After years of perfecting the ingredients: "It's ALIVE!"
3
Demographic death spiral: I love it! In my opinion, it's well deserved and can't come too soon.
4
Donald Trump = Lou Dobbs
Don't worry about Trump. Even though he'd do a great job getting this country's economy back on track, he couldn't find the time to do it because of the social agenda that liberals would bother him about. He'd get frustrated and start mouthing inflammatory truths. Better to have a Republican who can ignore the liberals. Trump will go away. Don't worry about him.
I have to ask, where are the journalists with follow up questions when they're interviewing Trump? They seem to let him go on and on without supporting anything he's saying with facts. ???
4
what if, as a social experiment, we all decide to just ignore Donald Trump. He is clearly an attention hound who feeds on publicity, negative or positive. Everyone in the media should stop reporting on anything he does. The more attention the press gives this man, the more it validates him to people who share his views.
2
Even if a Trump third-party campaign doesn't happen (and I fervently hope it does), it's nice for a change to get some fun from the endless run-up to 2016. I know we shouldn't write off the Donald, but watching him be the repulsive relative at the "proper" Republican family dinner party is priceless.
2
Here's a plan - listen to him. He's funny.
1
Perhaps these issues are worth discussion. After 70 years, I don't think things are under control in America.
Ah, the good old days of WW2. Everything was under control back then, yessiree Bob. Now it's all bearded hippies and minority weirdos running the place.
5
Something is seriously wrong here. There must be hundreds of businesses that have NOT bailed out of Trump projects yet. Are they supporting his new policies? They may have paid for his name and now his name is reported to mean something entirely different than unadulterated glitz and wealth. Is this bait and switch? None of this makes any sense but it sure stinks.
The press brought this on in their penchant for melodrama, and low brow tabloid sensationalism.
2
The "press" didn't invent his statements; they just reported them. The man is a candidate for the Presidency; would it be appropriate, in your view, to hush up his statements? Have you really thought this through?
2
Actually, it's all quite wonderful- Republicans have had nothing to crow about in a long time: they've accomplished nothing on their agenda despite being a majority in Congress, and they're so busy trying to contain Trump that they have no time to attack Hillary Clinton (it's the honorable Bernie Sanders doing the work there, his candidacy forcing her to the left).
1
Trump is temporarily spiking because the Supreme Court just further shrunk the world of those in the far right. It's bringing out more virulent posting on news sites than I've seen in awhile. The polarization will get worse before it eases.
1
Quit worrying, all of you who fear/loathe/are offended by The Donald. He can't run for President unless he has been certified to run in the primaries in the various states. So far, his campaign has not qualified in any state. Unless the campaign registers to do so, Trump's candidacy is relegated to attracting write-in votes. How likely is that alternative to succeed?
1
No, the problem is that he isn't a member of "the establishment" and thus a threat to all the career politicians in DC who have a nice little racket going on that gives them more power and money and turning the US into an Oligarchy. There is no Republican or Democrat party anymore, it's all one big party and tea party members and outsiders like Trump cannot be allowed to ruin things for the elites.
3
You sir have partaken of entirely too much tea. Do you seriously think Donald Trump is speaking up for the little guy against the people with too much power and money? If so I have a bankrupt casino to sell you.
4
Trump actually gives voice or trumpet to what has become the boiler plate positions of the new, since Reagan, Republican party. As The Donald said regarding the other owners of golf courses, "They all agree with me." And you know what they do.
My wife's family were all Republicans. They practically had apoplexy when the Grand Old Party started down the road to exclusivity and forgot what conservation really means.
I think Donald Trump is an excellent example of what goes on in the minds of most of the wealthy, super wealthy and privileged people in the world.
My wife's family were all Republicans. They practically had apoplexy when the Grand Old Party started down the road to exclusivity and forgot what conservation really means.
I think Donald Trump is an excellent example of what goes on in the minds of most of the wealthy, super wealthy and privileged people in the world.
3
Intelligent, educated people want the issues Trump has exposed discussed. They are tired of pandering politicians who placate special interest groups. These artificial politicians are like puppets
and who will do or say whatever it takes to be "politically correct." He will make the debates lively as he stirs the pot. This is exactly what we need besides liar, wannabe politicians.
and who will do or say whatever it takes to be "politically correct." He will make the debates lively as he stirs the pot. This is exactly what we need besides liar, wannabe politicians.
6
Totally agree. Trump speaks for people who may not be politically correct but have a point of view. If we cannot listen to different points of view without wanting to silence the person saying them, we give up an opportunity to learn something that could be significant--now or later. It is time in this country to go beyond the traditional political party rhetoric and listen to points of view that may be in the minority but need to be acknowledged. Following the party line, whether Democratic or Republican seems to have got us in this position where being politically correct is more important than focusing on what is best for this country regardless of political party!
1
If the GOP won't dump Trump, maybe the media should simply stop covering him. He's a non-starter as a real candidate and everyone knows it.
Actually I hope he stays in to the bitter end. That'll guarantee a Democrat win in 2016. So yay! Go Donald!
Actually I hope he stays in to the bitter end. That'll guarantee a Democrat win in 2016. So yay! Go Donald!
4
Do us all a favor--just fire him and let the chips fall where they may.
How could anybody other than the truly ignorant vote for an individual as virulent as Donald Trump?
6
You call people who are for the reform of this country ignorant. Wow. Time for you to reflect on what you believe.
1
"reform" or tear asunder?
Trump is mouthing the GOP's positions; most said privately, but he's saying openly.
He's not a joke....he's dangerous.
Trump is mouthing the GOP's positions; most said privately, but he's saying openly.
He's not a joke....he's dangerous.
5
Your law, Murphy's, doesn't see the light of day here., mate! Donald is the man to steer this country, (education, jobs, veterans, deals with Iran, all included)in the right direction, i.e. what is best for USA.
2
DT's comments have nothing to do with racism. And -- Most people do NOT have an issue with immigration. The issue is ILLEGAL immigration. This is what Trump is referring to, but the press and the (follower) people have chosen to twist it into something else. Anyone who doesn't think illegal immigration is real problem has their head in the sand. There IS no one country able to successfully absorb and manage well--- a population beyond it's capacity and limits. Illegal immigration effects everything-- public health, healthcare, jobs, culture, school systems, traffic, crime, national security, the infrastructure of the country, etc.
Any person who has successfully managed a growing family, a growing business, a budget, their own life, knows what I'm talking about. You can't expand anything without doing it deliberately and carefully. To let it just happen on its own and say "that's o.k.!" is the comment of someone with little life experience.
Any person who has successfully managed a growing family, a growing business, a budget, their own life, knows what I'm talking about. You can't expand anything without doing it deliberately and carefully. To let it just happen on its own and say "that's o.k.!" is the comment of someone with little life experience.
4
At the risk of telling you something that you must already know "illegal" immigrants come here because there is work for them -- therefore they are, by definition, needed. If there were NO work for them, they wouldn't come. Moreover, when, in the past, they have not come or were prevented from coming, economically important crops were not harvested, fruit rotted on the ground etc.
Additionally, despite what many badly informed and not very thoughtful people believe, those same "illegals"help the economy. How? They help it because the work that they do, pretty much by definition, produces wealth and goods of all kinds that regular "legals" need. Plus, the money that they make, or a great deal of it, is spent locally and helps the local economy. What they send home, in the form of remittances, keeps many more in their home countries thus preventing the influx from being still greater -- if that's what concerns you. Finally, numerous studies of the crime question raised by Trump have shown unequivocally that "illegal" immigrants commit crimes at rates FAR lower than regular American citizens.
Additionally, despite what many badly informed and not very thoughtful people believe, those same "illegals"help the economy. How? They help it because the work that they do, pretty much by definition, produces wealth and goods of all kinds that regular "legals" need. Plus, the money that they make, or a great deal of it, is spent locally and helps the local economy. What they send home, in the form of remittances, keeps many more in their home countries thus preventing the influx from being still greater -- if that's what concerns you. Finally, numerous studies of the crime question raised by Trump have shown unequivocally that "illegal" immigrants commit crimes at rates FAR lower than regular American citizens.
10
Watching the way Mr. Trump conducts himself in pronouncements and "interviews" one cannot help but wonder whether he has any relationship with reality. The bullying and demagoguery appears to indicate an insular existence completely devoid of reflection.
6
Go, Donald, go! Run, Donald, run!
6
Yes, and assure a Democratic victory- yay!!!
2
It's so "refreshing" to see how hate can intimidate can dominate the GOP agenda. "We have to be afraid to alienate the most hateful in our party." It's a shame to see how the GOP has lost its way.
5
Can't fire him. Ignore him.
2
Between Trump and House Republicans who rose to the defense of the indefensible Confederate flag, Reince Priebus must be reaching for his aspirin bottle quite often. However, he and the Republican Party are now reaping what the Party sowed for many years - quietly supporting or, at least, condoning the extreme Right wing of the party in order to get evangelical and regressive votes.
Ohio's Sen. Portman has just announced that he now has an advisory panel of local black leaders, which is a tacit acknowledgement that he is facing a serious challenge from former Ohio governor, Democrat Ted Strickland, who is polling very well. In my view, it is too little, too late. Although Mr. Portman is not an extremist, he has never gone out of his way to distance himself from the fringe of the party (with the exception of gay rights when he learned his son was gay and, as a result, was subjected to the wrath of some conservatives). I fear that Portman's new black advisory panel is merely for the optics, rather than real change. And that is the problem facing the whole Republican Party in a nutshell. It will take many years of deeds, not words or advisory panels, to repair the Republican "brand."
Ohio's Sen. Portman has just announced that he now has an advisory panel of local black leaders, which is a tacit acknowledgement that he is facing a serious challenge from former Ohio governor, Democrat Ted Strickland, who is polling very well. In my view, it is too little, too late. Although Mr. Portman is not an extremist, he has never gone out of his way to distance himself from the fringe of the party (with the exception of gay rights when he learned his son was gay and, as a result, was subjected to the wrath of some conservatives). I fear that Portman's new black advisory panel is merely for the optics, rather than real change. And that is the problem facing the whole Republican Party in a nutshell. It will take many years of deeds, not words or advisory panels, to repair the Republican "brand."
5
The GOP has a severe case of the "DT'S". Think the party will have to go extensive detox to get rid of this malady...
4
The Donald, the Trumpster, is the perfect poster boy for the Republican Party, beating even the embarrassment the GOP faced defending the horrific Confederate flag for all these years. The billionaire blowhard manages to encapsulate all of the GOP's faults into one neat package of farce.
Trump's an out of touch, uncouth, simple-minded sloganeering goof ball. And the best part? His bombast has endeared himself to the rank and file of what was once a viable political party. With The Donald in it to win it, for now, or dump the GOP in a minute if the whim suits him, Trump-ed Up has got the GOP establishment in a knot. They hate the mockery he is making of their brand, yet they can't do a thing about it for fear that they'll lose their right-wing nut job base which they desperately need to even contemplate beating the tortoise in this marathon race, Hillary.
The 2016 edition of the GOP's Crowded Clown Car beats the 2012 model by a mile. More crazy, more kooky, the only thing missing from this circus is the abbreviated governor of Alaska, Sarah The Impaler, throwing herself into this madcap fray. One can only hope.
Please, please, GOP, send in more clowns.
DD
Manhattan
Trump's an out of touch, uncouth, simple-minded sloganeering goof ball. And the best part? His bombast has endeared himself to the rank and file of what was once a viable political party. With The Donald in it to win it, for now, or dump the GOP in a minute if the whim suits him, Trump-ed Up has got the GOP establishment in a knot. They hate the mockery he is making of their brand, yet they can't do a thing about it for fear that they'll lose their right-wing nut job base which they desperately need to even contemplate beating the tortoise in this marathon race, Hillary.
The 2016 edition of the GOP's Crowded Clown Car beats the 2012 model by a mile. More crazy, more kooky, the only thing missing from this circus is the abbreviated governor of Alaska, Sarah The Impaler, throwing herself into this madcap fray. One can only hope.
Please, please, GOP, send in more clowns.
DD
Manhattan
12
I agree with you almost entirely, but we should not kid ourselves, the GOP is not a"once viable party"; that's, unfortunately, wishful thinking. The results of the mid-terms, the rising popularity of Trump and the pro-business votes of the Roberts court make that a faulty analysis. It's a truism that to underestimate your enemy is a big mistake.
Duh Donald...what a catch...22. Can't direct him, can't script him, can't control him, can't change him, can't muzzle him, can't fire him and surely can't have him run independently...(Republicans should award him the sobriquet "Catch")
Just when the Democratic Party was wondering what surprise gift would ooze out from the Republican far-right fringe for this election...Buda-Bing...unrepentant, Duh Donald, playing to the basest of the base, unabashedly speaks, alienating voters...Cha-Ching!
Just when the Democratic Party was wondering what surprise gift would ooze out from the Republican far-right fringe for this election...Buda-Bing...unrepentant, Duh Donald, playing to the basest of the base, unabashedly speaks, alienating voters...Cha-Ching!
5
He knows exactly what he is doing and why he is doing it.
It is because the vast majority of Republican voters think the hateful, harmful, ignorant things they are saying. This is what and who the Republican Party has become and what its voters want.
And its elected representatives across the nation, governors, senators, congress members, state legislators are giving it to them with every vote they take, every piece of crazy reactionary legislation they introduce and pass.
It is Republicans trying to take health care away from 10 million people, Republicans trying to take the vote away from black people and Hispanics, Republicans trying to subvert now legal gay marriage, Republicans who want to throw 11 million immigrants out of the country instead of regularizing them on a path to citizenship, Republicans standing up for symbols of hate and racism.
Trump knows this and knows that it all adds up to a party that actually agrees with what he is saying so he is saying it and will keep on saying it and they will keep on pretending that it isn't so. Well, it is and it will be and let the Republican Party choke on what they have become and what they stand for.
It is because the vast majority of Republican voters think the hateful, harmful, ignorant things they are saying. This is what and who the Republican Party has become and what its voters want.
And its elected representatives across the nation, governors, senators, congress members, state legislators are giving it to them with every vote they take, every piece of crazy reactionary legislation they introduce and pass.
It is Republicans trying to take health care away from 10 million people, Republicans trying to take the vote away from black people and Hispanics, Republicans trying to subvert now legal gay marriage, Republicans who want to throw 11 million immigrants out of the country instead of regularizing them on a path to citizenship, Republicans standing up for symbols of hate and racism.
Trump knows this and knows that it all adds up to a party that actually agrees with what he is saying so he is saying it and will keep on saying it and they will keep on pretending that it isn't so. Well, it is and it will be and let the Republican Party choke on what they have become and what they stand for.
7
So, are Jews yet allowed on Trump's spectacular links? If so, why? It worked just fine for all that time, it was a virtual tradition, for Jews to be excluded from Republican country clubs, ivy league colleges, the downtown Athletic Club, and other strongholds where regular white Americans could quietly gather and direct their nation, just as they always had and as God intended.
After all, the business of America is business, and for Americans - real Americans: you know, the kind who spend the summer at Kennebunk Port compounds after those grueling days occupying their seats on the stock exchange. Everyone else is - let's face it - the help. And they already get too much.
And now, what a mess! Jews and illegals everyplace, expecting to be treated like actual citizens! My word! And look who is getting uppity now: not only your shady uptowners, but also the queers! Everyone wants to get into the act. What is this country coming to?
Now wonder we have to scrape the bottom of the barrel for all the votes we can find, among all the worst sort of trailer trash born again biggots, just to keep control of our country. the Donald knows who he has to please, all right.
Too bad The Donald is from blue collar Queens and not the tony precincts of the Upper East Side where the decent folk spend the weekdays before retiring the their horse properties and seaside cottages.
Remember the Mayflower!
After all, the business of America is business, and for Americans - real Americans: you know, the kind who spend the summer at Kennebunk Port compounds after those grueling days occupying their seats on the stock exchange. Everyone else is - let's face it - the help. And they already get too much.
And now, what a mess! Jews and illegals everyplace, expecting to be treated like actual citizens! My word! And look who is getting uppity now: not only your shady uptowners, but also the queers! Everyone wants to get into the act. What is this country coming to?
Now wonder we have to scrape the bottom of the barrel for all the votes we can find, among all the worst sort of trailer trash born again biggots, just to keep control of our country. the Donald knows who he has to please, all right.
Too bad The Donald is from blue collar Queens and not the tony precincts of the Upper East Side where the decent folk spend the weekdays before retiring the their horse properties and seaside cottages.
Remember the Mayflower!
1
In his interview by Bill O'Reilly on Fox, Trump bragged how he had managed to build the Trump Towers, all 58 floors of them in an area where regulations limited construction to only 18 floors. He implied that his "negotiation" abilities were excellent.
What did he mean by that ?
Also, as Chef Jose Andrés and others are canceling their contracts with the Trump owned and operated hotels like the new Pavillon in Washington, formerly a Post Office now leased to Trump, there will be pressure on the organizations that promote his businesses, like Expedia, Travelocity, Hotles.com, etc to drop him as the hispanic community makes up for a very large piece of their customer base, after all.
What did he mean by that ?
Also, as Chef Jose Andrés and others are canceling their contracts with the Trump owned and operated hotels like the new Pavillon in Washington, formerly a Post Office now leased to Trump, there will be pressure on the organizations that promote his businesses, like Expedia, Travelocity, Hotles.com, etc to drop him as the hispanic community makes up for a very large piece of their customer base, after all.
4
I will still not believe that Trump is a legitimate candidate until he actually files the required financial disclosures. Despite Fox News' requirement for timely filing, he could pass on the early "debates" and file for up to 90 days of extensions. The obvious exit strategy Trump could use after NOT filing the required disclosures would be to claim that he was hounded out of his Presidential run by "hostile media" and other dark forces arrayed against him.
3
But there is no truth to the media. Right? They are just doing their jobs with no bias and reporting just facts and not taking anything out of context. Wake up
Why not keep Donald Trump in the same tent with very like minded Presidential Republican Candidates have the same kind of thinking as Mr. Trump illustrates in his Verbal Harangues on the Hispanics in our Society. They just don't have the fortitude to come out and agree with one of their own. Seems like Senator Graham is the only visble Candidate, (who most likely has little chance of winning the nomination), came out directly to chastise Mr. Trump. Immigration Reform has never been any priority of the current Conservative Causes. But then again neither has Tax Reform been part of their Cause. It seems that they are now even posturing for another Government Shutdown, the question is an old one, - Does the Grand Old Party have any PRIDE! Only with Fox news on their side which continues to spew hate and fear, and relying on just revealing that part of the Data which feeds the ignoranance of a large part of our Electorate, and never the whole story, will in the end garner little votes from the mainstream voters, (of all Races, Religions, or Ethnicities in our Society!
AND, - by the way, I believe that Pope Francis' visit to our Congress will be just a waste of his time as a great majority of those representing us could care less about the poor, hunger, elderly, health care, tax reform, or God help us, - Climate Change in the World!
AND, - by the way, I believe that Pope Francis' visit to our Congress will be just a waste of his time as a great majority of those representing us could care less about the poor, hunger, elderly, health care, tax reform, or God help us, - Climate Change in the World!
3
The Donald has the political version of the vapors, brought about by a steady diet of Fox, Rove, birthers, teas, free range bundyites, sons of the confederacy, Franklin Graham, and a list just too endless to list. So now he is expelling the copious products of digesting all that and thusly resonates with the core of the GOPTP. Is it really surprising he doesn't know where Obama was born?
7
Trump - the quintessential iconic Republican who bears and bares the basic Republican mantras without the usual public relations dressing!
3
Donald Trump is Nixon's Southern strategy personified and coming home to roost on the Republican party. His words give voice to the thoughts that many Southern Republicans harbor. He stands out as the only Republican presidential candidate who is not a hypocrite. If he runs as an third-party Independent like the staight-talking Ross Perot did in 1992 against both George Herbert Walker Bush and William Clinton.
1
The problem of Trump for the Republican Party is not what he says but what it says about the Republican Party that so many in the Party find it appealing.
20
Trump is the most incorruptible future President of USA. He is the most straight candidate with no personal agenda, you hear? Millions of us will vote for him. He will provide jobs, and also take care of our brave veterans who did so much for this country. Bravo, Mr Trump!
4
Sure he will.
2
Right, and everyone will get a pony.
3
So what's he going to do for all the people he owed when he declared bankruptcy... how many times? Was it 4? They didn't get paid all they were owed. Are they going to get special deals if he's elected to make up for it?
6
I like the photo very much. You have either consciously or unconsciously created a portrait of a hero standing far above the horizon line, which Donald is to many of us now.
This picture is worth a thousand words.
This picture is worth a thousand words.
1
Wait...there are Americans who actually take The Donald seriously??
If so, America's in worse shape than I thought.
PS: Add some weight and remove some of the wealth and you have Chris Christie...caveat emptor, America!
If so, America's in worse shape than I thought.
PS: Add some weight and remove some of the wealth and you have Chris Christie...caveat emptor, America!
5
It's frightening. America has a penchant for fools. After all, they put up with George W. Bush for TWO terms because he reflected their ideal of someone they can have a beer with. With Trump, they're seduced by his wealth (such as it is) and pure envy.
They finally voted for a serious man, Obama, and immediately stopped supporting him and turned him over to the GOP to thwart everything he proposed, voting for a Republican Senate and House.
We go through life wearing rose colored glasses. Unthinking, with no discretion when we choose our leaders. We allow ourselves to be exploited and never learn our lesson, always attracted to political Bling Bling instead of quality. Our Ship of State has become a Ship of Fools.
They finally voted for a serious man, Obama, and immediately stopped supporting him and turned him over to the GOP to thwart everything he proposed, voting for a Republican Senate and House.
We go through life wearing rose colored glasses. Unthinking, with no discretion when we choose our leaders. We allow ourselves to be exploited and never learn our lesson, always attracted to political Bling Bling instead of quality. Our Ship of State has become a Ship of Fools.
7
Donald Trump(TM) is a brand. And this is all about brand enhancement, not speaking Truth To Power(TM).
He is the Candidate From Roger Ailes: precisely to whip up the constituencies RA has been whipping up for many years.
Ponder, also, how much of Trump's wealth has ultimately derived, both directly and indirectly, from the labor of immigrants, legal and otherwise.
He is the Candidate From Roger Ailes: precisely to whip up the constituencies RA has been whipping up for many years.
Ponder, also, how much of Trump's wealth has ultimately derived, both directly and indirectly, from the labor of immigrants, legal and otherwise.
1
More proof Republicans can't govern or even run their own party. Trump is not going to win the nomination or the presidency. If the Republican party can't see that then they are really out of touch with any shred of reality. Destroying Donald Trump is the easiest of tasks. Just start putting out his past record and statements and he'll do the rest. Couple of bankruptcies, failed marriages, the many times he has put his foot on his mouth. Just give him a little push making him the laughing stock and he'' do the rest. Also he has lost enough money already he will not spring the amount of cash it takes to cover fifty states. He says he has the cash but that's just good old Trump bull.
3
I can imagine who Joe from Boston is.
"... 63 percent of Republican voters view immigrants as a “burden” who compete for jobs, housing, and health care compared with 32 percent of Democrats." - "The Gospel According to Fox News" and the demographic addicted to them. I see that so often here among people who believe anything the "News" has to say without benefit of thought or fact-check. And it runs 24/7; brainwashing.
In an article about Bernie Sanders, yesterday's Times stated that the majority of Democrats are center-leaning rather than hard-left liberal, and I dare say that, overall, Republicans are more center-right than crazed. Those with the throwback attitudes towards race, sex, gender, and inequality are free to hold those opinions, but they also must face that they are, indeed, now a minority in this country founded on the premise that all have a place here in this land of once-supposed opportunity.
Things are never going back to "the good old days" no matter how badly they, or Donald Trump, want them to, and adapting to that fact is a necessity of life. The sooner people make peace with the facts as they are now, and look forward with a plan for what "is", the better off this country will be.
Stop all of this bickering about sex, religion, who is welcome and who deserves fewer rights than the chosen few. If that doesn't happen, the Republicans are again setting themselves up for in implosion of their own making...
In an article about Bernie Sanders, yesterday's Times stated that the majority of Democrats are center-leaning rather than hard-left liberal, and I dare say that, overall, Republicans are more center-right than crazed. Those with the throwback attitudes towards race, sex, gender, and inequality are free to hold those opinions, but they also must face that they are, indeed, now a minority in this country founded on the premise that all have a place here in this land of once-supposed opportunity.
Things are never going back to "the good old days" no matter how badly they, or Donald Trump, want them to, and adapting to that fact is a necessity of life. The sooner people make peace with the facts as they are now, and look forward with a plan for what "is", the better off this country will be.
Stop all of this bickering about sex, religion, who is welcome and who deserves fewer rights than the chosen few. If that doesn't happen, the Republicans are again setting themselves up for in implosion of their own making...
2
Thank You, Lord!!! A '92 re-run involving ANOTHER Clinton...God Is Good!
Trump wonders what he will do with the Reps.
1
This is great. Whatever The Donald does will only help us keep Republicans busy doing damage control. Keep at it, Donnie!
2
Give him enough rope and he'll hang himself (eventually). Trump always manages to shoots himself in the foot. Remember his ""birther" campaign? His current campaign, admittedly, is his most offensive and dangerous to date.
3
If the Republican leadership is so devoid of principles that it refuses to stand up to Trump's bombast, how do you think they'll fare when the stakes are even higher? We need our leaders to inspire better behavior and higher aspirations; not lower.
The GOP has shown itself to be the morally bankrupt choice in this election.
The GOP has shown itself to be the morally bankrupt choice in this election.
5
Donal Trump needs to take a course in NVC- non-vilent communication. Yes there is such a thing and the more people who become aware of how we as humans should talk to one another, the more improvements our society would see.
3
This is a key reason Trump is rising in the polls. People are sick of the frauds in the GOP. This guy is the only one not using s script and speaks what is on most Americans minds. He has my vote and the RNC can continue crying about him, the more tears the merrier! Go Trump, we need this guy in America now!
1
There's a comforting thought. According to you most Americans are ignorant bigots with no knowledge of public policy. Not exactly something to brag about.
2
The Republicans now have the same problem with Donald Trump that the Democrats have with Al Sharpton. How do you deal with a high profile person who espouses virulent racist beliefs and is trying to muscle into the party elite?
With Sharpton, the Democrats have chosen to disregard his decades long history of racial intolerance and hate-mongering, and have in fact, by accepting him into the party at a very high level, have sent the message that racial hatred is an acceptable method of political success.
Should the Republicans now stand by as many are, and not unequivocally condemn Trump for his hate-mongering, they are no better than the Democrats, insofar as they are rewarding and encouraging the sorts of hatred that ought be confined to the historical trashbin.
With Sharpton, the Democrats have chosen to disregard his decades long history of racial intolerance and hate-mongering, and have in fact, by accepting him into the party at a very high level, have sent the message that racial hatred is an acceptable method of political success.
Should the Republicans now stand by as many are, and not unequivocally condemn Trump for his hate-mongering, they are no better than the Democrats, insofar as they are rewarding and encouraging the sorts of hatred that ought be confined to the historical trashbin.
Barry, though I'm aware, of course, that your take on Al Sharpton is shared by many, I confess that I'm slightly mystified. I am an American of 100% north-western European descent and have read, over the years, any number of pronouncements made by the Rev. Sharpton and have yet to detect any animus specifically directed at whites just on account of their whiteness. Sure, he calls out the racism often emanating from the "white establishment", but this, in and of itself, hardly constitutes the kind of anti-white racism that you impute to him. Re-read his statements over the years. That said, he has made a fool of himself many times but that's another matter.
4
Donald is in no body's pocket, and Donald cannot be corrupted, period. He stands tall among all those running from both parties. He brings hope to America.
1
Donald Trump is a foil. His role is to make Jeb! or Walker look presidential in comparison. He will not divulge his finances and will therefore bow out soon.
17
Listening to Donald Trump is the best chance many Americans have to hear what many of the super wealthy Republicans say in private.
3
In Trump the Republican party which stands for everything that is Trump is being hoist by its own petard.
I am enjoying this ......
I am enjoying this ......
3
The Republican party set up the circumstances for a carnival barker spouting things like this, and now, they want to disavow both the message and the weed they planted and cultivated? Just because he's saying out loud what they privately hold? Couldn't happen to nicer guys. Don't they realize their own gestation of this creature?
3
First of all Trump said he will not run as an Indepedent. Secondly who are these guys who are saying that Trump doesn't deserve a spot on the debate stage. He is in 1st or 2nd place and I want my nominee to be able to debate. What is happening to this country and free speech. It is all so frightening...
1
The more that I look at the Republic Party's primaries, the more that I see that party as a Banana Republican Party. Maybe that is what "democracy" is all about. Thanks God that none of the candidates has said anything bad against Canada.
3
Donald doesn't speak for the fringe of the GOP: he speaks to the heart of the GOP. His poll numbers among Republican voters prove it. All the evasions and waffling of the GOP establishment fool no one. Racism is at the very heart of the GOP get out the vote effort and has been since Nixon's "southern Strategy" in 1968.
2
Anyone who has actually worked for (not been given) anything knows the value of it. And when you "earn" something, you don't just give it away. Its only when you don't "earn" it, that it has no value and you give it away (because it was never really yours).
Many people agree with DT. People who's ancestors worked to build this country and people who have worked hard for their own accomplishments know the value of them. Privilege guilt is the result of immaturity. Having a big safety net or having wealthy parents, or a trust fund, etc., etc., is a deterrent of really working for things. Thus, they never understand "value."
Also, being politically correct has nothing to do with being more evolved or "enlightened." LOL. Enlightenment is truth. Not spin.
Many people agree with DT. People who's ancestors worked to build this country and people who have worked hard for their own accomplishments know the value of them. Privilege guilt is the result of immaturity. Having a big safety net or having wealthy parents, or a trust fund, etc., etc., is a deterrent of really working for things. Thus, they never understand "value."
Also, being politically correct has nothing to do with being more evolved or "enlightened." LOL. Enlightenment is truth. Not spin.
1
There are a lot of people who work very hard -- but still live in poverty in the USA. There are people who want to work, but can't find jobs, people who want to work, who have been laid off, people who want to work but are told they are too old.
1
Does anyone else find it frightening that Trump actually resonates with the base of a major political party? If a belligerent bigot like Trump can top the polls for president, without much pushback nonetheless, I think there is a systemic scourge of racism and egocentrism within the Republican party.
3
Speaking of third party campaigns ... the impact of Perot's campaign pales in comparison to that of Ralph Nader. Because of that campaign, we got George Bush instead of Al Gore, with, in this writer's personal opinion, ENORMOUS negative consequences, most particularly the Iraq war.
5
Donald Trump really is not afraid to breaking every imaginable rules, it is his trump card, he plays on it and gets the love and support of the people. Now he is one of the first places among the Republicans, according to polls.
1
For every new partner who breaks off relations with the Donald, my support for him grows that much more. Go Donald!
2
Donald Trump maintains an enormous presence in New York City. Isn't it up to us, as New Yorkers, to refuse to patronize his businesses and avoid any building that has his name on it? Imagine Trump Tower empty. Sweet!
3
I really enjoyed the article! I'm also enjoying reading people's comments who are terrified that Trump might actually win!
Imagine that! Someone that puts Americans ahead of the Global good! And for that, he gets tarred and feathered as a racist among other things.
I'm in my mid 50's and I've seen a lot of politicians come and go and about the only thing they really have in common is that you can count on them stating one thing while they are trying to get your money and turning around and doing the opposite once they are elected.
Or, they speak in political code that means one thing to those that are lining their pockets and the special interest groups and a totally different thing to those that have to live with the decisions they make.
It's going to be so refreshing to see what a man that hasn't been bought and paid for can actually do!
There's been so many backroom deals among politicians over the last couple of decades I was beginning to wonder if these "public servants" were actually Hookers!
Imagine that! Someone that puts Americans ahead of the Global good! And for that, he gets tarred and feathered as a racist among other things.
I'm in my mid 50's and I've seen a lot of politicians come and go and about the only thing they really have in common is that you can count on them stating one thing while they are trying to get your money and turning around and doing the opposite once they are elected.
Or, they speak in political code that means one thing to those that are lining their pockets and the special interest groups and a totally different thing to those that have to live with the decisions they make.
It's going to be so refreshing to see what a man that hasn't been bought and paid for can actually do!
There's been so many backroom deals among politicians over the last couple of decades I was beginning to wonder if these "public servants" were actually Hookers!
1
You don't seem to actually be reading the comments, then. The vast majority welcome his run as revealing what the Republicans actually stand for and handing the election to the Democrats. As do I. But feel free to miss the point if it makes you feel better.
2
Donald who? Al who? Miley who? Sarah, Twig or Trip who?
Who are these people that don't matter at all and why do you keep asking them for a quote?
Who are these people that don't matter at all and why do you keep asking them for a quote?
6
H'mm, "officially neutral officials are reluctant to publicly criticize him, fearing an independent candidacy." Trump will buy whatever kind of candiacy he wants!
1
The Democratic National Committee should put Mr. Trump on the payroll and stand him in front of a microphone. That's how to win the election.
1
And now Fox News is requiring financial disclosure forms as a requirement to be in the August debate, hoping that Trump won't be willing to release details of his finances and drop out of the debate. Doesn't appear that this is going to work, since Trump says he will comply. Oops.
2
Citizens United, Chief Justice Roberts, means Trump. I relish the appearance of Donny on the stage with Jeb, and Rubio, and Paul. America must see what money can buy: ignorance, greed, cruelty, racism, and unrepentant pandering. We have core voters who wants a bully as stupid and self centered as themselves that constitute fewer than 20% of the electorate. We must watch their issues paraded shamelessly in this Republican primary to rid ourselves of any pretext of false equivalence.
2
Why are Republicans afraid to rebuke Trump? It's simple. He's a loose canon. He's not an establishment politician. They can't control him. They're afraid of him. I also thinks he overstates his wealth.
2
I find Donald Trump to be the worst sort of buffoon, one who cares only for the eyeballs (or money) his ridiculous and outrageous comments are sure to bring. And I won't deny a bit of gleeful chuckling over how so much of the GOP is fretting anxiously and tying their own shoelaces in knots of worry.
But for crying out loud, these are the same people who helped make Trump the man he is today! The man with a megaphone and a perch, who can command an instant audience, is in part a creation of the post-2008 campaign, when too many conservatives were eager to hear his bombast and conspiratorial claims of an "ineligible" and "illegitimate" occupant in the White House. Look where that creation - which many half-secretly cheered on - has landed them. "Oh dear," they fret, "he was such a useful tool when our goals seemed to coincide; now he's attacking us! Can we muzzle him somehow?"
I hold the GOP personally responsible for the sheen of legitimacy so many gave Trump. Now they need to figure out how - or whether - to deal with him. He obviously appeals to a decent segment of the electorate. It's worth figuring out why. I might disagree with him and with whatever people find appealing about him, but it's foolish to dismiss that people DO find his message worthwhile.
But for crying out loud, these are the same people who helped make Trump the man he is today! The man with a megaphone and a perch, who can command an instant audience, is in part a creation of the post-2008 campaign, when too many conservatives were eager to hear his bombast and conspiratorial claims of an "ineligible" and "illegitimate" occupant in the White House. Look where that creation - which many half-secretly cheered on - has landed them. "Oh dear," they fret, "he was such a useful tool when our goals seemed to coincide; now he's attacking us! Can we muzzle him somehow?"
I hold the GOP personally responsible for the sheen of legitimacy so many gave Trump. Now they need to figure out how - or whether - to deal with him. He obviously appeals to a decent segment of the electorate. It's worth figuring out why. I might disagree with him and with whatever people find appealing about him, but it's foolish to dismiss that people DO find his message worthwhile.
3
This is where big money politics has gotten us. Enjoy the outcome America, our next POTUS bought by a wealthy few or, God forbid, paying his own way.
4
“You’ve got to keep him in the tent,” Mr. Davis said. “He’s Ross Perot as an independent. He just wreaks havoc, and every vote he takes comes out of our hide.”
Hyperbole, but not by much. Almost every vote he takes is a Republican voter. Sad, but a true reflection of the Republican voter base.
Hyperbole, but not by much. Almost every vote he takes is a Republican voter. Sad, but a true reflection of the Republican voter base.
1
What's really fascinating is that none of Trump's supporters seem to have noticed that Trump hasn't come up with any kind of workable plan or policies. They're so giddy with hatred they don't bother to realize anything else.
That's the great part about being a Republican politician, a little hate speech here, some bigotry there, a few mentions of the word "God" and people will shower you with money and follow you like the Pied Piper.
That's the great part about being a Republican politician, a little hate speech here, some bigotry there, a few mentions of the word "God" and people will shower you with money and follow you like the Pied Piper.
4
When pollsters ask questions such as "what is your view of immigrants?" Who are they defining as immigrants? With the exception of the original peoples of the Americas, everyone else in this country is an immigrant or a descendant of immigrants. Let's stop talking nonsense, the questions was "what is your view of non-whites?" Immigrants or Latino, or third world country are all code speak for non-white. Try it in this article if you want to get an idea of what they are truly saying with a wink and a nod.
1
The Republican Party for some time has been based on extremist views thatnarenbarely civil. All Donald Trump and other current Republican candidates are doing is moving beyond civility.
1
It isn't hard to get rid of Trump. He's actually a terrible politician. Any of them could get rid of Trump, and assume his share of the vote, by just blurting out the same sort of white nationalist rant. The hard part is figuring out how to get rid of Trump without doing that, and so far, none of them have any ideas. So, it seems inevitable that pretty soon one of them will break rank and do it. Maybe Walker.
1
Mr. Trump is a sign of the times. Shadow, show and sound with no substance. We live in a tinsel world where people are attracted to the shiny bauble while the puppet masters (oligarchs) pull the strings to their advantage. It'll be interesting-if uncomfortable- to see what happens when the pendulum starts to swing the other way.
3
I really hate to say this, BUT: I do not agree with one thing that the Donald is saying, BUT, he is an American and I will defend his right to say what he wants. And that includes saying things that prove he is NOT qualified to be the President of the U S of A
3
Ohhhhh! Donald Trump is not Presidential material and the two Bush were?? If the Bushes can be president, and they were, anyone can be. No individual can do worse than these two, Like to try for the third Bush. Armageddon anyone?
1
Yes, Donald Trump has a ugly way with words, but there is a wide range of people (not just the right-wing fringe so easily referred to in the comments that, on the subject of illegal immigration feel, not necessarily the way Trump describes them, have various partial agreements. Personally, but I never thought that supporting the illegal of anything was a good idea, Mexican and other nationalities not withstanding.
1
I have been a working Democrat for 40 years, but I would vote for Mr. Trump. I read several of his books in the past and have always been impressed with his ability to look down the road. He is a master negotiator. If he were president, do you think Puerto Rico would be on the verge of bankruptcy? He would take advantage of the country's island-in-the-sun uniqueness and make it a tourist destination. He would teach their citizens how to work. Mr. Trump doesn't need a publicity campaign and advertising stunts. He is his own excellent spokesperson.
The Republican party is once again in a no-win situation it created for itself. The GOP has pandered to any and every right wing group it thought it could garner votes from, including some of the craziest people you could imagine, and now finds itself dependent on these crazies to win elections because the GOP has scared off normal people with its far right ideology.
And now Trump is firmly in the driver's seat. As a businessman, he knows the threat of an independent candidacy will scare the bejeebers out of the spineless candidates and Mr. Priebus. And the GOP so desperately needs the votes of the bigoted racists he appeals to that they don't dare call out Mr. Trump for what he is. So the GOP candidates and the GOP, cowards all, will let this bigotry poison America while it drums up the base for support. When a party gives up good governance and leadership and adopts bigotry and racism to win elections, it is a sad day for democracy indeed. And for America.
And now Trump is firmly in the driver's seat. As a businessman, he knows the threat of an independent candidacy will scare the bejeebers out of the spineless candidates and Mr. Priebus. And the GOP so desperately needs the votes of the bigoted racists he appeals to that they don't dare call out Mr. Trump for what he is. So the GOP candidates and the GOP, cowards all, will let this bigotry poison America while it drums up the base for support. When a party gives up good governance and leadership and adopts bigotry and racism to win elections, it is a sad day for democracy indeed. And for America.
2
I have to laugh out loud really hard at this whole situation. I think what Trump said in a rather direct politically incorrect fashion was actually what a lot of people, Republicans, Democrats, and Independents, actually believe deep down inside, but do not want to admit it to themselves, or publicly for that matter. That said, it does not make what Trump said any less truthful or boisterous, just the unvarnished truth according to Trump.
Trump I hitting on some very sensitive issues right now, but as he progress along the campaign trail, I think the American public will see Trump for what he is, and will move on to more serious candidates. And as far as not responding to Trump the blowhard, quite often it is better to just let them just keep blowing their horns until the either run out of air, or expose themselves for what they are. Right now it is amusing and funny and curious, but as the campaign for president moves forward the American people will get increasingly serious and start eliminating the blowhards, the shallow, and those who lack the substance to become president. The cream usually float to the top when you stop shaking the container.
Trump I hitting on some very sensitive issues right now, but as he progress along the campaign trail, I think the American public will see Trump for what he is, and will move on to more serious candidates. And as far as not responding to Trump the blowhard, quite often it is better to just let them just keep blowing their horns until the either run out of air, or expose themselves for what they are. Right now it is amusing and funny and curious, but as the campaign for president moves forward the American people will get increasingly serious and start eliminating the blowhards, the shallow, and those who lack the substance to become president. The cream usually float to the top when you stop shaking the container.
1
Donald Trump has the courage to say what everyone else sweeps under the rug. We might not like the manner in which he says it yet this has been brewing since Ted Kennedy and his friends passed the 1965 liberalization policy on immigration reform. If we don't respect our own borders and laws, why should anyone outside them do it? No matter how many people came here to honestly make a living and improve their lives, there is no holding back the attitude we see today that no one in Mexico and Central America sees anything wrong with invading the USA for personal gain. That is understandable since it is a given fact that those governments are more than happy to pass the problem of poor social services, poorly educated labor amongst the majority see it their given right to make a better life in some foreign back yard! The problem is not Trump, the problem is the craven stupidity of our leaders to demand that we obey the law while allowing outsiders who have broken it to make demands while ignoring their own culpability in the problem itself. Instead of looking at these governments including our own (who do not represent us in any way), we sub-come to the hypocrites that we put in government telling us to have faith in their lying hearts. We can now includes ourselves in the society of rouge nations. Even though we look good on paper we have failed as a democracy.
3
Donald Trump is many things but I would argue that he is also the Frankenstein monster that has been created and nurtured by Fox, right wing talk radio, blogs like RedState and the ubiquitous right wing emails that circulated daily.
6
I wonder how many illegal immigrants are in the employ of Mr. Trump's holdings?
The failure of any candidate, from any party, to articulate that illegal immigrants come here for jobs and by implication are hired illegally is an appalling state of affairs.
Immigration policy should be hire illegals and we will nationalize your business. Nationalize a publicly traded business and wipe out stockholder value and the practice of hiring illegals would cease. When the hiring ceases, the illegal immigration ceases. The US does not need a fence and it does not need 10s of thousands of border agents.
The failure of any candidate, from any party, to articulate that illegal immigrants come here for jobs and by implication are hired illegally is an appalling state of affairs.
Immigration policy should be hire illegals and we will nationalize your business. Nationalize a publicly traded business and wipe out stockholder value and the practice of hiring illegals would cease. When the hiring ceases, the illegal immigration ceases. The US does not need a fence and it does not need 10s of thousands of border agents.
3
If people notice, the Republicans are mostly saying how Trump is alienating certain groups of people. None of them are actually talking about the problems the country is facing. That is the issue with the Reoublicans and all politicians. Instead of trying to fix what's wrong with the country, they care more about winning an election. In other words, if avoiding a certain topic will help get votes, that's what they will do.
7
The Republican party, for the last two election cycles, has chosen to go thin on policy and thick on character assassination --- Trump is merely the logical consequence of that decision.
6
How absolutely pathetic that "white working-class Americans" are impressed by his wealth and TV personality status. But it's even more depressing they way they react to his provocative comments and yes, just common rudeness.
Reminds me of middle-school sycophants joining in the laughter as some bully mouths off to authority or belittles a serious student.
It amounts to evidence of how brutalized voters have become by the last 7 years' tone of political discourse.
Reminds me of middle-school sycophants joining in the laughter as some bully mouths off to authority or belittles a serious student.
It amounts to evidence of how brutalized voters have become by the last 7 years' tone of political discourse.
24
Nancy,
On the other hand, I fully agree 100% with Trump, on immigration, criminal Mexicasa, and Chinese Jobs.. and, some men like me, also judge a MAN with HIS WIFE.. and Mr. Trump, trumps every other candidate..
On the other hand, I fully agree 100% with Trump, on immigration, criminal Mexicasa, and Chinese Jobs.. and, some men like me, also judge a MAN with HIS WIFE.. and Mr. Trump, trumps every other candidate..
1
Say what you want. But at this point, people like you who have voted in Obama and undoubtedly think he has done a stellar job need to go. Minds like yours who are against the reform of this country truly make me sad.
The overriding theme of Trump and his competitors is FEAR. They live in it, hose the world with it, and count on it to manipulate their way into power. They are simpleton fear mongers, nothing more.
All candidates are afraid to take a principled stance against racism, or to call out an intellectually weak argument one of their own. All are so afraid of their dying demographics they will squiggle district lines like brain-busting jigsaw puzzle.
What they all fail to realize is their credibility rests solely on the moral high ground they want everyone to think they stand on. Only they don't. Deep down inside, they harbor racist attitudes, hatred of social liberals, and are willing to engage in all sorts of sophistry to ensure they keep some semblence of power. But the nation is wise to them, finds them disgusting individually and as a lot.
It's counterintuitive for me, but I'm actually glad Trump, et al are out there swinging. All of their character is on vivid, disgusting display, and will remain so through the primaries. With all the candidates in the field, divide and conquer will previal...for the other party.
I don't trust Hillary Clinton to be truthful or honest about anything either, by the way. She will likely win this thing, and I think she's extraordinarily competent and presidential, and I think she will make a fine president. But she too has severe issues with truthfulness, so I really don't feel good about any choice before me in '16.
All candidates are afraid to take a principled stance against racism, or to call out an intellectually weak argument one of their own. All are so afraid of their dying demographics they will squiggle district lines like brain-busting jigsaw puzzle.
What they all fail to realize is their credibility rests solely on the moral high ground they want everyone to think they stand on. Only they don't. Deep down inside, they harbor racist attitudes, hatred of social liberals, and are willing to engage in all sorts of sophistry to ensure they keep some semblence of power. But the nation is wise to them, finds them disgusting individually and as a lot.
It's counterintuitive for me, but I'm actually glad Trump, et al are out there swinging. All of their character is on vivid, disgusting display, and will remain so through the primaries. With all the candidates in the field, divide and conquer will previal...for the other party.
I don't trust Hillary Clinton to be truthful or honest about anything either, by the way. She will likely win this thing, and I think she's extraordinarily competent and presidential, and I think she will make a fine president. But she too has severe issues with truthfulness, so I really don't feel good about any choice before me in '16.
Donald Trump is what you get--and deserve--when you cynically elevate a totally ignorant and failed governor of Alaska to be your party's vice presidential nominee because she's female and it's a "game changer." It is impossible to gauge the extent of the damage Sarah Palin's candidacy did to the Republican Party--going rouge was just the beginning; I'm betting (and hoping) that the GOP will split into two parties. One party will consist of sane and thoughtful conservatives who understand that governing a nation as diverse as ours requires finding a way to work with Democrats to get things done and who acknowledge the word "compromise." The other will be comprised of those who seek power in order to impose their rigid ideology on all, who challenge scientific findings, and who refuse to accept Supreme Court decisions with which they disagree. Donald Trump is one more symptom of the GOP's ultimate demise.
6
The REpublican Party's problems with Trump are similar to the problems with the Tea Party wing of the party. The GOP actively participated in capturing the votes of conservative extremists after the 2008 election, rather than repudiating their extremism. Now the party is stuck in top dead center, enable to agree on anything.
Trump is the 800 pound gorilla of the GOP presidential lineup. The GOP has to deal with him and his outrageous remarks, yet is unable to cut him loose for fear of losing millions of votes in the hinterlands. At the same time, continued refusal to "do something" about Trump will further set in concrete the Republican party's image of being out of touch with the mainstream; of being a party of the extremely rich and the extremely ignorant.
Trump is the 800 pound gorilla of the GOP presidential lineup. The GOP has to deal with him and his outrageous remarks, yet is unable to cut him loose for fear of losing millions of votes in the hinterlands. At the same time, continued refusal to "do something" about Trump will further set in concrete the Republican party's image of being out of touch with the mainstream; of being a party of the extremely rich and the extremely ignorant.
4
The Republicans made this mess. In the last two elections they put up completely lackluster and incompetent candidates who deserve to lose. This election is worse. They have no way of creating or enforcing party discipline or putting up a credible candidate. Jeb Bush, really? Nobody in this country wants another Bush? Rubio? Way too junior and he is already bought and paid for by his buddies in Florida. Walker, completely unqualified on the basis of the fiscal mess Wisconsin is in. Christie? He drove NJ further into the ground and never shows up for work. I do not see how he can be governor and be a professional national candidate at the same time. The rest of the Republican gang do not even deserve mention. How are we supposed to get behind any of them? None of them want to discuss real issues, they want to sideline us again with cultural matters such as gray rights instead of talking about economic issues and global warming and security. What I like about the Donald is that he is not being managed by a cadre of professional handlers and media experts.
1
This is what makes the republican party so much fun to watch and listen to during campaign season. With their assorted group of weirdos, racists, pseudo intellectual misfits and the like, the political comedy they provide is a relief to the otherwise boring or nonsensical "policies" they talk about on occasion.
Since they have no potential solutions to suggest for the issues of illegal immigration, why not just bash the Mexicans? it plays well with their base constituents, (which says much about the mentality of that group), but also exposes their candidates to either having to support the position( which in their hearts they do) or alienating their most likely voters.
Trump has little to lose given his wealth, so he can actually say what the republican party believes without any real consequences. His attention getting behavior will ultimately serve to make some of the other republican candidates appear "moderate". But be assured they are not. When all is said and done and Jeb receives the nomination, the only Mexican or latino that won't have to worry will be his wife. And Trump will continue to rant all the way to the bank.
Since they have no potential solutions to suggest for the issues of illegal immigration, why not just bash the Mexicans? it plays well with their base constituents, (which says much about the mentality of that group), but also exposes their candidates to either having to support the position( which in their hearts they do) or alienating their most likely voters.
Trump has little to lose given his wealth, so he can actually say what the republican party believes without any real consequences. His attention getting behavior will ultimately serve to make some of the other republican candidates appear "moderate". But be assured they are not. When all is said and done and Jeb receives the nomination, the only Mexican or latino that won't have to worry will be his wife. And Trump will continue to rant all the way to the bank.
4
Donald Trump does not understand the U.S. Constitution so how could he uphold it as President? He was the leader of the birther movement claiming that President Obama was not born in the U. S. This claim garnered loads of attention for months and ended up with the President feeling obligated to produce his birth certificate instead of the accusers being forced to supply proof he was born elsewhere. And still, in a country where more than 20% of Americans still think the President is not native born, Donald Trump is having a heyday.
We New Yorkers are used to "The Donald"--he is the East coast version of the Kardashians. The Republicans will have a very large TV audience for their first debate -- August is dull and I wouldn't miss it.
We New Yorkers are used to "The Donald"--he is the East coast version of the Kardashians. The Republicans will have a very large TV audience for their first debate -- August is dull and I wouldn't miss it.
5
When Richard Nixon first coined the term "the great silent majority" it was a brilliant strategy for uniting the largely white, conservative voting block; it was a strategy that served Reagan well down the road as well morfing into "morning in America". The problem the GOP has now, beyond Donald Trumps moronic meanderings, is their belated realization that the great silent majority is no more. It has been replaced by the great unsilent melting pot of minorities, women and independents who are left of center on almost all of the social issues of the day, from immigration to gun control to gay marriage to healthcare. The Republicans have dug a hole that is deep and wide insofar as Presidential politics are concerned that will be near impossible for them to emerge from any time soon.
4
The problem, of course, which Republicans commenting in this piece are implicitly confirming is that two thirds of Republican voters totally agree with the racist and nativist sentiments being expressed by the Donald. This is not really surprising since they have spent decades pursuing divisive identity politics in order to bring this situation about. Now it's coming back to bite them they are in a box (as they are on so many other issues). Hoist on their own petard?
5
The fact that none of the Republican candidates have stood up to Trump is key and won't be forgotten.
Latino Republicans have to been disgusted with their party's cowardice, but hey...that's politics.
Latino Republicans have to been disgusted with their party's cowardice, but hey...that's politics.
While being an ultra-rich Vulgarian-in-Chief for many years, the Donald runs for Commander-in-Chief and the rest of the daft Republican field is not willing or able to point out what he really presents. Good grief, It took the supposed front runner, Jeb Bush, almost two weeks to speak out against Trump, but that only after he attacked Jeb's Mexican born wife.
He is hate mongering clown taking advantage of the low-information and low-education white base, a base that often votes against their own interest, that saw their self imagined superiority threatened after the election of the first president of colour in the land of the free and supposedly brave.
Once the Republican debates start, the rest of the advanced world will again will see the oldest democracy of modern times as one big joke, including the 'peoplehood' of corporations and the 'campaigns' that start already two years before the next general election.
Proud to be an American? Not so much....
He is hate mongering clown taking advantage of the low-information and low-education white base, a base that often votes against their own interest, that saw their self imagined superiority threatened after the election of the first president of colour in the land of the free and supposedly brave.
Once the Republican debates start, the rest of the advanced world will again will see the oldest democracy of modern times as one big joke, including the 'peoplehood' of corporations and the 'campaigns' that start already two years before the next general election.
Proud to be an American? Not so much....
9
Trump accurately represents the feelings and fears of a substantial part of the Republican Party. Trump's certitude reflects the Tea Party and conservative desire for simple and strong answers to complex issues. Trump will probably start the "Donald Party" and leave the GOP with only a few moderates to vote for Bush.
3
"The lack of leadership in the GOP is appalling."
You can't lead unless you can inspire cooperation or force compliance. The egos of most candidates pretty much rule out cooperation. With candidates beholden only to their donors, the leadership has been denied any means of forcing compliance.
Republicans brought this on themselves with Citizens United and, if the entire nation didn't have to suffer the consequences, it would be funny.
You can't lead unless you can inspire cooperation or force compliance. The egos of most candidates pretty much rule out cooperation. With candidates beholden only to their donors, the leadership has been denied any means of forcing compliance.
Republicans brought this on themselves with Citizens United and, if the entire nation didn't have to suffer the consequences, it would be funny.
4
Wow--Trump must be doing something right if the RNC high command is in a state of panic this early in the presidential race before a single vote has been cast. The real problem is that everyone made the mistake of underestimating Donald Trump. We have seen other billionaires like Steve Forbes and Ross Perot try to run for president without any degree of success. But Trump has leapfrogged to the top of the Republican leader board without breaking into a sweat. Why? Well for one thing he isn't the usual dull boring Republican politician and since he has so much money he won't be beholden to anyone. Come on Times commenters what are you complaining about? For years I've read endless comments around election time about how boring and predictable presidential campaigns have become. Choosing between the Democrats and Republicans is like being given a choice between Dumb and Dumber. Democrats and Republicans have become interchangeable because they sell themselves to the highest bidder. And all of you positively freak out about dynastic career politicians like Bush and Clinton who think they're entitled to live in the White House on the strength of their last names alone. Well now we've got a chance to fix that. Sanders vs Trump would be an awesome presidential race. Let's give the Donald a chance.
3
I was going to say "no, give Donald Trump free reign", as he exemplifies what the Republican Party is, at its heart, really all about. Logic dictates that this mercurial and eccentric individual will turn voters off the Republican side of politics. But then I remembered that logic would have also dictated that the same thing should have happened with George W. Bush, and look what happened there. So, I will shut-up. Good luck America with this pre-selection process. I only hope that sanity prevails.
22
Lucky us, an Australian has chimed in.. When you sort out your own political idiocy, then you can weigh in on the USA. I would take any Bush over Gillard anyway. She was just a inspiration to us all.....
Trump is certainly emblematic of some of what is currently wrong with our political system. He is bombastic throwing around supposedly factual statements which have no basis in reality. His claim about 'Mexican' immigrants is out in left field partly because many of those coming across the boarder without papers are from elsewhere in central America, i.e., they have simply passed through Mexico. What the far right is touting has his "telling it like it is" supposed honesty is simply his echoing of the worst of their xenophobia. The reality is that most of the undocumented work hard in tough and low-paying jobs as they try to make a life for themselves.
The right wing hates and fears anyone who is dark skinned and whose 1st language is not English. They cling to a white-picket-fence America where the man was the head of the household, the whole country bowed to a Christian schedule (even if not all 'Christians' were actually in church on Sunday), and people of color (of course treated well by benign whites like themselves) knew their place and certainly did not run things. They admire those with self-made money because they see in them the ultimate fulfillment of the "American dream." They themselves aspire to be well-off and fear falling into poverty. It is then of comfort to convince themselves that poverty is a moral failure (thus assuring them that they will never go there).
The right wing hates and fears anyone who is dark skinned and whose 1st language is not English. They cling to a white-picket-fence America where the man was the head of the household, the whole country bowed to a Christian schedule (even if not all 'Christians' were actually in church on Sunday), and people of color (of course treated well by benign whites like themselves) knew their place and certainly did not run things. They admire those with self-made money because they see in them the ultimate fulfillment of the "American dream." They themselves aspire to be well-off and fear falling into poverty. It is then of comfort to convince themselves that poverty is a moral failure (thus assuring them that they will never go there).
15
Donald Trump's Presidential candidacy, such as it is, shows us the uncomfortable truth that politics and show business are conducted using the same methods. It's all about getting good ratings by saying things your constituents believe are true, even if they are not.
He is a dreadful, old peacock who has lost most of his feathers, exposing the ugly thoughts which rattle around inside his skull under that God-awful hair piece. Most of us know that this aging bigot will never be President, and realize that what he says and does is all about increasing his particular demographics' audience share. He is like a less entertaining version of Rush Limbaugh, a man who has made millions of dollars spouting far-right political views as radio theater. Show business and politics are the same business underneath it all.
20
Sherlock Holmes would deduce that Trump is actually a Democrat intent on destroying the Republican Party. Only logical explanation.
20
My thoughts exactly! Keep the clown car (van?) rolling!
No.
Holmes would deduce that Trump is the voice of the Republican electorate.
Holmes would deduce that Trump is the voice of the Republican electorate.
The GOP recent rise was with abortion, gay marriage, immigration, attacking the social safety net among other things. All these issues are nothing but meant to divide voters.
Maybe the GOP will realize they can only win by uniting voters rather than trying to turn them against themselves. Doubtful, the recent rise of the GOP has been built on gerrymandering and billionaires money which in themselves is divisive.
Maybe the GOP will realize they can only win by uniting voters rather than trying to turn them against themselves. Doubtful, the recent rise of the GOP has been built on gerrymandering and billionaires money which in themselves is divisive.
5
I googled the definition of the word "clown", and I am sure that everyone will be happy to know that Ronald the McDonald Trumph has fit all of the definitions provided. He is a buffoon or jester who entertains by jokes, antics, and tricks in a circus, play, or other presentation, has lots of make-up, bad hair, is rude, and he is giving my children nightmares.
14
Actually, the GOP should fret over what to do with many members of the Republican Party including John Boehner, Mitch McConnell, Scott Walker, Lindsey Graham, Chris Christi, Rick Perry, Rand Paul, Jeb Bush, etc. etc. None of them are capable of leading the USA in the 21st century - they are stuck in the middle of the 20th century in their beliefs, their values, and their commitment to life in a diverse society that desperately needs to meet the needs of all its citizens!
19
Ha, because Obama has been such an impressive leader. So much so that his own party moved to distance themselves from him... I look forward to seeing what foreign policy experience B Sanders has, though the "left" likely doesn't care, given how low the bar has been set by our current president. Will the incoming president be capable of dealing with the fallout of Iran nuclear talks or a collapsing Syria or an ever expanding ISIS.. Oh no, let's not look over there. Rather the liberal agenda remains focused on the feeling of our Mexican neighbors. Your all a terrifying lot and a threat to yourselves.
Excellent post!
Every Democrat is hoping Trump wins the GOP nomination. It pretty much guarantees the Dems the White House for another 4 years.
14
While the "Big Two" continue to throw at the strike zone, it is no surprise that "The Donalds" entertaining practice of throwing at the head of the guy standing next to you, thrills the American voter.
And when we find out that the Federal Aviation Administration named three navigation coordination points above Palm Beach International Airport in honor of Donald J. Trump, it is clear proof that Moneyocracy has replaced Democracy as our form of government.
But above all, Trump is a P.T. Barnum creature, who doesn't have to win, to get his "Money's Worth" out of this campaign - unlike the party regulars, Trump's business, is business, and not government.
And when we find out that the Federal Aviation Administration named three navigation coordination points above Palm Beach International Airport in honor of Donald J. Trump, it is clear proof that Moneyocracy has replaced Democracy as our form of government.
But above all, Trump is a P.T. Barnum creature, who doesn't have to win, to get his "Money's Worth" out of this campaign - unlike the party regulars, Trump's business, is business, and not government.
6
Some respondents here have said that Trump is nothing like Ross Perot, who was a gentleman. I would like to point out that the comparison between the two is not a comparison of character, but a comparison of what a third party candidate can do, in this case as in Mr. Perot's, to the Republican Party if Mr. Trump moves to a third party campaign.
Democrats would jump for joy, and Republicans would cringe.
Democrats would jump for joy, and Republicans would cringe.
7
Perhaps I misunderstood, but Mr. Perot was causing a divide among the Democratic Party as well when running for the Presidency with his slogan 'United We Stand'. Mickey Kantor, the Campaign Manager for Mr. Clinton, and he were to have a diplomatic and courteous exchange on the phone at the time.
On Wings of Eagle to Mr. Ross Perot, and hoping that our next President is the best person in the Land to lead our forward in these troubling times. There is no jumping for joy at the moment, only a lot of cringing from both Political parties.
On Wings of Eagle to Mr. Ross Perot, and hoping that our next President is the best person in the Land to lead our forward in these troubling times. There is no jumping for joy at the moment, only a lot of cringing from both Political parties.
He should announce Rush as his vp choice. That could get him back in the good graces of the Republican Party. Fox News will do a couple of hours of interviews ( like they did when he announced) . He can then use the Trump brand to buy some other undervalued asset( as he did with golf,Atlantic city)
To " make a fortune"- a recent quote. I'm thinking Trump Twinkies. They did go into chapter 11 a couple of years ago. It seems like good fit.
To " make a fortune"- a recent quote. I'm thinking Trump Twinkies. They did go into chapter 11 a couple of years ago. It seems like good fit.
4
Run, Donald, Run. If he has the popular support of Republican voters, it's the pinnacle of folly to prevent his candidacy. His rhetoric is in-line with the other Republican candidates, though more plain-spoken, and if his views cannot carry the day, it's because the Republican machine as a whole has drifted into the weeds. However, they won't get their machine righted again by acting like a centrally-controlled Politburo that secretly anoints their chosen leaders.
Favoring lower taxation and lower government spending has become aligned with so many lunatic-fringe issues that the Republican party has embraced. Those of us with liberal social views and conservative fiscal views face the most Hobson-esqe of unsatisfying political choices.
Favoring lower taxation and lower government spending has become aligned with so many lunatic-fringe issues that the Republican party has embraced. Those of us with liberal social views and conservative fiscal views face the most Hobson-esqe of unsatisfying political choices.
4
Republicans only issue right now is getting Democrats like Jeb Bush, Chris Christie, McCain, and Romney to go back to their Democratic Party and really provide a challenge to the career criminal Clinton. Wasn't she soo sick she had to resign from her position before?! Not fit to be President. Trump was a Democrat that speaks like a true Republican. At least you know you are going to hear his version of the truth. Opposite of Obama that every word out of his mouth is designed to cover up his real intentions.
Please don't drive or operate heavy machinery while under the influence of whatever medication you are taking.
Why do anything with him. Last I heard anyone born in this country can run for President. It's Trumps right. Just because some people don't like him doesn't make an ounce of difference. The process will weed out the candidates that don't meet the qualifications and the voters will ultimately have the final say.
10
I am note sure.
Did he show his log form birth certificate?
Did he show his log form birth certificate?
He just says out loud what they all think, since he literally does not care what anybody thinks. When it does come out verbally from Trump its as embarassing as heck but at least Trump is not a hypocrite like the rest. The rest of the field will lie to get into the White House and have identical thoughts, actions, and policies as Trump.
5
When it comes to Trump it's "on with the show" and their's only one star - the Donald.
President Obama must be getting a kick out of all this. And rightfully so.
President Obama must be getting a kick out of all this. And rightfully so.
9
Having the privilege of watching President Obama act as the Leader of our Country, with due respect and honor to him, he does not strike this voter as finding any of this latest havoc amusing, and is watching America which he loves, unravel and waste time. Time, we are running out of time.
Go Donald go!! Do not hold back. America wants to hear what you feel, what you think! Do not let these timid namby pamby policos curb your style. You are the voice of Conservative America. Win the GOP nomination!!!
20
And choose Governor Christie as your running mate.
10
Every Democrat is hoping, and I mean really, really, hoping, that The Donald wins the GOP nomination. It pretty much guaratees the Dems the White House, which would leave the Republicans to spend yet another 4 years looking at their feet, still not understanding that thier policies are out of touch with mainstrram America.
9
Max
You are entitled to your opinion, although it is doubtful that every democratic-minded American is hoping that Donald Trump wins the GOP nomination. The Media bears some of the brunt for placing its on a rogue elephant out of control.
If someone out there has a heart, take Mr. Trump home for a holiday in the sun. Democrats are becoming a rare species and perhaps it is The Tea-Drinking Republicans who are increasingly representing mainstream America.
You are entitled to your opinion, although it is doubtful that every democratic-minded American is hoping that Donald Trump wins the GOP nomination. The Media bears some of the brunt for placing its on a rogue elephant out of control.
If someone out there has a heart, take Mr. Trump home for a holiday in the sun. Democrats are becoming a rare species and perhaps it is The Tea-Drinking Republicans who are increasingly representing mainstream America.
I do not understand the need to "rein in" Donald Trump. Why don't Republican "leaders" simply speak up on their own behalf if they don't think Trump represents the Republican Party? They are free to express their disagreements with his absurd pronouncements and offer their alternative views. Why don't they? Because a) in fact he does represent the Republican party's dark side (is there any other?) and b) they don't want to alienate his lunatic following, who now apparently constitute 12% of Republican voters. (Which is just frightening.)
20
Because what he is saying 'Publicly' is what they've been saying Privately for decades.....
This country does not need another Donald Trump. What's wrong with this country is Donald Trump. He does not exemplify the best in us but rather the worst. Would he really make a good president? If so, then you've got to be kidding. If your values align with the sarcastic and caustic tone of Trumps ill-founded rhetoric, then we are no better. At least we had one gentleman in the white house who stood for something decent,
8
That gentleman was Gerald Ford, the only fine character I can remember.
3
Illegals are still illegal but I guess that doesn't matter to you.
3
Harry B - It doesn't really matter to Trump either. He has no actual plan for dealing with immigration, he's simply enjoying the attention he gets by spouting hate speech. Kind of like a small child who learns that certain bad words will get adults all worked up.
1
Why is this self-promoting blowhard being dignified with so much analytical 'news' coverage?
THAT should be the real question! Trump was, is, and always will be a relentlessly self-promoting caricature who lives on the 'news' coverage he generates. That's his whole career! And now he is gaming the political system and the news media, who should dismiss him for what he is.
Making a media sideshow out of presidential politics merely degraded the political process further...IF that's possible. Why does news media allow itself to be used like this?
THAT should be the real question! Trump was, is, and always will be a relentlessly self-promoting caricature who lives on the 'news' coverage he generates. That's his whole career! And now he is gaming the political system and the news media, who should dismiss him for what he is.
Making a media sideshow out of presidential politics merely degraded the political process further...IF that's possible. Why does news media allow itself to be used like this?
12
At some point people are going to catch on to the fact that Donald Trump and Stephen Colbert have the same script writers. Trump is a friend of Hillary's and nothing he is doing is hurting her in any way at all.
2
Wow...So Carl, you really think Trump is an agent of the DNCC.....?
Carl, for posting the most outlandish claim yet, you win the inter-webs..or something.
Carl, for posting the most outlandish claim yet, you win the inter-webs..or something.
1
Debates should be a no-brainer:
1) You simply CAN'T have all 14-20 of them up there, I suggest that you roughly divide the field in half with something like 9 in the first group, and 6 in the second
2) Nobody who isn't 100% officially a candidate should have to wait for another debate when they get all their required paperwork in
3) Pick a simple, basic criteria between the 2 groups and just stick with it, without worrying how 'perfect' it is. What is important is that; whatever criteria they use, it is simple, straightforward, established VERY EARLY, and no deviations allowed for any reason
4) First group has a normal debate, 3 hours later at the same forum, the second group goes on with no audience, except for maybe CSPAN cameras.
The second group gets the exact same questions, and the same overall time slot, BUT: since there are fewer of them, each will get a longer, bigger time to present themselves, AND having seen the previous debate, they will each have a special chance to either make a more intelligent, or more insane presentation for themselves
IN THIS SYSTEM, being in the second group has some big offsets, and it will be easier for them to actually "SHINE"
HOWEVER, if all they do in the 2nd group is endlessly repeat the same old Party-Platform Talking-Points, then very quickly they will get tuned out by most viewers
BIGGEST DEBATE PROB: It has become a circus, should be NO Audience
Audience functions as a laff-track, to 'cue' viewers how they "should" respond
1) You simply CAN'T have all 14-20 of them up there, I suggest that you roughly divide the field in half with something like 9 in the first group, and 6 in the second
2) Nobody who isn't 100% officially a candidate should have to wait for another debate when they get all their required paperwork in
3) Pick a simple, basic criteria between the 2 groups and just stick with it, without worrying how 'perfect' it is. What is important is that; whatever criteria they use, it is simple, straightforward, established VERY EARLY, and no deviations allowed for any reason
4) First group has a normal debate, 3 hours later at the same forum, the second group goes on with no audience, except for maybe CSPAN cameras.
The second group gets the exact same questions, and the same overall time slot, BUT: since there are fewer of them, each will get a longer, bigger time to present themselves, AND having seen the previous debate, they will each have a special chance to either make a more intelligent, or more insane presentation for themselves
IN THIS SYSTEM, being in the second group has some big offsets, and it will be easier for them to actually "SHINE"
HOWEVER, if all they do in the 2nd group is endlessly repeat the same old Party-Platform Talking-Points, then very quickly they will get tuned out by most viewers
BIGGEST DEBATE PROB: It has become a circus, should be NO Audience
Audience functions as a laff-track, to 'cue' viewers how they "should" respond
1
I just love this guy. Probably the only Republican who clearly says what he thinks and forces his party, maybe, to take a stand. Same like Sanders and the Democrats. I would never trust him with nuclear codes though. Bad time also for comedy writers now - the jokes write themselves
7
All the "Donald" has to do is start wearing a confederate flag pin on his lapel, and he's in like Flynn with the tea partiers, and republicans in the south.
13
It's a tough game running for President, and Donald "Trump", the "Cardfather" is in it to win.
Trumps comments are being taken out of context, twisted, and presented in a misleading way, everywhere. Now we can all see the real problem and the real reason why its so hard to improve anything. He's the only one strong enough to tell the truth, and stand his ground BC he has nothing to gain here. All the people who take short cuts, and have gained something to gain or to keep, personally, and that includes politicians, employers. TV show hosts, reporters, and the list goes on... Are afraid of losing something instead of looking at the big picture. When you expand anything, you do it in a calculated and deliberate way, not a haphazard way, or a way that's "unsupervised," for lack of a better term. Anyone who manages anything well knows this. I am amazed a that people would go against doing things well, but now I see its really about protecting your bottom line.
6
His comments were verbatim. I watched the video of his announcement and he did say those things about Mexicans and he did call them rapists. (I'd supply the URL to the video but I think it's against NYT comment rules. It's easily googlable, though.)
9
This reply is to DDC....I saw and I heard it, too. Which part of what Trump said was inaccurate?
Re: The Donald. A trigger-happy megalomaniac. Yeah, that's what America needs.
5
Trump is so confident of winning the White House, he's already picked out the gold plated lightning rods.
3
LOL
Donald Trump did not get where he is today by being nice, soft or timid. He apparently either never got the political correctness memo or if he did, he threw it in the trash. Although I don't agree with everything he says, although that is true for any politician in my book,
I do appreciate his candor, his boldness and his willingness to speak his mind. My God - a political candidate who is not afraid of his own shadow. How shocking yet refreshing. I need to sit down and catch my breath.
I do appreciate his candor, his boldness and his willingness to speak his mind. My God - a political candidate who is not afraid of his own shadow. How shocking yet refreshing. I need to sit down and catch my breath.
6
You're right, he got there on his daddy's dime. Really, oh so impressive.
1
Most people aren't strong enough to lead or do the right thing, for the majority. He is. I like him. He tells the truth, and most people can't handle the real truth BC its the bottom line. You can't go further. It means people have to change the way they think and do things and most people are not strong enough to do that.
1
Sad, how long it took to challenge "the Donald". Sad it took a Spanish language station to take the first step to stop "Trump". Sadder, calls to exhibit and practice better courteous and humane behavior in the public square elicits a legal suit. What is Trump's aim? Degrade the persona of the Republican or Democratic Parties or American Democracy? The President is not only Commander in Chief , but, also, Compassionate in Chief." Can Donald Trump stand next to the Statue of Liberty and sincerely say with her, " Give me your tired and poor, yearning to breathe free?
5
Both the left and right decry Trumps candidacy. For the GOP its out of jealousy, they know what Trump says is true, yet they have never shown the courage to say it. Trump 2016.
2
Could it be that the DNC is actually quietly supporting Trump? Sounds like a good idea right now.
4
The Republican Party leaders understands and embraces the fact hate sells and this results in fear which motives the base. Richard Nixon understood it and Ronald Reagan perfected it. Code words, whistle calls, red meat legislation and other Republican tactics have sold for generations. The result it has created a base that is controlled by hatred and motivated by fear. And the Donald is a natural born leader for this group.
9
Wouldn't be any "struggle" at all if anyone in the fray had a backbone (besides The Donald).
4
The Donald saves us during this hot, torrid summer from the frightful foreign news, the NRA sponsored bloodbaths in America, the nasty TV shows and a myriad other problems lined up like water balloons ready to create havoc and terror wherever we look. He is the carnival, the slapstick comedian, the roller coaster that takes our minds off our troubles and worries. Pass the popcorn, the soda pop and enjoy this freebie entertainment and appreciate it for just that.
8
I was with a business colleague today. We whispered to each other that we probably agree with 98 percent of what Trump is saying. I am getting sick and tired of the PC police who have nothing better to do than harass people with whom they disagree.
For godsake, the guy owns the building; he can put his name on it if he wants to.
Get a life people!
For godsake, the guy owns the building; he can put his name on it if he wants to.
Get a life people!
4
How will FOX decide which candidates to feature? Easy. Roger Ailes will decide.
4
...says the guy whose party's .001%er candidate chose herself well before primary season
1
We have a lot more to fear from the people that Canada sends us: specifically Ted Cruz.
11
Canadians aren't stupid. As soon as people like Ted Cruz and Justin Beiber cross the border into the US, the Canadians can't lock the gate quick emough. When Cruz renounced his Canadian citizenship, they were more than happy to accomodate his request.
Reince to Trump: "Look, we know you're an angry white guy -- and I totally get that, it's faux-anger so we can blame democrats for everything. We all get that -- But listen. If a woman gets into the White House right after a black guy, us angry white guys are toast. And make no mistake. This is our last shot at the White House with the current conservative formula, which we all know is crumbling beneath our feet. Jesus, look at the rebel flag coming down. Look at climate change; we're dying on that one. We couldn't stop affordable health care. We couldn't stop the economy. Tried every shutdown we could think of and Obama's flying. And don't get me started on LGBT. So Listen. Think of that nice hotel in DC you're building. You aren't gonna get the nomination, but if we get the White House, we can have some sweet parties at your new shack on Penn Avenue. So please, Donald, pretty please. Tone it down a little."
15
Can't wait to see who spends more money on their campaign, Jeb or Donald.
Guys like Jeb love Trump being in the race.
His whole campaign is based on scaring people about ISIS and at the same time, trying to get America to fall for the compassionate, conservative nonsense that his brother used in 2000.
The ISIS part is easy, trying to make him look compassionate is hard. The solution is to have a guy like Trump in the race, someone so loathsome that you could almost feel sympathy for the other candidates, even Ted Cruz.
I just hope the electorate isn't so gullible that they fall for this act - or the other GOP stealth campaign: the one where they support Bernie Sanders and make him seem electable to undermine Hillary.
His whole campaign is based on scaring people about ISIS and at the same time, trying to get America to fall for the compassionate, conservative nonsense that his brother used in 2000.
The ISIS part is easy, trying to make him look compassionate is hard. The solution is to have a guy like Trump in the race, someone so loathsome that you could almost feel sympathy for the other candidates, even Ted Cruz.
I just hope the electorate isn't so gullible that they fall for this act - or the other GOP stealth campaign: the one where they support Bernie Sanders and make him seem electable to undermine Hillary.
1
Donald "Trump", the gambler. What's in a name? A helluva practical joke indeed and quite a gamble, perhaps the ultimate.
3
Fox and the Republican Party wrote their epitaph years ago. It says 'Donald Trump for President'.
1
Mr. Priebus, where were you when Trump went on and on about the Obama birth certificate?
6
Is Donald Trump getting more coverage than Bernie Sanders in the Times?
It certainly feels like it.
It certainly feels like it.
1
Dr. Frankenstein : his monster :: GOP : Trump
2
The GOP needs to get this self absorbed, pompous clown off the race. Maybe they can revoke his party membership ? He's making a farce of the process>
2
Oh those poor Republican party leaders. The Donald,is not going to quiet down and marchbto your beat. Unlike many GOP in the race Trump has established himself as a brand,and offensive as he may appear to the more gentile set he is coming out swinging and shaping the agenda...nothing neutral here in just a few unclipped words Trump has eviscerated Jeb Bush,and his wife,whose objections to Trumps statements on illegal immigrant violence are fully off the mark...Bush is taking it literally and is offended,the country is looking at it much differently: Immigrants good, Violence bad...but they don't get it.Bush actually may have an even bigger problem than Trump and that is his own statements on the growth rate in America reaching 4% and,the driver for this groeth, is,wait fir it,people "working more hours.".... Wow !! Who would have ever thought that his brother George W. Was actually the smart one !!! OMG !
2
“You’ve got to keep him in the tent,” Mr. Davis said. “He’s Ross Perot as an independent. He just wreaks havoc, and every vote he takes comes out of our hide.”
Mr. Davis, take it from an American voter, that Donald Trump is no Ross Perot. Perhaps you forgot that some of us remember and admire Mr. Perot, and that the two men have nothing in common. I know because Mr. Perot once spoke to me of the Government in a kindly manner, gave me 20 minutes of his time, and his tone was measured and profound.
How did the Republicans manage Ms. Palin? Badly, is my understanding. What do you expect when a loose cannon like Mr. Trump tries to take the lead, and upsets the political apple-cart, and where is this all going to end?
It might have been entertaining for some, but at a cost to the Country, and there is nothing ever amusing watching someone have an emotional melt-down in one's home, or in the eye of the Public.
The damage is done, and let us set it aside, but let us not keep repeating the same mistake in using such 'controversial' people as spokespersons for America at a time where it has never been so divided. Make the same mistake three times, you are making a choice.
Mr. Davis, take it from an American voter, that Donald Trump is no Ross Perot. Perhaps you forgot that some of us remember and admire Mr. Perot, and that the two men have nothing in common. I know because Mr. Perot once spoke to me of the Government in a kindly manner, gave me 20 minutes of his time, and his tone was measured and profound.
How did the Republicans manage Ms. Palin? Badly, is my understanding. What do you expect when a loose cannon like Mr. Trump tries to take the lead, and upsets the political apple-cart, and where is this all going to end?
It might have been entertaining for some, but at a cost to the Country, and there is nothing ever amusing watching someone have an emotional melt-down in one's home, or in the eye of the Public.
The damage is done, and let us set it aside, but let us not keep repeating the same mistake in using such 'controversial' people as spokespersons for America at a time where it has never been so divided. Make the same mistake three times, you are making a choice.
33
"...to speak in more measured tones."
The only measure that Trump has when he speaks is how big his mouth is and how many headlines he will draw.
The only measure that Trump has when he speaks is how big his mouth is and how many headlines he will draw.
1
Before Trump entered the race the only GOP name competing for president that the average person recognized was Bush, and so Bush got a higher rating in polls. But now we have Trump that every reality TV watching low information voter knows, and Jeb has a challenger for name recognition.
Now you know that NBC never wanted Trump to speak in measured tones, because that is not what sells his reality tv shows. Your Fired! etc. the yelling, the excitement! This problem is style over substance.
For that reason, when you read the transcripts of things Trump supposedly says, it is lost in translation. But anyway, it is more enjoyable than watching Yet Another Bush campaign in NH.
Now you know that NBC never wanted Trump to speak in measured tones, because that is not what sells his reality tv shows. Your Fired! etc. the yelling, the excitement! This problem is style over substance.
For that reason, when you read the transcripts of things Trump supposedly says, it is lost in translation. But anyway, it is more enjoyable than watching Yet Another Bush campaign in NH.
2
He's a histrionic entertainer. In most gaming scenario of this clown, he ends up wasting the fortune he inherited, and he knows that. he's going to ride his fame/infamy all the way to the bank.
1
Trump has given the other Republican candidates a golden opportunity to appear righteous by simply calling his remarks what they are - racist and abhorrent.
3
If Trump were to run with Bernie Sanders as his VP choice, then I would worry. That ticket evens out the extremism of their views - and could win. Think of that!
I think this is all just wonderful pay back to the GOP leadership who have done nothing but criticize, subvert and block our President. Their vicious right wing banter over the past 7 years has now created a monster and his name is Trump. He has escaped the lab and is now creeping through GOP town and he's very alive! Let them whine all they want. They created him and they will now suffer the consequences. Can't run fast enough and can't hide from his spot on comments about their inadequacies.
I don't think torches and pitchforks can stop him. He's his own man and doesn't need their money. Go Donald!
I don't think torches and pitchforks can stop him. He's his own man and doesn't need their money. Go Donald!
8
americansandy
My vote for Trump is vote for America and a vote against every opportunistic arrogant politician, who has been destroying our America for power and personal glory.
My vote for Trump is vote for America and a vote against every opportunistic arrogant politician, who has been destroying our America for power and personal glory.
1
We all know that Trump has no interest in power or personal glory. Uh-huh.
Mr. Trump freaks out the entire elite establishment - both the Republican and Democratic branches.
The elites believe in the corporatized state and "free trade". Their only real division is with social issues, such as gay marriage and the right to fky the Confederate flag.
Trump scares these people since he is an economic patriot. He believes in putting the US first. It is obvious he misses the US of his childhood, with high wages and little illegal immigration.
Jim Webb stands for a lot of the same things on the Democratic side.
Webb is being ignored. Trump has caught fire.
You go, Donald. I hate you on that Apprentice TV show. I love you as a candidate who believes in the commen-sense policies of 1962.
The elites believe in the corporatized state and "free trade". Their only real division is with social issues, such as gay marriage and the right to fky the Confederate flag.
Trump scares these people since he is an economic patriot. He believes in putting the US first. It is obvious he misses the US of his childhood, with high wages and little illegal immigration.
Jim Webb stands for a lot of the same things on the Democratic side.
Webb is being ignored. Trump has caught fire.
You go, Donald. I hate you on that Apprentice TV show. I love you as a candidate who believes in the commen-sense policies of 1962.
5
I've always said, "Don't blame Palin, blame the supporters." And the same goes for Trump. The reality is angry old white Republicans have had their intolerant reactionary views validated by Fox News for years now and this is the result. The GOP, party for a new century, that is if it were the start of the 20th century.
10
The main difference between Trump and the rest of the GOP is that Trump is saying out loud what they all think.
7
The GOP's "southern strategy" has run it's course.
Their tactic, to convince poor white people that voting for the GOP was in their best interest, thereby pitting poor white people against poor black people throughout the region is nearing its endgame. Its nemesis is the increasing availability of information.
The speed with which information and "news" travels these days no longer allows politicians to pander to one specific demographic throughout this region without consequences. It no longer accommodates the demonization of people who are in nearly every way just as poor and under-educated as those who seek to marginalize them.
It no longer allows these people to live in a regional bubble, insulated from the trends of the rest of the nation.
Unfortunately for the GOP it’s over. They can count on residuals for a few years, but the “south” as they played it since 1964 is a different place. I only wish southerners realized the damage the “southern” strategy has left in its wake.
Their tactic, to convince poor white people that voting for the GOP was in their best interest, thereby pitting poor white people against poor black people throughout the region is nearing its endgame. Its nemesis is the increasing availability of information.
The speed with which information and "news" travels these days no longer allows politicians to pander to one specific demographic throughout this region without consequences. It no longer accommodates the demonization of people who are in nearly every way just as poor and under-educated as those who seek to marginalize them.
It no longer allows these people to live in a regional bubble, insulated from the trends of the rest of the nation.
Unfortunately for the GOP it’s over. They can count on residuals for a few years, but the “south” as they played it since 1964 is a different place. I only wish southerners realized the damage the “southern” strategy has left in its wake.
6
Are you serious? You think that Obama and his administration hasn't done everything in, and out of their power, to create a race war and continue to keep the fires burning?
How 'bout that Citizens United ruling! Thanks to it we will be treated to the spectacle of GOP-oid oligarchs throwing a couple of billion dollars at each other to get their favorite pawn elected. Certainly most of that money, and most likely all of it, will be wasted. Priceless.
3
Yep. And Hillary is relying on $2 donations from the little people, right?
1
Trump is not running for president, and that is the real problem. He is only in it for the publicity - he is a very insecure man, with a pathological need for attention. He can say anything, because he does not care how many voters he alienates. He only wants the limelight, and saying outrageous things gets him the attention he so desperately craves. No controlling someone like that.
The scary thing is the number of voters who are willing to enable his addiction.
The scary thing is the number of voters who are willing to enable his addiction.
6
All I can say is "Thank God for Trump."
He brings desperately needed comic relief to an otherwise depressing election picture -- and the all too probable (and dismal) prospect of a Bush-Cinton run-off.
On a lighter note... So one bunch of government employees, scoops up our data and another bunch. employed by God knows whom, gets it.
So much for our much-touted freedom.
Notice that it's disappearance has little to do with who's in the White House or coming across geographic borders.
He brings desperately needed comic relief to an otherwise depressing election picture -- and the all too probable (and dismal) prospect of a Bush-Cinton run-off.
On a lighter note... So one bunch of government employees, scoops up our data and another bunch. employed by God knows whom, gets it.
So much for our much-touted freedom.
Notice that it's disappearance has little to do with who's in the White House or coming across geographic borders.
1
The GOP should create a fact sheet correcting the Donald's myriad myths and errors, and all their other candidates should sign it.
That would demonstrate courage and leadership.
That would demonstrate courage and leadership.
1
Trump's platform is "to make America great again". Pretty clearly he doesn't believe making American great again requires importing millions of low skill, low education immigrants from abroad to compete with the lower middle class for low wage jobs. I would tend to agree--we'd be more competitive in the global economy with high skill, high education immigrants like we get from India, East Asia and Eastern Europe. What separates our economy from most of the world is high labor productivity per hour -- a function of investment in human capital (like education) and economic capital (like technology). There's no going back to a simple manufacturing or agrarian -based economy.
Trump is running as unabashedly populist. This is a story of a populist grassroots candidate vs. the GOP establishment. Ironic that the grassroots candidate is someone like Trump, lifelong resident of Manhattan.
Trump is running as unabashedly populist. This is a story of a populist grassroots candidate vs. the GOP establishment. Ironic that the grassroots candidate is someone like Trump, lifelong resident of Manhattan.
4
The republican party base is too beholden to right wing talk radio and Fox news to bother to connect the dots and realize that Donald Trump perfers himself and then Hillary Clinton to any of the other serious republican candidates. He told the morning Joe several weeks ago and the Washington Post yesterday that he may not support the ultimate republican nominee, he hinted that he might consider running as a third party candidate and noted that he and the Clintons were friends and that he had donated to her Senate, 2008 Presidental campaigns and more recently to the Clinton Foundation.
3
Donald Trump is a DNC spy. Watergate in reverse.
Personally I'm thrilled with the Donald. The first republican debate will be the best TV since Breaking Bad's Hisenberg met his demise in the last show of the series.
To stay sane, one simply has to remind themselves that his 15% to 20% position in the race is backed by only 1 and 10 Americans. Maybe 1 and 20 given half of them can't be serious in the support. So get the popcorn and beer out, bring out the repub candidates bring out Trump and his hair and sit back and enjoy the show!
So much for the Republican strategy of appealing to a broader base.
To stay sane, one simply has to remind themselves that his 15% to 20% position in the race is backed by only 1 and 10 Americans. Maybe 1 and 20 given half of them can't be serious in the support. So get the popcorn and beer out, bring out the repub candidates bring out Trump and his hair and sit back and enjoy the show!
So much for the Republican strategy of appealing to a broader base.
9
Mr Trump has shown himself to be reckless and insensitive. He did damage to many parts of his enterprize this week with unguarded ego-driven speech carelessly causing several big Trump projects to be terminated threatening many employees/assosiates livlihoods. He is no diplomat. If the US was "his organization" would he be any different?
2
Donald Trump personifies a substantial portion of Republicans in America - and others that don't specifically identify with the Republican brand. He should be heard - end of story.
The only way to uproot then purge racism and incendiary elitism - is to let it loose on the stage. Republicans are a part of the body politic - an international and humanitarian embarrassment or not, they must be allowed to speak their piece. Perhaps, in 2015, the media will do it's job - because the national electorate certainly will. As it did in 2008 and 2012.
The only way to uproot then purge racism and incendiary elitism - is to let it loose on the stage. Republicans are a part of the body politic - an international and humanitarian embarrassment or not, they must be allowed to speak their piece. Perhaps, in 2015, the media will do it's job - because the national electorate certainly will. As it did in 2008 and 2012.
5
Trump personifies a substantial portion of the Republicans like Al Sharpton personifies a substantial portion of the Democrats. We all have our idiot buffoon crosses to bear.
3
Donald Trump is a typical New York personality who hails from the center of the media empire. Of course he will be in the debates. You all love the "Joe from Brooklyn" in the war movies. You'll love Donald Trump, until he is in office. Really, it happens with all Presidents, doesn't it?
1
All you need to know about Trump: when asked why his clothing is made in China, he responded that Chinese manipulation of their currency forces him to. Wha?
A follow-up question then posed to him, "But you're a billionaire. Surely you can afford to have the clothes made in the USA?" Answer: I'm a businessman, that's why (not).
So President Trump would work to assist in (if not insist on) all those poor, struggling corporations off-shoring their jobs to saqve money. Yet many struggling corporations are coming up wih the cash (in tens of billions) to do stock buy-backs or mega buyouts.
Sadly, all that Joe Six-Pack hears is how naughty those Mexicans are.
A follow-up question then posed to him, "But you're a billionaire. Surely you can afford to have the clothes made in the USA?" Answer: I'm a businessman, that's why (not).
So President Trump would work to assist in (if not insist on) all those poor, struggling corporations off-shoring their jobs to saqve money. Yet many struggling corporations are coming up wih the cash (in tens of billions) to do stock buy-backs or mega buyouts.
Sadly, all that Joe Six-Pack hears is how naughty those Mexicans are.
8
Mr. Trump has pointed out the unpleasant truth that illegal entrants into the US can and do cause problems. The added fact that there are many sanctuary cities like SFO that blatantly disregard and ignore federal immigration law. Face the facts as they are or withdraw into your shell.
11
"... illegal entrants into the US can and do cause problems...." So do lots of native-born Americans and their native-born parents and grandparents and great-grandparents and so on.
3
Don't expect cities to be responsible for the US not securing its Southern border. How they treat aliens that live there is their business.
1
I agree, Mr. Trump is a symptom of an ugly Republican Party that is the tent for racists, homophobes, misogynists, religious fanatics, anti-science cranks, the fearful and the ignorant..all of whom, unwittingly or not, serve the interests of what is essentially the party of corporate oligarchic capitalism. A small c conservative and social libertarian like myself will never vote for anyone under the current GOP banner.
13
The Trump brouhaha is a distraction.
A distraction from the real problems about illegal immigrants:
First: Families headed by illegal immigrants use far more in total taxpayer benefits (federal, state and local) than the meager total taxes they pay.
Second: Their employment drives down wage levels.
Third: They increase the population at an unsustainable rate, resulting in overcrowding and deteriorating infrastructure.
Every decent or halfway decent country in this world has immigration control.
Immigration control means limits on total numbers.
And it means enforcement of those limits.
The limit on total numbers is over and above the supposed exclusion for criminals.
In other words, even with a spotless record on crime,
would-be immigrants need to wait their turn in line.
Coming here "without papers" is more than a mere paper technicality.
It is jumping the line.
The line forms outside the USA -- not inside it.
The very act of jumping the line is itself a violation of the law,
and ought not be rewarded by granting legal status inside the USA,
even to those with otherwise spotless records on crime.
As for Trump and Mexicans:
Mexicans are 62% of all illegal immigrants.
Other Latin Americans are another 13% or more.
Total Mexican and other Latin American: at least 75% of all illegal immigrants.
Americans in their gut know that these are the basic facts, however imprecisely.
They know that the media are on the pro-amnesty bandwagon
and are obfuscating these facts.
A distraction from the real problems about illegal immigrants:
First: Families headed by illegal immigrants use far more in total taxpayer benefits (federal, state and local) than the meager total taxes they pay.
Second: Their employment drives down wage levels.
Third: They increase the population at an unsustainable rate, resulting in overcrowding and deteriorating infrastructure.
Every decent or halfway decent country in this world has immigration control.
Immigration control means limits on total numbers.
And it means enforcement of those limits.
The limit on total numbers is over and above the supposed exclusion for criminals.
In other words, even with a spotless record on crime,
would-be immigrants need to wait their turn in line.
Coming here "without papers" is more than a mere paper technicality.
It is jumping the line.
The line forms outside the USA -- not inside it.
The very act of jumping the line is itself a violation of the law,
and ought not be rewarded by granting legal status inside the USA,
even to those with otherwise spotless records on crime.
As for Trump and Mexicans:
Mexicans are 62% of all illegal immigrants.
Other Latin Americans are another 13% or more.
Total Mexican and other Latin American: at least 75% of all illegal immigrants.
Americans in their gut know that these are the basic facts, however imprecisely.
They know that the media are on the pro-amnesty bandwagon
and are obfuscating these facts.
5
I have a boss that says all of the same kinds of nonsense that you just commented. The thing about it is that the people complaining about illegal immigrants are the same ones that will take jobs away from American contractors and hire a contractor who employs illegal immigrants. Because saving money is more important to them than anything else. If they weren't providing the jobs we wouldn't have the illegal immigrants. When we ( I'm a first-generation American Latina by the way) called her out on it, she had no comment. In fact I have never met a rich business owner who wouldn't jump at hiring illegal immigrants because its cheaper before hiring Americans. The very people complaining about the problem are the ones causing it. Supply meets demand.
2
This writer is ill-informed if he thinks Fox is the network promoting Trump. I keep CNN on during the day as a background noise in my office and every 30 minutes today, CNN repeated the same things over and over and over about Trump and his campaign. I don't think Fox could have possibly had him on more than CNN!
8
So much for the myth of the "liberal media."
2
This article has one of the most bizarre quotes about presidential candidates that I have ever seen. Thomas M. Davis, a former Republican congressman from Virginia said: “Our candidates are all being forced to react to his comments.” OMG, we wouldn't anyone wanting to be the leader of the free world to have to confront the likes of a Donald Trump, would we? And these are the same politicians that claim President Obama isn't 'tough enough' to deal with the likes of a Vladimir Putin or the Ayatollahs of Iran. If they can't deal with the pressure of sharing a debate platform with Trump, how in heaven's name are they going to deal with anything or anyone remotely threatening to our interests?
160
Thank you, Roland!!
Voters are sick of the PC double talk coming from both the repubs and dems. Regardless of Trumps buffoonery, he speaks in plain english... "Shut down the borders. Open borders are not good for the USA". All/Most of the other candidates, Dems and Repub... you know the PC speaking politician buffoons could learn a lesson from Trump. Repubs and Dems are weary of the PC (lying) Clinton and Bush types. Does Trump have baggage... I have no doubt (they all have baggage by the way), but I'm not looking for the most beautiful, perfect looking, poll-tested candidate that just says the right thing before the election. I want one that can knock heads together in the back room and get things done, and in the process if he/she does something stupid for every 2 things they get right, we'll be far ahead of where our current and last president have taken us.
6
Excellent conment. The mainstream Bush and Clinton hacks are running scared. Why are Americans so up in arms about a candidate who promises to have immigration and trade policies which serve us, as opposed to some "global" ideal?
4
John, he promises American manufacturing jobs, but his line of clothes is, wait for it, nade in China. So when he had a chance to actually DO what he proclaims as a policy, he hypocritically punted.
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2015/07/06/1399563/-Donald-Trump-gets-into...
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2015/07/06/1399563/-Donald-Trump-gets-into...
4
you and Christie should get along- knocking heads in backrooms as you close the lanes on the bridge or tie up the Sandy relief funds.. yeah go get em champ. go knock heads.
I am appalled at your view. One of these days Obama's diplomacy will get the credit that it is due. As will his attempts to work for the entire country.
I am appalled at your view. One of these days Obama's diplomacy will get the credit that it is due. As will his attempts to work for the entire country.
1
Donald Trump should continue to campaign as he has so far and continue to tell it like it is. I believe the tragic event in San Francisco lends credence to his claims about illegal aliens, claims from which he should not back down. Of course his statements paint illegal immigrants with a wide brush, but it keeps the focus on why there needs to be some of immigration control. Trump is fortunate enough that he does not rely on wealthy donors and corporations to finance his campaign; he does not have to kowtow to anyone, he can be his own man, who can speak and think for himself. Trump is refreshing addition to the American political arena. He has great poll numbers. And I wish him the best.
11
you do realize that until he files with the FEC he is not an official candidate for office.
he will never be an official candidate.
he will never be an official candidate.
The problem for the Republicans is that they can't win a Presidential election without the votes of people who think Donald Trump as A-OK. Such voters don't hear his talk as inflammatory or provocative. They think he is telling it like it is. He talks the way they do. Finally, a Rush Limbaugh candidate.
The Republican Party took in this lovely crowd with their Southern Strategy and by playing to religious and far-right extremists. A Donald Trump was sure to show up at some point. What fun it will be to watch the Republican Primary Debates.
The Republican Party took in this lovely crowd with their Southern Strategy and by playing to religious and far-right extremists. A Donald Trump was sure to show up at some point. What fun it will be to watch the Republican Primary Debates.
9
The real criminals in the US are those people with MBAs from Harvard and Penn. some even served jail time. When is Trump going to explain how he plans on having his suits and ties me in this country and not in China and Mexico as they are now? He can bluster about creating jobs and criticize foreign trade all he wants but that's the easy part. We already have seen what one president with a Harvard MBA did to the economy. Don't know if we can stand more help from a Penn MBA who despite his wealth seems to have declared bankruptcy any number of times.
6
Trump will have a platform until we create better meaningful middle class jobs. In truth, as it were, this kind of stuff may get worse.
8
So what did I learn in the comments today?
It does not seem to matter any more what a candidate thinks, or whether he can think. It also does not seem to matter any more whether a candidate can hear. It also does not seem to matter any more what a candidate says, but he should be able to talk, he should say something, something that everybody can understand (it does not have to be correct, it may also be grossly offensive, but it should be understandable). The most important thing to get elected is obvious, and it is no use to mention it, as everybody knows it. Could we replace the whole election by having an accountant check whether some numbers given by the candidates are correct?
Now I must make song out of it!
It does not seem to matter any more what a candidate thinks, or whether he can think. It also does not seem to matter any more whether a candidate can hear. It also does not seem to matter any more what a candidate says, but he should be able to talk, he should say something, something that everybody can understand (it does not have to be correct, it may also be grossly offensive, but it should be understandable). The most important thing to get elected is obvious, and it is no use to mention it, as everybody knows it. Could we replace the whole election by having an accountant check whether some numbers given by the candidates are correct?
Now I must make song out of it!
Thomas M. Davis a card-carrying member of the Party of Personal Diminution huffs that “Our candidates are all being forced to react to his comments.” Really?
Which candidate has been "forced" to say anything save for responding to the inevitable questions tossed at them on TV and radio talk shows. Who knows even if Jeb! would have weaseled out of an opinion had he not been confronted by a journalist about the matter?
Which candidate has boldly stepped forward to declare, voluntarily, from his gut, that The Donald's vile profanity is just plain wrong and repugnant, no matter what one's political point of view.
To the clowns on the bus, "Just say NO" to The Donald. Don't wait to be asked.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
Which candidate has been "forced" to say anything save for responding to the inevitable questions tossed at them on TV and radio talk shows. Who knows even if Jeb! would have weaseled out of an opinion had he not been confronted by a journalist about the matter?
Which candidate has boldly stepped forward to declare, voluntarily, from his gut, that The Donald's vile profanity is just plain wrong and repugnant, no matter what one's political point of view.
To the clowns on the bus, "Just say NO" to The Donald. Don't wait to be asked.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
6
Well, they will all have to take some time and really think about this, and about what would be the most personally useful thing to say. But, certainly not rush out and condemn such garbage, just in case that might "offend" their "base." How to convince most people you're not a religious zealot and a racist, while quietly reassuring that base that you are still with them on the "issues?"
3
"Tone it down, Donald," was the reported conversation. The GOP brand may be getting damaged but how about a lot of GOP candidates getting very nervous about Trump's quick and easy climb to near the top of the heap in opinion polls? He's done minimal campaigning and has huge name recognition. A subdued Trump (it's not going to happen) would level the playing field for them.
6
For years, the GOP establishment has been saying the things that Donald Trump has been saying. They would rather whisper it – he would rather shout it.
But then again, perhaps he actually is a Democratic Party mole.
But then again, perhaps he actually is a Democratic Party mole.
9
The Republican clown car is so enjoyable to watch. Last week when there was a fireworks display on San Francisco Bay, whenever there was a burst of major fireworks, I heard some Hispanic children shout out, "Donald Trump!" gleefully. I think it was kind of a Guy Fawkes thing to them. The Trump piñata works also.
By all means, Republicans should have as broad a choice as possible for their candidate field, from Huckabee with his calls of judicial tyranny and diabetes solution to the cafeteria Catholics who don't support Pope Francis to the Donald. The debates should be memorable.
By all means, Republicans should have as broad a choice as possible for their candidate field, from Huckabee with his calls of judicial tyranny and diabetes solution to the cafeteria Catholics who don't support Pope Francis to the Donald. The debates should be memorable.
5
The GOP's inability to rein in Trump is an unintended consequence of the Citizens United decision. Nobody is listening to the Party because the Party does not control the money anymore. It would be nice if Congress would quit wasting time and money trying to dismantle Obamacare and pass a law that would stuff the Citizens United genie back into the bottle.
18
Citizens United does not apply to Trump, he does not need outside groups he is self funding; How will the Clintons not co ordinate with their foundation? How will they explain that they paid all the campaign staff at the foundation? its a can of worms.
1
Donald Trump needs to watch the 2009 movie, "Sin Nombre."
Who rapes immigrant women are not immigrant men but criminals at every step in their impossible journey who prey on them.
Who rapes immigrant women are not immigrant men but criminals at every step in their impossible journey who prey on them.
4
Trump says plainly what all Republicans believe and usually mince their words about. The fact is, though, that the lot of them are wrong.
Undocumented immigrants fall broadly into at least three categories: bread-winners and their immediate families who have been living and working undocumented in the USA for decades; undocumented working parents of children born in or brought into the the USA a dozen or more years ago; undocumented workers who cross into the USA occasionally, seasonally, or on a longer-term though still temporary basis to work then leave.
All these millions of positively contributing undocumented immigrants are lumped in the lurid imagination of all Republican politicians, including Donald Trump, and the people who vote for them, with a statistically small number of petty criminals, drug cartel operatives, and other undesirables who manage to evade capture entering the USA.
It is a matter of framing.
A small number of criminals crossing the border for nefarious reasons is a different problem than a large number of stable, though undocumented, immigrant families who have been living in the USA for decades, or a moderate number of seasonal undocumented workers crossing temporarily into the USA.
As usual, Republicans paint an entire demographic with a broad, irrelevant brush.
Undocumented immigrants fall broadly into at least three categories: bread-winners and their immediate families who have been living and working undocumented in the USA for decades; undocumented working parents of children born in or brought into the the USA a dozen or more years ago; undocumented workers who cross into the USA occasionally, seasonally, or on a longer-term though still temporary basis to work then leave.
All these millions of positively contributing undocumented immigrants are lumped in the lurid imagination of all Republican politicians, including Donald Trump, and the people who vote for them, with a statistically small number of petty criminals, drug cartel operatives, and other undesirables who manage to evade capture entering the USA.
It is a matter of framing.
A small number of criminals crossing the border for nefarious reasons is a different problem than a large number of stable, though undocumented, immigrant families who have been living in the USA for decades, or a moderate number of seasonal undocumented workers crossing temporarily into the USA.
As usual, Republicans paint an entire demographic with a broad, irrelevant brush.
6
All your categories can, and do, have US citizen children, born usually at the expense of the US taxpayer. Following birth, they are signed up for all the entitlements to which they are entitled.
This is how the US Hispanic population ends up so heavily over represented on the entitlement rolls. Here is the Kaiser Family Foundation's data on which ethnic groups comprise the non elderly Medicaid recipients in each state.
http://kff.org/medicaid/state-indicator/distribution-by-raceethnicity-4/
Perhaps, if all those in British Columbia are as generous as you are, there might be a larger quota up there for grindingly poor, uneducated folks?
This is how the US Hispanic population ends up so heavily over represented on the entitlement rolls. Here is the Kaiser Family Foundation's data on which ethnic groups comprise the non elderly Medicaid recipients in each state.
http://kff.org/medicaid/state-indicator/distribution-by-raceethnicity-4/
Perhaps, if all those in British Columbia are as generous as you are, there might be a larger quota up there for grindingly poor, uneducated folks?
4
a) Minimum wage jobs pay less than poverty wages. Save your indignation for multi-billion-dollar corporations like Walmart and McDonald's whose payrolls American taxpayers subsidize with food stamps, Medicaid, and other public assistance.
b) Undocumented migrant workers might just as well be slaves as far as wages are concerned because they fear speaking up about unscrupulous employer practices such as wage theft.
It helps to delve below surface appearances to find the proper object for one's self-righteousness.
b) Undocumented migrant workers might just as well be slaves as far as wages are concerned because they fear speaking up about unscrupulous employer practices such as wage theft.
It helps to delve below surface appearances to find the proper object for one's self-righteousness.
6
Illegal immigration is your Wal Mart issue -- on steroids. At least Wal Mart and McDonald's workers are legal and legal to work. I get a lot less concerned about supporting the families of legal workers than I do about supporting the families of people aren't even supposed to be in this country.
Illegal immigrants will always be slaves because we keep giving amnesties which pulls in the next round of desperate folks. If you read up on the aftermath of the Reagan Amnesty of 1986, you will see that most of the farm workers freed to take other work did so and were immediately backfilled by more illegal workers.
Illegal immigrants will always be slaves because we keep giving amnesties which pulls in the next round of desperate folks. If you read up on the aftermath of the Reagan Amnesty of 1986, you will see that most of the farm workers freed to take other work did so and were immediately backfilled by more illegal workers.
5
Donald Trump is good at one thing: promoting himself. Anyone who thinks that his 'run' for president is anything but a ego-driven means to put himself in the headlines is sadly mistaken. The media is the culprit here...as it is almost all the time. Giving Trump coverage is not news...it's a joke!
7
The parties are losing control of the electoral system. Should we (they) be surprised? We've handed it over to them with both hands, with the mantra "The government is the problem (and we don't trust the voters much either)".
Same thing with the 2nd Amendment, where we weaponized a nation by pretending the words 'a militia' somehow should be reinterpreted as meaning 'an individual'. All bought and paid for by the shortsighted and self-centered, who think they know what's best for the plebes. Kinda like Trump himself.
Same thing with the 2nd Amendment, where we weaponized a nation by pretending the words 'a militia' somehow should be reinterpreted as meaning 'an individual'. All bought and paid for by the shortsighted and self-centered, who think they know what's best for the plebes. Kinda like Trump himself.
4
There's no surprise that Fox is hosting the first Republican debate - it's where they do their hiring.
Trump is himself. No surprises when his mouth opens, so I don't know why the Republicans are upset. Maybe next time around he announces again as a Democrat.
Trump is himself. No surprises when his mouth opens, so I don't know why the Republicans are upset. Maybe next time around he announces again as a Democrat.
2
The "provocative developer-turned-presidential candidate" is a guy who thinks he, in the words of late Senator Moynihan, "is entitled to his own facts."
However, this sense of entitlement to one's own facts is not new to the Republican Party. Have you heard any of them apologizing for all the misinformation and lies they communicated to the public about the ACA?
Trump is a "slop-mouth," someone that should help the American public better understand narcissism, but not much more.
However, this sense of entitlement to one's own facts is not new to the Republican Party. Have you heard any of them apologizing for all the misinformation and lies they communicated to the public about the ACA?
Trump is a "slop-mouth," someone that should help the American public better understand narcissism, but not much more.
4
Trump is no more interested in running for president than my aunt Joanne. His candidacy is the biggest April fool joke played on his supporters since Orson Welles convinced millions we were being invaded by aliens from outer space. Trump has as much chance as one of those aliens of becoming president. This is an outrageous and outlandish act of showmanship worthy of P T Barnum. The downside is however that the "fair and balanced" press is discussing nothing else.
5
Let your aunt know that if it's her vs. the Donald, she's heading to the White House.
4
Actually, four years ago, Herman Cain's candidacy was a put on, and the only one to figure it out and say so was Rachel Maddow. Colbert knew, but was in on the joke. But Cain had to eject before he might have actually been nominated. That no one other than Maddow in the main stream media, least of all the Times, figured it out is the sternest indictment of the public and the fourth estate possible.
2
As a registered Republican, I can honestly say that I disagree with almost all the specific pronouncements from our party, and cannot find more than one or two serious public servants in the lot of self proclaimed candidates. Unfortunately, I also disagree with the pronouncements of Democrats and find their leading candidate irreversibly compromised. Maybe, one party or the other can find a candidate who is 1) honest and truthful 2) dedicated to public service more than their own service 3) has true leadership and organizing experience in the political arena - not made-up "experience", and 4) is truly middle-of the road and proud of it, with problem solving ability foremost and no weird ideological baggage....dream on...
40
Have a look at Jim Webb. He fits the bill.
5
Amen. Maybe party leadership on both sides will finally figure out why the number of self-declared Independents keeps rising.
1
Tough requirements. I've given up.
Donald Trump is coming to Phoenix on Saturday to make remarks on illegal immigration and other topics and will be joined by Sheriff Joe Arpaio at the event hosted by the Republican Party of Maricopa County.
I'm pretty sure that this does not qualify as "toning it down". I can't wait for the Repub debates.
I'm pretty sure that this does not qualify as "toning it down". I can't wait for the Repub debates.
9
The WAPO reported that Trump's hotel project in DC may have contractors who are employing illegal workers. The article said some of the workers are nervous about Trump's remarks.
I just sent a note to Trump saying he was missing a great opportunity. He should contact the contractors and get them to use eVerify. I think this would be the most effective way to double down I can imagine. I would love to see it.
I just sent a note to Trump saying he was missing a great opportunity. He should contact the contractors and get them to use eVerify. I think this would be the most effective way to double down I can imagine. I would love to see it.
5
I just attended the protest rally in DC in front of Trump's upcoming hotel.
Firstly, I was so happy to see that Trump's remarks brought together a huge group of African Americans (Local 25), Mary's Center (Christian Group), Unite Here (mixed labor group), Asian Americans, and students of all groups united against the arrows of hatred shot by Trump. They were chanting "Hey, Hey, Ho, Ho, Donald Trump Has Got to Go!" The mood was upbeat, united and everything that America stands for.
Secondly, many of the protesters are or have undocumented family members. Almost everyone I talked to expressed frustration that American people think they don't pay taxes and take govt. benefits. THIS IS A LIE.
In fact, undocumented workers in DC pay Federal, State, Social Security and Medicare taxes through Taxpayer Identification Numbers (TIN numbers). Not only are those taxes they will never see back in terms of social security payments, but these taxes are being used to keep the Social Security Program afloat because undocumented only put into the system and can never take that money out later. Great deal, America!
Several also told me about dutifully paying taxes using the IRS issued TIN- Taxpayer Identification number, but never seeing their overpayments refunded because the DC government, after collecting the taxes, issues threatening letters to undocumented workers saying that they will not receive their overpaid tax refund because they don't have a social security number.
Firstly, I was so happy to see that Trump's remarks brought together a huge group of African Americans (Local 25), Mary's Center (Christian Group), Unite Here (mixed labor group), Asian Americans, and students of all groups united against the arrows of hatred shot by Trump. They were chanting "Hey, Hey, Ho, Ho, Donald Trump Has Got to Go!" The mood was upbeat, united and everything that America stands for.
Secondly, many of the protesters are or have undocumented family members. Almost everyone I talked to expressed frustration that American people think they don't pay taxes and take govt. benefits. THIS IS A LIE.
In fact, undocumented workers in DC pay Federal, State, Social Security and Medicare taxes through Taxpayer Identification Numbers (TIN numbers). Not only are those taxes they will never see back in terms of social security payments, but these taxes are being used to keep the Social Security Program afloat because undocumented only put into the system and can never take that money out later. Great deal, America!
Several also told me about dutifully paying taxes using the IRS issued TIN- Taxpayer Identification number, but never seeing their overpayments refunded because the DC government, after collecting the taxes, issues threatening letters to undocumented workers saying that they will not receive their overpaid tax refund because they don't have a social security number.
5
Illegal immigrants may not take benefits, but their families most certainly do. Inform yourself.
http://kff.org/medicaid/state-indicator/distribution-by-raceethnicity-4/
http://khn.org/news/medicaid-illegal-immigrant-emergency-care/
And anyone who is working on the books is doing so with a forged social security card and perjured I-9. And many who are filing taxes are doing so to collect credits, not refunds. They are filing returns, paying no taxes, and getting a check from the IRS.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Exptf9--5nA
http://kff.org/medicaid/state-indicator/distribution-by-raceethnicity-4/
http://khn.org/news/medicaid-illegal-immigrant-emergency-care/
And anyone who is working on the books is doing so with a forged social security card and perjured I-9. And many who are filing taxes are doing so to collect credits, not refunds. They are filing returns, paying no taxes, and getting a check from the IRS.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Exptf9--5nA
1
The taxation picture is much more complicated than your anecdote and there is credible research on it if you hit Google (eg off the books work, low salaries in relation to public benefits). However this is no justification for demonization or enacting humane solutions to the problem of undocumented.
This is the United States and he still has a right to speak his mind regardless how shallow some may perceive that supposed quality to be. He also appeals to a segment of our population who hear him as the voice of their concerns. Setting bars that he or others must hurdle before being allowed (by whom) to speak his mind doesn't strike me as being particularly "American".
If he is a fool his tent will collapse.
If he seeks publicity for whatever reason he has succeeded.
The chips will fall where they may and anything done to change that will only give him a louder and stronger voice. In fact this thought should be applicable to any candidate who has the temerity to mouth his or her opinion and they deserve to rise or fall on their words, thoughtless or considered.
If he is a fool his tent will collapse.
If he seeks publicity for whatever reason he has succeeded.
The chips will fall where they may and anything done to change that will only give him a louder and stronger voice. In fact this thought should be applicable to any candidate who has the temerity to mouth his or her opinion and they deserve to rise or fall on their words, thoughtless or considered.
4
The GOP hasn't spoken in "measured tones" since Ronald Reagan began his presidential campaign in Philadelphia, Mississippi, where civil rights workers had been killed.
He naturally spoke of "state's' rights," the battle cry of the Confederacy.
He naturally spoke of "state's' rights," the battle cry of the Confederacy.
14
Trump should definitely make a third party run if he doesn't get the nomination. Remember what a favor Ross Perot did for us?
9
I'm wondering how many Republicans are yearning for that proverbial "smoke-filled room" where party leaders used to select the nominee. How many are rueing the day when they decided to have a primary instead? It seemed like such a good idea at the time....
The Law of Unintended Consequences.
The Law of Unintended Consequences.
5
You keep setting Trump up to hit homeruns -- and then you complain about it when he does? The sight of many respected organizations piling on folk hero Donald Trump gives him more credibility than he can ever get by avoiding controversy. Most recently, of course, Jeb Bush saying that everyone just needs to have two full-time jobs to get ahead financially in the U.S. was really a homerun for Trump. And an eye opener for everyone following Bush. Yikes, cast Bush in the remake of "Clueless."
12
Trump promises American manufacturing jobs, while having his line of clothes made in China. Homerun is the wrong sport. In this case, Trump has scored an own goal.
2
Yes, I know the average Republican is not racist, is not mean, is not ignorant, and is not a dangerous lunatic.
But at the same time, which party attracts the racists, the mean, the ignorant, and the dangerous lunatics? The Republicans. Not the Democrats.
What is wrong with this picture?
But at the same time, which party attracts the racists, the mean, the ignorant, and the dangerous lunatics? The Republicans. Not the Democrats.
What is wrong with this picture?
15
If you were more open minded, you would realize that both parties have some pretty ignorant, poorly educated, folks in their ranks. They are just different folks. Have you forgotten about DC, Newark, Baltimore, Oakland, Detroit, Philadelphia, Chicago, etc., etc., etc. Democrat all.
1
Reading the comments section makes me think - I wish we could we all stop completely demonizing Democrats and Republicans (I would say I am center-right leaning, because of economic and foreign policy). If we could just get rid of the extreme 20% on either side, we'd find the rest of us normal people have more in common than we thought, and we could compromise to make positive things happen. I'm sick of hearing about "evil" liberals and "evil" conservatives. If you go all the way to the right you get Hitler, all the way to the left and you get Stalin. What's the difference?
3
I would argue that the political "line" is more like a circle and Hitler and Stalin are near equally terrible for virtually the same reasons. This line that we refer to so often really just causes polarized dissent towards those who may want the same result but have different ways for arriving there. I think its safe to say that the majority of Americans want to be financially sound, safe from international/domestic threat, and to pursue happiness.
What goes around comes around, no? The Republicans had noooo problem hanging Jesse Jackson around the Democrats' neck and now they're getting a taste of their own medicine. If Trump stays in, many Republicans will be disgusted. If he's removed many Republicans will be outraged. All Trump is doing is putting out an unfiltered version of what the Republicans have been pushing since Reagan.
19
I like the Jesse Jackson analogy. Well done.
Mr. Priebus has several problems to deal with. First, Mr. Trump is a bombastic blowhard and a bigot. Further, he is a colossal egomaniac and narcicist which means he is incapable of listening. As with all blowhards, Mr. Trump is a self-styled truth-teller who can't be troubled by facts or reality for that matter. Mr. Priebus will likely embolden Mr. Trump, not restrain him.
This leads to Mr. Priebus's second problem. As has often been documented, the GOP candidate must be able to win over more hispanics than Romney did to have any chance of winning the national election and pretty much every national election going forward. Mr. Trump has tapped into the energy of a significant parft of the GOP base, the anti-immigrant and often racist part of the Party. Mr. Trump has fired them up and encouraged them to grab their pitchforks. By now we are all familiar with them. The birthers of yesterday. As far as Mr. Priebus is concerned, this means he has lost hispanics for at least a generation. We have already seen this anti-hispanic cycle run its course in California. What was the result? Democrats control both houses of the state government as well as the governor's office and hispanics are now voting in record numbers.
It is true that Trump is just a symptom. He is a populist fraudster in the mold of Father Coughlin or Joe McCarthy. He is smart and knows how to tap into the ignorance and anger of marginalized groups. Mr. Priebus cannot contain that.
This leads to Mr. Priebus's second problem. As has often been documented, the GOP candidate must be able to win over more hispanics than Romney did to have any chance of winning the national election and pretty much every national election going forward. Mr. Trump has tapped into the energy of a significant parft of the GOP base, the anti-immigrant and often racist part of the Party. Mr. Trump has fired them up and encouraged them to grab their pitchforks. By now we are all familiar with them. The birthers of yesterday. As far as Mr. Priebus is concerned, this means he has lost hispanics for at least a generation. We have already seen this anti-hispanic cycle run its course in California. What was the result? Democrats control both houses of the state government as well as the governor's office and hispanics are now voting in record numbers.
It is true that Trump is just a symptom. He is a populist fraudster in the mold of Father Coughlin or Joe McCarthy. He is smart and knows how to tap into the ignorance and anger of marginalized groups. Mr. Priebus cannot contain that.
16
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2015/07/06/1399563/-Donald-Trump-gets-into...
Read his Twitter responses to a TV writer and tell me he's smart. He's a disinhibited blowhard egomaniac who also happens to be a dullard, Ivy League edumacation (after Junior Bush) notwithstanding.
Read his Twitter responses to a TV writer and tell me he's smart. He's a disinhibited blowhard egomaniac who also happens to be a dullard, Ivy League edumacation (after Junior Bush) notwithstanding.
1
The scary part of Trump's place in the conservative playbook is that the more outlandish he acts and sounds, the more reasonable and rational the rest of the hard right conservatives sound. And when decision fatigue sets in among undecided voters, they are likely to go with the "at least he's not as bad as the other" approach to casting their ballot. Nothing Jeb Bush, Scott Walker and the other Republicans propose or have done is reasonable or rational for the majority of citizens in their states or in America.
6
What jumps out at me over L'affaire du Trump, is that Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation is now in a position to pick the GOP nominee, through its control over the GOP debating broadcast forum. And in conjunction with Rupert's friendly relationship with Hillary Clinton, Murdoch's takeover of the US political system is now nearing completion, just as News Corp gained control over Australia and the UK before now.
Murdoch can now play the GOP candidates one off against the other to insure there will be no adverse legislation interrupting News Corp's march to global hegemony, just as Senator Hillary Clinton let go of objections over a foreign entity like news Corp gaining control of a US broadcast network.
You couldn't make this up.
Murdoch can now play the GOP candidates one off against the other to insure there will be no adverse legislation interrupting News Corp's march to global hegemony, just as Senator Hillary Clinton let go of objections over a foreign entity like news Corp gaining control of a US broadcast network.
You couldn't make this up.
1
The thought of Reince Priebus--a Pee Wee Herman lookalike who talks like he's drunk most of the time--calling the bombastic Donald Trump is hilarious. I really hope somebody leaks an audio recording of their call. I'd pay money to access listening to it.
13
What I find to be so fascinating is that so many people, including Hillary Clinton, see Donald Trump as a 'Republican problem.' It is clear to anyone who is familiar with him that Donald Trump is a reflection of...DONALD TRUMP! This is America. Anyone who is a born citizen, and 35 years of age is allowed to run for the President of the United States. Since when was it the Democratic or Republican Party's leadership job to 'silence' or 'rein-in' the candidates who has the right to run for the office? Now, if Trump actually becomes the party NOMINEE, then, yes, they have every right to rein him in. NOT GOING TO HAPPEN! Until then, let Trump exercise his 1st amendment right to free speech, no matter how ridiculous and offensive some of his thoughts may be!
11
Oh, I assure you, Cathy, that many of us do not think it's an accident that Donald Trump is a Republican and he fairly represents the party.
9
Finally, a real man standing up for America - not a politician who says 1 thing and does another. Their is no PC with Trump as he is so wealthy you can't buy him off or shut him up. Hooray for Trump, and most importantly, America...
6
He doesn't say one thing and do another because he's never done anything politically. He's all mouth to date.
13
Trump is for Trump. If you think that he is for America, I have a bridge that I want to sell you.
9
For the "America" of which a good chunk of the Southwest was originally part of MEXICO, and whose descendents to this day are considered foreigners despite being here 200 years before the Anglo-Saxons. Read your history.
4
Most people in this country are not paying the slightest attention to Trump or the growing coterie of highly-educated, intellectually deficient, empathetically crippled Republican presidential wannabes. The right wing leadership can only hope that he will flame out before the country takes serious notice of him.
7
This is hilarious and fun to watch, right up to the moment that some reactionary cabal decides that a coup d'etat is the only way to "save" the United States.
8
Priebus asked Trump to speak in more measure tones? How do we know? Reince gave a sketchy account of the conversation, Trump gave another.
And how in the name of sanity does Fox get to control what the people of America hear?
And how in the name of sanity does Fox get to control what the people of America hear?
8
In the last few elections, it has been the "party" calling the shots, not a true reflection of the the constituents as seen in the 2012 election here in Alaska. The vote for the parties chair and vice chair were overturned by the establishment republicans that previously chaired the party. pound sand Priebus, you can't control the "Donald."
3
I don't think he can be reined in. He's already had to pay the price of certain partners bailing out on him, and just the talk of reining him in may stiffen his resolve. By Fox's own standards he will, as of now, qualify for the first debate stage a month from now. Trump's gotten as much national media attention as any other Republican, so those who support him now will likely continue to do so for the short term, unless he commits another, even coarser faux pas. And what Republican of standing would call him out? Most of them seem to be running, and even someone as outspoken and careless as John McCain might not want to provoke a public "mano y mano" Republican kerfuffle. I predict Trump will at least stick it out through Super Tuesday in March, just to get his money's worth. Given the advertising onslaught that Americans can expect next year, we deserve some public entertainment in the interim.
6
Who's going to rein in the rest of the Republican clown act?
22
Agreed. Jeb's foot-in-mouth syndrome is even more embarrassing than Trump's incendiary remarks. Whenever Jeb says something inane (which is almost daily), he back peddles. Whenever Trump says something inane, he owns it. Trump's confidence only highlights Jeb's diffidence. Neither candidate is capable of leading, but Trump shines the light on Jeb's incompetence.
Be sure to alert me when the Times runs a story about how Democrat National Committee Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz asks Bernie Sanders to "speak in more measured tones" - to dial back his offensive socialist rhetoric.
I'm not planning to vote for Mr. Trump, but I support his right to speak his mind without regard for would-be constraints imposed by party officials. Call me a dinosaur, but I actually believe that the First Amendment means what it says in plain English.
I'm not planning to vote for Mr. Trump, but I support his right to speak his mind without regard for would-be constraints imposed by party officials. Call me a dinosaur, but I actually believe that the First Amendment means what it says in plain English.
10
Then you must know that the First Amendment addresses curtailment of speech by the government, not by private enterprise or political parties or popular opinion.
7
"Some Republicans, according to three people briefed on the debate planning, have nudged Fox to clarify its broad requirement that candidates file “all necessary paperwork.”
Fits right in with their agenda of denying the vote to people they don't want to hear from.
Fits right in with their agenda of denying the vote to people they don't want to hear from.
15
Hope that includes their birth certificates!
Only one person can "rein in" Donald Trump and that's Donald Trump. It shows that money doesn't buy class but it can be a powerful megaphone for someone who hasn't any.
8
Heaven forbid Mr. Trump should say what they are thinking. Frank Bruni had it right yesterday. We could be in deep trouble if they take his advice.
3
The Republican establishment is furious with Donald Trump for saying in stark terms exactly what a majority of GOP primary voters want candidates to say.
18
Perhaps Donald Trump is the best thing that has happened to the Democrats and the 2016 election. Just saying.
11
Sadly, there is a strong segment in the Republican electorate that agrees with Donald Trump. Some rural white voters are more than likely upset about the Republican Party's attention to the Latino (Mexican) vote. To these voters, the GOP's strategy to attract Latinos (Mexican) makes it seems that rural whites, traditionally the strongest supporters of the party, are insignificant.
7
He's the perfect Republican candidate, the only one with the guts (or foolishness, take your pick) to say what they're all thinking. He's even better than most of the Republicans, particularly the rabid biblebangers. I say keep him out there, front and center - it's entertaining, insulting, instructive, and as Repugnican as it gets. It would be fun to see Bernie take him down hard (if the NYT will allow that).
11
Finally we have a republican candidate who speaks truthfully on behalf of these awful people.
17
"These awful people." Just wow.
So here is the obvious paradox between the Republican Party and Donald Trump. Thus far, the rebuffing and rebuking of Trump's insensitive remarks has gone through private conversations. All of the other Republican candidates feel uncomfortable with Sir Donald's public vitriol. Not a soul on the Republican platform has demonstrated testicles to publically denounce Trump's comments. This speaks volumes about Republicans - they claim "principles", but can't seem to find the courage to express them in an unambiguous and forceful manner.
Bottom line: If you can't stand up to a balding, chubby, red-haired clown like Trump, you clearly can't stand up to Vladimir Putin on much tougher issues of principle. Another collection of losers from the right wing.
Bottom line: If you can't stand up to a balding, chubby, red-haired clown like Trump, you clearly can't stand up to Vladimir Putin on much tougher issues of principle. Another collection of losers from the right wing.
21
I just love it! The Donald has become the crazy uncle (who, normally would be) locked in the attic but is now making far too much noise to ignore. Meanwhile they are forced to play peekaboo with him for their base: He's really one of us (he's really not one of us)
To quote "West Side Guy" below, "This is one Republican debate I won't miss."
To quote "West Side Guy" below, "This is one Republican debate I won't miss."
7
Donald Trump only helps Hillary Clinton. They are political and personal friends. His braggadocio and mendacity trump Clinton's obfuscation and vaingloriousness. When she is elected he will no doubt be rewarded with an ambassadorship.
2
To Pitcairn Island?
2
Thank you Donald, I will win the Mexican vote, Trump for exposing the true vile visceral that lives freely within the Pub party. They have been getting away with using the "Southern Strategy" (“appealing to regional racial tensions and the history of segregation”), for years.
In Obama’s eulogy for Clementa Pinckney in Charlotte South Carolina he said the nation was blind, before the murders, but now we see. Well thanks to Donald, laziness is a trait in Blacks, Trump not just this nation but the world now sees this deep rooted ugliness that exists in the Pub party.
And if this is true, then this also explains their deep rooted hatred of this president (which cannot be explained away by stating it's only because of his policies).
If Donald, I have a great relationship with the blacks, Trump was human; he would apologize to the world for his ugly, inflammatory and erroneous statements.
In Obama’s eulogy for Clementa Pinckney in Charlotte South Carolina he said the nation was blind, before the murders, but now we see. Well thanks to Donald, laziness is a trait in Blacks, Trump not just this nation but the world now sees this deep rooted ugliness that exists in the Pub party.
And if this is true, then this also explains their deep rooted hatred of this president (which cannot be explained away by stating it's only because of his policies).
If Donald, I have a great relationship with the blacks, Trump was human; he would apologize to the world for his ugly, inflammatory and erroneous statements.
1
"John Weaver, Mr. Kasich’s chief strategist, called Mr. Trump’s remarks about Mexicans “not healthy.”
The above is exactly the namby pamby responses to Trump's provocations even by respected Republican candidates. "Not healthy"? How about "Absurd" at the minimum.
Look forward to these candidates cowering before Trump at the debates. Should be high comedy.
The above is exactly the namby pamby responses to Trump's provocations even by respected Republican candidates. "Not healthy"? How about "Absurd" at the minimum.
Look forward to these candidates cowering before Trump at the debates. Should be high comedy.
6
"Who is John Kasich?" says Donald Trump and most of America.
The GOP inadvertently thrust Trump into a leadership position by allowing him to run amok with the birther conspiracy without uttering a word against it. They invited his leveled accusations in and showed reason and sanity to the door to appease a sector of their base and fund raise off yet another attempt to unseat the President. In the process, Trump became a legitimate and more powerful figurehead whether they like him or not. Good luck with that tamping down effort.
8
From what I know of Mr Trump he adequately represents what the republican party is all about. Why woudn't he rise in their primary polling?
6
Anybody who has been watching the last 20 years understands that the outrageous things Trump says are core Republican values. Why else wouldn't any of his challengers call him out?
22
for the same reason the Dems never called out Sharpton or Jessie Jackson
The billionaire puppeteers enabled by Citizens United won't stand for the possibility of investing millions in a variety of Republican candidates only to lose. They will gravitate toward Billary.
2
As I recall, Dr. Frankenstein had considerable regrets after giving life to his monster. Sounds like the GOP may be regretting that they and their right wing culture warriors gave life to The Donald.
9
Perhaps "reign him in" would be a better choice of words. He has always wanted to be, and considers himself to be, KING.
1
"Republican Party Leaders Struggle to Rein In Donald Trump"
Exactly what are they afraid of?
I thought we voters had the power to rein in candidates.
If the Republican voters, and not the 'Party Leaders' vote in Trump, then they deserve exactly what they will get: An overblown (no hair pun intended) megalomaniac.
Go for it Repubs!
Exactly what are they afraid of?
I thought we voters had the power to rein in candidates.
If the Republican voters, and not the 'Party Leaders' vote in Trump, then they deserve exactly what they will get: An overblown (no hair pun intended) megalomaniac.
Go for it Repubs!
4
Donald Trump has always been brash and outspoken, but illegals in this country is a huge issue. Both the Republicans and Democrats are distancing themselves from the issue, because they want the Latino votes. Period. Trump on the other hand is speaking out (although I do not think all his statements are correct about the Latino population).
I am not for a "free gateway to citizenship", simply because illegals have managed not to be deported while they are hiding out in our country. America cannot house the world, which is why we have laws in effect as to how many immigrants are allowed to enter the US. I am all for immigrants coming to the US to live. I think it's wonderful they want to be Americans and I wish them all well. But more importantly, I wish they'd follow our laws and enter the US legally.
As inappropriate as some of Trumps comments are, at least he is speaking up about our failed immigration policies.
I am not for a "free gateway to citizenship", simply because illegals have managed not to be deported while they are hiding out in our country. America cannot house the world, which is why we have laws in effect as to how many immigrants are allowed to enter the US. I am all for immigrants coming to the US to live. I think it's wonderful they want to be Americans and I wish them all well. But more importantly, I wish they'd follow our laws and enter the US legally.
As inappropriate as some of Trumps comments are, at least he is speaking up about our failed immigration policies.
58
Maybe you should take a minute and do a little research about what has actually happened with respect to illegal immigration under the Obama administration. Border crossings are way down (more than 50%) and deportations of illegals almost double the rate they were under George W. Bush. Easy to confirm on Google.
5
I agree with you, Valerie, except that the new wave of immigrants do NOT want to be Americans. They want American money and benefits, but not our language and customs. Decades ago, immigrants came here and had the time and desire to assimilate into our society - not anymore. And that's plain wrong.
4
With immigration laws as they are, a very small percentage of those that want to come to the US are granted visas. It becomes very difficult to follow the rules when they are stacked against you. In principle, I would agree with your point of view. Practically speaking, we can't uniformly enforce the rules we have and they need to be changed.
1
Egomania and bigoted intolerance is not a disqualifying character flaw for a POTUS candidate.
In the tradition of Strom Thurmond, George Wallace, and other prominent prejudiced buffoons who've wedged themselves into one of the major political parties throughout the our nation's history, Mr. Trump reminds me that "what goes around, comes around."
Because "good people" do not vote and tolerate nasty people who leverage the political and business system for their personal gain and who exclude decency and good manners from their behavior, we are receiving that we have "earned."
How soon before "good people," join in a non-partisan alliance to say "enough" and begin to clean out the major political parties of the weasels and miscreants who tarnish our nation's political present and future?
In the tradition of Strom Thurmond, George Wallace, and other prominent prejudiced buffoons who've wedged themselves into one of the major political parties throughout the our nation's history, Mr. Trump reminds me that "what goes around, comes around."
Because "good people" do not vote and tolerate nasty people who leverage the political and business system for their personal gain and who exclude decency and good manners from their behavior, we are receiving that we have "earned."
How soon before "good people," join in a non-partisan alliance to say "enough" and begin to clean out the major political parties of the weasels and miscreants who tarnish our nation's political present and future?
2
Now if we could just have a "Donald Trump equivalent" on the left, it would force voters into the middle where reality lies and good, useful things get done.
2
Why even try to "rein him in?" He will be irrelevant in due time. He's just another wild-card candidate on steroids. He's a bully. Either ignore him or beat him down with a better message. And the media just provides the O2 to keep him burning. One thing for sure: the Repub side is much more interesting than the Dem side. Hillary is boring, nauseating, and disgustingly condescending. And then there's nothing.
2
Interesting that it is Reince Priebus who has been tasked with trying to muzzle Trump, rather than the candidates themselves strongly disavowing Trump's statements and positions. All of this says so much about the Republican base - and the courage of the current crop of their presidential candidates - and it isn't flattering.
8
Good luck, Reince.
And may I say with great pleasure: what goes around, comes around...
You encourage lunacy, you may very well get it. And Donald Trump doesn't need to worry about funders holding the money cudgel over HIS head.
The dangerous thing here is that the completely unraveled make the partially unraveled look good, or at least intriguing to voters who don't have the patience or sophistication to do their due diligence. Rand Paul is seductively attractive to many younger voters, and Jeb, God help us, looks normal...
I*d warn my Democratic friends not to be too gleeful here, because no one makes Hillary look good. When it*s a choice between venal and crazy, many people--like me--who value their own integrity and have, most recently, been fooled twice--may very well stay home.
And may I say with great pleasure: what goes around, comes around...
You encourage lunacy, you may very well get it. And Donald Trump doesn't need to worry about funders holding the money cudgel over HIS head.
The dangerous thing here is that the completely unraveled make the partially unraveled look good, or at least intriguing to voters who don't have the patience or sophistication to do their due diligence. Rand Paul is seductively attractive to many younger voters, and Jeb, God help us, looks normal...
I*d warn my Democratic friends not to be too gleeful here, because no one makes Hillary look good. When it*s a choice between venal and crazy, many people--like me--who value their own integrity and have, most recently, been fooled twice--may very well stay home.
2
The so-called Trump problem does not even exist. Trump is simply doing the bidding of the party by creating a fuss, exactly what's needed to provide counterpoint for the other actors in the sad electoral drama.
He's not really losing the party any votes as long as the other potential candidates can play off his supposed extremism. It is directly comparable to what used to be called professional wrestling: create the image of an evil opponent just for the drama, when the whole thing is scripted, and the actors are pals.
Pretty much the same audience will cheer for Trump, and he'll approach the convention running strong, or at least noisy. Then, he drops out at the critical moment, making the actual candidate look like a good guy, and the party less extreme. The only votes lost are those who weren't planning on voting anyway.
It's a script, children. But I hope it's overthought, and backfires.
He's not really losing the party any votes as long as the other potential candidates can play off his supposed extremism. It is directly comparable to what used to be called professional wrestling: create the image of an evil opponent just for the drama, when the whole thing is scripted, and the actors are pals.
Pretty much the same audience will cheer for Trump, and he'll approach the convention running strong, or at least noisy. Then, he drops out at the critical moment, making the actual candidate look like a good guy, and the party less extreme. The only votes lost are those who weren't planning on voting anyway.
It's a script, children. But I hope it's overthought, and backfires.
3
Interesting premise with several flaws. While Trump says outrageous and offensive things about so many issues, don't the real candidates, one of whom will be the nominee, look cowardly and hypocritical by not refuting him now ? For example, can anyone who did not criticize him for his odious remarks about Mexicans expect to get any Hispanic support in the general election ?
2
This is hilarious:
“'There’s a strong sense, certainly at the R.N.C., that it’s important for Fox to quickly get out information about what polls they’ll use, how they’ll address a virtual tie, what filings they are requiring,' Mr. Duprey said."
The RNC is hoping their Fox division will come up with some kind of rationale to drop Trump from the debate, and all their other front-running candidates are terrified of sharing a stage with him.
Meanwhile, despite the all the games the Coch/RNC stooges are playing--delaying a formal declaration to maximize fundraising a la Citizens United, etc., etc., etc--here comes a guy who appeals to the lowest base and can't be bought or otherwise convinced to shut up.
Between the racist, paranoid, xenophobic Confederate base and a racist, xenophobic New York real estate billionaire named (you can't make this stuff up!) Mr. Trump, this is two-jawed monster of their own making.
Careful what you wish for, guys.
“'There’s a strong sense, certainly at the R.N.C., that it’s important for Fox to quickly get out information about what polls they’ll use, how they’ll address a virtual tie, what filings they are requiring,' Mr. Duprey said."
The RNC is hoping their Fox division will come up with some kind of rationale to drop Trump from the debate, and all their other front-running candidates are terrified of sharing a stage with him.
Meanwhile, despite the all the games the Coch/RNC stooges are playing--delaying a formal declaration to maximize fundraising a la Citizens United, etc., etc., etc--here comes a guy who appeals to the lowest base and can't be bought or otherwise convinced to shut up.
Between the racist, paranoid, xenophobic Confederate base and a racist, xenophobic New York real estate billionaire named (you can't make this stuff up!) Mr. Trump, this is two-jawed monster of their own making.
Careful what you wish for, guys.
5
The GOP debates are going to be a joy to watch.
For the most part, the debates serve as a platform to the candidates to demonstrate who is the most conservative and far-right among the bunch.
Once Trump cranks it up, the rest will fall over each other trying to top Trump's claims as to the terrors of illegal immigrants.
For the most part, the debates serve as a platform to the candidates to demonstrate who is the most conservative and far-right among the bunch.
Once Trump cranks it up, the rest will fall over each other trying to top Trump's claims as to the terrors of illegal immigrants.
1
The Republican establishment had no problem with Trump's lies--no matter how extreme (for example his birther whoppers)--until his lies started to threaten their chances of getting a President elected. That's the moment they started to care and try to rein him in.
6
So, we could end up with Donald Trump vs. Bernie Sanders.
That would be interesting, to say the least.
That would be interesting, to say the least.
5
Democrats licking their chops at the prospect of Trump winning the Republican nomination should neever forget that we live in a country that elected Richard Nixon -- twice; Ronald Reagan -- twice; George W. Bush -- twi... er, well, maybe once. All it takes are shenanigans in a couple of key states like Ohio and Florida -- and maybe a friendly Supreme Court -- and we're right back in the Twilight Zone.
26
Ha! Let Mr. Trump do his thing. The more he talks (both feet in his mouth) the better the Democrats look.
2
I think Mr Trump is doing a great job expression GOP values and polices. I can understand how appealing he see appealing he seems to be to voters who are said to be the core of the Republican constituency
Of course party leaders may try to silence him, bar him from the debates. That might inspire Mr Trump to run as a third party or independent candidate. Then the GOP would have a ready made excuse for losing the 2016 presidential election.
Of course party leaders may try to silence him, bar him from the debates. That might inspire Mr Trump to run as a third party or independent candidate. Then the GOP would have a ready made excuse for losing the 2016 presidential election.
After Mitt Romney's humiliating defeat in 2012, it's no surprise the GOP brand is badly damaged. Now the Republican Party is struggling to win the White House, which is sadly isn't happening since all of their candidates at the moment are plain boring and average to the American voter. Donald Trump have name recognition, yes, but his unpredicatable nature is now creating more fear and panic for the GOP. As for Jeb Bush, he is a signature candidate, but it's highly unlikely he will win the presidency due to his father's and brother's legacy for creating the pattern of recession during their tenure. The GOP brand is broken beyond repair.
3
Mr. Trump is just a bomb-thrower, not a serious candidate, and the best way to handle him is to just ignore him and his rhetoric. He will go away soon enough once he gets bored, and realizes that no one is playing his game. The GOP should also not let itself get pulled into the press' game (and the Democrats) of demanding that his comments on immigrants be denounced by anyone prominent in the party. That's just playing on the opponent's court; direct your comments to your own beliefs on the matter, and point out that you can't be responsible for the babbling of someone who is not being politically serious.
Republicans are squirming about Trump's style. If they had any guts, they would point out that his statements are not true.
3
The reason why Donald Trump's comments on illegal immigrants offended many people is because there's some truth behind them. Mexico and the rest of Central America are exporting their poverty and the subsequent crimes associated with it to the US. Trump was just very blunt in stating this fact. Americans are supporting Trump because they are finally hearing a presidential candidate being brutally honest about his opinions that most Americans share (just look at the NYT comments regarding illegal immigration).
3
Actually, the crime rate for first generation immigrants (documented or undocumented) is far below the national average. A reasonable person would conclude that these immigrants are actually more law abiding than the "average Joe" because they do not want to get deported if caught. The crime rate among following generations of immigrants is more in line with the national average of ALL Americans. Given these facts, it seems to me that the immigrants who do commit crimes are "MADE IN THE U.S.A."; certainly not shipped in by the Mexican government as part of some nefarious conspiracy to ruin the US. Trump is a complete joke; the only question is who will be the ones laughing when this disaster has run its course?
1
"Measured tones" AKA "Dog whistle"
7
What might bring on those "measured tones" ? When enough businesses back away from Trump affiliation, he'll moderate his statements.. Till then..... this will be fun to watch. No other candidate dares to offend "the base", those numerous Republican voters who agree with Trump. Trump has taken the lid off the can of worms that is the real Republican platform and voter appeal..... contempt, venality, prejudice, bombast, materialism and cruelty.
My dad is a tea party type and he calls Trump his hero. He is positively gleeful over Trump's outrageous statements. He tells me "he's just doing it to get under the liberals' skin and it's working." My dad's a very smart man in many ways, but in this instance I don't think he can see that liberals absolutely love this--someone finally bringing the odious underbelly of the GOP out into the sunlight.
83
Real Americans have always adored the woman or man who comes right out and says what they already know, but which political correctness demands that we ignore. The GOP base which will decide this next election - by either voting conservative or staying home again - knows where Trump is right and where he is wrong, and applauds the overall message.
II will assume Jeannie never ever met Kate Steinle. Some of that doctrinaire anger would have been held back otherwise.
II will assume Jeannie never ever met Kate Steinle. Some of that doctrinaire anger would have been held back otherwise.
Can't believe it, this loose cannon narcissist with vile venom pouring out from his mouth is actually second in the polls. So he will be on the stage for the Republican Debate. All the monkeying around would be fun to watch ( sorry monkeys! ). This guy with his bluster will be in front of the camera the most while the more serious ( which is not saying much ) G.O.P. contenders will be left dithering trying to defend themselves instead of each one of them presenting their capabilities and justifying their claim to be THE CANDIDATE. Loony tunes on crazy Fox. Great for the Democrats though !!
10
Trump's another rich guy who thinks he is entitled to be President cause he is rich. What worries the 'establishment' Republicans is that he may actually pull it off and get the nomination that lose oh so badly to the Dems, probably Hillary.
6
In other words, stop giving away the GOP playbook.
8
I have to admit, this brings me great joy. My non-crazy Republican friends are distraught. They're witnessing the implosion of their party. They may lose the election if Trump bolts to run as an independent. And they may lose the election if they fail to shut down his nasty rhetoric. As this plays out, the GOP is exposed as the party of intolerant bigots and blowhards. And their tea party base just eats it up. An implosion is a truly beautiful thing to watch.
9
This is the kind of circus you get when the election process is stretched out over a ridiculously long time.
9
The lack of leadership in the GOP is appalling. They shot themselves in the foot with Sarah Palin, thinking she was vice presidential material when the country knew she was a joke. Now, they let Fox News run the show, and with their hat in their hand they ask Trump, another joke, to please "tone it down". It's really pathetic.
327
I think Donald Trump is a secret democrat exposing the racism and bigotry and elitism in the GOP. How can someone who has used bankruptcy as a business tool think he can run a democratic country that requires flexibility and negotiation? The GOP doesn't care about governing. They just want to win so they can give their friends and sponsors more tax breaks. It doesn't get any more morally bankrupt than that.
10
The problem is not really high-profile candidates being excluded from the debate. If a candidate can not place in the top 9 in any reasonably competent poll, they are not deserving of a place at the debate.
The inconvenient truth is that Trump has focused attention on the tragically flawed immigration policy of the USA.
Do not blame Trump for voicing his opinion, instead the Republican party needs to accept responsibility for avoiding public discussion among its candidates.
The inconvenient truth is that Trump has focused attention on the tragically flawed immigration policy of the USA.
Do not blame Trump for voicing his opinion, instead the Republican party needs to accept responsibility for avoiding public discussion among its candidates.
2
The corporate backers of the Republican party have never been reticent to leverage the racist and xenophobic elements of their right-wing plebeians in order to gain the support of their votes to get their politicians into office. Now that it's coming back to bite them isn't surprising. Trump is merely voicing the real sympathies of those voters, no reason for him to 'tone it down', no reason for him to toe their line as that is what gets those voters excited. The corporate backers are losing control of the herd, should be interesting to watch.
5
First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win.
3
Sometimes it's first they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they ignore you again, then you vanish into obscurity. Actually that's most times.
1
Donald, you're no Mahatma Gandhi.
Republican Party provides real entertainment every election
We had Sarah Palen who never read a magazine, Rick Perry who did not know which departments he would abolish but just wanted to abolish anyway, now we have the biggest clown of all them, Donald Trump. I thought George Bush had the monopoly on talking irrelevantly but now he is beginning to look like a real intelligent guy.
The way Republican Party is operating George Bush is probably the last Republican President for a long long time to come. Good for the country anyway
We had Sarah Palen who never read a magazine, Rick Perry who did not know which departments he would abolish but just wanted to abolish anyway, now we have the biggest clown of all them, Donald Trump. I thought George Bush had the monopoly on talking irrelevantly but now he is beginning to look like a real intelligent guy.
The way Republican Party is operating George Bush is probably the last Republican President for a long long time to come. Good for the country anyway
10
Why B/c some of what he said has a ring of truth. Sure, not all illegals are criminals, but an awful lot coming over the border are. Just look at Mexico as a nation and its obvious such corruption, murder, crime, drug profiteering. W/o doubt there are hardworking illegals here, sure bet on that. But Trump's message resonates with the masses. Gee wonder why?
7
It resonates with 10% of people who identify as Republican primary voters. Those aren't "masses."
Arnie, exactly what "masses" do you think Trump is resonating with? Half of the country are democrats; and they certainly are not for this clown. His message resonates with a relatively small percentage of the population. There will always be ignorant bigots - methinks he is resonating with them...but most certainly not "the masses".
Donald, please tone down the racist hate speech, a little. Thank you.
1
Goes to show-- God has a sense of humor.....
3
Put a toga on him and hand him a violin. Federico Fellini could not have done a better job of casting the current Republican Party.
5
Why silence him? He is such a wonderful spokesman for the far right, affording the more moderate Republicans the golden opportunity to not disavow him, thereby proving their true positions.
2
The Republicans sort of have a Frankenstein situation here. They have spend years stoking these fires, implicitly most of the time, calling for draconian solutions to immigration issues and condemning any notion of amnesty. Trump, Frankenstein on the loose, is merely capitalizing on this notion to get attention. Mr. Trump has no realistic chance to win the nomination, but he gets his moment in the sun, his ambition, and indulges himself playing politician. Win, win for Trump. Another embarrassment, another embarrassment for Republicans.
I doubt the GOP leadership can get a leash on Trump. Once his poll numbers drop, namely in people actually going to the polls to vote, he influence will wane. He will then hibernate until the next cycle.
I doubt the GOP leadership can get a leash on Trump. Once his poll numbers drop, namely in people actually going to the polls to vote, he influence will wane. He will then hibernate until the next cycle.
4
The Donald is the ultimate symbol of the "I've got mine" mentality controlling the Republican Party. I would never vote for such a man, but I do wish we could vote regarding his hair.....
2
Let's face it--if the Republicans wanted to, they could just tell Trump off publicly. But they won't, because they all are just as racist as he is (albeit more veiled in their comments) and want to appeal to racist voters without upsetting the Latino community. That community isn't stupid.
3
Who begat who? Arrange in correct order:
Ronald Reagan
Lee Atwater
Bill O'Reily
Karl Rove
Wayne LaPierre
Strom Thurmond
Andrew Breitbart
Dinesh D'Souza
Jesse Helms
Rupert Murdoch
Pat Robertson
David Duke
Ann Coulter
Rush Limbaugh
Jerry Falwell
Sean Hannity
Donald Trump
Ronald Reagan
Lee Atwater
Bill O'Reily
Karl Rove
Wayne LaPierre
Strom Thurmond
Andrew Breitbart
Dinesh D'Souza
Jesse Helms
Rupert Murdoch
Pat Robertson
David Duke
Ann Coulter
Rush Limbaugh
Jerry Falwell
Sean Hannity
Donald Trump
1
I just love how Trump frosts the Republicans! They so desperately want to stage manage their coronation, er, nomination process stuffed with has-beens, coulda-beens, and never-will-bes to make their anointed choice appear to be an organic winner.
But instead of using money and influence to squelch someone unpopular, they're being forced to play by the rules. It's like some kind of drama at a suburban country club, where the members want to exclude some nouveau riche from membership only to discover he owns half the adjoining residential property and will build a Wal Mart on it if he doesn't get to become a member.
Trump is of course the same "short fingered vulgarian" Graydon Carter anointed him in Spy magazine 25 years ago but it's highly amusing to watch him unravel the Republicans plans for world domination.
But instead of using money and influence to squelch someone unpopular, they're being forced to play by the rules. It's like some kind of drama at a suburban country club, where the members want to exclude some nouveau riche from membership only to discover he owns half the adjoining residential property and will build a Wal Mart on it if he doesn't get to become a member.
Trump is of course the same "short fingered vulgarian" Graydon Carter anointed him in Spy magazine 25 years ago but it's highly amusing to watch him unravel the Republicans plans for world domination.
If I were Priebus, the thought of Trump with the Gold Codes would be keeping me up at night.
1
Reince Priebus wants Donald Trump to "speak in more measured tones"? He'd prefer Trump expose his bigotry more subtly?
I wouldn't vote Donald Trump president of a lemonade stand. Of course, this is not meant to be an insult to lemonade stand operators, many of whom are very hard-working but not old enough to vote.
1
Maybe The Donald is starring in a new show - "Candidate Apprentice."
1
Trump's candidacy is proof of God's existence, and that She's a Democrat.
1
Most of us on the Left mock The Donald, with good reason. He's a blowhard, a failure as a businessman but a master at public relations and branding.
However: I've noticed that many of my Conservative friends and family love him. He is by far the #1 candidate mentioned by them.
Then I realized, that I really don't know anything about his political ideas. Sure, I hear the crazy quotes... but what about his ideas?
So he's against Illegal immigration. So am I, for different reasons (I believe that illegal immigration is slaughtering our American Born working/middle class.)
What are his views on the TPP?
What are his views about the Too Big To Fail Banks?
What does he propose for future income taxes? estate taxes? capital gains taxes? Does he still believe in a 0% corporate tax rate? if so, how would he handle the massive deficit?
what is his plan for Social Security and Medicare?
is he still against Gay Marriage?
is he still pro-death penalty?
does he still believe in legalization of drugs? if so, which ones?
does he support vouchers? what about Common Core or No Child Left Behind?
Obamacare?
It's time for our media to give us answers to the above questions, and stop focusing on "gotcha" moments and outlandish statements... for all of the candidates.
The Donald is a fool... no doubt. But is he any worse than Reagan or GWB?
I'd like to learn about all of the Terrible Republican Candidates for President, just in case Bernie Sanders doesn't win.
However: I've noticed that many of my Conservative friends and family love him. He is by far the #1 candidate mentioned by them.
Then I realized, that I really don't know anything about his political ideas. Sure, I hear the crazy quotes... but what about his ideas?
So he's against Illegal immigration. So am I, for different reasons (I believe that illegal immigration is slaughtering our American Born working/middle class.)
What are his views on the TPP?
What are his views about the Too Big To Fail Banks?
What does he propose for future income taxes? estate taxes? capital gains taxes? Does he still believe in a 0% corporate tax rate? if so, how would he handle the massive deficit?
what is his plan for Social Security and Medicare?
is he still against Gay Marriage?
is he still pro-death penalty?
does he still believe in legalization of drugs? if so, which ones?
does he support vouchers? what about Common Core or No Child Left Behind?
Obamacare?
It's time for our media to give us answers to the above questions, and stop focusing on "gotcha" moments and outlandish statements... for all of the candidates.
The Donald is a fool... no doubt. But is he any worse than Reagan or GWB?
I'd like to learn about all of the Terrible Republican Candidates for President, just in case Bernie Sanders doesn't win.
1
What could be better for the Democratic Party than Donald Trump running for President. Will be get to see his birth certificate?
1
Has it occurred to any other conspiracy minded people that perhaps this Trump controversy is just a carefully planned side-show, wherein Trump sacrifices himself, acts likes the rabbit in a race drawing out all the negative criticism of Republicans....early in the race as a way for other more electable candidates to denounce those positions to "seem" more moderate and seemingly friendly toward Hispanics, thus helping to close that gap? That he's charging the Democrat machine gun nest to exhaust their ammunition early so that he can clear the path for the people behind him?
When you promote lies, obfuscation, a "southern strategy", an us versus them mentality and appeal to the worst common denominator this is what you get. Donald Trump is a symptom and unfortunate outcome of these perpetuated strategies. He is just using these attitudes in a media savvy way and the GOP leadership can't stop him. They've gerrymandered themselves into this situation and deserve what they're getting, period.
All this trouble that the Republican leadership is going through to try to muzzle Trump is really the opposite of what they should be doing.
Has anyone actually watched the previous years Republican debates? With "the Donald" participating they are likely to draw about 3x as many viewers as before (including Democrats), offering the other, mostly obscure candidates, a chance to show their Presidential timber.....of course maybe that's not good, if they don't have any.............
Has anyone actually watched the previous years Republican debates? With "the Donald" participating they are likely to draw about 3x as many viewers as before (including Democrats), offering the other, mostly obscure candidates, a chance to show their Presidential timber.....of course maybe that's not good, if they don't have any.............
I knew the Republican Primary race was going to be very entertaining this time around, but this... Wow! Everybody get your popcorn!
Not that I agree with Mr. Trump or anything, but I have to say that it was refreshing to hear a declared political candidate for the highest office in the land actually speak his mind, what he really thinks, instead of the usual, evasive, insincere doublespeak we usually hear from politicians.
I think it's more this, "shoot from the hip" bluster that is contributing to his rise in the polls, and not so much what he's actually saying.
Not that I agree with Mr. Trump or anything, but I have to say that it was refreshing to hear a declared political candidate for the highest office in the land actually speak his mind, what he really thinks, instead of the usual, evasive, insincere doublespeak we usually hear from politicians.
I think it's more this, "shoot from the hip" bluster that is contributing to his rise in the polls, and not so much what he's actually saying.
I'm bringing the popcorn, this republican primary will be so fun!
I hope the protestors of Mr. Trump also are outraged by the killing of an American citizen by one such Mexican. While not all of the foreign nationals who violate US immigration laws are dangerous felons the majority of illegal aliens commit quite a number of crimes, i.e. Identity theft when they use or fabricate Social Security numbers in order to work.
Perhaps out of the uproar over Mr. Trump's comments the truth of how much damage is done to our country from illegal immigration will come out and lead to a mass deportation sooner than later.
Perhaps out of the uproar over Mr. Trump's comments the truth of how much damage is done to our country from illegal immigration will come out and lead to a mass deportation sooner than later.
5
They are.
There. I've kept hope alive for you. You're welcome!
There. I've kept hope alive for you. You're welcome!
This is one Republican debate I won't miss.
6
You will hear things which you know but which you have been trying to ignore for years. You might want to view it alone lest you blurt out agreements that get you tossed off the polite parties and get-togethers list.
Donald is the new face of the Republican Party, saying openly what all of them believe and say in private.
Thank you Don, for giving the American people a real window into the heart and soulless black hole of the party of nothing and nonsense.
Thank you Don, for giving the American people a real window into the heart and soulless black hole of the party of nothing and nonsense.
9
Translation: "Hey, Donald, we hear you and we agree with you but tone down the rhetoric, okay? Instead of 'Mexicans,' say 'illegals'- or, better still, say 'those people.' We've got enough bad press as it is and we're gonna need at least a few dozen votes from...those people. Anyway, the core already knows who to hate. So say whatever you want. Exaggerate, lie, makes no difference. But no identifiers, okay? Except, of course, for Obama and Hillary. BTW: Is it really true that you were supporting Hillary and saying nice things about her until only yesterday? Ah, never mind: forget I asked. Just ixnay on the Mexicay, okay? Gracias."
4
He's a trump all right. A trump of junk. A trump of noise. A person who gets a lot attention for no reason at all except that he has a big mouth and a ton of money. I think he should team up with Chris Christie or debate the man. It should be done underneath a hot air balloon. Whoever floats their balloon first wins.
The reason the GOP wants to silence Donald Trump, as Paul from White Plains, inadvertently points out -- is that Trump is saying what many in the GOP believe but are afraid to say. This is where the party is, as represented by Trump's stellar poll numbers. Priebus and others in the party should take a good hard look at themselves -- Donald Trump speaks for way too many of them.
394
His poll numbers are not "stellar." Considering that he's the best-known person in the GOP race his support numbers (10% and probably shrinking) are actually pathetic.
6
The problem Paul from White Plains and the rest of the Republicans field have is that they're racist bigots without the guts to admit it.
Trump's message, however crude, also attracts plenty of non-Latinos among voters who normally vote Democratic. Democratic politicians and their chorus in the media are whistling past the graveyard.
"Rein in" Trump? He's doing what Trump does--he's giving the people what they want in all its crass shameless vulgarity. He's no less authentic than Ted Cruz and he's a great deal more truthful than Scott Walker and Jeb Bush. The GOP is getting back precisely what they've been giving out for thirty years. Trump isn't an aberration. He's a fulfillment.
209
Very well stated. Particularly the last statement. Truth has been spoken.
What are they upset about? That he can't dog whistle as well as they can? That he actually just *says* what the rest of them strive to imply?
Donald Trump is the id of the GOP and they deserve every bit of damage he does to them. The rest of us will sit back and laugh.
Donald Trump is the id of the GOP and they deserve every bit of damage he does to them. The rest of us will sit back and laugh.
121
Trump is the GOP's stalking horse, but they will gladly make him their scapegoat.
7
If the GOP has no guts to banish Trump from the race, it will have no glory in November 2016.
Trump is just a disgusting, disgraceful narcisist, with big hair and a big mouth.
Trump is just a disgusting, disgraceful narcisist, with big hair and a big mouth.
21
Don't the voters get to decide? I didn't realize that the parties were allowed to choose our candidates. That is so old school.
The reality is Trump won't win the nomination. He will bloviate for awhile, a year from now this will all be forgotten.
The reality is Trump won't win the nomination. He will bloviate for awhile, a year from now this will all be forgotten.
Has there ever been a case of a party nominating someone because the rank and file literally willed it to be against the wishes of any of the Party's establishment? Yes, there might be love for Mr. Cruz or Mr. Paul, but there seems to be devotion for Mr. Trump.
With him, the paper trail is scant at best. He gets to be a sort of Rorschach test. Joe Voter will see what he wants to about Mr. Trump. No one on the right will be able to debate him, because all he'll have to do is run his monologue-like rants through talk radio. He doesn't need the debates because he's already perceived as a "job creator", which will play very well toward out of work or underemployed people who simply want a job.
Look, honestly the recovery hasn't gotten to my town. The jobs that there are require skills lots of folks don't have. And there is a never ending supply of people want to move to Atlanta to fill them. This lowers wages, in some cases to absurd levels. The so-called "idea economy" was just a way to sell people on overpriced college degrees.
Trust me, a lot of people are going to look past the racist stuff, see "Donald Trump, Billionare" and vote "yes." And it'll be because they think he will create them a job.
The Democrat Party needs to prepare for the possibility of a seemingly bullet-proof challenger. And let's be nonpartisan adults here. If he is nominated, and he doesn't win, the Republican Party really is dead.
With him, the paper trail is scant at best. He gets to be a sort of Rorschach test. Joe Voter will see what he wants to about Mr. Trump. No one on the right will be able to debate him, because all he'll have to do is run his monologue-like rants through talk radio. He doesn't need the debates because he's already perceived as a "job creator", which will play very well toward out of work or underemployed people who simply want a job.
Look, honestly the recovery hasn't gotten to my town. The jobs that there are require skills lots of folks don't have. And there is a never ending supply of people want to move to Atlanta to fill them. This lowers wages, in some cases to absurd levels. The so-called "idea economy" was just a way to sell people on overpriced college degrees.
Trust me, a lot of people are going to look past the racist stuff, see "Donald Trump, Billionare" and vote "yes." And it'll be because they think he will create them a job.
The Democrat Party needs to prepare for the possibility of a seemingly bullet-proof challenger. And let's be nonpartisan adults here. If he is nominated, and he doesn't win, the Republican Party really is dead.
7
Schadenfreude.
If only Jon Stewart could moderate this ... (sigh!).
If only Jon Stewart could moderate this ... (sigh!).
19
The Republicans have brought this on themselves. So many of them are totally insincere, prevaricating, and weak on major issues of the day, ducking and dodging and leaving an opening as large as the Grand Canyon for a Trump to emerge.
Let's face it: he's had huge success precisely because he is NOT like the other candidates. You want an opinion? He'll gladly give it, right or wrong or totally factually inaccurate, or simply bluster.
Where are JEB!, and the others in responding more forcefully to Trump's outrageous utterances? If they can't respond to Trump, how in God's name will they respond to Putin, Merkel, or anyone out there, including ISIS? All of them--Rubio, Cruz, Perry, Paul--whomever--are the most feckless lot there is. Even Reince Preibus who's never afraid to support voting rights restrictions or anything anti-liberal can't muster the courage to rein in Trump's reign of error and he's of their party!
I have no respect for anyone in the GOP, period, from their leader to their candidates. If they can't respond to a threat within their party, how on earth can we expect them to defend the United States?
Let's face it: he's had huge success precisely because he is NOT like the other candidates. You want an opinion? He'll gladly give it, right or wrong or totally factually inaccurate, or simply bluster.
Where are JEB!, and the others in responding more forcefully to Trump's outrageous utterances? If they can't respond to Trump, how in God's name will they respond to Putin, Merkel, or anyone out there, including ISIS? All of them--Rubio, Cruz, Perry, Paul--whomever--are the most feckless lot there is. Even Reince Preibus who's never afraid to support voting rights restrictions or anything anti-liberal can't muster the courage to rein in Trump's reign of error and he's of their party!
I have no respect for anyone in the GOP, period, from their leader to their candidates. If they can't respond to a threat within their party, how on earth can we expect them to defend the United States?
474
"I have no respect for anyone in the GRAND OLD PARTY, period"
Still stand by that?
Still stand by that?
Thank you, Christine!
Amen.
I can't wait for the first republican debate. Not because it will be informing, but because it will be totally entertaining.
29
There is nothing more hysterical or terrifying than the fact that Donald Trump could legitimately win the Republican presidential bid.
It speaks VOLUMES to the level of absurdity consuming today's Republican Party.
It speaks VOLUMES to the level of absurdity consuming today's Republican Party.
33
Imagine asking President Trump if he would sign the bill that Republican Congressmen were pressing today to permit display of Confederate flags at federal cemeteries!
3
I am a Democrat and liberal and I have to say that a part of me hopes he wins. He is exactly what the Tea Party ordered, and nothing would do in the Republican right wing like a win from the Donald. Yes we would have a tough four years, but can any of you think of anything else that would virtually guarantee a democratic takeover of the house and senate better than a Trump victory? I can't, so I say go Donald show the world what Republican ideals can do.
14
His ego would have us nuked to crisp before the first midterm election.
Mr. Cohen said. “He’s not beholden to special interests and large donors.”
Well, that's certainly so, unless you categorize him as his own special interest and large donor..
______________________________________________
“For years, Donald Trump has wanted to run for president in the worst way — and now he is,” said Scott Reed
Operative word here is "worst"
Well, that's certainly so, unless you categorize him as his own special interest and large donor..
______________________________________________
“For years, Donald Trump has wanted to run for president in the worst way — and now he is,” said Scott Reed
Operative word here is "worst"
13
Mr. Trump should be given time on television - a new reality version of All in the Family with the crazy antics of a billionaire businessman turned politician manque who spouts all sorts of politically incorrect statements would be a blockbuster. A little physical comedy thrown in - wild & crazy hair - and it would be irresistible.
2
Pretty sure that what Priebus said was, "Dog whistle, Donald! For God's sake, dog whistle!!"
13
The Republican Party can't handle the partisan truth that Donald Trump is speaking.
If these Republican Party "Leaders" find Donald's words objectionable, how about telling American Voters exactly where the Republican Party stands on those issues! OOPS, that would mean telling the truth which is not part of the Republican Party's platform.
If these Republican Party "Leaders" find Donald's words objectionable, how about telling American Voters exactly where the Republican Party stands on those issues! OOPS, that would mean telling the truth which is not part of the Republican Party's platform.
14
The GOP is nothing more than the obverse of the Democrats. Ironically, what Trump is pointing out is that we've had a one party money system in this nation for nearly a hundred years.
Where are the real choices when it comes time to vote? The GOP-Democratic Party centers have destroyed all opposition voices by then. It's the money that matters in both "parties".
Sounds almost fascist big-money Washington, doesn't it?
Where are the real choices when it comes time to vote? The GOP-Democratic Party centers have destroyed all opposition voices by then. It's the money that matters in both "parties".
Sounds almost fascist big-money Washington, doesn't it?
8
The fact Trump is polling so well shows that the pollsters themselves are biased and only trolling where they can make money from the "news" organizations who buy their product.
1
In the 1960s, Barry Goldwater strongly cautioned the GOP against saddling up with the religious right and the kind of people who join the John Birch Society.
Seeing vote gold in the millions of Southern whites angry over the Democratic party's embrace of civil rights, the GOP ignored him and began to craft a nativist and often hateful message.
As a result, today the GOP's most ardent primary voters are exactly the kind of people Goldwater warned could take over and ultimately destroy the party.
Donald Trump is a symptom and benefactor of all of this, not the root cause. Before this is over, the GOP may very well wish they had listened to the father of modern conservatism.
Seeing vote gold in the millions of Southern whites angry over the Democratic party's embrace of civil rights, the GOP ignored him and began to craft a nativist and often hateful message.
As a result, today the GOP's most ardent primary voters are exactly the kind of people Goldwater warned could take over and ultimately destroy the party.
Donald Trump is a symptom and benefactor of all of this, not the root cause. Before this is over, the GOP may very well wish they had listened to the father of modern conservatism.
17
Donald Trump's presidential campaign is God's gift to the Democratic Party. I bet the incumbent party is holding its breath and crossing its fingers in hopes that Mr. Trump wins its party's nomination!
6
Imagine impressario Trump selling tix to the best standup in town...the GOP debates with him debating Ted Cruz and Rand Paul!
1
No one puts The Donald in a corner. Lips pursed, red tie swinging, pink shirt glowing, orange comb-over slightly out of place, he comes out swinging like a turn of the century clown with whiskey on his breath. Perhaps the firing from NBC will sober his rhetoric, put him in line, but I doubt it. The Donald will double down, triple down himself into his own corner of obscurity. American politics is alive and well.
9
Freedom of speech cuts all ways. Whether you agree or not, Donald has a point of view that should not be silenced. We are all talking about it because we are listening and there are enough people who agree with him.
Also, if we always say that "anyone can be president" why not Donald? However, I am concerned that a Trump administration could open an era of more war, more poverty, richer corporations, and more division in our society.
Also, if we always say that "anyone can be president" why not Donald? However, I am concerned that a Trump administration could open an era of more war, more poverty, richer corporations, and more division in our society.
1
I am puzzled as to why such deference is given to this man. No one seems to want to make the statement "He is a crazy person who we have no control over" If media outlets choose to follow him so be it, but he represents no one except for a small, vocal fringe of voters who identify with many themes of the Republican party." I would like to see Republicans get down to participating in the serious conversation of public policy in America. To continue pandering to this vocal niche only confirms the marginalization of the GOP in mainstream politics.
Mr. Trump is clearly delusional and quite crazy ( "eccentric" for the wealthy ) and the media to give him the level of attention he's getting reflects a failure in editorial and management policy to inform the American public. Dial it back and chuckle for what it is.
Mr. Trump is clearly delusional and quite crazy ( "eccentric" for the wealthy ) and the media to give him the level of attention he's getting reflects a failure in editorial and management policy to inform the American public. Dial it back and chuckle for what it is.
6
Careful, he might sue you for definition of character!
Speaking in "More measured tones" isn't what Republican candidates need. They need a heart, a brain, and character development. Oh, and some, like Rick Perry and Ted Cruz, need about 100 points more in the IQ department.
And Republicans in Congress, trying to slip in allowing the Confederate flag to fly at federal cemeteries in a spending bill at the last minute... What are they thinking? Is this a joke or are they serious? FEDERAL cemeteries flying the Rebel CONFEDERATE flag! Jeesh, will they never learn?
And Republicans in Congress, trying to slip in allowing the Confederate flag to fly at federal cemeteries in a spending bill at the last minute... What are they thinking? Is this a joke or are they serious? FEDERAL cemeteries flying the Rebel CONFEDERATE flag! Jeesh, will they never learn?
9
What if Trump clarified his remarks about Mexicans, and said the following: "while the great majority of illegal immigrants are good people, our porous borders are still letting in many criminals and gang members, and we need to secure the border." That would be a perfectly reasonable (and true) statement. Yet liberals would still complain and likely call the statement racist. The point is not what Trump said, but the fact that you can't even raise the issue of illegal immigration without being branded a bigot by the left.
7
Yes, the point is what Donald said and how it sounded and what he meant. It didn't need or allow for any explanation or contextualizing. He wasn't raising a point about illegal immigration but about an entire ethnic group, unambiguously adding his uncertainty that some of them might be good people.
Liberals would still complain?
That sounds like a hypothesis worth testing.
Tell you what: You get an appointment with Mr. Donald and ask him to do just that. And when he stops laughing, let us know what he said.
That sounds like a hypothesis worth testing.
Tell you what: You get an appointment with Mr. Donald and ask him to do just that. And when he stops laughing, let us know what he said.
The GOP establishment may be refusing to control the border, but the Obama administration has been far more assiduous and diligent than any previous administration. Look it up: deportations are running at double the rate they were under George W. Bush.
1
The real story is not DT's comments, but the silence from the othe candidtes. The RNC does not disapprove of the comments, only that the others are struggling to rebut the comments.
Can we be sure Hillary didn't dispatch him to sabotage the GOP?
2
No, it was Bernie who set up the Donald---don't give Hillary the credit!
1
"Fox News and Facebook will host the first Republican primary debate of the 2016 presidential race on Aug. 6 in Ohio. The debate, to be presented in conjunction with the Ohio Republican Party, will be held at the Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland." Per foxnews.com
The Donald isn't called "The Donald" for nothing.
Republican Party leaders? Their ministrations must leave him quaking in his fur lined boots. He will eat them for lunch, then go on chest-thumping and sticking fingers in other people's eyes.
I relish the thought of The Donald standing on the debate stage bellowing and sucker-punching those quivering Namby-Pambies.
Republican Party leaders? Their ministrations must leave him quaking in his fur lined boots. He will eat them for lunch, then go on chest-thumping and sticking fingers in other people's eyes.
I relish the thought of The Donald standing on the debate stage bellowing and sucker-punching those quivering Namby-Pambies.
5
Donald Trump is behaving exactly as he does on Celebrity Apprentice and he is reveling in the acrimony and controversy he so deftly creates as he manipulates the media. Trump may be the consummate people's entertainer but he is not the people's president or leader. From head to toe, he's pure faux.
3
The Don says hateful, malicious, defamatory, divisive, racist bunk, but even more frightening than that man is that he has a receptive audience.
8
"I know it's tough but if you could tone it down that wouldn't be bad." Jeez!! Give me a break, is this the best the Republican leadership can do? Why not show a little guts and simply disown Trump and is his racist views once and for all? Is this not an option for the Republican leadership? Of course, assuming they don't in their hearts share his views, perhaps too big of an assumption.
6
Can't some journalist please, please ask Trump where he thinks Confederate flags are appropriate to display?
I'm sure he'll tell you -- and the entire history of the American Presidency may be changed in a heartbeat.
I'm sure he'll tell you -- and the entire history of the American Presidency may be changed in a heartbeat.
When it comes to The Donald, Obama or the Democratic side of the aisle - This is the utterly typical strategic method of the GOP - shut down the voice that bothers you.
If the GOP had any sense - or guts - their members would all be loudly and publicly letting us know how they are not what Trump represents. But no - too much effort - much easier to toss the noisemaker off the boat rather than grab hold of the wheel and try to steer it.
If the GOP had any sense - or guts - their members would all be loudly and publicly letting us know how they are not what Trump represents. But no - too much effort - much easier to toss the noisemaker off the boat rather than grab hold of the wheel and try to steer it.
They, the GOP, know unequivocally which side their bread is buttered on. Now, how to manage this debacle so as not to alienate the faithful clown car base?
The GOP wants to rein in Donny now that it looks like he will cost them dearly with the latino vote but they gave him free rein to slander the President of the United States of America with that "birther" nonsense for 4 years. When a political party is this bankrupt they need someone this acquainted with bankruptcy to show them how low they can go.
9
The request is hypocritical as Trump is saying exactly what most Republican candidates and officials have been saying for years, -remember Romney's 47 %-although Trump is more blunt.
To the Republican leadership and its chatter boxes at Fox there is no room in the US for the poor, the sick, immigrants of all kinds, hispanics, blacks, asians, native americans, gays, the young and the unemployed.
Trump is simply one more Republican candidate appealing to their remaining base.
To the Republican leadership and its chatter boxes at Fox there is no room in the US for the poor, the sick, immigrants of all kinds, hispanics, blacks, asians, native americans, gays, the young and the unemployed.
Trump is simply one more Republican candidate appealing to their remaining base.
4
The GOP is getting the taste of its own medicine. They have been deceitful, lying and disgusting from day one. Now they have to pay the piper. Donald Trump is the only one who didn't play games or fabricated massive lies. He may have exaggerated some of his remarks, true, his message is very clear, he is the only trustworthy Republican on the scene right now. If they don't like it, they should have been more considerate in the first place. He is to the Republican Party what Mr. Sanders is to the Democrats. They're both straightforward. I like the fact that Donald Trump cannot be bought or corrupted. the same is true for Bernie Sanders. Thursday night interview on MSNBC Donald. Trump came out clearly the winner. Donald Trump is a man who will serve well this country. I am 100% behind him on the issue of or illegal immigration and bringing back manufacturing and jobs to the USA I will be more inclined to vote for him on the basis of these two issues. I consider him more of an independent than a Republican. I have been a Democrat all my life. I will have no problem giving my vote and influencing others on the basis of illegal immigration and securing the border. I believe that he will do exactly what he said. I like everything about Bernie Sanders, except his stand on immigration. the problem with the present Republican Party is that when they don't like something they put this under the rug, bad policy.
39
Bringing back manufacturing to the US would be a great thing but until Donald Trump (or anyone else for that matter) provides a plan for how they are going to do that, it's nothing but posturing. I find it particularly galling coming from Trump when he has had products manufactured overseas rather than in the United States. He's said that he "had" to do that because he's a businessman. Why would he expect other businesses to behave differently than him?
3
Donald Trump is far from honest. He's not even a Republican. He is a former fundraiser for Hillary Clinton.
1
First of all, you won't have that opportunity unless you intend to write in your vote, as there is no way he will be the gop nominee and even if he runs as an independent, an apt description given that he's switched sides and ideologies more often than wives(3) or bankruptcies (at least four), he will do nothing but cut into the votes for the actual gop candidate.
If you honestly think that Donald Trump is "telling it like it is" or that his preposterous claims to be able to "personally" bully ISIS or Putin or the Mexican government into submission, ie make his Mighty Mouse fantasies come to fruition, you must be exceedingly gullible. You might as well start looking around for another candidate, who might have some of the necessary ingredients to actually govern, like a healthy but normal sized ego, at least a modicum of governing experience and what the heck, a soupcon of common sense.
If you honestly think that Donald Trump is "telling it like it is" or that his preposterous claims to be able to "personally" bully ISIS or Putin or the Mexican government into submission, ie make his Mighty Mouse fantasies come to fruition, you must be exceedingly gullible. You might as well start looking around for another candidate, who might have some of the necessary ingredients to actually govern, like a healthy but normal sized ego, at least a modicum of governing experience and what the heck, a soupcon of common sense.
Trump is the Tea Party with a Manhattan dress code and a symptom of the Republican Party state of entropy, bombarded by neutrons flying off the American zeitgeist of anger and resentment. Half life is not known. Can't bury it in Yucca Mountain either.
Prominence of GOP ogres reaching beyond blogs into traditional media proves the party is in runaway oxidation. Boundaries are obliterated. Leadership cannot plan.
Prominence of GOP ogres reaching beyond blogs into traditional media proves the party is in runaway oxidation. Boundaries are obliterated. Leadership cannot plan.
1
No way in the world Fox or any other network (I won't call them a news network) would keep Trump out of the debate. Are you kidding? He is ratings gold! If they did Trump would almost certainly launch a third party candidacy, which is what the GOP fears most. He'd be Ross Perot on steroids!
1
Palin-Bachmann-Trump. It began in 2008, accelerated in 2012, and now the GOP's clown car is running smoothly toward the cliff, or is that the edge of the flat-world view they have cultivated for so long? It just took a black President for the modern Republican party to go crazy, scream, and pull its hair out by its ol' Dixie-crat roots. KA-PLOOIE!!
4
The child of Fox News and Republican hyperbole and fearmongering is told to sit down and shut up. The snake eating its own tail. How interesting.
7
Of course republicans hate him, he's their unfiltered uncle spewing the unabashed truth of what they all really believe but never could say.
5
Republicans have been stoking the flames of these ideas and policies for years. The only difference between Trump and the rest is, Trump has no censor.
And now, Republicans are tired of him? Tough. Having given in to their political id for more than twenty years now, they should at least have the guts to own the consequences. I believe this is what is known in GOP circles as "personal responsibility," yes?...
And now, Republicans are tired of him? Tough. Having given in to their political id for more than twenty years now, they should at least have the guts to own the consequences. I believe this is what is known in GOP circles as "personal responsibility," yes?...
3
Look, I can't stand him, he's confusing financial success with brains, and conflating luck with skill, but let's credit the man for calling it like he sees it.
Even though I might vehemently disagree with a politician (although, in this instance, I think the problems associated with illegal immigrants into this country are being vastly under-reported), I do admire straight-talk. It's the weasel-y political types that creep me out.
Even though I might vehemently disagree with a politician (although, in this instance, I think the problems associated with illegal immigrants into this country are being vastly under-reported), I do admire straight-talk. It's the weasel-y political types that creep me out.
5
Say what you want either way about Donald Trump but I always appreciate anyone in the political arena who says what he thinks. The last Republican to do that was Rudy Giuliani; I certainly did not like everything he said but I appreciated that he was willing to share his candid thoughts and not be more concerned with appealing to the largest number of voters. And for that, he was ostracized by other Republicans, even barred from attending the 1996 Republican convention.
All the candidates, regardless of party, should agree to take a live polygraph during any debate; then we'd know what they think. Trump would be the only one to agree. I think someone like that deserves to express his point of view--we can sort out what we think of it later.
All the candidates, regardless of party, should agree to take a live polygraph during any debate; then we'd know what they think. Trump would be the only one to agree. I think someone like that deserves to express his point of view--we can sort out what we think of it later.
1
I absolutely don't believe for a minute that Trump believes a single word he says. Have you forgotten that he went on national television a few years ago and said "I have investigators in Hawaii looking for the President's birth certificate, and you won't believe what they are finding"? That was a complete fabrication and when asked about it now, he ducks and says, That was 3 years ago." Do you consider bald-faced lying and slander to be OK, as long as a few years pass? Also, he rails against illegal immigrants, while having them work on his projects. That is OK with you?
Sorry, outrageous does not equal honest. Trump is simply pandering to get attention.
Sorry, outrageous does not equal honest. Trump is simply pandering to get attention.
1
Trump is the best Trojan horse the Democrats could ever dreamed off, and He is rich enough to self fund his campaign until the end of the presidential nomination.
1
Some Republicans fear that Donald Trump will hurt the Republican Party. Oh REALLY?! He provided the perfect platform for all DECENT people of BOTH parties to come out and say "look, we can deal with the problem of illegal immigrants BUT what Donald Trump said was RACIST and 100% NOT acceptable in any way as part of our discussion, PERIOD!" Did they do that? NO. The chairman of that GOP called, after WEEKS, and had what.....a 10 minute call and to accomplish what? Give me a break, they're ALL racist in their views on that side of the political spectrum and Trump, if nothing else, is bringing it out into the open because anyone who doesn't repudiate him SHARES his HATEFUL views. Clear enough now?!
2
Wait until the Yahoos among the GOP rank and file hear Trump's views on guns. He's against any kind of gun control. That'll cement the bromance.
"Rein him in'? Good luck with that one. And the ones that are panicking now are the one's that let him loose in the first time! THEY let him loose. And now they're running for the hills. Brings to mind the phrase: "What goes around, comes around". Or maybe "Give and ye shall receive"? There is very little about politics these days that brings on any kind of positive vibe in any way, shape or form, but I have to say seeing Trump's name, face and, most especially, his words followed by "Republican candidate for President" all over TV and the newspapers is making me laugh harder than I have in quite awhile. Keep it up, Mr. Trump. I need something to smile about when it comes to anything having to do with elections.
2
“California taxpayers are now spending approximately $2.5 billion each year on illegal immigrants, while the needs of our foster youth, homeless, mentally ill and crime victims Veterans, go unmet,” said Antonovich. “We must serve the needs of our community, before serving those who are here illegally.”
This is why we must vote for legitimate Conservatives, such as Donald Trump in 2016. Second on my list is Ted Cruz, as he is speaking out about the invasion as well. If you vote for GOP elitists as Jeb Bush, or Hillary Clinton, there will be no enforcement at the border as they owe their allegiance to their corporate owners. Transnational Corporation have owned Washington for decades. They buy the votes in Congress. Their dollars buy loyalty of the majority of lawmakers, who have sworn allegiance to citizens of this great nation. There will be no barrier constructed at the border, to stop the pauper driven people into our communities.
This is why we must vote for legitimate Conservatives, such as Donald Trump in 2016. Second on my list is Ted Cruz, as he is speaking out about the invasion as well. If you vote for GOP elitists as Jeb Bush, or Hillary Clinton, there will be no enforcement at the border as they owe their allegiance to their corporate owners. Transnational Corporation have owned Washington for decades. They buy the votes in Congress. Their dollars buy loyalty of the majority of lawmakers, who have sworn allegiance to citizens of this great nation. There will be no barrier constructed at the border, to stop the pauper driven people into our communities.
8
One study shows illegal immigrants add $130 billion a year to our gross domestic product. Many Californians recognize we are very dependent on illegal immigrants for a variety of jobs. We have a fairly realistic view here that jobs would not be filled by others, and some businesses are highly dependent on this workforce. Many conservatives recognize this, but continue to pander to their base.
The GOP establishment may be refusing to control the border, but the Obama administration has been far more assiduous and diligent than any previous administration. Look it up: deportations are running at double the rate they were under George W. Bush.
1
The GOP created the Tea Party. They endorsed the Southern Strategy, giving racism a welcome home in their party. And they created Donald Trump.
The GOP is responsible for the income gap, that nasty little condition where your paycheck doesn't go as far as it used to, where the American Dream is no longer a reality for most Americans, and where billionaires write the laws that the rest of us have to live by.
Donald Trump, weird hair, ugly rhetoric, taxpayer-socialized bankruptcies and all, is a product of the Republican Party. They cannot rein in the monster they have created.
The GOP is responsible for the income gap, that nasty little condition where your paycheck doesn't go as far as it used to, where the American Dream is no longer a reality for most Americans, and where billionaires write the laws that the rest of us have to live by.
Donald Trump, weird hair, ugly rhetoric, taxpayer-socialized bankruptcies and all, is a product of the Republican Party. They cannot rein in the monster they have created.
41
Agree. For them to pretend he is not their heart and soul and face (and hair) is absurd. Instead of trying to "rein" him in, they should spur him on. It's working.
Trump has gotten where he is by attacking the Republican establishment. The more he denounced the GOP leadership, the more voters support him. Obviously, asking him not to do this will just add fuel to the fire.
"Jobs for American Workers" is a potent slogan. Attacking big business and free trade will be highly effective, both on the right and on the left.
"Jobs for American Workers" is a potent slogan. Attacking big business and free trade will be highly effective, both on the right and on the left.
33
You think the right will attack big business? Was yesterday your birthday?
Imagine Trump meeting with foreign leaders, negotiating how to handle Greece's EU default and potential bankruptcy.
22
Well he has international business experience, so he'll be really good at it. That's how it works, right?
Well, one thing is for sure, he can say "been there, done that"!
The GOP continues down a slippery slope. Donald Trump is one of their problems. Congress just stopped an appropriations bill which has amendment to allow the Confederate Battle Flag at National Cemeteries. This amendment was pushed by southern House members. A great example GOP problems.
Donald Trump's comments are not far off what the average Republican thinks. The rhetoric has been part of conservative radio talk shows for years, and now is mainstream GOP thinking. Mr. Trump just said in public, what most GOP politicians say in private.
It hard to stop someone from saying something, which one also believes in. The hypocrisy of today's GOP. The party, that deep inside, thinks that the United States belongs to White Anglo-Saxon Protestants. Catholics, Mormons, Jews, Muslims, immigrants, et al. have no place in America. And that the nation's ills, were not caused by greedy, wealthy people and deregulation, but by Mexicans, and others, illegally crossing the border.
Add to this, a party that has taken over state after state to push their agenda, and gerrymander districts so they retain control of Congress. Creating laws that makes it difficult to vote. For example, a student ID at Texas A&M is not good enough to vote (photo on it), but a State of Texas Hunting License can be used (no photo on it).
No, Donald Trump is a symptom of a very large GOP problem. A party, and supporters, so out of touch that they rule because 2/3 of voters are so disgusted with politics.
Donald Trump's comments are not far off what the average Republican thinks. The rhetoric has been part of conservative radio talk shows for years, and now is mainstream GOP thinking. Mr. Trump just said in public, what most GOP politicians say in private.
It hard to stop someone from saying something, which one also believes in. The hypocrisy of today's GOP. The party, that deep inside, thinks that the United States belongs to White Anglo-Saxon Protestants. Catholics, Mormons, Jews, Muslims, immigrants, et al. have no place in America. And that the nation's ills, were not caused by greedy, wealthy people and deregulation, but by Mexicans, and others, illegally crossing the border.
Add to this, a party that has taken over state after state to push their agenda, and gerrymander districts so they retain control of Congress. Creating laws that makes it difficult to vote. For example, a student ID at Texas A&M is not good enough to vote (photo on it), but a State of Texas Hunting License can be used (no photo on it).
No, Donald Trump is a symptom of a very large GOP problem. A party, and supporters, so out of touch that they rule because 2/3 of voters are so disgusted with politics.
62
The focus of Donald Trump's outlandish behavior is right where he wants it.
But it is misplaced. Less attention should be paid to the publicity hound and more attention paid to those willing to support him.
The danger to our country comes not from a media-savvy blowhard; it comes from a swath of society that, more than a mere fringe on the political right, has penetrated the Republican Party to an extent that makes the GOP uncomfortable. The danger is in what Donald Trump reveals about us - the citizens who respond to polls today and who will vote tomorrow. Bigots and fools vote and Mr. Trump is saying what they want to hear.
With or without their current spokesman, these people represent the worst of us and we collectively put our heads in the sand if we focus on their mouthpiece of the moment - manipulated exactly as he would want.
But it is misplaced. Less attention should be paid to the publicity hound and more attention paid to those willing to support him.
The danger to our country comes not from a media-savvy blowhard; it comes from a swath of society that, more than a mere fringe on the political right, has penetrated the Republican Party to an extent that makes the GOP uncomfortable. The danger is in what Donald Trump reveals about us - the citizens who respond to polls today and who will vote tomorrow. Bigots and fools vote and Mr. Trump is saying what they want to hear.
With or without their current spokesman, these people represent the worst of us and we collectively put our heads in the sand if we focus on their mouthpiece of the moment - manipulated exactly as he would want.
364
Remember all of the Republican leaders and would-be presidential candidates who have traveled to New York to figuratively kiss Mr. Trump's ring. This has only served to further inflate his ego (if that is possible). Now they are not so sure that they should have given homage to him.
4
The fools are the people who don't vote.
7
...and much of the time it's the people who DO vote, those who vote for people like trump.
4
This is great, really, the Republican party is getting hoist upon its own petard. I was never too clear on that expression but it turns out a petard is an explosion, and the phrase means that by setting off a bomb in an attack, the bomb goes off too soon (or whatnot) and the petard hoists the attacker into the air (which can often be fatal or at least really bad).
So the literal meaning is fitting too, as Trump is a bombastic loose cannon, always explosively tempermental, extremely antagonistic, and unpredictable. And his fireball delivery is getting all over the GOP campaign, and igniting all sorts of unintended consequences.
Naturally, Trump is completely ignorant of all things having to do with government, foreign policy, the military, the overall economy, social needs, compassion, logistics, compromise, being trustworthy, and every other thing that a President should have knowledge of. So he's not going to be Pres., but it's great that the GOP is having to deal with this clod, because he's their id. He's the reactionary, racist, uninformed bully that is the worst of and the core of the Republican party.
So it's good he brings their essential hate-filled ignorance to the forefront; that's where his support is coming from and it's good to get this segment of society out into the open. And if he actually did catastrophically win, it would be proof positive that America has fallen for good and will fade out like Rome.
So the literal meaning is fitting too, as Trump is a bombastic loose cannon, always explosively tempermental, extremely antagonistic, and unpredictable. And his fireball delivery is getting all over the GOP campaign, and igniting all sorts of unintended consequences.
Naturally, Trump is completely ignorant of all things having to do with government, foreign policy, the military, the overall economy, social needs, compassion, logistics, compromise, being trustworthy, and every other thing that a President should have knowledge of. So he's not going to be Pres., but it's great that the GOP is having to deal with this clod, because he's their id. He's the reactionary, racist, uninformed bully that is the worst of and the core of the Republican party.
So it's good he brings their essential hate-filled ignorance to the forefront; that's where his support is coming from and it's good to get this segment of society out into the open. And if he actually did catastrophically win, it would be proof positive that America has fallen for good and will fade out like Rome.
45
Excellent analysis!
Keep it coming, Donald!! You re the Uboat commander who will sink the Republican ship of fools!
GSK
GSK
47
The fact that Trump is polling so well just reinforces the conventional wisdom about the people who identify themselves as Republicans.
Trump is just saying out loud what the GOP believes and stands for- so why try to muzzle him? The GOP should try for once to be honest about who they are. They are happy to be themselves in private meetings- like Romney's 47% moocher comment that he didn't know was being recorded. Every Republican I know believes this with their heart- so why bother to hide it? We know it, they know it and they know we know it- so don't lie- be honest about it. At least Trump is honest about it.
Trump is just saying out loud what the GOP believes and stands for- so why try to muzzle him? The GOP should try for once to be honest about who they are. They are happy to be themselves in private meetings- like Romney's 47% moocher comment that he didn't know was being recorded. Every Republican I know believes this with their heart- so why bother to hide it? We know it, they know it and they know we know it- so don't lie- be honest about it. At least Trump is honest about it.
120
The problem is that most of the American people are not knuckle draggers. The time honored GOP tactic is to use dog whistle language to speak to the knuckle draggers so you can weasel your way out of what you said in the primaries without getting the mud you slang all over yourself.
Trump just believes that there are more knuckle draggers than we do, so he's dispensed with the pretense. We shall see.
Trump just believes that there are more knuckle draggers than we do, so he's dispensed with the pretense. We shall see.
The ONLY people who even pretend they don't know Trump is truly, purely representative of the once GOP is the US press.
But, they can't report the facts when they are wedded to false equivalence.
But, they can't report the facts when they are wedded to false equivalence.
1
Donald Trump says in public what a sgnificant number of far right wing Republicans actually believe. When asked a question, all Trump does is make self-aggrandizing statements, and attacks. He never actually answers any question that he is asked. The far right wings loves that sort of behavior. Who needs facts when brash behavior and "playing to the audience" is possible? The rest of the Republicans realize that he is completely toxic.
The big problem for the Republicans is that Trump has enough money that he cannot be forced out of the race by others who might control the availability of funds, as would be true for many others of the nearly 20 potential Republican presidential hopefuls.
I wonder how well the Republicans like the Citizens United decison now.
The big problem for the Republicans is that Trump has enough money that he cannot be forced out of the race by others who might control the availability of funds, as would be true for many others of the nearly 20 potential Republican presidential hopefuls.
I wonder how well the Republicans like the Citizens United decison now.
507
Citizens United is not relevant. There has never been a limit on how much of one's own money one can spend on oneself.
I know I do! :)
Trump says in public, what most regular Americans actually believe.
It's pretty conspicuous that the GOP was not worried about Donald Trump when he was besmirching President Obama, but are now that he is tarnishing their name for a national election. As a peripheral figure, Trump was not censured within his party for libelous comments about Obama's nationality and other allegiances. He was put on Fox News, making defamatory assessments about the President, as if he spoke as an authority. Now, the Republicans' chicken has come home to roost!
68
Gotta love the quoted comment of Scott Davis: "For years, Donald Trump has wanted to run for president in the worst way-- and now he is." Nice to see we can count on the US Chamber of Commerce to be on the right side of everything.
10
All I ever wanted to know about Trump and how little character he possesses was revealed in his rabid birtherism against our president. I intuit that Trump is probably like a shark businesswise and get that he is reasonably successful at collecting great piles of cash. Lots of people with lesser smarts collect wads of cash, viz. Romney, Cheney, Hastert, the Kochs. So, I wish the media would stop saying Trump is smart. He is not smart; he is delusional and his delusions are so far out that dimmer lights, really dim, may take them for profundity.
If I were a paranoid tea partier or other republican type, I might just think that Trump is a construct and a pawn put up by the democrats to ensure Hillary's election. After all, among other things, Trump used to be a democrat and once supported Clinton, but then that probably was before he came under the intellectual prowess of Sarah Palin and Reince Prebus.
No, you get what you see with Trump and nothing more: a rumple-suited, grotesquely-coifed, small-mouthed, beady-eyed buffoon whose loud noise making most resembles elephantine wind breaking.
If I were a paranoid tea partier or other republican type, I might just think that Trump is a construct and a pawn put up by the democrats to ensure Hillary's election. After all, among other things, Trump used to be a democrat and once supported Clinton, but then that probably was before he came under the intellectual prowess of Sarah Palin and Reince Prebus.
No, you get what you see with Trump and nothing more: a rumple-suited, grotesquely-coifed, small-mouthed, beady-eyed buffoon whose loud noise making most resembles elephantine wind breaking.
20
Agree with you wholeheartedly, just wish you wouldn't have insulted the elephants.
Isn't democracy a pain in the behind for Republicans?
14
The problem with democracy is that it seems to require the participation of the public.
Is Trump really the problem of all Republicans? If he keeps running his insane mouth, why is that a Republican problem? No one in their right mind, regardless of their political leanings, takes him seriously. Too bad he didn't jump out Democrat. It would have sealed it for Hillary. Isn't Debbie Wasserman Shultz the Democratic National Chair? Maybe she can call Ms. Clinton and ask her to stop lying about her subpoena, stop roping off reporters, and start telling the trugh and taking questions.
2
Kimbo, you state: "Is Trump really the problem of all Republicans? If he keeps running his insane mouth, why is that a Republican problem? No one in their right mind, regardless of their political leanings, takes him seriously."
The answers are: Yes, and it is a Republican problem because he is one of their candidates for President. (I was going to say "presidential candidate, but Trump is not "presidential.") As far as your last statement, how can you say that no one "takes him seriously" when is running at the top of the pack?
The answers are: Yes, and it is a Republican problem because he is one of their candidates for President. (I was going to say "presidential candidate, but Trump is not "presidential.") As far as your last statement, how can you say that no one "takes him seriously" when is running at the top of the pack?
Rein him in? He's the very face and voice of their constituency. Rumors that he is a Democrat mole working to defame and discredit the Republican Party by demonstrating the truth of it are surely not true.
20
What this country needs is more Donald Trumps. Thank goodness there is somebody left in a position of economic and political power to show Americans what our country has become. We are a nation of politically correct cowards, too afraid of being criticized for speaking truth. The goal of the left is to stifle dissent and discussion. They prefer government control of your life and if you complain you better be ready to be branded as mean spirited, a misogynist, a racist, or worse. As with Trump, they will cower anyone you do business with to shun you. Is that the type of country you want to live in?
90
Who, exactly, "cowered" (if I use your phrase correctly) whom, to shun Trump?
4
But Donald Trump isn't just branded as mean spirited, misogynist, racist by the media: these are the qualities he deliberately exudes. Moreover, just because someone is willing to say mean, racist things in public does not mean he is speaking the truth, although it does reveal what a mean, hateful person he truly is.
12
I would never dream of trying to stifle the Donald's right to free speech. In case you didn't notice, it'. The *Republicans* that are trying to muzzle him.
Neil Young got a cease and desist order for the Donald's unauthorized use of "Rocking in the Free World" at his announcement. I would like to propose another Neil Young song at this point: "Long May You Run."
Neil Young got a cease and desist order for the Donald's unauthorized use of "Rocking in the Free World" at his announcement. I would like to propose another Neil Young song at this point: "Long May You Run."
9
Donald Trump is most certainly entitled to his opinions. But his inflammatory language is totally unacceptable. In many respects he sounds like Dylann Roof. Is this the kind of person who should be nominated as the Republican standard bearer in 2016?
3
The GOP made its Faustian bargain, and accepted the pitiful remnant of the Confederacy as its core members. The great majority of Americans, of all political stripes, recognize them as ignorant, racist, climat change denying anti science no nothings who have captured.a major political party.
So let them have their plain speaking hate spewing spokesman. He will shout what Santorum believes; the rest of us can have a good laugh. If he should garner support from beyond the lunatic fringe, then we all have bigger problems than this buffoon.
So let them have their plain speaking hate spewing spokesman. He will shout what Santorum believes; the rest of us can have a good laugh. If he should garner support from beyond the lunatic fringe, then we all have bigger problems than this buffoon.
6
The GOP has brought this nightmare to its front door. By trying to appeal to an ever more extremist wing of its party, the result is this. The Aug. 6 debate should be most interesting and/or amusing.
7
Mr. Trump is either a "closet" liberal trying to derail the Republican Party or he's just in a self imposed ego fog. What else could explain such stupid and incendiary remarks?
4
Never underestimate the value of "ego" when considering *anything* about Donald Trump...
1
We can only hope Mr. Trump will fashion himself a "political martyr" and be "tempted" toward a third-party run.
5
So Priebus wants The Donald to stop saying publicly all the things that Republican politicians believe and have been saying behind closed doors for decades?
Too funny for words.
I've already ordered my popcorn for the first debate.
Run, Donald, run!
Too funny for words.
I've already ordered my popcorn for the first debate.
Run, Donald, run!
14
As frightening as it may be, do not underestimate Trump or overestimate the voting public. Most of these comments come from people living in metropolitan areas and read the NYT... drive 20 miles outside your metropolitan area and talk to people. There are a lot of people living "there"....
George Bush Jr. got elected a second time despite displaying a horrifying lack of intelligence, education and ability.
George Bush Jr. got elected a second time despite displaying a horrifying lack of intelligence, education and ability.
35
And the American people paid a very high price. Both times. Just go visit Arlington Cemetery.
Ah, you made me lose my laughter, for now anyway. Sadly, I agree with you. Down here in my area, semi-rational friends have started talking about how "real" he is. However, I still can't help, but grin when I see him pop up all over the media. I know, laugh now, cry later. But, I really, really need some amusement when it comes to politics right now.
1
he is not a loose canon - he is a loose broadside- he is a runaway Mack truck- he is the alien space ship over Los Angeles- he is the monster from blue lagoon. and the GOP has only itself to blame as that party has sanctioned and abetted his kind of rhetoric and policies for the past 20 years. Now the loose canons have come home to roost.
10
Historically "The Donald" is a Democrat. I posit that he is still a Democrat, that he is deliberately doing what he is doing to discredit the Republican Party and drive more moderate- thinking Republicans (there must be some) towards a centrist Democratic candidate (guess who). It is therefor in his interest to be a financially independent candidate, with no major financial patron(s) who would insist on shaping his views, and any funding he does pick up is money denied to the rest of the Republican field, both in the primaries and the election. This is a devious and cynical strategy, but I've never felt that he is stupid, or a linear thinker.
2
You would be proven right if the Donald can't win the nomination and declares as a third party candidate. Since his likely *actual* cash value is far below his claimed net worth, it would require putting his money where his big mouth is. Not bloody likely, as he has a history of not paying his debts and reliance on financing *everything* on somebody else's dime.
You might reconsider your assessment of his smarts after reading his flame war on Twitter with a TV writer. Read it and consider that he could have enlisted help, or taken his time to formulate a response:
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2015/07/06/1399563/-Donald-Trump-gets-into...
You might reconsider your assessment of his smarts after reading his flame war on Twitter with a TV writer. Read it and consider that he could have enlisted help, or taken his time to formulate a response:
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2015/07/06/1399563/-Donald-Trump-gets-into...
2
Lonely Liberal, so, Trump is a patriot that wants to reveal the true nature of the Republican party, even though it is hurting him financially? Yeah, right.
This is Bernie's diabolically clever strategy!
1
Donald Trump is unrestrained because he feels there is nothing to lose. He said he could fund his own campaign and not be under anyone's purse strings. Evidently, any financial punishment from losing contracts with Macy's or Miss America pale next to what he feels he gains from his brand as is. He has no actual political career, past or future, other than his self-styled one as a commentator. Republicans say they love unfettered capitalism, and Trump embodies it. Not so pretty in reality.
9
It's hard to hurt something as damaged as the GOP, but Trump is really, truly hurting the reputation of business. This man is obviously completely self delusional, and provides a window into the mind of business leaders that most other business leaders have been savvy enough to keep hidden.
2
Hey would be Republican presidential candidates, it is 3 a.m. again and nobody knows what to do with Donald. Since they cannot send the military, these Republicans are languishing.... What a bunch....
7
If you look at Trump as a sort of Andy Kaufman-esque performance artist, suddenly these debates get so much more entertaining.... Popping popcorn already.
21
Trump is having the time of his life. He is enjoying this attention immensely while tying the Republican party in knots. The bemused establishment Republicans don't know how to make him go away, and Trump continues his antics. It's fascinating to watch.
73
The only thing better than a Trump nomination would be a Trump 3rd Party bid.
219
If they don't nominate him he should sue.
He's already said he may not endorse the eventual nominee, so you may be prophetic.
I sure hope so. I'm dying to hear him say "I'll tell that Supreme Court You're fired!"
I sure hope so. I'm dying to hear him say "I'll tell that Supreme Court You're fired!"
He will cost the Republicans the election, why shut him up? I hope he continues to run his mouth. Run Donald Run
118
Roof and Trump. Republican malefactors.
Donald Trump is the true angry entitled voice of the GOP, which is why they want him to shut up and just give them money. I love this new development and am rooting for The Donald.
40
With conservative voters fed a constant diet of Fox pseudo-News right wing propaganda, with the GOP driven further to the right by the Tea Party extremists, with the massive shift to the ultra-right being driven by the Koch brothers and other Citizens' United-enabled uber-wealthy corporate donors, it is not surprising that a racist buffoon like Donald Trump would be highly competitive in a field of Republican contenders.
134
A little courage to speak up and publicly confront Trump's xenophobic statements by the other candidates running would probably go a long way in saving face for the GOP.
But that would mean they didn't agree with him.
But that would mean they didn't agree with him.
50
Donald Trump is a symptom, not the cause, of the current GOP problem. Decades of inflammatory rhetoric about gays, immigrants, the poor, Muslims--all designed to animate the "base" have finally come home to roost. Priebus and his pals have no one to blame but themselves. Their only misfortune is that they're now dealing with a megalomaniac.
869
You forgot to mention blacks. The GOP's southern strategy has been its North Star for going on five decades. The Republican Party exists today only because it got in bed with southern racists. It's what got Reagan elected. GHW Bush was elected because of the racist Willie Horton ads. GW Bush was only elected because his brother was governor of a southern state. Without white southerners Obama would have won twice by huge landslides. They have sewn their seeds and are now reaping the whirlwind!
6
Thank you, Michael, for getting to the heart of the matter. Given all this, I can hardly wait for the first Fox/GOP debate. I, for one, will have my phone silenced and Jiffy-Pop on hand.
2
Well put, thanks. Not to mention, Trump is saying what far too many Republicans are thinking.
1
Let Trump be Trump! If he aspires to be a serious candidate he will need to spend money (his own?) to organize, to file in primary states, and to appeal to actual voters rather than poll responders. Let's see how he accomplishes that.
But, no one should seriously consider voting for Trump until he comes clean on a very important subject. What does he actually look like under all that hair?
But, no one should seriously consider voting for Trump until he comes clean on a very important subject. What does he actually look like under all that hair?
32
There will be no reining in. You have a full blown revolt, and your political world is going to be rocked.
11
And there is nothing more revolting than Donald running his ill-informed mouth. To quote another Neil Young song: "Long May You Run."
1
The only difference between Trump and the rest of the GOP field is that he's ceased speaking in code.
558
Seems to be a number of Times commenters who like that, who find Trump 'honest' and not held back by political correctness. If Sanders is what passes for honest on the left (true, that), and Trump on the right, well, hold me, I'm scared.
Priebus telling Trump to tone it down? Hilarious! If there ever were a case of the pot calling the kettle black this is it.
On my local NPR station it was announced that Trump is leading polls among the benighted Republican electorate in NC. You know the folks who lately gave us Thom Tillis the brainy newly minted Senator who, in one of his first pronouncements from the Beltway, came out against state hand washing requirements for food service employees as too onerous a regulation on "bid'ness."
"Keep on rockin in the free world" Donald. Hillary will assure SCOTUS is safe from more right wing mandarins for another 4 years.
On my local NPR station it was announced that Trump is leading polls among the benighted Republican electorate in NC. You know the folks who lately gave us Thom Tillis the brainy newly minted Senator who, in one of his first pronouncements from the Beltway, came out against state hand washing requirements for food service employees as too onerous a regulation on "bid'ness."
"Keep on rockin in the free world" Donald. Hillary will assure SCOTUS is safe from more right wing mandarins for another 4 years.
41
The dirty little secret is that none of the republican "candidates" want to call out Trump, because they are afraid that this might alienate his rabid supporters, who they secretly hope will endorse them, once Trumps out of the picture.
29
I can't wait for the republican debates, it promises to be an unprecedented political circus and it will likely be the only program I watch on Fox this year :-)
49
Trump is picking up where Ross Perot left - propeling another Clinton to White House.
8
And this is a good thing because it reflects where much of the GOP is today. People should get to choose if they want a throw back to the 19th century or a forward looking leader.
The nerve of Reince!
Donald, do not let yourself be dictated what to do or what to say.
What a summer...
Donald, do not let yourself be dictated what to do or what to say.
What a summer...
11
So now they're trying to reign in their Frankenstein? Good luck. "The Donald" is only saying things plainly and uncloaked that the Republican Party used to convey via code.
137
Donald Trump is both good news and bad news for the GOP.
The bad news is Trump is about poke the Republicans in the eye with a sharp stick.
The good news? They get to pick which eye.
The bad news is Trump is about poke the Republicans in the eye with a sharp stick.
The good news? They get to pick which eye.
20
I know that Republicans aren't welcome in this comment section, but I want to cut you all a deal. I'll vote for Trump and you all vote for Bernie so that we all get to watch the greatest presidential debates ever. I would pay to see those two go head-to-head and really wouldn't care who won!
29
This letter reflects what is wrong with the GOP today--where FOX News has made politics a matter of entertainment. Hey folks, there is a real world out there, and we don't get to write the script!!
2
You SHOULD care who "wins". The whole point of the election process is to influence the direction the country will take -- not to provide a new "reality" show on television. You should pay more attention to the issues, and not so much to the entertainment.
Who says Republicans aren't welcome here? The section is open to anyone: foolish or wise, benighted or enlightened: makes no difference, as long as you refrain from breaking the few rules against obscenity and personal attack.
1
Why "rein him in"?. It is apparent to us Democrats that letting him run amok is better for our party. The problem for the GOP will be identifying Trump among all the other "amoks"..........
32
Yeah right, "tone it down", he's second in the polls and driving the Republican debate.
44
The GOP needs to do more than rein in Trump. They need to rein in the entire Clown Car and somehow find themselves a viable candidate for 2016. But for the sake of the country, and the world, I hope they don't.
56
Trump is a classic loose cannon.
8
The Donald has achieved one thing: He makes the rhetoric of Strom Thurmond and Jesse Helms seem 'moderate'.
15
Donald Trump is 'getting' exactly what he 'hoped' for - PUBLICITY! Let the
dog die a natural death without further reporting about the 'sickness' he
has had which was bound to kill off the suffering hound
dog die a natural death without further reporting about the 'sickness' he
has had which was bound to kill off the suffering hound
8
Let it rip Trump! Traditional stale old politics need to go by the wayside, and we need real people in those fermented chairs in Washington where all the cronyism takes place.
16
Trump is hardly fits the definition of a real person. Most real don't have four bankruptcies on their records and roadkill on their heads.
46
Real people who can tell real lies, whenever they feel like it!
1
wow, just wow. you just happily went where even angels fear to tread. That was very literally the definition of a diabolical comment. You should be more careful, for the sake of your own personhood.
You see, this is why most conservatives are conservatives, and why we can't compete with your defamation and ridicule of us.
We don't want to.
You see, this is why most conservatives are conservatives, and why we can't compete with your defamation and ridicule of us.
We don't want to.
1
Donald Trump is what the entire GOP stands for after they have collectively had 5 drinks.
Priebus knows this. He also knows that if they try to muzzle Trump he'll run as an Independent and destroy their chances of winning next year.
I SHOULD feel sorry for Priebus and his ilk, but they created this monster.
Priebus knows this. He also knows that if they try to muzzle Trump he'll run as an Independent and destroy their chances of winning next year.
I SHOULD feel sorry for Priebus and his ilk, but they created this monster.
232
It's not 5 (you're giving them too much credit), it's 1 half of a Bud Light Lime.
I read this paper daily. This is probably the first time that I have had an irresistible ear-to-ear grin for the entire time it took to read the article. I think the first debate must be a karmatic gift from the universe to Jon Stewart.
254
Come on, people. Can't we all just admit that the "debates" and all the other campaign events will be a lot more FUN with Trump in the mix? Given the inability of the larger American Public to distinguish between civic responsibility and entertainment, all this hand-wringing over The Donald makes no sense whatsoever.
164
The GOP debates would be "fun" if they were a Dean Martin roast or a Saturday Night Live sketch. But unfortunately they have real world consequences and will provide clear evidence to the rest of the world just how loony and out of touch almost half of our country is (as if they don't know that already). The GOP clown car makes the politicians of floundering Greece look downright statesmanlike. How in the world do Americans think they have the right to tell other countries how to conduct their affairs when tens of millions of them think that The Demented Donald, Cat In the Hat Cruz, Corporate Destroyer Fiorina, and Free Spending Rubio are serious presidential candidates?
9
If Republican leaders believe that Trump's accusations about immigrant workers are false, all they have to do is stand up and say so--one after the other. Be brave and tell the truth--like the Republican senator from South Carolina who said--take down that flag. When they say to Trump--moderate your rhetoric,are they saying please use nicer words when you accuse immigrant workers of being rapists and druggies?
136
I would love to see Trump be the GOP's Ralph Nadar of 2016. Any attempts to quiet this blowhard will push him more the the extreme, and even louder.
36
The “Nader Lost the Election” Myth
Gore lost by 537 votes. Nader got 97,488 so everyone blames Nader for Gore losing.
Fact #1 – Less than half of those who could have voted in Florida actually voted. This leaves over 6 million votes that could have gone to Bush or Gore. These people are the most responsible for Bush winning.
Florida votes – 5,963,110
Floridians of voting age – 12,336,374
Fact #2 – There were 10 of the 13 candidates on the Florida ballot for president that got more than 537 votes. Of these 10, two were conservative meaning those voters would have voted for Bush over Gore. The other 8 were liberal/progressive candidates meaning these voters would have voted for Gore over Bush had that candidate not run.
So the fact is that you cannot blame Nader for Bush winning. THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS THE “NADER EFFECT”. The blame is on the non-voters and noton those who voted.
Bush – 2,912,790, Republican;
Gore – 2,912,253, Democrat;
Nader – 97,488, Green Party;
Pat Buchanan – 17,484, Reform Party;
Harry Brown – 16, 415, Libertarian Party;
John Haggelin – 2281, Natural Law Party;
Monica Moorehead – 1804, Workers World Party;
Howard Phillips – 1371, Constitution Party;
David McReynolds – 622, Liberty Union Party;
James Harris – 562, Socialists Workers Party;
Gore lost by 537 votes. Nader got 97,488 so everyone blames Nader for Gore losing.
Fact #1 – Less than half of those who could have voted in Florida actually voted. This leaves over 6 million votes that could have gone to Bush or Gore. These people are the most responsible for Bush winning.
Florida votes – 5,963,110
Floridians of voting age – 12,336,374
Fact #2 – There were 10 of the 13 candidates on the Florida ballot for president that got more than 537 votes. Of these 10, two were conservative meaning those voters would have voted for Bush over Gore. The other 8 were liberal/progressive candidates meaning these voters would have voted for Gore over Bush had that candidate not run.
So the fact is that you cannot blame Nader for Bush winning. THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS THE “NADER EFFECT”. The blame is on the non-voters and noton those who voted.
Bush – 2,912,790, Republican;
Gore – 2,912,253, Democrat;
Nader – 97,488, Green Party;
Pat Buchanan – 17,484, Reform Party;
Harry Brown – 16, 415, Libertarian Party;
John Haggelin – 2281, Natural Law Party;
Monica Moorehead – 1804, Workers World Party;
Howard Phillips – 1371, Constitution Party;
David McReynolds – 622, Liberty Union Party;
James Harris – 562, Socialists Workers Party;
1
Funny but after running for President how many years in a row, he never ran again. Maybe Ralph Nadar blames Ralph Nadar too. That and a Bush Governor and SCROTUS appointees.
2
I'll be honest, if Mr. Trump can get Reince Priebus to step down I'd be very happy. After that he should go for Wayne LaPierre (NRA president). If both are gone by the primaries I might actually go vote for Trump. (Just kidding on that last part.)
8
This whole scenario is mind-boggling. Fox paints itself into a corner, GOP trying to tone Donald down and Donald doubling down. The debates will be more fun than the Superbowl -- can't wait and am buying stock in popcorn companies.
104
I have to admit that our friends are already planning watch parties and imagining-up drinking games. (But I fear the depression will set in soon afterwards…)
1
Reining in Donald Trump is the very definition of a Sisyphean task.
25
Don't pay any attention to them, Donald, don't even ignore them. But to thine own self be true, and to us keep delivering the great laffs we so desperately need.
18
Priebus frowns.
People, forget!
The spittle flies as the Donald lies.
Will people forget
Forget they're hiding
Behind the elephant's Trump?
Elephant's Trump.
(It's a put-on.)
(apologies to Pete Townshend)
People, forget!
The spittle flies as the Donald lies.
Will people forget
Forget they're hiding
Behind the elephant's Trump?
Elephant's Trump.
(It's a put-on.)
(apologies to Pete Townshend)
16
The GOP made their bed starting back in 2009. Now they must sleep in it
14
No, they made their bed in 1964 when they nominated Barry Goldwater barely three months after he voted against the Civil Rights Act. He lost in a landslide but carried the Deep South. White southerners flocked to the GOP for the first time since Reconstruction and it remains the same today.
That Southern Strategy worked like a charm in presidential elections for almost 40 years (1968-2004), but Obama proved that you can easily win without the Deep South today.
That Southern Strategy worked like a charm in presidential elections for almost 40 years (1968-2004), but Obama proved that you can easily win without the Deep South today.
14
I wish Molly Ivins were alive for this. We'd be hearing her laugh all the way up here in Oklahoma. Trump's "sucking the air out of this thing", huh? You can't make this stuff up.
188
I find it fascinating that the rumors of Trump entering the race, threatened to do so quietly for many months and most thought he wouldn't enter, produced many laughs when he announced he would announce. But with that announcement, the joke is on his fellow candidates and his party. With hate speech and racism and lies, he created a furor that catapulted his poll numbers, revealing how his party is still the party of hate and bigotry. They've found their true candidate, no pussy-footing around. And what else can this mean?
361
Perhaps half or more of the country agrees with Trump on most issues. So what makes you so special and qualified to judge someone as racist?
4
Donald Trump, speaking directly the sentiments many Republicans disguise in more indirect language, worries Republicans that they will either have to repudiate what he says, or be 'found out' for who they are. No wonder they are uncomfortable.
Can the Democrats capitalize on this? Or will they once again snatch defeat from the jaws of victory?
Can the Democrats capitalize on this? Or will they once again snatch defeat from the jaws of victory?
307
Bombast, hyperbole and high dudgeon are Mr. Trump's stock-in-trade. The only thing that will shut him up, is when someone turns those traits on him. As a mega-bucks billionaire, he has a certain vulnerability. Any demagogue could easily link him to the Wall Street shenanigans that underlay the recent depression, with the same insincere facility that Mr. Trump applies to undocumented immigrants. In this game, perception is everything; facts count little.
6
The Republican party does not represent the vast majority of Conservatives in America. The GOP couldn't care less about Illegal Immigration; the rise of Socialism; the loss of personal freedom.
The Republican Party left me a long time ago.
The more the media attacks Trump; the more Anti American corporations put pressure on Trump because of his words & ideas.....the more votes he will get.
The American public do not trust Hillary or Jeb or any other lifelong Politician. Keep underestimating the appetite the public has for Law & Order. Keep stealing from us in both Culture & Treasure and you will see a President Trump.
The Republican Party left me a long time ago.
The more the media attacks Trump; the more Anti American corporations put pressure on Trump because of his words & ideas.....the more votes he will get.
The American public do not trust Hillary or Jeb or any other lifelong Politician. Keep underestimating the appetite the public has for Law & Order. Keep stealing from us in both Culture & Treasure and you will see a President Trump.
10
Rise of socialism and loss of personal freedom, mderosa? Sheesh. Please, give us a break.
23
If Donald Trump manages to win the nomination, what you will see is all the people in this country who don't usually vote crush him like a bug.
9
Which personal freedom did you lose? Religion? You still get to go to church and worship ad you please? No federal new gun laws went into affect, so where did you lose freedom?
14
I believe if there is one true thing about Donald Trump it is that he is a true Republican and as such is their truest and most authentic spokesman.
264
Mr. Trump might be an embarrassment to the GOP not just because he puts their sentiments in such vulgar terms, but because he's a living disproof of their ideology that capitalism is a meritocracy.
258
capitalism is what made this country great or we would have ended up like the old soviet union
1
You do know Trump inherited his fortune from his father, don't you, Francis? That he's filed for bankruptcy four times and lost millions for his investors?
5
this liberal GOP establishment refuses to do what 80% of the American people want -control the border,so along comes "The Donald" and tells everyone we need to control the border and stop ILLEGAL immigration,so the RINOS have got to gather to blackball Trump.Trump owes nobody ANY political favors and he has all the money he could ever spend,so he can't be bought off by the corrupt government of Mexico like our other politicians have been...go get em Donald
17
What are you saying, Buck Mast??? The Repubs are in charge of Congress. Can't they pass bills and fund them to close the borders?? You are very misguided or don't know how government works. Even if President Obama wanted to do something, Congress has got to pass laws and fund them. Duh!!
9
No, no Steve. Buck Mast is just saying what he believes, and I think he has the right, even the responsibility to vote his beliefs in the Republican primaries. If Donald Trump is his choice, let his choice be clear.
2
The GOP establishment may be refusing to control the border, but the Obama administration has been far more assiduous and diligent than any previous administration. Look it up: deportations are running at double the rate they were under George W. Bush.
4
I didn't realize someone was running the the Republican Party. I thought they just left it up to the PAC's and the Koch brothers.
473
That there's enough morons who would vote for Donald Trump that the Republican Party is worried to lose them if he went independent says it all about the Republican Party.
9
It will be equally interesting for Mr. "Produce the Birth Certicate" to produce his financials, where we all find out how much he isn't worth.
6
Mr. Priebus, good luck.
11
Trump has made the presidential race interesting, people are sick and tired of self-interested career politicians
3
The WAPO reported that a Trump project in DC is using contractors who may be employing illegal workers. I would love to see Trump respond to this story by calling in his contractors and requiring them to use eVerify.
No question, the Donald should choose his words more carefully than he typically does about anything. But his point of view is correct and supported by many Republicans and Democrats. It will come as a shock that someone with as much baggage as Donald has will do as well as he will. Other candidates will see how much support his position on illegal immigration has and you will see more, not less, support for his position.
No question, the Donald should choose his words more carefully than he typically does about anything. But his point of view is correct and supported by many Republicans and Democrats. It will come as a shock that someone with as much baggage as Donald has will do as well as he will. Other candidates will see how much support his position on illegal immigration has and you will see more, not less, support for his position.
15
That so many Americans blame illegal immigrants, the poor, and the dark for our economic ills is a tribute to the ability of the wealthy and powerful to deflect the blame for the misery they cause to the most vulnerable among us. That so many Americans place their trust in a bombastic rightwing blowhard like Trump is a tribute to the undeniable fact that half our population is below average in intelligence.
Bravo, all.
Bravo, all.
21
Kurfco
The Pilgrims in 1620 were illegal immigrants. The Founding Fathers (and Mother) in 1776 were all illegal immigrants.
Not one of them has a passport, or a visa.
The Pilgrims in 1620 were illegal immigrants. The Founding Fathers (and Mother) in 1776 were all illegal immigrants.
Not one of them has a passport, or a visa.
4
I don't know anyone who blames them for our ills. I know a lot of people who are irate that our immigration system isn't being enforced, that criminals are being protected, and employers are being given a pass for having workforces composed of illegal workers.
6