the current problem, confidently would proclaim, "What, this? This is nothing!"
Each time the situation deteriorated from bad to worse, to horrific, Stanley, in a mildly perturbed manner that others had not already figured a solution to the current problem, confidently would proclaim, "What, this? This is nothing!"
1
Alan Dershowitz said that Trump is speaking to two different audiences. To his supporters, he is saying "tear down the house if I don't win." To everyone else he is saying. "I'm a reasonable man and I will follow tradition."
1
Is this not what all professional politicians do?
The best result is that Clinton wins big, the Democrats also take the House and Senate but overwhelming evidence causes Clinton to be impeached and the nation is rid of both of them, except of course, for Trump's new TV reality/news network whose slogan will be "our way or the highway"..
5
Ah, yes, and more undeserved headlines/attention for the enfant terrible, exactly what he wants and the press keeps giving it to him, shocked at what we should all expect from him by now. There is no substance to him, just attention getting antics which I'm bored with - why aren't the rest of you bored instead of always being aghast at the same predictable behavior over and over?
1
Trump's comments were very unfortunate and completely unnecessary at this time. He could have brought up issues after the voting took place, if the election were close, and he believed there was voter fraud that tilted the outcome. But to be fair, the NY Times should note that it was Bill Clinton who urged the country to "take its time" in deciding the 2000 election, whose final resolution stretched out for weeks. And it was Hillary Clinton who said in 2002 that George W. Bush had been "selected [by the Supreme Court], not "elected." That was two years after the election had been decided, and she was effectively delegitimizing Bush as President. Why doesn't the NY Times express similar great outrage over those comments? And why does this newspaper continue to be so blatantly biased? It simply feeds the belief that it is an arm of the Democratic campaign, a point Trump continues to make.
2
Well said, but don't count on the vast majority of the commenters here to acknowledge your truths.
Was today the beginning of "The Apprentice"--on the surreality channel?Or is it the delusional channel?
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
It would be nice for someone to point out that while trade deals may open opportunities for domestic manufacturers and entrepreneurs to employ external workers, the decisions to do so come from our own domestic corporations.
When factories move to Mexico, private American companies make the decisions, not the government.
That said, there is another, more complicated rebuttal of the right-wing attempt to blame government. That lies in noting the actual virtue of certain migrations of manufacturing. Right now, things made externally are less expensive -- meaning Americans can make their own dollars go further. We can find work for everyone, with a little willingness and creativity. Public works! Shorter work week! We can employ more people and provide more time for home life -- while making earned dollars go further. Money goes further when people do not work 40 hours/week.
Another virtue in shipping jobs 'out' is the savings in energy, environmental degradation, and domestic health costs. And when workers overseas have those jobs, their nations are more stable, pay more of their share of world responsibilities, and are able to care better for their own needs. These are cost-saving factors for our people.
Point: trade deals might be a great deal better than you think. Nothing is as simple-minded as Trump wants you to believe.
When factories move to Mexico, private American companies make the decisions, not the government.
That said, there is another, more complicated rebuttal of the right-wing attempt to blame government. That lies in noting the actual virtue of certain migrations of manufacturing. Right now, things made externally are less expensive -- meaning Americans can make their own dollars go further. We can find work for everyone, with a little willingness and creativity. Public works! Shorter work week! We can employ more people and provide more time for home life -- while making earned dollars go further. Money goes further when people do not work 40 hours/week.
Another virtue in shipping jobs 'out' is the savings in energy, environmental degradation, and domestic health costs. And when workers overseas have those jobs, their nations are more stable, pay more of their share of world responsibilities, and are able to care better for their own needs. These are cost-saving factors for our people.
Point: trade deals might be a great deal better than you think. Nothing is as simple-minded as Trump wants you to believe.
3
"Public works, shorter work weeks". Sounds like more government, more taxes to fund "Public works", and more government legislation for shorter work weeks. More government - and how do we pay for more government if not more taxes on people with "shorter work weeks"? More debt funded by the Chinese and other foreign countries?
I keep thinking that the depths of his juvenile behaviour have been reached. I guess I was mistaken. His retort to Clinton's characterization of him as Putin's Puppet was "No puppet. No Puppet. You're a puppet." Sounds like Pee Wee Herman has a basis to claim appropriation of his classic retort: "I know you are. . . . But what am I?" Donald "Pee Wee Herman" Trump for President?
5
NYTimes,
Why do you continue to slavishly hang on EVERY word he says or utters, blazing it in headlines? And you've done this for months, ad nauseam. He won't accept, he will accept, he might accept, is just the latest.
If you'd done your work properly, as an important and "respected" media entity, during the so-called Democratic Primaries—
The public wouldn't be left with the choice of these two most unpalatable, unqualified (one by wholesale corruption in and out of office), and disliked candidates.
Why do you continue to slavishly hang on EVERY word he says or utters, blazing it in headlines? And you've done this for months, ad nauseam. He won't accept, he will accept, he might accept, is just the latest.
If you'd done your work properly, as an important and "respected" media entity, during the so-called Democratic Primaries—
The public wouldn't be left with the choice of these two most unpalatable, unqualified (one by wholesale corruption in and out of office), and disliked candidates.
5
srwdm, hillary is extremely qualified. you don't like her -fine. but to put her in the same universe as donnie is just ignorant. sorry thats the truth, not a lie.
1
The media decided that Trump committed a cardinal sin by saying it’s possible he might not accept the election results
I SUPPORT TRUMP'S ASSERTION. (I despise Trump.)
AL GORE RIGHTFULLY DID NOT ACCEPT THE RESULTS.
De Toqueville said America's people are so sure that this is the greatest nation that they never doubt their nation -- and this is how dastardly deeds are done. People envision democracy as something in which at the end of the day everybody shakes hands. Although our politics seem to be bitter and confrontational, the major parties only disagree on secondary subjects. On 1st principles they agree: They condone a sham democracy and an economy regulated and governed by the super rich. In this environment, it is considered gentlemanly to surrender.
Also your denial of voter fraud is absurd. Although a person rarely deceitfully casts a vote, fraud takes place in many other ways. In Florida, in one Northern County, blacks were told not to leave a single page of their ballot blank. However, the names of the Presidential candidates were on 2 pages. About 5K votes were cast for Gore on Page one, 5K votes were cast for Nadar on page two and all these ballots were invalidated. That single instance was enough to put Gore in the white house. However, in this democracy of meek people, Gore finally surrendered. It's true that there were no legal appeals after the Supreme Court aborted the count, but we should have continued to fight. We should have taken it to the Streets.
I SUPPORT TRUMP'S ASSERTION. (I despise Trump.)
AL GORE RIGHTFULLY DID NOT ACCEPT THE RESULTS.
De Toqueville said America's people are so sure that this is the greatest nation that they never doubt their nation -- and this is how dastardly deeds are done. People envision democracy as something in which at the end of the day everybody shakes hands. Although our politics seem to be bitter and confrontational, the major parties only disagree on secondary subjects. On 1st principles they agree: They condone a sham democracy and an economy regulated and governed by the super rich. In this environment, it is considered gentlemanly to surrender.
Also your denial of voter fraud is absurd. Although a person rarely deceitfully casts a vote, fraud takes place in many other ways. In Florida, in one Northern County, blacks were told not to leave a single page of their ballot blank. However, the names of the Presidential candidates were on 2 pages. About 5K votes were cast for Gore on Page one, 5K votes were cast for Nadar on page two and all these ballots were invalidated. That single instance was enough to put Gore in the white house. However, in this democracy of meek people, Gore finally surrendered. It's true that there were no legal appeals after the Supreme Court aborted the count, but we should have continued to fight. We should have taken it to the Streets.
6
A history lesson for you. Per Florida law, when there is a vote differential of less than .5%, a recount is automatically done. When it is less than .25% the recount must be done by hand.
The hand recount was problematic due to the issue with what was famously referred to as "dangling chad". Did a vote count if the candidate had not fallen away completely?
It was James Baker of Bush's team who took this to the Supreme Court for a definitive ruling. When that ruling came down in favor of Bush, Gore conceded.
To compare Mr. Gore to Trump's preemptively questioning the validity of the election is a false equivalency.
The hand recount was problematic due to the issue with what was famously referred to as "dangling chad". Did a vote count if the candidate had not fallen away completely?
It was James Baker of Bush's team who took this to the Supreme Court for a definitive ruling. When that ruling came down in favor of Bush, Gore conceded.
To compare Mr. Gore to Trump's preemptively questioning the validity of the election is a false equivalency.
1
Sadly, Trump is still very much in contention here in Ohio. Even if he loses the general election, if he wins in Ohio, how do I look at people here the same way? A vote for Trump is a vote of approval for his racism, xenophobia and misogyny, not to mention his threats to our democratic institutions. It is beyond disturbing to think that so many of my fellow Ohioans are fine with that.
15
I live in Ohio too. I say, Forget about it, Jake. It's Ohio.
1
I will not be voting for Trump, but I will accept the results should he win.
.
Should he lose fairly and not accept the results I will not accept THAT.
.
Should he lose fairly and not accept the results I will not accept THAT.
13
The lengthy tradition of the Al Smith dinner is that of levity and self-deprecating humor.
Mr. Trump's failure to honor the traditions of this New York City icon lead to his being soundly booed by the largely Republican audience in this event to raise funding for needy kids.
Mr. Trump is a truly classless candidate who has brought dishonor to the GOP party.
Mr. Trump's failure to honor the traditions of this New York City icon lead to his being soundly booed by the largely Republican audience in this event to raise funding for needy kids.
Mr. Trump is a truly classless candidate who has brought dishonor to the GOP party.
46
What? Its NYC how many Republicans can there possibly be?
Unreal.
Unreal.
2
@hawk
Don't fool yourself.....They're here.
Don't fool yourself.....They're here.
1
Trump’s initial refusal to say he would accept the results of the election was a final narcissistic gambit to put himself at the center of the results, even if Sec. Clinton were the actual winner. Likewise, his subsequent clarification still deliberately sows doubt about his intentions, thus insuring that a larger number of people will care about what he says and does on election night. On November 8, Hillary Clinton will win fair and square. If there’s anything “rigged” about the election, it will be Trump’s various maneuvers to appear relevant right up to the bitter end.
21
I was delighted when he said that.
The deeper he digs his own grave, the better.
The deeper he digs his own grave, the better.
24
Al Gore was actually elected President in 2000. Had he contested the Florida swindle properly we and the world may have been spared the Blunder into Iraq and much other destruction and grief. Trump won't do squat after he's crushed by Hillary. He's just being his usual juvenile self. Who cares if he "accepts" his butt kicking or not?
40
The New York Times laboriously recounted all Florida votes after the 2000 election and concluded that Bush had won the state and hence the election. As the saying goes, everyone is entitled to their own opinion but not their own facts.
With his the head I win tails you lose coin bullying approach Trump is not only questioning the basic assumption of peaceful transfer of power in democracy but also become a threat to the American republic and beyond that to the entire democratic world. As such ensuring a sure defeat of Trump at the presidential polls becomes a democratic obligation of the American public and the presidential electoral college
14
The comments over the past few months in this space, and the space on the NYT front page has been anything but "peaceful".
All I read is hate.
All I read is hate.
2
@hawk
If you listened more closely to what is spewing out of Donald Trump's mouth -- you'd know where all that "hate" emanates from.
Comments here tend to refute it.
If you listened more closely to what is spewing out of Donald Trump's mouth -- you'd know where all that "hate" emanates from.
Comments here tend to refute it.
3
His proposal reeks of an authoritarian leadership. Don't his followers realize that his ideology ( banning races, restricting free press, raising suspicions of others, encouraging violence) which they have embraced is completely anti American, it is everything against a free and a strong democracy.
He isa danger to our country.
He isa danger to our country.
23
They're too blinded with their hate.
3
As much as I would to join everyone else who thinks Trump will lose, and go quietly into that dark night -- I'm unable to shake the feeling that it won't be as easy as that.
Even if Trump walks off with a new TV show, or an entire channel for that matter, he will not be appeased, nor able to come to terms with the fact that he lost the big prize... BIG time.
And as his father's son and loyal apprentice to the nefarious Roy Cohn, vengeance is a tool that is never far out of reach.
This chapter is not over.
Even if Trump walks off with a new TV show, or an entire channel for that matter, he will not be appeased, nor able to come to terms with the fact that he lost the big prize... BIG time.
And as his father's son and loyal apprentice to the nefarious Roy Cohn, vengeance is a tool that is never far out of reach.
This chapter is not over.
20
Draft Dodging Don was playing a prank which explains the grin after he said it. Good that he has a sense of humour. I still don't like him but I like him more after her said it. But it does tell me that he is not serious about winning.
4
It's less funny if you live in this country.
3
Trump is really a pitiful character.
17
I read several months ago that there is a sign in Trump's war room reading,
"Let Trump Be Trump".
Great, Donald! That was the blueprint for your losing this election and I dearly
love when plans are followed to a "T"!
"Let Trump Be Trump".
Great, Donald! That was the blueprint for your losing this election and I dearly
love when plans are followed to a "T"!
12
Trump the buffoon, Trump the lout, too ignorant to have any respect for anything and anyone, save his own huge ego.
Three more weeks and he's gone.
Huzzah!
Three more weeks and he's gone.
Huzzah!
16
This is the mentality Trump takes to his sexual conquests of women. He decides who consents, not the voter.
28
Trump is like the houseguest from hell who won't leave. Or think Michael Keaton in Pacific Heights. A destructive, malicious person just for grins. He hates humanity. He gets off on bringing misery to everyone else. Trump needs to be extinguished from the political landscape. That said - I now DESPISE the GOP who has brought this terrorist to prominence and does nothing about it. But, mark my words, Ryan, McConnell and McCain are already yukking it up in some posh DC club figuring out how to obstruct a Clinton presidency using the rationale that the only reason why they lost is they were stupid enough to nominate the loathsome Donald Trump. To think they would do the American electorate a "solid" by giving us some peace during Hillary's first few months is a pipe dream.
I am just so fed up with the meanness of the GOP's candidate and the enablers in the GOP establishment. And I'll bite my tongue on the oh so angry and downtrodden GOP primary voters who brought this nightmare to the rest of us.
I am just so fed up with the meanness of the GOP's candidate and the enablers in the GOP establishment. And I'll bite my tongue on the oh so angry and downtrodden GOP primary voters who brought this nightmare to the rest of us.
43
Excellent comment!!
1
"We're gonna win" <- Has he lost touch with reality? People are now counting by how much Hillary will win by
17
Sore loser
6
"If I win"
Just in case anyone out there forgot that Donald J. Trump is nothing but a spoiled brat.
Just in case anyone out there forgot that Donald J. Trump is nothing but a spoiled brat.
17
"It's rigged. It's rigged!"
No Donald, it's Rules. It's Rules!
You had $2 billion in free media exposure to do with as you liked, for over a year, to fight the alleged biased media and yet you still choked! Yes Mr. Limbaugh, Donald choked.
Trump is not a sore loser - he is a vindictive one. Let the suspense begin.
No Donald, it's Rules. It's Rules!
You had $2 billion in free media exposure to do with as you liked, for over a year, to fight the alleged biased media and yet you still choked! Yes Mr. Limbaugh, Donald choked.
Trump is not a sore loser - he is a vindictive one. Let the suspense begin.
15
When this is all done, Trump is going to brag about how much money he made running for President. So many suckers are sending him money, which he is allowed to keep tax free. He definitely is not spending it. Go to his website and you can buy hats, t-shirts and send him cash. all payable to Donald J. Trump.
17
th worlds richest beggar
Trump is just self-promoting to build an audience for his upcoming Trump TV cable network. That is not a joke. It really is what he's doing. He conceded the election to Hillary weeks ago, but he has to keep his face in the media somehow.
Trump never wanted to be President. Even as clueless as he is, which is intergalactic, he knows he could never handle the demands of the office. All he's ever wanted to do is to RUN for office. To him, the election is a game. Or, more correctly, just an extension of his trash game show mentality. Note the word "reality" isn't in that description.
But it isn't a game to Americans, who on November 8th will show him how detested he is. THAT is "reality", Donald.
Trump never wanted to be President. Even as clueless as he is, which is intergalactic, he knows he could never handle the demands of the office. All he's ever wanted to do is to RUN for office. To him, the election is a game. Or, more correctly, just an extension of his trash game show mentality. Note the word "reality" isn't in that description.
But it isn't a game to Americans, who on November 8th will show him how detested he is. THAT is "reality", Donald.
126
Trump TV cable network. He would make billions. I suppose you plan to be one of his guest.
You treat trump too seriously. He is merely a clown, a wealthy, il-informed, tasteless clown, who has mastered that manner to please himself and found his manner accepted by others. 'It is only trump.' And his millions permit it.
14
He's a mean clown with a vindictive streak and millions to permit it.
Who knows how that will pan out?
Not funny.
Who knows how that will pan out?
Not funny.
2
Who cares if he doesn't accept the results of the election? John Roberts is only going to swear in one person. What's he going to do? Sue somebody? Still, very interesting to hear that even Rush Limbaugh is not 100% behind him
8
Now he's just toying with the media idjits! Who would call for a recount if they won?
3
I'm not sure why Trump's latest speakings are printed anymore. His words have so little relationship to reality, or what he said last, or what he will say next. It's to the point now that when I click on the NYT, I kind of clench up, getting ready to see "Trump Froths at Mouth while Throwing Cleaning Staff Off Balcony" or something. It's just a matter of time, you know.
12
Trump calling Clinton dishonest. How rich! Is it possible that he
just might be the most un-self aware adult on earth? His hypocrisy, idiocy, and hubris are truly breathtaking.
just might be the most un-self aware adult on earth? His hypocrisy, idiocy, and hubris are truly breathtaking.
19
Trump is a salesman - not a debater. When given the chance he should have pointed out the Clintons' massive charitable frauds. For example, Haitians received absolutely no benefit from the Clinton Foundation's Haitian earthquake relief program. Only the Clintons and their cronies benefited.
And, in connection with the Clinton Foundation's distribution of HIV/aids drugs, Trump should have pointed out that the drugs were so watered down that they were of no benefit.
The Foundation skimmed tens of millions of dollars from government subsidies funding the program. According to a May 15, 2013 Fortune article, "On May 13, 2013, Ranbaxy (the distributor of the drugs) pleaded guilty to seven federal criminal counts of selling adulterated drugs with intent to defraud, failing to report that its drugs didn’t meet specifications, and making intentionally false statements to the government. Ranbaxy agreed to pay $500 million in fines, forfeitures, and penalties — the most ever levied against a generic-drug company." http://fortune.com/2013/05/15/dirty-medicine/
The Clintons belong in jail - not in the White House.
And, in connection with the Clinton Foundation's distribution of HIV/aids drugs, Trump should have pointed out that the drugs were so watered down that they were of no benefit.
The Foundation skimmed tens of millions of dollars from government subsidies funding the program. According to a May 15, 2013 Fortune article, "On May 13, 2013, Ranbaxy (the distributor of the drugs) pleaded guilty to seven federal criminal counts of selling adulterated drugs with intent to defraud, failing to report that its drugs didn’t meet specifications, and making intentionally false statements to the government. Ranbaxy agreed to pay $500 million in fines, forfeitures, and penalties — the most ever levied against a generic-drug company." http://fortune.com/2013/05/15/dirty-medicine/
The Clintons belong in jail - not in the White House.
8
I happen to agree that whole idea of "social entrepreneuring" smacks of profiting off the misery of others. That's why I think public health protection, poverty reduction and disaster relief should be public sector functions.
2
The website "The Daily Caller" has been found to be completely wrong in trying to tie watered-down HIV/AIDS drugs to the Clinton Foundation.
Do you have no shame?
Apparently not. On that same website, you can now buy T-shirts that have Hillary Clinton's image with the words "Such a Nasty Woman" on it.
Make your mother proud!
Do you have no shame?
Apparently not. On that same website, you can now buy T-shirts that have Hillary Clinton's image with the words "Such a Nasty Woman" on it.
Make your mother proud!
1
"Pence said that State Department officials steered Haiti relief contracts to friends of the Clintons. That charge rests on a news report based on emails between the State Department and the Clinton Foundation.
Those emails show only that well-connected people saw their offers of help put on a fast track. Neither the emails nor a search of government contract databases show that the government gave contracts to any of those people or their firms to help in Haiti."
So thanks for nothing.
Those emails show only that well-connected people saw their offers of help put on a fast track. Neither the emails nor a search of government contract databases show that the government gave contracts to any of those people or their firms to help in Haiti."
So thanks for nothing.
Can this be a surprise? Trump claimed primaries were rigged until the moment he won...then all such claims vanished. Then it was simply a face-saving tactic. Now it's a threat.
7
When President. Obama won re-election in 2012 Trump attacked the validity of the outcome and said he'd lead a march o. Washington to challenge it. Nothing came of that. I guess that's good news. Just more infantile behavior from a n ignorant blowhard, who learned slash and burn politics from Roy Cohn, receives refresher courses from Rudy Giuliani, and basks in adoration from Bill O' Reilly and Sean Hannity, who, the Donald might soon realize, are exploiting him for their own purposes: to shore up slipping ratings.
8
This vid was of course in the Washington Post, too. In their presentation they did not cut the very next line after "If I win" which was. "... but seriously folks." In other words he was acknowledging, and it's pretty clear even in the wind up to the statement we see here, that he was "kidding."
Why this paper has to do tortured backflips from yoga positions while juggling cats in order to criticise this guy is beyond me. A perfectly effective case against Trump can be made without the media tricks, hype, flood of like headlines, scare tactics etc. I'm ashamed to be associated with my liberal fellows who have been hoeing this disreputable row.
Why this paper has to do tortured backflips from yoga positions while juggling cats in order to criticise this guy is beyond me. A perfectly effective case against Trump can be made without the media tricks, hype, flood of like headlines, scare tactics etc. I'm ashamed to be associated with my liberal fellows who have been hoeing this disreputable row.
5
Yes, please tell us what Trump "really" meant.
We're, obviously, not as bright as some of our peers. We have to have it explained to us in terms that we can understand that what we saw and heard wasn't what we thought we saw and heard.
Please explain it to us one more time.
But leave out the condescension.
We're, obviously, not as bright as some of our peers. We have to have it explained to us in terms that we can understand that what we saw and heard wasn't what we thought we saw and heard.
Please explain it to us one more time.
But leave out the condescension.
The why didn't he issue a clarification the next day? Something like: "I was joking but the joke fell flat."
Thanks for the point. I failed to address those that prefer to be tricked and feel insulted when it's pointed out.
The problem isn't Trump 2016: the problem is President Trump 2020. What happens if he doesn't like the result then? That's how authoritarian regimes and dictatorships begin.
6
A questionable result? So Donald is so infatuated with himself and his prospects and thinks the race is going to be so close (ala Bush V Gore) that he needs to reserve the right to contest? Ha, Ha, Ha, Ha, Ha. Such a sad sad man. He doesn't realize this is going to be a Nixon-McGovern redo. Any reasonable candidate, fit to hold the office of POTUS would have simply said, "yes." Just another in a myriad of indications that the man is not fit to hold the office.
17
Who cares what Trump will or won't accept. The vote is the vote. Like or lump it, Trump, those are your choices.
6
In the US concession is not a necessity; it is a nicety and a courtesy and shows respect for our system of governance, as well as some knowledge about how it works. But Trump or any candidate do not have to concede for the election results to be final.
When the Electoral College votes are there, the presidential election is over. Of course, election law allows for a request for a recount. Boards of election must certify votes. There are safety features built in. In Baltimore this year, for example, the mayoral primary results were decertified because of some voting irregularities and then were certified as final. But then, that was it... Same as with Al Gore's election. The Supreme Court ruling was made, that's it...
Trump's knowledge of civics and history is lacking. But let's not make this worse than it is. In fact, the press, including the NYT, should include some information on election law, the Electoral Collage, etc. in their stories on this issue. A lot of people do not know, or may have forgotten, some of the details--including Trump.
When the Electoral College votes are there, the presidential election is over. Of course, election law allows for a request for a recount. Boards of election must certify votes. There are safety features built in. In Baltimore this year, for example, the mayoral primary results were decertified because of some voting irregularities and then were certified as final. But then, that was it... Same as with Al Gore's election. The Supreme Court ruling was made, that's it...
Trump's knowledge of civics and history is lacking. But let's not make this worse than it is. In fact, the press, including the NYT, should include some information on election law, the Electoral Collage, etc. in their stories on this issue. A lot of people do not know, or may have forgotten, some of the details--including Trump.
9
Umm, I thought the Constitution required the President to be at least 35 years old. It appears the Republican candidate is a spoiled, 14-year-old brat who cries and blames everyone else if he doesn't get his way. How did he sneak through?
16
My 13 year old boy is insulted by the comparison....
1
Why insult 14-year-olds? I know some who are savvy and.civil.
1
Listen,listen, listen guys...no need to get yourself in a knot with what Trump said, implied or threatened.
Somebody, after all that Trump has said so far...lot of it on record, including the obvious lies, should file a lawsuit that he is mentally impaired, cognitively damaged, suffering from serious neurological disorder that affects memory, normal thinking and basic judgement, or has an actual mental illness (that include socially inappropriate behaviors with sociopathic thinking, while claiming to be brilliant and a true winner). If courts find him inappropriate, maybe downright dangerous, then his candidacy would be ripped away from him.
Somebody, after all that Trump has said so far...lot of it on record, including the obvious lies, should file a lawsuit that he is mentally impaired, cognitively damaged, suffering from serious neurological disorder that affects memory, normal thinking and basic judgement, or has an actual mental illness (that include socially inappropriate behaviors with sociopathic thinking, while claiming to be brilliant and a true winner). If courts find him inappropriate, maybe downright dangerous, then his candidacy would be ripped away from him.
3
On what grounds? There is no law against a crazy person running for president.
1
And were he elected and saying this four years from now with the power to implement such a threat; what then? Anyone in GOP leadership not emphatically condemning this unequivocal disregard of democracy is tacitly acquiescing to its end.
6
Well Trump TV here it comes - get out of the way Rupert your time is done - and no doubt it'll be Glenn Beck or similar all the time - we are witnessing the end of Fox and something we never thought possible the birth of something worse!
5
“I will tell you at the time. … I’ll keep you in suspense”
Vintage djt -- knee-jerk, instinctive -- the only way he could see in the heat of the moment (to appear) to retain the upper hand on the issue. He's psychologically incapable of not seeming to dominate; that's why the very clear prospect of losing only makes him more feral.
Of course, he's walked it all back since, as reported here, just as he attempted to walk back the tape-talk as "locker room banter", in no way related to his repeatedly expressed profound respect for women. His temperament may boost ratings in the side-show of reality tv, but the thought of him sitting down to negotiate with world leaders is mind-boggling, to put it mildly.
Vintage djt -- knee-jerk, instinctive -- the only way he could see in the heat of the moment (to appear) to retain the upper hand on the issue. He's psychologically incapable of not seeming to dominate; that's why the very clear prospect of losing only makes him more feral.
Of course, he's walked it all back since, as reported here, just as he attempted to walk back the tape-talk as "locker room banter", in no way related to his repeatedly expressed profound respect for women. His temperament may boost ratings in the side-show of reality tv, but the thought of him sitting down to negotiate with world leaders is mind-boggling, to put it mildly.
10
Watching the annual Al Smith dinner at the Waldorf-Astoria tonight I was pleased to see sitting on either side of His Eminence Cardinal Dolan, Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump. Each gave a self-effacing speech, skewering one another and themselves in the most convivial night we have seen in some time.
I know the sight of this white-tie affair in Midtown Manhattan with some of the most powerful elites in the City will irk many out in the Hinterlands. They think that folks like Hillary and The Donald seem ready to go at one another hammer and tong all of the time. The Al Smith dinner shows us another side. Every presidential year the opponents are invited and dutifully show up for this importantly influential gathering to as George W. Bush put it, hang out with "my kind of crowd, the haves and the have-mores".
Maybe it will provide all of us caught up in this traumatic election cycle a respite, a sign that in a few weeks all the vitriol will be over, at least with the candidates. That Trump will not drag out this contest ad nauseam when he loses no matter what he says now. True, Trump is all about himself, an obsession. He is a real know-nothing, not only in politics but a host of other endeavors. But Trump has street smarts. He knows his brand has taken many hits. He needs to revitalize it, soon. Like any bully, when called out, they back away. So will Trump. Check out tonight's event on C-Span. See if you don't have a similar impression.
DD
Manhattan
I know the sight of this white-tie affair in Midtown Manhattan with some of the most powerful elites in the City will irk many out in the Hinterlands. They think that folks like Hillary and The Donald seem ready to go at one another hammer and tong all of the time. The Al Smith dinner shows us another side. Every presidential year the opponents are invited and dutifully show up for this importantly influential gathering to as George W. Bush put it, hang out with "my kind of crowd, the haves and the have-mores".
Maybe it will provide all of us caught up in this traumatic election cycle a respite, a sign that in a few weeks all the vitriol will be over, at least with the candidates. That Trump will not drag out this contest ad nauseam when he loses no matter what he says now. True, Trump is all about himself, an obsession. He is a real know-nothing, not only in politics but a host of other endeavors. But Trump has street smarts. He knows his brand has taken many hits. He needs to revitalize it, soon. Like any bully, when called out, they back away. So will Trump. Check out tonight's event on C-Span. See if you don't have a similar impression.
DD
Manhattan
6
Trump scored a first: he is the first guest speaker to be booed in the history of the event.
8
Dear Mr. S. Bolger:
Yes, Trump was booed, and rightly so. The idea of the Al Smith dinner has always been congeniality, to have fun by poking fun at your opponent, but more so at yourself. Trump, again acting the bull in the china shop, chose not to follow that unspoken rule. His jibes were directed more toward Hillary. They got out of hand, and then Trump began to hit below the belt, so to speak, another trait of The Donald's when it comes to women.
Trump: you can dress him up in white-tie but you can't take him out.
DD
Manhattan
Yes, Trump was booed, and rightly so. The idea of the Al Smith dinner has always been congeniality, to have fun by poking fun at your opponent, but more so at yourself. Trump, again acting the bull in the china shop, chose not to follow that unspoken rule. His jibes were directed more toward Hillary. They got out of hand, and then Trump began to hit below the belt, so to speak, another trait of The Donald's when it comes to women.
Trump: you can dress him up in white-tie but you can't take him out.
DD
Manhattan
2
The Trump monster has been years in the making. He is not a recent apparition but the result of decades of GOP elites promising the downtrodden, now the basket of irredeemable deplorables, this world and the next, all the while they were catering to the rich and infamous (Fok Brothers et al). The appearance of the Tea Party extremists was neither sudden nor accidental but the GOP elite preferred to see them as a small group at odds with ‘mainstream GOP” that had to be, if not tamed, at least controlled by the “experienced establishment.” Trump, with his cheap inflammatory rhetoric, reminiscent of Germany 1930s, realized that this was his golden opportunity to become a political leader, and the extreme right-wing press (FOK News et al), dutifully obliged for they have been “in the outside looking in” for too long. The O’Reillys, Hannitys, Limbaughs, Coulters saw the opportunity to be the modern Joseph Goebbles, and the establishment did nothing to stop them. Why complain now?
6
Has Trump ever taken personal responsibility for his own mistakes? I think a President should be able to say "the buck stops here." Or is Trump only capable of blaming other people and "rigged" things to account for his own limitations?
8
Of course not. Habitual deflectors are a complete waste of time to deal with. I would never give such a person any supervisory position.
4
Trump's strategy in both business and politics is that no deal is ever final.
3
Pretty obvious Bannon is inviting Trump to destroy the GOP, and he is gladly willing to take the Russian's money. How can any of them survive if they don't repudiate his bid to discredit our form of government?
This is a Red Letter Day. Wear it at your own risk, GOP.
This is a Red Letter Day. Wear it at your own risk, GOP.
6
Whatever. For all his complaining about the media conspiracies he has received more coverage than any candidate ever.
7
Trump used all that time to leave no doubt what a scatterbrained fool he is.
6
Donald Trump mistakes defecating out of his mouth for intelligible speech. The sad part is that some Americans accept Trump's view of his utterances, and are eager coprophages.
12
Is this latest statement from Trump supposed to allay all fears that he won't forget what he's said in the blink of a 3am tweet?
No. Sorry. Trump was already clear when he said last night that he may, or may not accept the outcome of the election.
The spin cycle is over.
Time to hang this one out to dry.
No. Sorry. Trump was already clear when he said last night that he may, or may not accept the outcome of the election.
The spin cycle is over.
Time to hang this one out to dry.
6
Just cannot wait for this election to be over. I find all of this so disheartening. Find myself spending more time on the food and travel pages.I know so many of my fellow Americans are feeling the same way.We just all need to get out and vote. Not a TV watcher, so will not have to see him on his new show, and hope not to read anything about him ever again after the election is over.
7
Trump, this troubled, troublesome man, thinks his "if I win" quip is funny!
9
Agreed, but...
"There is no evidence of corruption in either her clumsy private email server or The Clinton Foundation."
I haven't paid much attention to the "Clinton Foundation" issue. On the emails, though, it's true that no evidence of corruption has been found (or made public if it has been, but I doubt any has been found). I've always considered Clinton's "email" mistakes to be just sloppiness -- or "extreme carelessness" if one prefers FBI Director Comey's terminology -- not corruption. I do think, nonetheless, that it's just this side of amazing that Clinton was so careless. That the US Secretary of State would send and receive all official emails -- 100% of them -- through a private server would be unbelievable if it hadn't actually happened.
"There is no evidence of corruption in either her clumsy private email server or The Clinton Foundation."
I haven't paid much attention to the "Clinton Foundation" issue. On the emails, though, it's true that no evidence of corruption has been found (or made public if it has been, but I doubt any has been found). I've always considered Clinton's "email" mistakes to be just sloppiness -- or "extreme carelessness" if one prefers FBI Director Comey's terminology -- not corruption. I do think, nonetheless, that it's just this side of amazing that Clinton was so careless. That the US Secretary of State would send and receive all official emails -- 100% of them -- through a private server would be unbelievable if it hadn't actually happened.
She sure spared the courts a passel of frivolous FOIA witch hunts by the hypocritical Republicans who ignore their own contributions to making Hillary justifiably defensive.
1
Don't be shy -- it's un-American!
"I've had some debates with colleagues, with speculation as to what point Mr. Trump might be charged with sedition."
The US has a venerable tradition of arresting dissidents for sedition, so why not Trump? In the 1920 election, for example, Eugene Debs ran for President from his prison cell, having been sent there after being convicted for sedition because he opposed the US' entry into World War I.
So why not arrest Trump for sedition? It would be un-American NOT to, n'est-ce pas?
"I've had some debates with colleagues, with speculation as to what point Mr. Trump might be charged with sedition."
The US has a venerable tradition of arresting dissidents for sedition, so why not Trump? In the 1920 election, for example, Eugene Debs ran for President from his prison cell, having been sent there after being convicted for sedition because he opposed the US' entry into World War I.
So why not arrest Trump for sedition? It would be un-American NOT to, n'est-ce pas?
2
Honestly, who cares if he accepts it or not. As long as he is only a part of the sordid history of elections in the past, he can believe in the fairy Pagent-mother for all I care. I can't wait until this pre-pubescent man-child is finally out of the zeitgeist of American politics. Good riddance.
5
When I first glanced at the video of Trump speaking as a presidential candidate, I truly thought it was a stand-up comedy. I was astonished to find out that he is a real candidate.
I live and work in Japan and have no right to vote, however, the U.S. still remains as the world's leader, the biggest economy, the innovator and the inspiration for many in the world. We are deeply concerned.
This Trump "incident" is an embarrassment not only to many in the U.S. but also to us in the world. He is not only an embarrassment but a pain in my chest, threat to peace and how U.S. will shape itself in case of a tragic result of the election. It affects the world.
American people whom I know are loving, caring and respectful.
I can understand some of the anger and frustrations that people have under the current economic and political environment, however, this presidential candidate is just too much to accept even as a candidate.
U.S. must stay as the respected leader for the world.
I hope that our prayers are reaching out to all of you.
I live and work in Japan and have no right to vote, however, the U.S. still remains as the world's leader, the biggest economy, the innovator and the inspiration for many in the world. We are deeply concerned.
This Trump "incident" is an embarrassment not only to many in the U.S. but also to us in the world. He is not only an embarrassment but a pain in my chest, threat to peace and how U.S. will shape itself in case of a tragic result of the election. It affects the world.
American people whom I know are loving, caring and respectful.
I can understand some of the anger and frustrations that people have under the current economic and political environment, however, this presidential candidate is just too much to accept even as a candidate.
U.S. must stay as the respected leader for the world.
I hope that our prayers are reaching out to all of you.
17
You can be certain that your sentiments are shared by many here.
Thank you for all your prayers.
Thank you for all your prayers.
6
I don't vote and I make do with whomever is president since I am of the opinion (since Reagan was elected) that it really doesn't matter who is president any more than it matters which wrestler claims the big wrestling championship belt or crown or whatever they use. Wrestling fans will insist that who the winner is does affect the entire universe, to illustrate some sense of scale to the extent of what any reader may be willing to construe relatively.
I consider ideology to be closer to a form of self-intoxication than a platform for sharing common values, because similar to the effect of booze the first trait an ideologically minded person abandons is objectivity.
The office of president is really largely ceremonial. There is no way a president could, for instance, order military action at any level on a personal whim or fit of pique. Nor could a president issue an order to build a wall anywhere without expecting some aegis of oversight potentially wielding a kibosh.
I'm fairly near certain Hillary will win, but my hat is off to Trump for making this truly the most entertaining election I've known in my lifetime.
I consider ideology to be closer to a form of self-intoxication than a platform for sharing common values, because similar to the effect of booze the first trait an ideologically minded person abandons is objectivity.
The office of president is really largely ceremonial. There is no way a president could, for instance, order military action at any level on a personal whim or fit of pique. Nor could a president issue an order to build a wall anywhere without expecting some aegis of oversight potentially wielding a kibosh.
I'm fairly near certain Hillary will win, but my hat is off to Trump for making this truly the most entertaining election I've known in my lifetime.
A President could launch nuclear weapons with only the approval of the Secretary of Defense (appointed by him, of course).
Would that be "entertaining" enough for you?
Would that be "entertaining" enough for you?
3
Your "opinion" is based on ignorance about how our government works. That's noting to be proud of.
2
The Supreme Court in their infinite wisdom set the stage for this when they interfered in the election in 2000, in possibly the most dishonest judicial decision ever.
12
"Do not use this ruling as a precedent for anything else" caps this abject travesty of equal protection of the law.
2
As a Republican who thought Trump was totally unqualified to be President, I said. starting in February, that the mainstream media is pushing Trump's in the Republican primaries -- by giving him much, much more attention than any other candidate -- to make a mockery of the Republican Party and to help insure a Democrat will be elected President in 2016. I said at that time, if he gets nominated, after the mainstream media has milked the horse race, they will destroy Trump with negative propaganda, which will be much easier with Trump than most of the other Republican candidates.
That is exactly what is happened, as is evidenced by the outrageous dishonesty and hypocrisy the media in attacking Trump because he is refusing to give up his right to object to election results that are questionable, a right that has been exercised by multiple Democrats in recent years, including, most famously, Al Gore in 2000.
That is exactly what is happened, as is evidenced by the outrageous dishonesty and hypocrisy the media in attacking Trump because he is refusing to give up his right to object to election results that are questionable, a right that has been exercised by multiple Democrats in recent years, including, most famously, Al Gore in 2000.
3
You seem to forget that Donald Trump has been the most instrumental one in bringing about his own political demise.
Granted, the media helped him along in this "horse race", but Trump was the one who always actively sought out the brightest spotlights -- Unfortunately for him, they also started to reveal his shadows, as his attacks against half the electorate become more petty and vindictive, at all hours of the day and night.
And there is no comparison between what he has said and Al Gore in 2000.
You can Google it.
Granted, the media helped him along in this "horse race", but Trump was the one who always actively sought out the brightest spotlights -- Unfortunately for him, they also started to reveal his shadows, as his attacks against half the electorate become more petty and vindictive, at all hours of the day and night.
And there is no comparison between what he has said and Al Gore in 2000.
You can Google it.
9
In Al Gore's case the vote count in Florida was very close between the candidates and a recount was necessary. There was never any talk of a "rigged system", something which Trump has been incessantly complaining about as his poll numbers have dropped. It is very unpatriotic of Trump to show such small regard for our democratic system, with no proof to back up his claims of a "rigged" system. Nobody is attacking his right to object to election results if the objection is fair and reasonable.
2
Have you ever noticed that when someone uses the phrase "Let's Be Honest", whatever they say afterwards is usually anything but.
You start out by saying that you thought that Trump was totally unqualified to be President. (You should have stopped there.)
You then proceed to chastise the "mainstream media" (by the way, is there a list somewhere?) for saying the same thing. But here you call it "negative propaganda".
And then accuse the media of "dishonesty and hypocrisy" because Trump is "refusing to give up his right to object to election results that are questionable"....Very interesting. We haven't even had the election, and already they're "questionable". Shades of Nixon paranoia all over again. (That's another one of your "heroes", no doubt.)
And then you compare this to the 2000 election, which was truly stolen from Gore, without any question, with the help of George's brother Jeb and the Republican Secretary of State, with true voter suppression tactics and a deliberately-misleading ballot, and then having the voter recount stopped by the Republican Supreme Court.
If I was a Republican, I wouldn't be bringing any more attention to that travesty of justice. But I know that you are just being a faithful servant, getting your "news" every day from any one of a million despicable sites all saying the same thing. (And then parroting it back word for word.) All engaged in one of the oldest tricks around - telling a lie often enough that you hope people will believe you.
You start out by saying that you thought that Trump was totally unqualified to be President. (You should have stopped there.)
You then proceed to chastise the "mainstream media" (by the way, is there a list somewhere?) for saying the same thing. But here you call it "negative propaganda".
And then accuse the media of "dishonesty and hypocrisy" because Trump is "refusing to give up his right to object to election results that are questionable"....Very interesting. We haven't even had the election, and already they're "questionable". Shades of Nixon paranoia all over again. (That's another one of your "heroes", no doubt.)
And then you compare this to the 2000 election, which was truly stolen from Gore, without any question, with the help of George's brother Jeb and the Republican Secretary of State, with true voter suppression tactics and a deliberately-misleading ballot, and then having the voter recount stopped by the Republican Supreme Court.
If I was a Republican, I wouldn't be bringing any more attention to that travesty of justice. But I know that you are just being a faithful servant, getting your "news" every day from any one of a million despicable sites all saying the same thing. (And then parroting it back word for word.) All engaged in one of the oldest tricks around - telling a lie often enough that you hope people will believe you.
1
That's it. I'm voting Trump. That kind of logic needs to be nurtured.
1
I dont think Trump is an ideal candidate by any stretch of the immagination. But at least you know who you are getting. I watched the debate and the one who completely ignored the questions asked was Ms. Clinton. Asked about: "pay to play" re the Clinton Foundation, she ignored the question and spoke of all the wonderful things they do. Many in Haiti disagree with that. She basically ignored any real question re her ethics, moved the conversation to an attack on Trump and the readers of the NY Times ignore that, the columnists as well. So, you know, I will vote for Trump - he is transparent, Ms. Clinton remains a pathological liar who will do whatever it takes to accumulate money and power, the hell with anyone else, including the USA.
6
Everybody in politics makes introductions. It is the silliest issue yet bawled about by the juvenile weirdos in the Republican pecking order.
1
@Anne Smith: Couldn't have said it better myself!
As Dady Chery points out, “Haiti has been, and continues to be, a key element in the rise of the Clintons’ personal and political ambitions.”
And while we're on the subject, where DID the billions of untraceable "pay-to-play" money raised by the Foundation for Haiti “reconstruction,” essentially one massive corporate slush fund, actually go???
Hmmmmmmm....perhaps Cheryl Mills would know...but I'm sure she ain't talkin'!
http://www.counterpunch.org/2014/12/17/haiti-time-for-clinton-and-co-to-...
https://www.spreaker.com/user/acrnetwork/sunday-wire-ep-151-war-by-ngo-w...
As Dady Chery points out, “Haiti has been, and continues to be, a key element in the rise of the Clintons’ personal and political ambitions.”
And while we're on the subject, where DID the billions of untraceable "pay-to-play" money raised by the Foundation for Haiti “reconstruction,” essentially one massive corporate slush fund, actually go???
Hmmmmmmm....perhaps Cheryl Mills would know...but I'm sure she ain't talkin'!
http://www.counterpunch.org/2014/12/17/haiti-time-for-clinton-and-co-to-...
https://www.spreaker.com/user/acrnetwork/sunday-wire-ep-151-war-by-ngo-w...
1
"...questionable result." allow me to translate: "...if I lose."
Nov 9 the clown car with shift into 4th gear, and I expect the trunk will be packed full of 'legal' claims of electoral malfeasance borne out hints, rumours and the imaginations of the "movement's" ground troops.
Expect protests great and small, egged on by the above claims. Off course Trump et al will eventually 'bundle it,' market it, and morph it into a branded conspiracy, akin to the "truthers," "birthers," etc. The spotlight will never move off him, and he'll have target market of ~25%+ of the US population. That's a lot of T shirts, ball caps and ad revenue for Breitbart.
Will the GOP use this "grass roots phenomena" to leverage concessions and covertly promote it, or take the high ground and start to help govern? Based on the last 8 years my monies on the former.
Nov 9 the clown car with shift into 4th gear, and I expect the trunk will be packed full of 'legal' claims of electoral malfeasance borne out hints, rumours and the imaginations of the "movement's" ground troops.
Expect protests great and small, egged on by the above claims. Off course Trump et al will eventually 'bundle it,' market it, and morph it into a branded conspiracy, akin to the "truthers," "birthers," etc. The spotlight will never move off him, and he'll have target market of ~25%+ of the US population. That's a lot of T shirts, ball caps and ad revenue for Breitbart.
Will the GOP use this "grass roots phenomena" to leverage concessions and covertly promote it, or take the high ground and start to help govern? Based on the last 8 years my monies on the former.
1
Love him or hate him you have to agree that at least Donald Trump is genuine. There's no artifice. There's no attempt to hide behind a mask. What you see and hear is exactly what you get. He's the real deal-as appalling as that is to many Americans. And if Hillary is predicted to become the presumptive winner based on the ridiculously inaccurate polling we have seen throughout this election cycle we might wake in a few weeks to see that voter turnout was suppressed, people didn't show up at the polls and our next president, Donald Trump has been able to eke out a narrow victory. It could happen, folks. The pundits and the pollsters have been wrong all along.
2
"Love him or hate him you have to agree that at least Donald Trump is genuine."
Certainly you're kidding, right?
Nobody could be that brain dead.
What do you think you know about Trump, other than he hates every atom of Hillary's being?
Tell me one important statement he has made during this election to which he has not also said it's opposite or later denied saying as the video of him saying it was playing.
Tell mew one time he has claimed Hillary is the "most corrupt candidate in the whole history of elections" without having prefaced it with twenty minute barrage of lies and conscious misrepresentations.
I don't hate Donald, or you for that matter, but I despise the laziness that leads you people to welcome the first dog off head just because he promises you what you think you deserve.
Certainly you're kidding, right?
Nobody could be that brain dead.
What do you think you know about Trump, other than he hates every atom of Hillary's being?
Tell me one important statement he has made during this election to which he has not also said it's opposite or later denied saying as the video of him saying it was playing.
Tell mew one time he has claimed Hillary is the "most corrupt candidate in the whole history of elections" without having prefaced it with twenty minute barrage of lies and conscious misrepresentations.
I don't hate Donald, or you for that matter, but I despise the laziness that leads you people to welcome the first dog off head just because he promises you what you think you deserve.
3
This might come as a surprise to you, but most New Yorkers already saw through Donald Trump years ago -- and didn't like what they saw.
And the fact that he has now aligned himself with two of the most unquestionably detested men in the tri-state area (that's YOU Rudolph Giulliani and Chris Christie!) isn't gaining him any more points here, either.
Come Election Day, you are the one who will likely be surprised.
And the fact that he has now aligned himself with two of the most unquestionably detested men in the tri-state area (that's YOU Rudolph Giulliani and Chris Christie!) isn't gaining him any more points here, either.
Come Election Day, you are the one who will likely be surprised.
4
GOP will be in deep trouble, if Trump challenges election result against him.
GOP should dissociate right away to save themselves.
GOP should dissociate right away to save themselves.
4
At this point, I suspect many Republicans are wishing Trump would just go away. Far, far away.
6
Ken Gallant said:
"I am deeply disappointed that your "front page" headline and your headline here does not reflect the following quote from the article:
"“Of course I would accept a clear election result, but I would also reserve my right to contest or file a legal challenge in the case of a questionable result,” Mr. Trump said. “I will follow and abide by all the rules and traditions of all of the many candidates who came before me, always.”"
The problem with this lies in the word "clear". At this point in time and after many months of observing Mr. Trump's modus operandi, it is obvious that Donald Trump can use the word "clear" in any way he wants it. Wasn't it "clear" that Obama was a Kenyan? Wasn't it "clear" that Trump saw a video of a plane unloading $400,000,000 in Iran? Wasn't it "clear" that Muslins were celebrating in New Jersey on 9/11?
Ken also says:
"In this quote, Trump abandons a claim to rebellion or illegal actions if dissatisfied with the result. He reserves the right to legal recourse—as Gore..."
He doesn't have to reserve anything. He can sue anyone for anything.
What he was saying is that he won't accept the results if he loses, with a side dish of legal action just for comedic effect.
"I am deeply disappointed that your "front page" headline and your headline here does not reflect the following quote from the article:
"“Of course I would accept a clear election result, but I would also reserve my right to contest or file a legal challenge in the case of a questionable result,” Mr. Trump said. “I will follow and abide by all the rules and traditions of all of the many candidates who came before me, always.”"
The problem with this lies in the word "clear". At this point in time and after many months of observing Mr. Trump's modus operandi, it is obvious that Donald Trump can use the word "clear" in any way he wants it. Wasn't it "clear" that Obama was a Kenyan? Wasn't it "clear" that Trump saw a video of a plane unloading $400,000,000 in Iran? Wasn't it "clear" that Muslins were celebrating in New Jersey on 9/11?
Ken also says:
"In this quote, Trump abandons a claim to rebellion or illegal actions if dissatisfied with the result. He reserves the right to legal recourse—as Gore..."
He doesn't have to reserve anything. He can sue anyone for anything.
What he was saying is that he won't accept the results if he loses, with a side dish of legal action just for comedic effect.
7
Most everything that Trump says frightens me, but I think that in a perverted way he is transforming politics as we know it. Let me try to explain:
"Eternal vigilance is the price of liberty" (Att. Jefferson)
---------------------------------------------------------------------
We have to question authority, if we want to improve and to grow as a nation. In addition, criticism can make life more interesting, more motivating and less boring.
So, I believe that Donald Trump is helping us to move forward by challenging us. Now, we can hopefully, move on with Hillary Clinton.
==================================================
"Eternal vigilance is the price of liberty" (Att. Jefferson)
---------------------------------------------------------------------
We have to question authority, if we want to improve and to grow as a nation. In addition, criticism can make life more interesting, more motivating and less boring.
So, I believe that Donald Trump is helping us to move forward by challenging us. Now, we can hopefully, move on with Hillary Clinton.
==================================================
8
@Harry Perale: You have the chutzpa to quote Jefferson and exclaim, "We have to question authority if we want to improve and to grow as a nation" which you then follow with "Now, we can hopefully, move on with Hillary Clinton!" - Truly an oxymoron if there ever was one!
It never ceases to amaze me how easily you can manipulate and brainwash modern day Americans; an intellectually lazy, uninformed electorate (Times readers especially) with the increasingly short attention span and an astonishing degree of self-delusion and willful ignorance; the perfect confluence for manipulation and the PRIMARY reason our democracy (or what's left of it) is in such wretched condition. It's utterly astonishing and probably the most "frightening" aspect of this whole election cycle!
Maybe, in the end, we get what we deserve.
http://www.counterpunch.org/2016/10/20/illusions-of-democracy-in-vegas/
It never ceases to amaze me how easily you can manipulate and brainwash modern day Americans; an intellectually lazy, uninformed electorate (Times readers especially) with the increasingly short attention span and an astonishing degree of self-delusion and willful ignorance; the perfect confluence for manipulation and the PRIMARY reason our democracy (or what's left of it) is in such wretched condition. It's utterly astonishing and probably the most "frightening" aspect of this whole election cycle!
Maybe, in the end, we get what we deserve.
http://www.counterpunch.org/2016/10/20/illusions-of-democracy-in-vegas/
1
Dear RM, I don't know whether you support Trump or Clinton, but let me quote Thomas Paine: (Age of Reason)
"When opinions are FREE (in matters of government or religion) TRUTH will finally and powerfully prevail."
Yes, I believe that Trump's crazy ideas are helping to get to the TRUTH. And now, on to Nov. 8th.
One step for (W)oman. One giant leap for (H)umankind
--------------------------------------------------------------------
"When opinions are FREE (in matters of government or religion) TRUTH will finally and powerfully prevail."
Yes, I believe that Trump's crazy ideas are helping to get to the TRUTH. And now, on to Nov. 8th.
One step for (W)oman. One giant leap for (H)umankind
--------------------------------------------------------------------
1
According to Trump. “Of course I would accept a clear election result, but I would also reserve my right to contest or file a legal challenge in the case of a questionable result,” The Tines has written widely about the fear of violence. When a world leader protests election results, he typically attempts a coup. The Times has suggested Trump violence against minority voters, instead. Ttump's threats are about verbal opposition. The newspaper is fearful about much worse, Trump is talking twitter while the Times is talking about war.. I don't believe fears of war are realistic..
3
Just for the record.
It is Trump who has been dropping off hints of violence for MONTHS! -- and not the New York Times, as you seem to think.
Or, maybe you missed all that footage at his rallies during the Primaries, and even more recently with taunts against Minority voters.
Need more proof??? Try this:
tro.com/2016/08/16/trump-wants-goons-to-intimidate-minorities-polls/
It is Trump who has been dropping off hints of violence for MONTHS! -- and not the New York Times, as you seem to think.
Or, maybe you missed all that footage at his rallies during the Primaries, and even more recently with taunts against Minority voters.
Need more proof??? Try this:
tro.com/2016/08/16/trump-wants-goons-to-intimidate-minorities-polls/
2
It is important to watch the video clip at the top of this article. Trump solemnly says he wants to make a "major announcement," that "I will totally accept the results of this great and historic Presidential election." He pauses before adding, "if I win" and points toward the camera, now smirking.
Trump is taunting us and mocking U.S. democracy.
Trump is taunting us and mocking U.S. democracy.
6
Taunting and mocking are the prerogative of any person; they are the behaviors of the lazy, the frightened, the powerless.
What is more worrying is that, while he has lied to, taken advantage of, and refused to offer any solutions to problems of those who support him, they continue to follow like dogs. So rapt are they in their adoration that they would willingly wreck the one candidate who has offered concrete assistance. Then they would willingly wreck their country.
This is why all the protests of "He's only reserving the right to challenge a questionable result" are dangerous and duplicitous. They confirm that all of Trump's staff, his family, and even the Republican 'leadership' currently wetting their petticoats over this are as irresponsible and greedily self-involved as their master.
Trump has spent months creating a "rigged elections" scam. He spent the entire campaign inviting his zombie followers to loose the violence that lurks in their selfish hearts, he has pointed them at their enemies, and now he is preparing to let fly.
It doesn't matter what he says he meant, it doesn't matter what he actually meant. He built the armory, he loaded it with powder, he's lit the match and now he's standing by the door with a three-year-old's smirk on his face and screaming sarcastically "Now, where should I throw this match?"
He is an evil, lazy, ego-driven man; his followers have been encouraged to be the same. Sadly, they seem to really be enjoying themselves.
What is more worrying is that, while he has lied to, taken advantage of, and refused to offer any solutions to problems of those who support him, they continue to follow like dogs. So rapt are they in their adoration that they would willingly wreck the one candidate who has offered concrete assistance. Then they would willingly wreck their country.
This is why all the protests of "He's only reserving the right to challenge a questionable result" are dangerous and duplicitous. They confirm that all of Trump's staff, his family, and even the Republican 'leadership' currently wetting their petticoats over this are as irresponsible and greedily self-involved as their master.
Trump has spent months creating a "rigged elections" scam. He spent the entire campaign inviting his zombie followers to loose the violence that lurks in their selfish hearts, he has pointed them at their enemies, and now he is preparing to let fly.
It doesn't matter what he says he meant, it doesn't matter what he actually meant. He built the armory, he loaded it with powder, he's lit the match and now he's standing by the door with a three-year-old's smirk on his face and screaming sarcastically "Now, where should I throw this match?"
He is an evil, lazy, ego-driven man; his followers have been encouraged to be the same. Sadly, they seem to really be enjoying themselves.
1
Not at all, he is mocking his opponents, particularly the news media. Remember the birther announcement that turned into an endorsement by an endless stream of admirals and generals until the media finally cut it off? And it was a half hour commercial for his hotel.
I voted almost a month ago. In 2016, Election day isn't a single day anymore. This is Election Day, and Trump is calling out problems as they occur.
I voted almost a month ago. In 2016, Election day isn't a single day anymore. This is Election Day, and Trump is calling out problems as they occur.
1
There, there, Here.
R-E-L-A-X.
Clearly you have drunk too much Kool-Aid.
I'm sorry you threw away your vote; I worry about what dire problems you perceive Trump needing to 'call out'; but mostly I wonder what low spirit has possessed you to claim that "an endless stream of admirals and generals" behaved as you described. So, I'm wondering, do you have any support from anywhere other than your Bright Orange Deity that that is a true statement.
Or is your purpose, like his, to mesmerize with untruths, endlessly repeated.
R-E-L-A-X.
Clearly you have drunk too much Kool-Aid.
I'm sorry you threw away your vote; I worry about what dire problems you perceive Trump needing to 'call out'; but mostly I wonder what low spirit has possessed you to claim that "an endless stream of admirals and generals" behaved as you described. So, I'm wondering, do you have any support from anywhere other than your Bright Orange Deity that that is a true statement.
Or is your purpose, like his, to mesmerize with untruths, endlessly repeated.
Mr. Trump should acknowledge the validity of the election, and concede like a gentleman, as soon as it's clear that he has lost. That should be about five minutes after the last polling place closes and the networks start reporting results and calling winners. Or he could do it any time before, and spare himself, the country, and the rest of the world a lot of mindless and needless packaged drama. But that would deprive Mr. Trump of that which he craves most.
1
Given his numbers, I think all of sane America will demand a recount if he wins. I think every rational person in these United States will question the results if he wins.
He jerked around his own base playing them for fools pretending to make a statement then coming out with that silly infantile statement. They still cheer him on.
He jerked around his own base playing them for fools pretending to make a statement then coming out with that silly infantile statement. They still cheer him on.
4
If you listen to Right wing radio and the Conservative deplorables, many of them dysfunctional, hypocritical and out right stupid on important issues, you will hear them often calling for a "revolution with their Second Amendment Rights"...meaning "an armed struggle" or "arming and gunning for their rights". Many of them are excited and preparing for the Big One...which could be this election or after the election results (if the election go to Hillary). Some of these weapon companies were selling guns with this in goal probably. Because so many Americans are armed, angry and ready to fire. It could be all talk, bluster and bravado and nothing else.
Even if Donald himself loses the election, accepts the results, congratulates Hillary and takes up a position in her cabinet because he needs the job and the money (or his kids do)...there will be angry Trump supporters to take up their own struggle aggressively.
But the Democrats are not helping their position by constantly talking about Putin (as if he matters that much in the US Presidential election), Russia and expanding military interventions around the world.
Did you see any focus on "higher education, social research, advanced research, better community health, preventative care, care for the sick, the disabled and the aging, environmental programs, alternative energy, etc." in any of the debates? Even the last one, better than the first two (the second being disturbing), did not include these topics. Worrisome.
Even if Donald himself loses the election, accepts the results, congratulates Hillary and takes up a position in her cabinet because he needs the job and the money (or his kids do)...there will be angry Trump supporters to take up their own struggle aggressively.
But the Democrats are not helping their position by constantly talking about Putin (as if he matters that much in the US Presidential election), Russia and expanding military interventions around the world.
Did you see any focus on "higher education, social research, advanced research, better community health, preventative care, care for the sick, the disabled and the aging, environmental programs, alternative energy, etc." in any of the debates? Even the last one, better than the first two (the second being disturbing), did not include these topics. Worrisome.
2
Be curious for a link to a site containing a transcript showing the various "quotes" in your first paragraph?
TRUMP Demonstrated that he is incapable of showing any consideration or concern for anyone or anything beyond his magical wishes at any point in time. His petulant response that he would accept the results of the election so long as he wins is yet another of his infantile statements. Frankly, I'd expect such as response from a whiny 14 year old girl. Trump does not realize that the oath of office for any public office, outstripes his personal preferences and desires. He must set those aside and do what is best for the country. But No, Donald is about that at all. I've thought all along that Trump has run for president because he could. He's a bored billionaire who really does not want to be bothered with the pressures and demands of the presidency for a measly yearly salary of $400,000. He'd far prefer to retire to the Trump Hotel on PA Avenue where he can sit and contemplate the White House without ever setting foot inside. Just because Donald Trump is a lost cause means that we must all double down and work harder to show that America needs our hard work and mature support. Crybabies need not apply. That includes you, too Donald Trump!
5
"Trump does not realize that the oath of office for any public office, outstripes his personal preferences and desires"
Like Mr. Obama, who is not enforcing the nation's immigration laws despite his oath to faithfully execute the office?
Like Mr. Obama, who is not enforcing the nation's immigration laws despite his oath to faithfully execute the office?
Easily the worst set of candidates I have ever had to decide between in over 37 years of voting. Trump is a disaster in motion but the fact that Clinton is not winning by double digits tells you how bad of a candidate she is. The only thing this election has shown me is how flawed our political process is that we can't get two reasonably decent, honest individuals to choose from to lead our country.
4
If done right, the presidency is an extremely difficult and exhausting job with relatively low pay considering the responsibility involved. Sure, the power is intoxicating, but even the power hungry pause for a moment to ask themselves, "is it really worth it?" On the other side of the equation, we have President Obama and Hillary Clinton, who are committed, dyed-in-the-wool public servants who are willing to take the slings and arrows in the interest of making our country the best it can be.
7
Luckily, for some of us the decision is a no-brainer.
I, for one, have no desire to see a groping sexist endorsed by the Ku Klux Klan in the Oval Office -- And that's just two of the many reasons why I find Trump to be so objectionable.
And while Clinton has repeatedly been called "flawed" and "disliked", that's not as important as being able to get the job done without 3am tweets and having a thin-skinned hand on the Nuclear Codes....Plus, she knows what Aleppo is.
I, for one, have no desire to see a groping sexist endorsed by the Ku Klux Klan in the Oval Office -- And that's just two of the many reasons why I find Trump to be so objectionable.
And while Clinton has repeatedly been called "flawed" and "disliked", that's not as important as being able to get the job done without 3am tweets and having a thin-skinned hand on the Nuclear Codes....Plus, she knows what Aleppo is.
105
Maybe it is finally dawning on the US public what a sleazy bag of false witnesses today's miserable excuse for a Republican Party is. It sure shows starkly here.
4
Of course, Trump has the right to contest the election after the election is held and if there's evidence of cheating. That's a given for both sides in every election. But, you don't say this ahead of time especially when there's no evidence of cheating despite the hysterical child-like claims of people on the right. Too much talk like this can inspire followers to hurt this country.
And, Donald is perfectly representative of what the Republican Party has become over the last 30 years or so. The GOP leadership can't claim he's hijacked their party. If you listen to right wing radio, they speak just as wildly and hatefully as Trump. The GOP leadership has blocked every move Obama (and Clinton in the 1990s) has tried to make not because Obama is suggesting irrational, evidence-less ideas, but because he's a Democrat, and modern Republicans can't compromise or give in. And, in the last 5 years, the GOP leadership can't even be "rational" because they're under the control of the irrational members of the alleged Freedom caucus.
I hope things will be okay, but you can't take things for granted when there are such dangerous people.
And, Donald is perfectly representative of what the Republican Party has become over the last 30 years or so. The GOP leadership can't claim he's hijacked their party. If you listen to right wing radio, they speak just as wildly and hatefully as Trump. The GOP leadership has blocked every move Obama (and Clinton in the 1990s) has tried to make not because Obama is suggesting irrational, evidence-less ideas, but because he's a Democrat, and modern Republicans can't compromise or give in. And, in the last 5 years, the GOP leadership can't even be "rational" because they're under the control of the irrational members of the alleged Freedom caucus.
I hope things will be okay, but you can't take things for granted when there are such dangerous people.
6
Congressional Republicans, both House and Senate, wasted eight critical years wishfully denying that our nation’s voters elected, and re-elected, Barak Obama President. From the day of his inauguration to the last day of his Presidency, they did everything within their power to deny the legitimacy of our electorate’s mandate to Barak Obama. Boycott of Supreme Court nominee is but an example. Mr. Trump simply follows in their ignoble footsteps, seeding the minefield for four more years of a know-nothing, do-nothing Congress anxious to discredit President Hilary Clinton.
14
You could substitute in the words "Bush"and "Republican" and it would be at least equally true. Let us not forget that Harry Reid, in 2007, said that no Bush Supreme Court nominee would be given a vote by the Senate, and he did not permit nominees for other federal courts to have a vote.
1
You're spot on!! -- And one of the scariest aspects is other Republican appointments to the Supreme Court bench.
3
Donald Trump speaks with a forked tongue - as in out of both sides of his mouth - deliberately promoting the maximum confusion. He's a provocateur. The only thing consistent about Trump is his lack of consistency. This is a man who is for a woman's right to choice until he is against it, is for the use of immigrant labor until he is against it and advocates the building of "the wall", he's against renting to blacks until he is forced by a Federal lawsuit to do so, respects women more than any man alive until he cajoles and insults them - the list is endless. If you are depending on Trump to take a principled stand on anything - the results of the impending election included - you are precisely the fool that he fondly wishes you to be. Dream on. This man makes it up concerning the way the legal system is supposed to work or anything else for that matter. Play his game on his terms and it's heads he wins and tails you lose. I have completely lost any interest in finding out what his position is on anything because it is strictly of the moment. I know what his position is already - whatever he determines at any point in time is in his immediate interest. Enough said.
8
Whatever bad stuff happens, the immaculate Donald never finds himself to blame for it.
1
In Trump's mind just about the worst thing one can be is a loser. He has repeatedly shown his contempt for those he considers to be losers; and the thought that he, potentially, might join their ranks is unbearable. By insisting that if he loses it means the election was rigged he's giving himself an out and is trying to save face.
6
Out of all the awful things about Trump, I think this stance, and the claims of rigged elections, are the worst. Oh, I know it's a tough pile of crud to choose just one thing from, but this is really the most all-encompassing and terrible thing about this candidate.
By throwing doubt on the election well before it's happened, by refusing to accept the outcome before any signs of voter fraud, he is directly going against our democracy itself. He doesn't care about the fate of the Union, just his own success.
He's said a lot of fascist stuff, but this is honestly the worst. Nobody who votes for him is patriotic in my view. They've fallen prey to a cult of personality, and they will be dangerous seditionists in my opinion.
By throwing doubt on the election well before it's happened, by refusing to accept the outcome before any signs of voter fraud, he is directly going against our democracy itself. He doesn't care about the fate of the Union, just his own success.
He's said a lot of fascist stuff, but this is honestly the worst. Nobody who votes for him is patriotic in my view. They've fallen prey to a cult of personality, and they will be dangerous seditionists in my opinion.
17
A President lives for addressing social problems in the real world. Trump lives for social media and reality TV, and thought it was a great fit and an easy one for him.
The problem is that social media is anything but social, and reality TV is anything but real, and he still haven't figured that out.
The problem is that social media is anything but social, and reality TV is anything but real, and he still haven't figured that out.
8
I've had some debates with colleagues, with speculation as to what point Mr. Trump might be charged with sedition. Obviously, counsel has advised him to qualify his statements on the legitimacy of the election. Certainly, if Mr. Trump loses he'l be advised to choose his words carefully. Let's just watch what happens.
6
As a coarse and ignorant specimen of arrested development the DT has verbalized the essential,"heads, I win; tails, you lose" code of life he learned from daddy and Roy Cohen. If his companies make money, he keeps it; if they go bankrupt, he still keeps it. Let the investors and 'small' people take the hit. His silly health care 'plan' somehow is to do away with "the funny little lines around the states", and then rely on the same irrelevant states to administer bloke grants(?). Jibberish. Ditto his "secret" military plans. The point of required gym classes was to socialize the ability to play on a losing team. Never happened.
The Athenians had a unique institution-the ostracism-to deal with the tyrant-oligarch class. It required the individual named to leave the country for ten years. How handy such a tool would be to silence a case of political deviance. Subversive arrogance however sick the pathology remains unacceptably dangerous to public stasis.
The Athenians had a unique institution-the ostracism-to deal with the tyrant-oligarch class. It required the individual named to leave the country for ten years. How handy such a tool would be to silence a case of political deviance. Subversive arrogance however sick the pathology remains unacceptably dangerous to public stasis.
7
I would love to hear some professional psychologists weigh in on our candidates. Both candidates- just to be fair. Would we hear "delusions of grandeur" mentioned in a sentence in close proximity to the name "Trump" , I wonder?
4
You can read just that - A Clear and Present Danger, Narcissism in the Era of Donald Trump, Edited by Leonard Cruz and Steven Buser. ISBN 978-1-63051-395-5. My Father is a contributing author. That said, it's really unethical to diagnose someone who is not your patient. From reading here, clearly New Yorkers don't care much for Trump. He's hard to like, but as has been stated, at least you know what you have as he is genuine. I agree with his proposed policy on immigration. People do not have a right to emigrate to America. Immigration must serve America, not the other way around.
Genuine sounds good, unless, as is the case with Trump, it's genuine narcissism - as well as delusions of grandeur. The term Clear And Present Danger, as I'm sure you know, refers specifically to the national security of the U.S. (as well as being the title to a very good Harrison Ford film). But my fear is that a Trump presidency would be a CAPD to other nations as well- which would circle around back to us and bite us in the butt. My point, specifically delusions of grandeur - separate from narcissism, is that his contagious self-confidence is erroneous; that is, baseless. Like a kid who sees a professional driver racing a Lamborghini – then says “I can drive that thing even faster”, then gets in, loses control and hits the 1st tree.
1
I don't understand the fuss. If he loses, but complains, who cares.
4
The world would punish America for another Clinton presidency. Donald Trump is our only hope for negotiated settlement and a lasting peace.
4
Peace with whom? Muslims, Mexicans, women, black people, any of the other groups Trump constantly insults and offends?
Truly naïve to think Trump could negotiate peace with anyone at all.
Truly naïve to think Trump could negotiate peace with anyone at all.
10
My spirit was lifted last night when Trump stated that electing Hillary assured four more years of Obama.
She's so much better than Trump that even he endorsed her.
She's so much better than Trump that even he endorsed her.
8
This is quality satire. The world is clearly terrified of a loose-cannon Trump presidency. I suppose we could let Putin take over Eastern Europe. Heck, Trump wouldn't even notice, since he had no idea Putin invaded Ukraine.
4
The uproar over Mr. Trump’s willingness to abide by the results of a democratic election threatens to further unravel a candidacy already in sharp decline.
Typo there?
Typo there?
It is magnanimous of Mr. Trump to tell us mere voters that he would honor our collective choice if he won the presidency. in the process, Mr. Trump also shared with the world the secret of his "success. He lives by the simple rule: "Heads I win, tails you lose!"
1
Donald knows he's going to lose. The only reason he's saying these kinds of things is to keep the spotlight on him post-election. The most pathetic thing is that it's actually going to work, too.
6
I realized just now that he will indeed distract us from and cast a dark shadow on the most historic moment in our nation's history--the election of our first female president. The only reason her election would be more historic than President Obama's victory is that he is, after all, still a man.
1
The Republican Party and its leadership needs to be held 100% accountable for foisting this dangerous man on our country and undermining our republic. Shame on the GOP. Vote as many of them out of office to send that message loud and clear.
12
Trump is providing us with the best reason to work for a landslide. The larger the margin of victory, the less ground he has to mount a challenge.
Now is the time to vote for democracy. This election bypasses partisanship. It doesn't matter if your state is reliably blue or reliably red; all that matters is whether you are comfortable with giving Trump ammunition for his conspiracy theories.
If you believe in the smooth transfer of power, vote for it.
Let's show the world that America is, indeed, the greatest democracy on Earth on Nov 8 with a resounding rejection of Trump.
Now is the time to vote for democracy. This election bypasses partisanship. It doesn't matter if your state is reliably blue or reliably red; all that matters is whether you are comfortable with giving Trump ammunition for his conspiracy theories.
If you believe in the smooth transfer of power, vote for it.
Let's show the world that America is, indeed, the greatest democracy on Earth on Nov 8 with a resounding rejection of Trump.
11
He's finishing like he started.
He was the only one of the dozen or so Republicans in the first debate who refused to raise his hand and swear he would support whoever won the nomination.
Moderator:
"You can’t say tonight that you can make that pledge?
TRUMP: I cannot say. I have to respect the person that, if it’s not me, the person that wins, if I do win, and I’m leading by quite a bit, that’s what I want to do. I can totally make that pledge. If I’m the nominee, I will pledge I will not run as an independent. But — and I am discussing it with everybody, but I’m, you know, talking about a lot of leverage. We want to win, and we will win. But I want to win as the Republican. I want to run as the Republican nominee.
He was the only one of the dozen or so Republicans in the first debate who refused to raise his hand and swear he would support whoever won the nomination.
Moderator:
"You can’t say tonight that you can make that pledge?
TRUMP: I cannot say. I have to respect the person that, if it’s not me, the person that wins, if I do win, and I’m leading by quite a bit, that’s what I want to do. I can totally make that pledge. If I’m the nominee, I will pledge I will not run as an independent. But — and I am discussing it with everybody, but I’m, you know, talking about a lot of leverage. We want to win, and we will win. But I want to win as the Republican. I want to run as the Republican nominee.
3
Rush Limbaugh was absolutely correct saying Trump's "political instincts just are not there." Then, he was absolutely out in left field saying, "It's not that he blew it..."
Wrong, Rush. He blew it bigly, and his campaign is imploding like an old TV cathode ray picture tube.
Not only did he blow it on the concession issue, he shot his mouth off about an epidemic of 9th-month abortions that just flat do not happen. Speaking of abortions, I'd bet my Social Security check Trump has footed the bill for more than one abortion. He thinks he's the sole rooster in a coop of hens and that his cockscomb hairdo is all it takes convince the ladies he's "da man."
Trump's intellect, his grasp of the constitution, his knowledge of history, and his skin are as thin as the hair on his head.
Wrong, Rush. He blew it bigly, and his campaign is imploding like an old TV cathode ray picture tube.
Not only did he blow it on the concession issue, he shot his mouth off about an epidemic of 9th-month abortions that just flat do not happen. Speaking of abortions, I'd bet my Social Security check Trump has footed the bill for more than one abortion. He thinks he's the sole rooster in a coop of hens and that his cockscomb hairdo is all it takes convince the ladies he's "da man."
Trump's intellect, his grasp of the constitution, his knowledge of history, and his skin are as thin as the hair on his head.
10
Why would anyone agree to accept a race without knowing that the election was run fairly? Because voter fraud and election fraud never happen, right? Wrong. All over the world, and right here at home, election fraud happens often. If there's even a chance of a wide scale fraud being committed that would corrupt the electorate, why in the hell would some preemptively disavow challenging it? Just because every inane American president agreed to this nonsense, doesn't mean it was a good idea. Quit using the classic fallacy "appeal to authority" to support your shoddy claim. Trump, once again, dares to think for himself. Hillary continues to be an establishment owned, foreign finance fraudster.
3
"Election fraud happens often," you assert, then charge the entire election, across 50 states, could be thrown, based not just on nothing, but against the evidence of everyone who has studied this and works in this capacity, Republican and Democrat, across the country. And THEN you have the temerity to criticize "an appeal to authority," as compared to your appeal to nothing. Wow.
1
The Republican Party doesn't have a clue what conflict of interest is. That is how it could put Bush's Florida campaign manager in charge of the Florida election as Secretary of State.
We don't get equal protection of the law in the US, we only get equal consequences from flawed laws.
We don't get equal protection of the law in the US, we only get equal consequences from flawed laws.
1
I wonder if Trump will have a Charles Foster Kane moment in his bedroom at the Trump Tower when the election is called for Mrs. Clinton.
3
Trump is draining the dregs of dictatorship now. His equivocation on this point during the debate reflected his long refusal to acknowledge that President Obama was actually born in Hawaii. Even after the long firm birth certificate was produced in 2011, Trump denied its legitimacy. In 2014, he said, “Well, I don’t know — did he do it? ... If I decide to run for office I’ll produce my tax returns. Absolutely. I would love to do that" and about the long form certificate, " ... a lot of people feel it wasn’t a proper certificate."
Trump seems to believe that if he refuses to accept something, it will conveniently disappear. As Watterson said in Calvin and Hobbes: Mrs. Wormwood: "Now what state do you live in?" Calvin: "Denial."
Trump seems to believe that if he refuses to accept something, it will conveniently disappear. As Watterson said in Calvin and Hobbes: Mrs. Wormwood: "Now what state do you live in?" Calvin: "Denial."
9
Here's the worst of it. After Trump loses, he will set up his own TV show called "2020" where all the yahoos who support him will be invited to talk about how they hate the new POTUS, how America is on the brink of death, and how they plan to strike back in four years.
The Tea Party will say that the "t" in their name stands for "Trump". They will run around collecting millions of dollars for their 2020 cause. And we will be forced to keep seeing and hearing the barbaric yawp (my apologies to Walt Whitman) of Toddler Trump because he will say such outrageously stupid things that the media will feel compelled to note every excruciating syllable.
Mark my words.
The Tea Party will say that the "t" in their name stands for "Trump". They will run around collecting millions of dollars for their 2020 cause. And we will be forced to keep seeing and hearing the barbaric yawp (my apologies to Walt Whitman) of Toddler Trump because he will say such outrageously stupid things that the media will feel compelled to note every excruciating syllable.
Mark my words.
4
Trump brags about "grabbing women" by the crotch but in his weird world, it is Clinton who is "nasty". He was sniffing like a hound dog during the debates buts wants Clinton drug tested. He will accept the fact that she has a 92% chance of winning only if he wins.
I hope he is lining up that "Long Vacation" he used to brag about in the case and now the certainty of his Biggest Loser moment.
Hope it has a rubber room.
I hope he is lining up that "Long Vacation" he used to brag about in the case and now the certainty of his Biggest Loser moment.
Hope it has a rubber room.
7
Well it appears that Trump will not be accepting the results of the election.
He is going to lose.
He is going to lose.
8
One second after the election's over, all media coverage of Trump should cease. Let him pay for it from now on with his Trump World Cable Big League Network or whatever name it's given. Then we can block the channel on our TV's.
This is just another way to string on everyone; tomorrow his position will be different. I gave up trying to mine gems from his ramblings long ago. If his fervent supporters and proxies can't agree on what he says after over a year, there's nothing there!
This is just another way to string on everyone; tomorrow his position will be different. I gave up trying to mine gems from his ramblings long ago. If his fervent supporters and proxies can't agree on what he says after over a year, there's nothing there!
9
There is no difference between Trump's saying he reserves the right to contest an election result he doesn't like and McCain's saying Republicans will not confirm any judge Hillary appoints and Sen. McConnell's vow to make Obama a one-term president. All three claims are asserting a right to negate the will of the American people to choose their leadership in an election
26
Perfect. The message that all the Republicans nee to hear through the ballot box is that I only vote for people who respect my vote.
2
I think it's time for Trump's children to quietly take his arm and lead him off to Whispering Pines. Unfortunately they are as awful as he is and are obviously enjoying the devastating wake he is leaving in our democratic process. I suppose it's to be expected, as the rich can afford not to care (don't yell, I come from a long line of wealthy jerks so know whence I speak.)
12
I agree, but I'd let Tiffany and Baron off the hook on this one. Tiffany seems to have done her best to steer clear of the whole mess, bless her, and Baron's only ten, can't blame him for anything really.
2
Well-he can hold his breath until the election results are finalized in the Electoral College. If he finds that too long to wait we can always duct tape his mouth and Twitter fingers.
7
Our "Democracy" is under threat.
Rigged primaries, federal agencies taking the 5th etc.
We could take this moment to introspect what ideals we stand for and have, or dismiss the bitter truth by attacking the messenger -- Trump.
Like people derided Nicolaus Copernicus at his time. Only this time it is about what is central to who we are -- Democracy.
Rigged primaries, federal agencies taking the 5th etc.
We could take this moment to introspect what ideals we stand for and have, or dismiss the bitter truth by attacking the messenger -- Trump.
Like people derided Nicolaus Copernicus at his time. Only this time it is about what is central to who we are -- Democracy.
1
Our democracy (why the quotation marks?) is under threat. From Trump, who casts doubt on our upcoming election with zero evidence or reason to doubt the outcome. Trump would rather see our nation burn and tear itself apart than lose this election.
Our democracy is under threat from Trump, and if you support him, you are aiding treason.
Our democracy is under threat from Trump, and if you support him, you are aiding treason.
2
I fail to see how Donald Trump can claim that if he wins, it was a fair election, but if Hillary Clinton wins, it was "rigged" - you can't have it both ways.
Trump has no proof that if he loses, the election was "stolen" from him. The votes themselves will provide the proof of who will be chosen by the people to be their leader, and there's no theft there.
Trump has no proof that if he loses, the election was "stolen" from him. The votes themselves will provide the proof of who will be chosen by the people to be their leader, and there's no theft there.
4
Clinton beat Trump like a drum last night. The self-proclaimed alpha businessman was largely unintelligible, versed in creating an angry wall of sound, but after 3 debates it is clear that there is not much substance in that empty head. He was reduced to childlike comebacks like "No you're the puppet," and ultimately reduced to whimpering about her being a "such a nasty women."
10
My eight-year-old behaves more maturely than this individual.
9
Of course the system is rigged - it favors a candidate who is:
- educated
- knowledgable
- self-controlled
- well-spoken
- prepared
- organized
- service oriented
- experienced
- decent
Naturally, this system works against Trump.
- educated
- knowledgable
- self-controlled
- well-spoken
- prepared
- organized
- service oriented
- experienced
- decent
Naturally, this system works against Trump.
30
OK, now he wants to have it both ways. Egg on his supporters with baseless charges of election rigging and then speak as if he was always talking about a legitimate legal challenge in the case of a closely disputed race. However, it's likely it won't be a close race. Thank goodness.
3
I guess what hurts the most at this point is we have all been taking him seriously, despite the inflammatory and crazy-sounding rhetoric, only to realize he has never taken his own candidacy seriously.
For him it's just been a means to be in the public eye non-stop, and that is only that much clearer as his campaign fails and he oddly seems just as pleased with himself.
I'm upset he has made such a mockery of our election and the democratic process. He should be made to feel so unwelcome here he actually decides to move to Russia.
For him it's just been a means to be in the public eye non-stop, and that is only that much clearer as his campaign fails and he oddly seems just as pleased with himself.
I'm upset he has made such a mockery of our election and the democratic process. He should be made to feel so unwelcome here he actually decides to move to Russia.
7
Trump is saying he will only cede if he is satisfied with whatever he believes. This reasoning is similar to how he refused to pay his contractors who had paid workers and materials for his buildings, but Trump decided that he was not satisfied with the work so he wouldn't pay these small business owners and forced them into bankruptcies. This is the kind of smart Trump has been bragging about other than groping women. No wonder Hillary wouldn't shake his hands. But I still like Bernie the best.
10
What scares me about his "If I win" speech in OH is that he wins, regardless of the means, bully for him, but if Hillary wins, regardless of the reality, it's voter fraud.
There are two dates i am really looking foward to - November the 8th, when this charade is finally over, and January 20th, when the most experienced candidate in the past 100 years gets inaugurated. I for one will be celebrating mightily.
There are two dates i am really looking foward to - November the 8th, when this charade is finally over, and January 20th, when the most experienced candidate in the past 100 years gets inaugurated. I for one will be celebrating mightily.
9
The master of the double speak has done it again. And sorrowfully his followers cheer him for it. What kind of people are these Trumplicans, that they want to have a leader that threatens the fabric of our basic freedom. The Vote
7
Mr. Trump evidently is very perceptive person. He grasped the underlying message in poser made to him in the debate, whether he will accept defeat. He has spoken earlier about a winning attitude, and he is not giving up yet, and there is no reason for him not to keep on pursuing a win, it aint over yet.
I certainly want him to lose, but think that he deserves respect for his nuancdd communication, and not condemnation media and opposition is heaping on him. They are not reading the tea leaves the way it ought to be read.
It is better to make room for him, given his disastrous policy profile, for a quiet exit. Think both Democrats and Republicans need this. Democrats to focus on economic and social emancipation agenda, Republicans to rebuild their splintered and somewhat shatter base, as evident from projected poll numbers, and statements of their first run leaders.
I certainly want him to lose, but think that he deserves respect for his nuancdd communication, and not condemnation media and opposition is heaping on him. They are not reading the tea leaves the way it ought to be read.
It is better to make room for him, given his disastrous policy profile, for a quiet exit. Think both Democrats and Republicans need this. Democrats to focus on economic and social emancipation agenda, Republicans to rebuild their splintered and somewhat shatter base, as evident from projected poll numbers, and statements of their first run leaders.
2
No one should be surprised Trump has no respect for consent, even the collective withholding of consent. Conquest is his idea of success. This man is a menace. Any American making excuses for this man's suspense can expect him to push them down the stairs like Richard Widmark.
4
I am curious.
I have read this from another person who has posted. "The man is out of touch with reality and lives in his own little world of narcissism and conspiracy theories ..."
This may be actually true. However Trump has tried to sell himself as some sort of "all-knowing" person who can solve all of the problems of this country by using his "business expertise."
Ok. Business decisions should be based, at least in part, upon facts. Yet he has obviously never taken the time to learn anything about, well, much of anything.
So does Trump plan to deliberately "fail?" When he loses, and he will lose. his rabid supporters are not going to go away. The deluded Trump followers are now at a point where they are mimicking the behavior of the Jones town massacre. I expect him to start mixing up the Kool-aid any day now.
Sad, and scary. Just in time for Halloween.
I have read this from another person who has posted. "The man is out of touch with reality and lives in his own little world of narcissism and conspiracy theories ..."
This may be actually true. However Trump has tried to sell himself as some sort of "all-knowing" person who can solve all of the problems of this country by using his "business expertise."
Ok. Business decisions should be based, at least in part, upon facts. Yet he has obviously never taken the time to learn anything about, well, much of anything.
So does Trump plan to deliberately "fail?" When he loses, and he will lose. his rabid supporters are not going to go away. The deluded Trump followers are now at a point where they are mimicking the behavior of the Jones town massacre. I expect him to start mixing up the Kool-aid any day now.
Sad, and scary. Just in time for Halloween.
9
It doesn't matter whether or not Trump accepts the results of the election. He can pout and whine and complain and shout "rigged" as often as he wants and yet, on inauguration day, Hillary Clinton will be sworn in as our new president, and Trump will have no say in how our country moves forward. Game over. His only role at that point will be to watch his brand be forever tarnished while his businesses implode as lots of people, disgusted by his words and actions over the last 18 months, avoid his hotels, move out of his buildings, and don't buy his trashy merchandise. He might continue to have a forum on TV somewhere to spew his vitriol but no one else will pay much attention to him -- and that's the absolute worst thing that can happen to a narcissist like Trump.
12
I remember 2004, when Democrats were all up in arms about Bush using Diebold-made electronic voting machines to steal the election.
However, when Democrats came into power, they didn't use the opportunity to return to more secure voting methods (like hand-filled paper ballots). On the contrary, nowadays anyone who suggests abandoning electronic voting is racist, for the ridiculous invented reason that other voting methods would be too hard for members of minorities to use.
To someone like me, who believed the Democrats the first time around, when they said that electronic voting is insecure and can be used to commit fraud, this suggests that they might have made a mutually advantageous peace with the voting machine manufacturers (Diebold perhaps excluded).
If the Republicans aren't complaining about it, it's possible that all parties might have reached some sort of gentlemen's agreement. Trump seems to be the only one complaining and it's clear how much the two parties' establishments love him, for this and other reasons.
However, when Democrats came into power, they didn't use the opportunity to return to more secure voting methods (like hand-filled paper ballots). On the contrary, nowadays anyone who suggests abandoning electronic voting is racist, for the ridiculous invented reason that other voting methods would be too hard for members of minorities to use.
To someone like me, who believed the Democrats the first time around, when they said that electronic voting is insecure and can be used to commit fraud, this suggests that they might have made a mutually advantageous peace with the voting machine manufacturers (Diebold perhaps excluded).
If the Republicans aren't complaining about it, it's possible that all parties might have reached some sort of gentlemen's agreement. Trump seems to be the only one complaining and it's clear how much the two parties' establishments love him, for this and other reasons.
1
I'm voting for Hillary Clinton.
But the race is now Ms. Establishment vs. Mr. Anti-Establishment.
Donald Trump tweaks the noses of the media and liberals and gets the free coverage of numerous articles and op-eds filled with hysteria and damnation.
But his adherence to conservative judicial values of 2nd Amendment and pro-life/state rights may bring many voters back to him in the privacy of the voting booth.
So don't get too confident and self-righteous because the "basket of deplorables" and disaffected Americans are up in arms; and the conservatives may hold their noses and vote for the lesser of two evils by their lights, too.
But the race is now Ms. Establishment vs. Mr. Anti-Establishment.
Donald Trump tweaks the noses of the media and liberals and gets the free coverage of numerous articles and op-eds filled with hysteria and damnation.
But his adherence to conservative judicial values of 2nd Amendment and pro-life/state rights may bring many voters back to him in the privacy of the voting booth.
So don't get too confident and self-righteous because the "basket of deplorables" and disaffected Americans are up in arms; and the conservatives may hold their noses and vote for the lesser of two evils by their lights, too.
3
I met a financial advisor today whom one might expect to be leary of Trump but he was making excuses for him. It was all about the fear of the markets having their uses of tax deductions taken away and the prices of pharmaceuticals falling if Hillary wins.
7
Trumps juvenile antics simply don't persuade. However this Clinton lady is tough. Her debating performance pushed me from just voting for her to actually being excited about the prospect of her presidency.
26
If Rush Limbaugh is having doubts....
Anyway, Trump is playing this like a reality show. The Presidential Apprentice is still on the air. Donald is just trying to prevent its cancellation.
Anyway, Trump is playing this like a reality show. The Presidential Apprentice is still on the air. Donald is just trying to prevent its cancellation.
7
The only evidence of vote rigging are the efforts in red states to pass voter ID laws whose sole purpose is to ensure black people, and other demographics likely to vote Democrat, are denied a vote.
A few were struck down because the courts found there was not sufficient evidence of a problem to justify the cost of shutting out legitimate voters that lack ID for legitimate reasons.
But recently, in North Carolina, a federal appeals court struck down similar laws after finding affirmative proof that the laws were structured intentionally to exclude blacks.
For example, there was proof that the legislature considered which types of ID were more likely to be used by blacks and whites, and then excluded the former as valid ID. there were several pieces of similar evidence.
This happened in July, and there was press coverage of it. But frankly, not enough.
If that is not the most heinous act of official vote rigging, I do not know what would be.
A few were struck down because the courts found there was not sufficient evidence of a problem to justify the cost of shutting out legitimate voters that lack ID for legitimate reasons.
But recently, in North Carolina, a federal appeals court struck down similar laws after finding affirmative proof that the laws were structured intentionally to exclude blacks.
For example, there was proof that the legislature considered which types of ID were more likely to be used by blacks and whites, and then excluded the former as valid ID. there were several pieces of similar evidence.
This happened in July, and there was press coverage of it. But frankly, not enough.
If that is not the most heinous act of official vote rigging, I do not know what would be.
21
I don't agree that what Trump says about accepting the election results are any more "horrifying" that any number of things he's said in the last 15 months. Anyway, so what if he doesn't accept the results? I don't see why the the rest of the sane public or authorities have to indulge it. If Hillary is the clear winner, let him and his supporters have a conniption fit all they want. I hear people refer to Obama as "your" president" all the time. They have never accepted him in 8 years.
And if unrest does ensue, I am actually anxious to see if protesters are treated with the same hostility as Black Lives Matter. How will they be handled by the police? I'm sick and tired of him and his supporters and refuse to stand aghast and feel threatened by anything they say or do. Who are we if we continue to let this empty shell of a human and his motley crew yank our chains?
And if unrest does ensue, I am actually anxious to see if protesters are treated with the same hostility as Black Lives Matter. How will they be handled by the police? I'm sick and tired of him and his supporters and refuse to stand aghast and feel threatened by anything they say or do. Who are we if we continue to let this empty shell of a human and his motley crew yank our chains?
28
Excellent points - this comment should be a NY Times Pick.
Thanks for the reminder about President Obama - who despite all the despicable disrespect that certain people have shown him, has continued to lead our nation by the rule of law.
The media like to feed off Despicable Don's insanity - but most of us don't give a rodent's rear what he "accepts" or doesn't. He and those like him only have as much power as We The People are willing to give them.
Stay strong in AZ! And maybe run for office - we need strong voices of sanity to speak to power.
Thanks for the reminder about President Obama - who despite all the despicable disrespect that certain people have shown him, has continued to lead our nation by the rule of law.
The media like to feed off Despicable Don's insanity - but most of us don't give a rodent's rear what he "accepts" or doesn't. He and those like him only have as much power as We The People are willing to give them.
Stay strong in AZ! And maybe run for office - we need strong voices of sanity to speak to power.
2
A lot of intelligent voters believe Trump deserves to lose and we will make sure he has no grounds for pretending his loss was rigged. Not that we believe anything he says. The line between truth and dishonesty is not one he seems to acknowledge or perceive.
Eclectic Pragmatist — http://eclectic-pragmatist.tumblr.com/
Eclectic Pragmatist — https://medium.com/eclectic-pragmatism
Eclectic Pragmatist — http://eclectic-pragmatist.tumblr.com/
Eclectic Pragmatist — https://medium.com/eclectic-pragmatism
9
Is it clear to everyone what Trump is really saying?
He is saying that, if he comes the President, and 4 years later there is the next election, and that if the people vote for someone else, Trump will not respect the election results, and at that time he will have the US military under his command and can then silence any opponent. After all, he said himself that he would put his political opponent in jail.
This picture is really horrifying to me. Trump is telling everyone he wants to be a dictator and basically it doesn't matter what the people of this country wants. He is the only one that is going to decide what is right for the country.
Does everyone see the same picture I am seeing from Trump?
He is saying that, if he comes the President, and 4 years later there is the next election, and that if the people vote for someone else, Trump will not respect the election results, and at that time he will have the US military under his command and can then silence any opponent. After all, he said himself that he would put his political opponent in jail.
This picture is really horrifying to me. Trump is telling everyone he wants to be a dictator and basically it doesn't matter what the people of this country wants. He is the only one that is going to decide what is right for the country.
Does everyone see the same picture I am seeing from Trump?
40
Henry, I certainly hope most of us do see that - and also understand how a demagogue such as Trump has no respect for the law, the U.S. Constitution, separation of powers - or the will of the people.
We know this by his own words - and indeed, his whole life.
The scenario you describe is a dire warning. I hope enough of us heed it. I hope enough of us hear what this would-be dictator is really saying - and reject it soundly.
We know this by his own words - and indeed, his whole life.
The scenario you describe is a dire warning. I hope enough of us heed it. I hope enough of us hear what this would-be dictator is really saying - and reject it soundly.
1
The problem with Trump is that he often changes his position 180 degrees within a single sentence. The same length of time it takes to make any analysis of what he's saying meaningless.
8
Disputing election returns are nothing new to American politics and stating the system is rigged is hardly original! President Kennedy stole the 1960 election fair and square; 2000 Gore contested the results because of voting irregularities in Florida! Howard Dean, in his presidential bid, questioned the primary results in Ohio; and most recent, Bernie Sanders ran on the platform to fix a system that was rigged; and ironically was a victim of such, compliments Debbie Wassermann's. Trump will abide by the law and the electoral traditions but questions Hillary's validity. Regardless of political leaning, Trump clearly stated and spoke for his supporters, stating that Hillary is unqualified based on her emails and her lying in the investigation. Many government personal have faced charges for less; but Hillary operates by her on set of rules, insulating her from ordinary codes and regulations. Trump has a distain for Hillary and cannot reconcile the fact that he is losing to a dishonest, untrustworthy candidate! He has created an alternative explanation, the system is rigged and the press has been overwhelmingltpartial to Hillary. Donald will not be president but will cast a long shadow upon Hillary's presidency, leaving his followers the believe she cheated her way into office!
4
Bernie Sanders closed ranks with Hillary Clinton after he lost the primary election in spite of questionable practice on the part of many against him.
I do not see Donald Trump doing the same whether the actions against her were real or imagined. The biggest threat is Mr. Trump attempting to somehow continue a 'movement' that he has begun, adversarial and potentially violent, that he will not be able to contain, even if he wishes to do so. Open animosity is too easily transformed into self righteous aggression.
I do not see Donald Trump doing the same whether the actions against her were real or imagined. The biggest threat is Mr. Trump attempting to somehow continue a 'movement' that he has begun, adversarial and potentially violent, that he will not be able to contain, even if he wishes to do so. Open animosity is too easily transformed into self righteous aggression.
3
Why would Trump question election results? It is hard to tell from his incoherent speech, but at the same time he has a reason to suspect a rigged process; The DNC has been secretly sabotaging the candidacy of senator Sanders to skew it in favor of Clinton, and then lied about it to the public.
The NYT reported that Clinton's State Department was engaged in abstraction of justice trying to divert FBI investigation and influence its results. The Clinton will use all their wealth and connections to skew things their way - including Mr. Clinton meeting with the Attorney General who is in charge of Mrs. Clinton investigation.
Only Democrats are allowed to question election results including the one on 2000 when Bush's car was egged during inauguration and In 2004 when Democrats called to question Ohio's voting process.
At the same time we have great indication that this election is rigged; Both the Democratic and the Republican candidates are distrusted and detested by most Americans who see both of them as unfit for office. In a real democracy this kind of deplorable couple would never end up on the ballot.
The NYT reported that Clinton's State Department was engaged in abstraction of justice trying to divert FBI investigation and influence its results. The Clinton will use all their wealth and connections to skew things their way - including Mr. Clinton meeting with the Attorney General who is in charge of Mrs. Clinton investigation.
Only Democrats are allowed to question election results including the one on 2000 when Bush's car was egged during inauguration and In 2004 when Democrats called to question Ohio's voting process.
At the same time we have great indication that this election is rigged; Both the Democratic and the Republican candidates are distrusted and detested by most Americans who see both of them as unfit for office. In a real democracy this kind of deplorable couple would never end up on the ballot.
1
I, for one, am relieved to learn that Mr. Trump will accept a victorious outcome. History is replete with people who have won major elections only to challenge the results. I was truly concerned that an individual as humble and self-deprecating as Mr. Trump might join their ranks.
7
The Trump apologists are again twisting themselves into knots, the candidate who tells it like it is, does not actually mean what he says, when he says he won't accept the results of the election unless he wins Bull. The man does not believe in nuance, he believes in throwing raw meat to his base. When he says he will only accept the results if he wins, he is telling his base he will never accept a loss and neither should his loyal fans as the election will be a fraud (unless he wins). The real question here is what is he and those lunatic alt right people he has running his campaign are now telling their people they should do the day after he goes down in an election landslide. I am not hearing, 'accept the result and move forward as Americans', I am sensing a rage and resentment along the lines of an post civil war song, one of the lyrics of which proclaims, "and for this glorious union, I do not give a damn".
12
The fact that Donald will accept the election if he wins is scary, but not as scary to me as someting else that went down at the debate.
The fact that 17 independent security agencies have come up with the same conclussion that Russia is most probably behind the wikilinks is disturbing, BUT more so is the very idea that the Donald disagrees with these 17 intellegence agencies. This Un American candidate is doing this only for political reasons, and the hell with principle, and the rest of the country.
This should be a warning sign to ALL voters as to how he will treat intellegence briefings. He will use these briefings in the light as to how he may personally benefit.
The fact that 17 independent security agencies have come up with the same conclussion that Russia is most probably behind the wikilinks is disturbing, BUT more so is the very idea that the Donald disagrees with these 17 intellegence agencies. This Un American candidate is doing this only for political reasons, and the hell with principle, and the rest of the country.
This should be a warning sign to ALL voters as to how he will treat intellegence briefings. He will use these briefings in the light as to how he may personally benefit.
7
Trump is not the disease - just a very ugly manifestation of it. As far as cures go, I'll stick with what my old psychology professor suggested back in 1976:
It will take a thousand years of cultural evolution!
It will take a thousand years of cultural evolution!
1
Either Trump was ignorant of his legal right to challenge the election results based on voting irregularities or illegal actions, or he was doing what critics fear he was doing: planting more seeds of distrust in our election process and our democracy, inflaming the passions of his blind followers to commit violence, and/or weakening President Hillary Clinton by challenging the legitimacy of her presidency before she even takes office. In any case, he is un-American and lest we forget, a Republican.
2
Trump has been playing the entire world for suckers by using this entire campaign cycle to set up another empire in media, focusing on the angry mobs of the world. This is no accident but another very cynical and calculated maneuver. Anyone who voted for him should start a class action prosecution. He is the only real criminal at work in this election. A fraud and charlatan. He will pay nothing in taxes and use the entire campaign expenses as business costs. Taxpayers are the usual suckers in his opinion, and so we are!
7
We have the two worst candidates for President in many years. However, the gap between the second worse (Hillary) and the worse continues to expand. Fortunately, our institutions are strong enough to survive both worse and the worst. We'll be okay.
1
I don't understand your "reasoning" as it virtually equates the 2 candidates. You must live in an alternative reality if you don't perceive the difference. It has become so fashionable to make the above kind of statement....please examine the premise that these 2 candidates---poles apart in experience, knowledge and concrete plans-- are somehow very similar.
1
“Of course I would accept a clear election result, but I would also reserve my right to contest or file a legal challenge in the case of a questionable result,”
Well then, I guess Hillary's win will need to be decisive.
Would an electoral landslide do it?
Well then, I guess Hillary's win will need to be decisive.
Would an electoral landslide do it?
5
There is nothing wrong with assessing the fairness of the game when it has concluded. Should Mr. Trump win my large margins, of course he will not waste the time and patience of the American people. If it is close in key states, if it is "a change in (less than 100,000) votes would have made Trump president", then he will act according to what he deems to be proper.
1
Trump's unlawful conduct didn't start today with this declaration of his intent to challenge the results of the election if he loses. He has been playing this unlawful, dangerous, game from day one. If he doesn't like the rules he ignores them. Most people who live like he does do so behind prison walls.
There should be a mechanism that automatically disqualifies any candidate who believes he is above the law. This man should have been disqualified months ago for his statements that inflame citizens and question his loyalty to the U.S.
He is a clear and present dangerous to our nation and it's citizens. He should not be allowed to be on the ballot.
There should be a mechanism that automatically disqualifies any candidate who believes he is above the law. This man should have been disqualified months ago for his statements that inflame citizens and question his loyalty to the U.S.
He is a clear and present dangerous to our nation and it's citizens. He should not be allowed to be on the ballot.
4
There must be some historical corollary for a situation in which an out of control egomaniac rises to power by convincing a group of mostly under-educated people who have illusions of persecution that the world will come to an end without his uniquely firm and forceful commitment to a system of law and order and governance which just so happens to favor them to the exclusion of all others.
7
John Adams set the standard by peacefully vacating the presidency when he lost the 1800 election to Thomas Jefferson. In allowing an uncontested hand off of power he helped ensure that the union would endure without the wars over power that so many European countries experienced.
Al Gore also put the country first when he accepted the Supreme Courts flawed decision even though he won the popular vote. He showed true leadership by stepping aside and not interfering with George W's presidency.
Trump's childish response demonstrated once again why he's not fit for the presidency. A true leader sets aside ego and looks at the greater good.
Al Gore also put the country first when he accepted the Supreme Courts flawed decision even though he won the popular vote. He showed true leadership by stepping aside and not interfering with George W's presidency.
Trump's childish response demonstrated once again why he's not fit for the presidency. A true leader sets aside ego and looks at the greater good.
8
In the article, Trump is clearly quoted as saying “Of course I would accept a clear election result, but I would also reserve my right to contest or file a legal challenge in the case of a questionable result. I will follow and abide by all the rules and traditions of all of the many candidates who came before me, always.”
In other words, he has the exact same stance as Al Gore, who conceded and them retracted his concession, throwing the whole process into turmoil. After 16 years of complaining that the 2000 election was fraudulent, I'm surprised any Democrats have a problem with this completely reasonable position. After seeing how Debbie Wasserman-Schultz, and her ilk, rigged the Democratic primary against Bernie Sanders, who wouldn't be concerned.
In other words, he has the exact same stance as Al Gore, who conceded and them retracted his concession, throwing the whole process into turmoil. After 16 years of complaining that the 2000 election was fraudulent, I'm surprised any Democrats have a problem with this completely reasonable position. After seeing how Debbie Wasserman-Schultz, and her ilk, rigged the Democratic primary against Bernie Sanders, who wouldn't be concerned.
2
No valid reason exists for a candidate to say that he won't accept the result of an election unless it is "clear". The 2000 election wasn't clear and it took a divided Supreme Court that large numbers of Americans thought biased by their conservative or liberal views to bring closure. Despite or even because of the muddy waters, Gore did the graciously patriotic thing of accepting the result and conceding the election.
If Trump had said "I absolutely will accept the verdict of the American people in the election. If there was a very close poll in a state that might make the difference I'm sure that either campaign would look at whether or not to request a recount of the votes, but there is no question that the final result is in the hands of the people and the state election officials" we wouldn't all be talking about this today.
If Trump had said "I absolutely will accept the verdict of the American people in the election. If there was a very close poll in a state that might make the difference I'm sure that either campaign would look at whether or not to request a recount of the votes, but there is no question that the final result is in the hands of the people and the state election officials" we wouldn't all be talking about this today.
2
I think our great coming future President Donald Trump thinks that the U. S. Election Commission is not trust worthy to carry out unbiased election, and under such circumstances, it would be impossible for him to accept the defeat (Win is O K!!). Just to satisfy him and removed the doubt, he thinks that the Russian, Chinese, North Korean or any African nation's Election Observers team should be given authority to monitor and certify our election.
I was not aware the US Election Commission conducted the election. I thought it was up to the states to conduct the election. Matter of fact, I don't think there's even such a thing.
1
Trump: `Of course I would accept a clear election result, ...'
Clear? Donald, few things will ever approach its clarity.
Clear? Donald, few things will ever approach its clarity.
8
The debate last night was by far the most substantive. All that substance was lost by his one comment.
Then again, maybe that's what Trump wanted. As "good" as he was last night, and it was his best performance, Clinton is far more knowledgeable (although no less crooked) and won on points. Most of that has been lost too. So if that was his strategy, it kinda worked. Not enough to save him though.
Then again, maybe that's what Trump wanted. As "good" as he was last night, and it was his best performance, Clinton is far more knowledgeable (although no less crooked) and won on points. Most of that has been lost too. So if that was his strategy, it kinda worked. Not enough to save him though.
5
A monumental, historic betrayal of the country by a candidate of a major party for his own advantage, not since Arron Burr. He is menacing the country to get his way, this is his self-lauded deal-making ability, unconcerned with the effect poisoning the well of the body politic. The man is appalling excuse for a statesman, an American or even a decent human being. I look forward to the country handing him such a defeat that any talk of 'rigged' will be laughable, exposing him in technicolor as the profoundly predatory deceitful and narcissistic man he is.
72
NOT a Trump fan. But again the press are almost ignoring the many ways in which Trump has disqualified himself, and instead are focused on a relatively minor issue. None of our presidential candidates, past or present, would be willing to accept initial election results if they were very close or if fraud seemed to be a real issue. As Trump remarked, Gore challenged initial results in 2000. During the debate, Trump could have given this more considered answer, but otherwise it's a small point, given his other sins.
3
Gore didn't announce BEFORE the election that he would contest it.
He didn't say BEFORE the election that it was rigged. He didn't even sat that the election was rigged.
He didn't say BEFORE the election that it was rigged. He didn't even sat that the election was rigged.
55
Dear Lucia:
Yes, Gore did concede, prematurely, since Florida was so close, and when it became clearer it would be even closer than anyone thought, he did retract his concession. But this incident is extremely rare.
As for the recount, there is a clause which states that when an election is very close, a recount is automatic. Such was the case with Florida.
It's what happened after the vote that sparked so much controversy. When the person in charge of the recount is a Republican, and her boss, Governor Jeb Bush, is the brother of the GOP candidate, George W. Bush, one can see the problems inherent in the system.
What some seem to have forgotten is that when Gore challenged the results the case, this was under the state's jurisdiction. It was up to Florida Supreme Court to decide. It was Bush, not Gore, who challenged that. In Bush vs. Gore, it was Bush who brought this case to the US Supreme Court, who intervened, overruling the lower Court. This ruling resulted in Bush winning Florida and the election.
What Trump suggested last night to Chris Wallace and the American people last night was that without any evidence of tampering or fraud, Trump was casting doubt on the legality of the election before most of us voted. Most likely this was because the projections of the outcome do not bode well for Trump. What we heard last night was the silly talk of a spoiled brat, which in essence is what Trump has been his entire life.
DD
Manhattan
Yes, Gore did concede, prematurely, since Florida was so close, and when it became clearer it would be even closer than anyone thought, he did retract his concession. But this incident is extremely rare.
As for the recount, there is a clause which states that when an election is very close, a recount is automatic. Such was the case with Florida.
It's what happened after the vote that sparked so much controversy. When the person in charge of the recount is a Republican, and her boss, Governor Jeb Bush, is the brother of the GOP candidate, George W. Bush, one can see the problems inherent in the system.
What some seem to have forgotten is that when Gore challenged the results the case, this was under the state's jurisdiction. It was up to Florida Supreme Court to decide. It was Bush, not Gore, who challenged that. In Bush vs. Gore, it was Bush who brought this case to the US Supreme Court, who intervened, overruling the lower Court. This ruling resulted in Bush winning Florida and the election.
What Trump suggested last night to Chris Wallace and the American people last night was that without any evidence of tampering or fraud, Trump was casting doubt on the legality of the election before most of us voted. Most likely this was because the projections of the outcome do not bode well for Trump. What we heard last night was the silly talk of a spoiled brat, which in essence is what Trump has been his entire life.
DD
Manhattan
14
True, but I think, being asked the question before the election, any thoughtful candidate would have to have some reservations.
Just saying. Not defending Trump. He was just trying to get a reaction.
Just saying. Not defending Trump. He was just trying to get a reaction.
1
I am an Indian citizen, resident in India. I have no stake in the US presidential election. The result of the election shall not sway my thinking in any manner.
However, it is unheard of that a candidate for election says that he will accept the result if he wins but will challenge the election if he loses in a close run. He has mentioned Al Gore and George Bush: their election was rather a close run but Al Gore had the grace and decency to bow out once the result was announced. It is not important what people’s preferences were between Al Gore and Bush. Once the result was announced by competent authority, there was no further questioning.
Anyone who talks like Donald Trump must give rise to suspicion whether he is a biological idiot.
The US election should have a provision – if it does not already have one – under which a candidate accepts unconditionally the US constitution and laws made under it. Anyone who does not make that commitment on his nomination papers should be refused candidacy. If he subsequently speaks like Trump, he should be disqualified.
Legal challenge is another matter. Anyone who feels that law has been violated has the right to seek legal address. But that right does not extend to calling in question the whole political and election process. No one should be above the constitution and the law.
One can only hope that US electors will give unmistakable mandate to the winning candidate. V. C. Bhutani, Delhi
However, it is unheard of that a candidate for election says that he will accept the result if he wins but will challenge the election if he loses in a close run. He has mentioned Al Gore and George Bush: their election was rather a close run but Al Gore had the grace and decency to bow out once the result was announced. It is not important what people’s preferences were between Al Gore and Bush. Once the result was announced by competent authority, there was no further questioning.
Anyone who talks like Donald Trump must give rise to suspicion whether he is a biological idiot.
The US election should have a provision – if it does not already have one – under which a candidate accepts unconditionally the US constitution and laws made under it. Anyone who does not make that commitment on his nomination papers should be refused candidacy. If he subsequently speaks like Trump, he should be disqualified.
Legal challenge is another matter. Anyone who feels that law has been violated has the right to seek legal address. But that right does not extend to calling in question the whole political and election process. No one should be above the constitution and the law.
One can only hope that US electors will give unmistakable mandate to the winning candidate. V. C. Bhutani, Delhi
53
Grace and decency are two ships that have sailed in American culture. No one yet knows what the loser in this race will actually do despite what has been said but it is only a matter of time before a candidate in any political race refuses to accept that he/she lost. I don't know what that refusal will mean because a winner can still take office, well for now. In the future, who knows.
"The US election should have a provision – if it does not already have one – under which a candidate accepts unconditionally the US constitution and laws made under it."
The Constitution's requirements for eligibility to be president are simple: that you be a natural-born US citizen, 14 years a resident, 35 years of age, and not having been elected twice previously (or once and served more than two years of another's term). The courts have in my view quite properly denied efforts to add to the constitutional qualifications for election to Congress, and I have no doubt that a "loyalty oath" provision would also be struck down.
The Constitution's requirements for eligibility to be president are simple: that you be a natural-born US citizen, 14 years a resident, 35 years of age, and not having been elected twice previously (or once and served more than two years of another's term). The courts have in my view quite properly denied efforts to add to the constitutional qualifications for election to Congress, and I have no doubt that a "loyalty oath" provision would also be struck down.
Add to Trump's comment during the debate about not accepting the election result to his threat to prosecute HRC and you have the classic case of a third world dictator who does not accept election results and jails political opponents.j.
Hopefully we are still a small d democracy.
Hopefully we are still a small d democracy.
32
It's a great time to start a new party, this one is broken.
17
Donald Trump's poor performances in the three debates confirm the idea that he is acting like a spoiled rich boy who continues to be a "difficult" child for his parents (the American electorate). Although he was successful with willful petulance and his bullying during the Republican debate, he has fallen flat against a much more savvy and experienced opponent who did not fall for his sophomoric routines which featured mean-spirited name-calling and dizzying irrational outbursts. Now that he is in fear of losing the game, he is crying aloud that the game has been fixed all along so it's not his fault, and if he ends up losing the game, it doesn't "count".
32
Right. Makes sense that his father shipped the difficult child off to military school.
He's still that person. He just pretended (very well) that a reformation took place. Woe to us.
He's still that person. He just pretended (very well) that a reformation took place. Woe to us.
He had the chance to say this last night. The "I'll keep you in suspense" comment was idiotic. It ruined an otherwise decent showing by Trump.
He can rail against the media, and there's no denying the media, for the most part, has always tilted left. So why give them material to work with? All the substantive discussion was cast to the side for at least the next news cycle, the most important post-debate news cycle.
He can rail against the media, and there's no denying the media, for the most part, has always tilted left. So why give them material to work with? All the substantive discussion was cast to the side for at least the next news cycle, the most important post-debate news cycle.
2
The Donald is concerned about political bosses busing in voters from out of state to rig the election. Special operators for HRC will probably do their best to tip the scales in Hilary's favor, but Trump will win the election by 5%. I'm voting for the Democrat this year, but there's more passion in Philadelphia for Donald than there is for the Eagles. I've never seen anything like it...
5
"Trump will accept the results...."----he'd darn well better.
18
Where is Mike Pence in all this? Has Mike Pence, still a governor of one our fifty states, any decency left? As a sitting governor, can Mike Pence validate with his silence a outrageous attack to very fabric of our Republic? What will Mike Pence do if, in the early hours of November 9, the Trump thugs start shooting people and burning places somewhere in his state of Ohio?
17
Pence is from Indiana.
7
I meant in his own state of Indiana not Ohio.
5
He will be continuing his campaign for the nomination in 2020 and try to find some way to turn those circumstances to his advantage.
I had a nightmare last night. I kept dreaming of the photo of President Truman holding up a newspaper proclaiming a Dewey victory. I do wonder how many of the lawyers on Mr. Trump's and the RNC payroll are advising that they will not represent him should he go the legal route to challenge the results.
4
Nightmare is understandable. But Nate Silvers 538 blog has a good discussion about why polling in 2016 is not like 1948. Among other things polling was VERY limited.
The first President of Trump's current political affiliation said:
"You can fool all the people some of the time, and some of the people all the time, but you cannot fool all the people all the time."
It is still true to this day.
"You can fool all the people some of the time, and some of the people all the time, but you cannot fool all the people all the time."
It is still true to this day.
6
True to this day, even if it's not the same party as in Lincoln's day. Not even close.
2
Trump remains puerile and peevish in his attempt to remain relevant as long as possible. He cares not one iota for his meal ticket, the United States of America, as he slowly defaces our voting institutions.
25
I think the time has come to discuss what's wrong with Trump's supporters, who seem motivated by racism, misogyny, Hillary hatred and a whole lot of need to stick it to the establishment.
56
Look no further than the skin color of the family that currently resides in the White House.
It ALL boils down to that.
It ALL boils down to that.
2
So I guess he's not going to accept the result!
16
and it really doesn't matter. There is nothing he can do to stop the process without evidence. The law does not require his blessings in order to accept the results.
1
At this point, it doesn't really matter what Donald Trump says. (1) A lot of the media, though "The Times" has kept its head better, have talked as though Trump could somehow threaten the "legitimacy" of the election. He can't. The election is legitimate if there's a clear winner and the recount and challenge laws of the states in which there is a question as to the result have been met. It's called "the rule of law." Donald Trump has no control over whether the election is "legitimate." And (2) whatever he says now, he will say something completely different with a few days. The only reason to hang on what he says is for entertainment, which admittedly is a field in which he has some expertise. But substantively, it doesn't matter what he says at all.
12
Men at the peak of their potential productivity left behind. Men and women, frightened by uncertainty, preyed upon by power-seeking politicians, men and women who crave simplicity and wish for magic to create a secure future for themselves and their children in a frighteningly complex and terribly menacing world. Trump supporters. Not so much different from the rest of us. We need some remedies for everyone or more Trumps will emerge in this social media-driven, simultaneously bound too close to truth and yet potentially divorced from reality age. And reality will for sure bite all of us if we don’t.
6
Honestly. I've been disgusted with republicans in the past, but now I despise many of them. Truly despise them. Perhaps it's hearing the chatter on social media that is different, IDK, but after 8 years of their treatment of our president, and now the thorough ignorance, with conspiracy driving their every thought, I'm done. Just go away.
58
Lil50--How do we hate Republicans? Let us count the ways!
3
Trump is preposterous. A man who is a pathological liar accusing anyone else of being "dishonest" is ridiculous. Even the charge that the media are against Trump overlooks the $3billion in free advertising the media have given him so far. Trump gives his critics enormous ammunition simply because he is a hateful, bigoted troll who is not afraid to spew his bile. If that kind of behavior did not evoke negative attention from the media, then that would be the real failure. Don't get me wrong - the measure of how atrocious the American media are is the success of the Trump campaign. But for him to whine about it now, after benefiting from the circus atmosphere the media created, is bizarre.
22
If Hillary Clinton, as the Democratic candidate, said this the Republicans would be outraged and would call for her immediate removal from the ticket. Democratic politicians would be called out to demand her removal. Where is the Republican outrage? The welfare of the nation-state is paramount irrespective of who the candidates are. The outrage should be coming from all quarters and the citizens across party lines should reaffirm the rules and traditions that govern the transfer of power at the presidential level. Of course, there are no legal consequences if he refuses to concede. It is more of a tradition that is designed to bind the nation together. Should she win, Paul Ryan and Mitch McConnell should stand with her as a symbol of a united nation.
27
Paul Ryan represents only the fifth district of Wisconsin. The head of the Republican Party is Mr. Trump.
Just keep talking, Donald. You are about to lose so overwhelmingly that you won't be able to contest anything at all. You will be humiliated so thoroughly that anything you say or do will just be more fodder for late night talk shows and nothing else. Even your children will be punch-lines for at least the next 10 years.
Can't wait!
Can't wait!
45
Donald Trump want to be loved, in lack of it, he want to be admired. For lack of that, he want to be hated and despised.
He want to instill his supporters some kind of feeling. No one wants a vacum in the soul . He want a human reaction and contact at any price with his supporters.
Donald Trump now wants to be hated and despised. He has reached his true self. To no longer talk politics. No longer show sympathy. No longer argue. He have lost confidence and friends. That gives him only one option left. It is to hate Hillary Clinton and despise the Constitution and US democracy.
He want to instill his supporters some kind of feeling. No one wants a vacum in the soul . He want a human reaction and contact at any price with his supporters.
Donald Trump now wants to be hated and despised. He has reached his true self. To no longer talk politics. No longer show sympathy. No longer argue. He have lost confidence and friends. That gives him only one option left. It is to hate Hillary Clinton and despise the Constitution and US democracy.
4
It would appear members of his campaign got to him as soon as he walked off that debate stage. His manager was already spinning his remark before he left the building. Never has there been a presidential candidate change his position on multiple issues and policies as much as this one does. Often within the same day.
For women who have abortions "there has to be some form of punishment" to "no, I never said that".
"Having a low minimum wage is not a bad thing" to "I don't know how people make it on $7.25."
Planned Parenthood "should absolutely be defunded" but then during the Republican debate said "millions and millions of women are helped by Planned Parenthood."
The list goes on and on raising taxes on the wealthiest American to building a wall and having Mexico pay for it. He denies having said or done things are on the record.....Now he says he will accept the election outcome? He is a elitist demagogue who does bombast very well. Why on earth would we believe him now??
For women who have abortions "there has to be some form of punishment" to "no, I never said that".
"Having a low minimum wage is not a bad thing" to "I don't know how people make it on $7.25."
Planned Parenthood "should absolutely be defunded" but then during the Republican debate said "millions and millions of women are helped by Planned Parenthood."
The list goes on and on raising taxes on the wealthiest American to building a wall and having Mexico pay for it. He denies having said or done things are on the record.....Now he says he will accept the election outcome? He is a elitist demagogue who does bombast very well. Why on earth would we believe him now??
11
It's not my fault.
The other person made me do it.
The other person made me say it.
I should have won.
A four year old or Donald Trump? (Don't ask Melania Trump, apparently she has difficulty telling the difference.)
The other person made me do it.
The other person made me say it.
I should have won.
A four year old or Donald Trump? (Don't ask Melania Trump, apparently she has difficulty telling the difference.)
33
Look, I'm against Trump as much as anybody, but with today's comment this issue is being blown out of proportion. Trump is simply stirring the pot to get a rise out of the rest of us. And you're taking the bait. Don't give him the satisfaction.
Per your article:
“Of course I would accept a clear election result, but I would also reserve my right to contest or file a legal challenge in the case of a questionable result,” Mr. Trump said. “I will follow and abide by all the rules and traditions of all of the many candidates who came before me, always.”
This not only is a completely reasonable position, but no lawyer or advisor within either party would expect it to be otherwise. And the comparison to Bush/Gore is exactly on point. If there are reasons to suspect whatever may be today's version of "hanging chads" that could warrant a recount somewhere, then someone OUGHT to raise the question -- from either side.
Our fear may be, and reasonably so, that he'd base his challenge on unsupported allegations or irrational theories, in which case he should be vilified for it. But we're not there yet. The way Trump framed it in the debate is toxic and childish, but he does that for effect. That doesn't mean that the position, in principle and as explained in today's comment, is inappropriate.
There are many things to beat him up about. With the statement he made today, this is no longer one of them, and continuing to pound on it just makes our side look hysterical.
Per your article:
“Of course I would accept a clear election result, but I would also reserve my right to contest or file a legal challenge in the case of a questionable result,” Mr. Trump said. “I will follow and abide by all the rules and traditions of all of the many candidates who came before me, always.”
This not only is a completely reasonable position, but no lawyer or advisor within either party would expect it to be otherwise. And the comparison to Bush/Gore is exactly on point. If there are reasons to suspect whatever may be today's version of "hanging chads" that could warrant a recount somewhere, then someone OUGHT to raise the question -- from either side.
Our fear may be, and reasonably so, that he'd base his challenge on unsupported allegations or irrational theories, in which case he should be vilified for it. But we're not there yet. The way Trump framed it in the debate is toxic and childish, but he does that for effect. That doesn't mean that the position, in principle and as explained in today's comment, is inappropriate.
There are many things to beat him up about. With the statement he made today, this is no longer one of them, and continuing to pound on it just makes our side look hysterical.
81
Taken out of context, this does sound like a reasonable position. Of course, when Trump is continuously bleating about rigged elections, biased media and the election being "stolen" without any real evidence, he is, as you said, "basing his challenge on unsupported allegations or irrational theories."
Saying that he reserves the right to challenge a closely contested race, a la Bush v. Gore, is a very different proposition than whining that the election isn't fair. His comments do not take back his previous stance that the election is rigged or that he is waiting to see if he will accept the vote. Until the words, "I will accept the result of the vote as it is certified in each state" comes out of his mouth, the foundation of democracy in this country is not safe.
Saying that he reserves the right to challenge a closely contested race, a la Bush v. Gore, is a very different proposition than whining that the election isn't fair. His comments do not take back his previous stance that the election is rigged or that he is waiting to see if he will accept the vote. Until the words, "I will accept the result of the vote as it is certified in each state" comes out of his mouth, the foundation of democracy in this country is not safe.
3
It is a completely unreasonable position because he is reserving the right to refuse to concede. That isn't a valid option. Saying that he will accept the final results of the election is a basic patriotic requirement.
Al Gore did not state before the 2000 election that "I'll decide when the time comes". He disputed the validity of a very close poll count with some irregularities and then graciously accepted the final result even though he'd won the popular vote and many thought that the Supremes unfairly decided to deny a final chance to review the vote.
Trump's behavior would be like a sports team calling the officials corrupt and saying the fix is in at halftime because they were down by 21, and then saying at the start of the 4th quarter that "we will accept the final result of the game if is clear [to us] that we were fairly defeated". When the game is over and they've lost, they can then say that they won but were robbed by the officials and the game was fixed.
Al Gore did not state before the 2000 election that "I'll decide when the time comes". He disputed the validity of a very close poll count with some irregularities and then graciously accepted the final result even though he'd won the popular vote and many thought that the Supremes unfairly decided to deny a final chance to review the vote.
Trump's behavior would be like a sports team calling the officials corrupt and saying the fix is in at halftime because they were down by 21, and then saying at the start of the 4th quarter that "we will accept the final result of the game if is clear [to us] that we were fairly defeated". When the game is over and they've lost, they can then say that they won but were robbed by the officials and the game was fixed.
6
Except with Trump, one never knows what he really means. Was it is unqualified refusal to commit accept any election result last night, or the more nuanced statement released today? How will he behave on November 9th? No way to know -- so it's valid to keep very clear how unacceptable his debate statement is.
2
Neil Simon needs to come out of retirement and hire Alec Baldwin to play DJT and make this insane campaign into a movie. Or maybe the comic potential is sufficient to bring Nora Ephron back to life to co-author this with Simon.
Opening scene...the camera pans up the golden facade of Trump Tower to Donald sitting in his favorite chair.
The whole apartment is a precise replica of Donald's home...no creative license needed here. The real thing is a Louis XV fantasy brothel right here in NYC. Gold leaf everywhere...the bidet probably has gold leaf and a Christmas red velvet tank cover.
DJT is demonstrating his textbook Arrested Development Syndrome self in the flesh. He is dressed as a modern day Peter Pan:
•Green bean colored tights
•matching green pointy toe elf slippers
•Black business suit jacket with American flag lapel pin
•white dress shirt with French cuffs
•red power tie --- right of the cover of John Molloy's 1975 bible for highly visible men, "Dress For Success."
•his signature blond combover topped off by a Sherwood Forest cap
Alec opens his goldfish lips and breaks into a full-throated rendition of "I won't grow up---I don't want to go to school....". All 275 pounds achieved by costumers employing a "fat suit" to bring Alec up to the right BMI.
Alec, are you game?
Opening scene...the camera pans up the golden facade of Trump Tower to Donald sitting in his favorite chair.
The whole apartment is a precise replica of Donald's home...no creative license needed here. The real thing is a Louis XV fantasy brothel right here in NYC. Gold leaf everywhere...the bidet probably has gold leaf and a Christmas red velvet tank cover.
DJT is demonstrating his textbook Arrested Development Syndrome self in the flesh. He is dressed as a modern day Peter Pan:
•Green bean colored tights
•matching green pointy toe elf slippers
•Black business suit jacket with American flag lapel pin
•white dress shirt with French cuffs
•red power tie --- right of the cover of John Molloy's 1975 bible for highly visible men, "Dress For Success."
•his signature blond combover topped off by a Sherwood Forest cap
Alec opens his goldfish lips and breaks into a full-throated rendition of "I won't grow up---I don't want to go to school....". All 275 pounds achieved by costumers employing a "fat suit" to bring Alec up to the right BMI.
Alec, are you game?
6
Trump and crew have already shown that, after the election, they'll continue with their "the election is rigged!" stance no matter how overwhelmingly Clinton wins, because they've been citing all kinds of nebulous and fake evidence--not any kind of real analysis of the numbers--and that tactic doesn't end just because Clinton wins. Their "proof" has been deliberately imaginary because that's the only way for them to continue to push it--if they were to try to cite actual facts and figures, they'd be quickly proven wrong. The right's contention of voter and election fraud has for years been based on faked facts--we've already seen that for several election cycles. It's going to be the main driver for the establishment of "Trump TV" (whether that's an actual TV network or just a website). They may even set up a "shadow government" with Trump as the "real president in exile", and their own "cabinet posts".
3
Is it November 9th yet?
6
On the plus side, by forcing Republicans to defend the interity of the electoral system, Trump has exposed the hypocrisy behind their "justifications" for things like voter ID laws.