Ah yes. After the 2012 elections the Republicans were going to conduct that "autopsy" on themselves to figure out how they had alienated everyone except aging white voters in their pursuit of the White House. Well, the corpse is still hanging around, and it is as malodorous as ever.
34
Charles, you hit on the worst part of this whole thing: the LAST thing Donald Trump wants is to win the Republican nomination. Which makes his campaign, and every single thing he says and does as part of his campaign, a ridiculous side show and a mockery of the democratic process.
politicsbyeccehomo.wordpress.com
politicsbyeccehomo.wordpress.com
19
Trump has value hate speech provides currency and yield that most markets will never provide. Trump is the currency of the 'silent majority' a collective that has always been a lucrative asset for many agenda's..
Trump of course has a very short shelf life not because he offends and rocks the boat but because he reveals and informs with clarity and boldness than only anonymity provides.
I hope his train stops continue but I fear he will be derailed perhaps enough baggage will be spilled so we can all see it all...
Trump of course has a very short shelf life not because he offends and rocks the boat but because he reveals and informs with clarity and boldness than only anonymity provides.
I hope his train stops continue but I fear he will be derailed perhaps enough baggage will be spilled so we can all see it all...
3
I see a "dump trump" movement emerging after the first Fox News debate.
3
Donald Trump is the Id of today's GOP. As Blow ably points out, his power didn't come from outer space. The party, and its hate-media ecosystem, birthed this malevolent strain of loudmouth bigot.
Unfortunately for them, it's little late to put him back in the bottle now.
Unfortunately for them, it's little late to put him back in the bottle now.
28
Trump is the Eric Cartman of political candidates who has revealed the GOP in all its nastiness.
10
The best response to Trump is to point and laugh. Loudly. Publicly. Not fact check - there are no facts. Not take him seriously.... But be very very glad that what he's really doing is exposing the base of the Grand Ole Patriarchs for the angry racists they really are. Let him continue to pontificate... I love the laughs and I love watching the Republicans go down in flames.
17
Yes. Well put. It's chicken has come home to roost. This is the America we usually hear at one a.m. from drunk people at a bar or, truth be told, in broad daylight with sober people, sorry to say.
15
I read a WSJ editorial ("Donald Trumps Appeal - and It's Limits") earlier this month. Ms. Peggy Noonan mixes up sections that alternately try to; dismiss, explain away, rationalize and even to justify Trump's crazy comments and the support he has in the Republican primary right now. Charles Blow get's right to the reason for Trump's apparent success and nails it down like a pro. I wish I could see the two of them debate the issue in person ; - )
15
No Democrat, no Hispanic, and few independents will ever step foot in a Trump hotel again. He is destroying his brand, not building it. His Washington hotel in the Old Post Office building will be in bankruptcy three years after it opens. No one in DC is going to use it and even the GOP will hesitate to associate itself with Trump in the future. He will get what his venom deserves.
12
Donald Trump has pulled this stunt with the Republican Party before. It attests to the fact that the Republicans have not learned that The Donald is getting more traction with them this time around then he has in the past. This in spite of the fact that he is spouting more toxic rhetoric this go-around than he has previously. The tepid response from the Republicans who have distanced themselves from his remarks and, in some cases, outright support or encouragement from others, is very telling.
17
I watched the speech Trump gave in Phoenix. He telegraphed his next target: money in politics. "Everyone who gave Jeb and Hillary money has something lined up." Trump pointed out that he is a donor himself and understands how the system works.
He also sent a few words the way of John Kasich, Ohio governor soon to enter the race and noted that Kasich was a managing director at Lehman Bros. and Lehman Bros. almost "crashed the world" in 2008.
Jb Bush also took money from Lehman Bros. as an "advisor." What was the advice he gave them? Half of the money he's gotten since leaving office as governor of FL has come from Wall st, half of the $29 million. What did he do for that money. His net worth was only $1.3 million when he left office.
So, if you've only been reading news reports rather than watching Trump actually talk, expect to hear more about money in politics. He will call out the Clintons' enormous money grab more effectively than any of the others. His books probably make money, unlike the one Marco Rubio got $800,000 for.
He also sent a few words the way of John Kasich, Ohio governor soon to enter the race and noted that Kasich was a managing director at Lehman Bros. and Lehman Bros. almost "crashed the world" in 2008.
Jb Bush also took money from Lehman Bros. as an "advisor." What was the advice he gave them? Half of the money he's gotten since leaving office as governor of FL has come from Wall st, half of the $29 million. What did he do for that money. His net worth was only $1.3 million when he left office.
So, if you've only been reading news reports rather than watching Trump actually talk, expect to hear more about money in politics. He will call out the Clintons' enormous money grab more effectively than any of the others. His books probably make money, unlike the one Marco Rubio got $800,000 for.
7
I think those books are stupid and don't know why anyone would pay for them but it seems silly to criticize someone for making money off of them.
The Republicans ar focused on local and state elections, which they frequently win, especially where they're gerrymandered districts and put in laws making it next to impossible for normally Democratic voters to vote. Their racism, overt or covert, and their making it more and more difficult for government to have a positive impact on anyone except a billionaire will not gain them the presidency. Nor do they think it will. The achieve goals nationally through congress.
7
An incredibly misleading statement from Charles M. Blow, citing the Washington Post, the newspaper here in Washington DC that has fallen the farthest, the fastest since its long past heyday of Woodward and Bernstein:
“...data show that new immigrants — including illegal immigrants — are actually less likely to commit crime, not more.”
This statement is absurd on its face because illegal immigrants have already committed a crime--crossing the border, entering the United States without legal authority or documentation and refusing to leave. That means 100% of the illegals cited in the WaPo quote have already committed a crime. And as every credible study I've seen as a lawyer shows, people who have already committed crimes and are fugitives are extremely likely to commit more crime--because they have nothing to lose.
Try again Mr. Blow, and this time use better statistics and fewer strawmen.
“...data show that new immigrants — including illegal immigrants — are actually less likely to commit crime, not more.”
This statement is absurd on its face because illegal immigrants have already committed a crime--crossing the border, entering the United States without legal authority or documentation and refusing to leave. That means 100% of the illegals cited in the WaPo quote have already committed a crime. And as every credible study I've seen as a lawyer shows, people who have already committed crimes and are fugitives are extremely likely to commit more crime--because they have nothing to lose.
Try again Mr. Blow, and this time use better statistics and fewer strawmen.
10
Trump is simply expressing the brand truthfully and candidly. He's a pro wrestler, and he's not hiding the obvious fact that it's all a fake. He's taking the theatricality of it to the logical level. His transgression here is simply that he denies the GOP the right to pretend anymore, and that's what makes him dangerous to them. The base is sick of pretending.
12
Dump the Trump!
Before it's too late.
Before it's too late.
3
Watching Lindsey Graham say, "Trump is going to hurt us with Hispanic voters," over and over again made me wonder, is that all he cares about? That Trump is mouthing untruths, contributing to xenophobic resentment -- that should bother him. Truth, decency, respect? No mention from Graham.
14
Does Mr. Blow really not know a vicious racial apartheid that oppresses nearly a billion people exists south of our border? One in which ~10% very white descendants of Cortez use, murder, torture and rape the 90% of brown indigenous & mixed race majority like slaves were in our bad old Plantation South? That the continuance of this macho, terrorist culture of violence is intentional/necessary for the medieval ruler like upper few percent of Latin society to stay in control. And so it is a logical valid concern that every immigrant from south of the border may bring that contagion of racial hatred and contempt for "others", particularly black people, with them. Just ask blacks in South LA and in other major cities that are routinely gunned down - usually AT RANDOM by Hispanic criminals. Just ask none whites from south of the border that report on the "Hispanic culture" of the more powerful there raping brown not wealthy women in order to "improve the race", plus the fact that this is so habitual, common, usual that most to our south do not even report rape to the police. What about this is Mr. Blow ignorant of? Or more importantly how much did it take to buy Mr. Blow off? Like Al Sharpton was after he for a change made a valid complaint that immigrant businesses are very racist against black customers, will not hire blacks but seem to have been granted some mysterious pluralistic, "maintain their culture" - right to violate civil rights laws by our political class & the NAACP.
I agree that Trump is not saying anything any of the other GOP candidates believe or wish they could express. Trump has the cloak of being an idiot and just like that crazy uncle at the family dinner, he is allowed to say anything, since none of it is consequential. The attention should be on the other candidates and how they react to his racist and xenophobic speeches. Not sure many would have the balls to do so, especially since he is saying exactly what they feel. Talk about a predicament!
12
Trump will EASILY win the Republican nomination. Thereafter, he'll then have a 50% to 60% chance of winning the presidency.
4
There are not that many stupid people in America, or even that many stupid Republicans.
6
Yep. Donald Trump is exactly what the GOP deserves. As much as I can't stand reality TV, the Donald Trump political reality show is masterful. And it exposes the blow-hards like Boehner, McConnell, Cruz, et al for what they are ...
Here Here Donald Trump! I'd never vote for you ... but I wish you many more months of front page news!!
Here Here Donald Trump! I'd never vote for you ... but I wish you many more months of front page news!!
12
Trump's advantage is that he speaks directly for billionaires, unlike the Kochs and Adelsons of the world who need an intermediary in the presidency.
9
He's the kind of person who gives 'smart' a bad name.
5
When you think about the Republican Party--like Trump demonizing immigrants, or the Tea Party's denunciation of the Affordable Care Act, or The Fellowship trying to impose Jesus on a multicultural country, acting like all abortion is murder when early abortion is just aborting a piece of flesh like skin that falls off the body--you've got a recipe for political poison. The killers amonst us, the Dylan Roof's etc. are thriving on the climate of hate that is the very heart and should of the Republican Party.
9
In a way Trump's antics are providing a valuable service by revealing that his wacky views prevail in a fair percentage of the republican party base despite all of the establishment attempts to whitewash the party's image. That, and, yes, the spectacle is entertaining....
18
I so love this! And I wager I'm not the only one reveling in this show. I hope he stays at the top of the polls and I'll be rooting for him to snag the Republican nomination. Then gleefully watch him be mangled in the election.
I only remember one other time when I was cheering for a totally unqualified but articulate fool to stay in the race. Wait a minute--that was a guy named Reagan . Could I be again underestimating the intelligence of the American voter? Nah
ally underestimated the intellect of the American voter.
I only remember one other time when I was cheering for a totally unqualified but articulate fool to stay in the race. Wait a minute--that was a guy named Reagan . Could I be again underestimating the intelligence of the American voter? Nah
ally underestimated the intellect of the American voter.
4
Political operatives have been whipping up fear and faux nostalgia to mobilize the Republican party from the right edge for decades. The fallout from this political hackery has been racism, xenophobia, homophobia, chauvinism and so on. It's the most un-American part of our country's history over the past half-century, and it's crippling our ability to govern pragmatically, effectively. More importantly, it's pointlessly wrecking people's lives - no matter where they fall on the political spectrum. Donald Trump embodies the cultural impact of our brutally cynical politics, and he's also one of its most effective tools.
12
Actually, the same could be said of other Republican candidates. They really don't expect, or want to win but all the free media builds their "national brand," quite useful for lavishly paid speaking tours and even book deals after the election. Free media is a valuable commodity in politics, sometimes even when it's negative. Some might even learn to spell their names right. You can't buy the front page of the NYT.
7
The single greatest step American society can take to ensure we get quality candidates for the office of President?
The answer is simple and not at all original. I find it inconceivable that in a society which prizes education, has classes in English in school, that requires that a person write papers, is nevertheless a society which has the candidates for highest office utterly freed from the need of writing own words and instead has a phalanx of advisors/speechwriters to do the job. I think every candidate to highest office should be required to write own speeches, own books (if self-promotion by book). The American citizen deserves to see the quality of mind of candidate in verbal action at its purest, which is not spoken word, not to mention spoken word which has been managed by phalanx of advisors/speechwriters but written word. One's own words by own hand on paper for all to read and distribute and contemplate.
There is probably no greater proof that this interest or that has stolen our nation from us than the incapacity or unwillingness or what have you of candidates of not sitting down and writing their own words. Compare our age with Jefferson or Lincoln, the words of U.S. Grant...Our Presidents' words of the last fifty years especially are essentially worthless because not certain of being of the President himself...Make a law: YOU sir, write YOUR own words; Show us YOUR mind, YOUR nation.
The answer is simple and not at all original. I find it inconceivable that in a society which prizes education, has classes in English in school, that requires that a person write papers, is nevertheless a society which has the candidates for highest office utterly freed from the need of writing own words and instead has a phalanx of advisors/speechwriters to do the job. I think every candidate to highest office should be required to write own speeches, own books (if self-promotion by book). The American citizen deserves to see the quality of mind of candidate in verbal action at its purest, which is not spoken word, not to mention spoken word which has been managed by phalanx of advisors/speechwriters but written word. One's own words by own hand on paper for all to read and distribute and contemplate.
There is probably no greater proof that this interest or that has stolen our nation from us than the incapacity or unwillingness or what have you of candidates of not sitting down and writing their own words. Compare our age with Jefferson or Lincoln, the words of U.S. Grant...Our Presidents' words of the last fifty years especially are essentially worthless because not certain of being of the President himself...Make a law: YOU sir, write YOUR own words; Show us YOUR mind, YOUR nation.
4
The entertainment value of the Republican party far exceeds its political value.
13
As President Obama continues to make the rounds on late night comedy show couches.
Hypocrisy, thy party is Democrat.
Hypocrisy, thy party is Democrat.
2
DCBarrister - The President knows how to tell a joke, the Republican candidates are jokes. Comedians and audiences all over the world can see the difference and are grateful for it.
5
I come here to read some of the silliest people in the US criticize other people with far more insight than they can possibly imagine.
2
When a person like trump speaks the truth, it damages all politicians who refuse to face reality. Since it is apparent you are a partisan Democrat, it is difficult for you to accept that reality.
6
You do realize that you are speaking of the person who said he spent many of his own dollars investigating the birth certificate of the President. As I recall, this person said he had proof that the President was NOT born in the United States; I don't know about you, but I'm still waiting to see that proof.
Think about that for a while. PLEASE!!
Think about that for a while. PLEASE!!
8
What truth? That all Mexican immigrants are rapists and drug dealers? Have you know any of them? I have, and they are hard working, decent people, often sending most of their money back to Mexico to support the family they left behind. By the way, they don't get Medicaid or any other federal benefits, and most of them don't make enough to pay income tax. But they pay all the sales taxes that we do. And if they get deported, good luck finding people that do the same jobs. I don't think that is the truth that the Donald is preaching.
5
The American political scene has become really bad theater. If this were put on stage as a play, no one would come. I can imagine the critics' responses.
6
The only thing that matters is how much advertising can be sold, and that means offending no advertisers.
The Donald is a person who has been ignored at our house since he first opened his mouth and gave himself away immediately when he became a public figure long ago. He is what we call a loud mouthed blow hard city slicker who can't be trusted with anything. He is a over confident provocateur, all hat and no cattle.
14
He's a perfect political 'neutron bomb' for the republican's: the party will still be standing, but the presidential candidates left behind will be radioactive from his fallout.
9
And Donald Trump is the only candidate who is richer than Hillary. Once Blow knocks out The Donald, Hillary is in.
There's already been hundreds of blow by the mass media, and the Donald is still going strong.
Trump reminds me a bit of Silvio Berlusconi, a man whose flamboyant ego, personal fortune and strong-arm politics attracted a devoted following in Italy. I don't think America is ready for the kind of opera buffa that Italy endured under Berlusconi.
6
I am reminded of John McCain in 2008 schooling the lady at the Republican rally that Barack Obama is not a secret Muslim. Mr McCain had a tough slog, as his running mate was out there calling Obama every false name in the book while she was going rogue. In any event, Mr Trump is more of the same, and I am fine with him putting it out there because then we all know for sure what he and the Republucan voters who support him really think. I see him make no distinction between legal and illegal immigrants when he speaks of Mexicans. Also, he was recently asked about whether he employed illegals on his Washington DC project, he said he used contractors and they were responsible for hiring, not him. This insulates him from liability, paying any benefits to employees, etc. A 1percenter dream. I am sure that a lot of Americans, if they took a close look at their family tree, would find somebody who arrived here in an unconventional way. And some of the children of immigrants in my family, ended up fighting in World War II, one was killed, one had his arm shot off at the elbow, and one got shot out of the sky. I agree that we should have an immigration system that makes sense and is properly enforced, and that would make it less likely that workers will be underpaid and exploited because they are vulnerable.
16
The Media and press should stop talking and writing about Trump and that would shut him up. They are keeping him out there.
7
Trump only sounds worse than the other Repubs. When the Supreme Court of America declared in phony legal language, the absurdity that any limiting of billionaire money in our elections was against the Constitution’s 1st amendment guaranteeing free speech, those august justices were uttering a Trumpism.
The Court delivered America into the hands of the Trumps of the world. Citizens United continues to poison our democracy, and the antidote for it is very difficult. And is hardly discussed in the news media.
The Court delivered America into the hands of the Trumps of the world. Citizens United continues to poison our democracy, and the antidote for it is very difficult. And is hardly discussed in the news media.
25
The problem with Donald Trump is not Donald Trump. He has always been very open and honest about who he is, a very rich narcissist with a long history of bankruptcies, bad decisions, and marital infidelity. There are no surprises here.
The problem is with the media, right and left, that give him airplay. He thrives on being noticed. Stop talking about him and chances are, he'll go away.
The problem is with the media, right and left, that give him airplay. He thrives on being noticed. Stop talking about him and chances are, he'll go away.
15
We don't want him to go away, he is great entertainment. And if he shows some of the low information voters what the Republican party is really all about, then that is good for the country and for all of us!
1
While I do agree with your sentiments, as an announced candidate, the media may well be required to give him some play. You know, 1st amendment, free speech- things we're all entitled to-even those browbeaten corporations.
Liberal elite are strongly in favor of low-skilled less-educated illegal immigrants as they don't threaten their own livelihoods and are likely to be more dependent on the government, and most importantly, eventually vote Democrat.
They don't have the same sympathies, and are actually openly hostile towards, educated higher skilled legal immigrants in professional occupations who are likely do displace their jobs. Case in point, H1B visa holders.
They don't have the same sympathies, and are actually openly hostile towards, educated higher skilled legal immigrants in professional occupations who are likely do displace their jobs. Case in point, H1B visa holders.
8
So right wingers are OK with H1B visa holders taking American jobs? Are those same right wingers eager to go out and pick produce, mop floors and do dishes?
10
The moderate repub is an extinct species. Trump speaks for the current party, but in cruder terms. The Democrats should do a comparison---of other repub statements going back years, next to Trump noises and make the connection of basic meaning.
Most of the Gop candidates are basically as irrational and dangerous, using the Constitution and founding ideals to mean whatever they want, to justify the power of a ‘superior’ class of corporate elites over the inferior masses. That’s you and me.
With DT, the full impact of the Gop irrationality is given uninhibited expression.
Just pick from any of the absurd Gop positions on most issues, and translate into crude, arrogant “Trump Talk”.
Most of the Gop candidates are basically as irrational and dangerous, using the Constitution and founding ideals to mean whatever they want, to justify the power of a ‘superior’ class of corporate elites over the inferior masses. That’s you and me.
With DT, the full impact of the Gop irrationality is given uninhibited expression.
Just pick from any of the absurd Gop positions on most issues, and translate into crude, arrogant “Trump Talk”.
10
Donald Trump seems to be the Id of the Republican Party. But he's also like the 4-year-old kid who asks Mommy "why is that man so fat?". The mouth monitor seems to be permanently in the "off" position with Mr. Trump--can you imagine him leading diplomats in tricky negotiations?
Three cheers if his raw self-centeredness and aggression cause divisions among voters to the right. His indiscretion, it is to be hoped, will divide support for the Republicans.
Three cheers if his raw self-centeredness and aggression cause divisions among voters to the right. His indiscretion, it is to be hoped, will divide support for the Republicans.
9
Then why write about him, Charles? It's become quite challenging to find a nightly news show in which the Donald isn't front and center. Law & Order reruns are looking pretty good right now ...
6
Trump recently boasted, "I'm, like, a really smart person."
Well, no. Truly intelligent people do not have to tell anyone how smart they are. Their intelligence speaks for itself. Res ipsa loquitur. Oh, and a "really smart person" would be unlikely to use the the word "like" when describing his own brilliance.
Trump, of course, will never be president. That would be a catastrophe for the nation and the world. But, all the evidence suggests he would make an outstanding carnival barker which, of course, is a position he has already achieved.
Well, no. Truly intelligent people do not have to tell anyone how smart they are. Their intelligence speaks for itself. Res ipsa loquitur. Oh, and a "really smart person" would be unlikely to use the the word "like" when describing his own brilliance.
Trump, of course, will never be president. That would be a catastrophe for the nation and the world. But, all the evidence suggests he would make an outstanding carnival barker which, of course, is a position he has already achieved.
10
The Republican Party is not "anti-immigrant" it is anti ILLEGAL immigrant.
And so are most Americans.
Must Charles Blow resort to such blatant lies in order to peddle his leftist agenda?
I challenge him to prove any of his loony accusations about racism, xenophobia or hate.
And so are most Americans.
Must Charles Blow resort to such blatant lies in order to peddle his leftist agenda?
I challenge him to prove any of his loony accusations about racism, xenophobia or hate.
13
Trump is a racist. But then again, so is Charles Blow.
Most of the world knows better than to take either one seriously.
Most of the world knows better than to take either one seriously.
5
Trump already proved it by calling Mexicans rapists. Republicans don't come up with policies to solve the immigration problem and they don't engage in rational discussions. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure this out.
2
It seems to me that the sentiment being expressed is not so nuanced as you seem to believe. It may be that in a moment of cool reflection you say, "We are not anti-immigrant; we are anti-illegal immigrant." However, in real life anyone brown with an accent is the target of lots of people with a less refined approach. In parts of the country with lots of immigrants, legal and undocumented, both rightfully fear discriminatory treatment up to and including violence.
12
Meanwhile, Al Sharpton says Donald Trump is a secret Democrat, which kind of shoots a big hole in your argument, Mr. Blow. Who are we to believe, you or Mr. Sharpton?
4
Why would you bring in Rev. Sharpton and compare him to Mr. Blow? What do you think they have in common?
4
Just because someone has accumulated billions of dollars does not automatically qualify them for governance. They may excel in the peculiar talents required in the realm that has enriched them but be sadly lacking in all other qualities required to engage in public life. That goes for Trump; that goes for Bloomberg.
5
The constant complaint of GOP being Anti-Immigrant is incorrect. The GOP, as well as many other Americans, including myself, have an issue with Illegal Immigration. Not following the laws of this country. My Grandfather immigrated to this country from England legally. My deceased husband immigrated to this country from Greece legally.
6
If the Democrats are smart they'll do everything they can to promote Trump as a candidate. Helping Trump eviscerate the Republican Party, and further expose what it has become, will make it much easier for swing voters to see what they're choosing between.
7
In Professional Wrestling, there is a name for what Trump is doing:
Kayfabe.
Your analysis, Mr. Blow, is the only one that is totally spot-on. Congratulations, sir; well and nobly done.
Kayfabe.
Your analysis, Mr. Blow, is the only one that is totally spot-on. Congratulations, sir; well and nobly done.
4
Yes, Trump is dishonest, but no more dishonest than us Democrats and the mainstream Republicans on the issue of immigration. He simply chooses to make the un-politically correct lies.
Many things may be valued in our political discourse, but honesty isn't one of them.
Many things may be valued in our political discourse, but honesty isn't one of them.
2
It's indicative of how crazy (and desperate?) the dynamics around immigration policy have gotten when it's "The Donald" who is pointing out how messed up it is and being thanked for doing so.
2
I just wish I were more sure that he won't provide cover for other Republican candidates to make essentially the same points in more "palatable" terms and therefore look reasonable in comparison.
I'm continually shocked by the number of casual acquaintances who, when something leads them to think they can let their guard down, espouse equally racist views or other odious positions ostensibly held only by the far right.
I'm continually shocked by the number of casual acquaintances who, when something leads them to think they can let their guard down, espouse equally racist views or other odious positions ostensibly held only by the far right.
6
The Confederate battle flag has been lowered, and Trump's face raised in its place.
6
Once again: his popularity reflects the nativism and ignorance of the Republican base voter. This is who they are. The immigration issue is one of a number that define their political compass; include in that constellation science denial, militarism, racism, and anti-government, anti-regulatory beliefs. And this is not about a small minority of the party. Not less than a third, probably more, are in this crowd.
8
Trump is merely the pacer in the Repub race to secure victories in the primary states. After the initial effort to secure the biscuit & gravy crowd in Iowa, the brain trust will moderate slightly & seat the candidates over dishes of poutine in New Hampshire & Jeb! will eventually appear as the conciliating "moderate" ready to appoint the losers to the forecastle as loyal crewmen in the upcoming clash with Hillary as he hauls down the jolly roger & raises his favorite corporate logo.
4
The longer he stays in the race, the more people -- not just Hispanics -- will leave the Republican party and the fewer will join up. He is awakening people to the face of the Republican party and people do not want to be part of a party that is associated with him.
9
This time, contrary to Mr. Blow's assertion, Trump's provocations may not make him richer. So far they have cost him a number of TV contracts and the like. Most of his wealth is tied up in real estate. It's hard to see how this presidential election increases the value of his real estate holdings. Trump - a walking advertisement for why it's ok not to be a billionaire - announced that his net worth is around $10 billion. It wouldn't be at all surprising if his actual net worth is substantially less than that.
5
Expressed in the language of that formative time in life, early childhood, Trump doesn't play well with others. He believes that the playground belongs to him and the attention too. He may be able to act nice, as an article about him in Politico suggests, but his character is formed for all to see, and he makes sure we do. Trump won't be shy about telling us what he thinks. With over-coverage, Trump fatigue will set in quickly. I disagree with Mr. Blow when he characterizes Trump as standing for the GOP. There is more difference than that among their candidates and I hope the Times presents some analysis of the differences.
3
I think that thing on his head is eating his brain. Fortunately for him, he has well honed instincts, much like a starfish or slime mold.
8
Trump and the rest of the republican candidates are Pinocchio to Karl Rove who is the Mr. Geppetto. Rove holds the strings to this political circus and the media and the American people are being manipulated!
Too bad the Constitution cannot be amended to end the two term limit for Obama is embracing the presidency in year 6 the way he should have in year 1.
We are doomed!
Too bad the Constitution cannot be amended to end the two term limit for Obama is embracing the presidency in year 6 the way he should have in year 1.
We are doomed!
4
The Republican Party is not made up of serious people who want to help make the USA a better place. Look at the gang that makes up their candidates for the presidential nomination. Just look at their lead candidate Donald Trump, a self promoting blowhard. Real candidates have real solution, they just don't fear-monger. The Republican Party's solution to everything is cutting taxes. Trump's solution to everything is that he'll bully people and countries into doing what he wants. Where is his plan for immigration reform besides building a high wall. I have to admit though he is entertaining, but he's dangerous because he is bring out the worst elements of the GOP.
4
Trump too awful to win, too arrogant, too much 'x', but if anyone underestimates him or any of the other GOP contestants for that matter, who all share the same message even if packaged a bit differently, the country stands to lose big. I saw a woman on CNN trying to sound fair and balanced talking about how she'll give Trump a fair hearing - as if he's a serious candidate. Those folks vote, the most educated often don't, we're busy ~ it's going to be a big problem.
6
it was you "educated" folks who gave us Barack Obama. That permanently disqualifies you from ever again rendering a political opinion on anyone.
All the ranting and lamenting and laughing about Trump ignores the one, most important fact ... the press and the pundits continue to give this ridiculous man ink and air time. The media is itself largely responsible for the "clown car" that is the roster of Republican candidates. Turn off the spotlight. Stop chasing inane comments and soundbites. Take a little time out from the stupid horse race and side show coverage and actually cover only what real candidates express as their proposed governing policies.
10
Many people are anti-immigration, yet not anti-immigrant. Immigration is a hand-in-hand partner of exporting jobs. In the tech field, for example, H1-B visas are used to illegally suppress wages - see recent NYT article on Disney. The 1% want to pay their yardman, nanny, and house cleaner as little as possible and often ignore such niceties as social security and taxes. Inflation adjusted wages have been steadily declining for decades. It is estimated that by 2020, 40% of workers will not have a "job", but will piece together a living from whatever they can find. Recent college graduates are greatly underemployed at low wages.
This nation has not yet successfully assimilated the wave of African slaves from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. We still grapple with issues of refugees from every war we have dabbled in over the last century. While the country seems to be becoming more tolerant, there are still much tension between ethnic groups.
Not all of us think that life in Manhattan with big rent for little space is desirable. We want to walk down a sidewalk without having to dodge masses of bodies coming at us in a great hurry. We want to live less than an hour from our work. We want to see something not man made to ease our eye and soul.
That being said, Republicans are using immigration to try to keep hold of one leg of their 3-legged party - the underclass which has born the brunt of the economic free-fall that they helped create in 2008.
This nation has not yet successfully assimilated the wave of African slaves from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. We still grapple with issues of refugees from every war we have dabbled in over the last century. While the country seems to be becoming more tolerant, there are still much tension between ethnic groups.
Not all of us think that life in Manhattan with big rent for little space is desirable. We want to walk down a sidewalk without having to dodge masses of bodies coming at us in a great hurry. We want to live less than an hour from our work. We want to see something not man made to ease our eye and soul.
That being said, Republicans are using immigration to try to keep hold of one leg of their 3-legged party - the underclass which has born the brunt of the economic free-fall that they helped create in 2008.
7
A super salesman the Republicans deserve, period. All their coded language over the years has come home to roost proving that the party really caters to the narrow minded and scared among us. It's a shame because a two party system really needs to have intelligent, opposing views debated and actionable tasking to ensure the system remains a two party system. Democracy is at risk if all we've come to demagogy and bluster to discuss the big issues of the day.
2
For decades, the GOP has had a stranglehold on the votes of those with a less-than-enlightened view of race and immigration. I've always wondered what percentage of GOP voters fall into this category. Now I know: roughly 17%
5
I get your point, but I think it's closer to 90%. The rest of the clown car is spewing the same message, but in (relatively) dulcet tones.
1
Trump is also the warning sign of what the far right could become now that the pretense of inclusive democracy is being revealed for what it is, a sham pretense for the real desire to install one party rule in the US; to "take back" THEIR country and deal once and for all with all those troubling people (aka liberal enemies) who dare to disagree with them. We laugh and think him entertaining, but we need to be watching the well armed based he is speaking to.
9
It's been a sham for 45 years.
1
The real setback for Trump will be losing his NBC gig on The Apprentice. That show was the one thing that legitimized him in Hollywood, made him feel part of the in-crowd, and accepted with the establishment. His latest rants against immigrants destroyed all that he had worked for on television, bought a few ratings points, a moment of obscene glory appealing to a disgruntled xenophobic right-wing base. This moment, however, will evaporate after the debates. He will become a sideshow, a circus clown to riff on, fodder for the media--and that is all. He had a shot at making a brand on TV with The Apprentice, but that is gone now. No ties, no golf clubs, no prime time show-- his life's work blown up good in a vain effort to look tough. I would disagree with Blow. Trump is not smart at reading people. I'll bet if he could take back that speech, keep his Apprentice gig, golf course status, and Tie shop, he would do so in a New York minute.
4
Yes, Donald Trump is exceedingly rich, brash, business savy person with an ego exceeding the size of the US federal deficit. Who knew??
The crucial thing in Mr. Trump's metoric rise in the Republican primaries says far more about the Republican Party and its illicit and implict pandering to xenophobia and racial contempt.
For almost a decade the Republican party has let two malignancies grow within their party and our Republic;the politics of false victmization / ideological intolerance and idolatry of wealth. Sooner or later a Donald Trump would arrive on the political scene and exploit these two cancers to the detriment of the Republican Party and our nation.
Followers of history cannot miss the similarities between Mr. Trump's masterful exploitation of the politics of hate and victimization purposely nutured within the Republican Party of today and Adolph Hitler's rise to the top in Germany in the late 1930s using almost identical conditions and strategies.
The biblical wisdom is you live by the "sword" you died by the sword.
The crucial thing in Mr. Trump's metoric rise in the Republican primaries says far more about the Republican Party and its illicit and implict pandering to xenophobia and racial contempt.
For almost a decade the Republican party has let two malignancies grow within their party and our Republic;the politics of false victmization / ideological intolerance and idolatry of wealth. Sooner or later a Donald Trump would arrive on the political scene and exploit these two cancers to the detriment of the Republican Party and our nation.
Followers of history cannot miss the similarities between Mr. Trump's masterful exploitation of the politics of hate and victimization purposely nutured within the Republican Party of today and Adolph Hitler's rise to the top in Germany in the late 1930s using almost identical conditions and strategies.
The biblical wisdom is you live by the "sword" you died by the sword.
3
Another wonderful, well-written, sensible article, Mr. Blow. Thank you
Thomas Murphy
Thomas Murphy
4
I think Charles has hit the nail on the head about Trump and the true nature of the GOP base.
6
You underestimate the problem. The tolerance within the GOP of divisive and racist statements allows the Democrats to coast a bit: their winning electoral strategy is simply ceding the airwaves to the likes of Trump. As a result, there is no compelling need to sell a vision to the people.
Basically, without a rational pre-Southern Strategy GOP, we all lose. Again.
Basically, without a rational pre-Southern Strategy GOP, we all lose. Again.
2
Trump is best regarded as another facet of American capitalism collapsing on its unbridled excesses.
2
Immigration is a large, complex and thorny issue. Trump's simplistic "look at them Mexicans" rhetoric diverts attention from the real issues regarding immigration. The Times, not so long ago, had the article about the abuse of H1B visas by the Outsource firm hired by Disney - the first thing they did was attempt to lay off the existing workforce. Most of the illegals coming from Mexico, South and Central America are not displacing American workers - they're doing work no one will do - real stoop labor picking fruits and vegetables for a pittance (and keeping our food prices lower than they should be). They're engaged in labor the average American doesn't want to do or even if they would, won't move their families to get to it. The real problem is the ongoing efforts to depress the wages of and/or displace the vaunted "STEM" professionals we all want our schools to focus on. I see it daily in NYS offices where, in many, many cases the vast majority of IT staff are from Outsourcers that keep wages low and truly displace American workers. The native IT workers are quickly following the paths their fathers and grandfathers did as manufacturing was shipped off shore. Now we just import the labor, but the effect is the same. While Disney backpedaled, there are dozens if not hundreds of firms who've done the same thing and simply weren't noticed. Trump's a major player in the hospitality industry - how much has he outsourced and how many in his housekeeping staff are legal?
3
"They're engaged in labor the average American doesn't want to do or even if they would, won't move their families to get to it."
I don't buy this line of thinking. Americans, by and large, are industrious want to work. The issues with the jobs that you are talking about is that they don't pay well enough. American born citizens are plenty willing to do landscaping, be nannies, clean houses and businesses, do construction, do agricultural work, but there has to be a living wage.
This is one of the problems of illegal immigration. It is a race to the bottom for low skill workers. Most readers of the NYT are not about to be displaced by an illegal immigrant, and so have other priorities. One would think that NYT readers would connect the dots between the increasing wealth of the top 1 percent, cheap illegal labor, and the decline of working class America.
Better enforcement of existing hiring laws would be a boon to working class Americans. Wages would rise for these jobs. If there continued to be gaps in employment, it could be addressed by thoughtful, fair and strict guest worker policies, and those policies could include a path to citizenship.
The center wants an orderly, productive approach to immigration that does not harm working class Americans. Unfortunately, it appears that most NYT readers will label as "racist" any approach that does not provide citizenship, free heath care and immediate welfare payments to anyone who crosses the border.
I don't buy this line of thinking. Americans, by and large, are industrious want to work. The issues with the jobs that you are talking about is that they don't pay well enough. American born citizens are plenty willing to do landscaping, be nannies, clean houses and businesses, do construction, do agricultural work, but there has to be a living wage.
This is one of the problems of illegal immigration. It is a race to the bottom for low skill workers. Most readers of the NYT are not about to be displaced by an illegal immigrant, and so have other priorities. One would think that NYT readers would connect the dots between the increasing wealth of the top 1 percent, cheap illegal labor, and the decline of working class America.
Better enforcement of existing hiring laws would be a boon to working class Americans. Wages would rise for these jobs. If there continued to be gaps in employment, it could be addressed by thoughtful, fair and strict guest worker policies, and those policies could include a path to citizenship.
The center wants an orderly, productive approach to immigration that does not harm working class Americans. Unfortunately, it appears that most NYT readers will label as "racist" any approach that does not provide citizenship, free heath care and immediate welfare payments to anyone who crosses the border.
2
Trump is damaging his business brand severely. This isn't the 1920s. We are much more diverse and a much more open nation. Being in business these days means dealing with and accepting that public, not trashing key parts of it. Boycotts of his hotels and other projects could hit him were it really hurts.
Two world renowned chefs have pulled out of his hotel project on Pennsylvania Avenue in DC. Supporting the redevelopment project, the mayor was asked about Trump. I like dealing with Ivanka, his 33 yr. old daughter, the mayor said. Some endorsement. The nation's capital is facing the dread prospect of having the TRUMP name boldly displayed on a hotel when the next president parades by after the inauguration. Protests have been staged at the site against Trump even now.
Trump's television "empire" is in tatters. NBC dumped him. Univision dumped Trump's beauty pageant.
It isn't just the Republican party that's responsible for this traveling roadshow of madness. The New York media puffed up Trump early in his career and he learned to milk that publicity better than a dairy farmer milks his cows. Trump has been a spectacular failure at various points in his long career, but he builds on failure better than most people do on success.
Why was Trump treated as anything more than a sad, big mouthed sideshow when he announced his "candidacy"? He's great copy and good television, too. We are all being pulled into the vortex of his flapping mouth, but we are all to blame.
Two world renowned chefs have pulled out of his hotel project on Pennsylvania Avenue in DC. Supporting the redevelopment project, the mayor was asked about Trump. I like dealing with Ivanka, his 33 yr. old daughter, the mayor said. Some endorsement. The nation's capital is facing the dread prospect of having the TRUMP name boldly displayed on a hotel when the next president parades by after the inauguration. Protests have been staged at the site against Trump even now.
Trump's television "empire" is in tatters. NBC dumped him. Univision dumped Trump's beauty pageant.
It isn't just the Republican party that's responsible for this traveling roadshow of madness. The New York media puffed up Trump early in his career and he learned to milk that publicity better than a dairy farmer milks his cows. Trump has been a spectacular failure at various points in his long career, but he builds on failure better than most people do on success.
Why was Trump treated as anything more than a sad, big mouthed sideshow when he announced his "candidacy"? He's great copy and good television, too. We are all being pulled into the vortex of his flapping mouth, but we are all to blame.
4
What people respect in Trump is his willingness to say what many are thinking but few politicians are willing to admit.
6
I have yet to hear a policy proposal out of one of the GOP candidates...not one. We do hear, constantly, that we need "to get tough," whatever the problem is: ISIS, Syria, Libya, and Iran, on the geo-political side, and Food Stamps, Unemployment benefits, race, Immigration on the domestic front, to name a few.
Trump merely echoes the bludgeon that is the GOP/Tea Party approach.
Ah, but what a precise echo, and an unfiltered one as well.
This is what the dog sounds like when the muzzle is removed.
And it spells defeat and disaster for the party of "no" and "no ideas."
Trump merely echoes the bludgeon that is the GOP/Tea Party approach.
Ah, but what a precise echo, and an unfiltered one as well.
This is what the dog sounds like when the muzzle is removed.
And it spells defeat and disaster for the party of "no" and "no ideas."
8
"Shoot first and save the questions for later" is the mantra of the bizarre gun cult that denies the existence of a social contract in the US.
5
In 2008, Barack Obama promised to heal the nation. A postracial America.
Instead, we got politics at its most cynical. He told Hispanic voters to "punish your enemies," meaning whites. He encouraged illegal immigration, lax election policies, and racial division to get out the votes (whether legitimate or not).
Obama is the most racially divisive president in history. So please spare us the sanctimonious lectures on Trump. Trump's message is hope. Obama's message is 'get them before they get you.'
Instead, we got politics at its most cynical. He told Hispanic voters to "punish your enemies," meaning whites. He encouraged illegal immigration, lax election policies, and racial division to get out the votes (whether legitimate or not).
Obama is the most racially divisive president in history. So please spare us the sanctimonious lectures on Trump. Trump's message is hope. Obama's message is 'get them before they get you.'
5
Holy cow---how did you get through these three insane, vitriolic paragraphs without mentioning that Hawaii isn't really a state?
5
You forgot to mention his birth certificate and his college transcripts.
Hear! Hear! The true nature of the G. O. P. and its followers is right here in our faces! Interesting Trump never speaks of American white men who rape their daughters, of white (i. e. mob) crime, of all the sins and depravity we know infects all people. What an embarrassment he is for this country...as are many of the other Republican candidates. It's hard to remember when there was basic decency in political campaigns, huh?
2
Blow has it backwards. In 2010, he wrote an in-your-face column (similar to this one) touting the "demographics is destiny" meme. Essentially, he said mean, angry Tea Party Republicans were a dying breed and the immigration waves would spell the death knell of conversatism.
Why is he surprised, then, when conservatives (and many, many liberals, mind you), want to enforce the immigration laws?
Keep selling, Mr. Blow. We're not buying.
Why is he surprised, then, when conservatives (and many, many liberals, mind you), want to enforce the immigration laws?
Keep selling, Mr. Blow. We're not buying.
7
"conservatism" (to placate the spelling police)
1
Solomon your troubles are way, way beyond spelling. Good luck with all that.
3
What are my troubles, specifically? Do you deny the factual statements in my email? Do you deny that race relations under Obama are terrible? Do you deny that he uses a "divide and conquer" strategy in elections?
Remember "the War on Women?"
Remember "the War on Women?"
1
I also have no sympathy for the GOP. We know Trump represents the base element of the Republican party but there are serious issues that need to be discussed. I am issuing a proclamation - stop talking about Trump from this moment on.
2
Trump represents one unalterable truth:
Money can't buy brains.
Money can't buy brains.
6
Money buys all sorts of brainy types desperate to monetize their credentials.
1
D. Trump:
"They’re not sending you. They’re sending people that have lots of problems, and they’re bringing those problems with us. They’re bringing drugs. They’re bringing crime. They’re rapists. And some, I assume, are good people.”
T. Cruz:
"When it comes to Donald Trump, I like Donald Trump. I think he’s terrific. I think he’s brash. I think he speaks the truth.”
Sad. To be a good Republican in 2015 means not only confusing falsehood for truth but consciously spreading the gospel of untruth. Are there any honorable Republicans left?
"They’re not sending you. They’re sending people that have lots of problems, and they’re bringing those problems with us. They’re bringing drugs. They’re bringing crime. They’re rapists. And some, I assume, are good people.”
T. Cruz:
"When it comes to Donald Trump, I like Donald Trump. I think he’s terrific. I think he’s brash. I think he speaks the truth.”
Sad. To be a good Republican in 2015 means not only confusing falsehood for truth but consciously spreading the gospel of untruth. Are there any honorable Republicans left?
11
Is it possible that the African-American community suffers the most from the adverse effects of illegal immigration; i.e. pressure on low end wages, diversion of social spending, crowded schools, racial animosity without offsetting guilt? Perhaps it would not be surprising to learn that Trump strikes a chord in the African-American community.
5
Do African Americans want to do the jobs these people currently hold? Probably not.
1
From the column: "Facts are not the point for Trump. He spouts so much unsubstantiated idiocy that trying to correct it all would drive any respectable fact-checker mad. Indeed, taking Trump seriously enough to attempt the appropriate fact checks, in a way, only serves to elevate his obvious provocations to serious rhetorical argumentation."
Isn't this what Fox News has done on a daily basis since Day One? You can be assured that this network and Trump were made for each other. Unsubstantied Lies day by day, repeating until they become "talking points" and "truths".
Isn't this what Fox News has done on a daily basis since Day One? You can be assured that this network and Trump were made for each other. Unsubstantied Lies day by day, repeating until they become "talking points" and "truths".
5
The inflammatory comments made by Trump are just calculated provocation, designed to grab headlines.
However, rarely does the Republican creed get spoken out loud with such virulence. First and foremost, the party is about the preservation and augmentation of the .1%'s wealth and control of political power. Everything else is secondary. But there is an unmistakable sprinkling of misogyny, racism and disgust with the poor that undercoats what the Republicans do and say.
Yet millions of poor Americans vote for them year in and year out.
Why? The sophisticated Republican propaganda preys upon and stokes their fears about what happened to the 'land of opportunity" that their parents knew. They don't understand why the plant left town and why no other good paying manufacturing jobs have taken their place. Their work options are few, and none include the kind of benefits and wages their parents thought of as "normal."
So they're lost, looking for solace, and have found it in a right wing place that crows about their "rights," "freedoms," and place in society. Why does it resonate so well? What else do they have left? The .1% have stripped them right down to their core.
They are angry, and why wouldn't they be?
Let's hope Sanders can reach them and create a movement for change.
That might sound farfetched, but remember when Reagan reached across the aisle to Democratic voters with his message?
Turnabout is fair play.
However, rarely does the Republican creed get spoken out loud with such virulence. First and foremost, the party is about the preservation and augmentation of the .1%'s wealth and control of political power. Everything else is secondary. But there is an unmistakable sprinkling of misogyny, racism and disgust with the poor that undercoats what the Republicans do and say.
Yet millions of poor Americans vote for them year in and year out.
Why? The sophisticated Republican propaganda preys upon and stokes their fears about what happened to the 'land of opportunity" that their parents knew. They don't understand why the plant left town and why no other good paying manufacturing jobs have taken their place. Their work options are few, and none include the kind of benefits and wages their parents thought of as "normal."
So they're lost, looking for solace, and have found it in a right wing place that crows about their "rights," "freedoms," and place in society. Why does it resonate so well? What else do they have left? The .1% have stripped them right down to their core.
They are angry, and why wouldn't they be?
Let's hope Sanders can reach them and create a movement for change.
That might sound farfetched, but remember when Reagan reached across the aisle to Democratic voters with his message?
Turnabout is fair play.
2
I guess the playbook for the current crop of GOP presidential contenders is to run as a fire breathing slash bomb throwing extremist to stand out in a crowded field to secure the GOP nomination. If one plays it safe or take common sense positions, one takes the risk of sinking in the polls and not making the ten man or woman cutoff for the Fox debates.
3
GOP. The followers of the party amaze me. They rage about the Mexicans but gladly hire them at almost slave wages to pick our lettuce, strawberries, tomatoes. Then they hire them to clean their homes, mow their lawns, take care of their children. They have been having it both ways for ever.
Yes, the chicken has come home to roost and I appreciate Donald Trump for the opportunist he is. And the comedic factor must not be overlooked either.
And really, if you look at most stances the GOP take via their clown car of candidates, you have to seriously wonder why anyone other than NRA members and elites support this party in this day and in this age.
Yes, the chicken has come home to roost and I appreciate Donald Trump for the opportunist he is. And the comedic factor must not be overlooked either.
And really, if you look at most stances the GOP take via their clown car of candidates, you have to seriously wonder why anyone other than NRA members and elites support this party in this day and in this age.
7
Right so by your logic it's only the republicans who hire these people, you know for a fact that not one democrat does it right? Not. According to the left the democrats record is spotless and they only look out for the common man, when in reality most are millionaires in the senate/congress and are beholden to their own special interest groups like Wall Street and Corporations. Keep pretending that it isn't so.
4
Doubtful the vineyard owners in California vote GOP
But Laura! ByTheSea never said or implied any such thing--only that GOP is hypocritical. She said nothing about Democrats. It's so typical how you have to invent a phony misrepresentation of the position, and attack that. It's called a straw man. Standard M.O of Rush, Hannity, Ingraham, Savage, Levin--it's the only trick you guys know.
Please try responding to the actual point, not against your made-up version.
Please try responding to the actual point, not against your made-up version.
The mainstream media, including The Times, are somewhat to blame for Mr. Trump's rise. The financial backgrounds and past records of Hillary Rodham Clinton and Jeb Bush have been gone over in dozens, if not hundreds, of articles and other media reports. The same is true, to a lesser extent, of candidates like Mike Huckabee, Marco Rubio (subject of a Times front-page story, and others, about his finances or backers), Scott Walker, and Rand Paul.
Why aren't there more in-depth stories about Mr. Trump's past business dealings, including bankruptcies, failed businesses, and other issues that are relevant to the performance of a future President? Why aren't there stories about Mr. Trump's complicated marital history and personal life? It seems as if he is getting a free pass compared to his rivals for the Republican nomination and Mrs. Clinton and the Democratic candidates as well.
If he is leading the Republican field, the public needs to know more about Donald Trump.
Why aren't there more in-depth stories about Mr. Trump's past business dealings, including bankruptcies, failed businesses, and other issues that are relevant to the performance of a future President? Why aren't there stories about Mr. Trump's complicated marital history and personal life? It seems as if he is getting a free pass compared to his rivals for the Republican nomination and Mrs. Clinton and the Democratic candidates as well.
If he is leading the Republican field, the public needs to know more about Donald Trump.
6
Atlantic City, New Jersey is a specter of a post-Trump world.
I think someone at the debate should ask Trump what his thoughts are about the Mariel Boat lift. Castro did empty his prisons and mental health facilities. Maybe he'll tick off the Cubans too. What fun.
6
Why should the Mariel boatlft be a slur on the Cuban people?
You got to love Charles Blow's attempt to use Donald Trumps statement to tar all Americans who believe illegal immigration is a serious problem. While his comments about Mexicans were offensive and should be condemned it in no way makes a "racist" or "anti-immigrant, xenophobe" out of Americans who believe we should have a secure border and an orderly LEGAL immigration process. Mr. Blow and his ilk are willing to demagogue people who believe if secure borders and orderly legal immigration as much as he accuses Trump of demagoguing Mexicans.
4
Liberals say any immigration law enforcement is racist and xenophobic. It's easy to see who they think will be their voter base
1
I cannot credit Trump with much intelligence, even of the street variety. He's just exploiting the laziness of the U.S. media. The odds that he is anywhere near the best circus clown of his type in this giant country are 0. But he's located in NYC and the media already have him in their rolodex, so he gets the cameras and the microphones. It's easy and that's all the U.S. news media care about: easy stories that take no investigation and very little writing.
2
Pundits have been saying for years that immigrant bashing and other forms of bigotry would do in the Republican Party as demographics changed. I'm waiting. Last time I looked, they controlled both houses of congress.
3
Let's give Trump the votes of the 23% polled who, regardless of party have a favorable view of his hairdo.
That means that, in the general election, there will have to be at least 4 more "viable" candidates on the presidential ballot for him to have a prayer of getting a plurality of the popular vote. Let's give him that.
Can anyone say "Electoral College?"
That means that, in the general election, there will have to be at least 4 more "viable" candidates on the presidential ballot for him to have a prayer of getting a plurality of the popular vote. Let's give him that.
Can anyone say "Electoral College?"
"but Trump is an egotist"
So, let's stop talking about him. The amount of press bloviators like Trump receive for bad behavior, far (far) eclipses coverage of worthy candidates like Sanders—and Sanders has spent a lifetime working on behalf of his constituents, vs. Trump, who has spent a lifetime enriching only himself (with inherited wealth and numerous leveraged declared bankruptcies).
Leave the windbags and focus on the good guy.
Senator Bernie Sanders.
So, let's stop talking about him. The amount of press bloviators like Trump receive for bad behavior, far (far) eclipses coverage of worthy candidates like Sanders—and Sanders has spent a lifetime working on behalf of his constituents, vs. Trump, who has spent a lifetime enriching only himself (with inherited wealth and numerous leveraged declared bankruptcies).
Leave the windbags and focus on the good guy.
Senator Bernie Sanders.
3
"The Donald" is a mirror view into the American soul. Celebrating ostentatious displays of wealth, derived from speculation/wagering and consumption. Appealing to emotion, while dismissing deep, nuanced thought. And we act surprised.
3
"He spouts so much unsubstantiated idiocy that trying to correct it all would drive any respectable fact-checker mad."
This sentence deprives Mr. Blow of any credibility as a journalist. As with most on the Left, Mr. Blow derisively & disparagingly refers to those with whom he does not agree.
There are alarming statistics related to the crime rates of illegal immigrants and incarceration rates of those from Mexico.
To simply write off Mr. Trump's views on immigration as xenophobic is to ignore a disturbing & deadly fact: this country has completely [and willfully] lost the ability to enforce our souther border resulting in millions of people living in our country illegally and a significant amount of those people commit violent crimes on legal citizens -- essentially making the government complicit.
This sentence deprives Mr. Blow of any credibility as a journalist. As with most on the Left, Mr. Blow derisively & disparagingly refers to those with whom he does not agree.
There are alarming statistics related to the crime rates of illegal immigrants and incarceration rates of those from Mexico.
To simply write off Mr. Trump's views on immigration as xenophobic is to ignore a disturbing & deadly fact: this country has completely [and willfully] lost the ability to enforce our souther border resulting in millions of people living in our country illegally and a significant amount of those people commit violent crimes on legal citizens -- essentially making the government complicit.
3
After listening to the President's press conference yesterday where he carefully and clearly explained the agreement with Iran in terms that anyone who chose to really listen could understand, I am struck again by the need to have a person of intellect leading this nation. A person with a solid grasp of world affairs. A person with genuine compassion. A person with an understanding of the economy. A person able to reflect before speaking. A person who turns away from rhetoric in favour of facts. A person with patience. In short - the man we have in the office now. Donald Trump, and many of the other republican candidates for this high office display non, if any, of the above traits essential to the Presidency.
220
Obama, compassion? Do not forget he developed assassination Tuesday which often results in "collateral damage" or dead children, women and men not involved with the target, as well as supporting torture and rendition, and classifying any male 12 to 80 as a combatant for killing. He loves Wall Street and its den of thieves, and created TPP which gives up national sovereignty. He did not use his political capital to obtain singe payer medicare for all, instead he made insurance companies richer.
He may be "compassionate" for his family, but I think you are kidding yourself if you think he has the compassion that places the ordinary citizens needs over his own wealth and self-aggrandizement.
us army 1969-1971/california jd thanks to public education & gi bill
He may be "compassionate" for his family, but I think you are kidding yourself if you think he has the compassion that places the ordinary citizens needs over his own wealth and self-aggrandizement.
us army 1969-1971/california jd thanks to public education & gi bill
1
Obama has expressed zero compassion to the family of Kate Steinle
Like so many others in the public eye, there is no need for a psychological profile to understand Donald Trump--that is a waste of time. He is promoting himself--period. And to do this he is tapping into fear of the "foreigner." Lazy historians resort to such profiles to explain awful behavior: Hitler's mother had a brain tumor, Goering loved fine art, Nixon was paranoid etc.
1
As Napoleon described, war is two bodies, each trying to scare the other into submission. Napoleon won on the battlefield, Trump wages his war in the media.
Little difference in tactics between war and politics.
Little difference in tactics between war and politics.
1
Mr. Blow says "Facts are not the point for Trump." This is true for the entire lot of Republican candidates. The truth is that nearly all of the immigrants (documented or undocumented) that arrive from south of the border are good people simply hoping for a better life for themselves and their families. How many of the Republican candidates are saying this? They all agree with Donald Trump; some of them are just horrified by the way he says it.
Donald Trump could go quite far in the Republican Primary process. He could win some of the primaries. It will be fun to watch the debates.
Donald Trump could go quite far in the Republican Primary process. He could win some of the primaries. It will be fun to watch the debates.
1
The right wing Oligarchy knows: Money trumps democracy. Advertised impressions, clever stories crafted to exploit prejudices, and false memes trump facts. Meanwhile, "Reality" TV pretends to show reality and the public eats it up, mesmerized.
So of course the man who comes along to embody all of this nonsense has a most appropriate surname: Trump.
So of course the man who comes along to embody all of this nonsense has a most appropriate surname: Trump.
3
Mr. Blow is right about Trump. There is more. Trump's narcissism resonates with widespread narcissism in American society. Regardless of the outcome of his campaign, he is exacerbating the breakdown of American society. His "people-reading sense", and his use of it to exploit others for his own gain, are sociopathic. The interesting question is how many Americans will recognize his amorality as ultimately destructive and how many will identify with it as like their own.
3
I agree Trump is unlikely to be president. However, along with Trump trumpeting Trump there lies shrewdness. I know liberals, and bright ones, who have resented the intrusion of illegal Hispanic workers. Why, because they watched their wages fall or lost their jobs because of them as our society moved to one that was fragmented, becoming more and more a society of those who worked and those who managed. Once, in California, when I asked an electrician to help me dig a ditch, the lazy oaf said "no, you need a Mexican". He had accepted this as normal. Such is America, and Trump knows it. The more interesting thing about Trump is he combines his anti immigrant message with a populist message, of health care for everyone and preserving social security. This will likely capture many poorer Republicans, and many undecided voters. So, don’t toss him off so lightly. He is a demigod who may have a message that resonates.
15
Why would you want to hire an electrician to dig a ditch?
Because the ditch was for an electric cable to service the remodel I was doing and once the ditch was dug this oaf of an electircian was going to roll out the cable and connect it, also refusing to help refill the ditch. The electrician was too special, no one is that special, So, I dug it myself and filled it in myself. It was less time consuming or insulting than to go and find a Mexican.
In 1835 Nova Scotian jurist and writer Thomas Chandler Haliburton introduced Sam Slick from Slicksville the Yankee super salesman to the world. Sam was a lovable rogue who sold entertainment more than he sold commodities.
There is the story Sam tells of the salesman who sold oxen instead of horses to villagers who knew a little of horses but knew there were large draft horses. A Yankee trader could bestow magical powers to the horns of big horses.
America has given the world many value products and ideas but selling sizzle over substance has created a world economy that threatens our very survival.
Donald Trump is not Sam Slick he is only the sizzle Sam was selling. A media that purports to give news but only delivers entertainment is the salesman. Only one President in my lifetime starting with Harry Truman was more substance than sizzle and that was James Earl Carter and none had less substance than Reagan.
I am not as confident as Charles Blow that Donald Trump cannot become President. In a land where FOX entertainment can pass itself off as FOX "news" the prospect of a President who is all sizzle and no substance is a real possibility.
The US media has presented me with a vast array of candidates for whom sizzle is far more important than substance. I often wonder if Jon Huntsman was an nonstarter in 2012 was because the US media only sells sizzle.
Those of us who have met Bernie know he is all substance, a poor fit for the nation of Seinfeld a nation about nothing.
There is the story Sam tells of the salesman who sold oxen instead of horses to villagers who knew a little of horses but knew there were large draft horses. A Yankee trader could bestow magical powers to the horns of big horses.
America has given the world many value products and ideas but selling sizzle over substance has created a world economy that threatens our very survival.
Donald Trump is not Sam Slick he is only the sizzle Sam was selling. A media that purports to give news but only delivers entertainment is the salesman. Only one President in my lifetime starting with Harry Truman was more substance than sizzle and that was James Earl Carter and none had less substance than Reagan.
I am not as confident as Charles Blow that Donald Trump cannot become President. In a land where FOX entertainment can pass itself off as FOX "news" the prospect of a President who is all sizzle and no substance is a real possibility.
The US media has presented me with a vast array of candidates for whom sizzle is far more important than substance. I often wonder if Jon Huntsman was an nonstarter in 2012 was because the US media only sells sizzle.
Those of us who have met Bernie know he is all substance, a poor fit for the nation of Seinfeld a nation about nothing.
6
YES!!!!!. let that chicken roost , I say. Let it roost hard and maybe even bare a bunch of baby chicks and that the whole lot of them never leave.
1
I don't know if all his bloviating has made him more money... He's lost contracts left and right. Though, I still want to know, does it count as a boycott if I'd never buy his junk to begin with?
2
Trump's rise is simply a reaction to how terrible our other politicians are. They are just as ugly as Trump, but they couch their vileness in smiley words.
When he appears in the debates, he will blow the bland mediocrities off the stage.
The Republican Party has based its survival on disenfranchising poor and minority voters. They can rally behind taking down the confederate flag all they want, but they have doubled down on being the white people's party.
I salute Donald trump for ripping the smiley face off the Republican Party. Say what you want about him - he's not a phony. The rest of the Republican candidates are, certifiably, phonies. They don't care about Latinos except to somehow get their votes while at the same time passing laws to make it harder for them to vote.
Donald Trump is using the same playbook Adolph Hitler used, with his scapegoating of minorities and his call for a national "return to greatness." Luckily for us we're not in as bad a shape as the Weimar Republic was in the 1930's. If we were - and if we are, some time in the future - these tactics would actually work, and a madman like Trump could take power.
That's what's scary about Donald Trump. He shows how easily we could slip into fascism in this country.
When he appears in the debates, he will blow the bland mediocrities off the stage.
The Republican Party has based its survival on disenfranchising poor and minority voters. They can rally behind taking down the confederate flag all they want, but they have doubled down on being the white people's party.
I salute Donald trump for ripping the smiley face off the Republican Party. Say what you want about him - he's not a phony. The rest of the Republican candidates are, certifiably, phonies. They don't care about Latinos except to somehow get their votes while at the same time passing laws to make it harder for them to vote.
Donald Trump is using the same playbook Adolph Hitler used, with his scapegoating of minorities and his call for a national "return to greatness." Luckily for us we're not in as bad a shape as the Weimar Republic was in the 1930's. If we were - and if we are, some time in the future - these tactics would actually work, and a madman like Trump could take power.
That's what's scary about Donald Trump. He shows how easily we could slip into fascism in this country.
10
You can shoot the messenger, but the issue remains. While its true that Trump is grandiose and crass in his presentation, at least he is addressing the glaring need for Immigration Reform.
3
(This is husband Fred Mueller) ... Trump is not the only GOP wannabe slopping at the publicity trough. You just gotta come to the conclusion that most of the GOP "field", and the primary process in general, has become an exercise in personal promotion - a way to amplify your public voice/political career at no expense generally; with the possibility of greatly expanded remuneritive opportunity (books, speaking events, broadcast fees) - and hey, if you happen to end up grabbing the brass ring ... wowee, look what I done Ma !!!
4
I am an immigrant from India. My father came over legally in 1969 when America reformed it's racist European whites- only immigration privileges in the wake of the civil rights movement. Since then America has transformed to the point that the collective of non- whites will soon outnumber whites. Indian immigration has been mainly of the educated classes who were given preference for certain professions America was short on at the time, such as doctors and accountants. Illegal Mexican immigrants are largely impoverished and undereducated. Trump has conflated poverty with criminality. That is unnecessary although he's probably done so to frighten people and also to make exclusion somehow more palatable. It's okay to say 'I won't tolerate criminals entering my country unlawfully.' But not okay to say that about people who are merely poor and needy-- that would be in direct contradiction to the Statue of Liberty welcoming the (white) poor from Europe. And yet there is the law. Either law is respected or it is not. If there needs to be a provision by which those from Central and South America can be allowed to enter America in controlled numbers as part of a "good neighbor" policy that should be done. Trump has brought immediate focus to this issue, which is a good thing. Now the adults need to take over the discussion and both uphold the law and work to change it in a manner that respects American security while acknowledging the needs of its neighbors.
8
Good paying tech jobs aren't in danger because of people who come here to pick fruit, they're in danger because of abuses of the Visa programs that bring tech workers over from India.
1
As a dyed in the wool Dem. I love the Don! Keep on "speaking your mind" (if that is what you call it).
5
There seems to be a consensus among the commenters here that Trump is indeed a smart man, as he boasts he is. If this is true, he's smart like Kim Kardashian is smart. Enough said.
5
Take a selfie, America: how does it look to the rest of the world? Imagine, for example, Benny Hill as a candidate for British prime minister. The Republican "base" is a disgrace.
18
The chickens are coming home to roost for the Republicans. They have Trump with all his anti-Latino rhetoric who still has not disavowed his multiyear snipe hunt for the president's Kenyan birth certificate; the looney-tunes Texans who have renounced their American citizenship along with their "Support the troops", American flags and Pledge of Allegiance in favor of their guns to fight off the federal troops; and their college drop out Walker who hates education passionately but would definitely benefit from some. Several others are wrapping themselves in the bigotry flag whether it is Confederate stars or rainbow striped.
It's quite a juggling act of racism, misogyny, bigotry, and ignorance under the Republican Big Tent these days. Time for another autopsy?
It's quite a juggling act of racism, misogyny, bigotry, and ignorance under the Republican Big Tent these days. Time for another autopsy?
12
Nah..just another round of re-branding. They ought to recycle an old name too - the Know Nothing Party; as appropriate a name for them as it ever was.
1
Most disconcerting is how the GOP has allowed itself to devolve this far. Sixty years of no real interest in governing, only in using the government to enrich themselves and their friends. Not since Ike have we seen a serious Republican, seeking to propose workable solutions to the nation's problems. I remember when we thought Goldwater was extremist, that there could be no president worse than Nixon. Then came Reagan, who had ruined education in California and put forward his "water plan" to bring northern Cal's water to his business buddies in the desert outside of L.A., before getting elected as president. Iran-Contra. Savings and Loan mess. Bush-Cheney. Iraq, Halliburton. It just goes down, and down, and down, and now, little effort is made to hide the bigotry, the greed, the lust for power, the racism, the sexism, the hatred, the desire to exploit while the planet dies. In fact, there is no more effort at hiding or disguising it. It has not only become normal. Now, it's the party's platform, the party's pride.
19
They're already "raptured".
In short, Trump is a jerk, and the Republicans deserve him, no doubt. It will be interesting to see how this all comes out, when the dust settles and pinch comes to shove. Trump is not that much different than a lot of people in our country. As for the Republican Party, they seem to do fine on their own destroying themselves without any help from Trump. The whole thing is rather entertaining in a bizarre sort of way. The media keeps saying the same thing over and over again, which is basically that Trump will be history, sooner than later, while they are almost guaranteeing by their own behavior that it will be later, rather than sooner.
4
The fact that his is the current voice of the GOP should be the canary in the coal mine for blacks, hispanics, gays, other people that speak english with an accent, Jews, Muslims and any other group that isn't white or rich or fanatically christian or totally uneducated. Sounds like the real middle America should note that their country isn't their country any more.
5
Trump is unelectable, thank (since there is no God) the stars. Come to think of it, thank the stars for both those things. Actually, Trump's election would be absolute confirmation of God's existence. Who else could find humor in that situation?
5
Trump is applying his learnings in reality TV to the presidential race: create an outsized fictional version of yourself for the cameras that contains an emotional truth that people can relate to. He's the Roman circus to Obama's bread. The villain in All-Star wrestling who is just pointing out the hubris of your supposed heros. America will always have a place for irresponsible characters like him, because even Batman understands that without a Joker, the citizens of Gotham will eventually get around to coming for him.
33
23 percent approval rating. That's a useful figure. We can write off those votes now and for the foreseeable future - and those folks do vote. So two thirds of the rest is what we have to have. Useful to know at least.
Yeah, it probably includes the hard cord white supremacists, but that's not the critical demographic. I know some of these people - both relatives and former army connections. They're not really bad people, most of them. Lower middle or working class for the most part. Generally not well educated, though some are. Often not terribly bright, though there are exceptions to that as well. They'll tell you they're not racists. They have black friends, they invariably say.
I try to understand what's going on there. There's some fear - a lot of gun ownership in that group. But most of all there's a cliquish element to it. They reinforce and justify each other. I don't use my facebook account, but my wife is connected with some of the relatives. They link posters of Obama with snarky comments on them and now they link Trump. My experience is that if you try to have a political discussion with them they won't engage - they just shake their heads or roll their eyes. We just don't get it. THEY get it. It's like a club that's in on some secret the rest of us don't see. They feel superior and I'm sure that's ultimately some kind of compensation. Facebook is making it worse; more reinforcement.
I wish I knew how to get through to them, but for now, write them off.
Yeah, it probably includes the hard cord white supremacists, but that's not the critical demographic. I know some of these people - both relatives and former army connections. They're not really bad people, most of them. Lower middle or working class for the most part. Generally not well educated, though some are. Often not terribly bright, though there are exceptions to that as well. They'll tell you they're not racists. They have black friends, they invariably say.
I try to understand what's going on there. There's some fear - a lot of gun ownership in that group. But most of all there's a cliquish element to it. They reinforce and justify each other. I don't use my facebook account, but my wife is connected with some of the relatives. They link posters of Obama with snarky comments on them and now they link Trump. My experience is that if you try to have a political discussion with them they won't engage - they just shake their heads or roll their eyes. We just don't get it. THEY get it. It's like a club that's in on some secret the rest of us don't see. They feel superior and I'm sure that's ultimately some kind of compensation. Facebook is making it worse; more reinforcement.
I wish I knew how to get through to them, but for now, write them off.
9
You gotta love the media. Donald wasn't on the radar and the media thought they could dispatch him in the usual way. Catch him saying something controversial, beat him with it for a couple of days, wait for the apology and then watch him sink like a rock in the polls. Donald did something they weren't expecting, he didn't play fair, he challenged them.
The media in their usual way believed he was playing into their hands.
Funny how it appears that the media is playing into his hands. They cannot help themselves, they are much smarter than the Donald and they know it. So article after article is written lambasting him, exposing him, laughing at him. All the while, his message is getting through. People are getting the message regardless of how mangled and twisted the press portray it.
The media in their usual way believed he was playing into their hands.
Funny how it appears that the media is playing into his hands. They cannot help themselves, they are much smarter than the Donald and they know it. So article after article is written lambasting him, exposing him, laughing at him. All the while, his message is getting through. People are getting the message regardless of how mangled and twisted the press portray it.
13
Here's the message, Larry. Trump proclaims that he can bring manufacturing jobs back to America while shilling a line of clothing bearing his name that is made in China. Hypocrisy manufactured in the good ol' USA.
10
Trump is not talking about illegal immigration. Of course, illegal immigration is wrong and should be controlled. But under the cover of illegal immigrants, he is showing his odious hatred and racism towards Mexicans. Many non-Mexicans also cross the border illegally, many illegal immigrants overstay their tourist visas and student visas from Europe and Asia. If the issue was only illegal immigrants, then why would he call only the Mexican immigrants criminals and rapists? And, what about the claim that the Mexican Government is sending these criminals and rapists? Is there a ministry in Mexico that is accumulating criminals and rapists and moving them by bus and telling them to cross the border? And, we, the USA government has no knowledge of this special ministry?
Trump has given other racists a cover to fly under. That is all. This is what a carnival Barker does. Calls attention.
Trump has given other racists a cover to fly under. That is all. This is what a carnival Barker does. Calls attention.
69
You are so correct! In his first statement, Trump never used the term "illegal." As a Mexican American (born here) I had the experience of a white guy sprawled on the sidewalk hollering at me "you took my job." Never mind that I was born here and am a sole practitioner who paid my own way through law school. His is the kind of "mind" which Trump incites.
107
Lets not forget the real thing about the illegal immigrants from Mexico. Businesses Love Them. They get to use thousands at very low wages, with no benefits whatsoever.
The biggest reason they love them is ..... "They cannot Vote".
It is servitude from the Dark Ages.
The biggest reason they love them is ..... "They cannot Vote".
It is servitude from the Dark Ages.
6
I said it in 2012 and I'll say it again, Donald Trump is working for the Democratic National Committee. I don't know what they're paying him, but he's worth every penny.
3
Every four years, we get the same thing:
First, pundits proclaiming that this is the year the GOP will yield a formidable presidential field. Then we get the "clown car" primary, after which the Republicans settle on the safe, establishment candidate, who has begins the general race tainted by his association with the cranks.
How many times do we have to see this movie before the Republican party finally ousts the crazies? Is it that it's incapable of doing so?
We've had eight years of a Democratic administration (one that gets better with age. would that this version of Obama had been the one that took office in 2009). And we'll likely have at least four more years of a Democratic presidency beginning in 2017. Generally, this leads to a staid, corrupt (more so than usual, at least) establishment. This is sort of the way things work in two-party politics. It is imperative that we get a serious opposition.
First, pundits proclaiming that this is the year the GOP will yield a formidable presidential field. Then we get the "clown car" primary, after which the Republicans settle on the safe, establishment candidate, who has begins the general race tainted by his association with the cranks.
How many times do we have to see this movie before the Republican party finally ousts the crazies? Is it that it's incapable of doing so?
We've had eight years of a Democratic administration (one that gets better with age. would that this version of Obama had been the one that took office in 2009). And we'll likely have at least four more years of a Democratic presidency beginning in 2017. Generally, this leads to a staid, corrupt (more so than usual, at least) establishment. This is sort of the way things work in two-party politics. It is imperative that we get a serious opposition.
27
The Republicans cannot oust the crazies until the more moderate wing of the party retakes the primary process from the crazies. As long as the fringe of the party controls the gateway to the nomination, Republican candidates have no choice but to pitch their message to the crazies and then try to pivot hard toward the middle once they get the nomination. Easier said than done. Especially since the crazies are not longer satisfied with dog whistles and demand explicit and unambiguous hard-right positions of their primary candidates.
The moderate wing of the Republican party fatally miscalculated when it thought it could harness the fringe to its own purposes. They have nothing with which to control the fringe and both know that. And now the tail wags the dog.
That fringe is defined by fear and hatred, xenophobia and homophobia. And thinking Republicans know full well that that is not where the bulk of Americans are politically. So they are left catering to a gatekeeper whose views are repugnant to the greater voting public. The fact that, as a party, the Republicans did not strongly and unequivocally repudiate Trump's obnoxious statements shows just how firmly in the grasp of the hard right fringe they are held. It also showed the rest of us a party that isn't morally fit to govern this country.
We will not see a Republican president in this election. We will not see a Republican president until the party ceases to represent the worst in us.
The moderate wing of the Republican party fatally miscalculated when it thought it could harness the fringe to its own purposes. They have nothing with which to control the fringe and both know that. And now the tail wags the dog.
That fringe is defined by fear and hatred, xenophobia and homophobia. And thinking Republicans know full well that that is not where the bulk of Americans are politically. So they are left catering to a gatekeeper whose views are repugnant to the greater voting public. The fact that, as a party, the Republicans did not strongly and unequivocally repudiate Trump's obnoxious statements shows just how firmly in the grasp of the hard right fringe they are held. It also showed the rest of us a party that isn't morally fit to govern this country.
We will not see a Republican president in this election. We will not see a Republican president until the party ceases to represent the worst in us.
4
I heard trump rounded out his "branded" offerings with a new cologne: "Eau d'Ego." It diffuses readily and lingers long after application.
3
It seems that now that Rush Limbaugh has exhausted his welcome and sponsors on the radio,his alien puppet master has abandoned that empty shell and climbed onto Donald Trump's spinal ganglia to suck up all the negative energy on visual media. Here's hoping that Trump's and Ann Coulter's parasitic life forms meet and create a singularity of equal parts hatred and narcissism, and get sucked into the public's wormhole of indifference.
128
love it
Very nice imagery. Let's hope the pod people are removed from the planet's politics.
RECATHERINEBARROLL: Don't give me vituperation, badly written and while intended to be funny is not, but facts. What has Coulter, RL or DT ever said that u disagree with, and why?Be specific. As far as I can tell, they are all successful people: RL is the most listened to radio host on the air; Coulter is a successful lawyer, talented writer and a lecturer commanding high fees, and DT is the world's wealthiest and most astute businessman. R u jealous?Ur aggressive language, moreover, surprises me.I always took Canadians for being the most polite, inoffensive and nicest people on the face of the earth.
There is one way shut this down, don't write about him and the very least just refer to him as 'the other'.
4
Dear Mr. Blow,
I agree with your assessment of the Donald & have told my friends that he is a publicity hog & gets off on the commentary about him, that seems to be on all the the TV Stations & Newspapers in the country.He is crazy as a Fox, & will come out of this without the nomination but billions of dollars from HBO,& satellite radio & the like.He had roll models to go by, Howard Stern, & Bill Mahr, who have made millions by making outrageous
statements. In the case of Howard Stern a personality without any obvious talent, the country can't get enough of him. Trump is right about one thing, he does have the pulse of the conservative elements in the Republican Party
& he's milking it for all it's worth.
I agree with your assessment of the Donald & have told my friends that he is a publicity hog & gets off on the commentary about him, that seems to be on all the the TV Stations & Newspapers in the country.He is crazy as a Fox, & will come out of this without the nomination but billions of dollars from HBO,& satellite radio & the like.He had roll models to go by, Howard Stern, & Bill Mahr, who have made millions by making outrageous
statements. In the case of Howard Stern a personality without any obvious talent, the country can't get enough of him. Trump is right about one thing, he does have the pulse of the conservative elements in the Republican Party
& he's milking it for all it's worth.
2
Everyone knows we have a problem with illegal immigrants and Donald Trump has just tapped into it in an ugly way. Don't blame poor immigrants, but politicians in Washington who fail to enforce existing laws. Republicans want to protect the flow of cheap labor for the business community while Democrats want to protect votes in ethnic communities as well as developing votes of new citizens. Ironically, each side uses the same cry for validation:
"Give me your tired, your poor..." from the poem on the base of the Statute of Liberty.
We could start by requiring round trip airline
tickets for foreigners as some countries do. Thousands of people each year obtain a tourist visa and a one-way ticket with no intention of
returning. But the key to reducing illegal immigration are heavy fines levied on employers who hire them. And that includes nannies. Our credit card validity can be checked out in minutes; employers should be able to do the same thing with job applicants.
More than a century ago, every male adult immigrant who landed at Ellis Island was asked: "Do you have a job?" Everyone knew to deny this--having a job meant taking a job away from an American. Millions of Americans have lost jobs to countries with much lower wages; citizens should not have to compete with people coming here illegally from those same countries.
"Give me your tired, your poor..." from the poem on the base of the Statute of Liberty.
We could start by requiring round trip airline
tickets for foreigners as some countries do. Thousands of people each year obtain a tourist visa and a one-way ticket with no intention of
returning. But the key to reducing illegal immigration are heavy fines levied on employers who hire them. And that includes nannies. Our credit card validity can be checked out in minutes; employers should be able to do the same thing with job applicants.
More than a century ago, every male adult immigrant who landed at Ellis Island was asked: "Do you have a job?" Everyone knew to deny this--having a job meant taking a job away from an American. Millions of Americans have lost jobs to countries with much lower wages; citizens should not have to compete with people coming here illegally from those same countries.
7
I agree that Trump is doing damage to the gop brand (rightfully so) but he's also, in a broader sense, doing damage to the country as a whole. By making a mockery of discourse and policy, he (and the entire gop) drives away the best and the brightest from public service. I mean, what smart young person coming out of college would want to go into politics when they watch this train wreck? Intelligence, nuance and compromise has been trumped (pun intended) by bombast, pandering and rhetoric. It's about who can shout the loudest and be the meanest.
The moderate brand of conservatism of past generations has been jetisoned for ever increasing far right rhetoric designed to appeal to a shrinking base. The modern gop is anti - middle class, poor, woman, immigrants, science, government, taxation and compromise. The only thing they are for is the wealthy (Koch, Adelson) and the military (which they hide behind and use as a bludgeon). Consequently, we get lower quality candidates that are better at fear mongering and promoting themselves than actually governing.
Sadly, this is who we are at this point in time. You get the politicians you deserve and we now have these people. My fear is that, because of Trump (and the other gop rocket scientist candidates), the future will be filled with Trump's.
The moderate brand of conservatism of past generations has been jetisoned for ever increasing far right rhetoric designed to appeal to a shrinking base. The modern gop is anti - middle class, poor, woman, immigrants, science, government, taxation and compromise. The only thing they are for is the wealthy (Koch, Adelson) and the military (which they hide behind and use as a bludgeon). Consequently, we get lower quality candidates that are better at fear mongering and promoting themselves than actually governing.
Sadly, this is who we are at this point in time. You get the politicians you deserve and we now have these people. My fear is that, because of Trump (and the other gop rocket scientist candidates), the future will be filled with Trump's.
5
How wonderfully karmic that GHW Bush's Willie Horton ad, which started the ball rolling on ramped-up fear based hate mongering for presidential campaigns, is the template for candidate Trump, all slash and burn and irresponsibility. It will be the Donald that does Jeb! in as much as Hillary if not more so, because the Republican brand will be tainted for years to come.
5
The GOP deserves to lose. None of the people we voted into Congress or the state legislature have done anything to help Main Street, middle class America. I like Trump because he's the only one in the GOP that is very explicit in his message. It's better for America to lose with Trump than for the GOP to win this election; a victory for iJeb! is going to mean less jobs in america and more money for wall street.
45
And the democrats did what again?
1
"Facts are not the point for Trump."
It is not only Trump but the Republican Party that is fact adverse. The Republican election plan since Reagan has been one of deception and division of the country for political gain. Reagan's lie of welfare queens driving Cadillacs to pick up welfare checks has been followed by recent lies of death panels in the ACA, rampant election fraud, climate change is a lie, imagrants beheading people in the Arizona desert ...
Trump has meerly put some of the Republican divisiveness in your face requiring a responce. But let's not just blame Trump for this low of lows for a political debate. The fault really is with a political party that has nothing to offer looking foward for this country - cutting taxes and "job creators" - is running out of gas as wealth inequalty is undeniable even for Republicans.
So Republicans are in trouble of their own making - how long can they disguise that they are the party of the 1% and still get a majority of the people to vote for them?
It is not only Trump but the Republican Party that is fact adverse. The Republican election plan since Reagan has been one of deception and division of the country for political gain. Reagan's lie of welfare queens driving Cadillacs to pick up welfare checks has been followed by recent lies of death panels in the ACA, rampant election fraud, climate change is a lie, imagrants beheading people in the Arizona desert ...
Trump has meerly put some of the Republican divisiveness in your face requiring a responce. But let's not just blame Trump for this low of lows for a political debate. The fault really is with a political party that has nothing to offer looking foward for this country - cutting taxes and "job creators" - is running out of gas as wealth inequalty is undeniable even for Republicans.
So Republicans are in trouble of their own making - how long can they disguise that they are the party of the 1% and still get a majority of the people to vote for them?
93
The leading deomcrat is not so interested in facts either, especially the facts of her own record. TPP support, Wall Street lover, and leading war hawk wallowing in killing and lying about her own landing under fire moment ala Brian Williams, and then claiming she was dead broke when her and right wing Bill left the White House.
I didnot see either one of them in the draft line at induction in 1969 either.
us army 1969-1971/california jd thanks to gi bill/public education
I didnot see either one of them in the draft line at induction in 1969 either.
us army 1969-1971/california jd thanks to gi bill/public education
This comment is about misrepresenting the facts. Someones record stands on it's own merit and can be debated as to their positions. Hillary Clinton's record is a fact if you don't like it don't vote for her.
Although by your second comment about the draft and no military service you must be completely disgusted with these Republican who did not serve - Chenny. Romney, Jeb Bush, Gingrich, Guiliani, Santorum, Ben Carson, Ted Cruz, Rand Paul, Marco Rubio, Scott Walker, Chris Christie......
Although by your second comment about the draft and no military service you must be completely disgusted with these Republican who did not serve - Chenny. Romney, Jeb Bush, Gingrich, Guiliani, Santorum, Ben Carson, Ted Cruz, Rand Paul, Marco Rubio, Scott Walker, Chris Christie......
1
Trump should be a gift to the Democrats. He's already undermined Jeb, the only "serious" Republican candidate. Moreover, the law and order Republican Party has no good answer to Mr. Trump's broadsides against illegal immigration. They stand to lose much of their white base unless they get behind him, but would then be castigated by Hispanic and swing voters.
Democratic columnists and voters howl so much because Trump scares them. They all claim he can't possibly win. But they remain dreadfully nervous about him. Why? Because they have no faith in the leadership of their own party and whoever ultimately wins the Democratic nomination. I don't blame them. I'd be scared too.
Democratic columnists and voters howl so much because Trump scares them. They all claim he can't possibly win. But they remain dreadfully nervous about him. Why? Because they have no faith in the leadership of their own party and whoever ultimately wins the Democratic nomination. I don't blame them. I'd be scared too.
2
Trump, proof positive that what makes for a financially successful businessman would make a terrible, terrible president. The skill sets are diametrically opposed. All ego, bluster, and bullying with callous disregard for the rights of others are not qualities of good leadership. They are qualities of successful sociopaths. The thought of any of these extremely shallow men in the White House is enough to give one nightmares.
6
Although I am trying to avoid politics but for the headline stories and major events, I am compelled by the Trump candidacy which has him in front in the polls, challenging Bush and the other more seasoned politicians. It means that his delivery method and confrontational substance still titillates the GOP base. Wouldn't it be something if he won the Iowa primary and went forward from there?
3
Yes, Trump holds up a mirror to the Republican party and 28% like what they see?!... This is enough to tilt a primary or provide a Republican base for the successful nominee. But who are these people? If Republicans are assumed to be about 50% of the electorate then 28% might translate to 14% of America afflicted by mind-numbing bigotry plus many others harboring less virulent, more politically correct strains. No wonder the GOP has become an ugly caricature of a once proud party and 'compassionate conservatism' an oxymoron that throws up a Tea Party and politicians who trumpet their prejudices or remain silent in the face of it. But is that who we are as a nation? Could we please look deeper into the demographics and motives of the 14% so we can at least begin to know the problem we must overcome.
2
So in your mind, Charles, citizenship is here for anyone who can run across the border without being caught. Sanctuary cities are great. And no matter that blacks have lost ground under Obama because we have more than enough taxpayer dollars to support everyone for life.
7
Charles said no such thing. Why tell a lie that is so easy to disprove?
3
why should politicians, especially politicians be any different than so much of society?
“I’m, like, a really smart person.”
so many people are "like" the tradesman or professional they are purporting to be..... but not really that good or sometimes even competent at what they do. but trump really is, not "like", a complete buffoons and he is excellent at his chosen profession. he wouldn't even be "like" a good president but what a circus! move over P.T.
“I’m, like, a really smart person.”
so many people are "like" the tradesman or professional they are purporting to be..... but not really that good or sometimes even competent at what they do. but trump really is, not "like", a complete buffoons and he is excellent at his chosen profession. he wouldn't even be "like" a good president but what a circus! move over P.T.
3
Trump is a balloon filled with foul-smelling gas. He is a fraud ("Trump University"), a liar (anything and everything he says - my most recent favorite: "The Mexicans love me!"), and a bigot - obviously. He is morally and often financially bankrupt. His candidacy hurts everyone - the GOP, but all of us as he brings shame to the human race.
3
When the lights are out you can’t see the roaches circling around the sugar bowl. Trump has switched on the lights and some of the nastiest, xenophobic and self serving people in the nation can be seen for what they are. They all claim to be Republicans and mean Conservatives which is a dog whistle for neo-Confederate. So to avoid a more accurate labeling they call themselves Republicans and assure us that that means conservative and you can’t be too conservative.
Republican is their brand. There is no Republican party, it is just a brand which for ultra conservatives reactionaries to label themselves to run for office. Look at anyone. Read the label. There is no warning label that says that Republicans will destroy democracy and may cause war. They all have common ingredients.
All favor tax cuts for the rich and privatization of the functions of government and they are against immigrants, legal or undocumented, labor unions, collective bargaining, public education, the minimum wage, a living wage, immigration reform with a path the citizenship, regulation of business, banks and Wall Street, and the social safety net, and they are against the civil rights laws, women’s rights, gay rights and voting rights for blacks, Latinos and the poor. They are for longer hours and low wages and the Bible over law.
Gosh who turned on the lights? That big mouth, egotist, xenophobe Trump. Yes he helping himself and he is in tune with the other so called Republicans..
Republican is their brand. There is no Republican party, it is just a brand which for ultra conservatives reactionaries to label themselves to run for office. Look at anyone. Read the label. There is no warning label that says that Republicans will destroy democracy and may cause war. They all have common ingredients.
All favor tax cuts for the rich and privatization of the functions of government and they are against immigrants, legal or undocumented, labor unions, collective bargaining, public education, the minimum wage, a living wage, immigration reform with a path the citizenship, regulation of business, banks and Wall Street, and the social safety net, and they are against the civil rights laws, women’s rights, gay rights and voting rights for blacks, Latinos and the poor. They are for longer hours and low wages and the Bible over law.
Gosh who turned on the lights? That big mouth, egotist, xenophobe Trump. Yes he helping himself and he is in tune with the other so called Republicans..
5
What will truly be entertaining is if Trump exceeds expectations and parlays his grandiose jingoism into the GOP nomination. If he makes it that far he WILL be able to turn out the Republican vote.
Hillary Clinton on the other hand is faced with a large swath of the Democratic party which is tepid on her at best. Since the common wisdom holds that Trump could never be elected, rallying them to the polls may be far more than she can accomplish. Her "inevitability" may again prove to be her Achilles's heel.
Hillary Clinton on the other hand is faced with a large swath of the Democratic party which is tepid on her at best. Since the common wisdom holds that Trump could never be elected, rallying them to the polls may be far more than she can accomplish. Her "inevitability" may again prove to be her Achilles's heel.
Ted Cruz is afraid of Donald Trump. If he says anything against the Donald, the Donald will fire right back and ask for Ted's birth certificate.
7
Republicans created this monster, and now the monster is driving their bus.
4
Practically the only truth left for Trump to reveal about the right wing is that it hates the President because he's black. For a long time now, that's been the elephant in the room as the GOP fights tooth and nail against anything proposed by Obama.
For weeks before completion of the Iran nuclear agreement, it was clear that the Republicans had already formulated their negative response. Within minutes of the announcement, they were bashing the President even before they had read the terms. It's all about destroying this fine man's Presidential legacy, even if they must also destroy the country to do it.
It's time for Trump to speak frankly on this issue as well, so he can give yet another gift to the Democratic Presidential candidates.
For weeks before completion of the Iran nuclear agreement, it was clear that the Republicans had already formulated their negative response. Within minutes of the announcement, they were bashing the President even before they had read the terms. It's all about destroying this fine man's Presidential legacy, even if they must also destroy the country to do it.
It's time for Trump to speak frankly on this issue as well, so he can give yet another gift to the Democratic Presidential candidates.
6
There is little real data to support the contention that illegal immigrants contribute at a disproportionate rate. However this is an excellent link to a comprehensive discussion of this subject:
http://cis.org/ImmigrantCrime
It clearly points out that there are no simple answers to the questions, but here is an interesting quote:
"Manhattan Institute Research. Manhattan Institute researcher Heather MacDonald concludes that “some of the most violent criminals at large today are illegal aliens.” One of the conclusions of her work is that out of a fear of offending powerful immigration advocacy groups, some police are inhibited from carefully tracking illegal alien crime or trying to use immigration enforcement to disrupt illegal alien criminal activity. This likely contributes to the lack of good data on immigrant crime. She finds some evidence that illegal aliens represent a disproportionate share of fugitive criminals. She reports that, in Los Angles County, 95 percent of all outstanding warrants for homicide are for illegal aliens and up to two-thirds of fugitive warrants in the county are for illegal aliens. While her work does not present systematic evidence of illegal immigrant crime, it does illustrate that illegal alien crime is not trivial. Moreover, she makes a strong case that by avoiding immigration issues, local police are failing to use an important tool at their disposal to reduce crime.36
So, there needs to be more bona fide studies on this vital issue.
http://cis.org/ImmigrantCrime
It clearly points out that there are no simple answers to the questions, but here is an interesting quote:
"Manhattan Institute Research. Manhattan Institute researcher Heather MacDonald concludes that “some of the most violent criminals at large today are illegal aliens.” One of the conclusions of her work is that out of a fear of offending powerful immigration advocacy groups, some police are inhibited from carefully tracking illegal alien crime or trying to use immigration enforcement to disrupt illegal alien criminal activity. This likely contributes to the lack of good data on immigrant crime. She finds some evidence that illegal aliens represent a disproportionate share of fugitive criminals. She reports that, in Los Angles County, 95 percent of all outstanding warrants for homicide are for illegal aliens and up to two-thirds of fugitive warrants in the county are for illegal aliens. While her work does not present systematic evidence of illegal immigrant crime, it does illustrate that illegal alien crime is not trivial. Moreover, she makes a strong case that by avoiding immigration issues, local police are failing to use an important tool at their disposal to reduce crime.36
So, there needs to be more bona fide studies on this vital issue.
Donald Trump is the apotheosis of current Republicanism -- undisguised racism, know-nothingism, narcissism, wealth gained through speculation and adroit use of corporate chapter 11 bankruptcy, making personal billions by leaving the suckers holding the bag.
His personal "brand" is right up there with Snooki; he is the living proof of "be known, be known favorably if possible ... but be known."
The Democrats could not have invented or promoted a Donald candidacy, but we can easily see who did, albeit unintentionally: Roger Ailes, Rupert Murdoch, and Fox "News." They invented the modern right-wing: TV personalities purveying an amalgam of paranoia, resentment, racism, ignorance, and sloganeering that would have made Mussolini or Peron blush.
He won't get the nomination, and he won't damage the nominee as much as Democrats think -- life ain't fair, folks.
The way to make the Republicans pay for Donald is simple: support Latino registration drives, support getting out the vote -- particularly in Florida.
The nominee will be JEB, or perhaps Rubio. The Republicans must carry Florida to have any chance of winning the Presidency, and there was already the likelihood that neither of them could do that. The Donald may be the nail in the Republican coffin, but it depends on people in Nov 2016 to remember things then long past.
Americans have terrible amnesia, it is almost as though everybody has early Alzheimer's. Will anyone remember ... or care?
His personal "brand" is right up there with Snooki; he is the living proof of "be known, be known favorably if possible ... but be known."
The Democrats could not have invented or promoted a Donald candidacy, but we can easily see who did, albeit unintentionally: Roger Ailes, Rupert Murdoch, and Fox "News." They invented the modern right-wing: TV personalities purveying an amalgam of paranoia, resentment, racism, ignorance, and sloganeering that would have made Mussolini or Peron blush.
He won't get the nomination, and he won't damage the nominee as much as Democrats think -- life ain't fair, folks.
The way to make the Republicans pay for Donald is simple: support Latino registration drives, support getting out the vote -- particularly in Florida.
The nominee will be JEB, or perhaps Rubio. The Republicans must carry Florida to have any chance of winning the Presidency, and there was already the likelihood that neither of them could do that. The Donald may be the nail in the Republican coffin, but it depends on people in Nov 2016 to remember things then long past.
Americans have terrible amnesia, it is almost as though everybody has early Alzheimer's. Will anyone remember ... or care?
5
Lee (Albany)....Thank you for your erudite comment. (We even have early Alzheimer's in our family.) In our little Minnesota town, we have a prominent corner lot...across from a major school and on great Halloween path. We will have at least two "Please Vote" signs out. Again, Thanks....we know enough to Care and care enough to Know.
1
An immigrant is one who follows the normal lawful procedures into coming into a new country...............the people who pay to come over our border in the middle of the night are not immigrants Mr. Blow, they are illegals breaking our laws. No matter what spin you libs put on it they are not immigrants they are lawbreakers.
They can't speak our language have no discernable skills and their children no immunications so tell us why should we welcome them with open arms? What can they contribute to our society? Instead let's tell the President of Mexico to clean up his act and make his country a safe haven for his own people. The United States is not a dumping ground for illiterate ilegals to set up shop. Mr. Trump is not too far off the mark.
They can't speak our language have no discernable skills and their children no immunications so tell us why should we welcome them with open arms? What can they contribute to our society? Instead let's tell the President of Mexico to clean up his act and make his country a safe haven for his own people. The United States is not a dumping ground for illiterate ilegals to set up shop. Mr. Trump is not too far off the mark.
2
They pick your produce, build your homes and clean up after you, often doing jobs that no American citizen will do.
1
Donald Trump as president and Arnold Schwarzenegger as Vice President is a good choice, Ronald Reagan proves already a bad actor can be a good president
1
Great column Mr. Blow, really nailed it. And I think this spells the eventual doom of the Republican party, that within a few generations it will be replaced by something far more useful and sensible, like the Green party or a variant of Libertarian.
What most objective people on the sidelines are realizing, with the fool Trump's quick rise to prominence in a field of impractical dolts, is that the Republican party is not only the party of 'No', but the party of racism, xenophobia, aggressive war, destruction of the environment, religious fundamentalism, and other negatives besides. Trump throws that all into sharp relief with his idiotic statements and his strong following; they demonstrate that, yes, a lot of Americans are racist and ignorant, and they must be stopped from having any effect on our nation's policies.
Kids these days don't like hating gays. Kids don't want their future to include gas masks for outdoor expeditions. Kids are going to equate the GOP with bigotry, stupidity, and the fall of America, and as soon as people older than 50 now are all dead (50 years tops), this party should be dead too. Here's hoping.
What most objective people on the sidelines are realizing, with the fool Trump's quick rise to prominence in a field of impractical dolts, is that the Republican party is not only the party of 'No', but the party of racism, xenophobia, aggressive war, destruction of the environment, religious fundamentalism, and other negatives besides. Trump throws that all into sharp relief with his idiotic statements and his strong following; they demonstrate that, yes, a lot of Americans are racist and ignorant, and they must be stopped from having any effect on our nation's policies.
Kids these days don't like hating gays. Kids don't want their future to include gas masks for outdoor expeditions. Kids are going to equate the GOP with bigotry, stupidity, and the fall of America, and as soon as people older than 50 now are all dead (50 years tops), this party should be dead too. Here's hoping.
4
I live in one of the reddest states in the U.S. It is also one that
relies heavily upon undocumented workers to run its agricultural economy.
So, Trump’s musings come as no surprise to me. It is a reflection of the
attitude of vast segment of my society. In spite of their long standing
contribution to our economy, to many “Mexican” is synonymous with dirty,
illegal, lazy, law breakers, etc. Those who exploit their labor do little
to better their lot in our society. Driver’s licenses, so that they can
drive back and forth to work without living in fear of being stopped by
the police? Heavens, no! Legal status for them and their children, some
of whom of spent years toiling for the same farmers. No! Why? Because when you have 10,000 cows to milk you want a stable labor force, whose mobility is restricted and won’t assert any legal rights. It’s the 21st century equivalent of the slave plantation. So, when Trump spouts off, he not only appeals to the ignorant xenophobe, but also to the industrial/agricultural economic base of the Republican party.
relies heavily upon undocumented workers to run its agricultural economy.
So, Trump’s musings come as no surprise to me. It is a reflection of the
attitude of vast segment of my society. In spite of their long standing
contribution to our economy, to many “Mexican” is synonymous with dirty,
illegal, lazy, law breakers, etc. Those who exploit their labor do little
to better their lot in our society. Driver’s licenses, so that they can
drive back and forth to work without living in fear of being stopped by
the police? Heavens, no! Legal status for them and their children, some
of whom of spent years toiling for the same farmers. No! Why? Because when you have 10,000 cows to milk you want a stable labor force, whose mobility is restricted and won’t assert any legal rights. It’s the 21st century equivalent of the slave plantation. So, when Trump spouts off, he not only appeals to the ignorant xenophobe, but also to the industrial/agricultural economic base of the Republican party.
7
Trump offers some interesting counter reasoning and I buy it. It's fun to see the polititions, both parties, get worked up. It's the closest they've come in years to "work".
Counter reasoning is Trump braying that he can bring manufacturing jobs back to America all the while having a line of clothes bearing his name being manufactured in China.
2
I wish that Trump were actually doing the damage that Mr. Blow talks about. I fear rather that as one person has noted: all PR is good PR. As soon as the real race has begun, these preliminary skirmishes will fade into the background as their more polite versions of hate and dumb policy are transmogrified by TV talking heads and "news" coverage. It will be the same sad story told in more polite language for the undecided and previously unengaged voter to find acceptable.
What Trump is saying in crude language IS what the party believes, and when people vote for the Republican nominee, whoever he is, they WILL STILL be voting for the horrible things Trump says even if the actual nominee is ever so much more polite. Voting to support policies that haven't worked for you as a middle class person during any of the past Republican administrations really should make you pause and take a good look because the person being reviled and denigrated by The Donald and the rest of the Republican nominees is YOU as a voter -- not the illegal immigrant who can't vote.
What Trump is saying in crude language IS what the party believes, and when people vote for the Republican nominee, whoever he is, they WILL STILL be voting for the horrible things Trump says even if the actual nominee is ever so much more polite. Voting to support policies that haven't worked for you as a middle class person during any of the past Republican administrations really should make you pause and take a good look because the person being reviled and denigrated by The Donald and the rest of the Republican nominees is YOU as a voter -- not the illegal immigrant who can't vote.
1
The point here is to secure the border. Vincent Fox, and a fox he was, after the laments of people dieing in the desert to get in illegally, warned his own people to travel prepared with water and survival equipment. Instead of hollering about, anchor babies, criminals, drug carriers, why don't this we demand our government to confront these central American regimes with penalties as Trump suggested. Charge a hefty fee on the governments for each captured illegal, since some become our wards as in our criminal system, or give them a fair choice, return home or expect to pay back taxes on those who haven't or offer community service. Let them police themselves since they are so "eager" to blab about the "American Dream," claiming that most of them are not criminals or opportunists and enjoy the protections of our lawsl
Yes, Trump is reviving the old silent majority, because quiet frankly they aren't being taken seriously. It makes no difference whether you vote for Bernie Sanders, Hillary Clinton, or those on the right from Clown College. They all just want to get into office and will say anything that will get the m job with all its glory.
Using the racial card is for scoundrels be they white, black, brown, yellow, whatever. Don't expect legal citizens to obey laws, when you welcome in millions by the back doors. It isn't Trump whose gone bonkers, it's our corrupt and greedy politicians on both sides of the aisle.
Yes, Trump is reviving the old silent majority, because quiet frankly they aren't being taken seriously. It makes no difference whether you vote for Bernie Sanders, Hillary Clinton, or those on the right from Clown College. They all just want to get into office and will say anything that will get the m job with all its glory.
Using the racial card is for scoundrels be they white, black, brown, yellow, whatever. Don't expect legal citizens to obey laws, when you welcome in millions by the back doors. It isn't Trump whose gone bonkers, it's our corrupt and greedy politicians on both sides of the aisle.
1
Vicente Fox, the Mexican President Junior Bush called his good friend?
1
Trump is a showman, a shock-jock, if you will. He used to be a Democrat before he became Dem's Trojan in Republican tent. He is a thought-provoker, and his exaggerated tirade against ILLEGALS in this country has started a debate about our immigration policies and our homeland security issues as no other pronouncement has.
You say that Republicans are anti-immigrant. What part of ILLEGAL INVADERS in our midst is not clear to you, Blow? Republicans and all law-abiding Americans should be rightly concerned about lawlessness that prevails in this country under this administration.
Legal immigration of qualified, skilled people is a good thing for this country. Illegal immigrants depress the wages and hurt the chances that BLACKS have in this country.
You cannot be a spokesperson for Black cause in this country while cheering illegal aliens in our midst at once.
You say that Republicans are anti-immigrant. What part of ILLEGAL INVADERS in our midst is not clear to you, Blow? Republicans and all law-abiding Americans should be rightly concerned about lawlessness that prevails in this country under this administration.
Legal immigration of qualified, skilled people is a good thing for this country. Illegal immigrants depress the wages and hurt the chances that BLACKS have in this country.
You cannot be a spokesperson for Black cause in this country while cheering illegal aliens in our midst at once.
6
Republicans, including the Greek-American restaurant owners I used to work for, have *no problem* HIRING illegal aliens at sub minimum, off the books wages, to increase their own profits.
4
This is the only the first policy position that will follow on a common theme.
Immigration Policy: Mexicans and other Latin Americans are rapists and murderers and should deported.
Foreign Policy: Muslims are terrorists and should be tortured and imprisoned.
Domestic Policy: People with black skin are criminals and, therefore, police harassment and brutality is justified.
Mr. Trump will highlight his differences with other Republicans in Economic Policy.
Trump on the Economy: Any person, regardless of race, color, or creed, has the right to invest in Trump businesses and support the Trump brand.
Immigration Policy: Mexicans and other Latin Americans are rapists and murderers and should deported.
Foreign Policy: Muslims are terrorists and should be tortured and imprisoned.
Domestic Policy: People with black skin are criminals and, therefore, police harassment and brutality is justified.
Mr. Trump will highlight his differences with other Republicans in Economic Policy.
Trump on the Economy: Any person, regardless of race, color, or creed, has the right to invest in Trump businesses and support the Trump brand.
1
Charles M. Blow, you have nailed it. Let us thank whatever Higher Power we acknowledge for the 2012 emergence of the Hispanic vote as a huge electoral force, finally causing the Republican Party to tear itself in half with one of its nastiest wedge issues.
8
With this, you've got his number, Charles: Trump will not be the president of the United States. But I firmly believe that Trump not only knows that, he doesn’t want to be president. Trump is brand-building. This is all free publicity for a salesman in the business of selling himself and Trump is milking his moment.
8
Charles gets it right. The same can be said for Limbaugh et al. They stoke fear and reap profits.
11
Donald Trump is, without question, America's Number One frottage industry.
3
A container of frottage cheese.
3
nicely done.
1
This is one of those times where Charles Blow gets it correct. His portrayal of Donald Trump is spot on.
Mr. Trump is a little more than “a really smart person” – he is brilliant on many levels whether it be strategizing; creating business and real estate endeavors; capitalizing on every opportunity that presents itself. The only thing he won't be good at is being President and running this country. We need a real leader and an individual with vision, compassion, and common sense rather than someone who will be no more than a cheap joke over cocktails.
On some levels, he is comparable to a very effective used cars salesman on steroids. One of the upsides extreme wealth affords Mr. Trump is the luxury to be candid and spout sharp-tongued comments. He really answers to no one but himself even if he was supposedly taken to the wood shed by the GOP. He doesn’t need their money and he doesn’t really care about having their complete support. He is framing this scenario into a larger one for something else down the road. Mr. Trump never does anything that doesn’t have an angle to it or isn’t advantageous to him.
The only real benefit Mr. Trump offers is a refreshing distraction and break from the same old tiring Hillary/Jeb rhetoric in the daily political columns. He is entertaining. I’ll give him that. But that’s all I’ll give him.
Mr. Trump is a little more than “a really smart person” – he is brilliant on many levels whether it be strategizing; creating business and real estate endeavors; capitalizing on every opportunity that presents itself. The only thing he won't be good at is being President and running this country. We need a real leader and an individual with vision, compassion, and common sense rather than someone who will be no more than a cheap joke over cocktails.
On some levels, he is comparable to a very effective used cars salesman on steroids. One of the upsides extreme wealth affords Mr. Trump is the luxury to be candid and spout sharp-tongued comments. He really answers to no one but himself even if he was supposedly taken to the wood shed by the GOP. He doesn’t need their money and he doesn’t really care about having their complete support. He is framing this scenario into a larger one for something else down the road. Mr. Trump never does anything that doesn’t have an angle to it or isn’t advantageous to him.
The only real benefit Mr. Trump offers is a refreshing distraction and break from the same old tiring Hillary/Jeb rhetoric in the daily political columns. He is entertaining. I’ll give him that. But that’s all I’ll give him.
3
Trump is great! He is saying out loud what the Republican candidates hint at and believe but know if they express it too clearly, they will loose support. He says what the Republican right believes but won't express because it would cut them off from power. Its surprising that the conspiracy obsessed don't say Trump is running only to expose the Republican's dark side and help Hillary. Go Donald!
4
Trump will likely flame out but end up benefiting Christie or Walker who will be seen as a more politic "Trump."
Your paragraph about the "cottage industry" of parlaying outrageous statements or actions into real currency is akin to money laundering; it's influence laundering.
4
Well stated.
6
As stupid as Trump is, and his comments cannot be anything else, and him being a poor rich lad begging for attention, it seems clear that he is expressing the republican culture bombastically, "sin pelos en la lengua", as we say in spanish (without self-control, from the gut). Because the G.O.P. planted so much 'wind', it ought not be surprised to harvest a 'tempest' (conventional wisdom). Donald Trump, with an ugly arrogance in full display, fits the classic bill of the "ugly american" we knew about in novel and movie. I guess we like theater and circus, to find a respite to the boredom of our life. And because it sells, the Press, complicit, seems eager to comply. What a spectacle. What a tribute to greed and ego. And an insult to our spirit.
11
You're mostly right, except in believing that Trump is stupid. He is anything but; scroll up and read Barney Google's astute opinion. On a lesser note, may I remind one and all that the protagonist of "The Ugly American" has an unattractive face but a beautiful soul. The unfortunate title of the book distracted most of us from its real message.
1
Trump has filed for bankruptcy protection 4 times. He speaks with a nasty growl on his face to our worst base instincts. He's entire brand is built on gilding the Lilly.
There's a lot of real problems in our country that need sound solutions that can only come from all of us putting our fear behind us and doing the heavy lifting.
I have always felt that liberals and conservatives while having substantial differences on how to achieve goals for the most part had a positive goal to reach. Donald Trumps goal is to spread so much fear and loathing that we consider electing a person with no political ideology simply because he will deal with all of our subconscious fears.
What's really sad is this nasty fear monger leads a field of candidates running for President.
Conservatives have to be better than this, all of us have to be or our country is finished.
There's a lot of real problems in our country that need sound solutions that can only come from all of us putting our fear behind us and doing the heavy lifting.
I have always felt that liberals and conservatives while having substantial differences on how to achieve goals for the most part had a positive goal to reach. Donald Trumps goal is to spread so much fear and loathing that we consider electing a person with no political ideology simply because he will deal with all of our subconscious fears.
What's really sad is this nasty fear monger leads a field of candidates running for President.
Conservatives have to be better than this, all of us have to be or our country is finished.
8
Truth teller? He has never told the truth about the nature of his "medical deferment" that allowed him to avoid the draft during the Viet Nam War.
6
It still boggles my mind that the GOP can't do better than the sad array of candidates currently representing their party. My guess is that most Americans have one or more neighbors who are smarter, more knowledgeable about relevant issues, and of better Presidential temperament and character than the individuals in this group. At my ripe old age I guess I finally believe that in America anyone can run for President. Mitt Romney is Lincoln by comparison.
7
And you have Hillary. Just tired ideas, vote for me because, dammit, it's my turn Hillary.
2
We can only hope it's all true and that whichever of the GOP's field of truth-challenged candidates finally gets the nomination goes down to ignominious defeat. The supreme court is bad enough as it is.
7
The case for how citizens united can backfire. A super wealthy game show host can out spend and out crass all other Republican candidates to victory. His burn rate is excessively high but he doesn't rely on donations so who cares?
Interestingly, Bush is leading over all fundraising but with 90% coming from super PACs. By contrast, Clinton's ratio is 33%. Kind makes you wonder if the whole Trump show is orchestrated by the same interests funding Bush. To use a NASCAR analogy (seems appropriate), Bush can draft Trump through the primaries and come out seemingly moderate with plenty of cash.
The risk. Trump doesn't let him pass.
Interestingly, Bush is leading over all fundraising but with 90% coming from super PACs. By contrast, Clinton's ratio is 33%. Kind makes you wonder if the whole Trump show is orchestrated by the same interests funding Bush. To use a NASCAR analogy (seems appropriate), Bush can draft Trump through the primaries and come out seemingly moderate with plenty of cash.
The risk. Trump doesn't let him pass.
6
Or the Dale, Senior moment, Trump is so overjoyed at the attention, he runs a third party candidacy after the establishment Republicants are done with him.
3
DT either wins GOP nomination or then possibly goes Perot/Nader ego, couched in idealism/righteousness.
His popularity/favorability amongst our populist populace seemingly threatens the GOP and Dems, because he's a wild-card/joker.
He is taking an enormous risk, and because we're (me & he) attaining geezer-dom, this is seemingly an hurrah fini into politics by way of real politik.
DT is indeed capitalizing upon the ugliness waged in revolting/repulsive bad faith of approximately 7 years of GOP propaganda.
To not coin the cliché: they are definitely not Ike's moderate party.
I.E./for example: The current attack upon Planned Parenthood: Grandmother
Dorothy Bush and possibly Barbra Bush alson were P.P. members.
His popularity/favorability amongst our populist populace seemingly threatens the GOP and Dems, because he's a wild-card/joker.
He is taking an enormous risk, and because we're (me & he) attaining geezer-dom, this is seemingly an hurrah fini into politics by way of real politik.
DT is indeed capitalizing upon the ugliness waged in revolting/repulsive bad faith of approximately 7 years of GOP propaganda.
To not coin the cliché: they are definitely not Ike's moderate party.
I.E./for example: The current attack upon Planned Parenthood: Grandmother
Dorothy Bush and possibly Barbra Bush alson were P.P. members.
2
When conservatives are asked why they think Mr. Trump’s candidacy is resonating with the right, they most commonly reply, “He is saying things that people want to hear.” This says less about the electorate than it does about the candidate capturing so many disaffected imaginations. When voters are faced with unpleasant realities, there will always be a market for comforting fictions; just ask the Greeks.
I believe Republicans underestimated the impact Mr. Trump would have on the electorate and his fellow candidates. What they now fear most, is that Donald Trump will tap into a strain of ascendant populism within conservatism that will infect the party’s grassroots. They fear that a sizable minority of aggressive, xenophobic self-described Republicans will rise up and happily express their impolitic attitudes for the media’s cameras.
Eventually, Mr. Trump’s star is likely to fade as the race’s front-runners break away from the pack. Still, the GOP will be consumed with fear over what Mr. Trump represents, and the damage he can do in the interim between now and the inevitable suspension of his campaign.
I believe Republicans underestimated the impact Mr. Trump would have on the electorate and his fellow candidates. What they now fear most, is that Donald Trump will tap into a strain of ascendant populism within conservatism that will infect the party’s grassroots. They fear that a sizable minority of aggressive, xenophobic self-described Republicans will rise up and happily express their impolitic attitudes for the media’s cameras.
Eventually, Mr. Trump’s star is likely to fade as the race’s front-runners break away from the pack. Still, the GOP will be consumed with fear over what Mr. Trump represents, and the damage he can do in the interim between now and the inevitable suspension of his campaign.
7
Where, exactly, does Donald Trump's candidacy fit into the American exceptionalism narrative? That we're exceptionally gullible and ridiculous?
We have millions of skilled, energetic, thoughtful citizens and this is the guy who's the frontrunner? I guess that's exceptional-- exceptionally embarrassing.
We have millions of skilled, energetic, thoughtful citizens and this is the guy who's the frontrunner? I guess that's exceptional-- exceptionally embarrassing.
14
Amazing to hear Ted Cruz, the son of a Cuban immigrant, say that he agrees with Trump about Mexico sending criminals to the US. There's no evidence of that, but that's exactly what Castro did in 1980 during the Mariel Boatlift.
4
"Let me be clear: Trump will not be the president of the United States."
While this is probably true, I still worry. Earlier this year the pundits all agreed that Trump would never actually declare his candidacy. When that proved to be wrong it was generally conceded that he would never divulge a financial statement. Etc. Many on the left relish the idea of a Trump vs. Clinton choice in 2016. Be careful what you wish for.
Trumps' strong showing in the polls reflects a terrible truth about the American electorate. If the GOP were to nominate a Palin-Bachmann ticket it would still receive tens of millions of votes.
While this is probably true, I still worry. Earlier this year the pundits all agreed that Trump would never actually declare his candidacy. When that proved to be wrong it was generally conceded that he would never divulge a financial statement. Etc. Many on the left relish the idea of a Trump vs. Clinton choice in 2016. Be careful what you wish for.
Trumps' strong showing in the polls reflects a terrible truth about the American electorate. If the GOP were to nominate a Palin-Bachmann ticket it would still receive tens of millions of votes.
5
Bravo Mister Blow, you've hit the proverbial nail directly on the Republican Party's right-wing head.
Republicans do indeed deserve The Donald, The Trumpster. We New Yorkers have known this scam artist for far too long, this builder of the gaudy, who has the further gall to glorify his garish structures by plastering his name on everything he touches. It amuses me to see reactions from ignorant Republican bumpkins he is bamboozling. They love him for "telling it like it it". Yeah, right.
Wait till they finally figure out what a massive load of bull he's shoveling on them. They'll be in so deep in The Donald Doo they won't be able to dig themselves out for many elections to come. This billionaire blowhard personifies all that has gone wrong with the "Party of Lincoln", a phrase so outdated and filled with irony Republicans should refrain from ever using again for the shear embarrassment it evokes.
Heck, they're not even the "Party of Reagan", someone whom Republicans have exalted, propped up on a pedestal, and elevated to mythical status. Republicans don't have a clue, or want to get one, and learn how distorted their revisionist history of Reagan has become.
When will Republicans stop being The Stupid Party? The question's rhetorical. Thank you, Bayou Bobby Jindal, for uttering the one true thing we'll remember the forlorn Indian-American governor from Louisiana for.
DD
Manhattan
Republicans do indeed deserve The Donald, The Trumpster. We New Yorkers have known this scam artist for far too long, this builder of the gaudy, who has the further gall to glorify his garish structures by plastering his name on everything he touches. It amuses me to see reactions from ignorant Republican bumpkins he is bamboozling. They love him for "telling it like it it". Yeah, right.
Wait till they finally figure out what a massive load of bull he's shoveling on them. They'll be in so deep in The Donald Doo they won't be able to dig themselves out for many elections to come. This billionaire blowhard personifies all that has gone wrong with the "Party of Lincoln", a phrase so outdated and filled with irony Republicans should refrain from ever using again for the shear embarrassment it evokes.
Heck, they're not even the "Party of Reagan", someone whom Republicans have exalted, propped up on a pedestal, and elevated to mythical status. Republicans don't have a clue, or want to get one, and learn how distorted their revisionist history of Reagan has become.
When will Republicans stop being The Stupid Party? The question's rhetorical. Thank you, Bayou Bobby Jindal, for uttering the one true thing we'll remember the forlorn Indian-American governor from Louisiana for.
DD
Manhattan
9
I am not a Republican but I find myself longing for Republican candidates of the past. The Donald and other current Republican presidential candidates make them look left of center!
Trump is the best thing that happened to the democrats since Sarah Palin. Personally, I don't care how much money he makes off of these shenanigans as long as he keep shredding the GOP as he does so, and exposing what the GOP base truly consists of to the American people. This is literally the political expression of vampire capitalism, if you think about it. He's found a weak company, he's jumped on it, sunk his fangs into its neck, and is now bleeding it dry. The more he feeds on them, the weaker they become.
Trump is destroying the GOP brand in a manner that would leave PT Barnum or Josef Goebbels standing open-mouthed in amazement and admiration. Since the likelihood that he will get the nomination is up there with his chances to be elected Holy Roman Emperor, it is my fondest wish that he pursue a third-party strategy to administer the coup de grace to the republican party, and to finally put them out of our misery.
Trump is destroying the GOP brand in a manner that would leave PT Barnum or Josef Goebbels standing open-mouthed in amazement and admiration. Since the likelihood that he will get the nomination is up there with his chances to be elected Holy Roman Emperor, it is my fondest wish that he pursue a third-party strategy to administer the coup de grace to the republican party, and to finally put them out of our misery.
17
Devoting time and space to Donald Trump in the media serves him well, but is an enormous waste when the public cries for sense and sensibility.
4
It isn't just racist, supremasist, views and a willingness to sink to the lowest level of conversation and thought that will eventually lose the electorate, although that's more than enough.
I'm sure that people will get darn tired of hearing "I'm really rich, I'm the smartest person around, I know better than anyone else, I can do what no one else can do, everybody loves me, everyone but me is dumb, I'll just tell them what to do and they'll do it, and did I mention I'm really rich?"
It's entertaining for awhile, but a steady dose of it for months? No.
I'm sure that people will get darn tired of hearing "I'm really rich, I'm the smartest person around, I know better than anyone else, I can do what no one else can do, everybody loves me, everyone but me is dumb, I'll just tell them what to do and they'll do it, and did I mention I'm really rich?"
It's entertaining for awhile, but a steady dose of it for months? No.
7
You accurately state that Trump is simply self promoting his own ego. The real issue is why so many acknowledged racists gravitate to the GOP? This is not a new phenomenon. Ronald Reagan gave his kickoff speech in Philadelphia Mississippi, barely a stones throw from the site where three civil rights workers were murdered. His theme, states rights.
George H. W. Bush's Willie Horton campaign was obviously racist. His son was a little more subtle focusing instead on symbols that everyone would recognize as aligned with racial fears. Since then the Muslim, the immigrant from Latin America and gays and lesbians have joined African Americans as examples of how "they" are threatening America.
How many from the current field of GOP presidential hopefuls have used the president not as a politician that they disagree with, but a symbol of distrust, deception, incompetence? Get the message? "He's not one of us" or the iranian deal was inspired by his Muslim father, or we still don't believe his birth certificate. All receive airtime and ink as if they were anything other than covers for appeals to racial bias. These views and more receive a steady drumbeat from conservatives and we pretend that this is "just politics."
I suppose it is politics, but politics of a special type. The GOP thrives on the politics of racial associations, fears and stereotypes. The GOP's race politics go a lot deeper than Donald Trump and wont change once he's off the stage. That's the real story.
George H. W. Bush's Willie Horton campaign was obviously racist. His son was a little more subtle focusing instead on symbols that everyone would recognize as aligned with racial fears. Since then the Muslim, the immigrant from Latin America and gays and lesbians have joined African Americans as examples of how "they" are threatening America.
How many from the current field of GOP presidential hopefuls have used the president not as a politician that they disagree with, but a symbol of distrust, deception, incompetence? Get the message? "He's not one of us" or the iranian deal was inspired by his Muslim father, or we still don't believe his birth certificate. All receive airtime and ink as if they were anything other than covers for appeals to racial bias. These views and more receive a steady drumbeat from conservatives and we pretend that this is "just politics."
I suppose it is politics, but politics of a special type. The GOP thrives on the politics of racial associations, fears and stereotypes. The GOP's race politics go a lot deeper than Donald Trump and wont change once he's off the stage. That's the real story.
22
Aren't the real racists the folks who voted for Obama simply because of his race and skin color? Will this same group of racists become sexists and vote for Hillary simply because she's female?
2
No.
2
Also, using the "other" to rally your followers is not a new technique, and not new for the GOP. Nixon worked it for his silent majority vs. protesters and Kent State students. Spiro Agnew helped (effete Easterners vs. honest hard-working Americans). Sarah Palin applauded the "real" Americans vs. the rest of us. The aspiring demagogue says, you have problems, they are caused by Them, and I will save you from Them. The approach works quite well, unless the public is more interested in solving problems than blaming someone else for them.
4
Trump is a performer, and he knows as did PT Barnum, that the American People love to be fooled. He has gone bankrupt, and he has been on the verge of bankruptcy, but like Ben Vereen in Pippin, when he is about to be trapped, he just dances out of it to the amusement of the fans, They love him for it!
The Republican Base, which all of the candidates must get by at the primaries, and still look sane enough to have a broad appeal to American Voters afterwards, thrives on baseless generalizations, jingoism, magical thinking, and econo babble. They are Trump's kind of people. He isn't so much killing Republican chances, as is he exposing the fact that significant elements of the party are cranks rather than Conservatives, who have tilted so far to the right that even Barry Goldwater would be embarrassed by them.
I have yet to hear a single Republican cite any element in the Non Proliferation Treaty, which could hold Iran in non compliance with the language of the treaty, but they are rabidly in favor of punishing Iran, which is in compliance with the treaty. Coincidentally, they are belligerently pro Israel, which is clearly a nuclear rogue state. Right now Trump is the attraction in the main circus tent, but the problems of Republicans run deeper than the Donald.
The condition of the Republic is far from sanguine, since Hillary Clinton who is a dyed in the wool member of the Goldman Sachs Faction of the Democrat Party, is the alternative, which is in reality no alternative.
The Republican Base, which all of the candidates must get by at the primaries, and still look sane enough to have a broad appeal to American Voters afterwards, thrives on baseless generalizations, jingoism, magical thinking, and econo babble. They are Trump's kind of people. He isn't so much killing Republican chances, as is he exposing the fact that significant elements of the party are cranks rather than Conservatives, who have tilted so far to the right that even Barry Goldwater would be embarrassed by them.
I have yet to hear a single Republican cite any element in the Non Proliferation Treaty, which could hold Iran in non compliance with the language of the treaty, but they are rabidly in favor of punishing Iran, which is in compliance with the treaty. Coincidentally, they are belligerently pro Israel, which is clearly a nuclear rogue state. Right now Trump is the attraction in the main circus tent, but the problems of Republicans run deeper than the Donald.
The condition of the Republic is far from sanguine, since Hillary Clinton who is a dyed in the wool member of the Goldman Sachs Faction of the Democrat Party, is the alternative, which is in reality no alternative.
6
The GOP, for a long time now, has stood on a platform of "Us v. Them", always running on the fact that there is some enemy out to destroy Americans, including fellow Americans, i.e.: Democrats, Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, etc.
I can't help but notice how completely antithetical that is to a party that also claims to be all about Christian and moral values, not to mention hyperpatriotic.
I can't help but notice how completely antithetical that is to a party that also claims to be all about Christian and moral values, not to mention hyperpatriotic.
8
EXACTLY. This should be obvious to anyone paying attention, but either no one's paying attention or no one cares.
1
I wish we could edit comments because if we could, I would have made clear that the first "Americans" in my comment of course refers only to Republicans and conservatives, who also routinely use the term "Americans" to mean themselves and only themselves.
1
In a world simply seeking "Convivial",
Donald Trump is only a "Trivial".
His use of his Name
Is his Singular "Fame"....
And he's Rich, so he Need Not be "Civial".
He doesn't need to be President
Of the Precious Land where he's resident.
He can afford to make "Funny"
While his Goal's to make Money.
His Ego's piddling in my world is "Unpleasidant".
Donald Trump is only a "Trivial".
His use of his Name
Is his Singular "Fame"....
And he's Rich, so he Need Not be "Civial".
He doesn't need to be President
Of the Precious Land where he's resident.
He can afford to make "Funny"
While his Goal's to make Money.
His Ego's piddling in my world is "Unpleasidant".
8
Trump may indeed be exactly what the Republican party deserves. However, he is also a media creation, the equivalent of a "shock jock" on the campaign trial. You guys love him whether you want to admit it or not.
4
Trump can be very crass, but he was right, period. Your average American and legal immigrant are absolutely furious with the continued catering to illegal immigrant criminals who siphon our social services and give nothing back to the community because they send so much money back overseas.
They do take jobs away from Americans but only because employers like the cheap (practically slave) labor. You want change? Start fining the employers $1 million per illegal employee. They will self deport.
Almost all of the illegal drugs and weapons come across our borders from Mexico. At what point do we hold Mexico responsible for bringing this violence into our country?
Also, why are other countries not criticized for their very strict and rigorous legal immigration requirements, such as Switzerland and New Zealand?
They do take jobs away from Americans but only because employers like the cheap (practically slave) labor. You want change? Start fining the employers $1 million per illegal employee. They will self deport.
Almost all of the illegal drugs and weapons come across our borders from Mexico. At what point do we hold Mexico responsible for bringing this violence into our country?
Also, why are other countries not criticized for their very strict and rigorous legal immigration requirements, such as Switzerland and New Zealand?
5
The drugs wouldn't be coming across the border if American citizens weren't creating a market for them.
I've come across more than one interview with farmer's who pay well above the minimum wage but who still can't get enough people to pick their crops. American citizens refuse to do that kind of work.
I've come across more than one interview with farmer's who pay well above the minimum wage but who still can't get enough people to pick their crops. American citizens refuse to do that kind of work.
1
Your anti-Mexican and anti-immigrant tirades are unwarranted, unsubstantiated and just plain ignorant. As for holding Mexico responsible "for bringing this violence into our country" may I suggest that if stupid Americans didn't use drugs there wouldn't be any "drug problem" associated with either Mexico or the border. Where there is a demand there will be a supply - a long=time Capitalist truism, no?
I should like to add that the entire Soouthwestern portions of the US including California are territories stolen form the Mexican people by US imperialits in the 19th century. In one sense it might be said that immigrants coming in from Mexico are merely reclaiming what was once rightfully theirs. This land will not be returned to Mexico, of course, but, perhaps, Mexican immigrants should be given some special privileges for entering the US.
I should like to add that the entire Soouthwestern portions of the US including California are territories stolen form the Mexican people by US imperialits in the 19th century. In one sense it might be said that immigrants coming in from Mexico are merely reclaiming what was once rightfully theirs. This land will not be returned to Mexico, of course, but, perhaps, Mexican immigrants should be given some special privileges for entering the US.
1
Trump may have entered the race with the goal of building his brand. But he's so delusional that I'll bet he thinks he can now win the nomination. And, after that, by blatantly taking down Hillary win the whole thing. The Reublican stable is so weak and so splintered that anything can happen in the Iowa caucuses and in the primaries. The party has enough bigots and idiots that Trump will make it very very interesting. I think he will move on from immigration to another single issue, probably the Middle East. He'll make outrageous claims about how he can take down ISIS, Syria, Iran, that he'll make it very challenging for Bush, Rubio, Walker, et al. The first debate will be must-see TV.
6
"He tells it like it is!"
I hear this from people, as if Trump is the ultimate truth teller. Unfortunately, for some people Trump does voice their most inner feelings. And those people are most likely Republican primary voters, the very ones Jeb Bush has to convince to vote for him. Good luck with that one, Mr. Bush.
I hear this from people, as if Trump is the ultimate truth teller. Unfortunately, for some people Trump does voice their most inner feelings. And those people are most likely Republican primary voters, the very ones Jeb Bush has to convince to vote for him. Good luck with that one, Mr. Bush.
7
The NY Times is currently running another article which describes the incredible ability of animals such as Trump, through use of various sounds which mimic meaningful communication, to infiltrate and dominate a society whilst feeding on its members:
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/07/21/science/ant-nest-beetles-social-parasi...
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/07/21/science/ant-nest-beetles-social-parasi...
5
The fact that Trump is at or near the top of Republican preference polls says a lot about the state of the Republican Party. There must be thousands of Americans who are better suited to be President than Donald Trump.
7
That would be, hundreds of millions.
Make that millions...
1
It is astonishing that Donald Trump has a 23% favorable rating, low as that seems. That means tens of millions of people approve of one of the most boorish egomaniacs on earth. He is admired for his worst qualities and, as is so often the case in Republican politics, doubling down on the racism, war mongering, the money grubbing and faux morality only leads to more adoration from the wacked out set who, again, constitute something like a quarter of the electorate.
The only good thing about Trump is he will greatly damage the Republican "brand" outside the very large fringe who adore him. He just happens to damage the "brand" by epitomizing everything it truly stands for.
The only good thing about Trump is he will greatly damage the Republican "brand" outside the very large fringe who adore him. He just happens to damage the "brand" by epitomizing everything it truly stands for.
11
I agree. The current Republican Party has appealed to extremist of all types. Now the only way they can win is too limit who votes. Then along comes Donald Trump willing to say anything to get attention and he leads polls. Does this show why our nation is in trouble?
6
Not precisely. What it actually shows is why the republican party is in such trouble. Back in 1964, in response to the passage of the Civil Rights Act, there was a Grand Realignment. The democrats traded the republicans their racist southern Dixiecrats in exchange for the rational and principled Rockefeller republicans. Both sides thought they were getting the better end of the deal of course.
But now, 50 years later, the poison that the GOP accepted is finally talking its lethal toll. By embracing and nurturing venomous serpents, the snake handlers of the republican party have discovered that venomous serpents care not whom they bite . . . they simply bite; it's just their nature.
Sic transit Gloria Stultiatem.
But now, 50 years later, the poison that the GOP accepted is finally talking its lethal toll. By embracing and nurturing venomous serpents, the snake handlers of the republican party have discovered that venomous serpents care not whom they bite . . . they simply bite; it's just their nature.
Sic transit Gloria Stultiatem.
1
Everyone is hoping for him flame out during the summer. The real danger is that he does well in the early voting states like Iowa,New Hampshire, and South Carolina that can give him the momentum to carry through to the general election. Stranger things has happened in campaigns and if somehow he becomes President we will have the 1% of 1% of the wealthiest as President of the United States. If working class voters thinks Trump represents them and their views then they must be out for lunch.
4
They've been out to lunch since Reagan was elected.
1
You could be right. Except that I don't believe stranger things have happened.
1
There is no evidence to substantiate the assumption that Trump is intelligent enough to realize that his candidacy is not viable.
It is likely that Trump will stay in front of the Republican clown car until most of the clowns drop out, allowing Republicans with strong negative views toward Trump to coalesce around another candidate. But most of the Republicans probably think they can wait out the others and wind up being that candidate.
So Trump might be able to succeed in preventing anyone from winning the nomination before the convention, leaving actual selection to the convention.
Should be interesting.
It is likely that Trump will stay in front of the Republican clown car until most of the clowns drop out, allowing Republicans with strong negative views toward Trump to coalesce around another candidate. But most of the Republicans probably think they can wait out the others and wind up being that candidate.
So Trump might be able to succeed in preventing anyone from winning the nomination before the convention, leaving actual selection to the convention.
Should be interesting.
7
No honest Republican is perplexed by whatever hateful things Donald Trump says about undocumented immigrants; it is said privately in their circles all the time. Clearly the problem is that he says it publicly, and when he speaks the media laps it up, and consequently so does the public-at-large. There it is -- big ol' super rich fat cat white Republican bigot -- everything the party is (or perceived to be), but desperately needs to be "encoded" to win. And to think, we've yet to hear their dictates on women's health. Oh my.
14
Charles is correct in every detail about. Donald Trump may be famous for being rich instead of just famous, but the two amount to essentially the same thing.
What he is not is, interesting. Alone, in private, one-on-one, I guarantee you he is a interesting as a single slice of cheap bologna on plain white bread with warm Kool-Aid to wash it down.
The man has a one-track mind. All the wealth in the world doesn't change that. All the bluster merely confirms it.
What he is not is, interesting. Alone, in private, one-on-one, I guarantee you he is a interesting as a single slice of cheap bologna on plain white bread with warm Kool-Aid to wash it down.
The man has a one-track mind. All the wealth in the world doesn't change that. All the bluster merely confirms it.
9
Wonderfully written. Good points.
Caution: Don't underestimate Trump. He is more than just people smart. He put together some huge deals that made billions, and did it when it was his own new idea how to do it.
The guy is more dangerous than this credits him. But he is everything else this says of him.
Caution: Don't underestimate Trump. He is more than just people smart. He put together some huge deals that made billions, and did it when it was his own new idea how to do it.
The guy is more dangerous than this credits him. But he is everything else this says of him.
24
Many years ago Trump was involved in a big real estate negotiation. He was a brash then as he is now, and he publicly stated he would show this old man he was competing with how the young turks would do it. The other man was Merv Griffin. Mr. Griffin ate his lunch.
1
Trump has made it clear that a large number of American citizens are opposed to illegal immigration, and believe it has reduced the number of jobs available to low-income workers. Even many of the liberal commenters right here in the NY Times are critical of amnesty.
What is interesting is that far more blacks support Donald Trump than Jeb Bush. Perhaps they're starting to realize that the policies of the Democratic Party does not exactly promote their true economic interests. If there were no illegal immigrants, employers would have to train and employ far more black American citizens than they currently do.
What is interesting is that far more blacks support Donald Trump than Jeb Bush. Perhaps they're starting to realize that the policies of the Democratic Party does not exactly promote their true economic interests. If there were no illegal immigrants, employers would have to train and employ far more black American citizens than they currently do.
9
"...far more blacks support Donald Trump than Jeb Bush."
Right. And still far more support Ms. Clinton.
Right. And still far more support Ms. Clinton.
61
"If there were no illegal immigrants, employers would have to train and employ far more black American citizens than they currently do."
I doubt that what you say is true, but who is forcing employers to train and employ hispanics? If they are choosing their employees based on their ethnicity, that is the definition of racism. Maybe the hispanics are easier to exploit than the blacks.
I doubt that what you say is true, but who is forcing employers to train and employ hispanics? If they are choosing their employees based on their ethnicity, that is the definition of racism. Maybe the hispanics are easier to exploit than the blacks.
3
@Kevin Rothstein You say: "far more blacks support Donald Trump..." Well, unless the "Blacks" are a family of white people, I don't think so.
1
I have said it before and will say it again, since Trump is doing nothing but selling himself, quit giving him free advertisement. No more columns, no more news clips, no more interviews. If I declared the intention of running for President, no one would believe it news worthy. Do the whole country and the election process a favor and treat Trump as dismissively as you would me.
38
But he is leading the pack at the moment, and that should be very instructive for the portion of America with functioning brains.
4
Oh, no, please! Trump is the best thing that has happened to our country in a while. As Mr. Blow suggests, he has removed the thin veneer of civility that was covering the Republican Party and exposing it for the rotting corpse that it is underneath.
4
It won't happen. Not only do journalist like to display their intelligence, they really like all the "clicks" they get when-ever they mention his name.
I've never seen anything like this. In the trust department, Donald went from low 30's to mid 60's. Why? Not certain, but having your name on everyone's lips might have something to do with it.
I've never seen anything like this. In the trust department, Donald went from low 30's to mid 60's. Why? Not certain, but having your name on everyone's lips might have something to do with it.
1
I am not a Republican they are spiteful people. But I think that we need to do something about immigration. We can not have millions of people coming here unchecked. People say America was founded on immigrants that is true, but when they came here they went to ellis island and were checked for disease and many other things. I don't beleive some Americans hate Mexicans, I think they want them to follow the laws of this country. As far as crime I would not want to brake down in south LA. There is good and bad in every race. But sneaking into a country makes it look like you have something to hide. And it makes some people think Trump is right.
14
"I am not a ______ but.....", or " I voted for _________ but...," and yet the concepts are the same - ignorance of the facts and general fear of others or to make it simple - daily Fox programing.
I am not afraid of south east west or north LA. I am not accosted by gang members of any nationalities, I am not afraid of FEMA caskets, Benghazi, or complexions that don't match mine. My family has been in this country a very long time and frankly the more the merrier.
I am not afraid of south east west or north LA. I am not accosted by gang members of any nationalities, I am not afraid of FEMA caskets, Benghazi, or complexions that don't match mine. My family has been in this country a very long time and frankly the more the merrier.
That's because Trump is right. 29 years ago the Simpson-Mazzoli bill promised a secure border in exchange for a one-time amnesty. We got the amnesty, but the border's still wide open. Trump is leading for the simple reason that he's the only candidate who has pledged to complete a border fence/wall. If a less controversial GOP candidate would take up that pledge - to the consternation of the Chamber of Commerce - he/she would win the nomination and possibly the general election.
8
29 years ago, the President was Ronald Reagan. And the Simpson in the bill to which you refer, is Alan Simpson, a Republican Senator. And the Chamber of Commerce, largely Republican, is against immigration reform, so *whose* fault is it?
1
So Trump is like the hip-hop and rap artists and moguls. Getting very rich while destroying the brand of his party. Best thing is that there is always an audience for the most odious words.
13
The unbeatable ticket:
Trump/Limbaugh
The mouths run over.
Trump/Limbaugh
The mouths run over.
19
I almost posted that exact same comment! In years past, my Republican "dream ticket" was Newt Gingrich/Pat Buchanan. Donald and Rush is an even better dream.
Aren't all the Trump putdowns interesting.
"He's a draft dodging, scamming, self-centered, hypocritical bigot."
Maybe it's time to admit that The Donald R Us.
"He's a draft dodging, scamming, self-centered, hypocritical bigot."
Maybe it's time to admit that The Donald R Us.
9
"Trump recently boasted, “I’m, like, a really smart person.” I believe that’s true — not necessarily in the erudite, intellectual sense, but rather in the instinctive, people-reading sense."
I hate to say this, but Trump is extremely smart, although I might add the word "cunning." Smart at getting what he wants, and having his say. Smart in having a few factoids to toss around in appropriate places, to make the audience think he's way more knowledgeable on the topic (whatever it is) than he appears.
As you put it Charles, all of us here are contributing to Trump's brand building which means, he's already achieved what he wants, campaign or no campaign. And one of the main reasons he's doing so well is the apathetic lack of pushback from his fellow candidates.
Oh, to be sure, they issue tepid statements of feigned outrage or perhaps scolding assessments. But they do it sotto voce, almost, and not in any organized way. And then you have another rabble rouser--a kindred soul if you will--in Cruz who has requested a tete a tete with Trump. Speculation abounds! Angling for VP? Snatching some of Trump's star power to boost a flagging campaign?
I've said before and will say it again: Trump holds up a mirror to the entire GOP, with all its nutziness and own sense of political correctness. And frankly, what their silence or shrugs say speaks volumes about how far down they've all sunk to appease the lowest common denominator of their political base.
I hate to say this, but Trump is extremely smart, although I might add the word "cunning." Smart at getting what he wants, and having his say. Smart in having a few factoids to toss around in appropriate places, to make the audience think he's way more knowledgeable on the topic (whatever it is) than he appears.
As you put it Charles, all of us here are contributing to Trump's brand building which means, he's already achieved what he wants, campaign or no campaign. And one of the main reasons he's doing so well is the apathetic lack of pushback from his fellow candidates.
Oh, to be sure, they issue tepid statements of feigned outrage or perhaps scolding assessments. But they do it sotto voce, almost, and not in any organized way. And then you have another rabble rouser--a kindred soul if you will--in Cruz who has requested a tete a tete with Trump. Speculation abounds! Angling for VP? Snatching some of Trump's star power to boost a flagging campaign?
I've said before and will say it again: Trump holds up a mirror to the entire GOP, with all its nutziness and own sense of political correctness. And frankly, what their silence or shrugs say speaks volumes about how far down they've all sunk to appease the lowest common denominator of their political base.
269
Yeah, it's just nutty for a nation to want to control its borders and have immigration controlled by law. Positively nutty.
If you believe leading a clown car parade off a cliff is smart..... well then, The Donald is a genius. It's a great blessing for him that he is seemingly incapable of feeling embarrassment.
1
In order to build a "bridge" with the Hispanic community, you have to "trump" Donald!!
No easy task. He has a mouth bigger than the late Howard Cosell.
No easy task. He has a mouth bigger than the late Howard Cosell.
8
Each story about trump,
Gives his ego a bump,
And his being so callous,
Is for him like Cialis,
Much better than a penile pump.
Gives his ego a bump,
And his being so callous,
Is for him like Cialis,
Much better than a penile pump.
36
Acknowledgment is due to Larry Eisenberg, the father of the Comments limerick. And this is a good one.
1
I have often acknowledge the Dean of the Rhyme Scheme.
My conspiracy theory: Trump is actually backed by a Democratic Super PAC in an attempt to make all Republican candidates look as foolish as possible during their primary debates, thereby allowing the Democratic nominee to cruise to an easy win in the national election.
10
The only reason GOP candidates will look foolish in a debate with Trump is if they continue to avoid promising to seal the US-Mexico border with a serious fence. If they would match Trump (and outdo him with specifics) on that, his one salient and common sense issue, they would neutralize his appeal, push him to the curb and gain appeal with general election voters - including Latlno Americans.
I wish.... That at least would be interesting. Let's not get our hopes up. Democrats have never been so 'cunning'. Plus Trump brags he doesn't need the money.
Excellent column, but I'd suggest saying about the GOP that its turkey has come home to roost. But wait! All 342 Republican presidential candidates are turkeys, so what's to choose?
And I thought that GOP version.2008 was a circus of clowns. Never misunderestimate the comedic potential of the Republican Party. The show just keeps getting funnier. I can't wait for 2020!
www.endthemadnessnow.org
And I thought that GOP version.2008 was a circus of clowns. Never misunderestimate the comedic potential of the Republican Party. The show just keeps getting funnier. I can't wait for 2020!
www.endthemadnessnow.org
11
It might be funny if it weren't for the fact that they are taking over the states one by one and squeezing them dry.
I disagree. I think Trump's damaging his "brand," as hard as that might be to do.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/steve-nelson/the-donald---impaled-on-h_b_7...
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/steve-nelson/the-donald---impaled-on-h_b_7...
3
I am already tired of the Republican mantra: "we are just speaking the truth." The asterisk next to each of these statements should note: "Republican Truth." The deep problem for Republicans is that their private truth has become mired down in demonizing various groups in our country that represent sizable voting blocks --- not a winning strategy in a national election. I know what Hillary is saying---keep that truth talk up.
25
"Truth" has become an odd concept in GOP use. Walker and Christie, for example, give themselves the label of"truth teller" despite political and financial chicanery harming both their states. Perhaps GOP candidates are adopting the label in an attempt to inoculate themselves against the inevitable deluge of fact-checker scorn.
...Andrew
...Andrew
Yes, speaking the truth in this context means speaking their true feelings - it's obviously not about facts.
I put Bernie at the top and Cruz at the bottom. The first is honest; the second is a Communist disguised in platitudes.
5
This column "hits the nail on the head". The Tea Party led GOP's "chickens have come home to roost". In the ultimate exercise in egomania, will he run as a
third party candidate thereby sending the GOP into the trash heap it deserves.
Hello Whigs, from the 1800's, you may have company and very soon.
third party candidate thereby sending the GOP into the trash heap it deserves.
Hello Whigs, from the 1800's, you may have company and very soon.
13
All hail Donald The Great. His kind of people didn't immigrate through Ellis Island or somewhere like that, they dropped in from outer space. He might set the Republican Party back a thousand years and cause its extinction even faster than that climate change they continue to deny. The pope is going to start excommunicating them if they don't change their ways!
21
Trump is the Republican's Nader - a self-serving narcissist who cares not a whit about his party or his nation and is in the race solely for self-aggrandizement. As such, he can guarantee the election for the Dems. And I say - long may you run Donald. Long may you run.
18
Nader was actually right about everything he said.
Trump is wrong about everything he says.
Big difference.
Trump is wrong about everything he says.
Big difference.
12
Bravo! Thank you for reminding self-righteous liberals that RALPH NADER was responsible for giving us 8 disastrous years of George Bush!
No difference. Nader knew that he would be a spoiler and the Dems begged him to drop his third party bid. But he didn't because he was having too much fun. And guess what? Because of him we got Bush-Cheney and a catastrophe that just keeps on giving. How Nader has the nerve to show his face in public is beyond me.
2
If you imagine the nation as having a collective psyche, Trump is voicing the nation's id. This is actually a great service to the nation, as embarrassing as it might feel at times.
Most people wouldn't say the things he does, even though similar feelings might be simmering just below the surface. When feelings like that remain underground, the lack of consciousness can turn toxic and potentially dangerous.
Bringing those sentiments out in the open allows them into the light of day where everyone who wants to can take a good look and ponder what it all means.
That is the process of incrementally overcoming our prejudices. It's a long, hard slog and sometimes it seems there is no progress at all. But it's always simmering below the surface. Trump is just the eruption, like a pimple on your face. It might leave a slight scar, but eventually it will clear up.
In the meantime, we can all be grateful that Trump is out there bringing into consciousness elements of our culture that make so many of us uncomfortable.
I find Trump a lot less frightening than Walker, Cruz, et al.
Most people wouldn't say the things he does, even though similar feelings might be simmering just below the surface. When feelings like that remain underground, the lack of consciousness can turn toxic and potentially dangerous.
Bringing those sentiments out in the open allows them into the light of day where everyone who wants to can take a good look and ponder what it all means.
That is the process of incrementally overcoming our prejudices. It's a long, hard slog and sometimes it seems there is no progress at all. But it's always simmering below the surface. Trump is just the eruption, like a pimple on your face. It might leave a slight scar, but eventually it will clear up.
In the meantime, we can all be grateful that Trump is out there bringing into consciousness elements of our culture that make so many of us uncomfortable.
I find Trump a lot less frightening than Walker, Cruz, et al.
234
great comment, you hit the nail in the head
1
It's almost like a medical diagnosis: once the underlying reason for your painful symptoms have been identified, you can get on with the business of healing.
In his fine book, "The Honey and the Hemlock," Eli Sagan links democracy and paranoia, while arguing that, ultimately, the latter destroys the former. In his discussion of the United States, Sagan claims that we barely keep paranoia sufficiently at bay to preserve our democratic system. Trump and his popularity perfectly illustrate this argument. As Kevin Rothstein points out, this demagogue taps into our worst fears and encourages mutual distrust in an ethnically diverse and geographically extensive country. Our history is rife with examples of ethnic or political tensions tearing at the fabric of the republic, from the Know Nothings of the 1850s, to the red scares of the postwar WWI and WWII eras, to the current obsession with the overblown threat of Muslim extremists. In each case, the fears were not entirely baseless, but people such as Trump, lacking even a trace of integrity, sought to convince the public that the current bogeyman threatened national survival. Jon Stewart has expressed glee over Trump's entrance into the race because he represents low hanging fruit for all comedians. But what the man represents is anything but funny.
14
There's a kind of irony in the fact that the Mexico Trump uses as a whipping boy is the Mexico of the oligarchs--the ruthless corporate bosses and reckless landowners whose greed and corruption have broken the Mexican economy and shattered its culture, driving untold numbers of desperate people northward in search of the (brutally exploited and sadistically undercompensated employment) that will allow them, at best, to purchase the rudimentary necessities of life for themselves and their families.
The real Mexico is, of course, a rich, magnificent, complex, multi-layered culture with deep roots in the history of the hemisphere.
But neoliberalism, a profit-driven class system, and 'austerity'--along with America's unconscionable policy of prohibition, the seed-bed of the highly profitable illegal drug trade--have wrought their inevitable destructive magic and produced the relentless misery and inequality that now and again erupt into dreadful moments of violence, triggers for the American sensational headline industry (formerly known as the Fourth Estate).
Mexico is, in short, is a place that should seem very familiar to Donald Trump and his chums amongst the GOP oligarchy--the Kochs, the Adelsons, the Romneys, the Marriotts, the Bushes, etc.--in that it so neatly resembles the America they are in the process of creating for the rest of us, deliberately and systematically.
A little humility, please, Mr. Trump, if that's not too much of a contradiction. This is your world.
The real Mexico is, of course, a rich, magnificent, complex, multi-layered culture with deep roots in the history of the hemisphere.
But neoliberalism, a profit-driven class system, and 'austerity'--along with America's unconscionable policy of prohibition, the seed-bed of the highly profitable illegal drug trade--have wrought their inevitable destructive magic and produced the relentless misery and inequality that now and again erupt into dreadful moments of violence, triggers for the American sensational headline industry (formerly known as the Fourth Estate).
Mexico is, in short, is a place that should seem very familiar to Donald Trump and his chums amongst the GOP oligarchy--the Kochs, the Adelsons, the Romneys, the Marriotts, the Bushes, etc.--in that it so neatly resembles the America they are in the process of creating for the rest of us, deliberately and systematically.
A little humility, please, Mr. Trump, if that's not too much of a contradiction. This is your world.
31
Donald Trump is not injuring the Republican brand: Donald Trump is clearly defining the Republican brand for all the world to see. He clearly resonates with the Republican base, as attributed by the fact that he is currently leading in the polls. The leaders of the party may not like it, but this is what decades of hate and fear mongering have produced. The genie is now out of the bottle. Good luck putting it back in.
584
We thought the Tea Party was the genie. Then came Trump.
5
How can we expect the right to condemn Trump? He is saying in public what they usually say in private. In public they say secure the borders, make English the only language and other euphemisms for racism. Taking our Country Back is a bumper sticker from the right. Trump is only saying what they believe. Let Trump keep talking for he is pulling the covers off the closet racist.
34
The gaggle of self-declared Republican candidates for president in recent years have shown that a certain percentage of us have no idea what the president is, what a president should be, nor how our carefully calculated structure of government is supposed to work.
Trump proves the point that some people believe that having TEN BILLION DOLLARS! qualifies you. Ben Carson proves the point that being a brain surgeon while black qualifies you, Carly Fiorina that being a woman who failed at running a Fortune 500 company qualifies you. Many of the candidates stand by the qualification of believing in God or believing that God believes in him or her. Or that a woman whose rape results in a unwanted pregnancy should just take her lumps. Other selling points? Having cut your state's services to the bone and then some. Never having seen a gun you don't love. Declaring you will bravely send other people's children to die in yet another war in the Middle East. Blaming those crossing the border from the south for a problem our politics has prevented us from solving for decades. And let's not forget genuflecting towards Israel, defunding Planned Parenthood, speaking reverentially of job creators, decrying the MSM and activist judges, and lauding freedom while waving a copy of the Constitution in one hand and the flag in the other.
Nowhere in the world is a job so important as our presidency while the job description some voters imagine is such an off-the-point list of slogans.
Trump proves the point that some people believe that having TEN BILLION DOLLARS! qualifies you. Ben Carson proves the point that being a brain surgeon while black qualifies you, Carly Fiorina that being a woman who failed at running a Fortune 500 company qualifies you. Many of the candidates stand by the qualification of believing in God or believing that God believes in him or her. Or that a woman whose rape results in a unwanted pregnancy should just take her lumps. Other selling points? Having cut your state's services to the bone and then some. Never having seen a gun you don't love. Declaring you will bravely send other people's children to die in yet another war in the Middle East. Blaming those crossing the border from the south for a problem our politics has prevented us from solving for decades. And let's not forget genuflecting towards Israel, defunding Planned Parenthood, speaking reverentially of job creators, decrying the MSM and activist judges, and lauding freedom while waving a copy of the Constitution in one hand and the flag in the other.
Nowhere in the world is a job so important as our presidency while the job description some voters imagine is such an off-the-point list of slogans.
501
what qualifications does hillary have? spending 8 years as first lady does not qualify you -- it's like a nurse watching a surgeon perform surgery and then claiming to be ready to do on their own.
after she purchased a senate seat in NY, what did she do? can anyone point out an accomplishment during that time?
we all know of her myriad failures as sec of state, so no qualifications there...
how about o'malley: presiding over baltimore and then MD -- both complete disasters, what are his qualifications?
let's see, what about bernie? aside from living in the senate for decades as an outcast, what has bernie done? does anything really think he is fit to serve as commander in chief?
I am continually amazed at how disparaging the Left can be when referring to those with whom they disagree.
Maybe we can all agree that each candidate has their own set of unique qualifications that may (or may not) provide them with a sufficient foundation to serve as POTUS and leave it at that.
after she purchased a senate seat in NY, what did she do? can anyone point out an accomplishment during that time?
we all know of her myriad failures as sec of state, so no qualifications there...
how about o'malley: presiding over baltimore and then MD -- both complete disasters, what are his qualifications?
let's see, what about bernie? aside from living in the senate for decades as an outcast, what has bernie done? does anything really think he is fit to serve as commander in chief?
I am continually amazed at how disparaging the Left can be when referring to those with whom they disagree.
Maybe we can all agree that each candidate has their own set of unique qualifications that may (or may not) provide them with a sufficient foundation to serve as POTUS and leave it at that.
1
Trump is known to lie about how much money he has, because if investors thinks he's super-rich they're more likely to invest in his projects. I agree with Mr. Blow: this is a money making venture for Trump.
1
I am old enough to remember this one
"an educated consumer is our best product"
Change that to "uneducated" and we have the answer.
How to explain voters surviving on Social security,Medicare and Medicaid voting GOP, the same people that ,given a chance, will gut these programs?
"an educated consumer is our best product"
Change that to "uneducated" and we have the answer.
How to explain voters surviving on Social security,Medicare and Medicaid voting GOP, the same people that ,given a chance, will gut these programs?
31
I believe the marketing slogan you're half-remembering is "An educated consumer is our best customer."
It dates from a time when the consumer was a customer. It's only in today's digital marketplace that the consumer is actually the product.
It dates from a time when the consumer was a customer. It's only in today's digital marketplace that the consumer is actually the product.
1
Donald Trump clearly does not believe he will become President. He has shown no serious interest in holding office before (previous talk about running for NY Governor and for President notwithstanding). Running for President is about holding a captive national audience for him, not about leadership. The bottom has dropped for how low the election process can go.
12
Jeb! recently criticized Trump and Obama for being divisive, but he was not aiming at a fellow Republican because he equated Obama as bad a Trump!
By the way 12 years ago Trump contributed to the Democrats and had the Clintons at his daughter's wedding.
He is not all self made. His father left him $300 million 20 years ago and many of bis properties have gone bankrupt, leaving his partners hold the bag.
By the way 12 years ago Trump contributed to the Democrats and had the Clintons at his daughter's wedding.
He is not all self made. His father left him $300 million 20 years ago and many of bis properties have gone bankrupt, leaving his partners hold the bag.
9
I love the Trump show. It's playing out on our public stage like Zero Mostel and Gene Wilder's hit comedy movie from 1968, "The Producers" where they had bet everything on the play they were producing --"Springtime for Hitler" -- becoming a disastrous failure only to find that the audience thought it was delightfully hilarious.
Trump, whether he knows it or not, is simply exposing the GOP for what it has become -- a toxic brew of hate, selfishness, and narrow-mindedness that only serves to magnify and reinforce an "us vs. them" mentality -- a "divide and conquer" approach that the GOP elite so carefully cultivated over the past 20 to 30 years or so.
What the current GOP leadership objects to is the blunt-force trauma in which it is being applied by Trump because it exposes them for what they have essentially become - a party that can no longer debate the issues in a civil manner and where "compromise" has become a four letter word. Our democracy has suffered greatly as a result as the more noble GOP of the past has long since faded into near oblivion.
Trump, whether he knows it or not, is simply exposing the GOP for what it has become -- a toxic brew of hate, selfishness, and narrow-mindedness that only serves to magnify and reinforce an "us vs. them" mentality -- a "divide and conquer" approach that the GOP elite so carefully cultivated over the past 20 to 30 years or so.
What the current GOP leadership objects to is the blunt-force trauma in which it is being applied by Trump because it exposes them for what they have essentially become - a party that can no longer debate the issues in a civil manner and where "compromise" has become a four letter word. Our democracy has suffered greatly as a result as the more noble GOP of the past has long since faded into near oblivion.
377
And yet brand "GOP" lives on. Take it down.
4
Your comment is among the many here that strike me as insightful and targeted precisely, there must be something about Wednesday, being in mid-week form?
It's "Springtime for the Donald" indeed...quack, quack, GOP!
It's "Springtime for the Donald" indeed...quack, quack, GOP!
2
The Republican party represents those who would shut down the government and hold it hostage if they
don't get their way - even if it means destroying the international credit rating of the American treasury. The Republican party is the party which represents the bankers and billionaires who illegally and immorally destroyed the economy of this country and caused the meltdown in 2008 which many have never recovered from. Their greed knows no bounds and having been able to defeat the new restrictions which would prevent them from doing so, they are ready to do it again. And the Republican party has become the bastion of White Supremicists. I hope "the Donald" does mortal damage to them.
don't get their way - even if it means destroying the international credit rating of the American treasury. The Republican party is the party which represents the bankers and billionaires who illegally and immorally destroyed the economy of this country and caused the meltdown in 2008 which many have never recovered from. Their greed knows no bounds and having been able to defeat the new restrictions which would prevent them from doing so, they are ready to do it again. And the Republican party has become the bastion of White Supremicists. I hope "the Donald" does mortal damage to them.
3
If you wish to discuss the issue of divisiveness, look no further than in the mirror, Charles, and at Obama and Sharpton. It's always black against white. It is the liberal press that keeps Trump in the news. We all know he has no chance to be nominated yet you and your ilk try to make him the face of the Republican Party, which he is not, in a perpetual effort to denigrate the right. Why not write a piece on the reaction in Charleston to those recent murders and compare it to what happened in Baltimore and Ferguson. The story of no riots, no looting, no burning in Charleston would be much more pithy, but you prefer to paint conservatives in the image of Trump. He is an easy target. But what didn't happen in Charleston just doesn't fit your distorted view of a deep South that is filled with racist hatred.
3
Mr. Blow and his "ilk," at least the ilk at The New York Times, want to make Jeb! the frontrunner.
Now tell me why you think it's a bad thing for Trump to be the OP's standard bearer. Be specific.
Now tell me why you think it's a bad thing for Trump to be the OP's standard bearer. Be specific.
1
Nice try but asking that everyone be treated equally isn't divisive, nor is pointing out that everyone isn't being treated equally.
The right wants to continue demonizing anyone who isn't a white (preferably wealthy) male and whenever women, people of color or gay people stand up for themselves the right wing screams "divisive."
The right wants to continue demonizing anyone who isn't a white (preferably wealthy) male and whenever women, people of color or gay people stand up for themselves the right wing screams "divisive."
Just a tad off topic?
1
"Facts are not the point for Trump. He spouts so much unsubstantiated idiocy that trying to correct it all would drive any respectable fact-checker mad."
Everyone knows that facts are overrated and it's refreshing to finally have someone contending for the Oval Office who has such a profound appreciation for fact-free dialog. The Donald knows, as does Homer Simpson, that "Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's remotely true."
I'm ordering my "Trump 2015!" bumper sticker today.
Everyone knows that facts are overrated and it's refreshing to finally have someone contending for the Oval Office who has such a profound appreciation for fact-free dialog. The Donald knows, as does Homer Simpson, that "Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's remotely true."
I'm ordering my "Trump 2015!" bumper sticker today.
64
Trump 2015? Priceless!
2
The rich get richer and the dumb. . . well, 'nuff said.
"Trump 2015" is far better than "Trump 2016."
"As long as portions of the Republican party laud the divisive, fact-challenged Trump as a terrific truth-teller, the party brand will continue to sustain incalculable damage, particularly among the vital immigrant population."
And the problem is....?????
And the problem is....?????
8
Republicans were content to let The Don be an in-your-face, quasi-political figure when the target was President Obama. Trump shamelessly and baselessly repeated nonsense, like that Obama had not shown a valid birth certificate. Now that Trump's horizons have widened, the GOP has Frankenstein on the loose.
381
I wouldn't gloat over Trump. He's a perennial flash in the pan. The Republican candidate will be serious and the election will be close.
3
Let us add to Trump's achievements that he has inspired you, Mr. Blow, to a rare flight of alliterative fancy:
"The whole point of Trump’s perfidy is provocation, which is itself a way of positioning him for more profits."
I welcome Trump's damaging of the GOP brand, but suspect he also tarnishes the USA brand in exhibiting a crass cartoon of unhinged wealth, ego, and xenophobia. But then again, this may be a brilliant act of sustained performance art / political sabotage.
"The whole point of Trump’s perfidy is provocation, which is itself a way of positioning him for more profits."
I welcome Trump's damaging of the GOP brand, but suspect he also tarnishes the USA brand in exhibiting a crass cartoon of unhinged wealth, ego, and xenophobia. But then again, this may be a brilliant act of sustained performance art / political sabotage.
8
Of all the candidates both Republicans and Democrats Trump has received the least money from political donors (zero) and spent the least; yet he is number one in the polls. Unlike the other candidates he owes no one anything. He also is willing to risk his business interests for the sake of his principles and refuses to back down when corporations withdraw their support. For that he deserves some degree of respect and less of Blow's tired and predictable PC criticism.
3
Ed, his "principles" include bloviating that he can restore American manufacturing jobs while having a line of clothes bearing his name made in China. In case you didn't notice, Ed, the principle at which Trump excels is hypocrisy.
1
Trump is very valuable because he helps bring out of the shadows all those who who think he deserves some degree of respect, who support him and view his attitudes as "truth" or something positive because he is not politically correct. It's always helpful to know who these people are, and for them to be exposed, their racist views no longer hiding.
1
Respect? Sorry, this Black woman will show him a little respect when he does the same to President Obama. Also, check out who lives in his fancy buildings in NYC - many of them are criminals who have stolen from their national coffers (NYTimes did a great piece on that).
2
Trump is blowback. After ACA got blessed, after gay marriage became a fundamental right, and after race and gender became fluid, subjective, self identified constructs, many Americans, fearful of change, needed emotional relief. Enter (or re-enter) Trump. He is an avatar, and will serve that purpose as Americans adjust to these recent social changes.
111
maybe gender but race is still static...
Ted Cruz and 17% of some unknown group like Donald Trump. I'm trying to imagine which group that 17% is part of ( I don't need to imagine Cruz). Were they polled at a Cliven Bundy rally? Perhaps, it was the group in Texas whose keeping an eye on Jade Helm exercises for us. Maybe it was leftovers from a Sarah Palin, Michelle Bachman fan club looking for a new hero.
No matter what the margin of error is for the poll it is an indicator our education system failed 17% of the time , more or less.
No matter what the margin of error is for the poll it is an indicator our education system failed 17% of the time , more or less.
13
A fine assessment, Charles, on the havoc wrought in the Republican Party by Donald Trump. Though polls don't mean diddly in the reality of nominating a presidential candidate, Trump's purported lead is beyond disgusting. The man is a publicity hound, narcissist, and his entire world is a meme of "ME". As long as the media crush spells his name correctly (and how could they not?), he's happy as a pig in mash. He's a hoax, a Cardiff Giant, a Piltdown man; a boaster and bloviator who frightens his entire party. The bull in the china shop is the GOP's nightmare elephant in the living room. Trump's the name, provocation his game, a Music Man of demagoguery. Lindsay Graham, also in the 17 GOP candidate clutch to become President, said one true thing - that Trump is "a wrecking ball for the Republican Party with the Hispanic community". The GOP's view of people of colour is so well known; their only platform for the two previous Presidential Elections was to remove Barack Obama from the White House. And no surprise that Ted Cruz thinks Trump is terrific. Brash birds of a feather. The fox has entered the chicken coop of the Republican Tea Party/GOP and though Trump wouldn't know what to do if nominated or even - heaven forfend - elected, he must be dealt with by his colleagues in the wannabe POTUS race. Most GOP folk (and their voicebox, FAUX News) must be praying for a Deus ex Machina to appear and carry off Donald Trump from the campaign scrum within the coming 17 months.
196
"A Music Man of demagoguery." I love it. You have a way with
words. Robert Preston could play this guy and it would sell out. Great post.
words. Robert Preston could play this guy and it would sell out. Great post.
As an independent/liberal, I am enjoying the GOP predicament. Immigration has always been a balancing act for them; socially, they try to stand for strong borders and law and order.
But business wise and in reality, they welcome workers who work 24/7 without rights or benefits. The GOP goes to sleep dreaming that the entire American work force was the same, with their children working beside them 7 days a week with low wages, no medical, no vacation, no rules. They don't really want the "wall" so often spoken of, as they would lose poverty wage level migrant workers.
Blow is correct when he says that the GOP chickens have come home to roost, and that Trump is their worst nightmare. I certainly look forward to the GOP debates.
But business wise and in reality, they welcome workers who work 24/7 without rights or benefits. The GOP goes to sleep dreaming that the entire American work force was the same, with their children working beside them 7 days a week with low wages, no medical, no vacation, no rules. They don't really want the "wall" so often spoken of, as they would lose poverty wage level migrant workers.
Blow is correct when he says that the GOP chickens have come home to roost, and that Trump is their worst nightmare. I certainly look forward to the GOP debates.
463
Viva Donald! Viva El Chapo Guzman! They represent the best hope for the American electorate in the 2016 general election. Because, as Mr. Blow points out, the Donald allows people (and not just GOP primary voters) to drop their mask of "civility" and "chivalry" when confronted with issues of immigration, workplace equity, early childhood education, fair housing, healthcare, and the obscene incaceration of Blacks and Latinos. The rest of the electorate needs that mask to drop. Viva El Chapo Guzman! For his groundhog escape fans the flames of fear and paranoia vital to the Donald's vitriol. If only El Chapo were taller, muscular, and had dark skin. The horror, the horror!
6
I remember that Trump lead the chorus of the "birther" movement with Obama, who was born in the US. but he loves Cruz who was born in Canada. We can all see what is different about Cruz and Obama and recognize the dog whistle so common with Republcians. Trump has an 81% unfavorable rating with Hispanics, how does the Republican party and Trump overcome that?
14
For the first and only time, I agree with Raphael Cruz that, "Trump speaks the truth". He is speaking the truth about Republicans - the reality of who they are . How ironic that Republicans have such a well funded propaganda machine employed to obscure that reality from voters. Imagine all that wasted money!
13
Just as Trump is a more extreme manifestation of trends within the Republican Party more generally, so too he is, from my point of view, also a more extreme manifestation of trends within our celebrity culture, which includes not only politicians but media stars, public intellectuals, authors, etc. For example, his way of proceeding echoes, it seems to me, the trend of creating buzz in order to reap financial profit and power and influence that we find when people have a new project or book or film they are trying to promote. The way I see it, Trump does it more crudely and extremely and his provocations are more obvious, his content is more controversial, but I don't think his technique or his model for gaining a platform for personal gain and enrichment comes out of nowhere.
6
The worst thing you can do to a egoist is ignore them. Whether it be a Palin or a Trump all they are looking for is press and so fame. Yet everyone keeps buzzing about them. Every idiocy they utter is spread all over the news and social media. All this does is inflate their egos and encourage them. They are toddlers who crave attention even bad attention fuels the needs of their egos. Running for president just gives them a forum for their self idolization and an avenue for the need to fuel their egos.
At one time the Presidency of the US meant something. As the leader of a powerful nation the president was respected even if you did not agree with him. The Republicans have turned the office into a sideshow. From Watergate to Irangate to Haliburton and Cheney reaping billions on the backs of the people of the US and the lives of our soldiers, then the final nail in the coffin of our democracy with the reactionary SCOTUS giving the nation to the corporations along with the disgraceful treatment of President Obama, the Republicans have managed to disillusion a generation.
The presidency has been permanently damaged and marginalized by the treatment of Obama. It is no longer the office of the most powerful person on earth. The natural progression is that the race for president becomes a sideshow with the carnival huckster, Trump, at the helm. Yeah we have all reaped what they have sown and our nation is much diminished for it.
Yes they are reaping what they have sown
At one time the Presidency of the US meant something. As the leader of a powerful nation the president was respected even if you did not agree with him. The Republicans have turned the office into a sideshow. From Watergate to Irangate to Haliburton and Cheney reaping billions on the backs of the people of the US and the lives of our soldiers, then the final nail in the coffin of our democracy with the reactionary SCOTUS giving the nation to the corporations along with the disgraceful treatment of President Obama, the Republicans have managed to disillusion a generation.
The presidency has been permanently damaged and marginalized by the treatment of Obama. It is no longer the office of the most powerful person on earth. The natural progression is that the race for president becomes a sideshow with the carnival huckster, Trump, at the helm. Yeah we have all reaped what they have sown and our nation is much diminished for it.
Yes they are reaping what they have sown
37
The problem is that the people who actually cast a vote feel the same way. If we are going to have any political change in this country, we need all citizens eligible to vote to actually get off their behinds and get to the polls.
It doesn't matter how much money these idiots are willing to spend. It actually does matter if the donations to CPACs are being tax deductible and who is actually donating. Citizens United is a disgusting ruling but the fact that 1/2 of eligible voters park their butts in front of the TV instead of voting for themselves is more disgusting.
The big donor Dem will vote for any Dem. the big donor GOP will vote for any Republican. What we need is everyone else to participate.
It doesn't matter how much money these idiots are willing to spend. It actually does matter if the donations to CPACs are being tax deductible and who is actually donating. Citizens United is a disgusting ruling but the fact that 1/2 of eligible voters park their butts in front of the TV instead of voting for themselves is more disgusting.
The big donor Dem will vote for any Dem. the big donor GOP will vote for any Republican. What we need is everyone else to participate.
10
I like Donald Trump too but as an entertainer and a very intelligent person who loves to provoke and make noise. He was a scion of wealth as a youth with every advantage and made considerable amounts of it. His political positions are designed to antagonize and create notoriety as is just plain fun. Listening to him and Clinton you can be sure that Trump is the brightest individual. That being said he is not at all up intellectually (like say Sara Palin) or temperamentally to the heavy workload that the Presidency requires. One cannot take him seriously as a candidate as his thought given to any issue is less than 30 seconds. Trump is about as much fun as if Andrew Brice Clay or George Carlin was running for President. He shows how the entire Republican field is a bad joke. Heaven help us if any of these individuals ever get elected. From another point of view the Republican parties field gives a good reason why we are going the way of South Africa and Brazil not China and Germany.
4
Mr. Blow: Please read Trump's Morning Joe transcript. What he was trying to say was not that Mexican immigrants are a problem but NAFTA made a small group of companies and politicians rich, and those folks are happy to export their poor and criminals to the U.S. If Trump was a better speaker this position would be seen as progressive. And I suspect if you actually spoke with him F2F you might agree on many things.
5
What Mr. Trump actually said is what was quoted in this article. Are you saying that somebody is deliberately picking out drug dealers and criminals and dispatching them to the United States? Who exactly?
4
Ray Clark: Read the Morning Joe transcript and read the quote in the column again - he didn't at any time say all Mexicans are criminals, he said the government is "sending" them here, shorthand for they look the other way. And you are aware that officials in Mexico don't have to have an explicit law or rule to allow systemic abuse. I guess it's hard to speak in America when people pick and choose words and decide what you meant to say. My suggestion stands - if you want to know what he means ask him directly.
2
We've read it, we've watched it. We know what he said.
Trump claims to be worth $10 billion. That's probably way high (he has a history of exaggerating his wealth) but he's certainly rich and that's good news for Democrats. It means he can self-finance and stay in it through the convention. The gift that keeps on giving. He's soiling the Republican brand so badly it will take several years to recover. One can even fantasize about Trump's hate-group Republican followers rejecting a moderate nominee and writing him in on election day. Suits me!
12
trump doesn't have two nickels to rub together. He is what is known to bankers as too big to fail, he owes so much money that he gets loans in the hope that he can pay back his former loans.
3
What moderate do they have to nominate?
1
The popularity of candidates like Trump and Christy (for example) exposes an ugly truth: bullying is in America's DNA. There are too many of us who are drawn to Trump and other brash candidates because they "tell it like it is,"...which means they beat up on the people we don't like. Their rude, tough-guy put downs are merely reiterations of the put-downs inflicted on our kids at school or on the playground. That we tolerate it is like a "wink-wink" added to our exhortations to our children not to bully each other. We should not tolerate such conduct by political candidates. We need civility in our public discourse.
21
@JP: Try living in Maine with our crazy, erratic, 'idiot thug' (US News and World Report described him as such) who is also a bully. Finally our legislature stood up to him - including a lot of Republicans who are hurt by his 'brand'. But we have 3.5 more years to go - unless he (hopefully) pulls a Palin and quits. We all think he'll have a complete meltdown before too long. And then he'll quit and move to his true home state of Florida. (We're all keeping our fingers crossed up here).
What is truly sad about what Trump is doing is that it removes reality from the debate. He makes the entertainment of the debate of our political future regardless of what party we belong to. He robs us of the importance of what will happen in the future. He steals from us the attention we should be giving to the real players. He is the dancing fool that for some reason-actually no reason- that people tend to gravitate to. For anyone to aline themselves with this man is no better than he is-and I point to Mr.Cruz-who if you saw the interview on PB last evening you might come to realize that he is not playing with a full deck. We need for Trump to leave the race and let serious people have the stage.
9
"We are feeling creatures who think. We are not thinking people who feel."
The GOP deploys the emotional dog whistles of anger, resentment, greed and intolerance -- but is leary of explicitly spelling it out (like Trump).
The GOP deploys the emotional dog whistles of anger, resentment, greed and intolerance -- but is leary of explicitly spelling it out (like Trump).
9
Could it be that Donald Trump is a Democratic Party mole?
6
No. He'll end up supporting Bush.
Once more I couldn't get past the first sentence. The right nurturing anti-immigrant nastiness was just a hoot. The right nurtures immigration done legally. Just goes to show you that the left especially this writer can't get much right.
5
As P.T. Barnum once said "There's a sucker born every minute". Trump has managed to tap into the worst instincts of those calling themselves Republicans. At the same time he is keeping his name and brand relevant and of course, in the news. His business" ethic" has always been what enriches him is acceptable Actually every action in his life has followed this philosophy. It may be great political theater, but it is quite frightening and disheartening to see the level of support he is getting in those polls. What does it say about those people?
17
Mr. Blow, your first sentence: " Donald Trump is exactly what the Republican Party deserves" expressed just what popped into my head when Trump uttered his vitriolic, xenophobic statement! Bravo, bravo, bravo!!!!
12
You are incorrect Mr. Blow. This is a perfect strategy for the Republicans as they approach 2016. They are energizing their racist base, and they are creating a foil for Jeb Bush to combat in the name of racial tolerance and
acceptance of immigrants.
Jeb's policy on immigration will seem "liberal" by comparison and he will be
able to campaign as an anti- Trump and very likely do well in the hispanic community.
acceptance of immigrants.
Jeb's policy on immigration will seem "liberal" by comparison and he will be
able to campaign as an anti- Trump and very likely do well in the hispanic community.
12
It's true. Trump is a buffoon, and he will never be president, but he has certainly given Bernie Sanders a run for his money when it comes to competing for the spot of "Complainer-in-Chief" in this campaign. And that's not easy.
4
Donald Trump is slightly to the left of U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders.
Doesn’t anyone recognize a charade acted out right in front of them?
Doesn’t anyone recognize a charade acted out right in front of them?
3
No. Four years ago, Herman Cain had to suddenly depart the race for fear that the put on might end up the nominee. And only Rachel Maddow recognized it as a put on, but the joint appearances with Stephen Colbert surely should have been a clue.
"Shucky Ducky," "Nine nine, nine!," and quoting from the "Pokemon" movie in his valedictory? A complete joke fully perpetrated on the American populace, once again confirming HL Mencken's axiom: "Nobody ever went broke underestimating the intelligence of the American people."
But he's nowhere near Sanders. He IS, however, clise to the corporatist politics of Hillary Clinton, to whose campaigns, and foundation, he has contributed.
"Shucky Ducky," "Nine nine, nine!," and quoting from the "Pokemon" movie in his valedictory? A complete joke fully perpetrated on the American populace, once again confirming HL Mencken's axiom: "Nobody ever went broke underestimating the intelligence of the American people."
But he's nowhere near Sanders. He IS, however, clise to the corporatist politics of Hillary Clinton, to whose campaigns, and foundation, he has contributed.
1
Trump's lead is a temporary aberration. The people supporting him now, in these very early polls, are the same people who followed the imploding Charlie Sheen on Twitter and bought ringside seats at his circus. They aren't serious, he isn't serious, and it seems sort of pointless for the Times columnists to waste their time shooting the fish in this barrel.
7
In the heat of the summer, in the bowels of the American psyche, Trump has touched a chord in our nation. The chord is not anything mystical; the chord is not something a prairie lawyer from Illinois once mentioned in a speech. No, the chord Trump has touched is one as old as time and as young as yesterday.
The chord is fear; the chord is hate; the chord is ignorance.
The chord is fear; the chord is hate; the chord is ignorance.
798
Ignorance comes first, then fear, then hate.
22
And Trump has them all covered.
3
Ironically, the multi-toned "chord" that Trump plucks is the very chord that the GOP generated and nurtured into existence.
5
What's in a name? Trump was born on the wrong side of the alphabet, he knows no better.
His father, Fred made the family fortune by developing middle income homes in NYC, during the post WWII baby boom years. The Donald jumped on board dad's ship- used his personal connections to start, then America's terrible bankruptcy laws to become even wealthier. But he doesn't always try to trump the media with his name. He tries very hard to distance himself from his failures, which he blames on everyone and everything else.
As per the Mexican, faux pas. Trump isn't that deep a thinker. His remarks were endemic to the still spoiled, narcissistic kid. In my perception of him, he enjoys feeling a certain power over others. He peers down on normal humans as weak creatures, dominated by their emotions. He appears free such constraints.
His father, Fred made the family fortune by developing middle income homes in NYC, during the post WWII baby boom years. The Donald jumped on board dad's ship- used his personal connections to start, then America's terrible bankruptcy laws to become even wealthier. But he doesn't always try to trump the media with his name. He tries very hard to distance himself from his failures, which he blames on everyone and everything else.
As per the Mexican, faux pas. Trump isn't that deep a thinker. His remarks were endemic to the still spoiled, narcissistic kid. In my perception of him, he enjoys feeling a certain power over others. He peers down on normal humans as weak creatures, dominated by their emotions. He appears free such constraints.
15
Loved this. The GOP has "Willie Horton'd" us for years while pretending they have an air of respectability, even as FOX keeps the birthers and Benghazi alive and makes a hero of someone like Cliven Bundy.
With Trump, the chickens have come home to roost. He's their Id. Enjoy.
With Trump, the chickens have come home to roost. He's their Id. Enjoy.
40
Trump provides a valuable service for the Republicans ... he creates "breathing room" and makes the other candidates appear moderate ... he gives voice to racist fears of the Republican base ... and the majority of Republican contenders by giving ambiguous or minimal repudiation of Trump's comments, gain the value of Trump's comments without the negative criticism they cause. It is a form of the "halo effect".
20
exactly ! (wish i had read your response before writing me own. it would have saved me the trouble! )
You are incorrect Mr. Blow. This is a perfect strategy for the Republicans as they approach 2016. They are energizing their racist base, and they are creating a foil for Jeb Bush to combat in the name of racial tolerance and
acceptance of immigrants.
Jeb's policy on immigration will seem "liberal" by comparison and he will be
able to campaign as an anti- Trump and very likely do well in the hispanic community.
You are incorrect Mr. Blow. This is a perfect strategy for the Republicans as they approach 2016. They are energizing their racist base, and they are creating a foil for Jeb Bush to combat in the name of racial tolerance and
acceptance of immigrants.
Jeb's policy on immigration will seem "liberal" by comparison and he will be
able to campaign as an anti- Trump and very likely do well in the hispanic community.
6
Mr. Trump is the prototypical sterotype of the perfect Republican Authoritarian leader: bold, rich and certain. Unbridled, certitude with his own planes and helicopters. It is as if the 'script writers' at Fox News decided to hammer together their perfect GOP candidate and out popped Mr. Trump from the news making pens. However, Mr. Blow, your analysis failed to recognize that if you took the 17 canadiate and processed them down the GOP Primary Campaign conveyer belt, Mr. Trump possesses numerious characteristics absent the others. He has persistence, stubbornness without a group of handlers that warns him that regardless of what happens you still have your dignity and legacy. The Trump legacy is already on skyscrapers, golf courses and TV shows. The GOP electorate (man in the street) does not have a horse in the race yet and seeing Mr. Trump bombastically saying what they want to hear might indeed lead Mr. Trump to the Nomination. Donald Trump and Reince Priebus making history.
6
Paging Stephen King.........
2
If you say his name a few more times it will top the list in any google search I do today.... Trumps every other definition....
4
Like Beetlejiuce?
1
Well said, CB. Good point about the realty of the numbers. The media continue the game of trashing logic and reason for the sake of sensation. "Trump soars ahead..." Reminds me of the times they reported: "The dollar plunges..." when the range of change was+/- 2%.
Trump may be a cunning Fox, but his cunning, and his mindless rhetoric fouls the whole national discourse. He knows "how to create jobs" and will "provide jobs for Mexicans?" How many hotels and casinos must he build and staff with Mexicans to change the employment profile and figures?
The horrors of this game of words are that many believe him, and that his opponents are dragged down into the sewer to compete with irrational rhetoric.
Trump may be a cunning Fox, but his cunning, and his mindless rhetoric fouls the whole national discourse. He knows "how to create jobs" and will "provide jobs for Mexicans?" How many hotels and casinos must he build and staff with Mexicans to change the employment profile and figures?
The horrors of this game of words are that many believe him, and that his opponents are dragged down into the sewer to compete with irrational rhetoric.
9
Go easy on him... after all, it's a full time job just being Donald Trump.
5
Trump is the poster boy for the GOP. The people who look up to him are the lowest form of humanity. They are people who's whole life is about hate for one thing or another. The GOP is made up of people like this who are paranoid and thanks to FOX in fear of anything that isn't from 1950.
23
Thanks Charles. Republicans have been plying various brands of political poison for years. Trump's brand is just another more venomous variety added with his particularly obnoxious venality. That he polls ahead of his rivals demonstrates how toxic he is for his party specifically, and the electorate generally. One thing we all can count on is that as Trump feigns to be a leader he will be rejected because few among us would feign to be one of his followers. He is a modern day carnival barker, a snake oil salesman, the sort who in our history was once tarred, feathered, and run out of town on a fence rail. The man is a fraud. We all know it and so does he.
15
He makes Professor Harold Hill look like Mother Theresa.
2
“Trump spouts so much unsubstantiated idiocy that trying to correct it all would drive any respectable fact-checker mad”
So much idiocy? You have only cited one example: the crass statement Trump made about Mexican people last month. You offer no comment on Mr. Trump's view of the Iranian nuclear weapons' deal. A view which is widely supported in Israel.
If he truly has spouted so much idiocy then maybe we should fact check it and publish the findings instead of offering a cop out.
So much idiocy? You have only cited one example: the crass statement Trump made about Mexican people last month. You offer no comment on Mr. Trump's view of the Iranian nuclear weapons' deal. A view which is widely supported in Israel.
If he truly has spouted so much idiocy then maybe we should fact check it and publish the findings instead of offering a cop out.
4
"You offer no comment on Mr. Trump's view of the Iranian nuclear weapons' deal. A view which is widely supported in Israel."
That's all many of us need to know, Mike.
p.
That's all many of us need to know, Mike.
p.
1
This is an opinion piece, and a good one, It is not a doctoral thesis. Collect all the articles written by CB before Trump jumps on Jeb's bandwagon, and then judge what he includes and excludes. Ah, but that requires mature waiting and withholding judgment until you have real evidence.
1
Mr. Blow's column isn't long enough to list all the sites that do fact checking so he focused on one of the most dangerous one but Let me help you. Open your browser and type in Trump and Facts and a lot of links appear. Here are just 3 sites:
http://news.yahoo.com/fact-checking-donald-trump-gets-lot-things-wrong-2...
http://www.politifact.com/personalities/donald-trump/
http://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Politics/Decoder/2015/0711/Fact-checking-Do...
There a tons more and this should help sort out the dishonestly of Trump.
http://news.yahoo.com/fact-checking-donald-trump-gets-lot-things-wrong-2...
http://www.politifact.com/personalities/donald-trump/
http://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Politics/Decoder/2015/0711/Fact-checking-Do...
There a tons more and this should help sort out the dishonestly of Trump.
5
Absolutely perfect commentary. And the Republican Party will not save itself, it can't. They're not capable of changing.
11
Charles,
You beautifully articulated and analyzed the Trump-mania that has taken center stage. Huey Long et al are alive and well whenever Trump puts up his circus ten. Sadly, as you point it, Trump has tapped into a nasty vein that still pulsates with life (and prejudice) across our land.
You beautifully articulated and analyzed the Trump-mania that has taken center stage. Huey Long et al are alive and well whenever Trump puts up his circus ten. Sadly, as you point it, Trump has tapped into a nasty vein that still pulsates with life (and prejudice) across our land.
17
I fear the short memory of voters as they stand in front of the ballot machines in less than 16 months. The Republican's hundreds of millions of dollars of SuperPAC money will surely be put to work glossing over the Republican xenophobic gestalt that is in full display now with Trump's popularity. Trump's short term bathing in the glow of his ka-ching diatribes will be a distant and foreign memory for most voters in November 2016.
10
If Trump get elected, his first act will be to change the name of our country to the United Serfdom of Trump.
5
Trump is a stalking horse for the Koch Brothers to take out Bush and clear the way for Scott Walker.
8
Good luck with that. Walker's closet is full of skeletons and he's unlikeable.
Is there a Republican left out there with a double digit mental age?
11
No.
3
Donald Trump serves the Republican Party well. He expresses the fear and anger of the base while maintaining a safe distance from their preferred candidates, particularly Jeb Bush. Republican leaders can say he is too extreme while the GOP's most extreme xenophobes associate with him. To dismiss him as a clown or a problem for the Republicans is incorrect. He is not hurting the Republican brand, he keeps the rank and file focused while allowing the leaders to distance themselves from his views. Trump allows the GOP to have their cake and eat it too
8
Brilliant summary of Trump and the Republican party's problem. It couldn't happen to a nicer bunch of out-dated and out-of-touch mean old white men (and those wanting to be).
9
Donald Trump is the ant trail at the family picnic. The raw racism under the skin of the Republican Party (and its junior varsity, the Tea Party) has festered and flourished since the mid-1960's when its ranks were swollen by triumphs for African-American citizens. Not one major GOP candidate for 2016 condemned the massacre of the Charleston Nine. The best Rick Santorum, a true bottom-feeder in the polls, could do was "it was an attack on Christianity." With the hate machine purring on the Right, it's just a small distance from the usual GOP "givers vs. takers" (the blacks on Uncle Sam's Easy Street) to immigration issues, couched in the barely-civil code of "border security." Trump is merely taking the public pulse and profiting from it. He's making his personal problems with the Mexican people a visible symbol for all to witness that the Republican tent was never meant to house certain "others." Their "outreach" to Latinos never sincere, only the merest cover for election year dynamics. Jeb! and the others fear that their money trains in the shadows will dry up so they hew to ALEC, the Koch Brothers and the hard-right "think tanks." Trump knows he can't win but he's willing to further poison the rancid GOP/TP well because they're expert at cannibalizing their own. He doesn't have money problems. His fortunes have made cowards of the rest of them. And, like the ants, he's not going anywhere.
14
A great post, but I particularly like "the ant trail at the family picnic." Thanks. :-)
1
Great writing, as always, from Mr. Blow! I am absolutely thrilled with the deep damage Trump is doing to the Republican party regarding the Hispanic vote. Hopefully, thanks to his Herculean efforts, the 2016 election is already lost.
The bad news is that what he is also doing is creating a distraction to cover up the real problems facing most Americans - severe economic inequality and a game rigged for those at the top - the Trump crowd.
The bad news is that what he is also doing is creating a distraction to cover up the real problems facing most Americans - severe economic inequality and a game rigged for those at the top - the Trump crowd.
123
It's elementary: Trump ran because Mitt Romney bowed out. Only Romney the bean counter (a former venture capitalist, not a 'businessman' as some like to think) can challenge Trump where Trump is weakest. The rest of the Republican contenders don't have enough knowledge of the private sector to have at him. The weak spot: Trump runs on other people's money ("leveraged", is what you would call him), and started with Daddy's. Oops - that's not self-made.
And it won't be hard to take him down - he's just a louder male version of Sarah Palin. All we need is some good ol' "gotcha" journalism by a reporter who does his/her homework and is not intimidated by him - preferably a battle-ax who doesn't blush (sorry, Katy Tur - you didn't cut it). Ask him what papers he reads.
But I still hope that he IS a Democratic mole. Hee hee.
And it won't be hard to take him down - he's just a louder male version of Sarah Palin. All we need is some good ol' "gotcha" journalism by a reporter who does his/her homework and is not intimidated by him - preferably a battle-ax who doesn't blush (sorry, Katy Tur - you didn't cut it). Ask him what papers he reads.
But I still hope that he IS a Democratic mole. Hee hee.
14
The Donald is entertaining but scary, like an Andy Kaufman stand up routine. Once he is forced to spend his own money he'll drop out.
What a shame. Long ago Donald Trump was a positive influence in NYC, a role model. Now ... I can't tell what differentiates him from any other bigot using fascist tactics to win votes.
4
If by some fluke Mr. Trump gets elected, I hope he finds the name of the builder of El Chapo's tunnel to plan and build his wall. There is someone who knows how to get a job done.
Mr. Trump was the original too big to fail and now his reflection tells him lies daily.
Mr. Trump was the original too big to fail and now his reflection tells him lies daily.
10
First, I did not know Mexico was pre-selecting people to send to the USofA. And all along I thought these people were coming here for either a chance at a better life or to avoid something back home.
Secondly, the polling tells me that a scary percentage of 'likely voters' are somewhat like lemmings. They are attracted by the latest shiny object, in this case a master salesman, and will follow it, even if it is over a cliff. Now I better understand polls.
And Third, I did not know that a press release qualifies as a statement of income and financial worth. I am going to try that one this year with the IRS to simplify my tax filing, not that I am in Trump's financial stratosphere.
Thanks Donald for educating me on some many fronts. Keep 'em coming.
Secondly, the polling tells me that a scary percentage of 'likely voters' are somewhat like lemmings. They are attracted by the latest shiny object, in this case a master salesman, and will follow it, even if it is over a cliff. Now I better understand polls.
And Third, I did not know that a press release qualifies as a statement of income and financial worth. I am going to try that one this year with the IRS to simplify my tax filing, not that I am in Trump's financial stratosphere.
Thanks Donald for educating me on some many fronts. Keep 'em coming.
72
I wonder: could Charles Blow have taken another viewpoint on Trump, or is he locked into this trite, simplistic narrative (Trump bad juju for GOP)? If one is honest, one really has to admit that the multiracial, multiculti model has not worked for America. It's been a disaster. Trump could be twice as clowny as he appears, and he'd still be leading the pack. Americans don't want a Third World hellhole of a country. We want our country back, and we'll take Bozo if he's the only one on offer with a scrub-brush. That's the correct narrative, Mr. Blow. Meet the new normal.
2
First of all who is "we"? because if you define "we" as aging white males you are already in the minority and there would be way to much work for that demographic to do to actually keep a nation afloat - or supply money for their government checks. Then moving on, what do you mean "take back" - coup perhaps? That "we" would have to turn off the TV and struggle up from the easyboy or away from the monitor and do an awful lot of actual activity to accomplish that. Then that circles back to that "we" being the a whole lot less that everyone else who believe in the America we live in,
11
"If one is honest, one really has to admit that the multiracial, multiculti model has not worked for America."
The Anti-Catholic, Anti-Irish, Anti-German, Anti-Chinese nativists of the 1800s could scarcely agree more. And be more wrong.
The concept of a purely Anglo-Saxon early America is a myth. New York itself was a multi-ethnic brew by the mid 1600s, with more than a dozen languages spoken on the streets of Manhattan. But then, the original settlers here were Dutch businessmen who didn't care where you were from, as long as you were willing to work.
The Anti-Catholic, Anti-Irish, Anti-German, Anti-Chinese nativists of the 1800s could scarcely agree more. And be more wrong.
The concept of a purely Anglo-Saxon early America is a myth. New York itself was a multi-ethnic brew by the mid 1600s, with more than a dozen languages spoken on the streets of Manhattan. But then, the original settlers here were Dutch businessmen who didn't care where you were from, as long as you were willing to work.
21
Guess you live in a different part of "America" than many of us:the multiracial multicultural thingy is working out swimmingly here.
22
What I appreciate about Trump is that what he is saying is the unvarnished, cruder version of what the rest of the GOP soft pedals, polishes and gussies up into acceptable sound bytes. Trump is despicable , but so is the Wisconsin candidate who thinks the minimum wage is lame and wants food stamp recipients to submit to drug testing. The GOP must understand evolution. These guys have crawled out of a swamp.
113
The moderate repub is an extinct species. Trump speaks for the current party, but in cruder terms. The news media should do a comparison---of other repub statements going back years, next to Trump noises we hear now, and make the connection of basic meaning.
Charles you're missing two points the first being that Trump is referring to illegal aliens or illegal immigrants, not legal immigrants and second Trump is saying what many Americans feel, they're fed up with illegal aliens coming into our country and making outrageous demands to which they have no right. And Trump is speaking for many Americans who feel that Obama is wrongly putting the illegal aliens in front of the line instead of the back where they belong. Democrats, Republicans, independents, may not vote for Trump, but say thanks to Ron for bringing the issue Front and center Americans want their voices heard just as L aRaza and latino advocacy groups do.
}
}
6
Please list the outrageous demands? I do not condone illegal immigration, but look around and tell me what do you think we should do about the ones that are here? Remember, the bulk of the immigration occurred during the Raegan and Bush 41 admirations. Besides, who would cut your lawn, pick your vegetables and work in your kitchens?
5
The two Latino chefs who canceled deals to open up restaurants in Trump's new hotel in Washington might point the way to how others should deal with this loathsome excuse for a human being. No decent person should even think about buying any product associated with Donald Trump, and any organization that plans a convention in one of his hotels should have their names known loud and clear. Maybe that might concentrate Mr. Trump's mind a bit.
41
One of those Hispanic chefs ( He's actually from Spain unlike the Mexican immigrants Trump referred to) said in an interview that half of his staff is from Mexico & Central America. This in a city that is half black and has a black unemployment rate that's around 20%.
It's facts like the ones I highlighted why Trump is not only soaring in the GOP polls but his approval is increasing among Democrats & Independents.
It's facts like the ones I highlighted why Trump is not only soaring in the GOP polls but his approval is increasing among Democrats & Independents.
1
In spite of all that "soaring" of Trump's popularity, his overall numbers are overwhelmingly (61% to 33%) negative, and his "strongly unfavorable" outnumber his "strongly favorable" ratings by 3 to 1. Mr. Blow put it perfectly: "Donald Trump is exactly what the Republican Party deserves."
118
Donald Trump's blunt words on Iraq and trade policy make sense to me, and evidently to many other Americans. Too many leading Republican and Democrat politicians have either misled us, or been too easily deceived by other mendacious politicians on these two critical issues and most of them need to get fired. This direction is where Trump's wrecking ball needs to be aimed.
However, ALL Latin immigrants I've met, legal or otherwise, display way more class and good character than Donald Trump.
Donald Trump is exploiting and amplifying bigotry and he needs to stop. In Nixon's time the great evil was "communists", and then blacks (the "Southern Strategy"), and in more recent times gays were the great evil. Now it is Mexican immigrants.
However, ALL Latin immigrants I've met, legal or otherwise, display way more class and good character than Donald Trump.
Donald Trump is exploiting and amplifying bigotry and he needs to stop. In Nixon's time the great evil was "communists", and then blacks (the "Southern Strategy"), and in more recent times gays were the great evil. Now it is Mexican immigrants.
3
Trump will be President. It is the ultimate ego trip.
Oh, and did I mention that the majority of Americans hate politicians and think we should 'take our country back.'
Oh, and did I mention that the majority of Americans hate politicians and think we should 'take our country back.'
2
Trump is an entertainer, and politics is the newest reality show that he is starring in, along with eleven other guest 'candidates.' It's called, "Let's Run for the Presidency- first episode The Primary," and it's due out in the Fall. The Show will feature stump speeches, interviews with the 'candidates,' meet-and-greets, in small towns in Iowa, New Hampshire, and Soth Carolina with the local folks in senic cafe's, back yard barbeques, and will be brought to you on FOX News by Koch Industries, Karl Rove, and Super-Pac Bush. The audience will be us- the voters, who if we have any common sense will swithch the channel to the Bernie Show on PBS.
20
It will be funny to see Donnie Dump out on the hustings. He's a known germophobe with a marked aversion to shaking hands. How that will translate to the required retail electioneering in Iowa and New Hampshire without hilarity ensuing will be interesting to watch.
1
While Trump won't be president he is tapping into issues that resonates with people who are the polar opposite of conservative Republicans.
Dismiss him at your peril.
Dismiss him at your peril.
6
and the other and larger side of that coin is: embrace him at the your peril of becoming increasingly marginalized in a country moving into the future
Do Repubs deserve Donald Trump
As he hits the hustings to stump?
With bats in his belfry
Republican selfie,
To the White House can Donald jump?
His racist remarks some enjoy,
Which he readily does employ,
One more billionaire
We can easily spare,
And he'd be the Tea Party's boy!
As he hits the hustings to stump?
With bats in his belfry
Republican selfie,
To the White House can Donald jump?
His racist remarks some enjoy,
Which he readily does employ,
One more billionaire
We can easily spare,
And he'd be the Tea Party's boy!
55
I love your work, Larry. It always quality.
The brains behind Trump was his father Fred. He inherited Fred's fortune and claims that he is a self-starter. While most candidates downplay their personal wealth, the pompous and hyperbolic Donald flaunts it. Make no mistake, the mainline GOP is quaking in their boots over the current numbers but this is all theater and no substance. This legend in his own mind will stumble and has absolutely no shot at the nomination.
27
Like Romney, Trump thinks scoring from third base is a home run.
Poorly written. Get to know legal immigrants, and I'm not talking about the ones from Ivy League schools. They resent the illegals. The hole in the liberal argument is that most illegals do not want to become citizens, as they will one day return to their countries. And you purposely left out the murder of a young lady by a criminal. Our prisons are full of illegals. Trump resonates for a reason, people are frustrated.
5
...and of course we all no that no Americans, especially white Americans, ever murder.young "ladies" nor rape them, nor sell drugs, nor steal.
Mr Blow hit the nail squarely. Trump is in this for his own ego and enrichment. He needs some cash, lest he'll have to declare bankruptcy, again.
Mr Blow hit the nail squarely. Trump is in this for his own ego and enrichment. He needs some cash, lest he'll have to declare bankruptcy, again.
19
hawk, how much Fox news do you watch? Willie Horton II. Did the thought occur if Americans weren't so lazy and so addicted to drugs that folks from Mexico wouldn't come here or their wouldn't be a huge market for the drugs?
1
I know the MSM is having a field day with this, and the establishment GOP is freaking out, but Trump is doing a few positive things for the GOP: Since Trump has national name recognition, he is drawing people who only read gossip rags and page 6 tabloids into looking at the overcrowded GOP candidates.
Very few voters know of Dr. Ben Carson, Carly Fiorina, a couple of Cuban-Americans from the senate running for president, etc. Because of Trump....now they will. Trump gives them exposure they only dreamed of. So this is a good thing. The GOP establishment needs to embrace the entire field instead of trying to limit the field.
Very few voters know of Dr. Ben Carson, Carly Fiorina, a couple of Cuban-Americans from the senate running for president, etc. Because of Trump....now they will. Trump gives them exposure they only dreamed of. So this is a good thing. The GOP establishment needs to embrace the entire field instead of trying to limit the field.
3
Keep whistling past Woodlawn Cemetery, counselor.
Ben Carson, a black man who made his fortune in health care, comparing Obamacare with slavery.
Carleton S Fiorina, who took a $21 million golden parachute while laying off 30,000 HP employees, before being fired.
Two Cuban-American senators, one a very thirsty man with a car dealer sugar daddy prying him out of bankruptcy (a place Donnie Dump knows well), the other an immigrant from Canada who *agrees* with Dump's anti-immigrant screed.
Embrace the madness...
Ben Carson, a black man who made his fortune in health care, comparing Obamacare with slavery.
Carleton S Fiorina, who took a $21 million golden parachute while laying off 30,000 HP employees, before being fired.
Two Cuban-American senators, one a very thirsty man with a car dealer sugar daddy prying him out of bankruptcy (a place Donnie Dump knows well), the other an immigrant from Canada who *agrees* with Dump's anti-immigrant screed.
Embrace the madness...
2
I was speaking with a relative when he brought up Greece in order to denigrate the Greeks. I decided to engage. I told him that when a bad loan is made, both sides have behaved badly. I told him that in the last decade when Greece should have faced up to its profligate ways, Goldman Sachs arrived with a scheme to hide the extent of Greece's debts, that Greece's current "socialist" government merely inherited the problem.
He wasn't interested in nuance. He wanted to rail about freeloaders victimizing him--and the Germans, I suppose.
He considers himself a victim of the world's most powerless people.
I pointed out that the dilemma for Greece is that it shares a currency with other nations with whom it does not share revenues. When Florida was bled white by the collapse of the housing bubble, I explained, the Federal government continued sending Social Security checks and paying Florida residents' Medicare bills.
In fact, I continued, a majority of the Americans who complain the most about being victimized by the Federal government live in states that would be far worse off were they to disengage from the federal union. Red states as a group receive back more Federal money than they pay in taxes.
He was getting irate. "How about California? How about New York?"
I explained that California and New York get back less than they pay in taxes. In fact, New York pays far more than its share.
"I'm not interested in facts," he retorted.
Welcome to Donald Trump's America.
He wasn't interested in nuance. He wanted to rail about freeloaders victimizing him--and the Germans, I suppose.
He considers himself a victim of the world's most powerless people.
I pointed out that the dilemma for Greece is that it shares a currency with other nations with whom it does not share revenues. When Florida was bled white by the collapse of the housing bubble, I explained, the Federal government continued sending Social Security checks and paying Florida residents' Medicare bills.
In fact, I continued, a majority of the Americans who complain the most about being victimized by the Federal government live in states that would be far worse off were they to disengage from the federal union. Red states as a group receive back more Federal money than they pay in taxes.
He was getting irate. "How about California? How about New York?"
I explained that California and New York get back less than they pay in taxes. In fact, New York pays far more than its share.
"I'm not interested in facts," he retorted.
Welcome to Donald Trump's America.
724
Thanks Jack,
I think you nailed it. Too many of my fellow baby boomers are still living in the 20th century and we have way too much power. We still remember Marshall McLuhan and the Medium is the Message. We still think TV is a cool medium when it has become red hot. Donald Trump knows today's TV and it is Donald Trump's America.
I am reminded of the time over two hundred years ago when every Friday afternoon Edmund Burke would rise up in the British Parliament and spend the next few hours telling everyone how stupid they were and how smart he was. Even as Samuel Johnson treated Burke with disdain and made Burke unwelcome at Johnson's literary salons Johnson conceded that Burke was the smartest man in the realm.
Trump is not talking to me or you or even Charles Blow, he is talking to American television viewers and his contempt for their critical thinking skills is highly warranted.
I think you nailed it. Too many of my fellow baby boomers are still living in the 20th century and we have way too much power. We still remember Marshall McLuhan and the Medium is the Message. We still think TV is a cool medium when it has become red hot. Donald Trump knows today's TV and it is Donald Trump's America.
I am reminded of the time over two hundred years ago when every Friday afternoon Edmund Burke would rise up in the British Parliament and spend the next few hours telling everyone how stupid they were and how smart he was. Even as Samuel Johnson treated Burke with disdain and made Burke unwelcome at Johnson's literary salons Johnson conceded that Burke was the smartest man in the realm.
Trump is not talking to me or you or even Charles Blow, he is talking to American television viewers and his contempt for their critical thinking skills is highly warranted.
4
@Jack
While your pedantic lecturing of your dim witted friend has little to nothing to do with Blow's column, it does open up one of the biggest frustrations in America and the world since the financial meltdown - consequences.
Yes, there were two parties - Greece and it's lenders - that led to the Greek financial collapse. And yes there were two parties here in America - overextended borrowers and their lenders - that led to the bubble bursting in 2008. In both instances, irresponsible borrowers and lenders led the rest of us to the brink of financial ruin. In decades past, a panic or depression would have ensued; bringing economic hardship that might take years or more to work off.
Now, we have governments that cushion every blow, somewhat for the little guy but disproportionately for the banksters like Goldman Sachs and their ilk.
Our safety nets are a credit to modern governance. Yet, our allowance of a financial system that operates on 'heads I win, tails you lose' has yet to be addressed. This is the greatest failing of the Obama presidency.
We need to re-establish having an even playing field in our economy so that the markets can operate, allowing successes and failures to happen. We need to protect the needy, not the craven shysters gaming the system. This is what Americans are yearning for in their leaders. We've yet to get anyone - Democrat or Republican - who fits the bill.
While your pedantic lecturing of your dim witted friend has little to nothing to do with Blow's column, it does open up one of the biggest frustrations in America and the world since the financial meltdown - consequences.
Yes, there were two parties - Greece and it's lenders - that led to the Greek financial collapse. And yes there were two parties here in America - overextended borrowers and their lenders - that led to the bubble bursting in 2008. In both instances, irresponsible borrowers and lenders led the rest of us to the brink of financial ruin. In decades past, a panic or depression would have ensued; bringing economic hardship that might take years or more to work off.
Now, we have governments that cushion every blow, somewhat for the little guy but disproportionately for the banksters like Goldman Sachs and their ilk.
Our safety nets are a credit to modern governance. Yet, our allowance of a financial system that operates on 'heads I win, tails you lose' has yet to be addressed. This is the greatest failing of the Obama presidency.
We need to re-establish having an even playing field in our economy so that the markets can operate, allowing successes and failures to happen. We need to protect the needy, not the craven shysters gaming the system. This is what Americans are yearning for in their leaders. We've yet to get anyone - Democrat or Republican - who fits the bill.
1
The issue, KIA, is that he is actually a bright guy who lost interest in reality a long time ago (back when giving up his racism was just too expensive). When we were kids, we were all racist, and there was no authority figure to tell us that racism was wrong. Later, ambivalence set in. I chose to go one way (albeit realizing that I will never rid myself of it completely), and he chose to go another. I believe that his way is lazier, but that's just my opinion.
Also, when you say craven shysters, I hope you're referring to the "winners" who have done nothing to win rather than little kids who need that pre-K and school lunch.
Also, when you say craven shysters, I hope you're referring to the "winners" who have done nothing to win rather than little kids who need that pre-K and school lunch.
1
Mr. Blow get Trump perfectly but "The Donald" has taken this road before but in this candidacy he slipped badly with his Mexican derision statement. Trump will garner the prestige from his candidacy that translate well with his international clients seeking glitzy real estate condos to purchase world-wide. The controversial things he says to disrupt the Republican race is actually good as this marathon sized race for the Republican nomination will shake out the weakest candidates including perhaps the front runner, Jeb Bush. This allows less well financed candidates to get their voice out there and the party has a few viable horses that can run strong and finish first if they can get their message across in a crowded field. Trump however senses the interest in the bad stuff he baits the press with and is running to the bank with it. Know that when the time comes, count on Trump being trotted out to spew his foulness at the Democratic front runner.
1
Native,
For the world's elite The Trump image is exactly the America image they are looking for. Trump is America writ large, he is Disneyland, Budweiser and McDonalds. Donald Trump is the extra large all dressed pizza with double cheese. His Mexico comment was no mistake it was the supersized coke and a side of fries.
Xenophobia has never been a mistake in American politics.
I recall wasn't it almost 100 years ago that Mexican oil magnate William F. Buckley Sr was thrown out of Mexico for trying to change Mexico's constitution and make Mexico a US puppet state. How lucky we were that the Mexicans gave us back Texas born Buckley so his children could give us American "conservatism" and Citizens United.
For the world's elite The Trump image is exactly the America image they are looking for. Trump is America writ large, he is Disneyland, Budweiser and McDonalds. Donald Trump is the extra large all dressed pizza with double cheese. His Mexico comment was no mistake it was the supersized coke and a side of fries.
Xenophobia has never been a mistake in American politics.
I recall wasn't it almost 100 years ago that Mexican oil magnate William F. Buckley Sr was thrown out of Mexico for trying to change Mexico's constitution and make Mexico a US puppet state. How lucky we were that the Mexicans gave us back Texas born Buckley so his children could give us American "conservatism" and Citizens United.
1
Trump is the rabid dog the Republican party has been keeping as a pet for the last several decades. Only now the dog has slipped his leash, and threatens to bite the master.
79
Everyone who feigns shock that Trump leads in the polls should really stop it. Trump leads in the polls because racism works in America. It has worked for years in the party of the right. Willie Horton, Law and Order, Welfare Queens and so on. What the right seems to forget is that in the future The Silent Majority is to become the Angry Minority. After beating up on African Americans for years the right needed a new foil. It was only logical that Mexicans were up for the next beatings. With the election of Obama the covert racist were embolden to come out of the closet. To say Trump is the crazy uncle at grannies Christmas dinner is disingenuous. Trump is the harvest of the seeds the right has planted for years. As foes of the science of climate change, as a party with little view of the geopolitics of the world now they have also shown they have little knowledge of math. Someone failed to tell them if you get enough of the minority groups peeved at you, your Silent Majority becomes the Angry Minority. Trump is refreshing because he is making the case that the right is killing themselves with a thousand cuts.
170
Well said!
1
Perhaps Trump and the clown car are being allowed to roll into town after town like the circus for the sole purpose of, at the end of the road, making Bush look like the only sane, electable candidate to GOP voters. Heaven help us all.
35
I have begun to believe that is actually true, that the GOP is trying to polish the Bush brand in the reflection of the shambles that a Bush actually created.
Whence the characterization by the Democratic far left of DT as a clown? He has certainly made more money than most people alive, has generously donated to charity, and is not afraid of spontaneous interviews. After all the double talk, the amalgamation of both parties into one,which one of Obama's policies can u name that the GOP has really opposed and taken concrete steps to dismantle, despite the pata ti and pata ta coming from Boehner and company to the contrary?GOP support for the anti labor TPP is just another example.DT may not follow through this time,but then again he might,and the country might be better off for it.U should refrain from using the same jejeune wisecracks re DT, and consider how much better the country would be if he did become President and were able to bring about meaningful change for the American people.
4
You cannot be serious about it being better for the country if Trump were elected. How many times has he filed for bankruptcy? He's not a good person and is totally lacking in any ethics or sense of decency. He represents the absolute worst in the republican or in any party.
It is people like Trump, the wealth and privileged business men who encouraged Mexicans to come to this country (illegally) so they would have cheap labor. When I lived in California during the Reagan administration practically every pool cleaner, restaurant worker, landscaper, farm hand, strawberry picker, hotel worker, was from Mexico. No one asked if they were documented. All that mattered was they could be paid dirt for wages and they wouldn't say anything because they were afraid they would be reported and sent back to Mexico. The immigration crisis came about because of greed by Americans. Citizens share the blame because they could get cheap child care and maids and housekeepers and no one cared whether the people had a green card. Many of the low paid workers have been here 40-50 years now. This is their home. Our problem is not so much with the immigrants, it is with with the people who hired them and promised them an opportunity in this country. Donald Trump whom I believe, is into his fifth bankruptcy, is the one who should be reviled.
298
Thank you Charlotte for your comment. Our wonderful media especially Faux "news" needs to tell their audience the truth for a change. And of course thank you Charles for helping to expose our Republican neighbors for their incorrect information.
1
I am a Republican and I have no problem with immigration, even robust immigration. I believe that immigration up to a point stimulates our economy, adds to the vibrancy of our culture, and re-invigorates our pioneer spirit. However, I strongly believe that we as a nation must control immigration into our country. The recent murder of Kathryn Steinle by an illegal immigrant who had been deported five times poignantly illustrates that immigration controls are in complete disarray. When liberals argue that we can't possibly deport 12 million people, they implicitly admit that immigration controls have collapsed. If you want to know what happens to country that cannot control its own borders, just ask the Native Americans or the Palestinians.
It is appalling that Democrats are willing to undermine the very integrity of the nation by encouraging foreigners to come to our country illegally in order to obtain votes from those among them and their children who can become citizens. This is now the Democratic Party's explicit argument. They say that if Republicans do not grant illegal aliens a path to citizenship and other privileges, then the Republicans will lose the Hispanic or immigrant vote. They are selling out our country to the interests of foreigners.
It is appalling that Democrats are willing to undermine the very integrity of the nation by encouraging foreigners to come to our country illegally in order to obtain votes from those among them and their children who can become citizens. This is now the Democratic Party's explicit argument. They say that if Republicans do not grant illegal aliens a path to citizenship and other privileges, then the Republicans will lose the Hispanic or immigrant vote. They are selling out our country to the interests of foreigners.
4
Trump is just disgusting. All ego & little brain. He doesn't care anything about anybody, except himself. He is appealing to people on a purely emotional basis - that brings out all their anger & fears.
What a shameful display & so sad that people do not see through this ridiculous man.
What a shameful display & so sad that people do not see through this ridiculous man.
27
Thank goodness we are creatures of raw emotion. If our economy depended on our intellect to provide evidence for our choices it would soon collapse.
Maybe we have to admit how much we worship at the alter of MONEY. So anyone who has it must be brighter, better, and deserving of our attention. SADD
Trump is merely a parody of the Tea Party, the reductio ad absurdum.
22
Sorry Charles, I think your theory has a hole in it. I agree with you that Trump has no chance of winning, and that he relishes in bad media coverage. But it is hard to understand how he thinks this will benefit him unless he wins, because it is definitely not benefitting him financially. How does Trump get richer if he runs for president, destroys his reputation, shatters his business relationships, and then looses his bid for the White House? Although we may not know for sure how much Trump is worth until he files his paperwork with the FEC, he undoubtedly earns a salary that is an order of magnitude higher than what he would get as president. When he inevitably bows out of the race, how is he going to earn money? By doing a Palin-esque stint as a Fox News correspondent? Any money he could earn from that is a pittance compared to what he was earning before he entered the race and damaged his reputation and his business deals.
No, logically this doesn't make any sense unless Trump actually believes he will win.
No, logically this doesn't make any sense unless Trump actually believes he will win.
1
Trump shorts every deal he ruins before the fact, among vultures he's a Pterodactyl.
3
Sorry RJ, I think that you don't understand the current value of grand media exposure.
I mean the real value.
The dollar value.
I mean the real value.
The dollar value.
1
America what you are seeing in Trump now is why NYC despises Trump. Oh you did not know that the his home city despises him. Welcome to the "Real World". Here, except for Geraldo and Fox and Friends he is considered a Monumental Buffoon. He would never think of running for Mayor of NYC or Governor of NY State (He will say they are too small for him" because even a "Working Family Party" candidate would beat him bad. No he will not too much past the debates, where he will be gang tackled by the other Candidates. I will say this though I really want to see Trump and Christie in the debates when Jeb Bush says "My Brother kept us safe". A ton on NY Venom will be unleashed on him.
28
I think when Jeb! says "My brother kept us safe" everyone of the candidates will nod and Blame PBO for 9-11: and their Republican base will agree with them. The GOP should be renamed the "Know-Nothings."
5
Some voters I never thought would vote for Trump are indeed supporting him. They believe that we need a business person in the White house to get us back on track. Unfortunately Trump in not a business expert but simply a huckster and a parasite. He built his empire by going bankrupt over and over again. Sucking money from his lenders and partners.
45
The Republican "debates" should be held on the Jerry Springer show where they could devolve into the hair pulling, kicking nastiness America loves.
160
Let he who is without sin throw the first chair.
3
Trump for president of anything, anywhere except the US.
9
You are right! What we need is is an old, white, criminal liar eating her way through the White House kitchen.
When you turn your selection process for the Presidency into a reality television show, you should not be surprised if a reality tv star shows up.
1077
But David, who said it was a REALITY show? Reality has nothing to do with it :))
8
It is my deepest, fervent wish and hope that Trump will appear on "Naked and Afraid" soon. I never watch it, of course, but it somehow seems perfectly appropriate.
3
Your points raised are all true; Trump has always been solely about Trump. An egomaniac , diabolical despot. The self described business genius routinely stiffs contractors, construction workers, bond holders and investors without remorse or apology. A man who claims he will fix the economy and create jobs who went bankrupt 4 times and left thousands in the lurch and without their jobs or investments. What is startling and scary is that wide segments of America applaud him and agree with the hypocritical venom he spews and hate message he routinely delivers. Why has America become so angry, so hostile and toxic that it could possibly listen to and support such a deplorable and reprehensible person? This is the Pandora's box that Trump has opened and we must close and resolve in order to move forward as a nation.
135
Angry, hostile and toxic? An understatement. Americans that admire people like Trump, Cruz, Palin etal, are not nice, nor intelligent, nor capable of seeing a bigger picture. They are generally small minded whimpering cowards who would be happy with the status quo of 1950. I think the Pandora's Box was actually opened with President Obama's first election, and a lot of what we've been seeing and hearing since has mostly been in code (except the obvious, blatant slaughtering of people of color by the police), but Mr. D. Trump has truly brought full verbal flower to the depths of the loathing many people have for the "other." The hypocrisy being of course being their happiness in hiring them at slave wages to do their dirty work around the family compound. Who are the rapists now?
16
Has anyone considered that Trump just may be a secret Democrat?
8
I once considered it but the Democrats are just not that smart they still believe in such irrational concepts as democracy and freedom. Americans know by watching television everything has a price.
As Samuel Johnson said of GOP philosophical icon Edmund Burke five minutes listening to Trump will convince anyone he is the smartest man in the realm.
As Samuel Johnson said of GOP philosophical icon Edmund Burke five minutes listening to Trump will convince anyone he is the smartest man in the realm.
3
I realize that The Donald's hair (like Don King's hair) is the trademark of the brand but The Donald's do needs an update.
9
"This is all free publicity for a salesman in the business of selling himself."
This fatuous, ridiculous man, claims he's worth ten-billion dollars. What kind of deep pathology must drive him to believe he needs still more: money, attention, adoration.
Donald Trump is a preternaturally large fool. But with the exception of Bernie Sanders, who really is a serious and decent man, how is Trump's outsize ego really that much different from most of the other candidates?
Politics in America is a exercise in psychopathology.
This fatuous, ridiculous man, claims he's worth ten-billion dollars. What kind of deep pathology must drive him to believe he needs still more: money, attention, adoration.
Donald Trump is a preternaturally large fool. But with the exception of Bernie Sanders, who really is a serious and decent man, how is Trump's outsize ego really that much different from most of the other candidates?
Politics in America is a exercise in psychopathology.
22
And Seriously, 10 BILLION dollars could be used to HELP so many people. But that is not the Trump way. Which is to spend it on his own rich self.
8
How does he get away with all these bankruptcies? How many of the Mexicans that work for him and "love" him never get paid at all?
5
" how is Trump's outsize ego really that much different from most of the other candidates?" His outsized ego is not the problem. It's his twisted, lying opportunism. Every politician needs a big ego to be successful, and a thick skin. Trump is all ego and skin. Your axe blow to the head, of course, was aimed at Hillary. She's been in the public arena for decades. Trump is a parvenu, an arriviste.
4
I'm counting on Donald Trump to derail the Republican party.
87
The GOP actually deserves much worse than Mr. Blow indicates, but Trump does injure the brand that is largely responsible for the damage to this country that has occurred in the past 30 years. Xenophobia, racism, elitism, income inequality, immigration, national defense, health care, entitlements, banking, etc - there isn't a major issue in this country that isn't colored by radical GOP views that have now become the norm for the party, and Trump does his best to broadcast those views.
Sadly, the old GOP, such as it was during the pre-Reagan era, was something that even most liberals could live with, because of the civil rights advances of the 1960's and Nixon's efforts to initiate the EPA and open China to trade. But over time, a level of unfairness and bullying in government due to the electorate's frustrated reaction to inertia (that was in large part due to the GOP taking advantage of arcane rules like filibustering) emerged as a path for angry, anti-intellectual people to come to Washington and most State houses to govern. Some is Reagan's legacy, but more can be attributed to Newt and the Tea Party, where blackmail of the government in 1994 was a seminal event with respect to trying to win with a tiny minority.
Now, the GOP has spawned a host of presidential candidates that make most cringe in embarrassment. They have lost the internal battle to the Tea Party such that it now cannot be distinguished from its angry mob of irrational, uneducated Congressmen - or Trump.
Sadly, the old GOP, such as it was during the pre-Reagan era, was something that even most liberals could live with, because of the civil rights advances of the 1960's and Nixon's efforts to initiate the EPA and open China to trade. But over time, a level of unfairness and bullying in government due to the electorate's frustrated reaction to inertia (that was in large part due to the GOP taking advantage of arcane rules like filibustering) emerged as a path for angry, anti-intellectual people to come to Washington and most State houses to govern. Some is Reagan's legacy, but more can be attributed to Newt and the Tea Party, where blackmail of the government in 1994 was a seminal event with respect to trying to win with a tiny minority.
Now, the GOP has spawned a host of presidential candidates that make most cringe in embarrassment. They have lost the internal battle to the Tea Party such that it now cannot be distinguished from its angry mob of irrational, uneducated Congressmen - or Trump.
318
I'm a card-carrying Republican, and I've pointed out that illegal immigration IS a matter of respecting our laws -- the word "illegal" actually does mean something; but my PRIMARY concern is the same as that of almost all countries on Earth. Immigration of any kind in inassimilable numbers threatens culture. Now, I imagine that's too UNrelativist for many here; but that's just tough, because we have a definable culture that's different from Guatemala's or Mexico's and most of us want to evolve at our own pace and by our own determinations of appropriate directions.
That said, it's REPUBLICANS in the forefront of efforts to open up our immigration quotas in order to attract skills we need -- from ANY country. Democrats, of course, are fearful of the competition from particularly BRIGHT people -- who may not vote Democratic.
But this is about The Donald, isn't it? If there's anything that demonstrates the utter uselessness of polls at this remove from an election, it's the celebrity he's enjoying during his fifteen minutes. Anybody ever count the times he threatened to run for Mayor of NYC, only to decide it probably was too much work and, besides, he'd have to occasionally TALK to Charlie Rangel and The Rev (Al Sharpton)? His fifteen minutes, polls notwithstanding, are about up.
What you folks don't understand is that he's really angling for a well-paid American Express commercial. "Remember me? I once ran for the presidency, before the laughter just got too annoying."
That said, it's REPUBLICANS in the forefront of efforts to open up our immigration quotas in order to attract skills we need -- from ANY country. Democrats, of course, are fearful of the competition from particularly BRIGHT people -- who may not vote Democratic.
But this is about The Donald, isn't it? If there's anything that demonstrates the utter uselessness of polls at this remove from an election, it's the celebrity he's enjoying during his fifteen minutes. Anybody ever count the times he threatened to run for Mayor of NYC, only to decide it probably was too much work and, besides, he'd have to occasionally TALK to Charlie Rangel and The Rev (Al Sharpton)? His fifteen minutes, polls notwithstanding, are about up.
What you folks don't understand is that he's really angling for a well-paid American Express commercial. "Remember me? I once ran for the presidency, before the laughter just got too annoying."
11
That's absolutely ridiculous. The Republican War on Science has shown us that Democrats are not the ones fearful of intelligent people.
59
Thanks for the perspective. I'd take issue with your characterization that BRIGHT people may not vote Democratic. Gross generalizations don't do much for clarity in a discussion like this. I do agree that the US and any country has the right and obligation to manage immigration, but should do so in light of reality. Comments by Donald about building a huge wall and sending the bill to the government of Mexico are anger-baiting distractions from the constructive dialog that this topic deserves.
32
Richard Luettgen suggests a Nativist doctrine: "Immigration of any kind in inassimilable numbers threatens culture." No, U.S. population grew by 25%, mostly immigrants, between 1890 and 1910. America got changed, not "threatened". "We" even got my 2 families, one from London, one from Italy's center. No need for fear new Americans -- "Culture" always changes, with or without them, and whether the immigrants come with or without selection for skillsets unavailable here. It lives, culture does. That's culture.
Trump comes from immigrants as surely as John Winthrop and Hawthorne did. I guess Richard does, too. Without slaves and myriads of other folks, Americans would not have a produced Faulkner, Harper Lee, swing, jazz, hip-hop, rock, Hollywood, the NYTimes, T. S. Eliot, Bellow, Toscanini, Yo Yo Mah... we'd look and sound like First Nations People, which would be fine. I've slept on reserves, danced the round dance with Cree Indians. I don't believe that's what not Richard and Trump think of as "culture". They probably refer to "the good old days" when white men ruled every sphere from politics to art. White Europeans, White European Christians. Down deep, some of us forget "all men are created equal." That means getting here with a piece of paper may be "legal" but confers nothing special. Al Capone was legal. "Murder Inc." was legal. Almost no Founding Father had a piece of paper.
Trump comes from immigrants as surely as John Winthrop and Hawthorne did. I guess Richard does, too. Without slaves and myriads of other folks, Americans would not have a produced Faulkner, Harper Lee, swing, jazz, hip-hop, rock, Hollywood, the NYTimes, T. S. Eliot, Bellow, Toscanini, Yo Yo Mah... we'd look and sound like First Nations People, which would be fine. I've slept on reserves, danced the round dance with Cree Indians. I don't believe that's what not Richard and Trump think of as "culture". They probably refer to "the good old days" when white men ruled every sphere from politics to art. White Europeans, White European Christians. Down deep, some of us forget "all men are created equal." That means getting here with a piece of paper may be "legal" but confers nothing special. Al Capone was legal. "Murder Inc." was legal. Almost no Founding Father had a piece of paper.
35
Mr. Trump has provided a moment of clarity for the Country.
He is today's GOP and they are him. Venom is the glue that
binds them together. The birther in chief is now the bigot in chief. Cruz has
latched onto him big time. Demagogues of a feather stick together.
The sheer cowardice of the GOP field is breathtaking. When Rick
Perry is the one who steps to the plate to confront the hate, you
know your party is in trouble.
Reince Priebus is now gulping Maalox by the gallon. The Immodium
will be next.
How's that outreach working fer ya?
He is today's GOP and they are him. Venom is the glue that
binds them together. The birther in chief is now the bigot in chief. Cruz has
latched onto him big time. Demagogues of a feather stick together.
The sheer cowardice of the GOP field is breathtaking. When Rick
Perry is the one who steps to the plate to confront the hate, you
know your party is in trouble.
Reince Priebus is now gulping Maalox by the gallon. The Immodium
will be next.
How's that outreach working fer ya?
199
It's hard to compete with the Democrats when it comes to pimping for illegal voters.
2
rmb - Nice try but there is no evidence of illegal immigrants voting. It wouldn't make sense for them to do so. Why risk deportation for something that wouldn't help them in any way?
13
For many years the Republican Party has aligned itself with some of worst elements of American society, allowing these bad elements to seize control of the Party's message. I am reminded of the old adage: "When you lay down with dogs you get fleas!"
343
And when you lay down with The Donald, you get bedbugs.
6
I agree with the first part of you comment but when you lie down with dogs, you lie down with love, licks, and sweetness.
When you lie down with the Republican Party...but who in their right minds would do that?
When you lie down with the Republican Party...but who in their right minds would do that?
3
You are absolutely right. I do a disservice to my Fox Terrier, Quncy, whom I love dearly. I have laid beside him many times and received, as you said, nothing but licks, warmth and love. I will use another adage for describing Republicans in the future. Dogs, especially my Quincy, are several cuts above most Republicans.
3
Blow is right; Trump is voicing the fear, hatred, and bigotry that the Republican Party has nurtured for decades, beginning with Richard Nixon's "southern strategy". That this vitriol is coming from a native New Yorker makes it even better. One wonders if Mr. Trump has a campaign speech scheduled in Spanish Harlem.
Trump will be the headliner in the new tv reality show, "The Republican Debates". I can't wait.
Trump will be the headliner in the new tv reality show, "The Republican Debates". I can't wait.
99
The Republican presidential debates, produced by the ever fair and balanced Faux News, has suddenly become the program of the fall season, featuring the two heavy weights of rhetorical pugilism, Trump vs Christie. Will there be a take down, a possible knock-out, a sucker punch? America just can't wait!
50
"Faux News?"
Wow, how original and clever.
Wow, how original and clever.
2
No, a golden oldie, and correct.
6
James, you left out the third leg of the tag team, Scott Walker, who will jump in off the ropes wearing a mask and cape, singing a line from the Who: "we don't need no education...".
5
Trump, one more in a long yellow line of republican Viet Nam draft dodging cowards. Talking tough, lusting to send other people's children to slaughter or to be slaughtered. Knows all about war, just like Viet Nam dodging cowards Bush, Cheney, Romney, Limbaugh, Bolton, Kristol, Wolfowitz, Gingrich, Buchanan.
Just as the crimes of Bush and Cheney introduced the term quadruple amputee to the language Trump's addition is quadruple bankruptee.
Trump is the perfect paladin of republicanism, a morally bankrupt conglomeration of strutting, preening, warmongering chicken hawk, latter day Know Nothings.
Just as the crimes of Bush and Cheney introduced the term quadruple amputee to the language Trump's addition is quadruple bankruptee.
Trump is the perfect paladin of republicanism, a morally bankrupt conglomeration of strutting, preening, warmongering chicken hawk, latter day Know Nothings.
735
Thank you, Mr. Geary, for always speaking the truth. You have summed them all up beautifully. And lest we forget, a special 'thanks' to Citizens United and the moral cowardice of the supine and craven so-called Justices for affording a platform for the likes of Trump, et al.
13
You must know by now that evading military service is a badge of honor among Republicans. Military service is for the "little people", they sniff, as is paying taxes. They name airports for these heroes (Wayne, Reagan), and praise their patriotism (the last refuge of a scoundrel).
To add insult to injury, the dodger Marion Morrison made a career of portraying himself on screen as a macho war hero, usually in the role of an officer, and the ignorant American public ate it up. A Green Beret, for God's sake. Makes me want to puke.
My father, a life-long Democrat, served on Okinawa. Like many of his generation, he came home from the war, started a family, and went to work. Rarely talked about the war, and wasn't looking for any special recognition or special favors.
I'm waiting for the day when they name an airport for Bob Dole or John Kerry.
To add insult to injury, the dodger Marion Morrison made a career of portraying himself on screen as a macho war hero, usually in the role of an officer, and the ignorant American public ate it up. A Green Beret, for God's sake. Makes me want to puke.
My father, a life-long Democrat, served on Okinawa. Like many of his generation, he came home from the war, started a family, and went to work. Rarely talked about the war, and wasn't looking for any special recognition or special favors.
I'm waiting for the day when they name an airport for Bob Dole or John Kerry.
33
Do people still say "SNAP" anymore? SNAP.
6
The sad part about the immigration battle is that it is just a subset of a greater problem that people do not want to talk about, which is that there are just too many people. The bottom line is that for every rise in our population there is going to be subsequent diminishing in quality of life for all. It is pretty simple: Fewer and fewer resources for more and more people will lead to shortages, and everyone will suffer. The only exception being the ultra wealthy and they are going to make a grab for more and more.
59
I agree. There should be a fourth of the number of people on this planet in order to be sustainable. Then, anyone would be free to go wherever they like, as they should be. I don't quite understand how a law can prevent a person born onto this planet from going where they wish anyway.
I agree...the elephant in the room that no one wants to talk about. There are too many people and it is, to a degree, related to population. With regard to GOP, there is a disconnect. The country club set turns its head the other way in order to enjoy the fruits of cheap labor---like the southern planter of old--while their operatives vilify illegal immigrants in order in energize the Republican base. Since over half the immigrants come here legally and then overstay their visas, an intelligent solution would be to sentence business people--CEOs and small contractors--convicted of employing illegal aliens for say ten years. That would close the border faster than you could say "immigrant." Then allow the illegal aliens already here a path to citizenship--the humane thing to do. Why push the poor Mexican who is working his a.... off and not the man sitting on the veranda drinking mint juleps. Then....encourage people to have just two kids. If the have less, maybe they can sponsor an immigrant. Population??? Florida has 20 million people. In 60 years, with sea level rise, it will probably only be able to accommodate half that. Now there's a real problem.
7
Many of the radical right are planning on larger families to overwhelm the liberal side. Population, shortage of resources like water? Like climate change, not a problem. Oh, wait...
4
The Republicans have turned their primary process into a circus, and the circus is the natural habitat of the clown.
209
This is how demagogues accumulate political power: brand-building. The trump publicity machine is an expression of cynicism and snark. The damage being done to the american political system with this stunt is immeasurable. It the political system and the media machine are putting up trump as some sort scam, then there is no reason to take politics or political journalism seriously.
Donald trump is exactly what all america deserves. He is the perfect illustration of our descent into farce.
Donald trump is exactly what all america deserves. He is the perfect illustration of our descent into farce.
55
Trump - the PT Barnum of American politics stands like a colossus over America, the World and History. A true giant, we (us humble mortals) can only pledge fealty to his Greatness. He should announce Howard Stern as his running mate and let the good times roll!
10
Any person who is ‘a likely Gop voter’ is totally gullible and not a measure of US public opinion. Cable TV just magnifies the Trump circus. I change channels at the 1st whiff--too boring.
Er, when will a column be published seriously analyzing the proposals of Bernie Sanders? How interesting!
The best antidote to Trump poison are clips from this Andy Borowitz satire:
“Walker Assures G.O.P. Voters He Is as Horrible as Trump”
“Serving notice that he intends to go toe-to-toe with the controversial real-estate mogul, Wisconsin Gov. Walker used the official announcement of his candidacy to assure Gop voters that he is as horrible as Donald Trump.”
“Trump has grabbed a lot of headlines over the past few weeks by spewing bigotry and venom,” Walker told an enthusiastic crowd of supporters. “I want to make it clear that when it comes to those things, I take a back seat to no one.”
"...To those who thought Donald Trump was the only sociopath in the race, let me say this: not anymore.”
".... Walker aides privately fretted that by establishing his identity as an arrogant and ill-informed merchant of hatred, Trump had appropriated Walker’s brand."
"Hoping to prove that Trump has no monopoly on odiousness, they offer a point-by-point comparison ....that on key issues like worker’s rights and health care, Walker is just as terrifying as the former reality-show host.....and will reclaim his rightful mantle as the worst person in the race.”
We need a good laugh.
Er, when will a column be published seriously analyzing the proposals of Bernie Sanders? How interesting!
The best antidote to Trump poison are clips from this Andy Borowitz satire:
“Walker Assures G.O.P. Voters He Is as Horrible as Trump”
“Serving notice that he intends to go toe-to-toe with the controversial real-estate mogul, Wisconsin Gov. Walker used the official announcement of his candidacy to assure Gop voters that he is as horrible as Donald Trump.”
“Trump has grabbed a lot of headlines over the past few weeks by spewing bigotry and venom,” Walker told an enthusiastic crowd of supporters. “I want to make it clear that when it comes to those things, I take a back seat to no one.”
"...To those who thought Donald Trump was the only sociopath in the race, let me say this: not anymore.”
".... Walker aides privately fretted that by establishing his identity as an arrogant and ill-informed merchant of hatred, Trump had appropriated Walker’s brand."
"Hoping to prove that Trump has no monopoly on odiousness, they offer a point-by-point comparison ....that on key issues like worker’s rights and health care, Walker is just as terrifying as the former reality-show host.....and will reclaim his rightful mantle as the worst person in the race.”
We need a good laugh.
247
I miss Stephen Colbert.
Jon Stewart is in countdown mode.
And now this circus comes to town...
Jon Stewart is in countdown mode.
And now this circus comes to town...
6
We've still got John Oliver. And Gail Collins.
11
Hilarious.